Real-Time Monitoring of Radiant Flux and Surface Thermal Properties via an Integrated Arduino-Thermocouple Setup

Hritam Sarkar, Tamal Sarkar

Abstract: This study presents an innovative approach to measuring radiant flux using an Arduino-based system integrated with thermocouples. The experiment investigates the variation in surface temperature of different-coloured plates and develops a low-cost experimental setup for measuring radiant flux. The methodology involves fabricating six pairs of three-inch circular plates with drilled holes for the placement of thermocouples. The upper surfaces are painted in different colours. A 4-inch pot with a glass cover is modified to accommodate a digital thermocouple probe, with the coloured plates placed inside. A thermal light source (25W/50W UV solar bask-ing light) is used to heat the plates, and temperature readings are recorded until stabilization. The plates are then arranged in in-creasing order of saturation temperatures. To enhance data accuracy and eliminate manual recording, an Arduino-based system is developed to interface with a computer, allowing real-time temperature monitoring. The system records the room temperature and the temperatures of two selected coloured plates simultaneously. This setup provides a cost-effective alternative to traditional pyra-nometers. Radiant flux measurement is essential for assessing the efficiency of solar energy devices. Understanding its variation across different times of the day and seasons aids in optimizing solar energy capture. This experimental setup is an educational tool and a practical solution for studying radiation flux and surface thermal properties. The results demonstrate that an Arduino-integrated thermocouple system can effectively measure solar radiation flux at a fraction of the cost of conventional instruments, making it accessible for academic research and practical applications.

Keywords: Radiant Flux Measurement, Arduino-Based Data Acquisition, Thermocouple Temperature Sensing, Solar Radiation Analysis, Surface Thermal Properties

How to Cite?: Hritam Sarkar, Tamal Sarkar, "Real-Time Monitoring of Radiant Flux and Surface Thermal Properties via an Integrated Arduino-Thermocouple Setup", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 2269-2277, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251226144505, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251226144505