Predicting thermal boundary resistance using Monte Carlo simulation

The Acoustic Mismatch Model (AMM) and the Diffuse Mismatch Model (DMM) have traditionally been used to predict the thermal boundary resistance, R b, across the interface of two adjoining materials at temperatures well below the Debye temperatures of the materials in question. Both models, however, fall short when compared to experimental data. The development of these models involves limiting assumptions in order to simplify the mathematical evaluation. A Monte Carlo (MC) Model is proposed and developed as a compliment to the AMM and DMM models. Using the statistical approach eliminates the need of addressing complicated expressions, thereby allowing us to lift some of the limiting assumptions. Furthermore, for the first time, the AMM and DMM are combined into a single, mixed model which determines Rb based on a net heat transfer calculated from both specular and diffuse transmission. As expected, the results in this instance lay between those of the AMM and DMM models.