Sample records for electrical degradation ried

  1. Electrical degradation of double-Schottky barrier in ZnO varistors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    He, Jinliang; Cheng, Chenlu; Hu, Jun

    2016-03-01

    Researches on electrical degradation of double-Schottky barrier in ZnO varistors are reviewed, aimed at the constitution of a full picture of universal degradation mechanism within the perspective of defect. Recent advances in study of ZnO materials by atomic-scale first-principles calculations are partly included and discussed, which brings to our attention distinct cognition on the native point defects and their profound impact on degradation.

  2. Electrical degradation of double-Schottky barrier in ZnO varistors

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    He, Jinliang, E-mail: hejl@tsinghua.edu.cn; Cheng, Chenlu; Hu, Jun

    2016-03-15

    Researches on electrical degradation of double-Schottky barrier in ZnO varistors are reviewed, aimed at the constitution of a full picture of universal degradation mechanism within the perspective of defect. Recent advances in study of ZnO materials by atomic-scale first-principles calculations are partly included and discussed, which brings to our attention distinct cognition on the native point defects and their profound impact on degradation.

  3. MaRIE Undulator & XFEL Systems

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Nguyen, Dinh Cong; Marksteiner, Quinn R.; Anisimov, Petr Mikhaylovich

    The 22 slides in this presentation treat the subject under the following headings: MaRIE XFEL Performance Parameters, Input Electron Beam Parameters, Undulator Design, Genesis Simulations, Risks, and Summary It is concluded that time-dependent Genesis simulations show the MaRIE XFEL can deliver the number of photons within the required bandwidth, provided a number of assumptions are met; the highest risks are associated with the electron beam driving the XFEL undulator; and risks associated with the undulator and/or distributed seeding technique may be evaluated or retired by performing early validation experiments.

  4. MaRIE theory, modeling and computation roadmap executive summary

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Lookman, Turab

    The confluence of MaRIE (Matter-Radiation Interactions in Extreme) and extreme (exascale) computing timelines offers a unique opportunity in co-designing the elements of materials discovery, with theory and high performance computing, itself co-designed by constrained optimization of hardware and software, and experiments. MaRIE's theory, modeling, and computation (TMC) roadmap efforts have paralleled 'MaRIE First Experiments' science activities in the areas of materials dynamics, irradiated materials and complex functional materials in extreme conditions. The documents that follow this executive summary describe in detail for each of these areas the current state of the art, the gaps that exist and the road mapmore » to MaRIE and beyond. Here we integrate the various elements to articulate an overarching theme related to the role and consequences of heterogeneities which manifest as competing states in a complex energy landscape. MaRIE experiments will locate, measure and follow the dynamical evolution of these heterogeneities. Our TMC vision spans the various pillar science and highlights the key theoretical and experimental challenges. We also present a theory, modeling and computation roadmap of the path to and beyond MaRIE in each of the science areas.« less

  5. Facile synthesis of degradable and electrically conductive polysaccharide hydrogels.

    PubMed

    Guo, Baolin; Finne-Wistrand, Anna; Albertsson, Ann-Christine

    2011-07-11

    Degradable and electrically conductive polysaccharide hydrogels (DECPHs) have been synthesized by functionalizing polysaccharide with conductive aniline oligomers. DECPHs based on chitosan (CS), aniline tetramer (AT), and glutaraldehyde were obtained by a facile one-pot reaction by using the amine group of CS and AT under mild conditions, which avoids the multistep reactions and tedious purification involved in the synthesis of degradable conductive hydrogels in our previous work. Interestingly, these one-pot hydrogels possess good film-forming properties, electrical conductivity, and a pH-sensitive swelling behavior. The chemical structure and morphology before and after swelling of the hydrogels were verified by FT-IR, NMR, and SEM. The conductivity of the hydrogels was tuned by adjusting the content of AT. The swelling ratio of the hydrogels was altered by the content of tetraaniline and cross-linker. The hydrogels underwent slow degradation in a buffer solution. The hydrogels obtained by this facile approach provide new possibilities in biomedical applications, for example, biodegradable conductive hydrogels, films, and scaffolds for cardiovascular tissue engineering and controlled drug delivery.

  6. Electroluminescence and electrical degradation of insulating polymers at electrode interfaces under divergent fields

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Shuai; Li, Qi; Hu, Jun; Zhang, Bo; He, Jinliang

    2018-04-01

    Electrical degradation of insulating polymers at electrode interfaces is an essential factor in determining long-term reliability. A critical challenge is that the exact mechanism of degradation is not fully understood, either experimentally or theoretically, due to the inherent complex processes. Consequently, in this study, we investigate electroluminescence (EL) at the interface of an electrode and insulator, and determine the relationship between EL and electrical degradation. Using a tip-plate electrode structure, the unique features of EL under a highly divergent field are investigated. The voltage type (alternating or direct current), the polymer matrix, and the time of pressing are also investigated separately. A study of EL from insulators under a divergent field is provided, and the relationship between EL spectra and degradation is discussed. It is shown that EL spectra under a divergent field have unique characteristics compared with EL spectra from polymer films under a uniform field and the most obvious one is the UV emission. The results obtained in the current investigation bring us a step closer to understanding the process of electrical degradation and provide a potential way to diagnose insulator defects.

  7. Experimental Physical Sciences Vistas: MaRIE (draft)

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Shlachter, Jack

    To achieve breakthrough scientific discoveries in the 21st century, a convergence and integration of world-leading experimental facilities and capabilities with theory, modeling, and simulation is necessary. In this issue of Experimental Physical Sciences Vistas, I am excited to present our plans for Los Alamos National Laboratory's future flagship experimental facility, MaRIE (Matter-Radiation Interactions in Extremes). MaRIE is a facility that will provide transformational understanding of matter in extreme conditions required to reduce or resolve key weapons performance uncertainties, develop the materials needed for advanced energy systems, and transform our ability to create materials by design. Our unique role in materialsmore » science starting with the Manhattan Project has positioned us well to develop a contemporary materials strategy pushing the frontiers of controlled functionality - the design and tailoring of a material for the unique demands of a specific application. Controlled functionality requires improvement in understanding of the structure and properties of materials in order to synthesize and process materials with unique characteristics. In the nuclear weapons program today, improving data and models to increase confidence in the stockpile can take years from concept to new knowledge. Our goal with MaRIE is to accelerate this process by enhancing predictive capability - the ability to compute a priori the observables of an experiment or test and pertinent confidence intervals using verified and validated simulation tools. It is a science-based approach that includes the use of advanced experimental tools, theoretical models, and multi-physics codes, simultaneously dealing with multiple aspects of physical operation of a system that are needed to develop an increasingly mature predictive capability. This same approach is needed to accelerate improvements to other systems such as nuclear reactors. MaRIE will be valuable to many national

  8. RIES - Rijnland Internet Election System: A Cursory Study of Published Source Code

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gonggrijp, Rop; Hengeveld, Willem-Jan; Hotting, Eelco; Schmidt, Sebastian; Weidemann, Frederik

    The Rijnland Internet Election System (RIES) is a system designed for voting in public elections over the internet. A rather cursory scan of the source code to RIES showed a significant lack of security-awareness among the programmers which - among other things - appears to have left RIES vulnerable to near-trivial attacks. If it had not been for independent studies finding problems, RIES would have been used in the 2008 Water Board elections, possibly handling a million votes or more. While RIES was more extensively studied to find cryptographic shortcomings, our work shows that more down-to-earth secure design practices can be at least as important, and the aspects need to be examined much sooner than right before an election.

  9. MaRIE: an experimental facility concept revolutionizing materials in extremes

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Barnes, Cris W

    The Matter-Radiation Interactions in Extremes (MaRIE) project intends to create an experimental facility that will revolutionize the control of materials in extremes. That control extends to extreme regimes where solid material has failed and begins to flow - the regimes of fluid dynamics and turbulent mixing. This presentation introduces the MaRIE facility concept, demonstrates examples of the science case that determine its functional requirements, and kicks-off the discussion of the decadal scientific challenges of mixing in extremes, including those MaRIE might address.

  10. Gaining electricity from in situ oxidation of hydrogen produced by fermentative cellulose degradation.

    PubMed

    Niessen, J; Schröder, U; Harnisch, F; Scholz, F

    2005-01-01

    To exploit the fermentative hydrogen generation and direct hydrogen oxidation for the generation of electric current from the degradation of cellulose. Utilizing the metabolic activity of the mesophilic anaerobe Clostridium cellulolyticum and the thermophilic Clostridium thermocellum we show that electricity generation is possible from cellulose fermentation. The current generation is based on an in situ oxidation of microbially synthesized hydrogen at platinum-poly(tetrafluoroaniline) (Pt-PTFA) composite electrodes. Current densities of 130 mA l(-1) (with 3 g cellulose per litre medium) were achieved in poised potential experiments under batch and semi-batch conditions. The presented results show that electricity generation is possible by the in situ oxidation of hydrogen, product of the anaerobic degradation of cellulose by cellulolytic bacteria. For the first time, it is shown that an insoluble complex carbohydrate like cellulose can be used for electricity generation in a microbial fuel cell. The concept represents a first step to the utilization of macromolecular biomass components for microbial electricity generation.

  11. The effect of solar array degradation on electric propulsion spacecraft performance.

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sauer, C. G., Jr.; Bourke, R. D.

    1972-01-01

    Current estimates of solar-electric-propulsion spacecraft performance are based upon a solar-array output power which is degraded by approximately 10-13% to account for possible losses caused by proton, electron and micrometeorite damage. Past studies have used a worst case analysis in which the maximum degradation was taken to occur at the beginning of the mission. This paper presents a comparison of mission studies using a hypothetical exponential decrease in power with time, with those using a sudden degradation of solar power. These comparisons indicate that the performance gain by using a time varying degradation during the mission is quite small for outbound missions in the solar system. In addition an indication of the power allocation strategy to be followed during a mission is presented.

  12. Distribution of electrical energy consumption for the efficient degradation control of THMs mixture in sonophotolytic process.

    PubMed

    Park, Beomguk; Cho, Eunju; Son, Younggyu; Khim, Jeehyeong

    2014-11-01

    Sonophotolytic degradation of THMs mixture with different electrical energy ratio was carried out for efficient design of process. The total consumed electrical energy was fixed around 50W, and five different energy conditions were applied. The maximum degradation rate showed in conditions of US:UV=1:3 and US:UV=0:4. This is because the photolytic degradation of bromate compounds is dominant degradation mechanism for THMs removal. However, the fastest degradation of total organic carbon was observed in a condition of US:UV=1:3. Because hydrogen peroxide generated by sonication was effectively dissociated to hydroxyl radicals by ultraviolet, the concentration of hydroxyl radical was maintained high. This mechanism provided additional degradation of organics. This result was supported by comparison between the concentration of hydrogen peroxide sole and combined process. Consequently, the optimal energy ratio was US:UV=1:3 for degradation of THMs in sonophotolytic process. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Joint optimisation of arbitrage profits and battery life degradation for grid storage application of battery electric vehicles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kies, Alexander

    2018-02-01

    To meet European decarbonisation targets by 2050, the electrification of the transport sector is mandatory. Most electric vehicles rely on lithium-ion batteries, because they have a higher energy/power density and longer life span compared to other practical batteries such as zinc-carbon batteries. Electric vehicles can thus provide energy storage to support the system integration of generation from highly variable renewable sources, such as wind and photovoltaics (PV). However, charging/discharging causes batteries to degradate progressively with reduced capacity. In this study, we investigate the impact of the joint optimisation of arbitrage revenue and battery degradation of electric vehicle batteries in a simplified setting, where historical prices allow for market participation of battery electric vehicle owners. It is shown that the joint optimisation of both leads to stronger gains then the sum of both optimisation strategies and that including battery degradation into the model avoids state of charges close to the maximum at times. It can be concluded that degradation is an important aspect to consider in power system models, which incorporate any kind of lithium-ion battery storage.

  14. Using superconducting undulator for enhanced imaging capabilities of MaRIE

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Yampolsky, Nikolai

    MaRIE x-ray free electron laser (FEL) is envisioned to deliver a burst of closely spaced in time pulses for enabling the capability of studying the dynamic processes in a sample. MaRIE capability can be largely enhanced using the superconducting undulator, which has the capability of doubling its period. This technology will allow reaching the photon energy as low as ~200-500 eV. As a result, the MaRIE facility will have a broader photon energy range enabling a larger variety of experiments. The soft x-ray capability is more likely to achieve the 3D imaging of dynamic processes in noncrystal materials than themore » hard x-ray capability alone.« less

  15. Determination of electrical properties of degraded mixed ionic conductors: Impedance studies with applied dc voltage

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bayer, T. J. M.; Carter, J. J.; Wang, Jian-Jun; Klein, Andreas; Chen, Long-Qing; Randall, C. A.

    2017-12-01

    Under electrical bias, mixed ionic conductors such as SrTiO3 are characterized by oxygen vacancy migration which leads to resistance degradation. The defect chemistry to describe the relationship between conductivity and oxygen vacancies is usually obtained by high temperature conductivity data or quenching experiments. These techniques can investigate the equilibrated state only. Here, we introduce a new approach using in-situ impedance studies with applied dc voltage to analyze the temperature dependent electrical properties of degraded SrTiO3 single crystals. This procedure is most beneficial since it includes electric field driven effects. The benefits of the approach are highlighted by comparing acceptor doped and undoped SrTiO3. This approach allows the determination of the temperature activation of both anodic and cathodic conductivity of Fe-doped SrTiO3 in the degraded state. The anodic activation energy matches well with the published results, while the activation energy of the degraded cathode region reported here is not in agreement with earlier assumptions. The specific discrepancies of the experimental data and the published defect chemistry are discussed, and a defect chemistry model that includes the strong temperature dependence of the electron conductivity in the cathode region is proposed.

  16. The effect of reactive ion etch (RIE) process conditions on ReRAM device performance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Beckmann, K.; Holt, J.; Olin-Ammentorp, W.; Alamgir, Z.; Van Nostrand, J.; Cady, N. C.

    2017-09-01

    The recent surge of research on resistive random access memory (ReRAM) devices has resulted in a wealth of different materials and fabrication approaches. In this work, we describe the performance implications of utilizing a reactive ion etch (RIE) based process to fabricate HfO2 based ReRAM devices, versus a more unconventional shadow mask fabrication approach. The work is the result of an effort to increase device yield and reduce individual device size. Our results show that choice of RIE etch gas (SF6 versus CF4) is critical for defining the post-etch device profile (cross-section), and for tuning the removal of metal layers used as bottom electrodes in the ReRAM device stack. We have shown that etch conditions leading to a tapered profile for the device stack cause poor electrical performance, likely due to metal re-deposition during etching, and damage to the switching layer. These devices exhibit nonlinear I-V during the low resistive state, but this could be improved to linear behavior once a near-vertical etch profile was achieved. Device stacks with vertical etch profiles also showed an increase in forming voltage, reduced switching variability and increased endurance.

  17. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles: battery degradation, grid support, emissions, and battery size tradeoffs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Peterson, Scott B.

    Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) may become a substantial part of the transportation fleet in a decade or two. This dissertation investigates battery degradation, and how introducing PHEVs may influence the electricity grid, emissions, and petroleum use in the US. It examines the effects of combined driving and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) usage on lifetime performance of commercial Li-ion cells. The testing shows promising capacity fade performance: more than 95% of the original cell capacity remains after thousands of driving days. Statistical analyses indicate that rapid vehicle motive cycling degraded the cells more than slower, V2G galvanostatic cycling. These data are used to examine the potential economic implications of using vehicle batteries to store grid electricity generated at off-peak hours for off-vehicle use during peak hours. The maximum annual profit with perfect market information and no battery degradation cost ranged from ˜US140 to 250 in the three cities. If measured battery degradation is applied the maximum annual profit decreases to ˜10-120. The dissertation predicts the increase in electricity load and emissions due to vehicle battery charging in PJM and NYISO with the current generators, with a 50/tonne CO2 price, and with existing coal generators retrofitted with 80% CO2 capture. It also models emissions using natural gas or wind+gas. We examined PHEV fleet percentages between 0.4 and 50%. Compared to 2020 CAFE standards, net CO2 emissions in New York are reduced by switching from gasoline to electricity; coal-heavy PJM shows smaller benefits unless coal units are fitted with CCS or replaced with lower CO2 generation. NOX is reduced in both RTOs, but there is upward pressure on SO2 emissions or allowance prices under a cap. Finally the dissertation compares increasing the all-electric range (AER) of PHEVs to installing charging infrastructure. Fuel use was modeled with National Household Travel Survey and Greenhouse Gasses, Regulated

  18. Evaluation of non-thermal effects of electricity on ascorbic acid and carotenoid degradation in acerola pulp during ohmic heating.

    PubMed

    Jaeschke, Débora Pez; Marczak, Ligia Damasceno Ferreira; Mercali, Giovana Domeneghini

    2016-05-15

    The effect of electric field on ascorbic acid and carotenoid degradation in acerola pulp during ohmic heating was evaluated. Ascorbic acid kinetic degradation was evaluated at 80, 85, 90 and 95°C during 60 min of thermal treatment by ohmic and conventional heating. Carotenoid degradation was evaluated at 90 and 95°C after 50 min of treatment. The different temperatures evaluated showed the same effect on degradation rates. To investigate the influence of oxygen concentration on the degradation process, ohmic heating was also carried out under rich and poor oxygen modified atmospheres at 90°C. Ascorbic acid and carotenoid degradation was higher under a rich oxygen atmosphere, indicating that oxygen is the limiting reagent of the degradation reaction. Ascorbic acid and carotenoid degradation was similar for both heating technologies, demonstrating that the presence of the oscillating electric field did not influence the mechanisms and rates of reactions associated with the degradation process. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. The Mesoscale Science of the Matter-Radiation Interactions in Extremes (MaRIE) project

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kippen, Karen Elizabeth; Montoya, Donald Raymond

    The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) requires the ability to understand and test how material structures, defects, and interfaces determine performance in extreme environments such as in nuclear weapons. To do this, MaRIE will be an x-ray source that is laser-like and brilliant with very fl exible and fast pulses to see at weapons-relevant time scales, and with high enough energy to study critical materials. The Department of Energy (DOE) has determined there is a mission need for MaRIE to deliver this capability. MaRIE can use some of the existing infrastructure of the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) andmore » its accelerator capability. MaRIE will be built as a strategic partnership of DOE national laboratories and university collaborators.« less

  20. Roadmap to MaRIE March 2015

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Barnes, Cris William

    Los Alamos National Laboratory’s proposed MaRIE facility is slated to introduce the world’s highest energy hard x-ray free electron laser (XFEL). As the light source for the Matter-Radiation Interactions in Extremes experimental facility (MaRIE), the 42-keV XFEL, with bursts of x-ray pulses at gigahertz repetition for studying fast dynamical processes, will help accelerate discovery and design of the advanced materials needed to meet 21st-century national security and energy security challenges. Yet the science of free-electron lasers has a long and distinguished history at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), where for nearly four decades Los Alamos scientists have been performing research,more » design, development, and collaboration work in FEL science. The work at Los Alamos has evolved from low-gain amplifier and oscillator FEL development to highbrightness photoinjector development, and later, self-amplified spontaneous emission (SASE) and high-gain amplifier FEL development.« less

  1. RIE-based Pattern Transfer Using Nanoparticle Arrays as Etch Masks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hogg, Chip; Majetich, Sara A.; Bain, James A.

    2009-03-01

    Nanomasking is used to transfer the pattern of a self-assembled array of nanoparticles into an underlying thin film, for potential use as bit-patterned media. We have used this process to investigate the limits of pattern transfer, as a function of gap size in the pattern. Reactive Ion Etching (RIE) is our chosen process, since the gaseous reaction products and high chemical selectivity are ideal features for etching very small gaps. Interstitial surfactant is removed with an O2 plasma, allowing the etchants to penetrate between the particles. Their pattern is transferred into an intermediate SiO2 mask using a CH4-based RIE. This patterned SiO2 layer is finally used as a mask for the MeOH-based RIE which patterns the magnetic film. We present cross-sectional TEM characterization of the etch profiles, as well as magnetic characterization of the film before and after patterning.

  2. MaRIE: Probing Dynamic Processes in Soft Materials Using Advanced Light Sources

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sykora, Milan; Kober, Edward Martin

    Los Alamos National Laboratory has developed a concept for a new research facility, MaRIE: Matter-Radiation Interactions in Extremes. The key motivation for MaRIE is to develop new experimental capabilities needed to fill the existing gaps in our fundamental understanding of materials important for key National Nuclear Security Agency (NNSA) goals. MaRIE will bring two major new capabilities: (a) the ability to characterize the meso- and microstructure of materials in bulk as well as local dynamic response characteristics, and (b) the ability to characterize how this microstructure evolves under NNSA-relevant conditions and impacts the material’s performance in this regime.

  3. The influence of battery degradation level on the selected traction parameters of a light-duty electric vehicle

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Juda, Z.; Noga, M.

    2016-09-01

    The article describes results of an analysis of the impact of degradation level of battery made in lead-acid technology on selected traction parameters of an electric light duty vehicle. Lead-acid batteries are still used in these types of vehicles. They do not require complex systems of performance management and monitoring and are easy to maintaining. Despite the basic disadvantage, which is the low value of energy density, low price is a decisive factor for their use in low-speed electric vehicles. The process of aging of the battery related with an increase in internal resistance of the cells and the loss of electric capacity of the battery was considered. A simplified model of cooperation of the DC electric motor with the battery assuming increased internal resistance was presented. In the paper the results of comparative traction research of the light-duty vehicle equipped with a set of new batteries and set of batteries having a significant degradation level were showed. The analysis of obtained results showed that the correct exploitation of the battery can slow down the processes of degradation and, thus, extend battery life cycle.

  4. Microbial surface displayed enzymes based biofuel cell utilizing degradation products of lignocellulosic biomass for direct electrical energy.

    PubMed

    Fan, Shuqin; Hou, Chuantao; Liang, Bo; Feng, Ruirui; Liu, Aihua

    2015-09-01

    In this work, a bacterial surface displaying enzyme based two-compartment biofuel cell for the direct electrical energy conversion from degradation products of lignocellulosic biomass is reported. Considering that the main degradation products of the lignocellulose are glucose and xylose, xylose dehydrogenase (XDH) displayed bacteria (XDH-bacteria) and glucose dehydrogenase (GDH) displayed bacteria (GDH-bacteria) were used as anode catalysts in anode chamber with methylene blue as electron transfer mediator. While the cathode chamber was constructed with laccase/multi-walled-carbon nanotube/glassy-carbon-electrode. XDH-bacteria exhibited 1.75 times higher catalytic efficiency than GDH-bacteria. This assembled enzymatic fuel cell exhibited a high open-circuit potential of 0.80 V, acceptable stability and energy conversion efficiency. Moreover, the maximum power density of the cell could reach 53 μW cm(-2) when fueled with degradation products of corn stalk. Thus, this finding holds great potential to directly convert degradation products of biomass into electrical energy. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Chitin degradation and electricity generation by Aeromonas hydrophila in microbial fuel cells.

    PubMed

    Li, Shan-Wei; He, Hui; Zeng, Raymond J; Sheng, Guo-Ping

    2017-02-01

    Chitin is one of the most abundant biopolymers in nature and the main composition of shrimp and crab shells (usually as food wastes). Thus it is essential to investigate the potential of degrading chitin for energy recovery. This study investigated the anaerobic degradation of chitin by Aeromonas hydrophila, a chitinolytic and popular electroactive bacterium, in both fermentation and microbial fuel cell (MFC) systems. The primary chitin metabolites produced in MFC were succinate, lactate, acetate, formate, and ethanol. The total metabolite concentration from chitin degradation increased seven-fold in MFC compared to the fermentation system, as well as additional electricity generation. Moreover, A. hydrophila degraded GlcNAc (the intermediate of chitin hydrolysis) significantly faster (0.97 and 0.94 mM C/d/mM-GlcNAc) than chitin (0.13 and 0.03 mM C/d/mM-GlcNAc) in MFC and fermentation systems, indicating that extracellular hydrolysis of chitin was the rate-limiting step and this step could be accelerated in MFC. Furthermore, more chemicals produced by the addition of exogenous mediators in MFC. This study proves that the chitin could be degraded effectively by an electroactive bacterium in MFC, and our results suggest that this bioelectrochemical system might be useful for the degradation of recalcitrant biomass to recover energy. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. A test and instrumentation system for the investigation of degradation of electrical insulating materials

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1982-01-01

    The basic test methods of aging and deterioration mechanisms of electrical insulating materials are discussed. A comprehensive test system developed to study the degradation process is described. This system is completely checked, and calibrated with a few insulating material samples.

  7. Performance of an electrically raised, synchronous satellite when subjected to radiation degradation effects

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Cake, J. E.; Regetz, J. D., Jr.

    1971-01-01

    The use of solar electric propulsion to raise a high-power communication satellite from a low altitude, inclined circular orbit of the geosynchronous orbit is evaluated. Since the satellite ascends through the high intensity radiation belts, the power available from the solar array and therefore to the ion thrusters degrades. The performance of the solar electric stage in combination with the thrust augmented Thor/Delta launch vehicle is evaluated for two thrust steering programs. The transfer times and solar array requirements are presented for total geosynchronous payloads from 450 to 1100 kg.

  8. Modeling of asymmetric degradation based on a non-uniform electric field and temperature in amorphous In-Ga-Zn-O thin film transistors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    In Kim, Jong; Jeong, Chan-Yong; Kwon, Hyuck-In; Jung, Keum Dong; Park, Mun Soo; Kim, Ki Hwan; Seo, Mi Seon; Lee, Jong-Ho

    2017-03-01

    We propose a new local degradation model based on a non-uniform increase in donor-like traps (DLTs) determined by distributions of an electric field and measured device temperature in amorphous In-Ga-Zn-O (a-IGZO) thin film transistors (TFTs). A systematic investigation of the degradation model reveals that vertical field-dependent DLTs are essential for modeling of measured asymmetric electrical characteristics between the source and drain after positive gate and drain bias stressing. An increased temperature due to self-heating is found to play a role in intensifying the asymmetric degradation. From the individual simulation of measured transfer curves at different stress times, the model parameters and an asymmetry index as a function of stress time are extracted. It is expected that this novel methodology will provide new insight into asymmetric degradation and be utilized to predict the influence of electric field and heat on degradation under various bias-stress conditions in a-IGZO TFTs.

  9. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 36, Number 11.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 2001

    2001-01-01

    "Resources in Education" (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, parents, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1000 documents and provides…

  10. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 36, Number 12.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 2001

    2001-01-01

    "Resources in Education" (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community, including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, parents, etc. Each issue announces approximately 1000 documents and provides…

  11. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 36, Number 10.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 2001

    2001-01-01

    "Resources in Education" (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, parents, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1000 documents and provides…

  12. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 36, Number 7.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 2001

    2001-01-01

    "Resources in Education" (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, parents, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1000 documents and provides…

  13. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 36, Number 2.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 2001

    2001-01-01

    "Resources in Education" (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, parents, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1000 documents and provides…

  14. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 36, Number 5.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 2001

    2001-01-01

    "Resources in Education" (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, parents, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1000 documents and provides…

  15. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 36, Number 3.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 2001

    2001-01-01

    "Resources in Education" (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, parents, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1000 documents and provides…

  16. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 36, Number 9.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 2001

    2001-01-01

    "Resources in Education" (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, parents, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1000 documents and provides…

  17. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 36, Number 8.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 2001

    2001-01-01

    "Resources in Education" (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, parents, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1000 documents and provides…

  18. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 36, Number 4.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 2001

    2001-01-01

    "Resources in Education" (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, parents, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1000 documents and provides…

  19. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 36, Number 1.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 2001

    2001-01-01

    "Resources in Education" (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, parents, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1000 documents and provides…

  20. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 36, Number 6.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 2001

    2001-01-01

    "Resources in Education" (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, parents, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1000 documents and provides…

  1. Processing-Induced Electrically Active Defects in Black Silicon Nanowire Devices.

    PubMed

    Carapezzi, Stefania; Castaldini, Antonio; Mancarella, Fulvio; Poggi, Antonella; Cavallini, Anna

    2016-04-27

    Silicon nanowires (Si NWs) are widely investigated nowadays for implementation in advanced energy conversion and storage devices, as well as many other possible applications. Black silicon (BSi)-NWs are dry etched NWs that merge the advantages related to low-dimensionality with the special industrial appeal connected to deep reactive ion etching (RIE). In fact, RIE is a well established technique in microelectronics manufacturing. However, RIE processing could affect the electrical properties of BSi-NWs by introducing deep states into their forbidden gap. This work applies deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) to identify electrically active deep levels and the associated defects in dry etched Si NW arrays. Besides, the successful fitting of DLTS spectra of BSi-NWs-based Schottky barrier diodes is an experimental confirmation that the same theoretical framework of dynamic electronic behavior of deep levels applies in bulk as well as in low dimensional structures like NWs, when quantum confinement conditions do not occur. This has been validated for deep levels associated with simple pointlike defects as well as for deep levels associated with defects with richer structures, whose dynamic electronic behavior implies a more complex picture.

  2. Optimization and application of TiO₂/Ti-Pt photo fuel cell (PFC) to effectively generate electricity and degrade organic pollutants simultaneously.

    PubMed

    Li, Kan; Zhang, Hongbo; Tang, Tiantian; Xu, Yunlan; Ying, Diwen; Wang, Yalin; Jia, Jinping

    2014-10-01

    A TiO2/Ti-Pt photo fuel cell (PFC) was established to generate electricity and degrade organic pollutants simultaneously. The electricity generation was optimized through investigation the influences of photoanode calcination temperature and dissolve oxygen on the resistances existing in PFC. TiO2 light quantum yield was also improved in PFC which resulted in a higher PC degradation efficiency. Two kinds of real textile wastewaters were also employed in this PFC system, 62.4% and 50.0% Coulombic efficiency were obtained for 8 h treatment. These refractory wastewaters with high salinity may become good fuels in PFC because a) TiO2 has no selectivity and can degrade nearly any organic substance, b) no more electrolyte is needed due to the high salinity, c) the energy in wastes can be recovered to generate electricity. The electricity generated by the PFC was further applied on a TiO2/Ti rotating disk photoelectrocatalytic reactor. A bias voltage between 0.6 and 0.75 V could be applied and the PC degradation efficiency was significantly improved. This result was similar with that obtained by a 0.7 V DC power. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 27, Number 10.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1992

    1992-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  4. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 27, Number 8.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1992

    1992-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  5. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 27, Number 6.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    ERIC Processing and Reference Facility, Rockville, MD.

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  6. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 27, Number 9.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1992

    1992-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  7. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 28, Number 8.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1993

    1993-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  8. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 28, Number 5.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1993

    1993-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  9. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 26, Number 2.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1991

    1991-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  10. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 27, Number 12.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1992

    1992-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  11. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 27, Number 1.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    ERIC Processing and Reference Facility, Rockville, MD.

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  12. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 28, Number 7.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1993

    1993-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  13. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 28, Number 11.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1993

    1993-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  14. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 27, Number 3.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    ERIC Processing and Reference Facility, Rockville, MD.

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  15. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 25, Number 3.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1990

    1990-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  16. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 26, Number 9.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    ERIC Processing and Reference Facility, Rockville, MD.

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  17. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 26, Number 10.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    ERIC Processing and Reference Facility, Rockville, MD.

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  18. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 25, Number 1.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1990

    1990-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  19. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 28, Number 2.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1993

    1993-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  20. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 25, Number 4.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1990

    1990-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  1. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 27, Number 2.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    ERIC Processing and Reference Facility, Rockville, MD.

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  2. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 27, Number 7.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1992

    1992-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  3. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 29, Number 1.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1994

    1994-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  4. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 26, Number 6.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1991

    1991-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  5. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 26, Number 7.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    ERIC Processing and Reference Facility, Rockville, MD.

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  6. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 25, Number 9.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1990

    1990-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  7. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 27, Number 5.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    ERIC Processing and Reference Facility, Rockville, MD.

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  8. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 28, Number 3.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1993

    1993-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  9. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 24, Number 12.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1989

    1989-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  10. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 28, Number 12.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1993

    1993-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  11. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 25, Number 10.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1990

    1990-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  12. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 27, Number 11.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1992

    1992-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  13. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 28, Number 1.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1993

    1993-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  14. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 25, Number 5.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1990

    1990-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  15. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 28, Number 10.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1993

    1993-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  16. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 24, Number 10.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1989

    1989-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  17. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 29, Number 2.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1994

    1994-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  18. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 28, Number 9.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1993

    1993-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  19. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 28, Number 4.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1993

    1993-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  20. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 25, Number 7.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1990

    1990-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  1. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 25, Number 6.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1990

    1990-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  2. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 26, Number 4.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1991

    1991-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  3. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 27, Number 4.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    ERIC Processing and Reference Facility, Rockville, MD.

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  4. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 24, Number 11.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1989

    1989-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  5. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 26, Number 8.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    ERIC Processing and Reference Facility, Rockville, MD.

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  6. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 26, Number 3.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1991

    1991-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  7. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 28, Number 6.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1993

    1993-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  8. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 25, Number 2.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1990

    1990-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  9. Resources in Education (RIE). Volume 25, Number 8.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resources in Education, 1990

    1990-01-01

    Resources in Education (RIE) is a monthly abstract journal that announces (catalogs, indexes, abstracts) documents of interest to the educational community (including researchers, teachers, students, school board members, school administrators, counselors, etc.). Each issue announces approximately 1,100 documents and provides indexes by Subject,…

  10. Sur la présence d'une série molassique (de type série pourprée) au Sud-Est de l'Ahaggar (In Guezzam, Ahaggar, Algérie)Presence of molassic series ('Série pourprée' type) in the Southeast of the Ahaggar (In Guezzam, Ahaggar, Algeria)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Djellit, Hamou; Henry, Bernard; Derder, Mohamed E. M.

    In the western Ahaggar shield, the transition between the Precambrian and the Ordovician units is characterised by thick volcano-sedimentary series ('Série pourprée' of the Ahnet). This series, in part of Cambrian age, results from the demolition of the Panafrican belt. Similar series were known in grabens located between the West African craton and the Ahaggar, from the 'Adrar des Iforas', in the south, to the Ougarta belt, in the north. We describe in this study a new formation identical to the 'Série pourprée' of the Ahnet, but cropping out in the far Southeast of the Ahaggar (In Guezzam). This new datum improves the Panafrican belt configuration. To cite this article: H. Djellit et al., C. R. Geoscience 334 (2002) 789-794.

  11. Novel degradable co-polymers of polypyrrole support cell proliferation and enhance neurite out-growth with electrical stimulation.

    PubMed

    Durgam, Hymavathi; Sapp, Shawn; Deister, Curt; Khaing, Zin; Chang, Emily; Luebben, Silvia; Schmidt, Christine E

    2010-01-01

    Synthetic polymers such as polypyrrole (PPy) are gaining significance in neural studies because of their conductive properties. We evaluated two novel biodegradable block co-polymers of PPy with poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL) and poly(ethyl cyanoacrylate) (PECA) for nerve regeneration applications. PPy-PCL and PPy-PECA co-polymers can be processed from solvent-based colloidal dispersions and have essentially the same or greater conductivity (32 S/cm for PPy-PCL, 19 S/cm for PPy-PECA) compared to the PPy homo-polymer (22 S/cm). The PPy portions of the co-polymers permit electrical stimulation whereas the PCL or PECA blocks enable degradation by hydrolysis. For in vitro tests, films were prepared on polycarbonate sheets by air brushing layers of dispersions and pressing the films. We characterized the films for hydrolytic degradation, electrical conductivity, cell proliferation and neurite extension. The co-polymers were sufficient to carry out electrical stimulation of cells without the requirement of a metallic conductor underneath the co-polymer film. In vitro electrical stimulation of PPy-PCL significantly increased the number of PC12 cells bearing neurites compared to unstimulated PPy-PCL. For in vivo experiments, the PPy co-polymers were coated onto the inner walls of nerve guidance channels (NGCs) made of the commercially available non-conducting biodegradable polymer poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHB-HV). The NGCs were implanted in a 10 mm defect made in the sciatic nerve of rats, and harvested after 8 weeks. Histological staining showed axonal growth. The studies indicated that these new conducting degradable biomaterials have good biocompatibility and support proliferation and growth of PC12 cells in vitro (with and without electrical stimulation) and neurons in vivo (without electrical stimulation).

  12. Quantifying electric vehicle battery degradation from driving vs. vehicle-to-grid services

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Dai; Coignard, Jonathan; Zeng, Teng; Zhang, Cong; Saxena, Samveg

    2016-11-01

    The risk of accelerated electric vehicle battery degradation is commonly cited as a concern inhibiting the implementation of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. However, little quantitative evidence exists in prior literature to refute or substantiate these concerns for different grid services that vehicles may offer. In this paper, a methodology is proposed to quantify electric vehicle (EV) battery degradation from driving only vs. driving and several vehicle-grid services, based on a semi-empirical lithium-ion battery capacity fade model. A detailed EV battery pack thermal model and EV powertrain model are utilized to capture the time-varying battery temperature and working parameters including current, internal resistance and state-of-charge (SOC), while an EV is driving and offering various grid services. We use the proposed method to simulate the battery degradation impacts from multiple vehicle-grid services including peak load shaving, frequency regulation and net load shaping. The degradation impact of these grid services is compared against baseline cases for driving and uncontrolled charging only, for several different cases of vehicle itineraries, driving distances, and climate conditions. Over the lifetime of a vehicle, our results show that battery wear is indeed increased when vehicles offer V2G grid services. However, the increased wear from V2G is inconsequential compared with naturally occurring battery wear (i.e. from driving and calendar ageing) when V2G services are offered only on days of the greatest grid need (20 days/year in our study). In the case of frequency regulation and peak load shaving V2G grid services offered 2 hours each day, battery wear remains minimal even if this grid service is offered every day over the vehicle lifetime. Our results suggest that an attractive tradeoff exists where vehicles can offer grid services on the highest value days for the grid with minimal impact on vehicle battery life.

  13. Chemical Degradation of the Cathodic Electrical Contact Between Carbon and Cast Iron in Aluminum Production Cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brassard, Martin; Désilets, Martin; Soucy, Gervais; Bilodeau, Jean-François; Forté, Martin

    2017-06-01

    The cathodic carbon to cast iron electrical contact degradation is one of the factors to consider in the cathode voltage drop (CVD) increase over the lifetime of aluminum production cells. Lab-scale experiments were carried out to study the cast iron to carbon interface chemical degradation and the impact of important cell parameters like temperature and bath chemistry. Laboratory degradation results were compared with industrial samples. A thermoelectric Ansys numerical model was then used to predict the effect of cast iron surface degradation over CVD. Results show that the aluminum formation on the cast iron surface and its subsequent diffusion creates an immiscible mixture of Fe-Al metal alloy and electrolytic bath. Disparities were also observed between industrial samples taken from two different technologies, suggesting that the degradation can be slowed down. Thermoelectric calculations finally revealed that the impact of the contact resistance augmentation is by far greater than the cast iron degradation.

  14. Carbonate-silicate liquid immiscibility upon impact melting, Ries Crater, Germany

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Graup, Guenther

    1999-05-01

    The 24-km-diameter Ries impact crater in southern Germany is one of the most studied impact structures on Earth. The Ries impactor struck a Triassic to Upper Jurassic sedimentary sequence overlying Hercynian crystalline basement. At the time of impact (14.87 +/- 0.36 Ma; Storzer et al., 1995), the 350 m thick Malm limestone was present only to the S and E of the impact site. To the N and W, the Malm had been eroded away, exposing the underlying Dogger and Lias. The largest proportion of shocked target material is in the impact melt-bearing breccia suevite. The suevite had been believed to be derived entirely from the crystalline basement. Calcite in the suevite has been interpreted as a post-impact hydrothermal deposit. From optical inspection of 540 thin sections of suevite from 32 sites, I find that calcite in the suevite shows textural evidence of liquid immiscibility with the silicate impact melt. Textural evidence of liquid immiscibility between silicate and carbonate melt in the Ries suevite includes: carbonate globules within silicate glass, silicate globules embedded in carbonate, deformable and coalescing carbonate spheres within silicate glass, sharp menisci or cusps and budding between silicate and carbonate melt, fluidal textures and gas vesicles in carbonate schlieren, a quench crystallization sequence of the carbonate, spinifex textured quenched carbonate, separate carbonate spherules in the suevite mineral-fragment-matrix, and inclusions of mineral fragments suspended in carbonate blebs. Given this evidence of liquid immiscibility, the carbonate in the suevite has, therefore, like the silicate melt a primary origin by impact shock melting. Evidence of carbonate-silicate liquid immiscibility is abundant in the suevites to the SW to E of the Ries crater. The rarer suevites to the W to NE of the crater are nearly devoid of carbonate melts. This correspondence between the occurrence of outcropping limestones at the target surface and the formation of

  15. [Electricity generation and contaminants degradation performances of a microbial fuel cell fed with Dioscorea zingiberensis wastewater].

    PubMed

    Li, Hui; Zhu, Xiu-Ping; Xu, Nan; Ni, Jin-Ren

    2011-01-01

    The electricity generation performance of a microbial fuel cell (MFC) utilizing Dioscorea zingiberensis wastewater was studied with an H-shape reactor. Indexes including pH, conductivity, oxidation peak potential and chemical oxygen demand (COD) of the anolyte were monitored to investigate the contaminants degradation performance of the MFC during the electricity generation process, besides, contaminant ingredients in anodic influent and effluent were analyzed by GC-MS and IR spectra as well. The maximum power density of the MFC could achieve 118.1 mW/m2 and the internal resistance was about 480 omega. Connected with a 1 000 omega external resistance, the output potential was about 0.4 V. Fed with 5 mL Dioscorea zingiberensis wastewater, the electricity generation lasted about 133 h and the coulombic efficiency was about 3.93%. At the end of electricity generation cycle, COD decreased by 90.1% while NH4(+) -N decreased by 66.8%. Furfural compounds, phenols and some other complicated organics could be decomposed and utilized in the electricity generation process, and the residual contaminants in effluent included some long-chain fatty acids, esters, ethers, and esters with benzene ring, cycloalkanes, cycloolefins, etc. The results indicate that MFC, which can degrade and utilize the organic contaminants in Dioscorea zingiberensis wastewater simultaneously, provides a new approach for resource recovery treatment of Dioscorea zingiberensis wastewater.

  16. Explore various co-substrates for simultaneous electricity generation and Congo red degradation in air-cathode single-chamber microbial fuel cell.

    PubMed

    Cao, Yunqing; Hu, Yongyou; Sun, Jian; Hou, Bin

    2010-08-01

    Microbial fuel cell (MFC) holds a great promise to harvest electricity directly from a wide range of ready degradable organic matters and enhance degradation of some recalcitrant contaminants. Glucose, acetate sodium and ethanol were separately examined as co-substrates for simultaneous bioelectricity generation and Congo red degradation in a proton exchange membrane (PEM) air-cathode single-chamber MFC. The batch test results showed that more than 98% decolorization at the dye concentration of 300 mg/L were achieved within 36 h for all tested co-substrates during electricity generation. The decolorization rate was different with the co-substrates used. The fastest decolorization rate was achieved with glucose followed by ethanol and sodium acetate. Accumulated intermediates were observed during Congo red degradation which was demonstrated by UV-Visible spectra and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Electricity generation was sustained and not significantly affected by the Congo red degradation. Glucose, acetate sodium and ethanol produced maximum power densities of 103 mW/m(2), 85.9 mW/m(2) and 63.2 mW/m(2), respectively, and the maximum voltage output decreased by only 7% to 15%. Our results demonstrated the feasibility of using various co-substrates for simultaneous decolorization of Congo red and bioelectricity generation in the MFC and showed that glucose was the preferred co-substrate. Copyright (c) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Degradation of the electrical characteristics of MOS structures with erbium, gadolinium, and dysprosium oxides under the effect of an electric field

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Shalimova, M. B., E-mail: shamb@samsu.ru; Sachuk, N. V.

    2015-08-15

    The degradation of the characteristics of silicon metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) structures with oxides of rare-earth elements under the effect of electric fields with intensities of 0.1–4 MV/cm during the course of electroforming is studied. A specific feature of electroforming consists in the possibility of multiple switching of the structures from the insulating state to the low-resistivity one and back. The temporal characteristics of the degradation of MOS structures during the course of electroforming are exponential. The current-voltage characteristics follow the power law in the range of 0.2–3 V; the effect of an electric field brings about a variation in the distributionmore » of the energy density of traps responsible for currents limited by space charge. It is established that multiple cycles of electroforming lead to an increase in the density of surface states at the Si-oxide interface and to a variation in the energy position of the trap levels, which affects the charge state of the traps.« less

  18. Aquisição de Estreptococos Mutans e Desenvolvimento de Cárie Dental em Primogênitos

    PubMed Central

    NOCE, Erica; RUBIRA, Cassia Maria Fischer; da Silva ROSA, Odila Pereira; da SILVA, Salete Moura Bonifácio; BRETZ, Walter Antonio

    2011-01-01

    Objetivo Avaliar o momento de aquisição de estreptococos mutans (EM), desenvolvimento de cárie dental e as variáveis a eles associadas no decorrer de 23 meses, em primogênitos de famílias de baixo nível socioeconômico, desde os sete meses de idade. Método A amostra foi selecionada com base em mães densamente colonizadas por EM, incluindo todos os membros de 14 famílias que conviviam na mesma casa. Foram envolvidos no estudo 14 mães, pais e primogênitos e 8 parentes, na maioria avós. Exames clínicos e radiográficos iniciais determinaram os índices de cárie e condição periodontal dos adultos. Contagens de EM foram feitas em todos os adultos nas duas primeiras visitas. Nas crianças foram avaliados os níveis de EM, o número de dentes e de cáries, em quatro visitas. Resultados A prevalência de EM nos adultos foi alta, estando ausente em apenas um dos pais. EM foram detectados em 1, 2, 3 e 10 crianças, respectivamente nas visitas #1, 2, 3 e 4. A cárie dental foi detectada em apenas três crianças na última visita (aos 30 meses de idade), as quais apresentaram escores de EM significantemente maiores que as crianças sem cárie, na mesma visita. Conclusão Exclusivamente a condição social de baixa renda e mães densamente colonizadas por EM não são sinônimo de colonização precoce e alta atividade de cárie em crianças cuidadas em casa. O desenvolvimento de cárie está significantemente associado a escores elevados de EM nas crianças. PMID:22022218

  19. Sulphated Electric Arc Furnace Slag Asfenton-Like Catalyst for Degradation of Reactive Black 5

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zubir, N. A.; Nasuha, N.; Alrozi, R.

    2018-06-01

    Sulphated electric arc furnace slag (S-EAFS) was obtained through a facile chemical and thermal treatment method. The S-EAFS was evaluated as a Fenton-like catalyst for the oxidative degradation of reactive black 5 (RB5). The S-EAFS was characterized by XRD, SEM-EDX and nitrogen adsorption analysis. The highest RB5 degradation efficiency obtained in this study was above 90% which was maintained across seven successive cycles with minimum iron leaching. This was achieved at a RB5 concentration of 0.15 gL-1 (50 ppm) with 8 mM of H2O2 and a pH of 4.5. Characterization revealed that the presence of sulphated groups (SO4 2-) within the EAFS improved the surface acidity of the material and corresponded to an increase in the catalytic activity for the degradation of RB5 at mild pH.

  20. Effect of various gases and chemical catalysts on phenol degradation pathways by pulsed electrical discharges.

    PubMed

    Shen, Yongjun; Lei, Lecheng; Zhang, Xingwang; Zhou, Minghua; Zhang, Yi

    2008-02-11

    The processes of phenol degradation by pulsed electrical discharges were investigated under several kinds of discharge atmospheres (oxygen, argon, nitrogen and ozone) and chemical catalysts (ferrous ion and hydrogen peroxide). The temporal variations of the concentrations of phenol and the intermediate products were monitored by HPLC and GC-MS, respectively. It has been found that the effect of various gases bubbling on phenol degradation rate ranked in the following order: oxygen-containing ozone>oxygen>argon>nitrogen. The high gas bubbling flow rate was beneficial to the removal of phenol. It was found that the degradation proceeded differently when in the presence and absence of catalysts. The phenol removal rate was increased when ferrous ion was added. This considerable enhancement may be due to the Fenton's reaction. What's more, putting the chemical additives hydrogen peroxide into the reactor led to a dramatic increase in phenol degradation rate. The mechanism was due to the direct or indirect photolysis and pyrolysis destruction in plasma channel. Furthermore, the intermediate products were monitored by GC-MS under three degradation conditions. More THBs were generated under degradation conditions without gases bubbling or adding any catalyst, and more DHBs under the condition of adding ferrous ion, and more carboxylic acids under the condition of oxygen-containing ozone gas bubbling. Consequently, three distinct degradation pathways based on different conditions were proposed.

  1. Electrical degradation of triarylamine-based light-emitting polymer diodes monitored by micro-Raman spectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Ji-Seon; Ho, Peter K. H.; Murphy, Craig E.; Seeley, Alex J. A. B.; Grizzi, Ilaria; Burroughes, Jeremy H.; Friend, Richard H.

    2004-03-01

    Although much progress has been made in improving polymer light-emitting diode performance, there has been little work to address device intrinsic degradation mechanisms due to the challenge of tracking minute chemical reactions in the 100-nm-thick buried active layers during operation. Here we have elucidated a hole-mediated electrical degradation of triarylamine-based blue polymer diodes using in situ Raman microspectroscopy. A slow irreversible hole-doping of polymer adjacent to the hole-injecting conducting-polymer leads to formation of oxidised triarylamine species counterbalanced by anions from the conducting-polymer. These charged species act as luminescence quenchers and hinder further hole injection across the interface leading to significant decreases in current density at low voltages.

  2. Fatigue degradation and electric recovery in Silicon solar cells embedded in photovoltaic modules

    PubMed Central

    Paggi, Marco; Berardone, Irene; Infuso, Andrea; Corrado, Mauro

    2014-01-01

    Cracking in Silicon solar cells is an important factor for the electrical power-loss of photovoltaic modules. Simple geometrical criteria identifying the amount of inactive cell areas depending on the position of cracks with respect to the main electric conductors have been proposed in the literature to predict worst case scenarios. Here we present an experimental study based on the electroluminescence (EL) technique showing that crack propagation in monocrystalline Silicon cells embedded in photovoltaic (PV) modules is a much more complex phenomenon. In spite of the very brittle nature of Silicon, due to the action of the encapsulating polymer and residual thermo-elastic stresses, cracked regions can recover the electric conductivity during mechanical unloading due to crack closure. During cyclic bending, fatigue degradation is reported. This pinpoints the importance of reducing cyclic stresses caused by vibrations due to transportation and use, in order to limit the effect of cracking in Silicon cells. PMID:24675974

  3. Influence of supporting electrolyte in electricity generation and degradation of organic pollutants in photocatalytic fuel cell.

    PubMed

    Khalik, Wan Fadhilah; Ong, Soon-An; Ho, Li-Ngee; Wong, Yee-Shian; Voon, Chun-Hong; Yusuf, Sara Yasina; Yusoff, Nik Athirah; Lee, Sin-Li

    2016-08-01

    This study investigated the effect of different supporting electrolyte (Na2SO4, MgSO4, NaCl) in degradation of Reactive Black 5 (RB5) and generation of electricity. Zinc oxide (ZnO) was immobilized onto carbon felt acted as photoanode, while Pt-coated carbon paper as photocathode was placed in a single chamber photocatalytic fuel cell, which then irradiated by UV lamp for 24 h. The degradation and mineralization of RB5 with 0.1 M NaCl rapidly decreased after 24-h irradiation time, followed by MgSO4, Na2SO4 and without electrolyte. The voltage outputs for Na2SO4, MgSO4 and NaCl were 908, 628 and 523 mV, respectively, after 24-h irradiation time; meanwhile, their short-circuit current density, J SC, was 1.3, 1.2 and 1.05 mA cm(-2), respectively. The power densities for Na2SO4, MgSO4 and NaCl were 0.335, 0.256 and 0.245 mW cm(-2), respectively. On the other hand, for without supporting electrolyte, the voltage output and short-circuit current density was 271.6 mV and 0.055 mA cm(-2), respectively. The supporting electrolyte NaCl showed greater performance in degradation of RB5 and generation of electricity due to the formation of superoxide radical anions which enhance the degradation of dye. The mineralization of RB5 with different supporting electrolyte was measured through spectrum analysis and reduction in COD concentration.

  4. Pulmonary effects of acute exposure to degradation products of sulphur hexafluoride during electrical cable repair work.

    PubMed Central

    Kraut, A; Lilis, R

    1990-01-01

    Six electrical workers accidentally exposed to degradation products of sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) during electrical repair work were followed up for one year. One degradation product, sulphur tetrafluoride (SF4), was identified from worksite measurements. Unprotected exposure in an underground enclosed space occurred for six hours over a 12 hour period. Initial symptoms included shortness of breath, chest tightness, productive cough, nose and eye irritation, headache, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms subsided when exposure was interrupted during attempts to identify the cause of the problem. Although exposure ended after several hours, four workers remained symptomatic for between one week and one month. Pulmonary radiographic abnormalities included several discrete areas of transitory platelike atelectasis in one worker, and a slight diffuse infiltrate in the left lower lobe of another. One worker showed transient obstructive changes in tests of pulmonary function. Examination at follow up after one year showed no persistent abnormalities. Preliminary data from this paper were presented at the VIIth international pneumoconioses conference. Pittsburgh, PA, August 1988. PMID:2271390

  5. Predictive modeling of battery degradation and greenhouse gas emissions from U.S. state-level electric vehicle operation.

    PubMed

    Yang, Fan; Xie, Yuanyuan; Deng, Yelin; Yuan, Chris

    2018-06-21

    Electric vehicles (EVs) are widely promoted as clean alternatives to conventional vehicles for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ground transportation. However, the battery undergoes a sophisticated degradation process during EV operations and its effects on EV energy consumption and GHG emissions are unknown. Here we show on a typical 24 kWh lithium-manganese-oxide-graphite battery pack that the degradation of EV battery can be mathematically modeled to predict battery life and to study its effects on energy consumption and GHG emissions from EV operations. We found that under US state-level average driving conditions, the battery life is ranging between 5.2 years in Florida and 13.3 years in Alaska under 30% battery degradation limit. The battery degradation will cause a 11.5-16.2% increase in energy consumption and GHG emissions per km driven at 30% capacity loss. This study provides a robust analytical approach and results for supporting policy making in prioritizing EV deployment in the U.S.

  6. Electrical overstress in AlGaN/GaN HEMTs: study of degradation processes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kuzmík, J.; Pogany, D.; Gornik, E.; Javorka, P.; Kordoš, P.

    2004-02-01

    We study degradation mechanisms in 50 μm gate width/0.45 μm length AlGaN/GaN HEMTs after electrical overstresses. One hundred nanosecond long rectangular current pulses are applied on the drain contact keeping either both of the source and gate grounded or the source grounded and gate floating. Source-drain pulsed I- V characteristics show similar shape for both connections. After the HEMT undergoes the source-drain breakdown, a negative differential resistance region transits into a low voltage/high current region. Changes in the Schottky contact dc I- V characteristics and in the source and drain ohmic contacts are investigated as a function of the current stress level and are related to the HEMT dc performance. Catastrophic HEMT degradation was observed after Istress=1.65 A in case of the 'gate floating' connection due to ohmic contacts burnout. In case of the 'gate grounded' connection, Istress=0.45 A was sufficient for the gate failure showing a high gate susceptibility to overstress. Backside transient interferometric mapping technique experiment reveals a current filament formation under both HEMT stress connections. Infrared camera observations lead to conclusion that the filament formation together with a consequent high-density electron flow is responsible for a dark spot formation and gradual ohmic contact degradation.

  7. Degradable transportation network with the addition of electric vehicles: Network equilibrium analysis

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Rui; Yao, Enjian; Yang, Yang

    2017-01-01

    Introducing electric vehicles (EVs) into urban transportation network brings higher requirement on travel time reliability and charging reliability. Specifically, it is believed that travel time reliability is a key factor influencing travelers’ route choice. Meanwhile, due to the limited cruising range, EV drivers need to better learn about the required energy for the whole trip to make decisions about whether charging or not and where to charge (i.e., charging reliability). Since EV energy consumption is highly related to travel speed, network uncertainty affects travel time and charging demand estimation significantly. Considering the network uncertainty resulted from link degradation, which influences the distribution of travel demand on transportation network and the energy demand on power network, this paper aims to develop a reliability-based network equilibrium framework for accommodating degradable road conditions with the addition of EVs. First, based on the link travel time distribution, the mean and variance of route travel time and monetary expenses related to energy consumption are deduced, respectively. And the charging time distribution of EVs with charging demand is also estimated. Then, a nested structure is considered to deal with the difference of route choice behavior derived by the different uncertainty degrees between the routes with and without degradable links. Given the expected generalized travel cost and a psychological safety margin, a traffic assignment model with the addition of EVs is formulated. Subsequently, a heuristic solution algorithm is developed to solve the proposed model. Finally, the effects of travelers’ risk attitude, network degradation degree, and EV penetration rate on network performance are illustrated through an example network. The numerical results show that the difference of travelers’ risk attitudes does have impact on the route choice, and the widespread adoption of EVs can cut down the total system

  8. Degradable transportation network with the addition of electric vehicles: Network equilibrium analysis.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Rui; Yao, Enjian; Yang, Yang

    2017-01-01

    Introducing electric vehicles (EVs) into urban transportation network brings higher requirement on travel time reliability and charging reliability. Specifically, it is believed that travel time reliability is a key factor influencing travelers' route choice. Meanwhile, due to the limited cruising range, EV drivers need to better learn about the required energy for the whole trip to make decisions about whether charging or not and where to charge (i.e., charging reliability). Since EV energy consumption is highly related to travel speed, network uncertainty affects travel time and charging demand estimation significantly. Considering the network uncertainty resulted from link degradation, which influences the distribution of travel demand on transportation network and the energy demand on power network, this paper aims to develop a reliability-based network equilibrium framework for accommodating degradable road conditions with the addition of EVs. First, based on the link travel time distribution, the mean and variance of route travel time and monetary expenses related to energy consumption are deduced, respectively. And the charging time distribution of EVs with charging demand is also estimated. Then, a nested structure is considered to deal with the difference of route choice behavior derived by the different uncertainty degrees between the routes with and without degradable links. Given the expected generalized travel cost and a psychological safety margin, a traffic assignment model with the addition of EVs is formulated. Subsequently, a heuristic solution algorithm is developed to solve the proposed model. Finally, the effects of travelers' risk attitude, network degradation degree, and EV penetration rate on network performance are illustrated through an example network. The numerical results show that the difference of travelers' risk attitudes does have impact on the route choice, and the widespread adoption of EVs can cut down the total system travel

  9. An Overview of the MaRIE X-FEL and Electron Radiography LINAC RF Systems

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Bradley, Joseph Thomas III; Rees, Daniel Earl; Scheinker, Alexander

    The purpose of the Matter-Radiation Interactions in Extremes (MaRIE) facility at Los Alamos National Laboratory is to investigate the performance limits of materials in extreme environments. The MaRIE facility will utilize a 12 GeV linac to drive an X-ray Free-Electron Laser (FEL). Most of the same linac will also be used to perform electron radiography. The main linac is driven by two shorter linacs; one short linac optimized for X-FEL pulses and one for electron radiography. The RF systems have historically been the one of the largest single component costs of a linac. We will describe the details of themore » different types of RF systems required by each part of the linacs. Starting with the High Power RF system, we will present our methodology for the choice of RF system peak power and pulselength with respect to klystron parameters, modulator parameters, performance requirements and relative costs. We will also present an overview of the Low Level RF systems that are proposed for MaRIE and briefly describe their use with some proposed control schemes.« less

  10. International Space Station Solar Array Wing On-Orbit Electrical Performance Degradation Measured

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Gustafson, Eric D.; Kerslake, Thomas W.

    2004-01-01

    The port-side photovoltaic power module (P6) was activated on the International Space Station in December 2000. P6 provides electrical power to channels 2B and 4B to operate ISS power loads. A P6 is shown in the preceding photograph. This article highlights the work done at the NASA Glenn Research Center to calculate the on-orbit degradation of the P6 solar array wings (SAWs) using on-orbit data from December 2000 to February 2003. During early ISS operations, the 82 strings of photovoltaic cells that make up a SAW can provide much more power than is necessary to meet the demand. To deal with excess power, a sequential shunt unit successively shunts the current from the strings. This shunt current was the parameter chosen for the SAW performance degradation study for the following reasons: (1) it is based on a direct shunt current measurement in the sequential shunt unit, (2) the shunt current has a low temperature dependence that reduces the data correction error from using a computationally derived array temperature, and (3) the SSU shunt current is essentially the same as the SAW short-circuit current on a per-string basis.

  11. Bunte Breccia of the Ries - Continuous deposits of large impact craters

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Horz, F.; Ostertag, R.; Rainey, D. A.

    1983-01-01

    The 26-km-diameter Ries impact crater in south Germany and the mechanism of ejection and emplacement associated with its formation about 15 Myr ago are discussed in detail, and the implications of the findings for models of crater formation on earth, moon, and planets are considered. Field observations and laboratory tests on 560-m core materials from nine locations are reported. The continuous deposits (Bunte Breccia) are found to be a chaotic mixture resulting from deposition at ambient temperatures in a highly turbulent environment, probably in the ballistic scenario proposed by Oberbeck et al. (1975), with an emplacement time of only about 5 min. Further impact parameters are estimated using the 'Z model' of Maxwell (1977): initial radius = 6.5 km, excavation depth = 1650 m, excavation volume = 136 cu km, and transient cavity volume = 230 cu km. The interpretation of lunar and planetary remote-sensing and in situ evidence from impact craters is reviewed in the light of the Ries findings. Numerous photographs, maps, diagrams, and tables illustrate the investigation.

  12. The roles of ozone and zeolite on reactive dye degradation in electrical discharge reactors.

    PubMed

    Peternel, L; Kusic, H; Koprivanac, N; Locke, B R

    2006-05-01

    In this study high voltage pulsed corona electrical discharge advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) were applied to bleach and degrade C.I. Reactive Green 8 and C.I. Reactive Red 45 organic dyes in water solutions. Two types of hybrid gas/liquid high voltage electrical discharge (corona) reactors, known as hybrid series and hybrid parallel were studied. The difference between these reactors relates to electrode configuration, which affects the amounts of ozone, hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radicals produced. Experiments were conducted using dye concentrations of 20 mgl(-1) and 75 mgl(-1), with and without NH4ZSM5 zeolite addition in order to determine possible effects of added solid particles to total process efficiency. The role of ozone in combination with zeolites was assessed through comparative direct ozonation experiments with ozone supplied by an ozone generator. UV/VIS spectrophotometric measurements and measurements of total organic carbon (TOC) were used for the determination of decolorization and mineralization rates.

  13. Sobre o uso das séries de Puiseux em mecanica celeste

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Miloni, O. I.

    2003-08-01

    Neste trabalho é apresentada uma demonstração do uso dos diferentes desenvolvimentos em séries para as equações de perturbação em Mecânica Celeste no marco Hamiltoniano. Em trabalhos clássicos como os de Poincaré (Poincaré, 1893) por exemplo, já esta planteado o uso de potências não inteiras no pequeno parâmetro, o que evidencia a não analiticidade das funções quando uma ressonância ocorre. Nestes trabalhos os desenvolvimentos são na raíz quadrada da massa de Júpiter (o pequeno parâmetro). Mais recentemente (Ferraz-Mello, 1985) outros tipos de desenvolvimentos foram aplicados modificando substancialmente as ordens de grandeza e a velocidade de convergência das séries. Com esta abordagem, os desenvolvimentos foram expressados em termos da raíz cúbica do pequeno parâmetro. Neste trabalho apresentamos um enfoque geral, onde os diferentes tipos de desenvolvimentos em séries de Puiseux (Valiron, 1950) são obtidos a partir da aplicação de Teorema de Preparação de Weierstrass (Goursat, 1916) considerando a equação de Hamilton-Jacobi como uma equação algébrica. Os resultados são aplicados ao problema restrito dos três corpos em ressonância de primeira ordem e, dependendo da grandeza da excentricidade do asteróide em relação à de Júpiter, obtemos os diferentes desenvolvimentos, em raíz quadrada ou raíz cúbica da massa de Júpiter.

  14. Role of dissolved oxygen on the degradation mechanism of Reactive Green 19 and electricity generation in photocatalytic fuel cell.

    PubMed

    Lee, Sin-Li; Ho, Li-Ngee; Ong, Soon-An; Wong, Yee-Shian; Voon, Chun-Hong; Khalik, Wan Fadhilah; Yusoff, Nik Athirah; Nordin, Noradiba

    2018-03-01

    In this study, a membraneless photocatalytic fuel cell with zinc oxide loaded carbon photoanode and platinum loaded carbon cathode was constructed to investigate the impact of dissolved oxygen on the mechanism of dye degradation and electricity generation of photocatalytic fuel cell. The photocatalytic fuel cell with high and low aeration rate, no aeration and nitrogen purged were investigated, respectively. The degradation rate of diazo dye Reactive Green 19 and the electricity generation was enhanced in photocatalytic fuel cell with higher dissolved oxygen concentration. However, the photocatalytic fuel cell was still able to perform 37% of decolorization in a slow rate (k = 0.033 h -1 ) under extremely low dissolved oxygen concentration (approximately 0.2 mg L -1 ) when nitrogen gas was introduced into the fuel cell throughout the 8 h. However, the change of the UV-Vis spectrum indicates that the intermediates of the dye could not be mineralized under insufficient dissolved oxygen level. In the aspect of electricity generation, the maximum short circuit current (0.0041 mA cm -2 ) and power density (0.00028 mW cm -2 ) of the air purged photocatalytic fuel cell was obviously higher than that with nitrogen purging (0.0015 mA cm -2 and 0.00008 mW cm -2 ). Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. MaRIE: A facility for time-dependent materials science at the mesoscale

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Barnes, Cris William; Kippen, Karen Elizabeth

    To meet new and emerging national security issues the Laboratory is stepping up to meet another grand challenge—transitioning from observing to controlling a material’s performance. This challenge requires the best of experiment, modeling, simulation, and computational tools. MaRIE is the Laboratory’s proposed flagship experimental facility intended to meet the challenge.

  16. Electrical condition monitoring method for polymers

    DOEpatents

    Watkins, Jr. Kenneth S.; Morris, Shelby J.; Masakowski, Daniel D.; Wong, Ching Ping; Luo, Shijian

    2010-02-16

    An electrical condition monitoring method utilizes measurement of electrical resistivity of a conductive composite degradation sensor to monitor environmentally induced degradation of a polymeric product such as insulated wire and cable. The degradation sensor comprises a polymeric matrix and conductive filler. The polymeric matrix may be a polymer used in the product, or it may be a polymer with degradation properties similar to that of a polymer used in the product. The method comprises a means for communicating the resistivity to a measuring instrument and a means to correlate resistivity of the degradation sensor with environmentally induced degradation of the product.

  17. MaRIE 1.0: The Matter-Radiation Interactions in Extremes Project, and the Challenge of Dynamic Mesoscale Imaging

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Barnes, Cris William; Barber, John L.; Kober, Edward Martin

    The Matter-Radiation Interactions in Extremes project will build the experimental facility for the time-dependent control of dynamic material performance. An x-ray free electron laser at up to 42-keV fundamental energy and with photon pulses down to sub-nanosecond spacing, MaRIE 1.0 is designed to meet the challenges of time-dependent mesoscale materials science. Those challenges will be outlined, the techniques of coherent diffractive imaging and dynamic polycrystalline diffraction described, and the resulting requirements defined for a coherent x-ray source. The talk concludes with the role of the MaRIE project and science in the future.

  18. Electrical Mapping of Silver Nanowire Networks: A Versatile Tool for Imaging Network Homogeneity and Degradation Dynamics during Failure.

    PubMed

    Sannicolo, Thomas; Charvin, Nicolas; Flandin, Lionel; Kraus, Silas; Papanastasiou, Dorina T; Celle, Caroline; Simonato, Jean-Pierre; Muñoz-Rojas, David; Jiménez, Carmen; Bellet, Daniel

    2018-05-22

    Electrical stability and homogeneity of silver nanowire (AgNW) networks are critical assets for increasing their robustness and reliability when integrated as transparent electrodes in devices. Our ability to distinguish defects, inhomogeneities, or inactive areas at the scale of the entire network is therefore a critical issue. We propose one-probe electrical mapping (1P-mapping) as a specific simple tool to study the electrical distribution in these discrete structures. 1P-mapping has allowed us to show that the tortuosity of the voltage equipotential lines of AgNW networks under bias decreases with increasing network density, leading to a better electrical homogeneity. The impact of the network fabrication technique on the electrical homogeneity of the resulting electrode has also been investigated. Then, by combining 1P-mapping with electrical resistance measurements and IR thermography, we propose a comprehensive analysis of the evolution of the electrical distribution in AgNW networks when subjected to increasing voltage stresses. We show that AgNW networks experience three distinctive stages: optimization, degradation, and breakdown. We also demonstrate that the failure dynamics of AgNW networks at high voltages occurs through a highly correlated and spatially localized mechanism. In particular the in situ formation of cracks could be clearly visualized. It consists of two steps: creation of a crack followed by propagation nearly parallel to the equipotential lines. Finally, we show that current can dynamically redistribute during failure, by following partially damaged secondary pathways through the crack.

  19. High sensitivity electric field monitoring system for control of field-induced CD degradation in reticles (EFM)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sebald, Thomas; Rider, Gavin

    2009-04-01

    It has recently been reported [1] that production reticles are subject to progressive CD degradation during use and intense study is under way to try and identify the causes of it. One damage mechanism which has already been identified and quantified [2] is electric field induced migration of chrome (EFM). This can be caused by electric fields that are more than 100x weaker than those that cause ESD. Such low level electric fields can be experienced by a reticle during normal handling and processing steps, as well as coming from external sources during transportation and storage. The field strength of concern is lower than most electrostatic field meters are designed to measure and it can be difficult or impossible to measure such fields inside the cramped environment of equipment. To measure this risk a new sensor device ("E-Reticle") has been developed having the same materials of construction and form factor as a standard chrome-on-quartz reticle. It allows the electric field that a reticle would experience during normal use and handling to be measured and recorded. Results from testing of this device in a semiconductor production facility are reported, showing that certain processes like reticle washing are inherently hazardous. It also enables identification of problems with electrostatic protection measures inside equipment, such as unbalanced ionizers or poor load port grounding. The device is shown to be capable of recording electric fields in the reticle handling environment that are below the recommended maximum that is being proposed for the 2009 ITRS guidelines.

  20. Enhanced hexadecane degradation and low biomass production by Aspergillus niger exposed to an electric current in a model system.

    PubMed

    Velasco-Alvarez, Nancy; González, Ignacio; Damian-Matsumura, Pablo; Gutiérrez-Rojas, Mariano

    2011-01-01

    The effects of an electric current on growth and hexadecane (HXD) degradation by Aspergillus niger growth were determined. A 450-mL electrochemical cell with titanium ruthenium-oxide coated electrodes and packed with 15 g of perlite (inert biomass support) was inoculated with A. niger (2.0×10(7) spores (g of dry inert support)(-1)) and incubated for 12 days (30 °C; constant ventilation). 4.5 days after starting culture a current of 0.42 mA cm(-2) was applied for 24h. The current reduced (52±11%) growth of the culture as compared to that of a culture not exposed to current. However, HXD degradation was 96±1.4% after 8 days whereas it was 81±1.2% after 12 days in control cultures. Carbon balances of cultures not exposed to current suggested an assimilative metabolism, but a non-assimilative metabolism when the current was applied. This change can be related to an increase in total ATP content. The study contributes to the knowledge on the effects of current on the mycelial growth phase of A. niger, and suggests the possibility of manipulating the metabolism of this organism with electric current. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Optimization of degradation of Reactive Black 5 (RB5) and electricity generation in solar photocatalytic fuel cell system.

    PubMed

    Khalik, Wan Fadhilah; Ho, Li-Ngee; Ong, Soon-An; Voon, Chun-Hong; Wong, Yee-Shian; Yusoff, NikAthirah; Lee, Sin-Li; Yusuf, Sara Yasina

    2017-10-01

    The photocatalytic fuel cell (PFC) system was developed in order to study the effect of several operating parameters in degradation of Reactive Black 5 (RB5) and its electricity generation. Light irradiation, initial dye concentration, aeration, pH and cathode electrode are the operating parameters that might give contribution in the efficiency of PFC system. The degradation of RB5 depends on the presence of light irradiation and solar light gives better performance to degrade the azo dye. The azo dye with low initial concentration decolorizes faster compared to higher initial concentration and presence of aeration in PFC system would enhance its performance. Reactive Black 5 rapidly decreased at higher pH due to the higher amount of OH generated at higher pH and Pt-loaded carbon (Pt/C) was more suitable to be used as cathode in PFC system compared to Cu foil and Fe foil. The rapid decolorization of RB5 would increase their voltage output and in addition, it would also increase their V oc , J sc and P max . The breakage of azo bond and aromatic rings was confirmed through UV-Vis spectrum and COD analysis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Biodegradable Polymeric Materials in Degradable Electronic Devices

    PubMed Central

    2018-01-01

    Biodegradable electronics have great potential to reduce the environmental footprint of devices and enable advanced health monitoring and therapeutic technologies. Complex biodegradable electronics require biodegradable substrates, insulators, conductors, and semiconductors, all of which comprise the fundamental building blocks of devices. This review will survey recent trends in the strategies used to fabricate biodegradable forms of each of these components. Polymers that can disintegrate without full chemical breakdown (type I), as well as those that can be recycled into monomeric and oligomeric building blocks (type II), will be discussed. Type I degradation is typically achieved with engineering and material science based strategies, whereas type II degradation often requires deliberate synthetic approaches. Notably, unconventional degradable linkages capable of maintaining long-range conjugation have been relatively unexplored, yet may enable fully biodegradable conductors and semiconductors with uncompromised electrical properties. While substantial progress has been made in developing degradable device components, the electrical and mechanical properties of these materials must be improved before fully degradable complex electronics can be realized. PMID:29632879

  3. Evidence of the impacting body of the Ries crater - the discovery of Fe-Cr-Ni veinlets below the crater bottom

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    El, Goresy A.; Chao, E.C.T.

    1976-01-01

    Fe-Cr-Ni particles and veinlets have been discovered in the top 15 m of the compressed zone with abundant shatter cones below the bottom of the Ries crater. The metallic particles are less than a few microns across. They occur in various minerals along healed intergranular and locally in intragranular microfractures in quartz diorite, amphibolite and chloritized granite of the basement crystalline rocks. The particles consist of major Fe, Cr, and Ni with minor Si and Ca. Origin due to contamination is absolutely ruled out. We believe that these Fe-Cr-Ni particles are probably condensed from the vaporized impacting body which produced the Ries crater. These particles were injected with high velocity into microfractures near the top of the compressed zone, implanted in and across various minerals before these microfractures were resealed. The presence of Si and Ca as well as the fact that the Cr content is nearly twice that of Ni, led us to conclude that the Ries impacting body is very likely not an iron meteorite but a stony meteorite. ?? 1976.

  4. Enhanced organic pollutants degradation and electricity production simultaneously via strengthening the radicals reaction in a novel Fenton-photocatalytic fuel cell system.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Kai; Zeng, Qingyi; Bai, Jing; Li, Jinhua; Xia, Ligang; Chen, Shuai; Zhou, Baoxue

    2017-01-01

    An enhanced result in organic pollutants degradation and simultaneous electricity production has been achieved by establishing a novel Fenton-photocatalytic fuel cell (Fenton-PFC) system in which TiO 2 nanotube arrays (TNA) was designed as a photoanode and ferrous ions were added. The proposed Fenton-PFC system can expand the radical reaction for organic pollutants degradation from the surface of electrodes to the whole solution system due to a continuous photoelectric Fenton reaction without continually adding any external voltage and ferrous ions. The cyclic reactions between ferrous ions (Fe 2+ /Fe 3+ ) and radicals and related species (HO, HO 2 , O 2 - and H 2 O 2 etc.) can be achieved at electrodes surface via a self-bias voltage yielded by the PFC. More importantly, the proposed Fenton-PFC system has hardly any sludge due to an effective radical reaction using a small amount of ferrous ions. The degradation rate of refractory organics, such as methyl orange, methylene blue, congo red and tetracycline, increased from 34.99%, 43.75%, 40.58% and 34.40% (the traditional PFC without Fe 2+ ) to 97.34%, 95.36%, 93.23% and 73.80% (the Fenton-PFC within Fe 2+ ) respectively after 60 min operation. Meanwhile, the electricity generation is up to 1.21-2.04 times larger than the traditional PFC. The proposed Fenton-PFC system provides a more economical and efficient way for energy recovery and wastewater treatment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. MaRIE X-Ray Free-Electron Laser Pre-Conceptual Design

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Carlsten, Bruce E.; Barnes, Cris W.; Bishofberger, Kip A.

    2011-01-01

    The proposed Matter-Radiation Interactions in Extremes (MaRIE) facility at the Los Alamos National Laboratory will include a 50-keV X-Ray Free-Electron Laser (XFEL), a significant extension from planned and existing XFEL facilities. To prevent an unacceptably large energy spread arsing from energy diffusion, the electron beam energy should not exceed 20 GeV, which puts a significant constraint on the beam emittance. A 100-pC baseline design is presented along with advanced technology options to increase the photon flux and to decrease the spectral bandwidth through pre-bunching the electron beam.

  6. Determination of LEDs degradation with entropy generation rate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cuadras, Angel; Yao, Jiaqiang; Quilez, Marcos

    2017-10-01

    We propose a method to assess the degradation and aging of light emitting diodes (LEDs) based on irreversible entropy generation rate. We degraded several LEDs and monitored their entropy generation rate ( S ˙ ) in accelerated tests. We compared the thermoelectrical results with the optical light emission evolution during degradation. We find a good relationship between aging and S ˙ (t), because S ˙ is both related to device parameters and optical performance. We propose a threshold of S ˙ (t) as a reliable damage indicator of LED end-of-life that can avoid the need to perform optical measurements to assess optical aging. The method lays beyond the typical statistical laws for lifetime prediction provided by manufacturers. We tested different LED colors and electrical stresses to validate the electrical LED model and we analyzed the degradation mechanisms of the devices.

  7. Degradation of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol and determination of bacterial community structure by micro-electrical stimulation with or without external organic carbon source.

    PubMed

    Xu, Hao; Tong, Na; Huang, Shaobin; Zhou, Shaofeng; Li, Shuang; Li, Jianjun; Zhang, Yongqing

    2018-05-03

    This study aimed to investigate the degradation efficiency of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol through a batch of potentiostatic experiments (0.2 V vs. Ag/AgCl). Efficiencies in the presence and absence of acetate and glucose were compared through open-circuit reference experiments. Significant differences in degradation efficiency were observed in six reactors. The highest and lowest degradation efficiencies were observed in the closed-circuit reactor fed with glucose and in the open-circuit reactor, respectively. This finding was due to the enhanced bacterial metabolism caused by the application of micro-electrical field and degradable organics as co-substrates. The different treatment efficiencies were also caused by the distinct bacterial communities. The composition of bacterial community was affected by adding different organics as co-substrates. At the phylum level, the most dominant bacteria in the reactor with the added acetate and glucose were Proteobacteria and Firmicutes, respectively. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  8. Re-Validation of the Van Rie HIV/AIDS-Related Stigma Scale for Use with People Living with HIV in the United States

    PubMed Central

    Kipp, Aaron M.; Audet, Carolyn M.; Earnshaw, Valerie A.; Owens, Jared; McGowan, Catherine C.; Wallston, Kenneth A.

    2015-01-01

    There is little consensus about which of the many validated human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) stigma scales should be regularly used, with few being re-validated in different contexts or evaluated for how they compare to other, existing HIV stigma scales. The purpose of this exploratory study was to re-validate the Van Rie HIV/AIDS-Related Stigma Scale, originally validated in Thailand and using a third-person wording structure, for use with people living with HIV in the United States. Adult HIV clinic patients completed a survey including the Berger and Van Rie scales, and measures of social support and depression. Eighty-five of 211 (40%) eligible participants provided data for both stigma scales. Exploratory factor analyses identified three factors to the Van Rie scale: Loss of Social Relationships (new subscale), Managing HIV Concealment (new subscale), and Perceived Community Stigma (original subscale). These subscales were moderately inter-related (r = 0.51 to 0.58) with acceptable to excellent reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.69 to 0.90). The Van Rie subscales were also moderately inter-correlated with the Berger subscales (r = 0.44 to 0.76), had similar construct validity, and tended to have higher mean stigma scores when compared with Berger subscales that were conceptually most similar. The revised Van Rie HIV-related Stigma Scale demonstrates good validity and internal consistency, offering a valid measure of HIV stigma with a three-factor structure. The third-person wording may be particularly suitable for measuring stigmatizing attitudes during an individual’s transition from at-risk and undergoing HIV testing to newly diagnosed, a time when experiences of discrimination and processing issues of disclosure have not yet occurred. The stigma mechanisms for individuals making this transition have not been well explored. These scenarios, combined with the observed non-response to the Berger Enacted Stigma subscale items (a surprise finding

  9. A high-precision 40Ar/39Ar age for the Nördlinger Ries impact crater, Germany, and implications for the accurate dating of terrestrial impact events

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schmieder, Martin; Kennedy, Trudi; Jourdan, Fred; Buchner, Elmar; Reimold, Wolf Uwe

    2018-01-01

    40Ar/39Ar dating of specimens of moldavite, the formation of which is linked to the Ries impact in southern Germany, with a latest-generation ARGUS VI multi-collector mass spectrometer yielded three fully concordant plateau ages with a weighted mean age of 14.808 ± 0.021 Ma (± 0.038 Ma including all external uncertainties; 2σ; MSWD = 0.40, P = 0.67). This new best-estimate age for the Nördlinger Ries is in general agreement with previous 40Ar/39Ar results for moldavites, but constitutes a significantly improved precision with respect to the formation age of the distal Ries-produced tektites. Separates of impact glass from proximal Ries ejecta (suevite glass from three different surface outcrops) and partially melted feldspar particles from impact melt rock of the SUBO 18 Enkingen drill core failed to produce meaningful ages. These glasses show evidence for excess 40Ar introduction, which may have been incurred during interaction with hydrothermal fluids. Only partially reset 40Ar/39Ar ages could be determined for the feldspathic melt separates from the Enkingen core. The new 40Ar/39Ar results for the Ries impact structure constrain the duration of crater cooling, during the prevailing hydrothermal activity, to locally at least ∼60 kyr. With respect to the dating of terrestrial impact events, this paper briefly discusses a number of potential issues and effects that may be the cause for seemingly precise, but on a kyr-scale inaccurate, impact ages.

  10. Realizing the geothermal electricity potential—water use and consequences

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shankar Mishra, Gouri; Glassley, William E.; Yeh, Sonia

    2011-07-01

    Electricity from geothermal resources has the potential to supply a significant portion of US baseload electricity. We estimate the water requirements of geothermal electricity and the impact of potential scaling up of such electricity on water demand in various western states with rich geothermal resources but stressed water resources. Freshwater, degraded water, and geothermal fluid requirements are estimated explicitly. In general, geothermal electricity has higher water intensity (l kWh - 1) than thermoelectric or solar thermal electricity. Water intensity decreases with increase in resource enthalpy, and freshwater gets substituted by degraded water at higher resource temperatures. Electricity from enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) could displace 8-100% of thermoelectricity generated in most western states. Such displacement would increase stress on water resources if re-circulating evaporative cooling, the dominant cooling system in the thermoelectric sector, is adopted. Adoption of dry cooling, which accounts for 78% of geothermal capacity today, will limit changes in state-wide freshwater abstraction, but increase degraded water requirements. We suggest a research and development focus to develop advanced energy conversion and cooling technologies that reduce water use without imposing energy and consequent financial penalties. Policies should incentivize the development of higher enthalpy resources, and support identification of non-traditional degraded water sources and optimized siting of geothermal plants.

  11. VUV/UV light inducing accelerated phenol degradation with a low electric input.

    PubMed

    Li, Mengkai; Wen, Dong; Qiang, Zhimin; Kiwi, John

    2017-01-23

    This study presents the first evidence for the accelerated degradation of phenol by Fenton's reagent in a mini-fluidic VUV/UV photoreaction system (MVPS). A low-pressure mercury lamp used in the MVPS led to a complete degradation of phenol within 4-6 min. The HO˙ and HO 2 ˙ originating from both Fenton's reagent and VUV photolysis of water were identified with suitable radical scavengers. The effects of initial concentrations of phenol, H 2 O 2 and Fe 3+ as well as solution pH on phenol degradation kinetics were examined. Increasing the initial phenol concentration slowed down the phenol degradation, whereas increasing the initial H 2 O 2 or Fe 3+ concentration accelerated the phenol degradation. The optimal solution pH was 3.7. At both 254 and 185 nm, increasing phenol concentration enhanced its absorption for the incident photons. The reaction mechanism for the degradation of phenol was suggested consistent with the results obtained. This study indicates that the VUV/UV photo-Fenton process has potential applications in the treatment of industrial wastewater containing phenol and related aromatic pollutants.

  12. Biochemical degradation and physical migration of polyphenolic compounds in osmotic dehydrated blueberries with pulsed electric field and thermal pretreatments.

    PubMed

    Yu, Yuanshan; Jin, Tony Z; Fan, Xuetong; Wu, Jijun

    2018-01-15

    Fresh blueberries were pretreated by pulsed electric fields (PEF) or thermal pretreatment and then were subject to osmotic dehydration. The changes in contents of anthocyanins, predominantly phenolic acids and flavonols, total phenolics, polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity and antioxidant activity in the blueberry samples during pretreatment and osmotic dehydration were investigated. Biochemical degradation and physical migration of these nutritive compounds from fruits to osmotic solutions were observed during the pretreatments and osmotic dehydration. PEF pretreated samples had the least degradation loss but the most migration loss of these compounds compared to thermally pretreated and control samples. Higher rates of water loss and solid gain during osmotic dehydration were also obtained by PEF pretreatment, reducing the dehydration time from 130 to 48h. PEF pretreated and dehydrated fruits showed superior appearance to thermally pretreated and control samples. Therefore, PEF pretreatment is a preferred technology that balances nutritive quality, appearance, and dehydration rate. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  13. Mineral-produced high-pressure striae and clay polish: Key evidence for nonballistic transport of ejecta from Ries crater

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Chao, E.C.T.

    1976-01-01

    Recently discovered mineral-produced, deeply incised striae and mirror-like polish on broken surfaces of limestone fragments from the sedimentary ejecta of the Ries impact crater of southern Germany are described. The striae and polish were produced under high confining pressures during high-velocity nonballistic transport of the ejecta mass within the time span of the cratering event (measured in terms of seconds). The striae on these fragments were produced by scouring by small mineral grains embedded in the surrounding clay matrix, and the polish was formed under the same condition, by movements of relatively fragment-free clay against the fragment surfaces. The occurrence of these striae and polish is key evidence for estimating the distribution and determining the relative importance of nonballistic and ballistic transport of ejecta from the shallow Ries stony meteorite impact crater.

  14. Evaluation of ionic degradation and slot corrosion of metallic brackets by the action of different dentifrices.

    PubMed

    Brandão, Gustavo Antônio Martins; Simas, Rafael Menezes; de Almeida, Leandro Moreira; da Silva, Juliana Melo; Meneghim, Marcelo de Castro; Pereira, Antonio Carlos; de Almeida, Haroldo Amorim; Brandão, Ana Maria Martins

    2013-01-01

    To evaluate the in vitro ionic degradation and slot base corrosion of metallic brackets subjected to brushing with dentifrices, through analysis of chemical composition by Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) and qualitative analysis by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Thirty eight brackets were selected and randomly divided into four experimental groups (n = 7). Two groups (n = 5) worked as positive and negative controls. Simulated orthodontic braces were assembled using 0.019 x 0.025-in stainless steel wires and elastomeric rings. The groups were divided according to surface treatment: G1 (Máxima Proteção Anticáries®); G2 (Total 12®); G3 (Sensitive®); G4 (Branqueador®); Positive control (artificial saliva) and Negative control (no treatment). Twenty eight brushing cycles were performed and evaluations were made before (T0) and after (T1) experiment. The Wilcoxon test showed no difference in ionic concentrations of titanium (Ti), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe) and nickel (Ni) between groups. G2 presented significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the concentration of aluminium ion (Al). Groups G3 and G4 presented significant increase (p < 0.05) in the concentration of aluminium ion. The SEM analysis showed increased characteristics indicative of corrosion on groups G2, G3 and G4. The EDS analysis revealed that control groups and G1 did not suffer alterations on the chemical composition. G2 presented degradation in the amount of Al ion. G3 and G4 suffered increase in the concentration of Al. The immersion in artificial saliva and the dentifrice Máxima Proteção Anticáries® did not alter the surface polishing. The dentifrices Total 12®, Sensitive® and Branqueador® altered the surface polishing.

  15. Method of radiation degradation of PTFE under vacuum conditions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Korenev, Sergey

    2004-09-01

    A new method of radiation degradation of Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) under vacuum conditions is considered in this report. The combination of glow gas discharge and electrical surface discharge (on surface and inside PTFE) increases the efficiency of thermal-radiation degradation. The main mechanism of this degradation method consists of the breaking of C-C and C-F bonds. The vacuum conditions allow decreasing of the concentration of toxic compounds, such as a HF. Experimental results for degradation of PTFE are presented.

  16. GROUNDWATER AND SOIL REMEDIATION USING ELECTRICAL FIELD

    EPA Science Inventory

    Enhancements of contaminants removal and degradation in low permeability soils by electrical fields are achieved by the processes of electrical heating, electrokinetics, and electrochemical reactions. Electrical heating increases soil temperature resulting in the increase of cont...

  17. Optimization of reactive-ion etching (RIE) parameters for fabrication of tantalum pentoxide (Ta2O5) waveguide using Taguchi method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Muttalib, M. Firdaus A.; Chen, Ruiqi Y.; Pearce, S. J.; Charlton, Martin D. B.

    2017-11-01

    In this paper, we demonstrate the optimization of reactive-ion etching (RIE) parameters for the fabrication of tantalum pentoxide (Ta2O5) waveguide with chromium (Cr) hard mask in a commercial OIPT Plasmalab 80 RIE etcher. A design of experiment (DOE) using Taguchi method was implemented to find optimum RF power, mixture of CHF3 and Ar gas ratio, and chamber pressure for a high etch rate, good selectivity, and smooth waveguide sidewall. It was found that the optimized etch condition obtained in this work were RF power = 200 W, gas ratio = 80 %, and chamber pressure = 30 mTorr with an etch rate of 21.6 nm/min, Ta2O5/Cr selectivity ratio of 28, and smooth waveguide sidewall.

  18. Degradation Physics of High Power LEDs in Outdoor Environment and the Role of Phosphor in the degradation process.

    PubMed

    Singh, Preetpal; Tan, Cher Ming

    2016-04-07

    A moisture- electrical - temperature (MET) test is proposed to evaluate the outdoor reliability of high power blue LEDs, with and without phosphor, and to understand the degradation physics of LEDs under the environment of combined humidity, temperature and electrical stresses. The blue LEDs with phosphor will be the high power white LEDs. Scanning acoustic microscopy is used to examine the resulted delamination during this test for the LEDs. The degradation mechanisms of blue LEDs (LEDs without phosphor) and white LEDs (LEDs with phosphor) are found to be different, under both the power on (i.e. with 350 mA through each LED) and power off (i.e. without current supply) conditions. Difference in the coefficient of thermal expansion between the molding part and the lens material as well as the heat generated by the phosphor layer are found to account for the major differences in the degradation mechanisms observed. The findings indicate that the proposed MET test is necessary for the LED industry in evaluating the reliability of LEDs under practical outdoor usage environment.

  19. Effects of various gate materials on electrical degradation of a-Si:H TFT in industrial display application

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ho, Ching-Yuan; Chang, Yaw-Jen

    2016-02-01

    Both aluminum (Al) and copper (Cu), acting as transmission lines in the hydrogenated amorphous silicon of a thin film transistor (a-Si:H TFT), were studied to investigate electrical degradation including electron-migration (EM) and threshold voltage (Vt) stability and recovery performance. Under long-term current stress, the Cu material exhibited excellent resistance to EM properties, but a passivated SiNx crack was observed due to fast heat conductivity. By applying electrical stress on the gate and drain for 5 × 104 s, the power-law time dependency of the threshold voltage shift (ΔVt) indicated that the defective state creation dominated the TFT device's instability. The presence of drain stress increased the overall ΔVt because the high longitudinal field induced impact ionization and then, enhanced hot-carrier-induced electron trapping within the gate SiNx dielectric. An annealing effect prompted a stressed a-Si:H TFT back to virgin status. This study proposes better ΔVt stability and excellent resistance against electron-migration in a Cu gate device which can be considered as a candidate for a transmission line on prolonged TFT applications.

  20. Designing Predictive Diagnose Method for Insulation Resistance Degradation of the Electrical Power Cables from Neutral Insulated Power Networks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dobra, R.; Pasculescu, D.; Risteiu, M.; Buica, G.; Jevremović, V.

    2017-06-01

    This paper describe some possibilities to minimize voltages switching-off risks from the mining power networks, in case of insulated resistance faults by using a predictive diagnose method. The cables from the neutral insulated power networks (underground mining) are designed to provide a flexible electrical connection between portable or mobile equipment and a point of supply, including main feeder cable for continuous miners, pump cable, and power supply cable. An electronic protection for insulated resistance of mining power cables can be made using this predictive strategy. The main role of electronic relays for insulation resistance degradation of the electrical power cables, from neutral insulated power networks, is to provide a permanent measurement of the insulated resistance between phases and ground, in order to switch-off voltage when the resistance value is below a standard value. The automat system of protection is able to signalize the failure and the human operator will be early informed about the switch-off power and will have time to take proper measures to fix the failure. This logic for fast and automat switch-off voltage without aprioristic announcement is suitable for the electrical installations, realizing so a protection against fires and explosion. It is presented an algorithm and an anticipative relay for insulated resistance control from three-phase low voltage installations with insulated neutral connection.

  1. Technology Risk Mitigation Research and Development for the Matter-Radiation Interactions in Extremes (MaRIE) Project

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barnes, Cris W.; Fernández, Juan; Hartsfield, Thomas; Sandberg, Richard; Sheffield, Richard; Tapia, John P.; Wang, Zhehui

    2017-06-01

    NNSA does not have a capability to understand and test the response of materials and conditions necessary to determine the linkages between microstructure of materials and performance in extreme weapons-relevant environments. Required is an x-ray source, coherent to optimize imaging capability, brilliant and high repetition-rate to address all relevant time scales, and with high enough energy to see into and through the amount of material in the middle or mesoscale where microstructure determines materials response. The Department of Energy has determined there is a mission need for a MaRIE Project to deliver this capability. There are risks to the Project to successfully deliver all the technology needed to provide the capability for the mission need and to use those photons to control the time-dependent production and performance of materials. The present technology risk mitigation activities for the MaRIE project are: developing ultrafast high-energy x-ray detectors, combining the data from several imaging probes to obtain multi-dimensional information about the sample, and developing techniques for bulk dynamic measurements of temperature. This talk will describe these efforts and other critical technology elements requiring future investment by the project.

  2. Mild degradation processes in ZnO-based varistors: the role of Zn vacancies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ponce, M. A.; Macchi, C.; Schipani, F.; Aldao, C. M.; Somoza, A.

    2015-03-01

    The effects of a degradation process on the structural and electrical properties of ZnO-based varistors induced by the application of dc bias voltage were analysed. Capacitance and resistance measurements were carried out to electrically characterize the polycrystalline semiconductor before and after different degrees of mild degradation. Vacancies' changes in the varistors were studied with positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. Variations on the potential barrier height and effective doping concentration were determined by fitting the experimental data from impedance spectroscopy measurements. These results indicate two different stages in the degradation process consistent with vacancy-like concentration changes.

  3. Cathode Degradation in Thallium Bromide Devices

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Datta, Amlan; Motakef, Shariar

    2015-06-01

    Thallium bromide (TlBr) is a wide bandgap, compound semiconductor with high gamma-ray stopping power and promising physical properties. However, performance degradation and the eventual irreversible failure of TlBr devices can occur rapidly at room temperature, due to “polarization”, caused by the electromigration of Tl+ and Br- ions to the electrical contacts across the device. Using the Accelerated Device Degradation (ADD) experiment, the degradation phenomena in TlBr devices have been visualized and recorded. This paper focuses on “ageing” of the device cathode at various temperatures. ADD is a fast and reliable direct characterization technique that can be used to identify the effects of various growth and post-growth process modifications on device degradation. Using this technique we have identified cathode degradation with the migration of Br- ions and an associated generation and growth of Thallium-rich fractal “ferns” from the cathode. Its effect on the radiation response of the device has also been discussed in this paper. The chemical changes in the cathode were characterized using Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy.

  4. Non-invasive monitoring of the degradation of organic contaminants: A laboratory investigation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fernandez, Perrine M.; Bloem, Esther; Philippe, Romain; Binley, Andrew; French, Helen K.

    2016-04-01

    Degradation of organic chemicals under various fluid saturation conditions is a process highly relevant to the protection of groundwater quality. Redox potential drives the degradation of organic compounds; its variation affects the water chemistry, gas release and also the geo-electrical signature. This study explores how non-invasive measurements sensitive to geo-electrical properties provides quantitative information about the in-situ redox conditions. Our laboratory experiment focuses on the degradation of de-icing chemicals commonly used, for example, in Norwegian airports. The experiment was conducted in a number of (1.0x0.5x0.4 m) sand boxes. Two ends of each box was contaminated with propylene glycol, an aircraft deicing fluid. Each source was placed near the water table under static hydraulic conditions. At one side of the tank, a conductor linking the contamination zone, near the water table and the unsaturated zone with a low water content, was placed to improve the degradation by facilitating the electron exchange. At the other side, degradation occurred under natural conditions. Each box was equipped with 288 electrodes, distributed on six faces to perform 3D resistivity measurements. In addition, self-potential measurements were taken from electrodes on the sand surface. Four observation wells were installed above and below the water table to provide more information on the degradation processes. Moreover, measurements of carbon dioxide on the surface were performed as higher concentrations were expected where the pollutant degraded. We would like to present and discuss a selection of the preliminary results of 3D electrical resistivity and self-potential techniques from our laboratory setup.

  5. AlGaN/GaN heterostructures with an AlGaN layer grown directly on reactive-ion-etched GaN showing a high electron mobility (>1300 cm2 V-1 s-1)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yamamoto, Akio; Makino, Shinya; Kanatani, Keito; Kuzuhara, Masaaki

    2018-04-01

    In this study, the metal-organic-vapor-phase-epitaxial growth behavior and electrical properties of AlGaN/GaN structures prepared by the growth of an AlGaN layer on a reactive-ion-etched (RIE) GaN surface without regrown GaN layers were investigated. The annealing of RIE-GaN surfaces in NH3 + H2 atmosphere, employed immediately before AlGaN growth, was a key process in obtaining a clean GaN surface for AlGaN growth, that is, in obtaining an electron mobility as high as 1350 cm2 V-1 s-1 in a fabricated AlGaN/RIE-GaN structure. High-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) were successfully fabricated with AlGaN/RIE-GaN wafers. With decreasing density of dotlike defects observed on the surfaces of AlGaN/RIE-GaN wafers, both two-dimensional electron gas properties of AlGaN/RIE-GaN structures and DC characteristics of HEMTs were markedly improved. Since dotlike defect density was markedly dependent on RIE lot, rather than on growth lot, surface contaminations of GaN during RIE were believed to be responsible for the formation of dotlike defects and, therefore, for the inferior electrical properties.

  6. Direct Observation of Surface Potential Distribution in Insulation Resistance Degraded Acceptor-Doped BaTiO3 Multilayered Ceramic Capacitors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hong, Kootak; Lee, Tae Hyung; Suh, Jun Min; Park, Jae-Sung; Kwon, Hyung-Soon; Choi, Jaeho; Jang, Ho Won

    2018-05-01

    Insulation resistance (IR) degradation in BaTiO3 is a key issue for developing miniaturized multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) with high capacity. Despite rapid progress in BaTiO3-based MLCCs, the mechanism of IR degradation is still controversial. In this study, we demonstrate the Al doping effect on IR degradation behavior of BaTiO3 MLCCs by electrical measurements and scanning Kelvin probe microscopy (SKPM). As the Al doping concentration in BaTiO3 increases, IR degradation of MLCCs seems to be suppressed from electrical characterization results. However, SKPM results reveal that the conductive regions near the cathode become lager with Al doping after IR degradation. The formation of conducting regions is attributed to the migration of oxygen vacancies, which is the origin of IR degradation in BaTiO3, in dielectric layers. These results imply that acceptor doping in BaTiO3 solely cannot suppress the IR degradation in MLCC even though less asymmetric IR characteristics and IR degradation in MLCCs with higher Al doping concentration are observed from electrical characterization. Our results strongly suggest that observing the surface potential distribution in IR degraded dielectric layers using SKPM is an effective method to unravel the mechanism of IR degradation in MLCCs.

  7. Charging, power management, and battery degradation mitigation in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles: A unified cost-optimal approach

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hu, Xiaosong; Martinez, Clara Marina; Yang, Yalian

    2017-03-01

    Holistic energy management of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in smart grid environment constitutes an enormous control challenge. This paper responds to this challenge by investigating the interactions among three important control tasks, i.e., charging, on-road power management, and battery degradation mitigation, in PHEVs. Three notable original contributions distinguish our work from existing endeavors. First, a new convex programming (CP)-based cost-optimal control framework is constructed to minimize the daily operational expense of a PHEV, which seamlessly integrates costs of the three tasks. Second, a straightforward but useful sensitivity assessment of the optimization outcome is executed with respect to price changes of battery and energy carriers. The potential impact of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) power flow on the PHEV economy is eventually analyzed through a multitude of comparative studies.

  8. Organic chemical degradation by remote study of the redox conditions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fernandez, P. M.; Revil, A.; Binley, A. M.; Bloem, E.; French, H. K.

    2014-12-01

    Monitoring the natural (and enhanced) degradation of organic contaminants is essential for managing groundwater quality in many parts of the world. Contaminated sites often have limited access, hence non-intrusive methods for studying redox processes, which drive the degradation of organic compounds, are required. One example is the degradation of de-icing chemicals (glycols and organic salts) released to the soil near airport runways during winter. This issue has been broadly studied at Oslo airport, Gardermoen, Norway using intrusive and non-intrusive methods. Here, we report on laboratory experiments that aim to study the potential of using a self-potential, DCresistivity, and time-domain induced polarization for geochemical characterization of the degradation of Propylene Glycol (PG). PG is completely miscible in water, does not adsorb to soil particles and does not contribute to the electrical conductivity of the soil water. When the contaminant is in the unsaturated zone near the water table, the oxygen is quickly consumed and the gas exchange with the surface is insufficient to ensure aerobic degradation, which is faster than anaerobic degradation. Since biodegradation of PG is highly oxygen demanding, anaerobic pockets can exist causing iron and manganese reduction. It is hypothesised that nitrate would boost the degradation rate under such conditions. In our experiment, we study PG degradation in a sand tank. We provide the system with an electron highway to bridge zones with different redox potential. This geo-battery system is characterized by self-potential, resistivity and induced polarization anomalies. An example of preliminary results with self-potential at two different times of the experiment can be seen in the illustration. These will be supplemented with more direct information on the redox chemistry: in-situ water sampling, pH, redox potential and electrical conductivity measurements. In parallel, a series of batch experiments have been

  9. The Nördlingen-Ries Geopark and nearby museums as a natural teaching laboratory for Geoscience students

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kaminski, Michael; Kaka, SanLinn; Kaminski, Matthew

    2017-04-01

    The hypervelocity impact of an asteroid in southern Germany around 15 million years ago not only caused an environmental catastrophe, but it also created a scenario that provides us with a world-class natural laboratory for teaching the basic Principles of Geology. The combination of museum visits and observation of rock outcrops enables the student to reinforce or rediscover the basic principles of physical and historical Geology that are presented in first- or second-year Geoscience courses. At KFUPM, our visit to the Ries Geopark begins at the Ries Crater Museum in Nördlingen, where students review knowledge learned in their Physical Geology course: the Nebular Theory, origin of the solar system, and the classification of meteorites based on real examples. Students then learn the stages of impact crater formation, shock metamorphism, and the products of impact crater formation such as tectites, impact breccia and suevite. Students also become familiar with the Mesozoic stratigraphy of Southern Germany, reviewing basic principals of stratigraphy. Visits to local outcrops reinforce the knowledge gained at the Museum. A visit to the nearby Solnhofen Museum and quarries provides insight into the nature of the late Jurassic animals that lived at the edge of the Tethys Sea, reinforcing many topics learned during their second-year Paleontology course, such as taphonomy, and the idea of a death assemblage. At the Museum of the Geosciences Department of the University of Tübingen, the students become familiar with Mesozoic ammonoids as part of their second-year Paleontology course. A visit to the Urwelt Museum and quarry in Holzmaden explores animal life during the Early Jurassic, stratigraphic principles as presented on the museum's "geological staircase", and the origin of petroleum source rocks. The museum houses spectacular examples of Early Jurassic marine reptiles. All knowledge gained in the Jurassic of southern Germany enriches the students' understanding of

  10. Conductivity degradation of polyvinylidene fluoride composite binder during cycling: Measurements and simulations for lithium-ion batteries

    DOE PAGES

    Grillet, Anne M.; Humplik, Thomas; Stirrup, Emily K.; ...

    2016-07-02

    The polymer-composite binder used in lithium-ion battery electrodes must both hold the electrodes together and augment their electrical conductivity while subjected to mechanical stresses caused by active material volume changes due to lithiation and delithiation. We have discovered that cyclic mechanical stresses cause significant degradation in the binder electrical conductivity. After just 160 mechanical cycles, the conductivity of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF):carbon black binder dropped between 45–75%. This degradation in binder conductivity has been shown to be quite general, occurring over a range of carbon black concentrations, with and without absorbed electrolyte solvent and for different polymer manufacturers. Mechanical cycling ofmore » lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) cathodes caused a similar degradation, reducing the effective electrical conductivity by 30–40%. Mesoscale simulations on a reconstructed experimental cathode geometry predicted the binder conductivity degradation will have a proportional impact on cathode electrical conductivity, in qualitative agreement with the experimental measurements. Lastly, ohmic resistance measurements were made on complete batteries. Direct comparisons between electrochemical cycling and mechanical cycling show consistent trends in the conductivity decline. This evidence supports a new mechanism for performance decline of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries during operation – electrochemically-induced mechanical stresses that degrade binder conductivity, increasing the internal resistance of the battery with cycling.« less

  11. Low-Power RIE of SiO2 in CHF3 To Obtain Steep Sidewalls

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turner, Tasha; Wu, Chi

    2003-01-01

    A reactive-ion etching (RIE) process has been developed to enable the formation of holes with steep sidewalls in a layer of silicon dioxide that covers a silicon substrate. The holes in question are through the thickness of the SiO2 and are used to define silicon substrate areas to be etched or to be built upon through epitaxial deposition of silicon. The sidewalls of these holes are required to be vertical in order to ensure that the sidewalls of the holes to be etched in the substrate or the sidewalls of the epitaxial deposits, respectively, also turn out to be vertical.

  12. Impact of battery degradation on energy arbitrage revenue of grid-level energy storage

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wankmüller, Florian; Thimmapuram, Prakash R.; Gallagher, Kevin G.

    This study investigates the representation of battery degradation in grid level energy storage applications. In particular, we focus on energy arbitrage, as this is a potential future large-scale application of energy storage and there is limited existing research combining the modelling of battery degradation and energy storage arbitrage. We implement two different representations of battery degradation within an energy arbitrage model, and show that degradation has a strong impact on battery energy storage system (BESS) profitability. In a case study using historical electricity market prices from the MISO electricity market in the United States, we find that the achievable netmore » present value (at an interest rate of 10%) for a battery system with a C-rate of 1C dropped from 358 /kWh in the case considering no degradation to 194-314 /kWh depending on the battery degradation model and assumptions for end of life (EOL) criteria. This corresponds to a reduction in revenue due to degradation in the 12-46% range.Furthermore, we find that reducing the cycling of the bat-tery via introducing a penalty cost in the objective function of the energy arbitrage optimization model can improve the profitability over the life of the BESS.« less

  13. Impact of battery degradation on energy arbitrage revenue of grid-level energy storage

    DOE PAGES

    Wankmüller, Florian; Thimmapuram, Prakash R.; Gallagher, Kevin G.; ...

    2017-01-19

    This study investigates the representation of battery degradation in grid level energy storage applications. In particular, we focus on energy arbitrage, as this is a potential future large-scale application of energy storage and there is limited existing research combining the modelling of battery degradation and energy storage arbitrage. We implement two different representations of battery degradation within an energy arbitrage model, and show that degradation has a strong impact on battery energy storage system (BESS) profitability. In a case study using historical electricity market prices from the MISO electricity market in the United States, we find that the achievable netmore » present value (at an interest rate of 10%) for a battery system with a C-rate of 1C dropped from 358 /kWh in the case considering no degradation to 194-314 /kWh depending on the battery degradation model and assumptions for end of life (EOL) criteria. This corresponds to a reduction in revenue due to degradation in the 12-46% range.Furthermore, we find that reducing the cycling of the bat-tery via introducing a penalty cost in the objective function of the energy arbitrage optimization model can improve the profitability over the life of the BESS.« less

  14. Report for MaRIE Drivers Workshop on needs for energetic material's studies.

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Specht, Paul Elliott

    Energetic materials (i.e. explosives, propellants, and pyrotechnics) have complex mesoscale features that influence their dynamic response. Direct measurement of the complex mechanical, thermal, and chemical response of energetic materials is critical for improving computational models and enabling predictive capabilities. Many of the physical phenomena of interest in energetic materials cover time and length scales spanning several orders of magnitude. Examples include chemical interactions in the reaction zone, the distribution and evolution of temperature fields, mesoscale deformation in heterogeneous systems, and phase transitions. This is particularly true for spontaneous phenomena, like thermal cook-off. The ability for MaRIE to capture multiple lengthmore » scales and stochastic phenomena can significantly advance our understanding of energetic materials and yield more realistic, predictive models.« less

  15. Shallow drilling in the 'Bunte Breccia' impact deposits, Ries Crater, Germany

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hoerz, F.; Gall, H.; Huettner, R.; Oberbeck, V. R.

    1977-01-01

    The paper is a field report concerning a shallow core drilling program in the multicolored breccia deposits which constitute 90% of all the impact breccias beyond the outer rim of the Ries, a 26-km-diam impact crater. About 480 m of core was recovered from 11 locations with radial ranges between 16.5 and 35 km from the crater center. The cores consist of breccias, whose components are derived from the crater itself and the terrain outside the crater. The local components dominate the breccias at the larger ranges, and possibly constitute more than 90% of the breccia volume at the greatest distances investigated. The great depth of the Bunte Breccia (84 m at 27 km range), together with the preponderance of local components, necessitates an emplacement mechanism that ploughed up and mixed the crater surroundings to depths greater than 50 m.

  16. Evaluation of Fuel Cell Operation and Degradation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Williams, Mark; Gemmen, Randall; Richards, George

    The concepts of area specific resistance (ASR) and degradation are developed for different fuel cell operating modes. The concepts of exergetic efficiency and entropy production were applied to ASR and degradation. It is shown that exergetic efficiency is a time-dependent function useful describing the thermal efficiency of a fuel cell and the change in thermal efficiency of a degrading fuel cell. Entropy production was evaluated for the cases of constant voltage operation and constant current operation of the fuel cell for a fuel cell undergoing ohmic degradation. It was discovered that the Gaussian hypergeometric function describes the cumulative entropy andmore » electrical work produced by fuel cells operating at constant voltage. The Gaussian hypergeometric function is found in many applications in modern physics. This paper builds from and is an extension of several papers recently published by the authors in the Journal of The Electrochemical Society (ECS), ECS Transactions, Journal of Power Sources, and the Journal of Fuel Cell Science and Technology.« less

  17. Electric-Field-Induced Degradation of Methylammonium Lead Iodide Perovskite Solar Cells.

    PubMed

    Bae, Soohyun; Kim, Seongtak; Lee, Sang-Won; Cho, Kyung Jin; Park, Sungeun; Lee, Seunghun; Kang, Yoonmook; Lee, Hae-Seok; Kim, Donghwan

    2016-08-18

    Perovskite solar cells have great potential for high efficiency generation but are subject to the impact of external environmental conditions such as humidity, UV and sun light, temperature, and electric fields. The long-term stability of perovskite solar cells is an important issue for their commercialization. Various studies on the stability of perovskite solar cells are currently being performed; however, the stability related to electric fields is rarely discussed. Here the electrical stability of perovskite solar cells is studied. Ion migration is confirmed using the temperature-dependent dark current decay. Changes in the power conversion efficiency according to the amount of the external bias are measured in the dark, and a significant drop is observed only at an applied voltage greater than 0.8 V. We demonstrate that perovskite solar cells are stable under an electric field up to the operating voltage.

  18. Temperature aspect of degradation of electrochemical double-layer capacitors (EDLC)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Baek, Dong-Cheon; Kim, Hyun-Ho; Lee, Soon-Bok

    2015-03-01

    Electric double layer capacitors (EDLC) cells have a process variation and temperature dependency in capacitance so that balancing is required when they are connected in series, which includes electronic voltage management based on capacitance monitoring. This paper measured temperature aspect of capacitance periodically to monitor health and degradation behavior of EDLC stressed under high temperatures and zero below temperatures respectively, which enables estimation of the state of health (SOH) regardless of temperature. At high temperature, capacitance saturation and delayed expression of degradation was observed. After cyclic stress at zero below temperature, less effective degradation and time recovery phenomenon were occurred.

  19. Degradation Mechanisms for GaN and GaAs High Speed Transistors

    PubMed Central

    Cheney, David J.; Douglas, Erica A.; Liu, Lu; Lo, Chien-Fong; Gila, Brent P.; Ren, Fan; Pearton, Stephen J.

    2012-01-01

    We present a review of reliability issues in AlGaN/GaN and AlGaAs/GaAs high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) as well as Heterojunction Bipolar Transistors (HBTs) in the AlGaAs/GaAs materials systems. Because of the complex nature and multi-faceted operation modes of these devices, reliability studies must go beyond the typical Arrhenius accelerated life tests. We review the electric field driven degradation in devices with different gate metallization, device dimensions, electric field mitigation techniques (such as source field plate), and the effect of device fabrication processes for both DC and RF stress conditions. We summarize the degradation mechanisms that limit the lifetime of these devices. A variety of contact and surface degradation mechanisms have been reported, but differ in the two device technologies: For HEMTs, the layers are thin and relatively lightly doped compared to HBT structures and there is a metal Schottky gate that is directly on the semiconductor. By contrast, the HBT relies on pn junctions for current modulation and has only Ohmic contacts. This leads to different degradation mechanisms for the two types of devices.

  20. Cause and Effects of Fluorocarbon Degradation in Electronics and Opto-Electronic Systems

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Predmore, Roamer E.; Canham, John S.

    2002-01-01

    Trace degradation of fluorocarbon or halocarbon materials must be addressed in their application in sensitive systems. As the dimensions and/or tolerances of components in a system decrease, the sensitivity of the system to trace fluorocarbon or halocarbon degradation products increases. Trace quantities of highly reactive degradation products from fluorocarbons have caused a number of failures of flight hardware. It is of utmost importance that the risk of system failure, resulting from trace amounts of reactive fluorocarbon degradation products be addressed in designs containing fluorocarbon or halocarbon materials. Thermal, electrical, and mechanical energy input into the system can multiply the risk of failure.

  1. Ultraviolet Laser Damage Dependence on Contamination Concentration in Fused Silica Optics during Reactive Ion Etching Process

    PubMed Central

    Sun, Laixi; Shao, Ting; Shi, Zhaohua; Huang, Jin; Ye, Xin; Jiang, Xiaodong; Wu, Weidong; Yang, Liming; Zheng, Wanguo

    2018-01-01

    The reactive ion etching (RIE) process of fused silica is often accompanied by surface contamination, which seriously degrades the ultraviolet laser damage performance of the optics. In this study, we find that the contamination behavior on the fused silica surface is very sensitive to the RIE process which can be significantly optimized by changing the plasma generating conditions such as discharge mode, etchant gas and electrode material. Additionally, an optimized RIE process is proposed to thoroughly remove polishing-introduced contamination and efficiently prevent the introduction of other contamination during the etching process. The research demonstrates the feasibility of improving the damage performance of fused silica optics by using the RIE technique. PMID:29642571

  2. Correlation of electrical reactor cable failure with materials degradation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Stuetzer, O.M.

    1986-03-01

    Complete circuit failure (shortout) of electrical cables typically used in nuclear power plant containments is investigated. Failure modes are correlated with the mechanical deterioration of the elastomeric cable materials. It is found that for normal reactor operation, electrical cables are reliable and safe over very long periods. During high temperature excursions, however, cables pulled across corners under high stress may short out due to conductor creep. Severe cracking will occur in short times during high temperatures (>150/sup 0/C) and in times of the order of years at elevated temperatures (100/sup 0/C to 140/sup 0/C). A theoretical treatment of stress distributionmore » responsible for creep and for cracking by J.E. Reaugh of Science Applications, Inc. is contained in the Appendix. 29 refs., 32 figs.« less

  3. Field-induced strain degradation of AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors on a nanometer scale

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, Chung-Han; Doutt, D. R.; Mishra, U. K.; Merz, T. A.; Brillson, L. J.

    2010-11-01

    Nanoscale Kelvin probe force microscopy and depth-resolved cathodoluminescence spectroscopy reveal an electronic defect evolution inside operating AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors with degradation under electric-field-induced stress. Off-state electrical stress results in micron-scale areas within the extrinsic drain expanding and decreasing in electric potential, midgap defects increasing by orders-of-magnitude at the AlGaN layer, and local Fermi levels lowering as gate-drain voltages increase above a characteristic stress threshold. The pronounced onset of defect formation, Fermi level movement, and transistor degradation at the threshold gate-drain voltage of J. A. del Alamo and J. Joh [Microelectron. Reliab. 49, 1200 (2009)] is consistent with crystal deformation and supports the inverse piezoelectric model of high electron mobility transistor degradation.

  4. Electron-beam irradiation-induced gate oxide degradation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cho, Byung Jin; Chong, Pei Fen; Chor, Eng Fong; Joo, Moon Sig; Yeo, In Seok

    2000-12-01

    Gate oxide degradation induced by electron-beam irradiation has been studied. A large increase in the low-field excess leakage current was observed on irradiated oxides and this was very similar to electrical stress-induced leakage currents. Unlike conventional electrical stress-induced leakage currents, however, electron-beam induced leakage currents exhibit a power law relationship with fluency without any signs of saturation. It has also been found that the electron-beam neither accelerates nor initiates quasibreakdown of the ultrathin gate oxide. Therefore, the traps generated by electron-beam irradiation do not contribute to quasibreakdown, only to the leakage current.

  5. Degradation of chlorpyrifos in tropical rice soils.

    PubMed

    Das, Subhasis; Adhya, Tapan K

    2015-04-01

    Chlorpyrifos [O,O-diethyl O-(3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol) phosphorothioate] is used worldwide as an agricultural insecticide against a broad spectrum of insect pests of economically important crops including rice, and soil application to control termites. The insecticide mostly undergoes hydrolysis to diethyl thiophosphoric acid (DETP) and 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCP), and negligible amounts of other intermediate products. In a laboratory-cum-greenhouse study, chlorpyrifos, applied at a rate of 10 mg kg(-1) soil to five tropical rice soils of wide physico-chemical variability, degraded with a half-life ranging from 27.07 to 3.82 days. TCP was the major metabolite under both non-flooded and flooded conditions. Chlorpyrifos degradation had significant negative relationship with electrical conductivity (EC), cation exchange capacity (CEC), clay and sand contents of the soils under non-flooded conditions. Results indicate that degradation of chlorpyrifos was accelerated with increase in its application frequency, across the representative rice soils. Management regimes including moisture content and presence or absence of rice plants also influenced the process. Biotic factors also play an important role in the degradation of chlorpyrifos as demonstrated by its convincing degradation in mineral salts medium inoculated with non-sterile soil suspension. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Compositional Effects on Electromechanical Degradation of RAINBOW Actuators

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dausch, David E.; Wise, Stephanie A.

    1998-01-01

    The effect of ceramic composition on the electromechanical displacement degradation of RAINBOW (Reduced and Internally Biased Oxide Wafer) actuators was investigated. RAINBOWs were fabricated from commercially available PZT-5H and PZT-5A piezoelectric disks as well as from tape cast PLZT piezoelectric 7/65/35 and electrostrictive 9/65/35 compositions. Displacement properties were measured at low electric fields (10 to 13 kV/cm) under loads of 0 to 500 g, and displacement degradation as a function of time was observed over 107 cycles. The PZT-5A and PLZT 9/65/35 compositions exhibited minimal decrease in displacement when load was applied. Furthermore, these compositions retained approximately 65 percent of their initial displacement after 10(exp 7) cycles under a load of 300 g. PZT-5H and PLZT 7/65/35 degraded completely under these conditions.

  7. Managing Wind-based Electricity Generation and Storage

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhou, Yangfang

    have any apparent structure, and that using overly simple policies can be considerably suboptimal. I thus develop and analyze a triple-threshold policy that I show to be near-optimal. Using a financial engineering price model and calibrating it to data from the New York Independent System Operator, I show that storage can substantially increase the monetary value of a wind farm: If transmission capacity is tight, the majority of this value arises from reducing curtailment and time-shifting generation; if transmission capacity is abundant this value stems primarily from time-shifting generation and arbitrage. In addition, I find that while more storage capacity always increases the average energy sold to the market, it may actually decrease the average wind energy sold when transmission capacity is abundant. In Chapter 3, I examine how electricity storage can be used to help match electricity supply and demand. Conventional wisdom suggests that when supply exceeds demand, any electricity surpluses should be stored for future resale. However, because electricity prices can be negative, another potential strategy of dealing with surpluses is to destroy them. Using real data, I find that for a merchant who trades electricity in a market, the strategy of destroying surpluses is potentially more valuable than the conventional strategy of storing surpluses. In Chapter 4, I study how the operation and valuation of electricity storage facilities can be affected by their physical characteristics and operating dynamics. Examples are the degradation of energy capacity over time and the variation of round-trip efficiency at different charging/discharging rates. These dynamics are often ignored in the literature, thus it has not been established whether it is important to model these characteristics. Specifically, it remains an open question whether modeling these dynamics might materially change the prescribed operating policy and the resulting valuation of a storage facility. I

  8. Degradable Networks Containing Silyl Ether Bonds

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bassampour, Zahra S.

    Degradable networks possess applications in many fields such as medical implants, electrical devices, industrial coatings, adhesives, and aerospace. Silyl ether bonds are reactive functionalities capable of degrading under physiological condition without significantly affecting the pH of the surrounding environment. This dissertation focuses on preparative methods of degradable networks utilizing silyl ether functionalities. Epoxy polymers are broadly utilized in many different applications. Despite the broad utilization of epoxy polymer thermosets in long-term applications, these thermosets are not very popular candidates in short-term applications. This unpopularity is mostly due to the fact that epoxy networks are non-degradable systems, which results in their recycling being very costly and environmentally unfriendly. In the first and second part of this dissertation, the synthesis of various amine and thiol curing agents containing hydrolyzable silyl ether bonds is described. Using these curing agents, thermosetting epoxy polymers with degradable properties were prepared. The degradation behavior and thermal properties of the cured networks were studied. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in the industrialized world. The high prevalence of AMD and the complications and shortcomings of available treatment options give rise to a great need for the development of novel types of biodegradable implants to provide sustainable drug release. The third part of this dissertation describes the utilization of hydrolyzable silyl ether bonds in the synthesis of novel implants capable of reserving and releasing a drug in a controlled manner in order to treat AMD. Base- catalyzed thiol-Michael reactions were exploited to prepare a series of biodegradable cross- linked networks. The networks were characterized by FTIR, TGA, and DMA. The effect of monomer structure on degradation, release behavior, and thermal properties was investigated.

  9. Experimental investigation on the electrical contact behavior of rolling contact connector.

    PubMed

    Chen, Junxing; Yang, Fei; Luo, Kaiyu; Zhu, Mingliang; Wu, Yi; Rong, Mingzhe

    2015-12-01

    Rolling contact connector (RCC) is a new technology utilized in high performance electric power transfer systems with one or more rotating interfaces, such as radars, satellites, wind generators, and medical computed tomography machines. Rolling contact components are used in the RCC instead of traditional sliding contacts to transfer electrical power and/or signal. Since the requirement of the power transmission is increasing in these years, the rolling electrical contact characteristics become more and more important for the long-life design of RCC. In this paper, a typical form of RCC is presented. A series of experimental work are carried out to investigate the rolling electrical contact characteristics during its lifetime. The influence of a variety of factors on the electrical contact degradation behavior of RCC is analyzed under both vacuum and air environment. Based on the surface morphology and elemental composition changes in the contact zone, which are assessed by field emission scanning electron microscope and confocal laser scanning microscope, the mechanism of rolling electrical contact degradation is discussed.

  10. Degradation and mineralization of 2-chloro-, 3-chloro- and 4-chlorobiphenyl by a newly characterized natural bacterial strain isolated from an electrical transformer fluid-contaminated soil.

    PubMed

    Ilori, Matthew O; Robinson, Gary K; Adebusoye, Sunday A

    2008-01-01

    A bacterium classified as Achromobacter xylosoxidans strain IR08 by phenotypic typing coupled with 16S rRNA gene analysis was isolated from a soil contaminated with electrical transformer fluid for over sixty years using Aroclor 1221 as an enrichment substrate. The substrate utilization profiles revealed that IR08 could grow on all three monochlorobiphenyls (CBs), 2,4'- and 4,4'-dichlorobiphenyl as well as 2-chlorobenzoate (2-CBA), 3-CBA, 4-CBA, and 2,3-dichlorobenzoate. Unusually, growth was poorly sustained on biphenyl and benzoate. In growth experiments, IR08 degraded all CBs (0.27 mmol/L) in less than 96 h with concomitant stoichiometric release of inorganic chloride and growth yields were 2-3 times higher than those observed on biphenyl. In contrast to most of the chlorobiphenyl-degrading strains described in the literature, which are reported to form CBA, no metabolite was identified in the culture broth by HPLC analysis. When co-incubated with respective CBs and biphenyl, strain IR08 preferentially utilized the chlorinated analogues in less than 96 h while it took another 264 h before 90% of the initially supplied biphenyl could be degraded. The promotion of co-metabolic transformation of halogenated substrates by the inclusion of their non-halogenated derivatives may not therefore, result in universal benefits.

  11. Optical and electrical properties of indium tin oxide films near their laser damage threshold [Electrical and optical properties of indium tin oxide films under multi-pulse laser irradiation at 1064 nm

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Yoo, Jae -Hyuck; Lange, Andrew; Bude, Jeff

    In this paper, we investigated whether the optical and electrical properties of indium tin oxide (ITO) films are degraded under laser irradiation below their laser ablation threshold. While performing multi-pulse laser damage experiments on a single ITO film (4.7 ns, 1064 nm, 10 Hz), we examined the optical and electrical properties in situ. A decrease in reflectance was observed prior to laser damage initiation. However, under sub-damage threshold irradiation, conductivity and reflectance of the film were maintained without measurable degradation. This indicates that ITO films in optoelectronic devices may be operated below their lifetime laser damage threshold without noticeable performancemore » degradation.« less

  12. Optical and electrical properties of indium tin oxide films near their laser damage threshold [Electrical and optical properties of indium tin oxide films under multi-pulse laser irradiation at 1064 nm

    DOE PAGES

    Yoo, Jae -Hyuck; Lange, Andrew; Bude, Jeff; ...

    2017-02-10

    In this paper, we investigated whether the optical and electrical properties of indium tin oxide (ITO) films are degraded under laser irradiation below their laser ablation threshold. While performing multi-pulse laser damage experiments on a single ITO film (4.7 ns, 1064 nm, 10 Hz), we examined the optical and electrical properties in situ. A decrease in reflectance was observed prior to laser damage initiation. However, under sub-damage threshold irradiation, conductivity and reflectance of the film were maintained without measurable degradation. This indicates that ITO films in optoelectronic devices may be operated below their lifetime laser damage threshold without noticeable performancemore » degradation.« less

  13. MaRIE 1.0: A briefing to Katherine Richardson-McDaniel, Staff Member for U. S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM)

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Barnes, Cris William

    At the request of Katherine Richardson-McDaniel, Staff Member to U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM), a high-level briefing was requested about MaRIE 1.0, the Matter-Radiation Interactions in Extremes effort at Los Alamos National Laboratory. What it would be, the mission need motivation, the scientific challenge, and the current favorable impact on both programs and people are shown in viewgraph form.

  14. Degradation of Methylammonium Lead Iodide Perovskite Structures through Light and Electron Beam Driven Ion Migration

    PubMed Central

    2016-01-01

    Organometal halide perovskites show promising features for cost-effective application in photovoltaics. The material instability remains a major obstacle to broad application because of the poorly understood degradation pathways. Here, we apply simultaneous luminescence and electron microscopy on perovskites for the first time, allowing us to monitor in situ morphology evolution and optical properties upon perovskite degradation. Interestingly, morphology, photoluminescence (PL), and cathodoluminescence of perovskite samples evolve differently upon degradation driven by electron beam (e-beam) or by light. A transversal electric current generated by a scanning electron beam leads to dramatic changes in PL and tunes the energy band gaps continuously alongside film thinning. In contrast, light-induced degradation results in material decomposition to scattered particles and shows little PL spectral shifts. The differences in degradation can be ascribed to different electric currents that drive ion migration. Moreover, solution-processed perovskite cuboids show heterogeneity in stability which is likely related to crystallinity and morphology. Our results reveal the essential role of ion migration in perovskite degradation and provide potential avenues to rationally enhance the stability of perovskite materials by reducing ion migration while improving morphology and crystallinity. It is worth noting that even moderate e-beam currents (86 pA) and acceleration voltages (10 kV) readily induce significant perovskite degradation and alter their optical properties. Therefore, attention has to be paid while characterizing such materials using scanning electron microscopy or transmission electron microscopy techniques. PMID:26804213

  15. 3D resistivity method to monitor degradation of an organic contaminant in sand boxes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fernandez, P. M.; Bloem, E.; Philippe, R.; French, H. K.

    2015-12-01

    Degradation of organic chemicals under various saturation conditions is a process highly relevant to protect groundwater. The redox potential drives the degradation of organic compounds. Its variation affects the water chemistry, gas release and responses of the geo-electrical signature. This study explores how non-invasive measurements sensitive to geo-electrical properties provides quantitative information about the in-situ redox situation. During this presentation, the preliminary results of a laboratory experiment to study the degradation of deicing chemicals with 3D resistivity and self-potential techniques, water samples will be shown. The experiment consists of sand boxes (1.0x0.5x0.4 m) to which both sides of each box is contaminated with propylene glycol, an aircraft deicing fluid, commonly used in Norwegian airports. Each source is placed near the water table with static conditions. At one side a conductor is placed, linking the contamination zone at the water table and the unsaturated zone with a low water content, to improve the degradation by facilitating the electron exchange. At the other side, degradation occurs under natural conditions. Each box is equipped with 288 electrodes, distributed on six faces to perform 3D resistivity measurements. In addition to the resistivity, self-potential measurements are taken from the sand surface. Six water wells are installed above and below the water table to provide more information on the degradation processes. Moreover, measurements of carbon dioxide on the surface are performed as higher concentrations are expected where the pollutant is degraded.

  16. Electrical Insulation Fire Characteristics : Volume 2. Toxicity.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1978-12-01

    The purpose of this research was to determine the relative inhalation toxicity of the thermal degradation products or gaseous pyrolysis of selected types of electrical wiring insulations. The specific materials to be evaluated were supplied by the Bo...

  17. Electrical research on solar cells and photovoltaic materials

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Orehotsky, J.

    1984-01-01

    The flat-plate solar cell array program which increases the service lifetime of the photovoltaic modules used for terrestrial energy applications is discussed. The current-voltage response characteristics of the solar cells encapsulated in the modules degrade with service time and this degradation places a limitation on the useful lifetime of the modules. The most desirable flat-plate array system involves solar cells consisting of highly polarizable materials with similar electrochemical potentials where the cells are encapsulated in polymers in which ionic concentrations and mobilities are negligibly small. Another possible mechanism limiting the service lifetime of the photovoltaic modules is the gradual loss of the electrical insulation characteristics of the polymer pottant due to water absorption or due to polymer degradation from light or heat effects. The mechanical properties of various polymer pottant materials and of electrochemical corrosion mechanisms in solar cell material are as follows: (1) electrical and ionic resistivity; (2) water absorption kinetics and water solubility limits; and (3) corrosion characterization of various metallization systems used in solar cell construction.

  18. Efficiency degradation behaviors of current/thermal co-stressed GaN-based blue light emitting diodes with vertical-structure

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Lilin; Ling, Minjie; Yang, Jianfu; Xiong, Wang; Jia, Weiqing; Wang, Gang

    2012-05-01

    With this work, we demonstrate a three-stage degradation behavior of GaN based LED chips under current/thermal co-stressing. The three stages in sequence are the initial improvement stage, the platform stage, and the rapid degradation stage, indicating that current/thermal co-stressing activates positive effects and negative ones simultaneously, and the dominant degradation mechanisms evolve with aging time. Degradation mechanisms are discussed. Electric current stress has dual characters: damaging the active layers by generating defects and at the same time improving the p-type conductivity by activating the Mg-dopant. High temperature stresses will promote the effects from electric current stresses. The activation of the Mg-dopant will saturate, whereas the generation of defects is carried on in a progressive way. Other mechanisms, such as deterioration of ohmic contacts, also operate. These mechanisms compete/cooperate with each other and evolve with aging time, resulting in the observed three-stage degradation behavior. There exist risks to predict the lifetime of LEDs by a model with a constant accelerated factor.

  19. Transient electroluminescence on pristine and degraded phosphorescent blue OLEDs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Niu, Quan; Blom, Paul W. M.; May, Falk; Heimel, Paul; Zhang, Minlu; Eickhoff, Christian; Heinemeyer, Ute; Lennartz, Christian; Crǎciun, N. Irina

    2017-11-01

    In state-of-the-art blue phosphorescent organic light-emitting diode (PHOLED) device architectures, electrons and holes are injected into the emissive layer, where they are carried by the emitting and hole transporting units, respectively. Using transient electroluminescence measurements, we disentangle the contribution of the electrons and holes on the transport and efficiency of both pristine and degraded PHOLEDs. By varying the concentration of hole transporting units, we show that for pristine PHOLEDs, the transport is electron dominated. Furthermore, degradation of the PHOLEDs upon electrical aging is not related to the hole transport but is governed by a decrease in the electron transport due to the formation of electron traps.

  20. Molecular dynamics simulations of dislocations in TlBr crystals under an electrical field

    DOE PAGES

    Zhou, X. W.; Foster, M. E.; Yang, P.; ...

    2016-07-13

    TlBr crystals have superior radiation detection properties; however, their properties degrade in the range of hours to weeks when an operating electrical field is applied. To account for this rapid degradation using the widely-accepted vacancy migration mechanism, the vacancy concentration must be orders of magnitude higher than any conventional estimates. The present work has incorporated a new analytical variable charge model in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to examine the structural changes of materials under electrical fields. Our simulations indicate that dislocations in TlBr move under electrical fields. As a result, this discovery can lead to new understanding of TlBr agingmore » mechanisms under external fields.« less

  1. Wavelet-based information filtering for fault diagnosis of electric drive systems in electric ships.

    PubMed

    Silva, Andre A; Gupta, Shalabh; Bazzi, Ali M; Ulatowski, Arthur

    2017-09-22

    Electric machines and drives have enjoyed extensive applications in the field of electric vehicles (e.g., electric ships, boats, cars, and underwater vessels) due to their ease of scalability and wide range of operating conditions. This stems from their ability to generate the desired torque and power levels for propulsion under various external load conditions. However, as with the most electrical systems, the electric drives are prone to component failures that can degrade their performance, reduce the efficiency, and require expensive maintenance. Therefore, for safe and reliable operation of electric vehicles, there is a need for automated early diagnostics of critical failures such as broken rotor bars and electrical phase failures. In this regard, this paper presents a fault diagnosis methodology for electric drives in electric ships. This methodology utilizes the two-dimensional, i.e. scale-shift, wavelet transform of the sensor data to filter optimal information-rich regions which can enhance the diagnosis accuracy as well as reduce the computational complexity of the classifier. The methodology was tested on sensor data generated from an experimentally validated simulation model of electric drives under various cruising speed conditions. The results in comparison with other existing techniques show a high correct classification rate with low false alarm and miss detection rates. Copyright © 2017 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Electricity generation and pollutant degradation using a novel biocathode coupled photoelectrochemical cell.

    PubMed

    Du, Yue; Feng, Yujie; Qu, Youpeng; Liu, Jia; Ren, Nanqi; Liu, Hong

    2014-07-01

    The photoelectrochemical cell (PEC) is a promising tool for the degradation of organic pollutants and simultaneous electricity recovery, however, current cathode catalysts suffer from high costs and short service lives. Herein, we present a novel biocathode coupled PEC (Bio-PEC) integrating the advantages of photocatalytic anode and biocathode. Electrochemical anodized TiO2 nanotube arrays fabricated on Ti substrate were used as Bio-PEC anodes. Field-emission scanning electron microscope images revealed that the well-aligned TiO2 nanotubes had inner diameters of 60-100 nm and wall-thicknesses of about 5 nm. Linear sweep voltammetry presented the pronounced photocurrent output (325 μA/cm(2)) under xenon illumination, compared with that under dark conditions. Comparing studies were carried out between the Bio-PEC and PECs with Pt/C cathodes. The results showed that the performance of Pt/C cathodes was closely related with the structure and Pt/C loading amounts of cathodes, while the Bio-PEC achieved similar methyl orange (MO) decoloration rate (0.0120 min(-1)) and maximum power density (211.32 mW/m(2)) to the brush cathode PEC with 50 mg Pt/C loading (Brush-PEC, 50 mg). The fill factors of Bio-PEC and Brush-PEC (50 mg) were 39.87% and 43.06%, respectively. The charge transfer resistance of biocathode was 13.10 Ω, larger than the brush cathode with 50 mg Pt/C (10.68 Ω), but smaller than the brush cathode with 35 mg Pt/C (18.35 Ω), indicating the comparable catalytic activity with Pt/C catalyst. The biocathode was more dependent on the nutrient diffusion, such as nitrogen and inorganic carbon, thus resulting in relatively higher diffusion resistance compared to the brush cathode with 50 mg Pt/C loading that yielded similar MO removal and power output. Considering the performance and cost of PEC system, the biocathode was a promising alternative for the Pt/C catalyst.

  3. Electric terminal performance and characterization of solid oxide fuel cells and systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lindahl, Peter Allan

    Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) are electrochemical devices which can effect efficient, clean, and quiet conversion of chemical to electrical energy. In contrast to conventional electricity generation systems which feature multiple discrete energy conversion processes, SOFCs are direct energy conversion devices. That is, they feature a fully integrated chemical to electrical energy conversion process where the electric load demanded of the cell intrinsically drives the electrochemical reactions and associated processes internal to the cell. As a result, the cell's electric terminals provide a path for interaction between load side electric demand and the conversion side processes. The implication of this is twofold. First, the magnitude and dynamic characteristics of the electric load demanded of the cell can directly impact the long-term efficacy of the cell's chemical to electrical energy conversion. Second, the electric terminal response to dynamic loads can be exploited for monitoring the cell's conversion side processes and used in diagnostic analysis and degradation-mitigating control schemes. This dissertation presents a multi-tier investigation into this electric terminal based performance characterization of SOFCs through the development of novel test systems, analysis techniques and control schemes. First, a reference-based simulation system is introduced. This system scales up the electric terminal performance of a prototype SOFC system, e.g. a single fuel cell, to that of a full power-level stack. This allows realistic stack/load interaction studies while maintaining explicit ability for post-test analysis of the prototype system. Next, a time-domain least squares fitting method for electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is developed for reduced-time monitoring of the electrochemical and physicochemical mechanics of the fuel cell through its electric terminals. The utility of the reference-based simulator and the EIS technique are demonstrated

  4. Degradation characteristics of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid in electro-biological system.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Jingli; Cao, Zhanping; Zhang, Hongwei; Zhao, Lianmei; Sun, Xudong; Mei, Feng

    2013-11-15

    The reductive degradation of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) was studied in an electro-biological system, a biological system and an electric catalytic system, respectively. Electrochemical characteristics were monitored by cyclic voltammetry and the intermediate products of 2,4-D degradation were determined by high speed liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results showed that all 2,4-D degradations in the three systems conformed to the kinetics characteristics of one-order reaction, and the degradation kinetics constants were 28.74 × 10(-2) h(-1), 19.73 × 10(-2) h(-1) and 3.54 × 10(-2) h(-1), respectively. The kinetics constant in the electro-biological system was higher than the sum in the other two systems by 19%. The electrochemical assistance provided the electrons and accelerated the electron transfer rate in the microbial degradation of 2,4-D. The degradation resulted from the microbial reduction strengthened by the electrochemical assistance. The electron transfer existed between the electrode, cytochrome, NAD and the pollutants. A long-range electron transfer process could be achieved on the multi-phase interfaces between the electrode, bacteria and the pollutants. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Assessment of environmental effects on Space Station Freedom Electrical Power System

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lu, Cheng-Yi; Nahra, Henry K.

    1991-01-01

    Analyses of EPS (electrical power system) interactions with the LEO (low earth orbit) environment are described. The results of these analyses will support EPS design so as to be compatible with the natural and induced environments and to meet power, lifetime, and performance requirements. The environmental impacts to the Space Station Freedom EPS include aerodynamic drag, atomic oxygen erosion, ultraviolet degradation, VXB effect, ionizing radiation dose and single event effects, electromagnetic interference, electrostatic discharge, plasma interactions (ion sputtering, arcing, and leakage current), meteoroid and orbital debris threats, thermal cycling effects, induced current and voltage potential differences in the SSF due to induced electric field, and contamination degradation.

  6. Aging assessment of large electric motors in nuclear power plants

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Villaran, M.; Subudhi, M.

    1996-03-01

    Large electric motors serve as the prime movers to drive high capacity pumps, fans, compressors, and generators in a variety of nuclear plant systems. This study examined the stressors that cause degradation and aging in large electric motors operating in various plant locations and environments. The operating history of these machines in nuclear plant service was studied by review and analysis of failure reports in the NPRDS and LER databases. This was supplemented by a review of motor designs, and their nuclear and balance of plant applications, in order to characterize the failure mechanisms that cause degradation, aging, and failuremore » in large electric motors. A generic failure modes and effects analysis for large squirrel cage induction motors was performed to identify the degradation and aging mechanisms affecting various components of these large motors, the failure modes that result, and their effects upon the function of the motor. The effects of large motor failures upon the systems in which they are operating, and on the plant as a whole, were analyzed from failure reports in the databases. The effectiveness of the industry`s large motor maintenance programs was assessed based upon the failure reports in the databases and reviews of plant maintenance procedures and programs.« less

  7. Simultaneous Effect of Mechanical Tension on Electrical Lifetime of Some Inorganic Composites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Özcanli, Y. Lenger; BoydaǦ, F. Ş.; Alekberov, V. A.; Hikmet, I.; Cantürk, M.

    In this work, the simultaneous effect of mechanical tension (σ) and electrical strength (E) on electrical lifetime (τE) for pure low density polyethylene (LDPE)/polypropylene (PP) and composites with different commercial diamond-additive/glass fiber additive percentages is experimentally studied. The role of this effect on degradation mechanisms is investigated. logτE,σ-f(E) and Eσ-f(σ) graphs are drawn, new equations are proposed and determined parameters at constant temperature for pure LDPE and PP, and for optimum composites (LDPE/0.5% diamond, PP/0.5% glass fiber) are listed. The results indicate that the degradation speed decreases more for composites than for pure LDPE and PP. The electrical durability for composites after the simultaneous effect of σ decreases 18-20%, while for pure LDPE and PP, it decreases 50-55%.

  8. Thermal oxidative degradation of ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymer systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Elders, Jonathan Patrick

    Thermo-oxidative degradation of ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) was investigated to determine how modifications for use in an electrical wire system affected its thermal stability. Modifications included electron irradiation and subsequent cross-linking during manufacture and contact with a metal surface. Samples with irradiation histories between 0 and 48 MRads were investigated. Degradation of ETFE was enhanced by contact with a metal "conductor" surface: silver - coated copper. Polymer degradation was analyzed by weight loss kinetics (thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)), changes in polymer morphology (differential scanning calorimetry (DSC)), optical microscopy, attenuated total reflectance (ATR) infrared spectroscopy, and gas chromatography - mass spectroscopy (GC/MS). Conductor aging (copper permeation through silver with subsequent oxidation) was investigated using scanning Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES). Conductor aging is enhanced in the presence of the polymer surface. Interactions between conductor and polymer were analyzed by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The rate of polymer degradation from 220°C to 280°C was independent of time and extent of degradation, and rate was proportional to irradiation dose. The activation energy for degradation of unirradiated ETFE was 227 kJ/mol and decreased from 150 to 138 kJ/mol for ETFE irradiated to doses between 6 and 48 MRads. Rates of degradation at 300°C to 320°C were dependent on the extent of degradation. Rates of degradation at temperatures between 230°C and 310°C were an order of magnitude larger in the presence of a conductor than in its absence, and activation energies for degradation in the presence of conductor were reduced to 120 kJ/mol. Degradation was modeled as the combination of bulk polymer degradation and catalytic degradation at the polymer-metal interface. ETFE aged at 250°C in the presence or absence of a conductor

  9. Efficient photo-catalytic degradation of malachite green using nickel tungstate material as photo-catalyst.

    PubMed

    Helaïli, N; Boudjamaa, A; Kebir, M; Bachari, K

    2017-03-01

    The present study focused on the evaluation of photo-catalytic and photo-electrochemical properties of the photo-catalyst based on nickel tungstate material prepared by a nitrate method through the degradation of malachite green (MG) dye's. The effect of catalyst loading and dye concentration was examined. Physico-chemical, optical, electrical, electrochemical, and photo-electrochemical properties of the prepared material were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), BET analysis, optical reflectance diffuse (DR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDX), electrical conductivity, cyclic voltammetry (CV), current intensity, mott-shottky, and nyquist. XRD revealed the formation of monoclinic structure with a small particle size. BET surface area of the sample was around 10 m 2 /g. The results show that the degradation of MG was more than 80%, achieved after 3 h of irradiation at pH 4.6 and with a catalyst loading of 75 mg. Also, it was found that the dye photo-degradation obeyed the pseudo-first order kinetic via Langmuir Hinshelwood model.

  10. Understanding Trap Effects on Electrical Treeing Phenomena in EPDM/POSS Composites.

    PubMed

    Du, Boxue; Su, Jingang; Tian, Meng; Han, Tao; Li, Jin

    2018-05-31

    POSS (polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane) provides an interesting alternative nano-silica and has the potential of superior dielectric properties to restrain electrical degradation. By incorporating POSS into EPDM to suppress electrical tree, one of precursors to dielectric failure, is promising to improve the lifetime of insulation materials. This paper focuses on the electrical treeing phenomena in EPDM/OVPOSS (ethylene propylene diene monomer/octavinyl-POSS) composites based on their physicochemical properties and trap distributions. ATR-IR and SEM characteristics are investigated to observe the chemical structure and physical dispersion of EPDM/OVPOSS composites. Electrical treeing characteristics are studied by the needle-plane electrode, and the trap level distributions are characterized by surface potential decay (SPD) tests. The results show that the 3 wt% EPDM/OVPOSS is more effective to restrain the electrical tree growth than the neat EPDM in this paper. It is indicated that the EPDM/OVPOSS with a filler content of 3 wt% introduces the largest energy level and trap density of deep trapped charges, which suppress the transportation of charge carriers injected from the needle tip and further prevent the degradation of polymer molecules. The polarity effects are obvious during the electrical treeing process, which is dependent on the trap level differences between positive and negative voltage.

  11. Study of advanced electric propulsion system concept using a flywheel for electric vehicles

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Younger, F. C.; Lackner, H.

    1979-01-01

    Advanced electric propulsion system concepts with flywheels for electric vehicles are evaluated and it is predicted that advanced systems can provide considerable performance improvement over existing electric propulsion systems with little or no cost penalty. Using components specifically designed for an integrated electric propulsion system avoids the compromises that frequently lead to a loss of efficiency and to inefficient utilization of space and weight. A propulsion system using a flywheel power energy storage device can provide excellent acceleration under adverse conditions of battery degradation due either to very low temperatures or high degrees of discharge. Both electrical and mechanical means of transfer of energy to and from the flywheel appear attractive; however, development work is required to establish the safe limits of speed and energy storage for advanced flywheel designs and to achieve the optimum efficiency of energy transfer. Brushless traction motor designs using either electronic commutation schemes or dc-to-ac inverters appear to provide a practical approach to a mass producible motor, with excellent efficiency and light weight. No comparisons were made with advanced system concepts which do not incorporate a flywheel.

  12. High-power UV-LED degradation: Continuous and cycled working condition influence

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Arques-Orobon, F. J.; Nuñez, N.; Vazquez, M.; Segura-Antunez, C.; González-Posadas, V.

    2015-09-01

    High-power (HP) UV-LEDs can replace UV lamps for real-time fluoro-sensing applications by allowing portable and autonomous systems. However, HP UV-LEDs are not a mature technology, and there are still open issues regarding their performance evolution over time. This paper presents a reliability study of 3 W UV-LEDs, with special focus on LED degradation for two working conditions: continuous and cycled (30 s ON and 30 s OFF). Accelerated life tests are developed to evaluate the influence of temperature and electrical working conditions in high-power LEDs degradation, being the predominant failure mechanism the degradation of the package. An analysis that includes dynamic thermal and optical HP UV-LED measurements has been performed. Static thermal and stress simulation analysis with the finite element method (FEM) identifies the causes of package degradation. Accelerated life test results prove that HP UV-LEDs working in cycled condition have a better performance than those working in continuous condition.

  13. Degradation of cyanotoxins (microcystin) in drinking water using photoelectrooxidation.

    PubMed

    Garcia, A C A; Rodrigues, M A S; Xavier, J L N; Gazulla, V; Meneguzzi, A; Bernardes, A M

    2015-05-01

    The discharge of sewage and industrial effluents containing high concentrations of pollutants in water bodies increases eutrophication. Cyanobacteria, some of the organisms whose growth is promoted by high nutrient concentrations, are resistant and produce several types of toxins, known as cyanotoxins, highly harmful to human beings. Current water treatment systems for the public water supply are not efficient in degradation of toxins. Advanced oxidation processes (AOP) have been tested for the removal of cyanotoxins, and the results have been positive. This study examines the application of photoelectrooxidation in the degradation of cyanotoxins (microcystins). The performance of the oxidative processes involved was evaluated separately: Photocatalysis, Electrolysis and Photoelectrooxidation. Results showed that the electrical current and UV radiation were directly associated with toxin degradation. The PEO system is efficient in removing cyanotoxins, and the reduction rate reached 99%. The final concentration of toxin was less than 1 µg/L of microcystin in the treated solution.

  14. In situ degradation studies of two-dimensional WSe₂-graphene heterostructures.

    PubMed

    Wang, B; Eichfield, S M; Wang, D; Robinson, J A; Haque, M A

    2015-09-14

    Heterostructures of two-dimensional materials can be vulnerable to thermal degradation due to structural and interfacial defects as well as thermal expansion mismatch, yet a systematic study does not exist in the literature. In this study, we investigate the degradation of freestanding WSe2-graphene heterostructures due to heat and charge flow by performing in situ experiments inside a transmission electron microscope. Experimental results show that purely thermal loading requires higher temperatures (>850 °C), about 150 °C higher than that under combined electrical and thermal loading. In both cases, selenium is the first element to decompose and migration of silicon atoms from the test structure to the freestanding specimen initiates rapid degradation through the formation of tungsten disilicide and silicon carbide. The role of the current flow is to enhance the migration of silicon from the sample holder and to knock-out the selenium atoms. The findings of this study provide fundamental insights into the degradation of WSe2-graphene heterostructures and inspire their application in electronics for use in harsh environments.

  15. Salinity and Conductivity Amendment of Soil Enhanced the Bioelectrochemical Degradation of Petroleum Hydrocarbons.

    PubMed

    Li, Xiaojing; Wang, Xin; Zhang, Yueyong; Zhao, Qian; Yu, Binbin; Li, Yongtao; Zhou, Qixing

    2016-09-06

    The extreme salinity and high internal resistance of saline-alkali soil contaminated by petroleum hydrocarbons were two key limitations for using the bioelectrochemical remediation. In order to solve two problems, we simply rinsed soil, added carbon fiber to polluted soil. The charge output was enhanced by 110% with increase of the maximum current densities from 81 to 304 mA·m(-2) while hydrocarbons degradation rate enhanced by 484%, especially the high molecular weight fractions (C28-C36 of n-alkanes and 4-6 rings of PAHs). These effects were possibly due to the selective enrichment of species belonged to δ-Proteobacteria (Proteobacteria), Flavobacteriia (Bacteroidetes) or Clostridia (Firmicutes), the activities of biological electron transfer and enzymes. As we know, oxygenase gene that directly decided the process of degradation, was surveyed for the first time in soil bioelectrochemical remediation system. The results confirmed that the bio-current stimulated the activities of naphthalene dioxygenase and xylene monooxygenase and thus the hydrocarbons degradation and the electricity generation. Given that electricity generation and the remediation performance are governed by multiple factors, understanding of microbial community and enzyme gene is crucial to promote the power yield and the bioelectrochemical remediation applicability.

  16. Salinity and Conductivity Amendment of Soil Enhanced the Bioelectrochemical Degradation of Petroleum Hydrocarbons

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Xiaojing; Wang, Xin; Zhang, Yueyong; Zhao, Qian; Yu, Binbin; Li, Yongtao; Zhou, Qixing

    2016-09-01

    The extreme salinity and high internal resistance of saline-alkali soil contaminated by petroleum hydrocarbons were two key limitations for using the bioelectrochemical remediation. In order to solve two problems, we simply rinsed soil, added carbon fiber to polluted soil. The charge output was enhanced by 110% with increase of the maximum current densities from 81 to 304 mA·m-2 while hydrocarbons degradation rate enhanced by 484%, especially the high molecular weight fractions (C28-C36 of n-alkanes and 4-6 rings of PAHs). These effects were possibly due to the selective enrichment of species belonged to δ-Proteobacteria (Proteobacteria), Flavobacteriia (Bacteroidetes) or Clostridia (Firmicutes), the activities of biological electron transfer and enzymes. As we know, oxygenase gene that directly decided the process of degradation, was surveyed for the first time in soil bioelectrochemical remediation system. The results confirmed that the bio-current stimulated the activities of naphthalene dioxygenase and xylene monooxygenase and thus the hydrocarbons degradation and the electricity generation. Given that electricity generation and the remediation performance are governed by multiple factors, understanding of microbial community and enzyme gene is crucial to promote the power yield and the bioelectrochemical remediation applicability.

  17. Differential degradation patterns of photovoltaic backsheets at the array level

    DOE PAGES

    Fairbrother, Andrew; Boyd, Matthew; Lyu, Yadong; ...

    2018-02-04

    There are relatively few field studies on the degradation of non-fluoropolymer-based backsheets, and understanding their in-field behavior is critical for further development of such products. In this paper, backsheet degradation of modules with one of these new types of backsheets (polyethylene naphthalate (PEN)-based) was documented at a four-year old utility-scale array located in Maryland (USA). Visual inspection, colorimetry, glossimetry, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed highly varied properties depending on module position within the array. Specifically, modules near the edge of the array and with higher mounting elevations underwent greater amounts of backsheet degradation, as indicated by yellowing and gloss-loss.more » The reason for these unique degradation patterns were differential backside exposure conditions, especially of ultraviolet light. This was strongly influenced by the array design, including array structural and environmental factors, such as module spacing and ground cover, respectively. Within the array, no clear link between backsheet degradation and module output or safety has been identified. However, such a relationship may be expected to become more pronounced with time, affecting system lifetime and ultimately the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). Finally, the observed phenomena have implications for both backsheet product development and array design, especially for modules that utilize newer classes of non-fluoropolymer-based backsheets which are typically more susceptible to environmental degradation.« less

  18. Differential degradation patterns of photovoltaic backsheets at the array level

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Fairbrother, Andrew; Boyd, Matthew; Lyu, Yadong

    There are relatively few field studies on the degradation of non-fluoropolymer-based backsheets, and understanding their in-field behavior is critical for further development of such products. In this paper, backsheet degradation of modules with one of these new types of backsheets (polyethylene naphthalate (PEN)-based) was documented at a four-year old utility-scale array located in Maryland (USA). Visual inspection, colorimetry, glossimetry, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed highly varied properties depending on module position within the array. Specifically, modules near the edge of the array and with higher mounting elevations underwent greater amounts of backsheet degradation, as indicated by yellowing and gloss-loss.more » The reason for these unique degradation patterns were differential backside exposure conditions, especially of ultraviolet light. This was strongly influenced by the array design, including array structural and environmental factors, such as module spacing and ground cover, respectively. Within the array, no clear link between backsheet degradation and module output or safety has been identified. However, such a relationship may be expected to become more pronounced with time, affecting system lifetime and ultimately the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). Finally, the observed phenomena have implications for both backsheet product development and array design, especially for modules that utilize newer classes of non-fluoropolymer-based backsheets which are typically more susceptible to environmental degradation.« less

  19. Accelerated degradation of silicon metallization systems

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lathrop, J. W.

    1983-01-01

    Clemson University has been engaged for the past five years in a program to determine the reliability attributes of solar cells by means of accelerated test procedures. The cells are electrically measured and visually inspected and then subjected for a period of time to stress in excess of that normally encountered in use, and then they are reinspected. Changes are noted and the process repeated. This testing has thus far involved 23 different unencapsulated cell types from 12 different manufacturers, and 10 different encapsulated cell types from 9 different manufacturers. Reliability attributes of metallization systems can be classified as major or minor, depending on the severity of the effects observed. As a result of the accelerated testing conducted under the Clemson program, major effects have been observed related to contact resistance and to mechanical adherence and solderability. This paper does not attempt a generalized survey of accelerated test results, but rather concentrates on one particular attribute of metallization that has been observed to cause electrical degradation - increased contact resistance due to Schottky barrier formation. In this example basic semiconductor theory was able to provide an understanding of the electrical effects observed during accelerated stress testing.

  20. Suevite superposition on the Bunte breccia in Noerdlinger Ries, Germany: New findings on the transport mechanism of impactites

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bringemeier, D.

    1992-01-01

    Research undertaken in the last decades in Noerdlinger Ries, Germany, has repeatedly emphasized the sharp contact between Bunte breccia and suevite. However, extensive investigations into this layer boundary have not yet been possible due to insufficient outcrop ratios. New outcrops enabled an in-depth investigation into the superposition of suevite on the Bunte breccia, which is assigned a key role in interpreting the transport mechanisms of ejecta of large impact. In two quarries lying several kilometers east and south-southwest of the crater, the contact between the suevite and Bunte breccia was recorded in detailed sections on outcrops of over 50 m in length.

  1. Bioelectricity-assisted partial degradation of linear polyacrylamide in a bioelectrochemical system.

    PubMed

    Cui, Yu-Zhi; Zhang, Jian; Sun, Min; Zhai, Lin-Feng

    2015-01-01

    The wide application of water-soluble linear polyacrylamides (PAMs) can cause serious environmental pollution. Biological treatment of PAMs receives very limited efficiency due to their recalcitrance to the microbial degradation. Here, we show the bioelectrochemical system (BES) can be used as an effective strategy to improve the biodegradation efficiency of PAMs. A linear PAM with viscosity-average molecular weight of 5 × 10(6) was treated in the anodic chamber of BES reactor, and the change of PAM structure during the degradation process was investigated. The anodic bacteria in the BES demonstrated abilities to utilize the PAM as the sole carbon and nitrogen source to generate electricity. Both the anode-attached and planktonic bacteria contributed to the electricity generation, while the anode-attached community exhibited stronger electron transfer ability than the planktonic one. The closed-circuit and open-circuit operations of the BES reactor obtained chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiencies of 32.5 and 7.4 %, respectively, implying the generation of bioelectricity could enhance the biodegradation of PAM. Structure analysis suggested the carbon chain of PAM was partially degraded in the BES, producing polymeric products with lower molecular weight. The microbial cleavage of the carbon chain was proposed to start from the "head-to-head" linkages and end with the formation of ether bonds.

  2. Polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolysis: Restraining degradation in the presence of fluctuating power

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rakousky, Christoph; Reimer, Uwe; Wippermann, Klaus; Kuhri, Susanne; Carmo, Marcelo; Lueke, Wiebke; Stolten, Detlef

    2017-02-01

    Polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) water electrolysis generates 'green' hydrogen when conducted with electricity from renewable - but fluctuating - sources like wind or solar photovoltaic. Unfortunately, the long-term stability of the electrolyzer performance is still not fully understood under these input power profiles. In this study, we contrast the degradation behavior of our PEM water electrolysis single cells that occurs under operation with constant and intermittent power and derive preferable operating states. For this purpose, five different current density profiles are used, of which two were constant and three dynamic. Cells operated at 1 A cm-2 show no degradation. However, degradation was observed for the remaining four profiles, all of which underwent periods of high current density (2 A cm-2). Hereby, constant operation at 2 A cm-2 led to the highest degradation rate (194 μV h-1). Degradation can be greatly reduced when the cells are operated with an intermittent profile. Current density switching has a positive effect on durability, as it causes reversible parts of degradation to recover and results in a substantially reduced degradation per mole of hydrogen produced. Two general degradation phenomena were identified, a decreased anode exchange current density and an increased contact resistance at the titanium porous transport layer (Ti-PTL).

  3. Nonuniformity of carrier injection and the degradation of blue LEDs

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Bochkareva, N. I.; Efremov, A. A.; Rebane, Yu. T.

    The distribution of electroluminescence (EL) intensity over the area and in the course of time before and after the optical degradation of blue InGaN/GaN LEDs is studied. Current-voltage characteristics have been recorded. It is found that the initially bright luminescence near the region of metallization of the p-contact turns weak after the degradation of an LED. The time delay of {approx}20-40 ns is observed in the distribution of EL intensity over the area of LEDs after their degradation. We suppose that a rise in the excess current after degradation is due to the density increasing of the InGaN/GaN interface statesmore » and the formation of an electrical dipole, which lowers the potential barriers in p-GaN and n-GaN layers. The corresponding increase of capacitance leads to a time delay in the spreading of the injection current and in the distribution of the emission brightness over the area. The lateral nonuniformity of the carrier injection into the quantum, well before and after optical degradation, is attributed to diffusion and electromigration of hydrogen, induced by mechanical stress. The metallization of the p-contact may be the source of mechanical stress.« less

  4. Simultaneous Thermal and Gamma Radiation Aging of Electrical Cable Polymers

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Fifield, Leonard S.

    The polymers used for insulation in nuclear power plant electrical cables are susceptible to aging during long term operation. Elevated temperature is the primary contributor to changes in polymer structure that result loss of mechanical and electrical properties, but gamma radiation is also a significant source of degradation for polymers used within relevant plant locations. Despite many years of polymer degradation research, the combined effects of simultaneous exposure to thermal and radiation stress are not well understood. As nuclear operators contemplate and prepare for extended operations beyond initial license periods, a predictive understanding of exposure-based cable material degradation is becomingmore » an increasingly important input to safety, licensing, operations and economic decisions. We are focusing on carefully-controlled simultaneous thermal and gamma radiation accelerating aging and characterization of the most common nuclear cable polymers to understand the relative contributions of temperature, time, dose and dose rate to changes in cable polymer material structure and properties. Improved understanding of cable performance in long term operation will help support continued sustainable nuclear power generation.« less

  5. Degradable polyphosphazene/poly(alpha-hydroxyester) blends: degradation studies.

    PubMed

    Ambrosio, Archel M A; Allcock, Harry R; Katti, Dhirendra S; Laurencin, Cato T

    2002-04-01

    Biomaterials based on the polymers of lactic acid and glycolic acid and their copolymers are used or studied extensively as implantable devices for drug delivery, tissue engineering and other biomedical applications. Although these polymers have shown good biocompatibility, concerns have been raised regarding their acidic degradation products, which have important implications for long-term implantable systems. Therefore, we have designed a novel biodegradable polyphosphazene/poly(alpha-hydroxyester) blend whose degradation products are less acidic than those of the poly(alpha-hydroxyester) alone. In this study, the degradation characteristics of a blend of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (50:50 PLAGA) and poly[(50% ethyl glycinato)(50% p-methylphenoxy) phosphazene] (PPHOS-EG50) were qualitatively and quantitatively determined with comparisons made to the parent polymers. Circular matrices (14mm diameter) of the PLAGA, PPHOS-EG50 and PLAGA-PPHOS-EG50 blend were degraded in non-buffered solutions (pH 7.4). The degraded polymers were characterized for percentage mass loss and molecular weight and the degradation medium was characterized for acid released in non-buffered solutions. The amounts of neutralizing base necessary to bring about neutral pH were measured for each polymer or polymer blend during degradation. The poly(phosphazene)/poly(lactide-co-glycolide) blend required significantly less neutralizing base in order to bring about neutral solution pH during the degradation period studied. The results indicated that the blend degraded at a rate intermediate to that of the parent polymers and that the degradation products of the polyphosphazene neutralized the acidic degradation products of PLAGA. Thus, results from these in vitro degradation studies suggest that the PLAGA-PPHOS-EG50 blend may provide a viable improvement to biomaterials based on acid-releasing organic polymers.

  6. Process for electrically interconnecting electrodes

    DOEpatents

    Carey, Paul G.; Thompson, Jesse B.; Colella, Nicolas J.; Williams, Kenneth A.

    2002-01-01

    Electrical interconnects for solar cells or other electronic components using a silver-silicone paste or a lead-tin (Pb--Sn) no-clean fluxless solder cream, whereby the high breakage of thin (<6 mil thick) solar cells using conventional solder interconnect is eliminated. The interconnects of this invention employs copper strips which are secured to the solar cells by a silver-silicone conductive paste which can be used at room temperature, or by a Pb--Sn solder cream which eliminates undesired residue on the active surfaces of the solar cells. Electrical testing using the interconnects of this invention has shown that no degradation of the interconnects developed under high current testing, while providing a very low contact resistance value.

  7. Preparation of C60(O)n-ZnO nanocomposite under electric furnace and photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes.

    PubMed

    Cho, Bum Hwi; Oh, Youn Jun; Mun, Sang Mi; Ko, Weon Bae

    2012-07-01

    Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles were synthesized sonochemically by applying ultrasonic irradiation to a mixed aqueous-alcoholic solution of zinc nitrate with sodium hydroxide at room temperature. The morphology and optical properties of the ZnO nanoparticles were examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and UV-vis spectroscopy. The C60(O)n nanoparticles were synthesized by heating a mixture of C60 and 3-chloroperoxybenzoic acid in a benzene solvent under the reflux system. The heated C60(O)n-ZnO nanocomposite was synthesized in an electric furnace at 700 degrees C for two hours. The heated C60(O)n-ZnO nanocomposite was characterized by XRD, SEM, and TEM, and examined as a catalyst in the photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes by UV-vis spectroscopy. The photocatalytic effect of the heated C60(O)n-ZnO nanocomposite was evaluated by a comparison with that of unheated C60(O)n nanoparticles, heated C60(O)n nanoparticles, and unheated C60(O)n-ZnO in organic dyes, such as methylene blue (MB), methyl orange (MO), and rhodamine B (RhB) under ultraviolet light at 365 nm.

  8. Salinity and Conductivity Amendment of Soil Enhanced the Bioelectrochemical Degradation of Petroleum Hydrocarbons

    PubMed Central

    Li, Xiaojing; Wang, Xin; Zhang, Yueyong; Zhao, Qian; Yu, Binbin; Li, Yongtao; Zhou, Qixing

    2016-01-01

    The extreme salinity and high internal resistance of saline-alkali soil contaminated by petroleum hydrocarbons were two key limitations for using the bioelectrochemical remediation. In order to solve two problems, we simply rinsed soil, added carbon fiber to polluted soil. The charge output was enhanced by 110% with increase of the maximum current densities from 81 to 304 mA·m−2 while hydrocarbons degradation rate enhanced by 484%, especially the high molecular weight fractions (C28–C36 of n-alkanes and 4–6 rings of PAHs). These effects were possibly due to the selective enrichment of species belonged to δ-Proteobacteria (Proteobacteria), Flavobacteriia (Bacteroidetes) or Clostridia (Firmicutes), the activities of biological electron transfer and enzymes. As we know, oxygenase gene that directly decided the process of degradation, was surveyed for the first time in soil bioelectrochemical remediation system. The results confirmed that the bio-current stimulated the activities of naphthalene dioxygenase and xylene monooxygenase and thus the hydrocarbons degradation and the electricity generation. Given that electricity generation and the remediation performance are governed by multiple factors, understanding of microbial community and enzyme gene is crucial to promote the power yield and the bioelectrochemical remediation applicability. PMID:27597387

  9. SNAP 10A ESTIMATED ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Cooper, J.C.

    1961-06-01

    The electrical power characteristics of a SNAP 10A converter are estimated for given fractions of power degradation. Graphs are included showing the power characteristics for instantaneous transients from stabilized operation at the maximum efficiency point, and after system temperature stabilization at the operating point. Open-circuit emf's of the converter are estimated for instantaneous and temperature-stabilized cases. (D.L.C.)

  10. Stimuli-Responsive Polymer-Clay Nanocomposites under Electric Fields

    PubMed Central

    Piao, Shang Hao; Kwon, Seung Hyuk; Choi, Hyoung Jin

    2016-01-01

    This short Feature Article reviews electric stimuli-responsive polymer/clay nanocomposites with respect to their fabrication, physical characteristics and electrorheological (ER) behaviors under applied electric fields when dispersed in oil. Their structural characteristics, morphological features and thermal degradation behavior were examined by X-ray diffraction pattern, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. Particular focus is given to the electro-responsive ER characteristics of the polymer/clay nanocomposites in terms of the yield stress and viscoelastic properties along with their applications. PMID:28787852

  11. Degradability of Polymers for Implantable Biomedical Devices

    PubMed Central

    Lyu, SuPing; Untereker, Darrel

    2009-01-01

    Many key components of implantable medical devices are made from polymeric materials. The functions of these materials include structural support, electrical insulation, protection of other materials from the environment of the body, and biocompatibility, as well as other things such as delivery of a therapeutic drug. In such roles, the stability and integrity of the polymer, over what can be a very long period of time, is very important. For most of these functions, stability over time is desired, but in other cases, the opposite–the degradation and disappearance of the polymer over time is required. In either case, it is important to understand both the chemistry that can lead to the degradation of polymers as well as the kinetics that controls these reactions. Hydrolysis and oxidation are the two classes of reactions that lead to the breaking down of polymers. Both are discussed in detail in the context of the environmental factors that impact the utility of various polymers for medical device applications. Understanding the chemistry and kinetics allows prediction of stability as well as explanations for observations such as porosity and the unexpected behavior of polymeric composite materials in some situations. In the last part, physical degradation such interfacial delamination in composites is discussed. PMID:19865531

  12. Evaluation of electricity production from alkaline pretreated sludge using two-chamber microbial fuel cell.

    PubMed

    Xiao, Benyi; Yang, Fang; Liu, Junxin

    2013-06-15

    Electricity production from alkaline pretreated sludge was evaluated using a two-chamber microbial fuel cell (MFC). The electricity production was found to be stable over a long period of time (approximately 17 d) with voltage outputs and power densities of 0.47-0.52 V and 46.80-55.88 mW/m(2), respectively. The anode resistance was the main internal resistance (73.2%) of MFC in the stable stage. Most soluble organic matters (proteins and carbohydrates) in the anode chamber were first degraded and converted into volatile fatty acids (0-15 d), which were then degraded and converted into electricity and methane (15-29 d). The insoluble organics were solubilized thereby decreasing the sludge concentration and reducing the sludge mass. Methane was produced in the anode chamber owing to the growth of methanogens, which did not obviously affect the electricity production. The change in humic-like substances displayed a positive correlation with the electricity production of the MFC. Microbial analysis showed that methanogens and electricity-producing bacteria co-existed mostly on the surface as well as inside the anode. Decreasing the anode resistance and increasing the anode utilization could enhance the electricity production. Crown Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Paracetamol degradation in aqueous solution by non-thermal plasma

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Baloul, Yasmine; Aubry, Olivier; Rabat, Hervé; Colas, Cyril; Maunit, Benoît; Hong, Dunpin

    2017-08-01

    This study deals with paracetamol degradation in water using a non-thermal plasma (NTP) created by a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD). The effects of the NTP operating conditions on the degradation were studied, showing that the treatment efficiency of the process was highly dependent on the electrical parameters and working gas composition in the reactor containing the aqueous solution. A conversion rate higher than 99% was reached with an energy yield of 12 g/kWh. High resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) measurements showed that the main species produced in water during the process were nitrogen compounds, carboxylic acids and aromatic compounds. Contribution to the topical issue "The 15th International Symposium on High Pressure Low Temperature Plasma Chemistry (HAKONE XV)", edited by Nicolas Gherardi and Tomáš Hoder

  14. Theoretical approach to oxygen atom degradation of silver

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Fromhold, Albert T., Jr.; Noh, Seung; Beshears, Ronald; Whitaker, Ann F.; Little, Sally A.

    1987-01-01

    Based on available Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS), proton induced X-ray emission (PIXE) and ellipsometry data obtained on silver specimens subjected to atomic oxygen attack in low Earth orbit STS flight 41-G, a theory was developed to model the oxygen atom degradation of silver. The diffusion of atomic oxygen in a microscopically nonuniform medium is an essential constituent of the theory. The driving force for diffusion is the macroscopic electrochemical potential gradient developed between the specimen surface exposed to the ambient and the bulk of the silver specimen. The longitudinal electric effect developed parallel to the gradient is modified by space charge of the diffusing charged species. Lateral electric fields and concentration differences also exist due to the nonuniform nature of the medium. The lateral concentration differences are found to be more important than the lateral electric fields in modifying the diffusion rate. The model was evaluated numerically. Qualitative agreement exists between the kinetics predicted by the theory and kinetic data taken in ground-based experiments utilizing a plasma asher.

  15. LONG TERM OPERATION ISSUES FOR ELECTRICAL CABLE SYSTEMS IN NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Fifield, Dr Leonard S; Duckworth, Robert C; Glass III, Dr. Samuel W.

    Nuclear power plants contain hundreds of kilometers of electrical cables including cables used for power, for instrumentation, and for control. It is essential that safety-related cable systems continue to perform following a design-basis event. Wholesale replacement of electrical cables in existing plants facing licensing period renewal is both impractical and cost-prohibitive. It is therefore important to understand the long term aging of cable materials to have confidence that aged cables will perform when needed. It is equally important in support of cable aging management to develop methods to evaluate the health of installed cables and inform selective cable replacement decisions.more » The most common insulation materials for electrical cables in nuclear power plants are cross-linked polyethylene and ethylene-propylene rubber. The mechanical properties of these materials degrade over time in the presence of environmental stresses including heat, gamma irradiation, and moisture. Mechanical degradation of cable insulation beyond a certain threshold is unacceptable because it can lead to insulation cracking, exposure of energized conductors, arcing and burning or loss of the ability of the cable system to function during a design-basis accident. While thermal-, radiation-, and moisture-related degradation of polymer insulation materials has been extensively studied over the last few decades, questions remain regarding the long-term performance of cable materials in nuclear plant-specific environments. Identified knowledge gaps include an understanding of the temperature-dependence of activation energies for thermal damage and an understanding of the synergistic effects of radiation and thermal stress on polymer degradation. Many of the outstanding questions in the aging behavior of cable materials relate to the necessity of predicting long-term field degradation using accelerated aging results from the laboratory. Materials degrade faster under more extreme

  16. An Effective Electrical Resonance-Based Method to Detect Delamination in Thermal Barrier Coating

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Jong Min; Park, Jae-Ha; Lee, Ho Girl; Kim, Hak-Joon; Song, Sung-Jin; Seok, Chang-Sung; Lee, Young-Ze

    2017-12-01

    This research proposes a simple yet highly sensitive method based on electrical resonance of an eddy-current probe to detect delamination of thermal barrier coating (TBC). This method can directly measure the mechanical characteristics of TBC compared to conventional ultrasonic testing and infrared thermography methods. The electrical resonance-based method can detect the delamination of TBC from the metallic bond coat by shifting the electrical impedance of eddy current testing (ECT) probe coupling with degraded TBC, and, due to this shift, the resonant frequencies near the peak impedance of ECT probe revealed high sensitivity to the delamination. In order to verify the performance of the proposed method, a simple experiment is performed with degraded TBC specimens by thermal cyclic exposure. Consequently, the delamination with growth of thermally grown oxide in a TBC system is experimentally identified. Additionally, the results are in good agreement with the results obtained from ultrasonic C-scanning.

  17. An Effective Electrical Resonance-Based Method to Detect Delamination in Thermal Barrier Coating

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Jong Min; Park, Jae-Ha; Lee, Ho Girl; Kim, Hak-Joon; Song, Sung-Jin; Seok, Chang-Sung; Lee, Young-Ze

    2018-02-01

    This research proposes a simple yet highly sensitive method based on electrical resonance of an eddy-current probe to detect delamination of thermal barrier coating (TBC). This method can directly measure the mechanical characteristics of TBC compared to conventional ultrasonic testing and infrared thermography methods. The electrical resonance-based method can detect the delamination of TBC from the metallic bond coat by shifting the electrical impedance of eddy current testing (ECT) probe coupling with degraded TBC, and, due to this shift, the resonant frequencies near the peak impedance of ECT probe revealed high sensitivity to the delamination. In order to verify the performance of the proposed method, a simple experiment is performed with degraded TBC specimens by thermal cyclic exposure. Consequently, the delamination with growth of thermally grown oxide in a TBC system is experimentally identified. Additionally, the results are in good agreement with the results obtained from ultrasonic C-scanning.

  18. FOREWORD: Focus on the Degradation and Stability of Polymers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Terano, Minoru

    2008-06-01

    Modern society is so reliant on polymers that products incorporating these macromolecules are almost 'invisible'. Polymers are indispensable materials used for manufacturing compact disks, clothes, lightweight airplanes, automobiles, footware and even the humble polystyrene boxes for packing our favorite hamburgers and fries. But, like many other materials, polymers degrade and become unstable, so a deeper understanding of the physical mechanisms responsible for degradation is necessary to address issues such as potential applications, recycling and the impact of polymer-products on the environment. In particular, polymers are highly vulnerable to oxidative degradation at elevated temperatures and in sunlight. Unfortunately, in spite of extensive research on polymer degradation, our knowledge is still incomplete. The analysis of polymer degradation and stability has recently become harder and more complicated because of the wider range of polymer applications, including blends and composites. Notably, composites with nanofillers are being studied for automotive, electrical and other industrial applications. With this background, the 1st International Symposium on Ultimate Stability of NanoStructured Polymers and Composites (NT2007) was held in October at the Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology in Ishikawa Prefecture. The meeting provided a forum to discuss advanced research achievements to resolve problems in this field of research. The papers selected for this focus issue describe recent discoveries on the stability, weatherability and flame retardancy of polymers, as well as providing an insight into degradation mechanisms of nanostructured polymers and composites. We hope that this focus issue will serve as a timely source of information about one of the most important topics in polymer science and related technologies.

  19. The effects of hot carrier and swift heavy ion irradiation on electrical characteristics of advanced 200 GHz SiGe HBTs

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Vinayakprasanna, N. H.; Praveen, K. C.; Prakash, A. P. Gnana, E-mail: gnanaprakash@physics.uni-mysore.ac.in

    The 200 GHz SiGe HBTs were irradiated with 80 MeV Carbon ions up to a total dose of 100 Mrad to understand the degradation in electrical characteristics. The degradation in the electrical characteristics of SiGe HBTs was also studied by mixed mode electrical stress up to 10,000 s. The electrical characteristics were measured before and after every total dose and after fixed stress time. The normalized peak h{sub FE} of the stressed and irradiated SiGe HBTs are compared to estimate the equivalent stress time for a particular total dose. These correlations are drawn for the first time and the resultsmore » will establish a systematic relation between stress time and total dose.« less

  20. Impedance Characterization of the Degradation of Insulating Layer Patterned on Interdigitated Microelectrode.

    PubMed

    Lee, Gihyun; Kim, Sohee; Cho, Sungbo

    2015-10-01

    Life-time and functionality of planar microelectrode-based devices are determined by not only the corrosion-resistance of the electrode, but also the durability of the insulation layer coated on the transmission lines. Degradation of the insulating layer exposed to a humid environment or solution may cause leakage current or signal loss, and a decrease in measurement sensitivity. In this study, degradation of SU-8, an epoxy-based negative photoresist and insulating material, patterned on Au interdigitated microelectrode (IDE) for long-term (>30 days) immersion in an electrolyte at 37 °C was investigated by electrical impedance spectroscopy and theoretical equivalent circuit modeling. From the experiment and simulation results, it was found that the degradation level of the insulating layer of the IDE electrode can be characterized by monitoring the resistance of the insulating layer among the circuit parameters of the designed equivalent circuit modeling.

  1. Degrading and non-degrading sex in popular music: a content analysis.

    PubMed

    Primack, Brian A; Gold, Melanie A; Schwarz, Eleanor B; Dalton, Madeline A

    2008-01-01

    Those exposed to more degrading sexual references in popular music are more likely to initiate intercourse at a younger age. The purpose of this study was to perform a content analysis of contemporary popular music with particular attention paid to the prevalence of degrading and non-degrading sexual references. We also aimed to determine if sexual references of each subtype were associated with other song characteristics and/or content. We used Billboard magazine to identify the top popular songs in 2005. Two independent coders each analyzed all of these songs (n = 279) for degrading and non-degrading sexual references. As measured with Cohen's kappa scores, inter-rater agreement on degrading vs. non-degrading sex was substantial. Mentions of substance use, violence, and weapon carrying were also coded. Of the 279 songs identified, 103 (36.9%) contained references to sexual activity. Songs with references to degrading sex were more common than songs with references to non-degrading sex (67 [65.0%] vs. 36 [35.0%], p < 0.001). Songs with degrading sex were most commonly Rap (64.2%), whereas songs with non-degrading sex were most likely Country (44.5%) or Rhythm & Blues/Hip-Hop (27.8%). Compared with songs that had no mention of sexual activity, songs with degrading sex were more likely to contain references to substance use, violence, and weapon carrying. Songs with non-degrading sex were no more likely to mention these other risk behaviors. References to sexual activity are common in popular music, and degrading sexual references are more prevalent than non-degrading references. References to degrading sex also frequently appear with references to other risky behaviors.

  2. Lithostratigraphie, sédimentologie et évolution de deux bassins molassiques intramontagneux de la chaine Pan-Africaine: la Série pourprée de l'Ahnet, Nord-Ouest du Hoggar, Algérie

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ait-Kaci Ahmed, Ali; Moussine-Pouchkine, Alexis

    The study of two of the intermontane molassic basins of the 'Série pourprée de l'Ahnet' shows that they developed independently both in time and space. The characteristics of their thick sedimentary infillings are quite different. The Ouallen basin is filled by essentially fine-grained sediments which were deposited in continental then marine or lacustrine environments; these sediments thicen from east to west. The In Semmen basin is characterised by coarser sediments which were deposited from south to north, in alluvial fan, fluvial, deltaic and slope environments. This basin is also characterised by an episode of carbonate sedimentation leading to the formation of a remarkable thin layer of carbonate, covering the entire sedimentary area, and perhaps related to a volcanic rhyolitic event. The history of the two basins is also marked by obvious tectonic events simultaneous with the sedimentation and related to the recurrent faulting of major Pan-African faults. These led to the formation of very coarse fanglomerates located near the fault scarps, and are probably responsible for the shape and the evolution of the basins.

  3. Degradation process by effect of water molecules during negative bias temperature stress in amorphous-InGaZnO thin-film transistor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Yeol-Hyeong; Cho, Yong-Jung; Kim, Woo-Sic; Park, Jeong Ki; Kim, Geon Tae; Kim, Ohyun

    2017-10-01

    We explained how H2O degrades amorphous-InGaZnO thin-film transistors. H2O caused serious degradation only during negative bias temperature stress (NBTS). Degradation was caused by molecules that were absorbed or diffused from the outside. We suggest that degradation under NBTS is caused by the migration of hydrogen ions among oxygen vacancies. Under illumination, the soaking time t S did not affect the threshold voltage shift ΔV th. We consider that this independence occurred because illumination caused ionization from the oxygen vacancy VO state to VO 2+, which impeded hydrogen migration induced by electric field and thereby protected the device from degradation after exposure to water.

  4. Electrical efficiency and droop in MQW LEDs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Malyutenko, V. K.

    2014-02-01

    It is believed that low power conversion efficiency in commercial MQW LEDs occurs as a result of efficiency droop, current-induced dynamic degradation of the internal quantum efficiency, injection efficiency, and extraction efficiency. Broadly speaking, all these "quenching" mechanisms could be referred to as the optical losses. The vast advances of high-power InGaN and AlGaInP MQW LEDs have been achieved by addressing these losses. In contrast to these studies, in this paper we consider an alternative approach to make high-power LEDs more efficient. We identify current-induced electrical efficiency degradation (EED) as a strong limiting factor of power conversion efficiency. We found that EED is caused by current crowding followed by an increase in current-induced series resistance of a device. By decreasing the current spreading length, EED also causes the optical efficiency to degrade and stands for an important aspect of LED performance. This paper gives scientists the opportunity to look for different attributes of EED.

  5. Radiation-induced microcrystal shape change as a mechanism of wasteform degradation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ojovan, Michael I.; Burakov, Boris E.; Lee, William E.

    2018-04-01

    Experiments with actinide-containing insulating wasteforms such as devitrified glasses containing 244Cm, Ti-pyrochlore, single-phase La-monazite, Pu-monazite ceramics, Eu-monazite and zircon single crystals containing 238Pu indicate that mechanical self-irradiation-induced destruction may not reveal itself for many years (even decades). The mechanisms causing these slowly-occurring changes remain unknown therefore in addition to known mechanisms of wasteform degradation such as matrix swelling and loss of solid solution we have modelled the damaging effects of electrical fields induced by the decay of radionuclides in clusters embedded in a non-conducting matrix. Three effects were important: (i) electric breakdown; (ii) cluster shape change due to dipole interaction, and (iii) cluster shape change due to polarisation interaction. We reveal a critical size of radioactive clusters in non-conducting matrices so that the matrix material can be damaged if clusters are larger than this critical size. The most important parameters that control the matrix integrity are the radioactive cluster (inhomogeneity) size, specific radioactivity, and effective matrix electrical conductivity. We conclude that the wasteform should be as homogeneous as possible and even electrically conductive to avoid potential damage caused by electrical charges induced by radioactive decay.

  6. Simulation of switching overvoltages in the mine electric power supply system

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ivanchenko, D. I.; Novozhilov, N. G.

    2017-02-01

    Overvoltages occur in mine power supply systems during switching off consumers with high inductive load, such as transformers, reactors and electrical machines. Overvoltages lead to an increase of insulation degradation rate and may cause electric faults, power outage, fire and explosion of methane and coal dust. This paper is dedicated to simulation of vacuum circuit breaker switching overvoltages in a mine power supply system by means of Simulink MATLAB. The model of the vacuum circuit breaker implements simulation of transient recovery voltage, current chopping and an electric arc. Obtained results were compared to available experimental data.

  7. Visualization of TlBr ionic transport mechanism by the Accelerated Device Degradation technique

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Datta, Amlan; Becla, Piotr; Motakef, Shariar

    2015-06-01

    Thallium Bromide (TlBr) is a promising gamma radiation semiconductor detector material. However, it is an ionic semiconductor and suffers from polarization. As a result, TlBr devices degrade rapidly at room temperature. Polarization is associated with the flow of ionic current in the crystal under electrical bias, leading to the accumulation of charged ions at the device's electrical contacts. We report a fast and reliable direct characterization technique to identify the effects of various growth and post-growth process modifications on the polarization process. The Accelerated Device Degradation (ADD) characterization technique allows direct observation of nucleation and propagation of ionic transport channels within the TlBr crystals under applied bias. These channels are observed to be initiated both directly under the electrode as well as away from it. The propagation direction is always towards the anode indicating that Br- is the mobile diffusing species within the defect channels. The effective migration energy of the Br- ions was calculated to be 0.33±0.03 eV, which is consistent with other theoretical and experimental results.

  8. Intrinsic immunogenicity of rapidly-degradable polymers evolves during degradation.

    PubMed

    Andorko, James I; Hess, Krystina L; Pineault, Kevin G; Jewell, Christopher M

    2016-03-01

    Recent studies reveal many biomaterial vaccine carriers are able to activate immunostimulatory pathways, even in the absence of other immune signals. How the changing properties of polymers during biodegradation impact this intrinsic immunogenicity is not well studied, yet this information could contribute to rational design of degradable vaccine carriers that help direct immune response. We use degradable poly(beta-amino esters) (PBAEs) to explore intrinsic immunogenicity as a function of the degree of polymer degradation and polymer form (e.g., soluble, particles). PBAE particles condensed by electrostatic interaction to mimic a common vaccine approach strongly activate dendritic cells, drive antigen presentation, and enhance T cell proliferation in the presence of antigen. Polymer molecular weight strongly influences these effects, with maximum stimulation at short degradation times--corresponding to high molecular weight--and waning levels as degradation continues. In contrast, free polymer is immunologically inert. In mice, PBAE particles increase the numbers and activation state of cells in lymph nodes. Mechanistic studies reveal that this evolving immunogenicity occurs as the physicochemical properties and concentration of particles change during polymer degradation. This work confirms the immunological profile of degradable, synthetic polymers can evolve over time and creates an opportunity to leverage this feature in new vaccines. Degradable polymers are increasingly important in vaccination, but how the inherent immunogenicity of polymers changes during degradation is poorly understood. Using common rapidly-degradable vaccine carriers, we show that the activation of immune cells--even in the absence of other adjuvants--depends on polymer form (e.g., free, particulate) and the extent of degradation. These changing characteristics alter the physicochemical properties (e.g., charge, size, molecular weight) of polymer particles, driving changes in

  9. Multiscale analysis of the radiooxidative degradation of EVA/EPDM composites. ATH filler and dose rate effect

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sidi, Ahmedou; Colombani, Juliette; Larché, Jean-François; Rivaton, Agnès

    2018-01-01

    This study is focused on the radiooxidative degradation of polymeric insulation of electric cables used in Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs). In order to investigate the degradation mechanisms of the insulation, model composites with ATH (Aluminium TriHydrate) filler and blends (without filler) based on a cross-linked mixture of EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) and EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) were submitted to gamma-rays. In normal operating conditions of a NPP, the dose rate which electric cables are exposed to is around 0.1 Gy h-1. In this work, artificial accelerated ageing test process has been applied at a relatively low dose rate of 7 Gy h-1. Gamma-irradiations at higher dose rates typically used to accelerate the ageing, in the range 0.2-1 kGy h-1, were also carried out. The first part of the study is focused on irradiations performed at relatively low dose rate and is devoted to the highlighting of the radiooxidative degradation mechanisms of EVA/EPDM blend with and without ATH filler. Correlations between the evolutions of the chemical, morphological and mechanical/electrical properties of the materials occurring after the ageing process are presented. It is shown that the degradation process is governed by radical oxidation mechanism involving chain scissions leading to the formation of carboxylic acids as end-groups. One of the main effects of the ATH filler is the progressive loss of the mechanical properties of the composite upon radiooxidation whereas they are maintained in the case of the unfilled sample. Despite the oxidation of the polymer, no change in the electrical properties of the blend and of the composite could be observed. The second part of the study focuses on the dose rate effect. It is shown that one of the main consequences of an increase of the dose rate from 7 Gy h-1 to 0.2-1 kGy h-1 is a reduction of the chain scission process yield by a factor of about 20. Therefore, an important and consistent finding is that there are some

  10. Evaluating the oxidative, photothermal and electrical stability of colloidal nanocrystal solids

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Law, Matt

    2016-02-16

    IV-VI quantum dot (QD) solids are a novel class of granular electronic materials with great technological potential (e.g., in photodetectors, field-effect transistors (FETs), and solar cells), but their oxidative and thermal instability present a barrier to practical applications [1]. Poor stability is a fundamental issue facing many nanoscale materials due to high surface area and surface energy. Basic studies are needed to elucidate the most important mechanisms of degradation and develop robust countermeasures if QD materials are to become technologically important. This project determined the degradation mechanisms of IV-VI QD solids (primarily PbSe and PbS) and introduced new chemical strategiesmore » to drastically improve their performance, stability, and operating lifetimes [2-5]. Our approach was based on (1) detailed testing of QD thin film materials (principally FETs and solar cells) as a function of oxidative and thermal stress, and (2) the use of organic and inorganic approaches to link the QDs into strongly electronically coupled, high-mobility films, prevent their oxidation, and eliminate internal degrees of freedom that lead to film instability and degradation in response to electrical and thermal stress. Stability against oxidation and thermal degradation was the major focus of this project. We have evaluated the stability of QD thin films and interfaces at temperatures less than 100°C (the regime most relevant to solar and transistor applications). Low-temperature oxidation and sintering of QD films have been investigated using optical absorption spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), current-voltage scanning of transistors and solar cells, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning Kelvin probe microscopy (SKPM). SKPM was used to map the potential profiles of operating QD FETs and solar cells as a function of bias and illumination, which provides detailed information on how the work functions, potential drops and

  11. La replantation digitale, résultats et complications: étude d’une série de 18 cas

    PubMed Central

    Idrissi, Mohammed El; Elibrahimi, Abdelhalim; Shimi, Mohammed; Elmrini, Abdelmajid

    2016-01-01

    Les amputations digitales sont des lésions fréquentes, la majorité étant provoquée par des accidents de travail. Les techniques microchirurgicales représentent une alternative pour réparer ces amputations. L'objectif de ce travail est de rapporter notre expérience dans la replantation digitale à travers l'étude de 18 cas. Nous avons mené une étude rétrospective, étalée entre Juin 2013 et Janvier 2015, incluant 14 patients présentant une amputation totale ou subtotale des doigts. Nous avons inclus dans notre série toutes les replantations unidigitales et multidigitales réalisées en aval de l'insertion distale du tendon fléchisseur superficiel ainsi que les replantations digitales réalisées en amont de l'insertion distale du tendon fléchisseur superficiel. Nous avons opéré ces patients selon le procédé classique de réimplantation digitale. Cinq replantations ont été secondairement régularisées. Parmi les 18 replantations, huit replantions digitales ont favorablement évolué puisque la replantation a permis de restituer un secteur complet de mobilité passive et active du doigt opéré sans chirurgie de reprise et sans complication secondaire précoce et tardive. Dans notre étude nous avons noté des résultats satisfaisants, malgré les conditions difficiles notamment le conditionnement initial du doigt amputé, et le délai de prise en charge retardé. Le développement et la maîtrise de la microchirurgie a permis de changer le pronostic de ces amputations à retentissement fonctionnel et psychologique difficile, les résultats de notre série sont encourageants pour a mise en place d'un service SOS main au Maroc. PMID:27795781

  12. Carrier mobility degradation due to high dose implantation in ultrathin unstrained and strained silicon-on-insulator films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dupré, C.; Ernst, T.; Hartmann, J.-M.; Andrieu, F.; Barnes, J.-P.; Rivallin, P.; Faynot, O.; Deleonibus, S.; Fazzini, P. F.; Claverie, A.; Cristoloveanu, S.; Ghibaudo, G.; Cristiano, F.

    2007-11-01

    Based on electrical measurements and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging, we propose an explanation for the electron and hole mobility degradation with gate length reduction in metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs). We demonstrate that ion implantation, normally used for source/drain doping, is responsible for transport degradation for short-channel devices. Implantation impact on electrons and holes mobility was investigated both on silicon-on-insulator (SOI) and tensile strained silicon-on-insulator (sSOI) substrates. Wafers with ultrathin Si films (from 8 to 35 nm) were Ge implanted at 3 keV and various concentrations (from 5×1014 to 2×1015 atoms cm-2), then annealed at 600 °C for 1 h. Secondary ion mass spectrometry enabled us to quantify the Ge-implanted atoms concentrations. The end-of-range defects impact on mobility was investigated with the pseudo-MOSFET technique. Measurements showed a mobility decrease as the implantation dose increased. We demonstrated that sSOI mobility is more sensitive to implantation than SOI mobility, without any implantation-induced strain relaxation in sSOI (checked using the ultraviolet Raman technique). A 36% (25%) holes (electrons) mobility degradation was measured for sSOI, while SOI presented a 21% mobility degradation for holes and 5% for electrons. Finally, the electrical results were compared with morphological studies. Plan-view TEM showed the presence of interstitial defects formed during ion implantation and annealing. The defect density was estimated to be two times higher in sSOI than in SOI, which is in full agreement with electrical results mentioned before. The results are relevant for the optimization of the source and drain regions of advanced nanoscale SOI and sSOI transistors.

  13. Degradation mechanisms of 2 MeV proton irradiated AlGaN/GaN HEMTs

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Greenlee, Jordan D., E-mail: jordan.greenlee.ctr@nrl.navy.mil; Anderson, Travis J.; Koehler, Andrew D.

    2015-08-24

    Proton-induced damage in AlGaN/GaN HEMTs was investigated using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and simulated using a Monte Carlo technique. The results were correlated to electrical degradation using Hall measurements. It was determined by EDS that the interface between GaN and AlGaN in the irradiated HEMT was broadened by 2.2 nm, as estimated by the width of the Al EDS signal compared to the as-grown interface. The simulation results show a similar Al broadening effect. The extent of interfacial roughening was examined using high resolution TEM. At a 2 MeV proton fluence of 6 × 10{sup 14} H{supmore » +}/cm{sup 2}, the electrical effects associated with the Al broadening and surface roughening include a degradation of the ON-resistance and a decrease in the electron mobility and 2DEG sheet carrier density by 28.9% and 12.1%, respectively.« less

  14. Physics Based Electrolytic Capacitor Degradation Models for Prognostic Studies under Thermal Overstress

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kulkarni, Chetan S.; Celaya, Jose R.; Goebel, Kai; Biswas, Gautam

    2012-01-01

    Electrolytic capacitors are used in several applications ranging from power supplies on safety critical avionics equipment to power drivers for electro-mechanical actuators. This makes them good candidates for prognostics and health management research. Prognostics provides a way to assess remaining useful life of components or systems based on their current state of health and their anticipated future use and operational conditions. Past experiences show that capacitors tend to degrade and fail faster under high electrical and thermal stress conditions that they are often subjected to during operations. In this work, we study the effects of accelerated aging due to thermal stress on different sets of capacitors under different conditions. Our focus is on deriving first principles degradation models for thermal stress conditions. Data collected from simultaneous experiments are used to validate the desired models. Our overall goal is to derive accurate models of capacitor degradation, and use them to predict performance changes in DC-DC converters.

  15. Microbial community structure in a shallow hydrocarbon-contaminated aquifer associated with high electrical conductivity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Duris, J. W.; Rossbach, S.; Atekwana, E. A.; Werkema, D., Jr.

    2003-04-01

    Little is known about the complex interactions between microbial communities and electrical properties in contaminated aquifers. In order to investigate possible connections between these parameters a study was undertaken to investigate the hypothesis that the degradation of hydrocarbons by resident microbial communities causes a local increase in organic acid concentrations, which in turn cause an increase in native mineral weathering and a concurrent increase in the bulk electrical conductivity of soil. Microbial community structure was analyzed using a 96-well most probable number (MPN) method and rDNA intergenic spacer region analysis (RISA). Microbial community structure was found to change in the presence of hydrocarbon contaminants and these changes were consistently observed in regions of high electrical conductivity. We infer from this relationship that geophysical methods for monitoring the subsurface are a promising new technology for monitoring changes in microbial community structure and simultaneous changes in geochemistry that are associated with hydrocarbon degradation.

  16. Steam generator degradation: Current mitigation strategies for controlling corrosion

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Millett, P.

    1997-02-01

    Steam Generator degradation has caused substantial losses of power generation, resulted in large repair and maintenance costs, and contributed to significant personnel radiation exposures in Pressurized Water Reactors (PWRs) operating throughout the world. EPRI has just published the revised Steam Generator Reference Book, which reviews all of the major forms of SG degradation. This paper discusses the types of SG degradation that have been experienced with emphasis on the mitigation strategies that have been developed and implemented in the field. SG degradation is presented from a world wide perspective as all countries operating PWRs have been effected to one degreemore » or another. The paper is written from a US. perspective where the utility industry is currently undergoing tremendous change as a result of deregulation of the electricity marketplace. Competitive pressures are causing utilities to strive to reduce Operations and Maintenance (O&M) and capital costs. SG corrosion is a major contributor to the O&M costs of PWR plants, and therefore US utilities are evaluating and implementing the most cost effective solutions to their corrosion problems. Mitigation strategies developed over the past few years reflect a trend towards plant specific solutions to SG corrosion problems. Since SG degradation is in most cases an economic problem and not a safety problem, utilities can focus their mitigation strategies on their unique financial situation. Accordingly, the focus of R&D has shifted from the development of more expensive, prescriptive solutions (e.g. reduced impurity limits) to corrosion problems to providing the utilities with a number of cost effective mitigation options (e.g. molar ratio control, boric acid treatment).« less

  17. Ceramic thermal barrier coatings for electric utility gas turbine engines

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Miller, R. A.

    1986-01-01

    Research and development into thermal barrier coatings for electric utility gas turbine engines is reviewed critically. The type of coating systems developed for aircraft applications are found to be preferred for clear fuel electric utility applications. These coating systems consists of a layer of plasma sprayed zirconia-yttria ceramic over a layer of MCrAly bond coat. They are not recommended for use when molten salts are presented. Efforts to understand coating degradation in dirty environments and to develop corrosion resistant thermal barrier coatings are discussed.

  18. Critical Infrastructure Protection: EMP Impacts on the U.S. Electric Grid

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Boston, Edwin J., Jr.

    The purpose of this research is to identify the United States electric grid infrastructure systems vulnerabilities to electromagnetic pulse attacks and the cyber-based impacts of those vulnerabilities to the electric grid. Additionally, the research identifies multiple defensive strategies designed to harden the electric grid against electromagnetic pulse attack that include prevention, mitigation and recovery postures. Research results confirm the importance of the electric grid to the United States critical infrastructures system and that an electromagnetic pulse attack against the electric grid could result in electric grid degradation, critical infrastructure(s) damage and the potential for societal collapse. The conclusions of this research indicate that while an electromagnetic pulse attack against the United States electric grid could have catastrophic impacts on American society, there are currently many defensive strategies under consideration designed to prevent, mitigate and or recover from an electromagnetic pulse attack. However, additional research is essential to further identify future target hardening opportunities, efficient implementation strategies and funding resources.

  19. Human Mars Transportation Applications Using Solar Electric Propulsion

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Donahue, Benjamin B.; Martin, Jim; Potter, Seth; Henley, Mark; Carrington, Connie (Technical Monitor)

    2000-01-01

    Advanced solar electric power systems and electric propulsion technology constitute viable elements for conducting human Mars transfer missions that are roughly comparable in performance to similar missions utilizing alternative high thrust systems, with the one exception being their inability to achieve short Earth-Mars trip times. A modest solar electric propulsion human Mars scenario is presented that features the use of conjunction class trajectories in concert with pre-emplacement of surface assets that can be used in a series of visits to Mars. Major elements of the Mars solar electric transfer vehicle can be direct derivatives of present state-of-the-art Solar array and electric thruster systems. During the study, several elements affecting system performance were evaluated, including varying Earth orbit altitude for departure, recapturing the transfer stage at Earth for reuse, varying power system mass-to-power ratio, and assessing solar array degradation on performance induced by Van Allen belt passage. Comparisons are made to chemical propulsion and nuclear thermal propulsion Mars vehicles carrying similar payloads.

  20. [A modification of the Gompertz plot resulting from the age index by Ries and an approximation of the survivorship curve (author's transl)].

    PubMed

    Lohmann, W

    1978-01-01

    The shape of the survivorship curve can easily be interpreted on condition that the probability of death is proportional to an exponentially rising function of ageing. According to the formation of a sum for determining of the age index by Ries it was investigated to what extent the survivorship curve may be approximated by a sum of exponentials. It follows that the difference between the pure exponential function and a sum of exponentials by using possible values is lying within the random variation. Because the probability of death for different diseases is variable, the new statement is a better one.

  1. Glutathione Degradation.

    PubMed

    Bachhawat, Anand Kumar; Kaur, Amandeep

    2017-11-20

    Glutathione degradation has for long been thought to occur only on noncytosolic pools. This is because there has been only one enzyme known to degrade glutathione (γ-glutamyl transpeptidase) and this localizes to either the plasma membrane (mammals, bacteria) or the vacuolar membrane (yeast, plants) and acts on extracellular or vacuolar pools. The last few years have seen the discovery of several new enzymes of glutathione degradation that function in the cytosol, throwing new light on glutathione degradation. Recent Advances: The new enzymes that have been identified in the last few years that can initiate glutathione degradation include the Dug enzyme found in yeast and fungi, the ChaC1 enzyme found among higher eukaryotes, the ChaC2 enzyme found from bacteria to man, and the RipAY enzyme found in some bacteria. These enzymes play roles ranging from housekeeping functions to stress responses and are involved in processes such as embryonic neural development and pathogenesis. In addition to delineating the pathways of glutathione degradation in detail, a critical issue is to find how these new enzymes impact cellular physiology and homeostasis. Glutathione degradation plays a far greater role in cellular physiology than previously envisaged. The differential regulation and differential specificities of various enzymes, each acting on distinct pools, can lead to different consequences to the cell. It is likely that the coming years will see these downstream effects being unraveled in greater detail and will lead to a better understanding and appreciation of glutathione degradation. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 27, 1200-1216.

  2. The characterization of secondary lithium-ion battery degradation when operating complex, ultra-high power pulsed loads

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wong, Derek N.

    The US Navy is actively developing all electric fleets, raising serious questions about what is required of onboard power supplies in order to properly power the ship's electrical systems. This is especially relevant when choosing a viable power source to drive high power propulsion and electric weapon systems in addition to the conventional loads deployed aboard these types of vessels. Especially when high pulsed power loads are supplied, the issue of maintaining power quality becomes important and increasingly complex. Conventionally, a vessel's electrical power is generated using gas turbine or diesel driven motor-generator sets that are very inefficient when they are used outside of their most efficient load condition. What this means is that if the generator is not being utilized continuously at its most efficient load capacity, the quality of the output power may also be effected and fall outside of the acceptable power quality limits imposed through military standards. As a solution to this potential problem, the Navy has proposed using electrochemical storage devices since they are able to buffer conventional generators when the load is operating below the generator's most efficient power level or able to efficiently augment a generator when the load is operating in excess of the generator's most efficient power rating. Specifically, the US Navy is interested in using commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) lithium-ion batteries within an intelligently controlled energy storage module that could act as either a prime power supply for on-board pulsed power systems or as a backup generator to other shipboard power systems. Due to the unique load profile of high-rate pulsed power systems, the implementation of lithium-ion batteries within these complex systems requires them to be operated at very high rates and the effects these things have on cell degradation has been an area of focus. There is very little published research into the effects that high power transient

  3. Differential thermal voltammetry for tracking of degradation in lithium-ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Billy; Yufit, Vladimir; Merla, Yu; Martinez-Botas, Ricardo F.; Brandon, Nigel P.; Offer, Gregory J.

    2015-01-01

    Monitoring of lithium-ion batteries is of critical importance in electric vehicle applications in order to manage the operational condition of the cells. Measurements on a vehicle often involve current, voltage and temperature which enable in-situ diagnostic techniques. This paper presents a novel diagnostic technique, termed differential thermal voltammetry, which is capable of monitoring the state of the battery using voltage and temperature measurements in galvanostatic operating modes. This tracks battery degradation through phase transitions, and the resulting entropic heat, occurring in the electrodes. Experiments to monitor battery degradation using the new technique are compared with a pseudo-2D cell model. Results show that the differential thermal voltammetry technique provides information comparable to that of slow rate cyclic voltammetry at shorter timescale and with load conditions easier to replicate in a vehicle.

  4. Durability and reliability of electric vehicle batteries under electric utility grid operations: Bidirectional charging impact analysis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dubarry, Matthieu; Devie, Arnaud; McKenzie, Katherine

    2017-08-01

    Vehicle-to-grid and Grid-to-vehicle strategies are often cited as promising to mitigate the intermittency of renewable energy on electric power grids. However, their impact on the vehicle battery degradation has not been investigated in detail. The aim of this work is to understand the impact of bidirectional charging on commercial Li-ion cells used in electric vehicles today. Results show that additional cycling to discharge vehicle batteries to the power grid, even at constant power, is detrimental to cell performance. This additional use of the battery packs could shorten the lifetime for vehicle use to less than five years. By contrast, the impact of delaying the charge in order to reduce the impact on the power grid is found to be negligible at room temperature, but could be significant in warmer climates.

  5. Degradation effects on charge carrier transport in P3HT:PCBM solar cells studied by Photo-CELIV and ToF

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stephen, M.; Karuthedath, S.; Sauermann, T.; Genevičius, K.; Juška, G.

    2014-10-01

    Oxygen induced degradation is one of the major problems in the field of organic photovoltaics. Photo-degradation impacts on performance of inverted bulk hetero junction poly(3-hexylthiophene) : phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (P3HT:PCBM) solar cells has been investigated by means of charge extraction by linearly increasing voltage (CELIV) and time of flight (ToF) methods. The irreversible loss in short circuit current (Jsc) can be attributed to a combination of adverse effects such as loss in mobility of the charge carrires, increase in trapping effect and sheilding of electric field by equilibrium carriers upon degradation.

  6. Electricity generation from palm oil tree empty fruit bunch (EFB) using dual chamber microbial fuel cell (MFC)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ghazali, N. F.; Mahmood, N. A. B. N.; Ibrahim, K. A.; Muhammad, S. A. F. S.; Amalina, N. S.

    2017-06-01

    Microbial fuel cell (MFC) has been discovered and utilized in laboratory scale for electricity production based on microbial degradation of organic compound. However, various source of fuel has been tested and recently complex biomass such as lignocellulose biomass has been focused on. In the present research, oil palm tree empty fruit bunch (EFB) has been tested for power production using dual chamber MFC and power generation analysis has been conducted to address the performance of MFC. In addition, two microorganisms (electric harvesting microbe and cellulose degrading microbe) were used in the MFC operation. The analysis include voltage produced, calculated current and power. The first section in your paper

  7. Targeted polypeptide degradation

    DOEpatents

    Church, George M [Brookline, MA; Janse, Daniel M [Brookline, MA

    2008-05-13

    This invention pertains to compositions, methods, cells and organisms useful for selectively localizing polypeptides to the proteasome for degradation. Therapeutic methods and pharmaceutical compositions for treating disorders associated with the expression and/or activity of a polypeptide by targeting these polypeptides for degradation, as well as methods for targeting therapeutic polypeptides for degradation and/or activating therapeutic polypeptides by degradation are provided. The invention provides methods for identifying compounds that mediate proteasome localization and/or polypeptide degradation. The invention also provides research tools for the study of protein function.

  8. Degradation and induction specificity in actinomycetes that degrade p-nitrophenol.

    PubMed Central

    Hanne, L F; Kirk, L L; Appel, S M; Narayan, A D; Bains, K K

    1993-01-01

    We have isolated two soil bacteria (identified as Arthrobacter aurescens TW17 and Nocardia sp. strain TW2) capable of degrading p-nitrophenol (PNP) and numerous other phenolic compounds. A. aurescens TW17 contains a large plasmid which correlated with the PNP degradation phenotype. Degradation of PNP by A. aurescens TW17 was induced by preexposure to PNP, 4-nitrocatechol, 3-methyl-4-nitrophenol, or m-nitrophenol, whereas PNP degradation by Nocardia sp. strain TW2 was induced by PNP, 4-nitrocatechol, phenol, p-cresol, or m-nitrophenol. A. aurescens TW17 initially degraded PNP to hydroquinone and nitrite. Nocardia sp. strain TW2 initially converted PNP to hydroquinone or 4-nitrocatechol, depending upon the inducing compound. PMID:8250573

  9. Simultaneous degradation of toxic refractory organic pesticide and bioelectricity generation using a soil microbial fuel cell.

    PubMed

    Cao, Xian; Song, Hai-Liang; Yu, Chun-Yan; Li, Xian-Ning

    2015-01-01

    In this study, the soil microbial fuel cells (MFCs) were constructed in the topsoil contaminated with toxic refractory organic pesticide, hexachlorobenzene (HCB). The performance of electricity generation and HCB degradation in the soil-MFCs were investigated. The HCB degradation pathway was analyzed based on the determination of degradation products and intermediates. Experimental results showed that the HCB removal efficiencies in the three groups (soil MFCs group, open circuit control group and no adding anaerobic sludge blank group) were 71.15%, 52.49% and 38.92%, respectively. The highest detected power density was 77.5 mW/m(2) at the external resistance of 1000 Ω. HCB was degraded via the reductive dechlorination pathway in the soil MFC under anaerobic condition. The existence of the anode promoted electrogenic bacteria to provide more electrons to increase the metabolic reactions rates of anaerobic bacteria was the main way which could promote the removal efficiencies of HCB in soil MFC. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. Statistical analysis for understanding and predicting battery degradations in real-life electric vehicle use

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barré, Anthony; Suard, Frédéric; Gérard, Mathias; Montaru, Maxime; Riu, Delphine

    2014-01-01

    This paper describes the statistical analysis of recorded data parameters of electrical battery ageing during electric vehicle use. These data permit traditional battery ageing investigation based on the evolution of the capacity fade and resistance raise. The measured variables are examined in order to explain the correlation between battery ageing and operating conditions during experiments. Such study enables us to identify the main ageing factors. Then, detailed statistical dependency explorations present the responsible factors on battery ageing phenomena. Predictive battery ageing models are built from this approach. Thereby results demonstrate and quantify a relationship between variables and battery ageing global observations, and also allow accurate battery ageing diagnosis through predictive models.

  11. Research of Isolation and Degradation Conditions of Petroleum Degrading Marine

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fangrui, Guo

    2017-01-01

    A novel petroleum-degrading microbial strain was isolated from sediment samples in estuary of Bohai Sea estuary beaches. The strain was primarily identified as Alcanivorax sp. and named Alcanivorax sp. H34. Effect of PH values, temperature, nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations on degradation of H34 were investigated. The paraffinic components average degradation rate of H34 ungrowth cells under optimized conditions was studied. The results showed that the optimal growth conditions of H34 are were temperature of 30°C, initial PH of 7.0, nitrogen concentration of 3g/L, phosphorus concentration of 3g/L, and paraffinic components average degradation rates of H34 ungrowth cells was 41.6%, while total degradation rate was 45.5%.

  12. Easily degradable carbon - an indicator of microbial hotspots and soil degradation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wolińska, Agnieszka; Banach, Artur; Szafranek-Nakonieczna, Anna; Stępniewska, Zofia; Błaszczyk, Mieczysław

    2018-01-01

    The effect of arable soil was quantified against non-cultivated soil on easily degradable carbon and other selected microbiological factors, i.e. soil microbial biomass, respiration activity, and dehydrogenase activity. The intent was to ascertain whether easily degradable carbo can be useful as a sensitive indicator of both soil biological degradation and microbial hot-spots indication. As a result, it was found that soil respiration activity was significantly higher (p <0.0001) in all controls, ranging between 30-60 vs. 11.5-23.7 μmol CO2 kg d.m.-1 h-1 for the arable soils. Dehydrogenase activity was significantly lower in the arable soil (down to 35-40% of the control values, p <0.001) varying depending on the soil type. The microbial biomass was also significantly higher at the non-cultivated soil (512-2807 vs. 416-1429 µg g-1 d.m., p <0.001), while easily degradable carbon ranged between 620-1209 mg kg-1 non-cultivated soil and 497-877 mg kg-1 arable soil (p <0.0001). It was demonstrated that agricultural practices affected soil properties by significantly reducing the levels of the studied parameters in relation to the control soils. The significant correlations of easily degradable carbon-respiration activity (ρ = 0.77*), easily degradable carbon-dehydrogenase activity (ρ = 0.42*), and easily degradable carbon-microbial biomass (ρ = 0.53*) reveal that easily degradable carbon is a novel, suitable factor indicative of soil biological degradation. It, therefore, could be used for evaluating the degree of soil degradation and for choosing a proper management procedure.

  13. Analysis of the LSC microbunching instability in MaRIE linac reference design

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Yampolsky, Nikolai

    In this report we estimate the effect of the microbunching instability in the MaRIE XFEL linac. The reference design for the linac is described in a separate report. The parameters of the L1, L2, and L3 linacs as well as BC1 and BC2 bunch compressors were the same as in the referenced report. The beam dynamics was assumed to be linear along the accelerator (which is a reasonable assumption for estimating the effect of the microbunching instability). The parameters of the bunch also match the parameters described in the referenced report. Additionally, it was assumed that the beam radius ismore » equal to R = 100 m and does not change along linac. This assumption needs to be revisited at later studies. The beam dynamics during acceleration was accounted in the matrix formalism using a Matlab code. The input parameters for the linacs are: RF peak gradient, RF frequency, RF phase, linac length, and initial beam energy. The energy gain and the imposed chirp are calculated based on the RF parameters self-consistently. The bunch compressors are accounted in the matrix formalism as well. Each chicane is characterized by the beam energy and the R56 matrix element. It was confirmed that the linac and beam parameters described previously provide two-stage bunch compression with compression ratios of 10 and 20 resulting in the bunch of 3kA peak current.« less

  14. Effect of Rapid Thermal Processing on Light-Induced Degradation of Carrier Lifetime in Czochralski p-Type Silicon Bare Wafers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kouhlane, Y.; Bouhafs, D.; Khelifati, N.; Belhousse, S.; Menari, H.; Guenda, A.; Khelfane, A.

    2016-11-01

    The electrical properties of Czochralski silicon (Cz-Si) p-type boron-doped bare wafers have been investigated after rapid thermal processing (RTP) with different peak temperatures. Treated wafers were exposed to light for various illumination times, and the effective carrier lifetime ( τ eff) measured using the quasi-steady-state photoconductance (QSSPC) technique. τ eff values dropped after prolonged illumination exposure due to light-induced degradation (LID) related to electrical activation of boron-oxygen (BO) complexes, except in the sample treated with peak temperature of 785°C, for which the τ eff degradation was less pronounced. Also, a reduction was observed when using the 830°C peak temperature, an effect that was enhanced by alteration of the wafer morphology (roughness). Furthermore, the electrical resistivity presented good stability under light exposure as a function of temperature compared with reference wafers. Additionally, the optical absorption edge shifted to higher wavelength, leading to increased free-carrier absorption by treated wafers. Moreover, a theoretical model is used to understand the lifetime degradation and regeneration behavior as a function of illumination time. We conclude that RTP plays an important role in carrier lifetime regeneration for Cz-Si wafers via modification of optoelectronic and structural properties. The balance between an optimized RTP cycle and the rest of the solar cell elaboration process can overcome the negative effect of LID and contribute to achievement of higher solar cell efficiency and module performance.

  15. Dependence of electrical and time stress in organic field effect transistor with low temperature forming gas treated Al2O3 gate dielectrics.

    PubMed

    Lee, Sunwoo; Chung, Keum Jee; Park, In-Sung; Ahn, Jinho

    2009-12-01

    We report the characteristics of the organic field effect transistor (OFET) after electrical and time stress. Aluminum oxide (Al2O3) was used as a gate dielectric layer. The surface of the gate oxide layer was treated with hydrogen (H2) and nitrogen (N2) mixed gas to minimize the dangling bond at the interface layer of gate oxide. According to the two stress parameters of electrical and time stress, threshold voltage shift was observed. In particular, the mobility and subthreshold swing of OFET were significantly decreased due to hole carrier localization and degradation of the channel layer between gate oxide and pentacene by electrical stress. Electrical stress is a more critical factor in the degradation of mobility than time stress caused by H2O and O2 in the air.

  16. Conductive iron oxide minerals accelerate syntrophic cooperation in methanogenic benzoate degradation.

    PubMed

    Zhuang, Li; Tang, Jia; Wang, Yueqiang; Hu, Min; Zhou, Shungui

    2015-08-15

    Recent studies have suggested that conductive iron oxide minerals can facilitate syntrophic metabolism of the methanogenic degradation of organic matter, such as ethanol, propionate and butyrate, in natural and engineered microbial ecosystems. This enhanced syntrophy involves direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) powered by microorganisms exchanging metabolic electrons through electrically conductive minerals. Here, we evaluated the possibility that conductive iron oxides (hematite and magnetite) can stimulate the methanogenic degradation of benzoate, which is a common intermediate in the anaerobic metabolism of aromatic compounds. The results showed that 89-94% of the electrons released from benzoate oxidation were recovered in CH4 production, and acetate was identified as the only carbon-bearing intermediate during benzoate degradation. Compared with the iron-free controls, the rates of methanogenic benzoate degradation were enhanced by 25% and 53% in the presence of hematite and magnetite, respectively. This stimulatory effect probably resulted from DIET-mediated methanogenesis in which electrons transfer between syntrophic partners via conductive iron minerals. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that Bacillaceae, Peptococcaceae, and Methanobacterium are potentially involved in the functioning of syntrophic DIET. Considering the ubiquitous presence of iron minerals within soils and sediments, the findings of this study will increase the current understanding of the natural biological attenuation of aromatic hydrocarbons in anaerobic environments. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Experimental design approach to the optimization of ultrasonic degradation of alachlor and enhancement of treated water biodegradability.

    PubMed

    Torres, Ricardo A; Mosteo, Rosa; Pétrier, Christian; Pulgarin, Cesar

    2009-03-01

    This work presents the application of experimental design for the ultrasonic degradation of alachlor which is pesticide classified as priority substance by the European Commission within the scope of the Water Framework Directive. The effect of electrical power (20-80W), pH (3-10) and substrate concentration (10-50mgL(-1)) was evaluated. For a confidential level of 90%, pH showed a low effect on the initial degradation rate of alachlor; whereas electrical power, pollutant concentration and the interaction of these two parameters were significant. A reduced model taking into account the significant variables and interactions between variables has shown a good correlation with the experimental results. Additional experiments conducted in natural and deionised water indicated that the alachlor degradation by ultrasound is practically unaffected by the presence of potential *OH radical scavengers: bicarbonate, sulphate, chloride and oxalic acid. In both cases, alachlor was readily eliminated ( approximately 75min). However, after 4h of treatment only 20% of the initial TOC was removed, showing that alachlor by-products are recalcitrant to the ultrasonic action. Biodegradability test (BOD5/COD) carried out during the course of the treatment indicated that the ultrasonic system noticeably increases the biodegradability of the initial solution.

  18. Compendium of photovoltaic degradation rates: Photovoltaic degradation rates

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Jordan, Dirk C.; Kurtz, Sarah R.; VanSant, Kaitlyn

    Published data on photovoltaic (PV) degradation measurements were aggregated and re-examined. The subject has seen an increased interest in recent years resulting in more than 11 000 degradation rates in almost 200 studies from 40 different countries. As studies have grown in number and size, we found an impact from sampling bias attributable to size and accuracy. Because of the correlational nature of this study we examined the data in several ways to minimize this bias. We found median degradation for x-Si technologies in the 0.5-0.6%/year range with the mean in the 0.8-0.9%/year range. Hetero-interface technology (HIT) and microcrystalline siliconmore » (..mu..c-Si) technologies, although not as plentiful, exhibit degradation around 1%/year and resemble thin-film products more closely than x-Si. Several studies showing low degradation for copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) have emerged. Higher degradation for cadmium telluride (CdTe) has been reported, but these findings could reflect a convolution of less accurate studies and longer stabilization periods for some products. Significant deviations for beginning-of-life measurements with respect to nameplate rating have been documented over the last 35 years. Therefore, degradation rates that use nameplate rating as reference may be significantly impacted. Studies that used nameplate rating as reference but used solar simulators showed less variation than similar studies using outdoor measurements, even when accounting for different climates. This could be associated with confounding effects of measurement uncertainty and soiling that take place outdoors. Hotter climates and mounting configurations that lead to sustained higher temperatures may lead to higher degradation in some, but not all, products. Wear-out non-linearities for the worst performing modules have been documented in a few select studies that took multiple measurements of an ensemble of modules during the lifetime of the system. However, the

  19. Degradation of ibuprofen by hydrodynamic cavitation: Reaction pathways and effect of operational parameters.

    PubMed

    Musmarra, Dino; Prisciandaro, Marina; Capocelli, Mauro; Karatza, Despina; Iovino, Pasquale; Canzano, Silvana; Lancia, Amedeo

    2016-03-01

    Ibuprofen (IBP) is an anti-inflammatory drug whose residues can be found worldwide in natural water bodies resulting in harmful effects to aquatic species even at low concentrations. This paper deals with the degradation of IBP in water by hydrodynamic cavitation in a convergent-divergent nozzle. Over 60% of ibuprofen was degraded in 60 min with an electrical energy per order (EEO) of 10.77 kWh m(-3) at an initial concentration of 200 μg L(-1) and a relative inlet pressure pin=0.35 MPa. Five intermediates generated from different hydroxylation reactions were identified; the potential mechanisms of degradation were sketched and discussed. The reaction pathways recognized are in line with the relevant literature, both experimental and theoretical. By varying the pressure upstream the constriction, different degradation rates were observed. This effect was discussed according to a numerical simulation of the hydroxyl radical production identifying a clear correspondence between the maximum kinetic constant kOH and the maximum calculated OH production. Furthermore, in the investigated experimental conditions, the pH parameter was found not to affect the extent of degradation; this peculiar feature agrees with a recently published kinetic insight and has been explained in the light of the intermediates of the different reaction pathways. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. High-power piezoelectric acoustic-electric power feedthru for metal walls

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bao, Xiaoqi; Biederman, Will; Sherrit, Stewart; Badescu, Mircea; Bar-Cohen, Yoseph; Jones, Christopher; Aldrich, Jack; Chang, Zensheu

    2008-03-01

    Piezoelectric acoustic-electric power feed-through devices transfer electric power wirelessly through a solid wall using elastic waves. This approach allows for the elimination of the need for holes through structures for cabling or electrical feed-thrus . The technology supplies power to electric equipment inside sealed containers, vacuum or pressure vessels, etc where holes in the wall are prohibitive or may result in significant performance degradation or requires complex designs. In the our previous work, 100-W of electric power was transferred through a metal wall by a small, piezoelectric device with a simple-structure. To meet requirements of higher power applications, the feasibility to transfer kilowatts level power was investigated. Pre-stressed longitudinal piezoelectric feed-thru devices were analyzed by finite element modeling. An equivalent circuit model was developed to predict the characteristics of power transfer to different electric loads. Based on the analytical results, a prototype device was designed, fabricated and successfully demonstrated to transfer electric power at a level of 1-kW. Methods of minimizing plate wave excitation on the wall were also analyzed. Both model analysis and experimental results are presented in detail in this paper.

  1. Hydroxyapatite degradation and biocompatibility

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Haibo

    Hydroxyapatite (HA) is widely used as a bioactive ceramics since it forms a chemical bonding to bone. The disadvantage of this material is its poor mechanical properties. HA can be degraded in body, which is the reason for its bioactivity, but too fast degradation rate could cause negative effects, such as macrophage present, particle generation, and even implant clinical failure. HA degradation rate will be greatly changed under many conditions: purity, HA form (i.e. bulk form, porous form, coating, or HA/polymer composites), microstructure, implant site, body conditions, etc. Although much work has been done in HA properties and application areas, the HA degradation behavior and mechanism under these different conditions are still not clear. In this research, three aspects of HA degradation have been studied: (1) Two very common impurities---Tri-Calcium Phosphate (TCP) and Calcium Oxide and their influences on HA degradation in vitro and in vivo, (2) influence of HA/polymer composite form on HA degradation, (3) HA material particle generation and related mechanism. From the in vitro and in vivo tests on bulk HA disks with various Ca/P ratios, HA degradation can clearly be found. The degradation level is different in different Ca/P ratio samples as well as in different test environments. In same test environment, non-stoichiometric HA samples have higher degradation rate than stoichiometric HA. HA/PMMA composite design successfully intensifies HA degradation both in vitro and in vivo. Grain boundary damage can be found on in vivo test samples, which has not been clearly seen on bulk HA degraded surface. HA particle generation is found in in vitro and in vivo HA/PMMA composite surface and in vivo bulk HA surface. Sintering temperature and time does affect HA grain size, and this affect HA degradation rate. Intergranular fracture is found in a several micron zone close to the Ca/P ratio 1.62 and 1.67 sample degraded surfaces. At Ca/P ratio greater than 1.667, after

  2. Investigation and Mitigation of Degradation in Hydrogen Fuel Cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mandal, Pratiti

    The ever increasing demand of petroleum in the transport sector has led to depletion of low cost/low risk reserves, increased level of pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions that take a heavy toll on the environment as well as the national economy. There is an urgent need to utilize alternative energy resources along with an efficient and affordable energy conversion system to arrest environmental degradation. Polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) show great promise in this regard, they use hydrogen gas as a fuel that electrochemically reacts with air to produce electrical energy and water as the by product. In a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), these zero tail pipe emission systems offer high efficiency and power density for medium-heavy duty and long range transportation. However, PEFC technology is currently challenged by its limited durability when subjected to harsh and adverse operating conditions and transients that arises during the normal course of vehicle operation. The hydrogen-based fuel cell power train for electric vehicles must achieve high durability while maintaining high power efficiency and fuel economy in order to equal the range and lifetime of an internal-combustion engine vehicle. The technology also needs to meet the cost targets to make FCEVs a commercial success. In this dissertation, one of the degradation phenomena that severely impede the durability of the system has been investigated. In scenarios where the cell becomes locally starved of hydrogen fuel, "cell reversal" occurs, which causes the cell to consume itself through carbon corrosion and eventually fail. Carbon corrosion in the anode disrupts the original structure of the electrode and can cause undesirable outcomes like catalyst particle migration, aggregation, loss of structural and chemical integrity. Through a comprehensive study using advanced electrochemical diagnostics and high resolution 3D imaging, a new understanding to extend PEFC life time and robustness by

  3. Photoelectrochemical Degradation of Organic Compounds Coupled with Molecular Hydrogen Generation Using Electrochromic TiO2 Nanotube Arrays.

    PubMed

    Koo, Min Seok; Cho, Kangwoo; Yoon, Jeyong; Choi, Wonyong

    2017-06-06

    Vertically aligned TiO 2 nanotube arrays (TNTs) were prepared by electrochemical anodization, and then cathodically polarized with dark blue coloration for the dual-functional photoelectrochemical water treatment of organic substrates degradation and accompanying H 2 generation. The resulting Blue-TNTs (inner diameter: ∼40 nm; length: ∼9 μm) showed negligible shift in X-ray diffraction pattern compared with the intact TNTs, but the X-ray photoelectron spectra indicated a partial reduction of Ti 4+ to Ti 3+ on the surface. The electrochemical analyses of Blue-TNTs revealed a marked enhancement in donor density and electrical conductivity by orders of magnitude. Degradations of test organic substrates on Blue-TNTs were compared with the intact TNTs in electrochemical (EC), photocatalytic (PC), and photoelectrochemical (PEC) conditions (potential bias: 1.64 V NHE ; λ > 320 nm). The degradation of 4-chlorophenol was greatly enhanced on Blue-TNTs particularly in PEC condition, whereas the PC activities of the Blue- and intact TNTs were similar. The potential bias of 1.64 V NHE did not induce any noticeable activity in EC condition. Similar trends were observed for the degradation of humic acid and fulvic acid, where main working oxidants were found to be the surface hydroxyl radical as confirmed by hydroxyl radical probe and scavenger tests. H 2 generation coupled with the organic degradation was observed only in PEC condition, where the H 2 generation rate with Blue-TNTs was more than doubled from that of intact TNTs. Such superior PEC activity was not observed when a common TiO 2 nanoparticle film was used as a photoanode. The enhanced electric conductivity of Blue-TNTs coupled with a proper band bending in PEC configuration seemed to induce a highly synergic enhancement.

  4. Kinetics of Materials at Extreme Conditions: Understanding the Time Dependent Approach to Equilibrium at MaRIE

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kraus, R. G.; Mcnabb, D.; Kumar, M.

    The National Nuclear Security Agency has recently recognized that a long-term need exists to establish a stronger scientific basis for the assessment and qualification of materials and manufacturing processes for the nuclear stockpile and other national security applications. These materials may have undergone substantial changes with age, or may represent new materials that are being introduced because of difficulties associated with reusing or recreating materials used in original stockpile components. Also, with advancements in manufacturing methods, the NNSA anticipates opportunities for an enhanced range of control over fabricated components, an enhanced pace of materials development, and enhanced functionality. The developmentmore » of qualification standards for these new materials will require the ability to understand and control material characteristics that affect both mechanical and dynamic performance. A unique aspect for NNSA is that the performance requirements for materials are often set by system hydrodynamics, and these materials must perform in extreme environments and loading conditions. Thus, the scientific motivation is to understand “Matter-Radiation Interactions in Extremes (MaRIE).”« less

  5. A thermo-degradable hydrogel with light-tunable degradation and drug release.

    PubMed

    Hu, Jingjing; Chen, Yihua; Li, Yunqi; Zhou, Zhengjie; Cheng, Yiyun

    2017-01-01

    The development of thermo-degradable hydrogels is of great importance in drug delivery. However, it still remains a huge challenge to prepare thermo-degradable hydrogels with inherent degradation, reproducible, repeated and tunable dosing. Here, we reported a thermo-degradable hydrogel that is rapidly degraded above 44 °C by a facile chemistry. Besides thermo-degradability, the hydrogel also undergoes rapid photolysis with ultraviolet light. By embedding photothermal nanoparticles or upconversion nanoparticles into the gel, it can release the entrapped cargoes such as dyes, enzymes and anticancer drugs in an on-demand and dose-tunable fashion upon near-infrared light exposure. The smart hydrogel works well both in vitro and in vivo without involving sophisticated syntheses, and is well suited for clinical cancer therapy due to the high transparency and non-invasiveness features of near-infrared light. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Optimizing the electrical excitation of an atmospheric pressure plasma advanced oxidation process.

    PubMed

    Olszewski, P; Li, J F; Liu, D X; Walsh, J L

    2014-08-30

    The impact of pulse-modulated generation of atmospheric pressure plasma on the efficiency of organic dye degradation has been investigated. Aqueous samples of methyl orange were exposed to low temperature air plasma and the degradation efficiency was determined by absorbance spectroscopy. The plasma was driven at a constant frequency of 35kHz with a duty cycle of 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. Relative concentrations of dissolved nitrogen oxides, pH, conductivity and the time evolution of gas phase ozone were measured to identify key parameters responsible for the changes observed in degradation efficiency. The results indicate that pulse modulation significantly improved dye degradation efficiency, with a plasma pulsed at 25% duty showing a two-fold enhancement. Additionally, pulse modulation led to a reduction in the amount of nitrate contamination added to the solution by the plasma. The results clearly demonstrate that optimization of the electrical excitation of the plasma can enhance both degradation efficiency and the final water quality. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. MICROBIAL COMMUNITY STRUCTURE IN A SHALLOW HYDROCARBON-CONTAMINATED AQUIFER ASSOCIATED WITH HIGH ELECTRICAL CONDUCTIVITY

    EPA Science Inventory

    Little is known about the complex interactions between microbial communities and electrical properties in contaminated aquifers. In order to investigate possible connections between these parameters a study was undertaken to investigate the hypothesis that the degradation of hydr...

  8. Experimental analysis of performance degradation of micro-tubular solid oxide fuel cells fed by different fuel mixtures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Calise, F.; Restucccia, G.; Sammes, N.

    This paper analyzes the thermodynamic and electrochemical dynamic performance of an anode supported micro-tubular solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) fed by different types of fuel. The micro-tubular SOFC used is anode supported, consisting of a NiO and Gd 0.2Ce 0.8O 2- x (GDC) cermet anode, thin GDC electrolyte, and a La 0.6Sr 0.4Co 0.2Fe 0.8O 3- y (LSCF) and GDC cermet cathode. The fabrication of the cells under investigation is briefly summarized, with emphasis on the innovations with respect to traditional techniques. Such micro-tubular cells were tested using a Test Stand consisting of: a vertical tubular furnace, an electrical load, a galvanostast, a bubbler, gas pipelines, temperature, pressure and flow meters. The tests on the micro-SOFC were performed using H 2, CO, CH 4 and H 2O in different combinations at 550 °C, to determine the cell polarization curves under several load cycles. Long-term experimental tests were also performed in order to assess degradation of the electrochemical performance of the cell. Results of the tests were analyzed aiming at determining the sources of the cell performance degradation. Authors concluded that the cell under investigation is particularly sensitive to the carbon deposition which significantly reduces cell performance, after few cycles, when fed by light hydrocarbons. A significant performance degradation is also detected when hydrogen is used as fuel. In this case, the authors ascribe the degradation to the micro-cracks, the change in materials crystalline structure and problems with electrical connections.

  9. Impact of fluorine based reactive chemistry on structure and properties of high moment magnetic material

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Yang, Xiaoyu, E-mail: xiaoyu.yang@wdc.com; Chen, Lifan; Han, Hongmei

    The impact of the fluorine-based reactive ion etch (RIE) process on the structural, electrical, and magnetic properties of NiFe and CoNiFe-plated materials was investigated. Several techniques, including X-ray fluorescence, 4-point-probe, BH looper, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), were utilized to characterize both bulk film properties such as thickness, average composition, Rs, ρ, Bs, Ms, and surface magnetic “dead” layers' properties such as thickness and element concentration. Experimental data showed that the majority of Rs and Bs changes of these bulk films were due to thickness reduction during exposure to the RIE process. ρ and Msmore » change after taking thickness reduction into account were negligible. The composition of the bulk films, which were not sensitive to surface magnetic dead layers with nano-meter scale, showed minimum change as well. It was found by TEM and EELS analysis that although both before and after RIE there were magnetic dead layers on the top surface of these materials, the thickness and element concentration of the layers were quite different. Prior to RIE, dead layer was actually native oxidation layers (about 2 nm thick), while after RIE dead layer consisted of two sub-layers that were about 6 nm thick in total. Sub-layer on the top was native oxidation layer, while the bottom layer was RIE “damaged” layer with very high fluorine concentration. Two in-situ RIE approaches were also proposed and tested to remove such damaged sub-layers.« less

  10. Degradation of degradable starch-polyethylene plastics in a compost environment.

    PubMed

    Johnson, K E; Pometto, A L; Nikolov, Z L

    1993-04-01

    The degradation performance of 11 types of commercially produced degradable starch-polyethylene plastic compost bags was evaluated in municipal yard waste compost sites at Iowa State University (Ames) and in Carroll, Dubuque, and Grinnell, Iowa. Masterbatches for plastic production were provided by Archer Daniels Midland Co. (Decatur, Ill.), St. Lawrence Starch Co. Ltd. (Mississauga, Ontario, Canada), and Fully Compounded Plastics (Decatur, Ill.). Bags differed in starch content (5 to 9%) and prooxidant additives (transition metals and a type of unsaturated vegetable oil). Chemical and photodegradation properties of each material were evaluated. Materials from St. Lawrence Starch Co. Ltd. and Fully Compounded Plastics photodegraded faster than did materials from Archer Daniels Midland Co., whereas all materials containing transition metals demonstrated rapid thermal oxidative degradation in 70 degrees C-oven (dry) and high-temperature, high-humidity (steam chamber) treatments. Each compost site was seeded with test strips (200 to 800 of each type) taped together, which were recovered periodically over an 8- to 12-month period. At each sampling date, the compost row temperature was measured (65 to 95 degrees C), the location of the recovered test strip was recorded (interior or exterior), and at least four strips were recovered for evaluation. Degradation was followed by measuring the change in polyethylene molecular weight distribution via high-temperature gel permeation chromatography. Our initial 8-month study indicated that materials recovered from the interior of the compost row demonstrated very little degradation, whereas materials recovered from the exterior degraded well. In the second-year study, however, degradation was observed in several plastic materials recovered from the interior of the compost row by month 5 at the Carroll site and almost every material by month 12 at the Grinnell site. The plastic bags collected from each community followed a

  11. [Degradation of Organic Sunscreens 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone by UV/ H2O2 Process: Kinetics and Factors].

    PubMed

    Feng, Xin-xin; Du, Er-deng; Guo, Ying-qing; Li, Hua-jie; Liu, Xiang; Zhou, Fang

    2015-06-01

    Organic sunscreens continue to enter the environment through people's daily consumption, and become a kind of emerging contaminants. The photochemical degradation of benzophenone-3 (BP-3) in water by UV/H2O2 process was investigated. Several factors, including the initial BP-3 concentration, H2O2 concentration, UV light intensity, coexisting cations and anions, humic acid and tert-butyl alcohol, were also discussed. The results showed that BP-3 degradation rate constant decreased with increasing initial BP-3 concentration, while increased with increasing H2O2 dosage and UV intensity. Coexisting anions could reduce the degradation rate, while coexisting ferric ions could stimulate the production of OH through Fenton-like reaction, further significantly accelerated BP-3 degradation process. The BP-3 degradation would be inhibited by humic acid or tert-butyl alcohol. The electrical energy per order (E(Eo)) values were also calculated to evaluate the cost of BP-3 degradation by UV/H2O2 process. The addition of ferric ions significantly reduced the value of E(Eo). The investigation of processing parameter could provide a reference for the practical engineering applications of benzophenone compounds removal by UV/H2O2 process.

  12. Degradation of small-molecule organic solar cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Song, Q. L.; Wang, M. L.; Obbard, E. G.; Sun, X. Y.; Ding, X. M.; Hou, X. Y.; Li, C. M.

    2006-12-01

    Small-molecule organic solar cells with a structure of indium tin oxide (ITO)tris-8-hydroxy-quinolinato aluminum (Alq3) (2nm)fullerene (C60) (40nm)\\copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) (32nm)Au (40nm) were fabricated. The shelf lifetime of unencapsulated devices was over 1500h, and the power conversion efficiency reached 0.76% under AM1.5G (air mass 1.5 global) 75mW/cm2. The long lifetime was attributed to the inverted structure compared to the conventional ITO CuPcC60bufferAl structure since the former could effectively protect C60 from the diffusion of oxygen and modify interfacial electrical properties. The introduction of a 2nm Alq3 layer into the cells enhanced the power conversion efficiency by more than 20 times. The presence of the thin Alq3 film on the ITO substrate lowered the substrate work function and hence increased the electric field in the organic layers, which was beneficial to the collection of free carriers. The reasons for the degradation of such kind of organic solar cells are analyzed in detail.

  13. Hot-carrier-induced current capability degradation and optimization for lateral IGBT on thick SOI substrate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Chunwei; Li, Yang; Yue, Wenjing; Fu, Xiaoqian; Li, Zhiming

    2018-07-01

    In this paper, the hot-carrier-induced current capability degradation of a 600 V lateral insulated gate bipolar transistor (LIGBT) on thick silicon on insulator (SOI) substrate is investigated. Our experiments found that, for the SOI-LIGBT, the worst stress condition is the maximum gate voltage (Vgmax) condition and the current degradation is dominated by the damages in the channel region under the Vgmax stress condition. However, further analyses show that the influence of channel region damages on the collector current degradation increases with the increase of measured collector voltage and is maximum in the current saturation region. Therefore, in our opinion, the hot-carrier-induced current capability degradation of the SOI-LIGBT should be evaluated by the degradation of saturation current under the Vgmax stress condition. In addition, a novel SOI-LIGBT structure with an external p-type region was also proposed, which can alleviate the damage in the channel region by reducing the lateral electric field peak. Our experimental results demonstrate that the proposed structure could optimize the hot-carrier reliability effectively with the other characteristics maintained. He is currently a lecturer at the University of Jinan, Jinan, China. His research interests include power electronics, high voltage devices and the electronics reliability.

  14. Performance degradation of grid-tied photovoltaic modules in a hot-dry climatic condition

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Suleske, Adam; Singh, Jaspreet; Kuitche, Joseph; Tamizh-Mani, Govindasamy

    2011-09-01

    The crystalline silicon photovoltaic (PV) modules under open circuit conditions typically degrade at a rate of about 0.5% per year. However, it is suspected that the modules in an array level may degrade, depending on equipment/frame grounding and array grounding, at higher rates because of higher string voltage and increased module mismatch over the years of operation in the field. This paper compares and analyzes the degradation rates of grid-tied photovoltaic modules operating over 10-17 years in a desert climatic condition of Arizona. The nameplate open-circuit voltages of the arrays ranged between 400 and 450 V. Six different types/models of crystalline silicon modules with glass/glass and glass/polymer constructions were evaluated. About 1865 modules were inspected using an extended visual inspection checklist and infrared (IR) scanning. The visual inspection checklist included encapsulant discoloration, cell/interconnect cracks, delamination and corrosion. Based on the visual inspection and IR studies, a large fraction of these modules were identified as allegedly healthy and unhealthy modules and they were electrically isolated from the system for currentvoltage (I-V) measurements of individual modules. The annual degradation rate for each module type is determined based on the I-V measurements.

  15. Can Single Crystal (U-Th)/He Zircon Ages from Nördlinger Ries Suevite be Linked to Impact-Related Shock Effects?

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    van Soest, M. C.; Cooper, F. J.; Wartho, J.; Hodges, K.; Buchner, E.; Schmieder, M.; Koeberl, C.

    2010-12-01

    Dating of impact-related material is difficult especially when pristine impact melt is unavailable. In the absence of such melts, most geochronometers in shocked basement or melt-poor impact rocks yield only partially reset or non-reset ages. In such cases, application of the low closure temperature apatite and zircon (U-Th)/He geochronometers can be successful, since impact-related physical and thermal shock should reset the He systematics in both minerals in most materials affected by the impact. For a proof of concept study on the well-studied Ries impact structure, we (U-Th)/He dated apatites (14.08 ± 0.26 Ma 2σ, n = 5) and zircons (14.26 ± 0.31 Ma 2σ, n = 10) from two Aumühle quarry suevite samples and one Polsingen quarry impact melt rock, which was dated at 14.37 ± 0.30 Ma (2σ) using Ar-Ar stepwise heating of recrystallized K-feldspar melt (Buchner et al., 2010). The (U-Th)/He ages agree well with the 14.37 Ma age, but are slightly younger than the suggested age of 14.59 ± 0.20 Ma (2σ - based on recent, post 1995, Ar-Ar data, Buchner et al., 2010) for the impact structure. However, among the 27 zircons dated, 6 were partially reset (>16Ma), and 11 zircons yielded younger dates (<13.5 Ma).The younger dates are problematic for successful (U-Th)/He dating of impact structures of unknown age, as they would be identified incorrectly as the age of the impact event. The cause for these younger dates may be: a) partial He loss due to a post-impact thermal event, which at Ries is unlikely as there is no geological evidence for such an event; b) compromised He retention due to metamictization by progressive radiation damage; or c) compromised He retention due to impact shock-related effects. The latter two causes can produce similar visual effects on zircon and the He loss mechanism is also similar, i.e. changes in the zircon crystal structure on a micro scale. However, the effects of these processes on zircon have been documented extensively by non

  16. Degradation of microbial polyesters.

    PubMed

    Tokiwa, Yutaka; Calabia, Buenaventurada P

    2004-08-01

    Microbial polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), one of the largest groups of thermoplastic polyesters are receiving much attention as biodegradable substitutes for non-degradable plastics. Poly(D-3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) is the most ubiquitous and most intensively studied PHA. Microorganisms degrading these polyesters are widely distributed in various environments. Although various PHB-degrading microorganisms and PHB depolymerases have been studied and characterized, there are still many groups of microorganisms and enzymes with varying properties awaiting various applications. Distributions of PHB-degrading microorganisms, factors affecting the biodegradability of PHB, and microbial and enzymatic degradation of PHB are discussed in this review. We also propose an application of a new isolated, thermophilic PHB-degrading microorganism, Streptomyces strain MG, for producing pure monomers of PHA and useful chemicals, including D-3-hydroxycarboxylic acids such as D-3-hydroxybutyric acid, by enzymatic degradation of PHB.

  17. Degradation of CMOS image sensors in deep-submicron technology due to γ-irradiation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rao, Padmakumar R.; Wang, Xinyang; Theuwissen, Albert J. P.

    2008-09-01

    In this work, radiation induced damage mechanisms in deep submicron technology is resolved using finger gated-diodes (FGDs) as a radiation sensitive tool. It is found that these structures are simple yet efficient structures to resolve radiation induced damage in advanced CMOS processes. The degradation of the CMOS image sensors in deep-submicron technology due to γ-ray irradiation is studied by developing a model for the spectral response of the sensor and also by the dark-signal degradation as a function of STI (shallow-trench isolation) parameters. It is found that threshold shifts in the gate-oxide/silicon interface as well as minority carrier life-time variations in the silicon bulk are minimal. The top-layer material properties and the photodiode Si-SiO2 interface quality are degraded due to γ-ray irradiation. Results further suggest that p-well passivated structures are inevitable for radiation-hard designs. It was found that high electrical fields in submicron technologies pose a threat to high quality imaging in harsh environments.

  18. Augmenting atrazine and hexachlorobenzene degradation under different soil redox conditions in a bioelectrochemistry system and an analysis of the relevant microorganisms.

    PubMed

    Wang, Hui; Cao, Xian; Li, Lei; Fang, Zhou; Li, Xianning

    2018-01-01

    Soil microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are a sustainable technology that degrades organic pollutants while generating electricity. However, there have been no detailed studies of the mechanisms of pollutant degradation in soil MFCs. In this study, the effects of external resistance and electrode effectiveness on atrazine and hexachlorobenzene (HCB) degradation were evaluated, the performance of soil MFCs in the degradation of these pollutants under different soil redox conditions was assessed, and the associated microorganisms in the anode were investigated. With an external resistance of 20Ω, the degradation efficiencies of atrazine and HCB were 95% and 78%, respectively. The degradation efficiency, degradation rate increased with decreasing external resistance, while the half-life decreased. There were different degradation trends for different pollutants under different soil redox conditions. The fastest degradation rate of atrazine was in the upper MFC section (aerobic), whereas that of HCB was in the lower MFC section (anaerobic). The results showed that electrode effectiveness played a significant role in pollution degradation. In addition, the microbial community analysis demonstrated that Proteobacteria, especially Deltaproteobacteria involved in current generation was extremely abundant (27.49%) on soil MFC anodes, although the percentage abundances of atrazine degrading Rhodocyclaceae (8.77%), Desulfitobacterium (0.64%), and HCB degrading Desulfuromonas (0.73%), were considerably lower. The results of the study suggested that soil MFCs can enhance the degradation of atrazine and HCB, and bioelectrochemical reduction was the main mechanism for the pollutants degradation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. International ultraviolet explorer solar array power degradation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Day, J. H., Jr.

    1983-01-01

    The characteristic electrical performance of each International Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE) solar array panel is evaluated as a function of several prevailing variables (namely, solar illumination, array temperature and solar cell radiation damage). Based on degradation in the current-voltage characteristics of the array due to solar cell damage accumulated over time by space charged particle radiations, the available IUE solar array power is determined for life goals up to 10 years. Best and worst case calculations are normalized to actual IUE flight data (available solar array power versus observatory position) to accurately predict the future IUE solar array output. It is shown that the IUE solar array can continue to produce more power than is required at most observatory positions for at least 5 more years.

  20. High-Power Piezoelectric Acoustic-Electric Power Feedthru for Metal Walls

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bao, Xiaoqi; Biederman, Will; Sherrit, Stewart; Badescu, Mircea; Bar-Cohen, Yoseph; Jones, Christopher; Aldrich, Jack; Chang, Zensheu

    2008-01-01

    Piezoelectric acoustic-electric power feed-through devices transfer electric power wirelessly through a solid wall by using acoustic waves. This approach allows for the removal of holes through structures. The technology is applicable to power supply for electric equipment inside sealed containers, vacuum or pressure vessels, etc where the holes on the wall are prohibitive or result in significant performance degrade or complex designs. In the author's previous work, 100-W electric power was transferred through a metal wall by a small, simple-structure piezoelectric device. To meet requirements of higher power applications, the feasibility to transfer kilowatts level power was investigated. Pre-stressed longitudinal piezoelectric feedthru devices were analyzed by finite element model. An equivalent circuit model was developed to predict the power transfer characteristics to different electric loads. Based on the analysis results, a prototype device was designed, fabricated and a demonstration of the transmission of electric power up to 1-kW was successfully conducted. The methods to minimize the plate wave excitation on the wall were also analyzed. Both model analysis and experimental results are presented in detail in this presentation.

  1. Assessment Of The Functionality Of A Pilot-Scale Reactor And Its Potential For Electrochemical Degradation Of Calmagite, A Sulfonated Azo-Dye

    EPA Science Inventory

    Electrochemical degradation (ECD) is a promising technology for in situ remediation of diversely contaminated environmental matrices by application of a low level electric potential gradient. This investigation, prompted by successful bench-scale ECD of trichloroethylene,...

  2. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons degradation by marine-derived basidiomycetes: optimization of the degradation process.

    PubMed

    Vieira, Gabriela A L; Magrini, Mariana Juventina; Bonugli-Santos, Rafaella C; Rodrigues, Marili V N; Sette, Lara D

    2018-05-03

    Pyrene and benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) are high molecular weight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) recalcitrant to microbial attack. Although studies related to the microbial degradation of PAHs have been carried out in the last decades, little is known about degradation of these environmental pollutants by fungi from marine origin. Therefore, this study aimed to select one PAHs degrader among three marine-derived basidiomycete fungi and to study its pyrene detoxification/degradation. Marasmiellus sp. CBMAI 1062 showed higher levels of pyrene and BaP degradation and was subjected to studies related to pyrene degradation optimization using experimental design, acute toxicity, organic carbon removal (TOC), and metabolite evaluation. The experimental design resulted in an efficient pyrene degradation, reducing the experiment time while the PAH concentration applied in the assays was increased. The selected fungus was able to degrade almost 100% of pyrene (0.08mgmL -1 ) after 48h of incubation under saline condition, without generating toxic compounds and with a TOC reduction of 17%. Intermediate metabolites of pyrene degradation were identified, suggesting that the fungus degraded the compound via the cytochrome P450 system and epoxide hydrolases. These results highlight the relevance of marine-derived fungi in the field of PAH bioremediation, adding value to the blue biotechnology. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda.

  3. Simple Pixel Structure Using Video Data Correction Method for Nonuniform Electrical Characteristics of Polycrystalline Silicon Thin-Film Transistors and Differential Aging Phenomenon of Organic Light-Emitting Diodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hai-Jung In,; Oh-Kyong Kwon,

    2010-03-01

    A simple pixel structure using a video data correction method is proposed to compensate for electrical characteristic variations of driving thin-film transistors (TFTs) and the degradation of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) in active-matrix OLED (AMOLED) displays. The proposed method senses the electrical characteristic variations of TFTs and OLEDs and stores them in external memory. The nonuniform emission current of TFTs and the aging of OLEDs are corrected by modulating video data using the stored data. Experimental results show that the emission current error due to electrical characteristic variation of driving TFTs is in the range from -63.1 to 61.4% without compensation, but is decreased to the range from -1.9 to 1.9% with the proposed correction method. The luminance error due to the degradation of an OLED is less than 1.8% when the proposed correction method is used for a 50% degraded OLED.

  4. Knudsen pump produced via silicon deep RIE, thermal oxidation, and anodic bonding processes for on-chip vacuum pumping

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Van Toan, Nguyen; Inomata, Naoki; Trung, Nguyen Huu; Ono, Takahito

    2018-05-01

    This work describes the fabrication and evaluation of the Knudsen pump for on-chip vacuum pumping that works based on the principle of a thermal transpiration. Three AFM (atomic force microscope) cantilevers are integrated into small chambers with a size of 5 mm  ×  3 mm  ×  0.4 mm for the pump’s evaluation. Knudsen pump is fabricated using deep RIE (reactive ion etching), wet thermal oxidation and anodic bonding processes. The fabricated device is evaluated by monitoring the quality (Q) factor of the integrated cantilevers. The Q factor of the cantilever is increased from 300 -1150 in cases without and with a temperature difference approximately 25 °C between the top (the hot side at 40 °C) and bottom (the cold side at 15 °C) sides of the fabricated device, respectively. The evacuated chamber pressure of around 10 kPa is estimated from the Q factor of the integrated cantilevers.

  5. Stretchable degradable and electroactive shape memory copolymers with tunable recovery temperature enhance myogenic differentiation.

    PubMed

    Deng, Zexing; Guo, Yi; Zhao, Xin; Li, Longchao; Dong, Ruonan; Guo, Baolin; Ma, Peter X

    2016-12-01

    Development of flexible degradable electroactive shape memory polymers (ESMPs) with tunable switching temperature (around body temperature) for tissue engineering is still a challenge. Here we designed and synthesized a series of shape memory copolymers with electroactivity, super stretchability and tunable recovery temperature based on poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) with different molecular weight and conductive amino capped aniline trimer, and demonstrated their potential to enhance myogenic differentiation from C2C12 myoblast cells. We characterized the copolymers by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance ( 1 H NMR), cyclic voltammetry (CV), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), shape memory test, tensile test and in vitro enzymatic degradation study. The electroactive biodegradable shape memory copolymers showed great elasticity, tunable recovery temperature around 37°C, and good shape memory properties. Furthermore, proliferation and differentiation of C2C12 myoblasts were investigated on electroactive copolymers films, and they greatly enhanced the proliferation, myotube formation and related myogenic differentiation genes expression of C2C12 myoblasts compared to the pure PCL with molecular weight of 80,000. Our study suggests that these electroactive, highly stretchable, biodegradable shape memory polymers with tunable recovery temperature near the body temperature have great potential in skeletal muscle tissue engineering application. Conducting polymers can regulate cell behavior such cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation with or without electrical stimulation. Therefore, they have great potential for electrical signal sensitive tissue regeneration. Although conducting biomaterials with degradability have been developed, highly stretchable and electroactive degradable copolymers for soft tissue engineering have been rarely reported. On the other hand, shape

  6. VUV-Photocatalytic Degradation of Bezafibrate by Hydrothermally Synthesized Enhanced {001} Facets TiO2/Ti Film.

    PubMed

    Sayed, Murtaza; Fu, Pingfeng; Shah, Luqman Ali; Khan, Hasan M; Nisar, Jan; Ismail, M; Zhang, Pengyi

    2016-01-14

    In the present study, a novel TiO2/Ti film with enhanced {001} facets was synthesized by the hydrothermal technique followed by calcination for studying the removal of bezafibrate (BZF), from an aqueous environment. The synthesized photocatalyst was characterized by FE-SEM, XRD, HR-TEM, and PL-technique. The second-order rate constant of (•)OH with BZF was found to be 5.66 × 10(9) M(-1) s(-1). The steady state [(•)OH] was measured as 1.16 × 10(-11) M, on the basis of oxidation of terephthalic acid. The photocatalytic degradation of BZF followed pseudo-first-order kinetics according to the Langmuir-Hinshelwood model (k1 = 2.617 mg L(-1) min(-1) and k2 = 0.0796 (mg L(-1))(-1)). The effects of concentration and the nature of various additives including inorganic anions (NO3(-), NO2(-), HCO3(-), CO3(2-), Cl(-)) and organic species (fulvic acid) and initial solution pHs (2, 4, 6, 9) on photocatalytic degradation of BZF were investigated. It was found that the nature and concentration of studied additives significantly affected the photocatalytic degradation of BZF. The efficiency of the photocatalytic degradation process in terms of electrical energy per order was estimated. Degradation schemes were proposed on the basis of the identified degradation byproducts by ultraperformance liquid chromatography.

  7. Bioremediation of steel plant wastewater and enhanced electricity generation in microbial desalination cell.

    PubMed

    Shinde, Omkar A; Bansal, Ankita; Banerjee, Angela; Sarkar, Supriya

    2018-05-01

    Microbial desalination cell (MDC) is a propitious technology towards water desalination by utilizing wastewater as an energy source. In this study, a multi-chambered MDC was used to bioremediate steel plant wastewater using the same wastewater as a fuel for anodic bacteria. A pure culture of Pseudomonas putida MTCC 1194 was isolated and inoculated to remove toxic phenol. Three different inoculum conditions, namely P. putida (INC-A), a mixture of P. putida and activated sludge (INC-B), and activated sludge alone (INC-C) were employed in an anodic chamber to mainly compare the electricity generation and phenol degradation in MDCs. The study revealed the maximum phenol removal of 82 ± 2.4%, total dissolved solids (TDS) removal of 68 ± 1.5%, and power generation of 10.2 mW/m 2 using INC-B. The synergistic interactions between microorganisms, can enhance the toxic phenol degradation and also electricity generation in MDC for onsite wastewater application.

  8. Electrically conductive poly-ɛ-caprolactone/polyethylene glycol/multi-wall carbon nanotube nanocomposite scaffolds coated with fibrin glue for myocardial tissue engineering

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mehdikhani, Mehdi; Ghaziof, Sharareh

    2018-01-01

    In this research, poly-ɛ-caprolactone (PCL), polyethylene glycol (PEG), multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), and nanocomposite scaffolds containing 0.5 and 1% (w/w) MWCNTs coated with fibrin glue (FG) were prepared via solvent casting and freeze-drying technique for cardiac tissue engineering. Scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction were used to characterize the samples. Furthermore, mechanical properties, electrical conductivity, degradation, contact angle, and cytotoxicity of the samples were evaluated. Results showed the uniform distribution of the MWCNTs with some aggregates in the prepared nanocomposite scaffolds. The scaffolds containing 1% (w/w) MWCNTs with and without FG coating illustrated optimum modulus of elasticity, high electrical conductivity, and wettability compared with PCL/PEG and PCL/PEG/0.5%(w/w) MWCNTs' scaffolds. FG coating enhanced electrical conductivity and cell response, and increased wettability of the constructs. The prepared scaffolds were degraded significantly after 60 days of immersion in PBS. Meanwhile, the nanocomposite containing 1% (w/w) MWCNTs with FG coating (S3) showed proper spreading and viability of the myoblasts seeded on it after 1, 4, and 7 days of culture. The scaffold containing 1% (w/w) MWCNTs with FG coating demonstrated optimal properties including acceptable mechanical properties, proper wettability, high electrical conductivity, satisfactory degradation, and excellent myoblasts response to it.

  9. Bio-Electron-Fenton (BEF) process driven by microbial fuel cells for triphenyltin chloride (TPTC) degradation.

    PubMed

    Yong, Xiao-Yu; Gu, Dong-Yan; Wu, Yuan-Dong; Yan, Zhi-Ying; Zhou, Jun; Wu, Xia-Yuan; Wei, Ping; Jia, Hong-Hua; Zheng, Tao; Yong, Yang-Chun

    2017-02-15

    The intensive use of triphenyltin chloride (TPTC) has caused serious environmental pollution. In this study, an effective method for TPTC degradation was proposed based on the Bio-Electron-Fenton process in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). The maximum voltage of the MFC with graphite felt as electrode was 278.47% higher than that of carbon cloth. The electricity generated by MFC can be used for in situ generation of H 2 O 2 to a maximum of 135.96μmolL -1 at the Fe@Fe 2 O 3(*) /graphite felt composite cathode, which further reacted with leached Fe 2+ to produce hydroxyl radicals. While 100μmolL -1 TPTC was added to the cathodic chamber, the degradation efficiency of TPTC reached 78.32±2.07%, with a rate of 0.775±0.021μmolL -1 h -1 . This Bio-Electron-Fenton driving TPTC degradation might involve in SnC bonds breaking and the main process is probably a stepwise dephenylation until the formation of inorganic tin and CO 2 . This study provides an energy saving and efficient approach for TPTC degradation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Estrogen Degraders and Estrogen Degradation Pathway Identified in an Activated Sludge.

    PubMed

    Chen, Yi-Lung; Fu, Han-Yi; Lee, Tzong-Huei; Shih, Chao-Jen; Huang, Lina; Wang, Yu-Sheng; Ismail, Wael; Chiang, Yin-Ru

    2018-05-15

    The environmental release and fate of estrogens are becoming an increasing public concern. Bacterial degradation has been considered the main process for eliminating estrogens from wastewater treatment plants. Various bacterial isolates are reportedly capable of aerobic estrogen degradation, and several estrogen degradation pathways have been proposed in proteobacteria and actinobacteria. However, the ecophysiological relevance of estrogen-degrading bacteria in the environment is unclear. In this study, we investigated the estrogen degradation pathway and corresponding degraders in activated sludge collected from the Dihua Sewage Treatment Plant, Taipei, Taiwan. Cultivation-dependent and cultivation-independent methods were used to assess estrogen biodegradation in the collected activated sludge. Estrogen metabolite profile analysis revealed the production of pyridinestrone acid and two A/B-ring cleavage products in activated sludge incubated with estrone (1 mM), which are characteristic of the 4,5- seco pathway. PCR-based functional assays detected sequences closely related to alphaproteobacterial oecC , a key gene of the 4,5- seco pathway. Metagenomic analysis suggested that Novosphingobium spp. are major estrogen degraders in estrone-amended activated sludge. Novosphingobium sp. strain SLCC, an estrone-degrading alphaproteobacterium, was isolated from the examined activated sludge. The general physiology and metabolism of this strain were characterized. Pyridinestrone acid and the A/B-ring cleavage products were detected in estrone-grown strain SLCC cultures. The production of pyridinestrone acid was also observed during the aerobic incubation of strain SLCC with 3.7 nM (1 μg/liter) estrone. This concentration is close to that detected in many natural and engineered aquatic ecosystems. The presented data suggest the ecophysiological relevance of Novosphingobium spp. in activated sludge. IMPORTANCE Estrogens, which persistently contaminate surface water

  11. Searching for life on Mars: degradation of surfactant solutions used in organic extraction experiments.

    PubMed

    Court, Richard W; Sims, Mark R; Cullen, David C; Sephton, Mark A

    2014-09-01

    Life-detection instruments on future Mars missions may use surfactant solutions to extract organic matter from samples of martian rocks. The thermal and radiation environments of space and Mars are capable of degrading these solutions, thereby reducing their ability to dissolve organic species. Successful extraction and detection of biosignatures on Mars requires an understanding of how degradation in extraterrestrial environments can affect surfactant performance. We exposed solutions of the surfactants polysorbate 80 (PS80), Zonyl FS-300, and poly[dimethylsiloxane-co-[3-(2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)ethoxy)propyl]methylsiloxane] (PDMSHEPMS) to elevated radiation and heat levels, combined with prolonged storage. Degradation was investigated by measuring changes in pH and electrical conductivity and by using the degraded solutions to extract a suite of organic compounds spiked onto grains of the martian soil simulant JSC Mars-1. Results indicate that the proton fluences expected during a mission to Mars do not cause significant degradation of surfactant compounds. Solutions of PS80 or PDMSHEPMS stored at -20 °C are able to extract the spiked standards with acceptable recovery efficiencies. Extraction efficiencies for spiked standards decrease progressively with increasing temperature, and prolonged storage at 60°C renders the surfactant solutions ineffective. Neither the presence of ascorbic acid nor the choice of solvent unequivocally alters the efficiency of extraction of the spiked standards. Since degradation of polysorbates has the potential to produce organic compounds that could be mistaken for indigenous martian organic matter, the polysiloxane PDMSHEPMS may be a superior choice of surfactant for the exploration of Mars.

  12. Non-thermal plasma-induced photocatalytic degradation of 4-chlorophenol in water.

    PubMed

    Hao, Xiao Long; Zhou, Ming Hua; Lei, Le Cheng

    2007-03-22

    TiO(2) photocatalyst (P-25) (50mgL(-1)) was tentatively introduced into pulsed high-voltage discharge process for non-thermal plasma-induced photocatalytic degradation of the representative mode organic pollutant parachlorophenol (4-CP), including other compounds phenol and methyl red in water. The experimental results showed that rate constant of 4-CP degradation, energy efficiency for 4-CP removal and TOC removal with TiO(2) were obviously increased. Pulsed high-voltage discharge process with TiO(2) had a promoted effect for the degradation of these pollutants under a broad range of liquid conductivity. Furthermore, the apparent formation rates of chemically active species (e.g., ozone and hydrogen peroxide) were increased, the hydrogen peroxide formation rate from 1.10x10(-6) to 1.50x10(-6)Ms(-1), the ozone formation rate from 1.99x10(-8) to 2.35x10(-8)Ms(-1), respectively. In addition, this process had no influence on the photocatalytic properties of TiO(2). The introduction of TiO(2) photocatalyst into pulsed discharge plasma process in the utilizing of ultraviolet radiation and electric field in pulsed discharge plasma process enhanced the yields of chemically active species, which were available for highly efficient removal and mineralization of organic pollutants.

  13. Effect of biochar on bio-electrochemical dye degradation and energy production.

    PubMed

    Sophia Ayyappan, Carmalin; Bhalambaal, V M; Kumar, Sunil

    2018-03-01

    The effect of coconut shell biochar on dye degradation in a microbial fuel cell (MFC) was investigated in the present study. Two different doses of biochar (0.5 g and 1 g) and one control without bio-char were studied. The highest COD removal efficiency was about 77.7% (0.5 g biochar), maximum current (1.07 mA) and voltage (722 mV) were obtained with 1 g biochar. Biofilm optical microscopy characterization revealed the micro colonies intricate plate-like structures. High adsorbent dosage might provide a high surface area for biofilm to generate electricity. BET results of coconut shell biochar showed the maximum surface area of 0.9669 m 2 /g and macroporosity (0.0032 cm 3 /g). The overall results highlighted the possibility of using biochar as an additive in MFC for efficient dye degradation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Hydrolytically degradable poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogel scaffolds with tunable degradation and mechanical properties

    PubMed Central

    Zustiak, Silviya P.

    2011-01-01

    The objective of this work was to create three-dimensional (3D) hydrogel matrices with defined mechanical properties, as well as tunable degradability for use in applications involving protein delivery and cell encapsulation. Thus, we report the synthesis and characterization of a novel hydrolytically degradable poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogel composed of PEG vinyl sulfone (PEG-VS) cross-linked with PEG-diester-dithiol. Unlike previously reported degradable PEG-based hydrogels, these materials are homogeneous in structure, fully hydrophilic and have highly specific cross-linking chemistry. We characterized hydrogel degradation and associated trends in mechanical properties, i.e., storage modulus (G′), swelling ratio (QM), and mesh size (ξ). Degradation time and the monitored mechanical properties of the hydrogel correlated with cross-linker molecular weight, cross-linker functionality, and total polymer density; these properties changed predictably as degradation proceeded (G′ decreased, whereas QM and ξ increased) until the gels reached complete degradation. Balb/3T3 fibroblast adhesion and proliferation within the 3D hydrogel matrices were also verified. In sum, these unique properties indicate that the reported degradable PEG hydrogels are well poised for specific applications in protein and cell delivery to repair soft tissue. PMID:20355705

  15. Degradation of Degradable Starch-Polyethylene Plastics in a Compost Environment †

    PubMed Central

    Johnson, Kenneth E.; Pometto, Anthony L.; Nikolov, Zivko L.

    1993-01-01

    The degradation performance of 11 types of commercially produced degradable starch-polyethylene plastic compost bags was evaluated in municipal yard waste compost sites at Iowa State University (Ames) and in Carroll, Dubuque, and Grinnell, Iowa. Masterbatches for plastic production were provided by Archer Daniels Midland Co. (Decatur, Ill.), St. Lawrence Starch Co. Ltd. (Mississauga, Ontario, Canada), and Fully Compounded Plastics (Decatur, Ill.). Bags differed in starch content (5 to 9%) and prooxidant additives (transition metals and a type of unsaturated vegetable oil). Chemical and photodegradation properties of each material were evaluated. Materials from St. Lawrence Starch Co. Ltd. and Fully Compounded Plastics photodegraded faster than did materials from Archer Daniels Midland Co., whereas all materials containing transition metals demonstrated rapid thermal oxidative degradation in 70°C-oven (dry) and high-temperature, high-humidity (steam chamber) treatments. Each compost site was seeded with test strips (200 to 800 of each type) taped together, which were recovered periodically over an 8- to 12-month period. At each sampling date, the compost row temperature was measured (65 to 95°C), the location of the recovered test strip was recorded (interior or exterior), and at least four strips were recovered for evaluation. Degradation was followed by measuring the change in polyethylene molecular weight distribution via high-temperature gel permeation chromatography. Our initial 8-month study indicated that materials recovered from the interior of the compost row demonstrated very little degradation, whereas materials recovered from the exterior degraded well. In the second-year study, however, degradation was observed in several plastic materials recovered from the interior of the compost row by month 5 at the Carroll site and almost every material by month 12 at the Grinnell site. The plastic bags collected from each community followed a similar degradation

  16. Experiments on Plasma Turbulence Created by Supersonic Plasma Flows with Shear

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-04-01

    for producing a plasma column (in black). An insulated wire traverses the plasma and car - ries a pulsed current in x-direction. The unmagnetized ions... electric field which together with the B field around the wire causes an electron ExB drift. The ions are unmagnetized. A radial space charge electric field...by the self-consistent currents passing through the grid. These currents, consisting of electron and ion flows, are controlled by the electrical

  17. One Hundred Ninety-five Cases of High-voltage Electric Injury

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2005-08-01

    that level; and T4 to T5 paraplegia, secondary to fractures of T4 to T7. In 3 cases, frac- tures were not present: one case of a T11 to T12 sensory ...problems, including fractures, neurological inju- ries, ocular injuries, and complex reconstructive and re- habilitative needs, underscores the

  18. Removal of phenol by activated alumina bed in pulsed high-voltage electric field.

    PubMed

    Zhu, Li-nan; Ma, Jun; Yang, Shi-dong

    2007-01-01

    A new process for removing the pollutants in aqueous solution-activated alumina bed in pulsed high-voltage electric field was investigated for the removal of phenol under different conditions. The experimental results indicated the increase in removal rate with increasing applied voltage, increasing pH value of the solution, aeration, and adding Fe2+. The removal rate of phenol could reach 72.1% when air aeration flow rate was 1200 ml/min, and 88.2% when 0.05 mmol/L Fe2+ was added into the solution under the conditions of applied voltage 25 kV, initial phenol concentration of 5 mg/L, and initial pH value 5.5. The addition of sodium carbonate reduced the phenol removal rate. In the pulsed high-voltage electric field, local discharge occurred at the surface of activated alumina, which promoted phenol degradation in the thin water film. At the same time, the space-time distribution of gas-liquid phases was more uniform and the contact areas of the activated species generated from the discharge and the pollutant molecules were much wider due to the effect of the activated alumina bed. The synthetical effects of the pulsed high-voltage electric field and the activated alumina particles accelerated phenol degradation.

  19. Études des propriétés électro-optiques d'une série de diphtalocyanines de terres rares

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Videlot, C.; Fichou, D.; Garnier, F.

    1998-06-01

    In this work, we describe the study of photovoltaic cells for a series of rare earth diphthalocyanines. This p type organic compounds have been used in Schottky and pn configurations. Current-voltage curves and action spectra show different replies in energy's conversion according to the rare earth of the diphthalocyanine. Dans ce travail, nous décrivons l'étude de cellules photovoltaïques pour une série de diphtalocyanines de terres rares. Ces composés organiques de type p ont été étudiés dans des configurations Schottky et hétérojonction pn. Les courbes de courant-tension et les spectres d'action montrent des réponses différentes dans la conversion de l'énergie suivant la terre rare de la diphtalocyanine.

  20. Possibility for ultra-bright electron beam acceleration in dielectric wakefield accelerators

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Simakov, Evgenya I.; Carlsten, Bruce E.; Shchegolkov, Dmitry Yu.

    2012-12-21

    We describe a conceptual proposal to combine the Dielectric Wakefield Accelerator (DWA) with the Emittance Exchanger (EEX) to demonstrate a high-brightness DWA with a gradient of above 100 MV/m and less than 0.1% induced energy spread in the accelerated beam. We currently evaluate the DWA concept as a performance upgrade for the future LANL signature facility MaRIE with the goal of significantly reducing the electron beam energy spread. The preconceptual design for MaRIE is underway at LANL, with the design of the electron linear accelerator being one of the main research goals. Although generally the baseline design needs to bemore » conservative and rely on existing technology, any future upgrade would immediately call for looking into the advanced accelerator concepts capable of boosting the electron beam energy up by a few GeV in a very short distance without degrading the beam's quality. Scoping studies have identified large induced energy spreads as the major cause of beam quality degradation in high-gradient advanced accelerators for free-electron lasers. We describe simulations demonstrating that trapezoidal bunch shapes can be used in a DWA to greatly reduce the induced beam energy spread, and, in doing so, also preserve the beam brightness at levels never previously achieved. This concept has the potential to advance DWA technology to a level that would make it suitable for the upgrades of the proposed Los Alamos MaRIE signature facility.« less

  1. Onboard electrical calibration of the ASTER VNIR

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sakuma, Fumihiro; Kikuchi, Masakuni; Inada, Hitomi

    2013-10-01

    The Advanced Space-borne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) is one of the five sensors on the NASA's Terra satellite on orbit since December 1999. ASTER consists of three radiometers, the Visible and Near InfraRed (VNIR), the Short-Wave InfraRed (SWIR) and Thermal InfraRed (TIR) whose spatial resolutions are 15 m, 30 m and 90 m, respectively. Unfortunately the SWIR image data are saturated since April 2008 due to the offset rise caused by the cooler temperature rise, but the VNIR and the TIR are taking Earth images of good quality. The VNIR and the TIR experienced responsivity degradation while the SWIR showed little change. From the lamp calibration, Band 1 decreased the most among three VNIR bands and 31% in thirteen years. The VNIR has the electrical calibration mode to check the healthiness of the electrical circuits through the charge coupled device (CCD). Four voltage levels from Line 1 to Line 4, which are from 2.78 V to 3.10 V, are input to the CCD in the onboard calibration sequence and the output digital numbers (DNs) are detected in the images. These input voltages are monitored as telemetry data and have been stable up to now. From the electrical calibration we can check stabilities of the offset, gain ratio and gain stability of the electric circuit. The output level of the Line1 input is close to the offset level which is measured while observing the earth at night. The trend of the Line 1 output is compared to the offset level. They are similar but are not exactly the same. The trend of the even pixel and odd pixel is the same so the saturated offset levels of the odd pixel is corrected by using the even pixel trend. The gain ratio trend shows that the ratio is stable. But the ratio values are different from those measured before launch. The difference comes up to 10% for the Band 2. The correct gain ratio should be applied to the vicarious calibration result because the onboard calibration is measured with the Normal gain whereas the

  2. Joint punching and frequency effects on practical magnetic characteristics of electrical steels for high-speed machines

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kedous-Lebouc, A.; Messal, O.; Youmssi, A.

    2017-03-01

    Mechanical punching of electrical steels causes a degradation of their magnetic characteristics which can extend several millimeters from the cut edge. So, in the field of industrial applications, particularly that of small electrical machines, the stator core made of rigid and thin teeth would be subject to more losses. Thus, this topic of the effect of punching has to be submitted to further deep characterization and development in order to give some insight into the different mechanisms. In this framework, this paper evaluates the combined effect of punching and frequency on the magnetization curve and iron losses in thin SiFe and CoFe soft magnetic sheets. These alloys are typically suitable for the manufacture of high-speed electrical machines used in on board applications (aircraft power generators, automotive, etc). Two SiFe alloys and a CoFe alloy have been investigated. First, different rectangular samples of variable width (15, 10, 5, 3 mm) have been industrially punched. Then, a dedicated magnetic characterization has been made, using basically a mini-Epstein frame. Measurements have been performed from 50 Hz to 1 kHz and from 0.3 T to near saturation. Both rolling and transverse directions have been considered. Finally, a first attempt to predict the degradation due to the punching is presented. A useful description of the magnetic permeability as a function of B and f is given and the degradation parameters are estimated based on the knowledge of the reference permeability.

  3. Cometabolic Degradation of Dibenzofuran and Dibenzothiophene by a Naphthalene-Degrading Comamonas sp. JB.

    PubMed

    Ji, Xiangyu; Xu, Jing; Ning, Shuxiang; Li, Nan; Tan, Liang; Shi, Shengnan

    2017-12-01

    Comamonas sp. JB was used to investigate the cometabolic degradation of dibenzofuran (DBF) and dibenzothiophene (DBT) with naphthalene as the primary substrate. Dehydrogenase and ATPase activity of the growing system with the presence of DBF and DBT were decreased when compared to only naphthalene in the growing system, indicating that the presence of DBF and DBT inhibited the metabolic activity of strain JB. The pathways and enzymes involved in the cometabolic degradation were tested. Examination of metabolites elucidated that strain JB cometabolically degraded DBF to 1,2-dihydroxydibenzofuran, subsequently to 2-hydroxy-4-(3'-oxo-3'H-benzofuran-2'-yliden)but-2-enoic acid, and finally to catechol. Meanwhile, strain JB cometabolically degraded DBT to 1,2-dihydroxydibenzothiophene and subsequently to the ring cleavage product. A series of naphthalene-degrading enzymes including naphthalene dioxygenase, 1,2-dihydroxynaphthalene dioxygenase, salicylaldehyde dehydrogenase, salicylate hydroxylase, and catechol 2,3-oxygenase have been detected, confirming that naphthalene was the real inducer of expression the degradation enzymes and metabolic pathways were controlled by naphthalene-degrading enzymes.

  4. Degradation Kinetics of VX

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Gary S. Groenewold

    2010-12-01

    O-ethyl S-(2-diisopropylaminoethyl)phosphonothiolate (VX) is the most toxic of the conventional chemical warfare agents. It is a persistent compound, an attribute derived from its relative involatility and slow rates of hydrolysis. These properties suggest that VX can linger in an exposed environment for extended periods of time long after the air has cleared. Concern over prolonged risk from VX exposure is exacerbated by the fact that it poses a dermal contact hazard. Hence a detailed understanding of volatilization rates, and degradation pathways and rates occurring in various environments is needed. Historically, volatilization has not been considered to be an important mechanismmore » for VX depletion, but recent studies have shown that a significant fraction of VX may volatilize, depending on the matrix. A significant body of research has been conducted over the years to unravel VX degradation reaction pathways and to quantify the rates at which they proceed. Rigorous measurement of degradation rates is frequently difficult, and thus in many cases the degradation of VX has been described in terms of half lives, while in fewer instances rate constants have been measured. This variable approach to describing degradation kinetics reflects uncertainty regarding the exact nature of the degradation mechanisms. In this review, rates of VX degradation are compared on the basis of pseudo-first order rate constants, in order to provide a basis for assessing likelihood of VX persistence in a given environment. An issue of specific concern is that one VX degradation pathway produces S-2-(diisopropylaminoethyl) methylphosphonothioic acid (known as EA2192), which is a degradation product that retains much of the original toxicity of VX. Consequently degradation pathways and rates for EA2192 are also discussed.« less

  5. 1KW Power Transmission Using Wireless Acoustic-Electric Feed-Through (WAEF)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sherrit, S.; Bao, X.; Badescu, M.; Aldrich, J.; Bar-Cohen, Y.; Biederman, W.

    2008-01-01

    A variety of space applications require the delivery of power into sealed structures. Since the structural integrity can be degraded by holes for cabling we present an alternative method of delivering power and information using stress waves to the internal space of a sealed structure. One particular application of this technology is in sample return missions where it is critical to preserve the sample integrity and to prevent earth contamination. Therefore, the container has to be hermetically sealed and the integrity of the seal must be monitored in order to insure to a high degree of reliability the integrity of the sample return vessel. In this study we investigated the use of piezoelectric acoustic-electric power feed-through devices to transfer electric power wirelessly through a solid wall by using elastic or acoustic waves. The technology is applicable to a range of space and terrestrial applications where power is required by electronic equipment inside sealed containers, vacuum or pressure vessels, etc., where holes in the wall are prohibitive or may result in significant structural performance degradation or unnecessarily complex designs. To meet requirements of higher power applications, the feasibility to transfer kilowatts level power was investigated. Pre-stressed longitudinal piezoelectric feed-through devices were analyzed by finite element models and an equivalent circuit model was developed to predict the power transfer characteristics to different electric loads. Based on the results of the analysis a prototype device was designed, fabricated and a demonstration of the transmission of electric power up to 1.068-kW was successfully conducted. Efficiencies in the 80-90% range were also demonstrated and methods to increase the efficiency further are currently being considered.

  6. Performance degradation of photovoltaic modules at different sites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Arab, A. Hadj; Mahammed, I. Hadj; Ould Amrouche, S.; Taghezouit, B.; Yassaa, N.

    2018-05-01

    In this work are presented results of electrical performance measurements of 120 crystalline silicon PV modules following long-term outdoor measurements. A set of 90 PV modules represent the first grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system in Algeria, installed at the level of the “Centre de Développement des Energies Renouvelables” (CDER) site (Mediterranean coast), Bouzareah. The other 30 PV modules were undertaken in an arid area of the desert region of Ghardaïa site, about 600 km south of Algiers, with measurements collected from different applications. Following different characterization tests, we noticed that the all tested PV modules kept their power-generating rate except a slight reduction. Therefore, a mathematical model has been used to carry out PV module testing at different irradiance and temperature levels. Hence, different PV module parameters have been calculated from the recorded values of the open-circuit voltage, the short-circuit current, the voltage and current at maximum power point. The electrical measurements have indicated different degradations of current-voltage parameters. All the PV modules stated a decrease in the nominal power, which is variable from one module to another.

  7. Screening of high concentration phenol degrading strain and optimization of its phenol degradation performance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Yue-Hua; Li, Jing; Wang, Xue; Xue, Chun-Mei

    2018-03-01

    As phenol as the sole carbon source, the activated sludge was screened and acclimated to obtain the superior phenol-degrading bacteria capable of degrading high phenol concentration. The mixed bacteria completely degraded 1700mg/L phenol in 15h, to 102.9mg/L; the degradation rate reached 96.9%. After isolation and purification, four different single strains were obtained, and the genus of each strain was preliminarily identified. At the same time, the effects of initial phenol concentration, bacteria dosage, temperature and pH on the degradation of COD and phenol by phenol-degrading bacteria were also investigated. The mixed bacteria de-phenol effect is better than the four isolates were isolated.

  8. Electrical Resistivity of Wire Arc Sprayed Zn and Cu Coatings for In-Mold-Metal-Spraying

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bobzin, K.; Öte, M.; Knoch, M. A.; Liao, X.; Hopmann, Ch; Ochotta, P.

    2018-06-01

    Electrical functionalities can be integrated into plastic parts by integrating thermally sprayed metal coatings into the non-conductive base material. Thermally sprayed conducting tracks for power and signal transmission are one example. In this case, the electrical resistance or resistivity of the coatings should be investigated. Therefore, the electrical resistivity of wire arc sprayed Zn and Cu coatings has been investigated. In case of Zn coatings, spray distance, gas pressure and wire diameter could be identified as significant influencing parameters on the electrical resistivity. In contrast, process gas, gas pressure and voltage do have a significant influence on the electrical resistivity of Cu coatings. Through the use of the In-Mold-Metal-Spraying method (IMMS), thermal degradation can be avoided by transferring thermally sprayed coating from a mold insert onto the plastic part. Therefore, the influence of the transfer process on the electrical resistance of the coatings has also been investigated.

  9. Note: Novel diamond anvil cell for electrical measurements using boron-doped metallic diamond electrodes

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Matsumoto, R.; Sasama, Y.; Yamaguchi, T.

    2016-07-15

    A novel diamond anvil cell suitable for electrical transport measurements under high pressure has been developed. A boron-doped metallic diamond film was deposited as an electrode on a nano-polycrystalline diamond anvil using a microwave plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition technique combined with electron beam lithography. The maximum pressure that can be achieved by this assembly is above 30 GPa. We report electrical transport measurements of Pb up to 8 GPa. The boron-doped metallic diamond electrodes showed no signs of degradation after repeated compression.

  10. Analysis of thermal characteristics of electrical wiring for load groups in cattle barns.

    PubMed

    Kim, Doo Hyun; Yoo, Sang-Ok; Kim, Sung Chul; Hwang, Dong Kyu

    2015-01-01

    The purpose of the current study is to analyze the thermal characteristics of electrical wirings depending on the number of operating load by connecting four types of electrical wirings that are selected by surveying the conditions for the electric fans, automatic waterers and halogen warm lamps that were installed in cattle barns in different years. The conditions of 64 cattle barns were surveyed and an experimental test was conducted at a cattle barn. The condition-survey covered inappropriate design, construction and misuse of electrical facility, including electrical wiring mostly used, and the mode of load current was evaluated. The survey showed that the mode of load current increased as the installation year of the fans, waterers and halogen lamps became older. Accordingly, the cattle barn manager needed to increase the capacity of the circuit breaker, which promoted the degradation of insulation of the electrical wires' sheath and increased possibility for electrical fires in the long-run. The test showed that the saturation temperature of the wire insulated sheath increased depending on the installation year of the load groups, in case of VCTFK and VFF electric wires, therefore, requiring their careful usage in the cattle barns.

  11. Analysis of thermal characteristics of electrical wiring for load groups in cattle barns

    PubMed Central

    KIM, Doo Hyun; YOO, Sang-Ok; KIM, Sung Chul; HWANG, Dong Kyu

    2015-01-01

    The purpose of the current study is to analyze the thermal characteristics of electrical wirings depending on the number of operating load by connecting four types of electrical wirings that are selected by surveying the conditions for the electric fans, automatic waterers and halogen warm lamps that were installed in cattle barns in different years. The conditions of 64 cattle barns were surveyed and an experimental test was conducted at a cattle barn. The condition-survey covered inappropriate design, construction and misuse of electrical facility, including electrical wiring mostly used, and the mode of load current was evaluated. The survey showed that the mode of load current increased as the installation year of the fans, waterers and halogen lamps became older. Accordingly, the cattle barn manager needed to increase the capacity of the circuit breaker, which promoted the degradation of insulation of the electrical wires’ sheath and increased possibility for electrical fires in the long-run. The test showed that the saturation temperature of the wire insulated sheath increased depending on the installation year of the load groups, in case of VCTFK and VFF electric wires, therefore, requiring their careful usage in the cattle barns. PMID:26118855

  12. Second Life for Electric Vehicle Batteries: Answering Questions on Battery Degradation and Value

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Neubauer, J. S.; Wood, E.; Pesaran, A.

    2015-05-04

    Battery second use – putting used plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) batteries into secondary service following their automotive tenure – has been proposed as a means to decrease the cost of PEVs while providing low cost energy storage to other fields (e.g. electric utility markets). To understand the value of used automotive batteries, however, we must first answer several key questions related to National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has developed a methodology and the requisite tools to answer these questions, including NREL’s Battery Lifetime Simulation Tool (BLAST). Herein we introduce these methods and tools, and demonstrate their application. We have foundmore » that capacity fade from automotive use has a much larger impact on second use value than resistance growth. Where capacity loss is driven by calendar effects more than cycling effects, average battery temperature during automotive service – which is often driven by climate – is found to be the single factor with the largest effect on remaining value. Installing hardware and software capabilities onboard the vehicle that can both infer remaining battery capacity from in-situ measurements, as well as track average battery temperature over time, will thereby facilitate the second use of automotive batteries.« less

  13. Characterization and degradation potential of diesel-degrading bacterial strains for application in bioremediation.

    PubMed

    Balseiro-Romero, María; Gkorezis, Panagiotis; Kidd, Petra S; Van Hamme, Jonathan; Weyens, Nele; Monterroso, Carmen; Vangronsveld, Jaco

    2017-10-03

    Bioremediation of polluted soils is a promising technique with low environmental impact, which uses soil organisms to degrade soil contaminants. In this study, 19 bacterial strains isolated from a diesel-contaminated soil were screened for their diesel-degrading potential, biosurfactant (BS) production, and biofilm formation abilities, all desirable characteristics when selecting strains for re-inoculation into hydrocarbon-contaminated soils. Diesel-degradation rates were determined in vitro in minimal medium with diesel as the sole carbon source. The capacity to degrade diesel range organics (DROs) of strains SPG23 (Arthobacter sp.) and PF1 (Acinetobacter oleivorans) reached 17-26% of total DROs after 10 days, and 90% for strain GK2 (Acinetobacter calcoaceticus). The amount and rate of alkane degradation decreased significantly with increasing carbon number for strains SPG23 and PF1. Strain GK2, which produced BSs and biofilms, exhibited a greater extent, and faster rate of alkane degradation compared to SPG23 and PF1. Based on the outcomes of degradation experiments, in addition to BS production, biofilm formation capacities, and previous genome characterizations, strain GK2 is a promising candidate for microbial-assisted phytoremediation of diesel-contaminated soils. These results are of particular interest to select suitable strains for bioremediation, not only presenting high diesel-degradation rates, but also other characteristics which could improve rhizosphere colonization.

  14. Double emittance exchanger as a bunch compressor for the MaRIE XFEL electron beam line at 1 GeV

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Malyzhenkov, Alexander; Carlsten, Bruce E.; Yampolsky, Nikolai A.

    2017-03-01

    We demonstrate an alternative realization of a bunch compressor (specifically, the second bunch compressor for the MaRIE XFEL beamline, 1GeV electron energy) using a double emittance exchanger (EEX) and a telescope in the transverse phase space. We compare our results with a traditional bunch compressor realized via a chicane, taking into account the nonlinear dynamics, Coherent Synchrotron Radiation (CSR) and Space Charge (SC) effects. In particular, we use the Elegant code for tracking particles through the beamline, and analyze the evolution of the eigen-emittances to separate the influence of the CSR/SC effects from the nonlinear dynamics effects. We optimize the scheme parameters to reach a desirable compression factor and minimize the emittance growth. We observe dominant CSR effects in our scheme, resulting in critical emittance growth, and introduce an alternative version of an emittance exchanger with a reduced number of bending magnets to minimize the impact of CSR effects.

  15. Double Emittance Exchanger as a Bunch Compressor for the MaRIE XFEL electron beam line at 1GeV

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Malyzhenkov, Alexander; Yampolsky, Nikolai; Carlsten, Bruce Eric

    We demonstrate an alternative realization of a bunch compressor (specifically the second bunch compressor for the MaRIE XFEL beamline, 1GeV electron energy) using a double emittance exchanger (EEX) and a telescope in the transverse phase space.We compare our results with a traditional bunch compressor realized via chicane, taking into account the nonlinear dynamics, Coherent Synchrotron Radiation (CSR) and Space Charge (SC) effects. In particular, we use the Elegant code for tracking particles through the beam line and analyze the eigen-emittances evolution to separate the influence of the CSR/SC effects from the nonlinear dynamics effects. We optimize the scheme parameters tomore » reach a desirable compression factor and minimize the emittance growth. We observe dominant CSR-effects in our scheme resulting in critical emittance growth and introduce alternative version of an emittance exchanger with a reduced number of bending magnets to minimize the impact of CSR effects.« less

  16. Solar-driven thermo- and electrochemical degradation of nitrobenzene in wastewater: Adaptation and adoption of solar STEP concept.

    PubMed

    Gu, Di; Shao, Nan; Zhu, Yanji; Wu, Hongjun; Wang, Baohui

    2017-01-05

    The STEP concept has successfully been demonstrated for driving chemical reaction by utilization of solar heat and electricity to minimize the fossil energy, meanwhile, maximize the rate of thermo- and electrochemical reactions in thermodynamics and kinetics. This pioneering investigation experimentally exhibit that the STEP concept is adapted and adopted efficiently for degradation of nitrobenzene. By employing the theoretical calculation and thermo-dependent cyclic voltammetry, the degradation potential of nitrobenzene was found to be decreased obviously, at the same time, with greatly lifting the current, while the temperature was increased. Compared with the conventional electrochemical methods, high efficiency and fast degradation rate were markedly displayed due to the co-action of thermo- and electrochemical effects and the switch of the indirect electrochemical oxidation to the direct one for oxidation of nitrobenzene. A clear conclusion on the mechanism of nitrobenzene degradation by the STEP can be schematically proposed and discussed by the combination of thermo- and electrochemistry based the analysis of the HPLC, UV-vis and degradation data. This theory and experiment provide a pilot for the treatment of nitrobenzene wastewater with high efficiency, clean operation and low carbon footprint, without any other input of energy and chemicals from solar energy. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Electricity production from Azo dye wastewater using a microbial fuel cell coupled constructed wetland operating under different operating conditions.

    PubMed

    Fang, Zhou; Song, Hai-Liang; Cang, Ning; Li, Xian-Ning

    2015-06-15

    Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) have got tremendous attention for their capability to enhance the degradation of some recalcitrant pollutants and simultaneous electricity production. A microbial fuel cell coupled constructed wetland (CW-MFC) is a new device to treat the wastewater and produce energy which has more wastewater treatment volume and more easily to maintenance than others MFCs. The studies on the performance of CW-MFCs are necessary. In this work, the effects of hydraulic residence time (HRT), reactive brilliant red X-3B (ABRX3) proportion and COD concentration on the electricity production of CW-MFC and the degradation characteristics of ABRX3 were investigated. The decolorization rate and the electricity production increased to a peak before slowing down with the elongation of HRT. The highest decolorization rate and electricity production were obtained when HRT was 3 days. The ABRX3 proportion (calculated as COD) in the wastewater played an important role in decolorization and electricity production, which may influence the distribution of electrons in the system. The power density of CW-MFC and the decolorization rate decreased concomitantly with an increasing ABRX3 proportion. The COD concentration influenced the CW-MFC performance slightly. The highest decolorization rate and power density reached 95.6% and 0.852 W/m(3), respectively, when the COD concentration was 300 mg/L while the ABRX3 proportion was 30%. The coulombic efficiency of the CW-MFC depended on glucose and ABRX3 proportions in the wastewater. ABRX3 acquired more electrons than the anode. Further investigations are needed to optimize CW-MFC performance and explain the mechanism of biorefractory compounds degradation and electron motion in CW-MFCs. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Comparing measurement response and inverted results of electrical resistivity tomography instruments

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Parsekian, Andrew D.; Claes, Niels; Singha, Kamini; Minsley, Burke J.; Carr, Bradley; Voytek, Emily; Harmon, Ryan; Kass, Andy; Carey, Austin; Thayer, Drew; Flinchum, Brady

    2017-01-01

    In this investigation, we compare the results of electrical resistivity measurements made by six commercially available instruments on the same line of electrodes to determine if there are differences in the measured data or inverted results. These comparisons are important to determine whether measurements made between different instruments are consistent. We also degraded contact resistance on one quarter of the electrodes to study how each instrument responds to different electrical connection with the ground. We find that each instrument produced statistically similar apparent resistivity results, and that any conservative assessment of the final inverted resistivity models would result in a similar interpretation for each. We also note that inversions, as expected, are affected by measurement error weights. Increased measurement errors were most closely associated with degraded contact resistance in this set of experiments. In a separate test we recorded the full measured waveform for a single four-electrode array to show how poor electrode contact and instrument-specific recording settings can lead to systematic measurement errors. We find that it would be acceptable to use more than one instrument during an investigation with the expectation that the results would be comparable assuming contact resistance remained consistent.

  19. Hot-carrier degradation in deep-submicrometer nMOSFETs: lightly doped drain vs. large angle tilt implanted drain

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rafí, J. M.; Campabadal, F.

    2001-08-01

    The hot-carrier degradation of lightly doped drain (LDD) and large angle tilt implanted drain (LATID) nMOSFETs of a 0.35 μm CMOS technology is analysed and compared by means of I-V characterisation and charge pumping current measurements. LATID nMOSFETs are found to exhibit a significant improvement in terms of both, current drivability and hot-carrier immunity at maximum substrate current condition. The different factors which can be responsible for this improved hot-carrier resistance are investigated. It is shown that this must be attributed to a reduction of the maximum lateral electric field along the channel, but not to a minor generation of physical damage for a given electric field or to a reduced I-V susceptibility to a given amount of generated damage. Further to this analysis, the hot-carrier degradation comparison between LDD and LATID devices is extended to the whole range of gate-stress regimes and the effects of short electron injection (SEI) and short hole injection (SHI) phases on hot-carrier-stressed devices are analysed. Apart from a significant improved resistance to hot-carrier effects registered for LATID devices, a similar behaviour is observed for the two types of architectures. In this way, SEI phases are found to be an efficient tool for revealing part of the damage generated in stresses at low gate voltages, whereas the performance of a first SHI phase after stress at high gate bias is found to result in a significant additional degradation of the devices. This enhanced degradation is attributed to a sudden interface states build-up occurring in both, LDD and LATID devices, near the Si/spacer interface only under the first hot-hole injection condition.

  20. Large-area soft x-ray projection lithography using multilayer mirrors structured by RIE

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rahn, Steffen; Kloidt, Andreas; Kleineberg, Ulf; Schmiedeskamp, Bernt; Kadel, Klaus; Schomburg, Werner K.; Hormes, F. J.; Heinzmann, Ulrich

    1993-01-01

    SXPL (soft X-ray projection lithography) is one of the most promising applications of X-ray reflecting optics using multilayer mirrors. Within our collaboration, such multilayer mirrors were fabricated, characterized, laterally structured and then used as reflection masks in a projecting lithography procedure. Mo/Si-multilayer mirrors were produced by electron beam evaporation in UHV under thermal treatment with an in-situ X-ray controlled thickness in the region of 2d equals 14 nm. The reflectivities measured at normal incidence reached up to 54%. Various surface analysis techniques have been applied in order to characterize and optimize the X-ray mirrors. The multilayers were patterned by reactive ion etching (RIE) with CF(subscript 4), using a photoresist as the etch mask, thus producing X-ray reflection masks. The masks were tested in the synchrotron radiation laboratory of the electron accelerator ELSA at the Physikalisches Institut of Bonn University. A double crystal X-ray monochromator was modified so as to allow about 0.5 cm(superscript 2) of the reflection mask to be illuminated by white synchrotron radiation. The reflected patterns were projected (with an energy of 100 eV) onto the resist (Hoechst AZ PF 514), which was mounted at an average distance of about 7 mm. In the first test-experiments, structure sizes down to 8 micrometers were nicely reproduced over the whole of the exposed area. Smaller structures were distorted by Fresnel-diffraction. The theoretically calculated diffraction images agree very well with the observed images.

  1. High resolution in-operando microimaging of solar cells with pulsed electrically-detected magnetic resonance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Katz, Itai; Fehr, Matthias; Schnegg, Alexander; Lips, Klaus; Blank, Aharon

    2015-02-01

    The in-operando detection and high resolution spatial imaging of paramagnetic defects, impurities, and states becomes increasingly important for understanding loss mechanisms in solid-state electronic devices. Electron spin resonance (ESR), commonly employed for observing these species, cannot meet this challenge since it suffers from limited sensitivity and spatial resolution. An alternative and much more sensitive method, called electrically-detected magnetic resonance (EDMR), detects the species through their magnetic fingerprint, which can be traced in the device's electrical current. However, until now it could not obtain high resolution images in operating electronic devices. In this work, the first spatially-resolved electrically-detected magnetic resonance images (EDMRI) of paramagnetic states in an operating real-world electronic device are provided. The presented method is based on a novel microwave pulse sequence allowing for the coherent electrical detection of spin echoes in combination with powerful pulsed magnetic-field gradients. The applicability of the method is demonstrated on a device-grade 1-μm-thick amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) solar cell and an identical device that was degraded locally by an electron beam. The degraded areas with increased concentrations of paramagnetic defects lead to a local increase in recombination that is mapped by EDMRI with ∼20-μm-scale pixel resolution. The novel approach presented here can be widely used in the nondestructive in-operando three-dimensional characterization of solid-state electronic devices with a resolution potential of less than 100 nm.

  2. Investigating the effects of microbial communities on electrical properties of soils: preliminary results from a pilot scale column experiment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Atekwana, E.; Atekwana, E.; Werkema, D.; Duris, J.; Rossbach, S.; Sauck, W.; Koretsky, C.; Cassidy, D.; Means, J.; Sherrod, L.

    2003-04-01

    In this study, we describe the results of a mesoscale pilot experiment designed to investigate the influence of biogeochemical processes on electrical conductivity of soils impacted by hydrocarbons. This is an interdisciplinary study integrating geophysics, geochemistry, and microbiology which was undertaken to: 1) verify microbial hydrocarbon degradation by monitoring changes in microbial types, population, and community structure, 2) document temporal changes in the electrical conductivity of soils, and 3) document changes in pore fluid geochemistry using major ions and stable carbon isotopes. We constructed duplicate soil columns as follows: Columns 1 and 2 had no bacteria, no diesel; columns 3 and 4 had diesel and no bacteria; columns 5 and 6 had bacteria and no diesel; and columns 7 and 8 had bacteria and diesel. Soil cores were sampled at 5 cm intervals and analyzed for bacteria using the most probable number (MPN) and the rDNA intergenic spacer region analyses (RISA) techniques. The MPN method showed an increase in the percentage of alkane degraders with time, and accounted for 1.2x (120%) the number of heterotrophic bacteria in colums 7 and 8 compared to less than 15% for the other columns. The RISA analysis of the communities in columns 7 and 8 showed a shift towards less diversity over time in response to the contaminant stress to a composition that is more capable of the utilization of an alkane as a carbon source. These results confirm microbial mineralization of diesel within contaminated columns. Electrical conductivity measurements were made using a Wenner array at 2 cm spacing. The electrical measurements show an initial decrease in conductivity. This is consistent with the diesel replacing the more conductive pore waters and changes in water saturation, especially within the unsaturated zone. However, a slow increase in conductivity was observed in column 7 overtime compared to the other columns. The slight increase in electrical conductivity for

  3. Iodinated contrast media electro-degradation: process performance and degradation pathways.

    PubMed

    Del Moro, Guido; Pastore, Carlo; Di Iaconi, Claudio; Mascolo, Giuseppe

    2015-02-15

    The electrochemical degradation of six of the most widely used iodinated contrast media was investigated. Batch experiments were performed under constant current conditions using two DSA® electrodes (titanium coated with a proprietary and patented mixed metal oxide solution of precious metals such as iridium, ruthenium, platinum, rhodium and tantalum). The degradation removal never fell below 85% (at a current density of 64 mA/cm(2) with a reaction time of 150 min) when perchlorate was used as the supporting electrolyte; however, when sulphate was used, the degradation performance was above 80% (at a current density of 64 mA/cm(2) with a reaction time of 150 min) for all of the compounds studied. Three main degradation pathways were identified, namely, the reductive de-iodination of the aromatic ring, the reduction of alkyl aromatic amides to simple amides and the de-acylation of N-aromatic amides to produce aromatic amines. However, as amidotrizoate is an aromatic carboxylate, this is added via the decarboxylation reaction. The investigation did not reveal toxicity except for the lower current density used, which has shown a modest toxicity, most likely for some reaction intermediates that are not further degraded. In order to obtain total removal of the contrast media, it was necessary to employ a current intensity between 118 and 182 mA/cm(2) with energy consumption higher than 370 kWh/m(3). Overall, the electrochemical degradation was revealed to be a reliable process for the treatment of iodinated contrast media that can be found in contaminated waters such as hospital wastewater or pharmaceutical waste-contaminated streams. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Atmospheric Electric Field Measurements at 100 Hz and High Frequency Electric Phenomena

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Conceição, Ricardo; Gonçalves da Silva, Hugo; Matthews, James; Bennett, Alec; Chubb, John

    2016-04-01

    Spectral response of Atmospheric Electric Potential Gradient (PG), symmetric to the Atmospheric Electric Field, gives important information about phenomena affecting these measurements with characteristic time-scales that appear in the spectra as specific periodicities. This is the case of urban pollution that has a clear weekly dependence and reveals itself on PG measurements by a ~7 day periodicity (Silva et al., 2014). While long-term time-scales (low frequencies) have been exhaustively explored in literature, short-term time-scales (high frequencies), above 1 Hz, have comparatively received much less attention (Anisimov et al., 1999). This is mainly because of the technical difficulties related with the storage of such a huge amount of data (for 100 Hz sampling two days of data uses a ~1 Gb file) and the response degradation of the field-meters at such frequencies. Nevertheless, important Electric Phenomena occurs for frequencies above 1 Hz that are worth pursuing, e.g. the Schumann Resonances have a signature of worldwide thunderstorm activity at frequencies that go from ~8 up to ~40 Hz. To that end the present work shows preliminary results on PG measurements at 100 Hz that took place on two clear-sky days (17th and 18th June 2015) on the South of Portugal, Évora (38.50° N, 7.91° W). The field-mill used is a JCI 131F installed in the University of Évora campus (at 2 m height) with a few trees and two buildings in its surroundings (~50 m away). This device was developed by John Chubb (Chubb, 2014) and manufactured by Chilworth (UK). It was calibrated in December 2013 and recent work by the author (who is honored in this study for his overwhelming contribution to atmospheric electricity) reveals basically a flat spectral response of the device up to frequencies of 100 Hz (Chubb, 2015). This makes this device suitable for the study of High Frequency Electric Phenomena. Anisimov, S.V., et al. (1999). On the generation and evolution of aeroelectric structures

  5. A Context Menu for the Real World: Controlling Physical Appliances Through Head-Worn Infrared Targeting

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-12-10

    Edward A. Lee Björn Hartmann Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences University of California at Berkeley Technical Report No. UCB/EECS-2013-200...NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) University of California at Berkeley, Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences,Berkeley,CA,94720 8. PERFORMING...movement. PHYSICAL TARGET ACQUISITION STUDY To understand the accuracy and performance of head- orientation-based selection through our device, we car - ried

  6. A Context Menu for the Real World: Controlling Physical Appliances through Head-Worn Infrared Targeting

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-11-04

    Edward A. Lee Björn Hartmann Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences University of California at Berkeley Technical Report No. UCB/EECS-2013-182...NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) University of California at Berkeley, Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences,Berkeley,CA,94720 8. PERFORMING...accuracy and performance of head- orientation-based selection through our device, we car - ried out a comparative target acquisition study, where

  7. Accelerated reliability testing of highly aligned single-walled carbon nanotube networks subjected to DC electrical stressing.

    PubMed

    Strus, Mark C; Chiaramonti, Ann N; Kim, Young Lae; Jung, Yung Joon; Keller, Robert R

    2011-07-01

    We investigate the electrical reliability of nanoscale lines of highly aligned, networked, metallic/semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) fabricated through a template-based fluidic assembly process. We find that these SWCNT networks can withstand DC current densities larger than 10 MA cm(-2) for several hours and, in some cases, several days. We develop test methods that show that the degradation rate, failure predictability and total device lifetime can be linked to the initial resistance. Scanning electron and transmission electron microscopy suggest that fabrication variability plays a critical role in the rate of degradation, and we offer an empirical method of quickly determining the long-term performance of a network. We find that well-fabricated lines subject to constant electrical stress show a linear accumulation of damage reminiscent of electromigration in metallic interconnects, and we explore the underlying physical mechanisms that could cause such behavior.

  8. Anthocyanins degradation during storage of Hibiscus sabdariffa extract and evolution of its degradation products.

    PubMed

    Sinela, André; Rawat, Nadirah; Mertz, Christian; Achir, Nawel; Fulcrand, Hélène; Dornier, Manuel

    2017-01-01

    Degradation parameters of two main anthocyanins from roselle extract (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) stored at different temperatures (4-37°C) over 60days were determined. Anthocyanins and some of their degradation products were monitored and quantified using HPLC-MS and DAD. Degradation of anthocyanins followed first-order kinetics and reaction rate constants (k values), which were obtained by non-linear regression, showed that the degradation rate of delphinidin 3-O-sambubioside was higher than that of cyanidin 3-O-sambubioside with k values of 9.2·10(-7)s(-1) and 8.4·10(-7)s(-1) at 37°C respectively. The temperature dependence of the rate of anthocyanin degradation was modeled by the Arrhenius equation. Degradation of delphinidin 3-O-sambubioside (Ea=90kJmol(-1)) tended to be significantly more sensitive to an increase in temperature than cyanidin 3-O-sambubioside (Ea=80kJmol(-1)). Degradation of these anthocyanins formed scission products (gallic and protocatechuic acids respectively) and was accompanied by an increase in polymeric color index. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. Exciton-Induced Degradation of Carbazole-Based Host Materials and Its Role in the Electroluminescence Spectral Changes in Phosphorescent Organic Light Emitting Devices with Electrical Aging.

    PubMed

    Yu, Hyeonghwa; Zhang, Yingjie; Cho, Yong Joo; Aziz, Hany

    2017-04-26

    We investigate the origins of the long-wavelength bands that appear in the emission spectra of carbazole-based host materials and play a role in the electroluminescence (EL) spectral changes of phosphorescent organic light emitting devices (PhOLEDs) with electrical aging. 4,4'-Bis(carbazol-9-yl)biphenyl (CBP) is used as a model carbazole host material and is studied using photoluminescence, EL, and atomic force microscopy measurements under various stress scenarios in both single and bilayer devices and in combination with various electron transport layer (ETL) materials. Results show that exciton-induced morphological aggregation of CBP is behind the appearance of those long-wavelength bands and that complexation between the aggregated CBP molecules and ETL molecules plays a role in this phenomenon. Comparisons between the effects of exciton and thermal stress suggest that exciton-induced aggregation may be limited to short-range molecular ordering or pairing (e.g., dimer or trimer species formation) versus longer-range ordering (crystallization) in the case of thermal stress. The findings provide new insights into exciton-induced degradation in wide band gap host materials and its role in limiting the stability of PhOLEDs.

  10. DDE remediation and degradation.

    PubMed

    Thomas, John E; Ou, Li-Tse; All-Agely, Abid

    2008-01-01

    DDT and its metabolites, DDD and DDE, have been shown to be recalcitrant to degradation. The parent compound, DDT, was used extensively worldwide starting in 1939 and was banned in the United States in 1973. The daughter compound, DDE, may result from aerobic degradation, abiotic dehydrochlorination, or photochemical decomposition. DDE has also occurred as a contaminant in commercial-grade DDT. The p,p'-DDE isomer is more biologically active than the o,p-DDE, with a reported half-life of -5.7 years. However, when DDT was repeatedly applied to the soil, the DDE concentration may remain unchanged for more than 20 yr. Remediation of DDE-contaminated soil and water may be done by several techniques. Phytoremediation involves translocating DDT, DDD, and DDE from the soil into the plant, although some aquatic species (duckweed > elodea > parrot feather) can transform DDT into predominantly DDD with some DDE being formed. Of all the plants that can uptake DDE, Cucurbita pepo has been the most extensively studied, with translocation values approaching "hyperaccumulation" levels. Soil moisture, temperature, and plant density have all been documented as important factors in the uptake of DDE by Cucurbita pepo. Uptake may also be influenced positively by amendments such as biosurfactants, mycorrhizal inoculants, and low molecular weight organic acids (e.g., citric and oxalic acids). DDE microbial degradation by dehalogenases, dioxygenases, and hydrolases occurs under the proper conditions. Although several aerobic degradation pathways have been proposed, none has been fully verified. Very few aerobic pure cultures are capable of fully degrading DDE to CO2. Cometabolism of DDE by Pseudomonas sp., Alicaligens sp., and Terrabacter sp. grown on biphenyl has been reported; however, not all bacterial species that produce biphenyl dioxygenase degraded DDE. Arsenic and copper inhibit DDE degradation by aerobic microorganisms. Similarly, metal chelates such as EDTA inhibit the

  11. Comparative study on degradation and trap density-of-states of p type and n type organic semiconductors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shijeesh, M. R.; Vikas, L. S.; Jayaraj, M. K.; Puigdollers, J.

    2014-10-01

    The OTFTs with both p type and n type channel layers were fabricated using the inverted-staggered (top contact) structure by thermal vapour deposition on Si/SiO2 substrate. Pentacene and N,N'-Dioctyl- 3,4,9,10- perylenedicarboximide (PTCDI-C8) were used as channel layer for the fabrications of p type and n type OTFTs respectively. A comparative study on the degradation and density of states (DOS) of p type and n type organic semiconductors have been carried out. In order to compare the stability and degradation of pentacene and PTCDI-C8 OTFTs, the devices were exposed to air for 2 h before performing electrical measurements in air. The DOS measurements revealed that a level with defect density of 1020 cm-3 was formed only in PTCDI C8 layer on exposure to air. The oxygen adsorption into the PTCDI-C8 active layer can be attributed to the formation of this level at 0.15 eV above the LUMO level. The electrical charge transport is strongly affected by the oxygen traps and hence n type organic materials are less stable than p type organic materials.

  12. Radiation degradation prediction for InGaP solar cells by using appropriate estimation method for displacement threshold energy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Okuno, Y.; Okuda, S.; Akiyoshi, M.; Oka, T.; Harumoto, M.; Omura, K.; Kawakita, S.; Imaizumi, M.; Messenger, S. R.; Lee, K. H.; Yamaguchi, M.

    2017-09-01

    InGaP solar cells are not predicted to be susceptible to displacement damage by irradiation with electrons at energies lower than 100 keV from non-ionizing energy loss (NIEL) calculations. However, it is recently observed that InGaP solar cells are shown to degrade by irradiation with 60 keV electrons. This degradation is considered to be caused by radiation defects but is not clear. In this study, the kind of the defects generated by electrons at energies lower than 100 keV is found by deep-level transient spectroscopy (DLTS). The result of DLTS indicates that the prediction of primary knock-on atoms by using the radiation damage model is different from the experiment. In order to suggest the generation mechanism of radiation defects, we propose a new displacement threshold energy (Ed) by using a new technique in which NIEL and the introduction rate of radiation defects are combined. The degradation prediction by using estimated Ed is found to agree well with the degradation of electric power of InGaP solar cells irradiated by low-energy electrons. From the theory of radiation defects, we propose a new obtaining process of suitable degradation prediction by the displacement damage dose method.

  13. A Surfactant-Free Synthesis Technique of Coral-Like Zno Hierarchical Structures for Photocatalytic Degradation of Resorcinol under UV Irradiation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sin, Jin-Chung; Lam, Sze-Mun; Chin, Ying-Hui

    2018-01-01

    Hierarchical coral-like ZnO structures were successfully prepared by a surfactant-free wet chemical method. Various characterization tests were carried out to analyze the as-prepared ZnO samples. The coral-like ZnO was used to degrade resorcinol at three different solution pH values (pH 5.0, pH 8.0 and pH 11.0). It was observed that the resorcinol adsorption onto the ZnO was strongly dependent on the electrical charge properties of both photocatalyst and resorcinol. Photocatalytic degradation of resorcinol reached the highest at pH 11.0 due to high concentration of hydroxyl ions for hydroxyl radicals generation.

  14. Degradation of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX) by the lignin-degrading basidiomycete Phanerochaete chrysosporium.

    PubMed Central

    Yadav, J S; Reddy, C A

    1993-01-01

    Degradation of the BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and o-, m-, and p-xylenes) group of organopollutants by the white-rot fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium was studied. Our results show that the organism efficiently degrades all the BTEX components when these compounds are added either individually or as a composite mixture. Degradation was favored under nonligninolytic culture conditions in malt extract medium, in which extracellular lignin peroxidases (LIPs) and manganese-dependent peroxidases (MNPs) are not produced. The noninvolvement of LIPs and MNPs in BTEX degradation was also evident from in vitro studies using concentrated extracellular fluid containing LIPs and MNPs and from a comparison of the extents of BTEX degradation by the wild type and the per mutant, which lacks LIPs and MNPs. A substantially greater extent of degradation of all the BTEX compounds was observed in static than in shaken liquid cultures. Furthermore, the level of degradation was relatively higher at 25 than at 37 degrees C, but pH variations between 4.5 and 7.0 had little effect on the extent of degradation. Studies with uniformly ring-labeled [14C]benzene and [14C]toluene showed substantial mineralization of these compounds to 14CO2. PMID:8481002

  15. Water purification by electrical discharges

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Arif Malik, Muhammad; Ghaffar, Abdul; Akbar Malik, Salman

    2001-02-01

    There is a continuing need for the development of effective, cheap and environmentally friendly processes for the disinfection and degradation of organic pollutants from water. Ozonation processes are now replacing conventional chlorination processes because ozone is a stronger oxidizing agent and a more effective disinfectant without any side effects. However, the fact that the cost of ozonation processes is higher than chlorination processes is their main disadvantage. In this paper recent developments targeted to make ozonation processes cheaper by improving the efficiency of ozone generation, for example, by incorporation of catalytic packing in the ozone generator, better dispersion of ozone in water and faster conversion of dissolved ozone to free radicals are described. The synthesis of ozone in electrical discharges is discussed. Furthermore, the generation and plasma chemical reactions of several chemically active species, such as H2O2, Obullet, OHbullet, HO2bullet, O3*, N2*, e-, O2-, O-, O2+, etc, which are produced in the electrical discharges are described. Most of these species are stronger oxidizers than ozone. Therefore, water treatment by direct electrical discharges may provide a means to utilize these species in addition to ozone. Much research and development activity has been devoted to achieve these targets in the recent past. An overview of these techniques and important developments that have taken place in this area are discussed. In particular, pulsed corona discharge, dielectric barrier discharge and contact glow discharge electrolysis techniques are being studied for the purpose of cleaning water. The units based on electrical discharges in water or close to the water level are being tested at industrial-scale water treatment plants.}

  16. Degradation of diclofenac by UV-activated persulfate process: Kinetic studies, degradation pathways and toxicity assessments.

    PubMed

    Lu, Xian; Shao, Yisheng; Gao, Naiyun; Chen, Juxiang; Zhang, Yansen; Xiang, Huiming; Guo, Youluo

    2017-07-01

    Diclofenac (DCF) is the frequently detected non-steroidal pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment. In this study, the degradation of DCF was evaluated by UV-254nm activated persulfate (UV/PS). The degradation of DCF followed the pseudo first-order kinetics pattern. The degradation rate constant (k obs ) was accelerated by UV/PS compared to UV alone and PS alone. Increasing the initial PS dosage or solution pH significantly enhanced the degradation efficiency. Presence of various natural water constituents had different effects on DCF degradation, with an enhancement or inhibition in the presence of inorganic anions (HCO 3 - or Cl - ) and a significant inhibition in the presence of NOM. In addition, preliminary degradation mechanisms and major products were elucidated using LC-MS/MS. Hydroxylation, decarbonylation, ring-opening and cyclation reaction involving the attack of SO 4 • - or other substances, were the main degradation mechanism. TOC analyzer and Microtox bioassay were employed to evaluate the mineralization and cytotoxicity of solutions treated by UV/PS at different times, respectively. Limited elimination of TOC (32%) was observed during the mineralization of DCF. More toxic degradation products and their related intermediate species were formed, and the UV/PS process was suitable for removing the toxicity. Of note, longer degradation time may be considered for the final toxicity removal. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  17. Treatment of coking wastewater by a novel electric assisted micro-electrolysis filter.

    PubMed

    Xie, Ruosong; Wu, Miaomiao; Qu, Guangfei; Ning, Ping; Cai, Yingying; Lv, Pei

    2018-04-01

    A newly designed electric assisted micro-electrolysis filter (E-ME) was developed to investigate its degradation efficiency for coking wastewater and correlated characteristics. The performance of the E-ME system was compared with separate electrolysis (SE) and micro-electrolysis (ME) systems. The results showed a prominent synergistic effect on COD removal in E-ME systems. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis confirmed that the applied electric field enhanced the degradation of phenolic compounds. Meanwhile, more biodegradable oxygen-bearing compounds were detected. SEM images of granular activated carbon (GAC) showed that inactivation and blocking were inhibited during the E-ME process. The effects of applied voltage and initial pH in E-ME systems were also studied. The best voltage value was 1V, but synergistic effects existed even with lower applied voltage. E-ME systems exhibited some pH buffering capacity and attained the best efficiency in neutral media, which means that there is no need to adjust pH prior to or during the treatment process. Therefore, E-ME systems were confirmed as a promising technology for treatment of coking wastewater and other refractory wastewater. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  18. Photo-fenton degradation of diclofenac: identification of main intermediates and degradation pathway.

    PubMed

    Pérez-Estrada, Leónidas A; Malato, Sixto; Gernjak, Wolfgang; Agüera, Ana; Thurman, E Michael; Ferrer, Imma; Fernández-Alba, Amadeo R

    2005-11-01

    In recent years, the presence of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment has been of growing interest. These new contaminants are important because many of them are not degraded under the typical biological treatments applied in the wastewater treatment plants and represent a continuous input into the environment. Thus, compounds such as diclofenac are present in surface waters in all Europe and a crucial need for more enhanced technologies that can reduce its presence in the environment has become evident. In this sense, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) represent a good choice for the treatment of hazardous nonbiodegradable pollutants. This work deals with the solar photodegradation of diclofenac, an antiinflammatory drug, in aqueous solutions by photo-Fenton reaction. A pilot-scale facility using a compound parabolic collector (CPC) reactor was used for this study. Results obtained show rapid and complete oxidation of diclofenac after 60 min, and total mineralization (disappearance of dissolved organic carbon, DOC) after 100 min of exposure to sunlight. Although diclofenac precipitates during the process at low pH, its degradation takes place in the homogeneous phase governed by a precipitation-redissolution-degradation process. Establishment of the reaction pathway was made possible by a thorough analysis of the reaction mixture identifying the main intermediate products generated. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/ MS) and liquid chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC/TOF-MS) were used to identify 18 intermediates, in two tentative degradation routes. The main one was based on the initial hydroxylation of the phenylacetic acid moiety in the C-4 position and subsequent formation of a quinone imine derivative that was the starting point for further multistep degradation involving hydroxylation, decarboxylation, and oxidation reactions. An alternative route was based on the transient preservation of the biphenyl amino moiety

  19. Electricity generation from bio-treatment of sewage sludge with microbial fuel cell.

    PubMed

    Jiang, Junqiu; Zhao, Qingliang; Zhang, Jinna; Zhang, Guodong; Lee, Duu-Jong

    2009-12-01

    A two-chambered microbial fuel cell (MFC) with potassium ferricyanide as its electron acceptor was utilized to degrade excess sewage sludge and to generate electricity. Stable electrical power was produced continuously during operation for 250 h. Total chemical oxygen demand (TCOD) of sludge was reduced by 46.4% when an initial TCOD was 10,850 mg/l. The MFC power output did not significantly depend on process parameters such as substrate concentration, cathode catholyte concentration, and anodic pH. However, the MFC produced power was in close correlation with the soluble chemical oxygen demand (SCOD) of sludge. Furthermore, ultrasonic pretreatment of sludge accelerated organic matter dissolution and, hence, TCOD removal rate in the MFC was increased, but power output was insignificantly enhanced. This study demonstrates that this MFC can generate electricity from sewage sludge over a wide range of process parameters.

  20. Electricity generation from carbon monoxide in a single chamber microbial fuel cell.

    PubMed

    Mehta, P; Hussain, A; Tartakovsky, B; Neburchilov, V; Raghavan, V; Wang, H; Guiot, S R

    2010-05-05

    Electricity production from carbon monoxide (CO) is demonstrated in a single chamber microbial fuel cell (MFC) with a CoTMPP-based air cathode. The MFC was inoculated with anaerobic sludge and continuously sparged with CO as a sole carbon source. Volumetric power output was maximized at a CO flow rate of 4.8LLR(-1)d(-1) reaching 6.4mWLR(-1). Several soluble and gaseous degradation products including hydrogen, methane, and acetate were detected, resulting in a relatively low apparent Coulombic efficiency of 8.7%. Tests also demonstrated electricity production from hydrogen and acetate with the highest and fastest increase in voltage exhibited after acetate injection. It is hypothesized that electricity generation in a CO-fed MFC is accomplished by a consortium of carboxydotrophic and carbon monoxide - tolerant anodophilic microorganisms. Crown Copyright © 2010. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  1. The Tucson Electric Power Solar Test Yard

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lonij, Vincent; Orsburn, Sean; Salhab, Anas; Kopp, Emily; Brooks, Adria; Jayadevan, Vijai; Greenberg, James; St. Germaine, Michael; Allen, Nate; Jones, Sarah; Hardesty, Garrett; Cronin, Alex

    2011-10-01

    In collaboration with Tucson Electric Power we studied the performance of twenty different grid-tied photovoltaic systems, consisting of over 600 PV modules in all. We added data acquisition hardware to monitor DC power from the modules, AC power from the inverters, PV module temperatures, and meteorological data such as the irradiance incident on the PV systems. We report measurements of PV system yields and efficiencies over periods of minutes, days, and years. We also report temperature and irradiance coefficients of efficiency and measurements of long-term degradation. We also use our data to validate models that predict the output from PV systems.

  2. Effect of pulsed electric field on the proteolysis of cold boned beef M. Longissimus lumborum and M. Semimembranosus.

    PubMed

    Suwandy, Via; Carne, Alan; van de Ven, Remy; Bekhit, Alaa El-Din A; Hopkins, David L

    2015-02-01

    The effects of pulsed electric field (PEF) and ageing (3, 7, 14 and 21 days) on the shear force, protein profile, and post-mortem proteolysis of beef loins (M. Longissimus lumborum, LL) and topsides (M. Semimembranosus, SM) were investigated using a range of pulsed electric field treatments [voltages (5 and 10 kV) and frequencies (20, 50, and 90 Hz)]. PEF treatment decreased the shear force of beef LL and SM muscles by up to 19%. The reduction in the shear force in the LL was not affected by the treatment intensity whereas the reduction in the SM was dependent on PEF frequency. PEF treated beef loins showed increased proteolysis, both early post-mortem and during subsequent post-mortem storage reflected by increased degradation of troponin-T and desmin. The most prominent troponin-T degradation was found in samples treated with 5 kV-90 Hz, 10 kV-20 Hz at day 3 and day 7 post-treatment in addition to 10 kV-50 Hz in subsequent post-treatment times. The degradation of desmin in PEF treated beef loins increased with ageing time.

  3. Implications for behavior of volatile elements during impacts—Zinc and copper systematics in sediments from the Ries impact structure and central European tektites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rodovská, Zuzana; Magna, TomáÅ.¡; Žák, Karel; Kato, Chizu; Savage, Paul S.; Moynier, Frédéric; Skála, Roman; Ježek, Josef

    2017-10-01

    Moldavites are tektites genetically related to the Ries impact structure, located in Central Europe, but the source materials and the processes related to the chemical fractionation of moldavites are not fully constrained. To further understand moldavite genesis, the Cu and Zn abundances and isotope compositions were measured in a suite of tektites from four different substrewn fields (South Bohemia, Moravia, Cheb Basin, Lusatia) and chemically diverse sediments from the surroundings of the Ries impact structure. Moldavites are slightly depleted in Zn ( 10-20%) and distinctly depleted in Cu (>90%) relative to supposed sedimentary precursors. Moreover, the moldavites show a wide range in δ66Zn values between 1.7 and 3.7‰ (relative to JMC 3-0749 Lyon) and δ65Cu values between 1.6 and 12.5‰ (relative to NIST SRM 976) and are thus enriched in heavy isotopes relative to their possible parent sedimentary sources (δ66Zn = -0.07 to +0.64‰; δ65Cu = -0.4 to +0.7‰). In particular, the Cheb Basin moldavites show some of the highest δ65Cu values (up to 12.5‰) ever observed in natural samples. The relative magnitude of isotope fractionation for Cu and Zn seen here is opposite to oxygen-poor environments such as the Moon where Zn is significantly more isotopically fractionated than Cu. One possibility is that monovalent Cu diffuses faster than divalent Zn in the reduced melt and diffusion will not affect the extent of Zn isotope fractionation. These observations imply that the capability of forming a redox environment may aid in volatilizing some elements, accompanied by isotope fractionation, during the impact process. The greater extent of elemental depletion, coupled with isotope fractionation of more refractory Cu relative to Zn, may also hinge on the presence of carbonyl species of transition metals and electromagnetic charge, which could exist in the impact-induced high-velocity jet of vapor and melts.

  4. Study of the Staebler-Wronski degradation effect in a-Si:H based p-i-n solar cell

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Naseem, H. A.; Brown, W. D.; Ang, S. S.

    1993-01-01

    Conversion of solar energy into electricity using environmentally safe and clean photovoltaic methods to supplement the ever increasing energy needs has been a cherished goal of many scientists and engineers around the world. Photovoltaic solar cells on the other hand, have been the power source for satellites ever since their introduction in the early sixties. For widespread terrestrial applications, however, the cost of photovoltaic systems must be reduced considerably. Much progress has been made in the recent past towards developing economically viable terrestrial systems, and the future looks highly promising. Thin film solar cells offer cost reductions mainly from their low processing cost, low material cost, and choice of low cost substrates. These are also very attractive for space applications because of their high power densities (power produced per kilogram of solar cell pay load) and high radiation resistance. Amorphous silicon based solar cells are amongst the top candidates for economically viable terrestrial and space based power generation. Despite very low federal funding during the eighties, amorphous silicon solar cell efficiencies have continually been improved - from a low 3 percent to over 13 percent now. Further improvements have been made by the use of multi-junction tandem solar cells. Efficiencies close to 15 percent have been achieved in several labs. In order to be competitive with fossil fuel generated electricity, it is believed that module efficiency of 15 percent or cell efficiency of 20 percent is required. Thus, further improvements in cell performance is imperative. One major problem that was discovered almost 15 years ago in amorphous silicon devices is the well known Staebler-Wronski Effect. Efficiency of amorphous silicon solar cells was found to degrade upon exposure to sunlight. Until now their is no consensus among the scientists on the mechanism for this degradation. Efficiency may degrade anywhere from 10 percent to almost

  5. Electrochemical detection and degradation of ibuprofen from water on multi-walled carbon nanotubes-epoxy composite electrode.

    PubMed

    Motoc, Sorina; Remes, Adriana; Pop, Aniela; Manea, Florica; Schoonman, Joop

    2013-04-01

    This work describes the electrochemical behaviour of ibuprofen on two types of multi-walled carbon nanotubes based composite electrodes, i.e., multi-walled carbon nanotubes-epoxy (MWCNT) and silver-modified zeolite-multi-walled carbon nanotubes-epoxy (AgZMWCNT) composites electrodes. The composite electrodes were obtained using two-roll mill procedure. SEM images of surfaces of the composites revealed a homogeneous distribution of the composite components within the epoxy matrix. AgZMWCNT composite electrode exhibited the better electrical conductivity and larger electroactive surface area. The electrochemical determination of ibuprofen (IBP) was achieved using AgZMWCNT by cyclic voltammetry, differential-pulsed voltammetry, square-wave voltammetry and chronoamperometry. The IBP degradation occurred on both composite electrodes under controlled electrolysis at 1.2 and 1.75 V vs. Ag/AgCl, and IBP concentration was determined comparatively by differential-pulsed voltammetry, under optimized conditions using AgZMWCNT electrode and UV-Vis spectrophotometry methods to determine the IBP degradation performance for each electrode. AgZMWCNT electrode exhibited a dual character allowing a double application in IBP degradation process and its control.

  6. Degradation and recovery of iron doped barium titanate single crystals via modulus spectroscopy and thermally stimulated depolarization current

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Carter, J. J.; Bayer, T. J. M.; Randall, C. A.

    2017-04-01

    Understanding resistance degradation during the application of DC bias and recovery after removing the DC bias provides insight into failure mechanisms and defects in dielectric materials. In this experiment, modulus spectroscopy and thermally stimulated depolarization current (TSDC) techniques were used to characterize the degradation and recovery of iron-doped barium titanate single crystals. Modulus spectroscopy is a very powerful analytical tool applied during degradation and recovery to observe changes in the local conductivity distribution. During degradation, oxygen vacancies migrate to the cathode region, and a counter flow of oxygen anions migrates towards the anode. With increasing time during degradation, the distribution of conductivity broadens only slightly exhibiting crucial differences to iron doped strontium titanate. After removing the DC bias, the recovery shows that a second previously unobserved and distinct conductivity maximum arises in the modulus data. This characteristic with two maxima related to different conductivities in the anode and cathode region is what can be expected from the published defect chemistry. It will be concluded that only the absence of an external electric field during recovery measurements permits the observation of local conductivity measurements without the presence of non-equilibrium conditions such as charge injection. Equilibrium conductivity as a function of oxygen vacancy concentration is described schematically. Oxygen vacancy migration during degradation and recovery is verified by TSDC analysis. We establish a self-consistent rationale of the transient changes in the modulus and TSDC for the iron doped barium titanate single crystal system including electron, hole and oxygen vacancy conductivity. During degradation, the sample fractured.

  7. Degradation of Au-Ti contacts of SiGe HBTs during electromagnetic field stress

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Alaeddine, A.; Genevois, C.; Kadi, M.; Cuvilly, F.; Daoud, K.

    2011-02-01

    This paper addresses electromagnetic field stress effects on SiGe heterojunction bipolar transistors (HBTs)' reliability issues, focusing on the relationship between the stress-induced current and device structure degradations. The origin of leakage currents and electrical parameter shifts in failed transistors has been studied by complementary failure analysis techniques. Characterization of the structure before and after ageing was performed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). For the stressed samples, interface deformations of the titanium (Ti) thin film around all gold (Au) contacts have been clearly detected. These degradations include localized interface reaction between Au and Ti layers as well as their lateral atomic migration causing a significant reduction of Ti thickness. EDS analysis of the disordered region which is near the Si3N4 interface has shown significant signals from Au. These observations could be attributed to the coupling between high current densities induced by stress and thermal effects due to local heating effects.

  8. [Isolation and identification of imazethapyr degradable actinomyces S181 and its degradation characteristics].

    PubMed

    Huo, Ying; Xu, Jing-gang; Li, Shu-qin; Wang, Lei

    2011-05-01

    A selection of actinomyces that could degrade imazethapyr was conducted to provide actinomyces source for bioremediation of soil contaminated by imazethapyr. A strain of actinomyces was isolated from the samples of soil where imazethapyr had been applied for a long-term by use of bottle enriched culture and named S181. The strain had strong ability to degrade imazethapyr and could grow using mazethapyr as the sole nitrogen. The strain was related and shared characteristics to genus Streptomyces omiyaensis according to the physiological and biochemical properties as well as 16S rRNA sequence analysis. The influencing factors (temperature, pH, concentration and inoculum) were studied with fungus growth mass and degradation ratio as indexes. The results showed that the optimal degradation ratio occurred at the condition of inoculation ratio of 3%, 200 mg x L(-1) imazethapyr, at 30 degrees C and pH 7.0. Under these conditions, 84% imazethapyr had been degraded by S181 in medium Gao 1 without nitrogen after 5 days.

  9. Mechanism of high-fluence proton induced electrical degradation in AlGaN/GaN high-electron-mobility transistors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lei, Zhifeng; Guo, Hongxia; Tang, Minghua; Peng, Chao; Zhang, Zhangang; Huang, Yun; En, Yunfei

    2018-07-01

    The effects of displacement damage induced by 3 and 6 MeV protons in AlGaN/GaN high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) are investigated. For the 6 MeV protons at a dose of 5 × 1014 cm‑2, a 12% decrease in saturation current, a 3.8% decrease in the peak transconductance, a 0.3 V positive shift of the threshold voltage, and a three-to fourfold decrease in reverse gate leakage current are observed compared with the pre-irradiation values. The main degradation mechanism is considered to be the generation of deep trap states in the band gap, which remove electrons and reduce the carrier mobility in a two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG). Both the carrier removal rate and negatively charged trap density can be extracted, which shows that about 3500 proton injections lead to one carrier removal. Proton fluence and energy are found to be two key parameters that affect the degradation characteristics of irradiated GaN HEMTs.

  10. Development of novel assays for lignin degradation: comparative analysis of bacterial and fungal lignin degraders.

    PubMed

    Ahmad, Mark; Taylor, Charles R; Pink, David; Burton, Kerry; Eastwood, Daniel; Bending, Gary D; Bugg, Timothy D H

    2010-05-01

    Two spectrophotometric assays have been developed to monitor breakdown of the lignin component of plant lignocellulose: a continuous fluorescent assay involving fluorescently modified lignin, and a UV-vis assay involving chemically nitrated lignin. These assays have been used to analyse lignin degradation activity in bacterial and fungal lignin degraders, and to identify additional soil bacteria that show activity for lignin degradation. Two soil bacteria known to act as aromatic degraders, Pseudomonas putida and Rhodococcus sp. RHA1, consistently showed activity in these assays, and these strains were shown in a small scale experiment to breakdown lignocellulose, producing a number of monocyclic phenolic products. Using milled wood lignin prepared from wheat straw, pine, and miscanthus, some bacterial lignin degraders were found to show specificity for lignin type. These assays could be used to identify novel lignin degraders for breakdown of plant lignocellulose.

  11. Inhibition of Insulin Degrading Enzyme and Insulin Degradation by UV-Killed Lactobacillus acidophilus.

    PubMed

    Neyazi, Nadia; Motevaseli, Elahe; Khorramizadeh, Mohammad Reza; Mohammadi Farsani, Taiebeh; Nouri, Zahra; Nasli Esfahani, Ensieh; Ghahremani, Mohammad Hossein

    2018-05-11

    Probiotics have beneficial effects on management of type 2 diabetes (T2D). The major hallmarks of T2D are insulin deficiency and insulin resistance which emphasize insulin therapy in onset of disease. Lactobacilli such as Lactobacillus acidophilus ( L. acidophilus ) have well known properties on prevention of T2D and insulin resistance but not on insulin degradation. Insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) degrades insulin in the human body. We studied the effects of cell-free supernatant (CFS) and ultraviolet (UV)-killed L. acidophilus (ATCC 314) on IDE activity and insulin degradation in vitro. Cell growth inhibition by CFS and UV-killed L. acidophilus (ATCC 314) was studied and Western blotting and a fluoregenic assay was performed to determine IDE expression and its activity, respectively. Insulin degradation was evaluated by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA). IDE expression and activity was reduced by CFS and UV-killed L. acidophilus (ATCC 314). Although, decreased enzyme expression and activity was not significant for CFS in contrast to MRL (MRS with same pH as CFS). Also, reduction in IDE activity was not statistically considerable when compared to IDE expression. Insulin degradation was increased by CFS but decreased by UV-killed L. acidophilus (ATCC 314).

  12. Degradation in organic light emitting devices

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dinh, Vincent Vinh

    This thesis is about the fundamental causes of degradation in tris(8-Hydroxyquinoline) Aluminum (Alq3)-based organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs). Degradation typically occurs when a current is forced through an insulating material. Since the insulator does not support conduction waves (in its ground state), chemical restructuring must occur to accommodate the current. OLEDs have many technical advantages over the well known semiconductor-based light emitting diodes (LEDs). OLEDs have quantum efficiencies ˜1% (˜10 times higher than the LEDs), and operational power thresholds ˜.05mW (˜100 lower than the LEDs). OLEDs are preferred in power limited and portable devices; devices such as laptops and displays consume ˜1/4 of the supplied power---any power saving is significant. Other advantages, like better compliance to curved surfaces and ease of fabrication, give the OLEDs an even greater edge over the LEDs. OLEDs must have at least comparable or better lifetimes to remain attractive. Typical OLEDs last several 100hrs compared to the several 1000hrs for the LEDs. For reliable OLED application, it is necessary to understand the above breakdown mechanism. In this thesis, we attempt to understand the breakdown by looking at how OLEDs are made, how they work, and when they don't. In the opening sections, we give an overview of OLEDs and LEDs, especially how sustained luminescence is achieved through current circulation. Then in Chapter 2, we look at the basic components in the OLEDs. In Chapter 3 we look at how a hole material (like poly-vinyl carbazole or PVK) establishes an excitonic environment for the sustained luminescence in Alq3. We then approximate how potential is distributed when a simple luminescence system is in operation. In Chapter 4, we look at ways of measuring this distribution via the OLED impedance. Finally in Chapter 5, we look at the OLED stability under light emission conditions via PVK and Alq3 photoemission and photoabsorption spectra

  13. Degradation of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) by UV/chlorine oxidation: Radical roles, influencing factors, and degradation pathway.

    PubMed

    Ye, Bei; Li, Yue; Chen, Zhuo; Wu, Qian-Yuan; Wang, Wen-Long; Wang, Ting; Hu, Hong-Ying

    2017-11-01

    Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is widely used in industry but is difficult to degrade. In this study, the synergistic effect of UV irradiation and chlorination on degradation of PVA was investigated. UV irradiation or chlorination alone did not degrade PVA. By contrast, UV/chlorine oxidation showed good efficiency for PVA degradation via generation of active free radicals, such as OH and Cl. The relative importance of these two free radicals in the oxidation process was evaluated, and it was shown that OH contributed more to PVA degradation than Cl did. The degradation of PVA followed pseudo first order kinetics. The rate constant k increased linearly from 0 min -1 to 0.3 min -1 with increasing chlorine dosage in range of 0 mg/L to 20 mg/L. However, when the chlorine dosage was increased above 20 mg/L, scavenging effect of free radicals occurred, and the degradation efficiency of PVA did not increase much more. Acidic media increased the degradation efficiency of PVA by UV/chlorine oxidation more than basic or neutral media because of the higher ratio of [HOCl]/[OCl - ], higher free radical quantum yields, and the lower free radical quenching effect under acidic conditions. Results of Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy showed that carbonyl groups in degradation products were formed during UV/chlorine oxidation, and a possible degradation pathway via alcohol to carbonyl was proposed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Biogeochemical Cycles in Degraded Lands

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Davidson, Eric A.; Vieira, Ima Celia G.; ReisdeCarvalho, Claudio Jose; DeanedeAbreuSa, Tatiana; deSouzaMoutinho, Paulo R.; Figueiredo, Ricardo O.; Stone, Thomas A.

    2004-01-01

    The objectives of this project were to define and describe the types of landscapes that fall under the broad category of "degraded lands" and to study biogeochemical cycles across this range of degradation found in secondary forests. We define degraded land as that which has lost part of its capacity of renovation of a productive ecosystem, either in the context of agroecosystems or as native communities of vegetation. This definition of degradation permits evaluation of biogeochemical constraints to future land uses.

  15. Degradation of anti-inflammatory drugs in municipal wastewater by heterogeneous photocatalysis and electro-Fenton process.

    PubMed

    Villanueva-Rodríguez, Minerva; Bello-Mendoza, Ricardo; Hernández-Ramírez, Aracely; Ruiz-Ruiz, Edgar J

    2018-03-01

    Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) are compounds frequently found in municipal wastewater and their degradation by conventional wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) is generally incomplete. This study compared the efficiency of two advanced oxidation processes (AOP), namely heterogeneous photocatalysis (HP) and electro-Fenton (EF), in the degradation of a mixture of common NSAID (diclofenac, ibuprofen and naproxen) dissolved in either deionized water or effluent from a WWTP. Both processes were effective in degrading the NSAID mixture and the trend of degradation was as follows, diclofenac > naproxen > ibuprofen. EF with a current density of 40 mA cm -2 and 0.3 mmol Fe 2+  L -1 was the most efficient process to mineralize the organic compounds, achieving up to 92% TOC removal in deionized water and 90% in the WWTP effluent after 3 h of reaction. HP with 1.4 g TiO 2  L -1 at pH 7 under sunlight, produced 85% TOC removal in deionized water and 39% in WWTP effluent also after 3 h treatment. The lower TOC removal efficiency shown by HP with the WWTP effluent was attributed mainly to the scavenging of reactive species by background organic matter in the wastewater. On the contrary, inorganic ions in the wastewater may produce oxidazing species during the EF process, which contributes to a higher degradation efficiency. EF is a promising option for the treatment of anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals in municipal WWTP at competitive electrical energy efficiencies.

  16. Results of electric-vehicle propulsion system performance on three lead-acid battery systems

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ewashinka, J. G.

    1984-01-01

    Three types of state of the art 6 V lead acid batteries were tested. The cycle life of lead acid batteries as a function of the electric vehicle propulsion system design was determined. Cycle life, degradation rate and failure modes with different battery types (baseline versus state of the art tubular and thin plate batteries were compared. The effects of testing strings of three versus six series connected batteries on overall performance were investigated. All three types do not seem to have an economically feasible battery system for the propulsion systems. The tubular plate batteries on the load leveled profile attained 235 cycles with no signs of degradation and minimal capacity loss.

  17. Results of electric-vehicle propulsion system performance on three lead-acid battery systems

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ewashinka, J. G.

    1984-01-01

    Three types of state of the art 6 V lead acid batteries were tested. The cycle life of lead acid batteries as a function of the electric vehicle propulsion system design was determined. Cycle life, degradation rate and failure modes with different battery types (baseline versus state of the art tubular and thin plate batteries) were compared. The effects of testing strings of three versus six series connected batteries on overall performance were investigated. All three types do not seem to have an economically feasible battery system for the propulsion systems. The tubular plate batteries on the load leveled profile attained 235 cycles with no signs of degradation and minimal capacity loss.

  18. Bacteria-mediated bisphenol A degradation.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Weiwei; Yin, Kun; Chen, Lingxin

    2013-07-01

    Bisphenol A (BPA) is an important monomer in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastics, food cans, and other daily used chemicals. Daily and worldwide usage of BPA and BPA-contained products led to its ubiquitous distribution in water, sediment/soil, and atmosphere. Moreover, BPA has been identified as an environmental endocrine disruptor for its estrogenic and genotoxic activity. Thus, BPA contamination in the environment is an increasingly worldwide concern, and methods to efficiently remove BPA from the environment are urgently recommended. Although many factors affect the fate of BPA in the environment, BPA degradation is mainly depended on the metabolism of bacteria. Many BPA-degrading bacteria have been identified from water, sediment/soil, and wastewater treatment plants. Metabolic pathways of BPA degradation in specific bacterial strains were proposed, based on the metabolic intermediates detected during the degradation process. In this review, the BPA-degrading bacteria were summarized, and the (proposed) BPA degradation pathway mediated by bacteria were referred.

  19. Prognostics Applied to Electric Propulsion UAV

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Goebel, Kai; Saha, Bhaskar

    2013-01-01

    Health management plays an important role in operations of UAV. If there is equipment malfunction on critical components, safe operation of the UAV might possibly be compromised. A technology with particular promise in this arena is equipment prognostics. This technology provides a state assessment of the health of components of interest and, if a degraded state has been found, it estimates how long it will take before the equipment will reach a failure threshold, conditional on assumptions about future operating conditions and future environmental conditions. This chapter explores the technical underpinnings of how to perform prognostics and shows an implementation on the propulsion of an electric UAV. A particle filter is shown as the method of choice in performing state assessment and predicting future degradation. The method is then applied to the batteries that provide power to the propeller motors. An accurate run-time battery life prediction algorithm is of critical importance to ensure the safe operation of the vehicle if one wants to maximize in-air time. Current reliability based techniques turn out to be insufficient to manage the use of such batteries where loads vary frequently in uncertain environments.

  20. Trapping charges at grain boundaries and degradation of CH3NH3Pb(I1-x Br x )3 perovskite solar cells.

    PubMed

    Nguyen, Bich Phuong; Kim, Gee Yeong; Jo, William; Kim, Byeong Jo; Jung, Hyun Suk

    2017-08-04

    The electrical properties of CH 3 NH 3 Pb(I 1-x Br x ) 3 (x = 0.13) perovskite materials were investigated under ambient conditions. The local work function and the local current were measured using Kelvin probe force microscopy and conductive atomic force microscopy, respectively. The degradation of the perovskite layers depends on their grain size. As the material degrades, an additional peak in the surface potential appears simultaneously with a sudden increase and subsequent relaxation of the local current. The potential bending at the grain boundaries and the intragrains is the most likely reason for the change of the local current surface of the perovskite layers. The improved understanding of the degradation mechanism garnered from this study helps pave the way toward an improved photo-conversion efficiency in perovskite solar cells.

  1. Trapping charges at grain boundaries and degradation of CH3NH3Pb(I1-x Br x )3 perovskite solar cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Phuong Nguyen, Bich; Kim, Gee Yeong; Jo, William; Kim, Byeong Jo; Jung, Hyun Suk

    2017-08-01

    The electrical properties of CH3NH3Pb(I1-x Br x )3 (x = 0.13) perovskite materials were investigated under ambient conditions. The local work function and the local current were measured using Kelvin probe force microscopy and conductive atomic force microscopy, respectively. The degradation of the perovskite layers depends on their grain size. As the material degrades, an additional peak in the surface potential appears simultaneously with a sudden increase and subsequent relaxation of the local current. The potential bending at the grain boundaries and the intragrains is the most likely reason for the change of the local current surface of the perovskite layers. The improved understanding of the degradation mechanism garnered from this study helps pave the way toward an improved photo-conversion efficiency in perovskite solar cells.

  2. In vitro degradation of ribosomes.

    PubMed

    Mora, G; Rivas, A

    1976-12-01

    The cytoplasmic ribosomes from Euglena gracilis var. bacillaris are found to be of two types taking into consideration their stability "in vitro". In the group of unstable ribosomes the large subunit is degraded. The other group apparently does not suffer any degradation under the conditions described. However the RNAs extracted from both types of ribosomes are degraded during sucrose density gradients. The degradation of the largest RNA species has been reported previously, but no comment has been made about the stability of the ribosome itself.

  3. Lysosomal degradation of membrane lipids.

    PubMed

    Kolter, Thomas; Sandhoff, Konrad

    2010-05-03

    The constitutive degradation of membrane components takes place in the acidic compartments of a cell, the endosomes and lysosomes. Sites of lipid degradation are intralysosomal membranes that are formed in endosomes, where the lipid composition is adjusted for degradation. Cholesterol is sorted out of the inner membranes, their content in bis(monoacylglycero)phosphate increases, and, most likely, sphingomyelin is degraded to ceramide. Together with endosomal and lysosomal lipid-binding proteins, the Niemann-Pick disease, type C2-protein, the GM2-activator, and the saposins sap-A, -B, -C, and -D, a suitable membrane lipid composition is required for degradation of complex lipids by hydrolytic enzymes. Copyright 2009 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Iodine doped carbon nanotube cables exceeding specific electrical conductivity of metals

    PubMed Central

    Zhao, Yao; Wei, Jinquan; Vajtai, Robert; Ajayan, Pulickel M.; Barrera, Enrique V.

    2011-01-01

    Creating highly electrically conducting cables from macroscopic aggregates of carbon nanotubes, to replace metallic wires, is still a dream. Here we report the fabrication of iodine-doped, double-walled nanotube cables having electrical resistivity reaching ∼10−7 Ω.m. Due to the low density, their specific conductivity (conductivity/weight) is higher than copper and aluminum and is only just below that of the highest specific conductivity metal, sodium. The cables exhibit high current-carrying capacity of 104∼105 A/cm2 and can be joined together into arbitrary length and diameter, without degradation of their electrical properties. The application of such nanotube cables is demonstrated by partly replacing metal wires in a household light bulb circuit. The conductivity variation as a function of temperature for the cables is five times smaller than that for copper. The high conductivity nanotube cables could find a range of applications, from low dimensional interconnects to transmission lines. PMID:22355602

  5. Pathway for recovery of photo-degraded polymer solar cells by post degradation thermal anneal

    DOE PAGES

    Bhattacharya, J.; Joshi, P. H.; Biswas, Rana; ...

    2017-02-16

    The photo-degradation of polymer solar cells is a critical challenge preventing its commercial deployment. We experimentally fabricate organic solar cells and characterize their degradation under solar simulators in an environmental chamber under nitrogen flow, without exposure to oxygen and moisture. We have developed a thermally stable inverted organic solar cell architecture in which light induced degradation of device characteristics can be reversibly annealed to the pristine values. The stable inverted cells utilized MoO x layers that are thermally treated immediately after their deposition on the organic layer, and before metal cathode deposition. Organic solar cells that are photo-degraded in themore » presence of oxygen, however show irreversible degradation that cannot be thermally recovered. The decrease of organic solar cell characteristics correlates with increases in mid-gap electronic states, measured using capacitance spectroscopy and dark current. It is likely the photo-induced defect states caused by local H motion from the alkyl chains to the aromatic backbone, can be reversibly annealed at elevated temperatures after photo-degradation. Finally, our results provide a pathway for improving the stability of organic photovoltaics.« less

  6. Pathway for recovery of photo-degraded polymer solar cells by post degradation thermal anneal

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Bhattacharya, J.; Joshi, P. H.; Biswas, Rana

    The photo-degradation of polymer solar cells is a critical challenge preventing its commercial deployment. We experimentally fabricate organic solar cells and characterize their degradation under solar simulators in an environmental chamber under nitrogen flow, without exposure to oxygen and moisture. We have developed a thermally stable inverted organic solar cell architecture in which light induced degradation of device characteristics can be reversibly annealed to the pristine values. The stable inverted cells utilized MoO x layers that are thermally treated immediately after their deposition on the organic layer, and before metal cathode deposition. Organic solar cells that are photo-degraded in themore » presence of oxygen, however show irreversible degradation that cannot be thermally recovered. The decrease of organic solar cell characteristics correlates with increases in mid-gap electronic states, measured using capacitance spectroscopy and dark current. It is likely the photo-induced defect states caused by local H motion from the alkyl chains to the aromatic backbone, can be reversibly annealed at elevated temperatures after photo-degradation. Finally, our results provide a pathway for improving the stability of organic photovoltaics.« less

  7. Ions in Wine and Their Relation to Electrical Conductivity Under Ultrasound Irradiation.

    PubMed

    Yan, Yan-Ying; Zhang, Qing-An; Li, Er-Chun; Zhang, Ya-Feng

    2017-09-01

    Change in electrical conductivity is considered a potential indicator for the on-line monitoring of wine aging accelerated by ultrasound, as determined in our previous study; however, the exact mechanism of change is currently unclear. In this study, the ion content and the total ionic strength were analyzed by ion-exchange chromatography to investigate the change mechanism of the electrical conductivity of wine under ultrasound irradiation. The results indicate that the changes in wine electrical conductivity during ultrasound treatment correlate with the changes in the cations (Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, and NH4+) and in the anions from the organic acids (malic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, oxalic acid, and formic acid) and inorganic acids (Cl-, SO42-, and PO43-), especially for the ionic strength of the wine. Overall, electrical conductivity may be used to reflect the chemical reactions related to wine aging to a certain extent because the reactions can be initiated by the conversion of cations and by the degradation or auxiliary function of organic acids.

  8. Characterization of deliberately nickel-doped silicon wafers and solar cells. [microstructure, electrical properties, and energy conversion efficiency

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Salama, A. M.

    1980-01-01

    Microstructural and electrical evaluation tests were performed on nickel-doped p-type silicon wafers before and after solar cell fabrication. The concentration levels of nickel in silicon were 5 x 10 to the 14th power, 4 x 10 to the 15th power, and 8 x 10 to the 15th power atoms/cu cm. It was found that nickel precipitated out during the growth process in all three ingots. Clumps of precipitates, some of which exhibited star shape, were present at different depths. If the clumps are distributed at depths approximately 20 micron apart and if they are larger than 10 micron in diameter, degradation occurs in solar cell electrical properties and cell conversion efficiency. The larger the size of the precipitate clump, the greater the degradation in solar cell efficiency. A large grain boundary around the cell effective area acted as a gettering center for the precipitates and impurities and caused improvement in solar cell efficiency. Details of the evaluation test results are given.

  9. Nondestructive evaluation of composite materials by electrical resistance measurement

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mei, Zhen

    This dissertation investigates electrical resistance measurement for nondestructive evaluation of carbon fiber (CF) reinforced polymer matrix composites. The method involves measuring the DC electrical resistance in either the longitudinal or through thickness direction. The thermal history and thermal properties of thermoplastic/CF composites were studied by longitudinal and through-thickness resistance measurements. The resistance results were consistent with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermomechanical analysis (TMA) results. The resistance measurements gave more information on the melting of the polymer matrix than TMA. They were more sensitive to the glass transition of the polymer matrix than DSC. The through-thickness resistance decreased as autohesion progressed. The activation energy of autohesion was 21.2 kJ/mol for both nylon-6 and polyphenylene sulfide (PPS)/CF composites. Adhesive bonding and debonding were monitored in real-time by measurement of the through-thickness resistance between the adherends in an adhesive joint during heating and subsequent cooling. Debonding occurred during cooling when the pressure or temperature during prior bonding was not sufficiently high. A long heating time below the melting temperature (T m) was found to be detrimental to subsequent PPS adhesive joint development above Tm, due to curing reactions below Tm and consequent reduced mass flow response above Tm. A high heating rate (small heating time) enhanced the bonding more than a high pressure. The longitudinal resistance measurement was used to investigate the effects of temperature and stress on the interface between a concrete substrate and its epoxy/CF composite retrofit. The resistance of the retrofit was increased by bond degradation, whether the degradation was due to heat or stress. The degradation was reversible. Irreversible disturbance in the fiber arrangement occurred slightly as thermal or load cycling occurred, as indicated by the

  10. Spontaneous emission of Bloch oscillation radiation under the competing influences of microcavity enhancement and inhomogeneous interface degradation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sokolov, V. N.; Iafrate, G. J.

    2014-02-07

    A theory for the spontaneous emission (SE) of terahertz radiation for a Bloch electron traversing a single energy miniband of a superlattice (SL) in a cavity, while undergoing elastic scattering is presented. The Bloch electron is accelerated under the influence of a superimposed external constant electric field and an internal inhomogeneous electric field, while radiating into a microcavity. The analysis of the SE accounts for both the spectral structure of nonharmonic miniband components and the Bloch oscillation degradation effects arising from elastic scattering due to SL interface roughness. The interface roughness effects are decomposed into contributions arising from independent planarmore » and cross-correlated neighboring planar interfaces; parametric numerical estimates show that the cross-correlated contribution to the SE relaxation rate is relatively small, representing less than roughly 10% of the total relaxation rate. It is shown that the degradation effects from SL interface roughness can be more than compensated for by the enhancements derived from microcavity-based tuning of the emission frequency to the cavity density of states peak. The theoretical approach developed herein has general applicability beyond its use for elastic scattering due to interface roughness. As well, the results obtained in this analysis can be useful in the development of SL-based Bloch-oscillator terahertz devices.« less

  11. Microbial Enzymatic Degradation of Biodegradable Plastics.

    PubMed

    Roohi; Bano, Kulsoom; Kuddus, Mohammed; Zaheer, Mohammed R; Zia, Qamar; Khan, Mohammed F; Ashraf, Ghulam Md; Gupta, Anamika; Aliev, Gjumrakch

    2017-01-01

    The renewable feedstock derived biodegradable plastics are important in various industries such as packaging, agricultural, paper coating, garbage bags and biomedical implants. The increasing water and waste pollution due to the available decomposition methods of plastic degradation have led to the emergence of biodegradable plastics and biological degradation with microbial (bacteria and fungi) extracellular enzymes. The microbes utilize biodegradable polymers as the substrate under starvation and in unavailability of microbial nutrients. Microbial enzymatic degradation is suitable from bioremediation point of view as no waste accumulation occurs. It is important to understand the microbial interaction and mechanism involved in the enzymatic degradation of biodegradable plastics under the influence of several environmental factors such as applied pH, thermo-stability, substrate molecular weight and/or complexity. To study the surface erosion of polymer film is another approach for hydrolytic degradation characteristion. The degradation of biopolymer is associated with the production of low molecular weight monomer and generation of carbon dioxide, methane and water molecule. This review reported the degradation study of various existing biodegradable plastics along with the potent degrading microbes (bacteria and fungi). Patents available on plastic biodegradation with biotechnological significance is also summarized in this paper. This paper assesses that new disposal technique should be adopted for the degradation of polymers and further research is required for the economical production of biodegradable plastics along with their enzymatic degradation. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

  12. Stretched-to-compressed-exponential crossover observed in the electrical degradation kinetics of some spinel-metallic screen-printed structures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Balitska, V.; Shpotyuk, O.; Brunner, M.; Hadzaman, I.

    2018-02-01

    Thermally-induced (170 °C) degradation-relaxation kinetics is examined in screen-printed structures composed of spinel Cu0.1Ni0.1Co1.6Mn1.2O4 ceramics with conductive Ag or Ag-Pd layered electrodes. Structural inhomogeneities due to Ag and Ag-Pd diffusants in spinel phase environment play a decisive role in non-exponential kinetics of negative relative resistance drift. If Ag migration in spinel is inhibited by Pd addition due to Ag-Pd alloy, the kinetics attains stretched exponential behavior with ∼0.58 exponent, typical for one-stage diffusion in structurally-dispersive media. Under deep Ag penetration into spinel ceramics, as for thick films with Ag-layered electrodes, the degradation kinetics drastically changes, attaining features of two-step diffusing process governed by compressed-exponential dependence with power index of ∼1.68. Crossover from stretched- to compressed-exponential kinetics in spinel-metallic structures is mapped on free energy landscape of non-barrier multi-well system under strong perturbation from equilibrium, showing transition with a character downhill scenario resulting in faster than exponential decaying.

  13. Effects of Nanotexture on Electrical Profiling of Single Tumor Cell and Detection of Cancer from Blood in Microfluidic Channels

    PubMed Central

    Islam, Muhymin; Motasim Bellah, Mohammad; Sajid, Adeel; Raziul Hasan, Mohammad; Kim, Young-tae; Iqbal, Samir M.

    2015-01-01

    Microfluidic channels have been implemented to detect cancer cells from blood using electrical measurement of each single cell from the sample. Every cell provided characteristic current profile based on its mechano-physical properties. Cancer cells not only showed higher translocation time and peak amplitude compared to blood cells, their pulse shape was also distinctively different. Prevalent microfluidic channels are plain but we created nanotexture on the channel walls using micro reactive ion etching (micro-RIE). The translocation behaviors of the metastatic renal cancer cells through plain and nanotextured PDMS microchannels showed clear differences. Nanotexture enhanced the cell-surface interactions and more than 50% tumor cells exhibited slower translocation through nanotextured channels compared to plain devices. On the other hand, most of the blood cells had very similar characteristics in both channels. Only 7.63% blood cells had slower translocation in nanotextured microchannels. The tumor cell detection efficiency from whole blood increased by 14% in nanotextured microchannels compared to plain channels. This interesting effect of nanotexture on translocation behavior of tumor cells is important for the early detection of cancer. PMID:26373820

  14. Physical-chemical characterization of the textile dye Azo Ab52 degradation by corona plasma

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gómez, A.; Torres-Arenas, A. J.; Vergara-Sánchez, J.; Torres, C.; Reyes, P. G.; Martínez, H.; Saldarriaga-Noreña, Hugo

    2017-10-01

    This work characterizes the degradation of the textile dye azo Acid Black 52 by measuring several physical and chemical parameters. A corona plasma was created at atmospheric pressure and applied on the liquid-air interface of water samples containing the dye. 1.0 mM of ferrous sulfate (FeSO4) was added to 1.0 mM dye solution, for a total volume of 250 mL. For each treatment, a number of parameters were quantified. These were voltage, current, temperature, loss of volume, pH, electrical conductivity, concentration, optical mission spectra, chemical oxygen demand (COD), total organic carbon (TOC), and the removal ratio. Because of the increase in the sample temperature, the volume lost by evaporation was explored. The results show that the efficiency of the dye degradation by plasma is a function of treatment time. Moreover, the reactive concentration of FeSO4 and the exposition time of the plasma were varied at a constant volume, leading to the determination of the concentrations and optimal times. Considering the degradation and removal parameters, at the maximum treated time of 80 min, it found that COD was of 96.36%, TOC of 93.93%, and the removal ratio of 97.47%.

  15. A receding horizon sliding control approach for electric powertrains with backlash and flexible half-shafts

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Yutong; Hansen, Andreas; Karl Hedrick, J.; Zhang, Junzhi

    2017-12-01

    Active control of electric powertrains is challenging, due to the fact that backlash and structural flexibility in transmission components can cause severe performance degradation or even instability of the control system. Furthermore, high impact forces in transmissions reduce driving comfort and possibly lead to damage of the mechanical elements in contact. In this paper, a nonlinear electric powertrain is modelled as a piecewise affine (PWA) system. The novel receding horizon sliding control (RHSC) idea is extended to constrained PWA systems and utilised to systematically address the active control problem for electric powertrains. Simulations are conducted in Matlab/Simulink in conjunction with the high fidelity Carsim software. RHSC shows superior jerk suppression and target wheel speed tracking performance as well as reduced computational cost over classical model predictive control (MPC). This indicates the newly proposed RHSC is an effective method to address the active control problem for electric powertrains.

  16. Application de l’analyse des séries chronologiques à la projection d’effectifs de population scolaire par la méthode des composantes

    PubMed Central

    Smith, Herbert L.

    2016-01-01

    Cet article veut montrer qu’on peut réécrire des modèles démographiques en vue de réaliser des projections par cohorte, en les transposant dans un modèle économétrique vecteur autoré-gressif (VAR). De cette façon, la méthode des composantes se dote d’un cadre stochastique qui étend son envergure. Le potentiel de cette perspective est illustré à travers l’exemple d’une projection d’effectifs de population scolaire. Il met en valeur une série d’équations qui permet de vérifier la validité de plusieurs choix de modélisations habituellement utilisées dans le domaine de la prévision. PMID:27346921

  17. Isolation and characterization of an ether-type polyurethane-degrading micro-organism and analysis of degradation mechanism by Alternaria sp.

    PubMed

    Matsumiya, Y; Murata, N; Tanabe, E; Kubota, K; Kubo, M

    2010-06-01

    To degrade ether-type polyurethane (ether-PUR), ether-PUR-degrading micro-organism was isolated. Moreover, ether-PUR-degrading mechanisms were analysed using model compounds of ether-PUR. A fungus designated as strain PURDK2, capable of changing the configuration of ether-PUR, has been isolated. This isolated fungus was identified as Alternaria sp. Using a scanning electron microscope, the grid structure of ether-PUR was shown to be melted and disrupted by the fungus. The degradation of ether-PUR by the fungus was analysed, and the ether-PUR was degraded by the fungus by about 27.5%. To analyse the urethane-bond degradation by the fungus, a degraded product of ethylphenylcarbamate was analysed using GC/MS. Aniline and ethanol were detected by degradation with the supernatant, indicating that the fungus secreted urethane-bond-degrading enzyme(s). PURDK2 also degraded urea bonds when diphenylmethane-4,4'-dibutylurea was used as a substrate. The enzyme(s) from PURDK2 degraded urethane and urea bonds to convert the high molecular weight structure of ether-PUR to small molecules; and then the fungus seems to use the small molecules as an energy source. Ether-PUR-degrading fungus, strain PURDK2, was isolated, and the urethane- and urea-bonds-degrading enzymes from strain PURDK2 could contribute to the material recycling of ether-PUR.

  18. Numerical Modeling of Electrode Degradation During Resistance Spot Welding Using CuCrZr Electrodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gauthier, Elise; Carron, Denis; Rogeon, Philippe; Pilvin, Philippe; Pouvreau, Cédric; Lety, Thomas; Primaux, François

    2014-05-01

    Resistance spot welding is a technique widely used by the automotive industry to assemble thin steel sheets. The cyclic thermo-mechanical loading associated with the accumulation of weld spots progressively deteriorates the electrodes. This study addresses the development of a comprehensive multi-physical model that describes the sequential deterioration. Welding tests achieved on uncoated and Zn-coated steel sheets are analyzed. Finite element analysis is performed using an electrical-thermal-metallurgical model. A numerical experimental design is carried out to highlight the main process parameters and boundary conditions which affect electrode degradation.

  19. Anaerobic benzene degradation by bacteria

    PubMed Central

    Vogt, Carsten; Kleinsteuber, Sabine; Richnow, Hans‐Hermann

    2011-01-01

    Summary Benzene is a widespread and toxic contaminant. The fate of benzene in contaminated aquifers seems to be primarily controlled by the abundance of oxygen: benzene is aerobically degraded at high rates by ubiquitous microorganisms, and the oxygen‐dependent pathways for its breakdown were elucidated more than 50 years ago. In contrast, benzene was thought to be persistent under anoxic conditions until 25 years ago. Nevertheless, within the last 15 years, several benzene‐degrading cultures have been enriched under varying electron acceptor conditions in laboratories around the world, and organisms involved in anaerobic benzene degradation have been identified, indicating that anaerobic benzene degradation is a relevant environmental process. However, only a few benzene degraders have been isolated in pure culture so far, and they all use nitrate as an electron acceptor. In some highly enriched strictly anaerobic cultures, benzene has been described to be mineralized cooperatively by two or more different organisms. Despite great efforts, the biochemical mechanism by which the aromatic ring of benzene is activated in the absence of oxygen is still not fully elucidated; methylation, hydroxylation and carboxylation are discussed as likely reactions. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the ‘key players’ of anaerobic benzene degradation under different electron acceptor conditions and the possible pathway(s) of anaerobic benzene degradation. PMID:21450012

  20. Four-terminal electrical testing device. [initiator bridgewire resistance

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Robinson, Robert L. (Inventor); Graves, Thomas J. (Inventor); Hoffman, William C., III (Inventor)

    1987-01-01

    The invention relates to a four-terminal electrical connector device for testing and measuring unknown resistances of initiators used for starting pyrotechnic events aboard the space shuttle. The testing device minimizes contact resistance degradation effects and so improves the reliability of resistance measurements taken with the device. Separate and independent voltage sensing and current supply circuits each include a pair of socket contacts for mating engagement with the pins of the initiator. The unknown resistance that is measured by the device is the resistance of the bridgewire of the initiator which is required to be between 0.95 and 1.15 ohms.

  1. Microbial Degradation of Asphalt1

    PubMed Central

    Phillips, U. A.; Traxler, R. W.

    1963-01-01

    Organisms of the genera Pseudomonas, Chromobacterium, and Bacillus capable of degrading asphalt were isolated by enrichment cultures. The asphalt degradation by these organisms varied from 3 to 25% after incubation for 1 week. The effects of temperature, pH, and atmosphere of incubation on asphalt degradation were investigated and were shown to vary with different organisms on the same substrate. PMID:16349633

  2. Calorimetric analysis of fungal degraded wood

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Blankenhorn, P.R.; Baldwin, R.C.; Merrill, W. Jr.

    1980-01-01

    Endothermic transition and gross heat of combustion of aspenwood subjected to degradation by Lenzites trabea and Polyporus versicolor were determined by using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and an adiabatic O bomb. Endothermic peak areas of undegraded and fungi-degraded wood differed from each other at all levels of weight loss. The regression analysis of the DSC data vs. weight loss revealed a significant relations, although not highly correlated, for P. versicolor-degraded specimens and a nonsignificant relation for L. trabea-degraded specimens; weight loss and gross heat of combustion values of degraded specimens were significantly correlated.

  3. Proteogenomic Characterization of Monocyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Degradation Pathways in the Aniline-Degrading Bacterium Burkholderia sp. K24.

    PubMed

    Lee, Sang-Yeop; Kim, Gun-Hwa; Yun, Sung Ho; Choi, Chi-Won; Yi, Yoon-Sun; Kim, Jonghyun; Chung, Young-Ho; Park, Edmond Changkyun; Kim, Seung Il

    2016-01-01

    Burkholderia sp. K24, formerly known as Acinetobacter lwoffii K24, is a soil bacterium capable of utilizing aniline as its sole carbon and nitrogen source. Genomic sequence analysis revealed that this bacterium possesses putative gene clusters for biodegradation of various monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (MAHs), including benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX), as well as aniline. We verified the proposed MAH biodegradation pathways by dioxygenase activity assays, RT-PCR, and LC/MS-based quantitative proteomic analyses. This proteogenomic approach revealed four independent degradation pathways, all converging into the citric acid cycle. Aniline and p-hydroxybenzoate degradation pathways converged into the β-ketoadipate pathway. Benzoate and toluene were degraded through the benzoyl-CoA degradation pathway. The xylene isomers, i.e., o-, m-, and p-xylene, were degraded via the extradiol cleavage pathways. Salicylate was degraded through the gentisate degradation pathway. Our results show that Burkholderia sp. K24 possesses versatile biodegradation pathways, which may be employed for efficient bioremediation of aniline and BTX.

  4. Proteogenomic Characterization of Monocyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Degradation Pathways in the Aniline-Degrading Bacterium Burkholderia sp. K24

    PubMed Central

    Yun, Sung Ho; Choi, Chi-Won; Yi, Yoon-Sun; Kim, Jonghyun; Chung, Young-Ho; Park, Edmond Changkyun; Kim, Seung Il

    2016-01-01

    Burkholderia sp. K24, formerly known as Acinetobacter lwoffii K24, is a soil bacterium capable of utilizing aniline as its sole carbon and nitrogen source. Genomic sequence analysis revealed that this bacterium possesses putative gene clusters for biodegradation of various monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (MAHs), including benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX), as well as aniline. We verified the proposed MAH biodegradation pathways by dioxygenase activity assays, RT-PCR, and LC/MS-based quantitative proteomic analyses. This proteogenomic approach revealed four independent degradation pathways, all converging into the citric acid cycle. Aniline and p-hydroxybenzoate degradation pathways converged into the β-ketoadipate pathway. Benzoate and toluene were degraded through the benzoyl-CoA degradation pathway. The xylene isomers, i.e., o-, m-, and p-xylene, were degraded via the extradiol cleavage pathways. Salicylate was degraded through the gentisate degradation pathway. Our results show that Burkholderia sp. K24 possesses versatile biodegradation pathways, which may be employed for efficient bioremediation of aniline and BTX. PMID:27124467

  5. Photocatalytic degradation of carbofuran by TiO2-coated activated carbon: Model for kinetic, electrical energy per order and economic analysis.

    PubMed

    Vishnuganth, M A; Remya, Neelancherry; Kumar, Mathava; Selvaraju, N

    2016-10-01

    The photocatalytic removal of carbofuran (CBF) from aqueous solution in the presence of granular activated carbon supported TiO2 (GAC-TiO2) catalyst was investigated under batch-mode experiments. The presence of GAC enhanced the photocatalytic efficiency of the TiO2 catalyst. Experiments were conducted at different concentrations of CBF to clarify the dependence of apparent rate constant (kapp) in the pseudo first-order kinetics on CBF photodegradation. The general relationship between the adsorption equilibrium constant (K) and reaction rate constant (kr) were explained by using the modified Langmuir-Hinshelwood (L-H) model. From the observed kinetics, it was observed that the surface reaction was the rate limiting step in the GAC-TiO2 catalyzed photodegradation of CBF. The values of K and kr for this pseudo first-order reaction were found to be 0.1942 L  mg(-1) and 1.51 mg L(-1) min(-1), respectively. In addition, the dependence of kapp on the half-life time was determined by calculating the electrical energy per order experimentally (EEO experimental) and also by modeling (EEO model). The batch-mode experimental outcomes revealed the possibility of 100% CBF removal (under optimized conditions and at an initial concentration of 50 mg L(-1) and 100 mg L(-1)) at a contact time of 90 min and 120 min, respectively. Both L-H kinetic model and EEO model fitted well with the batch-mode experimental data and also elucidated successfully the phenomena of photocatalytic degradation in the presence of GAC-TiO2 catalyst. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Abiotic degradation of plastic films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ángeles-López, Y. G.; Gutiérrez-Mayen, A. M.; Velasco-Pérez, M.; Beltrán-Villavicencio, M.; Vázquez-Morillas, A.; Cano-Blanco, M.

    2017-01-01

    Degradable plastics have been promoted as an option to mitigate the environmental impacts of plastic waste. However, there is no certainty about its degradability under different environmental conditions. The effect of accelerated weathering (AW), natural weathering (NW) and thermal oxidation (TO) on different plastics (high density polyethylene, HDPE; oxodegradable high density polyethylene, HDPE-oxo; compostable plastic, Ecovio ® metalized polypropylene, PP; and oxodegradable metalized polypropylene, PP-oxo) was studied. Plastics films were exposed to AW per 110 hours; to NW per 90 days; and to TO per 30 days. Plastic films exposed to AW and NW showed a general loss on mechanical properties. The highest reduction in elongation at break on AW occurred to HDPE-oxo (from 400.4% to 20.9%) and was higher than 90% for HDPE, HDPE-oxo, Ecovio ® and PP-oxo in NW. No substantial evidence of degradation was found on plastics exposed to TO. Oxo-plastics showed higher degradation rates than their conventional counterparts, and the compostable plastic was resistant to degradation in the studied abiotic conditions. This study shows that degradation of plastics in real life conditions will vary depending in both, their composition and the environment.

  7. Synergistic Degradation of Linuron by a Bacterial Consortium and Isolation of a Single Linuron-Degrading Variovorax Strain

    PubMed Central

    Dejonghe, Winnie; Berteloot, Ellen; Goris, Johan; Boon, Nico; Crul, Katrien; Maertens, Siska; Höfte, Monica; De Vos, Paul; Verstraete, Willy; Top, Eva M.

    2003-01-01

    The bacterial community composition of a linuron-degrading enrichment culture and the role of the individual strains in linuron degradation have been determined by a combination of methods, such as denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis of the total 16S rRNA gene pool, isolation and identification of strains, and biodegradation assays. Three strains, Variovorax sp. strain WDL1, Delftia acidovorans WDL34, and Pseudomonas sp. strain WDL5, were isolated directly from the linuron-degrading culture. In addition, subculture of this enrichment culture on potential intermediates in the degradation pathway of linuron (i.e., N,O-dimethylhydroxylamine and 3-chloroaniline) resulted in the isolation of, respectively, Hyphomicrobium sulfonivorans WDL6 and Comamonas testosteroni WDL7. Of these five strains, only Variovorax sp. strain WDL1 was able to use linuron as the sole source of C, N, and energy. WDL1 first converted linuron to 3,4-dichloroaniline (3,4-DCA), which transiently accumulated in the medium but was subsequently degraded. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a strain that degrades linuron further than the aromatic intermediates. Interestingly, the rate of linuron degradation by strain WDL1 was lower than that for the consortium, but was clearly increased when WDL1 was coinoculated with each of the other four strains. D. acidovorans WDL34 and C. testosteroni WDL7 were found to be responsible for degradation of the intermediate 3,4-DCA, and H. sulfonivorans WDL6 was the only strain able to degrade N,O-dimethylhydroxylamine. The role of Pseudomonas sp. strain WDL5 needs to be further elucidated. The degradation of linuron can thus be performed by a single isolate, Variovorax sp. strain WDL1, but is stimulated by a synergistic interaction with the other strains isolated from the same linuron-degrading culture. PMID:12620840

  8. Volumetric HiLo microscopy employing an electrically tunable lens.

    PubMed

    Philipp, Katrin; Smolarski, André; Koukourakis, Nektarios; Fischer, Andreas; Stürmer, Moritz; Wallrabe, Ulrike; Czarske, Jürgen W

    2016-06-27

    Electrically tunable lenses exhibit strong potential for fast motion-free axial scanning in a variety of microscopes. However, they also lead to a degradation of the achievable resolution because of aberrations and misalignment between illumination and detection optics that are induced by the scan itself. Additionally, the typically nonlinear relation between actuation voltage and axial displacement leads to over- or under-sampled frame acquisition in most microscopic techniques because of their static depth-of-field. To overcome these limitations, we present an Adaptive-Lens-High-and-Low-frequency (AL-HiLo) microscope that enables volumetric measurements employing an electrically tunable lens. By using speckle-patterned illumination, we ensure stability against aberrations of the electrically tunable lens. Its depth-of-field can be adjusted a-posteriori and hence enables to create flexible scans, which compensates for irregular axial measurement positions. The adaptive HiLo microscope provides an axial scanning range of 1 mm with an axial resolution of about 4 μm and sub-micron lateral resolution over the full scanning range. Proof of concept measurements at home-built specimens as well as zebrafish embryos with reporter gene-driven fluorescence in the thyroid gland are shown.

  9. Self-degradable Cementitious Sealing Materials

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sugama, T.; Butcher, T., Lance Brothers, Bour, D.

    2010-10-01

    A self-degradable alkali-activated cementitious material consisting of a sodium silicate activator, slag, Class C fly ash, and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) additive was formulated as one dry mix component, and we evaluated its potential in laboratory for use as a temporary sealing material for Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) wells. The self-degradation of alkali-activated cementitious material (AACM) occurred, when AACM heated at temperatures of {ge}200 C came in contact with water. We interpreted the mechanism of this water-initiated self-degradation as resulting from the in-situ exothermic reactions between the reactants yielded from the dissolution of the non-reacted or partially reacted sodium silicatemore » activator and the thermal degradation of the CMC. The magnitude of self-degradation depended on the CMC content; its effective content in promoting degradation was {ge}0.7%. In contrast, no self-degradation was observed from CMC-modified Class G well cement. For 200 C-autoclaved AACMs without CMC, followed by heating at temperatures up to 300 C, they had a compressive strength ranging from 5982 to 4945 psi, which is {approx}3.5-fold higher than that of the commercial Class G well cement; the initial- and final-setting times of this AACM slurry at 85 C were {approx}60 and {approx}90 min. Two well-formed crystalline hydration phases, 1.1 nm tobermorite and calcium silicate hydrate (I), were responsible for developing this excellent high compressive strength. Although CMC is an attractive, as a degradation-promoting additive, its addition to both the AACM and the Class G well cement altered some properties of original cementitious materials; among those were an extending their setting times, an increasing their porosity, and lowering their compressive strength. Nevertheless, a 0.7% CMC-modified AACM as self-degradable cementitious material displayed the following properties before its breakdown by water; {approx}120 min initial- and {approx}180 min

  10. Investigation of relationships between removals of tetracycline and degradation products and physicochemical parameters in municipal wastewater treatment plant.

    PubMed

    Topal, Murat; Uslu Şenel, Gülşad; Öbek, Erdal; Arslan Topal, E Işıl

    2016-05-15

    Determination of the effect of physicochemical parameters on the removal of tetracycline (TC) and degradation products is important because of the importance of the removal of antibiotics in Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between removals of TC and degradation products and physicochemical parameters in Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant (MWWTP). For this aim, (i) the removals of physicochemical parameters in a MWWTP located in Elazığ city (Turkey) were determined (ii) the removals of TC and degradation products in MWWTP were determined (iii) the relationships between removals of TC and degradation products and physicochemical parameters were investigated. TC, 4-epitetracycline (ETC), 4-epianhydrotetracycline (EATC), anhydrotetracycline (ATC), and physicochemical parameters (pH, temperature, electrical conductivity (EC), suspended solids (SS), BOD5, COD, total organic carbon (TOC), NH4(+)-N, NO2(-)-N, NO3(-)-N and O-PO4(-3)) were determined. The calculation of the correlation coefficients of relationships between the physicochemical parameters and TC, EATC, ATC showed that, among the investigated parameters, EATC and SS most correlated. The removals of other physicochemical parameters were not correlated with TC, EATC and ATC. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. Robust PV Degradation Methodology and Application

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Jordan, Dirk; Deline, Christopher A; Kurtz, Sarah

    The degradation rate plays an important role in predicting and assessing the long-term energy generation of PV systems. Many methods have been proposed for extracting the degradation rate from operational data of PV systems, but most of the published approaches are susceptible to bias due to inverter clipping, module soiling, temporary outages, seasonality, and sensor degradation. In this manuscript, we propose a methodology for determining PV degradation leveraging available modeled clear-sky irradiance data rather than site sensor data, and a robust year-over-year (YOY) rate calculation. We show the method to provide reliable degradation rate estimates even in the case ofmore » sensor drift, data shifts, and soiling. Compared with alternate methods, we demonstrate that the proposed method delivers the lowest uncertainty in degradation rate estimates for a fleet of 486 PV systems.« less

  12. Robust PV Degradation Methodology and Application

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Jordan, Dirk C.; Deline, Chris; Kurtz, Sarah R.

    The degradation rate plays an important role in predicting and assessing the long-term energy generation of photovoltaics (PV) systems. Many methods have been proposed for extracting the degradation rate from operational data of PV systems, but most of the published approaches are susceptible to bias due to inverter clipping, module soiling, temporary outages, seasonality, and sensor degradation. In this paper, we propose a methodology for determining PV degradation leveraging available modeled clear-sky irradiance data rather than site sensor data, and a robust year-over-year rate calculation. We show the method to provide reliable degradation rate estimates even in the case ofmore » sensor drift, data shifts, and soiling. Compared with alternate methods, we demonstrate that the proposed method delivers the lowest uncertainty in degradation rate estimates for a fleet of 486 PV systems.« less

  13. Robust PV Degradation Methodology and Application

    DOE PAGES

    Jordan, Dirk C.; Deline, Chris; Kurtz, Sarah R.; ...

    2017-12-21

    The degradation rate plays an important role in predicting and assessing the long-term energy generation of photovoltaics (PV) systems. Many methods have been proposed for extracting the degradation rate from operational data of PV systems, but most of the published approaches are susceptible to bias due to inverter clipping, module soiling, temporary outages, seasonality, and sensor degradation. In this paper, we propose a methodology for determining PV degradation leveraging available modeled clear-sky irradiance data rather than site sensor data, and a robust year-over-year rate calculation. We show the method to provide reliable degradation rate estimates even in the case ofmore » sensor drift, data shifts, and soiling. Compared with alternate methods, we demonstrate that the proposed method delivers the lowest uncertainty in degradation rate estimates for a fleet of 486 PV systems.« less

  14. Recovering of images degraded by atmosphere

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, Guang; Feng, Huajun; Xu, Zhihai; Li, Qi; Chen, Yueting

    2017-08-01

    Remote sensing images are seriously degraded by multiple scattering and bad weather. Through the analysis of the radiative transfer procedure in atmosphere, an image atmospheric degradation model considering the influence of atmospheric absorption multiple scattering and non-uniform distribution is proposed in this paper. Based on the proposed model, a novel recovering method is presented to eliminate atmospheric degradation. Mean-shift image segmentation and block-wise deconvolution are used to reduce time cost, retaining a good result. The recovering results indicate that the proposed method can significantly remove atmospheric degradation and effectively improve contrast compared with other removal methods. The results also illustrate that our method is suitable for various degraded remote sensing, including images with large field of view (FOV), images taken in side-glance situations, image degraded by atmospheric non-uniform distribution and images with various forms of clouds.

  15. Intense deep blue exciplex electroluminescence from NPB/TPBi:PPh3O-based OLEDs and their intrinsic degradation mechanisms (Conference Presentation)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shinar, Joseph; Hippola, Chamika; Danilovic, Dusan; Bhattacharjee, Ujjal; Petrich, Jacob W.; Shinar, Ruth

    2016-09-01

    We describe intense and efficient deep blue (430 - 440 nm) exciplex emission from NPB/TPBi:PPh3O OLEDs where the luminous efficiency approaches 4 Cd/A and the maximal brightness exceeds 22,000 Cd/m2. Time resolved PL measurements confirm the exciplex emission from NPB:TPBi, as studied earlier by Monkman and coworkers [Adv. Mater. 25, 1455 (2013)]. However, the inclusion of PPh3O improves the OLED performance significantly. The effect of PPh3O on the EL and PL will be discussed. The NPB/TPBi:PPh3O-based OLEDs were also studied by optically and electrically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR and EDMR, respectively). In particular, the amplitude of the negative (EL- and current-quenching) spin 1/2 resonance, previously attributed to enhanced formation of strongly EL-quenching positive bipolarons, increases as the OLEDs degrade in a dry nitrogen atmosphere. This degradation mechanism is discussed in relation to degradation induced by hot polarons that are energized by exciton annihilation.

  16. Drug Release Kinetics and Transport Mechanisms of Non-degradable and Degradable Polymeric Delivery Systems

    PubMed Central

    Fu, Yao; Kao, Weiyuan John

    2010-01-01

    Importance of the field The advancement in material design and engineering has led to the rapid development of novel materials with increasing complexity and functions. Both non-degradable and degradable polymers have found wide applications in the controlled delivery field. Studies on drug release kinetics provide important information into the function of material systems. To elucidate the detailed transport mechanism and the structure-function relationship of a material system, it is critical to bridge the gap between the macroscopic data and the transport behavior at the molecular level. Areas covered in this review The structure and function information of selected non-degradable and degradable polymers have been collected and summarized from literatures published after 1990s. The release kinetics of selected drug compounds from various material systems will be discussed in case studies. Recent progresses in the mathematical models based on different transport mechanisms will be highlighted. What the reader will gain This article aims to provide an overview of structure-function relationships of selected non-degradable and degradable polymers as drug delivery matrices. Take home message Understanding the structure-function relationship of the material system is key to the successful design of a delivery system for a particular application. Moreover, developing complex polymeric matrices requires more robust mathematical models to elucidate the solute transport mechanisms. PMID:20331353

  17. On-orbit degradation of recent space-based solar instruments and understanding of the degradation processes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Meftah, M.; Dominique, M.; BenMoussa, A.; Dammasch, I. E.; Bolsée, D.; Pereira, N.; Damé, L.; Bekki, S.; Hauchecorne, A.

    2017-05-01

    The space environment is considered hazardous to spacecraft, resulting in materials degradation. Understanding the degradation of space-based instruments is crucial in order to achieve the scientific objectives, which are derived from these instruments. This paper discusses the on-orbit performance degradation of recent spacebased solar instruments. We will focus on the instruments of three space-based missions such as the Project for On-Board Autonomy 2 (PROBA2) spacecraft, the Solar Monitoring Observatory (SOLAR) payload onboard the Columbus science Laboratory of the International Space Station (ISS) and the PICARD spacecraft. Finally, this paper intends to understand the degradation processes of these space-based solar instruments.

  18. In situ characterization of the oxidative degradation of a polymeric light emitting device

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cumpston, B. H.; Parker, I. D.; Jensen, K. F.

    1997-04-01

    Light-emitting devices with polymeric emissive layers have great promise for the production of large-area, lightweight, flexible color displays, but short lifetimes currently limit applications. We address mechanisms of bulk polymer degradation in these devices and show through in situ Fourier transform infrared characterization of working light-emitting devices with active layers of poly[2-methoxy,5-(2'-ethyl-hexoxy)-1,4-phenylene vinylene] that oxygen is responsible for the degradation of the polymer film. A mechanism is given based on the formation of singlet oxygen from oxygen impurities in the film via energy transfer from a nonradiative exciton. Fourier transform infrared and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results are consistent with the mechanism, involving singlet oxygen attack followed by free radical processes. We further show that oxygen readily diffuses into the active polymer layer, changing the electrical characteristics of the film even at low concentrations. Thus, polyphenylene-vinylene-based light-emitting devices will self-destruct during operation if fabricated without special attention to eliminating oxygen contamination during fabrication and device operation.

  19. Direct Ubiquitin Independent Recognition and Degradation of a Folded Protein by the Eukaryotic Proteasomes-Origin of Intrinsic Degradation Signals

    PubMed Central

    Singh Gautam, Amit Kumar; Balakrishnan, Satish; Venkatraman, Prasanna

    2012-01-01

    Eukaryotic 26S proteasomes are structurally organized to recognize, unfold and degrade globular proteins. However, all existing model substrates of the 26S proteasome in addition to ubiquitin or adaptor proteins require unstructured regions in the form of fusion tags for efficient degradation. We report for the first time that purified 26S proteasome can directly recognize and degrade apomyoglobin, a globular protein, in the absence of ubiquitin, extrinsic degradation tags or adaptor proteins. Despite a high affinity interaction, absence of a ligand and presence of only helices/loops that follow the degradation signal, apomyoglobin is degraded slowly by the proteasome. A short floppy F-helix exposed upon ligand removal and in conformational equilibrium with a disordered structure is mandatory for recognition and initiation of degradation. Holomyoglobin, in which the helix is buried, is neither recognized nor degraded. Exposure of the floppy F-helix seems to sensitize the proteasome and primes the substrate for degradation. Using peptide panning and competition experiments we speculate that initial encounters through the floppy helix and additional strong interactions with N-terminal helices anchors apomyoglobin to the proteasome. Stabilizing helical structure in the floppy F-helix slows down degradation. Destabilization of adjacent helices accelerates degradation. Unfolding seems to follow the mechanism of helix unraveling rather than global unfolding. Our findings while confirming the requirement for unstructured regions in degradation offers the following new insights: a) origin and identification of an intrinsic degradation signal in the substrate, b) identification of sequences in the native substrate that are likely to be responsible for direct interactions with the proteasome, and c) identification of critical rate limiting steps like exposure of the intrinsic degron and destabilization of an unfolding intermediate that are presumably catalyzed by the ATPases

  20. Electric emissions from electrical appliances.

    PubMed

    Leitgeb, N; Cech, R; Schröttner, J

    2008-01-01

    Electric emissions from electric appliances are frequently considered negligible, and standards consider electric appliances to comply without testing. By investigating 122 household devices of 63 different categories, it could be shown that emitted electric field levels do not justify general disregard. Electric reference values can be exceeded up to 11-fold. By numerical dosimetry with homogeneous human models, induced intracorporal electric current densities were determined and factors calculated to elevate reference levels to accounting for reduced induction efficiency of inhomogeneous fields. These factors were found not high enough to allow generally concluding on compliance with basic restrictions without testing. Electric appliances usually simultaneously emit both electric and magnetic fields exposing almost the same body region. Since the sum of induced current densities is limited, one field component reduces the available margin for the other. Therefore, superposition of electric current densities induced by either field would merit consideration.

  1. [Microbial degradation of 3-phenoxybenzoic acid--A review].

    PubMed

    Deng, Weiqin; Liu, Shuliang; Yao, Kai

    2015-09-04

    3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3-PBA) with estrogen toxicity is one of the intermediate products of most pyrethroid pesticides. 3-PBA is difficult to degrade in the natural environment, and threatens food safety and human health. Microbial degradation of pyrethroids and their intermediate product (3-PBA) has become a hot topic in recent years. Here, we reviewed microbial species, degrading enzymes and degradation genes, degradation pathways of 3-PBA degrading and the application of 3-PBA degradation strains. This article provides references for the study of 3-PBA degradation by microorganisms.

  2. Degradation and polymerization of monolignols by Abortiporus biennis, and induction of its degradation with a reducing agent.

    PubMed

    Hong, Chang-Young; Park, Se-Yeong; Kim, Seon-Hong; Lee, Su-Yeon; Choi, Won-Sil; Choi, In-Gyu

    2016-10-01

    This study was carried out to better understand the characteristic modification mechanisms of monolignols by enzyme system of Abortiporus biennis and to induce the degradation of monolignols. Degradation and polymerization of monolignols were simultaneously induced by A. biennis. Whole cells of A. biennis degraded coniferyl alcohol to vanillin and coniferyl aldehyde, and degraded sinapyl alcohol to 2,6-dimethoxybenzene- 1,4-diol, with the production of dimers. The molecular weight of monolignols treated with A. biennis increased drastically. The activities of lignin degrading enzymes were monitored for 24 h to determine whether there was any correlation between monolignol biomodification and ligninolytic enzymes. We concluded that complex enzyme systems were involved in the degradation and polymerization of monolignols. To degrade monolignols, ascorbic acid was added to the culture medium as a reducing agent. In the presence of ascorbic acid, the molecular weight was less increased in the case of coniferyl alcohol, while that of sinapyl alcohol was similar to that of the control. Furthermore, the addition of ascorbic acid led to the production of various degraded compounds: syringaldehyde and acid compounds. Accordingly, these results demonstrated that ascorbic acid prevented the rapid polymerization of monolignols, thus stabilizing radicals generated by enzymes of A. biennis. Thereafter, A. biennis catalyzed the oxidation of stable monolignols. As a result, ascorbic acid facilitated predominantly monolignols degradation by A. biennis through the stabilization of radicals. These findings showed outstanding ability of A. biennis to modify the lignin compounds rapidly and usefully.

  3. Short-stack modeling of degradation in solid oxide fuel cells. Part I. Contact degradation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gazzarri, J. I.; Kesler, O.

    As the first part of a two paper series, we present a two-dimensional impedance model of a working solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) to study the effect of contact degradation on the impedance spectrum for the purpose of non-invasive diagnosis. The two dimensional modeled geometry includes the ribbed interconnect, and is adequate to represent co- and counter-flow configurations. Simulated degradation modes include: cathode delamination, interconnect oxidation, and interconnect-cathode detachment. The simulations show differences in the way each degradation mode impacts the impedance spectrum shape, suggesting that identification is possible. In Part II, we present a sensitivity analysis of the results to input parameter variability that reveals strengths and limitations of the method, as well as describing possible interactions between input parameters and concurrent degradation modes.

  4. Advanced electric propulsion system concept for electric vehicles

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Raynard, A. E.; Forbes, F. E.

    1979-01-01

    Seventeen propulsion system concepts for electric vehicles were compared to determine the differences in components and battery pack to achieve the basic performance level. Design tradeoffs were made for selected configurations to find the optimum component characteristics required to meet all performance goals. The anticipated performance when using nickel-zinc batteries rather than the standard lead-acid batteries was also evaluated. The two systems selected for the final conceptual design studies included a system with a flywheel energy storage unit and a basic system that did not have a flywheel. The flywheel system meets the range requirement with either lead-acid or nickel-zinc batteries and also the acceleration of zero to 89 km/hr in 15 s. The basic system can also meet the required performance with a fully charged battery, but, when the battery approaches 20 to 30 percent depth of discharge, maximum acceleration capability gradually degrades. The flywheel system has an estimated life-cycle cost of $0.041/km using lead-acid batteries. The basic system has a life-cycle cost of $0.06/km. The basic system, using batteries meeting ISOA goals, would have a life-cycle cost of $0.043/km.

  5. Degradation of connexins and gap junctions

    PubMed Central

    Falk, Matthias M.; Kells, Rachael M.; Berthoud, Viviana M.

    2014-01-01

    Connexin proteins are short-lived within the cell, whether present in the secretory pathway or in gap junction plaques. Their levels can be modulated by their rate of degradation. Connexins, at different stages of assembly, are degraded through the proteasomal, endo-/lysosomal, and phago-/lysosomal pathways. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about connexin and gap junction degradation including the signals and protein-protein interactions that participate in their targeting for degradation. PMID:24486527

  6. Working session 1: Tubing degradation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kharshafdjian, G.; Turluer, G.

    1997-02-01

    A general introductory overview of the purpose of the group and the general subject area of SG tubing degradation was given by the facilitator. The purpose of the session was described as to {open_quotes}develop conclusions and proposals on regulatory and technical needs required to deal with the issues of SG tubing degradation.{close_quotes} Types, locations and characteristics of tubing degradation in steam generators were briefly reviewed. The well-known synergistic effects of materials, environment, and stress and strain/strain rate, subsequently referred to by the acronym {open_quotes}MESS{close_quotes} by some of the group members, were noted. The element of time (i.e., evolution of thesemore » variables with time) was emphasized. It was also suggested that the group might want to consider the related topics of inspection capabilities, operational variables, degradation remedies, and validity of test data, and some background information in these areas was provided. The presentation given by Peter Millet during the Plenary Session was reviewed; Specifically, the chemical aspects and the degradation from the secondary side of the steam generator were noted. The main issues discussed during the October 1995 EPRI meeting on secondary side corrosion were reported, and a listing of the potential SG tube degradations was provided and discussed.« less

  7. Microbial Degradation of Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane

    PubMed Central

    Grümping, R.; Michalke, K.; Hirner, A. V.; Hensel, R.

    1999-01-01

    The microbial degradation of low-molecular-weight polydimethylsiloxanes was investigated through laboratory experiments. Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane was found to be biodegraded under anaerobic conditions in composted sewage sludge, as monitored by the occurrence of the main polydimethylsiloxane degradation product, dimethylsilanediol, compared to that found in experiments with sterilized control samples. PMID:10224038

  8. Optimizing the thermoelectric performance of graphene nano-ribbons without degrading the electronic properties.

    PubMed

    Tran, Van-Truong; Saint-Martin, Jérôme; Dollfus, Philippe; Volz, Sebastian

    2017-05-24

    The enhancement of thermoelectric figure of merit ZT requires to either increase the power factor or reduce the phonon conductance, or even both. In graphene, the high phonon thermal conductivity is the main factor limiting the thermoelectric conversion. The common strategy to enhance ZT is therefore to introduce phonon scatterers to suppress the phonon conductance while retaining high electrical conductance and Seebeck coefficient. Although thermoelectric performance is eventually enhanced, all studies based on this strategy show a significant reduction of the electrical conductance. In this study we demonstrate that appropriate sources of disorder, including isotopes and vacancies at lowest electron density positions, can be used as phonon scatterers to reduce the phonon conductance in graphene ribbons without degrading the electrical conductance, particularly in the low-energy region which is the most important range for device operation. By means of atomistic calculations we show that the natural electronic properties of graphene ribbons can be fully preserved while their thermoelectric efficiency is strongly enhanced. For ribbons of width M = 5 dimer lines, room-temperature ZT is enhanced from less than 0.26 to more than 2.5. This study is likely to set the milestones of a new generation of nano-devices with dual electronic/thermoelectric functionalities.

  9. Targeted protein degradation by PROTACs.

    PubMed

    Neklesa, Taavi K; Winkler, James D; Crews, Craig M

    2017-06-01

    Targeted protein degradation using the PROTAC technology is emerging as a novel therapeutic method to address diseases driven by the aberrant expression of a disease-causing protein. PROTAC molecules are bifunctional small molecules that simultaneously bind a target protein and an E3-ubiquitin ligase, thus causing ubiquitination and degradation of the target protein by the proteasome. Like small molecules, PROTAC molecules possess good tissue distribution and the ability to target intracellular proteins. Herein, we highlight the advantages of protein degradation using PROTACs, and provide specific examples where degradation offers therapeutic benefit over classical enzyme inhibition. Foremost, PROTACs can degrade proteins regardless of their function. This includes the currently "undruggable" proteome, which comprises approximately 85% of all human proteins. Other beneficial aspects of protein degradation include the ability to target overexpressed and mutated proteins, as well as the potential to demonstrate prolonged pharmacodynamics effect beyond drug exposure. Lastly, due to their catalytic nature and the pre-requisite ubiquitination step, an exquisitely potent molecules with a high degree of degradation selectivity can be designed. Impressive preclinical in vitro and in vivo PROTAC data have been published, and these data have propelled the development of clinically viable PROTACs. With the molecular weight falling in the 700-1000Da range, the delivery and bioavailability of PROTACs remain the largest hurdles on the way to the clinic. Solving these issues and demonstrating proof of concept clinical data will be the focus of many labs over the next few years. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. Comparing aye-aye (Daubentonia madagascariensis) presence and distribution between degraded and non-degraded forest within Ranomafana National Park, Madagascar.

    PubMed

    Farris, Zach J; Morelli, Toni Lyn; Sefczek, Timothy; Wright, Patricia C

    2011-01-01

    The aye-aye is considered the most widely distributed lemur in Madagascar; however, the effect of forest quality on aye-aye abundance is unknown. We compared aye-aye presence across degraded and non-degraded forest at Ranomafana National Park, Madagascar. We used secondary signs (feeding sites, high activity sites) as indirect cues of aye-aye presence and Canarium trees as an indicator of resource availability. All 3 measured variables indicated higher aye-aye abundance within non-degraded forest; however, the differences across forest type were not significant. Both degraded and non-degraded forests showed a positive correlation between feeding sites and high activity sites. We found that Canarium, an important aye-aye food source, was rare and had limited dispersal, particularly across degraded forest. This preliminary study provides baseline data for aye-aye activity and resource utilization across degraded and non-degraded forests. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  11. Nanoscale Protection Layers To Mitigate Degradation in High-Energy Electrochemical Energy Storage Systems.

    PubMed

    Lin, Chuan-Fu; Qi, Yue; Gregorczyk, Keith; Lee, Sang Bok; Rubloff, Gary W

    2018-01-16

    In the pursuit of energy storage devices with higher energy and power, new ion storage materials and high-voltage battery chemistries are of paramount importance. However, they invite-and often enhance-degradation mechanisms, which are reflected in capacity loss with charge/discharge cycling and sometimes in safety problems. Degradation mechanisms are often driven by fundamentals such as chemical and electrochemical reactions at electrode-electrolyte interfaces, volume expansion and stress associated with ion insertion and extraction, and profound inhomogeneity of electrochemical behavior. While it is important to identify and understand these mechanisms at some reasonable level, it is even more critical to design strategies to mitigate these degradation pathways and to develop means to implement and validate the strategies. A growing set of research highlights the mitigation benefits achievable by forming thin protection layers (PLs) intentionally created as artificial interphase regions at the electrode-electrolyte interface. These advances illustrate a promising-perhaps even generic-pathway for enabling higher-energy and higher-voltage battery configurations. In this Account, we summarize examples of such PLs that serve as mitigation strategies to avoid degradation in lithium metal anodes, conversion-type electrode materials, and alloy-type electrodes. Examples are chosen from a larger body of electrochemical degradation research carried out in Nanostructures for Electrical Energy Storage (NEES), our DOE Energy Frontier Research Center. Overall, we argue on the basis of experimental and theoretical evidence that PLs effectively stabilize the electrochemical interfaces to prevent parasitic chemical and electrochemical reactions and mitigate the structural, mechanical, and compositional degradation of the electrode materials at the electrode-electrolyte interfaces. The evidenced improvement in performance metrics is accomplished by (1) establishing a homogeneous

  12. Asymmetrical quantum well degradation of InGaN/GaN blue laser diodes characterized by photoluminescence

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wen, Pengyan; Liu, Jianping; Zhang, Shuming; Zhang, Liqun; Ikeda, Masao; Li, Deyao; Tian, Aiqin; Zhang, Feng; Cheng, Yang; Zhou, Wei; Yang, Hui

    2017-11-01

    The temperature, power, and voltage dependent photoluminescence spectra are studied in InGaN/GaN double quantum well blue laser diodes. Emissions from the two quantum wells can be distinguished at low temperature at low excitation power density due to the different built-in electric field in the two quantum wells. This finding is utilized to study the degradation of InGaN/GaN blue laser diodes. Two peaks are observed for the non-aged laser diode (LD), while one peak for the aged LD which performed 3200 h until no laser output is detected. The disappearance of the high energy peak in the photoluminescence spectra indicates a heavier degradation of the quantum well on the p-side, which agrees with our previous observation that both the linewidth and the potential fluctuation of InGaN quantum wells (QWs) reduced for the aged LDs.

  13. High Modulus Biodegradable Polyurethanes for Vascular Stents: Evaluation of Accelerated in vitro Degradation and Cell Viability of Degradation Products

    PubMed Central

    Sgarioto, Melissa; Adhikari, Raju; Gunatillake, Pathiraja A.; Moore, Tim; Patterson, John; Nagel, Marie-Danielle; Malherbe, François

    2015-01-01

    We have recently reported the mechanical properties and hydrolytic degradation behavior of a series of NovoSorb™ biodegradable polyurethanes (PUs) prepared by varying the hard segment (HS) weight percentage from 60 to 100. In this study, the in vitro degradation behavior of these PUs with and without extracellular matrix (ECM) coating was investigated under accelerated hydrolytic degradation (phosphate buffer saline; PBS/70°C) conditions. The mass loss at different time intervals and the effect of aqueous degradation products on the viability and growth of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were examined. The results showed that PUs with HS 80% and below completely disintegrated leaving no visual polymer residue at 18 weeks and the degradation medium turned acidic due to the accumulation of products from the soft segment (SS) degradation. As expected the PU with the lowest HS was the fastest to degrade. The accumulated degradation products, when tested undiluted, showed viability of about 40% for HUVEC cells. However, the viability was over 80% when the solution was diluted to 50% and below. The growth of HUVEC cells is similar to but not identical to that observed with tissue culture polystyrene standard (TCPS). The results from this in vitro study suggested that the PUs in the series degraded primarily due to the SS degradation and the cell viability of the accumulated acidic degradation products showed poor viability to HUVEC cells when tested undiluted, however particles released to the degradation medium showed cell viability over 80%. PMID:26000274

  14. Modeling of light-induced degradation due to Cu precipitation in p-type silicon. II. Comparison of simulations and experiments

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vahlman, H.; Haarahiltunen, A.; Kwapil, W.; Schön, J.; Inglese, A.; Savin, H.

    2017-05-01

    The presence of copper impurities is known to deteriorate the bulk minority carrier lifetime of silicon. In p-type silicon, the degradation occurs only under carrier injection (e.g., illumination), but the reason for this phenomenon called copper-related light-induced degradation (Cu-LID) has long remained uncertain. To clarify the physics of this problem, a mathematical model of Cu-LID was introduced in Paper I of this article. Within the model, kinetic precipitation simulations are interlinked with a Schottky junction model for electric behavior of metallic precipitates. As this approach enables simulating precipitation directly at the minority carrier lifetime level, the model is verified in this second part with a direct comparison to the corresponding degradation experiments and literature data. Convincing agreement is found with different doping and Cu concentrations as well as at increased temperature, and in the dark, both simulated degradation and measured degradation are very slow. In addition, modeled final lifetimes after illumination are very close to experimental final lifetimes, and a correlation with the final precipitate size is found. However, the model underestimates experimentally observed differences in the degradation rate at different illumination intensities. Nevertheless, the results of this work support the theory of Cu-LID as a precipitate formation process. Part of the results also imply that heterogeneous nucleation sites play a role during precipitate nucleation. The model reveals fundamental aspects of the physics of Cu-LID including how doping and heterogeneous nucleation site concentrations can considerably influence the final recombination activity.

  15. Microbial degradation of chloroethenes: a review.

    PubMed

    Dolinová, Iva; Štrojsová, Martina; Černík, Miroslav; Němeček, Jan; Macháčková, Jiřina; Ševců, Alena

    2017-05-01

    Contamination by chloroethenes has a severe negative effect on both the environment and human health. This has prompted intensive remediation activity in recent years, along with research into the efficacy of natural microbial communities for degrading toxic chloroethenes into less harmful compounds. Microbial degradation of chloroethenes can take place either through anaerobic organohalide respiration, where chloroethenes serve as electron acceptors; anaerobic and aerobic metabolic degradation, where chloroethenes are used as electron donors; or anaerobic and aerobic co-metabolic degradation, with chloroethene degradation occurring as a by-product during microbial metabolism of other growth substrates, without energy or carbon benefit. Recent research has focused on optimising these natural processes to serve as effective bioremediation technologies, with particular emphasis on (a) the diversity and role of bacterial groups involved in dechlorination microbial processes, and (b) detection of bacterial enzymes and genes connected with dehalogenation activity. In this review, we summarise the different mechanisms of chloroethene bacterial degradation suitable for bioremediation and provide a list of dechlorinating bacteria. We also provide an up-to-date summary of primers available for detecting functional genes in anaerobic and aerobic bacteria degrading chloroethenes metabolically or co-metabolically.

  16. Microbial Gutta-Percha Degradation Shares Common Steps with Rubber Degradation by Nocardia nova SH22a

    PubMed Central

    Luo, Quan; Hiessl, Sebastian; Poehlein, Anja

    2013-01-01

    Nocardia nova SH22a, a bacterium capable of degrading gutta-percha (GP) and natural rubber (NR), was used to investigate the GP degradation mechanism and the relations between the GP and NR degradation pathways. For this strain, a protocol of electroporation was systematically optimized, and an efficiency of up to 4.3 × 107 CFU per μg of plasmid DNA was achieved. By applying this optimized protocol to N. nova SH22a, a Tn5096-based transposon mutagenesis library of this bacterium was constructed. Among about 12,000 apramycin-resistant transformants, we identified 76 stable mutants defective in GP or NR utilization. Whereas 10 mutants were specifically defective in GP utilization, the growth of the other 66 mutants was affected on both GP and NR. This indicated that the two degradation pathways are quite similar and share many common steps. The larger number of GP-degrading defective mutants could be explained in one of two ways: either (i) the GP pathway is more complex and harbors more specific steps or (ii) the steps for both pathways are almost identical, but in the case of GP degradation there are fewer enzymes involved in each step. The analysis of transposition loci and genetic studies on interesting genes confirmed the crucial role of an α-methylacyl-coenzyme A racemase in the degradation of both GP and NR. We also demonstrated the probable involvement of enzymes participating in oxidoreduction reactions, β-oxidation, and the synthesis of complex cell envelope lipids in the degradation of GP. PMID:23220954

  17. Morphologies and optical and electrical properties of InGaN/GaN micro-square array light-emitting diode chips.

    PubMed

    Han, Dan; Ma, Shufang; Jia, Zhigang; Liu, Peizhi; Jia, Wei; Shang, Lin; Zhai, Guangmei; Xu, Bingshe

    2018-04-10

    InGaN/GaN micro-square array light-emitting diode (LED) chips (micro-chips) have been prepared via the focused ion beam (FIB) etching technique, which can not only reduce ohmic contact degradation but also control the aspect ratio precisely in three-dimensional (3D) structure LED (3D-LED) device fabrication. The effects of FIB beam current and micro-square array depth on morphologies and optical and electrical properties of the micro-chips have been studied. Our results show that sidewall surface morphology and optical and electrical properties of the micro-chips degrade with increased beam current. After potassium hydroxide etching with different times, an optimal current-voltage and luminescence performance can be obtained. Combining the results of cathodoluminescence mappings and light output-current characteristics, the light extraction efficiency of the micro-chips is reduced as FIB etch depth increases. The mechanisms of micro-square depth on light extraction have been revealed by 3D finite difference time domain.

  18. Antimisting kerosene: Low temperature degradation and blending

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Yavrouian, A.; Parikh, P.; Sarohia, V.

    1988-01-01

    The inline filtration characteristics of freshly blended and degraded antimisting fuels (AMK) at low temperature are examined. A needle valve degrader was modified to include partial recirculation of degraded fuel and heat addition in the bypass loop. A pressure drop across the needle valve of up to 4,000 psi was used. The pressure drop across a 325 mesh filter screen placed inline with the degrader and directly downstream of the needle valve was measured as a function of time for different values of pressure drop across the needle valve. A volume flux of 1 gpm/sq in was employed based on the frontal area of the screen. It was found that, at ambient temperatures, freshly blended AMK fuel could be degraded using a single pass degradation at 4,000 psi pressure drop across the needle valve to give acceptable filterability performance. At fuel temperatures below -20 C, degradation becomes increasingly difficult and a single pass technique results in unacceptable filtration performance. Recirculation of a fraction of the degraded fuel and heat addition in the bypass loop improved low temperature degradation performance. The problem is addressed of blending the AMK additive with Jet A at various base fuel temperatures.

  19. Colourful parrot feathers resist bacterial degradation

    PubMed Central

    Burtt, Edward H.; Schroeder, Max R.; Smith, Lauren A.; Sroka, Jenna E.; McGraw, Kevin J.

    2011-01-01

    The brilliant red, orange and yellow colours of parrot feathers are the product of psittacofulvins, which are synthetic pigments known only from parrots. Recent evidence suggests that some pigments in bird feathers function not just as colour generators, but also preserve plumage integrity by increasing the resistance of feather keratin to bacterial degradation. We exposed a variety of colourful parrot feathers to feather-degrading Bacillus licheniformis and found that feathers with red psittacofulvins degraded at about the same rate as those with melanin and more slowly than white feathers, which lack pigments. Blue feathers, in which colour is based on the microstructural arrangement of keratin, air and melanin granules, and green feathers, which combine structural blue with yellow psittacofulvins, degraded at a rate similar to that of red and black feathers. These differences in resistance to bacterial degradation of differently coloured feathers suggest that colour patterns within the Psittaciformes may have evolved to resist bacterial degradation, in addition to their role in communication and camouflage. PMID:20926430

  20. Enhancing the bioremediation by harvesting electricity from the heavily contaminated sediments.

    PubMed

    Yang, Yonggang; Lu, Zijiang; Lin, Xunke; Xia, Chunyu; Sun, Guoping; Lian, Yingli; Xu, Meiying

    2015-03-01

    To test the long-term applicability of scaled-up sediment microbial fuel cells (SMFCs) in simultaneous bioremediation of toxic-contaminated sediments and power-supply for electronic devices, a 100 L SMFC inoculate with heavily contaminated sediments has been assembled and operated for over 2 years without external electron donor addition. The total organic chemical (TOC) degradation efficiency was 22.1% in the electricity generating SMFCs, which is significantly higher than that in the open-circuited SMFC (3.8%). The organic matters including contaminants in the contaminated sediments were sufficient for the electricity generation of SMFCs, even up to 8.5 years by the present SMFC theoretically. By using a power management system (PMS), the SMFC electricity could be harvested into batteries and used by commercial electronic devices. The results indicated that the SMFC-PMS system could be applied as a long-term and effective tool to simultaneously stimulate the bioremediation of the contaminated sediments and supply power for commercial devices. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Ephemeral Electric Potential and Electric Field Sensor

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Generazio, Edward R. (Inventor)

    2017-01-01

    Systems, methods, and devices of the various embodiments provide for the minimization of the effects of intrinsic and extrinsic leakage electrical currents enabling true measurements of electric potentials and electric fields. In an embodiment, an ephemeral electric potential and electric field sensor system may have at least one electric field sensor and a rotator coupled to the electric field sensor and be configured to rotate the electric field sensor at a quasi-static frequency. In an embodiment, ephemeral electric potential and electric field measurements may be taken by rotating at least one electric field sensor at a quasi-static frequency, receiving electrical potential measurements from the electric field sensor when the electric field sensor is rotating at the quasi-static frequency, and generating and outputting images based at least in part on the received electrical potential measurements.

  2. Placing a Disrupted Degradation Motif at the C Terminus of Proteasome Substrates Attenuates Degradation without Impairing Ubiquitylation*

    PubMed Central

    Alfassy, Omri S.; Cohen, Itamar; Reiss, Yuval; Tirosh, Boaz; Ravid, Tommer

    2013-01-01

    Protein elimination by the ubiquitin-proteasome system requires the presence of a cis-acting degradation signal. Efforts to discern degradation signals of misfolded proteasome substrates thus far revealed a general mechanism whereby the exposure of cryptic hydrophobic motifs provides a degradation determinant. We have previously characterized such a determinant, employing the yeast kinetochore protein Ndc10 as a model substrate. Ndc10 is essentially a stable protein that is rapidly degraded upon exposure of a hydrophobic motif located at the C-terminal region. The degradation motif comprises two distinct and essential elements: DegA, encompassing two amphipathic helices, and DegB, a hydrophobic sequence within the loosely structured C-terminal tail of Ndc10. Here we show that the hydrophobic nature of DegB is irrelevant for the ubiquitylation of substrates containing the Ndc10 degradation motif, but is essential for proteasomal degradation. Mutant DegB, in which the hydrophobic sequence was disrupted, acted as a dominant degradation inhibitory element when expressed at the C-terminal regions of ubiquitin-dependent and -independent substrates of the 26S proteasome. This mutant stabilized substrates in both yeast and mammalian cells, indicative of a modular recognition moiety. The dominant function of the mutant DegB provides a powerful experimental tool for evaluating the physiological implications of stabilization of specific proteasome substrates in intact cells and for studying the associated pathological effects. PMID:23519465

  3. Degradation of the chlorophenoxyacetic herbicide 2,4-D by plasma-ozonation system.

    PubMed

    Bradu, C; Magureanu, M; Parvulescu, V I

    2017-08-15

    A novel advanced oxidation process based on the combination of ozonation with non-thermal plasma generated in a pulsed corona discharge was developed for the oxidative degradation of recalcitrant organic pollutants in water. The pulsed corona discharge in contact with liquid, operated in oxygen, produced 3.5mgL -1 ozone, which was subsequently introduced in the ozonation reactor. The solution to be treated was continuously circulated between the plasma reactor and the ozonation reactor. The system was tested for the degradation of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and considerably improved performance as compared to ozonation alone, both with respect to the removal of the target compound and to mineralization. The apparent reaction rate constant for 2,4-D removal was 0.195min -1 , more than two times higher than the value obtained in ozonation experiments. The mineralization reached more than 90% after 60min treatment and the chlorine balance confirms the absence of quantifiable amounts of chlorinated by-products. The energy efficiency was considerably enhanced by shortening the duration of the discharge pulses, which opens the way for further optimization of the electrical circuit design. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Fish habitat degradation in U.S. reservoirs

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Miranda, L.E.; Spickard, M.; Dunn, T.; Webb, K.M.; Aycock, J.N.; Hunt, K.

    2010-01-01

    As the median age of the thousands of large reservoirs (> 200 ha) in the United States tops 50, many are showing various signs of fish habitat degradation. Our goal was to identify major factors degrading fish habitat in reservoirs across the country, and to explore regional degradation patterns. An online survey including 14 metrics was scored on a 0 (no degradation) to 5 (high degradation) point scale by 221 fisheries scientists (92% response rate) to describe degradation in 482 reservoirs randomly distributed throughout the continental United States. The highest scored sources of degradation were lack of aquatic macrophytes (41% of the reservoirs scored as 4-5), lack or loss of woody debris (35% scored 4-5), mistimed water level fluctuations (34% scored 4-5), and sedimentation (31% scored 4-5). Factor analysis identified five primary degradation factors that accounted for most of the variability in the 14 degradation metrics. The factors reflected siltation, structural habitat, eutrophication, water regime, and aquatic plants. Three degradation factors were driven principally by in-reservoir processes, whereas the other two were driven by inputs from the watershed. A comparison across U.S. regions indicated significant geographical differences in degradation relative to the factors emphasized by each region. Reservoirs sometimes have been dismissed as unnatural and disruptive, but they are a product of public policy, a critical feature of landscapes, and they cannot be overlooked if managers are to effectively conserve river systems. Protection and restoration of reservoir habitats may be enhanced with a broader perspective that includes watershed management, in addition to in reservoir activities.

  5. Degradation and resilience of soils

    PubMed Central

    Lal, R.

    1997-01-01

    Debate on global soil degradation, its extent and agronomic impact, can only be resolved through understanding of the processes and factors leading to establishment of the cause-effect relationships for major soils, ecoregions, and land uses. Systematic evaluation through long-term experimentation is needed for establishing quantitative criteria of (i) soil quality in relation to specific functions; (ii) soil degradation in relation to critical limits of key soil properties and processes; and (iii) soil resilience in relation to the ease of restoration through judicious management and discriminate use of essential input. Quantitative assessment of soil degradation can be obtained by evaluating its impact on productivity for different land uses and management systems. Interdisciplinary research is needed to quantify soil degradation effects on decrease in productivity, reduction in biomass, and decline in environment quality throught pollution and eutrophication of natural waters and emission of radiatively-active gases from terrestrial ecosystems to the atmosphere. Data from long-term field experiments in principal ecoregions are specifically needed to (i) establish relationships between soil quality versus soil degradation and soil quality versus soil resilience; (ii) identify indicators of soil quality and soil resilience; and (iii) establish critical limits of important properties for soil degradation and soil resilience. There is a need to develop and standardize techniques for measuring soil resilience.

  6. Geodiversity and land degradation in Hungary

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Őrsi, Anna

    2014-05-01

    Geodiversity represents a variety of natural values, but they are threatened by a series of anthropogenic activities and land degradation processes. Their effect depends on the intensity of the processes and the sensitivity of the area in question. As a consequence of land degradation processes not only biodiversity but also geodiversity can be damaged and deteriorated. The appearance of the natural landscape changes and natural processes may not have a decisive role in landscape development any more. Some of the damages are irreversible because fundamental changes happen in the landscape, or the processes having created the original forms are no longer in operation. Small scale land degradation processes may be reversible if nature is still capable of reproducing the original state. The most important land degradation processes are desertification and soil erosion. Mining, waste disposal, urbanisation and construction activities, agriculture, inaccurate forest and water management, tourism, unsuitable land use can also lead to severe land degradation problems. The objective of the paper is to show Hungarian examples to all land degradation processes that threaten geodiversity. The results will be shown on a series of maps showing land degradation processes endangering geodiversity in Hungary. A detailed analysis of smaller study sites will be provided to show the effects of certain land degradation processes on landform development and on the changes of geodiversity. This research is supported by the Hungarian Scientific Research Fund (OTKA), project Nr. 10875.

  7. Solar electric geocentric transfer with attitude constraints: Analysis

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sackett, L. L.; Malchow, H. L.; Delbaum, T. N.

    1975-01-01

    A time optimal or nearly time optimal trajectory program was developed for solar electric geocentric transfer with or without attitude constraints and with an optional initial high thrust stage. The method of averaging reduces computation time. A nonsingular set of orbital elements is used. The constraints, which are those of one of the SERT-C designs, introduce complexities into the analysis and the solution yields possible discontinuous changes in thrust direction. The power degradation due to VanAllen radiation is modeled analytically. A wide range of solar cell characteristics is assumed. Effects such as oblateness and shadowing are included. The analysis and the results of many example runs are included.

  8. Biodegradability of degradable plastic waste.

    PubMed

    Agamuthu, P; Faizura, Putri Nadzrul

    2005-04-01

    Plastic waste constitutes the third largest waste volume in Malaysian municipal solid waste (MSW), next to putrescible waste and paper. The plastic component in MSW from Kuala Lumpur averages 24% (by weight), whereas the national mean is about 15%. The 144 waste dumps in the country receive about 95% of the MSW, including plastic waste. The useful life of the landfills is fast diminishing as the plastic waste stays un-degraded for more than 50 years. In this study the compostability of polyethylene and pro-oxidant additive-based environmentally degradable plastics (EDP) was investigated. Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) samples exposed hydrolytically or oxidatively at 60 degrees C showed that the abiotic degradation path was oxidative rather than hydrolytic. There was a weight loss of 8% and the plastic has been oxidized as shown by the additional carbonyl group exhibited in the Fourier transform infra red (FTIR) Spectrum. Oxidation rate seemed to be influenced by the amount of pro-oxidant additive, the chemical structure and morphology of the plastic samples, and the surface area. Composting studies during a 45-day experiment showed that the percentage elongation (reduction) was 20% for McD samples [high-density polyethylene, (HDPE) with 3% additive] and LL samples (LLDPE with 7% additive) and 18% reduction for totally degradable plastic (TDP) samples (HDPE with 3% additive). Lastly, microbial experiments using Pseudomonas aeroginosa on carbon-free media with degradable plastic samples as the sole carbon source, showed confirmatory results. A positive bacterial growth and a weight loss of 2.2% for degraded polyethylene samples were evident to show that the degradable plastic is biodegradable.

  9. Degradations and Rearrangement Reactions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Jianbo

    This section deals with recent reports concerning degradation and rearrangement reactions of free sugars as well as some glycosides. The transformations are classified in chemical and enzymatic ways. In addition, the Maillard reaction will be discussed as an example of degradation and rearrangement transformation and its application in current research in the fields of chemistry and biology.

  10. Sequential anaerobic-aerobic degradation of munitions waste.

    PubMed

    Ibeanusi, Victor; Jeilani, Yassin; Houston, Samantha; Doss, Danielle; Coley, Bianca

    2009-01-01

    A sequential anaerobic-aerobic biodegradation of hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) was studied. The results demonstrated that: (i) a complete degradation of RDX was achieved within 20 days using a consortium of bacteria from a wastewater activated sludge, (ii) RDX degradation did not occur under aerobic conditions alone, (iii) RDX-degrading bacterial strain that was isolated from the activated sludge completely degraded RDX within 2 days, and (iv) RDX- induced protein expressions were observed in the RDX-degrading bacterial strain. Based on fatty acid composition and a confirmation with a 16S rRNA analysis, the RDX-degrading bacterial strain was identified as a Bacillus pumilus-GC subgroup B.

  11. Antifoam degradation testing

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Lambert, D. P.; Zamecnik, J. R.; Newell, D. D.

    2015-08-20

    This report describes the results of testing to quantify the degradation products resulting from the dilution and storage of Antifoam 747. Antifoam degradation is of concern to the Defense Waste Processing Facility (DWPF) due to flammable decomposition products in the vapor phase of the Chemical Process Cell vessels, as well as the collection of flammable and organic species in the offgas condensate. The discovery that hexamethyldisiloxane is formed from the antifoam decomposition was the basis for a Potential Inadequacy in the Safety Analysis declaration by the DWPF.

  12. Electrical behaviour of carbon nanotubes under low-energy proton irradiation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abbe, Elisabeth; Schüler, Tilman; Klosz, Stefan; Starruß, Elisa; Pilz, Wolfgang; Böttger, Roman; Kluge, Oliver; Schmiel, Tino; Tajmar, Martin

    2017-11-01

    Several applications for carbon nanotubes (CNT) have been proposed for space applications in the last years. However, their behaviour in the harsh space environment is mostly unknown. Energetic particles such as protons can influence the material degradation in space. This material damage could result in a system failure of space systems. Therefore it is necessary to investigate the performance of new materials under proton irradiation. Screen and jet printed disordered single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT), multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNT) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes/resin composites (ME) were exposed to 1 keV, 15 keV and 100 keV protons. The electrical behaviour of the CNT conductor paths was measured during the experiment. After this exposure, the CNTs were analyzed using Raman scattering and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Their is a clear evidence that proton radiation can destroy carbon nanotubes and influence their electrical performance.

  13. Wood products : thermal degradation and fire

    Treesearch

    R.H. White; M.A. Dietenberger

    2001-01-01

    Wood is a thermally degradable and combustible material. Applications range from a biomass providing useful energy to a building material with unique properties. Wood products can contribute to unwanted fires and be destroyed as well. Minor amounts of thermal degradation adversely affect structural properties. Therefore, knowledge of the thermal degradation and fire...

  14. Degradation of cellulose under alkaline conditions: new insights from a 12 years degradation study.

    PubMed

    Glaus, Martin A; Van Loon, Luc R

    2008-04-15

    Cellulose degradation under alkaline conditions is of relevance to the mobility of many cations of the transition metal, lanthanide, and actinide series in the geosphere because strong complexants such as isosaccharinic acids, 3-deoxy-2-C-hydroxymethyl-D-erythro-pentonic acid (alpha-ISA) and 3-deoxy-2-C-hydroxymethyl-D-threo-pentonic acid (beta-ISA) may be formed. In the context of the long-term safety of cementitious repositories for low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste, where large amounts of cellulose may be present, the question of the time scales needed for the complete degradation of cellulose is important. The present paper reports the results of a 12 year study of the degradation of four different cellulosic materials (pure cellulose, tissue, cotton, paper) in an artificial cement pore water under anaerobic conditions at approximately 25 degrees C. The observed reaction characteristics can be divided into a fast reaction phase (2-3 years), dominated by the stepwise conversion of terminal glucose monomeric units to alpha-ISA and beta-ISA, and a very slow reaction phase during which the same products were found. The slow rate of the alkaline degradation of cellulose during this second reaction phase shows that previous kinetic models of cellulose degradation did not adequately describe the long-term behavior under alkaline conditions and need to be reassessed. It is postulated that a previously unknown mechanism by which crystalline or inaccessible reducing end groups of the polysaccharide chain become temporarily susceptible to alkaline attack is responsible for the slow rate of cellulose degradation.

  15. Degradation of [Dha7]MC-LR by a Microcystin Degrading Bacterium Isolated from Lake Rotoiti, New Zealand

    PubMed Central

    Somdee, Theerasak; Ruck, John; Lys, Isabelle; Allison, Margaret; Page, Rachel

    2013-01-01

    For the first time a microcystin-degrading bacterium (NV-3 isolate) has been isolated and characterized from a NZ lake. Cyanobacterial blooms in New Zealand (NZ) waters contain microcystin (MC) hepatotoxins at concentrations which are a risk to animal and human health. Degradation of MCs by naturally occurring bacteria is an attractive bioremediation option for removing MCs from drinking and recreational water sources. The NV-3 isolate was identified by 16S rRNA sequence analysis and found to have 100% nucleotide sequence homology with the Sphingomonas MC-degrading bacterial strain MD-1 from Japan. The NV-3 isolate (concentration of 1.0 × 108 CFU/mL) at 30°C degraded a mixture of [Dha7]MC-LR and MC-LR (concentration 25 μg/mL) at a maximum rate of 8.33 μg/mL/day. The intermediate by-products of [Dha7]MC-LR degradation were detected and similar to MC-LR degradation by-products. The presence of three genes (mlrA, mlrB, and mlrC), that encode three enzymes involved in the degradation of MC-LR, were identified in the NV-3 isolate. This study confirmed that degradation of [Dha7]MC-LR by the Sphingomonas isolate NV-3 occurred by a similar mechanism previously described for MC-LR by Sphingomonas strain MJ-PV (ACM-3962). This has important implications for potential bioremediation of toxic blooms containing a variety of MCs in NZ waters. PMID:23936728

  16. Structures of Degradation Products and Degradation Pathways of Aflatoxin B1 by High-Voltage Atmospheric Cold Plasma (HVACP) Treatment.

    PubMed

    Shi, Hu; Cooper, Bruce; Stroshine, Richard L; Ileleji, Klein E; Keener, Kevin M

    2017-08-02

    High-voltage atmospheric cold plasma (HVACP) is a novel nonthermal decontamination technology that has potential for use in the food industry. In this study, HVACP was applied to treat pure aflatoxin B 1 (AFB 1 ) powder on a glass slide. AFB 1 was degraded by 76% using a 5 min HVACP treatment in air having 40% relative humidity. The degradation products of AFB 1 were separated, and their molecular formulas were elucidated using liquid-chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-TOF-MS). Six main degradation products were observed. The structures of the degradation products were further clarified via orbitrap mass spectrometry by means of fragmentation of the parental ions. Two degradation pathways were proposed on the basis of the structure of the degradation products. Among the six degradation products, two were ozonolysis products of AFB 1 . The appearance of the other four degradation products indicates that AFB 1 was degraded by other reactive species besides ozone that were generated during HVACP treatment. Reactive oxygen gas species are suggested as the major agents for aflatoxin degradation during HVACP treatment. Two degradation pathways of AFB 1 by HVACP treatment were proposed. One pathway involves reactions in which H • , OH • , CHO • radicals are added. The other involves epoxidation by HO 2 • radicals and oxidation of AFB 1 by the combined effects of the oxidative species OH • , H 2 O 2 , and O 3 . According to the structure-bioactivity relationship of AFB 1 , the bioactivity of the AFB 1 samples subjected to HVACP treatment is significantly reduced because of the disappearance of the C8═C9 double bond in the furofuran ring in all of the major degradation products as well as the modification of the lactone ring, cyclopentanone, and the methoxyl group.

  17. Thermal degradation of deoxynivalenol during maize bread baking.

    PubMed

    Numanoglu, E; Gökmen, V; Uygun, U; Koksel, H

    2012-01-01

    The thermal degradation of deoxynivalenol (DON) was determined at isothermal baking conditions within the temperature range of 100-250°C, using a crust-like model, which was prepared with naturally contaminated maize flour. No degradation was observed at 100°C. For the temperatures of 150, 200 and 250°C, thermal degradation rate constants (k) were calculated and temperature dependence of DON degradation was observed by using Arrhenius equation. The degradation of DON obeyed Arrhenius law with a regression coefficient of 0.95. A classical bread baking operation was also performed at 250°C for 70 min and the rate of DON degradation in the bread was estimated by using the kinetic data derived from the model study. The crust and crumb temperatures recorded during bread baking were used to calculate the thermal degradation rate constants (k) and partial DON degradations at certain time intervals. Using these data, total degradation at the end of the entire baking process was predicted for both crust and crumb. This DON degradation was consistent with the experimental degradation data, confirming the accuracy of kinetic constants determined by means of the crust-like model.

  18. Fish habitat degradation in U.S. reservoirs

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Miranda, Leandro E.; Spickard, M.; Dunn, T.; Webb, K.M.; Aycock, J.N.; Hunt, K.

    2010-01-01

    As the median age of the thousands of large reservoirs (> 200 ha) in the United States tops 50, many are showing various signs of fish habitat degradation. Our goal was to identify major factors degrading fish habitat in reservoirs across the country, and to explore regional degradation patterns. An online survey including 14 metrics was scored on a 0 (no degradation) to 5 (high degradation) point scale by 221 fisheries scientists (92% response rate) to describe degradation in 482 reservoirs randomly distributed throughout the continental United States. The highest scored sources of degradation were lack of aquatic macrophytes (41% of the reservoirs scored as 4–5), lack or loss of woody debris (35% scored 4–5), mistimed water level fluctuations (34% scored 4–5), and sedimentation (31% scored 4–5). Factor analysis identified five primary degradation factors that accounted for most of the variability in the 14 degradation metrics. The factors reflected siltation, structural habitat, eutrophication, water regime, and aquatic plants. Three degradation factors were driven principally by in-reservoir processes, whereas the other two were driven by inputs from the watershed. A comparison across U.S. regions indicated significant geographical differences in degradation relative to the factors emphasized by each region. Reservoirs sometimes have been dismissed as unnatural and disruptive, but they are a product of public policy, a critical feature of landscapes, and they cannot be overlooked if managers are to effectively conserve river systems. Protection and restoration of reservoir habitats may be enhanced with a broader perspective that includes watershed management, in addition to in reservoir activities.

  19. Thermal degradation of aqueous 2-aminoethylethanolamine in CO2 capture; identification of degradation products, reaction mechanisms and computational studies.

    PubMed

    Saeed, Idris Mohamed; Lee, Vannajan Sanghiran; Mazari, Shaukat Ali; Si Ali, B; Basirun, Wan Jeffrey; Asghar, Anam; Ghalib, Lubna; Jan, Badrul Mohamed

    2017-01-01

    Amine degradation is the main significant problems in amine-based post-combustion CO 2 capture, causes foaming, increase in viscosity, corrosion, fouling as well as environmental issues. Therefore it is very important to develop the most efficient solvent with high thermal and chemical stability. This study investigated thermal degradation of aqueous 30% 2-aminoethylethanolamine (AEEA) using 316 stainless steel cylinders in the presence and absence of CO 2 for 4 weeks. The degradation products were identified by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and liquid chromatography-time-of-flight-mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF/MS). The results showed AEEA is stable in the absence of CO 2 , while in the presence of CO 2 AEEA showed to be very unstable and numbers of degradation products were identified. 1-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-2-imidazolidinone (HEIA) was the most abundance degradation product. A possible mechanism for the thermal degradation of AEEA has been developed to explain the formation of degradation products. In addition, the reaction energy of formation of the most abundance degradation product HEIA was calculated using quantum mechanical calculation.

  20. Organic solids produced by electrical discharges in reducing atmospheres: Molecular analysis

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Khare, B. N.; Sagan, C.; Zumberge, J. E.; Sklarew, D.; Nagy, B.

    1978-01-01

    The complex brown polymer produced on passage of an electrical discharge through a mixture of methane, ammonia, and water, is analyzed by pyrolytic GC/MS. Pyrolyzates include a wide range of alkanes, alkenes, aromatic hydrocarbons, aliphatic and aromatic nitriles, pyrroles, and pyridine. Similar pyrolyzates are obtained from polypeptides and polynucleotides with hydrocarbon moieties. This polymer is remarkably stable up to 950 C; its degradation products are candidate constituents of planetary aerosols in the outer solar system and the grains and gas in the interstellar medium.

  1. Characterization of electrical discharges on Teflon dielectrics used as spacecraft thermal control

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Yadlowsky, E. J.; Hazelton, R. C.; Churchill, R. J.

    1979-01-01

    The dual effects of system degradation and reduced life of synchronous-orbit satellites as a result of differential spacecraft charging underscore the need for a clearer understanding of the prevailing electrical discharge phenomena. In a laboratory simulation, the electrical discharge current, surface voltage, emitted particle fluxes, and photo-emission associated with discharge events on electron beam irradiated silver-backed Teflon samples were measured. Sample surface damage was examined with optical and electron beam microscopes. The results are suggestive of a model in which the entire sample surface is discharged by lateral sub-surface currents flowing from a charge deposition layer through a localized discharge channel to the back surface of the sample. The associated return current pulse appears to have a duration which may be a signature by which different discharge processes may be characterized.

  2. Lignocellulose-Degrading Microbial Communities in Landfill Sites Represent a Repository of Unexplored Biomass-Degrading Diversity.

    PubMed

    Ransom-Jones, Emma; McCarthy, Alan J; Haldenby, Sam; Doonan, James; McDonald, James E

    2017-01-01

    The microbial conversion of lignocellulosic biomass for biofuel production represents a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. However, the discovery of new microbial enzymes with high activity is critical for improving biomass conversion processes. While attempts to identify superior lignocellulose-degrading enzymes have focused predominantly on the animal gut, biomass-degrading communities in landfill sites represent an unexplored resource of hydrolytic enzymes for biomass conversion. Here, to address the paucity of information on biomass-degrading microbial diversity beyond the gastrointestinal tract, cellulose (cotton) "baits" were incubated in landfill leachate microcosms to enrich the landfill cellulolytic microbial community for taxonomic and functional characterization. Metagenome and 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing demonstrated the dominance of Firmicutes , Bacteroidetes , Spirochaetes , and Fibrobacteres in the landfill cellulolytic community. Functional metagenome analysis revealed 8,371 carbohydrate active enzymes (CAZymes) belonging to 244 CAZyme families. In addition to observing biomass-degrading enzymes of anaerobic bacterial "cellulosome" systems of members of the Firmicutes , we report the first detection of the Fibrobacter cellulase system and the Bacteroidetes polysaccharide utilization locus (PUL) in landfill sites. These data provide evidence for the presence of multiple mechanisms of biomass degradation in the landfill microbiome and highlight the extraordinary functional diversity of landfill microorganisms as a rich source of biomass-degrading enzymes of potential biotechnological significance. IMPORTANCE The microbial conversion of lignocellulosic biomass for biofuel production represents a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. However, the discovery of new microbial enzymes with high activity is critical for improving biomass conversion processes. While attempts to identify superior lignocellulose-degrading enzymes have focused

  3. Lignocellulose-Degrading Microbial Communities in Landfill Sites Represent a Repository of Unexplored Biomass-Degrading Diversity

    PubMed Central

    Ransom-Jones, Emma; McCarthy, Alan J.; Haldenby, Sam; Doonan, James

    2017-01-01

    ABSTRACT The microbial conversion of lignocellulosic biomass for biofuel production represents a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. However, the discovery of new microbial enzymes with high activity is critical for improving biomass conversion processes. While attempts to identify superior lignocellulose-degrading enzymes have focused predominantly on the animal gut, biomass-degrading communities in landfill sites represent an unexplored resource of hydrolytic enzymes for biomass conversion. Here, to address the paucity of information on biomass-degrading microbial diversity beyond the gastrointestinal tract, cellulose (cotton) “baits” were incubated in landfill leachate microcosms to enrich the landfill cellulolytic microbial community for taxonomic and functional characterization. Metagenome and 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing demonstrated the dominance of Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Spirochaetes, and Fibrobacteres in the landfill cellulolytic community. Functional metagenome analysis revealed 8,371 carbohydrate active enzymes (CAZymes) belonging to 244 CAZyme families. In addition to observing biomass-degrading enzymes of anaerobic bacterial “cellulosome” systems of members of the Firmicutes, we report the first detection of the Fibrobacter cellulase system and the Bacteroidetes polysaccharide utilization locus (PUL) in landfill sites. These data provide evidence for the presence of multiple mechanisms of biomass degradation in the landfill microbiome and highlight the extraordinary functional diversity of landfill microorganisms as a rich source of biomass-degrading enzymes of potential biotechnological significance. IMPORTANCE The microbial conversion of lignocellulosic biomass for biofuel production represents a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. However, the discovery of new microbial enzymes with high activity is critical for improving biomass conversion processes. While attempts to identify superior lignocellulose-degrading enzymes have

  4. Degradation of a lyophilized formulation of BMS-204352: identification of degradants and role of elastomeric closures.

    PubMed

    Nassar, Munir N; Nesarikar, Vishwas V; Lozano, Ruben; Huang, Yande; Palaniswamy, Venkatapuram

    2005-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to identify two degradation products formed in the parenteral lyophilized formulation of BMS-204352, investigate the possible role of elastomeric closures in their formation, and develop a strategy to minimize/control their formation. The first degradant was identified as the hydroxymethyl derivative (formaldehyde adduct, BMS-215842) of the drug substance formed by the reaction of BMS-204352 with formaldehyde. Structure confirmation was based on liquid chromatography/mass spectroscopy (LC/MS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and chromatographic comparison to an authentic sample of the hydroxymethyl degradation product, BMS-215842. To confirm the hypothesis that formaldehyde originated from the rubber closure, migrated into the product, and reacted with BMS-204352 drug substance to form the hydroxymethyl degradant, lyophilized drug product was manufactured, the vials were stoppered with two different rubber closure formulations, and its stability was monitored. The formaldehyde adduct degradant was observed only in the drug product vials stoppered with one of the rubber closures that was evaluated. Although formaldehyde has not been detected historically as leachable and is not an added ingredient in the rubber formulation, information obtained from the stopper manufacturer indicated that the reinforcing agent used in the stopper formulation may be a potential source of formaldehyde. The second degradant was identified as the desfluoro hydroxy analog (BMS-188929) based on LC/MS, NMR, and chromatographic comparison to an authentic sample of the desfluoro hydroxy degradation product.

  5. Role of Water in the Reversible Optoelectronic Degradation in Hybrid Perovskites at Low Pressure

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hall, Genevieve N.; Stuckelberger, Michael; Nietzold, Tara

    There is no doubt about the potential offered by the low-cost fabrication and high efficiency of hybrid organic–inorganic perovskite solar cells. However, the service lifetimes of these devices must be increased from months to years to capitalize on their potential. The archetypal hybrid perovskite for solar cells, methylammonium lead iodide (CH 3NH 3PbI 3, abbreviated MAPI), readily degrades in ambient atmosphere under standard operating conditions. Understanding the origin and effects of this degradation can pave the way to better engineer photovoltaic devices and the perovskite material itself. Herein we present the effects of varying pressure on the electrical performance ofmore » MAPI solar cells. Solar cell parameters, especially open circuit voltage, are significantly affected by the total ambient pressure and present an unexpected reversible behavior upon pressure cycling. We complement photoluminescence studies as a function of ambient atmosphere and temperature with first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The results suggest that the reversible intercalation of water in MAPI is a necessary component underlying this behavior.« less

  6. Role of Water in the Reversible Optoelectronic Degradation in Hybrid Perovskites at Low Pressure

    DOE PAGES

    Hall, Genevieve N.; Stuckelberger, Michael; Nietzold, Tara; ...

    2017-10-10

    There is no doubt about the potential offered by the low-cost fabrication and high efficiency of hybrid organic–inorganic perovskite solar cells. However, the service lifetimes of these devices must be increased from months to years to capitalize on their potential. The archetypal hybrid perovskite for solar cells, methylammonium lead iodide (CH 3NH 3PbI 3, abbreviated MAPI), readily degrades in ambient atmosphere under standard operating conditions. Understanding the origin and effects of this degradation can pave the way to better engineer photovoltaic devices and the perovskite material itself. Herein we present the effects of varying pressure on the electrical performance ofmore » MAPI solar cells. Solar cell parameters, especially open circuit voltage, are significantly affected by the total ambient pressure and present an unexpected reversible behavior upon pressure cycling. We complement photoluminescence studies as a function of ambient atmosphere and temperature with first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The results suggest that the reversible intercalation of water in MAPI is a necessary component underlying this behavior.« less

  7. Graphene-like boron nitride modified bismuth phosphate materials for boosting photocatalytic degradation of enrofloxacin.

    PubMed

    Chen, Zhigang; Chen, Xiaoliu; Di, Jun; Liu, Yiling; Yin, Sheng; Xia, Jiexiang; Li, Huaming

    2017-04-15

    A novel graphene-like BN modified BiPO 4 material was prepared for the first time via a simple solvothermal process with the assistance of reactable ionic liquid 1-decyl-3-methylimidazolium dihydrogen phosphate ([Omim]H 2 PO 4 ). The as-prepared photocatalyst was characterized by XRD, FT-IR, Raman, XPS, TEM, DRS, BET, PL, EIS and ESR to investigate the structure, morphology, optical property, surface area, electrical property and active species. The photocatalytic activities of graphene-like BN/BiPO 4 materials were evaluated by the degradation of antibiotic enrofloxacin (ENR) under UV light irradiation and the 1wt% graphene-like BN/BiPO 4 displayed the best activity among the BN/BiPO 4 composites. The enhanced photocatalytic activity for the removal of enrofloxacin was attributed to higher separation efficiency of photogenerated electron-hole pairs, and the generated more O 2 - and OH radicals when the BN was modified on BiPO 4 . Moreover, a probable degradation mechanism was proposed for the improved photocatalytic activity of BN modified BiPO 4 . Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. Photocatalytic Degradation of 4-Nitrophenol by C, N-TiO2: Degradation Efficiency vs. Embryonic Toxicity of the Resulting Compounds

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Osin, Oluwatomiwa A.; Yu, Tianyu; Cai, Xiaoming; Jiang, Yue; Peng, Guotao; Cheng, Xiaomei; Li, Ruibin; Qin, Yao; Lin, Sijie

    2018-06-01

    The photocatalytic activity of TiO2 based photocatalysts can be improved by structural modification and elemental doping. In this study, through rational design, one type of carbon and nitrogen co-doped TiO2 (C, N-TiO2) photocatalyst with mesoporous structure was synthesized with improved photocatalytic activity in degrading 4-nitrophenol under simulated sunlight irradiation. The photocatalytic degradation efficiency of the C, N-TiO2 was much higher than the anatase TiO2 (A-TiO2) based on absorbance and HPLC analyses. Moreover, using zebrafish embryos, we showed that the intermediate degradation compounds generated by photocatalytic degradation of 4-nitrophenol had higher toxicity than the parent compound. A repeated degradation process was necessary to render complete degradation and non-toxicity to the zebrafish embryos. Our results demonstrated the importance of evaluating the photocatalytic degradation efficiency in conjunction with the toxicity assessment of the degradation compounds.

  9. Photocatalytic Degradation of 4-Nitrophenol by C, N-TiO2: Degradation Efficiency vs. Embryonic Toxicity of the Resulting Compounds.

    PubMed

    Osin, Oluwatomiwa A; Yu, Tianyu; Cai, Xiaoming; Jiang, Yue; Peng, Guotao; Cheng, Xiaomei; Li, Ruibin; Qin, Yao; Lin, Sijie

    2018-01-01

    The photocatalytic activity of TiO 2 based photocatalysts can be improved by structural modification and elemental doping. In this study, through rational design, one type of carbon and nitrogen co-doped TiO 2 (C, N-TiO 2 ) photocatalyst with mesoporous structure was synthesized with improved photocatalytic activity in degrading 4-nitrophenol under simulated sunlight irradiation. The photocatalytic degradation efficiency of the C, N-TiO 2 was much higher than the anatase TiO 2 (A-TiO 2 ) based on absorbance and HPLC analyses. Moreover, using zebrafish embryos, we showed that the intermediate degradation compounds generated by photocatalytic degradation of 4-nitrophenol had higher toxicity than the parent compound. A repeated degradation process was necessary to render complete degradation and non-toxicity to the zebrafish embryos. Our results demonstrated the importance of evaluating the photocatalytic degradation efficiency in conjunction with the toxicity assessment of the degradation compounds.

  10. Ensemble cryoEM elucidates the mechanism of insulin capture and degradation by human insulin degrading enzyme

    PubMed Central

    Bailey, Lucas J; Tan, Yong Zi; Wei, Hui; Wang, Andrew; Farcasanu, Mara; Woods, Virgil A; McCord, Lauren A; Lee, David; Shang, Weifeng; Deprez-Poulain, Rebecca; Deprez, Benoit; Liu, David R; Koide, Akiko; Koide, Shohei; Kossiakoff, Anthony A

    2018-01-01

    Insulin degrading enzyme (IDE) plays key roles in degrading peptides vital in type two diabetes, Alzheimer's, inflammation, and other human diseases. However, the process through which IDE recognizes peptides that tend to form amyloid fibrils remained unsolved. We used cryoEM to understand both the apo- and insulin-bound dimeric IDE states, revealing that IDE displays a large opening between the homologous ~55 kDa N- and C-terminal halves to allow selective substrate capture based on size and charge complementarity. We also used cryoEM, X-ray crystallography, SAXS, and HDX-MS to elucidate the molecular basis of how amyloidogenic peptides stabilize the disordered IDE catalytic cleft, thereby inducing selective degradation by substrate-assisted catalysis. Furthermore, our insulin-bound IDE structures explain how IDE processively degrades insulin by stochastically cutting either chain without breaking disulfide bonds. Together, our studies provide a mechanism for how IDE selectively degrades amyloidogenic peptides and offers structural insights for developing IDE-based therapies. PMID:29596046

  11. A highly sensitive peptide substrate for detecting two Aß-degrading enzymes: neprilysin and insulin-degrading enzyme.

    PubMed

    Chen, Po-Ting; Liao, Tai-Yan; Hu, Chaur-Jong; Wu, Shu-Ting; Wang, Steven S-S; Chen, Rita P-Y

    2010-06-30

    Neprilysin has been singled out as the most promising candidate for use in the degradation of Abeta as a therapy for Alzheimer's disease. In this study, a quenched fluorogenic peptide substrate containing the first seven residues of the Abeta peptide plus a C-terminal Cysteine residue was synthesized to detect neprilysin activity. A fluorophore was attached to the C-terminal Cysteine and its fluorescence was quenched by a quencher linked to the N-terminus of the peptide. When this peptide substrate was degraded by an endopeptidase, fluorescence was produced and proved to be a sensitive detection system for endopeptidase activity. Our results showed that this assay system was extremely sensitive to neprilysin and insulin-degrading enzyme, but insensitive, or much less sensitive, to other Abeta-degrading enzymes. As low as 0.1 nM of neprilysin and 0.2 nM of insulin-degrading enzyme can be detected. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Assessment of the degradation efficiency of full-scale biogas plants: A comparative study of degradation indicators.

    PubMed

    Li, Chao; Nges, Ivo Achu; Lu, Wenjing; Wang, Haoyu

    2017-11-01

    Increasing popularity and applications of the anaerobic digestion (AD) process has necessitated the development and identification of tools for obtaining reliable indicators of organic matter degradation rate and hence evaluate the process efficiency especially in full-scale, commercial biogas plants. In this study, four biogas plants (A1, A2, B and C) based on different feedstock, process configuration, scale and operational performance were selected and investigated. Results showed that the biochemical methane potential (BMP) based degradation rate could be use in incisively gauging process efficiency in lieu of the traditional degradation rate indicators. The BMP degradation rates ranged from 70 to 90% wherein plants A2 and C showed the highest throughput. This study, therefore, corroborates the feasibility of using the BMP degradation rate as a practical tool for evaluating process performance in full-scale biogas processes and spots light on the microbial diversity in full-scale biogas processes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Melanosome degradation: fact or fiction.

    PubMed

    Borovanský, Jan; Elleder, Milan

    2003-06-01

    Our mini review summarizes what is known about the (bio)degradation of melanosomes. Unlike melanosome biogenesis where our knowledge enables us to explain it in molecular terms posing many interesting questions on the relation between lysosomes and melanosomes, melanosome degradation has remained 'terra incognita'. Observations at optical and ultrastructural levels describe the disintegration of melanosomes in the lysosomal compartment (in auto- and heterophagosomes). Histochemical studies suggest the participation of acid hydrolases in the process of melanosome degradation. Biochemical data confirm the ability of lysosomal hydrolases to degrade melanosome constituents except the melanin moiety. The similarity of melanin structure to that of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons suggests that melanin should be sensitive mainly, if not exclusively, to oxidative breakdown. In vitro melanin can indeed be decomposed by an oxidative attack and the degradation is accompanied by fluorescence and decreasing absorbance. From enzymes engaged in the biotransformation of polycyclic hydrocarbons only phagosomal NADPH oxidase meets the criteria (particularly as for compartmental and catalytic properties) to be involved in melanin biodegradation. The in vivo biodegradation of melanin has so far been clearly demonstrated in Aspergillus and fungi melanins.

  14. Ensemble LUT classification for degraded document enhancement

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Obafemi-Ajayi, Tayo; Agam, Gady; Frieder, Ophir

    2008-01-01

    The fast evolution of scanning and computing technologies have led to the creation of large collections of scanned paper documents. Examples of such collections include historical collections, legal depositories, medical archives, and business archives. Moreover, in many situations such as legal litigation and security investigations scanned collections are being used to facilitate systematic exploration of the data. It is almost always the case that scanned documents suffer from some form of degradation. Large degradations make documents hard to read and substantially deteriorate the performance of automated document processing systems. Enhancement of degraded document images is normally performed assuming global degradation models. When the degradation is large, global degradation models do not perform well. In contrast, we propose to estimate local degradation models and use them in enhancing degraded document images. Using a semi-automated enhancement system we have labeled a subset of the Frieder diaries collection.1 This labeled subset was then used to train an ensemble classifier. The component classifiers are based on lookup tables (LUT) in conjunction with the approximated nearest neighbor algorithm. The resulting algorithm is highly effcient. Experimental evaluation results are provided using the Frieder diaries collection.1

  15. Optimal Electric Vehicle Scheduling: A Co-Optimized System and Customer Perspective

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Maigha

    Electric vehicles provide a two pronged solution to the problems faced by the electricity and transportation sectors. They provide a green, highly efficient alternative to the internal combustion engine vehicles, thus reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. Secondly, they bear the potential of supporting the grid as energy storage devices while incentivising the customers through their participation in energy markets. Despite these advantages, widespread adoption of electric vehicles faces socio-technical and economic bottleneck. This dissertation seeks to provide solutions that balance system and customer objectives under present technological capabilities. The research uses electric vehicles as controllable loads and resources. The idea is to provide the customers with required tools to make an informed decision while considering the system conditions. First, a genetic algorithm based optimal charging strategy to reduce the impact of aggregated electric vehicle load has been presented. A Monte Carlo based solution strategy studies change in the solution under different objective functions. This day-ahead scheduling is then extended to real-time coordination using a moving-horizon approach. Further, battery degradation costs have been explored with vehicle-to-grid implementations, thus accounting for customer net-revenue and vehicle utility for grid support. A Pareto front, thus obtained, provides the nexus between customer and system desired operating points. Finally, we propose a transactive business model for a smart airport parking facility. This model identifies various revenue streams and satisfaction indices that benefit the parking lot owner and the customer, thus adding value to the electric vehicle.

  16. Polychlorinated biphenyls degradation in subcritical water

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Doctor, Ninad; Yang, Larry; Yang, Yu

    2017-08-01

    In this work, the degradation of PCB-118, PCB-156, and PCB-180 congeners under subcritical conditions has been investigated. Stainless reaction vessels were used to carry out the heating of reaction mixtures. Liquid-liquid extraction of the reaction mixtures was conducted prior to GC analysis. Approximately 30% PCBs were degraded by 30% hydrogen peroxide after 24 hours of reaction time but without heating the mixtures. The percent degradation of PCBs was however improved to approximately 60% after heating the mixtures at 300 °C for an hour. In general, the PCB degradation efficiency was enhanced by increasing the reaction temperature from 300 and 350 °C. The percent degradation of PCBs was mostly improved by increasing the heating time from 1 hour to 6 hours. In addition, increasing the percentage of hydrogen peroxide significantly increases the rate of PCB destruction.

  17. Agent-based modeling of porous scaffold degradation and vascularization: Optimal scaffold design based on architecture and degradation dynamics.

    PubMed

    Mehdizadeh, Hamidreza; Bayrak, Elif S; Lu, Chenlin; Somo, Sami I; Akar, Banu; Brey, Eric M; Cinar, Ali

    2015-11-01

    A multi-layer agent-based model (ABM) of biomaterial scaffold vascularization is extended to consider the effects of scaffold degradation kinetics on blood vessel formation. A degradation model describing the bulk disintegration of porous hydrogels is incorporated into the ABM. The combined degradation-angiogenesis model is used to investigate growing blood vessel networks in the presence of a degradable scaffold structure. Simulation results indicate that higher porosity, larger mean pore size, and rapid degradation allow faster vascularization when not considering the structural support of the scaffold. However, premature loss of structural support results in failure for the material. A strategy using multi-layer scaffold with different degradation rates in each layer was investigated as a way to address this issue. Vascularization was improved with the multi-layered scaffold model compared to the single-layer model. The ABM developed provides insight into the characteristics that influence the selection of optimal geometric parameters and degradation behavior of scaffolds, and enables easy refinement of the model as new knowledge about the underlying biological phenomena becomes available. This paper proposes a multi-layer agent-based model (ABM) of biomaterial scaffold vascularization integrated with a structural-kinetic model describing bulk degradation of porous hydrogels to consider the effects of scaffold degradation kinetics on blood vessel formation. This enables the assessment of scaffold characteristics and in particular the disintegration characteristics of the scaffold on angiogenesis. Simulation results indicate that higher porosity, larger mean pore size, and rapid degradation allow faster vascularization when not considering the structural support of the scaffold. However, premature loss of structural support by scaffold disintegration results in failure of the material and disruption of angiogenesis. A strategy using multi-layer scaffold with

  18. Dry etching of metallization

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bollinger, D.

    1983-01-01

    The production dry etch processes are reviewed from the perspective of microelectronic fabrication applications. The major dry etch processes used in the fabrication of microelectronic devices can be divided into two categories - plasma processes in which samples are directly exposed to an electrical discharge, and ion beam processes in which samples are etched by a beam of ions extracted from a discharge. The plasma etch processes can be distinguished by the degree to which ion bombardment contributes to the etch process. This, in turn is related to capability for anisotropic etching. Reactive Ion Etching (RIE) and Ion Beam Etching are of most interest for etching of thin film metals. RIE is generally considered the best process for large volume, anisotropic aluminum etching.

  19. An overview of degradable polymers

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Many degradable polymers are being investigated for research purpose or for possible commercial use. This overview provides a listing of the more important degradable polymers and their mechanisms of action. Some application areas, particularly in packaging, housewares, personal care, biomaterials, ...

  20. An overview of degradable polymers

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Many degradable polymers are being investigated for research purpose or for possible commercial use. This overview provides a listing of the more important degradable polymers and their mechanisms of action. Some application areas, particularly in packaging, housewares, personal care, biomaterials...

  1. WEATHERABILITY OF ENHANCED DEGRADABLE PLASTICS

    EPA Science Inventory

    The main objective of this study was to assess the performance and the asociated variability of several selected enhanced degradable plastic materials under a variety of different exposure conditions. Other objectives were to identify the major products formed during degradation ...

  2. Irradiation ageing of CSPE/EPR control command electric cables. Correlation between mechanical properties and oxidation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Calmet, J. F.; Carlin, F.; Nguyen, T. M.; Bousquet, S.; Quinot, P.

    2002-03-01

    In this paper, correlations between the elongation at break and the oxidation of chlorosulfonated polyethylene and ethylene propylene rubber (EPR) polymers in instrumentation and control cables irradiated at different dose rates are brought to evidence. During irradiation, the following phenomena are observed: an increase of oxygen consumption, a degradation of the mechanical properties and a reduction of the oxidation induction time (OIT) measured for EPR. A correlation between the mechanical properties and the OIT of the EPR has only been established in the case of irradiation at low dose rate. This reveals a difference in the oxidative degradation process at low and high dose rates. This study shows the possibility to assess the ageing of electric cables installed inside nuclear power plants by OIT measurements.

  3. Isolation of an isocarbophos-degrading strain of Arthrobacter sp. scl-2 and identification of the degradation pathway.

    PubMed

    Rong, Li; Guo, Xinqiang; Chen, Kai; Zhu, Jianchun; Li, Shunpeng; Jiang, Jiandong

    2009-11-01

    Isocarbophos is a widely used organophosphorus insecticide that has caused environmental pollution in many areas. However, degradation of isocarbophos by pure cultures has not been extensively studied, and the degradation pathway has not been determined. In this paper, a highly effective isocarbophos-degrading strain, scl-2, was isolated from isocarbophos-polluted soil. Strain scl-2 was preliminarily identified as Arthrobacter sp. based on its morphological, physiological, and biochemical properties, as well as 16S rDNA analysis. Strain scl-2 could utilize isocarbophos as its sole source of carbon and phosphorus for growth. One hundred mg/l isocarbophos could be degraded to a nondetectable level in 18 h by scl-2 in cell culture, and isofenphos-methyl, profenofos, and phosmet could also be degraded. During the degradation of isocarbophos, the metabolites isopropyl salicylate, salicylate, and gentisate were detected and identified based on MS/MS analysis and their retention times in HPLC. Transformation of gentisate to pyruvate and fumarate via maleylpyruvate and fumarylpyruvate was detected by assaying for the activities of gentisate 1,2- dioxygenase (GDO) and maleylpyruvate isomerase. Therefore, we have identified the degradation pathway of isocarbophos in Arthrobacter sp. scl-2 for the first time. This study highlights an important potential use of the strain scl-2 for the cleanup of environmental contamination by isocarbophos and presents a mechanism of isocarbophos metabolism.

  4. Aligned Single Wall Carbon Nanotube Polymer Composites Using an Electric Field

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Park, Cheol; Wiklinson, John; Banda, Sumanth; Ounaies, Zoubeida; Wise, Kristopher E.; Sauti, Godfrey; Lillehei, Peter T.; Harrison, Joycelyn S.

    2005-01-01

    While high shear alignment has been shown to improve the mechanical properties of single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNT)-polymer composites, it is difficult to control and often results in degradation of the electrical and dielectric properties of the composite. Here, we report a novel method to actively align SWNTs in a polymer matrix, which allows for control over the degree of alignment of SWNTs without the side effects of shear alignment. In this process, SWNTs are aligned via field-induced dipolar interactions among the nanotubes under an AC electric field in a liquid matrix followed by immobilization by photopolymerization while maintaining the electric field. Alignment of SWNTs was controlled as a function of magnitude, frequency, and application time of the applied electric field. The degree of SWNT alignment was assessed using optical microscopy and polarized Raman spectroscopy and the morphology of the aligned nanocomposites was investigated by high resolution scanning electron microscopy. The structure of the field induced aligned SWNTs is intrinsically different from that of shear aligned SWNTs. In the present work, SWNTs are not only aligned along the field, but also migrate laterally to form thick, aligned SWNT percolative columns between the electrodes. The actively aligned SWNTs amplify the electrical and dielectric properties in addition to improving the mechanical properties of the composite. All of these properties of the aligned nanocomposites exhibited anisotropic characteristics, which were controllable by tuning the applied field conditions.

  5. Quantifying the degradation of degradable implants and bone formation in the femoral condyle using micro-CT 3D reconstruction

    PubMed Central

    Xu, Yichi; Meng, Haoye; Yin, Heyong; Sun, Zhen; Peng, Jiang; Xu, Xiaolong; Guo, Quanyi; Xu, Wenjing; Yu, Xiaoming; Yuan, Zhiguo; Xiao, Bo; Wang, Cheng; Wang, Yu; Liu, Shuyun; Lu, Shibi; Wang, Zhaoxu; Wang, Aiyuan

    2018-01-01

    Degradation limits the application of magnesium alloys, and evaluation methods for non-traumatic in vivo quantification of implant degradation and bone formation are imperfect. In the present study, a micro-arc-oxidized AZ31 magnesium alloy was used to evaluate the degradation of implants and new bone formation in 60 male New Zealand white rabbits. Degradation was monitored by weighing the implants prior to and following implantation, and by performing micro-computed tomography (CT) scans and histological analysis after 1, 4, 12, 24, 36, and 48 weeks of implantation. The results indicated that the implants underwent slow degradation in the first 4 weeks, with negligible degradation in the first week, followed by significantly increased degradation during weeks 12–24 (P<0.05), and continued degradation until the end of the 48-week experimental period. The magnesium content decreased as the implant degraded (P<0.05); however, the density of the material exhibited almost no change. Micro-CT results also demonstrated that pin volume, pin mineral density, mean ‘pin thickness’, bone surface/bone volume and trabecular separation decreased over time (P<0.05), and that the pin surface area/pin volume, bone volume fraction, trabecular thickness, trabecular number and tissue mineral density increased over time (P<0.05), indicating that the number of bones and density of new bone increased as magnesium degraded. These results support the positive effect of magnesium on osteogenesis. However, from the maximum inner diameter of the new bone loop and diameter of the pin in the same position, the magnesium alloy was not capable of creating sufficient bridges between the bones and biomaterials when there were preexisting gaps. Histological analyses indicated that there were no inflammatory responses around the implants. The results of the present study indicate that a micro-arc-oxidized AZ31 magnesium alloy is safe in vivo and efficiently degraded. Furthermore, the novel bone

  6. Quantifying the degradation of degradable implants and bone formation in the femoral condyle using micro-CT 3D reconstruction.

    PubMed

    Xu, Yichi; Meng, Haoye; Yin, Heyong; Sun, Zhen; Peng, Jiang; Xu, Xiaolong; Guo, Quanyi; Xu, Wenjing; Yu, Xiaoming; Yuan, Zhiguo; Xiao, Bo; Wang, Cheng; Wang, Yu; Liu, Shuyun; Lu, Shibi; Wang, Zhaoxu; Wang, Aiyuan

    2018-01-01

    Degradation limits the application of magnesium alloys, and evaluation methods for non-traumatic in vivo quantification of implant degradation and bone formation are imperfect. In the present study, a micro-arc-oxidized AZ31 magnesium alloy was used to evaluate the degradation of implants and new bone formation in 60 male New Zealand white rabbits. Degradation was monitored by weighing the implants prior to and following implantation, and by performing micro-computed tomography (CT) scans and histological analysis after 1, 4, 12, 24, 36, and 48 weeks of implantation. The results indicated that the implants underwent slow degradation in the first 4 weeks, with negligible degradation in the first week, followed by significantly increased degradation during weeks 12-24 (P<0.05), and continued degradation until the end of the 48-week experimental period. The magnesium content decreased as the implant degraded (P<0.05); however, the density of the material exhibited almost no change. Micro-CT results also demonstrated that pin volume, pin mineral density, mean 'pin thickness', bone surface/bone volume and trabecular separation decreased over time (P<0.05), and that the pin surface area/pin volume, bone volume fraction, trabecular thickness, trabecular number and tissue mineral density increased over time (P<0.05), indicating that the number of bones and density of new bone increased as magnesium degraded. These results support the positive effect of magnesium on osteogenesis. However, from the maximum inner diameter of the new bone loop and diameter of the pin in the same position, the magnesium alloy was not capable of creating sufficient bridges between the bones and biomaterials when there were preexisting gaps. Histological analyses indicated that there were no inflammatory responses around the implants. The results of the present study indicate that a micro-arc-oxidized AZ31 magnesium alloy is safe in vivo and efficiently degraded. Furthermore, the novel bone

  7. Autophagy degrades hypoxia inducible factors

    PubMed Central

    DePavia, Adela; Jonasch, Eric; Liu, Xian-De

    2016-01-01

    ABSTRACT Hypoxia inducible factors are subjected to degradation by the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), macroautophagy, and chaperone-mediated autophagy. The E3 ligases, ubiquitination, autophagy receptor proteins, and oxygen are determinants that direct hypoxia-inducible factors to different degradation pathways. PMID:27308629

  8. Study on degrading graphene oxide in wastewater under different conditions for developing an efficient and economical degradation method.

    PubMed

    Li, Ting; Zhang, Chao-Zhi; Gu, Chengyue

    2017-12-01

    With popular application of graphene and graphene oxide (GO), they have been discharged into water. Graphene and GO harm organisms. However, an efficient and economical method for removing graphene and GO in wastewater has seldom been reported. Graphene can be oxidized by hydrogen peroxide to give GO; therefore, degradation of graphene oxide is an important step in the procedure of removal of graphene from water. In this paper, GO degradation via photo-Fenton reaction under different conditions was carried out. Experimental results suggested that GO in wastewater can be efficiently and economically degraded into carbon dioxide and H 2 O when pH value is 3, concentration of H 2 O 2 and FeCl 3 are 35 mM and 5 ppm, respectively. Degradation mechanism of GO was suggested based on UV-vis absorption spectra, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and liquid chromatography-mass spectra data of degradation intermediates. This paper suggests an efficient and economical degradation way of GO in wastewater.

  9. High Piezo-photocatalytic Efficiency of CuS/ZnO Nanowires Using Both Solar and Mechanical Energy for Degrading Organic Dye.

    PubMed

    Hong, Deyi; Zang, Weili; Guo, Xiao; Fu, Yongming; He, Haoxuan; Sun, Jing; Xing, Lili; Liu, Baodan; Xue, Xinyu

    2016-08-24

    High piezo-photocatalytic efficiency of degrading organic pollutants has been realized from CuS/ZnO nanowires using both solar and mechanical energy. CuS/ZnO heterostructured nanowire arrays are compactly/vertically aligned on stainless steel mesh by a simple two-step wet-chemical method. The mesh-supported nanocomposites can facilitate an efficient light harvesting due to the large surface area and can also be easily removed from the treated solution. Under both solar and ultrasonic irradiation, CuS/ZnO nanowires can rapidly degrade methylene blue (MB) in aqueous solution, and the recyclability is investigated. In this process, the ultrasonic assistance can greatly enhance the photocatalytic activity. Such a performance can be attributed to the coupling of the built-in electric field of heterostructures and the piezoelectric field of ZnO nanowires. The built-in electric field of the heterostructure can effectively separate the photogenerated electrons/holes and facilitate the carrier transportation. The CuS component can improve the visible light utilization. The piezoelectric field created by ZnO nanowires can further separate the photogenerated electrons/holes through driving them to migrate along opposite directions. The present results demonstrate a new water-pollution solution in green technologies for the environmental remediation at the industrial level.

  10. Degradation of Triphenyltin by a Fluorescent Pseudomonad

    PubMed Central

    Inoue, Hiroyuki; Takimura, Osamu; Fuse, Hiroyuki; Murakami, Katsuji; Kamimura, Kazuo; Yamaoka, Yukiho

    2000-01-01

    Triphenyltin (TPT)-degrading bacteria were screened by a simple technique using a post-column high-performance liquid chromatography using 3,3′,4′,7-tetrahydroxyflavone as a post-column reagent for determination of TPT and its metabolite, diphenyltin (DPT). An isolated strain, strain CNR15, was identified as Pseudomonas chlororaphis on the basis of its morphological and biochemical features. The incubation of strain CNR15 in a medium containing glycerol, succinate, and 130 μM TPT resulted in the rapid degradation of TPT and the accumulation of approximately 40 μM DPT as the only metabolite after 48 h. The culture supernatants of strain CNR15, grown with or without TPT, exhibited a TPT degradation activity, whereas the resting cells were not capable of degrading TPT. TPT was stoichiometrically degraded to DPT by the solid-phase extract of the culture supernatant, and benzene was detected as another degradation product. We found that the TPT degradation was catalyzed by low-molecular-mass substances (approximately 1,000 Da) in the extract, termed the TPT-degrading factor. The other fluorescent pseudomonads, P. chlororaphis ATCC 9446, Pseudomonas fluorescens ATCC 13525, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 15692, also showed TPT degradation activity similar to strain CNR15 in the solid-phase extracts of their culture supernatants. These results suggest that the extracellular low-molecular-mass substance that is universally produced by the fluorescent pseudomonad could function as a potent catalyst to cometabolite TPT in the environment. PMID:10919812

  11. Triggerable Degradation of Polyurethanes for Tissue Engineering Applications.

    PubMed

    Xu, Cancan; Huang, Yihui; Wu, Jinglei; Tang, Liping; Hong, Yi

    2015-09-16

    Tissue engineered and bioactive scaffolds with different degradation rates are required for the regeneration of diverse tissues/organs. To optimize tissue regeneration in different tissues, it is desirable that the degradation rate of scaffolds can be manipulated to comply with various stages of tissue regeneration. Unfortunately, the degradation of most degradable polymers relies solely on passive controlled degradation mechanisms. To overcome this challenge, we report a new family of reduction-sensitive biodegradable elastomeric polyurethanes containing various amounts of disulfide bonds (PU-SS), in which degradation can be initiated and accelerated with the supplement of a biological product: antioxidant-glutathione (GSH). The polyurethanes can be processed into films and electrospun fibrous scaffolds. Synthesized materials exhibited robust mechanical properties and high elasticity. Accelerated degradation of the materials was observed in the presence of GSH, and the rate of such degradation depends on the amount of disulfide present in the polymer backbone. The polymers and their degradation products exhibited no apparent cell toxicity while the electrospun scaffolds supported fibroblast growth in vitro. The in vivo subcutaneous implantation model showed that the polymers prompt minimal inflammatory responses, and as anticipated, the polymer with the higher disulfide bond amount had faster degradation in vivo. This new family of polyurethanes offers tremendous potential for directed scaffold degradation to promote maximal tissue regeneration.

  12. Kinetic study and mechanism of Niclosamide degradation.

    PubMed

    Zaazaa, Hala E; Abdelrahman, Maha M; Ali, Nouruddin W; Magdy, Maimana A; Abdelkawy, M

    2014-11-11

    A spectrophotometric kinetic study of Niclosamide alkaline degradation as a function of drug concentration, alkaline concentration and temperature has been established utilizing double divisor-ratio spectra spectrophotometric method. The developed method allowed determination of Niclosamide in presence of its alkaline degradation products; namely; 2-chloro-4-nitro aniline (DEG I) and 5-chloro salicylic acid (DEG II) with characterization of its degradation mechanism. It was found that degradation kinetic of Niclosamide followed pseudo-first order under the established experimental conditions with a degradation rate constant (k) of 0.0829 mol/h and half life (t1/2) of 8.35 h. The overall degradation rate constant as a function of the temperature under the given conditions obeyed Arrhenius equation where the activation energy was calculated to be 3.41 kcal/mol. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Rapid synthesis of Ti-MCM-41 by microwave-assisted hydrothermal method towards photocatalytic degradation of oxytetracycline.

    PubMed

    Chen, Hanlin; Peng, Yen-Ping; Chen, Ku-Fan; Lai, Chia-Hsiang; Lin, Yung-Chang

    2016-06-01

    This study employed microwave-assisted hydrothermal method to synthesize Ti-MCM-41, which are mesoporous materials with a high surface area and excellent photocatalytic ability. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) were employed. The XRD findings showed that Ti-MCM-41 exhibited a peak at 2θ of 2.2°, which was attributed to the hexagonal MCM-41 structure. The BET (Brunauer-Emmett-Teller) results agreed with the TEM findings that Ti-MCM-41 has a pore size of about 3-5nm and a high surface area of 883m(2)/g. FTIR results illustrated the existence of Si-O-Si and Si-O-Ti bonds in Ti-MCM-41. The appearance of Ti 2p peaks in the XPS results confirmed the FTIR findings that the Ti was successfully doped into the MCM-41 structure. Zeta (ζ)-potential results indicated that the iso-electric point (IEP) of Ti-MCM-41 was at about pH3.02. In this study, the photocatalytic degradation of oxytetracycline (OTC) at different pH was investigated under Hg lamp irradiation (wavelength 365nm). The rate constant (K'obs) for OTC degradation was 0.012min(-1) at pH3. Furthermore, TOC (total organic carbon) and high resolution LC-MS (liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry) analyses were conducted to elucidate the possible intermediate products and degradation pathway for OTC. The TOC removal efficiency of OTC degradation was 87.0%, 74.4% and 50.9% at pH3, 7 and 10, respectively. LC-MS analysis results showed that the degradation products from OTC resulted from the removal of functional groups from the OTC ring. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  14. Is trade openness good for environment in South Korea? The role of non-fossil electricity consumption.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Shun

    2018-04-01

    The paper investigates the linkage of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) emissions, per capita real output, share of non-fossil electricity consumption, and trade openness in South Korea from 1971 to 2013. The empirical results indicate that the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) is supported by autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) test. Both short- and long-run estimates indicate that increasing non-fossil electricity consumption can mitigate environmental degradation, and increasing trade aggravates carbon dioxide emissions. By Granger causality, long-run causalities are found in both equations of CO 2 emissions and trade openness, as well as exports and imports. In the short-run, evidence indicates feedback linkage between output and trade, unidirectional linkages from trade to emissions, from emissions to output, and from output to non-fossil electricity use. Therefore, South Korea should strengthen the sustainable economy, consume clean energy, and develop green trade.

  15. Nanohole and dot patterning processes on quartz substrate by R-θ electron beam lithography and nanoimprinting

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Watanabe, Tsuyoshi; Taniguchi, Kazutake; Suzuki, Kouta; Iyama, Hiromasa; Kishimoto, Shuji; Sato, Takashi; Kobayashi, Hideo

    2016-06-01

    Fine hole and dot patterns with bit pitches (bp’s) of less than 40 nm were fabricated in the circular band area of a quartz substrate by R-θ electron beam lithography (EBL), reactive ion etching (RIE), and nanoimprinting. These patterning processes were studied to obtain minimum pitch sizes of hole and dot patterns without pattern collapse. The patterning on the circular band was aimed to apply these patterning processes to future high-density bit-patterned media (BPM) for hard disk drive (HDD) and permanent memory for the long life archiving of digital data. In hole patterning, a minimum-22-nm-bp and 8.2-nm-diameter pattern (1.3 Tbit/in.2) was obtained on a quartz substrate by optimizing the R-θ EBL and RIE processes. Dot patterns were replicated on another quartz substrate by nanoimprinting using a hole-patterned quartz substrate as a master mold followed by RIE. In dot patterning, a minimum-30-nm-bp and 18.5-nm-diameter pattern (0.7 Tbit/in.2) was obtained by introducing new descum conditions. It was observed that the minimum bp of successful patterning increased as the fabrication process proceeded, i.e., from 20 nm bp in the first EBL process to 30 nm bp in the last quartz dot patterning process. From the measured diameters of the patterns, it was revealed that pattern collapse was apt to occur when the value of average diameter plus 3 sigma of diameter was close to the bp. It was suggested that multiple fabrication processes caused the degradation of pattern quality; therefore, hole patterning is more suitable than dot patterning for future applications owing to the lower quality degradation by its simple fabrication process.

  16. A new experimental device to evaluate eye ulcers using a multispectral electrical impedance technique

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bellotti, Mariela I.; Bast, Walter; Berra, Alejandro; Bonetto, Fabián J.

    2011-07-01

    We present a novel experimental technique to determine eye ulcers in animals using a spectral electrical impedance technique. We expect that this technique will be useful in dry eye syndrome. We used a sensor that is basically a platinum (Pt) microelectrode electrically insulated by glass from a cylindrical stainless steel counter-electrode. This sensor was applied to the naked eye of New Zealand rabbits (2.0-3.5 kg in weight). Whereas half of the eyes were normal (control), we applied to the remainder a few drops of 20% (v/v) alcohol to produce an ulcer in the eye. Using a multispectral electrical impedance system we measured ulcerated and control eyes and observed significant difference between normal and pathological samples. We also investigated the effects of different applied pressures and natural degradation of initially normal eyes as a function of time. We believe that this technique could be sufficiently sensitive and repetitive to help diagnose ocular surface diseases such as dry eye syndrome.

  17. A new experimental device to evaluate eye ulcers using a multispectral electrical impedance technique.

    PubMed

    Bellotti, Mariela I; Bast, Walter; Berra, Alejandro; Bonetto, Fabián J

    2011-07-01

    We present a novel experimental technique to determine eye ulcers in animals using a spectral electrical impedance technique. We expect that this technique will be useful in dry eye syndrome. We used a sensor that is basically a platinum (Pt) microelectrode electrically insulated by glass from a cylindrical stainless steel counter-electrode. This sensor was applied to the naked eye of New Zealand rabbits (2.0-3.5 kg in weight). Whereas half of the eyes were normal (control), we applied to the remainder a few drops of 20% (v/v) alcohol to produce an ulcer in the eye. Using a multispectral electrical impedance system we measured ulcerated and control eyes and observed significant difference between normal and pathological samples. We also investigated the effects of different applied pressures and natural degradation of initially normal eyes as a function of time. We believe that this technique could be sufficiently sensitive and repetitive to help diagnose ocular surface diseases such as dry eye syndrome.

  18. SP-100 multimegawatt scaleup to meet electric propulsion mission requirements

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Newkirk, D. W.; Salamah, S. A.; Stewart, S. L.; Pluta, P. R.

    The SP-100 nuclear heat source technology, utilizing uranium nitride fuel clad in PWC-11 in a fast reactor with lithium coolant circulated by an electromagnetic pump, is shown to be directly extrapolatable to thermal power levels that meet NASA nuclear electric propulsion requirements using different power conversion techniques. The SP-100 nuclear technology can be applied to missions with NEP (nuclear electric propulsion) requirements as low as tens of kWe to tens of MWe. It is pointed out that the SP-100 heat source has a great advantage of very long lifetime capability, since it utilizes very rugged refractory metal fuel pins and is independent of the power conversion scheme chosen for a given mission. The only moving parts in the nuclear subsystems are the control rods moved to compensate for fuel enrichment degradation due to fission and for power shutdown. Lowest alpha values in the range of interest for potential NASA missions are predicted for the dynamic Rankine and static HYTEC conversion systems.

  19. Thermo-Magneto-Electric Generator Arrays for Active Heat Recovery System

    PubMed Central

    Chun, Jinsung; Song, Hyun-Cheol; Kang, Min-Gyu; Kang, Han Byul; Kishore, Ravi Anant; Priya, Shashank

    2017-01-01

    Continued emphasis on development of thermal cooling systems is being placed that can cycle low grade heat. Examples include solar powered unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and data storage servers. The power efficiency of solar module degrades at elevated temperature, thereby, necessitating the need for heat extraction system. Similarly, data centres in wireless computing system are facing increasing efficiency challenges due to high power consumption associated with managing the waste heat. We provide breakthrough in addressing these problems by developing thermo-magneto-electric generator (TMEG) arrays, composed of soft magnet and piezoelectric polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) cantilever. TMEG can serve dual role of extracting the waste heat and converting it into useable electricity. Near room temperature second-order magnetic phase transition in soft magnetic material, gadolinium, was employed to obtain mechanical vibrations on the PVDF cantilever under small thermal gradient. TMEGs were shown to achieve high vibration frequency at small temperature gradients, thereby, demonstrating effective heat transfer. PMID:28145516

  20. Thermo-Magneto-Electric Generator Arrays for Active Heat Recovery System.

    PubMed

    Chun, Jinsung; Song, Hyun-Cheol; Kang, Min-Gyu; Kang, Han Byul; Kishore, Ravi Anant; Priya, Shashank

    2017-02-01

    Continued emphasis on development of thermal cooling systems is being placed that can cycle low grade heat. Examples include solar powered unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and data storage servers. The power efficiency of solar module degrades at elevated temperature, thereby, necessitating the need for heat extraction system. Similarly, data centres in wireless computing system are facing increasing efficiency challenges due to high power consumption associated with managing the waste heat. We provide breakthrough in addressing these problems by developing thermo-magneto-electric generator (TMEG) arrays, composed of soft magnet and piezoelectric polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) cantilever. TMEG can serve dual role of extracting the waste heat and converting it into useable electricity. Near room temperature second-order magnetic phase transition in soft magnetic material, gadolinium, was employed to obtain mechanical vibrations on the PVDF cantilever under small thermal gradient. TMEGs were shown to achieve high vibration frequency at small temperature gradients, thereby, demonstrating effective heat transfer.

  1. Eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid increase the degradation of amyloid-β by affecting insulin-degrading enzyme.

    PubMed

    Grimm, Marcus O W; Mett, Janine; Stahlmann, Christoph P; Haupenthal, Viola J; Blümel, Tamara; Stötzel, Hannah; Grimm, Heike S; Hartmann, Tobias

    2016-12-01

    Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been proposed to be highly beneficial in Alzheimer's disease (AD). AD pathology is closely linked to an overproduction and accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides as extracellular senile plaques in the brain. Total Aβ levels are not only dependent on its production by proteolytic processing of the amyloid precursor protein (APP), but also on Aβ-clearance mechanisms, including Aβ-degrading enzymes. Here we show that the omega-3 PUFAs eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) increase Aβ-degradation by affecting insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE), the major Aβ-degrading enzyme secreted into the extracellular space of neuronal and microglial cells. The identification of the molecular mechanisms revealed that EPA directly increases IDE enzyme activity and elevates gene expression of IDE. DHA also directly stimulates IDE enzyme activity and affects IDE sorting by increasing exosome release of IDE, resulting in enhanced Aβ-degradation in the extracellular milieu. Apart from the known positive effect of DHA in reducing Aβ production, EPA and DHA might ameliorate AD pathology by increasing Aβ turnover.

  2. Mechanisms of humic substances degradation by fungi

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Y.; Hadar, Y.; Grinhut, T.

    2012-04-01

    Humic substances (HS) are formed by secondary synthesis reactions (humification) during the decay process and transformation of biomolecules originating from plants and other dead organisms. In nature, HS are extremely resistant to biological degradation. Thus, these substances are major components in the C cycle and in the biosphere and therefore, the understanding of the process leading to their formation and transformation and degradation is vital. Fungi active in the decomposition process of HS include mainly ascomycetes and basidiomycetes that are common in the upper layer of forest and grassland soils. Many basidiomycetes belong to the white-rot fungi (WRF) and litter-decomposing fungi (LDF). These fungi are considered to be the most efficient lignin degraders due to their nonspecific oxidizing enzymes: manganese peroxidase (MnP), lignin peroxidase (LiP) and laccase. Although bacteria dominate compost and participate in the turnover of HS, their ability to degrade stable macromolecules such as lignin and HS is limited. The overall objectives of this research were to corroborate biodegradation processes of HS by WRF. The specific objectives were: (i) To isolate, identify and characterize HS degrading WRF from biosolids (BS) compost; (ii) To study the biodegradation process of three types of HS, which differ in their structure, by WRF isolated from BS compost; and (iii) To investigate the mechanisms of HA degradation by WRF using two main approaches: (a) Study the physical and chemical analyses of the organic compounds obtained from direct fungal degradation of HA as well as elucidation of the relevant enzymatic reactions; and (b) Study the enzymatic and biochemical mechanisms involved during HA degradation. In order to study the capability of fungi to degrade HS, seventy fungal strains were isolated from biosolids (BS) compost. Two of the most active fungal species were identified based on rDNA sequences and designated Trametes sp. M23 and Phanerochaetesp., Y6

  3. Degradation of caffeic acid in subcritical water and online HPLC-DPPH assay of degradation products.

    PubMed

    Khuwijitjaru, Pramote; Suaylam, Boonyanuch; Adachi, Shuji

    2014-02-26

    Caffeic acid was subjected to degradation under subcritical water conditions within 160-240 °C and at a constant pressure of 5 MPa in a continuous tubular reactor. Caffeic acid degraded quickly at these temperatures; the main products identified by liquid chromatography-diode array detection/mass spectrometry were hydroxytyrosol, protocatechuic aldehyde, and 4-vinylcatechol. The reaction rates for the degradation of caffeic acid and the formation of products were evaluated. Online high-performance liquid chromatography/2,2-diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl assay was used to determine the antioxidant activity of each product in the solution. It was found that the overall antioxidant activity of the treated solution did not change during the degradation process. This study showed a potential of formation of antioxidants from natural phenolic compounds under these subcritical water conditions, and this may lead to a discovering of novel antioxidants compounds during the extraction by this technique.

  4. Resolution capacity of geophysical monitoring regarding permafrost degradation induced by hydrological processes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mewes, Benjamin; Hilbich, Christin; Delaloye, Reynald; Hauck, Christian

    2017-12-01

    Geophysical methods are often used to characterize and monitor the subsurface composition of permafrost. The resolution capacity of standard methods, i.e. electrical resistivity tomography and refraction seismic tomography, depends not only on static parameters such as measurement geometry, but also on the temporal variability in the contrast of the geophysical target variables (electrical resistivity and P-wave velocity). Our study analyses the resolution capacity of electrical resistivity tomography and refraction seismic tomography for typical processes in the context of permafrost degradation using synthetic and field data sets of mountain permafrost terrain. In addition, we tested the resolution capacity of a petrophysically based quantitative combination of both methods, the so-called 4-phase model, and through this analysed the expected changes in water and ice content upon permafrost thaw. The results from the synthetic data experiments suggest a higher sensitivity regarding an increase in water content compared to a decrease in ice content. A potentially larger uncertainty originates from the individual geophysical methods than from the combined evaluation with the 4-phase model. In the latter, a loss of ground ice can be detected quite reliably, whereas artefacts occur in the case of increased horizontal or vertical water flow. Analysis of field data from a well-investigated rock glacier in the Swiss Alps successfully visualized the seasonal ice loss in summer and the complex spatially variable ice, water and air content changes in an interannual comparison.

  5. Environmental interactions of the Space Station Freedom electric power system

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Nahra, Henry K.; Lu, Cheng-Yi

    1991-01-01

    The Space Station Freedom operates in a low earth orbit (LEO) environment. Such operation results in different potential interactions with the Space Station systems including the Electric Power System (EPS). These potential interactions result in environmental effects which include neutral species effects such as atomic oxygen erosion, effects of micrometeoroid and orbital debris impacts, plasma effects, ionizing radiation, and induced contamination degradation effects. The EPS design and its interactions with the LEO environment are briefly described and the results of analyses and testing programs planned and performed thus far to resolve environmental concerns related to the EPS and its function in LEO environment.

  6. Method of degrading pollutants in soil

    DOEpatents

    Hazen, Terry C.; Lopez-De-Victoria, Geralyne

    1994-01-01

    A method and system for enhancing the motility of microorganisms by placing an effective amount of chlorinated hydrocarbons, preferably chlorinated alkenes, and most preferably trichloroethylene in spaced relation to the microbes so that the surprisingly strong, monomodal, chemotactic response of the chlorinated hydrocarbon on subsurface microbes can draw the microbes away from or towards and into a substance, as desired. In remediation of groundwater pollution, for example, TCE can be injected into the plume to increase the population of microbes at the plume whereby the plume can be more quickly degraded. A TCE-degrading microbe, such as Welchia alkenophilia, can be used to degrade the TCE following the degradation of the original pollutant.

  7. Degradation in finite-harmonic subcarrier demodulation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Feria, Y.; Townes, S.; Pham, T.

    1995-01-01

    Previous estimates on the degradations due to a subcarrier loop assume a square-wave subcarrier. This article provides a closed-form expression for the degradations due to the subcarrier loop when a finite number of harmonics are used to demodulate the subcarrier, as in the case of the buffered telemetry demodulator. We compared the degradations using a square wave and using finite harmonics in the subcarrier demodulation and found that, for a low loop signal-to-noise ratio, using finite harmonics leads to a lower degradation. The analysis is under the assumption that the phase noise in the subcarrier (SC) loop has a Tikhonov distribution. This assumption is valid for first-order loops.

  8. Electrical and thermal response of carbon nanotube composites under quasi-static and dynamic loading

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    O'Connell, Christopher D.

    degradation and thus prolong the electrical response of the specimen to higher strains. Thermal experiments were first established by designing and fabricating an apparatus to determine the thermal conductivity of an unknown material. The principle of the apparatus is a steady-state one-dimensional comparative method where reference materials of known thermal conductivity are used to determine the system heat flux and in turn, the thermal conductivity of a given specimen. A thermal percolation study was conducted in order to determine a possible threshold of thermal transport of the material. The recorded values of thermal conductivity from 0 -- 0.2 wt% showed no such threshold with all specimens of different CNT loadings yielding similar values of thermal conductivity. The apparatus containing the CNT/epoxy specimen was then quasi-statically compressed to observe how the thermal conductivity changes with strains up to 20%. While a small decrease in thermal conductivity was observed under strain, it can mostly be attributed to material degradation and bulging.

  9. NASA requirements and applications environments for electrical power wiring

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Stavnes, Mark W.; Hammoud, Ahmad N.

    1992-01-01

    Serious problems can occur from insulation failures in the wiring harnesses of aerospace vehicles. In most recorded incidents, the failures have been identified to be the result of arc tracking, the propagation of an arc along wiring bundles through degradation of insulation. Propagation of the arc can lead to the loss of the entire wiring harness and the functions which it supports. While an extensive database of testing for arc track resistant wire insulations has been developed for aircraft applications, the counterpart requirements for spacecraft are very limited. The electrical, thermal, mechanical, chemical, and operational requirements for specification and testing of candidate wiring systems for spacecraft applications is presented.

  10. Magnitude and Origin of Electrical Noise at Individual Grain Boundaries in Graphene.

    PubMed

    Kochat, Vidya; Tiwary, Chandra Sekhar; Biswas, Tathagata; Ramalingam, Gopalakrishnan; Hsieh, Kimberly; Chattopadhyay, Kamanio; Raghavan, Srinivasan; Jain, Manish; Ghosh, Arindam

    2016-01-13

    Grain boundaries (GBs) are undesired in large area layered 2D materials as they degrade the device quality and their electronic performance. Here we show that the grain boundaries in graphene which induce additional scattering of carriers in the conduction channel also act as an additional and strong source of electrical noise especially at the room temperature. From graphene field effect transistors consisting of single GB, we find that the electrical noise across the graphene GBs can be nearly 10 000 times larger than the noise from equivalent dimensions in single crystalline graphene. At high carrier densities (n), the noise magnitude across the GBs decreases as ∝1/n, suggesting Hooge-type mobility fluctuations, whereas at low n close to the Dirac point, the noise magnitude could be quantitatively described by the fluctuations in the number of propagating modes across the GB.

  11. Gain loss and noise temperature degradation due to subreflector rotations in a Cassegrain antenna

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lamb, J. W.; Olver, A. D.

    An evaluation of performance degradation due to subreflector rotations is reported for the 15 m UK/NL Millimetrewave Radio Telescope Cassegrain antenna. The analytical treatment of the phase errors shows that the optimum point for the center of rotation of the subreflector is the primary focus, indicating astigmatic error, and it is shown that a compromise must be made betwen mechanical and electrical performance. Gain deterioration due to spillover is only weakly dependent on zc, and this loss decreases as z(c) moves towards the subreflector vertex. The associated spillover gives rise to a noise temperature which is calculated to be a few degrees K.

  12. Modeling, Simulation, and Control of a Solar Electric Propulsion Vehicle in Near-Earth Vicinity Including Solar Array Degradation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Witzberger, Kevin (Inventor); Hojnicki, Jeffery (Inventor); Manzella, David (Inventor)

    2016-01-01

    Modeling and control software that integrates the complexities of solar array models, a space environment, and an electric propulsion system into a rigid body vehicle simulation and control model is provided. A rigid body vehicle simulation of a solar electric propulsion (SEP) vehicle may be created using at least one solar array model, at least one model of a space environment, and at least one model of a SEP propulsion system. Power availability and thrust profiles may be determined based on the rigid body vehicle simulation as the SEP vehicle transitions from a low Earth orbit (LEO) to a higher orbit or trajectory. The power availability and thrust profiles may be displayed such that a user can use the displayed power availability and thrust profiles to determine design parameters for an SEP vehicle mission.

  13. Aging of XLPE cable insulation under combined electrical and mechanical stresses

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    David, E.; Parpal, J.L.; Crine, J.P.

    1996-12-31

    Extruded crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation is widely used in high-voltage cables since it presents such attractive features as excellent dielectric properties and good thermomechanical behavior. However, its performance is affected by long-term degradation when it is subjected to the various thermal, mechanical and environmental stresses occurring in service in combination with electrical stress. The synergetic effect of superposed electrical and other stresses remains to be fully clarified. In particular, a fairly high level of mechanical stresses can be present in the insulation volume, originating from residual internal stresses created during the cooling process in the fabrication, external forces when cablesmore » are bent sharply, or thermomechanical stresses caused by differential thermal expansion between the conductor and the insulating material. In order to investigate the influence of the superposition of mechanical and electrical stresses, various measurements were conducted on XLPE and LDPE specimens in tip-plane and plane-plane geometries. Experimental data of time-to-breakdown, breakdown field and tree length are presented as a function of the magnitude of the stresses. In all cases, superposition of the mechanical stress was found to reduce the dielectric strength of the material.« less

  14. Degradation of estrone in water and wastewater by various advanced oxidation processes.

    PubMed

    Sarkar, Shubhajit; Ali, Sura; Rehmann, Lars; Nakhla, George; Ray, Madhumita B

    2014-08-15

    A comprehensive study was conducted to determine the relative efficacy of various advanced oxidation processes such as O3, H2O2, UV, and combinations of UV/O3, UV/H2O2 for the removal of estrone (E1) from pure water and secondary effluent. In addition to the parent compound (E1) removal, performance of the advanced oxidation processes was characterized using removal of total organic carbon (TOC), and estrogenicity of the effluent. Although E1 removal was high for all the AOPs, intermediates formed were more difficult to degrade leading to slow TOC removal. Energy calculations and cost analysis indicated that, although UV processes have low electricity cost, ozonation is the least cost option ($ 0.34/1000 gallons) when both capital and operating costs were taken into account. Ozonation also is superior to the other tested AOPs due to higher removal of TOC and estrogenicity. The rate of E1 removal decreased linearly with the background TOC in water, however, E1 degradation in the secondary effluent from a local wastewater treatment plant was not affected significantly due to the low COD values in the effluent. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Characterization of a novel oxyfluorfen-degrading bacterial strain Chryseobacterium aquifrigidense and its biochemical degradation pathway.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Huanhuan; Xu, Jun; Dong, Fengshou; Liu, Xingang; Wu, Yanbing; Wu, Xiaohu; Zheng, Yongquan

    2016-08-01

    Persistent use of the diphenyl ether herbicides oxyfluorfen may seriously increase the health risks and ecological safety problems. A newly bacterium R-21 isolated from active soil was able to degrade and utilize oxyfluorfen as the sole carbon source. R-21 was identified as Chryseobacterium aquifrigidense by morphology, physiobiochemical characteristics, and genetic analysis. Under the optimum cultural conditions (pH 6.9, temperature 33.4 °C, and inoculum size 0.2 g L(-1)), R-21 could degrade 92.1 % of oxyfluorfen at 50 mg L(-1) within 5 days. During oxyfluorfen degradation, six metabolites were detected and identified by atmospheric pressure gas chromatography coupled to quadrupole-time of flight mass spectrometry and ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole-time of flight mass spectrometry, and a plausible degradation pathway was deduced. Strain R-21 is a promising potential in bioremediation of oxyfluorfen-contaminated environments.

  16. Characterization of Insulin Degrading Enzyme and other Aβ Degrading Proteases in Human Serum: a Role in Alzheimer’s disease?

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Zhiheng; Zhu, Haihao; Fang, Guang Guang; Walsh, Kathryn; Mwamburi, Maya; Wolozin, Benjamin; Abdul-Hay, Same O.; Ikezu, Tsuneya; Lessring, Malcolm A.; Qiu, Wei Qiao

    2013-01-01

    Sporadic Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients have low amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) clearance in the central nervous system (CNS). The peripheral Aβ clearance may also be important but its role in AD remains unclear. We aimed to study the Aβ degrading proteases including insulin degrading enzyme (IDE), angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) and others in blood. Using the fluorogenic substrate V—a substrate of IDE and other metalloproteases, we showed that human serum degraded the substrate V, and the activity was inhibited by adding increasing dose of Aβ. The existence of IDE activity was demonstrated by the inhibition of insulin, amylin or EDTA, and further confirmed by immunocapture of IDE using monoclonal antibodies. The involvement of ACE was indicated by the ability of the ACE inhibitor, lisinopril, to inhibit the substrate V degradation. To test the variations of substrate V degradation in humans, we used serum samples from a homebound elderly population with cognitive diagnoses. Compared with the elderly who had normal cognition, those with probable AD and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (amnestic MCI) had lower peptidase activities. Probable AD or amnestic MCI as an outcome remained negatively associated with serum substrate V degradation activity after adjusting for the confounders. The elderly with probable AD had lower serum substrate V degradation activity compared with those who had vascular dementia. The blood proteases mediating Aβ degradation may be important for the AD pathogenesis. More studies are needed to specify each Aβ degrading protease in blood as a useful biomarker and a possible treatment target for AD. PMID:22232014

  17. Nanoparticles from Degradation of Biodegradable Plastic Mulch

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Flury, Markus; Sintim, Henry; Bary, Andy; English, Marie; Schaefer, Sean

    2017-04-01

    Plastic mulch films are commonly used in crop production. They provide multiple benefits, including control of weeds and insects, increase of soil and air temperature, reduction of evaporation, and prevention of soil erosion. The use of plastic mulch film in agriculture has great potential to increase food production and security. Plastic mulch films must be retrieved and disposed after usage. Biodegradable plastic mulch films, who can be tilled into the soil after usage offer great benefits as alternative to conventional polyethylene plastic. However, it has to be shown that the degradation of these mulches is complete and no micro- and nanoparticles are released during degradation. We conducted a field experiment with biodegradable mulches and tested mulch degradation. Mulch was removed from the field after the growing season and composted to facilitate degradation. We found that micro- and nanoparticles were released during degradation of the mulch films in compost. This raises concerns about degradation in soils as well.

  18. Characterization of bacterial diversity in an atrazine degrading enrichment culture and degradation of atrazine, cyanuric acid and biuret in industrial wastewater.

    PubMed

    Dutta, Anirban; Vasudevan, Venugopal; Nain, Lata; Singh, Neera

    2016-01-01

    An enrichment culture was used to study atrazine degradation in mineral salt medium (MSM) (T1), MSM+soil extract (1:1, v/v) (T2) and soil extract (T3). Results suggested that enrichment culture required soil extract to degrade atrazine, as after second sequential transfer only partial atrazine degradation was observed in T1 treatment while atrazine was completely degraded in T2 and T3 treatments even after fourth transfer. Culture independent polymerase chain reaction-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) technique confirmed selective enrichment of genus Bacillus along with Pseudomonas and Burkholderia. Degradation of atrazine/metabolites in the industrial wastewater was studied at different initial concentrations of the contaminants [wastewater-water (v/v) ratio: T1, 1:9; T2, 2:8; T3, 3:7; T4, 5:5 and T5, undiluted effluent]. The initial concentrations of atrazine, cyanuric acid and biuret ranged between 5.32 and 53.92 µg mL(-1), 265.6 and 1805.2 µg mL(-1) and 1.85 and 16.12 µg mL(-1), respectively. The enrichment culture was able to completely degrade atrazine, cyanuric acid and biuret up to T4 treatment, while no appreciable degradation of contaminants was observed in the undiluted effluent (T5). Inability of enrichment culture to degrade atrazine/metabolites might be due to high concentrations of cyanuric acid. Therefore, a separate study on cyanuric acid degradation suggested: (i) no appreciable cyanuric acid degradation with accumulation of an unidentified metabolite in the medium where cyanuric acid was supplemented as the sole source of carbon and nitrogen; (ii) partial cyanuric acid degradation with accumulation of unidentified metabolite in the medium containing additional nitrogen source; and (iii) complete cyanuric acid degradation in the medium supplemented with an additional carbon source. This unidentified metabolite observed during cyanuric acid degradation and also detected in the enrichment culture inoculated wastewater samples

  19. Electrical, optical, and photoluminescence properties of ZnO films subjected to thermal annealing and treatment in hydrogen plasma

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Abdullin, Kh. A.; Gabdullin, M. T.; Gritsenko, L. V.

    The photoluminescence and optical absorption spectra and electrical properties of ZnO films grown by the metal–organic chemical vapor deposition and hydrothermal techniques, subjected to heat treatments and plasma treatment in a hydrogen atmosphere, are studied. It is shown that the adsorption of oxygen at grain boundaries upon annealing in an oxidizing atmosphere determines the electrical properties of the films. Vacuum annealing improves the electrical properties of the samples after degradation induced by annealing in air. Treatment in hydrogen plasma passivates surface states at the grain boundaries. The intrinsic photoluminescence intensity after plasma treatment is higher in the case of increasedmore » amounts of oxygen adsorbed at grain surfaces upon annealing in air. Surface states involving oxygen and hydrogen atoms are responsible for the high-intensity intrinsic photoluminescence band.« less

  20. Human-Induced Vegetation Degradation in a Semi-Arid Rangeland

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jackson, Hasan

    Current assessments of anthropogenic land degradation and its impact on vegetation at regional scales are prone to large uncertainties due to the lack of an objective, transferable, spatially and temporally explicit measure of land degradation. These uncertainties have resulted in contradictory estimates of degradation extent and severity and the role of human activities. The uncertainties limit the ability to assess the effects on the biophysical environment and effectiveness of past, current, and future policies of land use. The overall objective of the dissertation is to assess degradation in a semi-arid region at a regional scale where the process of anthropogenic land degradation is evident. Net primary productivity (NPP) is used as the primary indicator to measure degradation. It is hypothesized that land degradation resulting from human factors on the landscape irreversibly reduces NPP below the potential set by environmental conditions. It is also hypothesized that resulting reductions in NPP are distinguishable from natural, spatial and temporal, variability in NPP. The specific goals of the dissertation are to (1) identify the extent and severity of degradation using productivity as the primary surrogate, (2) compare the degradation of productivity to other known mechanisms of degradation, and (3) relate the expression of degradation to components of vegetation and varying environmental conditions. This dissertation employed the Local NPP Scaling (LNS) approach to identify patterns of anthropogenic degradation of NPP in the Burdekin Dry Tropics (BDT) region of Queensland (14 million hectares), Australia from 2000 to 2013. The method started with land classification based on the environmental factors presumed to control NPP to group pixels having similar potential NPP. Then, satellite remotely sensing data were used to compare actual NPP with its potential. The difference, in units of mass of carbon fixed in NPP per unit area per monitoring interval and

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