Abstract
In this study, optimal experiment design is performed in order to choice the thermal model and the optimal duration of the flash experiment. The thermal diffusivity estimation is performed using the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm by minimizing the ordinary least squares function, describing the gap between measured and calculated temperature response. Different thermal models based on analytical or numerical resolutions of the heat equation are studied. The developed models take into account heat losses on front, rear, or/and lateral surfaces. Experimental thermal diffusivity measurements are then completed on 2017 A Aluminum alloy.