Cryogenics and Measurement of Properties of Solids at Low Temperatures

Low temperature research has gained significant momentum in India, especially with the increased availability of closed-cycle refrigerators, which have made cryogenic studies more accessible and cost-effective. In light of this, it is timely and appropriate to compile a comprehensive resource aimed at students and researchers across the country. This book has been written with that purpose in mind-it focuses on the production of low temperatures and the experimental techniques used to measure the physical properties of materials under such conditions.

The first part of the book explores various methods for achieving temperatures as low as 1.8 K, with particular emphasis on different types of closed-cycle refrigeration systems. It also covers in detail the behavior of material properties that are relevant to cryogenics. Practical guidance is provided on the construction of cryostats, and thermometry-the science of temperature measurement-is discussed at length.

The second part of the book is dedicated to digital measurement techniques. It describes experimental procedures for determining thermal and electrical properties, as well as advanced techniques like point-contact tunneling, scanning probe microscopy, and low-temperature noise measurements. This section reflects the extensive personal experience of one of the authors (AKR) in conducting such experiments.

An appendix on vacuum techniques is also included. The book is ideal for an M.Sc. elective in Low Temperature Physics and serves as a valuable reference for researchers in the field.