Ant-cave structured MnCO3/Mn3O4 microcubes by biopolymer-assisted facile synthesis for high-performance pseudocapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chandra Sekhar, S.; Nagaraju, Goli; Yu, Jae Su

2018-03-01

Porous and ant-cave structured MnCO3/Mn3O4 microcubes (MCs) were facilely synthesized via a biopolymer-assisted hydrothermal approach. Herein, chitosan was used as a natural biopolymer, which greatly controls the surface morphology and size of the prepared composite. The amino and hydroxyl group-functionalized chitosan engraves the outer surface of MCs during the hydrothermal process, which designs the interesting morphology of nanopath ways on the surface of MCs. When used as an electrode material for pseudocapacitors, the ant-cave structured MnCO3/Mn3O4 MCs showed superior energy storage values compared to the material prepared without chitosan in aqueous electrolyte solution. Precisely, the prepared ant-cave structured MnCO3/Mn3O4 MCs exhibited a maximum specific capacitance of 116.2 F/g at a current density of 0.7 A/g with an excellent cycling stability of 73.86% after 2000 cycles. Such facile and low-cost synthesis of pseudocapacitive materials with porous nanopaths is favorable for the fabrication of high-performance energy storage devices.

An experimental investigation of pulsed laser-assisted machining of AISI 52100 steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panjehpour, Afshin; Soleymani Yazdi, Mohammad R.; Shoja-Razavi, Reza

2014-11-01

Grinding and hard turning are widely used for machining of hardened bearing steel parts. Laser-assisted machining (LAM) has emerged as an efficient alternative to grinding and hard turning for hardened steel parts. In most cases, continuous-wave lasers were used as a heat source to cause localized heating prior to material removal by a cutting tool. In this study, an experimental investigation of pulsed laser-assisted machining of AISI 52100 bearing steel was conducted. The effects of process parameters (i.e., laser mean power, pulse frequency, pulse energy, cutting speed and feed rate) on state variables (i.e., material removal temperature, specific cutting energy, surface roughness, microstructure, tool wear and chip formation) were investigated. At laser mean power of 425 W with frequency of 120 Hz and cutting speed of 70 m/min, the benefit of LAM was shown by 25% decrease in specific cutting energy and 18% improvement in surface roughness, as compared to those of the conventional machining. It was shown that at constant laser power, the increase of laser pulse energy causes the rapid increase in tool wear rate. Pulsed laser allowed efficient control of surface temperature and heat penetration in material removal region. Examination of the machined subsurface microstructure and microhardness profiles showed no change under LAM and conventional machining. Continuous chips with more uniform plastic deformation were produced in LAM.

Microwave-assisted efficient conjugation of nanodiamond and paclitaxel.

PubMed

Hsieh, Yi-Han; Liu, Kuang-Kai; Sulake, Rohidas S; Chao, Jui-I; Chen, Chinpiao

2015-01-01

Nanodiamond has recently received considerable attention due to the various possible applications in medical field such as drug delivery and bio-labeling. For this purpose suitable and effective surface functionalization of the diamond material are required. A versatile and reproducible surface modification method of nanoscale diamond is essential for functionalization. We introduce the input of microwave energy to assist the functionalization of nanodiamond surface. The feasibility of such a process is illustrated by comparing the biological assay of ND-paclitaxel synthesized by conventional and microwave irradiating. Using a microwave we manage to have approximately doubled grafted molecules per nanoparticle of nanodiamond. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Microwave-assisted preparation of carbon nanofiber-functionalized graphite felts as electrodes for polymer-based redox-flow batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schwenke, A. M.; Janoschka, T.; Stolze, C.; Martin, N.; Hoeppener, S.; Schubert, U. S.

2016-12-01

A simple and fast microwave-assisted protocol to functionalize commercially available graphite felts (GFs) with carbon nanofibers (CNFs) for the application as electrode materials in redox-flow batteries (RFB) is demonstrated. As catalyst for the CNF synthesis nickel acetate is applied and ethanol serves as the carbon source. By the in-situ growth of CNFs, the active surface of the electrodes is increased by a factor of 50, which is determined by the electrochemical double layer capacities of the obtained materials. Furthermore, the morphology of the CNF-coating is investigated by scanning electron microscopy. Subsequently, the functionalized electrodes are applied in a polymer-based redox-flow battery (pRFB) using a TEMPO- and a viologen polymer as active materials. Due to the increased surface area as compared to an untreated graphite felt electrode, the current rating is improved by about 45% at 80 mA cm-2 and, furthermore, a decrease in overpotentials is observed. Thus, using this microwave-assisted synthesis approach, CNF-functionalized composite electrodes are prepared with a very simple protocol suitable for real life applications and an improvement of the overall performance of the polymer-based redox-flow battery is demonstrated.

Specific modification of polysulfone with cluster bombardment with assistance of Ar ion irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Guochun; Hibino, Y.; Awazu, K.; Tanihara, M.; Imanishi, Y.

2000-02-01

Objective: To develop a rapid method for the modification of polysulfone with ammonium sulfamate with the assistance of Ar ion irradiation with a multi-source cluster deposition apparatus. These surfaces mimicking the structure of heparin, a bioactive molecule, have a high anti-thrombosis property. Experimental Design: Polysulfone film, setting on a turning holder, was irradiated by Ar ions during bombardment with ammonium sulfamate clusters. The Ar ion source serves for the activation of a polymer surface and a cluster ion source supplies ammonium sulfamate molecules to react with the activated surface. After thorough washing with de-ionized sterile water, the modified surfaces were evaluated in terms of the contact angle of water, elemental composition, and binding state on electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis and platelet adhesion with platelet rich plasma. Results: The modification of polysulfone decreased the contact angle of water on surfaces from 82.6 ° down to 34.5 °. Ammonium, amine, sulfate, and thiophene combinations were formed on the modified surfaces. The adhesion numbers of the platelet were decreased to one tenth compared to the original surface. The same process was also applied to other polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene and similar outcomes were also observed. Conclusion: The primary studies showed successful modification of polysulfone with ammonium sulfamate with the assistance of Ar ion irradiation. Since the same concept can also be applied to other materials with various substrates, combined with the features of no solvent and no topographic changes, this method might be developed into a promising way for modification of polymeric materials.

Effect of Er,Cr:YSGG laser on the surface of composite restoratives during in-office tooth bleaching.

PubMed

Dionysopoulos, Dimitrios; Strakas, Dimitrios; Tsitrou, Effrosyni; Tolidis, Kosmas; Koumpia, Effimia

2016-07-01

The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the effect of Er,Cr:YSGG laser on the surface roughness and microhardness of various composite restoratives during in-office tooth bleaching. Five highly viscous composite restoratives and three flowable composite restoratives were investigated. Thirty cylindrical specimens of each material were made using Teflon molds. The specimens of each composite were randomly divided into three groups (n = 10). Group 1 specimens did not receive bleaching treatment, group 2 received a conventional in-office bleaching treatment, and group 3 received a laser-assisted in-office bleaching treatment using an Er,Cr:YSGG laser. Two-way ANOVA was used to determine significant interactions between materials and bleaching methods. One-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test were used to compare the mean surface microhardness and roughness between materials for each treatment group (a = 0.05). Τhere were no significant differences in surface microhardness between the two bleached experimental groups for all the tested composites (p > 0.05). The reduction of surface microhardness after bleaching procedures ranged from 0.72 to 16.93 % for the specimens received conventional treatment and from 1.30 to 11.51 % for those received laser-assisted treatment. Moreover, there were no significant differences in Ra values between the experimental groups (p > 0.05) in all cases. The increase of surface roughness after the bleaching treatments was negligible and was between 0.43 and 4.78 %. The use of Er,Cr:YSGG laser during in-office tooth bleaching treatment did not affect the surface microhardness and roughness of the tested composite restorative materials.

Electric Arc and Electrochemical Surface Texturing Technologies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Banks, Bruce A.; Rutledge, Sharon K.; Snyder, Scott A.

1997-01-01

Surface texturing of conductive materials can readily be accomplished by means of a moving electric arc which produces a plasma from the environmental gases as well as from the vaporized substrate and arc electrode materials. As the arc is forced to move across the substrate surface, a condensate from the plasma re-deposits an extremely rough surface which is intimately mixed and attached to the substrate material. The arc textured surfaces produce greatly enhanced thermal emittance and hold potential for use as high temperature radiator surfaces in space, as well as in systems which use radiative heat dissipation such as computer assisted tomography (CAT) scan systems. Electrochemical texturing of titanium alloys can be accomplished by using sodium chloride solutions along with ultrasonic agitation to produce a random distribution of craters on the surface. The crater size and density can be controlled to produce surface craters appropriately sized for direct bone in-growth of orthopaedic implants. Electric arc texturing and electrochemical texturing techniques, surface properties and potential applications will be presented.

Laser assisted processing; Proceedings of the Meeting, Hamburg, Federal Republic of Germany, Sept. 19, 20, 1988

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laude, Lucien D.; Rauscher, Gerhard

The use of lasers in industrial material processing is discussed in reviews and reports. Sections are devoted to high-precision laser machining, deposition methods, ablation and polymers, and synthesis and oxidation. Particular attention is given to laser cutting of steel sheets, laser micromachining of material surfaces, process control in laser soldering, laser-induced CVD of doped Si stripes on SOS and their characterization by piezoresistivity measurements, laser CVD of Pt spots on glass, laser deposition of GaAs, UV-laser photoablation of polymers, ArF excimer-laser ablation of HgCdTe semiconductor, pulsed laser synthesis of Ti silicides and nitrides, the kinetics of laser-assisted oxidation of metallic films, and excimer-laser-assisted etching of solids for microelectronics.

Investigations into the mechanism of material removal and surface modification at atomic scale on stainless steel using molecular dynamics simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ranjan, Prabhat; Balasubramaniam, R.; Jain, V. K.

2018-06-01

A molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) has been carried out to investigate the material removal phenomenon of chemo-mechanical magnetorheological finishing (CMMRF) process. To understand the role of chemical assisted mechanical abrasion in CMMRF process, material removal phenomenon is subdivided into three different stages. In the first stage, new atomic bonds viz. Fe-O-Si is created on the surface of the workpiece (stainless steel). The second stage deals with the rupture of parent bonds like Fe-Fe on the workpiece. In the final stage, removal of material from the surface in the form of dislodged debris (cluster of atoms) takes place. Effects of process parameters like abrasive particles, depth of penetration and initial surface condition on finishing force, potential energy (towards secondary phenomenon such as chemical instability of the finished surface) and material removal at atomic scale have been investigated. It was observed that the type of abrasive particle is one of the important parameters to produce atomically smooth surface. Experiments were also conducted as per the MDS to generate defect-free and sub-nanometre-level finished surface (Ra value better than 0.2 nm). The experimental results reasonably agree well with the simulation results.

Box-Behnken design for investigation of microwave-assisted extraction of patchouli oil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kusuma, Heri Septya; Mahfud, Mahfud

2015-12-01

Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) technique was employed to extract the essential oil from patchouli (Pogostemon cablin). The optimal conditions for microwave-assisted extraction of patchouli oil were determined by response surface methodology. A Box-Behnken design (BBD) was applied to evaluate the effects of three independent variables (microwave power (A: 400-800 W), plant material to solvent ratio (B: 0.10-0.20 g mL-1) and extraction time (C: 20-60 min)) on the extraction yield of patchouli oil. The correlation analysis of the mathematical-regression model indicated that quadratic polynomial model could be employed to optimize the microwave extraction of patchouli oil. The optimal extraction conditions of patchouli oil was microwave power 634.024 W, plant material to solvent ratio 0.147648 g ml-1 and extraction time 51.6174 min. The maximum patchouli oil yield was 2.80516% under these optimal conditions. Under the extraction condition, the experimental values agreed with the predicted results by analysis of variance. It indicated high fitness of the model used and the success of response surface methodology for optimizing and reflect the expected extraction condition.

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

Chen, Yu; School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430073; Guo, Zhiguang, E-mail: zguo@licp.cas.cn

Graphical abstract: A double-metal-assisted chemical etching method is employed to fabricate superhydrophobic surfaces, showing a good superhydrophobicity with the contact angle of about 170°, and the sliding angle of about 0°. Meanwhile, the potential formation mechanism about it is also presented. Highlights: ► A double-metal-assisted chemical etching method is employed to fabricate superhydrophobic surfaces. ► The obtained surfaces show good superhydrophobicity with a high contact angle and low sliding angle. ► The color of the etched substrate dark brown or black and it is so-called black silicon. -- Abstract: Silicon substrates treated by metal-assisted chemical etching have been studied formore » many years since they could be employed in a variety of electronic and optical devices such as integrated circuits, photovoltaics, sensors and detectors. However, to the best of our knowledge, the chemical etching treatment on the same silicon substrate with the assistance of two or more kinds of metals has not been reported. In this paper, we mainly focus on the etching time and finally obtain a series of superhydrophobic silicon surfaces with novel etching structures through two successive etching processes of Cu-assisted and Ag-assisted chemical etching. It is shown that large-scale homogeneous but locally irregular wire-like structures are obtained, and the superhydrophobic surfaces with low hysteresis are prepared after the modifications with low surface energy materials. It is worth noting that the final silicon substrates not only possess high static contact angle and low hysteresis angle, but also show a black color, indicating that the superhydrophobic silicon substrate has an extremely low reflectance in a certain range of wavelengths. In our future work, we will go a step further to discuss the effect of temperature, the size of Cu nanoparticles and solution concentration on the final topography and superhydrophobicity.« less

Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule Documents

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The IESWTR balances the need for treatment with potential increases in disinfection by -products. The materials found on this page are intended to assist public water systems and state in the implementation of the IESWTR.

Microscopic morphology evolution during ion beam smoothing of Zerodur® surfaces.

PubMed

Liao, Wenlin; Dai, Yifan; Xie, Xuhui; Zhou, Lin

2014-01-13

Ion sputtering of Zerodur material often results in the formation of nanoscale microstructures on the surfaces, which seriously influences optical surface quality. In this paper, we describe the microscopic morphology evolution during ion sputtering of Zerodur surfaces through experimental researches and theoretical analysis, which shows that preferential sputtering together with curvature-dependent sputtering overcomes ion-induced smoothing mechanisms leading to granular nanopatterns formation in morphology and the coarsening of the surface. Consequently, we propose a new method for ion beam smoothing (IBS) of Zerodur optics assisted by deterministic ion beam material adding (IBA) technology. With this method, Zerodur optics with surface roughness down to 0.15 nm root mean square (RMS) level is obtained through the experimental investigation, which demonstrates the feasibility of our proposed method.

Carbon nanotubes/carbon fiber hybrid material: a super support material for sludge biofilms.

PubMed

Liu, Qijie; Dai, Guangze; Bao, Yanling

2017-07-16

Carbon fiber (CF) is widely used as a sludge biofilm support material for wastewater treatment. Carbon nanotubes/carbon fiber (CNTs/CF) hybrid material was prepared by ultrasonically assisted electrophoretic deposition (EPD). CF supports (CF without handling, CF oxidized by nitric acid, CNTs/CF hybrid material) were evaluated by sludge immobilization tests, bacterial cell adsorption tests and Derjaguin -Landau -Verwey -Overbeek (DLVO) theory. We found that the CNTs/CF hybrid material has a high capacity for adsorbing activated sludge, nitrifying bacterial sludge and pure strains (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus). CNTs deposited on CF surface easily wound around the curved surface of bacterial cell which resulted in capturing more bacterial cells. DLVO theory indicated the lowest total interaction energy of CNTs/CF hybrid material, which resulted in the highest bacteria cell adsorption velocity. Experiments and DLVO theory results proved that CNTs/CF hybrid material is a super support material for sludge biofilms.

The study on force, surface integrity, tool life and chip on laser assisted machining of inconel 718 using Nd:YAG laser source.

PubMed

Venkatesan, K

2017-07-01

Inconel 718, a high-temperature alloy, is a promising material for high-performance aerospace gas turbine engines components. However, the machining of the alloy is difficult owing to immense shear strength, rapid work hardening rate during turning, and less thermal conductivity. Hence, like ceramics and composites, the machining of this alloy is considered as difficult-to-turn materials. Laser assisted turning method has become a promising solution in recent years to lessen cutting stress when materials that are considered difficult-to-turn, such as Inconel 718 is employed. This study investigated the influence of input variables of laser assisted machining on the machinability aspect of the Inconel 718. The comparison of machining characteristics has been carried out to analyze the process benefits with the variation of laser machining variables. The laser assisted machining variables are cutting speeds of 60-150 m/min, feed rates of 0.05-0.125 mm/rev with a laser power between 1200 W and 1300 W. The various output characteristics such as force, roughness, tool life and geometrical characteristic of chip are investigated and compared with conventional machining without application of laser power. From experimental results, at a laser power of 1200 W, laser assisted turning outperforms conventional machining by 2.10 times lessening in cutting force, 46% reduction in surface roughness as well as 66% improvement in tool life when compared that of conventional machining. Compared to conventional machining, with the application of laser, the cutting speed of carbide tool has increased to a cutting condition of 150 m/min, 0.125 mm/rev. Microstructural analysis shows that no damage of the subsurface of the workpiece.

Structure and Properties of Sio2 Nanopowder Obtained From High-Silica Raw Materials by Plasma Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kosmachev, P. V.; Vlasov, V. A.; Skripnikova, N. K.

2017-06-01

The paper presents a plasma-assisted generation of nanodisperse powder obtained from diatomite, a natural high-silica material. The structure and properties of the obtained material are investigated using the transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy, infrared and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopies, and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller method. It is clearly shown that the obtained SiO2 nanoparticles are spherical, polydisperse and represented in the form of agglomerates. The specific surface of this nanopowder is 32 m2/g. Thermodynamic modeling of the plasma-assisted process is used to obtain the equilibrium compositions of condensed and gaseous reaction products. The plasma process is performed within the 300-5000 K temperature range.

Land Management Panel: Army’s Net Zero Installation Initiative

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-05-24

same watershed so not to deplete the groundwater and surface water resources of that region in quantity or quality.  A Net Zero WASTE Installation...0.15 0.2 0.25 Assistant Secretary of the Army (Installations, Energy & Environment) Net Zero Waste A Net Zero WASTE Installation reduces, reuses...Net Zero Waste Strategy 17 Assistant Secretary of the Army (Installations, Energy & Environment) Waste Roadmaps Material flow analysis

Laser Micro and Nano Processing of Metals , Ceramics , and Polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pfleging, Wilhelm; Kohler, Robert; Südmeyer, Isabelle; Rohde, Magnus

Laser -based material processing is well investigated for structuring , modification , and bonding of metals , ceramics , glasses, and polymers . Especially for material processing on micrometer, and nanometer scale laser-assisted processes will very likely become more prevalent as lasers offer more cost-effective solutions for advanced material research, and application. Laser ablation , and surface modification are suitable for direct patterning of materials and their surface properties. Lasers allow rapid prototyping and small-batch manufacturing . They can also be used to pattern moving substrates, permitting fly-processing of large areas at reasonable speed. Different types of laser processes such as ablation, modification, and welding can be successfully combined in order to enable a high grade of bulk and surface functionality. Ultraviolet lasers favored for precise and debris-free patterns can be generated without the need for masks, resist materials, or chemicals. Machining of materials, for faster operation, thermally driven laser processes using NIR and IR laser radiation, could be increasingly attractive for a real rapid manufacturing.

Analysis and Evaluation of Technical Data on the Photochromic and Non- Linear Optical Properties of Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-03-01

relatively small contractural effort is to provide technical assistance to Dr. Frank Patten (DARPA) in evaluating data on materials, especially... Musikant , S. (ed.), Advances in Materials for Active Optics, Proceedings of SPIE, Volume 567, SPIE:Washington, 1985. [22] Lewis, Aaron, Del Priore...polysilane," J. Appl. Phys. 60 (1986) 3040-3044. [146] Hache, F., Ricard, D., Flytzanis, C., "Optical nonlinearities of small metal particles: surface

Cora rotary pump for implantable left ventricular assist device: biomaterial aspects.

PubMed

Montiès, J R; Dion, I; Havlik, P; Rouais, F; Trinkl, J; Baquey, C

1997-07-01

Our group is developing a left ventricular assist device based on the principle of the Maillard-Wankel rotative compressor: it is a rotary, not centrifugal, pump that produces a pulsatile flow. Stringent requirements have been defined for construction materials. They must be light, yet sufficiently hard and rigid, and able to be machined with high precision. The friction coefficient must be low and the wear resistance high. The materials must be chemically inert and not deformable. Also, the materials must be biocompatible, and the blood contacting surface must be hemocompatible. We assessed the materials in terms of physiochemistry, mechanics, and tribology to select the best for hemocompatibility (determined by studies of protein adsorption; platelet, leukocyte, and red cell retention; and hemolysis, among other measurements) and biocompatibility (determined by measurement of complement activation and toxicity, among other criteria). Of the materials tested, for short- and middle-term assistance, we chose titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) and alumina ceramic (Al2O3) and for long-term and permanent use, composite materials (TiN coating on graphite). We saw that the polishing process of the substrate must be improved. For the future, the best coating material would be diamond-like carbon (DLC) or crystalline diamond coating.

The influence of surface finishing methods on touch-sensitive reactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kukhta, M. S.; Sokolov, A. P.; Krauinsh, P. Y.; Kozlova, A. D.; Bouchard, C.

2017-02-01

This paper describes the modern technological development trends in jewelry design. In the jewelry industry, new trends, associated with the introduction of updated non-traditional materials and finishing techniques, are appearing. The existing information-oriented society enhances the visual aesthetics of new jewelry forms, decoration techniques (depth and surface), synthesis of different materials, which, all in all, reveal a bias towards positive effects of visual design. Today, the jewelry industry includes not only traditional techniques, but also such improved techniques as computer-assisted design, 3D-prototyping and other alternatives to produce an updated level of jewelry material processing. The authors present the specific features of ornamental pattern designing, decoration types (depth and surface) and comparative analysis of different approaches in surface finishing. Identifying the appearance or the effect of jewelry is based on proposed evaluation criteria, providing an advanced visual aesthetics basis is predicated on touch-sensitive responses.

Direct fabrication of 3D graphene on nanoporous anodic alumina by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition

PubMed Central

Zhan, Hualin; Garrett, David J.; Apollo, Nicholas V.; Ganesan, Kumaravelu; Lau, Desmond; Prawer, Steven; Cervenka, Jiri

2016-01-01

High surface area electrode materials are of interest for a wide range of potential applications such as super-capacitors and electrochemical cells. This paper describes a fabrication method of three-dimensional (3D) graphene conformally coated on nanoporous insulating substrate with uniform nanopore size. 3D graphene films were formed by controlled graphitization of diamond-like amorphous carbon precursor films, deposited by plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition (PECVD). Plasma-assisted graphitization was found to produce better quality graphene than a simple thermal graphitization process. The resulting 3D graphene/amorphous carbon/alumina structure has a very high surface area, good electrical conductivity and exhibits excellent chemically stability, providing a good material platform for electrochemical applications. Consequently very large electrochemical capacitance values, as high as 2.1 mF for a sample of 10 mm3, were achieved. The electrochemical capacitance of the material exhibits a dependence on bias voltage, a phenomenon observed by other groups when studying graphene quantum capacitance. The plasma-assisted graphitization, which dominates the graphitization process, is analyzed and discussed in detail. PMID:26805546

Fabrication of monolayer MoS2/rGO hybrids with excellent tribological performances through a surfactant-assisted hydrothermal route

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Jinsuo; Xia, Yunfei; Yang, Jin; Chen, Beibei

2018-06-01

The extremely low friction between incommensurate two-dimensional (2D) atomic layers has recently attracted a great interest. Here, we demonstrated a promising surfactant-assisted strategy for the synthesis of MoS2/reduced graphene oxide (MoS2/rGO) hybrid materials with monolayer MoS2 and rGO, which exhibited excellent tribological metrics with a friction coefficient of ˜ 0.09 and a wear rate of ˜ 2.08 × 10-5 mm3/Nm in the ethanol dispersion. The incommensurate 2D atomic layer interface formed due to intrinsic lattice mismatch between MoS2 and graphene was thought to be responsible for the excellent lubricating performances. In addition to the benefits of unique hybrid structure, MoS2/rGO hybrids could also adsorb on metal surfaces and screen the metal-metal interaction to passivate the metal surfaces with a consequent reduction of corrosion wear during sliding. This work could pave a new pathway to design novel materials for pursuing excellent tribological properties by hybridizing different 2D atomic-layered materials.

Direct fabrication of 3D graphene on nanoporous anodic alumina by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition.

PubMed

Zhan, Hualin; Garrett, David J; Apollo, Nicholas V; Ganesan, Kumaravelu; Lau, Desmond; Prawer, Steven; Cervenka, Jiri

2016-01-25

High surface area electrode materials are of interest for a wide range of potential applications such as super-capacitors and electrochemical cells. This paper describes a fabrication method of three-dimensional (3D) graphene conformally coated on nanoporous insulating substrate with uniform nanopore size. 3D graphene films were formed by controlled graphitization of diamond-like amorphous carbon precursor films, deposited by plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition (PECVD). Plasma-assisted graphitization was found to produce better quality graphene than a simple thermal graphitization process. The resulting 3D graphene/amorphous carbon/alumina structure has a very high surface area, good electrical conductivity and exhibits excellent chemically stability, providing a good material platform for electrochemical applications. Consequently very large electrochemical capacitance values, as high as 2.1 mF for a sample of 10 mm(3), were achieved. The electrochemical capacitance of the material exhibits a dependence on bias voltage, a phenomenon observed by other groups when studying graphene quantum capacitance. The plasma-assisted graphitization, which dominates the graphitization process, is analyzed and discussed in detail.

Improving the degradation behavior and in vitro biological property of nano-hydroxyapatite surface- grafted with the assist of citric acid.

PubMed

Jiang, Liuyun; Jiang, Lixin; Xiong, Chengdong; Su, Shengpei

2016-10-01

To obtain ideal nano-hydroxyapatite(n-HA) filler for poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), a new surface-grafting with the assist of citric acid for nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA) was designed, and the effect of n-HA surface-grafted with or without citric acid on in vitro degradation behavior and cells viability was studied by the experiments of soaking in simulated body fluid (SBF) and incubating with human osteoblast-like cells (MG-63). The change of pH value, tensile strength reduction, the surface deposits, cells attachment and proliferation of samples during the soaking and incubation were investigated by means of pH meter, electromechanical universal tester, scanning electron microscope (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive spectro-scopy (EDS), fluorescence microscope and MTT method. The results showed that the introduction of citric acid not only delayed the strength reduction during the degradation by inhibiting the detachment of n-HA from PLGA, but also endowed it better cell attachment and proliferation, suggesting that the n-HA surface-grafted with the assist of citric acid was an important bioactive ceramic fillers for PLGA used as bone materials. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Proof-of-concept switchable hydrophobic/hydrophilic patterned surfaces from thermo-mechanically tailored acrylate systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laursen, Christopher M.

A novel, proof-of-concept, switchable hydrophobic/hydrophilic structured surface targeted to assist in antifouling of materials in aqueous environments was created through the development of a multi-tiered platform. The understructure consists of a thermo-mechanically tailored acrylate based polymer patterned in a pillared array, which was then overlaid with spatially tailored hydrophobic/hydrophilic surface chemistry treatments. Development focused on the synthesis of a ternary acrylate system displaying proper thermo-mechanical behavior in submerged conditions for the understructure, creation of a sufficient soft molding technique, and methods to chemically alter water-surface wetting interactions. The final acrylate based polymer constituents were chosen based on expected low-toxicity and the ability to be photopolymerized, while the final system displayed appropriate mechanical toughness, water absorption, and material stiffness over a select temperature window. This was important as alteration in wettability characteristics relied upon a stark transition in the polymeric materials stiffness within a narrow temperature range. The material qualitatively displayed a more hydrophobic state with the pillared surface structures erect, and a more hydrophilic state with the pillars bent over.

Plasma-Assisted Synthesis and Surface Modification of Electrode Materials for Renewable Energy.

PubMed

Dou, Shuo; Tao, Li; Wang, Ruilun; El Hankari, Samir; Chen, Ru; Wang, Shuangyin

2018-05-01

Renewable energy technology has been considered as a "MUST" option to lower the use of fossil fuels for industry and daily life. Designing critical and sophisticated materials is of great importance in order to realize high-performance energy technology. Typically, efficient synthesis and soft surface modification of nanomaterials are important for energy technology. Therefore, there are increasing demands on the rational design of efficient electrocatalysts or electrode materials, which are the key for scalable and practical electrochemical energy devices. Nevertheless, the development of versatile and cheap strategies is one of the main challenges to achieve the aforementioned goals. Accordingly, plasma technology has recently appeared as an extremely promising alternative for the synthesis and surface modification of nanomaterials for electrochemical devices. Here, the recent progress on the development of nonthermal plasma technology is highlighted for the synthesis and surface modification of advanced electrode materials for renewable energy technology including electrocatalysts for fuel cells, water splitting, metal-air batteries, and electrode materials for batteries and supercapacitors, etc. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Machinability Study on Milling Kenaf Fiber Reinforced Plastic Composite Materials using Design of Experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Azmi, H.; Haron, C. H. C.; Ghani, J. A.; Suhaily, M.; Yuzairi, A. R.

2018-04-01

The surface roughness (Ra) and delamination factor (Fd) of a milled kenaf reinforced plastic composite materials are depending on the milling parameters (spindle speed, feed rate and depth of cut). Therefore, a study was carried out to investigate the relationship between the milling parameters and their effects on a kenaf reinforced plastic composite materials. The composite panels were fabricated using vacuum assisted resin transfer moulding (VARTM) method. A full factorial design of experiments was use as an initial step to screen the significance of the parameters on the defects using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). If the curvature of the collected data shows significant, Response Surface Methodology (RSM) is then applied for obtaining a quadratic modelling equation that has more reliable in expressing the optimization. Thus, the objective of this research is obtaining an optimum setting of milling parameters and modelling equations to minimize the surface roughness (Ra) and delamination factor (Fd) of milled kenaf reinforced plastic composite materials. The spindle speed and feed rate contributed the most in affecting the surface roughness and the delamination factor of the kenaf composite materials.

The Design, Prototyping, and Formative Evaluation of an Assistive Robotic Table (ART) for Stroke Patients.

PubMed

Threatt, Anthony L; Merino, Jessica; Brooks, Johnell O; Healy, Stan; Truesdail, Constance; Manganelli, Joseph; Walker, Ian; Green, Keith Evan

2017-04-01

This article presents the results of an exploratory study in which 14 healthcare subject matter experts (H-SMEs) in addition to four research and design subject matter experts (RD-SMEs) at a regional rehabilitation hospital engaged in a series of complementary, participatory activities in order to design an assistive robotic table (ART). As designers, human factor experts, and healthcare professionals continue to work to integrate assistive human-robot technologies in healthcare, it is imperative to understand how the technology affects patient care from clinicians' perspectives. Fourteen clinical H-SMEs rated a subset of conceptual ART design ideas; participated in the iterative design process of ART; and evaluated a final cardboard prototype, the rehabilitation hospital's current over-the-bed table (OBT), an ART built with true materials, and two therapy surface prototypes. Four RD-SMEs conducted a heuristic evaluation on the ART built with true materials. Data were analyzed by frequency and content analysis. The results include a design and prototype for the next generation ART and a pneumatically controlled therapy surface, a broadened list of specifications for the future design and implementation of assistive robotic furniture, and final observations. When compared to the rehabilitation hospital's current OBT, the developed ART in this study was successful. Designing novel features is dependent upon ensuring patient safety. The inclusion of clinicians in the participatory iterative design and evaluation process and the use of personas provided a broadened list of specifications for the successful implementation of assistive robotic furniture.

Diffraction-assisted micropatterning of silicon surfaces by ns-laser irradiation

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

Haro-Poniatowski, E., E-mail: haro@xanum.uam.mx; Acosta-Zepeda, C.; Mecalco, G.

2014-06-14

Single-pulse (532 nm, 8 ns) micropatterning of silicon with nanometric surface modulation is demonstrated by irradiating through a diffracting pinhole. The irradiation results obtained at fluences above the melting threshold are characterized by scanning electron and scanning force microscopy and reveal a good agreement with Fresnel diffraction theory. The physical mechanism is identified and discussed on basis of both thermocapillary and chemicapillary induced material transport during the molten state of the surface.

A novel approach of magnetorheological abrasive fluid finishing with swirling-assisted inlet flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kheradmand, Saeid; Esmailian, Mojtaba; Fatahy, A.

Abrasive flow machining has been the pioneer of new finishing processes. Rotating workpiece and imposing a magnetic field using magnetorheological working medium are some assisting manipulations to improve surface finishing, because they can increase the forces on the workpiece surface. Similarly, swirling the inlet flow using stationary swirler vanes, as a novel idea, may also increase forces on the surface, and then raise the material removal, with a lower expense and energy consumption compared with the case of workpiece rotation. Thus, in this paper, surface roughness improvement is studied in a pipe with rotating inlet flow of a magnetorheological finishing medium under imposing a magnetic field. The results are compared with the case of rotating workpiece, using 3D numerical simulation. The governing hydrodynamic parameters are investigated in both cases to monitor the flow variations. It is shown that surface roughness is improved by rotating inlet flow. However, it is found that finishing in the entrance length of swirling-assisted inlet flow can be so economical for short length workpieces, compared with the case of rotating workpiece, with very near Ra values. By comparison of the numerical results and published experimental data, current study also shows the ability of the numerical simulation, as an inexpensive and efficient tool, to predict the surface roughness changes in finishing processes.

Preparation of Silica Nanoparticles Through Microwave-assisted Acid-catalysis

PubMed Central

Lovingood, Derek D.; Owens, Jeffrey R.; Seeber, Michael; Kornev, Konstantin G.; Luzinov, Igor

2013-01-01

Microwave-assisted synthetic techniques were used to quickly and reproducibly produce silica nanoparticle sols using an acid catalyst with nanoparticle diameters ranging from 30-250 nm by varying the reaction conditions. Through the selection of a microwave compatible solvent, silicic acid precursor, catalyst, and microwave irradiation time, these microwave-assisted methods were capable of overcoming the previously reported shortcomings associated with synthesis of silica nanoparticles using microwave reactors. The siloxane precursor was hydrolyzed using the acid catalyst, HCl. Acetone, a low-tan δ solvent, mediates the condensation reactions and has minimal interaction with the electromagnetic field. Condensation reactions begin when the silicic acid precursor couples with the microwave radiation, leading to silica nanoparticle sol formation. The silica nanoparticles were characterized by dynamic light scattering data and scanning electron microscopy, which show the materials' morphology and size to be dependent on the reaction conditions. Microwave-assisted reactions produce silica nanoparticles with roughened textured surfaces that are atypical for silica sols produced by Stöber's methods, which have smooth surfaces. PMID:24379052

Microwave plasma assisted supersonic gas jet deposition of thin film materials

DOEpatents

Schmitt, III, Jerome J.; Halpern, Bret L.

1993-01-01

An apparatus for fabricating thin film materials utilizing high speed gas dynamics relies on supersonic free jets of carrier gas to transport depositing vapor species generated in a microwave discharge to the surface of a prepared substrate where the vapor deposits to form a thin film. The present invention generates high rates of deposition and thin films of unforeseen high quality at low temperatures.

CO2-Assisted Conversion of Crystal Two-Dimensional Molybdenum Oxide to Amorphism with Plasmon Resonances.

PubMed

Liu, Wei; Xu, Qun

2018-04-20

Localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs) of ultra-thin two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials opened a new regime in plasmonics in the last several years. 2D plasmonic materials are yet concentrated on the crystal structure, amorphous materials are hardly reported because of their limited preparation methods rather than undesired plasmonic properties. Taking molybdenum oxides as an example, herein, we elaborate the 2D amorphous plasmons prepared with the assistance of supercritical CO2. In brief, we examine the reported characteristic plasmonic properties of molybdenum oxides, and applications of supercritical CO2 in formations of 2D layer materials as well as introduced phase and disorder engineering based on our researchs. Furthermore, we propose our perspective on the development of 2D plasmons, especially for amorphous layer materials in the future. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Laser-assisted immobilization of colloid silver nanoparticles on polyethyleneterephthalate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Siegel, Jakub; Lyutakov, Oleksiy; Polívková, Markéta; Staszek, Marek; Hubáček, Tomáš; Švorčík, Václav

2017-10-01

Immobilization of nanoobjects on the surface of underlying material belongs to current issues of material science. Such altered materials exhibits completely exceptional properties exploitable in a broad spectrum of industrially important applications ranging from catalysts up to health-care industry. Here we present unique approach for immobilization of electrochemically synthesized silver nanoparticles on polyethyleneterephthalate (PET) foil whose essence lies in physical incorporation of particles into thin polymer surface layer induced by polarized excimer laser light. Changes in chemical composition and surface structure of polymer after particle immobilization were recorded by wide range of analytical techniques such as ARXPS, EDX, RBS, AAS, Raman, ICP-MS, DLS, UV-vis, SEM, TEM, and AFM. Thorough analysis of both nanoparticles entering the immobilization step as well as modified PET surface allowed revealing the mechanism of immobilization process itself. Silver nanoparticles were physically embedded into a thin surface layer of polymer reaching several nanometers beneath the surface rather than chemically bonded to PET macromolecules. Laser-implanted nanoparticles open up new possibilities especially in the development of the next generation cell-conform antimicrobial coatings of polymeric materials, namely due to the considerable immobilization strength which is strong enough to prevent particle release into the surrounding environment.

Surface modification of Ni–Ti alloys for stent application after magnetoelectropolishing

PubMed Central

Musaramthota, Vishal; Munroe, Norman; Datye, Amit; Dua, Rupak; Haider, Waseem; McGoron, Anthony; Rokicki, Ryszard

2015-01-01

The constant demand for new implant materials and the multidisciplinary design approaches for stent applications have expanded vastly over the past decade. The biocompatibility of these implant materials is a function of their surface characteristics such as morphology, surface chemistry, roughness, surface charge and wettability. These surface characteristics can directly influence the material's corrosion resistance and biological processes such as endothelialization. Surface morphology affects the thermodynamic stability of passivating oxides, which renders corrosion resistance to passivating alloys. Magnetoelectropolishing (MEP) is known to alter the morphology and composition of surface films, which assist in improving corrosion resistance of Nitinol alloys. This work aims at analyzing the surface characteristics of MEP Nitinol alloys by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The wettability of the alloys was determined by contact angle measurements and the mechanical properties were assessed by Nanoindentation. Improved mechanical properties were observed with the addition of alloying elements. Cyclic potentiodynamic polarization tests were performed to determine the corrosion susceptibility. Further, the alloys were tested for their cytotoxicity and cellular growth with endothelial cells. Improved corrosion resistance and cellular viability were observed with MEP surface treated alloys. PMID:25746243

Comparison of subsurface damages on mono-crystalline silicon between traditional nanoscale machining and laser-assisted nanoscale machining via molecular dynamics simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, Houfu; Li, Shaobo; Chen, Genyu

2018-01-01

Molecular dynamics is employed to compare nanoscale traditional machining (TM) with laser-assisted machining (LAM). LAM is that the workpiece is locally heated by an intense laser beam prior to material removal. We have a comprehensive comparison between LAM and TM in terms of atomic trajectories, phase transformation, radial distribution function, chips, temperature distribution, number of atoms in different temperature, grinding temperature, grinding force, friction coefficient and atomic potential energy. It can be found that there is a decrease of atoms with five and six nearest neighbors, and LAM generates more chips than that in the TM. It indicates that LAM reduces the subsurface damage of workpiece, gets a better-qualified ground surface and improves the material removal rate. Moreover, laser energy makes the materials fully softened before being removed, the number of atoms with temperature above 500 K is increased, and the average temperature of workpiece higher and faster to reach the equilibrium in LAM. It means that LAM has an absolute advantage in machining materials and greatly reduces the material resistance. Not only the tangential force (Fx) and the normal force (Fy) but also friction coefficients become smaller as laser heating reduces the strength and hardness of the material in LAM. These results show that LAM is a promising technique since it can get a better-qualified workpiece surface with larger material removal rates, less grinding force and lower friction coefficient.

Understanding Coatings that Protect Plasmonic Structures for Materials Characterization and Detection and Identification of Chemical, Biological and Explosive Agents

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-04-11

in the top monomolecular layer of a blend film using mass spectrometry. This technique we call Surface Layer-Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption...C., Foster, M.D. “Probing Surface Concentration of Cyclic/linear Blend Films Using Surface MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry,” Dept. of Polymer Science...Isotopically Labeled Species in a Polymer Blend Using Tip Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy, ACS Macro Letters (11 2012) TOTAL: 2 Books Number of Manuscripts

Preparation of High Surface Area Activated Carbon from Spent Phenolic Resin by Microwave Heating and KOH Activation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Song; Zhang, Libo; Zhang, Shengzhou; Xia, Hongying; Peng, Jinhui

2018-01-01

The spent phenolic resin is as raw material for preparing high surface area activated carbon (HSAAC) by microwave-assisted KOH activation. The effects of microwave power, activation duration and impregnation ratio (IR) on the iodine adsorption capability and yield of HSAAC were investigated. The surface characteristics of HSAAC were characterized by nitrogen adsorption isotherms, FTIR, SEM and TEM. The operating variables were optimized utilizing the response surface methodology (RSM) and were identified to be microwave power of 700 W, activation duration of 15 min and IR of 4, corresponding to a yield of 51.25 % and an iodine number of 2,384 mg/g. The pore structure parameters of the HSAAC, i. e., Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area, total pore volume, and average pore diameter were estimated to be 4,269 m2/g, 2.396 ml/g and 2.25 nm, respectively, under optimum conditions. The findings strongly support the feasibility of microwave-assisted KOH activation for preparation of HSAAC from spent phenolic resin.

Ultrasound-assisted extraction of Mangiferin from Mango (Mangifera indica L.) leaves using response surface methodology.

PubMed

Zou, Tang-Bin; Xia, En-Qin; He, Tai-Ping; Huang, Ming-Yuan; Jia, Qing; Li, Hua-Wen

2014-01-27

Mangiferin is a xanthone widely distributed in higher plants showing antioxidative, antiviral, anticancer, antidiabetic, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective and analgesic effects. In the present study, an ultrasonic-assisted extraction method was developed for the effective extraction of mangiferin from mango leaves. Some parameters such as ethanol concentration, liquid-to-solid ratio, extraction temperature, and extraction time were optimized by single-factor experiment and response surface methodology. The optimal extraction conditions were 44% ethanol, the liquid-to-solid ratio was 38:1, and extraction for 19.2 min at 60 °C under ultrasound irradiation of 200 W. Under optimal conditions, the yield of mangiferin was 58.46 ± 1.27 mg/g. The results obtained are helpful for the full utilization of mango leaves, and also indicated that ultrasonic-assisted extraction is a very useful method for the extraction of mangiferin from plant materials.

Matrix Assisted Ionization Vacuum (MAIV), a New Ionization Method for Biological Materials Analysis Using Mass Spectrometry*

PubMed Central

Inutan, Ellen D.; Trimpin, Sarah

2013-01-01

The introduction of electrospray ionization (ESI) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) for the mass spectrometric analysis of peptides and proteins had a dramatic impact on biological science. We now report that a wide variety of compounds, including peptides, proteins, and protein complexes, are transported directly from a solid-state small molecule matrix to gas-phase ions when placed into the vacuum of a mass spectrometer without the use of high voltage, a laser, or added heat. This ionization process produces ions having charge states similar to ESI, making the method applicable for high performance mass spectrometers designed for atmospheric pressure ionization. We demonstrate highly sensitive ionization using intermediate pressure MALDI and modified ESI sources. This matrix and vacuum assisted soft ionization method is suitable for the direct surface analysis of biological materials, including tissue, via mass spectrometry. PMID:23242551

Laser-assisted advanced assembly for MEMS fabrication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Atanasov, Yuriy Andreev

Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) are currently fabricated using methods originally designed for manufacturing semiconductor devices, using minimum if any assembly at all. The inherited limitations of this approach narrow the materials that can be employed and reduce the design complexity, imposing limitations on MEMS functionality. The proposed Laser-Assisted Advanced Assembly (LA3) method solves these problems by first fabricating components followed by assembly of a MEMS device. Components are micro-machined using a laser or by photolithography followed by wet/dry etching out of any material available in a thin sheet form. A wide range of materials can be utilized, including biocompatible metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, semiconductors, and materials with special properties such as memory shape alloys, thermoelectric, ferromagnetic, piezoelectric, and more. The approach proposed allows enhancing the structural and mechanical properties of the starting materials through heat treatment, tribological coatings, surface modifications, bio-functionalization, and more, a limited, even unavailable possibility with existing methods. Components are transferred to the substrate for assembly using the thermo-mechanical Selective Laser Assisted Die Transfer (tmSLADT) mechanism for microchips assembly, already demonstrated by our team. Therefore, the mechanical and electronic part of the MEMS can be fabricated using the same equipment/method. The viability of the Laser-Assisted Advanced Assembly technique for MEMS is demonstrated by fabricating magnetic switches for embedding in a conductive carbon-fiber metamaterial for use in an Electromagnetic-Responsive Mobile Cyber-Physical System (E-RMCPS), which is expected to improve the wireless communication system efficiency within a battery-powered device.

Picosecond Laser Pulse Interactions with Metallic and Semiconductor Surfaces.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-11-01

Materials Research Society-Europe Meeting, Laset Solid Interactions and Transient Thermal Processing of Materials. Strasbourg, May 1983, 3. de Physique...of or assisting the heating of the sample. In this experiment the the Brillouin zone are involved, the index variations are de - probe fluence was...the entire range -of fluences below the threshold for phase transition. A de - tailed analysis of this fitting procedure is beyond the scope of 900

Microwave plasma assisted supersonic gas jet deposition of thin film materials

DOEpatents

Schmitt, J.J. III; Halpern, B.L.

1993-10-26

An apparatus for fabricating thin film materials utilizing high speed gas dynamics relies on supersonic free jets of carrier gas to transport depositing vapor species generated in a microwave discharge to the surface of a prepared substrate where the vapor deposits to form a thin film. The present invention generates high rates of deposition and thin films of unforeseen high quality at low temperatures. 5 figures.

Process optimization for ultrasonic vibration assisted polishing of micro-structured surfaces on super hard material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Zhiyuan; Guo, Bing; Rao, Zhimin; Zhao, Qingliang

2014-08-01

In consideration of the excellent property of SiC, the ground micro-structured surface quality is hard to meet the requirement - consequently the ultrasonic vibration assisted polishing (UVAP) of micro-structures of molds is proposed in this paper. Through the orthogonal experiment, the parameters of UVAP of micro-structures were optimized. The experimental results show that, abrasive polishing process, the effect of the workpiece feed rate on the surface roughness (Ra), groove tip radius (R) and material removal rate (MRR) of micro-structures is significant. While, the UVAP, the most significant effect factor for Ra, R and MRR is the ultrasonic amplitude of the ultrasonic vibration. In addition, within the scope of the polishing process parameters selected by preliminary experiments, ultrasonic amplitude of 2.5μm, polishing force of 0.5N, workpiece feed rate of 5 mm·min-1, polishing wheel rotational speed of 50rpm, polishing time of 35min, abrasive size of 100nm and the polishing liquid concentration of 15% is the best technology of UVAP of micro-structures. Under the optimal parameters, the ground traces on the micro-structured surface were removed efficiently and the integrity of the edges of the micro-structure after grinding was maintained efficiently.

Nanostructured solid substrates for efficient laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (LDI-MS) of low molecular weight compounds.

PubMed

Silina, Yuliya E; Volmer, Dietrich A

2013-12-07

Analytical applications often require rapid measurement of compounds from complex sample mixtures. High-speed mass spectrometry approaches frequently utilize techniques based on direct ionization of the sample by laser irradiation, mostly by means of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI). Compounds of low molecular weight are difficult to analyze by MALDI, however, because of severe interferences in the low m/z range from the organic matrix used for desorption/ionization. In recent years, surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization (SALDI) techniques have shown promise for small molecule analysis, due to the unique properties of nanostructured surfaces, in particular, the lack of a chemical background in the low m/z range and enhanced production of analyte ions by SALDI. This short review article presents a summary of the most promising recent developments in SALDI materials for MS analysis of low molecular weight analytes, with emphasis on nanostructured materials based on metals and semiconductors.

Study of lattice strain and optical properties of nanocrystalline SnO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmad, Naseem; Khan, Shakeel; Bhargava, Richa; Ansari, Mohd Mohsin Nizam

2018-05-01

Nanocrystalline SnO2 has been synthesized by co-precipitation method by using two solvents (water and ethylene glycol). The structure and surface morphology were investigated using XRD and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The optical properties were studied using diffused reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). From the XRD analysis, the prepared materials are found to be pure crystalline with tetragonal rutile structure. The lattice strain and crystallite size, were calculated using Williamson-Hall method, are found to be 0.00413 & 16.3 nm in water assisted SnO2 and 0.00495 & 35.6 nm for EG assisted SnO2. Study of surface morphology of the samples was carried out using SEM. It has been seen that the solvents which are used in synthesis can also alter the optical properties of the materials. The optical band gap of the water based SnO2 and EG based SnO2 are found to be 3.92eV and 3.86eV respectively.

MBE growth and processing of III/V-nitride semiconductor thin film structures: Growth of gallium indium arsenic nitride and nano-machining with focused ion beam and electron beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Yeonjoon

The advanced semiconductor material InGaAsN was grown with nitrogen plasma assisted Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE). The InGaAsN layers were characterized with High Resolution X-ray Diffraction (HRXDF), Atomic Fore Microscope (AFM), X-ray Photoemission Spectroscopy (XPS) and Photo-Luminescence (PL). The reduction of the band gap energy was observed with the incorporation of nitrogen and the lattice matched condition to the GaAs substrate was achieved with the additional incorporation of indium. A detailed investigation was made for the growth mode changes from planar layer-by-layer growth to 3D faceted growth with a higher concentration of nitrogen. A new X-ray diffraction analysis was developed and applied to the MBE growth on GaAs(111)B, which is one of the facet planes of InGaAsN. As an effort to enhance the processing tools for advanced semiconductor materials, gas assisted Focused Ion Beam (FIB) vertical milling was performed on GaN. The FIB processed area shows an atomically flat surface, which is good enough for the fabrication of Double Bragg Reflector (DBR) mirrors for the Blue GaN Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) Diodes. An in-situ electron beam system was developed to combine the enhanced lithographic processing capability with the atomic layer growth capability by MBE. The electron beam system has a compensation capability against substrate vibration and thermal drift. In-situ electron beam lithography was performed with the low pressure assisting gas. The advanced processing and characterization methods developed in this thesis will assist the development of superior semiconductor materials for the future.

A study of thermal properties of sodium titanate nanotubes synthesized by microwave-assisted hydrothermal method

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

Preda, Silviu, E-mail: predas01@yahoo.co.uk; Rutar, Melita; Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School, Jamova cesta 39, SI-1000 Ljubljana

2015-11-15

Highlights: • The microwave-assisted hydrothermal route was used for titanate nanotubes synthesis. • Conversion to single-phase nanotube morphology completes after 8 h reaction time. • The nanotube morphology is stable up to 600 °C, as determined by in-situ XRD and SEM. • Sodium ions migrate to the surface due to thermal motion and structure condensation. - Abstract: Sodium titanate nanotubes (NaTiNTs) were synthesized by microwave-assisted hydrothermal treatment of commercial TiO{sub 2}, at constant temperature (135 °C) and different irradiation times (15 min, 1, 4, 8 and 16 h). The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electronmore » microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and specific surface area measurements. The irradiation time turned out to be the key parameter for morphological control of the material. Nanotubes were observed already after 15 min of microwave irradiation. The analyses of the products irradiated for 8 and 16 h confirm the complete transformation of the starting TiO{sub 2} powder to NaTiNTs. The nanotubes are open ended with multi-wall structures, with the average outer diameter of 8 nm and specific surface area up to 210 m{sup 2}/g. The morphology, surface area and crystal structure of the sodium titanate nanotubes synthesized by microwave-assisted hydrothermal method were similar to those obtained by conventional hydrothermal method.« less

Advanced Industrial Materials Program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stooksbury, F.

1994-06-01

The mission of the Advanced Industrial Materials (AIM) program is to commercialize new/improved materials and materials processing methods that will improve energy efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness. Program investigators in the DOE national laboratories are working with about 100 companies, including 15 partners in CRDA's. Work is being done on intermetallic alloys, ceramic composites, metal composites, polymers, engineered porous materials, and surface modification. The program supports other efforts in the Office of Industrial Technologies to assist the energy-consuming process industries. The aim of the AIM program is to bring materials from basic research to industrial application to strengthen the competitive position of US industry and save energy.

Using surfaces, ligands, and dimensionality to obtain desired nanostructure properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nagpal, Prashant; Singh, Vivek; Ding, Yuchen

2014-03-01

Nanostructured materials are intensively investigated to obtain material properties different from their bulk counterparts. It has been demonstrated that nanoscaled semiconductor can have interesting size, shape and morphology dependent optoelectronic properties. But the effect of surfaces, ligands and dimensionality (0D quantum dots to 2D nanosheets) has been largely unexplored. Here, we will show how tuning the surface and dimensionality can affect the electronic states of the semiconductor, and how these states can play an important role in their fundamental photophysical properties or thermal transport. Using the specific case for silicon, we will show how ``new'' surface states in small uniform can lead to light absorption/emission without phonon assistance, while hindering the phonon-drag of charge carriers leading to low Seebeck coefficient for thermoelectric applications. These measurements will shed light on designing appropriate surface, size, and dimensionality for desired applications of nanostructured films.

Enhanced Locomotion Efficiency of a Bio-inspired Walking Robot using Contact Surfaces with Frictional Anisotropy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manoonpong, Poramate; Petersen, Dennis; Kovalev, Alexander; Wörgötter, Florentin; Gorb, Stanislav N.; Spinner, Marlene; Heepe, Lars

2016-12-01

Based on the principles of morphological computation, we propose a novel approach that exploits the interaction between a passive anisotropic scale-like material (e.g., shark skin) and a non-smooth substrate to enhance locomotion efficiency of a robot walking on inclines. Real robot experiments show that passive tribologically-enhanced surfaces of the robot belly or foot allow the robot to grip on specific surfaces and move effectively with reduced energy consumption. Supplementing the robot experiments, we investigated tribological properties of the shark skin as well as its mechanical stability. It shows high frictional anisotropy due to an array of sloped denticles. The orientation of the denticles to the underlying collagenous material also strongly influences their mechanical interlocking with the substrate. This study not only opens up a new way of achieving energy-efficient legged robot locomotion but also provides a better understanding of the functionalities and mechanical properties of anisotropic surfaces. That understanding will assist developing new types of material for other real-world applications.

Enhanced Locomotion Efficiency of a Bio-inspired Walking Robot using Contact Surfaces with Frictional Anisotropy

PubMed Central

Manoonpong, Poramate; Petersen, Dennis; Kovalev, Alexander; Wörgötter, Florentin; Gorb, Stanislav N.; Spinner, Marlene; Heepe, Lars

2016-01-01

Based on the principles of morphological computation, we propose a novel approach that exploits the interaction between a passive anisotropic scale-like material (e.g., shark skin) and a non-smooth substrate to enhance locomotion efficiency of a robot walking on inclines. Real robot experiments show that passive tribologically-enhanced surfaces of the robot belly or foot allow the robot to grip on specific surfaces and move effectively with reduced energy consumption. Supplementing the robot experiments, we investigated tribological properties of the shark skin as well as its mechanical stability. It shows high frictional anisotropy due to an array of sloped denticles. The orientation of the denticles to the underlying collagenous material also strongly influences their mechanical interlocking with the substrate. This study not only opens up a new way of achieving energy-efficient legged robot locomotion but also provides a better understanding of the functionalities and mechanical properties of anisotropic surfaces. That understanding will assist developing new types of material for other real-world applications. PMID:28008936

Non-Equilibrium Plasma Processing for the Preparation of Antibacterial Surfaces

PubMed Central

Sardella, Eloisa; Palumbo, Fabio; Camporeale, Giuseppe; Favia, Pietro

2016-01-01

Non-equilibrium plasmas offer several strategies for developing antibacterial surfaces that are able to repel and/or to kill bacteria. Due to the variety of devices, implants, and materials in general, as well as of bacteria and applications, plasma assisted antibacterial strategies need to be tailored to each specific surface. Nano-composite coatings containing inorganic (metals and metal oxides) or organic (drugs and biomolecules) compounds can be deposited in one step, and used as drug delivery systems. On the other hand, functional coatings can be plasma-deposited and used to bind antibacterial molecules, for synthesizing surfaces with long lasting antibacterial activity. In addition, non-fouling coatings can be produced to inhibit the adhesion of bacteria and reduce the formation of biofilm. This paper reviews plasma-based strategies aimed to reduce bacterial attachment and proliferation on biomedical materials and devices, but also onto materials used in other fields. Most of the activities described have been developed in the lab of the authors. PMID:28773637

Measurement of Cohesion in Asteroid Regolith Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kleinhenz, Julie E.; Gaier, James R.; Waters, Deborah L.; Harvey, Ralph; Zeszut, Zoe; Carreno, Brandon; Shober, Patrick

2017-01-01

A study has been initiated to examine cohesive forces in asteroid materials to contribute to a better understanding of low density bodies such as asteroids and Phobos, and assist in exploration missions involving interaction with their surface material. The test specimen used in this study was a lightly weathered CM2 meteorite which is spectroscopically similar to Type C (carbonaceous) asteroids, and thought to have representative surface chemistry. To account for sample heterogeneity, adhesion forces were measured between the CM2 sample and its five primary mineral phase components. These adhesive forces bound the range of cohesive force that can be expected for the bulk material. All materials were characterized using a variety of optical and spectroscopic methods. Adhesive forces on the order of 50 to 400 µN were measured using a torsion balance in an ultrahigh vacuum chamber. The mineral samples exhibited clearly different adhesive strengths in the following hierarchy: Serpentine > Siderite > Bronzite > Olivine ˜ Fe-Ni.

Selenium-assisted controlled growth of graphene-Bi2Se3 nanoplates hybrid Dirac materials by chemical vapor deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Zhencui; Man, Baoyuan; Yang, Cheng; Liu, Mei; Jiang, Shouzhen; Zhang, Chao; Zhang, Jiaxin; Liu, Fuyan; Xu, Yuanyuan

2016-03-01

Se seed layers were used to synthesize the high-quality graphene-Bi2Se3 nanoplates hybrid Dirac materials via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. The morphology, crystallization and structural properties of the hybrid Dirac materials were characterized by SEM, EDS, Raman, XRD, AFM and HRTEM. The measurement results verify that the Se seed layer on the graphene surface can effectively saturate the surface dangling bonds of the graphene, which not only impel the uniform Bi2Se3 nanoplates growing along the horizontal direction but also can supply enough Se atoms to fill the Se vacancies. We also demonstrate the Se seed layer can effectively avoid the interaction of Bi2Se3 and the graphene. Further experiments testify the different Se seed layer on the graphene surface can be used to control the density of the Bi2Se3 nanoplates.

Nanofabrication with Pulsed Lasers

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

An overview of pulsed laser-assisted methods for nanofabrication, which are currently developed in our Institute (LP3), is presented. The methods compass a variety of possibilities for material nanostructuring offered by laser–matter interactions and imply either the nanostructuring of the laser-illuminated surface itself, as in cases of direct laser ablation or laser plasma-assisted treatment of semiconductors to form light-absorbing and light-emitting nano-architectures, as well as periodic nanoarrays, or laser-assisted production of nanoclusters and their controlled growth in gaseous or liquid medium to form nanostructured films or colloidal nanoparticles. Nanomaterials synthesized by laser-assisted methods have a variety of unique properties, not reproducible by any other route, and are of importance for photovoltaics, optoelectronics, biological sensing, imaging and therapeutics. PMID:20672069

Lunar Commercial Mining Logistics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kistler, Walter P.; Citron, Bob; Taylor, Thomas C.

2008-01-01

Innovative commercial logistics is required for supporting lunar resource recovery operations and assisting larger consortiums in lunar mining, base operations, camp consumables and the future commercial sales of propellant over the next 50 years. To assist in lowering overall development costs, ``reuse'' innovation is suggested in reusing modified LTS in-space hardware for use on the moon's surface, developing product lines for recovered gases, regolith construction materials, surface logistics services, and other services as they evolve, (Kistler, Citron and Taylor, 2005) Surface logistics architecture is designed to have sustainable growth over 50 years, financed by private sector partners and capable of cargo transportation in both directions in support of lunar development and resource recovery development. The author's perspective on the importance of logistics is based on five years experience at remote sites on Earth, where remote base supply chain logistics didn't always work, (Taylor, 1975a). The planning and control of the flow of goods and materials to and from the moon's surface may be the most complicated logistics challenges yet to be attempted. Affordability is tied to the innovation and ingenuity used to keep the transportation and surface operations costs as low as practical. Eleven innovations are proposed and discussed by an entrepreneurial commercial space startup team that has had success in introducing commercial space innovation and reducing the cost of space operations in the past. This logistics architecture offers NASA and other exploring nations a commercial alternative for non-essential cargo. Five transportation technologies and eleven surface innovations create the logistics transportation system discussed.

Antiproliferative activity of Curcuma phaeocaulis Valeton extract using ultrasonic assistance and response surface methodology.

PubMed

Wang, Xiaoqin; Jiang, Ying; Hu, Daode

2017-01-02

The objective of the study was to optimize the ultrasonic-assisted extraction of curdione, furanodienone, curcumol, and germacrone from Curcuma phaeocaulis Valeton (Val.) and investigate the antiproliferative activity of the extract. Under the suitable high-performance liquid chromatography condition, the calibration curves for these four tested compounds showed high levels of linearity and the recoveries of these four compounds were between 97.9 and 104.3%. Response surface methodology (RSM) combining central composite design and desirability function (DF) was used to define optimal extraction parameters. The results of RSM and DF revealed that the optimum conditions were obtained as 8 mL g -1 for liquid-solid ratio, 70% ethanol concentration, and 20 min of ultrasonic time. It was found that the surface structures of the sonicated herbal materials were fluffy and irregular. The C. phaeocaulis Val. extract significantly inhibited the proliferation of RKO and HT-29 cells in vitro. The results reveal that the RSM can be effectively used for optimizing the ultrasonic-assisted extraction of bioactive components from C. phaeocaulis Val. for antiproliferative activity.

Capacitance Techniques | Photovoltaic Research | NREL

Science.gov Websites

transient spectroscopy generated graph showing six defect levels; DLTS signal (Y-axis) versus Temperature (X -axis). DLTS characterizes defect levels to assist in identification of impurities and potential levels of interface states (or both) that often exist between the surfaces of dissimilar materials. Deep

Precision Assembly of Systems on Surfaces (PASS)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-02-06

As a result, under other funding we are pursuing applications of this method for the detection of biogenic amines that are indicators of meat ...conductive materials are made from indium tin oxide or fluorinated tin oxide. The latter involves the substitution of a F- for an O-2 and leads to n...generated by spoiling meat . Our fully drawn sensors and ability to fabricate materials on many substrates has assisted us in ongoing experiments directed

Phase structuring in metal alloys: Ultrasound-assisted top-down approach to engineering of nanostructured catalytic materials.

PubMed

Cherepanov, Pavel V; Andreeva, Daria V

2017-03-01

High intensity ultrasound (HIUS) is a novel and efficient tool for top-down nanostructuring of multi-phase metal systems. Ultrasound-assisted structuring of the phase in metal alloys relies on two main mechanisms including interfacial red/ox reactions and temperature driven solid state phase transformations which affect surface composition and morphology of metals. Physical and chemical properties of sonication medium strongly affects the structuring pathways as well as morphology and composition of catalysts. HIUS can serve as a simple, fast, and effective approach for the tuning of structure and surface properties of metal particles, opening the new perspectives in design of robust and efficient catalysts. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Anti-flammable properties of cotton fabrics using eco friendly inorganic materials by layering self-assisted processing

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A flame retardant surface has been prepared by the layer-by layer assemblies of branched polyethylenimine (BPEI), kaolin, urea, diammonium phosphate (dibasic) on cotton fabrics. Four different kinds of cotton fabrics (print cloth, mercerized print cloth, mercerized twill, and fleece) were prepared ...

Preparing high-density polymer brushes by mechanically assisted polymer assembly (MAPA)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Tao; Efimenko, Kirill; Genzer, Jan

2001-03-01

We introduce a novel method of modifying the surface properties of materials. This technique, called MAPA (="mechanically assisted polymer assembly"), is based on: 1) chemically attaching polymerization initiators to the surface of an elastomeric network that has been previously stretched by a certain length, Δx, and 2) growing end-anchored macromolecules using surface initiated ("grafting from") atom transfer living radical polymerization. After the polymerization, the strain is removed from the substrate, which returns to its original size causing the grafted macromolecules to stretch away from the substrate and form a dense polymer brush. We demonstrate the feasibility of the MAPA method by preparing high-density polymer brushes of poly(acryl amide), PAAm. We show that, as expected, the grafting density of the PAAm brushes can be increased by increasing Δx. We demonstrate that polymer brushes with extremely high grafting densities can be successfully prepared by MAPA.

Graphene oxide assisted synthesis of GaN nanostructures for reducing cell adhesion.

PubMed

Yang, Rong; Zhang, Ying; Li, Jingying; Han, Qiusen; Zhang, Wei; Lu, Chao; Yang, Yanlian; Dong, Hongwei; Wang, Chen

2013-11-21

We report a general approach for the synthesis of large-scale gallium nitride (GaN) nanostructures by the graphene oxide (GO) assisted chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. A modulation effect of GaN nanostructures on cell adhesion has been observed. The morphology of the GaN surface can be controlled by GO concentrations. This approach, which is based on the predictable choice of the ratio of GO to catalysts, can be readily extended to the synthesis of other materials with controllable nanostructures. Cell studies show that GaN nanostructures reduced cell adhesion significantly compared to GaN flat surfaces. The cell-repelling property is related to the nanostructure and surface wettability. These observations of the modulation effect on cell behaviors suggest new opportunities for novel GaN nanomaterial-based biomedical devices. We believe that potential applications will emerge in the biomedical and biotechnological fields.

Evaluation of left ventricular assist device pump bladders cast from ion-sputtered polytetrafluorethylene mandrels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1982-01-01

A highly thromboresistant blood contacting interface for use in implanatable blood pump is investigated. Biomaterials mechanics, dynamics, durability, surface morphology, and chemistry are among the critical consideration pertinent to the choice of an appropriate blood pump bladder material. The use of transfer cast biopolymers from ion beam textured surfaces is investigated to detect subtle variations in blood pump surface morphology using Biomer as the biomaterial of choice. The efficacy of ion beam sputtering as an acceptable method of fabricating textured blood interfaces is evaluated. Aortic grafts and left ventricular assist devices were implanted in claves; the blood interfaces were fabricated by transfer casting methods from ion beam textured polytetrafluorethylene mandrels. The mandrels were textured by superimposing a 15 micron screen mesh; ion sputtering conditions were 300 volts beam energy, 40 to 50 mA beam, and a mandrel to source distance of 25 microns.

Imaging the surface morphology, chemistry and conductivity of LiNi 1/3 Fe 1/3 Mn 4/3 O 4 crystalline facets using scanning transmission X-ray microscopy

DOE PAGES

Zhou, Jigang; Wang, Jian; Cutler, Jeffrey; ...

2016-07-26

We have employed scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM) using the X-ray fluorescence mode in order to elucidate the chemical structures at Ni, Fe, Mn and O sites from the (111) and (100) facets of micron-sized LiNi 1/3Fe 1/3Mn 4/3O 4 energy material particles. Furthermore, STXM imaging using electron yield mode has mapped out the surface conductivity of the crystalline particles. Our study presents a novel approach that visualizes local element segregation, chemistry and conductivity variation among different crystal facets, which will assist further tailoring of the morphology and surface structure of this high voltage spinel lithium ion battery cathode material.

Effect of Various Material Properties on the Adhesive Stage of Fretting

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buckley, D. H.

1974-01-01

Various properties of metals and alloys were studied with respect to their effect on the initial stage of the fretting process, namely adhesion. Crystallographic orientation, crystal structure, interfacial binding energies of dissimiliar metal, segregation of alloy constituents and the nature and structure of surface films were found to influence adhesion. High atomic density, low surface energy grain orientations exhibited lower adhesion than other orientations. Knowledge of interfacial surface binding energies assists in predicting adhesive transfer and wear. Selective surface segregation of alloy constituents accomplishes both a reduction in adhesion and improved surface oxidation characteristics. Equivalent surface coverages of various adsorbed species indicate that some are markedly more effective in inhibiting adhesion than others.

Slip-activated surface creep with room-temperature super-elongation in metallic nanocrystals

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

Zhong, Li; Sansoz, Frederic; He, Yang

2016-11-28

Atom diffusion assisted by surfaces or interfaces (e.g. Coble creep) has been known to be the origin of large creep rates and superplastic softening in nanosized crystals at low temperature. By contrast, source-limited crystal slip in defect-free nanostructures engenders important strengths, but also premature plastic instability and low ductility. Here, using in-situ transmission electron microscopy, we report a slip-activated surface creep mechanism that suppresses the tendency towards plastic instability without compromising the strength, resulting in ultra-large room-temperature plasticity in face-centered-cubic silver nanocrystals. This phenomenon is shown experimentally and theoretically to prevail over a material-dependent range of diameters where surface dislocationmore » nucleation becomes a stimulus to diffusional creep. This work provides new fundamental insight into coupled diffusive-displacive deformation mechanisms maximizing ductility and strength simultaneously in nanoscale materials.« less

Design of high strength polymer metal interfaces by laser microstructured surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steinert, P.; Dittes, A.; Schimmelpfennig, R.; Scharf, I.; Lampke, T.; Schubert, A.

2018-06-01

In the areas of automotive, aeronautics and civil structures, lightweight construction is a current and a future need. Thus, multi material design has rapidly grown in importance, especially hybrid materials based on fiber reinforced plastics and aluminum offer great potential. Therefore, mechanical interlocking is a convenient way of designing the interface. Laser structuring is already used to generate a variety of surface topographies leading to high bond strengths. This paper investigates different laser structures aiming on highest joint strengths for aluminum and glass fiber reinforced polyamide 6 interfaces. Self-organizing pin structures comprised by additional micro/nano features as well as drilled hole structures, both ranging on the micrometer range, are compared to corundum blasting as a standard method for surface conditioning. For the presented surface structures, thermal joining and ultrasonic assisted joining are regarded towards their potential for an optimum joint design.

Direct determination of minority carrier diffusion lengths at axial GaAs nanowire p-n junctions.

PubMed

Gutsche, Christoph; Niepelt, Raphael; Gnauck, Martin; Lysov, Andrey; Prost, Werner; Ronning, Carsten; Tegude, Franz-Josef

2012-03-14

Axial GaAs nanowire p-n diodes, possibly one of the core elements of future nanowire solar cells and light emitters, were grown via the Au-assisted vapor-liquid-solid mode, contacted by electron beam lithography, and investigated using electron beam induced current measurements. The minority carrier diffusion lengths and dynamics of both, electrons and holes, were determined directly at the vicinity of the p-n junction. The generated photocurrent shows an exponential decay on both sides of the junction and the extracted diffusion lengths are about 1 order of magnitude lower compared to bulk material due to surface recombination. Moreover, the observed strong diameter-dependence is well in line with the surface-to-volume ratio of semiconductor nanowires. Estimating the surface recombination velocities clearly indicates a nonabrupt p-n junction, which is in essential agreement with the model of delayed dopant incorporation in the Au-assisted vapor-liquid-solid mechanism. Surface passivation using ammonium sulfide effectively reduces the surface recombination and thus leads to higher minority carrier diffusion lengths. © 2012 American Chemical Society

Proceedings of the DoD Information Analysis Center Conference (3rd) Held at Naval Surface Weapons Center, White Oak, Silver Spring, Maryland, 8-9 December 1981,

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-12-09

34 .: .. . .2 .., - " SESSION II Mr. Jerome Persh, Staff Specialist for Materials and qtructures, OUSDR&E Mr. Charles Miller. Program Director for Federal...Control Division, Office of Assistant Secretary of Defense Management Systems Mr. Jerome Pearson, Air Force Flight Dynamics Laboratory Mr. Harry Pebly...your support and I solicit your assistance. The selection of subjects for the Conference is an excellent one; we are all going to learn a lot here. The

Detonation nanodiamonds biofunctionalization and immobilization to titanium alloy surfaces as first steps towards medical application.

PubMed

Gonçalves, Juliana P L; Shaikh, Afnan Q; Reitzig, Manuela; Kovalenko, Daria A; Michael, Jan; Beutner, René; Cuniberti, Gianaurelio; Scharnweber, Dieter; Opitz, Jörg

2014-01-01

Due to their outstanding properties nanodiamonds are a promising nanoscale material in various applications such as microelectronics, polishing, optical monitoring, medicine and biotechnology. Beyond the typical diamond characteristics like extreme hardness or high thermal conductivity, they have additional benefits as intrinsic fluorescence due to lattice defects without photobleaching, obtained during the high pressure high temperature process. Further the carbon surface and its various functional groups in consequence of the synthesis, facilitate additional chemical and biological modification. In this work we present our recent results on chemical modification of the nanodiamond surface with phosphate groups and their electrochemically assisted immobilization on titanium-based materials to increase adhesion at biomaterial surfaces. The starting material is detonation nanodiamond, which exhibits a heterogeneous surface due to the functional groups resulting from the nitrogen-rich explosives and the subsequent purification steps after detonation synthesis. Nanodiamond surfaces are chemically homogenized before proceeding with further functionalization. Suspensions of resulting surface-modified nanodiamonds are applied to the titanium alloy surfaces and the nanodiamonds subsequently fixed by electrochemical immobilization. Titanium and its alloys have been widely used in bone and dental implants for being a metal that is biocompatible with body tissues and able to bind with adjacent bone during healing. In order to improve titanium material properties towards biomedical applications the authors aim to increase adhesion to bone material by incorporating nanodiamonds into the implant surface, namely the anodically grown titanium dioxide layer. Differently functionalized nanodiamonds are characterized by infrared spectroscopy and the modified titanium alloys surfaces by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The process described shows an adsorption and immobilization of modified nanodiamonds on titanium; where aminosilanized nanodiamonds coupled with O-phosphorylethanolamine show a homogeneous interaction with the titanium substrate.

Surface Texture-Induced Enhancement of Optical and Photoelectrochemical Activity of Cu2ZnSnS4 Photocathodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarswat, Prashant K.; Deka, Nipon; Jagan Mohan Rao, S.; Free, Michael L.; Kumar, Gagan

2017-08-01

The objective of this work is to understand and improve the photocatalytic activity of Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) through postgrowth modification techniques to create surface textures. This objective can be achieved using a combination of solvents, etching agents, and anodization techniques. One of the most effective surface treatments for enhancing the surface properties of photovoltaic materials is formation of nanoscale flakes, although other surface modifications were also evaluated. The superior performance of textured films can be attributed to enhanced surface area of absorber material exposed to electrolyte, ZnS deficiency, and high catalytic activity due to reduced charge-transfer resistance. Fine-tuning of ion flux and electrolyte stoichiometry can be used to create a controlled growth algorithm for CZTS thin films. The resulting information can be utilized to optimize film properties. The utility of nanostructured or engineered surfaces was evaluated using photoelectrochemical measurements. Finite-difference time-domain (FDTD)-assisted simulations were conducted for selected texturing, revealing enhanced surface area of absorbing medium that ultimately resulted in greater power loss of light in the medium.

Carbon Quantum Dot Surface-Engineered VO2 Interwoven Nanowires: A Flexible Cathode Material for Lithium and Sodium Ion Batteries.

PubMed

Balogun, Muhammad-Sadeeq; Luo, Yang; Lyu, Feiyi; Wang, Fuxin; Yang, Hao; Li, Haibo; Liang, Chaolun; Huang, Miao; Huang, Yongchao; Tong, Yexiang

2016-04-20

The use of electrode materials in their powdery form requires binders and conductive additives for the fabrication of the cells, which leads to unsatisfactory energy storage performance. Recently, a new strategy to design flexible, binder-, and additive-free three-dimensional electrodes with nanoscale surface engineering has been exploited in boosting the storage performance of electrode materials. In this paper, we design a new type of free-standing carbon quantum dot coated VO2 interwoven nanowires through a simple fabrication process and demonstrate its potential to be used as cathode material for lithium and sodium ion batteries. The versatile carbon quantum dots that are vastly flexible for surface engineering serve the function of protecting the nanowire surface and play an important role in the diffusion of electrons. Also, the three-dimensional carbon cloth coated with VO2 interwoven nanowires assisted in the diffusion of ions through the inner and the outer surface. With this unique architecture, the carbon quantum dot nanosurface engineered VO2 electrode exhibited capacities of 420 and 328 mAh g(-1) at current density rate of 0.3 C for lithium and sodium storage, respectively. This work serves as a milestone for the potential replacement of lithium ion batteries and next generation postbatteries.

Effect of l-lysine-assisted surface grafting for nano-hydroxyapatite on mechanical properties and in vitro bioactivity of poly(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid).

PubMed

Liuyun, Jiang; Lixin, Jiang; Chengdong, Xiong; Lijuan, Xu; Ye, Li

2016-01-01

It is promising and challenging to study surface modification for nano-hydroxyapatite to improve the dispersion and enhance the mechanical properties and bioactivity of poly(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid). In this paper, we designed an effective new surface grafting with the assist of l-lysine for nano-hydroxyapatite, and the nano-hydroxyapatite surface grafted with the assist of l-lysine (g-nano-hydroxyapatite) was incorporated into poly(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) to develop a series of g-nano-hydroxyapatite/poly(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) nano-composites. The surface modification reaction for nano-hydroxyapatite, the mechanical properties, and in vitro human osteoblast-like cell (MG-63) response were characterized and investigated by Fourier transformation infrared, thermal gravimetric analysis, dispersion test, electromechanical universal tester, differential scanning calorimeter measurements, and in vitro cells culture experiment. The results showed that the grafting amount on the surface of nano-hydroxyapatite was enhanced with the increase of l-lysine, and the dispersion of nano-hydroxyapatite was improved more, so that it brought about better promotion crystallization and more excellent mechanical enhancement effect for poly(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid), comparing with the unmodified nano-hydroxyapatite. Moreover, the cells' attachment and proliferation results confirmed that the incorporation of the g-nano-hydroxyapatite into poly(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) exhibited better biocompatibility than poly(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid). The above results indicated that the new surface grafting with the assist of l-lysine for nano-hydroxyapatite was an ideal novel surface modification method, which brought about better mechanical enhancement effect and in vitro bioactivity for poly(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) with adding higher g-nano-hydroxyapatite content, suggesting it had a great potential to be used as bone fracture internal fixation materials in future. © The Author(s) 2015.

Machining approach of freeform optics on infrared materials via ultra-precision turning.

PubMed

Li, Zexiao; Fang, Fengzhou; Chen, Jinjin; Zhang, Xiaodong

2017-02-06

Optical freeform surfaces are of great advantage in excellent optical performance and integrated alignment features. It has wide applications in illumination, imaging and non-imaging, etc. Machining freeform surfaces on infrared (IR) materials with ultra-precision finish is difficult due to its brittle nature. Fast tool servo (FTS) assisted diamond turning is a powerful technique for the realization of freeform optics on brittle materials due to its features of high spindle speed and high cutting speed. However it has difficulties with large slope angles and large rise-and-falls in the sagittal direction. In order to overcome this defect, the balance of the machining quality on the freeform surface and the brittle nature in IR materials should be realized. This paper presents the design of a near-rotational freeform surface (NRFS) with a low non-rotational degree (NRD) to constraint the variation of traditional freeform optics to solve this issue. In NRFS, the separation of the surface results in a rotational part and a residual part denoted as a non-rotational surface (NRS). Machining NRFS on germanium is operated by FTS diamond turning. Characteristics of the surface indicate that the optical finish of the freeform surface has been achieved. The modulation transfer function (MTF) of the freeform optics shows a good agreement to the design expectation. Images of the final optical system confirm that the fabricating strategy is of high efficiency and high quality. Challenges and prospects are discussed to provide guidance of future work.

Self-Formed Channel Devices Based on Vertically Grown 2D Materials with Large-Surface-Area and Their Potential for Chemical Sensor Applications.

PubMed

Kim, Chaeeun; Park, Jun-Cheol; Choi, Sun Young; Kim, Yonghun; Seo, Seung-Young; Park, Tae-Eon; Kwon, Se-Hun; Cho, Byungjin; Ahn, Ji-Hoon

2018-04-01

2D layered materials with sensitive surfaces are promising materials for use in chemical sensing devices, owing to their extremely large surface-to-volume ratios. However, most chemical sensors based on 2D materials are used in the form of laterally defined active channels, in which the active area is limited to the actual device dimensions. Therefore, a novel approach for fabricating self-formed active-channel devices is proposed based on 2D semiconductor materials with very large surface areas, and their potential gas sensing ability is examined. First, the vertical growth phenomenon of SnS 2 nanocrystals is investigated with large surface area via metal-assisted growth using prepatterned metal electrodes, and then self-formed active-channel devices are suggested without additional pattering through the selective synthesis of SnS 2 nanosheets on prepatterned metal electrodes. The self-formed active-channel device exhibits extremely high response values (>2000% at 10 ppm) for NO 2 along with excellent NO 2 selectivity. Moreover, the NO 2 gas response of the gas sensing device with vertically self-formed SnS 2 nanosheets is more than two orders of magnitude higher than that of a similar exfoliated SnS 2 -based device. These results indicate that the facile device fabrication method would be applicable to various systems in which surface area plays an important role. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Setting Up CD-ROM Work Areas. Part I: Ergonomic Considerations, User Furniture, Location.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vasi, John; LaGuardia, Cheryl

1992-01-01

The first of a two-part series on design of CD-ROM work areas in libraries discusses (1) space and location considerations; (2) ergonomics, including work surface, chairs, lighting, printers, other accessories, and security; and (3) other considerations, including staff assistance, reference tools, literature racks, and promotional materials. (MES)

Testing Services

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1993-01-01

Trace Laboratories is an independent testing laboratory specializing in testing printed circuit boards, automotive products and military hardware. Technical information from NASA Tech Briefs and two subsequent JPL Technical Support packages have assisted Trace in testing surface insulation resistance on printed circuit board materials. Testing time was reduced and customer service was improved because of Jet Propulsion Laboratory technical support packages.

Synchronous exfoliation and assembly of graphene on 3D Ni(OH)2 for supercapacitors.

PubMed

Ma, Liguo; Zheng, Maojun; Liu, Shaohua; Li, Qiang; You, Yuxiu; Wang, Faze; Ma, Li; Shen, Wenzhong

2016-11-08

Nowadays, new approaches to fabricate high-performance electrode materials are of vital importance in the renewable energy field. Here, we present a facile synthesis procedure of 3D Ni(OH) 2 /graphene hybrids for supercapacitors via synchronous electrochemical-assisted exfoliation and assembly of graphene on 3D Ni(OH) 2 networks. With the assistance of an electric field, the electrochemically exfoliated high-quality graphene can be readily, uniformly assembled on the surfaces of 3D Ni(OH) 2 . When serving as electrode materials for supercapacitors, the resulting 3D Ni(OH) 2 /graphene composites exhibited excellent specific capacitance (263 mF cm -2 at 2 mA cm -2 ), remarkable rate capability and super-long cycle life (retention of 94.1% even after 10 000 continuous charge-discharge cycles), which may be attributed to their highly porous, stable 3D architecture as well as uniform, firm anchoring of ultrathin graphene on their surfaces. Therefore, our approach provides a facile strategy for the large-scale synthesis of high-quality graphene based composites towards various applications.

Results From Cs Activated GaN Photocathode Development for MCP Detector Systems at GSFC

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Norton, Tim; Woodgate, Bruce; Stock, Joe; Hilton, George; Ulmer, Mel; Aslam, Shahid; Vispute, R. D.

2003-01-01

We describe the development of high quantum efficiency W photocathodes for use in large area two dimensional microchannel plate based detector arrays to enable new W space astronomy missions. Future W missions will require improvements in detector sensitivity, which has the most leverage for cost-effective improvements in overall telescope/instrument sensitivity. We use new materials such as p-doped GaN, AIGaN, ZnMgO, Sic and diamond. We have currently obtained QE values > 40 % at 185 nm with Cesiated GaN, and hope to demonstrate higher values in the future. By using controlled internal fields and nano-structuring of the surfaces, we plan to provide field emission assistance for photoelectrons while maintaining their energy distinction from dark noise electrons. We will transfer these methods from GaN to ZnMgO, a new family of wide band-gap materials more compatible with microchannel plates. We also are exploring technical parameters such as doping profiles, internal and external field strengths, angle of incidence, field emission assistance, surface preparation, etc.

Correlating capacity and Li content in layered material for Li-ion battery using XRD and particle size distribution measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Al-Tabbakh, A. A. A.; Al-Zubaidi, A. B.; Kamarulzaman, N.

2016-03-01

A lithiated transition-metal oxide material was successfully synthesized by a combustion method for Li-ion battery. The material was characterized using thermogravimetric and particle size analyzers, scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffractometer. The calcined powders of the material exhibited a finite size distribution and a single phase of pure layered structure of space group Roverline{3} m . An innovative method was developed to calculate the material electrochemical capacity based on considerations of the crystal structure and contributions of Li ions from specified unit cells at the surfaces and in the interiors of the material particles. Results suggested that most of the Li ions contributing to the electrochemical current originated from the surface region of the material particles. It was possible to estimate the thickness of the most delithiated region near the particle surfaces at any delithiation depth accurately. Furthermore, results suggested that the core region of the particles remained electrochemically inaccessible in the conventional applied voltages. This result was justified by direct quantitative comparison of specific capacity values calculated from the particle size distribution with those measured experimentally. The present analysis is believed to be of some value for estimation of the failure mechanism in cathode compounds, thus assisting the development of Li-ion batteries.

Optimization of ultrasonic-assisted preparation of dietary fiber from corn pericarp using response surface methodology.

PubMed

Wang, Anna; Wu, Ligen; Li, Xiulin

2013-09-01

Corn pericarp, which is an industrial waste of corn starch production, is an important source of dietary fiber in cereals, with claimed health benefits. However, they used to be discarded or utilized as animal feed. The application of pre-ultrasound treatment is critical for achieving rapid preparation of desired components from plant materials and for preserving structural and molecular properties of these compounds. Ultrasonic-assisted preparation was used to produce dietary fiber from corn pericarp using response surface methodology. The optimal particle size of corn pericarp (mesh size 40), the ratio of liquid to solid (25 mL g⁻¹), ultrasonic power (180 W) and ultrasonic time (80 min) were determined based on response surface methodology analysis. The interaction effects of particle size of corn pericarp and ultrasonic time had a highlysignificant effect on the yield of dietary fiber, and a significant effect was shown by ultrasonic power and ultrasonic time. The maximum yield of dietary fiber was 86.84%, which agreed closely with the predicted value. Using ultrasonic-assisted preparation, it may be possible to enhance the yield of dietary fiber from corn pericarp. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry.

Mechanisms of high-regularity periodic structuring of silicon surface by sub-MHz repetition rate ultrashort laser pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gnilitskyi, Iaroslav; Gruzdev, Vitaly; Bulgakova, Nadezhda M.; Mocek, Tomáš; Orazi, Leonardo

2016-10-01

Silicon is one of the most abundant materials which is used in many areas of modern research and technology. A variety of those applications require surface nanopatterning with minimum structure defects. However, the high-quality nanostructuring of large areas of silicon surface at industrially acceptable speed is still a challenge. Here, we report a rapid formation of highly regular laser-induced periodic surface structures (HR-LIPSS) in the regime of strong ablation by infrared femtosecond laser pulses at sub-MHz repetition rate. Parameters of the laser-surface interactions and obtained experimental results suggest an important role of electrostatically assisted bond softening in initiating the HR-LIPSS formation.

Simulation of Magnetic Field Assisted Finishing (MFAF) Process Utilizing Smart MR Polishing Tool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barman, Anwesa; Das, Manas

2017-02-01

Magnetic field assisted finishing process is an advanced finishing process. This process is capable of producing nanometer level surface finish. In this process magnetic field is applied to control the finishing forces using magnetorheological polishing medium. In the current study, permanent magnet is used to provide the required magnetic field in the finishing zone. The working gap between the workpiece and the magnet is filled with MR fluid which is used as the polishing brush to remove surface undulations from the top surface of the workpiece. In this paper, the distribution of magnetic flux density on the workpiece surface and behaviour of MR polishing medium during finishing are analyzed using commercial finite element packages (Ansys Maxwell® and Comsol®). The role of magnetic force in the indentation of abrasive particles on the workpiece surface is studied. A two-dimensional simulation study of the steady, laminar, and incompressible MR fluid flow behaviour during finishing process is carried out. The material removal and surface roughness modelling of the finishing process are also presented. The indentation force by a single active abrasive particle on the workpiece surface is modelled during simulation. The velocity profile of MR fluid with and without application of magnetic field is plotted. It shows non-Newtonian property without application of magnetic field. After that the total material displacement due to one abrasive particle is plotted. The simulated roughness profile is in a good agreement with the experimental results. The conducted study will help in understanding the fluid behavior and the mechanism of finishing during finishing process. Also, the modelling and simulation of the process will help in achieving better finishing performance.

Lactoferrin-Immobilized Surfaces onto Functionalized PLA Assisted by the Gamma-Rays and Nitrogen Plasma to Create Materials with Multifunctional Properties.

PubMed

Stoleru, Elena; Zaharescu, Traian; Hitruc, Elena Gabriela; Vesel, Alenka; Ioanid, Emil G; Coroaba, Adina; Safrany, Agnes; Pricope, Gina; Lungu, Maria; Schick, Christoph; Vasile, Cornelia

2016-11-23

Both cold nitrogen radiofrequency plasma and gamma irradiation have been applied to activate and functionalize the polylactic acid (PLA) surface and the subsequent lactoferrin immobilization. Modified films were comparatively characterized with respect to the procedure of activation and also with unmodified sample by water contact angle measurements, mass loss, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and chemiluminescence measurements. All modified samples exhibit enhanced surface properties mainly those concerning biocompatibility, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, and furthermore, they are biodegradable and environmentally friendly. Lactoferrin deposited layer by covalent coupling using carbodiimide chemistry showed a good stability. It was found that the lactoferrin-modified PLA materials present significantly increased oxidative stability. Gamma-irradiated samples and lactoferrin-functionalized samples show higher antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cell proliferation activity than plasma-activated and lactoferrin-functionalized ones. The multifunctional materials thus obtained could find application as biomaterials or as bioactive packaging films.

Simple Preparation of Novel Metal-Containing Mesoporous Starches †

PubMed Central

Ojeda, Manuel; Budarin, Vitaliy; Shuttleworth, Peter S.; Clark, James H.; Pineda, Antonio; Balu, Alina M.; Romero, Antonio A.; Luque, Rafael

2013-01-01

Metal-containing mesoporous starches have been synthesized using a simple and efficient microwave-assisted methodology followed by metal impregnation in the porous gel network. Final materials exhibited surface areas >60 m2 g−1, being essentially mesoporous with pore sizes in the 10–15 nm range with some developed inter-particular mesoporosity. These materials characterized by several techniques including XRD, SEM, TG/DTA and DRIFTs may find promising catalytic applications due to the presence of (hydr)oxides in their composition. PMID:28809249

Fractography of modern engineering materials: composites and metals

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

Masters, J.E.; Au, J.J.

1987-01-01

The fractographic analysis of fracture surfaces in composites and metals is discussed in reviews and reports of recent theoretical and experimental investigations. Topics addressed include fracture-surface micromorphology in engineering solids, SEM fractography of pure and mixed-mode interlaminar fractures in graphite/epoxy composites, determination of crack propagation directions in graphite/epoxy structures, and the fracture surfaces of irradiated composites. Consideration is given to fractographic feature identification and characterization by digital imaging analysis, fractography of pressure-vessel steel weldments, the micromechanisms of major/minor cycle fatigue crack growth in Inconel 718, and fractographic analysis of hydrogen-assisted cracking in alpha-beta Ti alloys.

On the effectiveness of surface severe plastic deformation by shot peening at cryogenic temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Novelli, M.; Fundenberger, J.-J.; Bocher, P.; Grosdidier, T.

2016-12-01

The effect of cryogenic temperature (CT) on the graded microstructures obtained by severe shot peening using surface mechanical attrition treatment (SMAT) was investigated for two austenitic steels that used different mechanisms for assisting plastic deformation. For the metastable 304L steel, the depth of the hardened region increases because CT promotes the formation of strain induced martensite. Comparatively, for the 310S steel that remained austenitic, the size of the subsurface affected region decreases because of the improved strength of the material at CT but the fine twinned nanostructures results in significant top surface hardening.

The Role of Trap-assisted Recombination in Luminescent Properties of Organometal Halide CH3NH3PbBr3 Perovskite Films and Quantum Dots

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Zhen-Yu; Wang, Hai-Yu; Zhang, Yan-Xia; Hao, Ya-Wei; Sun, Chun; Zhang, Yu; Gao, Bing-Rong; Chen, Qi-Dai; Sun, Hong-Bo

2016-06-01

Hybrid metal halide perovskites have been paid enormous attentions in photophysics research, whose excellent performances were attributed to their intriguing charge carriers proprieties. However, it still remains far from satisfaction in the comprehensive understanding of perovskite charge-transport properities, especially about trap-assisted recombination process. In this Letter, through time-resolved transient absorption (TA) and photoluminescence (PL) measurements, we provided a relative comprehensive investigation on the charge carriers recombination dynamics of CH3NH3PbBr3 (MAPbBr3) perovskite films and quantum dots (QDs), especially about trap-assisted recombination. It was found that the integral recombination mode of MAPbBr3 films was highly sensitive to the density distribution of generated charge carriers and trap states. Additional, Trap effects would be gradually weakened with elevated carrier densities. Furthermore, the trap-assisted recombination can be removed from MAPbBr3 QDs through its own surface passivation mechanism and this specialty may render the QDs as a new material in illuminating research. This work provides deeper physical insights into the dynamics processes of MAPbBr3 materials and paves a way toward more light-harvesting applications in future.

Metal-oxide assisted surface treatment of polyimide gate insulators for high-performance organic thin-film transistors.

PubMed

Kim, Sohee; Ha, Taewook; Yoo, Sungmi; Ka, Jae-Won; Kim, Jinsoo; Won, Jong Chan; Choi, Dong Hoon; Jang, Kwang-Suk; Kim, Yun Ho

2017-06-14

We developed a facile method for treating polyimide-based organic gate insulator (OGI) surfaces with self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) by introducing metal-oxide interlayers, called the metal-oxide assisted SAM treatment (MAST). To create sites for surface modification with SAM materials on polyimide-based OGI (KPI) surfaces, the metal-oxide interlayer, here amorphous alumina (α-Al 2 O 3 ), was deposited on the KPI gate insulator using spin-coating via a rapid sol-gel reaction, providing an excellent template for the formation of a high-quality SAM with phosphonic acid anchor groups. The SAM of octadecylphosphonic acid (ODPA) was successfully treated by spin-coating onto the α-Al 2 O 3 -deposited KPI film. After the surface treatment by ODPA/α-Al 2 O 3 , the surface energy of the KPI thin film was remarkably decreased and the molecular compatibility of the film with an organic semiconductor (OSC), 2-decyl-7-phenyl-[1]benzothieno[3,2-b][1]benzothiophene (Ph-BTBT-C 10 ), was increased. Ph-BTBT-C 10 molecules were uniformly deposited on the treated gate insulator surface and grown with high crystallinity, as confirmed by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The mobility of Ph-BTBT-C 10 thin-film transistors (TFTs) was approximately doubled, from 0.56 ± 0.05 cm 2 V -1 s -1 to 1.26 ± 0.06 cm 2 V -1 s -1 , after the surface treatment. The surface treatment of α-Al 2 O 3 and ODPA significantly decreased the threshold voltage from -21.2 V to -8.3 V by reducing the trap sites in the OGI and improving the interfacial properties with the OSC. We suggest that the MAST method for OGIs can be applied to various OGI materials lacking reactive sites using SAMs. It may provide a new platform for the surface treatment of OGIs, similar to that of conventional SiO 2 gate insulators.

Nano Mechanical Machining Using AFM Probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mostofa, Md. Golam

Complex miniaturized components with high form accuracy will play key roles in the future development of many products, as they provide portability, disposability, lower material consumption in production, low power consumption during operation, lower sample requirements for testing, and higher heat transfer due to their very high surface-to-volume ratio. Given the high market demand for such micro and nano featured components, different manufacturing methods have been developed for their fabrication. Some of the common technologies in micro/nano fabrication are photolithography, electron beam lithography, X-ray lithography and other semiconductor processing techniques. Although these methods are capable of fabricating micro/nano structures with a resolution of less than a few nanometers, some of the shortcomings associated with these methods, such as high production costs for customized products, limited material choices, necessitate the development of other fabricating techniques. Micro/nano mechanical machining, such an atomic force microscope (AFM) probe based nano fabrication, has, therefore, been used to overcome some the major restrictions of the traditional processes. This technique removes material from the workpiece by engaging micro/nano size cutting tool (i.e. AFM probe) and is applicable on a wider range of materials compared to the photolithographic process. In spite of the unique benefits of nano mechanical machining, there are also some challenges with this technique, since the scale is reduced, such as size effects, burr formations, chip adhesions, fragility of tools and tool wear. Moreover, AFM based machining does not have any rotational movement, which makes fabrication of 3D features more difficult. Thus, vibration-assisted machining is introduced into AFM probe based nano mechanical machining to overcome the limitations associated with the conventional AFM probe based scratching method. Vibration-assisted machining reduced the cutting forces and burr formations through intermittent cutting. Combining the AFM probe based machining with vibration-assisted machining enhanced nano mechanical machining processes by improving the accuracy, productivity and surface finishes. In this study, several scratching tests are performed with a single crystal diamond AFM probe to investigate the cutting characteristics and model the ploughing cutting forces. Calibration of the probe for lateral force measurements, which is essential, is also extended through the force balance method. Furthermore, vibration-assisted machining system is developed and applied to fabricate different materials to overcome some of the limitations of the AFM probe based single point nano mechanical machining. The novelty of this study includes the application of vibration-assisted AFM probe based nano scale machining to fabricate micro/nano scale features, calibration of an AFM by considering different factors, and the investigation of the nano scale material removal process from a different perspective.

Isolation of dihydroatemisinic acid from the artemisia annua l. by-product by combining Ultrasound-assisted extraction with response surface methodology

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Malaria is one of the world’s most important parasitic diseases, affecting 300-500 million people worldwide and killing more than one million per year. Artemisinin is currently the only raw material for the production of artemisinin combination therapies (ACT), the only medicine that cures drug-resi...

Near-Net-Shape Processing of Sintered Fibrous Ceramics Achieved

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Angel, Paul W.

2000-01-01

A variety of sintered fibrous ceramic (SFC) materials have been developed over the last 50 years as thermal barrier materials for reentry applications. SFC materials typically exhibit very low thermal conductivities combined with low densities and good thermal stability up to 2500 F. These materials have flown successfully on the space shuttle orbiters since the 1960's. More recently, the McDonnell Douglas Corporation successfully used SFC tiles as a heat shield on the underside of its DC X test vehicle. For both of these applications, tiles are machined from blocks of a specific type of SFC called an alumina-enhanced thermal barrier (AETB). The sizes of these blocks have been limited by the manufacturing process. In addition, as much as 80 to 90 percent of the material can be lost during the machining of tiles with significant amounts of curvature. To address these problems, the NASA Glenn Research Center at Lewis Field entered a cooperative contract with the Boeing Company to develop a vacuum-assisted forming process that can produce large (approximately 4 square feet), severely contoured panels of AETB while saving costs in comparison to the conventional cast-and-machine billet process. For shuttle use, AETB is slurry cast, drained, and fired to form square billets conforming to the shape of the filtration box. The billets are then cut into tiles of the appropriate size for thermally protecting the space shuttle. Processing techniques have limited the maximum size of AETB billets to 21.5 square inches by 6.5-in. thick, but the space shuttles use discrete heat shield tiles no more than 8 to 12 square inches. However, in other applications, large, complex shapes are needed, and the tiling approach is undesirable. For such applications, vacuum-assisted forming can produce large parts with complex shapes while reducing machining waste and eliminating cemented joints between bonded billets. Because it allows contoured shapes to be formed, material utilization is inherently high. Initial estimates show that the amount of material lost during machining can be reduced by 50 percent or more. In addition, a fiber alignment favorable for minimum heat transfer is maintained for all panel shapes since the fibers are aligned parallel to the contoured surface of the forming tool or mold. The vacuum-assisted forming process can complete the entire forming operation in a matter of minutes and can produce multiple parts whose size is limited only by the size of the forming tool. To date, panels as large as 2 square feet have been demonstrated The vacuum-assisted forming process starts with the fabrication of a permeable forming tool, or mold, with the proper part contour. This reusable tool is mounted over an internal rib support structure, as depicted in the diagram, such that a vacuum can be pulled on the bottom portion of the tool. AETB slurry is then poured over and around the tool, liquid is drawn from the slurry, and the part forms over the tool surface. The part is then dried, fired, and finished machined. Future plans include an evaluation of the need for additional coatings and surface-toughness treatments to extend the durability and performance of this material.

Surface damage mitigation of TC4 alloy via micro arc oxidation for oil and gas exploitation application: Characterizations of microstructure and evaluations on surface performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Ruizhen; Lin, Naiming; Zhou, Peng; Zou, Jiaojuan; Han, Pengju; Wang, Zhihua; Tang, Bin

2018-04-01

Because of its excellent corrosion resistance, high specific strength and high tensile strength, TC4 titanium alloys used as petroleum tubes have received wide interest from material engineers after many technical investigations and estimations. However, because of its low surface hardness values, high coefficient of friction and poor wear resistance, the TC4 alloy is seldom adopted in tribological-related engineering components. In this work, micro-arc oxidation (MAO) coatings were fabricated on TC4 alloys in NaAlO2 and (NaPO3)6 electrolytes with and without ultrasonic assistance. The microstructural characterizations of the produced MAO coatings were investigated. Comparative estimations of electrochemical corrosion in CO2-saturated simulated oilfield brine and tribological behaviours on MAO coatings and TC4 alloys were conducted. The results showed that the introduction of ultrasound increased the thickness of the MAO coatings. The thickness increased by 34% and 15% in the NaAlO2 and (NaPO3)6 electrolytes, respectively. There was no significant discrepancy in phase constitutions when the MAO processes were conducted with and without ultrasonic assistance. Both MAO coatings obtained with and without ultrasonic assistance were found to improve the corrosion and wear resistance of the TC4 alloy. MAO treatments made it possible to ensure the working surface of a TC4 alloy with an enhanced surface performance for oil and gas exploitation applications.

X-ray standing wave analysis of nanostructures using partially coherent radiation

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

Tiwari, M. K., E-mail: mktiwari@rrcat.gov.in; Das, Gangadhar; Bedzyk, M. J.

2015-09-07

The effect of longitudinal (or temporal) coherence on total reflection assisted x-ray standing wave (TR-XSW) analysis of nanoscale materials is quantitatively demonstrated by showing how the XSW fringe visibility can be strongly damped by decreasing the spectral resolution of the incident x-ray beam. The correction for nonzero wavelength dispersion (δλ ≠ 0) of the incident x-ray wave field is accounted for in the model computations of TR-XSW assisted angle dependent fluorescence yields of the nanostructure coatings on x-ray mirror surfaces. Given examples include 90 nm diameter Au nanospheres deposited on a Si(100) surface and a 3 nm thick Zn layer trapped on top amore » 100 nm Langmuir-Blodgett film coating on a Au mirror surface. Present method opens up important applications, such as enabling XSW studies of large dimensioned nanostructures using conventional laboratory based partially coherent x-ray sources.« less

Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Highly-Crumpled, Few-Layered Graphene and Nitrogen-Doped Graphene for Use as High-Performance Electrodes in Capacitive Deionization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amiri, Ahmad; Ahmadi, Goodarz; Shanbedi, Mehdi; Savari, Maryam; Kazi, S. N.; Chew, B. T.

2015-12-01

Capacitive deionization (CDI) is a promising procedure for removing various charged ionic species from brackish water. The performance of graphene-based material in capacitive deionization is lower than the expectation of the industry, so highly-crumpled, few-layered graphene (HCG) and highly-crumpled nitrogen-doped graphene (HCNDG) with high surface area have been introduced as promising candidates for CDI electrodes. Thus, HCG and HCNDG were prepared by exfoliation of graphite in the presence of liquid-phase, microwave-assisted methods. An industrially-scalable, cost-effective, and simple approach was employed to synthesize HCG and HCNDG, resulting in few-layered graphene and nitrogen-doped graphene with large specific surface area. Then, HCG and HCNDG were utilized for manufacturing a new class of carbon nanostructure-based electrodes for use in large-scale CDI equipment. The electrosorption results indicated that both the HCG and HCNDG have fairly large specific surface areas, indicating their huge potential for capacitive deionization applications.

Method of making dense, conformal, ultra-thin cap layers for nanoporous low-k ILD by plasma assisted atomic layer deposition

DOEpatents

Jiang, Ying-Bing [Albuquerque, NM; Cecchi, Joseph L [Albuquerque, NM; Brinker, C Jeffrey [Albuquerque, NM

2011-05-24

Barrier layers and methods for forming barrier layers on a porous layer are provided. The methods can include chemically adsorbing a plurality of first molecules on a surface of the porous layer in a chamber and forming a first layer of the first molecules on the surface of the porous layer. A plasma can then be used to react a plurality of second molecules with the first layer of first molecules to form a first layer of a barrier layer. The barrier layers can seal the pores of the porous material, function as a diffusion barrier, be conformal, and/or have a negligible impact on the overall ILD k value of the porous material.

Controlling cation segregation in perovskite-based electrodes for high electro-catalytic activity and durability.

PubMed

Li, Yifeng; Zhang, Wenqiang; Zheng, Yun; Chen, Jing; Yu, Bo; Chen, Yan; Liu, Meilin

2017-10-16

Solid oxide cell (SOC) based energy conversion systems have the potential to become the cleanest and most efficient systems for reversible conversion between electricity and chemical fuels due to their high efficiency, low emission, and excellent fuel flexibility. Broad implementation of this technology is however hindered by the lack of high-performance electrode materials. While many perovskite-based materials have shown remarkable promise as electrodes for SOCs, cation enrichment or segregation near the surface or interfaces is often observed, which greatly impacts not only electrode kinetics but also their durability and operational lifespan. Since the chemical and structural variations associated with surface enrichment or segregation are typically confined to the nanoscale, advanced experimental and computational tools are required to probe the detailed composition, structure, and nanostructure of these near-surface regions in real time with high spatial and temporal resolutions. In this review article, an overview of the recent progress made in this area is presented, highlighting the thermodynamic driving forces, kinetics, and various configurations of surface enrichment and segregation in several widely studied perovskite-based material systems. A profound understanding of the correlation between the surface nanostructure and the electro-catalytic activity and stability of the electrodes is then emphasized, which is vital to achieving the rational design of more efficient SOC electrode materials with excellent durability. Furthermore, the methodology and mechanistic understanding of the surface processes are applicable to other materials systems in a wide range of applications, including thermo-chemical photo-assisted splitting of H 2 O/CO 2 and metal-air batteries.

A feasible strategy to balance the crystallinity and specific surface area of metal oxide nanocrystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Q. P.; Xu, X. N.; Liu, Y. T.; Xu, M.; Deng, S. H.; Chen, Y.; Yuan, H.; Yu, F.; Huang, Y.; Zhao, K.; Xu, S.; Xiong, G.

2017-04-01

Practical, efficient synthesis of metal oxide nanocrystals with good crystallinity and high specific surface area by a modified polymer-network gel method is demonstrated, taking ZnO nanocrystals as an example. A novel stepwise heat treatment yields significant improvement in crystal quality. Such nanophase materials can effectively degrade common organic dyes under solar radiation and can perform very well in photo-assisted detection of NO2 gas. Other typical metal oxide nanocrystals with good crystallinity and high specific surface area were also synthesized successfully under similar conditions. This work provides a general strategy for the synthesis of metal oxide nanocrystals, balancing the crystallinity and specific surface area.

Plasma assisted surface treatments of biomaterials.

PubMed

Minati, L; Migliaresi, C; Lunelli, L; Viero, G; Dalla Serra, M; Speranza, G

2017-10-01

The biocompatibility of an implant depends upon the material it is composed of, in addition to the prosthetic device's morphology, mechanical and surface properties. Properties as porosity and pore size should allow, when required, cells penetration and proliferation. Stiffness and strength, that depend on the bulk characteristics of the material, should match the mechanical requirements of the prosthetic applications. Surface properties should allow integration in the surrounding tissues by activating proper communication pathways with the surrounding cells. Bulk and surface properties are not interconnected, and for instance a bone prosthesis could possess the necessary stiffness and strength for the application omitting out prerequisite surface properties essential for the osteointegration. In this case, surface treatment is mandatory and can be accomplished using various techniques such as applying coatings to the prosthesis, ion beams, chemical grafting or modification, low temperature plasma, or a combination of the aforementioned. Low temperature plasma-based techniques have gained increasing consensus for the surface modification of biomaterials for being effective and competitive compared to other ways to introduce surface functionalities. In this paper we review plasma processing techniques and describe potentialities and applications of plasma to tailor the interface of biomaterials. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fluid assisted installation of electrical cable accessories

DOEpatents

Mayer, Robert W.; Silva, Frank A.

1977-01-01

An electrical cable accessory includes a generally tubular member of elastomeric material which is to be installed by placement over a cylindrical surface to grip the cylindrical surface, when in appropriate assembled relation therewith, with a predetermined gripping force established by dilation of the tubular member, the installation being facilitated by introducing fluid under pressure, through means provided in the tubular member, between the tubular member and the cylindrical surface, and simultaneously impeding the escape of the fluid under pressure from between the tubular member and the cylindrical surface by means adjacent one of the ends of the tubular member to cause dilation of the tubular member and establish a fluid layer between the tubular member and the cylindrical surface, thereby reducing the gripping force during installation.

Growth and modelling of spherical crystalline morphologies of molecular materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shalev, O.; Biswas, S.; Yang, Y.; Eddir, T.; Lu, W.; Clarke, R.; Shtein, M.

2014-10-01

Crystalline, yet smooth, sphere-like morphologies of small molecular compounds are desirable in a wide range of applications but are very challenging to obtain using common growth techniques, where either amorphous films or faceted crystallites are the norm. Here we show solvent-free, guard flow-assisted organic vapour jet printing of non-faceted, crystalline microspheroids of archetypal small molecular materials used in organic electronic applications. We demonstrate how process parameters control the size distribution of the spheroids and propose an analytical model and a phase diagram predicting the surface morphology evolution of different molecules based on processing conditions, coupled with the thermophysical and mechanical properties of the molecules. This experimental approach opens a path for exciting applications of small molecular organic compounds in optical coatings, textured surfaces with controlled wettability, pharmaceutical and food substance printing and others, where thick organic films and particles with high surface area are needed.

The Tetracorder user guide: version 4.4

USGS Publications Warehouse

Livo, Keith Eric; Clark, Roger N.

2014-01-01

Imaging spectroscopy mapping software assists in the identification and mapping of materials based on their chemical properties as expressed in spectral measurements of a planet including the solid or liquid surface or atmosphere. Such software can be used to analyze field, aircraft, or spacecraft data; remote sensing datasets; or laboratory spectra. Tetracorder is a set of software algorithms commanded through an expert system to identify materials based on their spectra (Clark and others, 2003). Tetracorder also can be used in traditional remote sensing analyses, because some of the algorithms are a version of a matched filter. Thus, depending on the instructions fed to the Tetracorder system, results can range from simple matched filter output, to spectral feature fitting, to full identification of surface materials (within the limits of the spectral signatures of materials over the spectral range and resolution of the imaging spectroscopy data). A basic understanding of spectroscopy by the user is required for developing an optimum mapping strategy and assessing the results.

Oriented conductive oxide electrodes on SiO2/Si and glass

DOEpatents

Jia, Quanxi; Arendt, Paul N.

2001-01-01

A thin film structure is provided including a silicon substrate with a layer of silicon dioxide on a surface thereof, and a layer of cubic oxide material deposited upon the layer of silicon dioxide by ion-beam-assisted-deposition, said layer of cubic oxide material characterized as biaxially oriented. Preferably, the cubic oxide material is yttria-stabilized zirconia. Additional thin layers of biaxially oriented ruthenium oxide or lanthanum strontium cobalt oxide are deposited upon the layer of yttria-stabilized zirconia. An intermediate layer of cerium oxide is employed between the yttria-stabilized zirconia layer and the lanthanum strontium cobalt oxide layer. Also, a layer of barium strontium titanium oxide can be upon the layer of biaxially oriented ruthenium oxide or lanthanum strontium cobalt oxide. Also, a method of forming such thin film structures, including a low temperature deposition of a layer of a biaxially oriented cubic oxide material upon the silicon dioxide surface of a silicon dioxide/silicon substrate is provided.

Synthesis of nanobelt-like 1-dimensional silver/nanocarbon hybrid materials for flexible and wearable electroncs.

PubMed

Han, Joong Tark; Jang, Jeong In; Cho, Joon Young; Hwang, Jun Yeon; Woo, Jong Seok; Jeong, Hee Jin; Jeong, Seung Yol; Seo, Seon Hee; Lee, Geon-Woong

2017-07-10

Most synthetic processes of metallic nanostructures were assisted by organic/inorganic or polymeric materials to control their shapes to one-dimension or two-dimension. However, these additives have to be removed after synthesis of metal nanostructures for applications. Here we report a straightforward method for the low-temperature and additive-free synthesis of nanobelt-like silver nanostructures templated by nanocarbon (NC) materials via bio-inspired shape control by introducing supramolecular 2-ureido-4[1H]pyrimidinone (UPy) groups into the NC surface. The growth of the Ag nanobelt structure was found to be induced by these UPy groups through observation of the selective formation of Ag nanobelts on UPy-modified carbon nanotubes and graphene surfaces. The synthesized NC/Ag nanobelt hybrid materials were subsequently used to fabricate the highly conductive fibres (>1000S/cm) that can function as a conformable electrode and highly tolerant strain sensor, as well as a highly conductive and robust paper (>10000S/cm after thermal treatment).

Associations of phthalate concentrations in floor dust and multi-surface dust with the interior materials in Japanese dwellings.

PubMed

Ait Bamai, Yu; Araki, Atsuko; Kawai, Toshio; Tsuboi, Tazuru; Saito, Ikue; Yoshioka, Eiji; Kanazawa, Ayako; Tajima, Shuji; Shi, Cong; Tamakoshi, Akiko; Kishi, Reiko

2014-01-15

Phthalates are widely used as plasticizers in numerous products. However, there has been some concern about the various effects they may have on human health. Thus, household phthalate levels are an important public health issue. While many studies have assessed phthalate levels in house dust, the association of these levels with building characteristics has scarcely been examined. The present study investigated phthalate levels in house dust samples collected from the living areas of homes, and examined associations between these phthalate levels and the interior materials. Dust was collected from two portions of the living area: floor dust from the entire floor surface, and multi-surface dust from objects more than 35 cm above the floor. The levels of seven phthalates were measured using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry in selective ion monitoring mode. Phthalate levels were higher in multi-surface dust than in floor dust. Among floor dust samples, those from dwellings with compressed wooden flooring had significantly higher levels of di-iso-butyl phthalate compared to those with other floor materials, while polyvinyl chloride (PVC) flooring was associated with higher di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) levels. Among multi-surface dust samples, higher levels of DEHP and di-iso-nonyl phthalate (DINP) were found in samples from homes with PVC wallpaper than without. The number of PVC interior materials was significantly positively correlated with the levels of DEHP and DINP in multi-surface dust. The phthalate levels in multi-surface dust were associated with the interior surface materials, and those in floor dust were directly related to the flooring materials. Our findings show that when using house dust as an exposure assessment, it is very important to note where the samples were collected from. The present report provides useful information about the association between phthalates and dust inside dwellings, which will assist with establishing public health provisions. © 2013. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Unraveling atomic-level self-organization at the plasma-material interface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allain, J. P.; Shetty, A.

2017-07-01

The intrinsic dynamic interactions at the plasma-material interface and critical role of irradiation-driven mechanisms at the atomic scale during exposure to energetic particles require a priori the use of in situ surface characterization techniques. Characterization of ‘active’ surfaces during modification at atomic-scale levels is becoming more important as advances in processing modalities are limited by an understanding of the behavior of these surfaces under realistic environmental conditions. Self-organization from exposure to non-equilibrium and thermalized plasmas enable dramatic control of surface morphology, topography, composition, chemistry and structure yielding the ability to tune material properties with an unprecedented level of control. Deciphering self-organization mechanisms of nanoscale morphology (e.g. nanodots, ripples) and composition on a variety of materials including: compound semiconductors, semiconductors, ceramics, polymers and polycrystalline metals via low-energy ion-beam assisted plasma irradiation are critical to manipulate functionality in nanostructured systems. By operating at ultra-low energies near the damage threshold, irradiation-driven defect engineering can be optimized and surface-driven mechanisms controlled. Tunability of optical, electronic, magnetic and bioactive properties is realized by reaching metastable phases controlled by atomic-scale irradiation-driven mechanisms elucidated by novel in situ diagnosis coupled to atomistic-level computational tools. Emphasis will be made on tailored surface modification from plasma-enhanced environments on particle-surface interactions and their subsequent modification of hard and soft matter interfaces. In this review, we examine current trends towards in situ and in operando surface and sub-surface characterization to unravel atomic-scale mechanisms at the plasma-material interface. This work will emphasize on recent advances in the field of plasma and ion-induced nanopatterning and nanostructuring as well as ultra-thin film deposition. Future outlook will examine the critical role of complementary surface-sensitive techniques and trends towards advances in both in situ and in operando tooling.

Experimental investigation into effect of cutting parameters on surface integrity of hardened tool steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bashir, K.; Alkali, A. U.; Elmunafi, M. H. S.; Yusof, N. M.

2018-04-01

Recent trend in turning hardened materials have gained popularity because of its immense machinability benefits. However, several machining processes like thermal assisted machining and cryogenic machining have reveal superior machinability benefits over conventional dry turning of hardened materials. Various engineering materials have been studied. However, investigations on AISI O1 tool steel have not been widely reported. In this paper, surface finish and surface integrity dominant when hard turning AISI O1 tool steel is analysed. The study is focused on the performance of wiper coated ceramic tool with respect to surface roughness and surface integrity of hardened tool steel. Hard turned tool steel was machined at varying cutting speed of 100, 155 and 210 m/min and feed rate of 0.05, 0.125 and 0.20mm/rev. The depth of cut of 0.2mm was maintained constant throughout the machining trials. Machining was conducted using dry turning on 200E-axis CNC lathe. The experimental study revealed that the surface finish is relatively superior at higher cutting speed of 210m/min. The surface finish increases when cutting speed increases whereas surface finish is generally better at lower feed rate of 0.05mm/rev. The experimental study conducted have revealed that phenomena such as work piece vibration due to poor or improper mounting on the spindle also contributed to higher surface roughness value of 0.66Ra during turning at 0.2mm/rev. Traces of white layer was observed when viewed with optical microscope which shows evidence of cutting effects on the turned work material at feed rate of 0.2 rev/min

Model of depositing layer on cylindrical surface produced by induction-assisted laser cladding process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kotlan, Václav; Hamar, Roman; Pánek, David; Doležel, Ivo

2017-12-01

A model of hybrid cladding on a cylindrical surface is built and numerically solved. Heating of both substrate and the powder material to be deposited on its surface is realized by laser beam and preheating inductor. The task represents a hard-coupled electromagnetic-thermal problem with time-varying geometry. Two specific algorithms are developed to incorporate this effect into the model, driven by local distribution of temperature and its gradients. The algorithms are implemented into the COMSOL Multiphysics 5.2 code that is used for numerical computations of the task. The methodology is illustrated with a typical example whose results are discussed.

PVD coating for optical applications on temperature-resistant thermoplastics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Munzert, Peter; Schulz, Ulrike; Kaiser, Norbert

2004-02-01

The performance of the high temperature resistant polymers Pleximid, APEC and Ultrason as substrate materials in plasma-assisted physical vapor deposition processes was studied and compared with well-known thermoplastics for optical applications. Different effects of UV irradiation and plasma exposure on the polymers' optical features, surface energy and adhesion properties for oxide layers, typically used for interference multilayer coatings, are shown.

Thermally annealed gold nanoparticles for surface-assisted laser desorption ionisation-mass spectrometry of low molecular weight analytes.

PubMed

Pilolli, Rosa; Ditaranto, Nicoletta; Di Franco, Cinzia; Palmisano, Francesco; Cioffi, Nicola

2012-10-01

Metal nanomaterials have an emerging role in surface-assisted laser desorption ionisation-mass spectrometry (SALDI-MS) providing a useful tool to overcome some limitations intrinsically related to the use of conventional organic matrices in matrix-assisted LDI-MS. In this contribution, the possibility to use a stainless-steel-supported gold nanoparticle (AuNP) film as a versatile platform for SALDI-MS was assessed. A sacrificial anode electrosynthetic route was chosen in order to obtain morphologically controlled core-shell AuNPs; the colloidal AuNPs were, thereafter, drop cast onto a stainless-steel sample plate and the resulting AuNP film was thermally annealed in order to improve its effectiveness as LDI-MS promoter. Spectroscopic characterization of the nanostructured film by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was crucial for understanding how annealing induced changes in the surface chemistry and influenced the performance of AuNPs as desorption/ionisation promoter. In particular, it was demonstrated that the post-deposition treatments were essential to enhance the AuNP core/analyte interaction, thus resulting in SALDI-MS spectra of significantly improved quality. The AuNP films were applied to the detection of three different classes of low molecular weight (LMW) analytes, i.e. amino acids, peptides and LMW polymers, in order to demonstrate the versatility of this nanostructured material.

1-Dimensional AgVO3 nanowires hybrid with 2-dimensional graphene nanosheets to create 3-dimensional composite aerogels and their improved electrochemical properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Liying; Xu, Yimeng; Lei, Yong; Liu, Haimei

2014-03-01

Three-dimensional (3D) porous composite aerogels have been synthesized via an innovative in situ hydrothermal method assisted by a freeze-drying process. In this hybrid structure, one-dimensional (1D) AgVO3 nanowires are uniformly dispersed on two-dimensional (2D) graphene nanosheet surfaces and/or are penetrated through the graphene sheets, forming 3D porous composite aerogels. As cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries, the composite aerogels exhibit high discharge capacity, excellent rate capability, and good cycling stability.Three-dimensional (3D) porous composite aerogels have been synthesized via an innovative in situ hydrothermal method assisted by a freeze-drying process. In this hybrid structure, one-dimensional (1D) AgVO3 nanowires are uniformly dispersed on two-dimensional (2D) graphene nanosheet surfaces and/or are penetrated through the graphene sheets, forming 3D porous composite aerogels. As cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries, the composite aerogels exhibit high discharge capacity, excellent rate capability, and good cycling stability. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Preparation, characterization, SEM images, XRD patterns, and XPS of AgVO3/GAs. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr06899d

Polyethyleneimine patterns obtained by laser-transfer assisted by a Dynamic Release Layer onto Themanox soft substrates for cell adhesion study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dinca, V.; Mattle, T.; Palla Papavlu, A.; Rusen, L.; Luculescu, C.; Lippert, T.; Dinescu, M.

2013-08-01

The use of LIFT (Laser Induced Forward Transfer) for localized and high spatial resolution printing of many types of functional organic and inorganic, biological or synthetic materials onto substrates is an effective method in various domains (electronics, sensors, and surface biofunctionalization). Although extensive research has been dedicated to the LIFT process in the last years, there is an increasing interest for combining the advantages of this technique with specific materials characteristics for obtaining localized structures or for creating physical guidance structures that could be used as biological scaffolds. Within this context, we aim to study a new aspect related to combining the advantages of Dynamic Release Layer assisted LIFT (DRL-LIFT) with a soft substrate (i.e. Thermanox) for obtaining surface functionalization with micro and nano "porous" polymeric structures. The structures obtained with different topographical properties were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, optical and fluorescence microscopy. Subsequently, the structures were used as a base for cellular behavior study platforms. Preliminary in vitro tests involving two types of cells, fibroblast and oligodendrocytes, were performed on these LIFT printed platforms.

Issues Related to Cleaning Complex Geometry Surfaces with ODC-Free Solvents

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bradford, Blake F.; Wurth, Laura A.; Nayate, Pramod D.; McCool, Alex (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

Implementing ozone depleting chemicals (ODC)-free solvents into full-scale reusable solid rocket motor cleaning operations has presented problems due to the low vapor pressures of the solvents. Because of slow evaporation, solvent retention is a problem on porous substrates or on surfaces with irregular geometry, such as threaded boltholes, leak check ports, and nozzle backfill joints. The new solvents are being evaluated to replace 1,1,1-trichloroethane, which readily evaporates from these surfaces. Selection of the solvents to be evaluated on full-scale hardware was made based on results of subscale tests performed with flat surface coupons, which did not manifest the problem. Test efforts have been undertaken to address concerns with the slow-evaporating solvents. These concerns include effects on materials due to long-term exposure to solvent, potential migration from bolthole threads to seal surfaces, and effects on bolt loading due to solvent retention in threads. Tests performed to date have verified that retained solvent does not affect materials or hardware performance. Process modifications have also been developed to assist drying, and these can be implemented if additional drying becomes necessary.

Optimization of ultrasonic-assisted extraction of antioxidant compounds from Guava (Psidium guajava L.) leaves using response surface methodology

PubMed Central

Kong, Fansheng; Yu, Shujuan; Feng, Zeng; Wu, Xinlan

2015-01-01

Objective: To optimization of extraction of antioxidant compounds from guava (Psidium guajava L.) leaves and showed that the guava leaves are the potential source of antioxidant compounds. Materials and Methods: The bioactive polysaccharide compounds of guava leaves (P. guajava L.) were obtained using ultrasonic-assisted extraction. Extraction was carried out according to Box-Behnken central composite design, and independent variables were temperature (20–60°C), time (20–40 min) and power (200–350 W). The extraction process was optimized by using response surface methodology for the highest crude extraction yield of bioactive polysaccharide compounds. Results: The optimal conditions were identified as 55°C, 30 min, and 240 W. 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl and hydroxyl free radical scavenging were conducted. Conclusion: The results of quantification showed that the guava leaves are the potential source of antioxidant compounds. PMID:26246720

Ion assisted deposition of SiO2 film from silicon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pham, Tuan. H.; Dang, Cu. X.

2005-09-01

Silicon dioxide, SiO2, is one of the preferred low index materials for optical thin film technology. It is often deposited by electron beam evaporation source with less porosity and scattering, relatively durable and can have a good laser damage threshold. Beside these advantages the deposition of critical optical thin film stacks with silicon dioxide from an E-gun was severely limited by the stability of the evaporation pattern or angular distribution of the material. The even surface of SiO2 granules in crucible will tend to develop into groove and become deeper with the evaporation process. As the results, angular distribution of the evaporation vapor changes in non-predicted manner. This report presents our experiments to apply Ion Assisted Deposition process to evaporate silicon in a molten liquid form. By choosing appropriate process parameters we can get SiO2 film with good and stable property.

Laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry: Recent progress in matrix-free and label-assisted techniques.

PubMed

Mandal, Arundhoti; Singha, Monisha; Addy, Partha Sarathi; Basak, Amit

2017-10-13

The MALDI-based mass spectrometry, over the last three decades, has become an important analytical tool. It is a gentle ionization technique, usually applicable to detect and characterize analytes with high molecular weights like proteins and other macromolecules. The earlier difficulty of detection of analytes with low molecular weights like small organic molecules and metal ion complexes with this technique arose due to the cluster of peaks in the low molecular weight region generated from the matrix. To detect such molecules and metal ion complexes, a four-prong strategy has been developed. These include use of alternate matrix materials, employment of new surface materials that require no matrix, use of metabolites that directly absorb the laser light, and the laser-absorbing label-assisted LDI-MS (popularly known as LALDI-MS). This review will highlight the developments with all these strategies with a special emphasis on LALDI-MS. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Li3PO4 surface coating on Ni-rich LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 by a citric acid assisted sol-gel method: Improved thermal stability and high-voltage performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Suk-Woo; Kim, Myeong-Seong; Jeong, Jun Hui; Kim, Dong-Hyun; Chung, Kyung Yoon; Roh, Kwang Chul; Kim, Kwang-Bum

2017-08-01

A surface coating of Li3PO4 was applied to a Ni-rich LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 (NCM) material to improve its thermal stability and electrochemical properties via a citric acid assisted sol-gel method. The addition of citric acid effectively suppressed the instant formation of Li3PO4 in solution, resulting in successful coating of the NCM surface. The improved thermal stability of NCM after Li3PO4 surface coating was demonstrated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis and in situ time-resolved X-ray diffraction (TR-XRD). In particular, the TR-XRD results showed that the improved thermal stability after Li3PO4 surface coating originates from suppression of the phase transition of charged NCM at high temperatures. Furthermore, the charge-discharge tests demonstrated that Li3PO4-coated LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 (LP-NCM) has excellent electrochemical properties. LP-NCM exhibited a specific capacity of 192.7 mAh g-1, a capacity retention of 44.1% at 10 C, and a capacity retention of 79.7% after 100 cycles at a high cut-off voltage of 4.7 V; these values represent remarkably improved electrochemical properties compared with those of bare NCM. These improved thermal and electrochemical properties were mainly attributed to the improvement of the structural stability of the material and the suppression of the interface reaction between the cathode and the electrolyte owing to the Li3PO4 coating.

Blotting Assisted by Heating and Solvent Extraction for DESI-MS Imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cabral, Elaine C.; Mirabelli, Mario F.; Perez, Consuelo J.; Ifa, Demian R.

2013-06-01

Imprints of potato sprout ( Solanum tuberosum L.), gingko leaves (Gingko biloba L. ) and strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa Duch. ) were successfully imaged by desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI-MS) on TLC plates through blotting assisted by heating and/or solvent extraction. Ion images showing the distribution of significant compounds such as glycoalkaloid toxins in potato sprout, ginkgolic acids and flavonoids in ginkgo leaves, and sugars and anthocyanidin in strawberry were obtained. Practical implications of this work include analysis of a wide range of irregular or soft materials by different imprinting conditions without requiring the addition of matrices or use of specific kinds of surfaces.

An investigation on co-axial water-jet assisted fiber laser cutting of metal sheets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Madhukar, Yuvraj K.; Mullick, Suvradip; Nath, Ashish K.

2016-02-01

Water assisted laser cutting has received significant attention in recent times with assurance of many advantages than conventional gas assisted laser cutting. A comparative study between co-axial water-jet and gas-jet assisted laser cutting of thin sheets of mild steel (MS) and titanium (Ti) by fiber laser is presented. Fiber laser (1.07 μm wavelength) was utilised because of its low absorption in water. The cut quality was evaluated in terms of average kerf, projected dross height, heat affected zone (HAZ) and cut surface roughness. It was observed that a broad range process parameter could produce consistent cut quality in MS. However, oxygen assisted cutting could produce better quality only with optimised parameters at high laser power and high cutting speed. In Ti cutting the water-jet assisted laser cutting performed better over the entire range of process parameters compared with gas assisted cutting. The specific energy, defined as the amount of laser energy required to remove unit volume of material was found more in case of water-jet assisted laser cutting process. It is mainly due to various losses associated with water assisted laser processing such as absorption of laser energy in water and scattering at the interaction zone.

Controlled release of moxifloxacin from intraocular lenses modified by Ar plasma-assisted grafting with AMPS or SBMA: An in vitro study.

PubMed

Pimenta, A F R; Vieira, A P; Colaço, R; Saramago, B; Gil, M H; Coimbra, P; Alves, P; Bozukova, D; Correia, T R; Correia, I J; Guiomar, A J; Serro, A P

2017-08-01

Intraocular lenses (IOLs) present an alternative for extended, local drug delivery in the prevention of post-operative acute endophthalmitis. In the present work, we modified the surface of a hydrophilic acrylic material, used for manufacturing of IOLs, through plasma-assisted grafting copolymerization of 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS) or [2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl]dimethyl-(3-sulfopropyl)ammonium hydroxide (SBMA), with the aim of achieving a controlled and effective drug release. The material was loaded with moxifloxacin (MFX), a commonly used antibiotic for endophthalmitis prevention. The characterization of the modified material showed that relevant properties, like swelling capacity, wettability, refractive index and transmittance, were not affected by the surface modification. Concerning the drug release profiles, the most promising result was obtained when AMPS grafting was done in the presence of MFX. This modification led to a higher amount of drug being released for a longer period of time, which is a requirement for the prevention of endophthalmitis. The material was found to be non-cytotoxic for rabbit corneal endothelial cells. In a second step, prototype IOLs were modified with AMPS and loaded with MFX as previously and, after sterilization and storage (30days), they were tested under dynamic conditions, in a microfluidic cell with volume and renovation rate similar to the eye aqueous humour. MFX solutions collected in this assay were tested against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis and the released antibiotic proved to be effective against both bacteria until the 12th day of release. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

LiFePO4 Nanostructures Fabricated from Iron(III) Phosphate (FePO4 x 2H2O) by Hydrothermal Method.

PubMed

Saji, Viswanathan S; Song, Hyun-Kon

2015-01-01

Electrode materials having nanometer scale dimensions are expected to have property enhancements due to enhanced surface area and mass/charge transport kinetics. This is particularly relevant to intrinsically low electronically conductive materials such as lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4), which is of recent research interest as a high performance intercalation electrode material for Li-ion batteries. Many of the reported works on LiFePO4 synthesis are unattractive either due to the high cost of raw materials or due to the complex synthesis technique. In this direction, synthesis of LiFePO4 directly from inexpensive FePO4 shows promise.The present study reports LiFePO4 nanostructures prepared from iron (III) phosphate (FePO4 x 2H2O) by precipitation-hydrothermal method. The sintered powder was characterized by X-ray diffractometry (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Inductive coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), and Electron microscopy (SEM and TEM). Two synthesis methods, viz. bulk synthesis and anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) template-assisted synthesis are reported. By bulk synthesis, micro-sized particles having peculiar surface nanostructuring were formed at precipitation pH of 6.0 to 7.5 whereas typical nanosized LiFePO4 resulted at pH ≥ 8.0. An in-situ precipitation strategy inside the pores of AAO utilizing the spin coating was utilized for the AAO-template-assisted synthesis. The template with pores filled with the precipitate was subsequently subjected to hydrothermal process and high temperature sintering to fabricate compact rod-like structures.

Ultrasonic grinding of optical materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cahill, Michael; Bechtold, Michael; Fess, Edward; Stephan, Thomas; Bechtold, Rob

2017-10-01

Hard ceramic optical materials such as sapphire, ALON, Spinel, PCA, or Silicon Carbide can present a significant challenge in manufacturing precision optical components due to their tough mechanical properties. These are also the same mechanical properties that make them desirable materials when used in harsh environments. Slow processing speeds, premature tool wear, and poor surface quality are common results of the tough mechanical properties of these materials. Often, as a preparatory stage for polishing, the finish of the ground surface greatly influences the polishing process and the resulting finished product. To overcome these challenges, OptiPro Systems has developed an ultrasonic assisted grinding technology, OptiSonic, which has been designed for the precision optics and ceramics industry. OptiSonic utilizes a custom tool holder designed to produce oscillations, in microns of amplitude, in line with the rotating spindle. A software package, IntelliSonic, is integral to the function of this platform. IntelliSonic can automatically characterize tooling during setup to identify and select the ideal resonant peak which to operate at. Then, while grinding, IntelliSonic continuously adjusts the output frequency for optimal grinding efficiency while in contact with the part. This helps maintain a highly consistent process under changing load conditions for a more precise surface. Utilizing a variety of instruments, tests have proven to show a reduction in force between tool and part by up to 50%, while increasing the surface quality and reducing tool wear. This paper will present the challenges associated with these materials and solutions created to overcome them.

Electrochemical and kinetic studies of ultrafast laser structured LiFePO4 electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mangang, M.; Gotcu-Freis, P.; Seifert, H. J.; Pfleging, W.

2015-03-01

Due to a growing demand of cost-efficient lithium-ion batteries with an increased energy and power density as well as an increased life-time, the focus is set on intercalation cathode materials like LiFePO4. It has a high practical capacity, is environmentally friendly and has low material costs. However, its low electrical conductivity and low ionic diffusivity are major drawbacks for its use in electrochemical storage devices or electric vehicles. By adding conductive agents, the electrical conductivity can be enhanced. By increasing the surface of the cathode material which is in direct contact with the liquid electrolyte the lithium-ion diffusion kinetics can be improved. A new approach to increase the surface of the active material without changing the active particle packing density or the weight proportion of carbon black is the laser-assisted generation of 3D surface structures in electrode materials. In this work, ultrafast laser radiation was used to create a defined surface structure in LiFePO4 electrodes. It was shown that by using ultrashort laser pulses instead of nanosecond laser pulses, the ablation efficiency could be significantly increased. Furthermore, melting and debris formation were reduced. To investigate the diffusion kinetics, electrochemical methods such as cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic intermittent titration technique were applied. It could be shown that due to a laser generated 3D structure, the lithium-ion diffusion kinetic, the capacity retention and cell life-time can be significantly improved.

Customized Fabrication of Osteochondral Tissue for Articular Joint Surface Repair

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

differentiation cues for chondrogenesis and osteogenesis, by the 3D printing method of projection stereolithography (PSL). We further test the...military medical care costs. Post Traumatic Osteoarthritis, Injury, Articular Cartilage, tissue-engineered, 3D printing , Osteochondral constructs. Major...tissue with the stem cells used. He will also be assisting with the 3D printing of the material. Funding Support: Supported by internal University

Discrimination of surface wear on obsidian tools using LSCM and RelA: pilot study results (area-scale analysis of obsidian tool surfaces).

PubMed

Stemp, W James; Chung, Steven

2011-01-01

This pilot study tests the reliability of laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) to quantitatively measure wear on experimental obsidian tools. To our knowledge, this is the first use of confocal microscopy to study wear on stone flakes made from an amorphous silicate like obsidian. Three-dimensional surface roughness or texture area scans on three obsidian flakes used on different contact materials (hide, shell, wood) were documented using the LSCM to determine whether the worn surfaces could be discriminated using area-scale analysis, specifically relative area (RelA). When coupled with the F-test, this scale-sensitive fractal analysis could not only discriminate the used from unused surfaces on individual tools, but was also capable of discriminating the wear histories of tools used on different contact materials. Results indicate that such discriminations occur at different scales. Confidence levels for the discriminations at different scales were established using the F-test (mean square ratios or MSRs). In instances where discrimination of surface roughness or texture was not possible above the established confidence level based on MSRs, photomicrographs and RelA assisted in hypothesizing why this was so. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Io: Mountains and crustal extension

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heath, M. J.

1985-01-01

It is argued that there is good reason to conclude that mountains on Io, like those on Earth, are subject to growth and decay. The decay of mountains will be assisted by the ability of SO sub 2 to rot silicate rock and by explosive escape of sub-surface SO sub 2 from aquifers (Haemus Mons is seen to be covered by bright material, presumably fallout from a SO sub 2 rich plume which had been active on the mountain flanks). On the west side of the massif at 10 degrees S, 270 degrees W a rugged surface consists of long ridges running perpendicular to the downslope direction, suggesting tectonic denudation with crustal blocks sliding down the mountain flank. Tectonic denudation may be assisted, as in the case of the Bearpaw Mountains, Montana by overloading mountain flanks with volcanic products. The surfaces of some massifs exhibit a well developed, enigmatic corrugated terrain, consisting of complex ridge systems. Ridges may bifurcate, anastomose to form closed depressions and form concentric loops. Taken together, observations of morphology, heat flux, surface deposits and styles of volcanism may point to the existence of lithosphere domains with distinct compositions and tectonic regimes.

Environmental and economic solutions: Pollution prevention technical assistance and the City of Los Angeles Hazardous and Toxic Materials Office

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

Toy-Chen, D.; Joyce, M.M.

1994-12-31

The City of Los Angeles faces a challenge to assist industrial facilities to minimize and manage hazardous materials in order to sustain the local economy and natural environment. Industrial facilities in Los Angeles County released into the environment or transferred off-site 103,442,074 tons of hazardous materials and waste in 1988. This enormous quantity of hazardous waste requires generators to be in compliance with several environmental regulatory agencies. The City of Los Angeles Hazardous and Toxic Materials (HTM) Office has increased the awareness, commitments, and implementation of hazardous waste at the source, the amount of toxic pollutants discharged into the City`smore » publicly owned treatment works, surface and groundwaters, soils and atmosphere can be substantially reduced. Quantifying hazardous waste minimization progress is extremely difficult and complex. However, the HTM Office anticipates that if the challenge of pollution prevention is successful, more businesses will decide to remain in the region and Los Angeles residents will feel convinced that industry is making good faith efforts to protect the environment. Pollution prevention is a long term solution for the hazardous waste crisis that society has only recently recognized.« less

3-D dumbbell-like LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 cathode materials assembled with nano-building blocks for lithium-ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryu, Won-Hee; Lim, Sung-Jin; Kim, Won-Keun; Kwon, HyukSang

2014-07-01

Dumbbell-like microsphere carbonate precursors including multi-transition metal components (Ni1/3Mn1/3Co1/3CO3) assembled with nano-building blocks were synthesized by urea-assisted solvo/hydrothermal method, and layered cathode materials (LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2) were subsequently prepared using the similarly shaped carbonate precursors for Li-ion batteries. For the synthesis of hierarchical microsphere structures, the partial addition of viscous organic solvent (e.g. ethylene glycol) in aqueous solution played a crucial role, not only in suppressing the sudden particle growth but also in regulating the directional crystallization of carbonate particles on the surface. The dumbbell-like LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 assembled with nanocubes prepared via the urea-assisted solvo/hydrothermal method exhibited better electrochemical characteristics, such as initial discharge capacity, cyclic performance, and rate-capability as a cathode material of Li-ion batteries, compared with the LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 materials prepared via the conventional co-precipitation method.

Quantitative assessment of the enamel machinability in tooth preparation with dental diamond burs.

PubMed

Song, Xiao-Fei; Jin, Chen-Xin; Yin, Ling

2015-01-01

Enamel cutting using dental handpieces is a critical process in tooth preparation for dental restorations and treatment but the machinability of enamel is poorly understood. This paper reports on the first quantitative assessment of the enamel machinability using computer-assisted numerical control, high-speed data acquisition, and force sensing systems. The enamel machinability in terms of cutting forces, force ratio, cutting torque, cutting speed and specific cutting energy were characterized in relation to enamel surface orientation, specific material removal rate and diamond bur grit size. The results show that enamel surface orientation, specific material removal rate and diamond bur grit size critically affected the enamel cutting capability. Cutting buccal/lingual surfaces resulted in significantly higher tangential and normal forces, torques and specific energy (p<0.05) but lower cutting speeds than occlusal surfaces (p<0.05). Increasing material removal rate for high cutting efficiencies using coarse burs yielded remarkable rises in cutting forces and torque (p<0.05) but significant reductions in cutting speed and specific cutting energy (p<0.05). In particular, great variations in cutting forces, torques and specific energy were observed at the specific material removal rate of 3mm(3)/min/mm using coarse burs, indicating the cutting limit. This work provides fundamental data and the scientific understanding of the enamel machinability for clinical dental practice. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cathodic Polarization Coats Titanium Based Implant Materials with Enamel Matrix Derivate (EMD)

PubMed Central

Frank, Matthias J.; Walter, Martin S.; Rubert, Marina; Thiede, Bernd; Monjo, Marta; Reseland, Janne E.; Haugen, Håvard J.; Lyngstadaas, Ståle Petter

2014-01-01

The idea of a bioactive surface coating that enhances bone healing and bone growth is a strong focus of on-going research for bone implant materials. Enamel matrix derivate (EMD) is well documented to support bone regeneration and activates growth of mesenchymal tissues. Thus, it is a prime candidate for coating of existing implant surfaces. The aim of this study was to show that cathodic polarization can be used for coating commercially available implant surfaces with an immobilized but functional and bio-available surface layer of EMD. After coating, XPS revealed EMD-related bindings on the surface while SIMS showed incorporation of EMD into the surface. The hydride layer of the original surface could be activated for coating in an integrated one-step process that did not require any pre-treatment of the surface. SEM images showed nano-spheres and nano-rods on coated surfaces that were EMD-related. Moreover, the surface roughness remained unchanged after coating, as it was shown by optical profilometry. The mass peaks observed in the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectroscopy (MALDI-TOF MS) analysis confirmed the integrity of EMD after coating. Assessment of the bioavailability suggested that the modified surfaces were active for osteoblast like MC3M3-E1 cells in showing enhanced Coll-1 gene expression and ALP activity. PMID:28788564

Photoactive Gel for Assisted Cleaning during Olive Mill Wastewater Membrane Microfiltration

PubMed Central

Han, Yilong

2017-01-01

A photoactive gel has been fabricated on the surface of polyethylene membranes for enhancing the fouling resistance during olive mill wastewater treatment. Light and pH responsive materials have been introduced in the membrane surface through the build up of a layer-by-layer pattern, which is formed by photocatalytic nanoparticles and ionic polyelectrolytes. The best working conditions to contrast foulants adsorption have been explored and identified. Repulsive interfacial forces and assisted transfer of foulants to catalytic sites have been envisaged as crucial factors for contrasting the decline of the flux during microfiltration. Tests in submerged configuration have been implemented for six continuous hours under irradiation at two different pH conditions. As a result, a worthy efficiency of the photoactive gel has been reached when suitable chemical microenvironments have been generated along the shell side of the membranes. No additional chemical reagents or expensive back-flushing procedures have been necessary to further clean the membranes; rather, fast and reversible pH switches have been enough to remove residues, thereby preserving the integrity of the layer-by-layer (LBL) complex onto the membrane surface. PMID:29186819

Highly sensitive hydrogen detection of catalyst-free ZnO nanorod networks suspended by lithography-assisted growth.

PubMed

Huh, Junghwan; Park, Jonghyurk; Kim, Gyu Tae; Park, Jeong Young

2011-02-25

We have successfully demonstrated a ZnO nanorod-based 3D nanostructure to show a high sensitivity and very fast response/recovery to hydrogen gas. ZnO nanorods have been synthesized selectively over the pre-defined area at relatively low temperature using a simple self-catalytic solution process assisted by a lithographic method. The conductance of the ZnO nanorod device varies significantly as the concentration of the hydrogen is changed without any additive metal catalyst, revealing a high sensitivity to hydrogen gas. Its superior performance can be explained by the porous structure of its three-dimensional network and the enhanced surface reaction of the hydrogen molecules with the oxygen defects resulting from a high surface-to-volume ratio. It was found that the change of conductance follows a power law depending on the hydrogen concentration. A Langmuir isotherm following an ideal power law and a cross-over behavior of the activation energy with respect to hydrogen concentration were observed. This is a very novel and intriguing phenomenon on nanostructured materials, which suggests competitive surface reactions in ZnO nanorod gas sensors.

Development of an expert system for fractography of environmentally assisted cracking

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

Minoshima, Kohji; Komai, Kenjiro; Yamasaki, Norimasa

1997-12-31

An expert system that diagnoses the causes of failure of environmentally assisted cracking (EAC) based upon fractography has been developed. The system uses the OPS83 programming language, expressing rules in the manner of production rules, and is composed of three independent subsystems, which respectively deal with EACs of high-strength or high-tensile-strength steel, aluminum alloy, and stainless steel in dry and humidified air, water, and aqueous solutions containing Cl, Br, or I ions. The concerned EAC issues cover stress corrosion cracking (SCC), hydrogen embrittlement, cyclic SCC, dynamic SCC, and corrosion fatigue as well as fatigue and overload fracture. The knowledge basemore » covers the rules relating to not only environments, materials, and loading conditions, but also macroscopic and microscopic fracture surface morphology. In order to deal with vague expressions of fracture surface morphology, fuzzy set theory is used in the system, and the description of rules about vague fracture surface appearance is thereby possible. Applying the developed expert system to case histories, accurate diagnoses were made. The authors discuss the related diagnosis results and usefulness of the developed system.« less

Resonant infrared matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation of TiO2 nanoparticle films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mayo, Daniel C.; Paul, Omari; Airuoyo, Idemudia J.; Pan, Zhengda; Schriver, Kenneth E.; Avanesyan, Sergey M.; Park, Hee K.; Mu, Richard R.; Haglund, Richard F.

2013-03-01

The successful development of flexible, high performance thin films that are competitive with silicon-based technology will likely require fabricating films of hybrid materials that incorporate nanomaterials, glasses, ceramics, polymers, and thin films. Resonant infrared matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation (RIR-MAPLE) is an ideal method for depositing organic materials and nanoparticles with minimal photochemical or photothermal damage to the deposited material. Furthermore, there are many nonhazardous solvents containing chemical functional groups with infrared absorption bands that are accessible using IR lasers. We report here results of recent work in which RIR-MAPLE has been employed successfully to deposit thin films of TiO2 nanoparticles on Si substrates. Using an Er:YAG laser ( λ=2.94 μm), we investigated a variety of MAPLE matrices containing -OH moieties, including water and all four isomers of butyl alcohol. The alcohol isomers are shown to provide effective and relatively nontoxic solvents for use in the RIR-MAPLE process. In addition, we examine the effects of varying concentration and laser fluence on film roughness and surface coverage.

Lightweight Nonmetallic Thermal Protection Materials Technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Valentine, Peter G.; Lawrence, Timothy W.; Gubert, Michael K.; Milos, Frank S.; Levine, Stanley R.; Ohlhorst, Craig W.; Koenig, John R.

2005-01-01

To fulfill President George W. Bush's "Vision for Space Exploration" (2004) - successful human and robotic missions to and from other solar system bodies in order to explore their atmospheres and surfaces - the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) must reduce the trip time, cost, and vehicle weight so that the payload and scientific experiments' capabilities can be maximized. The new project described in this paper will generate thermal protection system (TPS) product that will enable greater fidelity in mission/vehicle design trade studies, support risk reduction for material selections, assist in the optimization of vehicle weights, and provide materials and processes templates for use in the development of human-rated TPS qualification and certification plans.

Preparation and photoluminescence properties of functionalized silica materials incorporating europium complexes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lourenço, A. V. S.; Kodaira, C. A.; Souza, E. R.; Felinto, M. C. F. C.; Malta, O. L.; Brito, H. F.

2011-08-01

In the present work, the surface of the Eu-BTC = [Eu(EMA)(H 2O) 2], [Eu(TLA)(H 2O) 4] and [Eu(TMA)(H 2O) 6] complexes (EMA = 1,2,3-benzenetricarboxylate, TLA = 1,2,4-benzenetricarboxylate and TMA = 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylate) was modified using 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) by a new microwave assisted method that proved to be simple and efficient. According to our observations, the most efficient luminescence is the material based on APTES incorporating [Eu(TMA)(H 2O) 6] complexes, denoted as Eu-TMA-Si, shows the highest emission efficiency. Therefore, it is proposed as a promising material for molecular conjugation in clinical diagnosis.

Novel Approaches to Extraction Methods in Recovery of Capsaicin from Habanero Pepper (CNPH 15.192)

PubMed Central

Martins, Frederico S.; Borges, Leonardo L.; Ribeiro, Claudia S. C.; Reifschneider, Francisco J. B.; Conceição, Edemilson C.

2017-01-01

Introduction: The objective of this study was to compare three capsaicin extraction methods: Shoxlet, Ultrasound-assisted Extraction (UAE), and Shaker-assisted Extraction (SAE) from Habanero pepper, CNPH 15.192. Materials and Methods: The different parameters evaluated were alcohol degree, time extraction, and solid–solvent ratio using response surface methodology (RSM). Results: The three parameters found significant (p < 0.05) were for UAE and solvent concentration and extraction time for SAE. The optimum conditions for the capsaicin UAE and SAE were similar 95% alcohol degree, 30 minutes and solid–liquid ratio 2 mg/mL. The Soxhlet increased the extraction in 10–25%; however, long extraction times (45 minutes) degraded 2% capsaicin. Conclusion: The extraction of capsaicin was influenced by extraction method and by the operating conditions chosen. The optimized conditions provided savings of time, solvent, and herbal material. Prudent choice of the extraction method is essential to ensure optimal yield of extract, thereby making the study relevant and the knowledge gained useful for further exploitation and application of this resource. SUMMARY Habanero pepper, line CNPH 15.192, possess capsaicin in higher levels when compared with others speciesHigher levels of ethanolic strength are more suitable to obtain a higher levels of capsaicinBox-Behnken design indicates to be useful to explore the best conditions of ultrasound assisted extraction of capsaicin. Abbreviations used: Nomenclature UAE: Ultrasound-assisted Extraction; SAE: Shaker-assisted Extraction. PMID:28808409

Carbon spheres-assisted strategy to prepare mesoporous manganese dioxide for supercapacitor applications

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

Li Siheng; Graduate University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039; Qi Li, E-mail: qil@ciac.jl.cn

Mesoporous MnO{sub 2} microstructures with large specific surface area have been successfully synthesized by an in-situ redox precipitation method in the presence of colloidal carbon spheres. The samples of them had much higher specific surface area, pore size and pore volume than those obtained via routes without carbon spheres. The morphology, chemical compositions and porous nature of products were fully characterized. Electrochemical measurements showed that these mesoporous MnO{sub 2} could function well when used as positive electrode materials for supercapacitor. Ideal electrochemical capacitive performances and cyclic stability after 2000 galvanostatic charge-discharge cycles could be observed in 1 M neutral Na{submore » 2}SO{sub 4} aqueous electrolyte with a working voltage of 1.7 V. - Graphical Abstract: Mesoporous MnO{sub 2} microstructures with large S{sub BET} were successfully synthesized by in-situ redox precipitation method in the presence of colloidal carbon spheres. Electrochemical measurements showed that these mesoporous MnO{sub 2} could be well used as electrode materials for supercapacitor. Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Mesoporous MnO{sub 2} was prepared by in-situ redox method assisted by carbon spheres. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer S{sub BET}, pore size and volume were higher than MnO{sub 2} obtained without carbon spheres. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer They could function well when used as electrode materials for supercapacitor. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Ideal capacitive behaviors and long cycling life showed after 2000 charge-discharge.« less

Metal oxide nanoparticle mediated enhanced Raman scattering and its use in direct monitoring of interfacial chemical reactions.

PubMed

Li, Li; Hutter, Tanya; Finnemore, Alexander S; Huang, Fu Min; Baumberg, Jeremy J; Elliott, Stephen R; Steiner, Ullrich; Mahajan, Sumeet

2012-08-08

Metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs) have widespread usage across many disciplines, but monitoring molecular processes at their surfaces in situ has not been possible. Here we demonstrate that MONPs give highly enhanced (×10(4)) Raman scattering signals from molecules at the interface permitting direct monitoring of their reactions, when placed on top of flat metallic surfaces. Experiments with different metal oxide materials and molecules indicate that the enhancement is generic and operates at the single nanoparticle level. Simulations confirm that the amplification is principally electromagnetic and is a result of optical modulation of the underlying plasmonic metallic surface by MONPs, which act as scattering antennae and couple light into the confined region sandwiched by the underlying surface. Because of additional functionalities of metal oxides as magnetic, photoelectrochemical and catalytic materials, enhanced Raman scattering mediated by MONPs opens up significant opportunities in fundamental science, allowing direct tracking and understanding of application-specific transformations at such interfaces. We show a first example by monitoring the MONP-assisted photocatalytic decomposition reaction of an organic dye by individual nanoparticles.

Dimethyl methylphosphonate adsorption and decomposition on MoO2 as studied by ambient pressure x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and DFT calculations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Head, Ashley R.; Tsyshevsky, Roman; Trotochaud, Lena; Yu, Yi; Karslıoǧlu, Osman; Eichhorn, Bryan; Kuklja, Maija M.; Bluhm, Hendrik

2018-04-01

Organophosphonates range in their toxicity and are used as pesticides, herbicides, and chemical warfare agents (CWAs). Few laboratories are equipped to handle the most toxic molecules, thus simulants such as dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP), are used as a first step in studying adsorption and reactivity on materials. Benchmarked by combined experimental and theoretical studies of simulants, calculations offer an opportunity to understand how molecular interactions with a surface changes upon using a CWA. However, most calculations of DMMP and CWAs on surfaces are limited to adsorption studies on clusters of atoms, which may differ markedly from the behavior on bulk solid-state materials with extended surfaces. We have benchmarked our solid-state periodic calculations of DMMP adsorption and reactivity on MoO2 with ambient pressure x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies (APXPS). DMMP is found to interact strongly with a MoO2 film, a model system for the MoO x component in the ASZM-TEDA© gas filtration material. Density functional theory modeling of several adsorption and decomposition mechanisms assist the assignment of APXPS peaks. Our results show that some of the adsorbed DMMP decomposes, with all the products remaining on the surface. The rigorous calculations benchmarked with experiments pave a path to reliable and predictive theoretical studies of CWA interactions with surfaces.

Design Principles for Computer-Assisted Instruction in Histology Education: An Exploratory Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Deniz, Hasan; Cakir, Hasan

2006-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to describe the development process and the key components of a computer-assisted histology material. Computer-assisted histology material is designed to supplement traditional histology education in a large Midwestern university. Usability information of the computer-assisted instruction (CAI) material was obtained…

Selective silica-based sorbent materials synthesized by molecular imprinting for adsorption of pharmaceuticals in aqueous matrices.

PubMed

Morais, Everton C; Correa, Gabriel G; Brambilla, Rodrigo; dos Santos, João Henrique Z; Fisch, Adriano G

2013-02-01

The presence of pharmaceuticals in aqueous environmental matrices often requires efficient and selective preconcentration procedures. Thus, silicas (SILs) were synthesized by a molecular imprinting technique using an acid-catalyzed sol-gel process and the following drugs as templates: fluoxetine, gentamicin, lidocaine, morphine, nifedipine, paracetamol, and tetracycline. The materials were subjected to sorbent extraction assisted by ultrasonic treatment to remove the drugs and the consequent formation of molecular imprinted cavities. The surface area of the resulting materials ranged from 290 to 960 m(2)/g. Adsorption tests were performed with the molecular imprinting phases. In terms of the potential selectivity, the SILs were subjected to the adsorption of drugs from samples such as potable and surface water. The adsorption capacity remained in the range between 55 and 65% for both matrices, while for the nonimprinted SIL it remained between 15 and 20%. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Supercritical carbon dioxide extraction of capsaicinoids from malagueta pepper (Capsicum frutescens L.) assisted by ultrasound.

PubMed

Santos, Philipe; Aguiar, Ana C; Barbero, Gerardo F; Rezende, Camila A; Martínez, Julian

2015-01-01

Extracts from malagueta pepper (Capsicum frutescens L.) were obtained using supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) assisted by ultrasound, with carbon dioxide as solvent at 15MPa and 40°C. The SFE global yield increased up to 77% when ultrasound waves were applied, and the best condition of ultrasound-assisted extraction was ultrasound power of 360W applied during 60min. Four capsaicinoids were identified in the extracts and quantified by high performance liquid chromatography. The use of ultrasonic waves did not influence significantly the capsaicinoid profiles and the phenolic content of the extracts. However, ultrasound has enhanced the SFE rate. A model based on the broken and intact cell concept was adequate to represent the extraction kinetics and estimate the mass transfer coefficients, which were increased with ultrasound. Images obtained by field emission scanning electron microscopy showed that the action of ultrasonic waves did not cause cracks on the cell wall surface. On the other hand, ultrasound promoted disturbances in the vegetable matrix, leading to the release of extractable material on the solid surface. The effects of ultrasound were more significant on SFE from larger solid particles. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Hard tissue ablation with a spray-assisted mid-IR laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, H. W.; Rizoiu, I.; Welch, A. J.

2007-12-01

The objective of this study was to understand the dominant mechanism(s) for dental enamel ablation with the application of water spray. A free-running Er,Cr:YSGG (yttrium, scandium, gallium, garnet) laser was used to ablate human enamel tissue at various radiant exposures. During dental ablation, distilled water was sprayed on the sample surface, and these results were compared to ablation without a spray (dry ablation). In order to identify dominant ablation mechanisms, transient acoustic waves were compared to ablation thresholds and the volume of material removed. The ablation profile and depth were measured using optical coherence tomography (OCT). Irregular surface modification, charring and peripheral cracks were associated with dry ablation, whereas craters for spray samples were relatively clean without thermal damage. In spite of a 60% higher ablation threshold for spray associated irradiations owing to water absorption, acoustic peak pressures were six times higher and ablation volume was up to a factor of 2 larger compared to dry ablation. The enhanced pressure and ablation performance of the spray-assisted process was the result of rapid water vaporization, material ejection with recoil stress, interstitial water explosion and possibly liquid-jet formation. With water cooling and abrasive/disruptive mechanical effects, the spray ablation can be a safe and efficient modality for dental treatment.

Templated fabrication of hollow nanospheres with 'windows' of accurate size and tunable number.

PubMed

Xie, Duan; Hou, Yidong; Su, Yarong; Gao, Fuhua; Du, Jinglei

2015-01-01

The 'windows' or 'doors' on the surface of a closed hollow structure can enable the exchange of material and information between the interior and exterior of one hollow sphere or between two hollow spheres, and this information or material exchange can also be controlled through altering the window' size. Thus, it is very interesting and important to achieve the fabrication and adjustment of the 'windows' or 'doors' on the surface of a closed hollow structure. In this paper, we propose a new method based on the temple-assisted deposition method to achieve the fabrication of hollow spheres with windows of accurate size and number. Through precisely controlling of deposition parameters (i.e., deposition angle and number), hollow spheres with windows of total size from 0% to 50% and number from 1 to 6 have been successfully achieved. A geometrical model has been developed for the morphology simulation and size calculation of the windows, and the simulation results meet well with the experiment. This model will greatly improve the convenience and efficiency of this temple-assisted deposition method. In addition, these hollow spheres with desired windows also can be dispersed into liquid or arranged regularly on any desired substrate. These advantages will maximize their applications in many fields, such as drug transport and nano-research container.

Surface Layer Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (SL-MALDI-ToF-MS) Analysis of Polymer Blend Surface Composition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hill, Jacob A.

The composition of a polymer blend is generally different at the surface than in the bulk and the gradient in composition with depth has important implications for surface properties. The determination of the surface composition presents various challenges which continue to prompt the development of new techniques for quantifying the composition. Here the technique of surface layer matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SL-MALDI-ToF-MS) has been further developed to address four specific questions of polymer blend surface behavior within the general category of surface composition determination. The first question is how chain length disparity affects surface segregation in the case that the disparity is quite small. While such segregation is known for blends containing low molecular weight additives or systems with large polydispersity, it has not been reported for anionically polymerized polymers that are viewed, in practice, as monodisperse. For 6 kDa polystyrene the number average molecular weight (Mn) at the surface is ca. 300 Da (5%) lower than that in the bulk and for 7 kDa polymethyl methacrylate the shift is ca. 500 Da. The second question is how chain-end functionalization effects not the location of chain ends at the surface, but rather the prevalence at the surface of any part of a chain having an end functionalization. A key issue of such an approach is understanding precisely where the functionalities ultimately reside and how this functionalization shifts the balance of forces that determine the distribution of chains with depth. The surface of a blend of 6 kDa polystyrene and 6 kDa polystyrene functionalized with hydroxymethyl ends is not only depleted of the higher energy end groups, but is depleted of any segments belonging to the functionalized chains. This is demonstrated using SL-MALDI-ToF-MS, which detects entire chains that have any repeat unit at the outer surface, and requires no labelling. This study was extended to the surfaces of blends of 6 kDa polystyrene and 6 kDa polystyrene functionalized with hydroxyethyl ends. Blends of all compositions less than 90 wt. % functionalized chains showed depletion. Finally, the challenge of determining lateral variations in the surface composition has been addressed with the development of SL-MALDI-ToF-MS imaging (SL-MALDI-ToF-MSI). Key to developing imaging capability was improving the lateral uniformity of the matrix deposition. This uniformity was achieved using solvent free sublimation of matrix and salt onto the sample's surface. The capabilities of SL-MALDI-ToF-MSI were demonstrated by imaging the absence of material due to masking during material deposition, mechanical scribing or solvent perturbation at the surface of low molecular weight poly(methyl methacrylate) and polystyrene thin films. SL-MALDI-ToF MSI was made possible through the first uniform, solvent free simultaneous sublimation of matrix and salt onto the material's surface.

Infrared Laser Ablation with Vacuum Capture for Fingermark Sampling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Donnarumma, Fabrizio; Camp, Eden E.; Cao, Fan; Murray, Kermit K.

2017-09-01

Infrared laser ablation coupled to vacuum capture was employed to collect material from fingermarks deposited on surfaces of different porosity and roughness. Laser ablation at 3 μm was performed in reflection mode with subsequent capture of the ejecta with a filter connected to vacuum. Ablation and capture of standards from fingermarks was demonstrated on glass, plastic, aluminum, and cardboard surfaces. Using matrix assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI), it was possible to detect caffeine after spiking with amounts as low as 1 ng. MALDI detection of condom lubricants and detection of antibacterial peptides from an antiseptic cream was demonstrated. Detection of explosives from fingermarks left on plastic surfaces as well as from direct deposition on the same surface using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was shown. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Infrared Laser Ablation with Vacuum Capture for Fingermark Sampling.

PubMed

Donnarumma, Fabrizio; Camp, Eden E; Cao, Fan; Murray, Kermit K

2017-09-01

Infrared laser ablation coupled to vacuum capture was employed to collect material from fingermarks deposited on surfaces of different porosity and roughness. Laser ablation at 3 μm was performed in reflection mode with subsequent capture of the ejecta with a filter connected to vacuum. Ablation and capture of standards from fingermarks was demonstrated on glass, plastic, aluminum, and cardboard surfaces. Using matrix assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI), it was possible to detect caffeine after spiking with amounts as low as 1 ng. MALDI detection of condom lubricants and detection of antibacterial peptides from an antiseptic cream was demonstrated. Detection of explosives from fingermarks left on plastic surfaces as well as from direct deposition on the same surface using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was shown. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

UV-Assisted Alcohol Sensors using Gallium Nitride Nanowires Functionalized with Zinc Oxide and Tin Dioxide Nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bajpai, Ritu

The motivation behind this work has been to address two of the most challenging issues posed to semiconductor gas sensors--- tuning the device selectivity and sensitivity to a wide variety of gases. In a chemiresistor type nanowire sensor, the sensitivity and selectivity depend on the interaction of different chemical analytes with the nanowire surface. Constrained by the surface properties of the nanowire material, most nanowire sensors can detect only specific type of analytes. In order to make a nano-sensor array for a wide range of analytes, there is a need to tune the device sensitivity and selectivity towards different chemicals. Employing the inherent advantages of nanostructure based sensing such as large surface area, miniature size, low power consumption, and nmol/mol (ppb) sensitivity, an attempt has been made to propose a device with tunable selectivity and sensitivity. The idea proposed in this work is to functionalize GaN nanowires which have relatively inactive surface properties (i.e., with no chemiresistive sensitivity to different classes of organic vapors), with analyte dependent active metal oxides. The selectivity of the sensor devices is controlled independent of the surface properties of the nanowire itself. It is the surface properties of the functionalizing metal oxides which determine the selectivity of these sensors. Further facilitated by the proposed fabrication technique, these sensors can be easily tuned to detect different gases. The prototype developed in this work is that of a UV assisted alcohol sensor using GaN nanowires functionalized with ZnO and SnO2 nanoparticles. As opposed to the widely demonstrated metal oxide based sensors assisted by elevated temperature, the operation of photoconductive semiconductor sensor devices such as those fabricated in this work, can also be assisted by UV illumination at room temperature. Temperature assisted sensing requires an integrated on-chip heater, which could impose constraints on the device fabrication process conditions. Additionally, light assisted sensing can be employed to tailor device response towards an analyte as demonstrated in this work. Therefore, there are two control knobs available for these sensor devices which are independent of the nanowire surface properties: i) sensor selectivity, regulated by the nanoparticle material selection ii) percentage response, tuned by the intensity of the incident light. Due to the small magnitude of device operating current and sensor activation at low illumination intensity (375 nW/cm2 at 365 nm wavelength has been used in this work), these sensors have low power consumption which makes them suitable for portable battery assisted operation. A fabrication recipe for freely suspended two-terminal nanowire devices has been developed. The deposition of nanoparticles was performed using the sputter deposition technique. A change in device current was observed when the device was exposed to alcohol vapors (methanol, ethanol, propanol, and butanol) at room temperature under 215 nm--400 nm UV illumination at 365 nm wavelength. The sensor reproducibly responded to a wide range of alcohol vapor concentrations, from 5000 mumol/mol (ppm) down to 200 nmol/mol (ppb) in air. Notably, the devices show low sensitivity to acetone and hexane, which allows them to selectively detect the alcohol vapors mixed with these two common volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The sensor response was not observed without UV excitation. To make a simplified quantitative and qualitative study of the sensitivity variation with variation of light intensity, the behavior of ZnO nanowire sensor devices was investigated in addition to the hybrid metal-oxide nanoparticle/GaN nanowire devices. With an increase in the light intensity, a corresponding increase in the device sensitivity was observed. In addition to the proposed sensor fabrication technique being a highly suitable candidate for making nano-sensor arrays for detection of a wide range of gases, the alcohol sensors fabricated in this work have many practical applications such as monitoring air quality, and testing the blood alcohol content (BAC) for impaired drivers.

In vacancies in InN grown by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reurings, Floris; Tuomisto, Filip; Gallinat, Chad S.; Koblmüller, Gregor; Speck, James S.

2010-12-01

The authors have applied positron annihilation spectroscopy to study the effect of different growth conditions on vacancy formation in In- and N-polar InN grown by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy. The results suggest that the structural quality of the material and limited diffusion of surface adatoms during growth dictate the In vacancy formation in low electron-density undoped epitaxial InN, while growth conditions and thermodynamics have a less important role, contrary to what is observed in, e.g., GaN. Furthermore, the results imply that in high quality InN, the electron mobility is likely limited not by ionized point defect scattering, but rather by threading dislocations.

Molecular dimensions and surface diffusion assisted mechanically robust slippery perfluoropolyether impregnated mesoporous alumina interfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rowthu, Sriharitha; Balic, Edin E.; Hoffmann, Patrik

2017-12-01

Accomplishing mechanically robust omniphobic surfaces is a long-existing challenge, and can potentially find applications in bioengineering, tribology and paint industries. Slippery liquid impregnated mesoporous α-Al2O3 interfaces are achieved with water, alkanes, water based and oil based high viscosity acrylic paints. Incredibly high abrasion-resistance (wear coefficients ≤10-8 mm3 N-1 m-1) and ultra-low friction coefficients (≥0.025) are attained, attributing to the hard alumina matrix and continuous replenishment of perfluoropolyether aided by capillarity and surface diffusion processes. A variety of impregnating liquids employed suggest that large molecules, faster surface diffusion and lowest evaporation rate generate the rare combination of high wear-resistance and omniphobicity. It is noteworthy that these novel liquid impregnated Al2O3 composites exhibit outstanding load bearing capacity up to 350 MPa; three orders of magnitude higher than achievable by the state of the art omniphobic surfaces. Further, our developed thermodynamic calculations suggest that the relative thermodynamic stability of liquid impregnated composites is linearly proportional to the spreading coefficient (S) of the impregnating liquid with the matrix material and is an important tool for the selection of an appropriate matrix material for a given liquid.

Sodium dodecyl sulfate-assisted hydrothermal synthesis of mesoporous nickel cobaltite nanoparticles with enhanced catalytic activity for methanol electrooxidation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, Rui; Qi, Li; Jia, Mingjun; Wang, Hongyu

2014-04-01

Mesoporous nickel cobaltite (NiCo2O4) nanoparticles have been synthesized via a facile hydrothermal strategy with the assistance of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) soft template (ST). Their physicochemical properties have been characterized via X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectra (EDS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS) and nitrogen sorption measurements. Their electrocatalytic performances have been examined by cyclic voltammetry (CV), linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), chronoamperometry (CA) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests. The obtained NiCo2O4 materials exhibit a typical nanoscale crystalline hexagonal morphology with specific surface area (SSA) and mesopore volume of 88.63 m2 g-1 and 0.298 cm3 g-1. Impressively, the SDS-assisted NiCo2O4 electrode shows a catalytic current density of 125 mA cm-2 and 72% retention for consecutive 1000 s at 0.6 V in 1 M KOH and 0.5 M CH3OH electrolytes towards methanol (CH3OH) electrooxidation, which is better than the one without SDS assistance. The pronounced electrocatalytic activity is largely ascribed to their higher surface intensities of Co and Ni species and superior mesoporous nanostructures, which provide the richer electroactive sites and faster electrochemical kinetics, leading to the enhanced electrocatalytic activity.

Hydrothermal synthesis of novel Mn3O4 nano-octahedrons with enhanced supercapacitors performances

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Hao; Zhao, Ting; Yan, Chaoyi; Ma, Jan; Li, Chunzhong

2010-10-01

Uniform and single-crystalline Mn3O4 nano-octahedrons have been successfully synthesized by a simple ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt (EDTA-2Na) assisted hydrothermal route. The octahedron structures exhibit a high geometric symmetry with smooth surfaces and the mean side length of square base of octahedrons is ~160 nm. The structure is reckoned to provide superior functional properties and the nano-size achieved in the present work is noted to further facilitate the material property enhancement. The formation process was proposed to begin with a ``dissolution-recrystallization'' which is followed by an ``Ostwald ripening'' mechanism. The Mn3O4 nano-octahedrons exhibited an enhanced specific capacitance of 322 F g-1 compared with the truncated octahedrons with specific capacitances of 244 F g-1, making them a promising electrode material for supercapacitors.Uniform and single-crystalline Mn3O4 nano-octahedrons have been successfully synthesized by a simple ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt (EDTA-2Na) assisted hydrothermal route. The octahedron structures exhibit a high geometric symmetry with smooth surfaces and the mean side length of square base of octahedrons is ~160 nm. The structure is reckoned to provide superior functional properties and the nano-size achieved in the present work is noted to further facilitate the material property enhancement. The formation process was proposed to begin with a ``dissolution-recrystallization'' which is followed by an ``Ostwald ripening'' mechanism. The Mn3O4 nano-octahedrons exhibited an enhanced specific capacitance of 322 F g-1 compared with the truncated octahedrons with specific capacitances of 244 F g-1, making them a promising electrode material for supercapacitors. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: TEM images; EDTA-2Na reaction details. See DOI: 10.1039/c0nr00257g

Preparation and High-temperature Anti-adhesion Behavior of a Slippery Surface on Stainless Steel.

PubMed

Zhang, Pengfei; Huawei, Chen; Liu, Guang; Zhang, Liwen; Zhang, Deyuan

2018-03-29

Anti-adhesion surfaces with high-temperature resistance have a wide application potential in electrosurgical instruments, engines, and pipelines. A typical anti-wetting superhydrophobic surface easily fails when exposed to a high-temperature liquid. Recently, Nepenthes-inspired slippery surfaces demonstrated a new way to solve the adhesion problem. A lubricant layer on the slippery surface can act as a barrier between the repelled materials and the surface structure. However, the slippery surfaces in previous studies rarely showed high-temperature resistance. Here, we describe a protocol for the preparation of slippery surfaces with high-temperature resistance. A photolithography-assisted method was used to fabricate pillar structures on stainless steel. By functionalizing the surface with saline, a slippery surface was prepared by adding silicone oil. The prepared slippery surface maintained the anti-wetting property for water, even when the surface was heated to 300 °C. Also, the slippery surface exhibited great anti-adhesion effects on soft tissues at high temperatures. This type of slippery surface on stainless steel has applications in medical devices, mechanical equipment, etc.

A novel jet-based nano-hydroxyapatite patterning technique for osteoblast guidance

PubMed Central

Li, Xiang; Koller, Garrit; Huang, Jie; Di Silvio, Lucy; Renton, Tara; Esat, Minoo; Bonfield, William; Edirisinghe, Mohan

2010-01-01

Surface topography is well known to play a crucial role in influencing cellular responses to an implant material and is therefore important in bone tissue regeneration. A novel jet-based patterning technique, template-assisted electrohydrodynamic atomization spraying, was recently devised to control precisely the surface structure as well as its dimensions. In the present study, a detailed investigation of this patterning process was carried out. A range of nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA) line-shaped patterns <20 µm in width were successfully deposited on a commercially pure Ti surface by controlling the flow of an nHA suspension in an electric field. In vitro studies showed that the nHA patterns generated are capable of regulating the human osteoblast cell attachment and orientation. PMID:19493897

Response surface modeling and optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction of three flavonoids from tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum)

PubMed Central

Peng, Lian-Xin; Zou, Liang; Zhao, Jiang-Lin; Xiang, Da-Bing; Zhu, Peng; Zhao, Gang

2013-01-01

Background: Buckwheat (Fagopyrum spp., Polygonaceae) is a widely planted food crop. Flavonoids, including quercetin, rutin, and kaempferol, are the main bioactive components in tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum (L.) Gaertn). From the nutriological and pharmacological perspectives, flavonoids have great value in controlling blood glucose and blood pressure levels, and they also have antioxidant properties. Objective: To optimize the conditions for extraction of quercetin, rutin, and kaempferol from F. tataricum. Materials and Methods: A combination of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and response surface methodology (RSM) was used for flavonoid extraction and yield assessment. The RSM was based on a three-level, three-variable Box-Behnken design. Results: Flavonoids were optimally extracted from F. tataricum by using 72% methanol, at 60°C, for 21 minutes. Under these conditions, the obtained extraction yield of the total flavonoids was 3.94%. Conclusion: The results indicated that the UAE method was effective for extraction of flavonoids from tartary buckwheat. PMID:23930003

Thermal re-design of the Galileo spacecraft for a Venus-earth-earth-gravity assist (VEEGA) trajectory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reeve, R.

1989-01-01

The cancellation of the Centaur upper stage program in the aftermath of the Challenger tragedy forced a redesign of the flight trajectory of the Galileo spacecraft to Jupiter, i.e., from a direct trajectory to the Venus-earth-earth-gravity-assist (VEEGA) trajectory on the lower energy two-stage inertial upper stage (IUS), with the result that the spacecraft would be exposed to more than twofold increase in peak solar irradiance. This paper describes the general system-level thermal redesign effort for the Galileo spacecraft, from the start of feasibility studies to its final implementation. Results indicate that the addition of sunshades and the generous utilization of second-surface aluminized Kapton surface material for reflecting high percentages of incident solar irradiation would 'harden' the spacecraft's existing thermal protection system adequately, provided that sun-pointing at the relatively higher solar irradiance levels could be maintained. The final miximum flight temperature predictions for the spacecraft's subsystem thermal designs are given.

Phase-assisted synthesis and DNA unpacking evaluation of biologically inspired metallo nanocomplexes using peptide as unique building block.

PubMed

Raman, N; Sudharsan, S

2011-12-01

The goal of nanomaterials' surface modification using a biomaterial is to preserve the materials' bulk properties while modifying only their surface to possess desired recognition and specificity. Here, we have developed a phase-assisted, modified Brust-Schiffrin methodological synthesis of metallo nanocomplexes anchored by a peptide, N,N'-(1,3-propylene)-bis-hippuricamide. The spectral, thermal and morphological characterizations assure the formation of nanocomplexes. Therapeutic behavior of all the nanocomplexes has been well sighted by evaluating their DNA unpacking skills. In addition, we demonstrate their biological inspiration by targeting few bacterial and fungal strains. The in vitro antimicrobial investigation reports that all the nanocomplexes disrupt microbial cell walls/membranes efficiently and inhibit the growth of microbes. These sorts of nanocomplexes synthesized in large quantities and at low cost, deliver versatile biomedical applications, and can be used to treat various diseases which may often cause high mortality. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Controllable Growth of Large-Size Crystalline MoS2 and Resist-Free Transfer Assisted with a Cu Thin Film.

PubMed

Lin, Ziyuan; Zhao, Yuda; Zhou, Changjian; Zhong, Ren; Wang, Xinsheng; Tsang, Yuen Hong; Chai, Yang

2015-12-21

Two-dimensional MoS2 is a promising material for future nanoelectronics and optoelectronics. It has remained a great challenge to grow large-size crystalline and high surface coverage monolayer MoS2. In this work, we investigate the controllable growth of monolayer MoS2 evolving from triangular flakes to continuous thin films by optimizing the concentration of gaseous MoS2, which has been shown a both thermodynamic and kinetic growth factor. A single-crystal monolayer MoS2 larger than 300 μm was successfully grown by suppressing the nuclei density and supplying sufficient source. Furthermore, we present a facile process of transferring the centimeter scale MoS2 assisted with a copper thin film. Our results show the absence of observable residues or wrinkles after we transfer MoS2 from the growth substrates onto flat substrates using this technique, which can be further extended to transfer other two-dimensional layered materials.

Controllable Growth of Large-Size Crystalline MoS2 and Resist-Free Transfer Assisted with a Cu Thin Film

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Ziyuan; Zhao, Yuda; Zhou, Changjian; Zhong, Ren; Wang, Xinsheng; Tsang, Yuen Hong; Chai, Yang

2015-12-01

Two-dimensional MoS2 is a promising material for future nanoelectronics and optoelectronics. It has remained a great challenge to grow large-size crystalline and high surface coverage monolayer MoS2. In this work, we investigate the controllable growth of monolayer MoS2 evolving from triangular flakes to continuous thin films by optimizing the concentration of gaseous MoS2, which has been shown a both thermodynamic and kinetic growth factor. A single-crystal monolayer MoS2 larger than 300 μm was successfully grown by suppressing the nuclei density and supplying sufficient source. Furthermore, we present a facile process of transferring the centimeter scale MoS2 assisted with a copper thin film. Our results show the absence of observable residues or wrinkles after we transfer MoS2 from the growth substrates onto flat substrates using this technique, which can be further extended to transfer other two-dimensional layered materials.

Production of biofunctionalized MoS2 flakes with rationally modified lysozyme: a biocompatible 2D hybrid material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Siepi, Marialuisa; Morales-Narváez, Eden; Domingo, Neus; Monti, Daria Maria; Notomista, Eugenio; Merkoçi, Arben

2017-09-01

Bioapplications of 2D materials embrace demanding features in terms of environmental impact, toxicity and biocompatibility. Here we report on the use of a rationally modified lysozyme to assist the exfoliation of MoS2 bulk crystals suspended in water through ultrasonic exfoliation. The design of the proposed lysozyme derivative provides this exfoliated 2D-materail with both, hydrophobic groups that interact with the surface of MoS2 and hydrophilic groups exposed to the aqueous medium, which hinders its re-aggregation. This approach, clarified also by molecular docking studies, leads to a stable material (ζ-potential, 27  ±  1 mV) with a yield of up to 430 µg ml-1. The bio-hybrid material was characterized in terms of number of layers and optical properties according to different slots separated by diverse centrifugal forces. Furthermore the obtained material was proved to be biocompatible using human normal keratinocytes and human cancer epithelial cells, whereas the method was demonstrated to be applicable to produce other 2D materials such as graphene. This approach is appealing for the advantageous production of high quality MoS2 flakes and their application in biomedicine and biosensing. Moreover, this method can be applied to different starting materials, making the denatured lysozyme a promising bio-tool for surface functionalization of 2D materials.

Development of stress corrosion cracking resistant welds of 321 stainless steel by simple surface engineering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mankari, Kamal; Acharyya, Swati Ghosh

2017-12-01

We hereby report a simple surface engineering technique to make AISI grade 321 stainless steel (SS) welds resistant to stress corrosion cracking (SCC) in chloride environment. Heat exchanger tubes of AISI 321 SS, welded either by (a) laser beam welding (LBW) or by (b) metal inert gas welding (MIG) were used for the study. The welds had high magnitude of tensile residual stresses and had undergone SCC in chloride environment while in service. The welds were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Subsequently, the welded surfaces were subjected to buffing operation followed by determination of residual stress distribution and surface roughness by XRD and surface profilometer measurements respectively. The susceptibility of the welds to SCC was tested in buffed and un-buffed condition as per ASTM G-36 in boiling MgCl2 for 5 h and 10 h, followed by microstructural characterization by using optical microscope and FESEM. The results showed that the buffed surfaces (both welds and base material) were resistant to SCC even after 10 h of exposure to boiling MgCl2 whereas the un-buffed surfaces underwent severe SCC for the same exposure time. Buffing imparted high magnitude of compressive stresses on the surface of stainless steel together with reduction in its surface roughness and reduction in plastic strain on the surface which made the welded surface, resistant to chloride assisted SCC. Buffing being a very simple, portable and economic technique can be easily adapted by the designers as the last step of component fabrication to make 321 stainless steel welds resistant to chloride assisted SCC.

Capillary-Force-Assisted Clean-Stamp Transfer of Two-Dimensional Materials.

PubMed

Ma, Xuezhi; Liu, Qiushi; Xu, Da; Zhu, Yangzhi; Kim, Sanggon; Cui, Yongtao; Zhong, Lanlan; Liu, Ming

2017-11-08

A simple and clean method of transferring two-dimensional (2D) materials plays a critical role in the fabrication of 2D electronics, particularly the heterostructure devices based on the artificial vertical stacking of various 2D crystals. Currently, clean transfer techniques rely on sacrificial layers or bulky crystal flakes (e.g., hexagonal boron nitride) to pick up the 2D materials. Here, we develop a capillary-force-assisted clean-stamp technique that uses a thin layer of evaporative liquid (e.g., water) as an instant glue to increase the adhesion energy between 2D crystals and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) for the pick-up step. After the liquid evaporates, the adhesion energy decreases, and the 2D crystal can be released. The thin liquid layer is condensed to the PDMS surface from its vapor phase, which ensures the low contamination level on the 2D materials and largely remains their chemical and electrical properties. Using this method, we prepared graphene-based transistors with low charge-neutral concentration (3 × 10 10 cm -2 ) and high carrier mobility (up to 48 820 cm 2 V -1 s -1 at room temperature) and heterostructure optoelectronics with high operation speed. Finally, a capillary-force model is developed to explain the experiment.

Effect of substrate surface treatment on electrochemically assisted photocatalytic activity of N-S co-doped TiO2 films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parada-Gamboa, N. J.; Pedraza-Avella, J. A.; Meléndez, A. M.

2017-01-01

To investigate whether different metal surface treatments, performed on meshes of stainless steel 304 and titanium, affect the photocatalytic activity (PCA) of supported modified anodic TiO2 films, metallic substrates were coated with titanium isopropoxide sol-gel precursor modified with thiourea. Substrates were pretreated by some of the following techniques: a) sandblasting, b) pickling, c) hydroxylation and d) passivation. The as-prepared electrode materials were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and voltammetry in the dark and under light UVA irradiation. PCA of modified N-S-TiO2 electrodes was evaluated by electrochemically assisted photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange. The results of XPS revealed that N and S were incorporated into the lattice of TiO2. FESEM showed that surface roughness and thickness of films varies depending on surface treatment. Voltammetric and XPS characterization of N-S co-doped TiO2 films supported on stainless steel revealed that their surface contains alpha-Fe2O3/FeOOH. Accordingly, iron contamination of the films coming from stainless steel was detrimental to the degradation of methyl orange. Prior to sol-gel coating process, sandblasting followed by nitric acid passivation for stainless steel or hydrofluoric acid pickling process in the case of titanium improved the PCA of N-S co-doped TiO2 films.

Experimental validation of A-mode ultrasound acquisition system for computer assisted orthopaedic surgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Lorenzo, Danilo; De Momi, Elena; Beretta, Elisa; Cerveri, Pietro; Perona, Franco; Ferrigno, Giancarlo

2009-02-01

Computer Assisted Orthopaedic Surgery (CAOS) systems improve the results and the standardization of surgical interventions. Anatomical landmarks and bone surface detection is straightforward to either register the surgical space with the pre-operative imaging space and to compute biomechanical parameters for prosthesis alignment. Surface points acquisition increases the intervention invasiveness and can be influenced by the soft tissue layer interposition (7-15mm localization errors). This study is aimed at evaluating the accuracy of a custom-made A-mode ultrasound (US) system for non invasive detection of anatomical landmarks and surfaces. A-mode solutions eliminate the necessity of US images segmentation, offers real-time signal processing and requires less invasive equipment. The system consists in a single transducer US probe optically tracked, a pulser/receiver and an FPGA-based board, which is responsible for logic control command generation and for real-time signal processing and three custom-made board (signal acquisition, blanking and synchronization). We propose a new calibration method of the US system. The experimental validation was then performed measuring the length of known-shape polymethylmethacrylate boxes filled with pure water and acquiring bone surface points on a bovine bone phantom covered with soft-tissue mimicking materials. Measurement errors were computed through MR and CT images acquisitions of the phantom. Points acquisition on bone surface with the US system demonstrated lower errors (1.2mm) than standard pointer acquisition (4.2mm).

Characterization of diamond thin films and related materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McKindra, Travis Kyle

Thin carbon films including sputtered deposited graphite and CO 2 laser-assisted combustion-flame deposited graphite and diamond thin films were characterized using optical and electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and micro-Raman spectroscopy. Amorphous carbon thin films were deposited by DC magnetron sputtering using Ar/O2 gases. The film morphology changed with the oxygen content. The deposition rate decreased as the amount of oxygen increased due to oxygen reacting with the growing film. The use of oxygen in the working gas enhanced the crystalline nature of the films. Graphite was deposited on WC substrates by a CO2 laser-assisted O2/C2H2 combustion-flame method. Two distinct microstructural areas were observed; an inner core of dense material surrounded by an outer shell of lamellar-like material. The deposits were crystalline regardless of the laser power and deposition times of a few minutes. Diamond films were deposited by a CO2 laser-assisted O 2/C2H2/C2H4 combustion-flame method with the laser focused parallel to the substrate surface. The laser enhanced diamond growth was most pronounced when deposited with a 10.532 microm CO2 laser wavelength tuned to the CH2-wagging vibrational mode of the C2H4 molecule. Nucleation of diamond thin films deposited with and without using a CO 2 laser-assisted combustion-flame process was investigated. With no laser there was nucleation of a sub-layer of grains followed by irregular grain growth. An untuned laser wavelength yielded nucleation of a sub-layer then columnar grain growth. The 10.532 microm tuned laser wavelength caused growth of columnar grains.

Part Marking and Identification Materials on MISSE

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Finckenor, Miria M.; Roxby, Donald L.

2008-01-01

Many different spacecraft materials were flown as part of the Materials on International Space Station Experiment (MISSE), including several materials used in part marking and identification. The experiment contained Data Matrix symbols applied using laser bonding, vacuum arc vapor deposition, gas assisted laser etch, chemical etch, mechanical dot peening, laser shot peening, and laser induced surface improvement. The effects of ultraviolet radiation on nickel acetate seal versus hot water seal on sulfuric acid anodized aluminum are discussed. These samples were exposed on the International Space Station to the low Earth orbital environment of atomic oxygen, ultraviolet radiation, thermal cycling, and hard vacuum, though atomic oxygen exposure was very limited for some samples. Results from the one-year exposure on MISSE-3 and MISSE-4 are compared to those from MISSE-1 and MISSE-2, which were exposed for four years. Part marking and identification materials on the current MISSE -6 experiment are also discussed.

Evaluation of Functional Electrical Stimulation to Assist Cycling in Four Adolescents with Spastic Cerebral Palsy

PubMed Central

Harrington, Ann Tokay; McRae, Calum G. A.; Lee, Samuel C. K.

2012-01-01

Introduction. Adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) often have difficulty participating in exercise at intensities necessary to improve cardiovascular fitness. Functional electrical stimulation- (FES-) assisted cycling is proposed as a form of exercise for adolescents with CP. The aims of this paper were to adapt methods and assess the feasibility of applying FES cycling technology in adolescents with CP, determine methods of performing cycling tests in adolescents with CP, and evaluate the immediate effects of FES assistance on cycling performance. Materials/Methods. Four participants (12–14 years old; GMFCS levels III-IV) participated in a case-based pilot study of FES-assisted cycling in which bilateral quadriceps muscles were activated using surface electrodes. Cycling cadence, power output, and heart rate were collected. Results. FES-assisted cycling was well tolerated (n = 4) and cases are presented demonstrating increased cadence (2–43 rpm), power output (19–70%), and heart rates (4-5%) and decreased variability (8–13%) in cycling performance when FES was applied, compared to volitional cycling without FES assistance. Some participants (n = 2) required the use of an auxiliary hub motor for assistance. Conclusions. FES-assisted cycling is feasible for individuals with CP and may lead to immediate improvements in cycling performance. Future work will examine the potential for long-term fitness gains using this intervention. PMID:22685479

Inverse Stellation of CuAu-ZnO Multimetallic-Semiconductor Nanostartube for Plasmon-Enhanced Photocatalysis.

PubMed

Tan, Chuan Fu; Su Su Zin, Aung Kyi; Chen, Zhihui; Liow, Chi Hao; Phan, Huy Thong; Tan, Hui Ru; Xu, Qing-Hua; Ho, Ghim Wei

2018-05-22

One-dimensional (1D) metallic nanocrystals constitute an important class of plasmonic materials for localization of light into subwavelength dimensions. Coupled with their intrinsic conductive properties and extended optical paths for light absorption, metallic nanowires are prevalent in light-harnessing applications. However, the transverse surface plasmon resonance (SPR) mode of traditional multiply twinned nanowires often suffers from weaker electric field enhancement due to its low degree of morphological curvature in comparison to other complex anisotropic nanocrystals. Herein, simultaneous anisotropic stellation and excavation of multiply twinned nanowires are demonstrated through a site-selective galvanic reaction for a pronounced manipulation of light-matter interaction. The introduction of longitudinal extrusions and cavitation along the nanowires leads to a significant enhancement in plasmon field with reduced quenching of localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). The as-synthesized multimetallic nanostartubes serve as a panchromatic plasmonic framework for incorporation of photocatalytic materials for plasmon-assisted solar fuel production.

Soft Lithography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xia, Younan; Whitesides, George M.

1998-08-01

Soft lithography represents a non-photolithographic strategy based on selfassembly and replica molding for carrying out micro- and nanofabrication. It provides a convenient, effective, and low-cost method for the formation and manufacturing of micro- and nanostructures. In soft lithography, an elastomeric stamp with patterned relief structures on its surface is used to generate patterns and structures with feature sizes ranging from 30 nm to 100 mum. Five techniques have been demonstrated: microcontact printing (muCP), replica molding (REM), microtransfer molding (muTM), micromolding in capillaries (MIMIC), and solvent-assisted micromolding (SAMIM). In this chapter we discuss the procedures for these techniques and their applications in micro- and nanofabrication, surface chemistry, materials science, optics, MEMS, and microelectronics.

Gamma-cyclodextrin/usnic acid thin film fabricated by MAPLE for improving the resistance of medical surfaces to Staphylococcus aureus colonization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iordache, Florin; Grumezescu, Valentina; Grumezescu, Alexandru Mihai; Curuţiu, Carmen; Diţu, Lia Mara; Socol, Gabriel; Ficai, Anton; Truşcă, Roxana; Holban, Alina Maria

2015-05-01

This study reports on the successful deposition of γ-cyclodextrin/usnic acid (γCD/UA) thin film by Matrix Assisted Pulsed Laser Evaporation (MAPLE) as anti-adherent coating on medical surfaces against microbial colonization. The obtained results demonstrate that these bioactive thin films inhibit Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation at all stages, starting with their initiation. The antibiofilm effect was constant along the bacterial incubation time. Furthermore, the γCD/UA coatings show a great biocompatibility which means that this material is suitable for the development of modern medical devices with antimicrobial properties.

Batch and Continuous Ultrasound Assisted Extraction of Boldo Leaves (Peumus boldus Mol.).

PubMed

Petigny, Loïc; Périno-Issartier, Sandrine; Wajsman, Joël; Chemat, Farid

2013-03-12

Vegetal extracts are widely used as primary ingredients for various products from creams to perfumes in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutic and cosmetic industries. Having concentrated and active extract is essential, as the process must extract as much soluble material as possible in a minimum time, using the least possible volume of solvent. The boldo leaves extract is of great interest for the industry as it holds a great anti-oxidant activity due to high levels of flavonoids and alkaloids such as boldine. Ultrasound Assisted Extraction (UAE) has been used to improve the efficiency of the plant extraction, reducing extraction time, increasing the concentration of the extract with the same amount of solvent and plant material. After a preliminary study, a response surface method has been used to optimize the extraction of soluble material from the plant. The results provided by the statistical analysis revealed that the optimized conditions were: sonication power 23 W/cm2 for 40 min and a temperature of 36 °C. The optimized parameters of the UAE provide a better extraction compared to a conventional maceration in terms of process time (30 min instead of 120 min), higher yield, more energy saving, cleanliness, safety and product quality.

Batch and Continuous Ultrasound Assisted Extraction of Boldo Leaves (Peumus boldus Mol.)

PubMed Central

Petigny, Loïc; Périno-Issartier, Sandrine; Wajsman, Joël; Chemat, Farid

2013-01-01

Vegetal extracts are widely used as primary ingredients for various products from creams to perfumes in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutic and cosmetic industries. Having concentrated and active extract is essential, as the process must extract as much soluble material as possible in a minimum time, using the least possible volume of solvent. The boldo leaves extract is of great interest for the industry as it holds a great anti-oxidant activity due to high levels of flavonoids and alkaloids such as boldine. Ultrasound Assisted Extraction (UAE) has been used to improve the efficiency of the plant extraction, reducing extraction time, increasing the concentration of the extract with the same amount of solvent and plant material. After a preliminary study, a response surface method has been used to optimize the extraction of soluble material from the plant. The results provided by the statistical analysis revealed that the optimized conditions were: sonication power 23 W/cm2 for 40 min and a temperature of 36 °C. The optimized parameters of the UAE provide a better extraction compared to a conventional maceration in terms of process time (30 min instead of 120 min), higher yield, more energy saving, cleanliness, safety and product quality. PMID:23481637

Metal-assisted SIMS and cluster ion bombardment for ion yield enhancement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heile, A.; Lipinsky, D.; Wehbe, N.; Delcorte, A.; Bertrand, P.; Felten, A.; Houssiau, L.; Pireaux, J.-J.; De Mondt, R.; Van Vaeck, L.; Arlinghaus, H. F.

2008-12-01

In addition to structural information, a detailed knowledge of the local chemical environment proves to be of ever greater importance, for example for the development of new types of materials as well as for specific modifications of surfaces and interfaces in multiple fields of materials science or various biomedical and chemical applications. But the ongoing miniaturization and therefore reduction of the amount of material available for analysis constitute a challenge to the detection limits of analytical methods. In the case of time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS), several methods of secondary ion yield enhancement have been proposed. This paper focuses on the investigation of the effects of two of these methods, metal-assisted SIMS and polyatomic primary ion bombardment. For this purpose, thicker layers of polystyrene (PS), both pristine and metallized with different amounts of gold, were analyzed using monoatomic (Ar +, Ga +, Xe +, Bi +) and polyatomic (SF 5+, Bi 3+, C 60+) primary ions. It was found that polyatomic ions generally induce a significant increase of the secondary ion yield. On the other hand, with gold deposition, a yield enhancement can only be detected for monoatomic ion bombardment.

Alkaline-assisted screw press pretreatment affecting enzymatic hydrolysis of wheat straw.

PubMed

Yan, Qingqi; Wang, Yumei; Rodiahwati, Wawat; Spiess, Antje; Modigell, Michael

2017-02-01

Screw press processing of biomass can be considered as a suitable mechanically based pretreatment for biofuel production since it disrupts the structure of lignocellulosic biomass with high shear and pressure forces. The combination with chemical treatment has been suggested to increase the conversion of lignocellulosic biomass to fermentable sugars. Within the study, the synergetic effect of alkaline (sodium hydroxide, NaOH) soaking and screw press pretreatment on wheat straw was evaluated based on, e.g., sugar recovery and energy efficiency. After alkaline soaking (at 0.1 M for 30 min) and sequential screw press pretreatment with various screw press configurations and modified screw barrel, the lignin content of pretreated wheat straw was quantified. In addition, the structure of pretreated wheat straw was investigated by scanning electron microscopy and measurement of specific surface area. It could be shown that removal of lignin is more important than increase of surface area of the biomass to reach a high sugar recovery. The rate constant of the enzymatic hydrolysis increased from 1.1 × 10 -3  1/h for the non-treated material over 2.3 × 10 -3  1/h for the alkaline-soaked material to 26.9 × 10 -3  1/h for alkaline-assisted screw press pretreated material, indicating a nearly 25-fold improvement of the digestibility by the combined chemo-mechanical pretreatment. Finally, the screw configuration was found to be an important factor for improving the sugar recovery and for reducing the specific energy consumption of the screw press pretreatment.

Advanced wide-field surface plasmon microscopy of single adsorbing nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nizamov, Shavkat; Scherbahn, Vitali; Mirsky, Vladimir M.

2017-05-01

In-situ detection and characterization of nanoparticles in biological media as well as in food or other complex samples is still a big challenge for existing analytical methods. Here we describe a label-free and cost-effective analytical method for detection of nanoparticles in the concentration range 106 -1010 NPs/ml. The proposed method is based on the surface plasmon resonance microscopy (SPRM) with a large field of view ( 1.3mm2 ). It is able to detect and count adsorbing nanoparticles individually, totally up to the hundreds of thousands of NPs on the sensor surface. At constant diffusion conditions the detection rate is proportional to the number concentration of NPs, this provides an approach to determine the NPs concentration. The adsorption of nanoparticle can be manipulated by the surface functionalization, pH and electrolyte concentration of suspensions. Images of detected nanoparticles can be quantified in order to characterize them individually. The image intensity grows quasi-linearly with nanoparticle size for the given material. However, the size and material of nanoparticle cannot be resolved directly from the image. For determination of chemical composition, SPRM can be assisted by electrochemical analysis. In this case, the gold sensor surface is used both as a resonant media for plasmon microscopy and as a working electrode. Under potential sweep, the adsorbed NPs can be subjected to electrochemical dissolution, which is detected optically. The potential of this conversion characterizes the material of NPs.

Stability effects of singularities in force-controlled robotic assist devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luecke, Greg R.

2002-02-01

Force feedback is being used as an interface between humans and material handling equipment to provide an intuitive method to control large and bulky payloads. Powered actuation in the lift assist device compensates for the inertial characteristics of the manipulator and the payload to provide effortless control and handling of manufacturing parts, components, and assemblies. The use of these Intelligent Assist Devices (IAD) is being explored to prevent worker injury, enhance material handling performance, and increase productivity in the workplace. The IAD also provides the capability to shape and control motion in the workspace during routine operations. Virtual barriers can be developed to protect fixed objects in the workspace, and regions can be programmed that attract the work piece to a certain position and orientation. However, the robot is still under complete control of the human operator, with the trajectory being determined and commanded using the judgment of the operator to complete a given task. In many cases, the IAD is built in a configuration that may have singular points inside the workspace. These singularities can cause problems when the unstructured trajectory commands from the human cause interaction between the IAD and the virtual walls and fixtures at positions close to these singularities. The research presented here explores the stability effects of the interactions between the powered manipulator and the virtual surfaces when controlled by the operator. Because of the flexible nature of the human decisions determining the real time work piece paths, manipulator singularities that occur in conjunction with the virtual surfaces raise stability issues in the performance around these singularities. We examine these stability issues in the context of a particular IAD configuration, and present analytic results for the performance and stability of these systems in response to the real-time trajectory modification of the human operator.

Electron Microscopy and Image Analysis for Selected Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, George

1999-01-01

This particular project was completed in collaboration with the metallurgical diagnostics facility. The objective of this research had four major components. First, we required training in the operation of the environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) for imaging of selected materials including biological specimens. The types of materials range from cyanobacteria and diatoms to cloth, metals, sand, composites and other materials. Second, to obtain training in surface elemental analysis technology using energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) analysis, and in the preparation of x-ray maps of these same materials. Third, to provide training for the staff of the metallurgical diagnostics and failure analysis team in the area of image processing and image analysis technology using NIH Image software. Finally, we were to assist in the sample preparation, observing, imaging, and elemental analysis for Mr. Richard Hoover, one of NASA MSFC's solar physicists and Marshall's principal scientist for the agency-wide virtual Astrobiology Institute. These materials have been collected from various places around the world including the Fox Tunnel in Alaska, Siberia, Antarctica, ice core samples from near Lake Vostoc, thermal vents in the ocean floor, hot springs and many others. We were successful in our efforts to obtain high quality, high resolution images of various materials including selected biological ones. Surface analyses (EDX) and x-ray maps were easily prepared with this technology. We also discovered and used some applications for NIH Image software in the metallurgical diagnostics facility.

A pilot study comparing custom contoured and planar support surfaces for pressure ulcer risk over the heels for night time postural management using interface pressure mapping and discomfort scores.

PubMed

Hosking, J

2017-08-01

Custom contouring techniques are effective for reducing pressure ulcer risk in wheelchair seating. These techniques may assist the management of pressure ulcer risk during sleep for night time postural management. To investigate the effectiveness of custom contoured night time postural management components against planar support surfaces for pressure ulcer risk measures over the heels. Supine posture was captured from five healthy participants using vacuum consolidation and 3-dimensional laser scanning. Custom contoured abduction wedges were carved from polyurethane and chipped foams. Pressure mapping and the visual analog scale were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the contoured foams in reducing pressure and discomfort under the posterior heel against standard planar support surfaces. Custom contoured shapes significantly reduced interface pressures (p < 0.05) and discomfort scores (p < 0.05) when compared to planar support surfaces. Polyurethane foam was the most effective material but it did not differ significantly from chipped foam. Linear regression revealed a significant relationship between the Peak Pressure Index and discomfort scores (r = 0.997, p = 0.003). The findings of this pilot study suggested that custom contoured shapes were more effective than planar surfaces at reducing pressure ulcer risk surrogate measures over the posterior heels with polyurethane foam being the most effective material investigated. It is recommended that Evazote foam should not be used as a support surface material for night time postural management. Crown Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mechanisms of biochar assisted immobilization of Pb2+ by bioapatite in aqueous solution.

PubMed

Shen, Zhengtao; Tian, Da; Zhang, Xinyu; Tang, Lingyi; Su, Mu; Zhang, Li; Li, Zhen; Hu, Shuijin; Hou, Deyi

2018-01-01

Bioapatite (BAp) is regarded as an effective material to immobilize lead (Pb 2+ ) via the formation of stable pyromorphite. However, when applied in contaminated soil, due to its low surface area and low adsorption capacity, BAp might not sufficiently contact and react with Pb 2+ . Biochar, a carbon storage material, typically has high surface area and high adsorption capacity. This study investigated the feasibility of using biochar as a reaction platform to enhance BAp immobilization of Pb 2+ . An alkaline biochar produced from wheat straw pellets (WSP) and a slightly acidic biochar produced from hardwood (SB) were selected. The results of aqueous adsorption showed the combination of biochar (WSP or SB) and BAp effectively removed Pb 2+ from the aqueous solution containing 1000 ppm Pb 2+ . XRD, ATR-IR, and SEM/EDX results revealed the formation of hydroxypyromorphite on both biochars' surfaces. This study demonstrates that biochars could act as an efficient reaction platform for BAp and Pb 2+ in aqueous solution due to their high surface area, porous structure, and high adsorption capacity. Therefore, it is mechanistically feasible to apply biochar to enhance BAp immobilization of Pb 2+ in contaminated soil. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Potassium ions in SiO2: electrets for silicon surface passivation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonilla, Ruy S.; Wilshaw, Peter R.

2018-01-01

This manuscript reports an experimental and theoretical study of the transport of potassium ions in thin silicon dioxide films. While alkali contamination was largely researched in the context of MOSFET instability, recent reports indicate that potassium ions can be embedded into oxide films to produce dielectric materials with permanent electric charge, also known as electrets. These electrets are integral to a number of applications, including the passivation of silicon surfaces for optoelectronic devices. In this work, electric field assisted migration of ions is used to rapidly drive K+ into SiO2 and produce effective passivation of silicon surfaces. Charge concentrations of up to ~5  ×  1012 e cm-2 have been achieved. This charge was seen to be stable for over 1500 d, with decay time constants as high as 17 000 d, producing an effectively passivated oxide-silicon interface with SRV  <  7 cm s-1, in 1 Ω cm n-type material. This level of charge stability and passivation effectiveness has not been previously reported. Overall, this is a new and promising methodology to enhance surface passivation for the industrial manufacture of silicon optoelectronic devices.

Carbon-Encapsulated Co3O4 Nanoparticles as Anode Materials with Super Lithium Storage Performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leng, Xuning; Wei, Sufeng; Jiang, Zhonghao; Lian, Jianshe; Wang, Guoyong; Jiang, Qing

2015-11-01

A high-performance anode material for lithium storage was successfully synthesized by glucose as carbon source and cobalt nitrate as Co3O4 precursor with the assistance of sodium chloride surface as a template to reduce the carbon sheet thickness. Ultrafine Co3O4 nanoparticles were homogeneously embedded in ultrathin porous graphitic carbon in this material. The carbon sheets, which have large specific surface area, high electronic conductivity, and outstanding mechanical flexibility, are very effective to keep the stability of Co3O4 nanoparticales which has a large capacity. As a consequence, a very high reversible capacity of up to 1413 mA h g-1 at a current density of 0.1 A g-1 after 100 cycles, a high rate capability (845, 560, 461 and 345 mA h g-1 at 5, 10, 15 and 20 C, respectively, 1 C = 1 A g-1), and a superior cycling performance at an ultrahigh rate (760 mA h g-1 at 5 C after 1000 cycles) are achieved by this lithium-ion-battery anode material.

Optimization and Analysis of Laser Beam Machining Parameters for Al7075-TiB2 In-situ Composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manjoth, S.; Keshavamurthy, R.; Pradeep Kumar, G. S.

2016-09-01

The paper focuses on laser beam machining (LBM) of In-situ synthesized Al7075-TiB2 metal matrix composite. Optimization and influence of laser machining process parameters on surface roughness, volumetric material removal rate (VMRR) and dimensional accuracy of composites were studied. Al7075-TiB2 metal matrix composite was synthesized by in-situ reaction technique using stir casting process. Taguchi's L9 orthogonal array was used to design experimental trials. Standoff distance (SOD) (0.3 - 0.5mm), Cutting Speed (1000 - 1200 m/hr) and Gas pressure (0.5 - 0.7 bar) were considered as variable input parameters at three different levels, while power and nozzle diameter were maintained constant with air as assisting gas. Optimized process parameters for surface roughness, volumetric material removal rate (VMRR) and dimensional accuracy were calculated by generating the main effects plot for signal noise ratio (S/N ratio) for surface roughness, VMRR and dimensional error using Minitab software (version 16). The Significant of standoff distance (SOD), cutting speed and gas pressure on surface roughness, volumetric material removal rate (VMRR) and dimensional error were calculated using analysis of variance (ANOVA) method. Results indicate that, for surface roughness, cutting speed (56.38%) is most significant parameter followed by standoff distance (41.03%) and gas pressure (2.6%). For volumetric material removal (VMRR), gas pressure (42.32%) is most significant parameter followed by cutting speed (33.60%) and standoff distance (24.06%). For dimensional error, Standoff distance (53.34%) is most significant parameter followed by cutting speed (34.12%) and gas pressure (12.53%). Further, verification experiments were carried out to confirm performance of optimized process parameters.

Laser cladding assisted by friction stir processing for preparation of deformed crack-free Ni-Cr-Fe coating with nanostructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Siyao; Li, Ruidi; Yuan, Tiechui; Chen, Chao; Zhou, Kechao; Song, Bo; Shi, Yusheng

2018-02-01

Although laser cladding has find its widespread application in surface hardening, this technology has been significantly limited by the solidification crack, which usually initiates along grain boundary due to the brittle precipitation in grain boundary and networks formation during the laser rapid melting/solidification process. This paper proposed a novel laser cladding technology assisted by friction stir processing (FSP) to eliminate the usual metallurgical defects by the thermomechanical coupling effect of FSP with the Ni-Cr-Fe as representative coating material. By the FSP assisted laser cladding, the crack in laser cladding Ni-Cr-Fe coating was eliminated and the coarse networks of laser cladding coating was transformed into dispersed nanoparticles. Moreover, the plastic layers with thicknesses 47-140 μm can be observed, with gradient grain refinement from substrate to the top surface in which grain size reached 300 nm and laser photocoagulation net second phase crushed in the layer. In addition, cracks closed in the plastic zone. The refinement of grain resulted the hardness increased to over 400 HV, much higher than the 300 HV of the laser cladding structure. After FSP, the friction coefficient decreased from 0.6167 to 0.5645 which promoted the wear resistance.

Investigations of the kinetics of surfactant-assisted growth of cobalt/copper multilayers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peterson, Brennan Lovelace

Surfactants---a term given to a broad family of surface additives used in thin film growth---provide a potentially useful tool for the deposition engineer. A long history of work on the field has produced a sometimes conflicting view of what surfactants do, and while their efficacy in improving magnetic films is well established, the attendant structural changes remain unclear. Early work on surfactant-assisted growth was generally confined to deposition at near equilibrium conditions: high temperature and very slow deposition rates on very smooth (single crystal) substrates. In the case of low temperature sputter deposition, the kinetic phenomena differ greatly from the near-equilibrium case: high rate, more interlayer diffusive pathways, high grain boundary density, and few well defined atomic steps. There are two major ideas which underlie and explain the use of surfactants. First, they are used to alter growth kinetics of a single material by changing the diffusion barriers on the growing surface. Second, surfactants alter the initial nucleation parameters in heteroepitaxial growth, which is often explained with reference to changes in the surface energy, gamma. Changes to these parameters result, in turn, to variations of the roughness and conformality of thin films grown with the assistance of surfactants. Finally, the roughness and conformality are critical for determining the performance of modern thin film magnetic sensors. As surfactants offer a way to alter the nucleation and growth kinetics, they offer tremendous potential benefits. However, before surfactants are trustworthy deposition tool, a better understanding of their structural effects and underlying surface energy and kinetic changes is necessary. In order to investigate these phenomena, DC magnetron sputtered [Co/Cu] multilayers were deposited on Si/SiO2 substrates using O2 , Ag, Pb, and In as surfactants. Oxygen was introduced during growth at partial pressures ranging from 10-9 to 10-6 Torr, as well as "puffed" onto interfaces. The metallic surfactants (Pb, In, Ag) were deposited at various points in the multilayer---on top of the Co, on top of the Cu, or at the base---in order to determine the most effective position. In order to determine the role surface energy plays in determining surfactant assisted growth, in-situ stress measurements were taken. Surface energy effects are clearly seen in In and Pb deposition, while minimal changes are seen for O2 and Ag. To quantify the microstructural changes, low angle specular and diffuse scatter measurements were made. Specular scatter is sensitive to the film roughness, while diffuse scatter is particularly sensitive to changes to the layer-to-layer roughness correlations. The addition of a constant background of O2 during growth had the largest effect on the conformality and smoothness of the multilayers. Of the metallic surfactants, using Ag led to the greatest improvement in smoothness and correlation. With these results in hand, we posit a few basic models of surfactant activity in the various material systems.

Synthesis spherical porous hydroxyapatite/graphene oxide composites by ultrasonic-assisted method for biomedical applications.

PubMed

Duan, Peizhen; Shen, Juan; Zou, Guohong; Xia, Xu; Jin, Bo; Yu, Jiaxin

2018-04-10

Spherical porous hydroxyapatite (SHA)/graphene oxide (GO) composites with different GO (w/w) content of 16%, 40%, and 71% have been fabricated through a facile and controllable ultrasonic-assisted method at room temperature. The products were characterized by x-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, mechanical testing and biomimetic mineralization. Results showed SHA were covered by GO, and SHA/GO composites had an irregular surface with different degrees of wrinkles. The elastic modulus and hardness of SHA/GO-3 composites were up to 12.45 ± 0.33 GPa and 686.67 ± 26.95 MPa, which indicated that the contents of GO had an effect on SHA/GO composites. And the mechanical properties of SHA/GO-2 composites were similar to SHA particles. The biomimetic mineralization in SBF solution showed the bone-like apatite layer on composites surface, which demonstrated that the SHA/GO materials had osseointegration property. Moreover, in vitro cytocompatibility of SHA/GO-2 composites and pure GO were evaluated by cell adhesion and proliferation tests using MC3T3-E1 cells, which demonstrated that the SHA/GO composites can act as a good template for the cells growth and adhesion. These results suggested that the SHA/GO composites will be a promising material for biomedical application.

Pattering of nanostructures with high aspect ratio in polymer materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lyuksyutov, Sergei; Paramonov, Pavel; Sancaktar, Erol; Vaia, Richard; Juhl, Shane

2004-04-01

The generation of features larger than the initial atomic force microscope (AFM) tip-surface distance (presumably less that 1nm for unbiased tip) had previously been reported for silicon and metal oxidation. Such nanostructure (1-50 nm high) formation exceeding AFM tip-sample separation has been observed by us during AFM-assisted nanolithography in polymers [1,2]. The technique produces nanostructures up to 100 nm high in thin (10-30 nm) polymer films through the one-step process. The specific spatial details of the tip-surface contact profile, as well as cantilever motion, with applied bias during writing is not well understood and we are not aware of any comprehensive explanation provided in literature for this effect. In this work we analyze tip-polymer interaction using real-time tip deflection. An abrupt lift-up of biased AFM tip has been recorded experimentally and found to be proportional to the height of polymer nanostructures. This fact was used to pattern robust nanostructures of 20-100 nm high using amplitude modulated AFM-assisted electrostatic nanolithography [2] as the arrays of dots in polystyrene and polybenzoxasole polymer films. References [1] S.F. Lyuksyutov, R.A. Vaia, P.B. Paramonov, S. Juhl, L. Waterhouse, R.M. Ralich, G. Sigalov, and E. Sancaktar, Nature Materials 2(7) 468-472 (2003) [2] S.F. Lyuksyutov, R.A. Vaia, P.B. Paramonov, and S. Juhl, Appl. Phys. Lett. 83 (21), 4405-4407 (2003)

Diagnostics of microwave assisted electron cyclotron resonance plasma source for surface modification of nylon 6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

More, Supriya E.; Das, Partha Sarathi; Bansode, Avinash; Dhamale, Gayatri; Ghorui, S.; Bhoraskar, S. V.; Sahasrabudhe, S. N.; Mathe, Vikas L.

2018-01-01

Looking at the increasing scope of plasma processing of materials surface, here we present the development and diagnostics of a microwave assisted Electron Cyclotron Resonance (ECR) plasma system suitable for surface modification of polymers. Prior to the surface-treatment, a detailed diagnostic mapping of the plasma parameters throughout the reactor chamber was carried out by using single and double Langmuir probe measurements in Ar plasma. Conventional analysis of I-V curves as well as the elucidation form of the Electron Energy Distribution Function (EEDF) has become the source of calibration of plasma parameters in the reaction chamber. The high energy tail in the EEDF of electron temperature is seen to extend beyond 60 eV, at much larger distances from the ECR zone. This proves the suitability of the rector for plasma processing, since the electron energy is much beyond the threshold energy of bond breaking in most of the polymers. Nylon 6 is used as a representative candidate for surface processing in the presence of Ar, H2 + N2, and O2 plasma, treated at different locations inside the plasma chamber. In a typical case, the work of adhesion is seen to almost get doubled when treated with oxygen plasma. Morphology of the plasma treated surface and its hydrophilicity are discussed in view of the variation in electron density and electron temperature at these locations. Nano-protrusions arising from plasma treatment are set to be responsible for the hydrophobicity. Chemical sputtering and physical sputtering are seen to influence the surface morphology on account of sufficient electron energies and increased plasma potential.

Optimization of microwave-assisted extraction conditions for preparing lignan-rich extract from Saraca asoca bark using Box-Behnken design.

PubMed

Mishra, Shikha; Aeri, Vidhu

2016-07-01

Lyoniside is the major constituent of Saraca asoca Linn. (Caesalpiniaceae) bark. There is an immediate need to develop an efficient method to isolate its chemical constituents, since it is a therapeutically important plant. A rapid extraction method for lyoniside based on microwave-assisted extraction of S. asoca bark was developed and optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). Lyoniside was analyzed and quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with ultraviolet detection (HPLC-UV). The extraction solvent ratio (%), material solvent ratio (g/ml) and extraction time (min) were optimized using Box-Behnken design (BBD) to obtain the highest extraction efficiency. The optimal conditions were the use of 1:30 material solvent ratio with 70:30 mixture of methanol:water for 10 min duration. The optimized microwave-assisted extraction yielded 9.4 mg/g of lyoniside content in comparison to reflux extraction under identical conditions which yielded 4.2 mg/g of lyoniside content. Under optimum conditions, the experimental values agreed closely with the predicted values. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated a high goodness-of-fit model and the success of the RSM method for optimizing lyoniside extraction from the bark of S. asoca. All the three variables significantly affected the lyoniside content. Increased polarity of solvent medium enhances the lyoniside yield. The present study shows the applicability of microwave-assisted extraction in extraction of lyoniside from S. asoca bark.

Surface morphology of molybdenum silicide films upon low-energy ion beam sputtering.

PubMed

Gago, R; Jaafar, M; Palomares, F J

2018-07-04

The surface morphology of molybdenum silicide (Mo x Si 1-x ) films has been studied after low-energy Ar + ion beam sputtering (IBS) to explore eventual pattern formation on compound targets and, simultaneously, gather information about the mechanisms behind silicide-assisted nanopatterning of silicon surfaces by IBS. For this purpose, Mo x Si 1-x films with compositions below, equal and above the MoSi 2 stoichiometry (x  =  0.33) have been produced by magnetron sputtering, as assessed by Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS). The surface morphology of silicon and silicide films before and after IBS has been imaged by atomic force microscopy (AFM), comprising conditions where typical nanodot or ripple patterns emerge on the former. In the case of irradiated Mo x Si 1-x surfaces, AFM shows a marked surface smoothing at normal incidence with and without additional Mo incorporation (the former results in nanodot patterns on Si). The morphological analysis also provides no evidence of ion-induced phase separation in irradiated Mo x Si 1-x . Contrary to silicon, Mo x Si 1-x surfaces also do not display ripple formation for (impurity free) oblique irradiations, except at grazing incidence conditions where parallel ripples emerge in a more evident fashion than in the Si counterpart. By means of RBS, irradiated Mo x Si 1-x films with 1 keV Ar + at normal incidence have also been used to measure experimentally the (absolute) sputtering yield and rate of Si and Mo x Si 1-x materials. The analysis reveals that, under the present working conditions, the erosion rate of silicides is larger than for silicon, supporting simulations from the TRIDYN code. This finding questions the shielding effect from silicide regions as roughening mechanism in metal-assisted nanopatterning of silicon. On the contrary, the results highlight the relevance of in situ silicide formation. Ripple formation on Mo x Si 1-x under grazing incidence is also attributed to the dominance of sputtering effects under this geometry. In conclusion, our work provides some insights into the complex morphological evolution of compound surfaces and solid experimental evidences regarding the mechanisms behind silicide-assisted nanopatterning.

Ductile flow by water-assisted cataclasis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

den Brok, Bas

2003-04-01

In the presence of water otherwise brittle materials may deform macroscopically ductile by water-assisted cataclastic creep. This is possible as long as (i) solubility is high enough, so that stress-corrosion can occur, and (ii) local stress is low enough, to that fracturing remains subcritical. Water-assisted cataclastic creep (WACC) may play an important role in the middle and lower continental crust where mineral solubilities are high and stresses low. WACC is a poorly understood deformation process. Experiments were performed on very soluble brittle salts (Na-chlorate; K-alum) to study microstructure development by WACC. The experiments were carried out at room temperature and atmospheric pressure in a small see-through vessel. In this way the cataclastic deformation process could be studied "in-situ" under the microscope. Crystals were loaded in the presence of saturated salt solution. It appeared that originally straight mineral surfaces were instable when kept under stress. Grooves (or channels) slowly developed in the surface by local dissolution. These grooves behave like so-called Grinfeld instabilities. They develop because the energy of a grooved surface under stress is lower than the energy of a straight surface under stress. The grooves may deepen and turn into subcritical cracks when local stress further increases. These cracks propagate slowly. They propagate parallel to sigma1 but also at an angle and even perpendicular to sigma1, often following crystallographically controlled directions. The fractures mostly change direction while propagating, locally making turns of more than 180 degrees. Irregular fracture fragments thus develop. The fractures may migrate sideways (as with grain bounday migration) probably by solution-redeposition driven by differences in stress between both sides of the fracture. Thus the shape of the fragments changes. The size of the fracture fragments seems to be controlled by the distance of the grooves, which decreases with increasing stress.

Metal-Organic Frameworks-Derived Hierarchical Co3O4 Structures as Efficient Sensing Materials for Acetone Detection.

PubMed

Zhang, Rui; Zhou, Tingting; Wang, Lili; Zhang, Tong

2018-03-21

Highly sensitive and stable gas sensors have attracted much attention because they are the key to innovations in the fields of environment, health, energy savings and security, etc. Sensing materials, which influence the practical sensing performance, are the crucial parts for gas sensors. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are considered as alluring sensing materials for gas sensors because of the possession of high specific surface area, unique morphology, abundant metal sites, and functional linkers. Herein, four kinds of porous hierarchical Co 3 O 4 structures have been selectively controlled by optimizing the thermal decomposition (temperature, rate, and atmosphere) using ZIF-67 as precursor that was obtained from coprecipitation method with the co-assistance of cobalt salt and 2-methylimidazole in the solution of methanol. These hierarchical Co 3 O 4 structures, with controllable cross-linked channels, meso-/micropores, and adjustable surface area, are efficient catalytic materials for gas sensing. Benefits from structural advantages, core-shell, and porous core-shell Co 3 O 4 exhibit enhanced sensing performance compared to those of porous popcorn and nanoparticle Co 3 O 4 to acetone gas. These novel MOF-templated Co 3 O 4 hierarchical structures are so fantastic that they can be expected to be efficient sensing materials for development of low-temperature operating gas sensors.

Novel Galvanic Nanostructures of Ag and Pd for Efficient Laser Desorption/Ionization of Low Molecular Weight Compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Silina, Yuliya E.; Meier, Florian; Nebolsin, Valeriy A.; Koch, Marcus; Volmer, Dietrich A.

2014-05-01

A simple approach for synthesis of palladium and silver nanostructures with readily adjustable morphologies was developed using galvanic electrochemical deposition, for application to surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization (SALDI) of small biological molecules. A range of fatty acids, triglycerides, carbohydrates, and antibiotics were investigated to assess the performance of the new materials. Intense analyte cations were generated from the galvanic surfaces upon UV laser irradiation such as potassium adducts for a film thickness <100 nm (originating from impurities of the electrolyte solution) and Pd and Ag cluster ions for films with a thickness >120 nm. Possible laser desorption/ionization mechanisms of these galvanic structures are discussed. The films exhibited self-organizing abilities and adjustable morphologies by changing electrochemical parameters. They did not require any stabilizing agents and were inexpensive and very easy to produce. SALDI analysis showed that the materials were stable under ambient conditions and analytical results with excellent measurement reproducibility and detection sensitivity similar to MALDI were obtained. Finally, we applied the galvanic surfaces to fast screening of natural oils with minimum sample preparation.

Surface Interaction Kinetics of GaAs (100) Surfaces Under Electron Cyclotron Resonance Nitrogen Plasma Exposure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Steen, M. L.; Hauenstein, R. J.; Bandić, Z. Z.; Feenstra, R. M.; Hwang, S. J.; McGill, T. C.

1996-03-01

GaN is a robust semiconducting material offering a large, direct bandgap appropriate for use in blue-green to UV light emitting diodes and laser diodes. Attainment of device quality GaN has been difficult due to the lack of substrate materials that are suitably matched to the unusually small lattice parameter of GaN. To better control heteroepitaxial growth quality, a fundamental study of the initial stages of GaN growth by Electron Cyclotron Resonance Nitrogen Plasma-Assisted Molecular Beam Epitaxy (ECR-MBE) has been performed. The effect of an ECR Nitrogen plasma on a GaAs (100) surface is examined through time resolved reflection high energy electron diffraction, high resolution x-ray diffraction, and cross-sectional scanning tunneling microscopy. Fully commensurate GaN_yAs_1-y/GaAs heterostructures involving ultrathin GaN_yAs_1-y layers are obtained, and thermally activated microscopic growth processes are identified and quantitatively characterized through the aid of a specially developed kinetic model. The implications for ECR-MBE growth of GaN/GaAs mutilayers is discussed.

Centrifugation-Assisted Fog-Collecting Abilities of Metal-Foam Structures with Different Surface Wettabilities.

PubMed

Ji, Keju; Zhang, Jun; Chen, Jia; Meng, Guiyun; Ding, Yafei; Dai, Zhendong

2016-04-20

The collection of water from fog is a simple and sustainable means of obtaining freshwater for human and animal consumption. Herein, we address the use of metal foam in fog collection and present a novel fog-collecting device fabricated from copper foam. This device, which can also be used in other liquid-gas separation applications, is a 3D extension of biologically inspired 1D and 2D materials. The network structure of the 3D material effectively increased the contact area and interaction time of the skeleton structure and fog compared to those of traditional 2D fog-collecting materials. The main aspects investigated in this study were the influences of the inertial centrifugal force generated by rotating the metal-foam samples and the use of samples with different surface wettabilities on the fog-collecting performance. Superhydrophilic and superhydrophobic samples were found to have higher collection efficiencies at low and high rotational speeds, respectively, and a maximum efficiency of 86% was achieved for superhydrophobic copper foam (20 pores per inch) rotated at 1500 rpm.

Citric acid functionalized carbon materials for fuel cell applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poh, Chee Kok; Lim, San Hua; Pan, Hui; Lin, Jianyi; Lee, Jim Yang

Carbon materials can be easily functionalized using citric acid (CA) treatment. The CA modification of carbon materials is both simple and effective. It requires no prolonged heating, filtration and washing, and produces more functional groups such as carboxyl and hydroxide on CA-modified carbon nanotubes and XC72 carbon blacks than on HNO 3-H 2SO 4 oxidized carbon nanotubes and as-purchased XC72. Platinum nanoparticles are deposited on these functionalized carbon materials by means of a microwave-assisted polyol process. The investigations using TEM, XRD, FTIR and TGA indicate that CA modification creates more functional groups and thus deposits more Pt nanoparticles with smaller average particle size on the surface of carbon materials. Electrochemical studies of the Pt/C samples for methanol oxidation reveal higher activity for Pt on CA-modified carbon materials. It is therefore considered that this method can find important applications in reducing the cost and improving performance of proton-exchange membrane fuel cells.

Investigations of ion-irradiated uranium dioxide nuclear fuel with laser-assisted atom probe tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valderrama, Billy

Performance in commercial light water reactors is dictated by the ability of its fuel material, uranium dioxide (UO2), to transport heat generated during the fission process. It is widely known that the service lifetime is limited by irradiation-induced microstructural changes that degrade the thermal performance of UO2. Studying the role of complex, often interacting mechanisms that occur during the early stages of microstructural evolution presents a challenge. Phenomena of particular interest are the segregation of fission products to form bubbles and their resultant effect on grain boundary (GB) mobility, and the effect of irradiation on fuel stoichiometry. Each mechanism has a profound consequence on fuel thermal conductivity. Several advanced analytical techniques, such as transmission electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, etc. have been used to study these mechanisms. However, they each have limitations and cannot individually provide the necessary information for deeper understanding. One technique that has been under utilized is atom probe tomography (APT), which has a unique ability to spatially resolve small-scale chemical variations. APT uses the principle of field ionization to evaporate surface ions for chemical analysis. For low electrical conductivity systems, a pulsed laser is used to thermally assist in the evaporation process. One factor complicating the analysis is that laser-material interactions are poorly understood for oxide materials and literature using this technique with UO2 is lacking. Therefore, an initial systematic study to identify the optimal conditions for the analysis of UO2 using laser-assisted APT was conducted. A comparative study on the evaporation behavior between CeO2 and UO2 was followed. CeO2 was chosen due to its technological relevancy and availability of comparative studies with laser-assisted APT. Dissimilar evaporation behavior between these materials was identified and attributed to differences in laser absorption, oxide stability, and thermal conductivity between the two materials. After the conditions were identified, APT was utilized to study the role of temperature and GB structure on the segregation of Kr. Results indicate that high angle GBs contain more Kr relative to low angle GBs. The methodology presented can be applied to investigate small-scale chemical changes in other oxide materials.

In Brief: Coal mining regulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Showstack, Randy

2009-12-01

The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) announced on 18 November measures to strengthen the oversight of state surface coal mining programs and to promulgate federal regulations to protect streams affected by surface coal mining operations. DOI's Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) is publishing an advance notice of a proposed rule about protecting streams from adverse impacts of surface coal mining operations. A rule issued by the Bush administration in December 2008 allows coal mine operators to place excess excavated materials into streams if they can show it is not reasonably possible to avoid doing so. “We are moving as quickly as possible under the law to gather public input for a new rule, based on sound science, that will govern how companies handle fill removed from mountaintop coal seams,” according to Wilma Lewis, assistant secretary for Land and Minerals Management at DOI.

Applications of Ionic Liquids for the Development of Optical Chemical Sensors and Biosensors.

PubMed

Muginova, Svetlana V; Myasnikova, Dina A; Kazarian, Sergei G; Shekhovtsova, Tatiana N

2017-01-01

This paper reviews the primary literature reporting the use of ionic liquids (ILs) in optical sensing technologies. The optical chemical sensors that have been developed with the assistance of ILs are classified according to the type of resultant material. Key aspects of applying ILs in such sensors are revealed and discussed. They include using ILs as solvents for the synthesis of sensor matrix materials; additives in polymer matrices; matrix materials; modifiers of the surfaces; and multifunctional sensor components. The operational principles, design, texture, and analytical characteristics of the offered sensors for determining CO 2 , O 2 , metal ions, CN - , and various organic compounds are critically discussed. The key advantages and disadvantages of using ILs in optical sensing technologies are defined. Finally, the applicability of the described materials for chemical analysis is evaluated, and possibilities for their further modernization are outlined.

A Novel Well Drill Assisted with High-Frequency Vibration Using the Bending Mode

PubMed Central

Qi, Xinda; Chen, Weishan; Tang, Xintian; Shi, Shengjun

2018-01-01

It is important for companies to increase the efficiency of drilling as well as prolong the lifetime of the drilling tool. Since some previous investigations indicated that a superposition of well drilling with an additional vibration increases the drilling efficiency, this paper introduces a novel well drill which is assisted with additional vibrations by means of piezoelectric sandwich bending vibration transducer. The proposed drill uses bending vibrations in two different directions to from an elliptical trajectory movement, which can help the drill to break the surface of hard material more efficiently and clean away the lithic fragments more easily. The proposed well drill with bending vibration transducer is designed to have a resonance frequency of the first bending vibration mode of about 1779 Hz. The motion equation of the particle on the edge of the drill bit is developed and analyzed. The vibration trajectory of the particle on the edge of the drill bit is calculated by using finite element method. A prototype of the proposed drill using bending vibrations is fabricated and tested to verify the aim of drilling efficiency increase. The feed speed of the vibration assisted drilling is tested to be about 0.296 mm/s when the excitation voltage of the transducer is 300 V, while this speed decreases to about 0.195 mm/s when no vibration is added. This comparison shows that the feed speed of the vibration assisted drilling is about 52% higher than that of the normal drilling, which means the proposed drill has a better efficiency and it is important to consider vibration superimposition in well drilling. In addition, the surface of the drill hole gained by the vibration assisted drilling is smoother than that of the normal drilling, which makes the clearance easier. PMID:29641481

In vitro behavior of human mesenchymal stem cells on poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) based biointerfaces obtained by matrix assisted pulsed laser evaporation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Icriverzi, Madalina; Rusen, Laurentiu; Sima, Livia Elena; Moldovan, Antoniu; Brajnicov, Simona; Bonciu, Anca; Mihailescu, Natalia; Dinescu, Maria; Cimpean, Anisoara; Roseanu, Anca; Dinca, Valentina

2018-05-01

The use of smart coatings with tunable characteristics in bioengineering fields is directly correlated with the surface chemical and topographical properties, the method of preparation, and also with the type of cells implied for the specific application. In this work, a versatile surface modification technique based on the use of lasers (Matrix-Assisted Pulsed Laser Evaporation (MAPLE)) was used to yield poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (pNIPAM) and its derivatives (amine, azide and amide terminated pNIPAM) functional and termoresponsive thin films. Surface properties of pNIPAM and its derivative films such as morphology, roughness and hydrophobic/hydrophilic character, as well as the thermoresponsive capacity were investigated by atomic force microscopy and contact angle measurements. The chemical characteristics of the pNIPAM based thin films were analysed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The chemical functionality was kept for all the samples obtained by MAPLE and the thermoresponse was demonstrated by the change in the contact angle and thickness values when the temperature was shifted from 37 °C to 24 °C for all the materials tested, with a smaller change for maleimide terminated pNIPAM. Biological assays performed in vitro (fluorescence microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)) confirmed the conditioning of the early mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) growth by specific chemistry of the coatings. The cell imaging analysis revealed no cytotoxic effect of pNIPAM surfaces irrespective of type of functionalization. An increased proliferation rate of the cells grown on pNIPAM-azide surfaces and a lower cell density on pNIPAM-maleimide surfaces compared to the pNIPAM surfaces was observed, which can direct their use to potential surfaces in regenerative medicine approaches.

Large scale, highly dense nanoholes on metal surfaces by underwater laser assisted hydrogen etching near nanocrystalline boundary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Dong; Zhang, Martin Yi; Ye, Chang; Liu, Zhikun; Liu, C. Richard; Cheng, Gary J.

2012-03-01

A new method to generate large scale and highly dense nanoholes is presented in this paper. By the pulsed laser irradiation under water, the hydrogen etching is introduced to form high density nanoholes on the surfaces of AISI 4140 steel and Ti. In order to achieve higher nanohole density, laser shock peening (LSP) followed by recrystallization is used for grain refinement. It is found that the nanohole density does not increase until recrystallization of the substructures after laser shock peening. The mechanism of nanohole generation is studied in detail. This method can be also applied to generate nanoholes on other materials with hydrogen etching effect.

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

Smith, D.J.; Warner, J.A.; LeBarron, N.

Processes that use energetic ions for large substrates require that the time-averaged erosion effects from the ion flux be uniform across the surface. A numerical model has been developed to determine this flux and its effects on surface etching of a silica/photoresist combination. The geometry of the source and substrate is very similar to a typical deposition geometry with single or planetary substrate rotation. The model was used to tune an inert ion-etching process that used single or multiple Kaufman sources to less than 3% uniformity over a 30-cm aperture after etching 8 {micro}m of material. The same model canmore » be used to predict uniformity for ion-assisted deposition (IAD).« less

Manufacturing of Liquid-Embedded Elastomers for Stretchable Electronics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kramer, Rebecca; Majidi, Carmel; Weaver, James; Wood, Robert

2013-03-01

Future generations of robots, electronics, and assistive medical devices will include systems that are soft, elastically deformable, and may adapt their functionality in unstructured environments. This will require soft active materials for power circuits and sensing of deformation and contact pressure. As the demand for increased elasticity of electrical components heightens, the challenges for functionality revert to basic questions of fabrication, materials, and design. Several designs for soft sensory skins (including strain, pressure and curvature sensors) based on a liquid-embedded-elastomer approach have been developed. This talk will highlight new ``soft MEMS'' manufacturing techniques based on wetting behavior between gallium-indium alloys and elastomers with varying microtextured surface topography. Supported by Harvard MRSEC and the Wyss Institute

Effect of micropatterning induced surface hydrophobicity on drug release from electrospun cellulose acetate nanofibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adepu, Shivakalyani; Gaydhane, Mrunalini K.; Kakunuri, Manohar; Sharma, Chandra S.; Khandelwal, Mudrika; Eichhorn, Stephen J.

2017-12-01

Sustained release and prevention of burst release for low half-life drugs like Diclofenac sodium is crucial to prevent drug related toxicity. Electrospun nanofibers have emerged recently as potential carrier materials for controlled and sustained drug release. Here, we present a facile method to prevent burst release by tuning the surface wettability through template assisted micropatterning of drug loaded electrospun cellulose acetate (CA) nanofibers. A known amount of drug (Diclofenac sodium) was first mixed with CA and then electrospun in the form of a nanofabric. This as-spun network was hydrophilic in nature. However, when electrospinning was carried out through non-conducting templates, viz nylon meshes with 50 and 100 μm size openings, two kinds of hydrophobic micro-patterned CA nanofabrics were produced. In vitro transdermal testing of our nanofibrous mats was carried out; these tests were able to show that it would be possible to create a patch for transdermal drug release. Further, our results show that with optimized micro-patterned dimensions, a zero order sustained drug release of up to 12 h may be achieved for the transdermal system when compared to non-patterned samples. This patterning caused a change in the surface wettability, to a hydrophobic surface, resulting in a controlled diffusion of the hydrophilic drug. Patterning assisted in controlling the initial burst release, which is a significant finding especially for low half-life drugs.

Fracture Mechanics Testing of Titanium 6AL-4V in AF-M315E

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sampson, J. W.; Martinez, J.; McLean, C.

2016-01-01

The Green Propellant Infusion Mission (GPIM) will demonstrate the performance of AF-M315E monopropellant on orbit. Flight certification requires a safe-life analysis of the titanium alloy fuel tank to ensure inherent processing flaws will not cause failure during the design life of the tank. Material property inputs for this analysis require testing to determine the stress intensity factor for environment-assisted cracking (KEAC) of Ti 6Al-4V in combination with the AF-M315E monopropellant. Testing of single-edge notched, or SE(B), specimens representing the bulk tank membrane and weld material were performed in accordance with ASTM E1681. Specimens with fatigue pre-cracks were loaded into test fixtures so that the crack tips were exposed to AF-M315E at 50 C for a duration of 1,000 hours. Specimens that did not fail during exposure were opened to inspect the crack surfaces for evidence of crack growth. The threshold stress intensity value, KEAC, is the highest applied stress intensity that produced neither a failure of the specimen during the exposure nor showed evidence of crack growth. The threshold stress intensity factor for environment-assisted cracking of the Ti 6Al-4V forged tank material was found to be at least 22 ksivin and at least 31 ksivin for the weld material when exposed to AF-M315E monopropellant.

A study of lubrication, processing conditions, and material combinations that affect the wear of micro-textured-carbide coated cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloy surfaces used for artificial joints implants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ettienne-Modeste, Geriel A.

Total joint replacement remains one of the most successful treatments for arthritis. The most common materials used for artificial joints are metals (e.g., cobalt-chrome alloys or titanium alloys), which articulate against ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. Wear related failures of artificial joints may be reduced with the use of novel micro-textured carbide surfaces. The micro-textured carbide surfaces were deposited on a CoCrMo alloy using microwave plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition. Wear tests were conducted to determine wear mechanisms and properties of the micro-textured surfaces. The research presented in this thesis addresses: (1) rheolgoical behavior of bovine calf serum with and without antibacterial agents to determine whether they can be used as appropriate models for synovial fluid, (2) the wear behavior of the micro-textured CoCrMo surface system, and (3) the mechanical and material properties of the micro-textured CoCrMo alloy surface relevant to wear performance. The rheological studies showed that the apparent viscosity of bovine calf serum increased with an increase in concentration before and after the serum was used for wear testing. The wear analysis showed that the processing conditions (2hr deposition vs. 4hr deposition times) affected the wear properties. The 2hr carbide-on-carbide lubricated in 50% BCS produced the lowest wear factor and rate for the five wear couple systems containing the carbide disk or plate material. Greater wear was produced in serum without penicillin/streptomycin (P/S) compared to the serum containing P/S. A greater carbide coating thickness 10 (micrometers) was produced during the 4hr deposition time than for the 2hr deposition (˜3mum). The nano-hardness value was higher than the micro-hardness for both the 4hr and 2hr carbide surfaces. The micro-hardness results of the worn carbide surfaces showed that an increase in BCS concentration from 0% to 100% increased the micro-hardness (HV) for carbide surfaces (from 873 to 1344 HV).

Relaxation dynamics of nanosecond laser superheated material in dielectrics

DOE PAGES

Demos, Stavros G.; Negres, Raluca A.; Raman, Rajesh N.; ...

2015-08-20

Intense laser pulses can cause superheating of the near-surface volume of materials. This mechanism is widely used in applications such as laser micromachining, laser ablation, or laser assisted thin film deposition. The relaxation of the near solid density superheated material is not well understood, however. In this work, we investigate the relaxation dynamics of the superheated material formed in several dielectrics with widely differing physical properties. The results suggest that the relaxation process involves a number of distinct phases, which include the delayed explosive ejection of microscale particles starting after the pressure of the superheated material is reduced to aboutmore » 4 GPa and for a time duration on the order of 1 μs. The appearance of a subset of collected ejected particles in fused silica is similar to that of micro-tektites and provides information about the state of the superheated material at the time of ejection. Lastly, these results advance our understanding of a key aspect of the laser–material interaction pathway and can lead to optimization of associated applications ranging from material processing to laser surgery.« less

Comparison of microwave-assisted and conventional extraction of mangiferin from mango (Mangifera indica L.) leaves.

PubMed

Zou, Tangbin; Wu, Hongfu; Li, Huawen; Jia, Qing; Song, Gang

2013-10-01

Mangiferin is the main bioactive component in mango leaves, which possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, antidiabetic, immunomodulatory, and antitumor activities. In the present study, a microwave-assisted extraction method was developed for the extraction of mangiferin from mango leaves. Some parameters such as ethanol concentration, liquid-to-solid ratio, microwave power, and extraction time were optimized by single-factor experiments and response surface methodology. The optimal extraction conditions were 45% ethanol, liquid-to-solid ratio of 30:1 (mL/g), and extraction time of 123 s under microwave irradiation of 474 W. Under optimal conditions, the yield of mangiferin was 36.10 ± 0.72 mg/g, significantly higher than that of conventional extraction. The results obtained are beneficial for the full utilization of mango leaves and also indicate that microwave-assisted extraction is a very useful method for extracting mangiferin from plant materials. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Surfactant-assisted electrochemical deposition of α-cobalt hydroxide for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Ting; Jiang, Hao; Ma, Jan

A N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP) assisted electrochemical deposition route has been developed to realize the synthesis of a dense α-Co(OH) 2 layered structure, which is composed of nanosheets, each with a thickness of 10 nm. The capacitive characteristics of the as-obtained α-Co(OH) 2 are investigated by means of cyclic voltammetry (CV), charge/discharge characterization, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), in 1 M KOH electrolyte. The results indicate that α-Co(OH) 2 prepared in the presence of 20 vol.% NMP has denser and thin layered structure which promotes an increased surface area and a shortened ion diffusion path. The as-prepared α-Co(OH) 2 shows better electrochemical performance with specific capacitance of 651 F g -1 in a potential range of -0.1 to 0.45 V. These findings suggest that the surfactant-assisted electrochemical deposition is a promising process for building densely packed material systems with enhanced properties, for application in supercapacitors.

Degradation of lignin in birch sawdust treated by a novel Myrothecium verrucaria coupled with ultrasound assistance.

PubMed

Wang, Qing-Fang; Niu, Li-Li; Jiao, Jiao; Guo, Na; Zang, Yu-Ping; Gai, Qing-Yan; Fu, Yu-Jie

2017-11-01

Combined treatment of a novel fungal endophyte Myrothecium verrucaria coupled with ultrasound assistance was conducted to enhance lignin degradation in birch sawdust. The optimum treatment conditions were confirmed as the materials to liquid ratio 1:20, temperature 30°C, time 4days and pH 7, respectively. The results showed that the combined treatment led to the lignin degradation reaching 67.95±2.14%, while the lignin degradation were 45.50±2.12% and 13.75±0.66% with separate fungal treatment and ultrasound treatment, respectively. Moreover, SEM and FTIR analysis indicated that combined treatment significantly altered surface morphology and chemical structure of birch sawdust. The combined treatment greatly increased lignin removal during short time in mild environment. Therefore, these results demonstrated that the combined treatment of fungal endophyte coupled with ultrasound assistance has the high potential for the removal lignin in lignocellulose. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

SdrF, a Staphylococcus epidermidis Surface Protein, Contributes to the Initiation of Ventricular Assist Device Driveline–Related Infections

PubMed Central

Arrecubieta, Carlos; Toba, Faustino A.; von Bayern, Manuel; Akashi, Hirokazu; Deng, Mario C.; Naka, Yoshifumi; Lowy, Franklin D.

2009-01-01

Staphylococcus epidermidis remains the predominant pathogen in prosthetic-device infections. Ventricular assist devices, a recently developed form of therapy for end-stage congestive heart failure, have had considerable success. However, infections, most often caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis, have limited their long-term use. The transcutaneous driveline entry site acts as a potential portal of entry for bacteria, allowing development of either localized or systemic infections. A novel in vitro binding assay using explanted drivelines obtained from patients undergoing transplantation and a heterologous lactococcal system of surface protein expression were used to identify S. epidermidis surface components involved in the pathogenesis of driveline infections. Of the four components tested, SdrF, SdrG, PIA, and GehD, SdrF was identified as the primary ligand. SdrF adherence was mediated via its B domain attaching to host collagen deposited on the surface of the driveline. Antibodies directed against SdrF reduced adherence of S. epidermidis to the drivelines. SdrF was also found to adhere with high affinity to Dacron, the hydrophobic polymeric outer surface of drivelines. Solid phase binding assays showed that SdrF was also able to adhere to other hydrophobic artificial materials such as polystyrene. A murine model of infection was developed and used to test the role of SdrF during in vivo driveline infection. SdrF alone was able to mediate bacterial adherence to implanted drivelines. Anti-SdrF antibodies reduced S. epidermidis colonization of implanted drivelines. SdrF appears to play a key role in the initiation of ventricular assist device driveline infections caused by S. epidermidis. This pluripotential adherence capacity provides a potential pathway to infection with SdrF-positive commensal staphylococci first adhering to the external Dacron-coated driveline at the transcutaneous entry site, then spreading along the collagen-coated internal portion of the driveline to establish a localized infection. This capacity may also have relevance for other prosthetic device–related infections. PMID:19412528

Carbon Nanotube Web with Carboxylated Polythiophene "Assist" for High-Performance Battery Electrodes.

PubMed

Kwon, Yo Han; Park, Jung Jin; Housel, Lisa M; Minnici, Krysten; Zhang, Guoyan; Lee, Sujin R; Lee, Seung Woo; Chen, Zhongming; Noda, Suguru; Takeuchi, Esther S; Takeuchi, Kenneth J; Marschilok, Amy C; Reichmanis, Elsa

2018-04-24

A carbon nanotube (CNT) web electrode comprising magnetite spheres and few-walled carbon nanotubes (FWNTs) linked by the carboxylated conjugated polymer, poly[3-(potassium-4-butanoate) thiophene] (PPBT), was designed to demonstrate benefits derived from the rational consideration of electron/ion transport coupled with the surface chemistry of the electrode materials components. To maximize transport properties, the approach introduces monodispersed spherical Fe 3 O 4 (sFe 3 O 4 ) for uniform Li + diffusion and a FWNT web electrode frame that affords characteristics of long-ranged electronic pathways and porous networks. The sFe 3 O 4 particles were used as a model high-capacity energy active material, owing to their well-defined chemistry with surface hydroxyl (-OH) functionalities that provide for facile detection of molecular interactions. PPBT, having a π-conjugated backbone and alkyl side chains substituted with carboxylate moieties, interacted with the FWNT π-electron-rich and hydroxylated sFe 3 O 4 surfaces, which enabled the formation of effective electrical bridges between the respective components, contributing to efficient electron transport and electrode stability. To further induce interactions between PPBT and the metal hydroxide surface, polyethylene glycol was coated onto the sFe 3 O 4 particles, allowing for facile materials dispersion and connectivity. Additionally, the introduction of carbon particles into the web electrode minimized sFe 3 O 4 aggregation and afforded more porous FWNT networks. As a consequence, the design of composite electrodes with rigorous consideration of specific molecular interactions induced by the surface chemistries favorably influenced electrochemical kinetics and electrode resistance, which afforded high-performance electrodes for battery applications.

Scale-up considerations for surface collecting agent assisted in-situ burn crude oil spill response experiments in the Arctic: Laboratory to field-scale investigations.

PubMed

Bullock, Robin J; Aggarwal, Srijan; Perkins, Robert A; Schnabel, William

2017-04-01

In the event of a marine oil spill in the Arctic, government agencies, industry, and the public have a stake in the successful implementation of oil spill response. Because large spills are rare events, oil spill response techniques are often evaluated with laboratory and meso-scale experiments. The experiments must yield scalable information sufficient to understand the operability and effectiveness of a response technique under actual field conditions. Since in-situ burning augmented with surface collecting agents ("herders") is one of the few viable response options in ice infested waters, a series of oil spill response experiments were conducted in Fairbanks, Alaska, in 2014 and 2015 to evaluate the use of herders to assist in-situ burning and the role of experimental scale. This study compares burn efficiency and herder application for three experimental designs for in-situ burning of Alaska North Slope crude oil in cold, fresh waters with ∼10% ice cover. The experiments were conducted in three project-specific constructed venues with varying scales (surface areas of approximately 0.09 square meters, 9 square meters and 8100 square meters). The results from the herder assisted in-situ burn experiments performed at these three different scales showed good experimental scale correlation and no negative impact due to the presence of ice cover on burn efficiency. Experimental conclusions are predominantly associated with application of the herder material and usability for a given experiment scale to make response decisions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Water-assisted growth of graphene on carbon nanotubes by the chemical vapor deposition method.

PubMed

Feng, Jian-Min; Dai, Ye-Jing

2013-05-21

Combining carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with graphene has been proved to be a feasible method for improving the performance of graphene for some practical applications. This paper reports a water-assisted route to grow graphene on CNTs from ferrocene and thiophene dissolved in ethanol by the chemical vapor deposition method in an argon flow. A double injection technique was used to separately inject ethanol solution and water for the preparation of graphene/CNTs. First, CNTs were prepared from ethanol solution and water. The injection of ethanol solution was suspended and water alone was injected into the reactor to etch the CNTs. Thereafter, ethanol solution was injected along with water, which is the key factor in obtaining graphene/CNTs. Transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Raman scattering analyses confirmed that the products were the hybrid materials of graphene/CNTs. X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy analysis showed the presence of oxygen rich functional groups on the surface of the graphene/CNTs. Given the activity of the graphene/CNT surface, CdS quantum dots adhered onto it uniformly through simple mechanical mixing.

Development of a skin for intuitive interaction with an assistive robot.

PubMed

Markham, Heather C; Brewer, Bambi R

2009-01-01

Assistive robots for persons with physical limitations need to interact with humans in a manner that is safe to the user and the environment. Early work in this field centered on task specific robots. Recent work has focused on the use of the MANUS ARM and the development of different interfaces. The most intuitive interaction with an object is through touch. By creating a skin for the robot arm which will directly control its movement compliance, we have developed a novel and intuitive method of interaction. This paper describes the development of a skin which acts as a switch. When activated through touch, the skin will put the arm into compliant mode allowing it to be moved to the desired location safely, and when released will put the robot into non-compliant mode thereby keeping it in place. We investigated four conductive materials and four insulators, selecting the best combination based on our design goals of the need for a continuous activation surface, the least amount of force required for skin activation, and the most consistent voltage change between the conductive surfaces measured during activation.

Fabrication and characterization of CNT-based smart tips for synchrotron assisted STM

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

Yan, Hui; Cummings, Marvin; Camino, Fernando

Determination of chemical composition along with imaging at the atomic level provides critical information towards fundamental understanding of the surface of materials and, hence, yields the capability to design new materials by tailoring their ultimate functionalities. Synchrotron X-ray assisted scanning tunneling microscopy (SX-STM) is a promising new technique to achieve real space chemically specific atomic mapping. Chemical sensitivity of SX-STM relies on excitation of core electrons by incident X-rays when their energy is tuned to an absorption edge of a particular element. However, along with core-level electrons, photoelectrons are also excited, which yield additional current and interfere with the tunnelingmore » current. To reduce the background photoelectron current and to improve ultimate resolution of SX-STM, we have developed and fabricated multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) based “smart tips” using plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition and focused ion beam milling. As a result, the newly developed CNT-based smart tips, characterized step by step by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) during the fabrication process, demonstrate good performance and provide opportunity for realizing atomic chemical mapping.« less

Rapid microwave-assisted synthesis of highly luminescent nitrogen-doped carbon dots for white light-emitting diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yaling; Zheng, Jingxia; Wang, Junli; Yang, Yongzhen; Liu, Xuguang

2017-11-01

Highly luminescent nitrogen-doped carbon dots (N-CDs) were synthesized rapidly by one-step microwave-assisted hydrothermal method using citric acid as carbon source and ethylenediamine as dopant. The influences of reaction temperature, reaction time and raw material ratio on the fluorescence performance of N-CDs were investigated. Then N-CDs with the highest quantum yield were selected as fluorescent materials for fabricating white light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Highly luminescent N-CDs with the quantum yield of 75.96% and blue-to-red spectral composition of 51.48% were obtained at the conditions of 180 °C, 8 min and the molar ratio of citric acid to ethylenediamine 2:1. As-prepared highly luminescent N-CDs have an average size of 6.06 nm, possess extensive oxygen- and nitrogen-containing functional groups on their surface, and exhibit strong absorption in ultraviolet region. White LEDs based on the highly luminescent N-CDs emit warm white light with color coordinates of (0.42, 0.40) and correlated color temperature of 3416 K.

Fabrication and characterization of CNT-based smart tips for synchrotron assisted STM

DOE PAGES

Yan, Hui; Cummings, Marvin; Camino, Fernando; ...

2015-08-05

Determination of chemical composition along with imaging at the atomic level provides critical information towards fundamental understanding of the surface of materials and, hence, yields the capability to design new materials by tailoring their ultimate functionalities. Synchrotron X-ray assisted scanning tunneling microscopy (SX-STM) is a promising new technique to achieve real space chemically specific atomic mapping. Chemical sensitivity of SX-STM relies on excitation of core electrons by incident X-rays when their energy is tuned to an absorption edge of a particular element. However, along with core-level electrons, photoelectrons are also excited, which yield additional current and interfere with the tunnelingmore » current. To reduce the background photoelectron current and to improve ultimate resolution of SX-STM, we have developed and fabricated multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) based “smart tips” using plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition and focused ion beam milling. As a result, the newly developed CNT-based smart tips, characterized step by step by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) during the fabrication process, demonstrate good performance and provide opportunity for realizing atomic chemical mapping.« less

Microwave-assisted nitric acid treatment of sepiolite and functionalization with polyethylenimine applied to CO2 capture and CO2/N2 separation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vilarrasa-García, E.; Cecilia, J. A.; Bastos-Neto, M.; Cavalcante, C. L.; Azevedo, D. C. S.; Rodríguez-Castellón, E.

2017-07-01

Sepiolite was treated in HNO3 solutions with the assistance of microwave radiation. This treatment caused the progressive depletion of Mg2+, the gradual degradation of the sepiolite structure and the formation of an amorphous silica phase, which contributes to a noticeable increase of the surface area. The use of microwaves during acid treatment, after few minutes, led to materials with similar SBET to those obtained after 48 h with conventional heating methods. The influence of mineralogical impurities, crystallinity and chemical composition in the reactivity of sepiolite to this treatment was also studied. The obtained materials were impregnated with polyethylenimine and assessed for CO2 capture and CO2/N2 selectivity at different temperatures. Experimental equilibrium data were fitted to Langmuir and Sips models. The adsorption data revealed that sepiolite can be an interesting adsorbent for CO2 capture, achieving a capacity of 1.70 mmol g-1 at 338 K and 1 bar, providing a high CO2/N2 selectivity (440 mol CO2/mol N2).

Insights into the Surface Reactivity of Cermet and Perovskite Electrodes in Oxidizing, Reducing, and Humid Environments.

PubMed

Paloukis, Fotios; Papazisi, Kalliopi M; Dintzer, Thierry; Papaefthimiou, Vasiliki; Saveleva, Viktoriia A; Balomenou, Stella P; Tsiplakides, Dimitrios; Bournel, Fabrice; Gallet, Jean-Jacques; Zafeiratos, Spyridon

2017-08-02

Understanding the surface chemistry of electrode materials under gas environments is important in order to control their performance during electrochemical and catalytic applications. This work compares the surface reactivity of Ni/YSZ and La 0.75 Sr 0.25 Cr 0.9 Fe 0.1 O 3 , which are commonly used types of electrodes in solid oxide electrochemical devices. In situ synchrotron-based near-ambient pressure photoemission and absorption spectroscopy experiments, assisted by theoretical spectral simulations and combined with microscopy and electrochemical measurements, are used to monitor the effect of the gas atmosphere on the chemical state, the morphology, and the electrical conductivity of the electrodes. It is shown that the surface of both electrode types readjusts fast to the reactive gas atmosphere and their surface composition is notably modified. In the case of Ni/YSZ, this is followed by evident changes in the oxidation state of nickel, while for La 0.75 Sr 0.25 Cr 0.9 Fe 0.1 O 3 , a fine adjustment of the Cr valence and strong Sr segregation is observed. An important difference between the two electrodes is their capacity to maintain adsorbed hydroxyl groups on their surface, which is expected to be critical for the electrocatalytic properties of the materials. The insight gained from the surface analysis may serve as a paradigm for understanding the effect of the gas environment on the electrochemical performance and the electrical conductivity of the electrodes.

A bioactive metallurgical grade porous silicon-polytetrafluoroethylene sheet for guided bone regeneration applications.

PubMed

Chadwick, E G; Clarkin, O M; Raghavendra, R; Tanner, D A

2014-01-01

The properties of porous silicon make it a promising material for a host of applications including drug delivery, molecular and cell-based biosensing, and tissue engineering. Porous silicon has previously shown its potential for the controlled release of pharmacological agents and in assisting bone healing. Hydroxyapatite, the principle constituent of bone, allows osteointegration in vivo, due to its chemical and physical similarities to bone. Synthetic hydroxyapatite is currently applied as a surface coating to medical devices and prosthetics, encouraging bone in-growth at their surface and improving osseointegration. This paper examines the potential for the use of an economically produced porous silicon particulate-polytetrafluoroethylene sheet for use as a guided bone regeneration device in periodontal and orthopaedic applications. The particulate sheet is comprised of a series of microparticles in a polytetrafluoroethylene matrix and is shown to produce a stable hydroxyapatite on its surface under simulated physiological conditions. The microstructure of the material is examined both before and after simulated body fluid experiments for a period of 1, 7, 14 and 30 days using Scanning Electron Microscopy. The composition is examined using a combination of Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy, Thin film X-ray diffraction, Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and the uptake/release of constituents at the fluid-solid interface is explored using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy. Microstructural and compositional analysis reveals progressive growth of crystalline, 'bone-like' apatite on the surface of the material, indicating the likelihood of close bony apposition in vivo.

Two-color beam improvement of the colloidal particle lens array assisted surface nanostructuring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Afanasiev, Andrei; Bredikhin, Vladimir; Pikulin, Alexander; Ilyakov, Igor; Shishkin, Boris; Akhmedzhanov, Rinat; Bityurin, Nikita

2015-05-01

We consider laser nanostructuring of the material surface by means of a colloidal particle lens array. Here, the monolayer of dielectric micro- or nanospheres placed on the surface acts as an array of near-field lenses that focus the laser radiation into the multitude of distinct spots, allowing the formation of many structures in a single stage. We show that conversion of a small part of the energy of the femtosecond beam into the second harmonic (SH) is an efficient way to increase the surface density of obtained nanostructures. By combining the fundamental frequency and the SH, one benefits both from the power of the former and from the focusing ability of the latter. This combination provides an efficient nanostructuring with sphere diameter close to the wavelength of the second harmonic. The possibility to create arrays of nanostructures with surface density above 5 × 10 8 cm - 2 with femtosecond Ti:sapphire laser operating at 800 nm was demonstrated by employing 0.45 μm spheres.

1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine decomposition and chemisorption on Al(111) surface: first-principles molecular dynamics study.

PubMed

Umezawa, Naoto; Kalia, Rajiv K; Nakano, Aiichiro; Vashista, Priya; Shimojo, Fuyuki

2007-06-21

We have investigated the decomposition and chemisorption of a 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) molecule on Al(111) surface using molecular dynamics simulations, in which interatomic forces are computed quantum mechanically in the framework of the density functional theory (DFT). The real-space DFT calculations are based on higher-order finite difference and norm-conserving pseudopotential methods. Strong attractive forces between oxygen and aluminum atoms break N-O and N-N bonds in the RDX and, subsequently, the dissociated oxygen atoms and NO molecules oxidize the Al surface. In addition to these Al surface-assisted decompositions, ring cleavage of the RDX molecule is also observed. These reactions occur spontaneously without potential barriers and result in the attachment of the rest of the RDX molecule to the surface. This opens up the possibility of coating Al nanoparticles with RDX molecules to avoid the detrimental effect of oxidation in high energy density material applications.

TiO2-coated mesoporous carbon: conventional vs. microwave-annealing process.

PubMed

Coromelci-Pastravanu, Cristina; Ignat, Maria; Popovici, Evelini; Harabagiu, Valeria

2014-08-15

The study of coating mesoporous carbon materials with titanium oxide nanoparticles is now becoming a promising and challenging area of research. To optimize the use of carbon materials in various applications, it is necessary to attach functional groups or other nanostructures to their surface. The combination of the distinctive properties of mesoporous carbon materials and titanium oxide is expected to be applied in field emission displays, nanoelectronic devices, novel catalysts, and polymer or ceramic reinforcement. But, their synthesis is still largely based on conventional techniques, such as wet impregnation followed by chemical reduction of the metal nanoparticle precursors, which takes time and money. The thermal heating based techniques are time consuming and often lack control of particle size and morphology. Hence, since there is a growing interest in microwave technology, an alternative way of power input into chemical reactions through dielectric heating is the use of microwaves. This work is focused on the advantages of microwave-assisted synthesis of TiO2-coated mesoporous carbon over conventional thermal heating method. The reviewed studies showed that the microwave-assisted synthesis of such composites allows processes to be completed within a shorter reaction time allowing the nanoparticles formation with superior properties than that obtained by conventional method. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Surface modification of oxygen-deficient ZnO nanotubes by interstitially incorporated carbon: a superior photocatalytic platform for sustainable water and surface treatments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ninnora Meethal, Bhabhina; Ramanarayanan, Rajita; Swaminathan, Sindhu

2018-05-01

An interesting architecture of robust, highly reproducible, template-free synthesis of phase pure carbon-incorporated short ZnO nanotubes through polymer assisted sol-gel method is presented here. These nanotubes exhibit enormous surface oxygen vacancies and mid bandgap levels confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. These carbon-modified nanotubes exhibit encouraging results in photocatalytic studies, as there is a 16% greater degradation of contaminant dye than in the pristine ZnO nanotube. The reactive oxygen species generated from the photocatalysts were experimentally confirmed and quantified. Super hydrophilic nature renders these nanotubes suitable for antifogging application as observed from contact angle measurements. Characterisation and mechanism of a competent material with improved photoresponse, promising greater energy efficiency and anti-fog have been described in this investigation.

Efficient production by laser materials processing integrated into metal cutting machines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wiedmaier, M.; Meiners, E.; Dausinger, Friedrich; Huegel, Helmut

1994-09-01

Beam guidance of high power YAG-laser (cw, pulsed, Q-switched) with average powers up to 2000 W by flexible glass fibers facilitates the integration of the laser beam as an additional tool into metal cutting machines. Hence, technologies like laser cutting, joining, hardening, caving, structuring of surfaces and laser-marking can be applied directly inside machining centers in one setting, thereby reducing the flow of workpieces resulting in a lowering of costs and production time. Furthermore, materials with restricted machinability--especially hard materials like ceramics, hard metals or sintered alloys--can be shaped by laser-caving or laser assisted machining. Altogether, the flexibility of laser integrated machining centers is substantially increased or the efficiency of a production line is raised by time-savings or extended feasibilities with techniques like hardening, welding or caving.

A flexible nanobrush pad for the chemical mechanical planarization of Cu/ultra-low-к materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Guiquan; Liu, Yuhong; Lu, Xinchun; Luo, Jianbin

2012-10-01

A new idea of polishing pad called flexible nanobrush pad (FNP) has been proposed for the low down pressure chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) process of Cu/ultra-low-к materials. The FNP was designed with a surface layer of flexible brush-like nanofibers which can `actively' carry nanoscale abrasives in slurry independent of the down pressure. Better planarization performances including high material removal rate, good planarization, good polishing uniformity, and low defectivity are expected in the CMP process under the low down pressure with such kind of pad. The FNP can be made by template-assisted replication or template-based synthesis methods, which will be driven by the development of the preparation technologies for ordered nanostructure arrays. The present work would potentially provide a new solution for the Cu/ultra-low-к CMP process.

An evaluation of thematic mapper simulator data for the geobotanical discrimination of rock types in Southwest Oregon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Weinstock, K. J.; Morrissey, L. A.

1984-01-01

Rock type identification may be assisted by the use of remote sensing of associated vegetation, particularly in areas of dense vegetative cover where surface materials are not imaged directly by the sensor. The geobotanical discrimination of ultramafic parent materials was investigated and analytical techniques for lithologic mapping and mineral exploration were developed. The utility of remotely sensed data to discriminate vegetation types associated with ultramafic parent materials in a study area in southwest Oregon were evaluated. A number of specific objectives were identified, which include: (1) establishment of the association between vegetation and rock types; (2) examination of the spectral separability of vegetation types associated with rock types; (3) determination of the contribution of each TMS band for discriminating vegetation associated with rock types and (4) comparison of analytical techniques for spectrally classifying vegetation.

Revisiting 30 years of biofunctionalization and surface chemistry of inorganic nanoparticles for nanomedicine

PubMed Central

Conde, João; Dias, Jorge T.; Grazú, Valeria; Moros, Maria; Baptista, Pedro V.; de la Fuente, Jesus M.

2014-01-01

In the last 30 years we have assisted to a massive advance of nanomaterials in material science. Nanomaterials and structures, in addition to their small size, have properties that differ from those of larger bulk materials, making them ideal for a host of novel applications. The spread of nanotechnology in the last years has been due to the improvement of synthesis and characterization methods on the nanoscale, a field rich in new physical phenomena and synthetic opportunities. In fact, the development of functional nanoparticles has progressed exponentially over the past two decades. This work aims to extensively review 30 years of different strategies of surface modification and functionalization of noble metal (gold) nanoparticles, magnetic nanocrystals and semiconductor nanoparticles, such as quantum dots. The aim of this review is not only to provide in-depth insights into the different biofunctionalization and characterization methods, but also to give an overview of possibilities and limitations of the available nanoparticles. PMID:25077142

Plasma-assisted interface engineering of boron nitride nanostructure films.

PubMed

Pakdel, Amir; Bando, Yoshio; Golberg, Dmitri

2014-10-28

Today many aspects of science and technology are progressing into the nanoscale realm where surfaces and interfaces are intrinsically important in determining properties and performances of materials and devices. One familiar phenomenon in which interfacial interactions play a major role is the wetting of solids. In this work we use a facile one-step plasma method to control the wettability of boron nitride (BN) nanostructure films via covalent chemical functionalization, while their surface morphology remains intact. By tailoring the concentration of grafted hydroxyl groups, superhydrophilic, hydrophilic, and hydrophobic patterns are created on the initially superhydrophobic BN nanosheet and nanotube films. Moreover, by introducing a gradient of the functional groups, directional liquid spreading toward increasing [OH] content is achieved on the films. The resulting insights are meant to illustrate great potentials of this method to tailor wettability of ceramic films, control liquid flow patterns for engineering applications such as microfluidics and biosensing, and improve the interfacial contact and adhesion in nanocomposite materials.

Development of zwitterionic sulfobetaine block copolymer conjugation strategies for reduced platelet deposition in respiratory assist devices.

PubMed

Malkin, Alexander D; Ye, Sang-Ho; Lee, Evan J; Yang, Xiguang; Zhu, Yang; Gamble, Lara J; Federspiel, William J; Wagner, William R

2018-02-09

Respiratory assist devices, that utilize ∼2 m 2 of hollow fiber membranes (HFMs) to achieve desired gas transfer rates, have been limited in their adoption due to such blood biocompatibility limitations. This study reports two techniques for the functionalization and subsequent conjugation of zwitterionic sulfobetaine (SB) block copolymers to polymethylpentene (PMP) HFM surfaces with the intention of reducing thrombus formation in respiratory assist devices. Amine or hydroxyl functionalization of PMP HFMs (PMP-A or PMP-H) was accomplished using plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The generated functional groups were conjugated to low molecular weight SB block copolymers with N-hydroxysuccinimide ester or siloxane groups (SBNHS or SBNHSi) that were synthesized using reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer polymerization. The modified HFMs (PMP-A-SBNHS or PMP-H-SBNHSi) showed 80-95% reduction in platelet deposition from whole ovine blood, stability under the fluid shear of anticipated operating conditions, and uninhibited gas exchange performance relative to non-modified HFMs (PMP-C). Additionally, the functionalization and SBNHSi conjugation technique was shown to reduce platelet deposition on polycarbonate and poly(vinyl chloride), two other materials commonly found in extracorporeal circuits. The observed thromboresistance and stability of the SB modified surfaces, without degradation of HFM gas transfer performance, indicate that this approach is promising for longer term pre-clinical testing in respiratory assist devices and may ultimately allow for the reduction of anticoagulation levels in patients being supported for extended periods. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Hydrogen-assisted versus hydroxyl-assisted CO dissociation over Co-doped Cu(111): A DFT study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zha, Hao; Dong, Xiuqin; Yu, Yingzhe; Zhang, Minhua

2018-03-01

First principle based density functional theory (DFT) was used to calculate the step-by-step hydrogenation and dissociation reaction network of carbon monoxide (CO) over Co-doped Cu(111) surface as a model for understanding the lateral interaction of surface hydroxyl species (OH) on these reactions. We discussed the Csbnd O bond length and the adsorption energy changes of reaction intermediates under different adsorption circumstances for purpose of making out the effect of surface hydroxyl on the reaction selectivity. Reaction intermediates co-adsorbed with H atom and hydroxyl could undergo H-assisted or OH-assisted routes. The calculations show that the OH-assisted route prefers with the formation of COH, CHOH and CH2OH while general H-assisted route prefers with the formation of HCO, CH2O and CH3O. Considering the rather low activation barrier of COH, CHOH and CH2OH to form CHX, the existence of hydroxyl on the surface is in favor of boosting the CHX and suppressing the methanol.

Electric treatment for hydrophilic ink deinking.

PubMed

Du, Xiaotang; Hsieh, Jeffery S

2017-09-01

Hydrophilic inks have been widely used due to higher printing speed, competitive cost and being healthy non-organic solvents. However, they cause problems in both product quality and process runnability due to their hydrophilic surface wettability, strong negative surface charge and sub-micron size. Electric treatment was shown to be able to increase the ink sizes from 60 nm to 700 nm through electrocoagulation and electrophoresis. In addition, electric treatment assisted flotation could reduce effective residual ink concentration (ERIC) by 90 ppm, compared with only 20 ppm by traditional flotation. Furthermore, the effect of electric treatment alone on ink separation was investigated by two anode materials, graphite and stainless steel. Both of them could remove hydrophilic inks with less than 1% yield loss via electroflotation and electrophoresis. But graphite is a better material as the anode because graphite reduced ERIC by an additional 100 ppm. The yield loss of flotation following electric treatment was also lower by 17% if graphite was the anode material. The difference between the two electrode materials resulted from electrocoagulation and ink redeposition during electric treatment. An electric pretreatment-flotation-hyperwashing process was conducted to understand the deinking performance in conditions similar to a paper mill, and the ERIC was reduced from 950 ppm to less than 400 ppm.

Behavioral Health in the Patient Centered Medical Home: Meeting the Quadruple Aim Part 1

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-24

visits)  Pre-clinician diagnostic aid  Patient education materials  Psychosocial options  Care Facilitator assisted follow-up option  Aggressive...clinician diagnostic aid  Patient education materials  Psychosocial options  Care Facilitator assisted follow-up option  Aggressive facilitator outreach...visits)  Pre-clinician diagnostic aid  Patient education materials  Psychosocial options  Care Facilitator assisted follow-up option  Aggressive

Laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry for direct profiling and imaging of small molecules from raw biological materials

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

Cha, Sangwon

2008-01-01

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization(MALDI) mass spectrometry(MS) has been widely used for analysis of biological molecules, especially macromolecules such as proteins. However, MALDI MS has a problem in small molecule (less than 1 kDa) analysis because of the signal saturation by organic matrixes in the low mass region. In imaging MS (IMS), inhomogeneous surface formation due to the co-crystallization process by organic MALDI matrixes limits the spatial resolution of the mass spectral image. Therefore, to make laser desorption/ionization (LDI) MS more suitable for mass spectral profiling and imaging of small molecules directly from raw biological tissues, LDI MS protocols with various alternativemore » assisting materials were developed and applied to many biological systems of interest. Colloidal graphite was used as a matrix for IMS of small molecules for the first time and methodologies for analyses of small metabolites in rat brain tissues, fruits, and plant tissues were developed. With rat brain tissues, the signal enhancement for cerebroside species by colloidal graphite was observed and images of cerebrosides were successfully generated by IMS. In addition, separation of isobaric lipid ions was performed by imaging tandem MS. Directly from Arabidopsis flowers, flavonoids were successfully profiled and heterogeneous distribution of flavonoids in petals was observed for the first time by graphite-assisted LDI(GALDI) IMS.« less

Tailoring surface and photocatalytic properties of ZnO and nitrogen-doped ZnO nanostructures using microwave-assisted facile hydrothermal synthesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rangel, R.; Cedeño, V.; Ramos-Corona, A.; Gutiérrez, R.; Alvarado-Gil, J. J.; Ares, O.; Bartolo-Pérez, P.; Quintana, P.

2017-08-01

Microwave hydrothermal synthesis, using an experimental 23 factorial design, was used to produce tunable ZnO nano- and microstructures, and their potential as photocatalysts was explored. Photocatalytic reactions were conducted in a microreactor batch system under UV and visible light irradiation, while monitoring methylene blue degradation, as a model system. The variables considered in the microwave reactor to produce ZnO nano- or microstructures, were time, NaOH concentration and synthesis temperature. It was found that, specific surface area and volume/surface area ratio were affected as a consequence of the synthesis conditions. In the second stage, the samples were plasma treated in a nitrogen atmosphere, with the purpose of introducing nitrogen into the ZnO crystalline structure. The central idea is to induce changes in the material structure as well as in its optical absorption, to make the plasma-treated material useful as photocatalyst in the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Pristine ZnO and nitrogen-doped ZnO compounds were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), specific surface area (BET), XPS, and UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The results show that the methodology presented in this work is effective in tailoring the specific surface area of the ZnO compounds and incorporation of nitrogen into their structure, factors which in turn, affect its photocatalytic behavior.

Functionalization of silicon nanowires by conductive and non-conductive polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belhousse, S.; Tighilt, F.-Z.; Sam, S.; Lasmi, K.; Hamdani, K.; Tahanout, L.; Megherbi, F.; Gabouze, N.

2017-11-01

The work reports on the development of hybrid devices based on silicon nanowires (SiNW) with polymers and the difference obtained when using conductive and non-conductive polymers. SiNW have attracted much attention due to their importance in understanding the fundamental properties at low dimensionality as well as their potential application in nanoscale devices as in field effect transistors, chemical or biological sensors, battery electrodes and photovoltaics. SiNW arrays were formed using metal assisted chemical etching method. This process is simple, fast and allows obtaining a wide range of silicon nanostructures. Hydrogen-passivated SiNW surfaces show relatively poor stability. Surface modification with organic species confers the desired stability and enhances the surface properties. For this reason, this work proposes a covalent grafting of organic material onto SiNW surface. We have chosen a non-conductive polymer polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and conductive polymers polythiophene (PTh) and polypyrrole (PPy), in order to evaluate the electric effect of the polymers on the obtained materials. The hybrid structures were elaborated by the polymerization of the corresponding conjugated monomers by electrochemical route; this electropolymerization offers several advantages such as simplicity and rapidity. SiNW functionalization by conductive polymers has shown to have a huge effect on the electrical mobility. Hybrid surface morphologies were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR) and contact angle measurements.

Numerical simulations of rough contacts between viscoelastic materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spinu, S.; Cerlinca, D.

2017-08-01

The durability of the mechanical contact is often plagued by surface-related phenomena like rolling contact fatigue, wear or crack propagation, which are linked to the important gradients of stress arising in the contacting bodies due to interaction at the asperity level. The semi-analytical computational approach adopted in this paper is based on a previously reported algorithm capable of simulating the contact between bodies with arbitrary limiting surfaces and viscoelastic behaviour, which is enhanced and adapted for the contact of real surfaces with microtopography. As steep slopes at the asperity level inevitably lead to localized plastic deformation at the tip of the asperities that are first brought into contact, the viscoelastic behaviour is amended by limiting the maximum value of the pressure on the contact area to that of the material hardness, according to the Tabor equation. In this manner, plasticity is considered in a simplified manner that assures the knowledge of the contact area and of the pressure distribution without estimation of the residual state. The main advantage of this approach is the preservation of the algorithmic complexity, allowing the simulation of very fine meshes capable of capturing particular features of the investigated contacting surface. The newly advanced model is expected to predict the contact specifics of rough surfaces as resulting from various manufacturing processes, thus assisting the design of durable machine elements using elastomers or rubbers.

Materials for Heated Head Automated Thermoplastic Tape Placement

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jensen, Brian J.; Kinney, Megan C.; Cano, Roberto J.; Grimsley, Brian W.

2012-01-01

NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) is currently pursuing multiple paths to develop out of autoclave (OOA) polymeric composite materials and processes. Polymeric composite materials development includes the synthesis of new and/or modified thermosetting and thermoplastic matrix resins designed for specific OOA processes. OOA processes currently under investigation include vacuum bag only (VBO) prepreg/composite fabrication, resin transfer molding (RTM), vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) and heated head automated thermoplastic tape placement (HHATP). This paper will discuss the NASA Langley HHATP facility and capabilities and recent work on characterizing thermoplastic tape quality and requirements for quality part production. Samples of three distinct versions of APC-2 (AS4/PEEK) thermoplastic dry tape were obtained from two materials vendors, TENCATE, Inc. and CYTEC Engineered Materials** (standard grade and an experimental batch). Random specimens were taken from each of these samples and subjected to photo-microscopy and surface profilometry. The CYTEC standard grade of APC-2 tape had the most voids and splits and the highest surface roughness and/or waviness. Since the APC-2 tape is composed of a thermoplastic matrix, it offers the flexibility of reprocessing to improve quality, and thereby improve final quality of HHATP laminates. Discussions will also include potential research areas and future work that is required to advance the state of the art in the HHATP process for composite fabrication.

Laser-assisted focused He + ion beam induced etching with and without XeF 2 gas assist

DOE PAGES

Stanford, Michael G.; Mahady, Kyle; Lewis, Brett B.; ...

2016-10-04

Focused helium ion (He +) milling has been demonstrated as a high-resolution nanopatterning technique; however, it can be limited by its low sputter yield as well as the introduction of undesired subsurface damage. Here, we introduce pulsed laser- and gas-assisted processes to enhance the material removal rate and patterning fidelity. A pulsed laser-assisted He+ milling process is shown to enable high-resolution milling of titanium while reducing subsurface damage in situ. Gas-assisted focused ion beam induced etching (FIBIE) of Ti is also demonstrated in which the XeF 2 precursor provides a chemical assist for enhanced material removal rate. In conclusion, amore » pulsed laser-assisted and gas-assisted FIBIE process is shown to increase the etch yield by ~9× relative to the pure He+ sputtering process. These He + induced nanopatterning techniques improve material removal rate, in comparison to standard He + sputtering, while simultaneously decreasing subsurface damage, thus extending the applicability of the He + probe as a nanopattering tool.« less

Laser-assisted focused He + ion beam induced etching with and without XeF 2 gas assist

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

Stanford, Michael G.; Mahady, Kyle; Lewis, Brett B.

Focused helium ion (He +) milling has been demonstrated as a high-resolution nanopatterning technique; however, it can be limited by its low sputter yield as well as the introduction of undesired subsurface damage. Here, we introduce pulsed laser- and gas-assisted processes to enhance the material removal rate and patterning fidelity. A pulsed laser-assisted He+ milling process is shown to enable high-resolution milling of titanium while reducing subsurface damage in situ. Gas-assisted focused ion beam induced etching (FIBIE) of Ti is also demonstrated in which the XeF 2 precursor provides a chemical assist for enhanced material removal rate. In conclusion, amore » pulsed laser-assisted and gas-assisted FIBIE process is shown to increase the etch yield by ~9× relative to the pure He+ sputtering process. These He + induced nanopatterning techniques improve material removal rate, in comparison to standard He + sputtering, while simultaneously decreasing subsurface damage, thus extending the applicability of the He + probe as a nanopattering tool.« less

10 CFR 4.322 - Written notice, technical assistance, and educational materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 10 Energy 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Written notice, technical assistance, and educational... the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as Amended Duties of Nrc Recipients § 4.322 Written notice, technical assistance, and educational materials. (a) NRC will provide written notice to each recipient of...

13 CFR 113.455 - Textbooks and curricular material.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 13 Business Credit and Assistance 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Textbooks and curricular material. 113.455 Section 113.455 Business Credit and Assistance SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION NONDISCRIMINATION IN FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS OF SBA-EFFECTUATION OF POLICIES OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AND SBA ADMINISTRATOR Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Se...

Energy Device Applications of Synthesized 1D Polymer Nanomaterials.

PubMed

Huang, Long-Biao; Xu, Wei; Hao, Jianhua

2017-11-01

1D polymer nanomaterials as emerging materials, such as nanowires, nanotubes, and nanopillars, have attracted extensive attention in academia and industry. The distinctive, various, and tunable structures in the nanoscale of 1D polymer nanomaterials present nanointerfaces, high surface-to-volume ratio, and large surface area, which can improve the performance of energy devices. In this review, representative fabrication techniques of 1D polymer nanomaterials are summarized, including electrospinning, template-assisted, template-free, and inductively coupled plasma methods. The recent advancements of 1D polymer nanomaterials in energy device applications are demonstrated. Lastly, existing challenges and prospects of 1D polymer nanomaterials for energy device applications are presented. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Solvent evaporation induced graphene powder with high volumetric capacitance and outstanding rate capability for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xiaozhe; Raj, Devaraj Vasanth; Zhou, Xufeng; Liu, Zhaoping

2018-04-01

Graphene-based electrode materials for supercapacitors usually suffer from poor volumetric performance due to the low density. The enhancement of volumetric capacitance by densification of graphene materials, however, is usually accompanied by deterioration of rate capability, as the huge contraction of pore size hinders rapid diffusion of electrolytes. Thus, it is important to develop suitable pore size in graphene materials, which can sustain fast ion diffusion and avoid excessive voids to acquire high density simultaneously for supercapacitor applications. Accordingly, we propose a simple solvent evaporation method to control the pore size of graphene powders by adjusting the surface tension of solvents. Ethanol is used instead of water to reduce the shrinkage degree of graphene powder during solvent evaporation process, due to its lower surface tension comparing with water. Followed by the assistance of mechanical compression, graphene powder having high compaction density of 1.30 g cm-3 and a large proportion of mesopores in the pore size range of 2-30 nm is obtained, which delivers high volumetric capacitance of 162 F cm-3 and exhibits outstanding rate performance of 76% capacity retention at a high current density of 100 A g-1 simultaneously.

Lasers '81

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

Collins, C.B.

1982-01-01

Progress in lasers is discussed. The subjects addressed include: excimer lasers, surface spectroscopy, modern laser spectroscopy, free electron lasers, cavities and propagation, lasers in medicine, X-ray and gamma ray lasers, laser spectroscopy of small molecules and clusters, optical bistability, excitons, nonlinear optics in the X-ray and gamma ray regions, collective atomic phenomena, tunable IR lasers, far IR/submillimeter lasers, and laser-assisted collisions. Also treated are: special applications, multiphoton processes in atoms and small molecules, nuclear pumped lasers, material processing and applications, polarization, high energy lasers, laser chemistry, IR molecular lasers, laser applications of collision and dissociation phenomena, solid state laser materials,more » phase conjugation, advances in laser technology for fusion, metal vapor lasers, picosecond phenomena, laser ranging and geodesy, and laser photochemistry of complex molecules.« less

Slumping during sculpturing of composite materials.

PubMed

Chiang, Yu-Chih; Knezevic, Alena; Kunzelmann, Karl-Heinz

2008-12-01

This study investigated the slumping characteristics of four composite materials during sculpturing prior to their polymerization. Four different composite materials were used to measure shape deformation due to slumping. Silicon impressions of the occlusal plane of three different molars were used as a mould for the composite samples. The surface of the samples was digitized with a laser scanner (400 slices, lateral resolution: 25 microm). Scans were made after 1-4 min. The 3D data sets were numerically superimposed with matching software and differences were calculated relative to the baseline measurement. The amount of surface deformation increases with increasing observation time. The average coefficient of variation was 0.2. The largest mean amount of slumping was observed for ELS with tooth mould 1 (150.0 microm), and for Clearfil Majesty with tooth mould 2 (98.3 microm) and mould 3 (42.8 microm). Miris 2 Dentin and Synergy D6 Enamel were rather similar and seem to exhibit little deformation. The slump flow of ELS and Clearfil Majesty was up to 400% higher than the formers. The deformation could be sorted in the following order "mould 3"<"mould 2"<"mould 1" for all materials and all observation time. There was a significant influence (p<0.05) of the three factors, time, mould and composite type (ANOVA). This specific method provides a reproducible approach for the assessment of the handling characteristics of composite materials. The results can identify slumping differences and assist in collecting information about the feasibility of a material for certain indications.

A novel ultrasound assisted method in synthesis of NZVI particles.

PubMed

Jamei, Mir Roozbeh; Khosravi, Mohamad Reza; Anvaripour, Bagher

2014-01-01

This research is about a novel ultrasound assisted method for synthesis of nano zero valent iron particles (NZVI). The materials were characterized using TEM, FESEM, XRD, BET and acoustic PSA. The effect of ultrasonic power, precursor/reductant concentration (NaBH4, FeSO4·7H2O) and delivery rate of NaBH4 on NZVI characteristics were investigated. Under high ultrasonic power the morphology of nano particles changed from spherical type to plate and needle type. Also, when high precursor/reductant and high ultrasonic power was used the particle size of NZVI decreased. The surface area of NZVI particles synthesized by ultrasonic method was increased when compared by the other method. From the XRD patterns it was found also the crystallinity of particles was poor. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Liquid-Assisted Femtosecond Laser Precision-Machining of Silica.

PubMed

Cao, Xiao-Wen; Chen, Qi-Dai; Fan, Hua; Zhang, Lei; Juodkazis, Saulius; Sun, Hong-Bo

2018-04-28

We report a systematical study on the liquid assisted femtosecond laser machining of quartz plate in water and under different etching solutions. The ablation features in liquid showed a better structuring quality and improved resolution with 1/3~1/2 smaller features as compared with those made in air. It has been demonstrated that laser induced periodic structures are present to a lesser extent when laser processed in water solutions. The redistribution of oxygen revealed a strong surface modification, which is related to the etching selectivity of laser irradiated regions. Laser ablation in KOH and HF solution showed very different morphology, which relates to the evolution of laser induced plasma on the formation of micro/nano-features in liquid. This work extends laser precision fabrication of hard materials. The mechanism of strong absorption in the regions with permittivity (epsilon) near zero is discussed.

Surface morphology of molybdenum silicide films upon low-energy ion beam sputtering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gago, R.; Jaafar, M.; Palomares, F. J.

2018-07-01

The surface morphology of molybdenum silicide (Mo x Si1‑x ) films has been studied after low-energy Ar+ ion beam sputtering (IBS) to explore eventual pattern formation on compound targets and, simultaneously, gather information about the mechanisms behind silicide-assisted nanopatterning of silicon surfaces by IBS. For this purpose, Mo x Si1‑x films with compositions below, equal and above the MoSi2 stoichiometry (x  =  0.33) have been produced by magnetron sputtering, as assessed by Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS). The surface morphology of silicon and silicide films before and after IBS has been imaged by atomic force microscopy (AFM), comprising conditions where typical nanodot or ripple patterns emerge on the former. In the case of irradiated Mo x Si1‑x surfaces, AFM shows a marked surface smoothing at normal incidence with and without additional Mo incorporation (the former results in nanodot patterns on Si). The morphological analysis also provides no evidence of ion-induced phase separation in irradiated Mo x Si1‑x . Contrary to silicon, Mo x Si1‑x surfaces also do not display ripple formation for (impurity free) oblique irradiations, except at grazing incidence conditions where parallel ripples emerge in a more evident fashion than in the Si counterpart. By means of RBS, irradiated Mo x Si1‑x films with 1 keV Ar+ at normal incidence have also been used to measure experimentally the (absolute) sputtering yield and rate of Si and Mo x Si1‑x materials. The analysis reveals that, under the present working conditions, the erosion rate of silicides is larger than for silicon, supporting simulations from the TRIDYN code. This finding questions the shielding effect from silicide regions as roughening mechanism in metal-assisted nanopatterning of silicon. On the contrary, the results highlight the relevance of in situ silicide formation. Ripple formation on Mo x Si1‑x under grazing incidence is also attributed to the dominance of sputtering effects under this geometry. In conclusion, our work provides some insights into the complex morphological evolution of compound surfaces and solid experimental evidences regarding the mechanisms behind silicide-assisted nanopatterning.

Effects of filling material and laser power on the formation of intermetallic compounds during laser-assisted friction stir butt welding of steel and aluminum alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fei, Xinjiang; Jin, Xiangzhong; Peng, Nanxiang; Ye, Ying; Wu, Sigen; Dai, Houfu

2016-11-01

In this paper, two kinds of materials, Ni and Zn, are selected as filling material during laser-assisted friction stir butt welding of Q235 steel and 6061-T6 aluminum alloy, and their influences on the formation of intermetallic compounds on the steel/aluminum interface of the joints were first studied. SEM was used to analyze the profile of the intermetallic compound layer and the fractography of tensile fracture surfaces. In addition, EDS was applied to investigate the types of the intermetallic compounds. The results indicate that a thin iron-abundant intermetallic compound layer forms and ductile fracture mode occurs when Ni is added, but a thick aluminum-abundant intermetallic compound layer generates and brittle fracture mode occurs when Zn is added. So the tensile strength of the welds with Ni as filling material is greater than that with Zn as filling material. Besides, the effect of laser power on the formation of intermetallic compound layer when Ni is added was investigated. The preheated temperature field produced by laser beam in the cross section of workpiece was calculated, and the tensile strength of the joints at different laser powers was tested. Results show that only when suitable laser power is adopted, can suitable preheating temperature of the steel reach, then can thin intermetallic compound layer form and high tensile strength of the joints reach. Either excessive or insufficient laser power will reduce the tensile strength of the joints.

Polyethyleneimine assisted-two-step polymerization to develop surface imprinted cryogels for lysozyme purification.

PubMed

Erol, Kadir; Köse, Kazım; Uzun, Lokman; Say, Rıdvan; Denizli, Adil

2016-10-01

Surface imprinting strategy is one of the promising approaches to synthesize plastic antibodies while overcoming the problems in the protein imprinting research. In this study, we focused our attentions on developing two-step polymerization to imprint on the bare surface employing polyethyleneimine (PEI) assisted-coordination of template molecules, lysozyme. For this aim, we firstly synthesized poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate-glycidyl methacrylate), poly(HEMA-GMA) cryogels as a bare structure. Then, we immobilized PEI onto the cryogels through the addition reaction between GMA and PEI molecules. After that, we determined the amount of free amine (NH2) groups of PEI molecules, subsequently immobilized methacrylate functionalities onto the half of them and another half was used to chelate Cu(II) ions as a mediator between template, lysozyme and PEI groups. After the characterization of the materials developed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the micro-computed tomography (μCT), we optimized the lysozyme adsorption conditions from aqueous solution. Before performing lysozyme purification from chicken egg white, we evaluated the effects of pH, interaction time, the initial lysozyme concentration, temperature and ionic strength on the lysozyme adsorption. Moreover, the selectivity of surface imprinted cryogels was examined against cytochrome c and bovine serum albumin (BSA) as the competitors. Finally, the mathematical modeling, which was applied to describe the adsorption process, showed that the experimental data is very well-fitted to the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fundamental investigation on influence of external heat on chip formation during thermal assisted machining

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alkali, A. U.; Ginta, T. L.; Abdulrani, A. M.; Elsiti, N. M.

2018-04-01

Various heat sources have been investigated by numerous researchers to reveal machinability benefits of thermally assisted machining (TAM) process. Fewer engineering materials have been tested. In the same vein, those researches continue to demonstrate effective performance of TAM in terms of bulk material removal rate, improved surface finish, prolong tool life and reduction of cutting forces among others. Experimental investigation on the strain-hardenability and flow stress of material removed with respect to increase in temperature in TAM has not been given attention in previous studies. This study investigated the pattern of chip morphology and segmentation giving close attention to influence of external heat source responsible for strain – hardenability of the material removed during TAM and dry machining at room temperature. Full immersion down cut milling was used throughout the machining conditions. Machining was conducted on AISI 316L using uncoated tungsten carbide end mill insert at varying cutting speeds (V) of 50, 79, and 100 m/min, and feed rates (f) of 0.15, 0.25, and 0.4 mm/tooth while the depth of cut was maintained at 0.2mm throughout the machining trials. The analyses of chip formation, segmentations and stain hardenability were carried out by using LMU light microscope, field emission microscopy and micro indentation. The study observed that build up edge is formed when a stagnation zone develops in front of tool tip which give rise to poor thermal gradient for conduction heat to be transferred within the bulk material during dry machining. This promotes varying strain – hardening of the material removed with evident high chips hardness and thickness, whereas TAM circumvents such impairment by softening the shear zone through local preheat.

44 CFR 302.7 - Use of funds, materials, supplies, equipment, and personnel.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... use of civil defense personnel, organizational equipment, materials, and facilities, in preparation..., supplies, equipment, and personnel. 302.7 Section 302.7 Emergency Management and Assistance FEDERAL... EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (EMA) § 302.7 Use of funds, materials, supplies, equipment, and...

Making molecular balloons in laser-induced explosive boiling of polymer solutions.

PubMed

Leveugle, Elodie; Sellinger, Aaron; Fitz-Gerald, James M; Zhigilei, Leonid V

2007-05-25

The effect of the dynamic molecular rearrangements leading to compositional segregation is revealed in coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations of short pulse laser interaction with a polymer solution in a volatile matrix. An internal release of matrix vapor at the onset of the explosive boiling of the overheated liquid is capable of pushing polymer molecules to the outskirts of a transient bubble, forming a polymer-rich surface layer enclosing the volatile matrix material. The results explain unexpected "deflated balloon" structures observed in films deposited by the matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation technique.

Fabrication and characterization of functionalized surfaces with 3-amino propyltrimethoxysilane films for anti-infective therapy applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grumezescu, Valentina; Andronescu, Ecaterina; Holban, Alina Maria; Socol, Gabriel; Grumezescu, Alexandru Mihai; Ficai, Anton; Lazar, Veronica; Chifiriuc, Mariana Carmen; Trusca, Roxana; Iordache, Florin

2015-05-01

The purpose of this study was the fabrication of functionalized anti-adherent surfaces based on the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) coated with 3-amino propyltrimethoxysilane (APTMS) by matrix assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE) in order to improve the resistance of PVC based prosthetic devices to microbial colonization. Infrared microscopy (IRM) investigations of APTMS thin films proved the compositional homogeneity of the prepared thin film. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs revealed a granular morphology with microspheres harboring a diameter between 15 and 60 nm. The microbiological assays proved that MAPLE deposited APTMS films inhibited the adherence capacity and biofilm development of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus strains. Furthermore, this material proved to be highly biocompatible, allowing the normal growth and development of human endothelial cells. These traits highlight the fact that the fabricated APTMS thin films may be efficiently used for improving different surfaces of medical use, including prostheses and implantable devices.

Mesoporous gold sponges: electric charge-assisted seed mediated synthesis and application as surface-enhanced Raman scattering substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yi, Zao; Luo, Jiangshan; Tan, Xiulan; Yi, Yong; Yao, Weitang; Kang, Xiaoli; Ye, Xin; Zhu, Wenkun; Duan, Tao; Yi, Yougen; Tang, Yongjian

2015-11-01

Mesoporous gold sponges were prepared using 4-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP)-stabilized Au seeds. This is a general process, which involves a simple template-free method, room temperature reduction of HAuCl4·4H2O with hydroxylamine. The formation process of mesoporous gold sponges could be accounted for the electrostatic interaction (the small Au nanoparticles (~3 nm) and the positively charged DMAP-stabilized Au seeds) and Ostwald ripening process. The mesoporous gold sponges had appeared to undergo electrostatic adsorption initially, sequentially linear aggregation, welding and Ostwald ripening, then, they randomly cross link into self-supporting, three-dimensional networks with time. The mesoporous gold sponges exhibit higher surface area than the literature. In addition, application of the spongelike networks as an active material for surface-enhanced Raman scattering has been investigated by employing 4-aminothiophenol (4-ATP) molecules as a probe.

Mesoporous gold sponges: electric charge-assisted seed mediated synthesis and application as surface-enhanced Raman scattering substrates

PubMed Central

Yi, Zao; Luo, Jiangshan; Tan, Xiulan; Yi, Yong; Yao, Weitang; Kang, Xiaoli; Ye, Xin; Zhu, Wenkun; Duan, Tao; Yi, Yougen; Tang, Yongjian

2015-01-01

Mesoporous gold sponges were prepared using 4-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP)-stabilized Au seeds. This is a general process, which involves a simple template-free method, room temperature reduction of HAuCl4·4H2O with hydroxylamine. The formation process of mesoporous gold sponges could be accounted for the electrostatic interaction (the small Au nanoparticles (~3 nm) and the positively charged DMAP-stabilized Au seeds) and Ostwald ripening process. The mesoporous gold sponges had appeared to undergo electrostatic adsorption initially, sequentially linear aggregation, welding and Ostwald ripening, then, they randomly cross link into self-supporting, three-dimensional networks with time. The mesoporous gold sponges exhibit higher surface area than the literature. In addition, application of the spongelike networks as an active material for surface-enhanced Raman scattering has been investigated by employing 4-aminothiophenol (4-ATP) molecules as a probe. PMID:26538365

A flexible nanobrush pad for the chemical mechanical planarization of Cu/ultra-low-к materials

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

A new idea of polishing pad called flexible nanobrush pad (FNP) has been proposed for the low down pressure chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) process of Cu/ultra-low-к materials. The FNP was designed with a surface layer of flexible brush-like nanofibers which can ‘actively’ carry nanoscale abrasives in slurry independent of the down pressure. Better planarization performances including high material removal rate, good planarization, good polishing uniformity, and low defectivity are expected in the CMP process under the low down pressure with such kind of pad. The FNP can be made by template-assisted replication or template-based synthesis methods, which will be driven by the development of the preparation technologies for ordered nanostructure arrays. The present work would potentially provide a new solution for the Cu/ultra-low-к CMP process. PMID:23110959

Nanoscale Structure and Interaction of Compact Assemblies of Carbon Nano-Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Timsina, Raju; Qiu, Xiangyun

Carbon-based nano-materials (CNM) are a diverse family of multi-functional materials under research and development world wide. Our work is further motivated by the predictive power of the physical understanding of the underlying structure-interaction-function relationships. Here we present results form recent studies of the condensed phases of several model CNMs in complexation with biologically derived molecules. Specifically, we employ X-ray diffraction (XRD) to determine nanoscale structures and use the osmotic stress method to quantify their interactions. The systems under investigation are dsDNA-dispersed carbon nanotubes (dsDNA-CNT), bile-salt-dispersed carbon nanotubes, and surfactant-assisted assemblies of graphene oxides. We found that salt and molecular crowding are both effective in condensing CNMs but the resultant structures show disparate phase behaviors. The molecular interactions driving the condensation/assembly sensitively depend on the nature of CNM complex surface chemistry and range from hydrophobic to electrostatic to entropic forces.

Global Stress Classification System for Materials Used in Solar Energy Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Slamova, Karolina; Schill, Christian; Herrmann, Jan; Datta, Pawan; Chih Wang, Chien

2016-08-01

Depending on the geographical location, the individual or combined impact of environmental stress factors and corresponding performance losses for solar applications varies significantly. Therefore, as a strategy to reduce investment risks and operating and maintenance costs, it is necessary to adapt the materials and components of solar energy systems specifically to regional environmental conditions. The project «GloBe Solar» supports this strategy by focusing on the development of a global stress classification system for materials in solar energy applications. The aim of this classification system is to assist in the identification of the individual stress conditions for every location on the earth's surface. The stress classification system could serve as a decision support tool for the industry (manufacturers, investors, lenders and project developers) and help to improve knowledge and services that can provide higher confidence to solar power systems.

Synthesis Methods, Microscopy Characterization and Device Integration of Nanoscale Metal Oxide Semiconductors for Gas Sensing

PubMed Central

Vander Wal, Randy L.; Berger, Gordon M.; Kulis, Michael J.; Hunter, Gary W.; Xu, Jennifer C.; Evans, Laura

2009-01-01

A comparison is made between SnO2, ZnO, and TiO2 single-crystal nanowires and SnO2 polycrystalline nanofibers for gas sensing. Both nanostructures possess a one-dimensional morphology. Different synthesis methods are used to produce these materials: thermal evaporation-condensation (TEC), controlled oxidation, and electrospinning. Advantages and limitations of each technique are listed. Practical issues associated with harvesting, purification, and integration of these materials into sensing devices are detailed. For comparison to the nascent form, these sensing materials are surface coated with Pd and Pt nanoparticles. Gas sensing tests, with respect to H2, are conducted at ambient and elevated temperatures. Comparative normalized responses and time constants for the catalyst and noncatalyst systems provide a basis for identification of the superior metal-oxide nanostructure and catalyst combination. With temperature-dependent data, Arrhenius analyses are made to determine activation energies for the catalyst-assisted systems. PMID:22408484

Bactericidal activity of biomimetic diamond nanocone surfaces.

PubMed

Fisher, Leanne E; Yang, Yang; Yuen, Muk-Fung; Zhang, Wenjun; Nobbs, Angela H; Su, Bo

2016-03-17

The formation of biofilms on implant surfaces and the subsequent development of medical device-associated infections are difficult to resolve and can cause considerable morbidity to the patient. Over the past decade, there has been growing recognition that physical cues, such as surface topography, can regulate biological responses and possess bactericidal activity. In this study, diamond nanocone-patterned surfaces, representing biomimetic analogs of the naturally bactericidal cicada fly wing, were fabricated using microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition, followed by bias-assisted reactive ion etching. Two structurally distinct nanocone surfaces were produced, characterized, and the bactericidal ability examined. The sharp diamond nanocone features were found to have bactericidal capabilities with the surface possessing the more varying cone dimension, nonuniform array, and decreased density, showing enhanced bactericidal ability over the more uniform, highly dense nanocone surface. Future research will focus on using the fabrication process to tailor surface nanotopographies on clinically relevant materials that promote both effective killing of a broader range of microorganisms and the desired mammalian cell response. This study serves to introduce a technology that may launch a new and innovative direction in the design of biomaterials with capacity to reduce the risk of medical device-associated infections.

Influence of a veterinary curriculum on the approaches and study skills of veterinary medical students.

PubMed

Chigerwe, Munashe; Ilkiw, Jan E; Boudreaux, Karen A

2011-01-01

The objectives of the present study were to evaluate first-, second-, third-, and fourth-year veterinary medical students' approaches to studying and learning as well as the factors within the curriculum that may influence these approaches. A questionnaire consisting of the short version of the Approaches and Study Skills Inventory for Students (ASSIST) was completed by 405 students, and it included questions relating to conceptions about learning, approaches to studying, and preferences for different types of courses and teaching. Descriptive statistics, factor analysis, Cronbach's alpha analysis, and log-linear analysis were performed on the data. Deep, strategic, and surface learning approaches emerged. There were a few differences between our findings and those presented in previous studies in terms of the correlation of the subscale monitoring effectiveness, which showed loading with both the deep and strategic learning approaches. In addition, the subscale alertness to assessment demands showed correlation with the surface learning approach. The perception of high workloads, the use of previous test files as a method for studying, and examinations that are based only on material provided in lecture notes were positively associated with the surface learning approach. Focusing on improving specific teaching and assessment methods that enhance deep learning is anticipated to enhance students' positive learning experience. These teaching methods include instructors who encourage students to be critical thinkers, the integration of course material in other disciplines, courses that encourage thinking and reading about the learning material, and books and articles that challenge students while providing explanations beyond lecture material.

Assembly of tobacco mosaic virus into fibrous and macroscopic bundled arrays mediated by surface aniline polymerization.

PubMed

Niu, Zhongwei; Bruckman, Michael A; Li, Siqi; Lee, L Andrew; Lee, Byeongdu; Pingali, Sai Venkatesh; Thiyagarajan, P; Wang, Qian

2007-06-05

One-dimensional (1D) polyaniline/tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) composite nanofibers and macroscopic bundles of such fibers were generated via a self-assembly process of TMV assisted by in-situ polymerization of polyaniline on the surface of TMV. At near-neutral reaction pH, branched polyaniline formed on the surface of TMV preventing lateral association. Therefore, long 1D nanofibers were observed with high aspect ratios and excellent processibility. At a lower pH, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed that initially long nanofibers were formed which resulted in bundled structures upon long-time reaction, presumably mediated by the hydrophobic interaction because of the polyaniline on the surface of TMV. In-situ time-resolved small-angle X-ray scattering study of TMV at different reaction conditions supported this mechanism. This novel strategy to assemble TMV into 1D and 3D supramolecular composites could be utilized in the fabrication of advanced materials for potential applications including electronics, optics, sensing, and biomedical engineering.

Removal of Microbial Contamination from Surface by Plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Xinxin; Liu, Hongxia; Shen, Zhenxing; Wang, Taobo

2018-01-01

Microbial contamination is closely associated with human and environmental health, they can be tested on food surfaces, medical devices, packing material and so on. In this paper the removal of the microbial contamination from surface using plasma treatment is investigated. The Escherichia coli (E. coli) has been chosen as a bio-indicator enabling to evaluate the effect of plasma assisted microbial inactivation. Oxygen gas was as the working gas. The plasma RF power, plasma exposition time, gas flow and the concentration of organic pollutant were varied in order to see the effect of the plasma treatment on the Gram-negative germ removal. After the treatment, the microbial abatement was evaluated by the standard plate count method. This proved a positive effect of the plasma treatment on Gram-negative germ removal. The kinetics and mathematical model of removal were studied after plasma treatment, and then the removing course of E. coli was analyzed. This work is meaningful for deepening our understanding of the fundamental scientific principles regarding microbial contamination from surface by plasma.

Homochiral polymerization-driven selective growth of graphene nanoribbons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakaguchi, Hiroshi; Song, Shaotang; Kojima, Takahiro; Nakae, Takahiro

2017-01-01

The surface-assisted bottom-up fabrication of graphene nanoribbons (GNRs), which consists of the radical polymerization of precursors followed by dehydrogenation, has attracted attention because of the method's ability to control the edges and widths of the resulting ribbon. Although these reactions on a metal surface are believed to be catalytic, the mechanism has remained unknown. Here, we demonstrate 'conformation-controlled surface catalysis': the two-zone chemical vapour deposition of a 'Z-bar-linkage' precursor, which represents two terphenyl units linked in a 'Z' shape, results in the efficient formation of acene-type GNRs with a width of 1.45 nm through optimized cascade reactions. These precursors exhibit flexibility that allows them to adopt chiral conformations with height asymmetry on a Au(111) surface, which enables the production of self-assembled homochiral polymers in a chain with a planar conformation, followed by dehydrogenation via a conformation-controlled mechanism. This is conceptually analogous to enzymatic catalysis and will be useful for the fabrication of new nanocarbon materials.

Comparison of single-step reverse transepithelial all-surface laser ablation (ASLA) to alcohol-assisted photorefractive keratectomy

PubMed Central

Aslanides, Ioannis M; Padroni, Sara; Mosquera, Samuel Arba; Ioannides, Antonis; Mukherjee, Achyut

2012-01-01

Purpose To evaluate postoperative pain, corneal epithelial healing, development of corneal haze, refractive outcomes, and corneal aberrations in a novel one-step, modified transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), termed All-surface laser ablation (ASLA), compared to conventional, alcohol-assisted PRK. Materials and methods Sixty eyes of 30 myopic patients were prospectively recruited to a randomized fellow eye study. Patients underwent conventional alcohol-assisted PRK in one eye (control group) and ASLA-modified transepithelial PRK in the other (30 eyes in each treatment arm). Primary endpoints were postoperative pain and haze scores at 1 day, 3 days, 1 week, and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Secondary endpoints included visual acuity at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, corneal aberrations at 3, 6, and 12 months, and early and late onset haze. Refractive predictability, safety, and efficacy of the two methods were considered. Results The average age of the cohort was 29 years (standard deviation [SD]: 9; range: 18–46), and the average spherical equivalent refractive error was −4.18 diopters (SD: 1.9). At 3 days after surgery, the average pain score was 64% lower in the ASLA group (P < 0.0005). At this point, 96% of ASLA eyes had no epithelial defect, whereas 43% in the alcohol-assisted group did not achieve complete epithelial healing, and required replacement of bandage contact lens. The haze level was consistently lower in the ASLA group at all time points from 1 to 6 months. Conclusion This study shows that the ASLA technique may have a future role in refractive surgery, due to the fact that it offers faster epithelial healing, lower pain scores, and significantly less haze formation. PMID:22815640

A Guide to Employability Skills Materials.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kromhout, Ora M.; And Others

This guide identifies existing employability skills materials and provides annotations to assist the reader in selecting materials. To assist Florida educators in relating employability skills to educational goals, Florida goals and standards are presented. A Topic Index to Titles first provides a topic outline of skills areas based on The Florida…

Morphological evolution of Bi2Se3 nanocrystalline materials synthesized by microwave assisted solvothermal method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bera, Sumit; Behera, P.; Mishra, A. K.; Krishnan, M.; Patidar, M. M.; Singh, D.; Gangrade, M.; Venkatesh, R.; Deshpande, U. P.; Phase, D. M.; Ganesan, V.

2018-04-01

Structural, morphological and spectroscopic properties of Bi2Se3 nanoparticles synthesized by microwave assisted solvothermal method were investigated systematically. A controlled synthesis of different morphologies by a small variation in synthesis procedure is demonstrated. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the formation of single phase. Crystallite and particle size reductions were studied with XRD and AFM (Atomic Force Microscopy). Different morphologies such as hexagonal nanoflakes with cross section of around˜6µm, nanoflower and octahedral agglomerated crystals of nearly ˜60 nm size have been observed in scanning electron microscope while varying the microwave assisted synthesis procedures. A significant blue shift observed in diffuse reflectance spectroscopy evidences the energy gap tuning as a result of morphological evolution. The difference in morphology observed in this three fast, facile and scalable synthesis is advantageous for tuning the thermoelectric figure of merit and for probing the surface states of these topological insulators. Low temperature resistivity remains similar for all three variants depicting a 2D character as evidenced by a -lnT term of localization.

Phase Equilibrium of TiO2 Nanocrystals in Flame-Assisted Chemical Vapor Deposition.

PubMed

Liu, Changran; Camacho, Joaquin; Wang, Hai

2018-01-19

Nano-scale titanium oxide (TiO 2 ) is a material useful for a wide range of applications. In a previous study, we showed that TiO 2 nanoparticles of both rutile and anatase crystal phases could be synthesized over the size range of 5 to 20 nm in flame-assisted chemical vapor deposition. Rutile was unexpectedly dominant in oxygen-lean synthesis conditions, whereas anatase is the preferred phase in oxygen-rich gases. The observation is in contrast to the 14 nm rutile-anatase crossover size derived from the existing crystal-phase equilibrium model. In the present work, we made additional measurements over a wider range of synthesis conditions; the results confirm the earlier observations. We propose an improved model for the surface energy that considers the role of oxygen desorption at high temperatures. The model successfully explains the observations made in the current and previous work. The current results provide a useful path to designing flame-assisted chemical vapor deposition of TiO 2 nanocrystals with controllable crystal phases. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Performance of the Satellite Test Assistant Robot in JPL's Space Simulation Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcaffee, Douglas; Long, Mark; Johnson, Ken; Siebes, Georg

1995-01-01

An innovative new telerobotic inspection system called STAR (the Satellite Test Assistant Robot) has been developed to assist engineers as they test new spacecraft designs in simulated space environments. STAR operates inside the ultra-cold, high-vacuum, test chambers and provides engineers seated at a remote Operator Control Station (OCS) with high resolution video and infrared (IR) images of the flight articles under test. STAR was successfully proof tested in JPL's 25-ft (7.6-m) Space Simulation Chamber where temperatures ranged from +85 C to -190 C and vacuum levels reached 5.1 x 10(exp -6) torr. STAR's IR Camera was used to thermally map the entire interior of the chamber for the first time. STAR also made several unexpected and important discoveries about the thermal processes occurring within the chamber. Using a calibrated test fixture arrayed with ten sample spacecraft materials, the IR camera was shown to produce highly accurate surface temperature data. This paper outlines STAR's design and reports on significant results from the thermal vacuum chamber test.

Novel Approaches to Extraction Methods in Recovery of Capsaicin from Habanero Pepper (CNPH 15.192).

PubMed

Martins, Frederico S; Borges, Leonardo L; Ribeiro, Claudia S C; Reifschneider, Francisco J B; Conceição, Edemilson C

2017-07-01

The objective of this study was to compare three capsaicin extraction methods: Shoxlet, Ultrasound-assisted Extraction (UAE), and Shaker-assisted Extraction (SAE) from Habanero pepper, CNPH 15.192. The different parameters evaluated were alcohol degree, time extraction, and solid-solvent ratio using response surface methodology (RSM). The three parameters found significant ( p < 0.05) were for UAE and solvent concentration and extraction time for SAE. The optimum conditions for the capsaicin UAE and SAE were similar 95% alcohol degree, 30 minutes and solid-liquid ratio 2 mg/mL. The Soxhlet increased the extraction in 10-25%; however, long extraction times (45 minutes) degraded 2% capsaicin. The extraction of capsaicin was influenced by extraction method and by the operating conditions chosen. The optimized conditions provided savings of time, solvent, and herbal material. Prudent choice of the extraction method is essential to ensure optimal yield of extract, thereby making the study relevant and the knowledge gained useful for further exploitation and application of this resource. Habanero pepper , line CNPH 15.192, possess capsaicin in higher levels when compared with others speciesHigher levels of ethanolic strength are more suitable to obtain a higher levels of capsaicinBox-Behnken design indicates to be useful to explore the best conditions of ultrasound assisted extraction of capsaicin. Abbreviations used: Nomenclature UAE: Ultrasound-assisted Extraction; SAE: Shaker-assisted Extraction.

Microwave-assisted synthesis of sensitive silver substrate for surface-enhanced Raman scattering spectroscopy

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

Xia Lixin; Wang Haibo; Wang Jian

A sensitive silver substrate for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy is synthesized under multimode microwave irradiation. The microwave-assisted synthesis of the SERS-active substrate was carried out in a modified domestic microwave oven of 2450 MHz, and the reductive reaction was conducted in a polypropylene container under microwave irradiation with a power of 100 W for 5 min. Formaldehyde was employed as both the reductant and microwave absorber in the reductive process. The effects of different heating methods (microwave dielectric and conventional) on the properties of the SERS-active substrates were investigated. Samples obtained with 5 min of microwave irradiation at amore » power of 100 W have more well-defined edges, corners, and sharper surface features, while the samples synthesized with 1 h of conventional heating at 40 deg. C consist primarily of spheroidal nanoparticles. The SERS peak intensity of the {approx}1593 cm{sup -1} band of 4-mercaptobenzoic acid adsorbed on silver nanoparticles synthesized with 5 min of microwave irradiation at a power of 100 W is about 30 times greater than when it is adsorbed on samples synthesized with 1 h of conventional heating at 40 deg. C. The results of quantum chemical calculations are in good agreement with our experimental data. This method is expected to be utilized for the synthesis of other metal nanostructural materials.« less

Rayleigh Instability-Assisted Satellite Droplets Elimination in Inkjet Printing.

PubMed

Yang, Qiang; Li, Huizeng; Li, Mingzhu; Li, Yanan; Chen, Shuoran; Bao, Bin; Song, Yanlin

2017-11-29

Elimination of satellite droplets in inkjet printing has long been desired for high-resolution and precision printing of functional materials and tissues. Generally, the strategy to suppress satellite droplets is to control ink properties, such as viscosity or surface tension, to assist ink filaments in retracting into one drop. However, this strategy brings new restrictions to the ink, such as ink viscosity, surface tension, and concentration. Here, we report an alternative strategy that the satellite droplets are eliminated by enhancing Rayleigh instability of filament at the break point to accelerate pinch-off of the droplet from the nozzle. A superhydrophobic and ultralow adhesive nozzle with cone morphology exhibits the capability to eliminate satellite droplets by cutting the ink filament at breakup point effectively. As a result, the nozzles with different sizes (10-80 μm) are able to print more inks (1 < Z < 38), for which the nozzles are super-ink-phobic and ultralow adhesive, without satellite droplets. The finding presents a new way to remove satellite droplets via designing nozzles with super-ink-phobicity and ultralow adhesion rather than restricting the ink, which has promising applications in printing electronics and biotechnologies.

In vivo evaluation of zirconia ceramic in the DexAide right ventricular assist device journal bearing.

PubMed

Saeed, Diyar; Shalli, Shanaz; Fumoto, Hideyuki; Ootaki, Yoshio; Horai, Tetsuya; Anzai, Tomohiro; Zahr, Roula; Horvath, David J; Massiello, Alex L; Chen, Ji-Feng; Dessoffy, Raymond; Catanese, Jacquelyn; Benefit, Stephen; Golding, Leonard A R; Fukamachi, Kiyotaka

2010-06-01

Zirconia is a ceramic with material properties ideal for journal bearing applications. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of zirconium oxide (zirconia) as a blood journal bearing material in the DexAide right ventricular assist device. Zirconia ceramic was used instead of titanium to manufacture the DexAide stator housing without changing the stator geometry or the remaining pump hardware components. Pump hydraulic performance, journal bearing reliability, biocompatibility, and motor efficiency data of the zirconia stator were evaluated in six chronic bovine experiments for 14-91 days and compared with data from chronic experiments using the titanium stator. Pump performance data including average in vivo pump flows and speeds using a zirconia stator showed no statistically significant difference to the average values for 16 prior titanium stator in vivo studies, with the exception of a 19% reduction in power consumption. Indices of hemolysis were comparable for both stator types. Results of coagulation assays and platelet aggregation tests for the zirconia stator implants showed no device-induced increase in platelet activation. Postexplant evaluation of the zirconia journal bearing surfaces showed no biologic deposition in any of the implants. In conclusion, zirconia ceramic can be used as a hemocompatible material to improve motor efficiency while maintaining hydraulic performance in a blood journal bearing application.

Silica sacrificial layer-assisted in-plane incorporation of Au nanoparticles into mesoporous titania thin films through different reduction methods.

PubMed

Liang, Chih-Peng; Yamauchi, Yusuke; Liu, Chia-Hung; Wu, Kevin C-W

2013-06-28

This study focuses on the incorporation of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) into our previously synthesized mesoporous titania thin films consisting of titania nanopillars and inverse mesospace (C. W. Wu, T. Ohsuna, M. Kuwabara and K. Kuroda, J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2006, 128, 4544-4545, denoted as MTTFs). Recently, mesoporous titania materials doped with noble metals such as gold have attracted considerable attention because noble metals can enhance the efficiency of mesoporous titania-based devices. In this research, we attempted to use four different reduction methods (i.e., thermal treatment, photo irradiation, liquid immersion, and vapor contacting) to introduce gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) into MTTFs. The synthesized Au@MTTFs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We further systematically investigated the formation mechanism of gold nanoparticles on the external and internal surfaces of the MTTFs. With the assistance of a silica sacrificial layer, well-dispersed Au NPs with sizes of 4.1 nm were obtained inside the MTTF by photo irradiation. The synthesized Au@MTTF materials show great potential in various photo-electronic and photo-catalytic applications.

Templated assembly of BiFeO3 nanocrystals into 3D mesoporous networks for catalytic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Papadas, I. T.; Subrahmanyam, K. S.; Kanatzidis, M. G.; Armatas, G. S.

2015-03-01

The self-assembly of uniform nanocrystals into large porous architectures is currently of immense interest for nanochemistry and nanotechnology. These materials combine the respective advantages of discrete nanoparticles and mesoporous structures. In this article, we demonstrate a facile nanoparticle templating process to synthesize a three-dimensional mesoporous BiFeO3 material. This approach involves the polymer-assisted aggregating assembly of 3-aminopropanoic acid-stabilized bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3) nanocrystals followed by thermal decomposition of the surfactant. The resulting material consists of a network of tightly connected BiFeO3 nanoparticles (~6-7 nm in diameter) and has a moderately high surface area (62 m2 g-1) and uniform pores (ca. 6.3 nm). As a result of the unique mesostructure, the porous assemblies of BiFeO3 nanoparticles show an excellent catalytic activity and chemical stability for the reduction of p-nitrophenol to p-aminophenol with NaBH4.The self-assembly of uniform nanocrystals into large porous architectures is currently of immense interest for nanochemistry and nanotechnology. These materials combine the respective advantages of discrete nanoparticles and mesoporous structures. In this article, we demonstrate a facile nanoparticle templating process to synthesize a three-dimensional mesoporous BiFeO3 material. This approach involves the polymer-assisted aggregating assembly of 3-aminopropanoic acid-stabilized bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3) nanocrystals followed by thermal decomposition of the surfactant. The resulting material consists of a network of tightly connected BiFeO3 nanoparticles (~6-7 nm in diameter) and has a moderately high surface area (62 m2 g-1) and uniform pores (ca. 6.3 nm). As a result of the unique mesostructure, the porous assemblies of BiFeO3 nanoparticles show an excellent catalytic activity and chemical stability for the reduction of p-nitrophenol to p-aminophenol with NaBH4. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: IR spectra and TG profiles of as-made BiFeO3 NPs and MBFA samples, TEM images of 3-APA-capped BiFeO3 NPs, EDS spectrum of MBFAs, N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms of randomly aggregated BiFeO3 NPs and catalytic data for 4-NP reduction by MBFAs and other nanostructured catalysts. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr00185d

Microwave-assisted solvothermal synthesis of hierarchical TiO2 microspheres for efficient electro-field-assisted-photocatalytic removal of tributyltin in tannery wastewater.

PubMed

Zhao, Yang; Huang, Zhiding; Chang, Wenkai; Wei, Chao; Feng, Xugen; Ma, Lin; Qi, Xiaoxia; Li, Zenghe

2017-07-01

Organotin compounds have been widely used in recent decades, however, the residential tributyltin (TBT) in environment has potential harmful effects on human health due to the disruption of endocrine system even at trace level. Herein, this work reports on an effective electro-field-assisted-photocatalytic technique for removal of TBT by applying an electric field to photocatalysis of as-prepared hierarchical TiO 2 microspheres. The synthesis of catalytic materials is based on a self-assembly process induced by microwave-assisted solvothermal reaction. Hierarchical TiO 2 microspheres consisting of nanowires can be obtained in short time with this facile method and possess high surface area and superior optical properties. As the catalyst, it was found that the reaction rate constant of electro-field-assisted-photocatalytic removal (0.0488 min -1 ) of TBT exhibited almost a 9 fold improvement as compared to that of photocatalysis (0.0052 min -1 ). The proposed mechanism of electro-field-assisted-photocatalytic removal of TBT was verified by using 117 Sn-enriched TBT spike solution as an isotopic tracer. In addition, varying impacts from some key reaction conditions, such as voltage of potential, pH value and the presence of Cr and formaldehyde were also discussed. The overall satisfactory TBT removal performance of the proposed electro-field-assisted-photocatalysis procedure with hierarchical TiO 2 microspheres, which was validated using actual tannery wastewater samples from three different kinds of tanning procedures. These attributes suggest that this electro-field-assisted-photocatalysis may have broad applications for the treatment of tannery wastewater. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Emerging surface characterization techniques for carbon steel corrosion: a critical brief review.

PubMed

Dwivedi, D; Lepkova, K; Becker, T

2017-03-01

Carbon steel is a preferred construction material in many industrial and domestic applications, including oil and gas pipelines, where corrosion mitigation using film-forming corrosion inhibitor formulations is a widely accepted method. This review identifies surface analytical techniques that are considered suitable for analysis of thin films at metallic substrates, but are yet to be applied to analysis of carbon steel surfaces in corrosive media or treated with corrosion inhibitors. The reviewed methods include time of flight-secondary ion mass spectrometry, X-ray absorption spectroscopy methods, particle-induced X-ray emission, Rutherford backscatter spectroscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy, electron probe microanalysis, near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, X-ray photoemission electron microscopy, low-energy electron diffraction, small-angle neutron scattering and neutron reflectometry, and conversion electron Moessbauer spectrometry. Advantages and limitations of the analytical methods in thin-film surface investigations are discussed. Technical parameters of nominated analytical methods are provided to assist in the selection of suitable methods for analysis of metallic substrates deposited with surface films. The challenges associated with the applications of the emerging analytical methods in corrosion science are also addressed.

Emerging surface characterization techniques for carbon steel corrosion: a critical brief review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dwivedi, D.; Lepkova, K.; Becker, T.

2017-03-01

Carbon steel is a preferred construction material in many industrial and domestic applications, including oil and gas pipelines, where corrosion mitigation using film-forming corrosion inhibitor formulations is a widely accepted method. This review identifies surface analytical techniques that are considered suitable for analysis of thin films at metallic substrates, but are yet to be applied to analysis of carbon steel surfaces in corrosive media or treated with corrosion inhibitors. The reviewed methods include time of flight-secondary ion mass spectrometry, X-ray absorption spectroscopy methods, particle-induced X-ray emission, Rutherford backscatter spectroscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy, electron probe microanalysis, near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, X-ray photoemission electron microscopy, low-energy electron diffraction, small-angle neutron scattering and neutron reflectometry, and conversion electron Moessbauer spectrometry. Advantages and limitations of the analytical methods in thin-film surface investigations are discussed. Technical parameters of nominated analytical methods are provided to assist in the selection of suitable methods for analysis of metallic substrates deposited with surface films. The challenges associated with the applications of the emerging analytical methods in corrosion science are also addressed.

High-frequency EPR of surface impurities on nanodiamond

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Zaili; Stepanov, Viktor; Takahashi, Susumu

Diamond is a fascinating material, hosting nitrogen-vacancy (NV) defect centers with unique magnetic and optical properties. There have been many reports that suggest the existence of paramagnetic impurities near surface of various kinds of diamonds. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) investigation of mechanically crushed nanodiamonds (NDs) as well as detonation NDs revealed g 2 like signals that are attributed to structural defects and dangling bonds near the diamond surface. In this presentation, we investigate paramagnetic impurities in various sizes of NDs using high-frequency (HF) continuous wave (cw) and pulsed EPR spectroscopy. Strong size dependence on the linewidth of HF cw EPR spectra reveals the existence of paramagnetic impurities in the vicinity of the diamond surface. We also study the size dependence of the spin-lattice and spin-spin relaxation times (T1 and T2) of single substitutional nitrogen defects in NDs Significant deviations from the temperature dependence of the phonon-assisted T1 process were observed in the ND samples, and were attributed to the contribution from the surface impurities. This work was supported by the Searle Scholars Program and the National Science Foundation (DMR-1508661 and CHE-1611134).

Controlling the dual mechanisms of oxide interface doping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, Weitao; Cen, Cheng

The formation of two dimensional electron gas (2DEG) at LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interfaces involves multiple electronic and structural causes. The interplay between them makes the investigation of individual mechanism very challenging. Here we demonstrate the nanoscale selective control of two interface doping pathways: charge transfers from surface adsorbed protons and oxygen vacancies created in LaAlO3 layers. The selective control is achieved by combining intensive electric field generated by conducting AFM probe which controls both the creation/migration of oxygen vacancies and the surface proton density, with plasma assisted surface hydroxylation and solvent based proton solvation that act mainly on surface adsorbates. Robust nanoscale reversible metal-insulator transition was achieved at the interfaces with the LaAlO3 layer thicker than the critic thickness. Different combinations of the experimental methods and doping mechanisms enable highly flexible tuning of the 2DEG's carrier density, mobility and sensitivity to ambient environments. The reversible and independent controls of surface states and vacancies add to the fundamental material research capabilities and can benefit future exploration of designed 2DEG nanoelectronics.

Emerging surface characterization techniques for carbon steel corrosion: a critical brief review

PubMed Central

Dwivedi, D.; Becker, T.

2017-01-01

Carbon steel is a preferred construction material in many industrial and domestic applications, including oil and gas pipelines, where corrosion mitigation using film-forming corrosion inhibitor formulations is a widely accepted method. This review identifies surface analytical techniques that are considered suitable for analysis of thin films at metallic substrates, but are yet to be applied to analysis of carbon steel surfaces in corrosive media or treated with corrosion inhibitors. The reviewed methods include time of flight-secondary ion mass spectrometry, X-ray absorption spectroscopy methods, particle-induced X-ray emission, Rutherford backscatter spectroscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy, electron probe microanalysis, near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, X-ray photoemission electron microscopy, low-energy electron diffraction, small-angle neutron scattering and neutron reflectometry, and conversion electron Moessbauer spectrometry. Advantages and limitations of the analytical methods in thin-film surface investigations are discussed. Technical parameters of nominated analytical methods are provided to assist in the selection of suitable methods for analysis of metallic substrates deposited with surface films. The challenges associated with the applications of the emerging analytical methods in corrosion science are also addressed. PMID:28413351

High-Performance Ultrathin Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Silicon Solar Cells via Solution-Processed Interface Modification.

PubMed

Zhang, Jie; Zhang, Yinan; Song, Tao; Shen, Xinlei; Yu, Xuegong; Lee, Shuit-Tong; Sun, Baoquan; Jia, Baohua

2017-07-05

Organic-inorganic hybrid solar cells based on n-type crystalline silicon and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) exhibited promising efficiency along with a low-cost fabrication process. In this work, ultrathin flexible silicon substrates, with a thickness as low as tens of micrometers, were employed to fabricate hybrid solar cells to reduce the use of silicon materials. To improve the light-trapping ability, nanostructures were built on the thin silicon substrates by a metal-assisted chemical etching method (MACE). However, nanostructured silicon resulted in a large amount of surface-defect states, causing detrimental charge recombination. Here, the surface was smoothed by solution-processed chemical treatment to reduce the surface/volume ratio of nanostructured silicon. Surface-charge recombination was dramatically suppressed after surface modification with a chemical, associated with improved minority charge-carrier lifetime. As a result, a power conversion efficiency of 9.1% was achieved in the flexible hybrid silicon solar cells, with a substrate thickness as low as ∼14 μm, indicating that interface engineering was essential to improve the hybrid junction quality and photovoltaic characteristics of the hybrid devices.

Technology Assessment of Laser-Assisted Materials Processing in Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nagarathnam, Karthik; Taminger, Karen M. B.

2001-01-01

Lasers are useful for performing operations such as joining, machining, built-up freeform fabrication, shock processing, and surface treatments. These attributes are attractive for the supportability of longer-term missions in space due to the multi-functionality of a single tool and the variety of materials that can be processed. However, current laser technology also has drawbacks for space-based applications, specifically size, power efficiency, lack of robustness, and problems processing highly reflective materials. A review of recent laser developments will be used to show how these issues may be reduced and indicate where further improvement is necessary to realize a laser-based materials processing capability in space. The broad utility of laser beams in synthesizing various classes of engineering materials will be illustrated using state-of-the art processing maps for select lightweight alloys typically found on spacecraft. With the advent of recent breakthroughs in diode-pumped solid-state lasers and fiber optic technologies, the potential to perform multiple processing techniques is increasing significantly. Lasers with suitable wavelengths and beam properties have tremendous potential for supporting future space missions to the moon, Mars and beyond.

Adhesive Bonding to Hybrid Materials: An Overview of Materials and Recommendations.

PubMed

Spitznagel, Frank A; Vuck, Alexander; Gierthmühlen, Petra C; Blatz, Markus B; Horvath, Sebastian D

2016-10-01

Recently, hybrid materials have been introduced to the dental market. Together with computer-assisted design/computer-assisted manufacturing (CAD/CAM) composite resins, they form a new class of dental CAD/CAM materials that combine the positive effects of ceramics and composites. As bonding is essential for their clinical longevity, it is crucial to have a good understanding of their material properties and cementation protocols. This review offers clinicians an overview of available hybrid materials and recommendations for their respective adhesive placements.

Bioapplications of graphene constructed functional nanomaterials.

PubMed

Gulzar, Arif; Yang, Piaoping; He, Fei; Xu, Jiating; Yang, Dan; Xu, Liangge; Jan, Mohammad Omar

2017-01-25

Graphene has distinctive mechanical, electronic, and optical properties, which researchers have applied to develop innovative electronic materials including transparent conductors and ultrafast transistors. Lately, the understanding of various chemical properties of graphene has expedited its application in high-performance devices that generate and store energy. Graphene is now increasing its terrain outside electronic and chemical applications toward biomedical areas such as precise bio sensing through graphene-quenched fluorescence, graphene-enhanced cell differentiation and growth, and graphene-assisted laser desorption/ionization for mass spectrometry. In this Account, we evaluate recent efforts to apply graphene and graphene oxides (GO) to biomedical research and a few different approaches to prepare graphene materials designed for biomedical applications and a brief perspective on their future applications. Because of its outstanding aqueous processability, amphiphilicity, surface functionalizability, surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), and fluorescence quenching ability, GO chemically exfoliated from oxidized graphite is considered a promising material for biological applications. In addition, the hydrophobicity and flexibility of large-area graphene synthesized by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) allow this material to play an important role in cell growth and differentiation. Graphene is considered to be an encouraging and smart candidate for numerous biomedical applications such as NIR-responsive cancer therapy and fluorescence bio-imaging and drug delivery. To that end, suitable preparation and unique approaches to utilize graphene-based materials such as graphene oxides (GOs), reduced graphene oxides (rGOs), and graphene quantum dots (GQDs) in biology and medical science are gaining growing interest. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparative structural and electrochemical study of high density spherical and non-spherical Ni(OH) 2 as cathode materials for Ni-metal hydride batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shangguan, Enbo; Chang, Zhaorong; Tang, Hongwei; Yuan, Xiao-Zi; Wang, Haijiang

In this paper we compare the behavior of non-spherical and spherical β-Ni(OH) 2 as cathode materials for Ni-MH batteries in an attempt to explore the effect of microstructure and surface properties of β-Ni(OH) 2 on their electrochemical performances. Non-spherical β-Ni(OH) 2 powders with a high-density are synthesized using a simple polyacrylamide (PAM) assisted two-step drying method. X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric/differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) testing, laser particle size analysis, and tap-density testing are used to characterize the physical properties of the synthesized products. Electrochemical characterization, including cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and a charge/discharge test, is also performed. The results show that the non-spherical β-Ni(OH) 2 materials exhibit an irregular tabular shape and a dense solid structure, which contains many overlapped sheet nano crystalline grains, and have a high density of structural disorder and a large specific surface area. Compared with the spherical β-Ni(OH) 2, the non-spherical β-Ni(OH) 2 materials have an enhanced discharge capacity, higher discharge potential plateau and superior cycle stability. This performance improvement can be attributable to a higher proton diffusion coefficient (4.26 × 10 -9 cm 2 s -1), better reaction reversibility, and lower electrochemical impedance of the synthesized material.

Evaluation of the Nitric Oxide and Nitrite Scavenging Capability, N-Nitrosamine Formation Inhibitory Activity, and Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Aqueous Two-Phase System Extraction of Total Saponins from Coreopsis tinctoria Flowering Tops by Response Surface Methodology.

PubMed

Luo, Ruiling; Yao, Xincheng; Liu, Xieying; Zhang, Yushang; Ying, Xue

2018-03-01

Coreopsis tinctoria flowering tops (CTFs) is a popular health product as herbal tea or as a traditional medicinal herb that is rich in saponins and exerts substantial biological activity. In this study, an ultrasound-assisted aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) was utilized to extract total saponins from CTFs and optimize the extraction process by response surface methodology. Moreover, the nitric oxide and nitrite scavenging capability, and N-nitrosamine formation inhibitory activity of total saponins were evaluated. Results showed that the optimal conditions for total saponins were 37.76% (w/w) ammonium sulfate and 35.62% (w/w) ethanol in ATPS coupled with ultrasonic-assisted extraction. Under the optimal conditions, the maximum yield of total saponins of 33.4 g/kg can be obtained from the CTFs raw material. The nitric oxide radical scavenging, nitrite scavenging, and N-nitrosamine inhibitory activities (SC 50 ) were 287.92 ± 7.42, 191.63 ± 7.69, and 1787.4 ± 51.26 μg/mL, respectively. The total saponins has a certain nitric oxide and nitrite scavenging capability, and N-nitrosamine formation inhibitory activity in vitro. Given these activities, research on saponins from CTFs provides profound and lasting implications for the novel applications of C. tinctoria.

Modelling and simulation of effect of ultrasonic vibrations on machining of Ti6Al4V.

PubMed

Patil, Sandip; Joshi, Shashikant; Tewari, Asim; Joshi, Suhas S

2014-02-01

The titanium alloys cause high machining heat generation and consequent rapid wear of cutting tool edges during machining. The ultrasonic assisted turning (UAT) has been found to be very effective in machining of various materials; especially in the machining of "difficult-to-cut" material like Ti6Al4V. The present work is a comprehensive study involving 2D FE transient simulation of UAT in DEFORM framework and their experimental characterization. The simulation shows that UAT reduces the stress level on cutting tool during machining as compared to that of in continuous turning (CT) barring the penetration stage, wherein both tools are subjected to identical stress levels. There is a 40-45% reduction in cutting forces and about 48% reduction in cutting temperature in UAT over that of in CT. However, the reduction magnitude reduces with an increase in the cutting speed. The experimental analysis of UAT process shows that the surface roughness in UAT is lower than in CT, and the UATed surfaces have matte finish as against the glossy finish on the CTed surfaces. Microstructural observations of the chips and machined surfaces in both processes reveal that the intensity of thermal softening and shear band formation is reduced in UAT over that of in CT. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Programmable colloidal molecules from sequential capillarity-assisted particle assembly

PubMed Central

Ni, Songbo; Leemann, Jessica; Buttinoni, Ivo; Isa, Lucio; Wolf, Heiko

2016-01-01

The assembly of artificial nanostructured and microstructured materials which display structures and functionalities that mimic nature’s complexity requires building blocks with specific and directional interactions, analogous to those displayed at the molecular level. Despite remarkable progress in synthesizing “patchy” particles encoding anisotropic interactions, most current methods are restricted to integrating up to two compositional patches on a single “molecule” and to objects with simple shapes. Currently, decoupling functionality and shape to achieve full compositional and geometrical programmability remains an elusive task. We use sequential capillarity-assisted particle assembly which uniquely fulfills the demands described above. This is a new method based on simple, yet essential, adaptations to the well-known capillary assembly of particles over topographical templates. Tuning the depth of the assembly sites (traps) and the surface tension of moving droplets of colloidal suspensions enables controlled stepwise filling of traps to “synthesize” colloidal molecules. After deposition and mechanical linkage, the colloidal molecules can be dispersed in a solvent. The template’s shape solely controls the molecule’s geometry, whereas the filling sequence independently determines its composition. No specific surface chemistry is required, and multifunctional molecules with organic and inorganic moieties can be fabricated. We demonstrate the “synthesis” of a library of structures, ranging from dumbbells and triangles to units resembling bar codes, block copolymers, surfactants, and three-dimensional chiral objects. The full programmability of our approach opens up new directions not only for assembling and studying complex materials with single-particle-level control but also for fabricating new microscale devices for sensing, patterning, and delivery applications. PMID:27051882

Response Surface Methodology Optimization of Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction of Acer Truncatum Leaves for Maximal Phenolic Yield and Antioxidant Activity.

PubMed

Yang, Lingguang; Yin, Peipei; Fan, Hang; Xue, Qiang; Li, Ke; Li, Xiang; Sun, Liwei; Liu, Yujun

2017-02-04

This study is the first to report the use of response surface methodology to improve phenolic yield and antioxidant activity of Acer truncatum leaves extracts (ATLs) obtained by ultrasonic-assisted extraction. The phenolic composition in ATLs extracted under the optimized conditions were characterized by UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS. Solvent and extraction time were selected based on preliminary experiments, and a four-factors-three-levels central composite design was conducted to optimize solvent concentration ( X ₁), material-to-liquid ratio ( X ₂), ultrasonic temperature ( X ₃) and power ( X ₄) for an optimal total phenol yield ( Y ₁) and DPPH• antioxidant activity ( Y ₂). The results showed that the optimal combination was ethanol:water ( v : v ) 66.21%, material-to-liquid ratio 1:15.31 g/mL, ultrasonic bath temperature 60 °C, power 267.30 W, and time 30 min with three extractions, giving a maximal total phenol yield of 7593.62 mg gallic acid equivalent/100 g d.w. and a maximal DPPH• antioxidant activity of 74,241.61 μmol Trolox equivalent/100 g d.w. Furthermore, 22 phenolics were first identified in ATL extract obtained under the optimized conditions, indicating that gallates, gallotannins, quercetin, myricetin and chlorogenic acid derivatives were the main phenolic components in ATL. What's more, a gallotannins pathway existing in ATL from gallic acid to penta- O -galloylglucoside was proposed. All these results provide practical information aiming at full utilization of phenolics in ATL, together with fundamental knowledge for further research.

MEASUREMENTS OF THE CONFINEMENT LEAKTIGHTNESS AT THE KOLA NUCLEAR POWER STATION (UNIT 2) IN RUSSIA

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

GREENE,G.A.; GUPPY,J.G.

1998-08-01

This is the final report on the INSP project entitled, ``Kola Confinement Leaktightness'' conducted by BNL under the authorization of Project Work Plan WBS 1.2.2.1. This project was initiated in February 1993 to assist the Russians to reduce risks associated with the continued operation of older Soviet-designed nuclear power plants, specifically the Kola VVER-440/230 Units 1 and 2, through upgrades in the confinement performance to reduce the uncontrolled leakage rate. The major technical objective of this-project was to improve the leaktightness of the Kola NPP VVER confinement boundaries, through the application of a variety of sealants to penetrations, doors andmore » hatches, seams and surfaces, to the extent that current technology permitted. A related objective was the transfer, through training of Russian staff, of the materials application procedures to the staff of the Kola NPP. This project was part of an overall approach to minimizing uncontrolled releases from the Kola NPP VVER440/230s in the event of a serious accident, and to thereby significantly mitigate the consequences of such an accident. The US provided materials, application technology, and applications equipment for application of sealant materials, surface coatings, potting materials and gaskets, to improve the confinement leaktightness of the Kola VVER-440/23Os. The US provided for training of Russian personnel in the applications technology.« less

Electrochemically assisted localized etching of ZnO single crystals in water using a catalytically active Pt-coated atomic force microscopy probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shibata, Takayuki; Yamamoto, Kota; Sasano, Junji; Nagai, Moeto

2017-09-01

This paper presents a nanofabrication technique based on the electrochemically assisted chemical dissolution of zinc oxide (ZnO) single crystals in water at room temperature using a catalytically active Pt-coated atomic force microscopy (AFM) probe. Fabricated grooves featured depths and widths of several tens and several hundreds of nanometers, respectively. The material removal rate of ZnO was dramatically improved by controlling the formation of hydrogen ions (H+) on the surface of the catalytic Pt-coated probe via oxidation of H2O molecules; this reaction can be enhanced by applying a cathodic potential to an additional Pt-wire working electrode in a three-electrode configuration. Consequently, ZnO can be dissolved chemically in water as a soluble Zn2+ species via a reaction with H+ species present in high concentrations in the immediate vicinity of the AFM tip apex.

Gender neutrality improved completion rate for all

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Svedin, Maria; Bälter, Olle

2016-07-01

The purpose of the present study was to investigate if we could improve retention by redesigning an online programming course from a gender perspective, while maintaining the focus on preferable and sustainable learning approaches. The study builds on results from an earlier study that investigated the relationship between approaches to learning and course completion and involves 1067 students that responded to the short version of the Approaches and Study Skills Inventory for Students (ASSIST) in 2010, 2012 and 2013. Three principles for course material design were identified; gender neutral and non-biased messages, emphasize the interdisciplinary approach and link to everyday examples. Responses to ASSIST were analysed in relation to performed changes in the course literature from a gender perspective. The probability to complete the course increased with 7% points for all students, in particular for men, and decreased for students with a high score in surface approach to learning, especially among women.

Electro-optical interfacial effects on a graphene/π-conjugated organic semiconductor hybrid system

PubMed Central

Araujo, Karolline A S; Cury, Luiz A; Matos, Matheus J S; Fernandes, Thales F D; Cançado, Luiz G

2018-01-01

The influence of graphene and retinoic acid (RA) – a π-conjugated organic semiconductor – interface on their hybrid system is investigated. The physical properties of the interface are assessed via scanning probe microscopy, optical spectroscopy (photoluminescence and Raman) and ab initio calculations. The graphene/RA interaction induces the formation of a well-organized π-conjugated self-assembled monolayer (SAM) at the interface. Such structural organization leads to the high optical emission efficiency of the RA SAM, even at room temperature. Additionally, photo-assisted electrical force microscopy, photo-assisted scanning Kelvin probe microscopy and Raman spectroscopy indicate a RA-induced graphene doping and photo-charge generation. Finally, the optical excitation of the RA monolayer generates surface potential changes on the hybrid system. In summary, interface-induced organized structures atop 2D materials may have an important impact on both design and operation of π-conjugated nanomaterial-based hybrid systems. PMID:29600157

Substrate temperature influence on the properties of GaN thin films grown by hollow-cathode plasma-assisted atomic layer deposition

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

Alevli, Mustafa, E-mail: mustafaalevli@marmara.edu.tr; Gungor, Neşe; Haider, Ali

2016-01-15

Gallium nitride films were grown by hollow cathode plasma-assisted atomic layer deposition using triethylgallium and N{sub 2}/H{sub 2} plasma. An optimized recipe for GaN film was developed, and the effect of substrate temperature was studied in both self-limiting growth window and thermal decomposition-limited growth region. With increased substrate temperature, film crystallinity improved, and the optical band edge decreased from 3.60 to 3.52 eV. The refractive index and reflectivity in Reststrahlen band increased with the substrate temperature. Compressive strain is observed for both samples, and the surface roughness is observed to increase with the substrate temperature. Despite these temperature dependent material properties,more » the chemical composition, E{sub 1}(TO), phonon position, and crystalline phases present in the GaN film were relatively independent from growth temperature.« less

Directed-energy process technology efforts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alexander, P.

1985-01-01

A summary of directed-energy process technology for solar cells was presented. This technology is defined as directing energy or mass to specific areas on solar cells to produce a desired effect in contrast to exposing a cell to a thermal or mass flow environment. Some of these second generation processing techniques are: ion implantation; microwave-enhanced chemical vapor deposition; rapid thermal processing; and the use of lasers for cutting, assisting in metallization, assisting in deposition, and drive-in of liquid dopants. Advantages of directed energy techniques are: surface heating resulting in the bulk of the cell material being cooler and unchanged; better process control yields; better junction profiles, junction depths, and metal sintering; lower energy consumption during processing and smaller factory space requirements. These advantages should result in higher-efficiency cells at lower costs. The results of the numerous contracted efforts were presented as well as the application potentials of these new technologies.

Oxidation-Assisted Crack Growth in Single-Crystal Superalloys during Fatigue with Compressive Holds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lafata, M. A.; Rettberg, L. H.; He, M. Y.; Pollock, T. M.

2018-01-01

The mechanism of oxidation-assisted growth of surface cracks during fatigue with compressive holds has been studied experimentally and via a model that describes the role of oxide and substrate properties. The creep-based finite element model has been employed to examine the role of material parameters in the damage evolution in a Ni-base single-crystal superalloy René N5. Low-cycle fatigue experiments with compressive holds were conducted at 1255 K and 1366 K (982 °C and 1093 °C). Interrupted and failed specimens were characterized for crack depth and spacing, oxide thickness, and microstructural evolution. Comparison of experimental to modeled hysteresis loops indicates that transient creep drives the macroscopic stress-strain response. Crack penetration rates are strongly influenced by growth stresses in the oxide, structural evolution in the substrate, and the development of γ ^' } denuded zones. Implications for design of alloys resistant to this mode of degradation are discussed.

Nanoparticle-assisted high photoconductive gain in composites of polymer and fullerene.

PubMed

Chen, Hsiang-Yu; Lo, Michael K F; Yang, Guanwen; Monbouquette, Harold G; Yang, Yang

2008-09-01

Polymer-inorganic nanocrystal composites offer an attractive means to combine the merits of organic and inorganic materials into novel electronic and photonic systems. However, many applications of these composites are limited by the solubility and distribution of the nanocrystals in the polymer matrices. Here we show that blending CdTe nanoparticles into a polymer-fullerene matrix followed by solvent annealing can achieve high photoconductive gain under low applied voltages. The surface capping ligand renders the nanoparticles highly soluble in the polymer blend, thereby enabling high CdTe loadings. An external quantum efficiency as high as approximately 8,000% at 350 nm was achieved at -4.5 V. Hole-dominant devices coupled with atomic force microscopy images show a higher concentration of nanoparticles near the cathode-polymer interface. The nanoparticles and trapped electrons assist hole injection into the polymer under reverse bias, contributing to efficiency values in excess of 100%.

Fabrication of nanocomposites by collagen templated synthesis of layered double hydroxides assisted by an acrylic silane coupling agent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Yanqing; Zhou, Yuming; Wang, Zhiqiang; Ye, Xiaoyun

2009-02-01

The purpose of this study was to control the fabrication of nanocomposites at the nanoscale interface by collagen templated synthesis of Zn-Al layered double hydroxides (LDHs) assisted by γ-methacryloxypropyl trimethoxy silane (KH570) with further treatment of graft polymerization. The results show that collagen directs the growth of LDHs into curved nanorods by length of 300 nm in perfect consistency with collagen chain in both the size and flexility under the essential hydrophobic environment on the solid surface provided by KH570. The nanorods are aggregated into thin curved platelets due to strong interaction between collagen molecules themselves and strong interaction between collagen and LDH sheets. By further treatment of graft polymerization, the adjacent curved platelets encircle into numerous hollows via chemical linkage, achieving polyporous nanocomposites. Nanohybrid materials with this structure are especially interesting for applications as biosensors or supported catalysis.

Spectroscopically forbidden infra-red emission in Au-vertical graphene hybrid nanostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sivadasan, A. K.; Parida, Santanu; Ghosh, Subrata; Pandian, Ramanathaswamy; Dhara, Sandip

2017-11-01

Implementation of Au nanoparticles (NPs) is a subject for frontier plasmonic research due to its fascinating optical properties. Herein, the present study deals with plasmonic assisted emission properties of Au NPs-vertical graphene (VG) hybrid nanostructures. The influence of effective polarizability of Au NPs on the surface enhanced Raman scattering and luminescence properties is investigated. In addition, a remarkable infra-red emission in the hybrid nanostructures is observed and interpreted on the basis of intra-band transitions in Au NPs. The flake-like nanoporous VG structure is invoked for the generation of additional confined photons to impart additional momentum and a gradient of confined excitation energy towards initiating the intra-band transitions of Au NPs. Integrating Au plasmonic materials in three-dimensional VG nanostructures enhances the light-matter interactions. The present study provides a new adaptable plasmonic assisted pathway for optoelectronic and sensing applications.

Quantitative methods in fractography; Proceedings of the Symposium on Evaluation and Techniques in Fractography, Atlanta, GA, Nov. 10, 1988

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

Strauss, B.M.; Putatunda, S.K.

1990-01-01

Papers are presented on the application of quantitative fractography and computed tomography to fracture processes in materials, the relationships between fractographic features and material toughness, the quantitative analysis of fracture surfaces using fractals, and the analysis and interpretation of aircraft component defects by means of quantitative fractography. Also discussed are the characteristics of hydrogen-assisted cracking measured by the holding-load and fractographic method, a fractographic study of isolated cleavage regions in nuclear pressure vessel steels and their weld metals, a fractographic and metallographic study of the initiation of brittle fracture in weldments, cracking mechanisms for mean stress/strain low-cycle multiaxial fatigue loadings,more » and corrosion fatigue crack arrest in Al alloys.« less

13 CFR 113.425 - Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 13 Business Credit and Assistance 1 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials. 113.425 Section 113.425 Business Credit and Assistance SMALL BUSINESS... Activities Prohibited § 113.425 Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials. (a) Counseling. A...

13 CFR 113.425 - Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 13 Business Credit and Assistance 1 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials. 113.425 Section 113.425 Business Credit and Assistance SMALL BUSINESS... Activities Prohibited § 113.425 Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials. (a) Counseling. A...

13 CFR 113.425 - Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 13 Business Credit and Assistance 1 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials. 113.425 Section 113.425 Business Credit and Assistance SMALL BUSINESS... Activities Prohibited § 113.425 Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials. (a) Counseling. A...

13 CFR 113.425 - Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 13 Business Credit and Assistance 1 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials. 113.425 Section 113.425 Business Credit and Assistance SMALL BUSINESS... Activities Prohibited § 113.425 Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials. (a) Counseling. A...

13 CFR 113.425 - Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 13 Business Credit and Assistance 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials. 113.425 Section 113.425 Business Credit and Assistance SMALL BUSINESS... Activities Prohibited § 113.425 Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials. (a) Counseling. A...

Outside Mainstream Electronic Databases: Review of Studies Conducted in the USSR and Post-Soviet Countries on Electric Current-Assisted Consolidation of Powder Materials

PubMed Central

Olevsky, Eugene A.; Aleksandrova, Elena V.; Ilyina, Alexandra M.; Dudina, Dina V.; Novoselov, Alexander N.; Pelve, Kirill Y.; Grigoryev, Eugene G.

2013-01-01

This paper reviews research articles published in the former USSR and post-soviet countries on the consolidation of powder materials using electric current that passes through the powder sample and/or a conductive die-punch set-up. Having been published in Russian, many of the reviewed papers are not included in the mainstream electronic databases of the scientific articles and thus are not known to the scientific community. The present review is aimed at filling this information gap. In the paper, the electric current-assisted sintering techniques based on high- and low-voltage approaches are presented. The main results of the theoretical modeling of the processes of electromagnetic field-assisted consolidation of powder materials are discussed. Sintering experiments and related equipment are described and the major experimental results are analyzed. Sintering conditions required to achieve the desired properties of the sintered materials are provided for selected material systems. Tooling materials used in the electric current-assisted consolidation set-ups are also described. PMID:28788337

77 FR 30540 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Cognitive Testing of Instrumentation and Materials for the...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-23

... methods of administration (e.g., computer assisted personal interviews [CAPI], audio computer assisted self-interviews [ACASI], web-based interviews). Cognitive testing of these materials and methods will...

Thermal effects on transducer material for heat assisted magnetic recording application

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

Ji, Rong, E-mail: Ji-Rong@dsi.a-star.edu.sg; Xu, Baoxi; Cen, Zhanhong

2015-05-07

Heat Assisted Magnetic Recording (HAMR) is a promising technology for next generation hard disk drives with significantly increased data recording capacities. In HAMR, an optical near-field transducer (NFT) is used to concentrate laser energy on a magnetic recording medium to fulfill the heat assist function. The key components of a NFT are transducer material, cladding material, and adhesion material between the cladding and the transducer materials. Since transducer materials and cladding materials have been widely reported, this paper focuses on the adhesion materials between the Au transducer and the Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} cladding material. A comparative study for two kindsmore » of adhesion material, Ta and Cr, has been conducted. We found that Ta provides better thermal stability to the whole transducer than Cr. This is because after thermal annealing, chromium forms oxide material at interfaces and chromium atoms diffuse remarkably into the Au layer and react with Au to form Au alloy. This study also provides insights on the selection of adhesion material for HAMR transducer.« less

Recent progress in plasma-assisted synthesis and modification of 2D materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Zhao Jun; Murdock, Adrian T.; Seo, Dong Han; Bendavid, Avi

2018-07-01

Plasma represents an important technique for both the synthesis and modification of two-dimensional (2D) materials, owing to the unique plasma-material interactions which can enable effective energy transfer at the nanoscale. Non-equilibrium and non-thermal plasma techniques have been widely applied on various 2D materials, including graphene, silicene, germanene, phosphorene, hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), and transition metal dichalcogenides such as MoS2 and WS2. Here, we review the recent progress in plasma-assisted synthesis and modification (e.g. functionalisation, doping and etching) of 2D materials and discuss the potential applications of this unique branch of 2D materials. Challenges and future research opportunities in the relevant research field are also discussed. The primary aim of this Review is to provide a better understanding of the plasma-assisted processes and to promote the utilization of 2D materials for advanced electronic, optoelectronic, sensing and energy storage applications.

Surface oxidation of GaN(0001): Nitrogen plasma-assisted cleaning for ultrahigh vacuum applications

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

Gangopadhyay, Subhashis; Schmidt, Thomas, E-mail: tschmidt@ifp.uni-bremen.de; Kruse, Carsten

The cleaning of metal-organic vapor-phase epitaxial GaN(0001) template layers grown on sapphire has been investigated. Different procedures, performed under ultrahigh vacuum conditions, including degassing and exposure to active nitrogen from a radio frequency nitrogen plasma source have been compared. For this purpose, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, reflection high-energy electron diffraction, and scanning tunneling microscopy have been employed in order to assess chemical as well as structural and morphological surface properties. Initial degassing at 600 °C under ultrahigh vacuum conditions only partially eliminates the surface contaminants. In contrast to plasma assisted nitrogen cleaning at temperatures as low as 300 °C, active-nitrogen exposure at temperaturesmore » as high as 700 °C removes the majority of oxide species from the surface. However, extended high-temperature active-nitrogen cleaning leads to severe surface roughening. Optimum results regarding both the removal of surface oxides as well as the surface structural and morphological quality have been achieved for a combination of initial low-temperature plasma-assisted cleaning, followed by a rapid nitrogen plasma-assisted cleaning at high temperature.« less

Enzymolysis kinetics and structural characteristics of rice protein with energy-gathered ultrasound and ultrasound assisted alkali pretreatments.

PubMed

Li, Suyun; Yang, Xue; Zhang, Yanyan; Ma, Haile; Qu, Wenjuan; Ye, Xiaofei; Muatasim, Rahma; Oladejo, Ayobami Olayemi

2016-07-01

This research investigated the structural characteristics and enzymolysis kinetics of rice protein which was pretreated by energy-gathered ultrasound and ultrasound assisted alkali. The structural characteristics of rice protein before and after the pretreatment were performed with surface hydrophobicity and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). There was an increase in the intensity of fluorescence spectrum and changes in functional groups after the pretreatment on rice protein compared with the control (without ultrasound and ultrasound assisted alkali processed), thus significantly enhancing efficiency of the enzymatic hydrolysis. A simplified kinetic equation for the enzymolysis model with the impeded reaction of enzyme was deduced to successfully describe the enzymatic hydrolysis of rice protein by different pretreatments. The initial observed rate constants (Kin,0) as well as ineffective coefficients (kimp) were proposed and obtained based on the experimental observation. The results showed that the parameter of kin,0 increased after ultrasound and ultrasound assisted alkali pretreatments, which proved the effects of the pretreatments on the substrate enhancing the enzymolysis process and had relation to the structure changes of the pretreatments on the substrate. Furthermore, the applicability of the simplified model was demonstrated by the enzymatic hydrolysis process for other materials. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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

Zhu, Bo; Zhao, Hongwei, E-mail: hwzhao@jlu.edu.cn, E-mail: khl69@163.com; Zhao, Dan

It has always been a critical issue to understand the material removal behavior of Vibration-Assisted Machining (VAM), especially on atomic level. To find out the effects of vibration frequency on material removal response, a three-dimensional molecular dynamics (MD) model has been established in this research to investigate the effects of scratched groove, crystal defects on the surface quality, comparing with the Von Mises shear strain and tangential force in simulations during nano-scratching process. Comparisons are made among the results of simulations from different vibration frequency with the same scratching feed, depth, amplitude and crystal orientation. Copper potential in this simulationmore » is Embedded-Atom Method (EAM) potential. Interaction between copper and carbon atoms is Morse potential. Simulational results show that higher frequency can make groove smoother. Simulation with high frequency creates more dislocations to improve the machinability of copper specimen. The changing frequency does not have evident effects on Von Mises shear strain. Higher frequency can decrease the tangential force to reduce the consumption of cutting energy and tool wear. In conclusion, higher vibration frequency in VAM on mono-crystalline copper has positive effects on surface finish, machinablility and tool wear reduction.« less

Intelligent excavator control system for lunar mining system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lever, Paul J. A.; Wang, Fei-Yue

1995-01-01

A major benefit of utilizing local planetary resources is that it reduces the need and cost of lifting materials from the Earth's surface into Earth orbit. The location of the moon makes it an ideal site for harvesting the materials needed to assist space activities. Here, lunar excavation will take place in the dynamic unstructured lunar environment, in which conditions are highly variable and unpredictable. Autonomous mining (excavation) machines are necessary to remove human operators from this hazardous environment. This machine must use a control system structure that can identify, plan, sense, and control real-time dynamic machine movements in the lunar environment. The solution is a vision-based hierarchical control structure. However, excavation tasks require force/torque sensor feedback to control the excavation tool after it has penetrated the surface. A fuzzy logic controller (FLC) is used to interpret the forces and torques gathered from a bucket mounted force/torque sensor during excavation. Experimental results from several excavation tests using the FLC are presented here. These results represent the first step toward an integrated sensing and control system for a lunar mining system.

U.S. Senate examines concerns about marine debris from 2011 Japan tsunami

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Showstack, Randy

2012-05-01

Approximately 5 million tons of debris washed into the Pacific Ocean from Japan following the 11 March 2011 tsunami, and the Japanese government estimates that 1.5 million tons may still be floating on or below the ocean surface. However, it is not known how much debris may reach U.S. shores, an official from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) testified at a 17 May Senate hearing. "If you've got 1.5 [million tons] that's floating and you leave it in there for a year, how much of that is still going be floating and available to come ashore? We don't have a clue," David Kennedy, NOAA assistant administrator for ocean services and coastal zone management, testified before a subcommittee of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. He said that some materials pushed by the wind could be expected to float but that materials pushed by currents under the surface are difficult to find. "A whole bunch of the 1.5 million is construction debris, and do [wooden] two-by-fours still float after a year? We're not sure."

Biocompatibility study of lithium disilicate and zirconium oxide ceramics for esthetic dental abutments

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Purpose The increasing demand for esthetically pleasing results has contributed to the use of ceramics for dental implant abutments. The aim of this study was to compare the biological response of epithelial tissue cultivated on lithium disilicate (LS2) and zirconium oxide (ZrO2) ceramics. Understanding the relevant physicochemical and mechanical properties of these ceramics will help identify the optimal material for facilitating gingival wound closure. Methods Both biomaterials were prepared with 2 different surface treatments: raw and polished. Their physicochemical characteristics were analyzed by contact angle measurements, scanning white-light interferometry, and scanning electron microscopy. An organotypic culture was then performed using a chicken epithelium model to simulate peri-implant soft tissue. We measured the contact angle, hydrophobicity, and roughness of the materials as well as the tissue behavior at their surfaces (cell migration and cell adhesion). Results The best cell migration was observed on ZrO2 ceramic. Cell adhesion was also drastically lower on the polished ZrO2 ceramic than on both the raw and polished LS2. Evaluating various surface topographies of LS2 showed that increasing surface roughness improved cell adhesion, leading to an increase of up to 13%. Conclusions Our results demonstrate that a biomaterial, here LS2, can be modified using simple surface changes in order to finely modulate soft tissue adhesion. Strong adhesion at the abutment associated with weak migration assists in gingival wound healing. On the same material, polishing can reduce cell adhesion without drastically modifying cell migration. A comparison of LS2 and ZrO2 ceramic showed that LS2 was more conducive to creating varying tissue reactions. Our results can help dental surgeons to choose, especially for esthetic implant abutments, the most appropriate biomaterial as well as the most appropriate surface treatment to use in accordance with specific clinical dental applications. PMID:28050314

Support Services for Ceramic Fiber-Ceramic Matrix Composites

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

Hurley, JP

2001-08-16

To increase national energy self-sufficiency for the near future, power systems will be required to fire low-grade fuels more efficiently than is currently possible. The typical coal-fired steam cycle used at present is limited to a maximum steam temperature of 540 C and a conversion efficiency of 35%. Higher working-fluid temperatures are required to boost efficiency, exposing subsystems to very damaging conditions. Issues of special concern to materials developers are corrosion and warping of hot-gas particulate filters and corrosion and erosion of high-temperature heat exchangers. The University of North Dakota Energy and Environmental Research Center (EERC) is working with themore » National Energy Technology Laboratory in conjunction with NCC Engineering, Inc., to provide technical assistance and coal by-products to the Fossil Energy Materials Advanced Research and Technology Development Materials Program investigating materials failure in fossil energy systems. The main activities of the EERC are to assemble coal slag and hot-gas filter ash samples for use by materials researchers, to assist in providing opportunities for realistic tests of advanced materials in pilot-scale fossil energy systems, and to provide analytical support in determining corrosion mechanisms of the exposed materials. In this final report for the project year of September 2000 through August 2001, the facilities at the EERC that can be used by researchers for realistic testing of materials are described. Researchers can include sample coupons in each of these facilities at no cost since they are being operated under separate funding. In addition, two pilot-scale coal combustion tests are described in which material sample coupons were included from researchers involved in the development of fossil energy materials. The results of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) energy dispersive x-ray analyses of the corrosion products and interactions between the surface scales of the coupons and the products of coal combustion found on the coupons exposed during those tests are reported. Finally, a relative comparison of ceramic and alloy material performance based on the SEM results is presented.« less

Zap 'Em with Assistive Technology: Notetaking, Modified Materials, Assistive Writing Tools, References, Organizational Tools, Cognitive Assistance, Adapted Access.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lahm, Elizabeth A.; Morrissette, Sandra K.

This collection of materials describes different types of computer applications and software that can help students with disabilities. It contains information on: (1) Easy Access, a feature of the systems software on every Macintosh computer that allows use of the keypad instead of the mouse, options for slow keys, and options for sticky keys; (2)…

Mechanical Behavior of Free-Standing Fuel Cell Electrodes on Water Surface.

PubMed

Kim, Sanwi; Kim, Jae-Han; Oh, Jong-Gil; Jang, Kyung-Lim; Jeong, Byeong-Heon; Hong, Bo Ki; Kim, Taek-Soo

2016-06-22

Fundamental understanding of the mechanical behavior of polymer electrolyte fuel cell electrodes as free-standing materials is essential to develop mechanically robust fuel cells. However, this has been a significant challenge due to critical difficulties, such as separating the pristine electrode from the substrate without damage and precisely measuring the mechanical properties of the very fragile and thin electrodes. We report the mechanical behavior of free-standing fuel cell electrodes on the water surface through adopting an innovative ice-assisted separation method to separate the electrode from decal transfer film. It is found that doubling the ionomer content in electrodes increases not only the tensile stress at the break and the Young's modulus (E) of the electrodes by approximately 2.1-3.5 and 1.7-2.4 times, respectively, but also the elongation at the break by approximately 1.5-1.7 times, which indicates that stronger, stiffer, and tougher electrodes are attained with increasing ionomer content, which have been of significant interest in materials research fields. The scaling law relationship between Young's modulus and density (ρ) has been unveiled as E ∼ ρ(1.6), and it is compared with other materials. These findings can be used to develop mechanically robust electrodes for fuel cell applications.

Improved interface control for high-performance graphene-based organic solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, Seungon; Lee, Junghyun; Choi, Yunseong; Myeon Lee, Sang; Yang, Changduk; Park, Hyesung

2017-12-01

The demand for high-efficiency flexible optoelectronic devices is ever-increasing because next-generation electronic devices that comprise portable or wearable electronic systems are set to play an important role. Graphene has received extensive attention as it is considered to be a promising candidate material for transparent flexible electrode platforms owing to its outstanding electrical, optical, and physical properties. Despite these properties, the inert and hydrophobic nature of graphene surfaces renders it difficult to use in optoelectronic devices. In particular, commonly used charge transporting layer (CTL) materials for organic solar cells (OSCs) cannot uniformly coat a graphene surface, which leads to such devices failing. Herein, this paper proposes an approach that will enable CTL materials to completely cover a graphene electrode; this is done with the assistance of commonly accessible polar solvents. These are successfully applied to various configurations of OSCs, with power conversion efficiencies of 8.17% for graphene electrode-based c-OSCs (OSCs with conventional structures), 8.38% for i-OSCs (OSCs with inverted structures), and 7.53% for flexible solar cells. The proposed approach is expected to bring about significant advances for efficiency enhancements in graphene-based optoelectronic devices, and it is expected that it will open up new possibilities for flexible optoelectronic systems.

Effectiveness of the use of question-driven levels of inquiry based instruction (QD-LOIBI) assisted visual multimedia supported teaching material on enhancing scientific explanation ability senior high school students

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suhandi, A.; Muslim; Samsudin, A.; Hermita, N.; Supriyatman

2018-05-01

In this study, the effectiveness of the use of Question-Driven Levels of Inquiry Based Instruction (QD-LOIBI) assisted visual multimedia supported teaching materials on enhancing senior high school students scientific explanation ability has been studied. QD-LOIBI was designed by following five-levels of inquiry proposed by Wenning. Visual multimedia used in teaching materials included image (photo), virtual simulation and video phenomena. QD-LOIBI assisted teaching materials supported by visual multimedia were tried out on senior high school students at one high school in one district in West Java. A quasi-experiment method with design one experiment group (n = 31) and one control group (n = 32) were used. Experimental group were given QD-LOIBI assisted teaching material supported by visual multimedia, whereas the control group were given QD-LOIBI assisted teaching materials not supported visual multimedia. Data on the ability of scientific explanation in both groups were collected by scientific explanation ability test in essay form concerning kinetic gas theory concept. The results showed that the number of students in the experimental class that has increased the category and quality of scientific explanation is greater than in the control class. These results indicate that the use of multimedia supported instructional materials developed for implementation of QD-LOIBI can improve students’ ability to provide explanations supported by scientific evidence gained from practicum activities and applicable concepts, laws, principles or theories.

Influencing Factors and Workpiece's Microstructure in Laser-Assisted Milling of Titanium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wiedenmann, R.; Liebl, S.; Zaeh, M. F.

Today's lightweight components have to withstand increasing mechanical and thermal loads. Therefore, advanced materials substitute conventional materials like steel or aluminum alloys. Using these high-performance materials the associated costs become prohibitively high. This paper presents the newest fundamental investigations on the hybrid process 'laser-assisted milling' which is an innovative technique to process such materials. The focus is on the validation of a numerical database for a CAD/CAM process control unit which is calculated by using simulation. Prior to that, the influencing factors on a laser-assisted milling process are systematically investigated using Design of Experiments (DoE) to identify the main influencing parameters coming from the laser and the milling operation.

Characterization of GaN microstructures grown by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy

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

Lo, Ikai; Pang, Wen-Yuan; Hsu, Yu-Chi

2013-06-15

The characterization of GaN microstructures grown by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy on LiAlO{sub 2} substrate was studied by cathodoluminescence and photoluminescence measurements. We demonstrated that the cathodoluminescence from oblique semi-polar surfaces of mushroom-shaped GaN was much brighter than that from top polar surface due to the reduction of polarization field on the oblique semi-polar surfaces. It implies that the oblique semi-polar surface is superior for the light-emitting surface of wurtzite nano-devices.

Fabrication of nano-structured super-hydrophobic film on aluminum by controllable immersing method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Ruomei; Liang, Shuquan; Pan, Anqiang; Yuan, Zhiqing; Tang, Yan; Tan, Xiaoping; Guan, Dikai; Yu, Ya

2012-06-01

Aluminum alloy surface can be etched easily in acid environment, but the microstructure of alloy surface hardly meets the customers' demand. In this work, a facile acidic-assistant surface oxidation technique has been employed to form reproducible super-hydrophobic surfaces on aluminum alloy plates. The samples immersed in three different acid solutions at ambient temperatures are studied and the results demonstrated that the aqueous mixture solution of oxalic acid and hydrochloric is easier to produce better faces and better stability. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectrometer, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and water contact angle measurement are used to investigate the morphologies, microstructures, chemical compositions and hydrophobicity of the produced films on aluminum substrates. The surfaces, configured of a labyrinth structure with convexity and concavity, are in different roughness and gloss because of the different recipe acid solutions used. Better roughness of the surface can be obtained by adjusting the concentration of Clˉ and oxalate ions in acid solutions. The present research work provides a new strategy for the controllable preparation super-hydrophobic films of general materials on aluminum alloy for practical industrial applications.

Calcium Sulfate in Atacama Desert Basalt: A Possible Analog for Bright Material in Adirondack Basalt, Gusev Crater

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sutter, B.; Golden, D. C.; Amundson, R.; Chong-Diaz, G.; Ming, D. W.

2007-01-01

The Atacama Desert in northern Chile is one of the driest deserts on Earth (< 2mm/y). The hyper-arid conditions allow extraordinary accumulations of sulfates, chlorides, and nitrates in Atacama soils. Examining salt accumulations in the Atacama may assist understanding salt accumulations on Mars. Recent work examining sulfate soils on basalt parent material observed white material in the interior vesicles of surface basalt. This is strikingly similar to the bright-white material present in veins and vesicles of the Adirondack basalt rocks at Gusev Crater which are presumed to consist of S, Cl, and/or Br. The abundance of soil gypsum/anhydrite in the area of the Atacama basalt suggested that the white material consisted of calcium sulfate (Ca-SO4) which was later confirmed by SEM/EDS analysis. This work examines the Ca-SO4 of Atacama basalt in an effort to provide insight into the possible nature of the bright material in the Adirondack basalt of Gusev Crater. The objectives of this work are to (i) discuss variations in Ca-SO4 crystal morphology in the vesicles and (ii) examine the Ca-SO4 interaction(s) with the basalt interior.

Analysis report for 241-BY-104 Auger samples

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

Beck, M.A.

1994-11-10

This report describes the analysis of the surface crust samples taken from single-shell tank (SST) BY-104, suspected of containing ferrocyanide wastes. This sampling and analysis will assist in ascertaining whether there is any hazard due to combustion (burning) or explosion of these solid wastes. These characteristics are important to future efforts to characterize the salt and sludge in this type of waste tank. This report will outline the methodology and detail the results of analyses performed during the characterization of this material. All analyses were performed by Westinghouse Hanford Company at the 222-S laboratory unless stated otherwise.

Plasmon-assisted radiolytic energy conversion in aqueous solutions

PubMed Central

Kim, Baek Hyun; Kwon, Jae W.

2014-01-01

The field of conventional energy conversion using radioisotopes has almost exclusively focused on solid-state materials. Herein, we demonstrate that liquids can be an excellent media for effective energy conversion from radioisotopes. We also show that free radicals in liquid, which are continuously generated by beta radiation, can be utilized for electrical energy generation. Under beta radiation, surface plasmon obtained by the metallic nanoporous structures on TiO2 enhanced the radiolytic conversion via the efficient energy transfer between plasmons and free radicals. This work introduces a new route for the development of next-generation power sources. PMID:24918356

Hydrazine-Assisted Liquid Exfoliation of MoS2 for Catalytic Hydrodeoxygenation of 4-Methylphenol.

PubMed

Liu, Guoliang; Ma, Hualong; Teixeira, Ivo; Sun, Zhenyu; Xia, Qineng; Hong, Xinlin; Tsang, Shik Chi Edman

2016-02-24

A simple but effective method to exfoliate bulk MoS2 in a range of solvents is presented for the preparation of colloid flakes consisted of one to a few molecular layers by application of ultrasonic treatment in N2 H4 . Their high yield in solution and exposure of more active surface sites allows the synthesis of corresponding solid catalysts with remarkably high activity in hydrodeoxygenation of 4-methylphenol and this method can also be applied to other two dimensional materials. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

New Approaches to Waterproofing of Space Shuttle Insulating Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blum, Yigal D.; Johnson, Sylvia M.; Chen, Paul

1997-01-01

Future reusable space vehicles will be in service much more frequently than current space shuttles. Therefore, rapid reconditioning of spacecraft will be required. Currently, the waterproofing of space shuttles after each re-entry takes 72 hours and requires substantial labor. In addition, the currently used waterproofing reagent, DiMethylEthoxySilane (DMES), is considered toxic, and ethanol fumes are released during its hydrolytic activation. Consequently, a long time period, which is not acceptable for future operations, is needed to ensure that 0 the excess volatile compounds are removed before further maintenance of the space vehicle can be performed. The objective of this project was to assist NASA Ames in finding improved waterproofing systems by identifying suitable waterproofing agents that can be applied by vapor phase deposition and will be less toxic, bond more rapidly to the insulation material surface, and potentially have higher thermal stability than the DMES system. Several approaches to achieve faster waterproofing with less toxicity were assessed using the following alternatives: Reactive volatile compounds that are rapidly deposited by chemical bonding at the surface and leave no toxic volatiles. Reactive reagents that are the least toxic. Nonvolatile reagents that are very reactive and bond strongly to the insulating material surface. Three specific types of potential reagents were chosen for evaluation in this project: 1. Volatile reagents with Si-Cl functional groups for vapor deposition 2. Volatile reagents with Si-H functional groups for vapor deposition 3. Nonvolatile oligomeric or polymeric reactive siloxanes that are assumed to have higher thermal stability and/or strong bonding to the insulating material. The chemistry involved in the project was targeted at the generation of intermediates having reactive Si-OH bonds for the formation of either volatile species or polymeric species that bond rapidly to the surface and also cure rapidly. We focused on two chemical reactions@-hydrolysis of Si-Cl bonds and catalytic dehydrocoupling of Si-H bonds.

29 CFR 1960.60 - Training assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 29 Labor 9 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Training assistance. 1960.60 Section 1960.60 Labor... MATTERS Training § 1960.60 Training assistance. (a) Agency heads may seek training assistance from the... with training materials to assist in fulfilling the training needs of this subpart, including resident...

29 CFR 1960.60 - Training assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 29 Labor 9 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Training assistance. 1960.60 Section 1960.60 Labor... MATTERS Training § 1960.60 Training assistance. (a) Agency heads may seek training assistance from the... with training materials to assist in fulfilling the training needs of this subpart, including resident...

28 CFR 55.15 - Affected activities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Judicial Administration DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE (CONTINUED) IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROVISIONS OF THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT REGARDING LANGUAGE MINORITY GROUPS Minority Language Materials and Assistance § 55.15 Affected... registration or voting notices, forms, instructions, assistance, or other materials or information relating to...

28 CFR 55.15 - Affected activities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Judicial Administration DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE (CONTINUED) IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROVISIONS OF THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT REGARDING LANGUAGE MINORITY GROUPS Minority Language Materials and Assistance § 55.15 Affected... registration or voting notices, forms, instructions, assistance, or other materials or information relating to...

Electron beam assisted field evaporation of insulating nanowires/tubes

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

Blanchard, N. P., E-mail: nicholas.blanchard@univ-lyon1.fr; Niguès, A.; Choueib, M.

2015-05-11

We demonstrate field evaporation of insulating materials, specifically BN nanotubes and undoped Si nanowires, assisted by a convergent electron beam. Electron irradiation leads to positive charging at the nano-object's apex and to an important increase of the local electric field thus inducing field evaporation. Experiments performed both in a transmission electron microscope and in a scanning electron microscope are presented. This technique permits the selective evaporation of individual nanowires in complex materials. Electron assisted field evaporation could be an interesting alternative or complementary to laser induced field desorption used in atom probe tomography of insulating materials.

Technical Assistance to Developers

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

Rockward, Tommy; Borup, Rodney L.; Garzon, Fernando H.

2012-07-17

This task supports the allowance of technical assistance to fuel-cell component and system developers as directed by the DOE. This task includes testing of novel materials and participation in the further development and validation of single cell test protocols. This task also covers technical assistance to DOE Working Groups, the U.S. Council for Automotive Research (USCAR) and the USCAR/DOE Driving Research and Innovation for Vehicle efficiency and Energy sustainability (U.S. Drive) Fuel Cell Technology Team. Assistance includes technical validation of new fuel cell materials and methods, single cell fuel cell testing to support the development of targets and test protocols,more » and regular advisory participation in other working groups and reviews. This assistance is made available to PEM fuel cell developers by request and DOE Approval. The objectives are to: (1) Support technically, as directed by DOE, fuel cell component and system developers; (2) Assess fuel cell materials and components and give feedback to developers; (3) Assist the DOE Durability Working Group with the development of various new material durability Testing protocols; and (4) Provide support to the U.S. Council for Automotive Research (USCAR) and the USCAR/DOE Fuel Cell Technology Team. FY2012 specific technical objectives are: (1) Evaluate novel MPL materials; (2) Develop of startup/ shutdown protocol; (3) Test the impact of hydrophobic treatment on graphite bi-polar plates; (4) Perform complete diagnostics on metal bi-polar plates for corrosion; and (5) Participate and lead efforts in the DOE Working Groups.« less

Biology Teacher and Expert Opinions about Computer Assisted Biology Instruction Materials: A Software Entitled Nucleic Acids and Protein Synthesis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hasenekoglu, Ismet; Timucin, Melih

2007-01-01

The aim of this study is to collect and evaluate opinions of CAI experts and biology teachers about a high school level Computer Assisted Biology Instruction Material presenting computer-made modelling and simulations. It is a case study. A material covering "Nucleic Acids and Protein Synthesis" topic was developed as the…

[Optimization of ultrasonic-assisted extraction of total flavonoids from leaves of the Artocarpus heterophyllus by response surface methodology].

PubMed

Wang, Hong-wu; Liu, Yan-qing; Wang, Yuan-hong

2011-07-01

To investigate the ultrasonic-assisted extract on of total flavonoids from leaves of the Artocarpus heterophyllus. Investigated the effects of ethanol concentration, extraction time, and liquid-solid ratio on flavonoids yield. A 17-run response surface design involving three factors at three levels was generated by the Design-Expert software and experimental data obtained were subjected to quadratic regression analysis to create a mathematical model describing flavonoids extraction. The optimum ultrasonic assisted extraction conditions were: ethanol volume fraction 69.4% and liquid-solid ratio of 22.6:1 for 32 min. Under these optimized conditions, the yield of flavonoids was 7.55 mg/g. The Box-Behnken design and response surface analysis can well optimize the ultrasonic-assisted extraction of total flavonoids from Artocarpus heterophyllus.

Macro-structural effect of metal surfaces treated using computer-assisted yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser scanning on bone-implant fixation.

PubMed

Hirao, Makoto; Sugamoto, Kazuomi; Tamai, Noriyuki; Oka, Kunihiro; Yoshikawa, Hideki; Mori, Yusuke; Sasaki, Takatomo

2005-05-01

Porous coatings have been applied to the surface of prosthetic devices to foster stable device fixation. The coating serves as a source of mechanical interlocking and may stimulate healthy bone growth through osseointegrated load transfer in cementless arthroplasty. Joint arthroplasty by porous-coated prostheses is one of the most common surgical treatments, and has provided painless and successful joint mobility. However, long-term success is often impaired by the loss of fixation between the prosthesis and bone. Porous-coated prostheses are associated with several disadvantages, including metal debris from porous coatings (third body wear particles) and irregular micro-texture of metal surfaces. Consequently, quantitative histological analysis has been very difficult. These issues arise because the porous coating treatment is based on addition of material and is not precisely controllable. We recently developed a precisely controllable porous texture technique based on material removal by yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser. Free shapes can be applied to complex, three-dimensional hard metal surfaces using this technique. In this study, tartan check shapes made by crossing grooves and dot shapes made by forming holes were produced on titanium (Ti6A14V) or cobalt chrome (CoCr) and evaluated with computer-assisted histological analysis and measurement of bone-metal interface shear strength. Width of grooves or holes ranged from 100 to 800 mum (100, 200, 500, and 800 microm), with a depth of 500 microm. When the cylindrical porous-texture-treated metal samples (diameter, 5 mm; height, 15 mm) were implanted into a rabbit femoral condyle, bone tissue with bone trabeculae formed in the grooves and holes after 2 or 4 weeks, especially in 500-microm-wide grooves. Abundant osteoconduction was consistently observed throughout 500-microm-wide grooves in both Ti6A14V and CoCr. Speed of osteoconduction was faster in Ti6A14V than in CoCr, especially in the tartan check shape made of 500-microm-wide grooves. In pushout testing, the tartan check shape made of 500-microm-wide grooves had significantly higher bone-metal interface shear strength than the dot shape or commercial porous coating. These results indicate that the tartan check shape made of 500-microm-wide grooves on metal surfaces has potential for clinical application in artificial prosthesis design.

30 CFR 795.12 - Applicant liability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR SMALL OPERATOR ASSISTANCE PERMANENT REGULATORY PROGRAM-SMALL OPERATOR ASSISTANCE PROGRAM § 795.12 Applicant... 12 months immediately following the date on which the operator is issued the surface coal mining and...

44 CFR 5.25 - Available materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 44 Emergency Management and Assistance 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Available materials. 5.25 Section 5.25 Emergency Management and Assistance FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY, DEPARTMENT OF... are not published in the Federal Register. (c) Administrative staff manuals and instructions to staff...

Study of electrochemical properties of thin film materials obtained using plasma technologies for production of electrodes for pacemakers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Obrezkov, O. I.; Vinogradov, V. P.; Krauz, V. I.; Mozgrin, D. V.; Guseva, I. A.; Andreev, E. S.; Zverev, A. A.; Starostin, A. L.

2016-09-01

Studies of thin film materials (TFM) as coatings of tips of pacemaker electrodes implanted into the human heart have been performed. TFM coatings were deposited in vacuum by arc magnetron discharge plasma, by pulsed discharge of “Plasma Focus”, and by electron beam evaporation. Simulation of electric charge transfer to the heart in physiological blood- imitator solution and determination of electrochemical properties of the coatings were carried out. TFM of highly developed surface of contact with tissue was produced by argon plasma spraying of titanium powder with subsequent coating by titanium nitride in vacuum arc assisted by Ti ion implantation. The TFM coatings of pacemaker electrode have passed necessary clinical tests and were used in medical practice. They provide low voltage myocardium stimulation thresholds within the required operating time.

Hydrothermal synthesis of novel Mn(3)O(4) nano-octahedrons with enhanced supercapacitors performances.

PubMed

Jiang, Hao; Zhao, Ting; Yan, Chaoyi; Ma, Jan; Li, Chunzhong

2010-10-01

Uniform and single-crystalline Mn(3)O(4) nano-octahedrons have been successfully synthesized by a simple ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt (EDTA-2Na) assisted hydrothermal route. The octahedron structures exhibit a high geometric symmetry with smooth surfaces and the mean side length of square base of octahedrons is ∼160 nm. The structure is reckoned to provide superior functional properties and the nano-size achieved in the present work is noted to further facilitate the material property enhancement. The formation process was proposed to begin with a "dissolution-recrystallization" which is followed by an "Ostwald ripening" mechanism. The Mn(3)O(4) nano-octahedrons exhibited an enhanced specific capacitance of 322 F g(-1) compared with the truncated octahedrons with specific capacitances of 244 F g(-1), making them a promising electrode material for supercapacitors.

Shape control VO2 nanorods prepared by soft chemistry and electrochemical method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Simo, A.; Sibanyoni, J.; Fuku, X.; Numan, N.; Omorogbe, S.; Maaza, M.

2018-07-01

"Bottom up" approach is of primary interest for chemistry and materials science because the fundamental building blocks are atoms. Thus colloidal chemical synthetic methods can be utilized to prepare uniform nanocrystals with controlled particle size. In the following work of study, thermochromic VO2 nanostructures were prepared by hydrothermal technique soft chemistry. We concentrate on solution phase synthetic methods that enable a proper shape and size control of metal oxide nanocrystals. Their structural properties were studied by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform IR (FTIR) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). It is demonstrated that the surfactant assistance (NaOH) has great influence on the morphology-control of the material. Electrochemical properties of the nanospheres show good stability after 20 cycles and the surface diffusion coefficient was calculated to be 5 × 10-6 cm2 s-1.

30 CFR 795.11 - Assistance funding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR SMALL OPERATOR ASSISTANCE PERMANENT REGULATORY PROGRAM-SMALL OPERATOR ASSISTANCE PROGRAM § 795.11 Assistance... eligible small operators if available funds are less than those required to provide the services pursuant...

Wettability of Y2O3: A Relative Analysis of Thermally Oxidized, Reactively Sputtered and Template Assisted Nanostructured Coatings

PubMed Central

Barshilia, Harish C.; Chaudhary, Archana; Kumar, Praveen; Manikandanath, Natarajan T.

2012-01-01

The wettability of reactively sputtered Y2O3, thermally oxidized Y-Y2O3 and Cd-CdO template assisted Y2O3 coatings has been studied. The wettability of as-deposited Y2O3 coatings was determined by contact angle measurements. The water contact angles for reactively sputtered, thermally oxidized and template assisted Y2O3 nanostructured coatings were 99°, 117° and 155°, respectively. The average surface roughness values of reactively sputtered, thermally oxidized and template assisted Y2O3 coatings were determined by using atomic force microscopy and the corresponding values were 3, 11 and 180 nm, respectively. The low contact angle of the sputter deposited Y2O3 and thermally oxidized Y-Y2O3 coatings is attributed to a densely packed nano-grain like microstructure without any void space, leading to low surface roughness. A water droplet on such surfaces is mostly in contact with a solid surface relative to a void space, leading to a hydrophobic surface (low contact angle). Surface roughness is a crucial factor for the fabrication of a superhydrophobic surface. For Y2O3 coatings, the surface roughness was improved by depositing a thin film of Y2O3 on the Cd-CdO template (average roughness = 178 nm), which resulted in a contact angle greater than 150°. The work of adhesion of water was very high for the reactively sputtered Y2O3 (54 mJ/m2) and thermally oxidized Y-Y2O3 coatings (43 mJ/m2) compared to the Cd-CdO template assisted Y2O3 coating (7 mJ/m2). PMID:28348296

Microwave Assisted Grafting of Gums and Extraction of Natural Materials.

PubMed

Singh, Inderbir; Rani, Priya; Kumar, Pradeep

2017-01-01

Microwave assisted modification of polymers has become an established technique for modifying the functionality of polymers. Microwave irradiation reduces reaction time as well as the use of toxic solvents with enhanced sensitivity and yields of quality products. In this review article instrumentation and basic principles of microwave activation have been discussed. Microwave assisted grafting of natural gums, characterization of grafted polymers and their toxicological parameters have also been listed. Pharmaceutical applications viz. drug release retardant, mucoahesion and tablet superdisintegrant potential of microwave assisted gums has also been discussed. An overview of microwave assisted extraction of plant based natural materials has also been presented. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Effects of O 2 plasma and UV-O 3 assisted surface activation on high sensitivity metal oxide functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotube CH 4 sensors

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

Humayun, Md Tanim; Sainato, Michela; Divan, Ralu

We present a comparative analysis of UV-O 3 (UVO) and O 2 plasma-based surface activation processes of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) enabling highly effective functionalization with metal oxide nanocrystals (MONCs). Experimental results from transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy show that by forming COOH (carboxyl), C-OH (hydroxyl), and C=O (carbonyl) groups on the MWCNT surface that act as active nucleation sites, O 2 plasma and UVO-based dry pre-treatment techniques greatly enhance the affinity between MWCNT surface and the functionalizing MONCs. MONCs, such as ZnO and SnO 2, deposited by atomic layermore » deposition (ALD) technique, were implemented as the functionalizing material following UVO and O 2 plasma activation of MWCNTs. In conclusion, a comparative study on the relative resistance changes of O 2 plasma and UVO activated MWCNT functionalized with MONC in the presence of 10 ppm methane (CH 4) in air, is presented as well.« less

Effects of O 2 plasma and UV-O 3 assisted surface activation on high sensitivity metal oxide functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotube CH 4 sensors

DOE PAGES

Humayun, Md Tanim; Sainato, Michela; Divan, Ralu; ...

2017-07-28

We present a comparative analysis of UV-O 3 (UVO) and O 2 plasma-based surface activation processes of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) enabling highly effective functionalization with metal oxide nanocrystals (MONCs). Experimental results from transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy show that by forming COOH (carboxyl), C-OH (hydroxyl), and C=O (carbonyl) groups on the MWCNT surface that act as active nucleation sites, O 2 plasma and UVO-based dry pre-treatment techniques greatly enhance the affinity between MWCNT surface and the functionalizing MONCs. MONCs, such as ZnO and SnO 2, deposited by atomic layermore » deposition (ALD) technique, were implemented as the functionalizing material following UVO and O 2 plasma activation of MWCNTs. In conclusion, a comparative study on the relative resistance changes of O 2 plasma and UVO activated MWCNT functionalized with MONC in the presence of 10 ppm methane (CH 4) in air, is presented as well.« less

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

Schalk, W.W. III

Early actions of emergency responders during hazardous material releases are intended to assess contamination and potential public exposure. As measurements are collected, an integration of model calculations and measurements can assist to better understand the situation. This study applied a high resolution version of the operational 3-D numerical models used by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory to a limited meteorological and tracer data set to assist in the interpretation of the dispersion pattern on a 140 km scale. The data set was collected from a tracer release during the morning surface inversion and transition period in the complex terrain of themore » Snake River Plain near Idaho Falls, Idaho in November 1993 by the United States Air Force. Sensitivity studies were conducted to determine model input parameters that best represented the study environment. These studies showed that mixing and boundary layer heights, atmospheric stability, and rawinsonde data are the most important model input parameters affecting wind field generation and tracer dispersion. Numerical models and limited measurement data were used to interpret dispersion patterns through the use of data analysis, model input determination, and sensitivity studies. Comparison of the best-estimate calculation to measurement data showed that model results compared well with the aircraft data, but had moderate success with the few surface measurements taken. The moderate success of the surface measurement comparison, may be due to limited downward mixing of the tracer as a result of the model resolution determined by the domain size selected to study the overall plume dispersion. 8 refs., 40 figs., 7 tabs.« less

Facile preparation of polymer microspheres and fibers with a hollow core and porous shell for oil adsorption and oil/water separation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Jiefeng; Song, Xin; Huang, Xuewu; Wang, Ling; Li, Bei; Xue, Huaiguo

2018-05-01

Non-solvent assisted electrospinning was proposed for fabricating Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) microspheres and fibers with a hollow core and porous shell, which could be used for oil adsorption and oil/water separation. Propanediol was chosen as the non-solvent because of its high surface tension and viscosity as well as large phase separation tendency with polymer, which was beneficial to the formation of both the hollow core and porous shell during the electrospinning. With the increase of the polymer solution concentration, the microsphere gradually evolved to the bead-on-string geometry and finally to a continuous fiber form, indicating the transition from electro-spraying to electrospinning. The hollow core and dense surface pores enhanced the hydrophobicity, oleophilicity, permeability, and specific surface area of the fibers, and hence imparted the fibrous mat a high oil adsorption capacity. When the porous hollow microspheres were electro-sprayed onto the stainless steel mesh followed by the PDMS modification, the modified mesh became super-hydrophobic and super-oleophilic with the contact angle of 153° and sliding angle of 4°. The as-prepared mesh showed rapid oil/water separation with high efficiency and excellent recycling performance. The flux for separation of oil/water mixture could reach as high as 11,000 L m-2 h-1. This facile non-solvent assisted electrospinning method provides a new avenue for preparation of multifunctional porous materials which possess potential applications in large-scale oil/water separation.

Effects of magnetic flux density and substrate bias voltage on Ni films prepared on a flexible substrate material using unbalanced magnetron sputtering assisted by inductively coupled plasma

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

Koda, Tatsunori; Toyota, Hiroshi, E-mail: h.toyota.za@it-hiroshima.ac.jp

The authors fabricated Ni films on a flexible substrate material using unbalanced magnetron sputtering assisted by inductively coupled plasma. The effects of magnetic flux density B{sub C} and substrate DC bias voltage V{sub S} on the Ni film structures were investigated. For V{sub S} = −40 V, the average surface grain size D{sub G} measured by atomic force microscopy for B{sub C} = 0, 3, and 5 mT was 88.2, 95.4, and 104.4 nm, respectively. In addition, D{sub G} increased with V{sub S}. From x-ray diffraction measurements, the (111) and (200) peaks were clearly visible for the fabricated Ni films. The ratio of the integrated intensities ofmore » I(111)/I(200) increased with V{sub S}. For V{sub S} = −40 V and B{sub C} = 3 mT, a film resistivity ρ of 8.96 × 10{sup −6} Ω cm was observed, which is close to the Ni bulk value of 6.84 × 10{sup −6} Ω cm. From these results, the authors determined that the structure of the fabricated Ni films on the flexible substrate material was affected by the values of B{sub C} and V{sub S}.« less

Microwave-assisted synthesis of palladium nanoparticles intercalated nitrogen doped reduced graphene oxide and their electrocatalytic activity for direct-ethanol fuel cells.

PubMed

Kumar, Rajesh; da Silva, Everson T S G; Singh, Rajesh K; Savu, Raluca; Alaferdov, Andrei V; Fonseca, Leandro C; Carossi, Lory C; Singh, Arvind; Khandka, Sarita; Kar, Kamal K; Alves, Oswaldo L; Kubota, Lauro T; Moshkalev, Stanislav A

2018-04-01

Palladium nanoparticles decorated reduced graphene oxide (Pd-rGO) and palladium nanoparticles intercalated inside nitrogen doped reduced graphene oxide (Pd-NrGO) hybrids have been synthesized by applying a very simple, fast and economic route using microwave-assisted in-situ reduction and exfoliation method. The Pd-NrGO hybrids materials show good activity as catalyst for ethanol electro oxidation for direct ethanol fuel cells (DEFCs) as compared to Pd-rGO hybrids. The enhanced direct ethanol fuel cell can serve as alternative to fossil fuels because it is renewable and environmentally-friendly with a high energy conversion efficiency and low pollutant emission. As proof of concept, the electrocatalytic activity of Pd-NrGO hybrid material was accessed by cyclic voltammetry in presence of ethanol to evaluate its applicability in direct-ethanol fuel cells (DEFCs). The Pd-NrGO catalyst presented higher electro active surface area (∼6.3 m 2  g -1 ) for ethanol electro-oxidation when compared to Pd-rGO hybrids (∼3.7 m 2  g -1 ). Despite the smaller catalytic activity of Pd-NrGO, which was attributed to the lower exfoliation rate of this material in relation to the Pd-rGO, Pd-NrGO showed to be very promising and its catalytic activity can be further improved by tuning the synthesis parameters to increase the exfoliation rate. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparison of validation methods for forming simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schug, Alexander; Kapphan, Gabriel; Bardl, Georg; Hinterhölzl, Roland; Drechsler, Klaus

2018-05-01

The forming simulation of fibre reinforced thermoplastics could reduce the development time and improve the forming results. But to take advantage of the full potential of the simulations it has to be ensured that the predictions for material behaviour are correct. For that reason, a thorough validation of the material model has to be conducted after characterising the material. Relevant aspects for the validation of the simulation are for example the outer contour, the occurrence of defects and the fibre paths. To measure these features various methods are available. Most relevant and also most difficult to measure are the emerging fibre orientations. For that reason, the focus of this study was on measuring this feature. The aim was to give an overview of the properties of different measuring systems and select the most promising systems for a comparison survey. Selected were an optical, an eddy current and a computer-assisted tomography system with the focus on measuring the fibre orientations. Different formed 3D parts made of unidirectional glass fibre and carbon fibre reinforced thermoplastics were measured. Advantages and disadvantages of the tested systems were revealed. Optical measurement systems are easy to use, but are limited to the surface plies. With an eddy current system also lower plies can be measured, but it is only suitable for carbon fibres. Using a computer-assisted tomography system all plies can be measured, but the system is limited to small parts and challenging to evaluate.

Damage Patterns at the Head-Stem Taper Junction Helps Understand the Mechanisms of Material Loss.

PubMed

Hothi, Harry S; Panagiotopoulos, Andreas C; Whittaker, Robert K; Bills, Paul J; McMillan, Rebecca A; Skinner, John A; Hart, Alister J

2017-01-01

Material loss at the taper junction of metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasties has been implicated in their early failure. The mechanisms of material loss are not fully understood; analysis of the patterns of damage at the taper can help us better understand why material loss occurs at this junction. We mapped the patterns of material loss in a series of 155 metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasties received at our center by scanning the taper surface using a roundness-measuring machine. We examined these material loss maps to develop a 5-tier classification system based on visual differences between different patterns. We correlated these patterns to surgical, implant, and patient factors known to be important for head-stem taper damage. We found that 63 implants had "minimal damage" at the taper (material loss <1 mm 3 ), and the remaining 92 implants could be categorized by 4 distinct patterns of taper material loss. We found that (1) head diameter and (2) time to revision were key significant variables separating the groups. These material loss maps allow us to suggest different mechanisms that dominate the cause of the material loss in each pattern: (1) corrosion, (2) mechanically assisted corrosion, or (3) intraoperative damage or poor size tolerances leading to toggling of trunnion in taper. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Monolayer graphene on nanostructured Ag for enhancement of surface-enhanced Raman scattering stable platform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, Zhigao; Mei, Fei; Xiao, Xiangheng; Liao, Lei; Wu, Wei; Zhang, Yupeng; Ying, Jianjian; Wang, Lingbo; Ren, Feng; Jiang, Changzhong

2015-03-01

We have reported that the Ag nanostructure-based substrate is particularly suitable for surface-enhanced Raman scattering when it is coated with monolayer graphene, an optically transparent and chemistry-inertness material in the visible range. Ag bowtie nanoantenna arrays and Ag nanogrids were fabricated using plasma-assisted nanosphere lithography. Our measurements show that atmospheric sulfur containing compounds are powerless to break in the monolayer graphene to vulcanize the surfaces of the Ag bowtie nanoantenna arrays and Ag nanogrids by various means, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Furthermore, the Ag nanostructure substrate coated with the monolayer graphene film shows a larger enhancement of Raman activity and the electromagnetic field than the uncoated substrate. Compared with those of bare Ag nanostructures, the averaged EFs of graphene-film-coated Ag nanostructures were estimated to be about 21 and 5 for Ag bowtie nanoantenna arrays and nanogrids after one month later in air, respectively. These observations are further supported by theoretical calculations.

Synthesis Methods, Microscopy Characterization and Device Integration of Nanoscale Metal Oxide Semiconductors for Gas Sensing in Aerospace Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

VanderWal, Randy L.; Berger, Gordon M.; Kulis, Michael J.; Hunter, Gary W.; Xu, Jennifer C.; Evans, Laura J.

2009-01-01

A comparison is made between SnO2, ZnO, and TiO2 single-crystal nanowires and SnO2 polycrystalline nanofibers for gas sensing. Both nanostructures possess a one-dimensional morphology. Different synthesis methods are used to produce these materials: thermal evaporation-condensation (TEC), controlled oxidation, and electrospinning. Advantages and limitations of each technique are listed. Practical issues associated with harvesting, purification, and integration of these materials into sensing devices are detailed. For comparison to the nascent form, these sensing materials are surface coated with Pd and Pt nanoparticles. Gas sensing tests, with respect to H2, are conducted at ambient and elevated temperatures. Comparative normalized responses and time constants for the catalyst and noncatalyst systems provide a basis for identification of the superior metal-oxide nanostructure and catalyst combination. With temperature-dependent data, Arrhenius analyses are made to determine an activation energy for the catalyst-assisted systems.

Three-dimensional machining of carbon nanotube forests using water-assisted scanning electron microscope processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rajabifar, Bahram; Kim, Sanha; Slinker, Keith; Ehlert, Gregory J.; Hart, A. John; Maschmann, Matthew R.

2015-10-01

We demonstrate that vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can be precisely machined in a low pressure water vapor ambient using the electron beam of an environmental scanning electron microscope. The electron beam locally damages the irradiated regions of the CNT forest and also dissociates the water vapor molecules into reactive species including hydroxyl radicals. These species then locally oxidize the damaged region of the CNTs. The technique offers material removal capabilities ranging from selected CNTs to hundreds of cubic microns. We study how the material removal rate is influenced by the acceleration voltage, beam current, dwell time, operating pressure, and CNT orientation. Milled cuts with depths between 0-100 microns are generated, corresponding to a material removal rate of up to 20.1 μm3/min. The technique produces little carbon residue and does not disturb the native morphology of the CNT network. Finally, we demonstrate direct machining of pyramidal surfaces and re-entrant cuts to create freestanding geometries.

Three-dimensional machining of carbon nanotube forests using water-assisted scanning electron microscope processing

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

Rajabifar, Bahram; Maschmann, Matthew R., E-mail: MaschmannM@missouri.edu; Kim, Sanha

2015-10-05

We demonstrate that vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can be precisely machined in a low pressure water vapor ambient using the electron beam of an environmental scanning electron microscope. The electron beam locally damages the irradiated regions of the CNT forest and also dissociates the water vapor molecules into reactive species including hydroxyl radicals. These species then locally oxidize the damaged region of the CNTs. The technique offers material removal capabilities ranging from selected CNTs to hundreds of cubic microns. We study how the material removal rate is influenced by the acceleration voltage, beam current, dwell time, operating pressure, andmore » CNT orientation. Milled cuts with depths between 0–100 microns are generated, corresponding to a material removal rate of up to 20.1 μm{sup 3}/min. The technique produces little carbon residue and does not disturb the native morphology of the CNT network. Finally, we demonstrate direct machining of pyramidal surfaces and re-entrant cuts to create freestanding geometries.« less

Stress transfer and matrix-cohesive fracture mechanism in microfibrillated cellulose-gelatin nanocomposite films.

PubMed

Quero, Franck; Padilla, Cristina; Campos, Vanessa; Luengo, Jorge; Caballero, Leonardo; Melo, Francisco; Li, Qiang; Eichhorn, Stephen J; Enrione, Javier

2018-09-01

Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) obtained from eucalyptus was embedded in gelatin from two sources; namely bovine and salmon gelatin. Raman spectroscopy revealed that stress is transferred more efficiently from bovine gelatin to the MFC when compared to salmon gelatin. Young's modulus, tensile strength, strain at failure and work of fracture of the nanocomposite films were improved by ∼67, 131, 43 y 243% respectively when using salmon gelatin as matrix material instead of bovine gelatin. Imaging of the tensile fracture surface of the MFC-gelatin nanocomposites revealed that crack formation occurs predominantly within bovine and salmon gelatin matrices rather than within the MFC or at the MFC/gelatin interface. This suggests that the mechanical failure mechanism in these nanocomposite materials is predominantly governed by a matrix-cohesive fracture mechanism. Both strength and flexibility are desirable properties for composite coatings made from gelatin-based materials, and so the findings of this study could assist in their utilization in the food and pharmaceutical industry. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Induction heating to trigger the nickel surface modification by in situ generated 4-carboxybenzene diazonium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arrotin, Bastien; Jacques, Amory; Devillers, Sébastien; Delhalle, Joseph; Mekhalif, Zineb

2016-05-01

Nickel is commonly used in numerous applications and is one of the few materials that present strong ferromagnetic properties. These make it a suitable material for induction heating which can be used to activate the grafting of organic species such as diazonium salts onto the material. Diazonium compounds are often used for the modification of metals and alloys thanks to their easy chemical reduction onto the substrates and the possibility to apply a one-step in situ generation process of the diazonium species. This work focuses on the grafting of 4-aminocarboxybenzene on nickel substrates in the context of a spontaneous grafting conducted either at room temperature or by thermal assistance through conventional heating and induction heating. These modifications are also carried out with the goal of maintaining the oxides layer as much as possible unaffected. The benefits of using induction heating with respect to conventional heating are an increase of the grafting rate, a better control of the reaction and a slighter impact on the oxides layer.

Ultrasound-assisted synthesis and processing of carbon materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fortunato, Maria E.

2011-12-01

Part I: Porous carbons are of interest in many applications because of their high surface areas and other physicochemical properties, and much effort has been directed towards developing new methods for controlling the porosity of carbons. Ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP) is an aerosol method suitable for large-scale, continuous synthesis of materials. Ultrasound is used to create aerosol droplets of a precursor solution which serve as micron-sized spherical reactors for materials synthesis. This work presents a precursor system for the template-free USP synthesis of porous carbons using low-cost precursors that do not evolve or require hazardous chemicals: sucrose was used as the carbon source, and sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, or sodium nitrate was added as a decomposition catalyst and porogen. The USP carbons had macroporous interiors and microporous shells with surface areas as high as 800 m2/g and a narrow pore size distribution. It was determined that the interior porosity was a result of the gas evolution from salt decomposition and not from the presence of a salt template. Porous carbon is frequently used as a catalyst support because it provides high surface area and it is chemically and physically stable under many anoxic reaction conditions. Typically, the preparation of supported catalysts requires multiple steps for carbonization and metal impregnation. In this work, iron-impregnated porous carbon microspheres (Fe-C) were prepared by a one-step USP process by incorporating both the carbon and metal sources into the precursor solution. Carbonization, pore formation, metal impregnation, and metal activation occurred simultaneously to produce Fe-C materials with surface areas as high as 800 m2/g and up to 10 wt% Fe incorporated as nanoparticles < 20 nm in diameter. Fe-C was used as a catalyst to reduce aqueous hexavalent chromium, which demonstrated the accessibility of the iron nanoparticles despite the fact that they are likely encapsulated in the porous carbon support. Part II: The effects of high intensity ultrasound arise from acoustic cavitation: the formation, growth, and collapse of bubbles in a liquid. Bubble collapse produces intense localized heating (˜5000 K), high pressures (˜300 atm), and enormous heating and cooling rates (>109 K/sec). In solid-liquid slurries, surface erosion and particle fracture occur due to the shockwaves and microjets formed from asymmetric bubble collapse at extended surfaces. The chemical and physical effects of ultrasound have been studied as an adjunct to the traditional chemical pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass for ethanol production. Lignocellulosic biomass consists of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. The surface effects of ultrasound were used in this work to increase the accessibility of the cellulose, which can be converted to glucose and then fermented into ethanol. The lignocellulosic biomass used in this work was Miscanthus x giganteus (Mxg) which was grown at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The chemical effects of NaOH pretreatment on Mxg were enhanced by ultrasound: greater delignification and a significant increase in the amount of pores >5 nm were observed. ˜ 70% of the theoretical glucose yield was obtained by enzymatic saccharification of the ultrasound-assisted NaOH-pretreated Mxg; this is comparable to the yields that can be obtained by traditional alkaline pretreatments, but it was achieved in a shorter time and at a lower temperature. Because the apparatus used for laboratory studies is not a likely device for scale-up, the economics of ultrasound with regards to energy balance are not yet resolved.

30 CFR 750.13 - Small operator assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Small operator assistance. 750.13 Section 750.13 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR INDIAN LANDS PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS FOR SURFACE COAL MINING AND RECLAMATION OPERATIONS ON INDIAN LANDS...

Quantum Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Nanotube Tip Assisted Reactions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Menon, Madhu

1998-01-01

In this report we detail the development and application of an efficient quantum molecular dynamics computational algorithm and its application to the nanotube-tip assisted reactions on silicon and diamond surfaces. The calculations shed interesting insights into the microscopic picture of tip surface interactions.

75 FR 5502 - Belarus Sanctions Regulations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-02-03

... to engage in public corruption, including by diverting or misusing Belarusian public assets or by... responsible for or has engaged in public corruption related to Belarus; (iv) to have materially assisted... responsible for or has engaged in public corruption related to Belarus; (iv) To have materially assisted...

13 CFR 305.8 - Recipient-furnished equipment and materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 13 Business Credit and Assistance 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Recipient-furnished equipment and materials. 305.8 Section 305.8 Business Credit and Assistance ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE PUBLIC WORKS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENTS Requirements for Approved Projects...

Slip resistance of casual footwear: implications for falls in older adults.

PubMed

Menz, H B; Lord, S T; McIntosh, A S

2001-01-01

A large proportion of falls in older people are caused by slipping. Previous occupational safety research suggests that inadequate footwear may contribute to slipping accidents; however, no studies have assessed the slip resistance of casual footwear. To evaluate the slip resistance of different types of casual footwear over a range of common household surfaces. The slip resistance of men's Oxford shoes and women's fashion shoes with different heel configurations was determined by measuring the dynamic coefficient of friction (DCoF) at heel contact (in both dry and wet conditions) on a bathroom tile, concrete, vinyl flooring and a terra cotta tile using a specially-designed piezoelectric force plate apparatus. Analysis of variance revealed significant shoe, surface, and shoe-surface interaction effects. Men's Oxford shoes exhibited higher average DCoF values than the women's fashion shoes, however, none of the shoes could be considered safe on wet surfaces. Application of a textured sole material did not improve slip resistance of any of the shoes on wet surfaces. Heel geometry influences the slip resistance of casual footwear on common household surfaces. The suboptimal performance of all of the test shoes on wet surfaces suggests that a safety standard for casual footwear is required to assist in the development of safe footwear for older people. Copyright 2001 S. Karger AG, Basel

Mechanism analysis on finishing of reaction-sintered silicon carbide by combination of water vapor plasma oxidation and ceria slurry polishing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Xinmin; Tu, Qunzhang; Deng, Hui; Jiang, Guoliang; Yamamura, Kazuya

2015-05-01

Reaction-sintered silicon carbide (RS-SiC), which is considered as a promising mirror material for space telescope systems, requires a high surface property. An ultrasmooth surface with a Ra surface roughness of 0.480 nm was obtained after water vapor plasma oxidation for 90 min followed by ceria slurry polishing for 40 min. The oxidation process of RS-SiC by water vapor plasma was analyzed based on the Deal-Grove model, and the theoretical calculation results are consistent with the measured data obtained by scanning white light interferometer (SWLI), scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive x-ray, and atomic force microscope. The polishing process of oxidized RS-SiC by ceria slurry was investigated according to the Preston equation, which would theoretically forecast the evolutions of RS-SiC surfaces along with the increasing of polishing time, and it was experimentally verified by comparing the surface roughnesses obtained by SWLI and the surface morphologies obtained by SEM. The mechanism analysis on the finishing of RS-SiC would be effective for the optimization of water vapor plasma oxidation parameters and ceria slurry polishing parameters, which will promote the application of RS-SiC substrates by improving the surface property obtained by the oxidation-assisted polishing method.

Computer-Assisted Instruction in the Context of the Advanced Instructional System. Part II. Materials Development Procedures and System Evaluation.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-03-01

authoring system which would provide a basis for the cost effective production of computer-assisted irstruction (CAI) materials, It addresses the definition...RESULTS- - ------------------- 58 CAI Materials Development Times - - - 5J CAI Module Instructional Effectiveness -------- -- 59 First-Pass Module...CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ------ --- -- -- 70 Effectiveness of the Authoring System and Suggestions for Further Development - ----- --- -- --- 70

RESPECT-Mil: Early Intervention & Outcomes Of PTSD & Depression In Primary Care

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-03-21

Brief PTSD & depression screening (all visits)  Pre-clinician diagnostic aid  Patient education materials  Psychosocial options  Care Facilitator...visits)  Pre-clinician diagnostic aid  Patient education materials  Psychosocial options  Care Facilitator assisted follow-up option  Aggressive... Patient education materials  Psychosocial options  Care Facilitator assisted follow-up option  Aggressive facilitator outreach & monitoring  Web-based

Well-isolated FePt grains with high coercivity on TiN underlayers for heat-assisted magnetic recording media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santos, Tiffany; Jain, Shikha; Hirotsune, Akemi; Hellwig, Olav

2015-03-01

MgO is the underlayer material of choice for granular FePt thin film media for heat assisted magnetic recording, because MgO (001) seeds L10-ordered FePt with c-axis perpendicular to the film plane and high perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. MgO is also an effective diffusion barrier between the FePt grains and the metallic underlayers beneath the MgO. However, there are possible concerns associated with using MgO in the media structure. MgO is highly sensitive to moisture, and hydration of MgO could potentially degrade film properties. In addition, many particulates are incorporated into the film during the RF-sputter process, which can be sources of delamination, pinholes and damage to the low-flying recording heads. TiN is an attractive alternative to MgO because it is chemically and mechanically robust, and TiN can be DC-sputtered, which produces fewer particles and has a faster deposition rate. Even though TiN has the same rocksalt crystal structure and lattice constant as MgO, the higher surface energy of TiN causes more wetting of the FePt grains on the TiN surface. As a result, deposition of granular FePt on TiN most often produces inter-connected, worm-like grains with low coercivity. We will show that by optimizing the deposition of FePt and segregant material on the TiN underlayer, we are able to fabricate FePt media with well-isolated grains and high coercivity reaching nearly 4 Tesla. In addition, the FePt has excellent structural properties with a high degree of L10 atomic ordering and minimal c-axis in-plane oriented grains.

Copper Nanowires: A Substitute for Noble Metals to Enhance Photocatalytic H2 Generation.

PubMed

Xiao, Shuning; Liu, Peijue; Zhu, Wei; Li, Guisheng; Zhang, Dieqing; Li, Hexing

2015-08-12

Microwave-assisted hydrothermal approach was developed as a general strategy to decorate copper nanowires (CuNWs) with nanorods (NRs) or nanoparticles (NPs) of metal oxides, metal sulfides, and metal organic frameworks (MOFs). The microwave irradiation induced local "super hot" dots generated on the CuNWs surface, which initiated the adsorption and chemical reactions of the metal ions, accompanied by the growth and assembly of NPs building blocks along the metal nanowires' surfaces. This solution-processed approach enables the NRs (NPs) @CuNWs hybrid structure to exhibit three unique characteristics: (1) high coverage density of NRs (NPs) per NWs with the morphology of NRs (NPs) directly growing from the CuNWs core, (2) intimate contact between CuNWs and NRs (NPs), and (3) flexible choices of material composition. Such hybrid structures also increased light absorption by light scattering. In general, the TiO2/CuNWs showed excellent photocatalytic activity for H2 generation. The corresponding hydrogen production rate is 5104 μmol h(-1) g(-1) with an apparent quantum yield (AQY) of 17.2%, a remarkably high AQY among the noble-metal free TiO2 photocatalysts. Such performance may be associated with the favorable geometry of the hybrid system, which is characterized by a large contact area between the photoactive materials (TiO2) and the H2 evolution cocatalyst (Cu), the fast and short diffusion paths of photogenerated electrons transferring from the TiO2 to the CuNWs. This study not only shows a possibility for the utilization of low cost copper nanowires as a substitute for noble metals in enhanced solar photocatalytic H2 generation but also exhibits a general strategy for fabricating other highly active H2 production photocatalysts by a facile microwave-assisted solution approach.

Ultrasonic-assisted extraction, structure and antitumor activity of polysaccharide from Polygonum multiflorum.

PubMed

Zhu, Weili; Xue, Xiaoping; Zhang, Zhanjun

2016-10-01

Polygonum multiflorum is a popular Chinese herbal medicine with various pharmacological functions. In this study, the ultrasonic-assisted extraction condition, structural characterization and antitumor activity of a polysaccharide from roots of P. multiflorum were investigated. The ultrasonic-assisted extraction condition was optimized by single-factor experiments and response surface methodology. Results showed that the maximum extraction yield (5.49%) was obtained at ultrasonic power 158W, extraction temperature 62°C, extraction time 80min and ratio of water to material 20mL/g. The obtained crude polysaccharides were further purified to afford a neutral and an acidic fraction. The structure of the main neutral polysaccharide (named PPS with molecular weight of 3.26×10(5)Da) was characterized as a linear (1→6)-α-d-glucan by gas chromatography, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, methylation analysis, 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance. At the concentration of 400μg/mL, the inhibitory ratios of PPS on HepG-2 and BGC-823 cells were 53.35% and 38.58%, respectively. Results suggested this polysaccharide could be a potential natural antitumor agent. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Experimental investigations of tungsten inert gas assisted friction stir welding of pure copper plates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Constantin, M. A.; Boșneag, A.; Nitu, E.; Iordache, M.

2017-10-01

Welding copper and its alloys is usually difficult to join by conventional fusion welding processes because of high thermal diffusivity of the copper, alloying elements, necessity of using a shielding gas and a clean surface. To overcome this inconvenience, Friction Stir Welding (FSW), a solid state joining process that relies on frictional heating and plastic deformation, is used as a feasible welding process. In order to achieve an increased welding speed and a reduction in tool wear, this process is assisted by another one (WIG) which generates and adds heat to the process. The aim of this paper is to identify the influence of the additional heat on the process parameters and on the welding joint properties (distribution of the temperature, hardness and roughness). The research includes two experiments for the FSW process and one experiment for tungsten inert gas assisted FSW process. The outcomes of the investigation are compared and analysed for both welding variants. Adding a supplementary heat source, the plates are preheated and are obtain some advantages such as reduced forces used in process and FSW tool wear, faster and better plasticization of the material, increased welding speed and a proper weld quality.

Synthesis of Cr3+-doped TiO2 nanoparticles: characterization and evaluation of their visible photocatalytic performance and stability.

PubMed

Mendiola-Alvarez, Sandra Yadira; Guzmán-Mar, Jorge Luis; Turnes-Palomino, Gemma; Maya-Alejandro, Fernando; Caballero-Quintero, Adolfo; Hernández-Ramírez, Aracely; Hinojosa-Reyes, Laura

2017-09-28

Cr 3+ -doped TiO 2 nanoparticles (Ti-Cr) were synthesized by microwave-assisted sol-gel method. The Ti-Cr catalyst was characterized by X-ray diffraction, ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, N 2 adsorption-desorption analysis, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and zetametry. The anatase mesoporous Ti-Cr material exhibited a specific surface area of 54.5 m 2 /g. XPS analysis confirmed the proper substitution of Ti 4+ cations by Cr 3+ cations in the TiO 2 matrix. The particle size was of average size of 17 nm for the undoped TiO 2 but only 9.5 nm for Ti-Cr. The Cr atoms promoted the formation of hydroxyl radicals and modified the surface adsorptive properties of TiO 2 due to the increase in surface acidity of the material. The photocatalytic evaluation demonstrated that the Ti-Cr catalyst completely degraded (4-chloro-2-methylphenoxy) acetic acid under visible light irradiation, while undoped TiO 2 and P25 allowed 45.7% and 31.1%, respectively. The rate of degradation remained 52% after three cycles of catalyst reuse. The higher visible light photocatalytic activity of Ti-Cr was attributed to the beneficial effect of Cr 3+ ions on the TiO 2 surface creating defects within the TiO 2 crystal lattice, which can act as charge-trapping sites, reducing the electron-hole recombination process.

Characterization of Dust on Solar Devices in Southern Nevada =

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sylva, Jason R.

Dust can impact the efficiency of solar energy collection devices, and in some arid environments, dust can reduce solar energy efficiency up to 30%. Reducing the impact of dust is therefore critical in the expansion of solar technology throughout regions where solar energy is utilized. Characterization of suspended and settled particulate matter can assist in developing strategies for dust mitigation. With the characterization of suspended and settled particulate in remote, rural, and urban environments, more informed decisions can be made regarding the selection of coating material on solar panels as well as developing cleaning and maintenance procedures. Particulate matter that deposits on a solar surface can potentially interact with solar radiation, precipitation, or even directly with the surface material itself. These interactions could lead to the formation of coatings that reduce/block radiation and/or degrade the integrity of the surface. When you extrapolate these possibilities to a larger scale preliminary characterization of dust will play a vital role when planning the construction of a solar energy facility. A variety of sampling techniques were employed to obtain particulate matter for characterization. These included direct collection of particulates from solar surfaces: via vacuum and wipe sample collection on panels, tacky dot adhesive slides and plain slides that were exposed at different intervals, desert vugs that are natural particulate collectors, as well as high volume air sampling for collection of suspended particulates. High volume air sampling was performed using glass fiber filters and 2 micron stainless steel screens. Direct collection of settled particulates was performed by sampling from solar surfaces, vugs, and by collection on exposed glass surfaces. Collection onto glass surfaces was achieved by setting up a plain microscope slide, tacky dot slides, and panes of glass. The sampling methodology allowed for the collection of samples for analyses using various analytical methods that included Raman microspectroscopy, pyrolysis gas chromatography mass spectrometry, ion chromatography and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. These various methods allow for identification of organic and inorganic components as well the mineral distribution of suspended and settled particulate material. None None None None None

Characteristics of the Arcing Plasma Formation Effect in Spark-Assisted Chemical Engraving of Glass, Based on Machine Vision

PubMed Central

Wu, Dung-Sheng

2018-01-01

Spark-assisted chemical engraving (SACE) is a non-traditional machining technology that is used to machine electrically non-conducting materials including glass, ceramics, and quartz. The processing accuracy, machining efficiency, and reproducibility are the key factors in the SACE process. In the present study, a machine vision method is applied to monitor and estimate the status of a SACE-drilled hole in quartz glass. During the machining of quartz glass, the spring-fed tool electrode was pre-pressured on the quartz glass surface to feed the electrode that was in contact with the machining surface of the quartz glass. In situ image acquisition and analysis of the SACE drilling processes were used to analyze the captured image of the state of the spark discharge at the tip and sidewall of the electrode. The results indicated an association between the accumulative size of the SACE-induced spark area and deepness of the hole. The results indicated that the evaluated depths of the SACE-machined holes were a proportional function of the accumulative spark size with a high degree of correlation. The study proposes an innovative computer vision-based method to estimate the deepness and status of SACE-drilled holes in real time. PMID:29565303

Characteristics of the Arcing Plasma Formation Effect in Spark-Assisted Chemical Engraving of Glass, Based on Machine Vision.

PubMed

Ho, Chao-Ching; Wu, Dung-Sheng

2018-03-22

Spark-assisted chemical engraving (SACE) is a non-traditional machining technology that is used to machine electrically non-conducting materials including glass, ceramics, and quartz. The processing accuracy, machining efficiency, and reproducibility are the key factors in the SACE process. In the present study, a machine vision method is applied to monitor and estimate the status of a SACE-drilled hole in quartz glass. During the machining of quartz glass, the spring-fed tool electrode was pre-pressured on the quartz glass surface to feed the electrode that was in contact with the machining surface of the quartz glass. In situ image acquisition and analysis of the SACE drilling processes were used to analyze the captured image of the state of the spark discharge at the tip and sidewall of the electrode. The results indicated an association between the accumulative size of the SACE-induced spark area and deepness of the hole. The results indicated that the evaluated depths of the SACE-machined holes were a proportional function of the accumulative spark size with a high degree of correlation. The study proposes an innovative computer vision-based method to estimate the deepness and status of SACE-drilled holes in real time.

Femtosecond laser printing of living cells using absorbing film-assisted laser-induced forward transfer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hopp, Béla; Smausz, Tomi; Szabó, Gábor; Kolozsvári, Lajos; Kafetzopoulos, Dimitris; Fotakis, Costas; Nógrádi, Antal

2012-01-01

The applicability of a femtosecond KrF laser in absorbing film-assisted, laser-induced forward transfer of living cells was studied. The absorbing materials were 50-nm-thick metal films and biomaterials (gelatine, Matrigel, each 50 μm thick, and polyhydroxybutyrate, 2 μm). The used cell types were human neuroblastoma, chronic myeloid leukemia, and osteogenic sarcoma cell lines, and primary astroglial rat cells. Pulses of a 500-fs KrF excimer laser focused onto the absorbing layer in a 250-μm diameter spot with 225 mJ/cm2 fluence were used to transfer the cells to the acceptor plate placed at 0.6 mm distance, which was a glass slide either pure or covered with biomaterials. While the low-absorptivity biomaterial absorbing layers proved to be ineffective in transfer of cells, when applied on the surface of acceptor plate, the wet gelatine and Matrigel layers successfully ameliorated the impact of the cells, which otherwise did not survive the arrival onto a hard surface. The best short- and long-term survival rate was between 65% and 70% for neuroblastoma and astroglial cells. The long-term survival of the transferred osteosarcoma cells was low, while the myeloid leukemia cells did not tolerate the procedure under the applied experimental conditions.

Ultralight boron nitride aerogels via template-assisted chemical vapor deposition

PubMed Central

Song, Yangxi; Li, Bin; Yang, Siwei; Ding, Guqiao; Zhang, Changrui; Xie, Xiaoming

2015-01-01

Boron nitride (BN) aerogels are porous materials with a continuous three-dimensional network structure. They are attracting increasing attention for a wide range of applications. Here, we report the template-assisted synthesis of BN aerogels by catalyst-free, low-pressure chemical vapor deposition on graphene-carbon nanotube composite aerogels using borazine as the B and N sources with a relatively low temperature of 900 °C. The three-dimensional structure of the BN aerogels was achieved through the structural design of carbon aerogel templates. The BN aerogels have an ultrahigh specific surface area, ultralow density, excellent oil absorbing ability, and high temperature oxidation resistance. The specific surface area of BN aerogels can reach up to 1051 m2 g−1, 2-3 times larger than the reported BN aerogels. The mass density can be as low as 0.6 mg cm−3, much lower than that of air. The BN aerogels exhibit high hydrophobic properties and can absorb up to 160 times their weight in oil. This is much higher than porous BN nanosheets reported previously. The BN aerogels can be restored for reuse after oil absorption simply by burning them in air. This is because of their high temperature oxidation resistance and suggests broad utility as water treatment tools. PMID:25976019

Optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction of charantin from Momordica charantia fruits using response surface methodology

PubMed Central

Ahamad, Javed; Amin, Saima; Mir, Showkat R.

2015-01-01

Background: Momordica charantia Linn. (Cucurbitaceae) fruits are well known for their beneficial effects in diabetes that are often attributed to its bioactive component charantin. Objective: The aim of the present study is to develop and optimize an efficient protocol for the extraction of charantin from M. charantia fruits. Materials and Methods: Response surface methodology (RSM) was used for the optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) conditions. RSM was based on a three-level, three-variable Box-Behnken design (BBD), and the studied variables included solid to solvent ratio, extraction temperature, and extraction time. Results: The optimal conditions predicted by the BBD were: UAE with methanol: Water (80:20, v/v) at 46°C for 120 min with solid to solvent ratio of 1:26 w/v, under which the yield of charantin was 3.18 mg/g. Confirmation trials under slightly adjusted conditions yielded 3.12 ± 0.14 mg/g of charantin on dry weight basis of fruits. The result of UAE was also compared with Soxhlet extraction method and UAE was found 2.74-fold more efficient than the Soxhlet extraction for extracting charantin. Conclusions: A facile UAE protocol for a high extraction yield of charantin was developed and validated. PMID:26681889

Optimisation of ultrasound-assisted osmotic dehydration of sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) using response surface methodology.

PubMed

Oladejo, Ayobami Olayemi; Ma, Haile

2016-08-01

Sweet potato is a highly nutritious tuber crop that is rich in β-carotene. Osmotic dehydration is a pretreatment method for drying of fruit and vegetables. Recently, ultrasound technology has been applied in food processing because of its numerous advantages which include time saving, little damage to the quality of the food. Thus, there is need to investigate and optimise the process parameters [frequency (20-50 kHz), time (10-30 min) and sucrose concentration (20-60% w/v)] for ultrasound-assisted osmotic dehydration of sweet potato using response surface methodology. The optimised values obtained were frequency of 33.93 kHz, time of 30 min and sucrose concentration of 35.69% (w/v) to give predicted values of 21.62, 4.40 and 17.23% for water loss, solid gain and weight reduction, respectively. The water loss and weight reduction increased when the ultrasound frequency increased from 20 to 35 kHz and then decreased as the frequency increased from 35 to 50 kHz. The results from this work show that low ultrasound frequency favours the osmotic dehydration of sweet potato and also reduces the use of raw material (sucrose) needed for the osmotic dehydration of sweet potato. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry.

Ultralight boron nitride aerogels via template-assisted chemical vapor deposition.

PubMed

Song, Yangxi; Li, Bin; Yang, Siwei; Ding, Guqiao; Zhang, Changrui; Xie, Xiaoming

2015-05-15

Boron nitride (BN) aerogels are porous materials with a continuous three-dimensional network structure. They are attracting increasing attention for a wide range of applications. Here, we report the template-assisted synthesis of BN aerogels by catalyst-free, low-pressure chemical vapor deposition on graphene-carbon nanotube composite aerogels using borazine as the B and N sources with a relatively low temperature of 900 (°)C. The three-dimensional structure of the BN aerogels was achieved through the structural design of carbon aerogel templates. The BN aerogels have an ultrahigh specific surface area, ultralow density, excellent oil absorbing ability, and high temperature oxidation resistance. The specific surface area of BN aerogels can reach up to 1051 m(2) g(-1), 2-3 times larger than the reported BN aerogels. The mass density can be as low as 0.6 mg cm(-3), much lower than that of air. The BN aerogels exhibit high hydrophobic properties and can absorb up to 160 times their weight in oil. This is much higher than porous BN nanosheets reported previously. The BN aerogels can be restored for reuse after oil absorption simply by burning them in air. This is because of their high temperature oxidation resistance and suggests broad utility as water treatment tools.

Metal impurity-assisted formation of nanocone arrays on Si by low energy ion-beam irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steeves Lloyd, Kayla; Bolotin, Igor L.; Schmeling, Martina; Hanley, Luke; Veryovkin, Igor V.

2016-10-01

Fabrication of nanocone arrays on Si surfaces was demonstrated using grazing incidence irradiation with 1 keV Ar+ ions concurrently sputtering the surface and depositing metal impurity atoms on it. Among three materials compared as co-sputtering targets Si, Cu and stainless steel, only steel was found to assist the growth of dense arrays of nanocones at ion fluences between 1018 and 1019 ions/cm2. The structural characterization of samples irradiated with these ion fluences using Scanning Electron Microscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy revealed that regions far away from co-sputtering targets are covered with nanoripples, and that nanocones popped-up out of the rippled surfaces when moving closer to co-sputtering targets, with their density gradually increasing and reaching saturation in the regions close to these targets. The characterization of the samples' chemical composition with Total Reflection X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy revealed that the concentration of metal impurities originating from stainless steel (Fe, Cr and Ni) was relatively high in the regions with high density of nanocones (Fe reaching a few atomic percent) and much lower (factor of 10 or so) in the region of nanoripples. Total Reflection X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry measurements showed that higher concentrations of these impurities are accumulated under the surface in both regions. X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy experiments showed no direct evidence of metal silicide formation occurring on one region only (nanocones or nanoripples) and thus showed that this process could not be the driver of nanocone array formation. Also, these measurements indicated enhancement in oxide formation on regions covered by nanocones. Overall, the results of this study suggest that the difference in concentration of metal impurities in the thin near-surface layer forming under ion irradiation might be responsible for the differences in surface structures.

Prioritizing stream types according to their potential risk to receive crop plant material--A GIS-based procedure to assist in the risk assessment of genetically modified crops and systemic insecticide residues.

PubMed

Bundschuh, Rebecca; Kuhn, Ulrike; Bundschuh, Mirco; Naegele, Caroline; Elsaesser, David; Schlechtriemen, Ulrich; Oehen, Bernadette; Hilbeck, Angelika; Otto, Mathias; Schulz, Ralf; Hofmann, Frieder

2016-03-15

Crop plant residues may enter aquatic ecosystems via wind deposition or surface runoff. In the case of genetically modified crops or crops treated with systemic pesticides, these materials may contain insecticidal Bt toxins or pesticides that potentially affect aquatic life. However, the particular exposure pattern of aquatic ecosystems (i.e., via plant material) is not properly reflected in current risk assessment schemes, which primarily focus on waterborne toxicity and not on plant material as the route of uptake. To assist in risk assessment, the present study proposes a prioritization procedure of stream types based on the freshwater network and crop-specific cultivation data using maize in Germany as a model system. To identify stream types with a high probability of receiving crop materials, we developed a formalized, criteria-based and thus transparent procedure that considers the exposure-related parameters, ecological status--an estimate of the diversity and potential vulnerability of local communities towards anthropogenic stress--and availability of uncontaminated reference sections. By applying the procedure to maize, ten stream types out of 38 are expected to be the most relevant if the ecological effects from plant-incorporated pesticides need to be evaluated. This information is an important first step to identifying habitats within these stream types with a high probability of receiving crop plant material at a more local scale, including accumulation areas. Moreover, the prioritization procedure developed in the present study may support the selection of aquatic species for ecotoxicological testing based on their probability of occurrence in stream types having a higher chance of exposure. Finally, this procedure can be adapted to any geographical region or crop of interest and is, therefore, a valuable tool for a site-specific risk assessment of crop plants carrying systemic pesticides or novel proteins, such as insecticidal Bt toxins, expressed in genetically modified crops. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Towards a complete Fermi surface in underdoped high Tc superconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harrison, Neil

The discovery of magnetic quantum oscillations in underdoped high Tc superconductors raised many questions, and initiated a quest to understand the origin of the Fermi surface the like of which had not been seen since the very first discovery of quantum oscillations in elemental bismuth. While studies of the Fermi surface of materials are today mostly assisted by computer codes for calculating the electronic band structure, this was not the case in the underdoped high Tc materials. The Fermi surface was shown to reconstructed into small pockets, yet there was no hint of a viable order parameter. Crucial clues to understanding the origin of the Fermi surface were provided by the small value of the observed Fermi surface cross-section, the negative Hall coefficient and the small electronic heat capacity at high magnetic fields. We also know that the magnetic fields were likely to be too weak to destroy the pseudogap and that vortex pinning effects could be seen to persist to high magnetic fields at low temperatures. I will show that the Fermi surface that appears to fit best with the experimental observations is a small electron pocket formed by connecting the nodal `Fermi arcs' seen in photoemission experiments, corresponding to a density-wave state with two different orthogonal ordering vectors. The existence of such order has subsequently been detected by x-ray scattering experiments, thereby strengthening the case for charge ordering being responsible for reconstructing the Fermi surface. I will discuss new efforts to understand the relationship between the charge ordering and the pseudogap state, discussing the fate of the quasiparticles in the antinodal region and the dimensionality of the Fermi surface. The author acknowledges contributions from Suchitra Sebastian, Brad Ramshaw, Mun Chan, Yu-Te Hsu, Mate Hartstein, Gil Lonzarich, Beng Tan, Arkady Shekhter, Fedor Balakirev, Ross McDonald, Jon Betts, Moaz Altarawneh, Zengwei Zhu, Chuck Mielke, James Day, Doug Bonn, Ruixing Liang, Walter Hardy. Supported by BES ``Science of 100 tesla'' program.

Metal-Coated Cenospheres Obtained via Magnetron Sputter Coating: A New Precursor for Syntactic Foams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shishkin, A.; Hussainova, I.; Kozlov, V.; Lisnanskis, M.; Leroy, P.; Lehmhus, D.

2018-05-01

Syntactic foams (SFs) and metal matrix syntactic foams (MMSFs) represent an advanced type of metal matrix composites (MMCs) based on hollow microspheres as particulate reinforcement. In general, SF and MMSFs allow tailoring of properties through choice of matrix, reinforcement, and volume fraction of the latter. A further handle for property adjustment is surface modification of the reinforcing particles. The present study introduces cenospheres for use as filler material in SF and MMSFs and as lightweight filler with electromagnetic interference shielding properties in civil engineering, which have been surface coated by means of physical vapor deposition, namely vibration-assisted sputter coating using a magnetron sputtering system. Altogether four types of such cenosphere-based composite powders (CPs) with an original particle size range of 50-125 µm (average particle size d50 75 µm) were studied. Surface films deposited on these were composed of Cu, stainless steel, Ti, and Ti-TiN double layers. For Cu coatings, the deposited metal film thickness was shown to be dependent on the sputtering energy. Scanning electron microscope backscattering images revealed nonporous films uniform in thickness directly after sputtering. Film thickness varied between 0.15 µm and 2.5 µm, depending on coating material and sputtering parameters. From these materials, samples were produced without addition of metal powders, exhibiting metal contents as low as 8-10 wt.% based on the coating alone. Obtained samples had an apparent density of 1.1-1.9 g/cm3 and compressive strengths ranging from 22 MPa to 135 MPa.

Phosphorous-doped TiO2 nanoparticles: synthesis, characterization, and visible photocatalytic evaluation on sulfamethazine degradation.

PubMed

Mendiola-Alvarez, Sandra Yadira; Hernández-Ramírez, Ma Aracely; Guzmán-Mar, Jorge Luis; Garza-Tovar, Lorena Leticia; Hinojosa-Reyes, Laura

2018-05-24

Mesoporous phosphorous-doped TiO 2 (TP) with different wt% of P (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5) was synthetized by microwave-assisted sol-gel method. The obtained materials were characterized by XRD with cell parameters refinement approach, Raman, BET-specific surface area analysis, SEM, ICP-OES, UV-Vis with diffuse reflectance, photoluminescence, FTIR, and XPS. The photocatalytic activity under visible light was evaluated on the degradation of sulfamethazine (SMTZ) at pH 8. The characterization of the phosphorous materials (TP) showed that incorporation of P in the lattice of TiO 2 stabilizes the anatase crystalline phase, even increasing the annealing temperature. The mesoporous P-doped materials showed higher surface area and lower average crystallite size, band gap, and particle size; besides, more intense bands attributed to O-H bond were observed by FTIR analysis compared with bare TiO 2 . The P was substitutionally incorporated in the TiO 2 lattice network as P 5+ replacing Ti 4+ to form Ti-O-P bonds and additionally present as PO 4 3-  on the TiO 2 surface. All these characteristics explain the observed superior photocatalytic activity on degradation (100%) and mineralization (32%) of SMTZ under visible radiation by TP catalysts, especially for P-doped TiO 2 1.0 wt% calcined at 450 °C (TP1.0-450). Ammonium, nitrate, and sulfate ions released during the photocatalytic degradation were quantified by ion chromatography; the nitrogen and sulfur mass balance evidenced the partial mineralization of this recalcitrant molecule.

30 CFR 921.795 - Small operator assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Small operator assistance. 921.795 Section 921.795 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PROGRAMS FOR THE CONDUCT OF SURFACE MINING OPERATIONS WITHIN EACH STATE MASSACHUSETTS § 921.795 Small...

Laser Shock Wave-Assisted Patterning on NiTi Shape Memory Alloy Surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ilhom, Saidjafarzoda; Seyitliyev, Dovletgeldi; Kholikov, Khomidkohodza; Thomas, Zachary; Er, Ali O.; Li, Peizhen; Karaca, Haluk E.; San, Omer

2018-01-01

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are a unique class of smart materials and they were employed in various applications in engineering, biomedical, and aerospace technologies. Here, we report an advanced, efficient, and low-cost direct imprinting method with low environmental impact to create thermally controllable surface patterns. Patterned microindents were generated on Ni50Ti50 (at. %) SMAs using an Nd:YAG laser with 1064 nm wavelength at 10 Hz. Laser pulses at selected fluences were focused on the NiTi surface and generated pressure pulses of up to a few GPa. Optical microscope images showed that surface patterns with tailorable sizes can be obtained. The depth of the patterns increases with laser power and irradiation time. Upon heating, the depth profile of SMA surfaces changed where the maximum depth recovery ratio of 30% was observed. Recovery ratio decreased and stabilized when the number of pulses and thus the well depth were further increased. A numerical simulation of pressure evolution in shape memory alloys showed a good agreement with the experimental results. The stress wave closely followed the rise time of the laser pulse to its peak value and initial decay. Rapid attenuation and dispersion of the stress wave were found in our simulation.

D.R.O.P: The Durable Reconnaissance and Observation Platform

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McKenzie, Clifford; Parness, Aaron

2011-01-01

Robots can provide a remote presence in areas that are either inaccessible or too dangerous for humans. However, robots are often limited by their ability to adapt to the terrain or resist environmental factors. The Durable Reconnaissance and Observation Platform (DROP) is a lightweight robot that addresses these challenges with the capability to survive falls from significant heights, carry a useable payload, and traverse a variety of surfaces, including climbing vertical surfaces like wood, stone, and concrete. DROP is manufactured using a combination of rapid prototyping and shape deposition manufacturing. It uses microspine technology to create a new wheel-like design for vertical climbing. To date, DROP has successfully engaged several vertical surfaces, hanging statically without assistance, and traversed horizontal surfaces at approximately 30 cm/s. Unassisted vertical climbing is capable on surfaces up to 85deg at a rate of approximately 25cm*s(sup -1). DROP can also survive falls from up to 3 meters and has the ability to be thrown off of and onto rooftops. Future efforts will focus on improving the microspine wheels, selecting more resilient materials, customizing the controls, and performing more rigorous and quantifiable testing.

Laser Shock Wave-Assisted Patterning on NiTi Shape Memory Alloy Surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ilhom, Saidjafarzoda; Seyitliyev, Dovletgeldi; Kholikov, Khomidkohodza; Thomas, Zachary; Er, Ali O.; Li, Peizhen; Karaca, Haluk E.; San, Omer

2018-03-01

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are a unique class of smart materials and they were employed in various applications in engineering, biomedical, and aerospace technologies. Here, we report an advanced, efficient, and low-cost direct imprinting method with low environmental impact to create thermally controllable surface patterns. Patterned microindents were generated on Ni50Ti50 (at. %) SMAs using an Nd:YAG laser with 1064 nm wavelength at 10 Hz. Laser pulses at selected fluences were focused on the NiTi surface and generated pressure pulses of up to a few GPa. Optical microscope images showed that surface patterns with tailorable sizes can be obtained. The depth of the patterns increases with laser power and irradiation time. Upon heating, the depth profile of SMA surfaces changed where the maximum depth recovery ratio of 30% was observed. Recovery ratio decreased and stabilized when the number of pulses and thus the well depth were further increased. A numerical simulation of pressure evolution in shape memory alloys showed a good agreement with the experimental results. The stress wave closely followed the rise time of the laser pulse to its peak value and initial decay. Rapid attenuation and dispersion of the stress wave were found in our simulation.

Effect of temperature and gap opening rate on the resiliency of candidate solid rocket booster O-ring materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lach, Cynthia L.

1992-01-01

In the redesign of the Space Shuttle solid rocket motor following the Challenger accident, the field and nozzle-to-case joints were designed to minimize gap opening caused by internal motor pressurization during ignition. The O-ring seals and glands for these joints were designed both to accommodate structural deflections and to promote pressure assisted sealing. The resiliency behavior of several candidate O-ring materials was evaluated for the effects of temperature and gap opening rates. The performance of three of the elastomeric materials was tested under the specific redesign gap opening requirement. Dynamic flexure conditions unique to launch produce low frequency vibrations in the gap opening. The effect of these vibrations on the ability of the O-ring to maintain contact with the sealing surface was addressed. The resiliency of the O-ring materials was found to be extremely sensitive to variations in temperature and gap opening rate. The top three elastomeric materials tracked the simulated solid rocket booster (SRB) field joint deflection at 75 and 120 F. The external tank/SRB attach strut load vibrations had a negligible effect on the ability of the O-ring to track the simulated SRB field joint deflection.

Outdoor Education. Resource Catalogue.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Manitoba Dept. of Education and Training, Winnipeg.

The material in this catalog has been compiled to serve as a ready reference for teachers to assist them in locating outdoor education materials and obtaining environmental student project assistance available from government departments and private organizations within the province of Manitoba. Part 1 lists agencies that can provide speakers,…

28 CFR 55.18 - Provision of minority language materials and assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 28 Judicial Administration 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Provision of minority language materials and assistance. 55.18 Section 55.18 Judicial Administration DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE (CONTINUED) IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROVISIONS OF THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT REGARDING LANGUAGE MINORITY GROUPS Minority Language...

28 CFR 55.18 - Provision of minority language materials and assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 28 Judicial Administration 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Provision of minority language materials and assistance. 55.18 Section 55.18 Judicial Administration DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE (CONTINUED) IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROVISIONS OF THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT REGARDING LANGUAGE MINORITY GROUPS Minority Language...

Method For Plasma Source Ion Implantation And Deposition For Cylindrical Surfaces

DOEpatents

Fetherston, Robert P. , Shamim, Muhammad M. , Conrad, John R.

1997-12-02

Uniform ion implantation and deposition onto cylindrical surfaces is achieved by placing a cylindrical electrode in coaxial and conformal relation to the target surface. For implantation and deposition of an inner bore surface the electrode is placed inside the target. For implantation and deposition on an outer cylindrical surface the electrode is placed around the outside of the target. A plasma is generated between the electrode and the target cylindrical surface. Applying a pulse of high voltage to the target causes ions from the plasma to be driven onto the cylindrical target surface. The plasma contained in the space between the target and the electrode is uniform, resulting in a uniform implantation or deposition of the target surface. Since the plasma is largely contained in the space between the target and the electrode, contamination of the vacuum chamber enclosing the target and electrodes by inadvertent ion deposition is reduced. The coaxial alignment of the target and the electrode may be employed for the ion assisted deposition of sputtered metals onto the target, resulting in a uniform coating of the cylindrical target surface by the sputtered material. The independently generated and contained plasmas associated with each cylindrical target/electrode pair allows for effective batch processing of multiple cylindrical targets within a single vacuum chamber, resulting in both uniform implantation or deposition, and reduced contamination of one target by adjacent target/electrode pairs.

Surface Plasmon-Assisted Solar Energy Conversion.

PubMed

Dodekatos, Georgios; Schünemann, Stefan; Tüysüz, Harun

2016-01-01

The utilization of localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) from plasmonic noble metals in combination with semiconductors promises great improvements for visible light-driven photocatalysis, in particular for energy conversion. This review summarizes the basic principles of plasmonic photocatalysis, giving a comprehensive overview about the proposed mechanisms for enhancing the performance of photocatalytically active semiconductors with plasmonic devices and their applications for surface plasmon-assisted solar energy conversion. The main focus is on gold and, to a lesser extent, silver nanoparticles in combination with titania as semiconductor and their usage as active plasmonic photocatalysts. Recent advances in water splitting, hydrogen generation with sacrificial organic compounds, and CO2 reduction to hydrocarbons for solar fuel production are highlighted. Finally, further improvements for plasmonic photocatalysts, regarding performance, stability, and economic feasibility, are discussed for surface plasmon-assisted solar energy conversion.

Ultrasonic-assisted enzymatic extraction of phenolics from broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) inflorescences and evaluation of antioxidant activity in vitro.

PubMed

Wu, Hao; Zhu, Junxiang; Yang, Long; Wang, Ran; Wang, Chengrong

2015-06-01

An efficient ultrasonic-assisted enzymatic extraction technique was applied to extracting phenolics from broccoli inflorescences without organic solvents. The synergistic model of enzymolysis and ultrasonication simultaneously was selected, and the enzyme combination was optimized by orthogonal test: cellulase 7.5 mg/g FW (fresh weight), pectinase 10 mg/g FW, and papain 1.0 mg/g FW. The operating parameters in ultrasonic-assisted enzymatic extraction were optimized with response surface methodology using Box-Behnken design. The optimal extraction conditions were as follows: ultrasonic power, 440 W; liquid to material ratio, 7.0:1 mL/g; pH value of 6.0 at 54.5 ℃ for 10 min. Under these conditions, the extraction yield of phenolics achieved 1.816 ± 0.0187 mg gallic acid equivalents/gram FW. The free radical scavenging activity of ultrasonic-assisted enzymatic extraction extracts was determined by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl·assay with EC50 values of 0.25, and total antioxidant activity was determined by ferric reducing antioxidant power assay with ferric reducing antioxidant power value of 0.998 mmol FeSO4/g compared with the referential ascorbic acid of 1.184 mmol FeSO4/g. © The Author(s) 2014 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.

Environmental Effect on Evolutionary Cyclic Plasticity Material Parameters of 316 Stainless Steel: An Experimental & Material Modeling Approach

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

Mohanty, Subhasish; Soppet, William K.; Majumdar, Saurin

2014-09-20

This report provides an update on an earlier assessment of environmentally assisted fatigue for light water reactor (LWR) materials under extended service conditions. This report is a deliverable under the work package for environmentally assisted fatigue in the Light Water Reactor Sustainability (LWRS) program. The overall objective of this LWRS project is to assess the degradation by environmentally assisted cracking/fatigue of LWR materials such as various alloy base metals and their welds used in reactor coolant system piping. This effort is to support the Department of Energy LWRS program for developing tools to understand the aging/failure mechanism and to predictmore » the remaining life of LWR components for anticipated 60-80 year operation.« less

Electrochemically assisted deposition of hydroxyapatite on Ti6Al4V substrates covered by CVD diamond films - Coating characterization and first cell biological results.

PubMed

Strąkowska, Paulina; Beutner, René; Gnyba, Marcin; Zielinski, Andrzej; Scharnweber, Dieter

2016-02-01

Although titanium and its alloys are widely used as implant material for orthopedic and dental applications they show only limited corrosion stability and osseointegration in different cases. The aim of the presented research was to develop and characterize a novel surface modification system from a thin diamond base layer and a hydroxyapatite (HAp) top coating deposited on the alloy Ti6Al4V widely used for implants in contact with bone. This coating system is expected to improve both the long-term corrosion behavior and the biocompatibility and bioactivity of respective surfaces. The diamond base films were obtained by Microwave Plasma Assisted Chemical Vapor Deposition (MW-PACVD); the HAp coatings were formed in aqueous solutions by electrochemically assisted deposition (ECAD) at varying polarization parameters. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman microscopy, and electrical conductivity measurements were applied to characterize the generated surface states; the calcium phosphate coatings were additionally chemically analyzed for their composition. The biological properties of the coating system were assessed using hMSC cells analyzing for cell adhesion, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation. Varying MW-PACVD process conditions resulted in composite coatings containing microcrystalline diamond (MCD/Ti-C), nanocrystalline diamond (NCD), and boron-doped nanocrystalline diamond (B-NCD) with the NCD coatings being dense and homogeneous and the B-NCD coatings showing increased electrical conductivity. The ECAD process resulted in calcium phosphate coatings from stoichiometric and non-stoichiometric HAp. The deposition of HAp on the B-NCD films run at lower cathodic potentials and resulted both in the highest coating mass and the most homogenous appearance. Initial cell biological investigations showed an improved cell adhesion in the order B-NCD>HAp/B-NCD>uncoated substrate. Cell proliferation was improved for both investigated coatings whereas ALP expression was highest for the uncoated substrate. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Atmospheric pressure matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization as a plume diagnostic tool in laser evaporation methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Callahan, John H.; Galicia, Marsha C.; Vertes, Akos

2002-09-01

Laser evaporation techniques, including matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE), are attracting increasing attention due to their ability to deposit thin layers of undegraded synthetic and biopolymers. Laser evaporation methods can be implemented in reflection geometry with the laser and the substrate positioned on the same side of the target. In some applications (e.g. direct write, DW), however, transmission geometry is used, i.e. the thin target is placed between the laser and the substrate. In this case, the laser pulse perforates the target and transfers some target material to the substrate. In order to optimize evaporation processes it is important to know the composition of the target plume and the material deposited from the plume. We used a recently introduced analytical method, atmospheric pressure matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (AP-MALDI) to characterize the ionic components of the plume both in reflection and in transmission geometry. This technique can also be used to directly probe materials deposited on surfaces (such as glass slides) by laser evaporation methods. The test compound (small peptides, e.g. Angiotensin I, ATI or Substance P) was mixed with a MALDI matrix (α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (CHCA), sinapinic acid (SA) or 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHB)) and applied to the stainless steel (reflection geometry) or transparent conducting (transmission geometry) target holder. In addition to the classical dried droplet method, we also used electrospray target deposition to gain better control of crystallite size, thickness and homogeneity. The target was mounted in front of the inlet orifice of an ion trap mass spectrometer (IT-MS) that sampled the ionic components of the plume generated by a nitrogen laser. We studied the effect of several parameters, such as, the orifice to target distance, illumination geometry, extracting voltage distribution and sample preparation on the generated ions. Various analyte-matrix and matrix-matrix cluster ions were observed with relatively low abundance of the matrix ions.

Use of air-assisted electrostatic spraying system (ESS)or the sprayed lethality in container(SLIC) method to deliver anticmicrobials onto the surface of beef subprimals to ... shiga toxin-producing cells of Escherichia coli

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

We evaluated the efficacy of an air-assisted electrostatic spraying system (ESS) and/or the Sprayed Lethality in Container (SLIC) method to deliver antimicrobials onto the surface of beef subprimals to reduce levels of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC). Beef subprimals were surface inocu...

Solvent Separating Secondary Metabolites Directly from Biosynthetic Tissue for Surface-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation Mass Spectrometry

PubMed Central

Rudd, David; Benkendorff, Kirsten; Voelcker, Nicolas H.

2015-01-01

Marine bioactive metabolites are often heterogeneously expressed in tissues both spatially and over time. Therefore, traditional solvent extraction methods benefit from an understanding of the in situ sites of biosynthesis and storage to deal with heterogeneity and maximize yield. Recently, surface-assisted mass spectrometry (MS) methods namely nanostructure-assisted laser desorption ionisation (NALDI) and desorption ionisation on porous silicon (DIOS) surfaces have been developed to enable the direct detection of low molecular weight metabolites. Since direct tissue NALDI-MS or DIOS-MS produce complex spectra due to the wide variety of other metabolites and fragments present in the low mass range, we report here the use of “on surface” solvent separation directly from mollusc tissue onto nanostructured surfaces for MS analysis, as a mechanism for simplifying data annotation and detecting possible artefacts from compound delocalization during the preparative steps. Water, ethanol, chloroform and hexane selectively extracted a range of choline esters, brominated indoles and lipids from Dicathais orbita hypobranchial tissue imprints. These compounds could be quantified on the nanostructured surfaces by comparison to standard curves generated from the pure compounds. Surface-assisted MS could have broad utility for detecting a broad range of secondary metabolites in complex marine tissue samples. PMID:25786067

Status and directions of modified tribological surfaces by ion processes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spalvins, Talivaldis

1988-01-01

An overview is presented of recent advances in modifying contacting surfaces in motion by the various ion assisted surface coating/modification processes to reduce and control tribological failures. The ion assisted coating processes and the surface modification processes offer the greatest potential to custom tailor and optimize the tribological performance. Hard, wear resistant and low shear coatings deposited by the ion assisted processes are discussed. Primarily the recent advances of sputtered MoS2 ion plated Au, Ag, Pb lubricating films and sputtered and ion plated hard, wear resistant TiN, HfN, TiC films are described in terms of structural property performance interrelationships which lead to improved adhesion, cohesion, nucleation, morphological growth, density, film thickness as determined by structural and chemical characterization and frictional and wear behavior. Also, the recent tribological advances using the surface modification processes such as ion implantation, ion beam mixing is discussed with emphasis on the development of lubricous high temperature ceramic surfaces.

Liquid-assisted laser ablation of advanced ceramics and glass-ceramic materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garcia-Giron, A.; Sola, D.; Peña, J. I.

2016-02-01

In this work, results obtained by laser ablation of advanced ceramics and glass-ceramic materials assisted by liquids are reported. A Q-switched Nd:YAG laser at its fundamental wavelength of 1064 nm with pulse-width in the nanosecond range was used to machine the materials, which were immersed in water and ethylene glycol. Variation in geometrical parameters, morphology, and ablation yields were studied by using the same laser working conditions. It was observed that machined depth and removed volume depended on the thermal, optical, and mechanical features of the processed materials as well as on the properties of the surrounding medium in which the laser processing was carried out. Variation in ablation yields was studied in function of the liquid used to assist the laser process and related to refractive index and viscosity. Material features and working conditions were also related to the obtained results in order to correlate ablation parameters with respect to the hardness of the processed materials.

Laser-assisted metal spinning for an efficient and flexible processing of challenging materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brummer, C.; Eck, S.; Marsoner, S.; Arntz, K.; Klocke, F.

2016-03-01

The demand for components made from high performance materials like titanium or nickel-based alloys as well as strain-hardening stainless steel is steadily increasing. However, conventional forming operations conducted on these materials are generally very laborious and time-consuming. This is where the limitations of metal spinning also become apparent. Using a laser to apply heat localized to the forming zone during metal spinning facilitates to enhance the formability of a material. In order to analyse the potential of the new manufacturing process, experimental investigations on laser-assisted shear forming and multi-pass metal spinning have been performed with austenitic stainless steel X5CrNi18-10, nickel-based alloy Inconel 718 and titanium grade 2. It could be demonstrated that the formability of these materials can be enhanced by laser-assistance. Besides the resulting enhancement of forming limits for metal spinning of challenging materials, the forming forces were reduced and the product quality was improved significantly.

Atomic layer deposition: an enabling technology for the growth of functional nanoscale semiconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biyikli, Necmi; Haider, Ali

2017-09-01

In this paper, we present the progress in the growth of nanoscale semiconductors grown via atomic layer deposition (ALD). After the adoption by semiconductor chip industry, ALD became a widespread tool to grow functional films and conformal ultra-thin coatings for various applications. Based on self-limiting and ligand-exchange-based surface reactions, ALD enabled the low-temperature growth of nanoscale dielectric, metal, and semiconductor materials. Being able to deposit wafer-scale uniform semiconductor films at relatively low-temperatures, with sub-monolayer thickness control and ultimate conformality, makes ALD attractive for semiconductor device applications. Towards this end, precursors and low-temperature growth recipes are developed to deposit crystalline thin films for compound and elemental semiconductors. Conventional thermal ALD as well as plasma-assisted and radical-enhanced techniques have been exploited to achieve device-compatible film quality. Metal-oxides, III-nitrides, sulfides, and selenides are among the most popular semiconductor material families studied via ALD technology. Besides thin films, ALD can grow nanostructured semiconductors as well using either template-assisted growth methods or bottom-up controlled nucleation mechanisms. Among the demonstrated semiconductor nanostructures are nanoparticles, nano/quantum-dots, nanowires, nanotubes, nanofibers, nanopillars, hollow and core-shell versions of the afore-mentioned nanostructures, and 2D materials including transition metal dichalcogenides and graphene. ALD-grown nanoscale semiconductor materials find applications in a vast amount of applications including functional coatings, catalysis and photocatalysis, renewable energy conversion and storage, chemical sensing, opto-electronics, and flexible electronics. In this review, we give an overview of the current state-of-the-art in ALD-based nanoscale semiconductor research including the already demonstrated and future applications.

30 CFR 937.795 - Small operator assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Small operator assistance. 937.795 Section 937.795 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PROGRAMS FOR THE CONDUCT OF SURFACE MINING OPERATIONS WITHIN EACH STATE OREGON § 937.795 Small operator...

30 CFR 937.795 - Small operator assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Small operator assistance. 937.795 Section 937.795 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PROGRAMS FOR THE CONDUCT OF SURFACE MINING OPERATIONS WITHIN EACH STATE OREGON § 937.795 Small operator...

30 CFR 937.795 - Small operator assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Small operator assistance. 937.795 Section 937.795 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PROGRAMS FOR THE CONDUCT OF SURFACE MINING OPERATIONS WITHIN EACH STATE OREGON § 937.795 Small operator...

30 CFR 933.795 - Small operator assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Small operator assistance. 933.795 Section 933.795 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PROGRAMS FOR THE CONDUCT OF SURFACE MINING OPERATIONS WITHIN EACH STATE NORTH CAROLINA § 933.795 Small...

30 CFR 910.795 - Small operator assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Small operator assistance. 910.795 Section 910.795 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PROGRAMS FOR THE CONDUCT OF SURFACE MINING OPERATIONS WITHIN EACH STATE GEORGIA § 910.795 Small operator...

30 CFR 942.795 - Small operator assistance program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Small operator assistance program. 942.795 Section 942.795 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PROGRAMS FOR THE CONDUCT OF SURFACE MINING OPERATIONS WITHIN EACH STATE TENNESSEE § 942.795 Small...

30 CFR 947.795 - Small operator assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Small operator assistance. 947.795 Section 947.795 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PROGRAMS FOR THE CONDUCT OF SURFACE MINING OPERATIONS WITHIN EACH STATE WASHINGTON § 947.795 Small operator...

30 CFR 903.795 - Small operator assistance program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Small operator assistance program. 903.795 Section 903.795 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PROGRAMS FOR THE CONDUCT OF SURFACE MINING OPERATIONS WITHIN EACH STATE ARIZONA § 903.795 Small...

30 CFR 922.795 - Small operator assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Small operator assistance. 922.795 Section 922.795 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PROGRAMS FOR THE CONDUCT OF SURFACE MINING OPERATIONS WITHIN EACH STATE MICHIGAN § 922.795 Small operator...

30 CFR 941.795 - Small operator assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Small operator assistance. 941.795 Section 941.795 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PROGRAMS FOR THE CONDUCT OF SURFACE MINING OPERATIONS WITHIN EACH STATE SOUTH DAKOTA § 941.795 Small...

30 CFR 939.795 - Small operator assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Small operator assistance. 939.795 Section 939.795 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PROGRAMS FOR THE CONDUCT OF SURFACE MINING OPERATIONS WITHIN EACH STATE RHODE ISLAND § 939.795 Small...

30 CFR 937.795 - Small operator assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Small operator assistance. 937.795 Section 937.795 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PROGRAMS FOR THE CONDUCT OF SURFACE MINING OPERATIONS WITHIN EACH STATE OREGON § 937.795 Small operator...

30 CFR 905.795 - Small operator assistance program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Small operator assistance program. 905.795 Section 905.795 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PROGRAMS FOR THE CONDUCT OF SURFACE MINING OPERATIONS WITHIN EACH STATE CALIFORNIA § 905.795 Small...

30 CFR 912.795 - Small operator assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Small operator assistance. 912.795 Section 912.795 Mineral Resources OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING RECLAMATION AND ENFORCEMENT, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PROGRAMS FOR THE CONDUCT OF SURFACE MINING OPERATIONS WITHIN EACH STATE IDAHO § 912.795 Small operator...

22 CFR 126.1 - Prohibited exports and sales to certain countries.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

...-case basis, for supplies of arms and related materials or technical training and assistance intended... Haiti, supplies of arms and related materials for technical training and assistance intended solely for..., defense services or technical data subject to this subchapter may be made to any country referred to in...

44 CFR 5.29 - Effect of failure to make information materials available.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 44 Emergency Management and Assistance 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Effect of failure to make information materials available. 5.29 Section 5.29 Emergency Management and Assistance FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY GENERAL PRODUCTION OR DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION...

Physical Therapist Assistant Curriculum Development. Curriculum Materials.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blackhawk Technical Inst., Janesville, WI.

This publication contains a number of materials related to the Blackhawk Technical College (Wisconsin) Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program. Contents include a schedule and curriculum outline for the PTA I course; a brochure on the associate degree program; curriculum outline for the associate degree program; and admission procedures and…

44 CFR 19.455 - Textbooks and curricular material.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 44 Emergency Management and Assistance 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Textbooks and curricular material. 19.455 Section 19.455 Emergency Management and Assistance FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY GENERAL NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF SEX IN EDUCATION PROGRAMS OR ACTIVITIES RECEIVING FEDERAL FINANCIAL...

23 CFR 180.1 - Cross-reference to credit assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 23 Highways 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Cross-reference to credit assistance. 180.1 Section 180.1 Highways FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PAYMENT PROCEDURES CREDIT ASSISTANCE FOR SURFACE TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS § 180.1 Cross-reference to credit assistance. The regulations...

23 CFR 180.1 - Cross-reference to credit assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 23 Highways 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Cross-reference to credit assistance. 180.1 Section 180.1 Highways FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PAYMENT PROCEDURES CREDIT ASSISTANCE FOR SURFACE TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS § 180.1 Cross-reference to credit assistance. The regulations...

23 CFR 180.1 - Cross-reference to credit assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 23 Highways 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Cross-reference to credit assistance. 180.1 Section 180.1 Highways FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PAYMENT PROCEDURES CREDIT ASSISTANCE FOR SURFACE TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS § 180.1 Cross-reference to credit assistance. The regulations...

23 CFR 180.1 - Cross-reference to credit assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 23 Highways 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Cross-reference to credit assistance. 180.1 Section 180.1 Highways FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PAYMENT PROCEDURES CREDIT ASSISTANCE FOR SURFACE TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS § 180.1 Cross-reference to credit assistance. The regulations...

49 CFR 1105.3 - Information and assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 8 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Information and assistance. 1105.3 Section 1105.3... Information and assistance. Information and assistance regarding the rules and the Board's environmental and historic review process is available by writing or calling the Section of Environmental Analysis, Surface...

49 CFR 1105.3 - Information and assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 8 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Information and assistance. 1105.3 Section 1105.3... Information and assistance. Information and assistance regarding the rules and the Board's environmental and historic review process is available by writing or calling the Section of Environmental Analysis, Surface...

49 CFR 1105.3 - Information and assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 8 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Information and assistance. 1105.3 Section 1105.3... Information and assistance. Information and assistance regarding the rules and the Board's environmental and historic review process is available by writing or calling the Section of Environmental Analysis, Surface...

Adsorption Assisted Photocatalytic Removal of Methyl Orange by MgAl2O4-Sb2S3 Composite Material.

PubMed

Muneeb, Muhammad; Ismail, Bushra; Fazal, Tanzeela; Khan, Abdur Rehman; Afzia, Mehwish

2016-01-01

The current article is about the water treatment in which colored water contaminated by methyl orange has been used for adsorption assisted photocatalysis. Coupling of photocatalysis with the traditional water treatment processes has been in practice since last couple of years for the improvement of degradation efficiencies, for example, photocatalysis coupled with ultrafilteration, adsorption, flocculation, biological methods, photolysis, membrane distillation, etc. Among all these coupling approaches, adsorption assisted photocatalysis being a very simple and highly efficient approach is suffering from few drawbacks on the account of high cost, low stability and surface area of the adsorbent support. The present study is a contribution towards improvement in this coupling approach. A low cost, highly stable spinel magnesium aluminate (MgAl2O4) material synthesized at nanoscale is used for composite formation with antimony sulphide (Sb2S3) material having high absorption coefficient in the visible light of solar spectrum. A review of recent patents shows that the field of photoctalysis is dominated by the traditional TiO2 catalyst. The modification of TiO2 by either composite formation or by doping is the main focus. Coprecipitation method is used for the synthesis of spinel in which the desired precursors in the respective molar ratios were mixed and annealing of the resulting precipitates was carried out at 800oC for 8 h. Sb2S3 was synthesized by the hydrothermal method in which the required molar solution of precursors was mixed with urea solution and the whole mixture was maintained at 105oC for 6 hrs in a Teflon lined autoclave. The resulting suspension was then annealed at 37oC for 3 hours. The composite of Sb2S3 and MgAl2O4 has been synthesized by mixing both the materials in 1:1 and heat treated in an oven at a temperature of 200oC. Peaks in X-ray diffraction pattern correspond to both the Sb2S3 and spinel phase. All the peaks corresponding to the Sb2S3 and spinel phase were found to be shifted to higher d-spacing values. This indicates the expansion of unit cells of the Sb2S3 and MgAl2O4 phases. Thermal studies show that only 3% weight loss is observed at a temperature of 200-1000oC which may be due to the loss of surface water from the sample. Surface area, pore volume and pore size obtained from N2 adsorption were 143m2/g, 0.21cc/g and 23.26Å, respectively. The removal efficiency of 0.1g catalyst for methyl orange solution of 5mg/L concentration after reaction in dark conditions for the time of one hour was calculated to be 24% owing to the adsorption. The visible light degradation efficiency of the 0.1g catalyst for 1, 5, 19, 25 and 50 mg/L concentrations of MO solutions were 97, 93, 75, 72 and 62% respectively. The dosage of the catalyst was found to have a direct relationship with the degradation efficiency. Lower pH was found suitable for the degradation owing to better interaction of catalyst surface and the adsorbed dye. Percent degradation increased with the increase in the time and temperature of reaction. The degradation kinetics followed pseudo first order rate equation; the calculated value of rate constant was 0.0102 min-1. The mechanism involves the excitation of electrons in the valence band of Sb2S3 to the conduction band by the absorption of visible and UV light. The electrons and holes participate in the surface reactions resulting in the formation of superoxide and hydroxyl radicals which degrade the targeted polluted. Lower concentration of MO solutions, acidic pH, higher catalyst dosage and greater reaction times were found suitable for the degradation efficiency.

Microwave-assisted synthesis of organics and nanomaterials

EPA Science Inventory

Microwave-assisted chemistry techniques and greener reaction media are dramatically reducing chemical waste and reaction times in several organic transformations and material synthesis. This presentation summarizes author’s own experience in developing MW-assisted chemical proces...

Iron dissolution of dust source materials during simulated acidic processing: the effect of sulfuric, acetic, and oxalic acids.

PubMed

Chen, Haihan; Grassian, Vicki H

2013-09-17

Atmospheric organic acids potentially display different capacities in iron (Fe) mobilization from atmospheric dust compared with inorganic acids, but few measurements have been made on this comparison. We report here a laboratory investigation of Fe mobilization of coal fly ash, a representative Fe-containing anthropogenic aerosol, and Arizona test dust, a reference source material for mineral dust, in pH 2 sulfuric acid, acetic acid, and oxalic acid, respectively. The effects of pH and solar radiation on Fe dissolution have also been explored. The relative capacities of these three acids in Fe dissolution are in the order of oxalic acid > sulfuric acid > acetic acid. Oxalate forms mononuclear bidentate ligand with surface Fe and promotes Fe dissolution to the greatest extent. Photolysis of Fe-oxalate complexes further enhances Fe dissolution with the concomitant degradation of oxalate. These results suggest that ligand-promoted dissolution of Fe may play a more significant role in mobilizing Fe from atmospheric dust compared with proton-assisted processing. The role of atmospheric organic acids should be taken into account in global-biogeochemical modeling to better access dissolved atmospheric Fe deposition flux at the ocean surface.

Ultrasonic-assisted extraction and in-vitro antioxidant activity of polysaccharide from Hibiscus leaf.

PubMed

Afshari, Kasra; Samavati, Vahid; Shahidi, Seyed-Ahmad

2015-03-01

The effects of ultrasonic power, extraction time, extraction temperature, and the water-to-raw material ratio on extraction yield of crude polysaccharide from the leaf of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (HRLP) were optimized by statistical analysis using response surface methodology. The response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize HRLP extraction yield by implementing the Box-Behnken design (BBD). The experimental data obtained were fitted to a second-order polynomial equation using multiple regression analysis and also analyzed by appropriate statistical methods (ANOVA). Analysis of the results showed that the linear and quadratic terms of these four variables had significant effects. The optimal conditions for the highest extraction yield of HRLP were: ultrasonic power, 93.59 W; extraction time, 25.71 min; extraction temperature, 93.18°C; and the water to raw material ratio, 24.3 mL/g. Under these conditions, the experimental yield was 9.66±0.18%, which is well in close agreement with the value predicted by the model 9.526%. The results demonstrated that HRLP had strong scavenging activities in vitro on DPPH and hydroxyl radicals. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Rational molecular dynamics scheme for predicting optimum concentration loading of nano-additive in phase change materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rastogi, Monisha; Vaish, Rahul; Madhar, Niyaz Ahamad; Shaikh, Hamid; Al-Zahrani, S. M.

2015-10-01

The present study deals with the diffusion and phase transition behaviour of paraffin reinforced with carbon nano-additives namely graphene oxide (GO) and surface functionalized single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT). Bulk disordered systems of paraffin hydrocarbons impregnated with carbon nano-additives have been generated in realistic equilibrium conformations for potential application as latent heat storage systems. Ab initio molecular dynamics(MD) in conjugation with COMPASS forcefield has been implemented using periodic boundary conditions. The proposed scheme allows determination of optimum nano-additive loading for improving thermo-physical properties through analysis of mass, thermal and transport properties; and assists in determination of composite behaviour and related performance from microscopic point of view. It was observed that nanocomposites containing 7.8 % surface functionalised SWCNT and 55% GO loading corresponds to best latent heat storage system. The propounded methodology could serve as a by-pass route for economically taxing and iterative experimental procedures required to attain the optimum composition for best performance. The results also hint at the large unexplored potential of ab-initio classical MD techniques for predicting performance of new nanocomposites for potential phase change material applications.

One-pot synthesis of reduced graphene oxide@boron nitride nanosheet hybrids with enhanced oxidation-resistant properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Guoxun; Bi, Jianqiang; Wang, Weili; Zhang, Jingde

2017-12-01

Reduced graphene oxide@boron nitride nanosheet (RGO@BNNS) hybrids were prepared for the first time using template-assisted autoclave pyrolysis technique at the temperature as low as 600 °C. The developed method can be scaled into gram-scale synthesis of the material. The BNNSs combine with RGO through van der Waals interplanar interaction without damaging the structures of RGO. Such ultrathin BNNSs on the surface of RGO can serve as high-performance oxidation-resistant coatings in oxidizing atmospheres at high temperatures. The RGO@BNNS hybrids can sustain up to 800 °C over a relatively long period of time.

First Apollo 11 sample return containers arrive at Ellington AFB

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1969-01-01

The first Apollo 11 sample return container, containing lunar surface material, arrives at Ellington Air Force Base by air from the Pacific recovery area. Happily posing for photographs with the rock box are (left to right) George M. Low, Manager, Apollo Spacecraft Program, Manned Spacecraft Center (MSC); U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Samuel C. Phillips, Apollo Program Director, Office of Manned Space Flight, NASA HQ.; George S. Trimble, MSC Deputy Director (almost obscured); Eugene G. Edmonds, MSC Photographic Technology Laboratory; RIchard S. Johnston (in back), Special Assistant to the MSC Director; Dr. Thomas O. Paine, NASA Administrator; and Dr. Robert R. Gilruth, MSC Director.

Optical memory development. Volume 2: Gain-assisted holographic storage media

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gange, R. A.; Mezrich, R. S.

1972-01-01

Thin deformable films were investigated for use as the storage medium in a holographic optical memory. The research was directed toward solving the problems of material fatigue, selective heat addressing, electrical charging of the film surface and charge patterning by light. A number of solutions to these problems were found but the main conclusion to be drawn from the work is that deformable media which employ heat in the recording process are not satisfactory for use in a high-speed random-access read/write holographic memory. They are, however, a viable approach in applications where either high speed or random-access is not required.

Chemical characterization of detrital sugar chains with peptides in oceanic surface particulate organic matter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsukasaki, A.; Nishida, T.; Tanoue, E.

2016-02-01

For better understanding of the dynamics of organic matter in the ocean interior, particulate organic matter (POM) in oceanic surface water is a key material as a starting material in food chain and biological carbon pump, and the source of dissolved organic matter. POM consists of a mixture of non-living POM (detritus) and small amount of living POM (organisms). Particulate combined amino acids (PCAAs) are one of the major components of POM and the most important source of nitrogen and carbon for heterotrophic organisms in marine environments. In our previous studies of molecular-level characterization of PCAAs using electrophoretic separation (SDS-PAGE: sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis) with specific detection of protein/peptide and sugar chains, we reported that most of PCAAs existed as small-sized peptide chains with carbohydrate-rich remnants. Although carbohydrates are one of the major carbon components of POM, the details of molecular-level structures including sugar chains are unknown. In this study, we applied electrophoretic separation for sugar chains (FACE: fluorophore-assisted carbohydrate electrophoresis) to the POM samples collected from the surface water of the Pacific Ocean. The results showed that sugar chains with various degree of polymerization were detected in POM. The possible roles of such sugar chains in marine biogeochemical cycle of organic matter are discussed in the presentation.

Dynamic features of bubble induced by a nanosecond pulse laser in still and flowing water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Charee, Wisan; Tangwarodomnukun, Viboon

2018-03-01

Underwater laser ablation techniques have been developed and employed to synthesis nanoparticles, to texture workpiece surface and to assist the material removal in laser machining process. However, the understanding of laser-material-water interactions, bubble formation and effects of water flow on ablation performance has still been very limited. This paper thus aims at exploring the formation and collapse of bubbles during the laser ablation of silicon in water. The effects of water flow rate on bubble formation and its consequences to the laser disturbance and cut features obtained in silicon were observed by using a high speed camera. A nanosecond pulse laser emitting the laser pulse energy of 0.2-0.5 mJ was employed in the experiment. The results showed that the bubble size was found to increase with the laser pulse energy. The use of high water flow rate can importantly facilitate the ejection of ablated particles from the workpiece surface, hence resulting in less deposition to the work surface and minimizing any disturbance to the laser beam during the ablation in water. Furthermore, a clean micro-groove in silicon wafer can successfully be produced when the process was performed in the high water flow rate condition. The findings of this study could provide an essential guideline for process selection, control and improvement in the laser micro-/submicro-fabrication using the underwater technique.

Part Marking and Identification Materials' for MISSE

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roxby, Donald; Finckenor, Miria M.

2008-01-01

The Materials on International Space Station Experiment (MISSE) is being conducted with funding from NASA and the U.S. Department of Defense, in order to evaluate candidate materials and processes for flight hardware. MISSE modules include test specimens used to validate NASA technical standards for part markings exposed to harsh environments in low-Earth orbit and space, including: atomic oxygen, ultraviolet radiation, thermal vacuum cycling, and meteoroid and orbital debris impact. Marked test specimens are evaluated and then mounted in a passive experiment container (PEC) that is affixed to an exterior surface on the International Space Station (ISS). They are exposed to atomic oxygen and/or ultraviolet radiation for a year or more before being retrieved and reevaluated. Criteria include percent contrast, axial uniformity, print growth, error correction, and overall grade. MISSE 1 and 2 (2001-2005), MISSE 3 and 4 (2006-2007), and MISSE 5 (2005-2006) have been completed to date. Acceptable results were found for test specimens marked with Data Matrix(TradeMark) symbols by Intermec Inc. and Robotic Vision Systems Inc using: laser bonding, vacuum arc vapor deposition, gas assisted laser etch, chemical etch, mechanical dot peening, laser shot peening, laser etching, and laser induced surface improvement. MISSE 6 (2008-2009) is exposing specimens marked by DataLase(Registed TradeMark), Chemico technologies Inc., Intermec Inc., and tesa with laser-markable paint, nanocode tags, DataLase and tesa laser markings, and anodized metal labels.

ADM guidance-Ceramics: guidance to the use of fractography in failure analysis of brittle materials.

PubMed

Scherrer, Susanne S; Lohbauer, Ulrich; Della Bona, Alvaro; Vichi, Alessandro; Tholey, Michael J; Kelly, J Robert; van Noort, Richard; Cesar, Paulo Francisco

2017-06-01

To provide background information and guidance as to how to use fractography accurately, a powerful tool for failure analysis of dental ceramic structures. An extended palette of qualitative and quantitative fractography is provided, both for in vivo and in vitro fracture surface analyses. As visual support, this guidance document will provide micrographs of typical critical ceramic processing flaws, differentiating between pre- versus post sintering cracks, grinding damage related failures and occlusal contact wear origins and of failures due to surface degradation. The documentation emphasizes good labeling of crack features, precise indication of the direction of crack propagation (dcp), identification of the fracture origin, the use of fractographic photomontage of critical flaws or flaw labeling on strength data graphics. A compilation of recommendations for specific applications of fractography in Dentistry is also provided. This guidance document will contribute to a more accurate use of fractography and help researchers to better identify, describe and understand the causes of failure, for both clinical and laboratory-scale situations. If adequately performed at a large scale, fractography will assist in optimizing the methods of processing and designing of restorative materials and components. Clinical failures may be better understood and consequently reduced by sending out the correct message regarding the fracture origin in clinical trials. Copyright © 2017 The Academy of Dental Materials. All rights reserved.

Ultrasound assisted combustion synthesis of TiC in Al-Ti-C system.

PubMed

Liu, Zhiwei; Rakita, Milan; Xu, Wilson; Wang, Xiaoming; Han, Qingyou

2015-11-01

This research investigated the effects of high-intensity ultrasound on the combustion synthesis of TiC particles in Al-Ti-C system. The process involved that high-intensity ultrasound was applied on the surface of a compacted Al-Ti-C pellet directly through a Nb probe during the thermal explosion reaction. By comparing with the sample without ultrasonic treatment, it was found that the thermal explosion reaction for synthesizing TiC phase could take place thoroughly in the ultrasonically treated sample. During the process of synthesizing TiC phase, the dissolution of solid graphite particles into the Al-Ti melt, as well as the nucleation and growth of TiC particles could be promoted effectively due to the effects of ultrasound, leading to an enhancement of the formation of TiC particles. Ultrasound assisted combustion synthesis as a simple and effective approach was proposed for synthesizing materials in this research. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Local Magnetoelectric Effect in La-Doped BiFeO3 Multiferroic Thin Films Revealed by Magnetic-Field-Assisted Scanning Probe Microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Dan-Feng; Zhou, Ming-Xiu; Lu, Zeng-Xing; Zhang, Hao; Liu, Jun-Ming; Wang, Guang-Hou; Wan, Jian-Guo

2016-06-01

Multiferroic La-doped BiFeO3 thin films have been prepared by a sol-gel plus spin-coating process, and the local magnetoelectric coupling effect has been investigated by the magnetic-field-assisted scanning probe microscopy connected with a ferroelectric analyzer. The local ferroelectric polarization response to external magnetic fields is observed and a so-called optimized magnetic field of ~40 Oe is obtained, at which the ferroelectric polarization reaches the maximum. Moreover, we carry out the magnetic-field-dependent surface conductivity measurements and illustrate the origin of local magnetoresistance in the La-doped BiFeO3 thin films, which is closely related to the local ferroelectric polarization response to external magnetic fields. This work not only provides a useful technique to characterize the local magnetoelectric coupling for a wide range of multiferroic materials but also is significant for deeply understanding the local multiferroic behaviors in the BiFeO3-based systems.

All-solid-state supercapacitors on silicon using graphene from silicon carbide

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

Wang, Bei; Ahmed, Mohsin; Iacopi, Francesca, E-mail: f.iacopi@griffith.edu.au

2016-05-02

Carbon-based supercapacitors are lightweight devices with high energy storage performance, allowing for faster charge-discharge rates than batteries. Here, we present an example of all-solid-state supercapacitors on silicon for on-chip applications, paving the way towards energy supply systems embedded in miniaturized electronics with fast access and high safety of operation. We present a nickel-assisted graphitization method from epitaxial silicon carbide on a silicon substrate to demonstrate graphene as a binder-free electrode material for all-solid-state supercapacitors. We obtain graphene electrodes with a strongly enhanced surface area, assisted by the irregular intrusion of nickel into the carbide layer, delivering a typical double-layer capacitancemore » behavior with a specific area capacitance of up to 174 μF cm{sup −2} with about 88% capacitance retention over 10 000 cycles. The fabrication technique illustrated in this work provides a strategic approach to fabricate micro-scale energy storage devices compatible with silicon electronics and offering ultimate miniaturization capabilities.« less

Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction, Antioxidant and Anticancer Activities of the Polysaccharides from Rhynchosia minima Root.

PubMed

Jia, Xuejing; Zhang, Chao; Hu, Jie; He, Muxue; Bao, Jiaolin; Wang, Kai; Li, Peng; Chen, Meiwan; Wan, Jianbo; Su, Huanxing; Zhang, Qingwen; He, Chengwei

2015-11-23

Box-Behnken design (BBD), one of the most common response surface methodology (RSM) methods, was used to optimize the experimental conditions for ultrasound-assisted extraction of polysaccharides from Rhynchosia minima root (PRM). The antioxidant abilities and anticancer activity of purified polysaccharide fractions were also measured. The results showed that optimal extraction parameters were as follows: ultrasound exposure time, 21 min; ratio of water to material, 46 mL/g; ultrasound extraction temperature, 63 °C. Under these conditions, the maximum yield of PRM was 16.95%±0.07%. Furthermore, the main monosaccharides of purified fractions were Ara and Gal. PRM3 and PRM5 exhibited remarkable DPPH radical scavenging activities and reducing power in vitro. PRM3 showed strong inhibitory activities on the growth of MCF-7 cells in vitro. The above results indicate that polysaccharides from R. minima root have the potential to be developed as natural antioxidants and anticancer ingredients for the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Nanoparticle-assisted high photoconductive gain in polymer/fullerene matrix

PubMed Central

Chen, Hsiang-Yu; Lo, Michael K. F.; Yang, Guanwen; Monbouquette, Harold G.; Yang, Yang

2014-01-01

Polymer/inorganic nanocrystal composites1–10 offer an attractive means to combine the merits of organic and inorganic materials into novel electronic and photonic systems. However, many applications of these composites are limited by the solubility11 and distribution of nanocrystals (NCs) in polymer matrices. Here, a high photoconductive gain has been achieved by blending cadmium telluride (CdTe) nanoparticles (NPs) into a polymer/fullerene matrix followed by a solvent annealing12 process. The NP surface capping ligand, N-phenyl-N’-methyldithiocarbamate, renders the NPs highly soluble in the polymer blend thereby enabling high nanocrystal loadings. An external quantum efficiency (EQE) as high as ~8000% (at 350nm) is reached at −4.5V. Hole-dominant devices coupled with AFM images are studied to uncover the probable mechanism. We observe a higher concentration of CdTe NPs is located near the cathode/polymer interface. These NPs with trapped electrons assist hole injection into the polymer under reverse bias, which contributes to greater than 100% EQE. PMID:18772915

Microwave assisted synthesis of sheet-like Cu/BiVO{sub 4} and its activities of various photocatalytic conditions

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

Chen, Xi; College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar 161006; Li, Li, E-mail: qqhrll@163.com

2015-09-15

The Cu/BiVO{sub 4} photocatalyst with visible-light responsivity was prepared by the microwave-assisted hydrothermal method. The phase structures, chemical composition and surface physicochemical properties were well-characterized via X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV–vis diffuse reflectance absorption (UV–vis/DRS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and N{sub 2} adsorption–desorption tests. Results indicate that the crystal structure of synthetic composite materials is mainly monoclinic scheelite BiVO{sub 4}, which is not changed with the increasing doping amount of Cu. In addition, the presence of Cu not only enlarges the range of the composite materials under the visible-light response, but also increases the BET value significantly.more » Compared to pure BiVO{sub 4}, 1% Cu/BiVO{sub 4}-160 performs the highest photocatalytic activity to degrade methylene blue under the irradiation of ultraviolet, visible and simulated sunlight. In addition, the capture experiments prove that the main active species was superoxide radicals during photocatalytic reaction. Moreover, the 1% Cu/BiVO{sub 4}-160 composite shows good photocatalytic stability after three times of recycling. - Graphical abstract: A series of BiVO{sub 4} with different amounts of Cu doping were prepared by the microwave-assisted method, moreover, which performed the high photocatalytic activities to degrade methylene blue under multi-mode. - Highlights: • A series of Cu/BiVO{sub 4} with different amounts of Cu doping were prepared by microwave-assisted synthesis. • The morphologies of as-samples were different with the amount of Cu doping increased. • Compared with pure BiVO{sub 4}, as-Cu/BiVO{sub 4} showed stronger absorption in the visible light region obviously. • 1% Cu/BiVO{sub 4}-160 performed the high photocatalytic activities to degrade methylene blue under multi-mode. • OH{sup •} and h{sup +} both play important roles in the photocatalytic reaction.« less

Nursing Assistants for Long-Term Care. Performance-Based Instructional Materials.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Indiana Univ., Bloomington. Vocational Education Services.

This guide is intended to assist students enrolled in programs to train nursing assistants for employment in an Indiana long-term health care facility. The first part discusses human development (growth, aging, and dying); communication with residents; sexuality; legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities of nursing assistants in long-term…

Estimation of interaction energy and contact stiffness in atomic-scale sliding on a model sodium chloride surface in ethanol.

PubMed

Agmon, Liron; Shahar, Itai; Yosufov, Danny; Pimentel, Carlos; Pina, Carlos M; Gnecco, Enrico; Berkovich, Ronen

2018-03-16

Friction force microscopy (FFM) in aqueous environments has recently proven to be a very effective method for lattice-resolution imaging of crystal surfaces. Here we demonstrate the use of ethanol for similar measurements on water-soluble materials. Lattice resolved frictional stick-slip traces of a cleaved NaCl(100) surface submerged in ethanol are compared with previous obtained FFM results in ultrahigh vacuum (UHV). We use the Prandtl-Tomlinson framework to estimate the amplitude of the corrugation potential and the contact stiffness. The surface potential amplitude scales with the applied normal loads are in good agreement with data obtained for NaCl measured under UHV conditions, but demonstrates deviations from the ideal periodic potential given by the Prandtl-Tomlinson model. An additional finding is that the use of ethanol allows us to explore higher load ranges without detectable evidence of surface wear. The contact stiffness does not vary significantly with the normal load up to 38 nN, while above it a sudden increase by almost one order of magnitude was observed. Comparing this to previous results suggests that considerable atom rearrangements may occur in the contact region, although the (100) surface structure is preserved by ethanol-assisted diffusion of Na and Cl ions.

Laser surface modification of AZ31B Mg alloy for bio-wettability.

PubMed

Ho, Yee-Hsien; Vora, Hitesh D; Dahotre, Narendra B

2015-02-01

Magnesium alloys are the potential degradable materials for load-bearing implant application due to their comparable mechanical properties to human bone, excellent bioactivity, and in vivo non-toxicity. However, for a successful load-bearing implant, the surface of bio-implant must allow protein absorption and layer formation under physiological environment that can assist the cell/osteoblast growth. In this regard, surface wettability of bio-implant plays a key role to dictate the quantity of protein absorption. In light of this, the main objective of the present study was to produce favorable bio-wettability condition of AZ31B Mg alloy bio-implant surface via laser surface modification technique under various laser processing conditions. In the present efforts, the influence of laser surface modification on AZ31B Mg alloy surface on resultant bio-wettability was investigated via contact-angle measurements and the co-relationships among microstructure (grain size), surface roughness, surface energy, and surface chemical composition were established. In addition, the laser surface modification technique was simulated by computational (thermal) model to facilitate the prediction of temperature and its resultant cooling/solidification rates under various laser processing conditions for correlating with their corresponding composition and phase evolution. These predicted thermal properties were later used to correlate with the corresponding microstructure, chemical composition, and phase evolution via experimental analyses (X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope, energy-dispersive spectroscopy). © The Author(s) 2014 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.

Transporting particulate material

DOEpatents

Aldred, Derek Leslie [North Hollywood, CA; Rader, Jeffrey A [North Hollywood, CA; Saunders, Timothy W [North Hollywood, CA

2011-08-30

A material transporting system comprises a material transporting apparatus (100) including a material transporting apparatus hopper structure (200, 202), which comprises at least one rotary transporting apparatus; a stationary hub structure (900) constraining and assisting the at least one rotary transporting apparatus; an outlet duct configuration (700) configured to permit material to exit therefrom and comprising at least one diverging portion (702, 702'); an outlet abutment configuration (800) configured to direct material to the outlet duct configuration; an outlet valve assembly from the material transporting system venting the material transporting system; and a moving wall configuration in the material transporting apparatus capable of assisting the material transporting apparatus in transporting material in the material transporting system. Material can be moved from the material transporting apparatus hopper structure to the outlet duct configuration through the at least one rotary transporting apparatus, the outlet abutment configuration, and the outlet valve assembly.

Nanomanufacturing of silicon surface with a single atomic layer precision via mechanochemical reactions.

PubMed

Chen, Lei; Wen, Jialin; Zhang, Peng; Yu, Bingjun; Chen, Cheng; Ma, Tianbao; Lu, Xinchun; Kim, Seong H; Qian, Linmao

2018-04-18

Topographic nanomanufacturing with a depth precision down to atomic dimension is of importance for advancement of nanoelectronics with new functionalities. Here we demonstrate a mask-less and chemical-free nanolithography process for regio-specific removal of atomic layers on a single crystalline silicon surface via shear-induced mechanochemical reactions. Since chemical reactions involve only the topmost atomic layer exposed at the interface, the removal of a single atomic layer is possible and the crystalline lattice beneath the processed area remains intact without subsurface structural damages. Molecular dynamics simulations depict the atom-by-atom removal process, where the first atomic layer is removed preferentially through the formation and dissociation of interfacial bridge bonds. Based on the parametric thresholds needed for single atomic layer removal, the critical energy barrier for water-assisted mechanochemical dissociation of Si-Si bonds was determined. The mechanochemical nanolithography method demonstrated here could be extended to nanofabrication of other crystalline materials.

Development of an Innovative Laser-Assisted Coating Process for Extending Lifetime of Metal Casting Dies. Final Report

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

Madhav Rao Gonvindaraju

1999-10-18

Die casting dies used in the metal casting industry fail due to thermal fatigue cracking accompanied by the presence of residual tensile stresses, corrosion, erosion and wear of die surfaces. This phase 1 SBIR Final Report summarize Karta Technologies research involving the development of an innovative laser coating technology for metal casting dies. The process involves depositing complex protective coatings of nanocrystalline powders of TiC followed by a laser shot peening. The results indicate a significant improvement in corrosion and erosion resistance in molten aluminum for H13 die casting die steels. The laser-coated samples also showed improved surface finish, amore » homogeneous and uniform coating mircrostructure. The technology developed in this research can have a significant impact on the casting industry by saving the material costs involved in replacing dies, reducing downtime and improving the quality.« less

``New'' energy states lead to phonon-less optoelectronic properties in nanostructured silicon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Vivek; Yu, Yixuan; Korgel, Brian; Nagpal, Prashant

2014-03-01

Silicon is arguably one of the most important technological material for electronic applications. However, indirect bandgap of silicon semiconductor has prevented optoelectronic applications due to phonon assistance required for photon light absorption/emission. Here we show, that previously unexplored surface states in nanostructured silicon can couple with quantum-confined energy levels, leading to phonon-less exciton-recombination and photoluminescence. We demonstrate size dependence (2.4 - 8.3 nm) of this coupling observed in small uniform silicon nanocrystallites, or quantum-dots, by direct measurements of their electronic density of states and low temperature measurements. To enhance the optical absorption of the these silicon quantum-dots, we utilize generation of resonant surface plasmon polariton waves, which leads to several fold increase in observed spectrally-resolved photocurrent near the quantum-confined bandedge states. Therefore, these enhanced light emission and absorption enhancement can have important implications for applications of nanostructured silicon for optoelectronic applications in photovoltaics and LEDs.

Weyl solitons in three-dimensional optical lattices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shang, Ce; Zheng, Yuanlin; Malomed, Boris A.

2018-04-01

Weyl fermions are massless chiral quasiparticles existing in materials known as Weyl semimetals. Topological surface states, associated with the unusual electronic structure in the Weyl semimetals, have been recently demonstrated in linear systems. Ultracold atomic gases, featuring laser-assisted tunneling in three-dimensional optical lattices, can be used for the emulation of Weyl semimetals, including nonlinear effects induced by the collisional nonlinearity of atomic Bose-Einstein condensates. We demonstrate that this setting gives rise to topological states in the form of Weyl solitons at the surface of the underlying optical lattice. These nonlinear modes, being exceptionally robust, bifurcate from linear states for a given quasimomentum. The Weyl solitons may be used to design an efficient control scheme for topologically protected unidirectional propagation of excitations in light-matter-interaction physics. After the recently introduced Majorana and Dirac solitons, the Weyl solitons proposed in this work constitute the third (and the last) member in this family of topological solitons.

Laser notching ceramics for reliable fracture toughness testing

DOE PAGES

Barth, Holly D.; Elmer, John W.; Freeman, Dennis C.; ...

2015-09-19

A new method for notching ceramics was developed using a picosecond laser for fracture toughness testing of alumina samples. The test geometry incorporated a single-edge-V-notch that was notched using picosecond laser micromachining. This method has been used in the past for cutting ceramics, and is known to remove material with little to no thermal effect on the surrounding material matrix. This study showed that laser-assisted-machining for fracture toughness testing of ceramics was reliable, quick, and cost effective. In order to assess the laser notched single-edge-V-notch beam method, fracture toughness results were compared to results from other more traditional methods, specificallymore » surface-crack in flexure and the chevron notch bend tests. Lastly, the results showed that picosecond laser notching produced precise notches in post-failure measurements, and that the measured fracture toughness results showed improved consistency compared to traditional fracture toughness methods.« less

CTAB assisted synthesis of tungsten oxide nanoplates as an efficient low temperature NOX sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mehta, Swati S.; Tamboli, Mohaseen S.; Mulla, Imtiaz S.; Suryavanshi, Sharad S.

2018-02-01

Tungsten oxide nanoplates with porous morphology were effectively prepared by acidification using CTAB (HexadeCetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide) as a surfactant. For characterization, the synthesized materials were subjected to X-Ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), UV-Visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) and surface area (BET) measurements. The morphology and size of the particles were controlled by solution acidity. The BET results confirmed that the materials are well crystallized and mesoporous in nature. The nanocrystalline powder was used to prepare thick films by screen printing on alumina substrate for the investigation of gas sensing properties. The gas response measurements revealed that the samples acidified using 10 M H2SO4 exhibits highest response of 91% towards NOX at optimum temperature of 200 °C for 100 ppm, and it also exhibits 35% response at room temperature.

Ultrathin IBAD MgO films for epitaxial growth on amorphous substrates and sub-50 nm membranes

DOE PAGES

Wang, Siming; Antonakos, C.; Bordel, C.; ...

2016-11-07

Here, a fabrication process has been developed for high energy ion beam assisted deposition (IBAD) biaxial texturing of ultrathin (~1 nm) MgO films, using a high ion-to-atom ratio and post-deposition annealing instead of a homoepitaxial MgO layer. These films serve as the seed layer for epitaxial growth of materials on amorphous substrates such as electron/X-ray transparent membranes or nanocalorimetry devices. Stress measurements and atomic force microscopy of the MgO films reveal decreased stress and surface roughness, while X-ray diffraction of epitaxial overlayers demonstrates the improved crystal quality of films grown epitaxially on IBAD MgO. The process simplifies the synthesis ofmore » IBAD MgO, fundamentally solves the “wrinkle” issue induced by the homoepitaxial layer on sub-50 nm membranes, and enables studies of epitaxial materials in electron/X-ray transmission and nanocalorimetry.« less

Diffusion-coupled cohesive interface simulations of stress corrosion intergranular cracking in polycrystalline materials

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

Pu, Chao; Gao, Yanfei; Wang, Yanli

To study the stress corrosion intergranular cracking mechanism, a diffusion-coupled cohesive zone model (CZM) is proposed for the simulation of the stress-assisted diffusional process along grain boundaries and the mechanical response of grain boundary sliding and separation. This simulation methodology considers the synergistic effects of impurity diffusion driven by pressure gradient and degradation of grain boundary strength by impurity concentration. The diffusion-coupled CZM is combined with crystal plasticity finite element model (CPFEM) to simulate intergranular fracture of polycrystalline material under corrosive environment. Significant heterogeneity of the stress field and extensive impurity accumulation is observed at grain boundaries and junction points.more » Deformation mechanism maps are constructed with respect to the grain boundary degradation factor and applied strain rate, which dictate the transition from internal to near-surface intergranular fracture modes under various strain amplitudes and grain sizes.« less

Antimicrobial activity of biopolymer-antibiotic thin films fabricated by advanced pulsed laser methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cristescu, R.; Popescu, C.; Dorcioman, G.; Miroiu, F. M.; Socol, G.; Mihailescu, I. N.; Gittard, S. D.; Miller, P. R.; Narayan, R. J.; Enculescu, M.; Chrisey, D. B.

2013-08-01

We report on thin film deposition by matrix assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE) of two polymer-drug composite thin film systems. A pulsed KrF* excimer laser source (λ = 248 nm, τ = 25 ns, ν = 10 Hz) was used to deposit composite thin films of poly(D,L-lactide) (PDLLA) containing several gentamicin concentrations. FTIR spectroscopy was used to demonstrate that MAPLE-transferred materials exhibited chemical structures similar to those of drop cast materials. Scanning electron microscopy data indicated that MAPLE may be used to fabricate thin films of good morphological quality. The activity of PDLLA-gentamicin composite thin films against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria was demonstrated using drop testing. The influence of drug concentration on microbial viability was also assessed. Our studies indicate that polymer-drug composite thin films prepared by MAPLE may be used to impart antimicrobial activity to implants, medical devices, and other contact surfaces.

Microwave assisted synthesis of graphene oxide - MnO2 nanocomposites for electrochemical supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vimuna, V. M.; Athira, A. R.; Xavier, T. S.

2018-05-01

Grapheneoxide-MnO2 nanocomposite was successfully synthesized through the self-limiting deposition of nano scale MnO2 on the surface of graphene oxide under microwave- irradiation in a water- isopropyl alcohol system. The structural and morphological properties of as synthesized samples have been studied. These nanostructured graphene oxide-MnO2 (GMC) hybrid materials are used for investigation of electrochemical behaviours. It was found that the electrochemical performance of as prepared nanocomposite could be enhanced by chemical interaction between GO and MnO2. Cyclic voltammetry is employed to assess the properties of these nanocomposites for use in supercapacitors. The specific capacitance of the synthesized sample corresponding to scan rate of 20mV/s is calculated to be 280 Fg-1. Furthermore, we emphasize the fabrication challenges and future perspectives of such materials for energy storage.

Facile preparation of heparinized polysulfone membrane assisted by polydopamine/polyethyleneimine co-deposition for simultaneous LDL selectivity and biocompatibility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Liwei; Fang, Fei; Liu, Yang; Li, Jing; Huang, Xiaojun

2016-11-01

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) gains worldwide attention for decades as the key risk factor to atherosclerosis that progressively deteriorating into cardiovascular diseases. Until recent years, LDL-apheresis comes to be extensively used as a direct and efficient LDL removal method, with LDL adsorption materials particularly important. In this paper, a new strategy based on the co-deposition of polydopamine (PDA) with polyethylenimine (PEI) onto polysulfone (PSf) membranes, then subsequent heparinization by amino-carbonyl reactions, to achieve LDL selectivity and simultaneous biocompatibility, is proposed. Surface properties of modified PSf membranes are characterized by ATR-FTIR, XPS, FESEM, Zeta potential and WCA measurements. LDL adsorption ability is investigated by ELISA, while blood biocompatibility is evaluated by platelet adhesion experiments. Results suggest that heparin-modified PSf membranes show high selectivity for LDL removal and fine biocompatibility in contact with plasma, as excellent potential materials for LDL-apheresis.

Enhanced performance and interfacial investigation of mineral-based composite phase change materials for thermal energy storage.

PubMed

Li, Chuanchang; Fu, Liangjie; Ouyang, Jing; Yang, Huaming

2013-01-01

A novel mineral-based composite phase change materials (PCMs) was prepared via vacuum impregnation method assisted with microwave-acid treatment of the graphite (G) and bentonite (B) mixture. Graphite and microwave-acid treated bentonite mixture (GBm) had more loading capacity and higher crystallinity of stearic acid (SA) in the SA/GBm composite. The SA/GBm composite showed an enhanced thermal storage capacity, latent heats for melting and freezing (84.64 and 84.14 J/g) was higher than those of SA/B sample (48.43 and 47.13 J/g, respectively). Addition of graphite was beneficial to the enhancement in thermal conductivity of the SA/GBm composite, which could reach 0.77 W/m K, 31% higher than SA/B and 196% than pure SA. Furthermore, atomic-level interfaces between SA and support surfaces were depicted, and the mechanism of enhanced thermal storage properties was in detail investigated.

Report of the In Situ Resources Utilization Workshop

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fairchild, Kyle (Editor); Mendell, Wendell W. (Editor)

1988-01-01

The results of a workshop of 50 representatives from the public and private sector which investigated the potential joint development of the key technologies and mechanisms that will enable the permanent habitation of space are presented. The workshop is an initial step to develop a joint public/private assessment of new technology requirements of future space options, to share knowledge on required technologies that may exist in the private sector, and to investigate potential joint technology development opportunities. The majority of the material was produced in 5 working groups: (1) Construction, Assembly, Automation and Robotics; (2) Prospecting, Mining, and Surface Transportation; (3) Biosystems and Life Support; (4) Materials Processing; and (5) Innovative Ventures. In addition to the results of the working groups, preliminary technology development recommendations to assist in near-term development priority decisions are presented. Finally, steps are outlined for potential new future activities and relationships among the public, private, and academic sectors.

Ultrafast synthesis and characterization of carbonated hydroxyapatite nanopowders via sonochemistry-assisted microwave process.

PubMed

Zou, Zhaoyong; Lin, Kaili; Chen, Lei; Chang, Jiang

2012-11-01

Herein, carbonated hydroxyapatite (CHAp) nanopowders were synthesized via sonochemistry-assisted microwave process. The influences of microwave and ultrasonic irradiation on the crystallinity, morphology, yield, Ca/P molar ratio, specific surface area and dispersibility were investigated and compared with the conventional precipitation method. The results showed that sonochemistry-assisted microwave process significantly increased the synthetic efficiency. The well-crystallized nanopowders could be obtained at high yield of 98.8% in ultra-short-period of 5min. In addition, the crystallization process was promoted with the increase of ultrasonic and microwave power and the reaction time during the sonochemistry-assisted microwave process. The sonochemistry assistance also remarkably increased the specific surface area and dispersibility of the as-obtained products. These results suggest that the sonochemistry-assisted microwave process is an effective approach to synthesize CHAp with high efficiency. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Experimental study on microsphere assisted nanoscope in non-contact mode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ling, Jinzhong; Li, Dancui; Liu, Xin; Wang, Xiaorui

2018-07-01

Microsphere assisted nanoscope was proposed in existing literatures to capture super-resolution images of the nano-structures beneath the microsphere attached on sample surface. In this paper, a microsphere assisted nanoscope working in non-contact mode is designed and demonstrated, in which the microsphere is controlled with a gap separated to sample surface. With a gap, the microsphere is moved in parallel to sample surface non-invasively, so as to observe all the areas of interest. Furthermore, the influence of gap size on image resolution is studied experimentally. Only when the microsphere is close enough to the sample surface, super-resolution image could be obtained. Generally, the resolution decreases when the gap increases as the contribution of evanescent wave disappears. To keep an appropriate gap size, a quantitative method is implemented to estimate the gap variation by observing Newton's rings around the microsphere, serving as a real-time feedback for tuning the gap size. With a constant gap, large-area image with high resolution can be obtained during microsphere scanning. Our study of non-contact mode makes the microsphere assisted nanoscope more practicable and easier to implement.

34 CFR 270.6 - What limitation is imposed on providing race and national origin desegregation assistance under...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... development of curriculum materials for the direct instructional of students of limited English proficiency... programs may not use funds to assist in the development or implementation of activities or the development of curriculum materials for the direct instruction of students to improve their academic and...

34 CFR 270.6 - What limitation is imposed on providing race and national origin desegregation assistance under...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... development of curriculum materials for the direct instructional of students of limited English proficiency... programs may not use funds to assist in the development or implementation of activities or the development of curriculum materials for the direct instruction of students to improve their academic and...

44 CFR 19.425 - Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 44 Emergency Management and Assistance 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials. 19.425 Section 19.425 Emergency Management and Assistance FEDERAL... Basis of Sex in Education Programs or Activities Prohibited § 19.425 Counseling and use of appraisal and...

44 CFR 19.425 - Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 44 Emergency Management and Assistance 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Counseling and use of appraisal and counseling materials. 19.425 Section 19.425 Emergency Management and Assistance FEDERAL... Basis of Sex in Education Programs or Activities Prohibited § 19.425 Counseling and use of appraisal and...