Quantifying microstructural dynamics and electrochemical activity of graphite and silicon-graphite lithium ion battery anodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pietsch, Patrick; Westhoff, Daniel; Feinauer, Julian; Eller, Jens; Marone, Federica; Stampanoni, Marco; Schmidt, Volker; Wood, Vanessa

2016-09-01

Despite numerous studies presenting advances in tomographic imaging and analysis of lithium ion batteries, graphite-based anodes have received little attention. Weak X-ray attenuation of graphite and, as a result, poor contrast between graphite and the other carbon-based components in an electrode pore space renders data analysis challenging. Here we demonstrate operando tomography of weakly attenuating electrodes during electrochemical (de)lithiation. We use propagation-based phase contrast tomography to facilitate the differentiation between weakly attenuating materials and apply digital volume correlation to capture the dynamics of the electrodes during operation. After validating that we can quantify the local electrochemical activity and microstructural changes throughout graphite electrodes, we apply our technique to graphite-silicon composite electrodes. We show that microstructural changes that occur during (de)lithiation of a pure graphite electrode are of the same order of magnitude as spatial inhomogeneities within it, while strain in composite electrodes is locally pronounced and introduces significant microstructural changes.

Construction and performance evaluation of mediator-less microbial fuel cell using carbon nanotubes as an anode material.

PubMed

Roh, Sung-Hee; Kim, Sun-Il

2012-05-01

A microbial fuel cell (MFC) is a device that converts chemical energy to electrical energy using the catalytic reaction of microorganisms. We investigated the performance of mediator-less MFC with carbon nanotubes (CNTs)/graphite felt composite electrodes. The addition of CNTs to a graphite felt electrode increases the specific surface area of the electrode and enhances the charge transfer capability so as to cause considerable improvement of the electrochemical activity for the anode reaction in a MFC. The performance of the MFC using CNTs/graphite felt electrode has been compared against a plain graphite felt electrode based MFC. A CNTs/graphite felt electrode showed as high as 15% increase in the power density (252 mW/m2) compared to graphite felt electrode (214 mW/m2). The CNTs/graphite felt anode therefore offers good prospects for application in MFCs.

Multiple-element semiquantitative analysis of one-milligram geochemical samples by D.C. arc emission spectrography

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rait, N.

1981-01-01

A modified method is described for a 1-mg sample multi-element semiquantitative spectrographic analysis. This method uses a direct-current arc source, carbon instead of graphite electrodes, and an 80% argon-20% oxygen atmosphere instead of air. Although this is a destructive method, an analysis can be made for 68 elements in all mineral and geochemical samples. Carbon electrodes have been an aid in improving the detection limits of many elements. The carbon has a greater resistance to heat conductance and develops a better tip, facilitating sample volatilization and counter balancing the cooling effect of a flow of the argon-oxygen mixture around the anode. Where such an argon-oxygen atmosphere is used instead of air, the cyanogen band lines are greatly diminished in intensity, and thus more spectral lines of analysis elements are available for use; the spectral background is also lower. The main advantage of using the carbon electrode and the 80% argon-20% oxygen atmosphere is the improved detection limits of 36 out of 68 elements. The detection limits remain the same for 23 elements, and are not as good for only nine elements. ?? 1981.

Artificially-built solid electrolyte interphase via surface-bonded vinylene carbonate derivative on graphite by molecular layer deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chae, Seulki; Lee, Jeong Beom; Lee, Jae Gil; Lee, Tae-jin; Soon, Jiyong; Ryu, Ji Heon; Lee, Jin Seok; Oh, Seung M.

2017-12-01

Vinylene carbonate (VC) is attached in a ring-opened form on a graphite surface by molecular layer deposition (MLD) method, and its role as a solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) former is studied. When VC is added into the electrolyte solution of a graphite/LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (LNMO) full-cell, it is reductively decomposed to form an effective SEI on the graphite electrode. However, VC in the electrolyte solution has serious adverse effects due to its poor stability against electrochemical oxidation on the LNMO positive electrode. A excessive acid generation as a result of VC oxidation is observed, causing metal dissolution from the LNMO electrode. The dissolved metal ions are plated on the graphite electrode to destroy the SEI layer, eventually causing serious capacity fading and poor Coulombic efficiency. The VC derivative on the graphite surface also forms an effective SEI layer on the graphite negative electrode via reductive decomposition. The detrimental effects on the LNMO positive electrode, however, can be avoided because the bonded VC derivative on the graphite surface cannot move to the LNMO electrode. Consequently, the graphite/LNMO full-cell fabricated with the VC-attached graphite outperforms the cells without VC or with VC in the electrolyte, in terms of Coulombic efficiency and capacity retention.

Interaction of graphite and ablative materials with CO2-laser, carbon-arc, and xenon-arc radiation. M.S. Thesis - George Washington Univ., Washington, D. C.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brewer, W. D.

1975-01-01

The behavior of graphite and several charring ablators in a variety of high radiative heat flux environments was studied in various radiative environments produced by a CO2 laser and a carbon arc facility. Graphite was also tested in xenon arc radiation. Tests were conducted in air nitrogen, helium, and a mixture of CO2 and nitrogen, simulating the Venus atmosphere. The experimental results are compared with theoretical results obtained with a one dimensional charring ablator analysis and a two dimensional subliming ablator analysis. Photomicroscopy showed no significant differences in appearance or microstructure of the charring ablators or graphite after testing in the three different facilities, indicating that the materials respond fundamentally the same to the radiation of different frequencies. The performance of phenolic nylon and graphite was satisfactorily predicted with existing analyses and published material property data.

Laser-induced incandescence (LII) diagnostic for in situ monitoring of nanoparticle synthesis in a high-pressure arc discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yatom, Shurik; Vekselman, Vladislav; Mitrani, James; Stratton, Brentley; Raitses, Yevgeny; LaboratoryPlasma Nanosynthesis Team

2016-10-01

A DC arc discharge is commonly used for synthesis of carbon nanoparticles, including buckyballs, carbon nanotubes, and graphene flakes. In this work we show the first results of nanoparticles monitored during the arc discharge. The graphite electrode is vaporized by high current (60 A) in a buffer Helium gas leading to nanoparticle synthesis in a low temperature plasma. The arc was shown to oscillate, which can possibly influence the nano-synthesis. To visualize the nanoparticles in-situ we employ the LII technique. The nanoparticles with radii >50 nm, emerging from the arc area are heated with a short laser pulse and incandesce. The resulting radiation is captured with an ICCD camera, showing the location of the generated nanoparticles. The images of incandescence are studied together with temporally synchronized fast-framing imaging of C2 emission, to connect the dynamics of arc instabilities, C2 molecules concentration and nanoparticles. The time-resolved incandescence signal is analyzed with combination of ex-situ measurements of the synthesized nanoparticles and LII modeling, to provide the size distribution of produced nanoparticles. This work was supported by US Department of Energy, Office of Science, Basic Energy Sciences, Materials Sciences and Engineering Division.

Roll-to-Roll Laser-Printed Graphene-Graphitic Carbon Electrodes for High-Performance Supercapacitors.

PubMed

Kang, Sangmin; Lim, Kyungmi; Park, Hyeokjun; Park, Jong Bo; Park, Seong Chae; Cho, Sung-Pyo; Kang, Kisuk; Hong, Byung Hee

2018-01-10

Carbon electrodes including graphene and thin graphite films have been utilized for various energy and sensor applications, where the patterning of electrodes is essentially included. Laser scribing in a DVD writer and inkjet printing were used to pattern the graphene-like materials, but the size and speed of fabrication has been limited for practical applications. In this work, we devise a simple strategy to use conventional laser-printer toner materials as precursors for graphitic carbon electrodes. The toner was laser-printed on metal foils, followed by thermal annealing in hydrogen environment, finally resulting in the patterned thin graphitic carbon or graphene electrodes for supercapacitors. The electrochemical cells made of the graphene-graphitic carbon electrodes show remarkably higher energy and power performance compared to conventional supercapacitors. Furthermore, considering the simplicity and scalability of roll-to-roll (R2R) electrode patterning processes, the proposed method would enable cheaper and larger-scale synthesis and patterning of graphene-graphitic carbon electrodes for various energy applications in the future.

76 FR 36092 - Small Diameter Graphite Electrodes From the People's Republic of China: Extension of Time Limit...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-21

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [A-570-929] Small Diameter Graphite... antidumping duty order on small diameter graphite electrodes from the People's Republic of China (``PRC'') for... preliminary results of this review were published on March 7, 2011. See Small Diameter Graphite Electrodes...

Effects of atmospheric air plasma treatment of graphite and carbon felt electrodes on the anodic current from Shewanella attached cells.

PubMed

Epifanio, Monica; Inguva, Saikumar; Kitching, Michael; Mosnier, Jean-Paul; Marsili, Enrico

2015-12-01

The attachment of electrochemically active microorganisms (EAM) on an electrode is determined by both the chemistry and topography of the electrode surface. Pre-treatment of the electrode surface by atmospheric air plasma introduces hydrophilic functional groups, thereby increasing cell attachment and electroactivity in short-term experiments. In this study, we use graphite and carbon felt electrodes to grow the model EAM Shewanella loihica PV-4 at oxidative potential (0.2 V vs. Ag/AgCl). Cell attachment and electroactivity are measured through electrodynamic methods. Atmospheric air plasma pre-treatment increases cell attachment and current output at graphite electrodes by 25%, while it improves the electroactivity of the carbon felt electrodes by 450%. Air plasma pre-treatment decreased the coulombic efficiency on both carbon felt and graphite electrodes by 60% and 80%, respectively. Microbially produced flavins adsorb preferentially at the graphite electrode, and air plasma pre-treatment results in lower flavin adsorption at both graphite and carbon felt electrodes. Results show that air plasma pre-treatment is a feasible option to increase current output in bioelectrochemical systems. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Synthesis of single-walled carbon nanotubes and graphene composite in arc for ultracapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jian; Cheng, Xiaoqian; Shashurin, Alexey; Keidar, Michael

2012-10-01

Arc discharge supported by the erosion of graphite anode is considered as one of the most practical and efficient methods to synthesize various carbon nanostructures such as single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) and graphene with minimal defects and large yield due to the relatively high synthesis temperature and eco-friendly growth mechanism. By introducing a non-uniform magnetic field during synthesis process, large-scale graphene and high-purity SWCNT can be obtained in one step. In addition, the yield of graphene can be controlled by external parameters, such as the type and pressure of buffer gas, the temperature of substrate, and so on. Possessing the properties of highly accessible surface area and good electrical conductivity, the composite of graphene and SWCNT are promising nanomaterials for the electrodes of ultracapacitor, which can store electric energy with high level of capacitance. In this work, we fabricated electrodes of ultracapacitor based on nanostructures composite by wire-wound rod coating method, characterized them by SEM, EDX and Raman spectroscopy, and tested the performance by a potentiostat/galvanostat.

Improved electrochemical properties of amorphous Mg 65Ni 27La 8 electrodes: Surface modification using graphite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, D. C.; Li, Lu; Liang, G. Y.; Guo, Y. L.; Wu, H. B.

Amorphous Mg 65Ni 27La 8 alloy is prepared by melt-spinning. The alloy surface is modified using different contents of graphite to improve the performances of the Mg 65Ni 27La 8 electrodes. In detail, the electrochemical properties of (Mg 65Ni 27La 8) + xC (x = 0-0.4) electrodes are studied systematically, where x is the mass ratio of graphite to alloy. Experimental results reveal that the discharge capacity, cycle life, discharge potential characteristics and electrochemical kinetics of the electrodes are all improved. The surface modification enhances the electrocatalytic activity of the alloy, reduces the contact resistance of the electrodes and obstructs the formation of Mg(OH) 2 on the alloy surface. An optimal content of graphite has been obtained. The (Mg 65Ni 27La 8) + 0.25 C electrode has the largest discharge capacity of 827 mA h g -1, which is 1.47 times as large as that of the electrode without graphite, and the best electrochemical kinetics. Further increasing of graphite content will lead to the increase of contact resistance and activation energy for charge-transfer reaction of the electrode, resulting in the degradation of electrode performance.

Automatic Control of Arc Process for Making Carbon Nanotubes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Scott, Carl D.; Pulumbarit, Robert B.; Victor, Joe

2004-01-01

An automatic-control system has been devised for a process in which carbon nanotubes are produced in an arc between a catalyst-filled carbon anode and a graphite cathode. The control system includes a motor-driven screw that adjusts the distance between the electrodes. The system also includes a bridge circuit that puts out a voltage proportional to the difference between (1) the actual value of potential drop across the arc and (2) a reference value between 38 and 40 V (corresponding to a current of about 100 A) at which the yield of carbon nanotubes is maximized. Utilizing the fact that the potential drop across the arc increases with the interelectrode gap, the output of the bridge circuit is fed to a motor-control circuit that causes the motor to move the anode toward or away from the cathode if the actual potential drop is more or less, respectively, than the reference potential. Thus, the system regulates the interelectrode gap to maintain the optimum potential drop. The system also includes circuitry that records the potential drop across the arc and the relative position of the anode holder as function of time.

The Modification of Carbon with Iron Oxide Synthesized in Electrolysis Using the Arc Discharge Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Endah Saraswati, Teguh; Dewi Indah Prasiwi, Oktaviana; Masykur, Abu; Handayani, Nestri; Anwar, Miftahul

2017-02-01

The modification of carbon-based nanomaterials with metals is widely studied due to its unique properties. Here, the modification of carbon nanomaterial with iron oxide has been successfully carried out. This modification was achieved using arc discharge in 50% ethanol liquid media. The anode used in the arc discharge was prepared from a mixture of carbon and iron oxide that was synthesized in electrolysis and was then calcined at 250°C with silicon binder with a mass ratio of 3:1:1, and the cathode used was graphite rod. Both electrodes were set in the nearest gap that could provide an arc during arc-discharging, leading to carbon-based nanoparticle formation. The diffractogram pattern of the X-ray diffraction of the fabricated nanoparticles confirmed the typical peak of carbon, iron oxide and iron. The magnetization value of the result analysis of the vibrating sample magnetometer was 9.9 emu/g. The bandgap energy measurement using diffuse reflectance ultra violet was estimated to be 2.18 eV. Using the transmission electron microscopy, the structure of the nanomaterial produced was observed as carbon-encapsulated iron compound nanoparticles.

Numerical analysis of the heat source characteristics of a two-electrode TIG arc

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ogino, Y.; Hirata, Y.; Nomura, K.

2011-06-01

Various kinds of multi-electrode welding processes are used to ensure high productivity in industrial fields such as shipbuilding, automotive manufacturing and pipe fabrication. However, it is difficult to obtain the optimum welding conditions for a specific product, because there are many operating parameters, and because welding phenomena are very complicated. In the present research, the heat source characteristics of a two-electrode TIG arc were numerically investigated using a 3D arc plasma model with a focus on the distance between the two electrodes. The arc plasma shape changed significantly, depending on the electrode spacing. The heat source characteristics, such as the heat input density and the arc pressure distribution, changed significantly when the electrode separation was varied. The maximum arc pressure of the two-electrode TIG arc was much lower than that of a single-electrode TIG. However, the total heat input of the two-electrode TIG arc was nearly constant and was independent of the electrode spacing. These heat source characteristics of the two-electrode TIG arc are useful for controlling the heat input distribution at a low arc pressure. Therefore, these results indicate the possibility of a heat source based on a two-electrode TIG arc that is capable of high heat input at low pressures.

Apparatus for producing diamond-like carbon flakes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Banks, Bruce A. (Inventor)

1986-01-01

A vacuum arc from a spot at the face of a graphite cathode to a graphite anode produces a beam of carbon ions and atoms. A carbon coating from this beam is deposited on an ion beam sputtered target to produce diamond-like carbon flakes. A graphite tube encloses the cathode, and electrical isolation is provided by an insulating sleeve. The tube forces the vacuum arc spot to be confined to the surface on the outermost end of the cathode. Without the tube the arc spot will wander to the side of the cathode. This spot movement results in low rates of carbon deposition, and the properties of the deposited flakes are more graphite-like than diamond-like.

Highly selective dopamine electrochemical sensor based on electrochemically pretreated graphite and nafion composite modified screen printed carbon electrode.

PubMed

Ku, Shuhao; Palanisamy, Selvakumar; Chen, Shen-Ming

2013-12-01

Herein, we report a highly selective dopamine electrochemical sensor based on electrochemically pretreated graphite/nafion composite modified screen printed carbon (SPC) electrode. Electrochemically activated graphite/nafion composite was prepared by using a simple electrochemical method. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) used to characterize the surface morphology of the fabricated composite electrode. The SEM result clearly indicates that the graphitic basal planes were totally disturbed and leads to the formation of graphite nanosheets. The composite modified electrode showed an enhanced electrocatalytic activity toward the oxidation of DA when compared with either electrochemical pretreated graphite or nafion SPC electrodes. The fabricated composite electrode exhibits a good electrocatalytic oxidation toward DA in the linear response range from 0.5 to 70 μM with the detection limit of 0.023 μM. The proposed sensor also exhibits very good selectivity and stability, with the appreciable sensitivity. In addition, the proposed sensor showed satisfactory recovery results toward the commercial pharmaceutical DA samples. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Graphite and ablative material response to CO2 laser, carbon-arc, and xenon-arc radiation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brewer, W. D.

1976-01-01

The behavior was investigated of graphite and several charring ablators in a variety of high-radiative heat-flux environments. A commercial-grade graphite and nine state-of-the-art charring ablators were subjected to various radiative environments produced by a CO2 laser and a carbon arc. Graphite was also tested in xenon-arc radiation. Heat-flux levels ranged from 10 to 47 MW/sq m. Tests were conducted in air, nitrogen, helium, and a CO2-N2 mixture which simulated the Venus atmosphere. The experimental results were compared with theoretical results obtained with a one-dimensional charring-ablator analysis and a two-dimensional subliming-ablator analysis. Neither the graphite nor the charring ablators showed significant differences in appearance or microstructure after testing in the different radiative environments. The performance of phenolic nylon and graphite was predicted satisfactorily with existing analyses and published material property data. Good agreement between experimental and analytical results was obtained by using sublimation parameters from a chemical nonequilibrium analysis of graphite sublimation. Some charring ablators performed reasonably well and could withstand radiative fluxes of the level encountered in certain planetary entries. Other materials showed excessive surface recession and/or large amounts of cracking and spalling, and appear to be unsuitable for severe radiative environments.

High efficiency of CO2-activated graphite felt as electrode for vanadium redox flow battery application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Yu-Chung; Chen, Jian-Yu; Kabtamu, Daniel Manaye; Lin, Guan-Yi; Hsu, Ning-Yih; Chou, Yi-Sin; Wei, Hwa-Jou; Wang, Chen-Hao

2017-10-01

A simple method for preparing CO2-activated graphite felt as an electrode in a vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) was employed by the direct treatment in a CO2 atmosphere at a high temperature for a short period. The CO2-activated graphite felt demonstrates excellent electrochemical activity and reversibility. The VRFB using the CO2-activated graphite felts in the electrodes has coulombic, voltage, and energy efficiencies of 94.52%, 88.97%, and 84.15%, respectively, which is much higher than VRFBs using the electrodes of untreated graphite felt and N2-activated graphite felt. The efficiency enhancement was attributed to the higher number of oxygen-containing functional groups on the graphite felt that are formed during the CO2-activation, leading to improving the electrochemical behaviour of the resultant VRFB.

Synthesis and characterization of long-CNTs by electrical arc discharge in deionized water and NaCl solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sari, Amir Hossein; Khazali, Arezoo; Parhizgar, Sara Sadat

2018-02-01

In this study, electrical arc discharge method is used for the synthesis of multi wall carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The advantages of applied setup for producing CNTs are simplicity, low-cost procedures and avoiding the multistep purification. The experiments were optimized by submerging graphite electrodes inside deionized water and various concentrations of sodium chloride solution. The purpose of this research is to investigate the effect of liquid medium on growth, size and quality of the CNTs structures. The results show that CNTs of 150 Â µm length or larger with high purity and quality without using catalyst are produced on the cathode surface. Furthermore, the quantity of CNTs is influenced by NaCl concentration. Scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction technique were used to characterize the results.

Design, fabrication and performance of small, graphite electrode, multistage depressed collectors with 200-W, CW, 8- to 18-GHz traveling-wave tubes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ebihara, Ben T.; Ramins, Peter

1987-01-01

Small multistage depressed collectors (MDC's) which used pyrolytic graphite, ion-beam-textured pyrolytic graphite, and isotropic graphite electrodes were designed, fabricated, and evaluated in conjuntion with 200-W, continuous wave (CW), 8- to 18-GHz traveling-wave tubes (TWT's). The design, construction, and performance of the MDC's are described. The bakeout performance of the collectors, in terms of gas evolution, was indistinguishable from that of typical production tubes with copper collectors. However, preliminary results indicate that some additional radiofrequency (RF) and dc beam processing time (and/or longer or higher temperature bakeouts) may be needed beyond that of typical copper electrode collectors. This is particularly true for pyrolytic graphite electrodes and for TWT's without appendage ion pumps. Extended testing indicated good long-term stability of the textured pyrolytic graphite and isotropic graphite electrode surfaces. The isotropic graphite in particular showed considerable promise as an MDC electrode material because of its high purity, low cost, simple construction, potential for very compact overall size, and relatively low secondary electron emission yield characteristics in the as-machined state. However, considerably more testing experience is required before definitive conclusions on its suitability for electronic countermeasure systems and space TWT's can be made.

Design and development of high efficiency 140W space TWT with graphite collector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srivastava, V.; Purohit, G.; Sharma, R. K.; Sharma, S. M.; Bera, A.; Bhaskar, P. V.; Singh, R. R.; Prasad, K.; Kiran, V.

2008-05-01

4-stage graphite collector assembly has been designed and developed for a 140W Ku-band space TWT to achieve the collector efficiency more than 80%. The UHV compatible, high density, copper impregnated POCO graphite (DFP-1C) was used to fabricate the four collector electrodes of the 4-stage depressed collector. Copper impregnated graphite material is used for the collector electrodes because of its low secondary electron emission coefficient, high thermal and electrical conductivities, easy machining and brazing, low thermal expansion coefficient and low weight. The graphite material was characterized for the UHV compatibility. The collector electrodes were precisely fabricated by careful machining, and technology was developed for brazing of graphite electrodes with high voltage alumina insulators. Complete TWT with four-stage graphite collector was developed and 140W output power at gain more than 55 dB was achieved. The TWT was pumped from both the gun and the collector ends.

Effects of Propylene Carbonate Content in CsPF6-Containing Electrolytes on the Enhanced Performances of Graphite Electrode for Lithium-Ion Batteries

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

Zheng, Jianming; Yan, Pengfei; Cao, Ruiguo

2016-02-10

Cesium salt has been demonstrated as an efficient electrolyte additive in suppressing the lithium (Li) dendrite formation and directing the formation of an ultrathin and stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) even in propylene carbonate (PC)-ethylene carbonate (EC)-based electrolytes. Here, we further investigate the effect of PC content in the presence of CsPF6 additive (0.05 M) on the performances of graphite electrode in Li||graphite half cells and in graphite||LiNi0.80Co0.15Al0.05O2 (NCA) full cells. It is found that the performance of graphite electrode is also affected by PC content even though CsPF6 additive is present in the electrolytes. An optimal PC content ofmore » 20% by weight in the solvent mixtures is identified. The enhanced electrochemical performance of graphite electrode is attributed to the synergistic effects of the Cs+ additive and the PC solvent. The formation of a robust, ultrathin and compact SEI layer containing lithium-enriched species on the graphite electrode, directed by Cs+, effectively suppresses the PC co-intercalation and thus prevents the graphite exfoliation. This SEI layer is only permeable for de-solvated Li+ ions and allows fast Li+ ion transport through it, which therefore largely alleviates the Li dendrite formation on graphite electrode during lithiation even at high current densities. The presence of low-melting-point PC solvent also enables the sustainable operation of the graphite||NCA full cells under a wide spectrum of temperatures. The fundamental findings of this work shed light on the importance of manipulating/maintaining the electrode/electrolyte interphasial stability in a variety of energy storage devices.« less

Construction of titanium dioxide nanorod/graphite microfiber hybrid electrodes for a high performance electrochemical glucose biosensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Jian; Yu, Xin; Guo, Weibo; Qiu, Jichuan; Mou, Xiaoning; Li, Aixue; Liu, Hong

2016-04-01

The demand for a highly sensitive and selective glucose biosensor which can be used for implantable or on-time monitoring is constantly increasing. In this work, TiO2 nanorods were synthesized in situ on the surface of graphite microfibers to yield TiO2 nanorod/graphite microfiber hybrid electrodes. The TiO2 nanorods not only retain the high activity of the immobilized glucose molecule, but also promote the direct electron transfer process on the electrode surface. As a working electrode in an electrochemical glucose biosensor in a flowing system, the microfiber hybrid electrodes exhibit high sensitivity, selectivity and stability. Due to its simplicity, low cost, high stability, and unique morphology, the TiO2 nanorod/graphite microfiber hybrid electrode is expected to be an excellent candidate for an implantable biosensor or for in situ flow monitoring.The demand for a highly sensitive and selective glucose biosensor which can be used for implantable or on-time monitoring is constantly increasing. In this work, TiO2 nanorods were synthesized in situ on the surface of graphite microfibers to yield TiO2 nanorod/graphite microfiber hybrid electrodes. The TiO2 nanorods not only retain the high activity of the immobilized glucose molecule, but also promote the direct electron transfer process on the electrode surface. As a working electrode in an electrochemical glucose biosensor in a flowing system, the microfiber hybrid electrodes exhibit high sensitivity, selectivity and stability. Due to its simplicity, low cost, high stability, and unique morphology, the TiO2 nanorod/graphite microfiber hybrid electrode is expected to be an excellent candidate for an implantable biosensor or for in situ flow monitoring. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c6nr01360k

Electrode systems for in situ vitrification

DOEpatents

Buelt, James L.; Carter, John G.; Eschbach, Eugene A.; FitzPatrick, Vincent F.; Koehmstedt, Paul L.; Morgan, William C.; Oma, Kenton H.; Timmerman, Craig L.

1990-01-01

An electrode comprising a molybdenum rod is received within a conductive collar formed of graphite. The molybdenum rod and the graphite collar may be physically joined at the bottom. A pair of such electrodes are placed in soil containing buried waste material and an electric current is passed therebetween for vitrifying the soil. The graphite collar enhances the thermal conductivity of the combination, bringing heat to the surface, and preventing formation of a cold cap of material above the ground surface. The annulus between the molybdenum rod electrode and the graphite collar is suitably filled with a conductive ceramic powder that sinters upon the molybdenum rod, protecting the same from oxidation as graphite material is consumed, or a metal powder which liquefies at operating temperatures. The center of the molybdenum rod, used with a collar of separately, can be hollow and filled with a powdered metal, such as copper, which liquefies at operating temperatures. Connection to electrodes can be provided below ground level to avoid open circuit due to electrode deterioration, or sacrificial electrodes may be employed when operation is started. Outboard electrodes cna be utilized to square up a vitrified area.

Composite electrochemical biosensors: a comparison of three different electrode matrices for the construction of amperometric tyrosinase biosensors.

PubMed

Serra, B; Jiménez, S; Mena, M L; Reviejo, A J; Pingarrón, J M

2002-03-01

A comparison of the behaviour of three different rigid composite matrices for the construction of amperometric tyrosinase biosensors, which are widely used for the detection of phenolic compounds, is reported. The composite electrode matrices were, graphite-Teflon; reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC)-epoxy resin; and graphite-ethylene/propylene/diene (EPD) terpolymer. After optimization of the experimental conditions, different aspects regarding the stability of the three composite tyrosinase electrode designs were considered and compared. A better reproducibility of the amperometric responses was found with the graphite-EPD electrodes, whereas a longer useful lifetime was observed for the graphite-Teflon electrodes. The kinetic parameters of the tyrosinase reaction were calculated for eight different phenolic compounds, as well as their corresponding calibration plots. The general trend in sensitivity was graphite-EPD>graphite-Teflon>RVC-epoxy resin. A correlation between sensitivity and the catalytic efficiency of the enzyme reaction for each phenolic substrate was found. Furthermore, differences in the sensitivity order for the phenolic compounds were observed among the three biocomposite electrodes, which suggests that the nature of the electrode matrix influences the interactions in the tyrosinase catalytic cycle.

75 FR 64250 - Small Diameter Graphite Electrodes From the People's Republic of China: Extension of Time Limit...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-19

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [A-570-929] Small Diameter Graphite Electrodes From the People's Republic of China: Extension of Time Limit for the Preliminary Results of the... review of the antidumping duty order on small diameter graphite electrodes from the People's Republic of...

Effects of Propylene Carbonate Content in CsPF 6 -Containing Electrolytes on the Enhanced Performances of Graphite Electrode for Lithium-Ion Batteries

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

Zheng, Jianming; Yan, Pengfei; Cao, Ruiguo

2016-02-15

The effects Of propylene carbonate (PC) content in CsPF6-containing electrolytes on the performances of graphite electrode in lithium half cells and in graphite parallel to LiNi0.80Co0.15Al0.05O2 (NCA) full cells are investigated. It is found that the performance of graphite electrode is significantly-affected by PC content in the CsPF6-containing electrolytes. An optimal PC content of 20% by weight in the solvent mixtures is identified. The enhanced electrochemical performance of graphite electrode can be attributed to the synergistic effects of the PC solvent and the Cs+ additive. The synergistic effects of Cs+ additive and appropriate amount of PC enable the formation ofmore » a robust, ultrathin, and compact solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer on the surface of graphite electrode, which is only permeable for desolvated Li+ ions and allows fast Li+ ion transport through it. Therefore, this SEI layer effectively suppresses the PC cointercalation and largely alleviates the Li dendrite formation on graphite electrode during lithiation even at relatively high current densities. The presence of low-melting-point PC solvent improves the sustainable operation of graphite parallel to NCA full cells under a wide temperature range. The fundamental findings also shed light On the importance of manipulating/maintaining the electrode/electrolyte interphasial stability in various energy-storage devices.« less

Researches on Position Detection for Vacuum Switch Electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Huajun; Guo, Yingjie; Li, Jie; Kong, Yihan

2018-03-01

Form and transformation character of vacuum arc is important influencing factor on the vacuum switch performance, and the dynamic separations of electrode is the chief effecting factor on the transformation of vacuum arcs forms. Consequently, how to detect the position of electrode to calculate the separations in the arcs image is of great significance. However, gray level distribution of vacuum arcs image isn’t even, the gray level of burning arcs is high, but the gray level of electrode is low, meanwhile, the forms of vacuum arcs changes sharply, the problems above restrict electrode position detection precisely. In this paper, algorithm of detecting electrode position base on vacuum arcs image was proposed. The digital image processing technology was used in vacuum switch arcs image analysis, the upper edge and lower edge were detected respectively, then linear fitting was done using the result of edge detection, the fitting result was the position of electrode, thus, accurate position detection of electrode was realized. From the experimental results, we can see that: algorithm described in this paper detected upper and lower edge of arcs successfully and the position of electrode was obtained through calculation.

78 FR 56864 - Small Diameter Graphite Electrodes From the People's Republic of China: Affirmative Final...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-16

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [A-570-929] Small Diameter Graphite... (Department) determines that imports from the People's Republic of China (PRC) of graphite electrodes... Act of 1930, as amended (the Act).\\1\\ \\1\\ See Antidumping Duty Order: Small Diameter Graphite...

Recent advances in graphite powder-based electrodes.

PubMed

Bellido-Milla, Dolores; Cubillana-Aguilera, Laura Ma; El Kaoutit, Mohammed; Hernández-Artiga, Ma Purificación; Hidalgo-Hidalgo de Cisneros, José Luis; Naranjo-Rodríguez, Ignacio; Palacios-Santander, José Ma

2013-04-01

Graphite powder-based electrodes have the electrochemical performance of quasi-noble metal electrodes with intrinsic advantages related to the possibility of modification to enhance selectivity and their easily renewable surface, with no need for hazardous acids or bases for their cleaning. In contrast with commercial electrodes, for example screen-printed or sputtered-chip electrodes, graphite powder-based electrodes can also be fabricated in any laboratory with the form and characteristics desired. They are also readily modified with advanced materials, with relatively high reproducibility. All these characteristics make them a very interesting option for obtaining a large variety of electrodes to resolve different kinds of analytical problems. This review summarizes the state-of-the-art, advantages, and disadvantages of graphite powder-based electrodes in electrochemical analysis in the 21st century. It includes recent trends in carbon paste electrodes, devoting special attention to the use of emergent materials as new binders and to the development of other composite electrodes. The most recent advances in the use of graphite powder-modified sol-gel electrodes are also described. The development of sonogel-carbon electrodes and their use in electrochemical sensors and biosensors is included. These materials extend the possibilities of applications, especially for industrial technology-transfer purposes, and their development could affect not only electroanalytical green chemistry but other interesting areas also, for example catalysis and energy conversion and storage.

Electrochemical lithiation performance and characterization of silicon-graphite composites with lithium, sodium, potassium, and ammonium polyacrylate binders.

PubMed

Han, Zhen-Ji; Yamagiwa, Kiyofumi; Yabuuchi, Naoaki; Son, Jin-Young; Cui, Yi-Tao; Oji, Hiroshi; Kogure, Akinori; Harada, Takahiro; Ishikawa, Sumihisa; Aoki, Yasuhito; Komaba, Shinichi

2015-02-07

Poly(acrylic acid) (PAH), which is a water soluble polycarboxylic acid, is neutralized by adding different amounts of LiOH, NaOH, KOH, and ammonia (NH4OH) aqueous solutions to fix neutralization degrees. The differently neutralized polyacid, alkali and ammonium polyacrylates are examined as polymeric binders for the preparation of Si-graphite composite electrodes as negative electrodes for Li-ion batteries. The electrode performance of the Si-graphite composite depends on the alkali chemicals and neutralization degree. It is found that 80% NaOH-neutralized polyacrylate binder (a pH value of the resultant aqueous solution is ca. 6.7) is the most efficient binder to enhance the electrochemical lithiation and de-lithiation performance of the Si-graphite composite electrode compared to that of conventional PVdF and the other binders used in this study. The optimum polyacrylate binder highly improves the dispersion of active material in the composite electrode. The binder also provides the strong adhesion, suitable porosity, and hardness for the composite electrode with 10% (m/m) binder content, resulting in better electrochemical reversibility. From these results, the factors of alkali-neutralized polyacrylate binders affecting the electrode performance of Si-graphite composite electrodes are discussed.

Critical evaluation of the stability of highly concentrated LiTFSI - Acetonitrile electrolytes vs. graphite, lithium metal and LiFePO4 electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nilsson, Viktor; Younesi, Reza; Brandell, Daniel; Edström, Kristina; Johansson, Patrik

2018-04-01

Highly concentrated LiTFSI - acetonitrile electrolytes have recently been shown to stabilize graphite electrodes in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) much better than comparable more dilute systems. Here we revisit this system in order to optimise the salt concentration vs. both graphite and lithium metal electrodes with respect to electrochemical stability. However, we observe an instability regardless of concentration, making lithium metal unsuitable as a counter electrode, and this also affects evaluation of e.g. graphite electrodes. While the highly concentrated electrolytes have much improved electrochemical stabilities, their reductive decomposition below ca. 1.2 V vs. Li+/Li° still makes them less practical vs. graphite electrodes, and the oxidative reaction with Al at ca. 4.1 V vs. Li+/Li° makes them problematic for high voltage LIB cells. The former originates in an insufficiently stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) dissolving and continuously reforming - causing self-discharge, as observed by paused galvanostatic cycling, while the latter is likely caused by aluminium current collector corrosion. Yet, we show that medium voltage LiFePO4 positive electrodes can successfully be used as counter and reference electrodes.

77 FR 6060 - Small Diameter Graphite Electrodes from the People's Republic of China: Extension of Time Limit...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-07

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [A-570-929] Small Diameter Graphite... Department) initiated an administrative review of the antidumping duty order on small diameter graphite... preliminary results of this review by 95 days until February 3, 2012. See Small Diameter Graphite Electrodes...

76 FR 67411 - Small Diameter Graphite Electrodes From the People's Republic of China: Extension of Time Limit...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-01

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [A-570-929] Small Diameter Graphite... diameter graphite electrodes from the People's Republic of China (PRC) for the period February 1, 2010... Graphite, Co. The preliminary results of the review are currently due no later than October 31, 2011...

Development of High Interruption Capability Vacuum Circuit Breaker -Technology of Vacuum Arc Control-

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niwa, Yoshimitsu; Kaneko, Eiji

Vacuum circuit breakers (VCB) have been widely used for power distribution systems. Vacuum Interrupters, which are the current interruption unit, have been increased its interruption capability with the development of vacuum arc control technology by magnetic field. There are three major type electrodes: disk shaped electrodes, radial magnetic field electrodes, axial magnetic field (AMF) electrodes. In the disk shaped electrode, the vacuum arc between the electrodes is not controlled. In the AMF electrode, the vacuum arc is diffused and stabilized by an axial magnetic field, which is parallel to the arc current. In the last type of electrodes, the vacuum arc column is rotated by magnetic force generated by the current flowing in the electrodes. The interruption current and the voltage of one break VCB is increased to 100 kA, 144 kV respectively. This paper describes basic configurations and functions of VCB, vacuum arc control technology in vacuum interrupters, recent researches and applications of VCB.

Weld arc simulator

DOEpatents

Burr, Melvin J.

1990-01-30

An arc voltage simulator for an arc welder permits the welder response to a variation in arc voltage to be standardized. The simulator uses a linear potentiometer connected to the electrode to provide a simulated arc voltage at the electrode that changes as a function of electrode position.

Anode energy transfer in a transient arc

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valensi, F.; Ratovoson, P.; Razafinimanana, M.; Gleizes, A.

2017-04-01

This work deals with experimental investigation of a transient arc. Arc configuration and electrode erosion were studied in order to quantify the energy transfer to the electrodes as a function of maximal current, time constant and electrodes material. Experiments with two consecutive arcs allow demonstrating non stationary behaviour of the arc electrode interaction. This is due to the fact that while the duration of the experiments is far larger than plasma phenomena time constants, it is comparable to those of electrode heating and melting processes.

Welding arc initiator

DOEpatents

Correy, Thomas B.

1989-01-01

An improved inert gas shielded tungsten arc welder is disclosed of the type wherein a tungsten electrode is shielded within a flowing inert gas, and, an arc, following ignition, burns between the energized tungsten electrode and a workpiece. The improvement comprises in combination with the tungsten electrode, a starting laser focused upon the tungsten electrode which to ignite the electrode heats a spot on the energized electrode sufficient for formation of a thermionic arc. Interference problems associated with high frequency starters are thus overcome.

Chemically modified graphite for electrochemical cells

DOEpatents

Greinke, R.A.; Lewis, I.C.

1998-05-26

This invention relates to chemically modified graphite particles: (a) that are useful in alkali metal-containing electrode of a electrochemical cell comprising: (1) the electrode, (2) a non-aqueous electrolytic solution comprising an organic aprotic solvent which solvent tends to decompose when the electrochemical cell is in use, and an electrically conductive salt of an alkali metal, and (3) a counter electrode; and (b) that are chemically modified with fluorine, chlorine, iodine or phosphorus to reduce such decomposition. This invention also relates to electrodes comprising such chemically modified graphite and a binder and to electrochemical cells containing such electrodes. 3 figs.

Size dependence effect of carbon-based anode material on intercalation characteristics of Li-ion battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anwar, Miftahul; Jupri, Dwi Rahmat; Saraswati, Teguh Endah

2017-01-01

This work aims to study the effect of the different size of Li-ion battery anode during charging state. Carbon-Based nanomaterial using arc-discharge in a liquid which is much simpler and cheaper compared to other techniques, i.e., CVD, laser vaporization, etc. The experiment was performed using intermediate DC power supply (1300 W) to produce an arc, and commercial graphite pencils (with 5 mm diameter) as negative and positive electrodes. Deionized water mixed with ethanol was used as a heat absorber. The result shows that arc discharge in deionized water could effectively produce carbon nanomaterial (i.e., nano-onions). In addition, finite element method-based simulation of the different intercalating process of Li-ion to the different shape of the anode, i.e., bulk semi-porous and porous anode materials for battery application is also presented. The results show that intercalation of Li ions depends on the anode structure due to the different potential density at anode region. This finding will provide support for design of Li-ion battery based on carbon nanomaterial

PALLADIUM-FACILITATED ELECTROLYTIC DECHLORINATION OF 2-CHLOROBIPHENYL USING A GRANULAR-GRAPHITE ELECTRODE.

EPA Science Inventory

Palladium-assisted electrocatalytic dechlorination of 2-chlorobiphenyl (2-Cl BP) in aqueous solutions was conducted in a membrane-separated electrochemical reactor with granular-graphite packed electrodes. The dechlorination took place at a granular-graphite cathode while Pd was ...

Electrochemical and impedance investigation of the effect of lithium malonate on the performance of natural graphite electrodes in lithium-ion batteries

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

Sun, Xiao-Guang; Dai, Sheng

2010-01-01

Lithium malonate (LM) was coated on the surface of a natural graphite (NG) electrode, which was then tested as the negative electrode in the electrolytes of 0.9 M LiPF6/EC-PC-DMC (1/1/3, by weight) and 1.0 M LiBF4/EC-PC-DMC (1/1/3, by weight) under a current density of 0.075 mA cm-2. LM was also used as an additive to the electrolyte of 1.0 M LiPF6/EC-DMC-DEC (1/1/1, by volume) and tested on a bare graphite electrode. It was found that both the surface coating and the additive approach were effective in improving first charge discharge capacity and coulomb efficiency. Electrochemical impedance spectra showed that themore » decreased interfacial impedance was coupled with improved coulomb efficiency of the cells using coated graphite electrodes. Cyclic voltammograms (CVs) on fresh bare and coated natural graphite electrodes confirmed that all the improvement in the half-cell performance was due to the suppression of the solvent decomposition through the surface modification with LM. The CV data also showed that the carbonate electrolyte with LM as the additive was not stable against oxidation, which resulted in lower capacity of the full cell with commercial graphite and LiCoO2 electrodes.« less

Welding arc initiator

DOEpatents

Correy, T.B.

1989-05-09

An improved inert gas shielded tungsten arc welder is disclosed of the type wherein a tungsten electrode is shielded within a flowing inert gas, and, an arc, following ignition, burns between the energized tungsten electrode and a workpiece. The improvement comprises in combination with the tungsten electrode, a starting laser focused upon the tungsten electrode which to ignite the electrode heats a spot on the energized electrode sufficient for formation of a thermionic arc. Interference problems associated with high frequency starters are thus overcome. 3 figs.

Influence of solvent species on the charge-discharge characteristics of a natural graphite electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fujimoto, Masahisa; Shoji, Yoshihiro; Kida, Yoshinori; Ohshita, Ryuji; Nohma, Toshiyuki; Nishio, Koji

The charge-discharge characteristics of a natural graphite electrode are examined in a mixed solvent composed of ethylene carbonate (EC) and propylene carbonate (PC). The characteristics are influenced largely by the solvent species. Natural graphite electrode displays good charge-discharge characteristics in an electrolyte containing EC with a high volume fraction. In an electrolyte containing PC, however, the electrode cannot be charged and the solvent is decomposed. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy is used to obtain information about the surface of natural graphite. A thin LiF layer, the decomposition product of lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF 6), is formed on the surface of the natural graphite charged to 0.5 V (vs. Li/Li +) in an electrolyte containing a high volume fraction of EC. On the other hand, LiF and a carbonate compound are formed in the bulk and on the surface of natural graphite when the volume fraction of PC is high. These results suggest that the thin LiF layer, which is produced at a potential higher than 0.5 V (vs. Li/Li +) on the surface of natural graphite, enables the lithium ions to intercalate into the natural graphite without further decomposition of the electrolyte.

Fabrication of TiO2/Carbon Photocatalyst using Submerged DC Arc Discharged in Ethanol/Acetic Acid Medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saraswati, T. E.; Nandika, A. O.; Andhika, I. F.; Patiha; Purnawan, C.; Wahyuningsih, S.; Rahardjo, S. B.

2017-05-01

This study aimed to fabricate a modified photocatalyst of TiO2/C to enhance its performance. The fabrication was achieved using the submerged direct current (DC) arc-discharge method employing two graphite electrodes, one of which was filled with a mixture of carbon powder, TiO2, and binder, in ethanol with acetic acid added in various concentrations. The arc-discharge method was conducted by flowing a current of 10-20 A (~20 V). X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns showed significant placements of the main peak characteristics of TiO2, C graphite, and titanium carbide. The surface analysis using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed that fabricated TiO2/C nanoparticles had stretching vibrations of Ti-O, C-H, C═O, C-O, O-H and C═C in the regions of 450-550 cm-1, 2900-2880 cm-1, 1690-1760 cm-1, 1050-1300 cm-1, 3400-3700 cm-1 and ~1600 cm-1, respectively. In addition, the study investigated the photocatalysts of unmodified and modified TiO2/C for photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) dye solution under mercury lamp irradiation. The effectiveness of the degradation was defined by the decrease in 60-minute absorbance under a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. Modified TiO2/C proved to be significantly more efficient in reducing dye concentrations, reaching ~70%. It indicated that the oxygen-containing functional groups have been successfully attached to the surface of the nanoparticles and played a role in enhancing photocatalytic activity.

Progress Towards Microwave Ignition of Explosives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Curling, Mark; Collins, Adam; Dima, Gabriel; Proud, William

2009-06-01

Microwaves could provide a method of propellant ignition that does away with a traditional primer, making ammunition safer and suitable for Insensitive Munitions (IM) applications. By embedding a suitable material inside a propellant, it is postulated that microwaves could be used to stimulate hotspots, through direct heating or electrostatic discharge (arcing) across the energetic material. This paper reports on progress in finding these suitable materials. Graphite rod, magnetite cubes and powders of graphite, aluminium, copper oxide, and iron were irradiated in a conventional microwave oven. Temperature measurements were made using a shielded thermocouple and thermal paints. Only graphite rod and magnetite showed significant heating upon microwave exposure. The light output from arcing of iron, steel, iron pyrite, magnetite and graphite was measured in the same microwave oven as above. Sample mass and shape were correlated with arcing intensity. A strategy is proposed to create a homogeneous igniter material by embedding arcing materials within an insulator, Polymethylpentene (TPX). External discharges were transmitted through TPX, however no embedded samples were successful in generating an electrical breakdown suitable for propellant ignition.

Arc-starting aid for GTA welding

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whiffen, E. L.

1977-01-01

Three-in-one handtool combining arc-gap gage, electrode tip sander, and electrode projection gate, effectively improves initiation on gas tungsten arc (GTA), automatic skate-welding machines. Device effects ease in polishing electrode tips and setting exactly initial arc gap before each weld pass.

Effect of process parameters on temperature distribution in twin-electrode TIG coupling arc

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Guangjun; Xiong, Jun; Gao, Hongming; Wu, Lin

2012-10-01

The twin-electrode TIG coupling arc is a new type of welding heat source, which is generated in a single welding torch that has two tungsten electrodes insulated from each other. This paper aims at determining the distribution of temperature for the coupling arc using the Fowler-Milne method under the assumption of local thermodynamic equilibrium. The influences of welding current, arc length, and distance between both electrode tips on temperature distribution of the coupling arc were analyzed. Based on the results, a better understanding of the twin-electrode TIG welding process was obtained.

Metal halide arc discharge lamp having short arc length

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Muzeroll, Martin E. (Inventor)

1994-01-01

A metal halide arc discharge lamp includes a sealed light-transmissive outer jacket, a light-transmissive shroud located within the outer jacket and an arc tube assembly located within the shroud. The arc tube assembly includes an arc tube, electrodes mounted within the arc tube and a fill material for supporting an arc discharge. The electrodes have a spacing such that an electric field in a range of about 60 to 95 volts per centimeter is established between the electrodes. The diameter of the arc tube and the spacing of the electrodes are selected to provide an arc having an arc diameter to arc length ratio in a range of about 1.6 to 1.8. The fill material includes mercury, sodium iodide, scandium tri-iodide and a rare gas, and may include lithium iodide. The lamp exhibits a high color rendering index, high lumen output and high color temperature.

Electro-catalytic degradation of sulfisoxazole by using graphene anode.

PubMed

Wang, Yanyan; Liu, Shuan; Li, Ruiping; Huang, Yingping; Chen, Chuncheng

2016-05-01

Graphite and graphene electrodes were prepared by using pure graphite as precursor. The electrode materials were characterized by a scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements. The electro-catalytic activity for degradation of sulfisoxazole (SIZ) was investigated by using prepared graphene or graphite anode. The results showed that the degradation of SIZ was much more rapid on the graphene than that on the graphite electrode. Moreover, the graphene electrode exhibited good stability and recyclability. The analysis on the intermediate products and the measurement of active species during the SIZ degradation demonstrated that indirect oxidation is the dominant mechanism, involving the electro-catalytic generation of OH and O2(-) as the main active oxygen species. This study implies that graphene is a promising potential electrode material for long-term application to electro-catalytic degradation of organic pollutants. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Chemically modified graphite for electrochemical cells

DOEpatents

Greinke, Ronald Alfred; Lewis, Irwin Charles

1998-01-01

This invention relates to chemically modified graphite particles: (a) that are useful in alkali metal-containing electrode of a electrochemical cell comprising: (i) the electrode, (ii) a non-aqueous electrolytic solution comprising an organic aprotic solvent which solvent tends to decompose when the electrochemical cell is in use, and an electrically conductive salt of an alkali metal, and (iii) a counterelectrode; and (b) that are chemically modified with fluorine, chlorine, iodine or phosphorus to reduce such decomposition. This invention also relates to electrodes comprising such chemically modified graphite and a binder and to electrochemical cells containing such electrodes.

Investigation of the short argon arc with hot anode. II. Analytical model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khrabry, A.; Kaganovich, I. D.; Nemchinsky, V.; Khodak, A.

2018-01-01

A short atmospheric pressure argon arc is studied numerically and analytically. In a short arc with an inter-electrode gap of several millimeters, non-equilibrium effects in plasma play an important role in operation of the arc. High anode temperature leads to electron emission and intensive radiation from its surface. A complete, self-consistent analytical model of the whole arc comprising of models for near-electrode regions, arc column, and a model of heat transfer in cylindrical electrodes was developed. The model predicts the width of non-equilibrium layers and arc column, voltages and plasma profiles in these regions, and heat and ion fluxes to the electrodes. Parametric studies of the arc have been performed for a range of the arc current densities, inter-electrode gap widths, and gas pressures. The model was validated against experimental data and verified by comparison with numerical solution. Good agreement between the analytical model and simulations and reasonable agreement with experimental data were obtained.

Investigation of the short argon arc with hot anode. II. Analytical model

DOE PAGES

Khrabry, A.; Kaganovich, I. D.; Nemchinsky, V.; ...

2018-01-22

A short atmospheric pressure argon arc is studied numerically and analytically. In a short arc with an inter-electrode gap of several millimeters, non-equilibrium effects in plasma play an important role in operation of the arc. High anode temperature leads to electron emission and intensive radiation from its surface. A complete, self-consistent analytical model of the whole arc comprising of models for near-electrode regions, arc column, and a model of heat transfer in cylindrical electrodes was developed. The model predicts the width of non-equilibrium layers and arc column, voltages and plasma profiles in these regions, and heat and ion fluxes tomore » the electrodes. Parametric studies of the arc have been performed for a range of the arc current densities, inter-electrode gap widths, and gas pressures. The model was validated against experimental data and verified by comparison with numerical solution. In conclusion, good agreement between the analytical model and simulations and reasonable agreement with experimental data were obtained.« less

Investigation of the short argon arc with hot anode. II. Analytical model

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

Khrabry, A.; Kaganovich, I. D.; Nemchinsky, V.

A short atmospheric pressure argon arc is studied numerically and analytically. In a short arc with an inter-electrode gap of several millimeters, non-equilibrium effects in plasma play an important role in operation of the arc. High anode temperature leads to electron emission and intensive radiation from its surface. A complete, self-consistent analytical model of the whole arc comprising of models for near-electrode regions, arc column, and a model of heat transfer in cylindrical electrodes was developed. The model predicts the width of non-equilibrium layers and arc column, voltages and plasma profiles in these regions, and heat and ion fluxes tomore » the electrodes. Parametric studies of the arc have been performed for a range of the arc current densities, inter-electrode gap widths, and gas pressures. The model was validated against experimental data and verified by comparison with numerical solution. In conclusion, good agreement between the analytical model and simulations and reasonable agreement with experimental data were obtained.« less

Exploring the electrochemical performance of graphitic paste electrodes: graphene vs. graphite.

PubMed

Figueiredo-Filho, Luiz C S; Brownson, Dale A C; Gómez-Mingot, Maria; Iniesta, Jesús; Fatibello-Filho, Orlando; Banks, Craig E

2013-11-07

We report the fabrication, characterisation (SEM, TEM, XPS and Raman spectroscopy) and electrochemical implementation of a graphene paste electrode. The paste electrodes utilised are constructed by simply mixing graphene with mineral oil (which acts as a binder) prior to loading the resultant paste into a piston-driven polymeric-tubing electrode-shell, where this electrode configuration allows for rapid renewal of the electrode surface. The fabricated paste electrode is electrochemically characterised using both inner-sphere and outer-sphere redox probes, namely potassium ferrocyanide(ii), hexaammine-ruthenium(iii) chloride and hexachloroiridate(iii), in addition to the biologically relevant and electroactive analytes, l-ascorbic acid (AA) and uric acid (UA). Comparisons are made with a graphite paste alternative and the benefits of graphene implementation as a paste electrode within electrochemistry are explored, as well as the characterisation of their electroanalytical performances. We reveal no observable differences in the electrochemical performance and thus suggest that there are no advantages of using graphene over graphite in the fabrication of paste electrodes. Such work is highly important and informative for those working in the field of electroanalysis where electrochemistry can provide portable, rapid, reliable and accurate sensing protocols (bringing the laboratory into the field), with particular relevance to those searching for new electrode materials.

Conductive polymer binder for nano-silicon/graphite composite electrode in lithium-ion batteries towards a practical application

DOE PAGES

Zhao, Hui; Du, Allen; Ling, Min; ...

2016-05-10

The state-of-the-art graphite anode containing a small portion of silicon represents a promising way of applying high-capacity alloy anode in the next generation high energy density lithium-ion batteries. The conductive polymeric binders developed for Si anodes proved to be an effective binder for this graphite/nanoSi composite electrode. Without any acetylene black conductive additives in the electrode, a high areal capacity of above 2.5 mAh/cm 2 is achieved during long-term cycling over 100 cycles. Finally, this conductive polymer-enabled graphite/nanoSi composite electrode exhibits high specific capacity and high 1 st cycle efficiency, which is a significant progress toward commercial application of Simore » anodes.« less

Cold cap subsidence for in situ vitrification and electrodes therefor

DOEpatents

Buelt, James L.; Carter, John G.; Eschbach, Eugene A.; FitzPatrick, Vincent F.; Koehmstedt, Paul L.; Morgan, William C.; Oma, Kenton H.; Timmerman, Craig L.

1992-01-01

An electrode for use in in situ vitrification of soil comprises a molybdenum rod received within a conductive sleeve or collar formed of graphite. Electrodes of this type are placed on either side of a region containing buried waste material and an electric current is passed therebetween for vitrifying the soil between the electrodes. The graphite collar enhances the thermal conductivity of the electrode, bringing heat to the surface, and preventing the formation of a cold cap of material above the ground surface. The annulus between the molybdenum rod electrode and the graphite collar is filled with a conductive ceramic powder of a type that sinters upon the molybdenum rod, protecting the same from oxidation as the graphite material is consumed, or a metal powder which liquifies at operating temperatures. The molybdenum rod in the former case may be coated with an oxidation protectant, e.g. of molybdenum disilicide. As insulative blanket is suitably placed on the surface of the soil during processing to promote subsidence by allowing off-gassing and reducing surface heat loss. In other embodiments, connection to vitrification electrodes is provided below ground level to avoid loss of connection due to electrodes deterioration, or a sacrificial electrode may be employed when operation is started. Outboard electrodes can be utilized to square up the vitrified area. Further, the center of the molybdenum rod can be made hollow and filled with a powdered metal, such as copper, which liquifies at operating temperatures. In one embodiment, the molybdenum rod and the graphite collar are physically joined at the bottom.

Synthesis of carbon nanotubes by arc discharge in open air.

PubMed

Paladugu, Mohan Chand; Maneesh, K; Nair, P Kesavan; Haridoss, Prathap

2005-05-01

In this work Carbon nanotubes have been synthesized by arc discharge in open air. A TIG welding ac/dc inverter was used as the power source for arc discharge. During each run of the arc discharge based synthesis, the anode was a low purity (approximately 85% C by weight) graphite rod. The effect of varying the atmosphere on the yield of soot of the carbon nanotube containing carbon soot has been studied. Various soots were produced, purified by oxidation and characterized to confirm formation of carbon nanotubes and their relative quality, using transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and XRD. It was found that the yield of soot formed on the cathode is higher when synthesis is carried out in open air than when carried out in a flowing argon atmosphere. When synthesized in open air, using a 7.2-mm-diameter graphite rod as anode, the yield of soot was around 50% by weight of the graphite consumed. Current and voltage for arcing were at identical starting values in all the experiments. This modified method does not require a controlled atmosphere as in the case of a conventional arc discharge method of synthesis and hence the cost of production may be reduced.

Non-destructive control of graphite electrodes with use of current displacement effect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Myatezh, A. V.; Malozyomov, B. V.; Smirnov, M. A.

2017-10-01

The work is devoted to methods of nondestructive diagnostics and their use for solving the problem of diagnosing various defects in solid surface of graphite electrodes used in steelmaking furnaces. Various non-destructive control methods of materials are analyzed. In the article, methods of eddy-current defectoscopy of graphite electrodes are considered. Rationalization of the sensitivity increase of the method and localization of damage is described. Imitating modeling of electromagnetic processes was executed; results were made and conclusions were drawn.

Pencil graphite leads as simple amperometric sensors for microchip electrophoresis.

PubMed

Natiele Tiago da Silva, Eiva; Marques Petroni, Jacqueline; Gabriel Lucca, Bruno; Souza Ferreira, Valdir

2017-11-01

In this work we demonstrate, for the first time, the use of inexpensive commercial pencil graphite leads as simple amperometric sensors for microchip electrophoresis. A PDMS support containing one channel was fabricated through soft lithography and sanded pencil graphite leads were inserted into this channel to be used as working electrodes. The electrochemical and morphological characterization of the sensor was carried out. The graphite electrode was coupled to PDMS microchips in end-channel configuration and electrophoretic experiments were performed using nitrite and ascorbate as probe analytes. The analytes were successfully separated and detected in well-defined peaks with satisfactory resolution using the microfluidic platform proposed. The repeatability of the pencil graphite electrode was satisfactory (RSD values of 1.6% for nitrite and 12.3% for ascorbate, regarding the peak currents) and its lifetime was estimated to be ca. 700 electrophoretic runs over a cost of ca. $ 0.05 per electrode. The limits of detection achieved with this system were 2.8 μM for nitrite and 5.7 μM for ascorbate. For proof of principle, the pencil graphite electrode was employed for the real analysis of well water samples and nitrite was successfully quantified at levels below its maximum contaminant level established in Brazil and US. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Electrode assemblies, plasma apparatuses and systems including electrode assemblies, and methods for generating plasma

DOEpatents

Kong, Peter C; Grandy, Jon D; Detering, Brent A; Zuck, Larry D

2013-09-17

Electrode assemblies for plasma reactors include a structure or device for constraining an arc endpoint to a selected area or region on an electrode. In some embodiments, the structure or device may comprise one or more insulating members covering a portion of an electrode. In additional embodiments, the structure or device may provide a magnetic field configured to control a location of an arc endpoint on the electrode. Plasma generating modules, apparatus, and systems include such electrode assemblies. Methods for generating a plasma include covering at least a portion of a surface of an electrode with an electrically insulating member to constrain a location of an arc endpoint on the electrode. Additional methods for generating a plasma include generating a magnetic field to constrain a location of an arc endpoint on an electrode.

Four-Wave-Mixing Approach to In Situ Detection of Nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gerakis, Alexandros; Yeh, Yao-Wen; Shneider, Mikhail N.; Mitrani, James M.; Stratton, Brentley C.; Raitses, Yevgeny

2018-01-01

We report on the development and experimental validation of a laser-based technique which uses coherent Rayleigh-Brillouin scattering (CRBS) to detect nanoparticles with characteristic sizes ranging from the atomic scale to tens of nanometers. This technique is aimed (nonexclusively) at the detection of nanoparticles produced by volumetric nanoparticle synthesis methods. Using CRBS, carbon nanoparticles of dimensions less than 10 nm and concentrations of 1010 cm-3 are detected in situ in a carbon arc discharge with graphite electrodes. This four-wave-mixing approach should enable advances in the understanding of nanoparticle growth that could potentially lead to improved modeling of the growth mechanisms, and thus to improve synthesis selectivity of nanoparticles and yield.

Direct synthesis of platelet graphitic-nanofibres as a highly porous counter-electrode in dye-sensitized solar cells.

PubMed

Hsieh, Chien-Kuo; Tsai, Ming-Chi; Yen, Ming-Yu; Su, Ching-Yuan; Chen, Kuei-Fu; Ma, Chen-Chi M; Chen, Fu-Rong; Tsai, Chuen-Horng

2012-03-28

We synthesized platelet graphitic-nanofibres (GNFs) directly onto FTO glass and applied this forest of platelet GNFs as a highly porous structural counter-electrode in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). We investigated the electrochemical properties of counter-electrodes made from the highly porous structural GNFs and the photoconversion performance of the cells made with these electrodes.

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING A HIGH INTENSITY ARC DISCHARGE

DOEpatents

Luce, J.S.

1960-01-01

A device is described for producing an energetic d-c carbon arc discharge between widely spaced electrodes with arc currents in excess of 100 amperes in a magnetic field of about 3000 gauss and witnin an evacuated enclo sure at a pressure of about 10/sup -5/ mm Hg. No defining electrodes are used in the device, thus essentially eliminating the problems of shorting which heretofore limited the amount of current that could be produced in an arc discharge. The energetic carbon arc discharge is sustained by the potential across the electrodes and by carbon ions and electrons released from the electrodes during arc operation. A large part of the potential drop of the arc occurs along the arc and many energetic electrons reach the anode because the arc pressure is relatively low, and few collisions occur. The carbon discharge is also an efficient ion pump.

Electrode assemblies, plasma generating apparatuses, and methods for generating plasma

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

Kong, Peter C.; Grandy, Jon D.; Detering, Brent A.

Electrode assemblies for plasma reactors include a structure or device for constraining an arc endpoint to a selected area or region on an electrode. In some embodiments, the structure or device may comprise one or more insulating members covering a portion of an electrode. In additional embodiments, the structure or device may provide a magnetic field configured to control a location of an arc endpoint on the electrode. Plasma generating modules, apparatus, and systems include such electrode assemblies. Methods for generating a plasma include covering at least a portion of a surface of an electrode with an electrically insulating membermore » to constrain a location of an arc endpoint on the electrode. Additional methods for generating a plasma include generating a magnetic field to constrain a location of an arc endpoint on an electrode.« less

HF/H2O2 treated graphite felt as the positive electrode for vanadium redox flow battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Zhangxing; Jiang, Yingqiao; Meng, Wei; Jiang, Fengyun; Zhou, Huizhu; Li, Yuehua; Zhu, Jing; Wang, Ling; Dai, Lei

2017-11-01

In order to improve the electrochemical performance of the positive graphite felt electrode in vanadium flow redox battery, a novel method is developed to effectively modify the graphite felt by combination of etching of HF and oxidation of H2O2. After the etching of HF for the graphite felt at ambient temperature, abundant oxygen-containing functional groups were further introduced on the surface of graphite felt by hydrothermal treatment using H2O2 as oxidant. Benefiting from the surface etching and introduction of functional groups, mass transfer and electrode process can be improved significantly on the surface of graphite felt. VO2+/VO2+ redox reaction on the graphite felt modified by HF and H2O2 jointly (denote: GF-HF/H2O2) exhibits superior electrochemical kinetics in comparison with the graphite felt modified by single HF or H2O2 treatment. The cell using GF-HF/H2O2 as the positive electrode was assembled and its electrochemical properties were evaluated. The increase of energy efficiency of 4.1% for GF-HF/H2O2 at a current density of 50 mA cm-2 was obtained compared with the pristine graphite felt. The cell using GF-HF/H2O2 also demonstrated higher discharge capacity. Our study revealed that HF/H2O2 treatment is an efficient method to enhance the electrochemical performance of graphite felt, further improving the comprehensive energy storage performance of the vanadium flow redox battery.

Diode-rectified multiphase AC arc for the improvement of electrode erosion characteristics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tanaka, Manabu; Hashizume, Taro; Saga, Koki; Matsuura, Tsugio; Watanabe, Takayuki

2017-11-01

An innovative multiphase AC arc (MPA) system was developed on the basis of a diode-rectification technique to improve electrode erosion characteristics. Conventionally, electrode erosion in AC arc is severer than that in DC arc. This originated from the fact that the required properties for the cathode and anode are different, although an AC electrode works as the cathode and the anode periodically. To solve this problem, a separation of AC electrodes into pairs of thoriated tungsten cathode and copper anode by diode-rectification was attempted. A diode-rectified multiphase AC arc (DRMPA) system was then successfully established, resulting in a drastic improvement of the erosion characteristics. The electrode erosion rate in the DRMPA was less than one-third of that in the conventional MPA without the diode rectification. In order to clarify its erosion mechanism, electrode phenomena during discharge were visualized by a high-speed camera system with appropriate band-pass filters. Fluctuation characteristics of the electrode temperature in the DRMPA were revealed.

Surface properties and graphitization of polyacrylonitrile based fiber electrodes affecting the negative half-cell reaction in vanadium redox flow batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Langner, J.; Bruns, M.; Dixon, D.; Nefedov, A.; Wöll, Ch.; Scheiba, F.; Ehrenberg, H.; Roth, C.; Melke, J.

2016-07-01

Carbon felt electrodes for vanadium redox flow batteries are obtained by the graphitization of polyacrylonitrile based felts at different temperatures. Subsequently, the surface of the felts is modified via thermal oxidation at various temperatures. A single-cell experiment shows that the voltage efficiency is increased by this treatment. Electrode potentials measured with reference electrode setup show that this voltage efficiency increase is caused mainly by a reduction of the overpotential of the negative half-cell reaction. Consequently, this reaction is investigated further by cyclic voltammetry and the electrode activity is correlated with structural and surface chemical properties of the carbon fibers. By Raman, X-ray photoelectron and near edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy the role of edge sites and oxygen containing functional groups (OCFs) for the electrochemical activity are elucidated. A significant activity increase is observed in correlation with these two characteristics. The amount of OCFs is correlated with structural defects (e.g. edge sites) of the carbon fibers and therefore decreases with an increasing graphitization degree. Thus, for the same thermal oxidation temperature carbon fibers graphitized at a lower temperature show higher activities than those graphitized at a higher temperature.

Fuel cell with Pt/Pd electrocatalyst electrode

DOEpatents

Stonehart, Paul

1983-01-01

An electrode for use in a phosphoric acid fuel cell comprising a graphitized or partially graphitized carbon support having a platinum/palladium electrocatalyst thereon. Preferably, the platinum/palladium catalyst comprises 20 to 65 weight percent palladium.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PRODUCING INTENSE ENERGETIC GAS DISCHARGES

DOEpatents

Bell, P.R.; Luce, J.S.

1960-01-01

A device for producing an energetic gas arc discharge employing the use of gas-fed hollow cathode and anode electrodes is reported. The rate of feed of the gas to the electrodes is regulated to cause complete space charge neutralization to occur within the electrodes. The arc discharge is closely fitted within at least one of the electrodes so tint the gas fed to this electrode is substantially completely ionized before it is emitted into the vacuum chamber. It is this electrode design and the axial potential gradient that exists in the arc which permits the arc to be operated in low pressures and at volthges and currents that permit the arc to be energetic. The use of the large number of energetic ions that are accelerated toward the cathode as a propulsion device for a space vehicle is set forth.

Degradation Mechanisms of Electrochemically Cycled Graphite Anodes in Lithium-ion Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhattacharya, Sandeep

This research is aimed at developing advanced characterization methods for studying the surface and subsurface damage in Li-ion battery anodes made of polycrystalline graphite and identifying the degradation mechanisms that cause loss of electrochemical capacity. Understanding microstructural aspects of the graphite electrode degradation mechanisms during charging and discharging of Li-ion batteries is of key importance in order to design durable anodes with high capacity. An in-situ system was constructed using an electrochemical cell with an observation window, a large depth-of-field digital microscope and a micro-Raman spectrometer. It was revealed that electrode damage by removal of the surface graphite fragments of 5-10 mum size is the most intense during the first cycle that led to a drastic capacity drop. Once a solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer covered the electrode surface, the rate of graphite particle loss decreased. Yet, a gradual loss of capacity continued by the formation of interlayer cracks adjacent to SEI/graphite interfaces. Deposition of co-intercalation compounds, LiC6, Li2CO3 and Li2O, near the crack tips caused partial closure of propagating graphite cracks during cycling and reduced the crack growth rate. Bridging of crack faces by delaminated graphite layers also retarded crack propagation. The microstructure of the SEI layer, formed by electrochemical reduction of the ethylene carbonate based electrolyte, consisted of ˜5-20 nm sized crystalline domains (containing Li2CO3, Li2O 2 and nano-sized graphite fragments) dispersed in an amorphous matrix. During the SEI formation, two regimes of Li-ion diffusion were identified at the electrode/electrolyte interface depending on the applied voltage scan rate (dV/dt). A low Li-ion diffusion coefficient ( DLi+) at dV/dt < 0.05 mVs-1 produced a tubular SEI that uniformly covered the graphite surface and prevented damage at 25°C. At 60°C, a high D Li+ formed a Li2CO3-enriched SEI and ensued a 28% increase in the battery capacity at 25°C. On correlating the microscopic information to the electrochemical performance, novel Li2CO3-coated electrodes were fabricated that were durable. The SEI formed on pre-treated electrodes reduced the strain in the graphite lattice from 0.4% (for uncoated electrodes) to 0.1%, facilitated Li-ion diffusion and hence improved the capacity retention of Li-ion batteries during long-term cycling.

Three-phase double-arc plasma for spectrochemical analysis of environmental samples.

PubMed

Mohamed, M M; Ghatass, Z F; Shalaby, E A; Kotb, M M; El-Raey, M

2000-12-01

A new instrument, which uses a three-phase current to support a double-arc argon plasma torch for evaporation, atomization and excitation of solid or powder samples, is described. The sampling arc is ignited between the first and second electrode while the excitation arc is ignited between the second and third electrode. Aerosol generated from the sample (first electrode) is swept by argon gas, through a hole in the second electrode (carbon tubing electrode), into the excitation plasma. A tangential stream of argon gas is introduced through an inlet orifice as a coolant gas for the second electrode. This gas stream forces the excitation arc discharge to rotate reproducibly around the electrode surface. Discharge rotation increases the stability of the excitation plasma. Spectroscopic measurements are made directly in the current-carrying region of the excitation arc. An evaluation of each parameter influencing the device performance was performed. Analytical calibration curves were obtained for Fe, Al, K, and Pb. Finally, the present technique was applied for the analysis of environmental samples. The present method appears to have significant, low cost analytical utility for environmental measurements.

Arcing and its role in PFC erosion and dust production in DIII-D

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rudakov, D. L.; Chrobak, C. P.; Doerner, R. P.; Krasheninnikov, S. I.; Moyer, R. A.; Umstadter, K. R.; Wampler, W. R.; Wong, C. P. C.

2013-07-01

Two types of arc tracks are observed on the plasma-facing components (PFCs) in DIII-D. "Unmagnetized" random walk tracks are produced during glow discharges; they are rare and have no importance for PFC erosion but may degrade diagnostic mirrors. "Magnetized" scratch-like type II tracks are produced by unipolar arcs during plasma operations; they are formed by "retrograde BxJ" motion of the cathode spot and are roughly perpendicular to the local magnetic field. Type II arcs cause measurable erosion of graphite, but based on the evidence available they are relatively small contributors to the total erosion of carbon in DIII-D compared to other mechanisms such as physical and chemical sputtering and ablation from leading edges. Erosion by arcing of tungsten films deposited on graphite samples was observed in Divertor Material Evaluation System (DiMES) experiments. New DiMES experiments aimed at time-resolved arc measurements are proposed.

Growth of carbon nanotubes in arc plasma treated graphite disc: microstructural characterization and electrical conductivity study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nayak, B. B.; Sahu, R. K.; Dash, T.; Pradhan, S.

2018-03-01

Circular graphite discs were treated in arc plasma by varying arcing time. Analysis of the plasma treated discs by field emission scanning electron microscope revealed globular grain morphologies on the surfaces, but when the same were observed at higher magnification and higher resolution under transmission electron microscope, growth of multiwall carbon nanotubes of around 2 nm diameter was clearly seen. In situ growth of carbon nanotube bundles/bunches consisting of around 0.7 nm tube diameter was marked in the case of 6 min treated disc surface. Both the untreated and the plasma treated graphite discs were characterized by X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive spectra of X-ray, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, micro Raman spectroscopy and BET surface area measurement. From Raman spectra, BET surface area and microstructure observed in transmission electron microscope, growth of several layers of graphene was identified. Four-point probe measurements for electrical resistivity/conductivity of the graphite discs treated under different plasma conditions showed significant increase in conductivity values over that of untreated graphite conductivity value and the best result, i.e., around eightfold increase in conductivity, was observed in the case of 6 min plasma treated sample exhibiting carbon nanotube bundles/bunches grown on disc surface. By comparing the microstructures of the untreated and plasma treated graphite discs, the electrical conductivity increase in graphite disc is attributed to carbon nanotubes (including bundles/bunches) growth on disc surface by plasma treatment.

Effects of pulse ON and OFF time and electrode types on the material removal rate and tool wear rate of the Ti-6Al-4V Alloy using EDM machining with reverse polarity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Praveen, L.; Geeta Krishna, P.; Venugopal, L.; Prasad, N. E. C.

2018-03-01

Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) is an unconventional metal removal process that is extensively used for removing the difficult-to-machine metal such as Ti alloys, super alloys and metal matrix composites. This paper investigates the effects of pulse (ON/OFF) time on EDM machining characteristics of Ti-6Al-4V alloy using copper and graphite as electrodes in reverse polarity condition. Full factorial design method was used to design the experiments. Two variables (Pulse On and OFF) with three levels are considered. The output variables are the tool wear rate and the material removal rate. The important findings from the present work are: (1) the material removal rate (MRR) increases gradually with an increase of the Pulse ON time whereas the change is insignificant with an increase of the Pulse OFF time, (2) Between copper and graphite electrodes, the copper electrode is proved to be good in terms of MRR, (3) a combination of high pulse ON time and OFF time is desirable for high MRR rate in the Cu electrode whereas for the graphite electrode, a combination of high pulse ON time and low pulse OFF time is desirable for high MRR rate, (4) the tool wear rate (TWR) reduces with the Pulse On or OFF time, the rate of TWR is uniform for the graphite electrode in contrast to abrupt decrease from 25 to 50 μs (pulse ON time) in the copper electrode, (5) In order to keep the TWR as minimum possible, it is desirable to have a combination of high pulse ON time and OFF time for both the copper and the graphite electrode.

An experimental study on the thermal characteristics and heating effect of arc-fault from Cu core in residential electrical wiring fires

PubMed Central

Du, Jian-Hua; Zeng, Yi; Pan, Leng; Zhang, Ren-Cheng

2017-01-01

The characteristics of a series direct current (DC) arc-fault including both electrical and thermal parameters were investigated based on an arc-fault simulator to provide references for multi-parameter electrical fire detection method. Tests on arc fault behavior with three different initial circuit voltages, resistances and arc gaps were conducted, respectively. The influences of circuit conditions on arc dynamic image, voltage, current or power were interpreted. Also, the temperature rises of electrode surface and ambient air were studied. The results showed that, first, significant variations of arc structure and light emitting were observed under different conditions. A thin outer burning layer of vapor generated from electrodes with orange light was found due to the extremely high arc temperature. Second, with the increasing electrode gap in discharging, the arc power was shown to have a non monotonic relationship with arc length for constant initial circuit voltage and resistance. Finally, the temperature rises of electrode surface caused by heat transfer from arc were found to be not sensitive with increasing arc length due to special heat transfer mechanism. In addition, temperature of ambient air showed a large gradient in radial direction of arc. PMID:28797055

An experimental study on the thermal characteristics and heating effect of arc-fault from Cu core in residential electrical wiring fires.

PubMed

Du, Jian-Hua; Tu, Ran; Zeng, Yi; Pan, Leng; Zhang, Ren-Cheng

2017-01-01

The characteristics of a series direct current (DC) arc-fault including both electrical and thermal parameters were investigated based on an arc-fault simulator to provide references for multi-parameter electrical fire detection method. Tests on arc fault behavior with three different initial circuit voltages, resistances and arc gaps were conducted, respectively. The influences of circuit conditions on arc dynamic image, voltage, current or power were interpreted. Also, the temperature rises of electrode surface and ambient air were studied. The results showed that, first, significant variations of arc structure and light emitting were observed under different conditions. A thin outer burning layer of vapor generated from electrodes with orange light was found due to the extremely high arc temperature. Second, with the increasing electrode gap in discharging, the arc power was shown to have a non monotonic relationship with arc length for constant initial circuit voltage and resistance. Finally, the temperature rises of electrode surface caused by heat transfer from arc were found to be not sensitive with increasing arc length due to special heat transfer mechanism. In addition, temperature of ambient air showed a large gradient in radial direction of arc.

Effect of NaX zeolite-modified graphite felts on hexavalent chromium removal in biocathode microbial fuel cells.

PubMed

Wu, Xiayuan; Tong, Fei; Yong, Xiaoyu; Zhou, Jun; Zhang, Lixiong; Jia, Honghua; Wei, Ping

2016-05-05

Two kinds of NaX zeolite-modified graphite felts were used as biocathode electrodes in hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI))-reducing microbial fuel cells (MFCs). The one was fabricated through direct modification, and the other one processed by HNO3 pretreatment of graphite felt before modification. The results showed that two NaX zeolite-modified graphite felts are excellent bio-electrode materials for MFCs, and that a large NaX loading mass, obtained by HNO3 pretreatment (the HNO3-NaX electrode), leads to a superior performance. The HNO3-NaX electrode significantly improved the electricity generation and Cr(VI) removal of the MFC. The maximum Cr(VI) removal rate increased to 10.39±0.28 mg/L h, which was 8.2 times higher than that of the unmodified control. The improvement was ascribed to the strong affinity that NaX zeolite particles, present in large number on the graphite felt, have for microorganisms and Cr(VI) ions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Alternate electrode materials for the SP100 reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Randich, E.

1992-05-01

This work was performed in response to a request by the Astro-Space Division of the General Electric Co. to develop alternate electrodes materials for the electrodes of the PD2 modules to be used in the SP100 thermoelectric power conversion system. Initially, the project consisted of four tasks: (1) development of a ZrB2 (C) CVD coating on SiMo substrates; (2) development of a ZrB2 (C) CVD coating on SiGe substrates; (3) development of CVI W for porous graphite electrodes; and (4) technology transfer of pertinent developed processes. The project evolved initially into developing only ZrB2 coatings on SiGe and graphite substrates, and later into developing ZrB2 coatings only on graphite substrates. Several sizes of graphite and pyrolytic carbon-coated graphite substrates were coated with ZrB2 during the project. For budgetary reasons, the project was terminated after half the allotted time had passed. Apart from the production of coated specimens for evaluation, the major accomplishment of the project was the development of the CVD processing to produce the desired coatings.

Surface modification of amine-functionalised graphite for preparation of cobalt hexacyanoferrate (CoHCF)-modified electrode: an amperometric sensor for determination of butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA).

PubMed

Prabakar, S J Richard; Narayanan, S Sriman

2006-12-01

A cobalt hexacyanoferrate (CoHCF)-modified graphite paraffin wax composite electrode was prepared by a new approach. An amine-functionalised graphite powder was used for the fabrication of the electrode. A functionalised graphite paraffin wax composite electrode was prepared and the surface of the electrode was modified with a thin film of CoHCF. Various parameters that influence the electrochemical behaviour of the modified electrode were studied by varying the background electrolytes, scan rates and pH. The modified electrode showed good electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) under optimal conditions and showed a linear response over the range from 7.9 x 10(-7) to 1.9 x 10(-4) M of BHA with a correlation coefficient of 0.9988. The limit of detection was 1.9 x 10(-7) M. Electrocatalytic oxidation of BHA was effective at the modified electrode at a significantly reduced potential and at a broader pH range. The utility of the modified electrode as an amperometric sensor for the determination of BHA in flow systems was evaluated by carrying out hydrodynamic and chronoamperometric experiments. The modified electrode showed very good stability and a longer shelf life. The modified electrode was applied for the determination of BHA in spiked samples of chewing gum and edible sunflower oil. The advantage of this method is the ease of electrode fabrication, good stability, longer shelf life, low cost and its diverse application for BHA determination.

Study of different nanostructured carbon supports for fuel cell catalysts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mirabile Gattia, Daniele; Antisari, Marco Vittori; Giorgi, Leonardo; Marazzi, Renzo; Piscopiello, Emanuela; Montone, Amelia; Bellitto, Serafina; Licoccia, Silvia; Traversa, Enrico

Pt clusters were deposited by an impregnation process on three carbon supports: multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWNT), single-wall carbon nanohorns (SWNH), and Vulcan XC-72 carbon black to investigate the effect of the carbon support structure on the possibility of reducing Pt loading on electrodes for direct methanol (DMFC) fuel cells without impairing performance. MWNT and SWNH were in-house synthesised by a DC and an AC arc discharge process between pure graphite electrodes, respectively. UV-vis spectrophotometry, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and cyclic voltammetry measurements were used to characterize the Pt particles deposited on the three carbon supports. A differential yield for Pt deposition, not strictly related to the surface area of the carbon support, was observed. SWNH showed the highest surface chemical activity toward Pt deposition. Pt deposited in different forms depending on the carbon support. Electrochemical characterizations showed that the Pt nanostructures deposited on MWNT are particularly efficient in the methanol oxidation reaction.

CuC1 thermochemical cycle for hydrogen production

DOEpatents

Fan, Qinbai [Chicago, IL; Liu, Renxuan [Chicago, IL

2012-01-03

An electrochemical cell for producing copper having a dense graphite anode electrode and a dense graphite cathode electrode disposed in a CuCl solution. An anion exchange membrane made of poly(ethylene vinyl alcohol) and polyethylenimine cross-linked with a cross-linking agent selected from the group consisting of acetone, formaldehyde, glyoxal, glutaraldehyde, and mixtures thereof is disposed between the two electrodes.

Lithium-ion capacitors using carbide-derived carbon as the positive electrode - A comparison of cells with graphite and Li4Ti5O12 as the negative electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rauhala, Taina; Leis, Jaan; Kallio, Tanja; Vuorilehto, Kai

2016-11-01

The use of carbide-derived carbon (CDC) as the positive electrode material for lithium-ion capacitors (LICs) is investigated. CDC based LIC cells are studied utilizing two different negative electrode materials: graphite and lithium titanate Li4Ti5O12 (LTO). The graphite electrodes are prelithiated before assembling the LICs, and LTO containing cells are studied with and without prelithiation. The rate capability and cycle life stability during 1000 cycles are evaluated by galvanostatic cycling at current densities of 0.4-4 mA cm-2. The CDC shows a specific capacitance of 120 F g-1 in the organic lithium-containing electrolyte, and the LICs demonstrate a good stability over 1000 charge-discharge cycles. The choice of the negative electrode is found to have an effect on the utilization of the CDC positive electrode during cycling and on the specific energy of the device. The graphite/CDC cell delivers a maximum specific discharge energy of 90 Wh kg-1 based on the total mass of active material in the cell. Both the prelithiated and non-prelithiated LTO/CDC cells show a specific energy of around 30 Wh kg-1.

Single-Wall Carbon Nanotube Production by the Arc Process: A Parametric Study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Scott, Carl D.; Gorelik, Olga; Proft, William J.

2000-01-01

Single wall carbon nanotubes are produced using the arc discharge process. Graphite anodes are filled with a mixture of nickel and yttrium metallic powders, then vaporized by creating a high current arc. By varying the current, gap distance, and ambient pressure it is shown that the best yield of single wall carbon nanotubes is obtained within a narrow range of conditions. The relative yield and purity of the product are indicated semi-quantitatively from scanning electric microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Two types of anodes have been investigated. The first is hollow and filled with a powder mixture of graphite, nickel and yttrium. The second is filled with a paste made of a mixture of metal nitrates, graphite powder and carbon adhesive, then reduced in an argon atmosphere at high temperature. Product purity and yield will be compared for the two types of anodes. The graphite in the anodes may have hydrogen attached in the pores. To remove this impurity anodes have been baked up to 1400 - 1500 C. The effect of baking the anodes on impurities in the product will be given.

Pencil Graphite Electrodes: A Versatile Tool in Electroanalysis

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Due to their electrochemical and economical characteristics, pencil graphite electrodes (PGEs) gained in recent years a large applicability to the analysis of various types of inorganic and organic compounds from very different matrices. The electrode material of this type of working electrodes is constituted by the well-known and easy commercially available graphite pencil leads. Thus, PGEs are cheap and user-friendly and can be employed as disposable electrodes avoiding the time-consuming step of solid electrodes surface cleaning between measurements. When compared to other working electrodes PGEs present lower background currents, higher sensitivity, good reproducibility, and an adjustable electroactive surface area, permitting the analysis of low concentrations and small sample volumes without any deposition/preconcentration step. Therefore, this paper presents a detailed overview of the PGEs characteristics, designs and applications of bare, and electrochemically pretreated and chemically modified PGEs along with the corresponding performance characteristics like linear range and detection limit. Techniques used for bare or modified PGEs surface characterization are also reviewed. PMID:28255500

Method for fabricating carbon/lithium-ion electrode for rechargeable lithium cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Attia, Alan I. (Inventor); Halpert, Gerald (Inventor); Huang, Chen-Kuo (Inventor); Surampudi, Subbarao (Inventor)

1995-01-01

The method includes steps for forming a carbon electrode composed of graphitic carbon particles adhered by an ethylene propylene diene monomer binder. An effective binder composition is disclosed for achieving a carbon electrode capable of subsequent intercalation by lithium ions. The method also includes steps for reacting the carbon electrode with lithium ions to incorporate lithium ions into graphitic carbon particles of the electrode. An electrical current is repeatedly applied to the carbon electrode to initially cause a surface reaction between the lithium ions and to the carbon and subsequently cause intercalation of the lithium ions into crystalline layers of the graphitic carbon particles. With repeated application of the electrical current, intercalation is achieved to near a theoretical maximum. Two differing multi-stage intercalation processes are disclosed. In the first, a fixed current is reapplied. In the second, a high current is initially applied, followed by a single subsequent lower current stage. Resulting carbon/lithium-ion electrodes are well suited for use as an anode in a reversible, ambient temperature, lithium cell.

Initiation of arcing on tungsten surface exposed to steady state He plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kajita, Shin; Noiri, Yasuyuki; Ohno, Noriyasu

2015-09-01

Arcing was initiated in steady state helium plasmas by negatively biasing a tungsten electrode to around -500 V. On the tungsten electrode, nanostructures were grown by the plasma irradiation. In this study, we characterized the property of the initiated arcing by measuring the temporal evolutions of the electrode potential and the arc current. The ignition frequency and duration of arcing were presented from the potential measurements; the arc duration was in the range of <10 ms and the distribution altered when changing the biasing voltage. The behavior of arc spots was observed with a fast framing camera. It was shown that the spots split frequently, and sometimes, they run on the surface independently. From the fluctuation of the arc current, the fractal feature of arcing was revealed.

Method for cracking hydrocarbon compositions using a submerged reactive plasma system

DOEpatents

Kong, P.C.

1997-05-06

A method is described for cracking a liquid hydrocarbon composition (e.g. crude oil) to produce a cracked hydrocarbon product. A liquid hydrocarbon composition is initially provided. An electrical arc is generated directly within the hydrocarbon composition so that the arc is entirely submerged in the composition. Arc generation is preferably accomplished using a primary and secondary electrode each having a first end submerged in the composition. The first ends of the electrodes are separated from each other to form a gap there between. An electrical potential is then applied to the electrodes to generate the arc within the gap. A reactive gas is thereafter delivered to the arc which forms a bubble around the arc. Gas delivery may be accomplished by providing a passageway through each electrode and delivering the gas through the passageways. The arc and gas cooperate to produce a plasma which efficiently cracks the hydrocarbon composition. 6 figs.

Method for cracking hydrocarbon compositions using a submerged reactive plasma system

DOEpatents

Kong, Peter C.

1997-01-01

A method for cracking a liquid hydrocarbon composition (e.g. crude oil) to produce a cracked hydrocarbon product. A liquid hydrocarbon composition is initially provided. An electrical arc is generated directly within the hydrocarbon composition so that the arc is entirely submerged in the composition. Arc generation is preferably accomplished using a primary and secondary electrode each having a first end submerged in the composition. The first ends of the electrodes are separated from each other to form a gap therebetween. An electrical potential is then applied to the electrodes to generate the arc within the gap. A reactive gas is thereafter delivered to the arc which forms a bubble around the arc. Gas delivery may be accomplished by providing a passageway through each electrode and delivering the gas through the passageways. The arc and gas cooperate to produce a plasma which efficiently cracks the hydrocarbon composition.

Moving characteristics of electrodes for vacuum circuit breaker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Shun; Wang, Jimei

1994-05-01

This paper analyzes the effect of the gap of electrodes on the state of vacuum arc by experiment and theory. And the model of vacuum arc is set up. The optimal gap can be deduced from controlling the vacuum arc to be diffusion state, in order to get the optimal moving characteristics of electrodes.

Technique eliminates high voltage arcing at electrode-insulator contact area

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mealy, G.

1967-01-01

Coating the electrode-insulator contact area with silver epoxy conductive paint and forcing the electrode and insulator tightly together into a permanent connection, eliminates electrical arcing in high-voltage electrodes supplying electrical power to vacuum facilities.

Method for electrostatic deposition of graphene on a substrate

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sumanasekera, Gamini (Inventor); Sidorov, Anton N. (Inventor); Ouseph, P. John (Inventor); Yazdanpanah, Mehdi M. (Inventor); Cohn, Robert W. (Inventor); Jalilian, Romaneh (Inventor)

2010-01-01

A method for electrostatic deposition of graphene on a substrate comprises the steps of securing a graphite sample to a first electrode; electrically connecting the first electrode to a positive terminal of a power source; electrically connecting a second electrode to a ground terminal of the power source; placing the substrate over the second electrode; and using the power source to apply a voltage, such that graphene is removed from the graphite sample and deposited on the substrate.

Electrochemical behaviour of vanadium(V)/vanadium(IV) redox couple at graphite electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, S.; Skyllas-Kazacos, M.

The electrochemical behaviour of the V(V)/V(IV) couple has been studied at a graphite disc electrode in sulfuric acid using both cyclic and rotating-disc voltammetry. The results from the latter technique have revealed that the cathodic and anodic characteristics of this redox couple are quite different. The diffusion coefficient for V(IV), 2.14×10-6 cm2 s-1, is independent of the vanadium concentration. For V(IV) oxidation, the electrode kinetic parameters i0 and α have values of 2.47×10-4 A cm-2 and 0.71, respectively. The exchange current density, i0, for the V(V)/V(IV) reaction has been obtained at both graphite felt and reticulated vitreous carbon electrodes.

Four-Wave-Mixing Approach to In Situ Detection of Nanoparticles

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

Gerakis, Alexandros; Yeh, Yao -Wen; Shneider, Mikhail N.

Here, we report on the development and experimental validation of a laser-based technique which uses coherent Rayleigh-Brillouin scattering (CRBS) to detect nanoparticles with characteristic sizes ranging from the atomic scale to tens of nanometers. This technique is aimed (nonexclusively) at the detection of nanoparticles produced by volumetric nanoparticle synthesis methods. Using CRBS, carbon nanoparticles of dimensions less than 10 nm and concentrations of 10 10 cm –3 are detected in situ in a carbon arc discharge with graphite electrodes. This four-wave-mixing approach should enable advances in the understanding of nanoparticle growth that could potentially lead to improved modeling of themore » growth mechanisms, and thus to improve synthesis selectivity of nanoparticles and yield.« less

High-purity silicon for solar cell applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dosaj, V. D.; Hunt, L. P.; Schei, A.

1978-01-01

The article discusses the production of solar cells from high-purity silicon. The process consists of reducing the level of impurities in the raw materials, preventing material contamination before and after entering the furnace, and performing orders-of-magnitude reduction of metal impurity concentrations. The high-purity raw materials are considered with reference to carbon reductants, silica, and graphite electrodes. Attention is also given to smelting experiments used to demonstrate, in an experimental-scale furnace, the production of high-purity SoG-Si. It is found that high-purity silicon may be produced from high-purity quartz and chemically purified charcoal in a 50-kVA arc furnace. The major contamination source is shown to be impurities from the carbon reducing materials.

Four-Wave-Mixing Approach to In Situ Detection of Nanoparticles

DOE PAGES

Gerakis, Alexandros; Yeh, Yao -Wen; Shneider, Mikhail N.; ...

2018-01-29

Here, we report on the development and experimental validation of a laser-based technique which uses coherent Rayleigh-Brillouin scattering (CRBS) to detect nanoparticles with characteristic sizes ranging from the atomic scale to tens of nanometers. This technique is aimed (nonexclusively) at the detection of nanoparticles produced by volumetric nanoparticle synthesis methods. Using CRBS, carbon nanoparticles of dimensions less than 10 nm and concentrations of 10 10 cm –3 are detected in situ in a carbon arc discharge with graphite electrodes. This four-wave-mixing approach should enable advances in the understanding of nanoparticle growth that could potentially lead to improved modeling of themore » growth mechanisms, and thus to improve synthesis selectivity of nanoparticles and yield.« less

IDENTIFICATION OF CHLOROMETHANE FROMATION PATHS DURING ELECTROCHEMICAL DECHLORINATION OF TCE USING GRAPHITE ELECTRODES

EPA Science Inventory

The purpose of this research is to investigate the formation of chloromethane during TCE dechlorination in a mixed electrochemical reactor using graphite electrodes. Chloromethane was the major chlorinated organic compound detected in previous dechlorination experiments. In order...

IDENTIFICATION OF CHLOROMETHANE FORMATION PATHS DURING ELECTROCHEMICAL DECHLORINATION OF TCE USING GRAPHITE ELECTRODES

EPA Science Inventory

The purpose of this research is to investigate the formation of chloromethane during TCE dechlorination in a mixed electrochemical reactor using graphite electrodes. Chloromethane was the major chlorinated organic compound detected in previous dechlorination experiments. In order...

Investigation of the effects of shear on arc-electrode erosion using a modified arc-electrode mass loss model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Webb, Bryan T.

The electrodes are the attachment points for an electric arc where electrons and positive ions enter and leave the gas, creating a flow of current. Electrons enter the gas at the cathode and are removed at the anode. Electrons then flow out through the leads on the anode and are replenished from the power supply through the leads on the cathode. Electric arc attachment to the electrode surface causes intensive heating and subsequent melting and vaporization. At that point a multitude of factors can contribute to mass loss, to include vaporization (boiling), material removal via shear forces, chemical reactions, evaporation, and ejection of material in jets due to pressure effects. If these factors were more thoroughly understood and could be modeled, this knowledge would guide the development of an electrode design with minimal erosion. An analytic model was developed by a previous researcher that models mass loss by melting, evaporation and boiling with a moving arc attachment point. This pseudo one-dimensional model includes surface heat flux in periodic cycles of heating and cooling to model motion of a spinning arc in an annular electrode where the arc periodically returns to the same spot. This model, however, does not account for removal of material due to shear or pressure induced effects, or the effects of chemical reactions. As a result of this, the model under-predicts material removal by about 50%. High velocity air flowing over an electrode will result in a shear force which has the potential to remove molten material as the arc melts the surface on its path around the electrode. In order to study the effects of shear on mass loss rate, the model from this previous investigator has been altered to include this mass loss mechanism. The results of this study have shown that shear is a viable mechanism for mass loss in electrodes and can account for the mismatch between theoretical and experimental rates determined by previous investigators. The results of a parametric study of arc attachment factors - including spot size, fall voltage, arc spot rotation rate, ambient bore heat rate, and air mass flow rate - are presented. The parametric study resulted in improving estimates of both the arc spot size and electrode fall voltage, two critical factors affecting electrode heating. Little sensitivity of electrode erosion rate to ambient bore heat rate and rotation rate was found. The erosion rate is found to be sensitive to the mass flow rate of air injected in the arc heater and validation of the model by comparison with more run condition data should be carried out as the data become available.

Sensitive Voltammetric Determination of Natural Flavonoid Quercetin on a Disposable Graphite Lead

PubMed Central

Vu, Dai Long; Žabčíková, Simona; Ertek, Bensu; Dilgin, Yusuf

2015-01-01

Summary In this paper, a pencil graphite electrode was pretreated using chronoamperometry technique in phosphate buffer solution (pH=7.0) for sensitive determination of quercetin. Oxidation of quercetin was investigated using pretreated pencil graphite electrode and anodic stripping differential pulse voltammetry. Under optimal conditions, the anodic current of quercetin exhibited linear response to its concentration in the range from 0.001 to 1.5 µmol/L with the limit of detection of 0.3·10–3 µmol/L. The proposed method was successfully applied for the determination of quercetin in cranberry and blackcurrant juices with recovery rate from 93.2 to 94.7%. Solid-phase extraction was found to be necessary prior to voltammetric determination of quercetin in fruit juice samples using pretreated pencil graphite electrode. PMID:27904372

Density impact on performance of composite Si/graphite electrodes

DOE PAGES

Dufek, Eric J.; Picker, Michael; Petkovic, Lucia M.

2016-01-27

The ability of alkali-substituted binders for composite Si and graphite negative electrodes to minimize capacity fade for lithium ion batteries is investigated. Polymer films and electrodes are described and characterized by FTIR following immersion in electrolyte (1:2 EC:DMC) for 24 h. FTIR analysis following electrode formation displayed similar alkali-ion dependent shifts in peak location suggesting that changes in the vibrational structure of the binder are maintained after electrode formation. The Si and graphite composite electrodes prepared using the alkali-substituted polyacrylates were also exposed to electrochemical cycling and it has been found that the performance of the Na-substituted binder is superiormore » to a comparable density K-substituted system. However, in comparing performance across many different electrode densities attention needs to be placed on making comparisons at similar densities, as low density electrodes tend to exhibit lower capacity fade over cycling. This is highlighted by a 6% difference between a low density K-substituted electrode and a high density Na-substituted sample. As a result, this low variance between the two systems makes it difficult to quickly make a direct evaluation of binder performance unless electrode density is tightly controlled.« less

The Unusual Colour of Copper Deposited on a Graphite Electrode in an Aqueous Solution of CuSO[subscript 4

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Petrusevski, Vladimir M.; Stojanovska, Marina

2010-01-01

The colour of the copper layer deposited on a graphite electrode during electrolysis of an aqueous solution of copper(II) sulfate looks whitish-grey when inspected in situ. Taking the electrode out of the solution reveals the familiar orange-red colour of deposited copper. The explanation is found in terms of the almost ideal complementary colours…

Switch device having a non-linear transmission line

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

Elizondo-Decanini, Juan M.

Switching devices are provided. The switching devices include an input electrode, having a main electrode and a trigger electrode, and an output electrode. The main electrode and the trigger electrode are separated from the output electrode by a main gap and a trigger gap, respectively. During operation, the trigger electrode compresses and amplifies a trigger voltage signal causing the trigger electrode to emit a pulse of energy. This pulse of energy form plasma near the trigger electrode, either by arcing across the trigger gap, or by arcing from the trigger electrode to the main electrode. This plasma decreases the breakdownmore » voltage of the main gap. Simultaneously, or near simultaneously, a main voltage signal propagates through the main electrode. The main voltage signal emits a main pulse of energy that arcs across the main gap while the plasma formed by the trigger pulse is still present.« less

77 FR 33405 - Small Diameter Graphite Electrodes From the People's Republic of China: Affirmative Preliminary...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-06

...The Department of Commerce (``Department'') preliminarily determines that certain small diameter graphite electrodes (``SDGE'') are being exported from the United Kingdom (``U.K.'') to the United States by UK Carbon and Graphite Co., Ltd. (``UKCG'') in circumvention of the antidumping duty order on SDGE from the People's Republic of China (``PRC''),\\1\\ as provided in section 781(b) of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (``the Act''). ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Spontaneous modification of graphite anode by anthraquinone-2-sulfonic acid for microbial fuel cells.

PubMed

Tang, Xinhua; Li, Haoran; Du, Zhuwei; Ng, How Yong

2014-07-01

In this study, anthraquinone-2-sulfonic acid (AQS), an electron transfer mediator, was immobilized onto graphite felt surface via spontaneous reduction of the in situ generated AQS diazonium cations. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) characterizations of AQS modified graphite demonstrated that AQS was covalently grafted onto the graphite surface. The modified graphite, with a surface AQS concentration of 5.37 ± 1.15 × 10(-9)mol/cm(2), exhibited good electrochemical activity and high stability. The midpoint potential of the modified graphite was about -0.248 V (vs. normal hydrogen electrode, NHE), indicating that electrons could be easily transferred from NADH in bacteria to the electrode. AQS modified anode in MFCs increased the maximum power density from 967 ± 33 mW/m(2) to 1872 ± 42 mW/m(2). These results demonstrated that covalently modified AQS functioned as an electron transfer mediator to facilitate extracellular electron transfer from bacteria to electrode and significantly enhanced the power production in MFCs. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparison of reduction products from graphite oxide and graphene oxide for anode applications in lithium-ion batteries and sodium-ion batteries.

PubMed

Sun, Yige; Tang, Jie; Zhang, Kun; Yuan, Jinshi; Li, Jing; Zhu, Da-Ming; Ozawa, Kiyoshi; Qin, Lu-Chang

2017-02-16

Hydrazine-reduced graphite oxide and graphene oxide were synthesized to compare their performances as anode materials in lithium-ion batteries and sodium-ion batteries. Reduced graphite oxide inherits the layer structure of graphite, with an average spacing between neighboring layers (d-spacing) of 0.374 nm; this exceeds the d-spacing of graphite (0.335 nm). The larger d-spacing provides wider channels for transporting lithium ions and sodium ions in the material. We showed that reduced graphite oxide as an anode in lithium-ion batteries can reach a specific capacity of 917 mA h g -1 , which is about three times of 372 mA h g -1 , the value expected for the LiC 6 structures on the electrode. This increase is consistent with the wider d-spacing, which enhances lithium intercalation and de-intercalation on the electrodes. The electrochemical performance of the lithium-ion batteries and sodium-ion batteries with reduced graphite oxide anodes show a noticeable improvement compared to those with reduced graphene oxide anodes. This improvement indicates that reduced graphite oxide, with larger interlayer spacing, has fewer defects and is thus more stable. In summary, we found that reduced graphite oxide may be a more favorable form of graphene for the fabrication of electrodes for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries and other energy storage devices.

Graphite Ablation and Thermal Response Simulation Under Arc-Jet Flow Conditions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, Y.-K.; Milos, F. S.; Reda, D. C.; Stewart, D. A.; Venkatapathy, Ethiraj (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

The Two-dimensional Implicit Thermal Response and Ablation program, TITAN, was developed and integrated with a Navier-Stokes solver, GIANTS, for multidimensional ablation and shape change simulation of thermal protection systems in hypersonic flow environments. The governing equations in both codes are demoralized using the same finite-volume approximation with a general body-fitted coordinate system. Time-dependent solutions are achieved by an implicit time marching technique using Gauess-Siedel line relaxation with alternating sweeps. As the first part of a code validation study, this paper compares TITAN-GIANTS predictions with thermal response and recession data obtained from arc-jet tests recently conducted in the Interaction Heating Facility (IHF) at NASA Ames Research Center. The test models are graphite sphere-cones. Graphite was selected as a test material to minimize the uncertainties from material properties. Recession and thermal response data were obtained from two separate arc-jet test series. The first series was at a heat flux where graphite ablation is mainly due to sublimation, and the second series was at a relatively low heat flux where recession is the result of diffusion-controlled oxidation. Ablation and thermal response solutions for both sets of conditions, as calculated by TITAN-GIANTS, are presented and discussed in detail. Predicted shape change and temperature histories generally agree well with the data obtained from the arc-jet tests.

Thermally Regenerative Battery with Intercalatable Electrodes and Selective Heating Means

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sharma, Pramod K. (Inventor); Narayanan, Sekharipuram R. (Inventor); Hickey, Gregory S. (Inventor)

2000-01-01

The battery contains at least one electrode such as graphite that intercalates a first species from the electrolyte disposed in a first compartment such as bromine to form a thermally decomposable complex during discharge. The other electrode can also be graphite which supplies another species such as lithium to the electrolyte in a second electrode compartment. The thermally decomposable complex is stable at room temperature but decomposes at elevated temperatures such as 50 C. to 150 C. The electrode compartments are separated by a selective ion permeable membrane that is impermeable to the first species. Charging is effected by selectively heating the first electrode.

Microstructure of room temperature ionic liquids at stepped graphite electrodes

DOE PAGES

Feng, Guang; Li, Song; Zhao, Wei; ...

2015-07-14

Molecular dynamics simulations of room temperature ionic liquid (RTIL) [emim][TFSI] at stepped graphite electrodes were performed to investigate the influence of the thickness of the electrode surface step on the microstructure of interfacial RTILs. A strong correlation was observed between the interfacial RTIL structure and the step thickness in electrode surface as well as the ion size. Specifically, when the step thickness is commensurate with ion size, the interfacial layering of cation/anion is more evident; whereas, the layering tends to be less defined when the step thickness is close to the half of ion size. Furthermore, two-dimensional microstructure of ionmore » layers exhibits different patterns and alignments of counter-ion/co-ion lattice at neutral and charged electrodes. As the cation/anion layering could impose considerable effects on ion diffusion, the detailed information of interfacial RTILs at stepped graphite presented here would help to understand the molecular mechanism of RTIL-electrode interfaces in supercapacitors.« less

Understanding the crack formation of graphite particles in cycled commercial lithium-ion batteries by focused ion beam - scanning electron microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Na; Jia, Zhe; Wang, Zhihui; Zhao, Hui; Ai, Guo; Song, Xiangyun; Bai, Ying; Battaglia, Vincent; Sun, Chengdong; Qiao, Juan; Wu, Kai; Liu, Gao

2017-10-01

The structure degradation of commercial Lithium-ion battery (LIB) graphite anodes with different cycling numbers and charge rates was investigated by focused ion beam (FIB) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The cross-section image of graphite anode by FIB milling shows that cracks, resulted in the volume expansion of graphite electrode during long-term cycling, were formed in parallel with the current collector. The crack occurs in the bulk of graphite particles near the lithium insertion surface, which might derive from the stress induced during lithiation and de-lithiation cycles. Subsequently, crack takes place along grain boundaries of the polycrystalline graphite, but only in the direction parallel with the current collector. Furthermore, fast charge graphite electrodes are more prone to form cracks since the tensile strength of graphite is more likely to be surpassed at higher charge rates. Therefore, for LIBs long-term or high charge rate applications, the tensile strength of graphite anode should be taken into account.

Potassium-Based Dual Ion Battery with Dual-Graphite Electrode.

PubMed

Fan, Ling; Liu, Qian; Chen, Suhua; Lin, Kairui; Xu, Zhi; Lu, Bingan

2017-08-01

A potassium ion battery has potential applications for large scale electric energy storage systems due to the abundance and low cost of potassium resources. Dual graphite batteries, with graphite as both anode and cathode, eliminate the use of transition metal compounds and greatly lower the overall cost. Herein, combining the merits of the potassium ion battery and dual graphite battery, a potassium-based dual ion battery with dual-graphite electrode is developed. It delivers a reversible capacity of 62 mA h g -1 and medium discharge voltage of ≈3.96 V. The intercalation/deintercalation mechanism of K + and PF 6 - into/from graphite is proposed and discussed in detail, with various characterizations to support. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Graphite-silicone rubber composite electrode: Preparation and possibilities of analytical application.

PubMed

de Oliveira, Aline Carlos; dos Santos, Sidney Xavier; Cavalheiro, Eder Tadeu Gomes

2008-01-15

Composite electrodes were prepared using graphite powder and silicone rubber in different compositions. The use of such hydrophopic materials interned to diminish the swallowing observed in other cases when the electrodes are used in aqueous solutions for a long time. The composite was characterized for the response reproducibility, ohmic resistance, thermal behavior and active area. The voltammetric response in relation to analytes with known voltammetric behavior was also evaluated, always in comparison with the glassy carbon. The 70% (graphite, w/w) composite electrode was used in the quantitative determination of hydroquinone (HQ) in a DPV procedure in which a detection limit of 5.1x10(-8)molL(-1) was observed. HQ was determined in a photographic developer sample with errors lower then 1% in relation to the label value.

Highly active, bi-functional and metal-free B4C-nanoparticle-modified graphite felt electrodes for vanadium redox flow batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, H. R.; Shyy, W.; Wu, M. C.; Wei, L.; Zhao, T. S.

2017-10-01

The potential of B4C as a metal-free catalyst for vanadium redox reactions is investigated by first-principles calculations. Results show that the central carbon atom of B4C can act as a highly active reaction site for redox reactions, due primarily to the abundant unpaired electrons around it. The catalytic effect is then verified experimentally by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests, both of which demonstrate that B4C nanoparticles can enhance the kinetics for both V2+/V3+ and VO2+/VO2+ redox reactions, indicating a bi-functional effect. The B4C-nanoparticle-modified graphite felt electrodes are finally prepared and tested in vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs). It is shown that the batteries with the prepared electrodes exhibit energy efficiencies of 88.9% and 80.0% at the current densities of 80 and 160 mA cm-2, which are 16.6% and 18.8% higher than those with the original graphite felt electrodes. With a further increase in current densities to 240 and 320 mA cm-2, the batteries can still maintain energy efficiencies of 72.0% and 63.8%, respectively. All these results show that the B4C-nanoparticle-modified graphite felt electrode outperforms existing metal-free catalyst modified electrodes, and thus can be promising electrodes for VRFBs.

Electrode erosion in arc discharges at atmospheric pressure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hardy, T. L.

1985-01-01

An experimental investigation was performed in an effort to measure and increase lifetime of electrodes in an arcjet thruster. The electrode erosion of various anode and cathode materials was measured after tests in an atmospheric pressure nitrogen arc discharge at powers less than 1 kW. A free-burning arc configuration and a constricted arc configuration were used to test the materials. Lanthanum hexboride and thoriated tungsten had low cathode erosion rates while thoriated tungsten and pure tungsten had the lowest anode erosion rates of the materials tested. Anode cooling, reverse gas flow, an external magnetic fields were all found to reduce electrode mass loss.

Capacity fade in high energy silicon-graphite electrodes for lithium-ion batteries

DOE PAGES

Dose, W. M.; Piernas-Munoz, M. J.; Maroni, V. A.; ...

2018-02-09

A silicon-graphite blended anode is paired with a high capacity LiFePO 4 reference/counter electrode to track irreversibility and lithium inventory. The LiFePO 4 electrode provides a reliable, flat potential for dQ dV -1 analysis of Li xSi and Li xC electrochemical reactions. We can relate this electrochemistry to the morphological and physical changes taking place.

Capacity fade in high energy silicon-graphite electrodes for lithium-ion batteries

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

Dose, W. M.; Piernas-Munoz, M. J.; Maroni, V. A.

A silicon-graphite blended anode is paired with a high capacity LiFePO 4 reference/counter electrode to track irreversibility and lithium inventory. The LiFePO 4 electrode provides a reliable, flat potential for dQ dV -1 analysis of Li xSi and Li xC electrochemical reactions. We can relate this electrochemistry to the morphological and physical changes taking place.

Lithium loss in the solid electrolyte interphase: Lithium quantification of aged lithium ion battery graphite electrodes by means of laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schwieters, Timo; Evertz, Marco; Mense, Maximilian; Winter, Martin; Nowak, Sascha

2017-07-01

In this work we present a new method using LA-ICP-MS to quantitatively determine the lithium content in aged graphite electrodes of a lithium ion battery (LIB) by performing total depth profiling. Matrix matched solid external standards are prepared using a solid doping approach to avoid elemental fractionation effects during the measurement. The results are compared and matched to the established ICP-OES technique for bulk quantification after performing a microwave assisted acid digestion. The method is applied to aged graphite electrodes in order to determine the lithium immobilization (= "Li loss") in the solid electrolyte interphase after the first cycle of formation. For this, different samples including a reference sample are created to obtain varying thicknesses of the SEI covering the electrode particles. By applying defined charging voltages, an initial lithiation process is performed to obtain specific graphite intercalation compounds (GICs, with target stoichiometries of LiC30, LiC18, LiC12 and LiC6). Afterwards, the graphite electrode is completely discharged to obtain samples without mobile, thus active lithium in its lattice. Taking the amount of lithium into account which originates from the residues of the LiPF6 (dissolved in the carbon components containing electrolyte), it is possible to subtract the amount of lithium in the SEI.

Functional interface of polymer modified graphite anode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Komaba, S.; Ozeki, T.; Okushi, K.

Graphite electrodes were modified by polyacrylic acid (PAA), polymethacrylic acid (PMA), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Their electrochemical properties were examined in 1 mol dm -3 LiClO 4 ethylene carbonate:dimethyl carbonate (EC:DMC) and propylene carbonate (PC) solutions as an anode of lithium ion batteries. Generally, lithium ions hardly intercalate into graphite in the PC electrolyte due to a decomposition of the PC electrolyte at ca. 0.8 V vs. Li/Li +, and it results in the exfoliation of the graphene layers. However, the modified graphite electrodes with PAA, PMA, and PVA demonstrated the stable charge-discharge performance due to the reversible lithium intercalation not only in the EC:DMC but also in the PC electrolytes since the electrolyte decomposition and co-intercalation of solvent were successfully suppressed by the polymer modification. It is thought that these improvements were attributed to the interfacial function of the polymer layer on the graphite which interacted with the solvated lithium ions at the electrode interface.

Capacitive behavior of highly-oxidized graphite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ciszewski, Mateusz; Mianowski, Andrzej

2014-09-01

Capacitive behavior of a highly-oxidized graphite is presented in this paper. The graphite oxide was synthesized using an oxidizing mixture of potassium chlorate and concentrated fuming nitric acid. As-oxidized graphite was quantitatively and qualitatively analyzed with respect to the oxygen content and the species of oxygen-containing groups. Electrochemical measurements were performed in a two-electrode symmetric cell using KOH electrolyte. It was shown that prolonged oxidation causes an increase in the oxygen content while the interlayer distance remains constant. Specific capacitance increased with oxygen content in the electrode as a result of pseudo-capacitive effects, from 0.47 to 0.54 F/g for a scan rate of 20 mV/s and 0.67 to 1.15 F/g for a scan rate of 5 mV/s. Better cyclability was observed for the electrode with a higher oxygen amount.

Vertical distribution of overpotentials and irreversible charge losses in lithium ion battery electrodes.

PubMed

Klink, Stefan; Schuhmann, Wolfgang; La Mantia, Fabio

2014-08-01

Porous lithium ion battery electrodes are characterized using a vertical distribution of cross-currents. In an appropriate simplification, this distribution can be described by a transmission line model (TLM) consisting of infinitely thin electrode layers. To investigate the vertical distribution of currents, overpotentials, and irreversible charge losses in a porous graphite electrode in situ, a multi-layered working electrode (MWE) was developed as the experimental analogue of a TLM. In this MWE, each layer is in ionic contact but electrically insulated from the other layers by a porous separator. It was found that the negative graphite electrodes get lithiated and delithiated stage-by-stage and layer-by-layer. Several mass-transport- as well as non-mass-transport-limited processes could be identified. Local current densities can reach double the average, especially on the outermost layer at the beginning of each intercalation stage. Furthermore, graphite particles close to the counter electrode act as "electrochemical sieve" reducing the impurities present in the electrolyte such as water. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

A novel integration system of magnetically immobilized cells and a pair of graphite plate-stainless iron mesh electrodes for the bioremediation of coking wastewater.

PubMed

Jiang, Bei; Tan, Liang; Ning, Shuxiang; Shi, Shengnan

2016-09-01

Magnetically immobilized cells of Comamonas sp. JB coupling with electrode reaction was developed to enhance the treatment efficiency of coking wastewater containing phenol, carbazole (CA), dibenzofuran (DBF), and dibenzothiophene (DBT). The pair of graphite plate-stainless iron mesh electrodes was chosen as the most suitable electrodes. Magnetically immobilized cells coupling with graphite plate-stainless iron mesh electrodes (coupling system) exhibited high degradation activity for all the compounds, which were significantly higher than the sum by single magnetically immobilized cells and electrode reaction at the optimal voltage. Recycling experiments demonstrated that the degradation activity of coupling system increased gradually during eight recycles, indicating that there was a coupling effect between the biodegradation and electrode reaction. Phenol hydroxylase and qPCR assays confirmed that appropriate electrical stimulation could improve phenol hydroxylase activity and promote cells growth. Toxicity assessment suggested the treatment of the coking wastewater by coupling system led to less toxicity than untreated wastewater. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

ELECTROCHEMICAL DECHLORINATION OF TRICHLOROETHYLENE USING GRANULAR-GRAPHITE ELECTRODES

EPA Science Inventory

Electrochemical dechlorination of TCE ws conducted in a glass column using granular graphite as electrodes. A constant voltage of 15 volt was applied resulting in 60-62 mA of current. Approximately 4-6% of the TCE was dechlorinated. Among the reduced TCE, more than 95% was comple...

ELECTROCHEMICAL DECHLORINATION OF TRICHLOROETHYLENE USING GRANULAR-GRAPHITE ELECTRODES

EPA Science Inventory

Electrochemical dechlorination of TCE was conducted in a glass column using granular graphite as electrodes. A constant voltage of 15 volt was applied resulting in 60-62 mA of current. Approximately 4-6% of the TCE was dechlorinated. Among the reduced TCE, more than 95% was compl...

A "Sticky" Mucin-Inspired DNA-Polysaccharide Binder for Silicon and Silicon-Graphite Blended Anodes in Lithium-Ion Batteries.

PubMed

Kim, Sunjin; Jeong, You Kyeong; Wang, Younseon; Lee, Haeshin; Choi, Jang Wook

2018-05-14

New binder concepts have lately demonstrated improvements in the cycle life of high-capacity silicon anodes. Those binder designs adopt adhesive functional groups to enhance affinity with silicon particles and 3D network conformation to secure electrode integrity. However, homogeneous distribution of silicon particles in the presence of a substantial volumetric content of carbonaceous components (i.e., conductive agent, graphite, etc.) is still difficult to achieve while the binder maintains its desired 3D network. Inspired by mucin, the amphiphilic macromolecular lubricant, secreted on the hydrophobic surface of gastrointestine to interface aqueous serous fluid, here, a renatured DNA-alginate amphiphilic binder for silicon and silicon-graphite blended electrodes is reported. Mimicking mucin's structure comprised of a hydrophobic protein backbone and hydrophilic oligosaccharide branches, the renatured DNA-alginate binder offers amphiphilicity from both components, along with a 3D fractal network structure. The DNA-alginate binder facilitates homogeneous distribution of electrode components in the electrode as well as its enhanced adhesion onto a current collector, leading to improved cyclability in both silicon and silicon-graphite blended electrodes. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Electrochemical sensing and biosensing platform based on chemically reduced graphene oxide.

PubMed

Zhou, Ming; Zhai, Yueming; Dong, Shaojun

2009-07-15

In this paper, the characterization and application of a chemically reduced graphene oxide modified glassy carbon (CR-GO/GC) electrode, a novel electrode system, for the preparation of electrochemical sensing and biosensing platform are proposed. Different kinds of important inorganic and organic electroactive compounds (i.e., probe molecule (potassium ferricyanide), free bases of DNA (guanine (G), adenine (A), thymine (T), and cytosine (C)), oxidase/dehydrogenase-related molecules (hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)/beta-nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH)), neurotransmitters (dopamine (DA)), and other biological molecules (ascorbic acid (AA), uric acid (UA), and acetaminophen (APAP)) were employed to study their electrochemical responses at the CR-GO/GC electrode, which shows more favorable electron transfer kinetics than graphite modified glassy carbon (graphite/GC) and glassy carbon (GC) electrodes. The greatly enhanced electrochemical reactivity of the four free bases of DNA at the CR-GO/GC electrode compared with that at graphite/GC and GC electrodes makes the CR-GO/GC electrode a better choice for the electrochemical biosensing of four DNA bases in both the single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) and double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) at physiological pH without a prehydrolysis step. This allows us to detect a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) site for short oligomers with a particular sequence at the CR-GO/GC electrode without any hybridization or labeling processes in this work, suggesting the potential applications of CR-GO in the label-free electrochemical detection of DNA hybridization or DNA damage for further research. Based on the greatly enhanced electrochemical reactivity of H2O2 and NADH at the CR-GO/GC electrode, CR-GO/GC electrode-based bioelectrodes (in connection with glucose oxidase (GOD) and alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH)) show a better analytical performance for the detection of glucose and ethanol compared with graphite/GC- or GC-based bioelectrodes. By comparing the electrochemical performance of CR-GO with that of the conventional graphite and GC, we reveal that CR-GO with the nature of a single sheet showing favorable electrochemical activity should be a kind of more robust and advanced carbon electrode material which may hold great promise for electrochemical sensors and biosensors design.

Defining the origins of electron transfer at screen-printed graphene-like and graphite electrodes: MoO2 nanowire fabrication on edge plane sites reveals electrochemical insights.

PubMed

Rowley-Neale, Samuel J; Brownson, Dale A C; Banks, Craig E

2016-08-18

Molybdenum (di)oxide (MoO2) nanowires are fabricated onto graphene-like and graphite screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) for the first time, revealing crucial insights into the electrochemical properties of carbon/graphitic based materials. Distinctive patterns observed in the electrochemical process of nanowire decoration show that electron transfer occurs predominantly on edge plane sites when utilising SPEs fabricated/comprised of graphitic materials. Nanowire fabrication along the edge plane sites (and on edge plane like-sites/defects) of graphene/graphite is confirmed with Cyclic Voltammetry, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Raman Spectroscopy. Comparison of the heterogeneous electron transfer (HET) rate constants (k°) at unmodified and nanowire coated SPEs show a reduction in the electrochemical reactivity of SPEs when the edge plane sites are effectively blocked/coated with MoO2. Throughout the process, the basal plane sites of the graphene/graphite electrodes remain relatively uncovered; except when the available edge plane sites have been utilised, in which case MoO2 deposition grows from the edge sites covering the entire surface of the electrode. This work clearly illustrates the distinct electron transfer properties of edge and basal plane sites on graphitic materials, indicating favourable electrochemical reactivity at the edge planes in contrast to limited reactivity at the basal plane sites. In addition to providing fundamental insights into the electron transfer properties of graphite and graphene-like SPEs, the reported simple, scalable, and cost effective formation of unique and intriguing MoO2 nanowires realised herein is of significant interest for use in both academic and commercial applications.

Selective synthesis of turbostratic polyhedral carbon nano-onions by arc discharge in water.

PubMed

Alessandro, F; Scarcello, A; Basantes Valverde, M D; Coello Fiallos, D C; Osman, S M; Cupolillo, A; Arias, M; Arias de Fuentes, O; De Luca, G; Aloise, A; Curcio, E; Nicotra, G; Spinella, C; Caputi, L S

2018-08-10

Carbon nano-onions (CNOs), in their spherical or polyhedral forms, represent an important class of nanomaterials, due to their peculiar physical and electrochemical properties. Among the different methods of production, arc discharge between graphite electrodes sustained by deionized water is one of the most promising to obtain good quality CNOs in gram quantities. We applied the method with the aim to optimize the production of CNOs, using an innovative experimental arrangement. The discharges generate dispersed nanomaterials and a black hard cathodic deposit, which were studied by transmission electron microscopy-high-resolution TEM, scanning electron microscopy, Raman, thermogravimetric analysis and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. A simple mechanical grinding of the deposits permitted us to obtain turbostratic polyhedral CNOs that exhibited higher stability towards burning in air, compared to CNOs found in water. We propose a mechanism for the formation of the CNOs present in the deposit, in which the crystallization is driven by a strong temperature gradient existing close to the cathode surface at the beginning of the process, and subsequently close to the deposit surface whenever it is growing.

Controlling electrode gap during vacuum arc remelting at low melting current

DOEpatents

Williamson, Rodney L.; Zanner, Frank J.; Grose, Stephen M.

1997-01-01

An apparatus and method for controlling electrode gap in a vacuum arc remelting furnace, particularly at low melting currents. Spectrographic analysis is performed of the metal vapor plasma, from which estimates of electrode gap are derived.

Pyrolytic graphite collector development program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilkins, W. J.

1982-01-01

Pyrolytic graphite promises to have significant advantages as a material for multistage depressed collector electrodes. Among these advantages are lighter weight, improved mechanical stiffness under shock and vibration, reduced secondary electron back-streaming for higher efficiency, and reduced outgassing at higher operating temperatures. The essential properties of pyrolytic graphite and the necessary design criteria are discussed. This includes the study of suitable electrode geometries and methods of attachment to other metal and ceramic collector components consistent with typical electrical, thermal, and mechanical requirements.

Mechanical Degradation of Graphite/PVDF Composite Electrodes: A Model-Experimental Study

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

Takahashi, Kenji; Higa, Kenneth; Mair, Sunil

2015-12-11

Mechanical failure modes of a graphite/polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) composite electrode for lithium-ion batteries were investigated by combining realistic stress-stain tests and mathematical model predictions. Samples of PVDF mixed with conductive additive were prepared in a similar way to graphite electrodes and tested while submerged in electrolyte solution. Young's modulus and tensile strength values of wet samples were found to be approximately one-fifth and one-half of those measured for dry samples. Simulations of graphite particles surrounded by binder layers given the measured material property values suggest that the particles are unlikely to experience mechanical damage during cycling, but that the fatemore » of the surrounding composite of PVDF and conductive additive depends completely upon the conditions under which its mechanical properties were obtained. Simulations using realistic property values produced results that were consistent with earlier experimental observations.« less

Auger Electrons as Probes for Composite Micro- and Nano- structured Materials: Application to Solid Electrolyte Interphases in Graphite and Silicon-Graphite Electrodes

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

Kalaga, Kaushik; Shkrob, Ilya A.; Haasch, Richard T.

In this study, Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) combined with ion sputtering profilometry, Xray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) have been used in a complementary fashion to examine chemical and microstructural changes in graphite (Gr) and silicon/graphite (Si/Gr) blends contained in the negative electrodes of lithium-ion cells. We demonstrate how AES can be used to characterize morphology of the solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) deposits in such heterogeneous media, complementing well-established methods, such as XPS and SEM. In this way we demonstrate that the SEI does not consist of uniformly thick layers on the graphite and silicon; the thickness ofmore » the SEI layers in cycle-life aged electrodes follows an exponential distribution with a mean of ca. 13 nm for the graphite and ca. 20-25 nm for the silicon nanoparticles (with a crystalline core of 50-70 nm in diameter). Furthermore, a “sticky-sphere” model, in which Si nanoparticles are covered with a layer of polymer binder (that is replaced by the SEI during cycling) of variable thickness is introduced to account for the features observed.« less

Auger Electrons as Probes for Composite Micro- and Nano- structured Materials: Application to Solid Electrolyte Interphases in Graphite and Silicon-Graphite Electrodes

DOE PAGES

Kalaga, Kaushik; Shkrob, Ilya A.; Haasch, Richard T.; ...

2017-10-05

In this study, Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) combined with ion sputtering profilometry, Xray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) have been used in a complementary fashion to examine chemical and microstructural changes in graphite (Gr) and silicon/graphite (Si/Gr) blends contained in the negative electrodes of lithium-ion cells. We demonstrate how AES can be used to characterize morphology of the solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) deposits in such heterogeneous media, complementing well-established methods, such as XPS and SEM. In this way we demonstrate that the SEI does not consist of uniformly thick layers on the graphite and silicon; the thickness ofmore » the SEI layers in cycle-life aged electrodes follows an exponential distribution with a mean of ca. 13 nm for the graphite and ca. 20-25 nm for the silicon nanoparticles (with a crystalline core of 50-70 nm in diameter). Furthermore, a “sticky-sphere” model, in which Si nanoparticles are covered with a layer of polymer binder (that is replaced by the SEI during cycling) of variable thickness is introduced to account for the features observed.« less

75 FR 76026 - United States v. Graftech International Ltd., Et al.; Proposed Final Judgment and Competitive...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-07

... and other inputs to form cylinders that are shot through with electricity and baked to produce... electricity into the furnace, heating the furnace and melting scrap steel. 11. Graphite electrodes oxidize and... consumption of graphite electrodes. 12. Petroleum needle coke, relative to other varieties of coke, is...

Development of Nitrogen Sensor for Determination of PN(2) in Body Tissues.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-07-01

3) The progress of the reduction reaction (1) was followed by voltammetry. A single anodic potential sweep , starting from the open circuit...Graphite Electrode The progressive attachment of [Ru(NH3 ) 5 H2 0] +2 to PVP-coated graphite electrodes was observed by cyclic voltametry as an

Electrocatalytic Dechlorination Of A PCB Congener At A Palladized Granular Graphite-Packed Electrode: Reaction Equilibrium And Mechanism

EPA Science Inventory

Our previous study on the electrocatalytic dechlorination of 2-chlorobiphenyl at a Pd-loaded granular graphite-packed electrode demonstrated that the process did not follow the first order kinetics. The rate constant varied with the applied potential at the beginning, but later b...

Dose measurement in heterogeneous phantoms with an extrapolation chamber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deblois, Francois

A hybrid phantom-embedded extrapolation chamber (PEEC) made of Solid Water(TM) and bone-equivalent material was used for determining absolute dose in a bone-equivalent phantom irradiated with clinical radiation beams (cobalt-60 gamma rays; 6 and 18 MV x-rays; and 9 and 15 MeV electrons). The dose was determined with the Spencer-Attix cavity theory, using ionization gradient measurements and an indirect determination of the chamber air-mass through measurements of chamber capacitance. The air gaps used were between 2 and 3 mm and the sensitive air volume of the extrapolation chamber was remotely controlled through the motion of the motorized piston with a precision of +/-0.0025 mm. The collected charge was corrected for ionic recombination and diffusion in the chamber air volume following the standard two-voltage technique. Due to the hybrid chamber design, correction factors accounting for scatter deficit and electrode composition were determined and applied in the dose equation to obtain dose data for the equivalent homogeneous bone phantom. Correction factors for graphite electrodes were calculated with Monte Carlo techniques and the calculated results were verified through relative air cavity dose measurements for three different polarizing electrode materials: graphite, steel, and brass in conjunction with a graphite collecting electrode. Scatter deficit, due mainly to loss of lateral scatter in the hybrid chamber, reduces the dose to the air cavity in the hybrid PEEC in comparison with full bone PEEC from 0.7 to ˜2% depending on beam quality and energy. In megavoltage photon and electron beams, graphite electrodes do not affect the dose measurement in the Solid Water(TM) PEEC but decrease the cavity dose by up to 5% in the bone-equivalent PEEC even for very thin graphite electrodes (<0.0025 cm). The collecting electrode material in comparison with the polarizing electrode material has a larger effect on the electrode correction factor; the thickness of thin electrodes, on the other hand, has a negligible effect on dose determination. The uncalibrated hybrid PEEC is an accurate and absolute device for measuring the dose directly in bone material in conjunction with appropriate correction factors determined with Monte Carlo techniques.

Functionalized-graphene modified graphite electrode for the selective determination of dopamine in presence of uric acid and ascorbic acid.

PubMed

Mallesha, Malledevaru; Manjunatha, Revanasiddappa; Nethravathi, C; Suresh, Gurukar Shivappa; Rajamathi, Michael; Melo, Jose Savio; Venkatesha, Thimmappa Venkatarangaiah

2011-06-01

Graphene is chemically synthesized by solvothermal reduction of colloidal dispersions of graphite oxide. Graphite electrode is modified with functionalized-graphene for electrochemical applications. Electrochemical characterization of functionalized-graphene modified graphite electrode (FGGE) is carried out by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The behavior of FGGE towards ascorbic acid (AA), dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA) has been investigated by CV, differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and chronoamperommetry (CA). The FGGE showed excellent catalytic activity towards electrochemical oxidation of AA, DA and UA compared to that of the bare graphite electrode. The electrochemical oxidation signals of AA, DA and UA are well separated into three distinct peaks with peak potential separation of 193mv, 172mv and 264mV between AA-DA, DA-UA and AA-UA respectively in CV studies and the corresponding peak potential separations in DPV mode are 204mv, 141mv and 345mv. The FGGE is successfully used for the simultaneous detection of AA, DA and UA in their ternary mixture and DA in serum and pharmaceutical samples. The excellent electrocatalytic behavior of FGGE may lead to new applications in electrochemical analysis. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

On-line/on-site analysis of heavy metals in water and soils by laser induced breakdown spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meng, Deshuo; Zhao, Nanjing; Wang, Yuanyuan; Ma, Mingjun; Fang, Li; Gu, Yanhong; Jia, Yao; Liu, Jianguo

2017-11-01

The enrichment method of heavy metal in water with graphite and aluminum electrode was studied, and combined with plasma restraint device for improving the sensitivity of detection and reducing the limit of detection (LOD) of elements. For aluminum electrode enrichment, the LODs of Cd, Pb and Ni can be as low as several ppb. For graphite enrichment, the measurement time can be less than 3 min. The results showed that the graphite enrichment and aluminum electrode enrichment method can effectively improve the LIBS detection ability. The graphite enrichment method combined with plasma spatial confinement is more suitable for on-line monitoring of industrial waste water, the aluminum electrode enrichment method can be used for trace heavy metal detection in water. A LIBS method and device for soil heavy metals analysis was also developed, and a mobile LIBS system was tested in outfield. The measurement results deduced from LIBS and ICP-MS had a good consistency. The results provided an important application support for rapid and on-site monitoring of heavy metals in soil. (Left: the mobile LIBS system for analysis of heavy metals in soils. Top right: the spatial confinement device. Bottom right: automatic graphite enrichment device for on0line analysis of heavy metals in water).

Plasma arc torch with coaxial wire feed

DOEpatents

Hooper, Frederick M

2002-01-01

A plasma arc welding apparatus having a coaxial wire feed. The apparatus includes a plasma arc welding torch, a wire guide disposed coaxially inside of the plasma arc welding torch, and a hollow non-consumable electrode. The coaxial wire guide feeds non-electrified filler wire through the tip of the hollow non-consumable electrode during plasma arc welding. Non-electrified filler wires as small as 0.010 inches can be used. This invention allows precision control of the positioning and feeding of the filler wire during plasma arc welding. Since the non-electrified filler wire is fed coaxially through the center of the plasma arc torch's electrode and nozzle, the wire is automatically aimed at the optimum point in the weld zone. Therefore, there is no need for additional equipment to position and feed the filler wire from the side before or during welding.

Localized arc filament plasma actuators for noise mitigation and mixing enhancement

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Samimy, Mohammad (Inventor); Adamovich, Igor (Inventor)

2008-01-01

A device for controlling fluid flow. The device includes an arc generator coupled to electrodes. The electrodes are placed adjacent a fluid flowpath such that upon being energized by the arc generator, an arc filament plasma adjacent the electrodes is formed. In turn, this plasma forms a localized high temperature, high pressure perturbation in the adjacent fluid flowpath. The perturbations can be arranged to produce vortices, such as streamwise vortices, in the flowing fluid to control mixing and noise in such flows. The electrodes can further be arranged within a conduit configured to contain the flowing fluid such that when energized in a particular frequency and sequence, can excite flow instabilities in the flowing fluid. The placement of the electrodes is such that they are unobtrusive relative to the fluid flowpath being controlled.

Localized arc filament plasma actuators for noise mitigation and mixing enhancement

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Samimy, Mohammad (Inventor); Adamovich, Igor (Inventor)

2010-01-01

A device for controlling fluid flow. The device includes an arc generator coupled to electrodes. The electrodes are placed adjacent a fluid flowpath such that upon being energized by the arc generator, an arc filament plasma adjacent the electrodes is formed. In turn, this plasma forms a localized high temperature, high pressure perturbation in the adjacent fluid flowpath. The perturbations can be arranged to produce vortices, such as streamwise vortices, in the flowing fluid to control mixing and noise in such flows. The electrodes can further be arranged within a conduit configured to contain the flowing fluid such that when energized in a particular frequency and sequence, can excite flow instabilities in the flowing fluid. The placement of the electrodes is such that they are unobtrusive relative to the fluid flowpath being controlled.

Understanding the crack formation of graphite particles in cycled commercial lithium-ion batteries by focused ion beam - scanning electron microscopy

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

Lin, Na; Jia, Zhe; Wang, Zhihui

Here in this paper, the structure degradation of commercial Lithium-ion battery (LIB) graphite anodes with different cycling numbers and charge rates was investigated by focused ion beam (FIB) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The cross-section image of graphite anode by FIB milling shows that cracks, resulted in the volume expansion of graphite electrode during long-term cycling, were formed in parallel with the current collector. The crack occurs in the bulk of graphite particles near the lithium insertion surface, which might derive from the stress induced during lithiation and de-lithiation cycles. Subsequently, crack takes place along grain boundaries of the polycrystallinemore » graphite, but only in the direction parallel with the current collector. Furthermore, fast charge graphite electrodes are more prone to form cracks since the tensile strength of graphite is more likely to be surpassed at higher charge rates. Therefore, for LIBs long-term or high charge rate applications, the tensile strength of graphite anode should be taken into account.« less

Understanding the crack formation of graphite particles in cycled commercial lithium-ion batteries by focused ion beam - scanning electron microscopy

DOE PAGES

Lin, Na; Jia, Zhe; Wang, Zhihui; ...

2017-10-01

Here in this paper, the structure degradation of commercial Lithium-ion battery (LIB) graphite anodes with different cycling numbers and charge rates was investigated by focused ion beam (FIB) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The cross-section image of graphite anode by FIB milling shows that cracks, resulted in the volume expansion of graphite electrode during long-term cycling, were formed in parallel with the current collector. The crack occurs in the bulk of graphite particles near the lithium insertion surface, which might derive from the stress induced during lithiation and de-lithiation cycles. Subsequently, crack takes place along grain boundaries of the polycrystallinemore » graphite, but only in the direction parallel with the current collector. Furthermore, fast charge graphite electrodes are more prone to form cracks since the tensile strength of graphite is more likely to be surpassed at higher charge rates. Therefore, for LIBs long-term or high charge rate applications, the tensile strength of graphite anode should be taken into account.« less

Behavior and structure of metal vapor arc plasma between molten electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zanner, F. J.; Williamson, R. L.; Hareland, W. A.; Bertram, L. A.

A metal vapor arc is utilized in the industrially important vacuum arc remelting (VAR) process to produce materials by melting and resolidification which have improved structure and chemical homogeneity. Homogeneity is dependent on achieving quasi-steady conditions in the plasma because of its thermal and MHD coupling with the molten pool atop the ingot. Optimal operating conditions of low pressure (approx. = 0.01 torr) and short electrode gap (less than 15 mm) produce a diffuse arc and cathode spot behavior similar to that observed for the vacuum breaker arc. Under these conditions the arc provides a quasi-steady heat source that is considered to be the bench mark arc of the VAR process. Previous work has shown that deviation from the bench mark arc behavior can occur under production conditions, and is caused by electrode irregularities and liberation of gases such as CO from the molten pool. This study is an effort to characterize these behavioral deviations and discover operational conditions which stabilize the bench mark arc.

Diagnostics for a waste processing plasma arc furnace (invited) (abstract)a)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Woskov, P. P.

1995-01-01

Maintaining the quality of our environment has become an important goal of society. As part of this goal new technologies are being sought to clean up hazardous waste sites and to treat ongoing waste streams. A 1 MW pilot scale dc graphite electrode plasma arc furnace (Mark II) has been constructed at MIT under a joint program among Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL), MIT, and Electro-Pyrolysis, Inc. (EPI)c) for the remediation of buried wastes in the DOE complex. A key part of this program is the development of new and improved diagnostics to study, monitor, and control the entire waste remediation process for the optimization of this technology and to safeguard the environment. Continuous, real time diagnostics are needed for a variety of the waste process parameters. These parameters include internal furnace temperatures, slag fill levels, trace metals content in the off-gas stream, off-gas molecular content, feed and slag characterization, and off-gas particulate size, density, and velocity distributions. Diagnostics are currently being tested at MIT for the first three parameters. An active millimeter-wave radiometer with a novel, rotatable graphite waveguide/mirror antenna system has been implemented on Mark II for the measurement of surface emission and emissivity which can be used to determine internal furnace temperatures and fill levels. A microwave torch plasma is being evaluated for use as a excitation source in the furnace off-gas stream for continuous atomic emission spectroscopy of trace metals. These diagnostics should find applicability not only to waste remediation, but also to other high temperature processes such as incinerators, power plants, and steel plants.

Controlling electrode gap during vacuum arc remelting at low melting current

DOEpatents

Williamson, R.L.; Zanner, F.J.; Grose, S.M.

1997-04-15

An apparatus and method are disclosed for controlling electrode gap in a vacuum arc remelting furnace, particularly at low melting currents. Spectrographic analysis is performed of the metal vapor plasma, from which estimates of electrode gap are derived. 5 figs.

Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes/Graphite Nanosheets Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode for the Simultaneous Determination of Acetaminophen and Dopamine.

PubMed

Zhang, Susu; He, Ping; Zhang, Guangli; Lei, Wen; He, Huichao

2015-01-01

Graphite nanosheets prepared by thermal expansion and successive sonication were utilized for the construction of a multi-walled carbon nanotubes/graphite nanosheets based amperometric sensing platform to simultaneously determine acetaminophen and dopamine in the presence of ascorbic acid in physiological conditions. The synergistic effect of multi-walled carbon nanotubes and graphite nanosheets catalyzed the electrooxidation of acetaminophen and dopamine, leading to a remarkable potential difference up to 200 mV. The as-prepared modified electrode exhibited linear responses to acetaminophen and dopamine in the concentration ranges of 2.0 × 10(-6) - 2.4 × 10(-4) M (R = 0.999) and 2.0 × 10(-6) - 2.0 × 10(-4) M (R = 0.998), respectively. The detection limits were down to 2.3 × 10(-7) M for acetaminophen and 3.5 × 10(-7) M for dopamine (S/N = 3). Based on the simple preparation and prominent electrochemical properties, the obtained multi-walled carbon nanotubes/graphite nanosheets modified electrode would be a good candidate for the determination of acetaminophen and dopamine without the interference of ascorbic acid.

HIGH VOLTAGE ELECTRODES

DOEpatents

Murray, J.J.

1963-04-23

S>This patent relates to electrode structure for creating an intense direct current electric field which may have a field strength of the order of two to three times that heretofore obtained, with automatic suppression of arcing. The positive electrode is a conventional conductive material such as copper while the negative electrode is made from a special material having a resistivity greater than that of good conductors and less than that of good insulators. When an incipient arc occurs, the moderate resistivity of the negative electrode causes a momentary, localized decrease in the electric field intensity, thus suppressing the flow of electrons and avoiding arcing. Heated glass may be utilized for the negative electrode, since it provides the desired combination of resistivity, capacity, dielectric strength, mechani-cal strength, and thermal stability. (AEC)

Low temperature formation of electrode having electrically conductive metal oxide surface

DOEpatents

Anders, Simone; Anders, Andre; Brown, Ian G.; McLarnon, Frank R.; Kong, Fanping

1998-01-01

A low temperature process is disclosed for forming metal suboxides on substrates by cathodic arc deposition by either controlling the pressure of the oxygen present in the deposition chamber, or by controlling the density of the metal flux, or by a combination of such adjustments, to thereby control the ratio of oxide to metal in the deposited metal suboxide coating. The density of the metal flux may, in turn, be adjusted by controlling the discharge current of the arc, by adjusting the pulse length (duration of on cycle) of the arc, and by adjusting the frequency of the arc, or any combination of these parameters. In a preferred embodiment, a low temperature process is disclosed for forming an electrically conductive metal suboxide, such as, for example, an electrically conductive suboxide of titanium, on an electrode surface, such as the surface of a nickel oxide electrode, by such cathodic arc deposition and control of the deposition parameters. In the preferred embodiment, the process results in a titanium suboxide-coated nickel oxide electrode exhibiting reduced parasitic evolution of oxygen during charging of a cell made using such an electrode as the positive electrode, as well as exhibiting high oxygen overpotential, resulting in suppression of oxygen evolution at the electrode at full charge of the cell.

Measurement of absorbed dose with a bone-equivalent extrapolation chamber.

PubMed

DeBlois, François; Abdel-Rahman, Wamied; Seuntjens, Jan P; Podgorsak, Ervin B

2002-03-01

A hybrid phantom-embedded extrapolation chamber (PEEC) made of Solid Water and bone-equivalent material was used for determining absorbed dose in a bone-equivalent phantom irradiated with clinical radiation beams (cobalt-60 gamma rays; 6 and 18 MV x rays; and 9 and 15 MeV electrons). The dose was determined with the Spencer-Attix cavity theory, using ionization gradient measurements and an indirect determination of the chamber air-mass through measurements of chamber capacitance. The collected charge was corrected for ionic recombination and diffusion in the chamber air volume following the standard two-voltage technique. Due to the hybrid chamber design, correction factors accounting for scatter deficit and electrode composition were determined and applied in the dose equation to obtain absorbed dose in bone for the equivalent homogeneous bone phantom. Correction factors for graphite electrodes were calculated with Monte Carlo techniques and the calculated results were verified through relative air cavity dose measurements for three different polarizing electrode materials: graphite, steel, and brass in conjunction with a graphite collecting electrode. Scatter deficit, due mainly to loss of lateral scatter in the hybrid chamber, reduces the dose to the air cavity in the hybrid PEEC in comparison with full bone PEEC by 0.7% to approximately 2% depending on beam quality and energy. In megavoltage photon and electron beams, graphite electrodes do not affect the dose measurement in the Solid Water PEEC but decrease the cavity dose by up to 5% in the bone-equivalent PEEC even for very thin graphite electrodes (<0.0025 cm). In conjunction with appropriate correction factors determined with Monte Carlo techniques, the uncalibrated hybrid PEEC can be used for measuring absorbed dose in bone material to within 2% for high-energy photon and electron beams.

Diazonium-protein adducts for graphite electrode microarrays modification: direct and addressed electrochemical immobilization.

PubMed

Corgier, Benjamin P; Marquette, Christophe A; Blum, Loïc J

2005-12-28

Diazonium cation electrodeposition was investigated for the direct and electro-addressed immobilization of proteins. For the first time, this reaction was triggered directly onto diazonium-modified proteins. Screen-printed (SP) graphite electrode microarrays were studied as active support for this immobilization. A 10-microelectrode (eight working electrodes, 0.2 mm2 each; one reference; and one auxiliary) setup was used to study the addressing possibilities of the method. These electrode microarrays were shown to be able to covalently graft diazonium cations through electrochemical reduction. Cyclic voltammetry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to characterize the electrochemical grafting onto our SP graphite surface and suggested that a diazonium monolayer was deposited. Rabbit and human immunoglobulins (IgGs) were then chemically coupled to an aniline derivative (4-carboxymethylaniline), followed by diazotation to form an aryl diazonium function available for the electrodeposition. These modified proteins were both successfully electro-addressed at the surface of the graphite electrodes without cross-talk or interference. The immuno-biochip obtained using this novel approach enabled the specific detection of anti-rabbit IgG antibodies with a detection limit of 50 fmol of protein. A promising strategy to immobilize markedly different biological entities was then presented, providing an excellent spatial specificity of the electro-addressing.

Electrochemical cell and negative electrode therefor

DOEpatents

Kaun, Thomas D.

1982-01-01

A secondary electrochemical cell with the positive and negative electrodes separated by a molten salt electrolyte with the negative electrode comprising a particulate mixture of lithium-aluminum alloy and electrolyte and an additive selected from graphitized carbon, Raney iron or mixtures thereof. The lithium-aluminum alloy is present in the range of from about 45 to about 80 percent by volume of the negative electrode, and the electrolyte is present in an amount not less than about 10 percent by volume of the negative electrode. The additive of graphitized carbon is present in the range of from about 1 to about 10 percent by volume of the negative electrode, and the Raney iron additive is present in the range of from about 3 to about 10 percent by volume of the negative electrode.

Carbon nanotube: the inside story.

PubMed

Ando, Yoshinori

2010-06-01

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were serendipitously discovered as a byproduct of fullerenes by direct current (DC) arc discharge; and today this is the most-wanted material in the nanotechnology research. In this brief review, I begin with the history of the discovery of CNTs and focus on CNTs produced by arc discharge in hydrogen atmosphere, which is little explored outside my laboratory. DC arc discharge evaporation of pure graphite rod in pure hydrogen gas results in multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) of high crystallinity in the cathode deposit. As-grown MWCNTs have very narrow inner diameter. Raman spectra of these MWCNTs show high-intensity G-band, unusual high-frequency radial breathing mode at 570 cm(-1), and a new characteristic peak near 1850 cm(-1). Exciting carbon nanowires (CNWs), consisting of a linear carbon chain in the center of MWCNTs are also produced. Arc evaporation of graphite rod containing metal catalysts results in single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) in the whole chamber like macroscopic webs. Two kinds of arc method have been developed to produce SWCNTs: Arc plasma jet (APJ) and Ferrum-Hydrogen (FH) arc methods. Some new purification methods for as-produced SWCNTs are reviewed. Finally, double-walled carbon nanotubes (DWCNTs) are also described.

Electrodes for sealed secondary batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Boies, D. B.; Child, F. T.

1972-01-01

Self-supporting membrane electrode structures, in which active ingredients and graphite are incorporated in a polymeric matrix, improve performance of electrodes in miniature, sealed, alkaline storage batteries.

Electrochemical Behavior of Sulfur in Aqueous Alkaline Solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mamyrbekova, Aigul; Mamitova, A. D.; Mamyrbekova, Aizhan

2018-03-01

The kinetics and mechanism of the electrode oxidation-reduction of sulfur on an electrically conductive sulfur-graphite electrode in an alkaline solution was studied by the potentiodynamic method. To examine the mechanism of electrode processes occurring during AC polarization on a sulfur-graphite electrode, the cyclic polarization in both directions and anodic polarization curves were recorded. The kinetic parameters: charge transfer coefficients (α), diffusion coefficients ( D), heterogeneous rate constants of electrode process ( k s), and effective activation energies of the process ( E a) were calculated from the results of polarization measurements. An analysis of the results and calculated kinetic parameters of electrode processes showed that discharge ionization of sulfur in alkaline solutions occurs as a sequence of two stages and is a quasireversible process.

ARC length control for plasma welding

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Iceland, William F. (Inventor)

1988-01-01

A control system to be used with a plasma arc welding apparatus is disclosed. The plasma arc welding apparatus includes a plasma arc power supply, a contactor, and an electrode assembly for moving the electrode relative to a work piece. The electrode assembly is raised or lowered by a drive motor. The present apparatus includes a plasma arc adapter connected across the power supply to measure the voltage across the plasma arc. The plasma arc adapter forms a dc output signal input to a differential amplifier. A second input is defined by an adjustable resistor connected to a dc voltage supply to permit operator control. The differential amplifier forms an output difference signal provided to an adder circuit. The adder circuit then connects with a power amplifier which forms the driving signal for the motor. In addition, the motor connects to a tachometor which forms a feedback signal delivered to the adder to provide damping, therby avoiding servo loop overshoot.

APPARATUS FOR PRODUCING IONS OF VAPORIZABLE MATERIALS

DOEpatents

Starr, C.

1957-11-19

This patent relates to electronic discharge devices used as ion sources, and in particular describes an ion source for application in a calutron. The source utilizes two cathodes disposed at opposite ends of a longitudinal opening in an arc block fed with vaporized material. A magnetic field is provided parallel to the length of the arc block opening. The electrons from the cathodes are directed through slits in collimating electrodes into the arc block parallel to the magnetic field and cause an arc discharge to occur between the cathodes, as the arc block and collimating electrodes are at a positive potential with respect to the cathode. The ions are withdrawn by suitable electrodes disposed opposite the arc block opening. When such an ion source is used in a calutron, an arc discharge of increased length may be utilized, thereby increasing the efficiency and economy of operation.

A hybrid nanostructure of platinum-nanoparticles/graphitic-nanofibers as a three-dimensional counter electrode in dye-sensitized solar cells.

PubMed

Hsieh, Chien-Kuo; Tsai, Ming-Chi; Su, Ching-Yuan; Wei, Sung-Yen; Yen, Ming-Yu; Ma, Chen-Chi M; Chen, Fu-Rong; Tsai, Chuen-Horng

2011-11-07

We directly synthesized a platinum-nanoparticles/graphitic-nanofibers (PtNPs/GNFs) hybrid nanostructure on FTO glass. We applied this structure as a three-dimensional counter electrode in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), and investigated the cells' photoconversion performance. This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2011

Doped graphene supercapacitors.

PubMed

Kumar, Nanjundan Ashok; Baek, Jong-Beom

2015-12-11

Heteroatom-doped graphitic frameworks have received great attention in energy research, since doping endows graphitic structures with a wide spectrum of properties, especially critical for electrochemical supercapacitors, which tend to complement or compete with the current lithium-ion battery technology/devices. This article reviews the latest developments in the chemical modification/doping strategies of graphene and highlights the versatility of such heteroatom-doped graphitic structures. Their role as supercapacitor electrodes is discussed in detail. This review is specifically focused on the concept of material synthesis, techniques for electrode fabrication and metrics of performance, predominantly covering the last four years. Challenges and insights into the future research and perspectives on the development of novel electrode architectures for electrochemical supercapacitors based on doped graphene are also discussed.

Doped graphene supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ashok Kumar, Nanjundan; Baek, Jong-Beom

2015-12-01

Heteroatom-doped graphitic frameworks have received great attention in energy research, since doping endows graphitic structures with a wide spectrum of properties, especially critical for electrochemical supercapacitors, which tend to complement or compete with the current lithium-ion battery technology/devices. This article reviews the latest developments in the chemical modification/doping strategies of graphene and highlights the versatility of such heteroatom-doped graphitic structures. Their role as supercapacitor electrodes is discussed in detail. This review is specifically focused on the concept of material synthesis, techniques for electrode fabrication and metrics of performance, predominantly covering the last four years. Challenges and insights into the future research and perspectives on the development of novel electrode architectures for electrochemical supercapacitors based on doped graphene are also discussed.

From Rome to Como: 20 years of active research on carbon-based electrodes for lithium batteries at INP-Grenoble

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yazami, Rachid

This paper reviews the main areas of research performed at different Laboratories of the Institut National Polytechnique de Grenoble (INPG) over the past 20 years, specifically on cabonaceous materials for electrode applications in lithium batteries. The most significant event was the discovery in the early 1980s of reversible lithium intercalation into graphite in polymer electrolytes, which led to the use of this material in today's lithium-ion batteries. Important work was also carried out on positive electrode for primary and secondary batteries, especially graphite oxide and graphite fluoride. Most of these results were presented at the 10 IMLB series Symposia, which started in Rome in 1982 and were back to Como, Italy, in 2000.

Visualization and mechanisms of splashing erosion of electrodes in a DC air arc

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Yi; Cui, Yufei; Rong, Mingzhe; Murphy, Anthony B.; Yang, Fei; Sun, Hao; Niu, Chunping; Fan, Shaodi

2017-11-01

The splashing erosion of electrodes in a DC atmospheric-pressure air arc has been investigated by visualization of the electrode surface and the sputtered droplets, and tracking of the droplet trajectories, using image processing techniques. A particle tracking velocimetry algorithm has been introduced to measure the sputtering velocity distribution. Erosion of both tungsten-copper and tungsten-ceria electrodes is studied; in both cases electrode erosion is found to be dominated by droplet splashing rather than metal evaporation. Erosion is directly influenced by both melting and the formation of plasma jets, and can be reduced by the tuning of the plasma jet and electrode material. The results provide an understanding of the mechanisms that lead to the long lifetime of tungsten-copper electrodes, and may provide a path for the design of the electrode system subjected to electric arc to minimize erosion.

3D-printed conductive static mixers enable all-vanadium redox flow battery using slurry electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Percin, Korcan; Rommerskirchen, Alexandra; Sengpiel, Robert; Gendel, Youri; Wessling, Matthias

2018-03-01

State-of-the-art all-vanadium redox flow batteries employ porous carbonaceous materials as electrodes. The battery cells possess non-scalable fixed electrodes inserted into a cell stack. In contrast, a conductive particle network dispersed in the electrolyte, known as slurry electrode, may be beneficial for a scalable redox flow battery. In this work, slurry electrodes are successfully introduced to an all-vanadium redox flow battery. Activated carbon and graphite powder particles are dispersed up to 20 wt% in the vanadium electrolyte and charge-discharge behavior is inspected via polarization studies. Graphite powder slurry is superior over activated carbon with a polarization behavior closer to the standard graphite felt electrodes. 3D-printed conductive static mixers introduced to the slurry channel improve the charge transfer via intensified slurry mixing and increased surface area. Consequently, a significant increase in the coulombic efficiency up to 95% and energy efficiency up to 65% is obtained. Our results show that slurry electrodes supported by conductive static mixers can be competitive to state-of-the-art electrodes yielding an additional degree of freedom in battery design. Research into carbon properties (particle size, internal surface area, pore size distribution) tailored to the electrolyte system and optimization of the mixer geometry may yield even better battery properties.

Unstable behavior of anodic arc discharge for synthesis of nanomaterials

DOE PAGES

Gershman, Sophia; Raitses, Yevgeny

2016-07-27

A short carbon arc operating with a high ablation rate of the graphite anode exhibits a combined motion of the arc and the arc attachment to the anode. A characteristic time scale of this motion is in a 10 -3 sec range. The arc exhibits a negative differential resistance before the arc motion occurs. Thermal processes in the arc plasma region interacting with the ablating anode are considered as possible causes of this unstable arc behavior. It is also hypothesized that the arc motion could potentially cause mixing of the various nanoparticles synthesized in the arc in the high ablationmore » regime.« less

Unstable behavior of anodic arc discharge for synthesis of nanomaterials

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

Gershman, Sophia; Raitses, Yevgeny

A short carbon arc operating with a high ablation rate of the graphite anode exhibits a combined motion of the arc and the arc attachment to the anode. A characteristic time scale of this motion is in a 10 -3 sec range. The arc exhibits a negative differential resistance before the arc motion occurs. Thermal processes in the arc plasma region interacting with the ablating anode are considered as possible causes of this unstable arc behavior. It is also hypothesized that the arc motion could potentially cause mixing of the various nanoparticles synthesized in the arc in the high ablationmore » regime.« less

A comparative study of graphite electrodes using the co-intercalation phenomenon for rechargeable Li, Na and K batteries.

PubMed

Kim, Haegyeom; Yoon, Gabin; Lim, Kyungmi; Kang, Kisuk

2016-10-18

Here, we demonstrate that graphite can serve as a versatile electrode for various rechargeable battery types by reversibly accommodating solvated alkali ions (such as K, Na, and Li) through co-intercalation in its galleries. The co-intercalation of alkali ions is observed to occur via staging reactions. Notably, their insertion behaviors, including their specific capacity, are remarkably similar regardless of the alkali ion species despite the different solubility limits of K, Na, and Li ions in graphite. Nevertheless, the insertion potentials of the solvated alkali ions differ from each other and are observed to be correlated with the interlayer distance in the intercalated graphite gallery.

Environmentally-friendly oxygen-free roasting/wet magnetic separation technology for in situ recycling cobalt, lithium carbonate and graphite from spent LiCoO2/graphite lithium batteries.

PubMed

Li, Jia; Wang, Guangxu; Xu, Zhenming

2016-01-25

The definite aim of the present paper is to present some novel methods that use oxygen-free roasting and wet magnetic separation to in situ recycle of cobalt, Lithium Carbonate and Graphite from mixed electrode materials. The in situ recycling means to change waste into resources by its own components, which is an idea of "waste+waste→resources." After mechanical scraping the mixed electrode materials enrich powders of LiCoO2 and graphite. The possible reaction between LiCoO2 and graphite was obtained by thermodynamic analysis. The feasibility of the reaction at high temperature was studied with the simultaneous thermogravimetry analysis under standard atmospheric pressure. Then the oxygen-free roasting/wet magnetic separation method was used to transfer the low added value mixed electrode materials to high added value products. The results indicated that, through the serious technologies of oxygen-free roasting and wet magnetic separation, mixture materials consist with LiCoO2 and graphite powders are transferred to the individual products of cobalt, Lithium Carbonate and Graphite. Because there is not any chemical solution added in the process, the cost of treating secondary pollution can be saved. This study provides a theoretical basis for industrial-scale recycling resources from spent LIBs. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Sputtering graphite coating to improve the elevated-temperature cycling ability of the LiMn2O4 electrode.

PubMed

Wang, Jiexi; Zhang, Qiaobao; Li, Xinhai; Wang, Zhixing; Guo, Huajun; Xu, Daguo; Zhang, Kaili

2014-08-14

To improve the cycle performance of LiMn2O4 at elevated temperature, a graphite layer is introduced to directly cover the surface of a commercial LiMn2O4-based electrode via room-temperature DC magnetron sputtering. The as-modified cathodes display improved capacity retention as compared to the bare LiMn2O4 cathode (BLMO) at 55 °C. When sputtering graphite for 30 min, the sample shows the best cycling performance at 55 °C, maintaining 96.2% capacity retention after 200 cycles. Reasons with respect to the graphite layer for improving the elevated-temperature performance of LiMn2O4 are systematically investigated via the methods of cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectrometry, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry. The results demonstrate that the graphite coated LiMn2O4 cathode has much less increased electrode polarization and electrochemical impedance than BLMO during the elevated-temperature cycling process. Furthermore, the graphite layer is able to alleviate the severe dissolution of manganese ions into the electrolyte and mitigate the morphological and structural degradation of LiMn2O4 during cycling. A model for the electrochemical kinetics process is also suggested for explaining the roles of the graphite layer in suppressing the Mn dissolution.

Gas tungsten arc welder with electrode grinder

DOEpatents

Christiansen, David W.; Brown, William F.

1984-01-01

A welder for automated closure of fuel pins by a gas tungsten arc process in which a rotating length of cladding is positioned adjacent a welding electrode in a sealed enclosure. An independently movable axial grinder is provided in the enclosure for refurbishing the used electrode between welds.

Vacuum vapor deposition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Poorman, Richard M. (Inventor); Weeks, Jack L. (Inventor)

1995-01-01

A method and apparatus is described for vapor deposition of a thin metallic film utilizing an ionized gas arc directed onto a source material spaced from a substrate to be coated in a substantial vacuum while providing a pressure differential between the source and the substrate so that, as a portion of the source is vaporized, the vapors are carried to the substrate. The apparatus includes a modified tungsten arc welding torch having a hollow electrode through which a gas, preferably inert, flows and an arc is struck between the electrode and the source. The torch, source, and substrate are confined within a chamber within which a vacuum is drawn. When the arc is struck, a portion of the source is vaporized and the vapors flow rapidly toward the substrate. A reflecting shield is positioned about the torch above the electrode and the source to ensure that the arc is struck between the electrode and the source at startup. The electrode and the source may be confined within a vapor guide housing having a duct opening toward the substrate for directing the vapors onto the substrate.

High-bandwidth continuous-flow arc furnace

DOEpatents

Hardt, David E.; Lee, Steven G.

1996-01-01

A high-bandwidth continuous-flow arc furnace for stream welding applications includes a metal mass contained in a crucible having an orifice. A power source charges an electrode for generating an arc between the electrode and the mass. The arc heats the metal mass to a molten state. A pressurized gas source propels the molten metal mass through the crucible orifice in a continuous stream. As the metal is ejected, a metal feeder replenishes the molten metal bath. A control system regulates the electrode current, shielding gas pressure, and metal source to provide a continuous flow of molten metal at the crucible orifice. Independent control over the electrode current and shield gas pressure decouples the metal flow temperature and the molten metal flow rate, improving control over resultant weld characteristics.

High-bandwidth continuous-flow arc furnace

DOEpatents

Hardt, D.E.; Lee, S.G.

1996-08-06

A high-bandwidth continuous-flow arc furnace for stream welding applications includes a metal mass contained in a crucible having an orifice. A power source charges an electrode for generating an arc between the electrode and the mass. The arc heats the metal mass to a molten state. A pressurized gas source propels the molten metal mass through the crucible orifice in a continuous stream. As the metal is ejected, a metal feeder replenishes the molten metal bath. A control system regulates the electrode current, shielding gas pressure, and metal source to provide a continuous flow of molten metal at the crucible orifice. Independent control over the electrode current and shield gas pressure decouples the metal flow temperature and the molten metal flow rate, improving control over resultant weld characteristics. 4 figs.

Generator and Setup for Emulating Exposures of Biological Samples to Lightning Strokes.

PubMed

Rebersek, Matej; Marjanovic, Igor; Begus, Samo; Pillet, Flavien; Rols, Marie-Pierre; Miklavcic, Damijan; Kotnik, Tadej

2015-10-01

We aimed to develop a system for controlled exposure of biological samples to conditions they experience when lightning strikes their habitats. We based the generator on a capacitor charged via a bridge rectifier and a dc-dc converter, and discharged via a relay, delivering arcs similar to natural lightning strokes in electric current waveform and similarly accompanied by acoustic shock waves. We coupled the generator to our exposure chamber described previously, measured electrical and acoustic properties of arc discharges delivered, and assessed their ability to inactivate bacterial spores. Submicrosecond discharges descended vertically from the conical emitting electrode across the air gap, entering the sample centrally and dissipating radially toward the ring-shaped receiving electrode. In contrast, longer discharges tended to short-circuit the electrodes. Recording at 341 000 FPS with Vision Research Phantom v2010 camera revealed that initial arc descent was still vertical, but became accompanied by arcs leaning increasingly sideways; after 8-12 μs, as the first of these arcs formed direct contact with the receiving electrode, it evolved into a channel of plasmified air and short-circuited the electrodes. We eliminated this artefact by incorporating an insulating cylinder concentrically between the electrodes, precluding short-circuiting between them. While bacterial spores are highly resistant to electric pulses delivered through direct contact, we showed that with arc discharges accompanied by an acoustic shock wave, spore inactivation is readily obtained. The presented system allows scientific investigation of effects of arc discharges on biological samples. This system will allow realistic experimental studies of lightning-triggered horizontal gene transfer and assessment of its role in evolution.

Electrode material comprising graphene-composite materials in a graphite network

DOEpatents

Kung, Harold H.; Lee, Jung K.

2014-07-15

A durable electrode material suitable for use in Li ion batteries is provided. The material is comprised of a continuous network of graphite regions integrated with, and in good electrical contact with a composite comprising graphene sheets and an electrically active material, such as silicon, wherein the electrically active material is dispersed between, and supported by, the graphene sheets.

Electrode material comprising graphene-composite materials in a graphite network

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

Kung, Harold H.; Lee, Jung K.

A durable electrode material suitable for use in Li ion batteries is provided. The material is comprised of a continuous network of graphite regions integrated with, and in good electrical contact with a composite comprising graphene sheets and an electrically active material, such as silicon, wherein the electrically active material is dispersed between, and supported by, the graphene sheets.

The effect of temperature deposited on the performance of ZnO-CNT-graphite for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Darari, Alfin; Hakim, Istajib S.; Priyono; Subagio, Agus; Pardoyo; Subhan, Achmad

2017-07-01

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphite are now widely studied as the electrodes of supercapacitor, owing to their high conductivity, large surface area, chemical stability, etc. A lot of research has been focused on Carbon/metal oxide nanocomposite electrode for Electrode supercapacitor because it will increase the total capacitance. In this research, ZnO nanoparticles were deposited onto substrate CNT:Graphite in different temperatures such as 300°, 350°, and 400°C. The characterization of the crystal size using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) patterns showed ZnO material peak was detected a ZnO crystallite. The size of ZnO crystallite in 300°, 350°, and 400°C consecutively is 101.1; 103.4; and 116.7 nm. The test results are Electrochemical impedance spectrometry (EIS) high electrical conductivity values obtained on the composition of ZnO-CNT-graphite with a temperature of 350°C 4.6 (S/m); and (2) the highest value of capacitance in 300°C is 1.23 F/g.

Surface breakdown igniter for mercury arc devices

DOEpatents

Bayless, John R.

1977-01-01

Surface breakdown igniter comprises a semiconductor of medium resistivity which has the arc device cathode as one electrode and has an igniter anode electrode so that when voltage is applied between the electrodes a spark is generated when electrical breakdown occurs over the surface of the semiconductor. The geometry of the igniter anode and cathode electrodes causes the igniter discharge to be forced away from the semiconductor surface.

DC graphite arc furnace, a simple system to reduce mixed waste volume

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

Wittle, J.K.; Hamilton, R.A.; Trescot, J.

1995-12-31

The volume of low-level radioactive waste can be reduced by the high temperature in a DC Graphite Arc Furnace. This volume reduction can take place with the additional benefit of having the solid residue being stabilized by the vitrified product produced in the process. A DC Graphite Arc Furnace is a simple system in which electricity is used to generate heat to vitrify the material and thermally decompose any organic matter in the waste stream. Examples of this type of waste are protective clothing, resins, and grit blast materials produced in the nuclear industry. The various Department of Energy (DOE)more » complexes produce similar low-level waste streams. Electro-Pyrolysis, Inc. and Svedala/Kennedy Van Saun are engineering and building small 50-kg batch and up to 3,000 kg/hr continuous feed DC furnaces for the remediation, pollution prevention, and decontamination and decommissioning segments of the treatment community. This process has been demonstrated under DOE sponsorship at several facilities and has been shown to produce stable waste forms from surrogate waste materials.« less

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.

USE OF GRANULAR GRAPHITE FOR ELECTROLYTIC DECHLORINATION OF TRICHLOROETHYLENE

EPA Science Inventory

Granular graphite is a potential electrode material for the electrochemical remediation of refractory chlorinated organic compounds such as trichloroethylene (TCE). However, the use of granular graphite can complicate the experimental results. On one hand, up to 99% of TCE was re...

Electrochemical and thermal studies of lithium ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Wenquan

The structural, electrochemical, and thermal characteristics of carbonaceous anodes and LiNi0.8Co0.2O2 cathode in Li-ion cells were investigated using various electrochemical and calorimetric techniques. The electrode-electrolyte interface was investigated for various carbonaceous materials such as graphite with different shapes, surface modified graphite with copper, and novel carbon material derived from sepiolite template. The structural and morphological properties were determined using XRD, TGA, SEM, BET techniques. The electrochemical characteristics were studied using conventional electrochemical techniques such as galvanostatic charge/discharge cycling, cyclic voltammetry, and impedance (AC and DC) methods. It was observed that the electrochemical active surface area instead of the BET area plays a critical role in the irreversible capacity loss associated with the carbonaceous anodes. It was also found that the exfoliation of carbon anodes especially in PC based electrolyte could be significantly reduced by protective copper coating of the natural graphite. LiNi0.8Co0.2O2 cathode material was found to possess high energy density and excellent cycling characteristics. The structural and electrochemical properties of LiNi0.8Co 0.2O2 synthesized by sol-gel and solid-state methods were studied. Results of the AC impedance spectroscopy carried out on LiNi 0.8Co0.2O2 cathodes revealed that the charge transfer resistance is a function of the state of charge. The solid state Li + diffusion was calculated to be around 10-13 cm2/s in the oxide particle by Warburg impedance method. In addition, the cell fabricated with LiNi0.8Co0.2O 2 cathode showed excellent energy and power performance under static and dynamic load conditions that prevail in Electric and Hybrid Vehicles. Thermal properties of the LiNi0.8Co0.2O2 cathode, carbonaceous anodes, and Li-ion cells fabricated with these electrodes were also investigated using isothermal microcalorimetry (IMC), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and accelerated rate calorimetry (ARC). Isothermal micro-calorimeter was used to investigate the thermal behavior of the Li-ion cell and its electrodes. The overall heat changes during charge-discharge processes were explained in terms of the irreversible (resistive) and reversible (entropic) heats. It was observed that the reversible heat strongly depends on the structural or phase change occurring in the electrodes during Li-ion insertion and extraction reactions. It was also found that the contribution of the reversible heat to the overall cell heat generation rate was significant only at low cycling rates.

Electrocatalytic activity of cobalt phosphide-modified graphite felt toward VO2+/VO2+ redox reaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ge, Zhijun; Wang, Ling; He, Zhangxing; Li, Yuehua; Jiang, Yingqiao; Meng, Wei; Dai, Lei

2018-04-01

A novel strategy for improving the electro-catalytic properties of graphite felt (GF) electrode in vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) is designed by depositing cobalt phosphide (CoP) onto GF surface. The CoP powder is synthesized by direct carbonization of Co-based zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-67) followed by phosphidation. Cyclic voltammetry results confirm that the CoP-modified graphite felt (GF-CoP) electrode has excellent reversibility and electro-catalytic activity to the VO2+/VO2+ cathodic reaction compared with the pristine GF electrode. The cell using GF-CoP electrode shows apparently higher discharge capacity over that based on GF electrode. The cell using GF-CoP electrode has the capacity of 67.2 mA h at 100 mA cm-2, 32.7 mA h larger than that using GF electrode. Compared with cell using GF electrode, the voltage efficiency of the cell based on GF-CoP electrode increases by 5.9% and energy efficiency by 5.4% at a current density of 100 mA cm-2. The cell using GF-CoP electrode can reach 94.31% capacity retention after 50 cycles at a current density of 30 mA cm-2. The results show that the CoP can effectively promote the VO2+/VO2+ redox reaction, implying that metal phosphides are a new kind of potential catalytic materials for VRFB.

Carbon paste electrode with covalently immobilized thionine for electrochemical sensing of hydrogen peroxide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thenmozhi, K.; Sriman Narayanan, S.

2017-11-01

A water-soluble redox mediator, thionin was covalently immobilized to the functionalized graphite powder and a carbon paste electrode was fabricated from this modified graphite powder. The immobilization procedure proved to be effective in anchoring the thionin mediator in the graphite electrode setup without any leakage problem during the electrochemical studies. The covalent immobilization of the thionin mediator was studied with FT-IR and the electrochemical response of the thionin carbon paste electrode was optimized on varying the supporting electrolyte, pH and scan rate. The modified electrode exhibited well-defined electrocatalytic activity towards the reduction of H2O2 at a lower potential of -0.266 V with good sensitivity. The developed amperometric sensor was efficient towards H2O2 in the linear range from 2.46 × 10-5 M to 4.76 × 10-3 M, with a detection limit of 1.47 × 10-5 M respectively. Important advantages of this sensor are its excellent electrochemical performance, simple fabrication, easy renewability, reproducible analytical results, acceptable accuracy and good operational and long-term stability.

Specific and Reversible Immobilization of Proteins Tagged to the Affinity Polypeptide C-LytA on Functionalized Graphite Electrodes

PubMed Central

Bello-Gil, Daniel; Maestro, Beatriz; Fonseca, Jennifer; Feliu, Juan M.; Climent, Víctor; Sanz, Jesús M.

2014-01-01

We have developed a general method for the specific and reversible immobilization of proteins fused to the choline-binding module C-LytA on functionalized graphite electrodes. Graphite electrode surfaces were modified by diazonium chemistry to introduce carboxylic groups that were subsequently used to anchor mixed self-assembled monolayers consisting of N,N-diethylethylenediamine groups, acting as choline analogs, and ethanolamine groups as spacers. The ability of the prepared electrodes to specifically bind C-LytA-tagged recombinant proteins was tested with a C-LytA-β-galactosidase fusion protein. The binding, activity and stability of the immobilized protein was evaluated by electrochemically monitoring the formation of an electroactive product in the enzymatic hydrolysis of the synthetic substrate 4-aminophenyl β-D-galactopyranoside. The hybrid protein was immobilized in an specific and reversible way, while retaining the catalytic activity. Moreover, these functionalized electrodes were shown to be highly stable and reusable. The method developed here can be envisaged as a general, immobilization procedure on the protein biosensor field. PMID:24498237

Specific and reversible immobilization of proteins tagged to the affinity polypeptide C-LytA on functionalized graphite electrodes.

PubMed

Bello-Gil, Daniel; Maestro, Beatriz; Fonseca, Jennifer; Feliu, Juan M; Climent, Víctor; Sanz, Jesús M

2014-01-01

We have developed a general method for the specific and reversible immobilization of proteins fused to the choline-binding module C-LytA on functionalized graphite electrodes. Graphite electrode surfaces were modified by diazonium chemistry to introduce carboxylic groups that were subsequently used to anchor mixed self-assembled monolayers consisting of N,N-diethylethylenediamine groups, acting as choline analogs, and ethanolamine groups as spacers. The ability of the prepared electrodes to specifically bind C-LytA-tagged recombinant proteins was tested with a C-LytA-β-galactosidase fusion protein. The binding, activity and stability of the immobilized protein was evaluated by electrochemically monitoring the formation of an electroactive product in the enzymatic hydrolysis of the synthetic substrate 4-aminophenyl β-D-galactopyranoside. The hybrid protein was immobilized in an specific and reversible way, while retaining the catalytic activity. Moreover, these functionalized electrodes were shown to be highly stable and reusable. The method developed here can be envisaged as a general, immobilization procedure on the protein biosensor field.

Flower-like Copper Cobaltite Nanosheets on Graphite Paper as High-Performance Supercapacitor Electrodes and Enzymeless Glucose Sensors.

PubMed

Liu, Shude; Hui, K S; Hui, K N

2016-02-10

Flower-like copper cobaltite (CuCo2O4) nanosheets anchored on graphite paper have been synthesized using a facile hydrothermal method followed by a postannealing treatment. Supercapacitor electrodes employing CuCo2O4 nanosheets exhibit an enhanced capacitance of 1131 F g(-1) at a current density of 1 A g(-1) compared with previously reported supercapacitor electrodes. The CuCo2O4 electrode delivers a specific capacitance of up to 409 F g(-1) at a current density of as high as 50 A g(-1), and a good long-term cycling stability, with 79.7% of its specific capacitance retained after 5000 cycles at 10 A g(-1). Furthermore, the as-prepared CuCo2O4 nanosheets on graphite paper can be fabricated as electrodes and used as enzymeless glucose sensors, which exhibit good sensitivity (3.625 μA μM(-1) cm(-2)) and an extraordinary linear response ranging up to 320 μM with a low detection limit (5 μM).

Layered oxide, graphite and silicon-graphite electrodes for Lithium-ion cells: Effect of electrolyte composition and cycling windows

DOE PAGES

Klett, Matilda; Gilbert, James A.; Pupek, Krzysztof Z.; ...

2016-10-14

The electrochemical performance of cells with a Li 1.03(Ni 0.5Co 0.2Mn 0.3) 0.97O 2 (NCM523) positive electrode and a blended silicon-graphite (Si-Gr) negative electrode are investigated using various electrolyte compositions and voltage cycling windows. Voltage profiles of the blended Si-Gr electrode show a superposition of graphite potential plateaus on a sloped Si profile with a large potential hysteresis. The effect of this hysteresis is seen in the cell impedance versus voltage data, which are distinctly different for the charge and discharge cycles. We confirm that the addition of compounds, such as vinylene carbonate (VC) and fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) to themore » baseline 1.2 M LiPF 6 in ethylene carbonate (EC): ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC) (3:7 w/w) electrolyte, improves cell capacity retention with higher retention seen at higher additive contents. We show that reducing the lower cutoff voltage (LCV) of full cells to 2.5 V increases the Si-Gr electrode potential to 1.12 V vs. Li/Li +; this relatively-high delithiation potential correlates with the lower capacity retention displayed by the cell. Hence, we show that raising the upper cutoff voltage (UCV) can increase cell energy density without significantly altering capacity retention over 100 charge discharge cycles.« less

Layered oxide, graphite and silicon-graphite electrodes for Lithium-ion cells: Effect of electrolyte composition and cycling windows

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

Klett, Matilda; Gilbert, James A.; Pupek, Krzysztof Z.

The electrochemical performance of cells with a Li 1.03(Ni 0.5Co 0.2Mn 0.3) 0.97O 2 (NCM523) positive electrode and a blended silicon-graphite (Si-Gr) negative electrode are investigated using various electrolyte compositions and voltage cycling windows. Voltage profiles of the blended Si-Gr electrode show a superposition of graphite potential plateaus on a sloped Si profile with a large potential hysteresis. The effect of this hysteresis is seen in the cell impedance versus voltage data, which are distinctly different for the charge and discharge cycles. We confirm that the addition of compounds, such as vinylene carbonate (VC) and fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) to themore » baseline 1.2 M LiPF 6 in ethylene carbonate (EC): ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC) (3:7 w/w) electrolyte, improves cell capacity retention with higher retention seen at higher additive contents. We show that reducing the lower cutoff voltage (LCV) of full cells to 2.5 V increases the Si-Gr electrode potential to 1.12 V vs. Li/Li +; this relatively-high delithiation potential correlates with the lower capacity retention displayed by the cell. Hence, we show that raising the upper cutoff voltage (UCV) can increase cell energy density without significantly altering capacity retention over 100 charge discharge cycles.« less

Simulations of Atmospheric Plasma Arcs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pearcy, Jacob; Chopra, Nirbhav; Jaworski, Michael

2017-10-01

We present the results of computer simulation of cylindrical plasma arcs with characteristics similar to those predicted to be relevant in magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) power conversion systems. These arcs, with core temperatures on the order of 1 eV, place stringent limitations on the lifetime of conventional electrodes used in such systems, suggesting that a detailed analysis of arc characteristics will be crucial in designing more robust electrode systems. Simulations utilize results from NASA's Chemical Equilibrium with Applications (CEA) program to solve the Elenbaas-Heller equation in a variety of plasma compositions, including approximations of coal-burning plasmas as well as pure gas discharges. The effect of carbon dioxide injection on arc characteristics, emulating discharges from molten carbonate salt electrodes, is also analyzed. Results include radial temperature profiles, composition maps, and current-voltage (IV) characteristics of these arcs. Work supported by DOE contract DE-AC02-09CH11466.

Facile Synthesis of Pre-Doping Lithium-Ion Into Nitrogen-Doped Graphite Negative Electrode for Lithium-Ion Capacitor.

PubMed

Lee, Seul-Yi; Kim, Ji-Il; Rhee, Kyong Yop; Park, Soo-Jin

2015-09-01

Nitrogen-doped graphite, prepared via the thermal decomposition of melamine into a carbon matrix for use as the negative electrode in lithium-ion capacitors (LICs), was evaluated by electrochemical measurements. Furthermore, in order to study the performance of pre-doped lithium components as a function of nitrogen-doped material, the pre-doped lithium graphite was allowed to react with a lithium salt solution. The results showed that the nitrogen functional groups in the graphite largely influenced the pre-doped lithium components, thereby contributing to the discharge capacity and cycling performance. We confirmed that the large initial irreversible capacity could be significantly decreased by using pre-doped lithium components obtained through the nitrogen-doping method.

Platinum-free, carbon-based materials as efficient counter electrodes for dye-sensitized solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Widiyandari, Hendri; Prasetio, Adi; Purwanto, Agus; Subagio, Agus; Hidayat, Rachmat

2018-06-01

The electrocatalytic potential of carbon materials makes them the most viable candidate to replace Pt as a counter electrode (CE) in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). In this research, we report our study using graphite, CNT/graphite composite, CNT, and Pt-based CEs in DSSCs. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurement showed that the CNT-based CE (CNT-CE) has the lowest charge transport resistance (R ct) compared with graphite and the CNT/graphite composite. The photovoltaic performance measurement showed that the CNT-CE resulted in a short-circuit photocurrent density (J sc) of 3.59 mA·cm‑2 whereas the Pt-based CE (Pt-CE) resulted in a J sc of 2.76 mA·cm‑2.

Research notes : evaluation of the performance of reference electrodes embedded in reinforced concrete.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1995-07-01

The objectives of this work were to examine placement strategies for reference electrodes and to evaluate the suitability of graphite reference electrodes as imbedded reference electrodes in reinforced concrete structures that are cathodically protec...

The staging mechanism of AlCl4 intercalation in a graphite electrode for an aluminium-ion battery.

PubMed

Bhauriyal, Preeti; Mahata, Arup; Pathak, Biswarup

2017-03-15

Identifying a suitable electrode material with desirable electrochemical properties remains a primary challenge for rechargeable Al-ion batteries. Recently an ultrafast rechargeable Al-ion battery was reported with high charge/discharge rate, (relatively) high discharge voltage and high capacity that uses a graphite-based cathode. Using calculations from first-principles, we have investigated the staging mechanism of AlCl 4 intercalation into bulk graphite and evaluated the stability, specific capacity and voltage profile of AlCl 4 intercalated compounds. Ab initio molecular dynamics is performed to investigate the thermal stability of AlCl 4 intercalated graphite structures. Our voltage profiles show that the first AlCl 4 intercalation step could be a more sluggish step than the successive intercalation steps. However, the diffusion of AlCl 4 is very fast in the expanded graphite host layers with a diffusion barrier of ∼0.01 eV, which justifies the ultrafast charging rate of a graphite based Al-ion battery. And such an AlCl 4 intercalated battery provides an average voltage of 2.01-2.3 V with a maximum specific capacity of 69.62 mA h g -1 , which is excellent for anion intercalated batteries. Our density of states and Bader charge analysis shows that the AlCl 4 intercalation into the bulk graphite is a charging process. Hence, we believe that our present study will be helpful in understanding the staging mechanism of AlCl 4 intercalation into graphite-like layered electrodes for Al-ion batteries, thus encouraging further experimental work.

Electrode behavior RE-visited: Monitoring potential windows, capacity loss, and impedance changes in Li 1.03 (Ni 0.5Co 0.2Mn 0.3) 0.97O 2/silicon-graphite full cells

DOE PAGES

Klett, Matilda; Gilbert, James A.; Trask, Stephen E.; ...

2016-03-04

Here, the capacity and power performance of lithium-ion battery cells evolve over time. The mechanisms leading to these changes can often be identified through knowledge of electrode potentials, which contain information about electrochemical processes at the electrode-electrolyte interfaces. In this study we monitor electrode potentials within full cells containing a Li 1.03(Ni 0.5Co 0.2Mn 0.3) 0.97O 2–based (NCM523) positive electrode, a silicon-graphite negative electrode, and an LiPF6-bearing electrolyte, with and without fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) or vinylene carbonate (VC) additives. The electrode potentials are monitored with a Li-metal reference electrode (RE) positioned besides the electrode stack; changes in these potentials aremore » used to examine electrode state-of-charge (SOC) shifts, material utilization, and loss of electrochemically active material. Electrode impedances are obtained with a Li xSn RE located within the stack; the data display the effect of cell voltage and electrode SOC changes on the measured values after formation cycling and after aging. Our measurements confirm the beneficial effect of FEC and VC electrolyte additives in reducing full cell capacity loss and impedance rise after cycling in a 3.0–4.2 V range. Comparisons with data from a full cell containing a graphite-based negative highlight the consequences of including silicon in the electrode. Our observations on electrode potentials, capacity, and impedance changes on cycling are crucial to designing long-lasting, silicon-bearing, lithium-ion cells.« less

Cold starting of fluorescent lamps - part II: experiments on glow times and electrode damaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Langer, Reinhard; Paul, Irina; Hilscher, Achim; Horn, Siegfried; Tidecks, Reinhard

2017-01-01

In the present work we present experiments on cold start and the resulting electrode damaging (reducing lamp life) of AC driven fluorescent lamps. The crucial parameter is the glow time, determined from time resolved measurements of lamp voltage and current. The relation between the energy consumed during glow phase and the glow time is studied. It turns out that there is no common threshold of energy until the glow-to-arc transition takes place, but strong energy input into the lamp yields short glow times. The transient behaviour from the glow to the arc regime is investigated and the stable operation points of the arc discharge are determined, yielding an arc discharge voltage-current characteristics of the lamp type investigated. The electrode damage is investigated as a function of the open source voltage and the ballast resistance. Subsequent cold starts lead to an increase of the glow time due to electrode damaging, i.e., the electrode damage accumulates. Different regeneration procedures and their effectiveness are compared. Regeneration burning turns out to be more effective than heating up the electrode. A criterion for avoiding high electrode damage is obtained, indicating that the average power during glow time should exceed 20 W.

Gas Tungsten Arc Welding and Plasma Arc Cutting. Teacher Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fortney, Clarence; And Others

This welding curriculum guide treats two topics in detail: the care of tungsten electrodes and the entire concept of contamination control and the hafnium electrode and its importance in dual-air cutting systems that use compressed shop air for plasma arc cutting activities. The guide contains three units of instruction that cover the following…

Preparation of Graphene Sheets by Electrochemical Exfoliation of Graphite in Confined Space and Their Application in Transparent Conductive Films.

PubMed

Wang, Hui; Wei, Can; Zhu, Kaiyi; Zhang, Yu; Gong, Chunhong; Guo, Jianhui; Zhang, Jiwei; Yu, Laigui; Zhang, Jingwei

2017-10-04

A novel electrochemical exfoliation mode was established to prepare graphene sheets efficiently with potential applications in transparent conductive films. The graphite electrode was coated with paraffin to keep the electrochemical exfoliation in confined space in the presence of concentrated sodium hydroxide as the electrolyte, yielding ∼100% low-defect (the D band to G band intensity ratio, I D /I G = 0.26) graphene sheets. Furthermore, ozone was first detected with ozone test strips, and the effect of ozone on the exfoliation of graphite foil and the microstructure of the as-prepared graphene sheets was investigated. Findings indicate that upon applying a low voltage (3 V) on the graphite foil partially coated with paraffin wax that the coating can prevent the insufficiently intercalated graphite sheets from prematurely peeling off from the graphite electrode thereby affording few-layer (<5 layers) holey graphene sheets in a yield of as much as 60%. Besides, the ozone generated during the electrochemical exfoliation process plays a crucial role in the exfoliation of graphite, and the amount of defect in the as-prepared graphene sheets is dependent on electrolytic potential and electrode distance. Moreover, the graphene-based transparent conductive films prepared by simple modified vacuum filtration exhibit an excellent transparency and a low sheet resistance after being treated with NH 4 NO 3 and annealing (∼1.21 kΩ/□ at ∼72.4% transmittance).

Mesoscopic modeling and parameter estimation of a lithium-ion battery based on LiFePO4/graphite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jokar, Ali; Désilets, Martin; Lacroix, Marcel; Zaghib, Karim

2018-03-01

A novel numerical model for simulating the behavior of lithium-ion batteries based on LiFePO4(LFP)/graphite is presented. The model is based on the modified Single Particle Model (SPM) coupled to a mesoscopic approach for the LFP electrode. The model comprises one representative spherical particle as the graphite electrode, and N LFP units as the positive electrode. All the SPM equations are retained to model the negative electrode performance. The mesoscopic model rests on non-equilibrium thermodynamic conditions and uses a non-monotonic open circuit potential for each unit. A parameter estimation study is also carried out to identify all the parameters needed for the model. The unknown parameters are the solid diffusion coefficient of the negative electrode (Ds,n), reaction-rate constant of the negative electrode (Kn), negative and positive electrode porosity (εn&εn), initial State-Of-Charge of the negative electrode (SOCn,0), initial partial composition of the LFP units (yk,0), minimum and maximum resistance of the LFP units (Rmin&Rmax), and solution resistance (Rcell). The results show that the mesoscopic model can simulate successfully the electrochemical behavior of lithium-ion batteries at low and high charge/discharge rates. The model also describes adequately the lithiation/delithiation of the LFP particles, however, it is computationally expensive compared to macro-based models.

ARC DISCHARGE AND METHOD OF PRODUCING THE SAME

DOEpatents

Neidigh, R.V.

1960-03-15

A device for producing an energetic gas arc discharge between spaced electrodes in an evacuated chamber and within a magnetic field is described. Gas is fed into the arc in a direction normal to a refluxing stream of electrons and at a pressure higher than the pressure within the chamber to establish a pressure gradient along the arc discharge formed between the electrodes. This pressure gradient establishes rotating, time varying, radial electrical fields in the volume surroundimg the discharge, causing the discharge to rotate about the arc center line.

Influence of the temperature of electrode material on its disintegration under the action of an arc discharge in hydrogen

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bolotov, A. V.; Yukhimchuk, S. A.

1985-01-01

An analysis is made of the electrophysical processes occurring at the end surface of rod electrodes during constant and alternating arc discharge in hydrogen. Experiments are reported on the effect of surface temperature of tungsten electrodes on their erosion. The influence of activating additions of thorium oxide, the structure of the tungsten, and the gas surrounding the electrode on the specific thermal loading and the erosion of the electrodes is discussed.

Direct laser writing of micro-supercapacitors on hydrated graphite oxide films.

PubMed

Gao, Wei; Singh, Neelam; Song, Li; Liu, Zheng; Reddy, Arava Leela Mohana; Ci, Lijie; Vajtai, Robert; Zhang, Qing; Wei, Bingqing; Ajayan, Pulickel M

2011-07-31

Microscale supercapacitors provide an important complement to batteries in a variety of applications, including portable electronics. Although they can be manufactured using a number of printing and lithography techniques, continued improvements in cost, scalability and form factor are required to realize their full potential. Here, we demonstrate the scalable fabrication of a new type of all-carbon, monolithic supercapacitor by laser reduction and patterning of graphite oxide films. We pattern both in-plane and conventional electrodes consisting of reduced graphite oxide with micrometre resolution, between which graphite oxide serves as a solid electrolyte. The substantial amounts of trapped water in the graphite oxide makes it simultaneously a good ionic conductor and an electrical insulator, allowing it to serve as both an electrolyte and an electrode separator with ion transport characteristics similar to that observed for Nafion membranes. The resulting micro-supercapacitor devices show good cyclic stability, and energy storage capacities comparable to existing thin-film supercapacitors.

Direct laser writing of micro-supercapacitors on hydrated graphite oxide films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Wei; Singh, Neelam; Song, Li; Liu, Zheng; Reddy, Arava Leela Mohana; Ci, Lijie; Vajtai, Robert; Zhang, Qing; Wei, Bingqing; Ajayan, Pulickel M.

2011-08-01

Microscale supercapacitors provide an important complement to batteries in a variety of applications, including portable electronics. Although they can be manufactured using a number of printing and lithography techniques, continued improvements in cost, scalability and form factor are required to realize their full potential. Here, we demonstrate the scalable fabrication of a new type of all-carbon, monolithic supercapacitor by laser reduction and patterning of graphite oxide films. We pattern both in-plane and conventional electrodes consisting of reduced graphite oxide with micrometre resolution, between which graphite oxide serves as a solid electrolyte. The substantial amounts of trapped water in the graphite oxide makes it simultaneously a good ionic conductor and an electrical insulator, allowing it to serve as both an electrolyte and an electrode separator with ion transport characteristics similar to that observed for Nafion membranes. The resulting micro-supercapacitor devices show good cyclic stability, and energy storage capacities comparable to existing thin-film supercapacitors.

Highly catalytic and stabilized titanium nitride nanowire array-decorated graphite felt electrodes for all vanadium redox flow batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, L.; Zhao, T. S.; Zeng, L.; Zeng, Y. K.; Jiang, H. R.

2017-02-01

In this work, we prepare a highly catalytic and stabilized titanium nitride (TiN) nanowire array-decorated graphite felt electrode for all vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs). Free-standing TiN nanowires are synthesized by a two-step process, in which TiO2 nanowires are first grown onto the surface of graphite felt via a seed-assisted hydrothermal method and then converted to TiN through nitridation reaction. When applied to VRFBs, the prepared electrode enables the electrolyte utilization and energy efficiency to be 73.9% and 77.4% at a high current density of 300 mA cm-2, which are correspondingly 43.3% and 15.4% higher than that of battery assembled with a pristine electrode. More impressively, the present battery exhibits good stability and high capacity retention during the cycle test. The superior performance is ascribed to the significant improvement in the electrochemical kinetics and enlarged active sites toward V3+/V2+ redox reaction.

Nickel-Tin Electrode Materials for Nonaqueous Li-Ion Cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ehrlich, Grant M.; Durand, Christopher

2005-01-01

Experimental materials made from mixtures of nickel and tin powders have shown promise for use as the negative electrodes of rechargeable lithium-ion electrochemical power cells. During charging (or discharging) of a lithium-ion cell, lithium ions are absorbed into (or desorbed from, respectively) the negative electrode, typically through an intercalation or alloying process. The negative electrodes (for this purpose, designated as anodes) in state-of-the-art Li-ion cells are made of graphite, in which intercalation occurs. Alternatively, the anodes can be made from metals, in which alloying can occur. For reasons having to do with the electrochemical potential of intercalated lithium, metallic anode materials (especially materials containing tin) are regarded as safer than graphite ones; in addition, such metallic anode materials have been investigated in the hope of obtaining reversible charge/discharge capacities greater than those of graphite anodes. However, until now, each of the tin-containing metallic anode formulations tested has been found to be inadequate in some respect.

Phosphomolybdic acid immobilized on graphite as an environmental photoelectrocatalyst.

PubMed

Aber, Soheil; Yaghoubi, Zeynab; Zarei, Mahmoud

2016-10-01

A new phosphomolybdic acid (PMA)/Graphite surface was prepared based on electrostatic interactions between phosphomolybdic acid and graphite surface. The PMA/Graphite was characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV) analysis and scanning electron microscope (SEM). SEM images showed that the phosphomolybdic acid particles were well stabilized on the graphite surface and they were evidenced the size of particles (approximately 10 nm). The CV results not only showed that the modified surface has good electrochemical activity toward the removal of the dyestuff, but also exhibits long term stability. The PMA/Graphite was used as a photoanode for decolorization of Reactive Yellow 39 by photoelectrocatalytic system under UV irradiation. The effects of parameters such as the amount of phosphomolybdic acid used in preparation of PMA/Graphite surface, applied potential on anode electrode and solution pH were studied by response surface methodology. The optimum conditions were obtained as follows: dye solution pH 3, 1.5 g of immobilized PMA on graphite surface and applied potential on anode electrode 1 V. Under optimum conditions after 90 min of reaction time, the decolorization efficiency was 95%. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Performance Testing of Thermal Cutting Systems for Sweet Pepper Harvesting Robot in Greenhouse Horticulture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bachche, Shivaji; Oka, Koichi

2013-03-01

This paper proposes design of end-effector and prototype of thermal cutting system for harvesting sweet peppers. The design consists of two parallel gripper bars mounted on a frame connected by specially designed notch plate and operated by servo motor. Based on voltage and current, two different types of thermal cutting system prototypes; electric arc and temperature arc respectively were developed and tested for performance. In electric arc, a special electric device was developed to obtain high voltage to perform cutting operation. At higher voltage, electrodes generate thermal arc which helps to cut stem of sweet pepper. In temperature arc, nichrome wire was mounted between two electrodes and current was provided directly to electrodes which results in generation of high temperature arc between two electrodes that help to perform cutting operation. In both prototypes, diameters of basic elements were varied and the effect of this variation on cutting operation was investigated. The temperature arc thermal system was found significantly suitable for cutting operation than electric arc thermal system. In temperature arc thermal cutting system, 0.5 mm nichrome wire shows significant results by accomplishing harvesting operation in 1.5 seconds. Also, thermal cutting system found suitable to increase shelf life of fruits by avoiding virus and fungal transformation during cutting process and sealing the fruit stem. The harvested sweet peppers by thermal cutting system can be preserved at normal room temperature for more than 15 days without any contamination.

Arc Voltage Between Deion Grid Affected by Division of Arc in Magnetic Driven Arc

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Inuzuka, Yutaro; Yamato, Takashi; Yamamoto, Shinji; Iwao, Toru

2016-10-01

Magnetic driven arc has been applied to DC breaker and fault current limiters. However, it has not been researched, especially stagnation and re-strike of the arc. In this paper, the arc voltage between deion grid affected by division of arc in magnetic driven arc and arc behavior are measured by using the oscilloscope and HSVC (High Speed Video Camera). As a result, arc voltage increased because of division of the arc. The arc mean moving speed increases with increasing the external magnetic field. However, when the arc was not stalemate, the arc moving speed does not change so much. The arc re-strike time increases and stalemate time decreases with increasing the external magnetic field. Therefore, the anode spot moving speed increases 8 times because arc re-strike occurs easily with the external magnetic field. Thus, the erosion of electrodes decreases and the arc movement becomes the smooth. When the arc is divided, the arc voltage increased because of the electrode fall voltage. Therefore, the arc voltage increases with increasing the number of deion grid.

APPARATUS FOR PRODUCING IONS OF VAPORIZABLE MATERIALS

DOEpatents

Wright, B.T.

1958-01-28

a uniform and copious supply of ions. The source comprises a hollow arc- block and means for establishing a magnetic field through the arc-block. Vaporization of the material to be ionized is produced by an electric heated filament. The arc producing structure within the arc-block consists of a cathode disposed between a pair of collimating electrodes along with an anode adjacent each collimating electrode on the side opposite the cathode. A positive potential applied to the anodes and collimating electrodes, with respect to the cathode, and the magnetic field act to accelerate the electrons from the cathode through a slit in each collimating clectrode towards the respective anode. In this manner a pair of collinear arc discharges are produced in the gas region which can be tapped for an abundant supply of ions of the material being analyzed.

Graphite Based Electrode for ECG Monitoring: Evaluation under Freshwater and Saltwater Conditions.

PubMed

Thap, Tharoeun; Yoon, Kwon-Ha; Lee, Jinseok

2016-04-15

We proposed new electrodes that are applicable for electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring under freshwater- and saltwater-immersion conditions. Our proposed electrodes are made of graphite pencil lead (GPL), a general-purpose writing pencil. We have fabricated two types of electrode: a pencil lead solid type (PLS) electrode and a pencil lead powder type (PLP) electrode. In order to assess the qualities of the PLS and PLP electrodes, we compared their performance with that of a commercial Ag/AgCl electrode, under a total of seven different conditions: dry, freshwater immersion with/without movement, post-freshwater wet condition, saltwater immersion with/without movement, and post-saltwater wet condition. In both dry and post-freshwater wet conditions, all ECG-recorded PQRST waves were clearly discernible, with all types of electrodes, Ag/AgCl, PLS, and PLP. On the other hand, under the freshwater- and saltwater-immersion conditions with/without movement, as well as post-saltwater wet conditions, we found that the proposed PLS and PLP electrodes provided better ECG waveform quality, with significant statistical differences compared with the quality provided by Ag/AgCl electrodes.

Graphene-based electrochemical sensor for detection of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) in seawater: the comparison of single-, few-, and multilayer graphene nanoribbons and graphite microparticles.

PubMed

Goh, Madeline Shuhua; Pumera, Martin

2011-01-01

The detection of explosives in seawater is of great interest. We compared response single-, few-, and multilayer graphene nanoribbons and graphite microparticle-based electrodes toward the electrochemical reduction of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT). We optimized parameters such as accumulation time, accumulation potential, and pH. We found that few-layer graphene exhibits about 20% enhanced signal for TNT after accumulation when compared to multilayer graphene nanoribbons. However, graphite microparticle-modified electrode provides higher sensitivity, and there was no significant difference in the performance of single-, few-, and multilayer graphene nanoribbons and graphite microparticles for the electrochemical detection of TNT. We established the limit of detection of TNT in untreated seawater at 1 μg/mL.

Metal vapor arc ion plating

DOEpatents

Bertram, L.A.; Fisher, R.W.; Mattox, D.M.; Zanner, F.J.

1986-09-09

A method and apparatus for ion plating are described. The apparatus uses more negative than a first electrode voltage in a vacuum arc remelt system to attract low energy ions from the anode electrode to the article to be plated. 2 figs.

Reduced graphite oxide in supercapacitor electrodes.

PubMed

Lobato, Belén; Vretenár, Viliam; Kotrusz, Peter; Hulman, Martin; Centeno, Teresa A

2015-05-15

The current energy needs have put the focus on highly efficient energy storage systems such as supercapacitors. At present, much attention focuses on graphene-like materials as promising supercapacitor electrodes. Here we show that reduced graphite oxide offers a very interesting potential. Materials obtained by oxidation of natural graphite and subsequent sonication and reduction by hydrazine achieve specific capacitances as high as 170 F/g in H2SO4 and 84F/g in (C2H5)4NBF4/acetonitrile. Although the particle size of the raw graphite has no significant effect on the physico-chemical characteristics of the reduced materials, that exfoliated from smaller particles (<75 μm) result more advantageous for the release of the stored electrical energy. This effect is particularly evident in the aqueous electrolyte. Graphene-like materials may suffer from a drop in their specific surface area upon fabrication of electrodes with features of the existing commercial devices. This should be taken into account for a reliable interpretation of their performance in supercapacitors. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Electroanalytical applications of screen-printable surfactant-induced sol-gel graphite composites

DOEpatents

Guadalupe, Ana R.; Guo, Yizhu

2001-05-15

A process for preparing sol-gel graphite composite electrodes is presented. This process preferably uses the surfactant bis(2-ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate (AOT) and eliminates the need for a cosolvent, an acidic catalyst, a cellulose binder and a thermal curing step from prior art processes. Fabrication of screen-printed electrodes by this process provides a simple approach for electroanalytical applications in aqueous and nonaqueous solvents. Examples of applications for such composite electrodes produced from this process include biochemical sensors such as disposable, single-use glucose sensors and ligand modified composite sensors for metal ion sensitive sensors.

Stripping voltammetry in environmental and food analysis.

PubMed

Brainina, K Z; Malakhova, N A; Stojko, N Y

2000-10-01

The review covers over 230 papers published mostly in the last 5 years. The goal of the review is to attract the attention of researchers and users to stripping voltammetry in particular, its application in environmental monitoring and analysis of foodstuffs. The sensors employed are impregnated graphite, carbon paste, thick film carbon/graphite and thin film metallic electrodes modified in-situ or beforehand. Hanging mercury drop electrodes and mercury coated glassy carbon electrodes are also mentioned. Strip and long-lived sensors for portable instruments and flow through systems are discussed as devices for future development and application of stripping voltammetry.

Graphite oxide/β-Ni(OH)2 composites for application in supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Arvinder; Chandra, Amreesh

2013-06-01

Graphite oxide/β-Ni(OH)2 composites have been investigated as electrode material in supercapacitors. Phase formation of electrode material is investigated using diffraction measurements. Particle shape-size studies show deposition of β-Ni(OH)2 nanoparticles on graphite oxide (GO) sheets. Electrochemical performance of GO/β-Ni(OH)2 composite in supercapacitors is discussed based on the analysis of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge-discharge studies. Excellent energy density of ˜53 Wh/kg in 1M Na2SO4 aqueous electrolyte is reported at power density of ˜1364W/kg. The significance of results is discussed in the paper.

Electron reflection and secondary emission characteristics of sputter-textured pyrolytic graphite surfaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wintucky, E. G.; Curren, A. N.; Sovey, J. S.

1981-01-01

Low secondary and reflected primary electron emission from the collector electrode surfaces is important for optimum collector efficiency and hence for high overall efficiency of microwave amplifier tubes used in communication satellites and in military systems. Ion sputter texturing of the surface effectively suppresses electron emission from pyrolytic graphite, which is a promising collector electrode material. Secondary and reflected primary electron emission characteristics of sputter textured pyrolytic graphite surfaces with microstructures of various sizes and densities are presented. The microstructure with the lowest electron emission levels, less than those of soot, consists of a dense array of tall, thin spires.

Plasma Torch for Plasma Ignition and Combustion of Coal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ustimenko, Alexandr; Messerle, Vladimir

2015-09-01

Plasma-fuel systems (PFS) have been developed to improve coal combustion efficiency. PFS is a pulverized coal burner equipped with arc plasma torch producing high temperature air stream of 4000 - 6000 K. Plasma activation of coal at the PFS increases the coal reactivity and provides more effective ignition and ecologically friendly incineration of low-rank coal. The main and crucial element of PFS is plasma torch. Simplicity and reliability of the industrial arc plasma torches using cylindrical copper cathode and air as plasma forming gas predestined their application at heat and power engineering for plasma aided coal combustion. Life time of these plasma torches electrodes is critical and usually limited to 200 hours. Considered in this report direct current arc plasma torch has the cathode life significantly exceeded 1000 hours. To ensure the electrodes long life the process of hydrocarbon gas dissociation in the electric arc discharge is used. In accordance to this method atoms and ions of carbon from near-electrode plasma deposit on the active surface of the electrodes and form electrode carbon condensate which operates as ``actual'' electrode. Complex physicochemical investigation showed that deposit consists of nanocarbon material.

Magnetically Diffused Radial Electric-Arc Air Heater Employing Water-Cooled Copper Electrodes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mayo, R. F.; Davis, D. D., Jr.

1962-01-01

A magnetically rotated electric-arc air heater has been developed that is novel in that an intense magnetic field of the order of 10,000 to 25,000 gauss is employed. This field is supplied by a coil that is connected in series with the arc. Experimentation with this heater has shown that the presence of an intense magnetic field transverse to the arc results in diffusion of the arc and that the arc has a positive effective resistance. With the field coil in series with the arc, highly stable arc operation is obtained from a battery power supply. External ballast is not required to stabilize the arc when it is operating at maximum power level. The electrode erosion rate is so low that the airstream contamination is no more than 0.07 percent and may be substantially less.

New method for binder and carbon black detection at nanometer scale in carbon electrodes for lithium ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pfaffmann, Lukas; Jaiser, Stefan; Müller, Marcus; Scharfer, Philip; Schabel, Wilhelm; Bauer, Werner; Scheiba, Frieder; Ehrenberg, Helmut

2017-09-01

In the current work, graphite electrodes comprising PVDF binder and carbon black are subjected to characterization. An energy selective backscatter detector is used to localize carbon black and fluorine of PVDF. Therefore, it is necessary to distinguish between graphite, amorphous carbon and fluorine rich regions. Typically, an angular selective backscatter detector is employed to obtain an image providing the material contrast of the sample. Suitable materials for that detector are e.g. alloys to observe intermetallic phases, semiconductor for ;channeling contrast;, or imaging SiO2 and Au nanoparticles in biological cells. However, this detector cannot be used to distinguish between light elements with low atomic numbers, such as C to P. In addition, the contrast of fluorine rich regions and graphite is poor in normal in-lens images due to the low difference of the atomic mass between C and F. The aim of this study is to enhance the contrast of fluorine rich regions to graphite to carbon black. Therefore, the energy selective backscatter detector is used and its advantages and setup is described. Finally this technique is applied to investigate 400 μm thick cross-sections of graphite electrodes dried at different temperatures and obtain the carbon black distribution.

Final Report: Novel ALD-Coated Nanoparticle Anodes for Enhanced Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries

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

Groner, Markus

2009-04-16

The Phase I effort is described in detail in the Phase I report given below. The key accomplishments of the Phase I project were (1) the demonstration of high stability LiCoO2 cathodes using ALD-coated LiCoO2 particles, as well as on ALD-coated LiCoO2 electrodes and (2) the demonstration of high stability of graphite anodes using ALD-coated graphite electrodes.

Preparation, Characterization and Utilization of Electrodes Coated with Polymeric Networks Formed by Gamma Radiation Crosslinking.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-04-01

polymers such as poly[ diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride] , poly [vinylbenzyl trimethyl ammonium chloride], poly[styrene sulfonic acid , sodium salt] and...poly[acrylic acid ], which would ordinarily dissolve from the electrode surface in aqueous solution unless crosslinked into a network, and several...Irradiation on a Water-Soluble Polymer: DDAC 8 E. Electrochemistry of DDAC Networks on Platinum and Graphite 10 F. Poly [acrylic acid ] Films on Graphite

Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Nanotube/Graphite Felts as Advanced Electrode Materials for Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries.

PubMed

Wang, Shuangyin; Zhao, Xinsheng; Cochell, Thomas; Manthiram, Arumugam

2012-08-16

Nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes have been grown, for the first time, on graphite felt (N-CNT/GF) by a chemical vapor deposition approach and examined as an advanced electrode for vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs). The unique porous structure and nitrogen doping of N-CNT/GF with increased surface area enhances the battery performance significantly. The enriched porous structure of N-CNTs on graphite felt could potentially facilitate the diffusion of electrolyte, while the N-doping could significantly contribute to the enhanced electrode performance. Specifically, the N-doping (i) modifies the electronic properties of CNT and thereby alters the chemisorption characteristics of the vanadium ions, (ii) generates defect sites that are electrochemically more active, (iii) increases the oxygen species on CNT surface, which is a key factor influencing the VRFB performance, and (iv) makes the N-CNT electrochemically more accessible than the CNT.

A new ring-shaped graphite monitor ionization chamber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoshizumi, M. T.; Caldas, L. V. E.

2010-07-01

A ring-shaped monitor ionization chamber was developed at the Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares. This ionization chamber presents an entrance window of aluminized polyester foil. The guard ring and collecting electrode are made of graphite coated Lucite plates. The main difference between this new ionization chamber and commercial monitor chambers is its ring-shaped design. The new monitor chamber has a central hole, allowing the passage of the direct radiation beam without attenuation; only the penumbra radiation is measured by the sensitive volume. This kind of ionization chamber design has already been tested, but using aluminium electrodes. By changing the electrode material from aluminium to a graphite coating, an improvement in the chamber response stability was expected. The pre-operational tests, as saturation curve, recombination loss and polarity effect showed satisfactory results. The repeatability and the long-term stability tests were also evaluated, showing good agreement with international recommendations.

Nanoscale electrochemical patterning reveals the active sites for catechol oxidation at graphite surfaces.

PubMed

Patel, Anisha N; McKelvey, Kim; Unwin, Patrick R

2012-12-19

Graphite-based electrodes (graphite, graphene, and nanotubes) are used widely in electrochemistry, and there is a long-standing view that graphite step edges are needed to catalyze many reactions, with the basal surface considered to be inert. In the present work, this model was tested directly for the first time using scanning electrochemical cell microscopy reactive patterning and shown to be incorrect. For the electro-oxidation of dopamine as a model process, the reaction rate was measured at high spatial resolution across a surface of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite. Oxidation products left behind in a pattern defined by the scanned electrochemical cell served as surface-site markers, allowing the electrochemical activity to be correlated directly with the graphite structure on the nanoscale. This process produced tens of thousands of electrochemical measurements at different locations across the basal surface, unambiguously revealing it to be highly electrochemically active, with step edges providing no enhanced activity. This new model of graphite electrodes has significant implications for the design of carbon-based biosensors, and the results are additionally important for understanding electrochemical processes on related sp(2)-hybridized materials such as pristine graphene and nanotubes.

Understanding the anisotropic strain effects on lithium diffusion in graphite anodes: A first-principles study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ji, Xiang; Wang, Yang; Zhang, Junqian

2018-06-01

The lithium diffusion in graphite anode, which is the most widely used commercial electrode material today, affects the charge/discharge performance of lithium-ion batteries. In this study, the anisotropic strain effects on lithium diffusion in graphite anodes are systematically investigated using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) with van der Waals corrections. It is found that the effects of external applied strains along various directions of LixC6 (i.e., perpendicular or parallel to the basal planes of the graphite host) on lithium diffusivity are different. Along the direction perpendicular to the graphite planes, the tensile strain facilitates in-plane Li diffusion by reducing the energy barrier, and the compressive strain hinders in-plane Li diffusion by raising the energy barrier. In contrast, the in-plane biaxial tensile strain (parallel to the graphite planes) hinders in-plane Li diffusion, and the in-plane biaxial compressive strain facilitates in-plane Li diffusion. Furthermore, both in-plane and transverse shear strains slightly influence Li diffusion in graphite anodes. A discussion is presented to explain the anisotropic strain dependence of lithium diffusion. This research provides data for the continuum modelling of the electrodes in the lithium-ion batteries.

Contribution to the study of the electric arc: Erosion of metallic electrodes. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Castro, A.

1986-01-01

A procedure is described for determining the extent of arc electrode erosion (excluding erosion due to transfer of material) from measurements of emitted spectral beam intensity. The relation between emission intensity and plasma temperature is ascertained. Experimental study of several combinations of monometallic electrodes shows that the method is suitable for determining cathode erosion, although the anode metal affects the extent of erosion. Combinations of electrodes which lead to low erosion of silver are reported.

METHOD OF OBTAINING AN IMPROVED WELD IN INERT ARC WELDING

DOEpatents

Correy, T.B.

1962-12-11

A method is reported for inert arc welding. An a-c welding current is applied to the workpiece and welding electrode such that the positive portion of each cycle thereof, with the electrode positive, has only sufficient energy to clean the surface of the workpiece and the negative portion of each cycle thereof, with the electrode negative, contains the energy required to weld. (AEC)

Lithium insertion in graphite from ternary ionic liquid-lithium salt electrolytes: II. Evaluation of specific capacity and cycling efficiency and stability at room temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lux, Simon F.; Schmuck, Martin; Appetecchi, Giovanni B.; Passerini, Stefano; Winter, Martin; Balducci, Andrea

In this paper we report the results about the use of ternary room temperature ionic liquid-lithium salt mixtures as electrolytes for lithium-ion battery systems. Mixtures of N-methyl- N-propyl pyrrolidinium bis(fluorosulfonyl) imide, PYR 13FSI, and N-butyl- N-methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethansulfonyl) imide, PYR 14TFSI, with lithium hexafluorophosphate, LiPF 6 and lithium bis(trifluoromethansulfonyl) imide, LiTFSI, containing 5 wt.% of vinylene carbonate (VC) as additive, have been used in combination with a commercial graphite, KS6 TIMCAL. The performance of the graphite electrodes has been considered in term of specific capacity, cycling efficiency and cycling stability. The results clearly show the advantage of the use of ternary mixtures on the performance of the graphite electrode.

Charge and discharge characteristics of lithium-ion graphite electrodes in solid-state cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lemont, S.; Billaud, D.

Lithium ions have been electrochemically intercalated into graphite in solid-state cells operating with solid polymer electrolytes based on poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) complexed with lithium perchlorate (LiClO 4). The working composite electrode is composed of active-divided natural graphite associated with P(EO) 8-LiClO 4 acting as a binder and a Li + ionic conductor. Intercalation and de-intercalation of Li + were performed using galvanostatic or voltammetry techniques. The curves obtained in our solid-state cells were compared with those performed in liquid ethylene carbonate-LiClO 4 electrolyte. It is shown that in solid-state cells, side reactions occur both in the reduction and in the oxidation processes which leads to some uncertainty in the determination of the maximum reversible capacity of the graphite material.

Arc voltage distribution skewness as an indicator of electrode gap during vacuum arc remelting

DOEpatents

Williamson, Rodney L.; Zanner, Frank J.; Grose, Stephen M.

1998-01-01

The electrode gap of a VAR is monitored by determining the skewness of a distribution of gap voltage measurements. A decrease in skewness indicates an increase in gap and may be used to control the gap.

Vacuum Deposition From A Welding Torch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Poorman, R. M.

1993-01-01

Process derived from arc welding produces films of high quality. Modified gas/tungsten-arc welding process developed for use in outer space. Welding apparatus in process includes hollow tungsten electrode through which inert gas flows so arc struck between electrode and workpiece in vacuum of space. Offers advantages of fast deposition, possibility of applying directional impetus to flow of materials, very low pressure at surface being coated, and inert environment.

PULSED ION SOURCE

DOEpatents

Kilpatrick, W.D.

1959-04-21

A source is presented for producing high intensity pulses of ions with precise time control of pulse initiation. The approach taken is to have one of the electrodes in the source occluded with the gas to be ionized. A trigger electrode is disposed adjacent to the gas filled electrode and is pulsed with a voltage to release the gas. The other structure of the source includes an apertured anode disposed between two cathodes, the gas filled electrode and another electrode. At the same time the gas is released a low voltage pulse is applied between the anode and cathodes to establish an ionizing arc discharge. An electrode adjacent to the arc withdraws the ions.

Comparison of fluoride intercalation/de-intercalation processes on graphite electrodes in aqueous and aqueous methanolic HF media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Noel, M.; Santhanam, R.; Francisca Flora, M.

The solvent can play a major role in the intercalation/de-intercalation process and the stability of graphite substrates towards this process. This fact is established in the present work that involves fluoride intercalation/de-intercatlation on graphite electrodes in aqueous and aqueous methanolic HF solutions where the HF concentration is varied between 1.0 and 18.0 M. In addition to cyclic voltammetry and potentiostatic polarization, open-circuit potential decay measurements, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction measurements have been employed. In general, addition of methanol and increasing concentration of HF raise the overall intercalation/de-intercalation efficiency. Methanol is adsorbed preferentially on the graphite lattice and, hence, suppresses both oxygen evolution and the formation of passive graphite oxides. In 15.0 M HF, the optimum methanol concentration is 5 vol.%. This suggests that, in addition to the adsorption effect, there is some weakening of the structured water molecules that facilitates the solvated fluoride ions for efficient intercalation.

Effects of anchoring and arc structure on the control authority of a rail plasma actuator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, Young-Joon; Gray, Miles; Sirohi, Jayant; Raja, Laxminarayan L.

2017-09-01

Experiments were conducted on a rail plasma actuator (RailPAc) with different electrode cross sections (rails or rods) to assess methods to improve the actuation authority, defined as the impulse generated for a given electrical input. The arc was characterized with electrical measurements and high-speed images, while impulse measurements quantified the actuation authority. A RailPAc power supply capable of delivering  ∼1 kA of current at  ∼100 V was connected to rod electrodes (free-floating with circular cross-section) and rail electrodes (flush-mounted in a flat plate with rectangular cross-section). High-speed images show that the rail electrodes cause the arc to anchor itself to the anode electrode and transit in discrete jumps, while rod electrodes permit the arc to transit smoothly without anchoring. The impulse measurements reveal that the anchoring reduces the actuation authority by  ∼21% compared to a smooth transit, and the effect of anchoring can be suppressed by reducing the gap between the rails to 2 mm. The study further demonstrates that if a smooth transit is achieved, the control authority can be increased with a larger gap and larger arc current. In conclusion, the actuation authority of a RailPAc can be maximized by carefully choosing a gap width that prevents anchoring. Further study is warranted to increase the RailPAc actuation authority by introducing multiple turns of wires beneath the RailPAc to augment the induced magnetic field.

Heat and metal transfer in gas metal arc welding using argon and helium

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

Joensson, P.G.; Eagar, T.W.; Szekely, J.

1995-04-01

This article describes a theoretical investigation on the arc parameters and metal transfer in gas metal arc welding (GMAW) of mild steel using argon and helium shielding gases. Major differences in the predicted arc parameters were determined to be due to large differences in thermophysical properties. Various findings from the study include that an arc cannot be struck in a pure helium atmosphere without the assistance of metal vapor, that a strong electromagnetic cathode force affects the fluid flow and heat transfer in the helium arc, providing a possible explanation for the experimentally observed globular transfer mode and that themore » tapering of t electrode in an argon arc is caused by electron condensation on the side of the electrode.« less

Electrochemical Ultracapacitors Using Graphitic Nanostacks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marotta, Christopher

2012-01-01

Electrochemical ultracapacitors (ECs) have been developed using graphitic nanostacks as the electrode material. The advantages of this technology will be the reduction of device size due to superior power densities and relative powers compared to traditional activated carbon electrodes. External testing showed that these materials display reduced discharge response times compared to state-of-the-art materials. Such applications are advantageous for pulsed power applications such as burst communications (satellites, cell phones), electromechanical actuators, and battery load leveling in electric vehicles. These carbon nanostructures are highly conductive and offer an ordered mesopore network. These attributes will provide more complete electrolyte wetting, and faster release of stored charge compared to activated carbon. Electrochemical capacitor (EC) electrode materials were developed using commercially available nanomaterials and modifying them to exploit their energy storage properties. These materials would be an improvement over current ECs that employ activated carbon as the electrode material. Commercially available graphite nanofibers (GNFs) are used as precursor materials for the synthesis of graphitic nanostacks (GNSs). These materials offer much greater surface area than graphite flakes. Additionally, these materials offer a superior electrical conductivity and a greater average pore size compared to activated carbon electrodes. The state of the art in EC development uses activated carbon (AC) as the electrode material. AC has a high surface area, but its small average pore size inhibits electrolyte ingress/egress. Additionally, AC has a higher resistivity, which generates parasitic heating in high-power applications. This work focuses on fabricating EC from carbon that has a very different structure by increasing the surface area of the GNF by intercalation or exfoliation of the graphitic basal planes. Additionally, various functionalities to the GNS surface will be added that can exhibit pseudocapacitance. This pseudocapacitance exhibits faradaic (charge transfer) properties that can further increase the overall relative and volumetric capacitance of the material. A process is also proposed to use GNF as a precursor material to fabricate GNS that will be used as EC electrodes. This results in much better electrical conductivity than activated carbon. This is advantageous for high-pulsed-power applications to reduce parasitic heating. Larger average pore size allows more complete electrolyte wetting (faster charge transfer kinetics). These properties contribute to a lowered equivalent series resistance (ESR), increased specific power, shorter charging times, and decreased parasitic heating. The high density of basal plane edges provides nucleation sites for activation (addition of hydrophilic functional groups) that facilitate electrolyte wetting, and will contribute to pseudocapacitance.

Arc voltage distribution skewness as an indicator of electrode gap during vacuum arc remelting

DOEpatents

Williamson, R.L.; Zanner, F.J.; Grose, S.M.

1998-01-13

The electrode gap of a VAR is monitored by determining the skewness of a distribution of gap voltage measurements. A decrease in skewness indicates an increase in gap and may be used to control the gap. 4 figs.

Gas tungsten arc welder

DOEpatents

Christiansen, D.W.; Brown, W.F.

A welder for automated closure of fuel pins by a gas tungsten arc process in which a rotating length of cladding is positioned adjacent a welding electrode in a sealed enclosure. An independently movable axial grinder is provided in the enclosure for refurbishing the used electrode between welds.

Photocurrent generation by direct electron transfer using photosynthetic reaction centres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahmoudzadeh, A.; Saer, R.; Jun, D.; Mirvakili, S. M.; Takshi, A.; Iranpour, B.; Ouellet, E.; Lagally, E. T.; Madden, J. D. W.; Beatty, J. T.

2011-09-01

Photosynthetic reaction centres (RCs) convert light into separated charges with nearly perfect quantum efficiency, and have been used to generate photocurrent. Previous work has shown that electron tunnelling rates between redox centres in proteins depend exponentially on the tunnelling distance. In this work the RC from Rhodobacter sphaeroides was genetically modified with the aim of achieving the shortest tunnelling distances yet demonstrated between the RC's electron-accepting P site and underlying graphite and gold electrodes, and between the electron donor Q site and graphite electrodes. Opposite charges are carried to counter electrodes using mobile mediators, as in dye-sensitised solar cells. Native RCs are bound to graphite surfaces through N-(1-pyrene)iodoacetamide. Although the linker's length is only 4 Å, the electron transfer pathway between the Q electron donor site on the RC and the electrode surface is still too large for current to be significant. A mutant version with the electron acceptor P side close to the graphite surface produced currents of 15 nA cm-2 upon illumination. Direct binding of RCs to a gold surface is shown, resulting in currents of 5 nA cm-2. In both cases the current was unaffected by mediator concentration but increased with illumination, suggesting that direct electron transfer was achieved. The engineering of an RC to achieve direct electron transfer will help with long term efforts to demonstrate RC-based photovoltaic devices.

Spectroscopy peculiarities of thermal plasma of electric arc discharge between electrodes with Zn admixtures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Semenyshyn, R. V.; Veklich, A. N.; Babich, I. L.; Boretskij, V. F.

2014-10-01

Plasma of the free burning electric arc between Ag-SnO2-ZnO composite electrodes as well as brass electrodes were investigated. The plasma temperature distributions were obtained by Boltzmann plot method involving Cu I, Ag I or Zn I spectral line emissions. The electron density distributions were obtained from the width and from absolute intensity of spectral lines. The laser absorption spectroscopy was used for measurement of copper atom concentration in plasma. Plasma equilibrium composition was calculated using two independent groups of experimental values (temperature and copper atom concentration, temperature and electron density). It was found that plasma of the free burning electric arc between brass electrodes is in local thermodynamical equilibrium. The experimental verification of the spectroscopic data of Zn I spectral lines was carried out.

Pseudocapacitive performance of electrodeposited porous Co3O4 film on electrophoretically modified graphite electrodes with carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kazazi, Mahdi; Sedighi, Ali Reza; Mokhtari, Mohammad Amin

2018-05-01

A facile and efficient two-step procedure was developed for the fabrication of a high-performance and binder-free cobalt oxide-carbon nanotubes (CO/CNT) pseudocapacitive electrode. First, CNTs were deposited on the surface of a chemically activated graphite sheet by cathodic electrophoretic deposition technique from their ethanolic suspension. In the next step, a thin film of cobalt oxide was electrodeposited on the CNTs coated graphite substrate by a galvanostatic method, followed by a thermal treatment in air. The structure and morphology of the prepared cobaltite electrode with and without CNT interlayer were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and nitrogen adsorption-desorption measurement. The results indicated that Co3O4 nanoparticles were uniformly attached on the surface of CNTs, to form a porous-structured CO/CNT composite electrode with a high specific surface area of 144.9 m2 g-1. Owing to the superior electrical conductivity of CNTs, high surface area and open porous structure, and improved integrity of the electrode structure, the composite electrode delivered a high areal capacitance of 4.96F cm-2 at a current density of 2 mA cm-2, a superior rate performance (64.7% capacitance retention from 2 mA cm-2 to 50 mA cm-2), as well as excellent cycling stability (91.8% capacitance retention after 2000 cycles), which are higher than those of the pure cobaltite electrode.

Electrode Induced Removal and Recovery of Uranium (VI) from Acidic Subsurfaces

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

Gregory, Kelvin

2013-08-12

The overarching objective of this research is to provide an improved understanding of how aqueous geochemical conditions impact the removal of U and Tc from groundwater and how engineering design may be utilized to optimize removal of these radionuclides. Experiments were designed to address the unique conditions in Area 3 of ORNL while also providing broader insight into the geochemical effectors of the removal rates and extent for U and Tc. The specific tasks of this work were to: 1) quantify the impact of common aqueous geochemical and operational conditions on the rate and extent of U removal and recoverymore » from water, 2) investigate the removal of Tc with polarized graphite electrode, and determine the influence of geochemical and operational conditions on Tc removal and recovery, 3) determine whether U and Tc may be treated simultaneous from Area 3 groundwater, and examine the bench-scale performance of electrode-based treatment, and 4) determine the capacity of graphite electrodes for U(VI) removal and develop a mathematical, kinetic model for the removal of U(VI) from aqueous solution. Overall the body of work suggests that an electrode-based approach for the remediation of acidic subsurface environments, such as those observed in Area 3 of ORNL may be successful for the removal for both U(VI) and Tc. Carbonaceous (graphite) electrode materials are likely to be the least costly means to maximize removal rates and efficiency by maximizing the electrode surface area.« less

Capacity Fade and Its Mitigation in Li-Ion Cells with Silicon-Graphite Electrodes

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

Bareno, Javier; Shkrob, Ilya A.; Gilbert, James A.

Silicon-graphite (Si-Gr) electrodes typically contain lithiated carboxylates as polymer binders that are introduced through aqueous processing. Li-ion cells with such electrodes show significantly faster capacity fade than cells with graphite (Gr) electrodes. Here we examine the causes for capacity loss in Si-Gr cells containing LiPF 6-based electrolytes. The presence of SiO xF y in the Si-Gr electrode, fluorophosphate species in the electrolyte, and silica on the positive electrode indicates the crucial role of the hydrolytic cycle. In particular, HF acid that is generated through LiPF 6 hydrolysis corrodes Si particles. As it reacts, the released water re-enters the cycle. Wemore » trace the moisture initiating this detrimental cycle to the hydration water in the lithiated binders that cannot be fully removed by thermal treatment. The rate of HF corrosion can be reduced through the use of electrolyte additives. For the fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) additive, the improved performance arises from changes to the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) that serves as a barrier against HF attack. Here, we propose that the greater extent of polymer cross-linking, that gives FEC-derived SEI elastomer properties, slows down HF percolation through this SEI membrane and inhibits the formation of deep cracks through which HF can access and degrade the Si surface.« less

Capacity Fade and Its Mitigation in Li-Ion Cells with Silicon-Graphite Electrodes

DOE PAGES

Bareno, Javier; Shkrob, Ilya A.; Gilbert, James A.; ...

2017-09-06

Silicon-graphite (Si-Gr) electrodes typically contain lithiated carboxylates as polymer binders that are introduced through aqueous processing. Li-ion cells with such electrodes show significantly faster capacity fade than cells with graphite (Gr) electrodes. Here we examine the causes for capacity loss in Si-Gr cells containing LiPF 6-based electrolytes. The presence of SiO xF y in the Si-Gr electrode, fluorophosphate species in the electrolyte, and silica on the positive electrode indicates the crucial role of the hydrolytic cycle. In particular, HF acid that is generated through LiPF 6 hydrolysis corrodes Si particles. As it reacts, the released water re-enters the cycle. Wemore » trace the moisture initiating this detrimental cycle to the hydration water in the lithiated binders that cannot be fully removed by thermal treatment. The rate of HF corrosion can be reduced through the use of electrolyte additives. For the fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) additive, the improved performance arises from changes to the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) that serves as a barrier against HF attack. Here, we propose that the greater extent of polymer cross-linking, that gives FEC-derived SEI elastomer properties, slows down HF percolation through this SEI membrane and inhibits the formation of deep cracks through which HF can access and degrade the Si surface.« less

Label-Free Electrochemical Detection of the Specific Oligonucleotide Sequence of Dengue Virus Type 1 on Pencil Graphite Electrodes

PubMed Central

Souza, Elaine; Nascimento, Gustavo; Santana, Nataly; Ferreira, Danielly; Lima, Manoel; Natividade, Edna; Martins, Danyelly; Lima-Filho, José

2011-01-01

A biosensor that relies on the adsorption immobilization of the 18-mer single-stranded nucleic acid related to dengue virus gene 1 on activated pencil graphite was developed. Hybridization between the probe and its complementary oligonucleotides (the target) was investigated by monitoring guanine oxidation by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The pencil graphite electrode was made of ordinary pencil lead (type 4B). The polished surface of the working electrode was activated by applying a potential of 1.8 V for 5 min. Afterward, the dengue oligonucleotides probe was immobilized on the activated electrode by applying 0.5 V to the electrode in 0.5 M acetate buffer (pH 5.0) for 5 min. The hybridization process was carried out by incubating at the annealing temperature of the oligonucleotides. A time of five minutes and concentration of 1 μM were found to be the optimal conditions for probe immobilization. The electrochemical detection of annealing between the DNA probe (TS-1P) immobilized on the modified electrode, and the target (TS-1T) was achieved. The target could be quantified in a range from 1 to 40 nM with good linearity and a detection limit of 0.92 nM. The specificity of the electrochemical biosensor was tested using non-complementary sequences of dengue virus 2 and 3. PMID:22163916

Swirl Ring Improves Performance Of Welding Torch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcgee, William F.; Rybicki, Daniel J.

1995-01-01

Plasma-arc welding torch modified to create vortex in plasma gas to focus arc into narrower and denser column. Swirl ring contains four channels with angled exit holes to force gas to swirl as it flows out of torch past tip of electrode. Degradation of electrode and orifice more uniform and need to rotate torch during operation to compensate for asymmetry in arc reduced or eliminated. Used in both keyhole and nonkeyhole welding modes.

Novel non-equilibrium modelling of a DC electric arc in argon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baeva, M.; Benilov, M. S.; Almeida, N. A.; Uhrlandt, D.

2016-06-01

A novel non-equilibrium model has been developed to describe the interplay of heat and mass transfer and electric and magnetic fields in a DC electric arc. A complete diffusion treatment of particle fluxes, a generalized form of Ohm’s law, and numerical matching of the arc plasma with the space-charge sheaths adjacent to the electrodes are applied to analyze in detail the plasma parameters and the phenomena occurring in the plasma column and the near-electrode regions of a DC arc generated in atmospheric pressure argon for current levels from 20 A up to 200 A. Results comprising electric field and potential, current density, heating of the electrodes, and effects of thermal and chemical non-equilibrium are presented and discussed. The current-voltage characteristic obtained is in fair agreement with known experimental data. It indicates a minimum for arc current of about 80 A. For all current levels, a field reversal in front of the anode accompanied by a voltage drop of (0.7-2.6) V is observed. Another field reversal is observed near the cathode for arc currents below 80 A.

Heat transfer in GTA welding arcs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huft, Nathan J.

Heat transfer characteristics of Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) arcs with arc currents of 50 to 125 A and arc lengths of 3 to 11 mm were measured experimentally through wet calorimetry. The data collected were used to calculate how much heat reported to the cathode and anode and how much was lost from the arc column. A Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) macro was written to further analyze the data and account for Joule heating within the electrodes and radiation and convection losses from the arc, providing a detailed account of how heat was generated and dissipated within the system. These values were then used to calculate arc efficiencies, arc column voltages, and anode and cathode fall voltages. Trends were noted for variances in the arc column voltage, power dissipated from the arc column, and the total power dissipated by the system with changing arc length. Trends for variances in the anode and cathode fall voltages, total power dissipated, Joule heating within the torches and electrodes with changing arc current were also noted. In addition, the power distribution between the anode and cathode for each combination of arc length and arc current was examined. Keywords: Gas Tungsten Arc Welding, GTAW, anode fall, cathode fall, heat transfer, wet calorimetry

Arcing time analysis of liquid nitrogen with respect to electrode materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Junaid, Muhammad; Yang, Kun; Ge, Hanming; Wang, Jianhua

2018-03-01

Unlike sulphur hexafluoride (SF6), liquid nitrogen (LN2) is cost effective, environment friendly and cryogenic dielectric. It has astounding insulating properties with the potential to decrease power loss in switchgear applications due to its remarkably low temperatures. The basic research is however a necessity to observe the performance of LN2 subjected to high luminance arcs. So far, there are no findings that refer to the arcing time inside the LN2 environment. The objective of this work was to investigate the arcing times in LN2 and compare the results with open air conditions using different electrode materials. Experiments were conducted on different DC voltages and their arcing times were measured. Three different kinds of electrode materials, namely: pure copper (Cu), stainless used steel (SUS) and aluminium alloy (Al 6061) were tested under 1 atmospheric pressure. The results revealed that LN2 extinguishes arc in almost half the amount of time required by the open air insulation. With Al 6061 has the shortest arcing time, whilst Cu, the second best choice and SUS places last in the evaluation. It was encapsulated from the findings that LN2 is a better choice than air insulation in terms of arc quenching and a better alternative to SF6 when environment is the priority.

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

Danial, Wan Hazman, E-mail: hazmandanial@gmail.com; Majid, Zaiton Abdul, E-mail: zaiton@kimia.fs.utm.my; Aziz, Madzlan

The present work reports the synthesis and characterization of graphene via electrochemical exfoliation of graphite rod using two-electrode system assisted by Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate (SDS) as a surfactant. The electrochemical process was carried out with sequence of intercalation of SDS onto the graphite anode followed by exfoliation of the SDS-intercalated graphite electrode when the anode was treated as cathode. The effect of intercalation potential from 5 V to 9 V and concentration of the SDS surfactant of 0.1 M and 0.01 M were investigated. UV-vis Spectroscopic analysis indicated an increase in the graphene production with higher intercalation potential. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)more » analysis showed a well-ordered hexagonal lattice of graphene image and indicated an angle of 60° between two zigzag directions within the honeycomb crystal lattice. Raman spectroscopy analysis shows the graphitic information effects after the exfoliation process.« less

Room temperature stable single molecule rectifiers with graphite electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rungger, Ivan; Kaliginedi, V.; Droghetti, A.; Ozawa, H.; Kuzume, A.; Haga, M.; Broekmann, P.; Rudnev, A. V.

In this combined theoretical and experimental study we present new molecular electronics device characteristics of unprecedented stability at room temperature by using electrodes based on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite with covalently attached molecules. To this aim, we explore the effect of the anchoring group chemistry on the charge transport properties of graphite/molecule contacts by means of the scanning tunneling microscopy break-junction technique and ab initio simulations. The theoretical approach to evaluate the conductance is based on density functional theory calculations combined with the non-equilibrium Greens function technique, as implemented in the Smeagol electron transport code. We also demonstrate a strong bias dependence and rectification of the single molecule conductance induced by the anchoring chemistry in combination with the very low density of states of graphite around the Fermi energy. We show that the direction of tunneling current rectification can be tuned by anchoring group chemistry.

In Situ Activation of Nitrogen-Doped Graphene Anchored on Graphite Foam for a High-Capacity Anode.

PubMed

Ji, Junyi; Liu, Jilei; Lai, Linfei; Zhao, Xin; Zhen, Yongda; Lin, Jianyi; Zhu, Yanwu; Ji, Hengxing; Zhang, Li Li; Ruoff, Rodney S

2015-08-25

We report the fabrication of a three-dimensional free-standing nitrogen-doped porous graphene/graphite foam by in situ activation of nitrogen-doped graphene on highly conductive graphite foam (GF). After in situ activation, intimate "sheet contact" was observed between the graphene sheets and the GF. The sheet contact produced by in situ activation is found to be superior to the "point contact" obtained by the traditional drop-casting method and facilitates electron transfer. Due to the intimate contact as well as the use of an ultralight GF current collector, the composite electrode delivers a gravimetric capacity of 642 mAh g(-1) and a volumetric capacity of 602 mAh cm(-3) with respect to the whole electrode mass and volume (including the active materials and the GF current collector). When normalized based on the mass of the active material, the composite electrode delivers a high specific capacity of up to 1687 mAh g(-1), which is superior to that of most graphene-based electrodes. Also, after ∼90 s charging, the anode delivers a capacity of about 100 mAh g(-1) (with respect to the total mass of the electrode), indicating its potential use in high-rate lithium-ion batteries.

Influence of various Activated Carbon based Electrode Materials in the Performance of Super Capacitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ajay, K. M.; Dinesh, M. N.

2018-02-01

Various activated carbon based electrode materials with different surface areas was prepared on stainless steel based refillable super capacitor model using spin coating. Bio Synthesized Activated Carbon (BSAC), Activated Carbon (AC) and Graphite powder are chosen as electrode materials in this paper. Electrode materials prepared using binder solution which is 6% by wt. polyvinylidene difluoride, 94% by wt. dimethyl fluoride. 3M concentrated KOH solution is used as aqueous electrolyte with PVDF thin film as separator. It is tested for electrochemical characterizations and material characterizations. It is observed that the Specific capacitance of Graphite, Biosynthesized active carbon and Commercially available activated carbon are 16.1F g-1, 53.4F g-1 and 107.6F g-1 respectively at 5mV s-1 scan rate.

Structure and Li+ ion transport in a mixed carbonate/LiPF6 electrolyte near graphite electrode surfaces: a molecular dynamics study.

PubMed

Boyer, Mathew J; Vilčiauskas, Linas; Hwang, Gyeong S

2016-10-12

Electrolyte and electrode materials used in lithium-ion batteries have been studied separately to a great extent, however the structural and dynamical properties of the electrolyte-electrode interface still remain largely unexplored despite its critical role in governing battery performance. Using molecular dynamics simulations, we examine the structural reorganization of solvent molecules (cyclic ethylene carbonate : linear dimethyl carbonate 1 : 1 molar ratio doped with 1 M LiPF 6 ) in the vicinity of graphite electrodes with varying surface charge densities (σ). The interfacial structure is found to be sensitive to the molecular geometry and polarity of each solvent molecule as well as the surface structure and charge distribution of the negative electrode. We also evaluated the potential difference across the electrolyte-electrode interface, which exhibits a nearly linear variation with respect to σ up until the onset of Li + ion accumulation onto the graphite edges from the electrolyte. In addition, well-tempered metadynamics simulations are employed to predict the free-energy barriers to Li + ion transport through the relatively dense interfacial layer, along with analysis of the Li + solvation sheath structure. Quantitative analysis of the molecular arrangements at the electrolyte-electrode interface will help better understand and describe electrolyte decomposition, especially in the early stages of solid-electrolyte-interphase (SEI) formation. Moreover, the computational framework presented in this work offers a means to explore the effects of solvent composition, electrode surface modification, and operating temperature on the interfacial structure and properties, which may further assist in efforts to engineer the electrolyte-electrode interface leading to a SEI layer that optimizes battery performance.

78 FR 22843 - Small Diameter Graphite Electrodes From the People's Republic of China: Affirmative Preliminary...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-17

...The Department of Commerce (``Department'') preliminarily determines that imports from the People's Republic of China (``PRC'') of certain graphite electrodes, produced and/or exported by Sinosteel Jilin Carbon Co., Ltd. and Jilin Carbon Import & Export Company (collectively, ``Jilin Carbon''), with an actual or nominal diameter of 17 inches, and otherwise meeting the description of in-scope merchandise, constitutes merchandise altered in form or appearance in such minor respects that it should be included within the scope of the Order.\\1\\ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Battery Electrode Materials with High Cycle Lifetimes

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

Prof. Brent Fultz

2001-06-29

In an effort to understand the capacity fade of nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries, we performed a systematic study of the effects of solute additions on the cycle life of metal hydride electrodes. We also performed a series of measurements on hydrogen absorption capacities of novel carbon and graphite-based materials including graphite nanofibers and single-walled carbon nanotubes. Towards the end of this project we turned our attention to work on Li-ion cells with a focus on anode materials.

The Relationship between the Current Waveform just before the Current Zero and the Interruption Ability in the High-speed VCB

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niwa, Yoshimitsu; Matsuzaki, Jun; Yokokura, Kunio

The high-speed vacuum circuit breaker, which forced the fault current to zero was investigated. The test circuit breaker consisted of a vacuum interrupter and a high frequency current source. The vacuum interrupter, which had the axial magnetic field electrode and the disk shape electrode, was tested. The arcing period of the high-speed vacuum circuit breaker is much shorter than that of conventional circuit breaker. The arc behavior of the test electrodes immediately after the contact separation was observed by a high-speed video camcorder. The relation between the current waveform just before the current zero and the interruption ability by varying the high frequency current source was investigated experimentally. The results demonstrate the interruption ability and the arc behavior of the high-speed vacuum circuit breaker. The high current interruption was made possible by the low current period just before the current zero, although the arcing time is short and the arc is concentrated.

CO2 Solubility in Rhyolitic Melts as a Function of P, T, and fO2 - Implications for Carbon Flux in Subduction Zones

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duncan, M. S.; Dasgupta, R.

2013-12-01

Understanding the balance between subduction inputs vs. arc output of carbon is critical for constraining the global carbon cycle. However, the agent of carbon transfer from slab to sub-arc mantle is not constrained [1]. Partial melt of ocean-floor sediments is thought to be a key agent of mass transfer in subduction zones, accounting for the trace element characteristics of arc magmas [2]. Yet the carbon carrying capacity of rhyolitic partial melts of sediments remains unknown at sub-arc depths. In our previous work [3], we constrained CO2 solubility of natural rhyolite from 1.5-3.0 GPa, 1300 °C and logfO2 at FMQ×1.0. However, the effects of T and fO2 on CO2 solubility remain unconstrained. In particular, for sediments with organic carbon, graphite stability is expected and the fO2 of C-dissolution can be lower, which may affect the solubility. Thus it is critical to constrain the CO2 solubility of sediment partial melts under graphite-saturated conditions. We determined CO2 solubility of a model rhyolite composition, similar to partial melt composition of natural metapelite [4], at graphite saturation, using Pt/Gr capsules and a piston cylinder device. Experiments were conducted at 1.5-3.0 GPa and 1100-1400 °C. FTIR was employed to measure the concentrations of CO2 and H2O in doubly polished experimental glasses. Raman and SIMS were used to determine the presence of reduced carbon species and total carbon, respectively. FTIR spectra reveal that CO2 is dissolved as both molecular CO2 (CO2mol.) and carbonates (CO32-). For graphite-saturated, hydrous melts with measured H2O ~2.0 wt.%, CO2tot. (CO2mol.+CO32-) values increase with increasing P from ~0.6 to 1.2 wt.% from 1.5 to 3.0 GPa at 1300 °C. These values are lower than more oxidized melts with the same water content, which were 0.85 to 1.99 wt.% CO2 as P increased. At 3 GPa, graphite-saturated experiments from 1100 to 1300 °C yield CO2tot. value of 1.18-1.20 wt.%, suggesting minor effect of temperature in bulk CO2 solubility. To meet the minimum requirement of 3000 ppm CO2 in primary arc magma [5,6], the required sediment melt contribution is 0.18-0.28 wt.% CO2, which is distinctly lower than the solubility limit of graphite-saturated melt. However, 1.7 wt.% CO2 in primary arc basalts [5] exceeds the solubility limit of reduced, hydrous melts, which is in contrast to more oxidized, hydrous melts which can contribute up to 2 wt.% CO2. We determine that ~1.7-15% of sediment melt would be required to meet 3000 ppm CO2 in the primary arc basalt depending on the depth of melting (1.5-3.0 GPa) and the degree of mantle wedge melting (15-30%). This contribution is higher than that previously calculated for the more oxidized melts, but still may not be an unreasonable slab flux. [1] Dasgupta (2013) RiMG, 75, 183-229; [2] Plank and Langmuir (1993) Nature, 362, 739-743. [3] Duncan and Dasgupta. (in review) GCA; [4] Tsuno and Dasgupta (2011) CMP, 161, 743-763; [5] Blundy et al. (2010) EPSL, 290, 289-301; [6] Wallace (2005) JVGR, 140, 217-240.

DUAL HEATED ION SOURCE STRUCTURE HAVING ARC SHIFTING MEANS

DOEpatents

Lawrence, E.O.

1959-04-14

An ion source is presented for calutrons, particularly an electrode arrangement for the ion generator of a calutron ion source. The ion source arc chamber is heated and an exit opening with thermally conductive plates defines the margins of the opening. These plates are electrically insulated from the body of the ion source and are connected to a suitable source of voltage to serve as electrodes for shaping the ion beam egressing from the arc chamber.

Emissions of chromium (VI) from arc welding.

PubMed

Heung, William; Yun, Myoung-Jin; Chang, Daniel P Y; Green, Peter G; Halm, Chris

2007-02-01

The presence of Cr in the +6 oxidation state (Cr[VI]) is still observed in ambient air samples in California despite steps taken to reduce emissions from plating operations. One known source of emission of Cr(VI) is welding, especially with high Cr-content materials, such as stainless steels. An experimental effort was undertaken to expand and update Cr(VI) emission factors by conducting tests on four types of arc-welding operations: gas-metal arc welding (GMAW), shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), fluxcore arc welding, and pulsed GMAW. Standard American Welding Society hood results were compared with a total enclosure method that permitted isokinetic sampling for particle size-cut measurement, as well as total collection of the aerosol. The fraction of Cr(VI) emitted per unit mass of Cr electrode consumed was determined. Consistent with AP-42 data, initial results indicate that a significant fraction of the total Cr in the aerosol is in the +6 oxidation state. The fraction of Cr(VI) and total aerosol mass produced by the different arc welding methods varies with the type of welding process used. Self-shielded electrodes that do not use a shield gas, for example, SMAW, produce greater amounts of Cr(VI) per unit mass of electrode consumed. The formation of Cr(VI) from standard electrode wires used for welding mild steel was below the method detection limit after eliminating an artifact in the analytical method used.

Fabrication of an Inexpensive Ion-Selective Electrode.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Palanivel, A.; Riyazuddin, P.

1984-01-01

The preparation and performance of a graphite (silver/copper sulfide) electrode is described. This rod, extracted from a used dry cell, is an acceptable substitute for ion-selective electrodes after it has been cleaned by abrasion followed by an overnight treatment with hydrochloric acid. (JN)

Theoretical Considerations for Improving the Pulse Power of a Battery through the Addition of a Second Electrochemically Active Material

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

Knehr, K. W.; West, Alan C.

Here, porous electrode theory is used to conduct case studies for when the addition of a second electrochemically active material can improve the pulse-power performance of an electrode. Case studies are conducted for the positive electrode of a sodium metal-halide battery and the graphite negative electrode of a lithium “rocking chair” battery. The replacement of a fraction of the nickel chloride capacity with iron chloride in a sodium metal-halide electrode and the replacement of a fraction of the graphite capacity with carbon black in a lithium-ion negative electrode were both predicted to increase the maximum pulse power by up tomore » 40%. In general, whether or not a second electrochemically active material increases the pulse power depends on the relative importance of ohmic-to-charge transfer resistances within the porous structure, the capacity fraction of the second electrochemically active material, and the kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of the two active materials.« less

Theoretical Considerations for Improving the Pulse Power of a Battery through the Addition of a Second Electrochemically Active Material

DOE PAGES

Knehr, K. W.; West, Alan C.

2016-05-26

Here, porous electrode theory is used to conduct case studies for when the addition of a second electrochemically active material can improve the pulse-power performance of an electrode. Case studies are conducted for the positive electrode of a sodium metal-halide battery and the graphite negative electrode of a lithium “rocking chair” battery. The replacement of a fraction of the nickel chloride capacity with iron chloride in a sodium metal-halide electrode and the replacement of a fraction of the graphite capacity with carbon black in a lithium-ion negative electrode were both predicted to increase the maximum pulse power by up tomore » 40%. In general, whether or not a second electrochemically active material increases the pulse power depends on the relative importance of ohmic-to-charge transfer resistances within the porous structure, the capacity fraction of the second electrochemically active material, and the kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of the two active materials.« less

Graphitic carbon nitride nanosheet electrode-based high-performance ionic actuator

PubMed Central

Wu, Guan; Hu, Ying; Liu, Yang; Zhao, Jingjing; Chen, Xueli; Whoehling, Vincent; Plesse, Cédric; Nguyen, Giao T. M.; Vidal, Frédéric; Chen, Wei

2015-01-01

Ionic actuators have attracted attention due to their remarkably large strain under low-voltage stimulation. Because actuation performance is mainly dominated by the electrochemical and electromechanical processes of the electrode layer, the electrode material and structure are crucial. Here, we report a graphitic carbon nitride nanosheet electrode-based ionic actuator that displays high electrochemical activity and electromechanical conversion abilities, including large specific capacitance (259.4 F g−1) with ionic liquid as the electrolyte, fast actuation response (0.5±0.03% in 300 ms), large electromechanical strain (0.93±0.03%) and high actuation stability (100,000 cycles) under 3 V. The key to the high performance lies in the hierarchical pore structure with dominant size <2 nm, optimal pyridinic nitrogen active sites (6.78%) and effective conductivity (382 S m−1) of the electrode. Our study represents an important step towards artificial muscle technology in which heteroatom modulation in electrodes plays an important role in promoting electrochemical actuation performance. PMID:26028354

Ternary gas plasma welding torch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rybicki, Daniel J. (Inventor); Mcgee, William F. (Inventor); Waldron, Douglas J. (Inventor)

1995-01-01

A plasma arc welding torch is discussed. A first plasma gas is directed through the body of the welding torch and out of the body across the tip of a welding electrode disposed at the forward end of the body. A second plasma gas is disposed for flow through a longitudinal bore in the electrode. The second plasma gas enters one end of the electrode and exits the electrode at the tip thereof for co-acting with the electric welding arc to produce the desired weld. A shield gas is directed through the torch body and circulates around the head of the torch adjacent to the electrode tip.

A high-performance nonenzymatic glucose sensor made of CuO-SWCNT nanocomposites.

PubMed

Quoc Dung, Nguyen; Patil, Dewyani; Jung, Hyuck; Kim, Dojin

2013-04-15

Nanocomposites of CuO and single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) were synthesized using an arc-discharging graphite rod that contained copper wires. Simultaneous arc discharges produced a CuO-SWCNT composite network. The crystalline structure and morphology of the CuO-SWCNT composite films were investigated using XRD, Raman spectroscopy, FE-SEM and TEM. The electrochemical properties were investigated by cyclic voltammogram and amperometric measurements in a 0.1 M NaOH solution. The CuO content in the CuO-SWCNT nanocomposites was optimized for nonenzymatic glucose detection. The glucose sensing properties of the optimized CuO-SWCNT electrode showed good stability, selectivity, and linear glucose detection that ranged from 0.05 to 1800 μM with a higher sensitivity of 1610 μA cm⁻² mM⁻¹, a quick response time of 1-2 s, and the lowest limit of detection at 50 nM. The sensing performance was better than the pure CuO and SWCNT sensors, and the synergetic effect of the composite sensor was attributed to the high conductivity network of highly porous nanowires. The sensor also showed a good response in a human serum sample, which proves its high potential towards a commercial nonenzymatic glucose sensor. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Highly Flexible and Planar Supercapacitors Using Graphite Flakes/Polypyrrole in Polymer Lapping Film.

PubMed

Raj, C Justin; Kim, Byung Chul; Cho, Won-Je; Lee, Won-gil; Jung, Sang-Don; Kim, Yong Hee; Park, Sang Yeop; Yu, Kook Hyun

2015-06-24

Flexible supercapacitor electrodes have been fabricated by simple fabrication technique using graphite nanoflakes on polymer lapping films as flexible substrate. An additional thin layer of conducting polymer polypyrrole over the electrode improved the surface conductivity and exhibited excellent electrochemical performances. Such capacitor films showed better energy density and power density with a maximum capacitance value of 37 mF cm(-2) in a half cell configuration using 1 M H2SO4 electrolyte, 23 mF cm(-2) in full cell, and 6 mF cm(-2) as planar cell configuration using poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/phosphoric acid (H3PO4) solid state electrolyte. Moreover, the graphite nanoflakes/polypyrrole over polymer lapping film demonstrated good flexibility and cyclic stability.

Nanoporous Ni(OH)2 thin film on 3D Ultrathin-graphite foam for asymmetric supercapacitor.

PubMed

Ji, Junyi; Zhang, Li Li; Ji, Hengxing; Li, Yang; Zhao, Xin; Bai, Xin; Fan, Xiaobin; Zhang, Fengbao; Ruoff, Rodney S

2013-07-23

Nanoporous nickel hydroxide (Ni(OH)2) thin film was grown on the surface of ultrathin-graphite foam (UGF) via a hydrothermal reaction. The resulting free-standing Ni(OH)2/UGF composite was used as the electrode in a supercapacitor without the need for addition of either binder or metal-based current collector. The highly conductive 3D UGF network facilitates electron transport and the porous Ni(OH)2 thin film structure shortens ion diffusion paths and facilitates the rapid migration of electrolyte ions. An asymmetric supercapacitor was also made and studied with Ni(OH)2/UGF as the positive electrode and activated microwave exfoliated graphite oxide ('a-MEGO') as the negative electrode. The highest power density of the fully packaged asymmetric cell (44.0 kW/kg) was much higher (2-27 times higher), while the energy density was comparable to or higher, than high-end commercially available supercapacitors. This asymmetric supercapacitor had a capacitance retention of 63.2% after 10,000 cycles.

Influence of Inner Transducer Properties on EMF Response and Stability of Solid-Contact Anion Selective Membrane Electrodes Based on Metalloporphyrin Ionophores

PubMed Central

Górski, Łukasz; Matusevich, Alexey; Pietrzak, Mariusz; Wang, Lin; Meyerhoff, Mark E.; Malinowska, Elżbieta

2010-01-01

The performance of solid-contact/coated wire type electrodes with plasticized PVC membranes containing metalloporphyrins as anion selective ionophores is reported. The membranes are deposited on transducers based on graphite pastes and graphite rods. The hydrophobicity of the underlying conductive transducer surface is found to be a key factor that influences the formation of an aqueous layer beneath the polymer film. Elimination of this ill-defined water layer greatly improves the electrochemical properties of the ion-sensors, such as EMF stability and life-time. Only highly lipophilic electrode substrates, namely graphite paste with mineral oil, were shown to prevent the formation of aqueous layer underneath the ion-sensing membrane. The possibility of employing Co(III)-tetraphenylporphyrin both as NO2− selective ionophore and as electron/ion conducting species to ensure ion-to-electron translation was also discussed based on the results of preliminary experiments. PMID:20357903

AN INSTRUMENT TO MEASURE THE ELECTRICAL CONDUCTIVITY OF ARC PLASMA JETS

DTIC Science & Technology

The instrument was calibrated by moving aluminum or graphite rods through the transducer. By using thin-wall, stainless steel tubing, the influence ... function for the transducer was also obtained. Tests were run on two different arc plasma jet facilities. Values of s, u ranged from 0.02 to 9 megamhos per second. (Author)

Oriented graphite layer formation in Ti/C and TiC/C multilayers deposited by high current pulsed cathodic arc

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

Persson, P. O. A.; Ryves, L.; Tucker, M. D.

2008-10-01

Ti/C and TiC/C multilayers with periods ranging from 2 to 18 nm were grown by filtered high current pulsed cathodic arc. The growth was monitored in situ by ellipsometry and cantilever stress measurements. The ellipsometry results reveal that the optical properties of the carbon vary as a function of thickness. Correspondingly, the stress in each carbon layer as measured in situ exhibits two well defined values: initially the stress is low and then takes on a higher value for the remainder of the layer. Transmission electron microscopy shows that the initial growth of carbon on Ti or TiC layer ismore » oriented with graphitic basal planes aligned parallel to the interface. After 2-4 nm of growth, the graphitic structure transforms to amorphous carbon. Electron energy loss spectroscopy shows that the carbon layer simultaneously undergoes a transition from sp{sup 2} rich to sp{sup 3} rich material.« less

Molecular dynamics simulation studies of ionic liquid electrolytes for electric double layer capacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Zongzhi

Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation has been performed on various Electric Double Layer Capacitors (EDLCs) systems with different Room Temperature Ionic Liquids (RTILs) as well as different structures and materials of electrodes using a computationally efficient, low cost, united atom (UA)/explicit atom (EA) force filed. MD simulation studies on two 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium (BMIM) based RTILs, i.e., [BMIM][BF4] and [BMIM][PF6], have been conducted on both atomic flat and corrugated graphite as well as (001) and (011) gold electrode surfaces to understand the correlations between the Electric Double Layer (EDL) structure and their corresponding differential capacitance (DC). Our MD simulations have strong agreement with some experimental data. The structures of electrodes also have a strong effect on the capacitance of EDLCs. MD simulations have been conducted on RTILs of N-methyl-N- propylpyrrolidinium [pyr13] and bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (FSI) as well as [BMIM][PF6] on both curvature electrodes (fullerenes, nanotube, nanowire) and atomic flat electrode surfaces. It turns out that the nanowire electrode systems have the largest capacitance, following by fullerene systems. Nanotube electrode systems have the smallest capacitance, but they are still larger than that of atomically flat electrode system. Also, RTILs with slightly different chemical structure such as [Cnmim], n = 2, 4, 6, and 8, FSI and bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (TFSI), have been examined by MD simulation on both flat and nonflat graphite electrode surfaces to study the effect of cation and anion's chemical structures on EDL structure and DC. With prismatic (nonflat) graphite electrodes, a transition from a bell-shape to a camel-shape DC dependence on electrode potential was observed with increase of the cation alkyl tail length for FSI systems. In contrast, the [Cnmim][TFSI] ionic liquids generated only a camel-shape DC on the rough surface regardless of the length of alkyl tail.

Tunable Oxygen Functional Groups as Electrocatalysts on Graphite Felt Surfaces for All-Vanadium Flow Batteries.

PubMed

Estevez, Luis; Reed, David; Nie, Zimin; Schwarz, Ashleigh M; Nandasiri, Manjula I; Kizewski, James P; Wang, Wei; Thomsen, Edwin; Liu, Jun; Zhang, Ji-Guang; Sprenkle, Vincent; Li, Bin

2016-06-22

A dual oxidative approach using O2 plasma followed by treatment with H2 O2 to impart oxygen functional groups onto the surface of a graphite felt electrode. When used as electrodes for an all-vanadium redox flow battery (VRB) system, the energy efficiency of the cell is enhanced by 8.2 % at a current density of 150 mA cm(-2) compared with one oxidized by thermal treatment in air. More importantly, by varying the oxidative techniques, the amount and type of oxygen groups was tailored and their effects were elucidated. It was found that O-C=O groups improve the cells performance whereas the C-O and C=O groups degrade it. The reason for the increased performance was found to be a reduction in the cell overpotential after functionalization of the graphite felt electrode. This work reveals a route for functionalizing carbon electrodes to improve the performance of VRB cells. This approach can lower the cost of VRB cells and pave the way for more commercially viable stationary energy storage systems that can be used for intermittent renewable energy storage. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Lithium dendrite and solid electrolyte interphase investigation using OsO4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zier, Martin; Scheiba, Frieder; Oswald, Steffen; Thomas, Jürgen; Goers, Dietrich; Scherer, Torsten; Klose, Markus; Ehrenberg, Helmut; Eckert, Jürgen

2014-11-01

Osmium tetroxide (OsO4) staining, commonly used to enhance scattering contrast in electron microscopy of biologic tissue and polymer blends, has been adopted for studies of graphite anodes in lithium-ion batteries. OsO4 shows a coordinated reaction with components of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and lithium dendrites, thereby increasing material contrast for scanning electron microscopy investigations. Utilizing the high affinity of lithium metal to react with osmium tetroxide it was possible to localize even small lithium deposits on graphite electrodes. In spite of their reaction with the OsO4 fume, the lithium dendrite morphology remains almost untouched by the staining procedure, offering information on the dendrite growth process. Correlating the quantity of osmium detected with the amount of residual ("dead") lithium of a discharged electrode, it was possible to obtain a practical measure for lithium plating and stripping efficiencies. EDX mappings allowed for a localization of electrochemically stripped lithium dendrites by their residual stained SEI shells. Cross sections, prepared by focused ion beam (FIB) of cycled graphite electrodes treated with OsO4, revealed important information about deposition and distribution of metallic lithium and the electrolyte reduction layer across the electrode.

Enhancing biodegradation and energy generation via roughened surface graphite electrode in microbial desalination cell.

PubMed

Ebrahimi, Atieh; Yousefi Kebria, Daryoush; Najafpour Darzi, Ghasem

2017-09-01

The microbial desalination cell (MDC) is known as a newly developed technology for water and wastewater treatment. In this study, desalination rate, organic matter removal and energy production in the reactors with and without desalination function were compared. Herein, a new design of plain graphite called roughened surface graphite (RSG) was used as the anode electrode in both microbial fuel cell (MFC) and MDC reactors for the first time. Among the three type of anode electrodes investigated in this study, RSG electrode produced the highest power density and salt removal rate of 10.81 W/m 3 and 77.6%, respectively. Such a power density was 2.33 times higher than the MFC reactor due to the junction potential effect. In addition, adding the desalination function to the MFC reactor enhanced columbic efficiency from 21.8 to 31.4%. These results provided a proof-of-concept that the use of MDC instead of MFC would improve wastewater treatment efficiency and power generation, with an added benefit of water desalination. Furthermore, RSG can successfully be employed in an MDC or MFC, enhancing the bio-electricity generation and salt removal.

Pt/Pd electrocatalyst electrons for fuel cells

DOEpatents

Stonehart, P.

1981-11-03

This invention relates to improved electrochemical cells and to novel electrodes for use therein. In particular, the present invention comprises a fuel cell used primarily for the consumption of impure hydrogen fuels containing carbon monoxide or carbonaceous fuels where the electrode in contact with the fuel is not substantially poisoned by carbon monoxide. The anode of the fuel cell comprises a Pd/Pt alloy supported on a graphitized or partially graphitized carbon material. Fuel cells which comprise as essential elements a fuel electrode, an oxidizing electrode, and an electrolyte between said electrodes are devices for the direct production of electricity through the electrochemical combustion of a fuel and oxidant. These devices are recognized for their high efficiency as energy conversion units, since unlike conventional combustion engines, they are not subject to the limitations of the Carnot heat cycle. It is the primary object of the present invention to provide an electrode having high electrochemical activity for an electrochemical cell. It is another object of the present invention to provide an electrode having an electro-catalyst which is highly resistant to the corrosive environment of an electrochemical cell.

Selective determination of four arsenic species in rice and water samples by modified graphite electrode-based electrolytic hydride generation coupled with atomic fluorescence spectrometry.

PubMed

Yang, Xin-An; Lu, Xiao-Ping; Liu, Lin; Chi, Miao-Bin; Hu, Hui-Hui; Zhang, Wang-Bing

2016-10-01

This work describes a novel non-chromatographic approach for the accurate and selective determining As species by modified graphite electrode-based electrolytic hydride generation (EHG) for sample introduction coupled with atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS) detection. Two kinds of sulfydryl-containing modifiers, l-cysteine (Cys) and glutathione (GSH), are used to modify cathode. The EHG performance of As has been changed greatly at the modified cathode, which has never been reported. Arsenite [As(III)] on the GSH modified graphite electrode (GSH/GE)-based EHG can be selectively and quantitatively converted to AsH3 at applied current of 0.4A. As(III) and arsenate [As(V)] on the Cys modified graphite electrode (Cys/GE) EHG can be selectively and efficiently converted to arsine at applied current of 0.6A, whereas monomethylarsonic acid (MMA) and dimethylarsinic acid (DMA) do not form any or only less volatile hydrides under this condition. By changing the analytical conditions, we also have achieved the analysis of total As (tAs) and DMA. Under the optimal condition, the detection limits (3s) of As(III), iAs and tAs in aqueous solutions are 0.25μgL(-1), 0.22μgL(-1) and 0.10μgL(-1), respectively. The accuracy of the method is verified through the analysis of standard reference materials (SRM 1568a). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

One-step preparation of nanostructured martite catalyst and graphite electrode by glow discharge plasma for heterogeneous electro-Fenton like process.

PubMed

Khataee, Alireza; Sajjadi, Saeed; Hasanzadeh, Aliyeh; Vahid, Behrouz; Joo, Sang Woo

2017-09-01

Natural Martite ore particles and graphite were modified by alternating current (AC) glow discharge plasma to form nanostructured catalyst and cathode electrode for using in the heterogeneous-electro Fenton-like (Het-EF-like) process. The performance of the plasma-treated martite (PTM) and graphite electrode (PTGE) was studied for the treatment of paraquat herbicide in a batch system. 85.78% degradation efficiency for 20 mg L -1 paraquat was achieved in the modified process under desired operational conditions (i.e. current intensity of 300 mA, catalyst amount of 1 g L -1 , pH = 6, and background electrolyte (Na 2 SO 4 ) concentration of 0.05 mol L -1 ) which was higher than the 41.03% for the unmodified one after 150 min of treatment. The ecofriendly modification of the martite particles and the graphite electrode, no chemical needed, low leached iron and milder operational pH were the main privileges of plasma utilization. Moreover, the degradation efficiency through the process was not declined after five repeated cycles at the optimized conditions, which proved the stability of the nanostructured PTM and PTGE in the long-term usage. The archived results exhibit this method is the first example of high efficient, cost-effective, and environment-friendly method for generation of nanostructured samples. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

INFLUENCES OF PH AND CURRENT ON ELECTROLYTIC DECHLORINATION OF TRICHLOROETHYLENE AT A GRANULAR-GRAPHITE PACKED ELECTRODE

EPA Science Inventory

Electrolytic dechlorination using a granular-graphite packed cathode is an alternative method for the remediation of chlorinated organic compounds. Its effectiveness under various conditions needs experimental investigation. Dechlorination of trichloroethylene (TCE) was conducted...

Predicting ion specific capacitances of supercapacitors due to quantum ionic interactions.

PubMed

Parsons, Drew F

2014-08-01

A new theoretical framework is now available to help explain ion specific (Hofmeister) effects. All measurements in physical chemistry show ion specificity, inexplicable by classical electrostatic theories. These ignore ionic dispersion forces that change ionic adsorption. We explored ion specificity in supercapacitors using a modified Poisson-Boltzmann approach that includes ionic dispersion energies. We have applied ab initio quantum chemical methods to determine required ion sizes and ion polarisabilities. Our model represents graphite electrodes through their optical dielectric spectra. The electrolyte was 1.2 M Li salt in propylene carbonate, using the common battery anions, PF6(-), BF4(-) and ClO4(-). We also investigated the perhalate series with BrO4(-) and IO4(-). The capacitance C=dσ/dψ was calculated from the predicted electrode surface charge σ of each electrode with potential ψ between electrodes. Compared to the purely electrostatic calculation, the capacitance of a positively charged graphite electrode was enhanced by more than 15%, with PF6(-) showing >50% increase in capacitance. IO4(-) provided minimal enhancement. The enhancement is due to adsorption of both anions and cations, driven by ionic dispersion forces. The Hofmeister series in the single-electrode capacitance was PF6(-)>BF4(-)>ClO4(-)>BrO4(-)>IO4(-) . When the graphite electrode was negatively charged, the perhalates provided almost no enhancement of capacitance, while PF6(-) and BF4(-) decreased capacitance by about 15%. Due to the asymmetric impact of nonelectrostatic ion interactions, the capacitances of positive and negative electrodes are not equal. The capacitance of a supercapacitor should therefore be reported as two values rather than one, similar to the matrix of mutual capacitances used in multielectrode devices. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Integration of a Graphite/PMMA CompositeElectrode into a Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) Substrate for Electrochemical Detection in Microchips

PubMed Central

Regel, Anne; Lunte, Susan

2013-01-01

Traditional fabrication methods for polymer microchips, the bonding of two substrates together to form the microchip, can make the integration of carbon electrodes difficult. We have developed a simple and inexpensive method to integrate graphite/PMMA composite electrodes (GPCEs) into a PMMA substrate. These substrates can be bonded to other PMMA layers using a solvent-assisted thermal bonding method. The optimal composition of the GPCEs for electrochemical detection was determined using cyclic voltammetry with dopamine as a test analyte. Using the optimized GPCEs in an all-PMMA flow cell with flow injection analysis, it was possible to detect 50 nM dopamine under the best conditions. These electrodes were also evaluated for the detection of dopamine and catechol following separation by microchip electrophoresis (ME). PMID:23670816

ELECTRODE MEASUREMENT OF REDOX POTENTIAL IN ANAEROBIC FERRIC/FERROUS CHLORIDE SYSTEMS

EPA Science Inventory

The behaviour of two inert redox electrodes (Pt and wax-impregnated graphite) was investigated in anaerobic ferrous and ferric chloride solutions in order to establish if these electrodes respond to the Fe³⁺/Fe²⁺ couple in a Nernstian manner. A new method fo...

Influencing the arc and the mechanical properties of the weld metal in GMA-welding processes by additive elements on the wire electrode surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wesling, V.; Schram, A.; Müller, T.; Treutler, K.

2016-03-01

Under the premise of an increasing scarcity of raw materials and increasing demands on construction materials, the mechanical properties of steels and its joints are gaining highly important. In particular high- and highest-strength steels are getting in the focus of the research and the manufacturing industry. To the same extent, the requirements for filler metals are increasing as well. At present, these low-alloy materials are protected by a copper coating (<1μm) against corrosion. In addition, the coating realizes a good ohmic contact and good sliding properties between the welding machine and the wire during the welding process. By exchanging the copper with other elements it should be possible to change the mechanical properties of the weld metal and the arc stability during gas metal arc welding processes and keep the basic functions of the coating nearly untouched. On a laboratory scale solid wire electrodes with coatings of various elements and compounds such as titanium oxide were made and processed with a Gas Metal Arc Welding process. During the processing a different process behavior between the wire electrodes, coated and original, could be observed. The influences ranges from greater/shorter arc-length over increasing/decreasing droplets to larger/smaller arc foot point. Furthermore, the weld metal of the coated electrodes has significantly different mechanical and technological characteristics as the weld metal from the copper coated ground wire. The yield strength and tensile strength can be increased by up to 50%. In addition, the chemical composition of the weld metal was influenced by the application of coatings with layer thicknesses to 15 microns in the lower percentage range (up to about 3%). Another effect of the coating is a modified penetration. The normally occurring “argon finger” can be suppressed or enhanced by the choice of the coating. With the help of the presented studies it will be shown that Gas Metal Arc Welding processes are significantly affected by thin film coatings on solid wire electrodes for Gas Metal Arc welding. The influences are regarding the stability of the arc, the properties of the weld metal in terms of geometric expression, chemical composition and mechanical properties, the composition of the arc-plasma and the dynamics of the molten metal.

Arc-textured high emittance radiator surfaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Banks, Bruce A. (Inventor)

1991-01-01

High emittance radiator surfaces are produced by arc-texturing. This process produces such a surface on a metal by scanning it with a low voltage electric arc from a carbon electrode in an inert environment.

Secondary electron emission characteristics of ion-textured copper and high-purity isotropic graphite surfaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Curren, A. N.; Jensen, K. A.

1984-01-01

Experimentally determined values of true secondary electron emission and relative values of reflected primary electron yield for untreated and ion textured oxygen free high conductivity copper and untreated and ion textured high purity isotropic graphite surfaces are presented for a range of primary electron beam energies and beam impingement angles. This investigation was conducted to provide information that would improve the efficiency of multistage depressed collectors (MDC's) for microwave amplifier traveling wave tubes in space communications and aircraft applications. For high efficiency, MDC electrode surfaces must have low secondary electron emission characteristics. Although copper is a commonly used material for MDC electrodes, it exhibits relatively high levels of secondary electron emission if its surface is not treated for emission control. Recent studies demonstrated that high purity isotropic graphite is a promising material for MDC electrodes, particularly with ion textured surfaces. The materials were tested at primary electron beam energies of 200 to 2000 eV and at direct (0 deg) to near grazing (85 deg) beam impingement angles. True secondary electron emission and relative reflected primary electron yield characteristics of the ion textured surfaces were compared with each other and with those of untreated surfaces of the same materials. Both the untreated and ion textured graphite surfaces and the ion treated copper surface exhibited sharply reduced secondary electron emission characteristics relative to those of untreated copper. The ion treated graphite surface yielded the lowest emission levels.

Effects of electrode bevel angle on argon arc properties and weld shape

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, W. C.; Lu, S. P.; Li, D. Z.; Y Li, Y.

2012-07-01

A numerical modeling of coupled welding arc with weld pool is established using FLUENT software for moving shielded GTA welding to systematically investigate the effects of electrode bevel angle on the argon arc properties as well as the weld shape on SUS304 stainless steel. The calculated results show that the argon arc is constricted and the peak values of heat flux and shear stress on the weld pool decrease with increasing electrode bevel angle, while the radial distribution of heat flux and shear stress varying slightly. The weld shape is controlled by the pool flow patterns driving by the surface tension, gas shear stress, electromagnetic force and buoyancy. The Marangoni convection induced by surface tension plays an important role on weld shapes. All the weld shapes are wide and shallow with low weld metal oxygen content, while the narrow and deep weld shapes form under high weld metal oxygen content, which is related with the oxygen concentration in the shielding gas. The weld depth/width (D/W) ratio increases with increasing electrode bevel angle for high weld metal oxygen content and is not sensitive to the electrode bevel angle under low weld metal oxygen content. The calculated results for the weld shape, weld size and weld D/W ratio agree well with the experimental ones.

Applicability of Firecracker Welding to Ship Production

DTIC Science & Technology

1975-07-31

minor arc-outages seemed to coincide with defects in-the weld. For example, careful study of the film permitted orientation of such phenomena with the...Sample Electrode Electrode Voltage Current Frames Length weld covered No. Type diam. in. v A per sec. of film ft. in. Polarity 50 7024 1/4 35 240 128...to snuff out the arc. This was especially evident with the E7016 and E7018 electrodes which have a very fluid slag. The molten metal often caused a

Simultaneous quantification of arginine, alanine, methionine and cysteine amino acids in supplements using a novel bioelectro-nanosensor based on CdSe quantum dot/modified carbon nanotube hollow fiber pencil graphite electrode via Taguchi method.

PubMed

Hooshmand, Sara; Es'haghi, Zarrin

2017-11-30

A number of four amino acids have been simultaneously determined at CdSe quantum dot-modified/multi-walled carbon nanotube hollow fiber pencil graphite electrode in different bodybuilding supplements. CdSe quantum dots were synthesized and applied to construct a modified carbon nanotube hollow fiber pencil graphite electrode. FT-IR, TEM, XRD and EDAX methods were applied for characterization of the synthesized CdSe QDs. The electro-oxidation of arginine (Arg), alanine (Ala), methionine (Met) and cysteine (Cys) at the surface of the modified electrode was studied. Then the Taguchi's method was applied using MINITAB 17 software to find out the optimum conditions for the amino acids determination. Under the optimized conditions, the differential pulse (DP) voltammetric peak currents of Arg, Ala, Met and Cys increased linearly with their concentrations in the ranges of 0.287-33670μM and detection limits of 0.081, 0.158, 0.094 and 0.116μM were obtained for them, respectively. Satisfactory results were achieved for calibration and validation sets. The prepared modified electrode represents a very good resolution between the voltammetric peaks of the four amino acids which makes it suitable for the detection of each in presence of others in real samples. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Ferrocene functionalized graphene based electrode for the electro-Fenton oxidation of ciprofloxacin.

PubMed

Divyapriya, Govindaraj; Nambi, Indumathi; Senthilnathan, Jaganathan

2018-05-26

Ferrocene functionalized graphene based graphite felt electrode was firstly investigated for heterogeneous electro-Fenton oxidation of ciprofloxacin in neutral pH condition. Electrochemical reduction of Ferrocene functionalized graphene oxide (Fc-ErGO) was performed by cyclic voltammetry technique. At neutral pH condition, Fc-ErGO electrode (0.035 min ─1 ) exhibited ∼3 times and ∼9 times higher removal rates in comparison with plane ErGO (0.010 min ─1 ) and plane graphite felt (0.004 min ─1 ) electrodes respectively. The effect of pH and applied potential were studied for the degradation of ciprofloxacin in Fc-ErGO based electrode. Higher removal rate was observed at acidic pH (0.222 min ─1 ), whereas alkaline pH showed lower removal efficiency (0.014 min ─1 ). > 99% removal of ciprofloxacin was achieved with in 15 min and 120 min of reactions period at pH 3.0 and pH 7.0, respectively. H 2 O 2 generation was found to be high in plane ErGO electrode system in all of the pH conditions. Owing to the high redox ability of ferrocene, Fc-ErGO electrode generated high concentration of OH radicals (426 μM pH 3.0; 247 μM pH 7.0; 210 μM pH 9.0) than ErGO and plane graphite felt electrodes; The electrode reusability study was performed to understand the electrode stability. There was no significant change in removal efficiency even after the 5th cycle of reusability study at both acidic and neutral conditions. The possible mechanism of oxidation in Fc-ErGO based electro-Fenton process was also proposed based on the continuous monitoring of H 2 O 2 and OH radicals generated in the system. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Formation of Reversible Solid Electrolyte Interface on Graphite Surface from Concentrated Electrolytes

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

Lu, Dongping; Tao, Jinhui; Yan, Pengfei

2017-02-10

Interfacial phenomena have always been key determinants for the performance of energy storage technologies. The solid electrolyte interfacial (SEI) layer, pervasive on the surfaces of battery electrodes for numerous chemical couples, directly affects the ion transport, charge transfer and lifespan of the entire energy system. Almost all SEI layers, however, are unstable resulting in the continuous consumption of the electrolyte. Typically, this leads to the accumulation of degradation products on/restructuring of the electrode surface and thus increased cell impedance, which largely limits the long-term operation of the electrochemical reactions. Herein, a completely new SEI formation mechanism has been discovered, inmore » which the electrolyte components reversibly self-assemble into a protective surface coating on a graphite electrode upon changing the potential. In contrast to the established wisdom regarding the necessity of employing the solvent ethylene carbonate (EC) to form a protective SEI layer on graphite, a wide range of EC-free electrolytes are demonstrated for the reversible intercalation/deintercalation of Li+ cations within a graphite lattice, thereby providing tremendous flexibility in electrolyte tailoring for battery couples. This novel finding is broadly applicable and provides guidance for how to control interfacial reactions through the relationship between ion aggregation and solvent decomposition at polarized interfaces.« less

A novel self-powered and sensitive label-free DNA biosensor in microbial fuel cell.

PubMed

Asghary, Maryam; Raoof, Jahan Bakhsh; Rahimnejad, Mostafa; Ojani, Reza

2016-08-15

In this work, a novel self-powered, sensitive, low-cost, and label-free DNA biosensor is reported by applying a two-chambered microbial fuel cell (MFC) as a power supply. A graphite electrode and an Au nanoparticles modified graphite electrode (AuNP/graphite electrode) were used as anode and cathode in the MFC system, respectively. The active biocatalyst in the anodic chamber was a mixed culture of microorganisms. The sensing element of the biosensor was fabricated by the well-known Au-thiol binding the ssDNA probe on the surface of an AuNP/graphite cathode. Electrons produced by microorganisms were transported from the anode to the cathode through an external circuit, which could be detected by the terminal multi-meter detector. The difference between power densities of the ssDNA probe modified cathode in the absence and presence of complementary sequence served as the detection signal of the DNA hybridization with detection limit of 3.1nM. Thereafter, this biosensor was employed for diagnosis and determination of complementary sequence in a human serum sample. The hybridization specificity studies further revealed that the developed DNA biosensor could distinguish fully complementary sequences from one-base mismatched and non-complementary sequences. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Graphitization in Carbon MEMS and Carbon NEMS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Swati

Carbon MEMS (CMEMS) and Carbon NEMS (CNEMS) are an emerging class of miniaturized devices. Due to the numerous advantages such as scalable manufacturing processes, inexpensive and readily available precursor polymer materials, tunable surface properties and biocompatibility, carbon has become a preferred material for a wide variety of future sensing applications. Single suspended carbon nanowires (CNWs) integrated on CMEMS structures fabricated by electrospinning of SU8 photoresist on photolithographially patterned SU8 followed by pyrolysis are utilized for understanding the graphitization process in micro and nano carbon materials. These monolithic CNW-CMEMS structures enable the fabrication of very high aspect ratio CNWs of predefined length. The CNWs thus fabricated display core---shell structures having a graphitic shell with a glassy carbon core. The electrical conductivity of these CNWs is increased by about 100% compared to glassy carbon as a result of enhanced graphitization. We explore various tunable fabrication and pyrolysis parameters to improve graphitization in the resulting CNWs. We also suggest gas-sensing application of the thus fabricated single suspended CNW-CMEMS devices by using the CNW as a nano-hotplate for local chemical vapor deposition. In this thesis we also report on results from an optimization study of SU8 photoresist derived carbon electrodes. These electrodes were applied to the simultaneous detection of traces of Cd(II) and Pb(II) through anodic stripping voltammetry and detection limits as low as 0.7 and 0.8 microgL-1 were achieved. To further improve upon the electrochemical behavior of the carbon electrodes we elucidate a modified pyrolysis technique featuring an ultra-fast temperature ramp for obtaining bubbled porous carbon from lithographically patterned SU8. We conclude this dissertation by suggesting the possible future works on enhancing graphitization as well as on electrochemical applications

Complex structure of the carbon arc discharge for synthesis of nanotubes

DOE PAGES

Vekselman, V.; Feurer, M.; Huang, T.; ...

2017-06-06

Comprehensive non-invasive spectroscopic techniques and electrical measurements of the carbon arc revealed two distinguishable plasma synthesis regions in the radial direction normal to the arc axis. These regions, which are defined as the arc core and the arc periphery, are shown to have very different compositions of carbon species with different densities and temperatures. The colder arc periphery is dominated by carbon diatomic molecules (C 2), which are in the minority in the composition of the hot arc core. These differences are due to a highly non-uniform distribution of the arc current, which is mainly conducted through the arc coremore » populated with carbon atoms and ions. Therefore, the ablation of the graphite anode is governed by the arc core, while the formation of carbon molecules occurs in the colder arc periphery. Furthermore, this result is consistent with previous predictions that the plasma environment in the arc periphery is suitable for synthesis of carbon nanotubes.« less

Complex structure of the carbon arc discharge for synthesis of nanotubes

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

Vekselman, V.; Feurer, M.; Huang, T.

Comprehensive non-invasive spectroscopic techniques and electrical measurements of the carbon arc revealed two distinguishable plasma synthesis regions in the radial direction normal to the arc axis. These regions, which are defined as the arc core and the arc periphery, are shown to have very different compositions of carbon species with different densities and temperatures. The colder arc periphery is dominated by carbon diatomic molecules (C 2), which are in the minority in the composition of the hot arc core. These differences are due to a highly non-uniform distribution of the arc current, which is mainly conducted through the arc coremore » populated with carbon atoms and ions. Therefore, the ablation of the graphite anode is governed by the arc core, while the formation of carbon molecules occurs in the colder arc periphery. Furthermore, this result is consistent with previous predictions that the plasma environment in the arc periphery is suitable for synthesis of carbon nanotubes.« less

Stacked graphene nanofibers for electrochemical oxidation of DNA bases.

PubMed

Ambrosi, Adriano; Pumera, Martin

2010-08-21

In this article, we show that stacked graphene nanofibers (SGNFs) demonstrate superior electrochemical performance for oxidation of DNA bases over carbon nanotubes (CNTs). This is due to an exceptionally high number of accessible graphene sheet edges on the surface of the nanofibers when compared to carbon nanotubes, as shown by transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The oxidation signals of adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine exhibit two to four times higher currents than on CNT-based electrodes. SGNFs also exhibit higher sensitivity than do edge-plane pyrolytic graphite, glassy carbon, or graphite microparticle-based electrodes. We also demonstrate that influenza A(H1N1)-related strands can be sensitively oxidized on SGNF-based electrodes, which could therefore be applied to label-free DNA analysis.

EFFECTS OF REACTOR CONDITIONS ON ELECTROCHEMICAL DECHLORINATION OF TRICHLOROETHYLENE USING GRANULAR-GRAPHITE ELECTRODE

EPA Science Inventory

Trichloroethylene (TCE) was electrochemically dechlorinated in aqueous environments using granular graphite cathode in a mixed reactor. Effects of pH, current, electrolyte type, and flow rate on TCE dechlorination rate were evaluated. TCE dechlorination rate constant and gas pr...

EFFECTS OF REACTOR CONDITIONS ON ELECTROCHEMICAL DECHLORINATION OF TRICHLOROETHYLENE USING GRANULAR-GRAPHITE ELECTRODE.

EPA Science Inventory

Trichloroethylene (TCE) was electrochemically dechlorinated in aqueous environments using granular graphite cathode in a mixed reactor. Effects of pH, current, electrolyte type, and flow rate on TCE dechlorination rate were evaluated. TCE dechlorination rate constant and gas pr...

Catalytic Graphitization for Preparation of Porous Carbon Material Derived from Bamboo Precursor and Performance as Electrode of Electrical Double-Layer Capacitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsubota, Toshiki; Maguchi, Yuta; Kamimura, Sunao; Ohno, Teruhisa; Yasuoka, Takehiro; Nishida, Haruo

2015-12-01

The combination of addition of Fe (as a catalyst for graphitization) and CO2 activation (a kind of gaseous activation) was applied to prepare a porous carbon material from bamboo powder (a waste product of superheated steam treatment). Regardless of the heat treatment temperature, many macropores were successfully formed after the heating process by removal of Fe compounds. A turbostratic carbon structure was generated in the Fe-added sample heated at 850°C. It was confirmed that the added Fe acted as a template for pore formation. Moreover, it was confirmed that the added Fe acted as a catalyst for graphitization. The resulting electrochemical performance as the electrode of an electrical double-layer capacitor, as demonstrated by cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and charge-discharge testing, could be explained based on the graphitization and activation effects. Addition of Fe could affect the electrical properties of carbon material derived from bamboo.

Structure-Property Relationships in Surface-Modified Ceramics. NATO advanced Science Institutes, Series E: Applied Sciences, Volume 170

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-01-01

channelling and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite ( HOPG ), comparative scratch testing results and some ideas on...electrode graphite , HOPG and carbon fibers also show enhanced wear resistance followoing irradiation (6), the extent of which depends upon the initial...literature dealing with damage effects and physical property changes following neutron irradiation of graphite (single and polycrystalline ) in nuclear

Electron transfer kinetics on natural crystals of MoS2 and graphite.

PubMed

Velický, Matěj; Bissett, Mark A; Toth, Peter S; Patten, Hollie V; Worrall, Stephen D; Rodgers, Andrew N J; Hill, Ernie W; Kinloch, Ian A; Novoselov, Konstantin S; Georgiou, Thanasis; Britnell, Liam; Dryfe, Robert A W

2015-07-21

Here, we evaluate the electrochemical performance of sparsely studied natural crystals of molybdenite and graphite, which have increasingly been used for fabrication of next generation monolayer molybdenum disulphide and graphene energy storage devices. Heterogeneous electron transfer kinetics of several redox mediators, including Fe(CN)6(3-/4-), Ru(NH3)6(3+/2+) and IrCl6(2-/3-) are determined using voltammetry in a micro-droplet cell. The kinetics on both materials are studied as a function of surface defectiveness, surface ageing, applied potential and illumination. We find that the basal planes of both natural MoS2 and graphite show significant electroactivity, but a large decrease in electron transfer kinetics is observed on atmosphere-aged surfaces in comparison to in situ freshly cleaved surfaces of both materials. This is attributed to surface oxidation and adsorption of airborne contaminants at the surface exposed to an ambient environment. In contrast to semimetallic graphite, the electrode kinetics on semiconducting MoS2 are strongly dependent on the surface illumination and applied potential. Furthermore, while visibly present defects/cracks do not significantly affect the response of graphite, the kinetics on MoS2 systematically accelerate with small increase in disorder. These findings have direct implications for use of MoS2 and graphene/graphite as electrode materials in electrochemistry-related applications.

Nitrogen-doped diamond electrode shows high performance for electrochemical reduction of nitrobenzene.

PubMed

Zhang, Qing; Liu, Yanming; Chen, Shuo; Quan, Xie; Yu, Hongtao

2014-01-30

Effective electrode materials are critical to electrochemical reduction, which is a promising method to pre-treat anti-oxidative and bio-refractory wastewater. Herein, nitrogen-doped diamond (NDD) electrodes that possess superior electrocatalytic properties for reduction were fabricated by microwave-plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition technology. Nitrobenzene (NB) was chosen as the probe compound to investigate the material's electro-reduction activity. The effects of potential, electrolyte concentration and pH on NB reduction and aniline (AN) formation efficiencies were studied. NDD exhibited high electrocatalytic activity and selectivity for reduction of NB to AN. The NB removal efficiency and AN formation efficiency were 96.5% and 88.4% under optimal conditions, respectively; these values were 1.13 and 3.38 times higher than those of graphite electrodes. Coulombic efficiencies for NB removal and AN formation were 27.7% and 26.1%, respectively; these values were 4.70 and 16.6 times higher than those of graphite electrodes under identical conditions. LC-MS analysis revealed that the dominant reduction pathway on the NDD electrode was NB to phenylhydroxylamine (PHA) to AN. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

CALUTRON ION SOURCE

DOEpatents

Oppenheimer, F.

1958-08-19

The construction of an ion source is descrtbed wherein a uniform and elongated arc is established for employment in a calutron. The novel features of the . source include the positioning of a cathode at one end of an elongated extt slit of an arc chamber. and anode electrodes defintng the longitudinal margins of the exit opening. When the exit slit is orientated in a parallel relation to a magnetic field, the arc extends in the direction of the magnetic field along and between the anode electrodes, which are held at a positsve potential with respect to the cathode.

Grain refinement control in TIG arc welding

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Iceland, W. F.; Whiffen, E. L. (Inventor)

1975-01-01

A method for controlling grain size and weld puddle agitation in a tungsten electrode inert gas welding system to produce fine, even grain size and distribution is disclosed. In the method the frequency of dc welding voltage pulses supplied to the welding electrode is varied over a preselected frequency range and the arc gas voltage is monitored. At some frequency in the preselected range the arc gas voltage will pass through a maximum. By maintaining the operating frequency of the system at this value, maximum weld puddle agitation and fine grain structure are produced.

Bismuth nanoparticle decorating graphite felt as a high-performance electrode for an all-vanadium redox flow battery.

PubMed

Li, Bin; Gu, Meng; Nie, Zimin; Shao, Yuyan; Luo, Qingtao; Wei, Xiaoliang; Li, Xiaolin; Xiao, Jie; Wang, Chongmin; Sprenkle, Vincent; Wang, Wei

2013-03-13

Employing electrolytes containing Bi(3+), bismuth nanoparticles are synchronously electrodeposited onto the surface of a graphite felt electrode during operation of an all-vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB). The influence of the Bi nanoparticles on the electrochemical performance of the VRFB is thoroughly investigated. It is confirmed that Bi is only present at the negative electrode and facilitates the redox reaction between V(II) and V(III). However, the Bi nanoparticles significantly improve the electrochemical performance of VRFB cells by enhancing the kinetics of the sluggish V(II)/V(III) redox reaction, especially under high power operation. The energy efficiency is increased by 11% at high current density (150 mA·cm(-2)) owing to faster charge transfer as compared with one without Bi. The results suggest that using Bi nanoparticles in place of noble metals offers great promise as high-performance electrodes for VRFB application.

Graphite felt modified with bismuth nanoparticles as negative electrode in a vanadium redox flow battery.

PubMed

Suárez, David J; González, Zoraida; Blanco, Clara; Granda, Marcos; Menéndez, Rosa; Santamaría, Ricardo

2014-03-01

A graphite felt decorated with bismuth nanoparticles was studied as negative electrode in a vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB). The results confirm the excellent electrochemical performance of the bismuth modified electrode in terms of the reversibility of the V(3+) /V(2+) redox reactions and its long-term cycling performance. Moreover a mechanism that explains the role that Bi nanoparticles play in the redox reactions in this negative half-cell is proposed. Bi nanoparticles favor the formation of BiHx , an intermediate that reduces V(3+) to V(2+) and, therefore, inhibits the competitive irreversible reaction of hydrogen formation (responsible for the commonly observed loss of Coulombic efficiency of VRFBs). Thus, the total charge consumed during the cathodic sweep in this electrode is used to reduce V(3+) to V(2+) , resulting in a highly reversible and efficient process. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Evaluation of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in a coke production and a graphite electrode manufacturing plant: assessment of urinary excretion of 1-hydroxypyrene as a biological indicator of exposure.

PubMed Central

Buchet, J P; Gennart, J P; Mercado-Calderon, F; Delavignette, J P; Cupers, L; Lauwerys, R

1992-01-01

OBJECTIVES--Characterisation of the airborne concentration of 13 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) at various workplaces in a graphite electrode and a coke production plant. Validation of the urinary excretion of 1-hydroxypyrene (hydroxypyrene) as a biological marker of exposure to PAH. DESIGN--Cross sectional study of workers exposed to PAHs (106 in the graphite electrode producing plant and 16 in the coke works). METHODS--Personal air sampling during at least six hours per workshift using a glass fibre filter and a Chromosorb 102 solid sorbent tube and analysis of PAHs by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and spectrofluorometric detection (SFD). Collection of spot urine samples before and after the shift and analysis of 1-hydroxypyrene by HPLC and SFD. RESULTS--The workers most exposed to PAHs were those occupied at the topside area of the coke oven plant and those working in the blending and impregnation areas of the graphite electrode producing plant (mean airborne concentration of total PAHs: 199 and 223 micrograms/m3 respectively). Except for naphthalene and perylene, the relative proportion of the different PAHs did not differ between the plants. Pyrene concentration in air was highly correlated with the total airborne PAH concentration (r = 0.83, p < 0.0001) and the correlation coefficients between hydroxypyrene concentration in postshift urine samples and pyrene or total PAHs in air were 0.67 (p < 0.0001) and 0.72 (p < 0.0001) respectively. Excretion of hydroxypyrene doubled when the exposure to pyrene in air increased 10-fold. The half life for the urinary excretion of hydroxypyrene was around 18 hours (95% confidence interval 16.1-19.8). Smoking habits only explained 2.3% of the variance in hydroxypyrene excretion compared with 45% for the pyrene concentration in air. CONCLUSION--The determination of the urinary excretion of hydroxypyrene in postshift urine samples can be used as a suitable biomarker to assess individual exposure to PAHs in coke ovens and in graphite electrode manufacturing plants. PMID:1463676

FAST TRACK COMMUNICATION: Metal vapour causes a central minimum in arc temperature in gas-metal arc welding through increased radiative emission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schnick, M.; Füssel, U.; Hertel, M.; Spille-Kohoff, A.; Murphy, A. B.

2010-01-01

A computational model of the argon arc plasma in gas-metal arc welding (GMAW) that includes the influence of metal vapour from the electrode is presented. The occurrence of a central minimum in the radial distributions of temperature and current density is demonstrated. This is in agreement with some recent measurements of arc temperatures in GMAW, but contradicts other measurements and also the predictions of previous models, which do not take metal vapour into account. It is shown that the central minimum is a consequence of the strong radiative emission from the metal vapour. Other effects of the metal vapour, such as the flux of relatively cold vapour from the electrode and the increased electrical conductivity, are found to be less significant. The different effects of metal vapour in gas-tungsten arc welding and GMAW are explained.

Conductivity tensor for anisotropic plasma in gyrokinetic theory

DOE PAGES

Porazik, Peter; Johnson, Jay R.

2017-05-18

Comprehensive non-invasive spectroscopic techniques and electrical measurements of the carbon arc revealed two distinguishable plasma synthesis regions in the radial direction normal to the arc axis. These regions, which are defined as the arc core and the arc periphery, are shown to have very different compositions of carbon species with different densities and temperatures. The colder arc periphery is dominated by carbon diatomic molecules (C-2), which are in the minority in the composition of the hot arc core. These differences are due to a highly non-uniform distribution of the arc current, which is mainly conducted through the arc core populatedmore » with carbon atoms and ions. Therefore, the ablation of the graphite anode is governed by the arc core, while the formation of carbon molecules occurs in the colder arc periphery. This result is consistent with previous predictions that the plasma environment in the arc periphery is suitable for synthesis of carbon nanotubes.« less

Conductivity tensor for anisotropic plasma in gyrokinetic theory

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

Porazik, Peter; Johnson, Jay R.

Comprehensive non-invasive spectroscopic techniques and electrical measurements of the carbon arc revealed two distinguishable plasma synthesis regions in the radial direction normal to the arc axis. These regions, which are defined as the arc core and the arc periphery, are shown to have very different compositions of carbon species with different densities and temperatures. The colder arc periphery is dominated by carbon diatomic molecules (C-2), which are in the minority in the composition of the hot arc core. These differences are due to a highly non-uniform distribution of the arc current, which is mainly conducted through the arc core populatedmore » with carbon atoms and ions. Therefore, the ablation of the graphite anode is governed by the arc core, while the formation of carbon molecules occurs in the colder arc periphery. This result is consistent with previous predictions that the plasma environment in the arc periphery is suitable for synthesis of carbon nanotubes.« less

Study on the special vision sensor for detecting position error in robot precise TIG welding of some key part of rocket engine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Wenzeng; Chen, Nian; Wang, Bin; Cao, Yipeng

2005-01-01

Rocket engine is a hard-core part of aerospace transportation and thrusting system, whose research and development is very important in national defense, aviation and aerospace. A novel vision sensor is developed, which can be used for error detecting in arc length control and seam tracking in precise pulse TIG welding of the extending part of the rocket engine jet tube. The vision sensor has many advantages, such as imaging with high quality, compactness and multiple functions. The optics design, mechanism design and circuit design of the vision sensor have been described in detail. Utilizing the mirror imaging of Tungsten electrode in the weld pool, a novel method is proposed to detect the arc length and seam tracking error of Tungsten electrode to the center line of joint seam from a single weld image. A calculating model of the method is proposed according to the relation of the Tungsten electrode, weld pool, the mirror of Tungsten electrode in weld pool and joint seam. The new methodologies are given to detect the arc length and seam tracking error. Through analyzing the results of the experiments, a system error modifying method based on a linear function is developed to improve the detecting precise of arc length and seam tracking error. Experimental results show that the final precision of the system reaches 0.1 mm in detecting the arc length and the seam tracking error of Tungsten electrode to the center line of joint seam.

A Highly Efficient and Facile Approach for Fabricating Graphite Nanoplatelets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Van Thanh, Dang; Van Thien, Nguyen; Thang, Bui Hung; Van Chuc, Nguyen; Hong, Nguyen Manh; Trang, Bui Thi; Lam, Tran Dai; Huyen, Dang Thi Thu; Hong, Phan Ngoc; Minh, Phan Ngoc

2016-05-01

In this study, we report a highly efficient, convenient, and cost-effective technique for producing graphite nanoplatelets (GNPs) from plasma-expanded graphite oxides (PEGOs) obtained directly from low-cost, recycled graphite electrodes of used batteries, x-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed the successful preparation of GNPs. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the GNPs have lateral width from several hundreds of nanometers to 1.5 μm with an approximate thickness of 20-50 nm. These GNPs can serve as a precursor for the preparation of GNPs-based nanocomposite.

Direct electrochemical oxidation of ammonia on graphite as a treatment option for stored source-separated urine.

PubMed

Zöllig, Hanspeter; Fritzsche, Cristina; Morgenroth, Eberhard; Udert, Kai M

2015-02-01

Electrolysis can be a viable technology for ammonia removal from source-separated urine. Compared to biological nitrogen removal, electrolysis is more robust and is highly amenable to automation, which makes it especially attractive for on-site reactors. In electrolytic wastewater treatment, ammonia is usually removed by indirect oxidation through active chlorine which is produced in-situ at elevated anode potentials. However, the evolution of chlorine can lead to the formation of chlorate, perchlorate, chlorinated organic by-products and chloramines that are toxic. This study focuses on using direct ammonia oxidation on graphite at low anode potentials in order to overcome the formation of toxic by-products. With the aid of cyclic voltammetry, we demonstrated that graphite is active for direct ammonia oxidation without concomitant chlorine formation if the anode potential is between 1.1 and 1.6 V vs. SHE (standard hydrogen electrode). A comparison of potentiostatic bulk electrolysis experiments in synthetic stored urine with and without chloride confirmed that ammonia was removed exclusively by continuous direct oxidation. Direct oxidation required high pH values (pH > 9) because free ammonia was the actual reactant. In real stored urine (pH = 9.0), an ammonia removal rate of 2.9 ± 0.3 gN·m(-2)·d(-1) was achieved and the specific energy demand was 42 Wh·gN(-1) at an anode potential of 1.31 V vs. SHE. The measurements of chlorate and perchlorate as well as selected chlorinated organic by-products confirmed that no chlorinated by-products were formed in real urine. Electrode corrosion through graphite exfoliation was prevented and the surface was not poisoned by intermediate oxidation products. We conclude that direct ammonia oxidation on graphite electrodes is a treatment option for source-separated urine with three major advantages: The formation of chlorinated by-products is prevented, less energy is consumed than in indirect ammonia oxidation and readily available and cheap graphite can be used as the electrode material. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Theoretical model and experimental investigation of current density boundary condition for welding arc study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boutaghane, A.; Bouhadef, K.; Valensi, F.; Pellerin, S.; Benkedda, Y.

2011-04-01

This paper presents results of theoretical and experimental investigation of the welding arc in Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) processes. A theoretical model consisting in simultaneous resolution of the set of conservation equations for mass, momentum, energy and current, Ohm's law and Maxwell equation is used to predict temperatures and current density distribution in argon welding arcs. A current density profile had to be assumed over the surface of the cathode as a boundary condition in order to make the theoretical calculations possible. In stationary GTAW process, this assumption leads to fair agreement with experimental results reported in literature with maximum arc temperatures of ~21 000 K. In contrast to the GTAW process, in GMAW process, the electrode is consumable and non-thermionic, and a realistic boundary condition of the current density is lacking. For establishing this crucial boundary condition which is the current density in the anode melting electrode, an original method is setup to enable the current density to be determined experimentally. High-speed camera (3000 images/s) is used to get geometrical dimensions of the welding wire used as anode. The total area of the melting anode covered by the arc plasma being determined, the current density at the anode surface can be calculated. For a 330 A arc, the current density at the melting anode surface is found to be of 5 × 107 A m-2 for a 1.2 mm diameter welding electrode.

Glucose biosensor based on functionalized ZnO nanowire/graphite films dispersed on a Pt electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gallay, P.; Tosi, E.; Madrid, R.; Tirado, M.; Comedi, D.

2016-10-01

We present a glucose biosensor based on ZnO nanowire self-sustained films grown on compacted graphite flakes by the vapor transport method. Nanowire/graphite films were fragmented in water, filtered to form a colloidal suspension, subsequently functionalized with glucose oxidase and finally transferred to a metal electrode (Pt). The obtained devices were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. The electrochemical responses of the devices were determined in buffer solutions with successive glucose aggregates using a tripolar electrode system. The nanostructured biosensors showed excellent analytical performance, with linear response to glucose concentrations, high sensitivity of up to ≈17 μA cm-2 mM-1 in the 0.03-1.52 mM glucose concentration range, relatively low Michaelis-Menten constant, excellent reproducibility and a fast response. The detection limits are more than an order of magnitude lower than those achievable in commercial biosensors for glucose control, which is promising for the development of glucose monitoring methods that do not require blood extraction from potentially diabetic patients. The strong detection enhancements provided by the functionalized nanostructures are much larger than the electrode surface-area increase and are discussed in terms of the physical and chemical mechanisms involved in the detection and transduction processes.

Physicochemical modifications and applications of carbon nano-onions for electrochemical energy storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Borgohain, Rituraj

Carbon nano-onions (CNOs), concentrically multilayered fullerenes, are prepared by several different methods. We are studying the properties of two specific CNOs: A-CNOs and N-CNOs. A-CNOs are synthesized by underwater arc discharge, and N-CNOs are synthesized by high-temperature graphitization of commercial nanodiamond. In this study the synthesis of A-CNOs are optimized by designing an arc discharge aparatus to control the arc plasma. Moreover other synthesis parameters such as arc power, duty cycles, temperature, graphitic and metal impurities are controlled for optimum production of A-CNOs. Also, a very efficient purification method is developed to screen out A-CNOs from carboneseous and metal impurities. In general, A-CNOs are larger than N-CNOs (ca. 30 nm vs. 7 nm diameter). The high surface area, appropriate mesoporosity, high thermal stability and high electrical conductivity of CNOs make them a promising material for various applications. These hydrophobic materials are functionalized with organic groups on their outer layers to study their surface chemistry and to decorate with metal oxide nanoparticles. Both CNOs and CNO nanocomposites are investigated for application in electrochemical capacitors (ECs). The influences of pH, concentration and additives on the performance of the composites are studied. Electrochemical measurements demonstrate high specific capacitance and high cycling stability with high energy and power density of the composite materials in aqueous electrolyte. Key words: Carbon Nano-onions, Arc discharge, Purification, Functionalization, Supercapacitor.

Anodic Stripping Voltammetry with Pencil Graphite Electrode for Determination of Chromium (III)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wyantuti, S.; Hafidza, R. A.; Ishmayana, S.; Hartati, Y. W.

2017-02-01

Chromium is required as micronutrient that has roles in insulin metabolism and blood glucose level regulation. Chromium (III) deficiency can cause hyperglycemia and glycosuria. However, a high amount of chromium in body can cause allergic reaction, organ damage, and even death because of its toxicity. Chromium is commonly used in steel industries. Simultaneously with the development of industry, the waste disposal that can endanger environment also increased. Therefore, a sensitive and specific analysis method for chromium detection is required. Stripping voltammetry is one of the voltammetric methods that is commonly used for heavy metal analysis due to the very low limit of detection (sub ppb). The present study was conducted to develop an analysis method for chromium (III) determination using pencil graphite electrode. Quantitative determination was performed for chromium (III) which measured at -0.8 to +1.0 V with deposition time for 60 s and 50 mV/s scan rate. Stripping voltammetric analysis of chromium (III) using pencil graphite electrode gave linear range at 12.5 to 75 ppm with limit of detection of 0.31 ppm.

Outstanding electrochemical performance of a graphene-modified graphite felt for vanadium redox flow battery application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

González, Zoraida; Flox, Cristina; Blanco, Clara; Granda, Marcos; Morante, Juan R.; Menéndez, Rosa; Santamaría, Ricardo

2017-01-01

The development of more efficient electrode materials is essential to obtain vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) with enhanced energy densities and to make these electrochemical energy storage devices more competitive. A graphene-modified graphite felt synthesized from a raw graphite felt and a graphene oxide water suspension by means of electrophoretic deposition (EPD) is investigated as a suitable electrode material in the positive side of a VRFB cell by means of cyclic voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy and charge/discharge experiments. The remarkably enhanced performance of the resultant hybrid material, in terms of electrochemical activity and kinetic reversibility towards the VO2+/VO2+, and mainly the markedly high energy efficiency of the VRFB cell (c.a. 95.8% at 25 mA cm-2) can be ascribed to the exceptional morphological and chemical characteristics of this tailored material. The 3D-architecture consisting of fibers interconnected by graphene-like sheets positively contributes to the proper development of the vanadium redox reactions and so represents a significant advance in the design of effective electrode materials.

HOPG/ZnO/HOPG pressure sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jahangiri, Mojtaba; Yousefiazari, Ehsan; Ghalamboran, Milad

2017-12-01

Pressure sensor is one of the most commonly used sensors in the research laboratories and industries. These are generally categorized in three different classes of absolute pressure sensors, gauge pressure sensors, and differential pressure sensors. In this paper, we fabricate and assess the pressure sensitivity of the current vs. voltage diagrams in a graphite/ZnO/graphite structure. Zinc oxide layers are deposited on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) substrates by sputtering a zinc target under oxygen plasma. The top electrode is also a slice of HOPG which is placed on the ZnO layer and connected to the outside electronic circuits. By recording the I-V characteristics of the device under different forces applied to the top HOPG electrode, the pressure sensitivity is demonstrated; at the optimum biasing voltage, the device current changes 10 times upon changing the pressure level on the top electrode by 20 times. Repeatability and reproducibility of the observed effect is studied on the same and different samples. All the materials used for the fabrication of this pressure sensor are biocompatible, the fabricated device is anticipated to find potential applications in biomedical engineering.

Removal of metals from aqueous solution and sea water by functionalized graphite nanoplatelets based electrodes.

PubMed

Mishra, Ashish Kumar; Ramaprabhu, S

2011-01-15

In the present wok, we have demonstrated the simultaneous removal of sodium and arsenic (pentavalent and trivalent) from aqueous solution using functionalized graphite nanoplatelets (f-GNP) based electrodes. In addition, these electrodes based water filter was used for multiple metals removal from sea water. Graphite nanoplatelets (GNP) were prepared by acid intercalation and thermal exfoliation. Functionalization of GNP was done by further acid treatment. Material was characterized by different characterization techniques. Performance of supercapacitor based water filter was analyzed for the removal of high concentration of arsenic (trivalent and pentavalent) and sodium as well as for desalination of sea water, using cyclic voltametry (CV) and inductive coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) techniques. Adsorption isotherms and kinetic characteristics were studied for the simultaneous removal of sodium and arsenic (both trivalent and pentavalent). Maximum adsorption capacities of 27, 29 and 32 mg/g for arsenate, arsenite and sodium were achieved in addition to good removal efficiency for sodium, magnesium, calcium and potassium from sea water. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Performance and Surface Integrity of Ti6Al4V After Sinking EDM with Special Graphite Electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amorim, Fred L.; Stedile, Leandro J.; Torres, Ricardo D.; Soares, Paulo C.; Henning Laurindo, Carlos A.

2014-04-01

Titanium and its alloys have high chemical reactivity with most of the cutting tools. This makes it difficult to work with these alloys using conventional machining processes. Electrical discharge machining (EDM) emerges as an alternative technique to machining these materials. In this work, it is investigated the performance of three special grades of graphite as electrodes when ED-Machining Ti6Al4V samples under three different regimes. The main influences of electrical parameters are discussed for the samples material removal rate, volumetric relative wear and surface roughness. The samples surfaces were evaluated using SEM images, microhardness measurements, and x-ray diffraction. It was found that the best results for samples material removal rate, surface roughness, and volumetric relative wear were obtained for the graphite electrode with 10-μm particle size and negative polarity. For all samples machined by EDM and characterized by x-ray (XRD), it was identified the presence of titanium carbides. For the finish EDM regimes, the recast layer presents an increased amount of titanium carbides compared to semi-finish and rough regimes.

Excimer laser assisted very fast exfoliation and reduction of graphite oxide at room temperature under air ambient for Supercapacitors electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malek Hosseini, S. M. B.; Baizaee, S. M.; Naderi, Hamid Reza; Dare Kordi, Ali

2018-01-01

Excimer laser was used for reduction and exfoliation of graphite oxide (GO) at room temperature under air ambient. The prepared excimer laser reduced graphite oxide (XLRGO) is characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), nitrogen adsorption/desorption (BET method), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and UV-vis absorption techniques for surface, structural functional groups and band gap analysis. Electrochemical properties are investigated using cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge-discharge, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and continues cyclic voltammetry (CCV) in 0.5 M Na2SO4 as electrolyte. Electrochemical investigations revealed that XLRGO electrode has enhanced supercapacitive performance including specific capacitance of 299 F/g at a scan rate of 2 mV/s. Furthermore, CCV measurement showed that XLRGO electrode kept 97.8% of its initial capacitance/capacity after 4000 cycles. The obtained results from electrochemical investigations confirm that the reduction of GO by using an excimer laser produces high-quality graphene for supercapacitor applications without the need for additional operations.

The application of exfoliated graphite electrode in the electrochemical degradation of p-nitrophenol in water.

PubMed

Ntsendwana, Bulelwa; Peleyeju, Moses G; Arotiba, Omotayo A

2016-01-01

We report the application of exfoliated graphite (EG) as an electrode material in the electrochemical degradation of p-nitrophenol in water. Bulk electrolysis (degradation) of p-nitrophenol was carried out at a potential of 2.0 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) in the presence of 0.1 M Na2SO4 supporting electrolyte, while UV-Vis spectrophotometry was used to monitor the degradation efficiency. An initial p-nitrophenol load concentration of 0.2 mM for 3 h electrolysis time was studied under the optimized conditions of pH 7, and 10 mAcm(-2) current density. The electro-degradation reaction displayed a pseudo-first-order kinetic behavior with a rate constant (k(r)) of 11×10(-3) min(-1). The removal efficiency was found to be 91.5%. Chromatography coupled with time of flight mass spectrometry revealed p-benzoquinone as a major intermediate product. These results demonstrate the potential and viability of electrochemical technology as an alternative approach to water treatment using a low cost graphite electrode.

Electrochemical disinfection of simulated ballast water on PbO2/graphite felt electrode.

PubMed

Chen, Shuiping; Hu, Weidong; Hong, Jianxun; Sandoe, Steve

2016-04-15

A novel PbO2/graphite felt electrode was constructed by electrochemical deposition of PbO2 on graphite felt and characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The prepared electrode is a viable technology for inactivation of Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, and Artemia salina as indicator organisms in simulated ballast water treatment, which meets the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Regulation D-2. The effects of contact time and current density on inactivation were investigated. An increase in current density generally had a beneficial effect on the inactivation of the three species. E.faecalis and A.salina were more resistant to electrochemical disinfection than E. coli. The complete disinfection of E.coli was achieved in <8min at an applied current density of 253A/m(2). Complete inactivation of E. faecalis and A.salina was achieved at the same current density after 60 and 40min of contact time, respectively. A. salina inactivation follows first-order kinetics. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Performance evaluation of thermally treated graphite felt electrodes for vanadium redox flow battery and their four-point single cell characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mazúr, P.; Mrlík, J.; Beneš, J.; Pocedič, J.; Vrána, J.; Dundálek, J.; Kosek, J.

2018-03-01

In our contribution we study the electrocatalytic effect of oxygen functionalization of thermally treated graphite felt on kinetics of electrode reactions of vanadium redox flow battery. Chemical and morphological changes of the felts are analysed by standard physico-chemical characterization techniques. A complex method four-point method is developed and employed for characterization of the felts in a laboratory single-cell. The method is based on electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and load curves measurements of positive and negative half-cells using platinum wire pseudo-reference electrodes. The distribution of ohmic and faradaic losses within a single-cell is evaluated for both symmetric and asymmetric electrode set-up with respect to the treatment conditions. Positive effect of oxygen functionalization is observed only for negative electrode, whereas kinetics of positive electrode reaction is almost unaffected by the treatment. This is in a contradiction to the results of typically employed cyclovoltammetric characterization which indicate that both electrodes are enhanced by the treatment to a similar extent. The developed four-point characterization method can be further used e.g., for the component screening and in-situ durability studies on single-cell scale redox flow batteries of various chemistries.

Synthesis method for ultrananocrystalline diamond in powder employing a coaxial arc plasma gun

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naragino, Hiroshi; Tominaga, Aki; Hanada, Kenji; Yoshitake, Tsuyoshi

2015-07-01

A new method that enables us to synthesize ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD) in powder is proposed. Highly energetic carbon species ejected from a graphite cathode of a coaxial arc plasma gun were provided on a quartz plate at a high density by repeated arc discharge in a compact vacuum chamber, and resultant films automatically peeled from the plate were aggregated and powdered. The grain size was easily controlled from 2.4 to 15.0 nm by changing the arc discharge energy. It was experimentally demonstrated that the proposed method is a new and promising method that enables us to synthesize UNCD in powder easily and controllably.

Morphological changes of porphine films on graphite by perchloric and phosphoric electrolytes. An electrochemical-AFM study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yivlialin, Rossella; Penconi, Marta; Bussetti, Gianlorenzo; Biroli, Alessio Orbelli; Finazzi, Marco; Duò, Lamberto; Bossi, Alberto

2018-06-01

Organic molecules have been proposed as promising candidates for electrode protection in acidic electrolytes. The use of tetraphenyl-porphines (H2TPP) as graphite surface-protecting agents in sulphuric acid (H2SO4) is one of the newest. With the aim of unveiling the mechanism of such a protective effect, in this paper we test the stability of a H2TPP thin film immersed in perchloric and phosphoric acid solutions that differently interact with porphyrins. The protective role of H2TPP is tested in the electrochemical potential range where the pristine graphite undergoes an oxidation process that erodes the surface and eventually exfoliate the stratified crystal. The electrochemical analysis is performed in a three-electrode cell, while the surface morphology is monitored ex-situ and in-situ by atomic force microscopy. Electrospray mass analysis is also employed to investigate the presence of H2TPP fragments in the solution. We find that the organic film is not stable in perchloric solution, while it is stable and avoids graphite surface corrosion in phosphoric acid solution. These results provide a rationale for the role played by free-base porphines in graphite protection.

Degradation of lithium ion batteries employing graphite negatives and nickel-cobalt-manganese oxide + spinel manganese oxide positives: Part 2, chemical-mechanical degradation model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Purewal, Justin; Wang, John; Graetz, Jason; Soukiazian, Souren; Tataria, Harshad; Verbrugge, Mark W.

2014-12-01

Capacity fade is reported for 1.5 Ah Li-ion batteries containing a mixture of Li-Ni-Co-Mn oxide (NCM) + Li-Mn oxide spinel (LMO) as positive electrode material and a graphite negative electrode. The batteries were cycled at a wide range of temperatures (10 °C-46 °C) and discharge currents (0.5C-6.5C). The measured capacity losses were fit to a simple physics-based model which calculates lithium inventory loss from two related mechanisms: (1) mechanical degradation at the graphite anode particle surface caused by diffusion-induced stresses (DIS) and (2) chemical degradation caused by lithium loss to continued growth of the solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI). These two mechanisms are coupled because lithium is consumed through SEI formation on newly exposed crack surfaces. The growth of crack surface area is modeled as a fatigue phenomenon due to the cyclic stresses generated by repeated lithium insertion and de-insertion of graphite particles. This coupled chemical-mechanical degradation model is consistent with the observed capacity loss features for the NCM + LMO/graphite cells.

Cycling behavior of NCM523/graphite lithium-ion cells in the 3–4.4 V range: Diagnostic studies of full cells and harvested electrodes

DOE PAGES

Gilbert, James A.; Bareño, Javier; Spila, Timothy; ...

2016-09-22

Energy density of full cells containing layered-oxide positive electrodes can be increased by raising the upper cutoff voltage above the current 4.2 V limit. In this article we examine aging behavior of cells, containing LiNi 0.5Co 0.2Mn 0.3O 2 (NCM523)-based positive and graphite-based negative electrodes, which underwent up to ~400 cycles in the 3-4.4 V range. Electrochemistry results from electrodes harvested from the cycled cells were obtained to identify causes of cell performance loss; these results were complemented with data from X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS) measurements. Our experiments indicate that the full cell capacitymore » fade increases linearly with cycle number and results from irreversible lithium loss in the negative electrode solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer. The accompanying electrode potential shift reduces utilization of active material in both electrodes and causes the positive electrode to cycle at higher states-of-charge. Here, full cell impedance rise on aging arises primarily at the positive electrode and results mainly from changes at the electrode-electrolyte interface; the small growth in negative electrode impedance reflects changes in the SEI layer. Our results indicate that cell performance loss could be mitigated by modifying the electrode-electrolyte interfaces through use of appropriate electrode coatings and/or electrolyte additives.« less

Influence of Gap Distance on Vacuum Arc Characteristics of Cup Type AMF Electrode in Vacuum Interrupters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Shaoyong; Xiu, Shixin; Wang, Jimei; Shen, Zhengchao

2006-11-01

The greenhouse effect of SF6 is a great concern today. The development of high voltage vacuum circuit breakers becomes more important. The vacuum circuit breaker has minimum pollution to the environment. The vacuum interrupter is the key part of a vacuum circuit breaker. The interrupting characteristics in vacuum and arc-controlling technique are the main problems to be solved for a longer gap distance in developing high voltage vacuum interrupters. To understand the vacuum arc characteristics and provide effective technique to control vacuum arc in a long gap distance, the arc mode transition of a cup-type axial magnetic field electrode is observed by a high-speed charge coupled device (CCD) video camera under different gap distances while the arc voltage and arc current are recorded. The controlling ability of the axial magnetic field on vacuum arc obviously decreases when the gap distance is longer than 40 mm. The noise components and mean value of the arc voltage significantly increase. The effective method for controlling the vacuum arc characteristics is provided by long gap distances based on the test results. The test results can be used as a reference to develop high voltage and large capacity vacuum interrupters.

PREPARATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF MOLECULARLY IMPRINTED ELECTROPOLYMERIZED CARBON ELECTRODES

EPA Science Inventory

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIP) selective for fluorescein, rhodamine or 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) were electropolymerized onto graphite electrodes using an aqueous solution equimolar in resorsinol/ortho-phenylenediamine and in the presence of the template mole...

Threshold current for fireball generation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dijkhuis, Geert C.

1982-05-01

Fireball generation from a high-intensity circuit breaker arc is interpreted here as a quantum-mechanical phenomenon caused by severe cooling of electrode material evaporating from contact surfaces. According to the proposed mechanism, quantum effects appear in the arc plasma when the radius of one magnetic flux quantum inside solid electrode material has shrunk to one London penetration length. A formula derived for the threshold discharge current preceding fireball generation is found compatible with data reported by Silberg. This formula predicts linear scaling of the threshold current with the circuit breaker's electrode radius and concentration of conduction electrons.

Application field and ways to control alternating-current plasma torch with rail electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuznetsov, V. E.; Safronov, A. A.; Vasilieva, O. B.; Shiryaev, V. N.; Dudnik, Yu D.; Pavlov, A. V.; Kuchina, Yu A.

2018-01-01

The paper deals with the investigation of parameters of the high voltage alternating-current plasma torch with rail electrodes. Usage of the injector and its variation allows controlling of operation of the ac plasma torch with rail electrodes. Also the possibility to protect the electric arc chamber without protective gas has been studied. It was found that increasing in the injector power causes the repeated breakdown at lower voltage and hence the arc dimensions decreases. The results of experiments are presented in the paper.

Electrochemical cell

DOEpatents

Kaun, Thomas D.

1984-01-01

An improved secondary electrochemical cell is disclosed having a negative electrode of lithium aluminum, a positive electrode of iron sulfide, a molten electrolyte of lithium chloride and potassium chloride, and the combination that the fully charged theoretical capacity of the negative electrode is in the range of 0.5-1.0 that of the positive electrode. The cell thus is negative electrode limiting during discharge cycling. Preferably, the negative electrode contains therein, in the approximate range of 1-10 volume % of the electrode, an additive from the materials of graphitized carbon, aluminum-iron alloy, and/or magnesium oxide.

Electrochemical cell

DOEpatents

Kaun, T.D.

An improved secondary electrochemical cell is disclosed having a negative electrode of lithium aluminum, a positive electrode of iron sulfide, a molten electrolyte of lithium chloride and potassium chloride, and the combination that the fully charged theoretical capacity of the negative electrode is in the range of 0.5 to 1.0 that of the positive electrode. The cell thus is negative electrode limiting during discharge cycling. Preferably, the negative electrode contains therein, in the approximate range of 1 to 10 volume % of the electrode, an additive from the materials of graphitized carbon, aluminum-iron alloy, and/or magnesium oxide.

76 FR 56397 - Small Diameter Graphite Electrodes from the People's Republic of China: Final Results of the...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-13

... value (``SV'') information: SGL Carbon LLC and Superior Graphite Co. (``Petitioners''); Fushun Jinly Petrochemical Carbon Co., Ltd. (``Fushun Jinly''); and Beijing Fangda Carbon Tech Co., Ltd. (``Beijing Fangda''), Chengdu Rongguang Carbon Co., Ltd. (``Rongguang''), Fangda Carbon New Material Co., Ltd. (``Fangda Carbon...

ELECTROCHEMICAL DEGRADATION OF TRICHLOROETHYLENE USING GRANULAR-GRAPHITE ELECTRODES: IDENTIFICATION AND QUALIFICATION OF DECHLORINATION PRODUCTS

EPA Science Inventory

TCE was successfully dechlorinated in aqueous solution using granular graphite as the cathode in a mixed electrochemical reactor. In experiments with an initial TCE concentration of less than 100 mg/l, TCE was reduced approximately by 75% in the reactor under an applied cell volt...

Ion sputter textured graphite electrode plates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Curren, A. N.; Forman, R.; Sovey, J. S.; Wintucky, E. G. (Inventor)

1983-01-01

A specially textured surface of pyrolytic graphite exhibits extremely low yields of secondary electrons and reduced numbers of reflected primary electrons after impingement of high energy primary electrons. Electrode plates of this material are used in multistage depressed collectors. An ion flux having an energy between 500 iV and 1000 iV and a current density between 1.0 mA/sq cm and 6.0 mA/sq cm produces surface roughening or texturing which is in the form of needles or spires. Such textured surfaces are especially useful as anode collector plates in high tube devices.

Toxic Effect of Cadmium Assay in Contaminated Soil Earthworm Cell Using Modified Sensor

PubMed Central

Kyung, Lee; Kim, Chae Hwa; Seo, Roma; Lee, Soo Youn; Kim, Lina; Chae, Su min; Choi, Sung Wook; Kim, Ji Yoon

2015-01-01

A voltammetric toxic metal of cadmium detection was studied using a fluorine doped graphite pencil electrode (FPE) in a seawater electrolyte. In this study, square wave (SW) stripping and chronoamerometry were used for determination of Cd(II) in seawater. Affordable pencils and an auxiliary electrode were used as reference. All experiments in this study could be performed at reasonable cost by using graphite pencil. The application was performed on the tissue of contaminated soil earthworm. The results show that the method can be applicable for vegetables and in vivo fluid or medicinal diagnosis. PMID:26191388

76 FR 12325 - Small Diameter Graphite Electrodes From the People's Republic of China: Preliminary Results of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-07

... Group). 26 Haimen Shuguang Carbon Industry Co., Ltd. 27 Handan Hanbo Material Co., Ltd. 28 Hebei Long Great Wall Electrode Co., Ltd. (aka Chang Cheng Chang Electrode Co., Ltd. and Laishui Long Great Wall... Inner Mongolia Xinghe County Hongyuan Electrical Carbon Factory. 35 Jiang Long Carbon. 36 Jiangsu Yafei...

Amperometric Enzyme Electrodes

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-12-01

form of carbon (glascy carbon , graphite, reticulated vitreous carbon , carbon paste, fiber or foil). Carbon is favored for enzyme immoblization...the surface for covalent bonding. The most frequently used electrode material, glassy carbon , often displays complex behavior. Although attempts have...Mixed Carbon Paste Electrode with an Immobilized Layer of D-Gluconate Dehydrogenase from Bacteral Membranes," Agric. Biol. Chelm., 51 (1987), 747-754

In situ formation of graphene layers on graphite surfaces for efficient anodes of microbial fuel cells.

PubMed

Tang, Jiahuan; Chen, Shanshan; Yuan, Yong; Cai, Xixi; Zhou, Shungui

2015-09-15

Graphene can be used to improve the performance of the anode in a microbial fuel cell (MFC) due to its good biocompatibility, high electrical conductivity and large surface area. However, the chemical production and modification of the graphene on the anode are environmentally hazardous because of the use of various harmful chemicals. This study reports a novel method based on the electrochemical exfoliation of a graphite plate (GP) for the in situ formation of graphene layers on the surface of a graphite electrode. When the resultant graphene-layer-based graphite plate electrode (GL/GP) was used as an anode in an MFC, a maximum power density of 0.67 ± 0.034 W/m(2) was achieved. This value corresponds to 1.72-, 1.56- and 1.26-times the maximum power densities of the original GP, exfoliated-graphene-modified GP (EG/GP) and chemically-reduced-graphene-modified GP (rGO/GP) anodes, respectively. Electrochemical measurements revealed that the high performance of the GL/GP anode was attributable to its macroporous structure, improved electron transfer and high electrochemical capacitance. The results demonstrated that the proposed method is a facile and environmentally friendly synthesis technique for the fabrication of high-performance graphene-based electrodes for use in microbial energy harvesting. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Rate capability improvement of Co-Ni double hydroxides integrated in cathodically partially exfoliated graphite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cai, Xiang; Song, Yu; Sun, Zhen; Guo, Di; Liu, Xiao-Xia

2017-10-01

In-situ growing of energy storage materials on graphene-based substrates/current collectors with low defect is a good way to boost electron transport and so enhance rate capability for the obtained electrode. Herein, high-quality graphene-like nanopetals are partially exfoliated from graphite foil (GF) through a facile and fast cathodic process. Three-dimensional porous structure is established for the afforded cathodically-exfoliated graphite foil (CEG), with many graphene-like nanopetals vertically anchoring on the graphite substrate. A hierarchical structure is constructed by the following electrochemical growth of Co-Ni double hydroxide nanopetals on the graphene atop CEG. The double hydroxide in the obtained electrode with the optimized Co2+/Ni2+ molar ratio, Co0.75Ni0.25(OH)2-CEG, displays much improved rate capability and so can deliver a high specific capacitance of 1460 F g-1 at an ultra-high current density of 100 A g-1. An asymmetric device is assembled by using Co0.75Ni0.25(OH)2-CEG as cathode, which demonstrates a high energy density of 31.6 Wh kg-1 at an ultra-high power density of 21.5 kW kg-1, showing the potential of the hierarchical composite electrode for high power application. The device also displays good stability, it can retain more than 90% of its capacitance after 10000 galvanostatic charge-discharge cycles.

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

Wang, Lijun; Deng, Jie; Zhou, Xin

In this paper, cathode spot plasma jet (CSPJ) rotation and cathode spots behavior subjected to two kinds of large diameter axial magnetic field (AMF) electrode (cup-shaped and coil-shaped) are studied and analyzed based on experiments. The influence of gap distances on the CSPJ rotational behavior is analyzed. Experimental results show that CSPJ rotational phenomena extensively exist in the vacuum interrupters, and CSPJ rotational direction is along the direction of composite magnetic field (mainly the combination of the axial and azimuthal components). For coil-shaped and cup-shaped AMF electrodes, the rotational or inclination phenomena before the current peak value are much moremore » significant than that after current peak value (for the same arc current), which is related to the larger ratio of azimuthal magnetic field B{sub t} and AMF B{sub z} (B{sub t}/B{sub z}). With the increase of the gap distance, the AMF strength decreases, when the arc current is kept as constant, the azimuthal magnetic field is kept invariable, the ratio between azimuthal magnetic field and AMF is increased, which results in the increase of rotational effect. For cathode spots motion, compared with cup-shaped electrode, coil-shaped electrode has the inverse AMF direction. The Robson drift direction of cathode spots of coil-shaped electrode is opposite to that of cup-shaped electrode. With the increase of gap distance, the Robson angle is decreased, which is associated with the reduced AMF strength. Erosion imprints of anode and cathode are also related to the CSPJ rotational phenomena and cathode spots behavior. The noise of arc voltage in the initial arcing stage is related to the weaker AMF.« less

Thermal investigation of an electrical high-current arc with porous gas-cooled anode

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eckert, E. R. G.; Schoeck, P. A.; Winter, E. R. F.

1984-01-01

The following guantities were measured on a high-intensity electric arc with tungsten cathode and transpiration-cooled graphite anode burning in argon: electric current and voltage, cooling gas flow rate (argon), surface temperature of the anode and of the anode holder, and temperature profile in three cross-sections of the arc are column. The last mentioned values were obtained from spectroscopic photographs. From the measured quantities, the following values were calculated: the heat flux into the anode surface, the heat loss of the anode by radiation and conduction, and the heat which was regeneratively transported by the cooling gas back into the arc space. Heat balances for the anode were also obtained. The anode losses (which are approximately 80% of the total arc power for free burning arcs) were reduced by transpiration cooling to 20%. The physical processes of the energy transfer from the arc to the anode are discussed qualitatively.

An Ultrahigh Capacity Graphite/Li 2S Battery with Holey-Li 2S Nanoarchitectures

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

Ye, Fangmin; Noh, Hyungjun; Lee, Hongkyung

The pairing of high-capacity Li 2S cathode (1166 mAh g -1) and lithium-free anode (LFA) provides an unparalleled potential in developing safe and energy-dense next-generation secondary batteries. However, the low utilization of the Li 2S cathode and the lack of electrolytes compatible to both electrodes are impeding the development. Here, a novel graphite/Li 2S battery system, which features a self-assembled, holey-Li 2S nanoarchitecture and a stable solid electrolyte interface (SEI) on the graphite electrode, is reported. The holey structure on Li 2S is beneficial in decomposing Li 2S at the first charging process due to the enhanced Li ion extractionmore » and transfer from the Li 2S to the electrolyte. In addition, the concentrated dioxolane (DOL)-rich electrolyte designed lowers the irreversible capacity loss for SEI formation. By using the combined strategies, the graphite/holey-Li 2S battery delivers an ultrahigh discharge capacity of 810 mAh g -1 at 0.1 C (based on the mass of Li 2S) and of 714 mAh g -1 at 0.2 C. Moreover, it exhibits a reversible capacity of 300 mAh g -1 after a record lifecycle of 600 cycles at 1 C. These results suggest the great potential of the designed LFA/holey-Li 2S batteries for practical use.« less

An Ultrahigh Capacity Graphite/Li 2S Battery with Holey-Li 2S Nanoarchitectures

DOE PAGES

Ye, Fangmin; Noh, Hyungjun; Lee, Hongkyung; ...

2018-05-07

The pairing of high-capacity Li 2S cathode (1166 mAh g -1) and lithium-free anode (LFA) provides an unparalleled potential in developing safe and energy-dense next-generation secondary batteries. However, the low utilization of the Li 2S cathode and the lack of electrolytes compatible to both electrodes are impeding the development. Here, a novel graphite/Li 2S battery system, which features a self-assembled, holey-Li 2S nanoarchitecture and a stable solid electrolyte interface (SEI) on the graphite electrode, is reported. The holey structure on Li 2S is beneficial in decomposing Li 2S at the first charging process due to the enhanced Li ion extractionmore » and transfer from the Li 2S to the electrolyte. In addition, the concentrated dioxolane (DOL)-rich electrolyte designed lowers the irreversible capacity loss for SEI formation. By using the combined strategies, the graphite/holey-Li 2S battery delivers an ultrahigh discharge capacity of 810 mAh g -1 at 0.1 C (based on the mass of Li 2S) and of 714 mAh g -1 at 0.2 C. Moreover, it exhibits a reversible capacity of 300 mAh g -1 after a record lifecycle of 600 cycles at 1 C. These results suggest the great potential of the designed LFA/holey-Li 2S batteries for practical use.« less

Dynamics, OH distributions and UV emission of a gliding arc at various flow-rates investigated by optical measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Jiajian; Sun, Zhiwei; Li, Zhongshan; Ehn, Andreas; Aldén, Marcus; Salewski, Mirko; Leipold, Frank; Kusano, Yukihiro

2014-07-01

We demonstrate a plasma discharge which is generated between two diverging electrodes and extended into a gliding arc in non-equilibrium condition by an air flow at atmospheric pressure. Effects of the air flow rates on the dynamics, ground-state OH distributions and spectral characterization of UV emission of the gliding arc were investigated by optical methods. High-speed photography was utilized to reveal flow-rate dependent dynamics such as ignitions, propagation, short-cutting events, extinctions and conversions of the discharge from glowtype to spark-type. Short-cutting events and ignitions occur more frequently at higher flow rates. The anchor points of the gliding arc are mostly steady at the top of the electrodes at lower flow rates whereas at higher flow rates they glide up along the electrodes most of the time. The afterglow of fully developed gliding arcs is observed to decay over hundreds of microseconds after being electronically short-cut by a newly ignited arc. The extinction time decreases with the increase of the flow rate. The frequency of the conversion of a discharge from glow-type to spark-type increases with the flow rate. Additionally, spatial distributions of ground-state OH were investigated using planar laser-induced fluorescence. The results show that the shape, height, intensity and thickness of ground-state OH distribution vary significantly with air flow rates. Finally, UV emission of the gliding arc is measured using optical emission spectroscopy and it is found that the emission intensity of NO γ (A-X), OH (A-X) and N2 (C-B) increase with the flow rates showing more characteristics of spark-type arcs. The observed phenomena indicate the significance of the interaction between local turbulence and the gliding arc.

Atmospheric pressure arc discharge with ablating graphite anode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nemchinsky, V. A.; Raitses, Y.

2015-06-01

The anodic carbon arc discharge is used to produce carbon nanoparticles. Recent experiments with the carbon arc at atmospheric pressure helium demonstrated the enhanced ablation rate for narrow graphite anodes resulting in high deposition rates of carbonaceous products on the copper cathode (Fetterman et al 2008 Carbon 46 1322-6). The proposed model explains these results with interconnected steady-state models of the cathode and the anode processes. When considering cathode functioning, the model predicts circulation of the particles in the near-cathode region: evaporation of the cathode material, ionization of evaporated atoms and molecules in the near-cathode plasma, return of the resulting ions to the cathode, surface recombination of ions and electrons followed again by cathode evaporation etc. In the case of the low anode ablation rate, the ion acceleration in the cathode sheath provides the major cathode heating mechanism. In the case of an intensive anode ablation, an additional cathode heating is due to latent fusion heat of the atomic species evaporated from the anode and depositing at the cathode. Using the experimental arc voltage as the only input discharge parameter, the model allows us to calculate the anode ablation rate. A comparison of the results of calculations with the available experimental data shows reasonable agreement.

Modeling of Fume Formation from Shielded Metal Arc Welding Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sivapirakasam, S. P.; Mohan, Sreejith; Santhosh Kumar, M. C.; Surianarayanan, M.

2017-04-01

In this study, a semi-empirical model of fume formation rate (FFR) from a shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) process has been developed. The model was developed for a DC electrode positive (DCEP) operation and involves the calculations of droplet temperature, surface area of the droplet, and partial vapor pressures of the constituents of the droplet to predict the FFR. The model was further extended for predicting FFR from nano-coated electrodes. The model estimates the FFR for Fe and Mn assuming constant proportion of other elements in the electrode. Fe FFR was overestimated, while Mn FFR was underestimated. The contribution of spatters and other mechanism in the arc responsible for fume formation were neglected. A good positive correlation was obtained between the predicted and experimental FFR values which highlighted the usefulness of the model.

The reaction of chlorobenzene with plasma of H2O, CO2 and CH4 obtained by an alternating-current plasma torch with a vortex stabilization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Surov, A. V.; Subbotin, D. I.; Obraztsov, N. V.; Popov, S. D.; Popov, V. E.; Litvyakova, A. I.; Pavlov, A. V.; Serba, E. O.; Spodobin, V. A.; Nakonechny, Gh V.

2018-01-01

This paper presents the three-phase ac plasma torch with a vortex stabilization of the arc, and two inputs of plasma environments: the electrode zone and the arc zone. Shielding gas (carbon dioxide) is supplied in the electrode zone and steam, methane and vapor of chlorobenzene are fed in the arc zone. By means of it the life time of electrodes is increased significantly. Chlorobenzene is selected, as it is the simplest aromatic chlorine-containing substance. The chemical process flows in two pathways: the formation of synthesis gas and the formation of soot. The gaseous chlorine-containing compound was only hydrogen chloride, yield of soot was 0.98% by weight of the raw materials, and the chlorine content was 2.08 wt% by the soot.

Preparation and characterization of superporous agarose-reticulated vitreous carbon electrodes as platforms for electrochemical bioassays.

PubMed

Rao, Ashwin K; Creager, Stephen E

2008-08-01

Three-dimensional flow-through electrodes were fabricated using superporous agarose (SPA) and reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC) composite materials that were suitable as a platform for sandwich assays. These SPA-RVC composite electrodes were fabricated by fitting a SPA-RVC composite cylinder inside a graphite tube and subsequently fixing the graphite tube onto a polypropylene micropipette tip. The electrode design allows for ease in reagent/washing steps involved in sandwich assay protocols and could easily be made portable. The electrode materials were characterized with respect to pore-size distribution, total free volume, ligament and bulk densities of the RVC, and physical structural characteristics. Coulometric detection of redox molecules such as K(3)Fe(CN)(6) and 4-aminophenol was possible using SPA-RVC electrodes by the trapping of these redox molecules inside the SPA-RVC electrodes. Avidin affinity molecules were covalently immobilized onto the SPA matrix inside the RVC electrodes by periodate-activation followed by reductive amination. The amount of avidin immobilized inside the SPA-RVC electrodes was (5+/-0.06)x10(-11) mol, which was determined by saturating the avidin sites with biotinylated fluorescein (b-fluo) and subsequently determining the amount of immobilized b-fluo via a standard addition method using fluorescence spectroscopy. Non-specific binding of labeled enzymes such as biotinylated alkaline phosphatase (b-ALP) onto the SPA-RVC electrodes without avidin capture sites was determined to be less than 1% compared to the specific binding of b-ALP on avidinylated SPA-RVC electrodes.

Multilayer core-shell structured composite paper electrode consisting of copper, cuprous oxide and graphite assembled on cellulose fibers for asymmetric supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wan, Caichao; Jiao, Yue; Li, Jian

2017-09-01

An easily-operated and inexpensive strategy (pencil-drawing-electrodeposition-electro-oxidation) is proposed to synthesize a novel class of multilayer core-shell structured composite paper electrode, which consists of copper, cuprous oxide and graphite assembled on cellulose fibers. This interesting electrode structure plays a pivotal role in providing more active sites for electrochemical reactions, facilitating ion and electron transport and shorting their diffusion pathways. This electrode demonstrates excellent electrochemical properties with a high specific capacitance of 601 F g-1 at 2 A g-1 and retains 83% of this capacitance when operated at an ultrahigh current density of 100 A g-1. In addition, a high energy density of 13.4 W h kg-1 at the power density of 0.40 kW kg-1 and a favorable cycling stability (95.3%, 8000 cycles) were achieved for this electrode. When this electrode was assembled into an asymmetric supercapacitor with carbon paper as negative electrode, the device displays remarkable electrochemical performances with a large areal capacitances (122 mF cm-2 at 1 mA cm-2), high areal energy density (10.8 μW h cm-2 at 402.5 μW cm-2) and outstanding cycling stability (91.5%, 5000 cycles). These results unveil the potential of this composite electrode as a high-performance electrode material for supercapacitors.

A structural study of solid electrolyte interface on negative electrode of lithium-Ion battery by electron microscopy.

PubMed

Matsushita, Tadashi; Watanabe, Jiro; Nakao, Tatsuya; Yamashita, Seiichi

2014-11-01

For the last decades, the performance of the lithium-ion battery (LIB) has been significantly improved and its applications have been expanding rapidly. However, its performance has yet to be enhanced.In the lithium-ion battery development, it is important to elucidate the electrode structure change in detail during the charge and discharge cycling. In particular, solid electrolyte interface (SEI) formed by decomposition of the electrolytes on the graphite negative electrode surface should play an important role for battery properties. Therefore, it is essential to control the structure and composition of SEI to improve the battery performance. Here, we conducted a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) study to elucidate the structures of the SEI during the charge and discharge process using LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 [1] cathode and graphite anode. [2] Since SEI is a lithium-containing compound with high activity, it was observed without being exposed to the atmosphere. The electrodes including SEI were sampled after dismantling batteries with cutoff voltages of 3V and 4.2V for the charge process and 3V for the discharge process. Fig.1 shows SEM images of the graphite electrode surface during the charge and discharge process. The change of the SEI structure during the process was clearly observed. Further, TEM images showed that the SEI grew thicker during the charge process and becomes thinner when discharged. These results with regard to the reversible SEI structure could give a new insight for the battery development.jmicro;63/suppl_1/i21/DFU056F1F1DFU056F1Fig. 1.SEM images of the graphite electrode surface:(a) before charge process;(b) with charge-cutoff voltage of 3.0V; (c) with charge-cutoff voltage of 4.2V; (d) with discharge-cutoff voltage of 3.0V. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Japanese Society of Microscopy. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Electrochemical oxidation of textile industry wastewater by graphite electrodes.

PubMed

Bhatnagar, Rajendra; Joshi, Himanshu; Mall, Indra D; Srivastava, Vimal C

2014-01-01

In the present article, studies have been performed on the electrochemical (EC) oxidation of actual textile industry wastewater by graphite electrodes. Multi-response optimization of four independent parameters namely initial pH (pHo): 4-10, current density (j): 27.78-138.89 A/m(2), NaCl concentration (w): 0-2 g/L and electrolysis time (t): 10-130 min have been performed using Box-Behnken (BB) experimental design. It was aimed to simultaneously maximize the chemical oxygen demand (COD) and color removal efficiencies and minimize specific energy consumption using desirability function approach. Pareto analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a high coefficient of determination value for COD (R(2) = 0.8418), color (R(2) = 0.7010) and specific energy (R(2) = 0.9125) between the experimental values and the predicted values by a second-order regression model. Maximum COD and color removal and minimum specific energy consumed was 90.78%, 96.27% and 23.58 kWh/kg COD removed, respectively, were observed at optimum conditions. The wastewater, sludge and scum obtained after treatment at optimum condition have been characterized by various techniques. UV-visible study showed that all azo bonds of the dyes present in the wastewater were totally broken and most of the aromatic rings were mineralized during EC oxidation with graphite electrode. Carbon balance showed that out of the total carbon eroded from the graphite electrodes, 27-29.2% goes to the scum, 71.1-73.3% goes into the sludge and rest goes to the treated wastewater. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the generated sludge and scum can be dried and used as a fuel in the boilers/incinerators.

Modeling of breakdown during the post-arc phase of a vacuum circuit breaker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarrailh, P.; Garrigues, L.; Boeuf, J. P.; Hagelaar, G. J. M.

2010-12-01

After a high-current interruption in a vacuum circuit breaker (VCB), the electrode gap is filled with a high density copper vapor plasma in a large copper vapor density (~1022 m-3). The copper vapor density is sustained by electrode evaporation. During the post-arc phase, a rapidly increasing voltage is applied to the gap, and a sheath forms and expands, expelling the plasma from the gap when circuit breaking is successful. There is, however, a risk of breakdown during that phase, leading to the failure of the VCB. Preventing breakdown during the post-arc phase is an important issue for the improvement of VCB reliability. In this paper, we analyze the risk of Townsend breakdown in the high copper vapor density during the post-arc phase using a numerical model that takes into account secondary electron emission, volume ionization, and plasma and neutral transport, for given electrode temperatures. The simulations show that fast neutrals created in the cathode sheath by charge exchange collisions with ions generate a very large secondary electron emission current that can lead to Townsend breakdown. The results also show that the risk of failure of the VCB due to Townsend breakdown strongly depends on the electrode temperatures (which govern the copper vapor density) and becomes important for temperatures greater than 2100 K, which can be reached in vacuum arcs. The simulations also predict that a hotter anode tends to increase the risk of Townsend breakdown.

76 FR 14910 - Small Diameter Graphite Electrodes From the People's Republic of China: Initiation of Anti...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-18

... correct grade of petroleum coke mix, and have been baked, formed, carbonized, impregnated, and graphitized... required for the production of SDGE (e.g., raw material handling, mixing, forming, baking, impregnating... production process, demonstrating how raw materials are formed, baked, impregnated (if needed), re-baked...

Sensitive and selective determination of Cu2+ at D-penicillamine functionalized nano-cellulose modified pencil graphite electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taheri, M.; Ahour, F.; Keshipour, S.

2018-06-01

A novel electrochemical sensor based on D-penicillamine anchored nano-cellulose (DPA-NC) modified pencil graphite electrode was fabricated and used for highly selective and sensitive determination of copper (II) ions in the picomolar concentration by square wave adsorptive stripping voltammetric (SWV) method. The modified electrode showed better and increased SWV response compared to the bare and NC modified electrodes which may be related to the porous structure of modifier along with formation of complex between Cu2+ ions and nitrogen or oxygen containing groups in DPA-NC. Optimization of various experimental parameters influence the performance of the sensor, were investigated. Under optimized condition, DPA-NC modified electrode was used for the analysis of Cu2+ in the concentration range from 0.2 to 50 pM, and a lower detection limit of 0.048 pM with good stability, repeatability, and selectivity. Finally, the practical applicability of DPA-NC-PGE was confirmed via measuring trace amount of Cu (II) in tap and river water samples.

Inert gas rejection device for zinc-halogen battery systems

DOEpatents

Hammond, Michael J.; Arendell, Mark W.

1981-01-01

An electrolytic cell for separating chlorine gas from other (foreign) gases, having an anode, a cathode assembly, an aqueous electrolyte, a housing, and a constant voltage power supply. The cathode assembly is generally comprised of a dense graphite electrode having a winding channel formed in the face opposing the anode, a gas impermeable (but liquid permeable) membrane sealed into the side of the cathode electrode over the channel, and a packing of graphite particles contained in the channel of the cathode electrode. The housing separates and parallelly aligns the anode and cathode assembly, and provides a hermetic seal for the cell. In operation, a stream of chlorine and foreign gases enters the cell at the beginning of the cathode electrode channel. The chlorine gas is dissolved into the electrolyte and electrochemically reduced into chloride ions. The chloride ions disfuse through the gas impermeable membrane, and are electrochemically oxidized at the anode into purified chlorine gas. The foreign gases do not participate in the above electrochemical reactions, and are vented from the cell at the end of the cathode electrode channel.

A Reusable Impedimetric Aptasensor for Detection of Thrombin Employing a Graphite-Epoxy Composite Electrode

PubMed Central

Ocaña, Cristina; Pacios, Mercè; del Valle, Manel

2012-01-01

Here, we report the application of a label-free electrochemical aptasensor based on a graphite-epoxy composite electrode for the detection of thrombin; in this work, aptamers were immobilized onto the electrodes surface using wet physical adsorption. The detection principle is based on the changes of the interfacial properties of the electrode; these were probed in the presence of the reversible redox couple [Fe(CN)6]3−/[Fe(CN)6]4− using impedance measurements. The electrode surface was partially blocked due to formation of aptamer-thrombin complex, resulting in an increase of the interfacial electron-transfer resistance detected by Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). The aptasensor showed a linear response for thrombin in the range of 7.5 pM to 75 pM and a detection limit of 4.5 pM. The aptasensor was regenerated by breaking the complex formed between the aptamer and thrombin using 2.0 M NaCl solution at 42 °C, showing its operation for different cycles. The interference response caused by main proteins in serum has been characterized. PMID:22736991

The electrochemical performance of graphene modified electrodes: an analytical perspective.

PubMed

Brownson, Dale A C; Foster, Christopher W; Banks, Craig E

2012-04-21

We explore the use of graphene modified electrodes towards the electroanalytical sensing of various analytes, namely dopamine hydrochloride, uric acid, acetaminophen and p-benzoquinone via cyclic voltammetry. In line with literature methodologies and to investigate the full-implications of employing graphene in this electrochemical context, we modify electrode substrates that exhibit either fast or slow electron transfer kinetics (edge- or basal- plane pyrolytic graphite electrodes respectively) with well characterised commercially available graphene that has not been chemically treated, is free from surfactants and as a result of its fabrication has an extremely low oxygen content, allowing the true electroanalytical applicability of graphene to be properly de-convoluted and determined. In comparison to the unmodified underlying electrode substrates (constructed from graphite), we find that graphene exhibits a reduced analytical performance in terms of sensitivity, linearity and observed detection limits towards each of the various analytes studied within. Owing to graphene's structural composition, low proportion of edge plane sites and consequent slow heterogeneous electron transfer rates, there appears to be no advantages, for the analytes studied here, of employing graphene in this electroanalytical context.

What makes lithium substituted polyacrylic acid a better binder than polyacrylic acid for silicon-graphite composite anodes?

DOE PAGES

Hays, Kevin A.; Ruther, Rose E.; Kukay, Alexander J.; ...

2018-03-04

Lithium substituted polyacrylic acid (LiPAA) has previously been demonstrated as a superior binder over polyacrylic acid (PAA) for Si anodes, but from where does this enhanced performance arise? In this paper, full cells are assembled with PAA and LiPAA based Si-graphite composite anodes that dried at temperatures from 100 °C to 200 °C. The performance of full cells containing PAA based Si-graphite anodes largely depend on the secondary drying temperature, as decomposition of the binder is correlated to increased electrode moisture and a rise in cell impedance. Full cells containing LiPAA based Si-graphite composite electrodes display better Coulombic efficiency thanmore » those with PAA, because of the electrochemical reduction of the PAA binder. This is identified by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectrometry and observed gassing during the electrochemical reaction. Finally, Coulombic losses from the PAA and Si SEI, along with depletion of the Si capacity in the anode results in progressive underutilization of the cathode and full cell capacity loss.« less

What makes lithium substituted polyacrylic acid a better binder than polyacrylic acid for silicon-graphite composite anodes?

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

Hays, Kevin A.; Ruther, Rose E.; Kukay, Alexander J.

Lithium substituted polyacrylic acid (LiPAA) has previously been demonstrated as a superior binder over polyacrylic acid (PAA) for Si anodes, but from where does this enhanced performance arise? In this paper, full cells are assembled with PAA and LiPAA based Si-graphite composite anodes that dried at temperatures from 100 °C to 200 °C. The performance of full cells containing PAA based Si-graphite anodes largely depend on the secondary drying temperature, as decomposition of the binder is correlated to increased electrode moisture and a rise in cell impedance. Full cells containing LiPAA based Si-graphite composite electrodes display better Coulombic efficiency thanmore » those with PAA, because of the electrochemical reduction of the PAA binder. This is identified by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectrometry and observed gassing during the electrochemical reaction. Finally, Coulombic losses from the PAA and Si SEI, along with depletion of the Si capacity in the anode results in progressive underutilization of the cathode and full cell capacity loss.« less

Dendrite-free Li metal anode enabled by a 3D free-standing lithiophilic nitrogen-enriched carbon sponge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hou, Guangmei; Ren, Xiaohua; Ma, Xiaoxin; Zhang, Le; Zhai, Wei; Ai, Qing; Xu, Xiaoyan; Zhang, Lin; Si, Pengchao; Feng, Jinkui; Ding, Fei; Ci, Lijie

2018-05-01

Lithium metal is considered as the ultimate anode material for high-energy Li battery systems. However, the commercial application of lithium anode is impeded by issues with safety and low coulombic efficiency induced by Li dendrite growth. Herein, a free-standing three-dimensional nitrogen-enriched graphitic carbon sponge with a high nitrogen content is proposed as a multifunctional current collect for Lithium accommodation. The abundant lithiophilic N-containing functional groups are served as preferred nucleation sites to guide a uniform Li deposition. In addition, the nitrogen-enriched graphitic carbon sponge with a high specific surface area can effectively reduce the local current density. As a result of the synergistic effect, the nitrogen-enriched graphitic carbon sponge electrode realizes a long-term stable cycling without dendrites formation. Notably, the as-obtained composite electrode can deliver an ultra-high specific capacity of ∼3175 mA h g-1. The nitrogen-enriched graphitic carbon sponge might provide innovative insights to design a superior matrix for dendrite-free Li anode.

What makes lithium substituted polyacrylic acid a better binder than polyacrylic acid for silicon-graphite composite anodes?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hays, Kevin A.; Ruther, Rose E.; Kukay, Alexander J.; Cao, Pengfei; Saito, Tomonori; Wood, David L.; Li, Jianlin

2018-04-01

Lithium substituted polyacrylic acid (LiPAA) has previously been demonstrated as a superior binder over polyacrylic acid (PAA) for Si anodes, but from where does this enhanced performance arise? In this study, full cells are assembled with PAA and LiPAA based Si-graphite composite anodes that dried at temperatures from 100 °C to 200 °C. The performance of full cells containing PAA based Si-graphite anodes largely depend on the secondary drying temperature, as decomposition of the binder is correlated to increased electrode moisture and a rise in cell impedance. Full cells containing LiPAA based Si-graphite composite electrodes display better Coulombic efficiency than those with PAA, because of the electrochemical reduction of the PAA binder. This is identified by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectrometry and observed gassing during the electrochemical reaction. Coulombic losses from the PAA and Si SEI, along with depletion of the Si capacity in the anode results in progressive underutilization of the cathode and full cell capacity loss.

Preparation of thin film silver fluoride electrodes from constituent elements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Odonnell, P. M.

1972-01-01

The feasibility of preparing thin-film metal fluoride electrodes from the elemental constituents has been demonstrated. Silver fluoride cathodes were prepared by deposition of silver on a conducting graphite substrate followed by fluorination under controlled conditions using elemental fluorine. The resulting electrodes were of high purity, and the variables such as size, shape, and thickness were easily controlled.

Study on preparation of SnO2-TiO2/Nano-graphite composite anode and electro-catalytic degradation of ceftriaxone sodium.

PubMed

Guo, Xiaolei; Wan, Jiafeng; Yu, Xiujuan; Lin, Yuhui

2016-12-01

In order to improve the electro-catalytic activity and catalytic reaction rate of graphite-like material, Tin dioxide-Titanium dioxide/Nano-graphite (SnO 2 -TiO 2 /Nano-G) composite was synthesized by a sol-gel method and SnO 2 -TiO 2 /Nano-G electrode was prepared in hot-press approach. The composite was characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, fourier transform infrared, Raman, N 2 adsorption-desorption, scanning electrons microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The electrochemical performance of the SnO 2 -TiO 2 /Nano-G anode electrode was investigated via cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The electro-catalytic performance was evaluated by the degradation of ceftriaxone sodium and the yield of ·OH radicals in the reaction system. The results demonstrated that TiO 2 , SnO 2 and Nano-G were composited successfully, and TiO 2 and SnO 2 particles dispersed on the surface and interlamination of the Nano-G uniformly. The specific surface area of SnO 2 modified anode was higher than that of TiO 2 /Nano-G anode and the degradation rate of ceftriaxone sodium within 120 min on SnO 2 -TiO 2 /Nano-G electrode was 98.7% at applied bias of 2.0 V. The highly efficient electro-chemical property of SnO 2 -TiO 2 /Nano-G electrode was attributed to the admirable conductive property of the Nano-G and SnO 2 -TiO 2 /Nano-G electrode. Moreover, the contribution of reactive species ·OH was detected, indicating the considerable electro-catalytic activity of SnO 2 -TiO 2 /Nano-G electrode. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fabrication of novel coated pyrolytic graphite electrodes for the selective nano-level monitoring of Cd²⁺ ions in biological and environmental samples using polymeric membrane of newly synthesized macrocycle.

PubMed

Sahani, Manoj Kumar; Singh, A K; Jain, A K; Upadhyay, Anjali; Kumar, Amit; Singh, Udai P; Narang, Shikha

2015-02-20

Novel 5-amino-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-thiol unit based macrocyclic ionophore 5,11,17-trithia-1,3,7,9,13,15,19,20,21-nonaazatetracyclo[14.2.1.1(4,7).1(10,13)]henicosa-4(20),10(21),16(19)-triene-6,12,18-trithione (M1), was synthesized and characterized. Preliminary studies on M1 have showed that it has more the affinity toward Cd(2+) ion. Thus, the macrocyclic ionophore (M1) was used as electroactive material in the fabrication of PVC-membrane electrodes such as polymeric membrane electrode (PME), coated graphite electrode (CGE) and coated pyrolytic graphite electrode (CPGE) were prepared and its performance characteristic were compared with. The electroanalytical studies performed on PME, CGE and CPGE revealed that CPGE having membrane composition M1:PVC:1-CN:NaTPB in the ratio of 7:37:54:2 exhibits the best potentiometric characteristics in terms of detection limit of 7.58×10(-9) mol L(-1), Nernstian slope of 29.6 mV decade(-1) of activity. The sensor was found to be independent of pH in the range 2.5-8.5. The sensor showed a fast response time of 10s and could be used over a period of 4 months without any significant divergence in its potentiometric characteristics. The sensor has been employed for monitoring of the Cd(2+) ion in real samples and also used as an indicator electrode in the potentiometric titration of Cd(2+) ion with EDTA. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Water-activated graphite felt as a high-performance electrode for vanadium redox flow batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kabtamu, Daniel Manaye; Chen, Jian-Yu; Chang, Yu-Chung; Wang, Chen-Hao

2017-02-01

A simple, green, novel, time-efficient, and potentially cost-effective water activation method was employed to enhance the electrochemical activity of graphite felt (GF) electrodes for vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs). The GF electrode prepared with a water vapor injection time of 5 min at 700 °C exhibits the highest electrochemical activity for the VO2+/VO2+ couple among all the tested electrodes. This is attributed to the small, controlled amount of water vapor that was introduced producing high contents of oxygen-containing functional groups, such as sbnd OH groups, on the surface of the GF fibers, which are known to be electrochemically active sites for vanadium redox reactions. Charge-discharge tests further confirm that only 5 min of GF water activation is required to improve the efficiency of the VRFB cell. The average coulombic efficiency, voltage efficiency, and energy efficiency are 95.06%, 87.42%, and 83.10%, respectively, at a current density of 50 mA cm-2. These voltage and energy efficiencies are determined to be considerably higher than those of VRFB cells assembled using heat-treated GF electrodes without water activation and pristine GF electrodes.

Design and Manufacturing of Desalination System Powered by Solar Energy Using CDI Technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rostami, Mohammad Sajjad; Khashehchi, Morteza; Pipelzadeh, Ehsan

2017-11-01

Capacitive deionization (CDI) is an emerging energy efficient, low pressure and low capital intensive desalination process where ions are separated by a pure electrostatic force imposed by a small bias potential as low as 1 V That funded by an external Renewable (Solar) power supply to materials with high specific surface area. The main objective of this configuration is to separate the cation and anions on oppositely charged electrodes. One of the key parameters for commercial realization of CDI is the salt adsorption capacity of the electrodes. State-of-the-art electrode materials are based on porous activated carbon particles or carbon aerogels. Various electrode materials have been developed in the past, which have suffered from instability and lack of performance. Preliminary experimental results using carbon black, graphite powder, graphene ∖ graphite ∖ PTFE (Active ∖ Conductive ∖ binder) show that the graphene reduced via urea method is a suitable method to develop CDI electrode materials. Although some progress has been made, production of efficient and stable carbon based electrode materials for large scale desalination has not been fully realized. A new desalination technique using capacitive deionization.

Occupational asthma due to manual metal-arc welding of special stainless steels.

PubMed

Hannu, T; Piipari, R; Kasurinen, H; Keskinen, H; Tuppurainen, M; Tuomi, T

2005-10-01

Occupational asthma (OA) can be induced by fumes of manual metal-arc welding on stainless steel. In recent years, the use of special stainless steels (SSS) with high chromium content has increased. This study presents two cases of OA caused by manual metal-arc welding on SSS. In both cases, the diagnosis of OA was based on respiratory symptoms, occupational exposure and positive findings in the specific challenge tests. In the first case, a 46-yr-old welder had experienced severe dyspnoea while welding SSS (SMO steel), but not in other situations. Challenge tests with both mild steel and stainless steel using a common electrode were negative. Welding SSS with a special electrode caused a delayed 37% drop in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). In the second case, a 34-yr-old male had started to experience dyspnoea during the past few years, while welding especially SSS (Duplex steel). The workplace peak expiratory flow monitoring was suggestive of OA. Challenge tests with both mild steel and stainless steel using a common electrode did not cause bronchial obstruction. Welding SSS with a special electrode caused a delayed 31% drop in FEV1. In conclusion, exposure to manual metal-arc welding fumes of special stainless steel should be considered as a new cause of occupational asthma.

Stable synthesis of few-layered boron nitride nanotubes by anodic arc discharge.

PubMed

Yeh, Yao-Wen; Raitses, Yevgeny; Koel, Bruce E; Yao, Nan

2017-06-08

Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) were successfully synthesized by a dc arc discharge using a boron-rich anode as synthesis feedstock in a nitrogen gas environment at near atmospheric pressure. The synthesis was achieved independent of the cathode material suggesting that under such conditions the arc operates in so-called anodic mode with the anode material being consumed by evaporation due to the arc heating. To sustain the arc current by thermionic electron emission, the cathode has to be at sufficiently high temperature, which for a typical arc current density of ~100 A/cm 2 , is above the boron melting point (2350 K). With both electrodes made from the same boron-rich alloy, we found that the arc operation unstable due to frequent sticking between two molten electrodes and formation of molten droplets. Stable and reliable arc operation and arc synthesis were achieved with the boron-rich anode and the cathode made from a refractory metal which has a melting temperature above the melting point of boron. Ex-situ characterization of synthesized BNNTs with electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy revealed that independent of the cathode material, the tubes are primarily single and double walled. The results also show evidence of root-growth of BNNTs produced in the arc discharge.

Stable synthesis of few-layered boron nitride nanotubes by anodic arc discharge

DOE PAGES

Yeh, Yao-Wen; Raitses, Yevgeny; Koel, Bruce E.; ...

2017-06-08

Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) were successfully synthesized by a dc arc discharge using a boron-rich anode as synthesis feedstock in a nitrogen gas environment at near atmospheric pressure. The synthesis was achieved independent of the cathode material suggesting that under such conditions the arc operates in so-called anodic mode with the anode material being consumed by evaporation due to the arc heating. In order to sustain the arc current by thermionic electron emission, the cathode has to be at sufficiently high temperature, which for a typical arc current density of similar to 100 A/cm 2, is above the boron meltingmore » point (2350 K). With both electrodes made from the same boron-rich alloy, we found that the arc operation unstable due to frequent sticking between two molten electrodes and formation of molten droplets. We achieved a stable and reliable arc operation and arc synthesis with the boronrich anode and the cathode made from a refractory metal which has a melting temperature above the melting point of boron. Ex-situ characterization of synthesized BNNTs with electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy revealed that independent of the cathode material, the tubes are primarily single and double walled. Our results also show evidence of root-growth of BNNTs produced in the arc discharge.« less

Stable synthesis of few-layered boron nitride nanotubes by anodic arc discharge

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

Yeh, Yao-Wen; Raitses, Yevgeny; Koel, Bruce E.

Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) were successfully synthesized by a dc arc discharge using a boron-rich anode as synthesis feedstock in a nitrogen gas environment at near atmospheric pressure. The synthesis was achieved independent of the cathode material suggesting that under such conditions the arc operates in so-called anodic mode with the anode material being consumed by evaporation due to the arc heating. In order to sustain the arc current by thermionic electron emission, the cathode has to be at sufficiently high temperature, which for a typical arc current density of similar to 100 A/cm 2, is above the boron meltingmore » point (2350 K). With both electrodes made from the same boron-rich alloy, we found that the arc operation unstable due to frequent sticking between two molten electrodes and formation of molten droplets. We achieved a stable and reliable arc operation and arc synthesis with the boronrich anode and the cathode made from a refractory metal which has a melting temperature above the melting point of boron. Ex-situ characterization of synthesized BNNTs with electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy revealed that independent of the cathode material, the tubes are primarily single and double walled. Our results also show evidence of root-growth of BNNTs produced in the arc discharge.« less

A simple and sensitive methodology for voltammetric determination of valproic acid in human blood plasma samples using 3-aminopropyletriethoxy silane coated magnetic nanoparticles modified pencil graphite electrode.

PubMed

Zabardasti, Abedin; Afrouzi, Hossein; Talemi, Rasoul Pourtaghavi

2017-07-01

In this work, we have prepared a nano-material modified pencil graphite electrode for the sensing of valproic acid (VA) by immobilization 3-aminopropyletriethoxy silane coated magnetic nanoparticles (APTES-MNPs) on the pencil graphite surface (PGE). Electrochemical studies indicated that the APTES-MNPs efficiently increased the electron transfer kinetics between VA and the electrode and the free NH 2 groups of the APTES on the outer surface of magnetic nanoparticles can interact with carboxyl groups of VA. Based on this, we have proposed a sensitive, rapid and convenient electrochemical method for VA determination. Under the optimized conditions, the reduction peak current of VA is found to be proportional to its concentration in the range of 1.0 (±0.2) to 100.0 (±0.3) ppm with a detection limit of 0.4 (±0.1) ppm. The whole sensor fabrication process was characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) methods with using [Fe(CN) 6 ] 3-/4- as an electrochemical redox indicator. The prepared modified electrode showed several advantages such as high sensitivity, selectivity, ease of preparation and good repeatability, reproducibility and stability. The proposed method was applied to determination of valproic acid in blood plasma samples and the obtained results were satisfactory accurate. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Preparation of chitosan grafted graphite composite for sensitive detection of dopamine in biological samples.

PubMed

Palanisamy, Selvakumar; Thangavelu, Kokulnathan; Chen, Shen-Ming; Gnanaprakasam, P; Velusamy, Vijayalakshmi; Liu, Xiao-Heng

2016-10-20

The accurate detection of dopamine (DA) levels in biological samples such as human serum and urine are essential indicators in medical diagnostics. In this work, we describe the preparation of chitosan (CS) biopolymer grafted graphite (GR) composite for the sensitive and lower potential detection of DA in its sub micromolar levels. The composite modified electrode has been used for the detection of DA in biological samples such as human serum and urine. The GR-CS composite modified electrode shows an enhanced oxidation peak current response and low oxidation potential for the detection of DA than that of electrodes modified with bare, GR and CS discretely. Under optimum conditions, the fabricated GR-CS composite modified electrode shows the DPV response of DA in the linear response ranging from 0.03 to 20.06μM. The detection limit and sensitivity of the sensor were estimated as 0.0045μM and 6.06μA μM(-1)cm(-2), respectively. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Sensitive Adsorptive Voltammetric Method for Determination of Bisphenol A by Gold Nanoparticle/Polyvinylpyrrolidone-Modified Pencil Graphite Electrode

PubMed Central

Yaman, Yesim Tugce; Abaci, Serdar

2016-01-01

A novel electrochemical sensor gold nanoparticle (AuNP)/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) modified pencil graphite electrode (PGE) was developed for the ultrasensitive determination of Bisphenol A (BPA). The gold nanoparticles were electrodeposited by constant potential electrolysis and PVP was attached by passive adsorption onto the electrode surface. The electrode surfaces were characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The parameters that affected the experimental conditions were researched and optimized. The AuNP/PVP/PGE sensor provided high sensitivity and selectivity for BPA recognition by using square wave adsorptive stripping voltammetry (SWAdSV). Under optimized conditions, the detection limit was found to be 1.0 nM. This new sensor system offered the advantages of simple fabrication which aided the expeditious replication, low cost, fast response, high sensitivity and low background current for BPA. This new sensor system was successfully tested for the detection of the amount of BPA in bottled drinking water with high reliability. PMID:27231912

A biosensor based on graphite epoxy composite electrode for aspartame and ethanol detection.

PubMed

Kirgöz, Ulkü Anik; Odaci, Dilek; Timur, Suna; Merkoçi, Arben; Alegret, Salvador; Beşün, Nurgün; Telefoncu, Azmi

2006-06-16

A gelatin membrane with carboxyl esterase and alcohol oxidase was subsequently integrated onto the surface of a graphite epoxy composite electrode (GECE). The developed biosensors showed linearity in the range of 2.5-400 microM for aspartame and 2.5-25 microM for ethanol with response times of 170 and 70s for each analyte, respectively. The resulting bienzyme biosensor was used for aspartame detection in diet coke samples and ethanol detection in beer and wine samples. From the obtained results, it can be concluded that the developed biosensor is a selective, practical and economic tool for aspartame and ethanol detection in real samples.

Graphite//LiNi0.5 Mn1.5 O4 Cells Based on Environmentally Friendly Made-in-Water Electrodes.

PubMed

De Giorgio, Francesca; Laszczynski, Nina; von Zamory, Jan; Mastragostino, Marina; Arbizzani, Catia; Passerini, Stefano

2017-01-20

The performance of graphite//LiNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 (LNMO) cells, both electrodes of which are made using water-soluble sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) binder, is reported for the first time. The full cell performed outstandingly over 400 cycles in the conventional electrolyte ethylene carbonate/dimethyl carbonate-1 m LiPF 6 , and the delivered specific energy at the 100th, 200th, 300th, and 400th cycle corresponded to 82, 78, 73, and 66 %, respectively, of the initial energy value of 259 Wh kg -1 (referring to the sum of the two electrode-composite weights). The good stability of high-voltage, LNMO-CMC-based electrodes upon long-term cycling is discussed and the results are compared to those of LNMO-composite electrodes with polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF). LNMO-CMC electrodes outperformed those with PVdF binder, displaying a capacity retention of 83 % compared to 62 % for the PVdF-based electrodes after 400 cycles at 1 C. CMC promotes a more compact and stable electrode surface than PVdF; undesired interfacial reactions at high operating voltages are mitigated, and the thickness of the passivation layer on the LNMO surface is reduced, thereby enhancing its cycling stability. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Laser-Based Optical System for Reactive Radical Concentration Measurements in Plasmas and Flames

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-08-01

role of different plasma components in chain propagation support: (1) and (2) - corona plasma generators with high-voltage multiple needle electrodes ; (3...H20 2) and HCN. Measurements in Gliding Arc, Dielectric Barrier Discharge and Pulsed Corona Plasma systems and in flame and flow reactor systems are...discharges operating in air with iron electrodes - 260V.35 Using visual quantification from high speed camera arc images, the approximate thickness of

Numerical Simulation of Stationary AC Tungsten Inert Gas Welding of Aluminum Plate in Consideration of Oxide Layer Cleaning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tashiro, Shinichi; Tanaka, Manabu

An unified numerical simulation model of AC TIG welding of the aluminum plate considering energy balance among the electrode, the arc and the base metal and employing an analytical model for calculating cleaning rate of the oxide layer has been developed for investigating heat transport properties and weld pool formation process in AC TIG welding of aluminum plate. As a result of this simulation, it was shown that although the heat flux from the arc onto the base metal increases in EN (Electrode Negative) phase due to the electron condensation, that in EP (Electrode Positive) phase conversely decreases because mainly of cooling caused by the electron emission. Furthermore, the validity of the simulation model was confirmed by comparing to experimental results such as the arc voltage, the area of cleaning zone and the shape of weld pool.

Production and Characterization of Carbon Nanotubes and Nanotube-Based Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nikolaev, Pavel; Arepalli, Sivaram; Holmes, William; Gorelik, Olga; Files, Brad; Scott, Carl; Santos, Beatrice; Mayeaux, Brian; Victor, Joe

1999-01-01

The Nobel Prize winning discovery of the Buckuball (C60) in 1985 at Rice University by a group including Dr. Richard Smalley led to the whole new class of carbon allotropes including fullerenes and nanotubes. Especially interesting from many viewpoints are single-walled carbon nanotubes, which structurally are like a single graphitic sheet wrapped around a cylinder and capped at the ends. This cylinders have diameter as small as 0.5 - 2 nm (1/100,000th the diameter of a human hair) and are as long as 0.1 - 1 mm. Nanotubes are really individual molecules and believed to be defect-free, leading to high tensile strength despite their low density. Additionally, these fibers exhibit electrical conductivity as high as copper, thermal conductivity as high as diamond, strength 100 times higher than steel at one-sixth the weight, and high strain to failure. Thus it is believed that developments in the field of nanotechnology will lead to stronger and lighter composite materials for next generation spacecraft. Lack of a bulk method of production is the primary reason nanotubes are not used widely today. Toward this goal JSC nanotube team is exploring three distinct production techniques: laser ablation, arc discharge and chemical vapor deposition (CVD, in collaboration with Rice University). In laser ablation technique high-power laser impinges on the piece of carbon containing small amount of catalyst, and nanotubes self-assemble from the resulting carbon vapor. In arc generator similar vapor is created in arc discharge between carbon electrodes with catalyst. In CVD method nanotubes grow at much lower temperature on small catalyst particles from carbon-containing feedstock gas (methane or carbon monoxide). As of now, laser ablation produces cleanest material, but mass yield is rather small. Arc discharge produces grams of material, but purity is low. CVD technique is still in baby steps, but preliminary results look promising, as well as perspective of scaling the process up. We are also working on necessary purification of nanotubes. Applications of nanotubes are in such various fields as lightweight composites, molecular electronics, energy storage (electrodes in Li ion batteries), flat panel displays, conductive polymers, etc. JSC nanotube team is focused on development of lightweight materials. We work on the injection thermoset epoxies reinforced with nanotubes. Early results show good wetting of nanotube surface with epoxy, which is very important. More research will be possible as more nanotubes become available.

Nucleation/Growth Mechanisms and Morphological Evolution of Porous MnO₂ Coating Deposited on Graphite for Supercapacitor.

PubMed

Huang, Wenxin; Li, Jun; Xu, Yunhe

2017-10-19

The nucleation and growth mechanisms of porous MnO₂ coating deposited on graphite in MnSO₄ solution were investigated in detail by cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry and scanning electron microscopy. The electrochemical properties of honeycomb-like MnO₂ were evaluated by cycle voltammetry and galvanostatic charge-discharge. Results indicated that MnO₂ was synthesized by the following steps: Mn 2+ → Mn 3+ + e⁻, Mn 3+ +2H2O → MnOOH + 3H⁺, and MnOOH → MnO₂ + H⁺+ e⁻. The deposition of MnO₂ was divided into four stages. A short incubation period (approximately 1.5 s) was observed, prior to nucleation. The decreasing trend of the current slowed as time increased due to nucleation and MnO₂ growth in the second stage. A huge number of nuclei were formed by instantaneous nucleation, and these nuclei grew and connected with one another at an exceedingly short time (0.5 s). In the third stage, the gaps in-between initial graphite flakes were filled with MnO₂ until the morphology of the flakes gradually became similar to that of the MnO₂-deposited layer. In the fourth stage, the graphite electrode was covered completely with a thick and dense layer of MnO₂ deposits. All MnO₂ electrodes at different deposition times obtained nearly the same specific capacitance of approximately 186 F/g, thus indicating that the specific capacitance of the electrodes is not related with deposition time.

Perfluoroalkyl-substituted ethylene carbonates: Novel electrolyte additives for high-voltage lithium-ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Ye; Casselman, Matthew D.; Li, Yan; Wei, Alexander; Abraham, Daniel P.

2014-01-01

A new family of polyfluoroalkyl-substituted ethylene carbonates is synthesized and tested as additives in lithium-ion cells containing EC:EMC + LiPF6-based electrolyte. The influence of these compounds is investigated in Li1.2Ni0.15Mn0.55Co0.1O2//graphite cells via a combination of galvanostatic cycling and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests. Among the four additives studied in this work (4-(trifluoromethyl)-1,3-dioxolan-2-one (TFM-EC), 4-(perfluorobutyl)-1,3-dioxolan-2-one (PFB-EC), 4-(perfluorohexyl)-1,3-dioxolan-2-one (PFH-EC), and 4-(perfluorooctyl)-1,3-dioxolan-2-one (PFO-EC)), small amounts (0.5 wt%) of PFO-EC is found to be most effective in lessening cell performance degradation during extended cycling. Linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Raman spectroscopy are used to further characterize the effects of PFO-EC on the positive and negative electrodes. LSV data from the electrolyte, and XPS analyses of electrodes harvested after cycling, suggest that PFO-EC is oxidized on the cathode forming surface films that slow electrode/cell impedance rise. Differential capacity (dQ/dV) plots from graphite//Li cells suggest that PFO-EC is involved in solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation. Raman data from anodes after cycling suggest that structural disordering of graphite is reduced by the addition of PFO-EC, which may explain the improved cell capacity retention.

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

Estevez, Luis; Reed, David; Nie, Zimin

We decorated the surfaces of graphite felts with some oxygen-containing functional groups, such as C-OH, O=C and HO-C=O. And the mole ratios and amounts of these functional groups were effectively adjusted on the graphite surface by a particular method. The catalytic effects of amounts and mole ratio of different kinds of functional groups on VRB electrode performances were investigated in detail.

Preparation of Crumpled Graphite Oxide from Recycled Graphite Using Plasma Electrolysis and Its Application for Adsorption of Cadmium in Aqueous Environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hong, Phan Ngoc; Tuoi, Tran Thi; Ngan, Nguyen Thi Kim; Trang, Bui Thi; Minh, Phan Ngoc; Lam, Tran Dai; Hanh, Nguyen Thi; Van Thanh, Dang

2016-05-01

Household battery waste is considered hazardous and needs to be collected, managed, and recycled appropriately. In this study, using a plasma electrolysis method, we recycled graphite electrodes of exhausted dry batteries to prepare crumpled graphite oxide (CGO). Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the CGO possessed spherical morphology with average dimensions of 0.5 μm to 5 μm. The as-prepared CGO was then applied to absorb cadmium in aqueous environment. The results showed that CGO appears to be a promising adsorbent for removal of toxic waste from polluted water.

Graphite based Schottky diodes formed semiconducting substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schumann, Todd; Tongay, Sefaattin; Hebard, Arthur

2010-03-01

We demonstrate the formation of semimetal graphite/semiconductor Schottky barriers where the semiconductor is either silicon (Si), gallium arsenide (GaAs) or 4H-silicon carbide (4H-SiC). The fabrication can be as easy as allowing a dab of graphite paint to air dry on any one of the investigated semiconductors. Near room temperature, the forward-bias diode characteristics are well described by thermionic emission, and the extracted barrier heights, which are confirmed by capacitance voltage measurements, roughly follow the Schottky-Mott relation. Since the outermost layer of the graphite electrode is a single graphene sheet, we expect that graphene/semiconductor barriers will manifest similar behavior.

Overvoltage protector using varistor initiated arc

DOEpatents

Brainard, John P.

1982-01-01

Coaxial conductors are protected against electrical overvoltage by at least one element of non-electroded varistor material that adjoins each other varistor element and conductor with which it contacts. With this construction, overvoltage current initiated through the varistor material arcs at the point contacts between varistor elements and, as the current increases, the arcs increase until they become a continuous arc between conductors, bypassing the varistor material.

Nanoscale Electrochemistry of sp(2) Carbon Materials: From Graphite and Graphene to Carbon Nanotubes.

PubMed

Unwin, Patrick R; Güell, Aleix G; Zhang, Guohui

2016-09-20

Carbon materials have a long history of use as electrodes in electrochemistry, from (bio)electroanalysis to applications in energy technologies, such as batteries and fuel cells. With the advent of new forms of nanocarbon, particularly, carbon nanotubes and graphene, carbon electrode materials have taken on even greater significance for electrochemical studies, both in their own right and as components and supports in an array of functional composites. With the increasing prominence of carbon nanomaterials in electrochemistry comes a need to critically evaluate the experimental framework from which a microscopic understanding of electrochemical processes is best developed. This Account advocates the use of emerging electrochemical imaging techniques and confined electrochemical cell formats that have considerable potential to reveal major new perspectives on the intrinsic electrochemical activity of carbon materials, with unprecedented detail and spatial resolution. These techniques allow particular features on a surface to be targeted and models of structure-activity to be developed and tested on a wide range of length scales and time scales. When high resolution electrochemical imaging data are combined with information from other microscopy and spectroscopy techniques applied to the same area of an electrode surface, in a correlative-electrochemical microscopy approach, highly resolved and unambiguous pictures of electrode activity are revealed that provide new views of the electrochemical properties of carbon materials. With a focus on major sp(2) carbon materials, graphite, graphene, and single walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs), this Account summarizes recent advances that have changed understanding of interfacial electrochemistry at carbon electrodes including: (i) Unequivocal evidence for the high activity of the basal surface of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG), which is at least as active as noble metal electrodes (e.g., platinum) for outer-sphere redox processes. (ii) Demonstration of the high activity of basal plane HOPG toward other reactions, with no requirement for catalysis by step edges or defects, as exemplified by studies of proton-coupled electron transfer, redox transformations of adsorbed molecules, surface functionalization via diazonium electrochemistry, and metal electrodeposition. (iii) Rationalization of the complex interplay of different factors that determine electrochemistry at graphene, including the source (mechanical exfoliation from graphite vs chemical vapor deposition), number of graphene layers, edges, electronic structure, redox couple, and electrode history effects. (iv) New methodologies that allow nanoscale electrochemistry of 1D materials (SWNTs) to be related to their electronic characteristics (metallic vs semiconductor SWNTs), size, and quality, with high resolution imaging revealing the high activity of SWNT sidewalls and the importance of defects for some electrocatalytic reactions (e.g., the oxygen reduction reaction). The experimental approaches highlighted for carbon electrodes are generally applicable to other electrode materials and set a new framework and course for the study of electrochemical and interfacial processes.

Electrolyte Structure near Electrode Interfaces in Lithium-Ion Batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lordi, Vincenzo; Ong, Mitchell; Verners, Osvalds; van Duin, Adri; Draeger, Erik; Pask, John

2014-03-01

The performance of lithium-ion secondary batteries (LIBs) is strongly tied to electrochemistry and ionic transport near the electrode-electrolyte interface. Changes in ion solvation near the interface affect ion conductivity and also are associated with the formation and evolution of solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) layers, which impede transport but also passivate the interface. Thus, understanding these effects is critical to optimizing battery performance. Here we present molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of typical organic liquid LIB electrolytes in contact with graphite electrodes to understand differences in molecular structure and solvation near the interface compared to the bulk electrolyte. Results for different graphite terminations are presented. We compare the results of density-functional based MD to the empirical reactive forcefield ReaxFF and the non-reactive, non-polarizable COMPASS forcefield. Notable differences in the predictive power of each of these techniques are discussed. Prepared by LLNL under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.

Process Simulation of Gas Metal Arc Welding Software

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

Murray, Paul E.

2005-09-06

ARCWELDER is a Windows-based application that simulates gas metal arc welding (GMAW) of steel and aluminum. The software simulates the welding process in an accurate and efficient manner, provides menu items for process parameter selection, and includes a graphical user interface with the option to animate the process. The user enters the base and electrode material, open circuit voltage, wire diameter, wire feed speed, welding speed, and standoff distance. The program computes the size and shape of a square-groove or V-groove weld in the flat position. The program also computes the current, arc voltage, arc length, electrode extension, transfer ofmore » droplets, heat input, filler metal deposition, base metal dilution, and centerline cooling rate, in English or SI units. The simulation may be used to select welding parameters that lead to desired operation conditions.« less

Miniature Arcs for Synthesis of Carbon Nanotubes in Microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alford, J. M.; Mason, G. R.; Feikema, D. A.

2006-01-01

Although many methods are available for producing single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs), the conventional carbon arc process remains the most popular due to its simplicity and large production rate. In the carbon arc, SWNTs are catalytically synthesized by rapidly evaporating a graphite anode impregnated with NiN metal catalyst from which the nanotubes grow in an inert atmosphere. However, high temperatures inside the carbon arc generate strong buoyancy driven convection, and it is hypothesized that the non-uniform environment created by this flow has a large effect on the growth and morphology of the SWNTs. To study the effect of buoyancy on the arc process, a miniature carbon arc apparatus was developed to synthesize SWNTs in a microgravity environment substantially free from these strong convective flows. The reactor was operated for either 2.2 or 5 seconds during free-fall in the drop towers at the NASA Glenn Research Center. Two apparatus designs differing mainly in their production rate and power capacity were investigated. The first consisted of a miniaturized carbon arc employing a 1 mm diameter graphite anode and powered by a 0.54 F capacitor bank charged to 65 V. The second, larger apparatus employed a 4 mm diameter anode and was powered by a portable battery pack capable of providing in excess of 300 amps at 30 volts to the arc for the duration of a 5 second drop. Initial results indicated that transient heating is a very large effect in the short-duration drop tower carbon arcs, and thermal equilibrium of the arc plasma, buffer gas, and apparatus was not attained during the short microgravity periods. In addition, removal of the buoyant convection by the microgravity now allowed clear observation of large jets of evaporated carbon vapor streaming from the anode and mixing with the inert buffer gas. The initial mixing of these jets with the cold buffer gas combined with the thermal transient made it difficult to establish a uniform high temperature environment around the arc in the 2.1 to 5 second microgravity time interval, and even with a very high-powered arc, the arc region was cooler than in continuously operated arcs. Despite these difficulties, the miniature arc produced SWNTs in microgravity. However, given the large thermal transient to overcome, no dramatic difference in sample yield or composition was noted between normal gravity and q2-,andL%econd long microgravity runs.

Enhanced performance of graphite anode materials by AlF3 coating for lithium-ion batteries

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

Ding, Fei; Xu, Wu; Choi, Daiwon

2012-04-27

In order to form the stable surface film and to further enhance the long-term cycling stability of the graphite anodes of lithium-ion batteries, the surface of graphite powders has been modified by AlF3 coating through chemical precipitation method. The AlF3-coated graphite shows no evident changes in the bulk structure and a thin AlF3-coating layer of about 2 nm thick is found to uniformly cover the graphite particles with 2 wt% AlF3 content. However, it delivers a higher initial discharge capacity and largely improved rate performances compared to the pristine graphite. Remarkably, AlF3 coated graphite demonstrated a much better cycle life.more » After 300 cycles, AlF3 coated graphite and uncoated graphite show capacity retention of 92% and 81%, respectively. XPS measurement shows that a more conductive solid electrode interface (SEI) layer was formed on AlF3 coated graphite as compared to uncoated graphite. SEM monograph also reveals that the AlF3-coated graphite particles have a much more stable surface morphology after long-term cycling. Therefore, the improved electrochemical performance of AlF3 coated graphite can be attributed to a more stable and conductive SEI formed on coated graphite anode during cycling process.« less

Inverse opal carbons for counter electrode of dye-sensitized solar cells.

PubMed

Kang, Da-Young; Lee, Youngshin; Cho, Chang-Yeol; Moon, Jun Hyuk

2012-05-01

We investigated the fabrication of inverse opal carbon counter electrodes using a colloidal templating method for DSSCs. Specifically, bare inverse opal carbon, mesopore-incoporated inverse opal carbon, and graphitized inverse opal carbon were synthesized and stably dispersed in ethanol solution for spray coating on a FTO substrate. The thickness of the electrode was controlled by the number of coatings, and the average relative thickness was evaluated by measuring the transmittance spectrum. The effect of the counter electrode thickness on the photovoltaic performance of the DSSCs was investigated and analyzed by interfacial charge transfer resistance (R(CT)) under EIS measurement. The effect of the surface area and conductivity of the inverse opal was also investigated by considering the increase in surface area due to the mesopore in the inverse opal carbon and conductivity by graphitization of the carbon matrix. The results showed that the FF and thereby the efficiency of DSSCs were increased as the electrode thickness increased. Consequently, the larger FF and thereby the greater efficiency of the DSSCs were achieved for mIOC and gIOC compared to IOC, which was attributed to the lower R(CT). Finally, compared to a conventional Pt counter electrode, the inverse opal-based carbon showed a comparable efficiency upon application to DSSCs.

From coin cells to 400 mAh pouch cells: Enhancing performance of high-capacity lithium-ion cells via modifications in electrode constitution and fabrication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trask, Stephen E.; Li, Yan; Kubal, Joseph J.; Bettge, Martin; Polzin, Bryant J.; Zhu, Ye; Jansen, Andrew N.; Abraham, Daniel P.

2014-08-01

In this article we describe efforts to improve performance and cycle life of cells containing Li1.2Ni0.15Mn0.55Co0.1O2-based positive and graphite-based negative electrodes. Initial work to identify high-performing materials, compositions, fabrication variables, and cycling conditions is conducted in coin cells. The resulting information is then used for the preparation of double-sided electrodes, assembly of pouch cells, and electrochemical testing. We report the cycling performance of cells with electrodes prepared under various conditions. Our data indicate that cells with positive electrodes containing 92 wt.% Li1.2Ni0.15Mn0.55Co0.1O2, 4 wt.% carbons (no graphite), and 4 wt.% PVdF (92-4-4) show ∼20% capacity fade after 1000 cycles in the 2.5-4.4 V range, significantly better than our baseline cells that show the same fade after only 450 cycles. Our analyses indicate that the major contributors to cell energy fade are capacity loss and impedance rise. Therefore incorporating approaches that minimize capacity fade and impedance rise, such as electrode coatings and electrolyte additives, can significantly enhance calendar and cycle life of this promising cell chemistry.

From coin cells to 400 mAh pouch cells: Enhancing performance of high-capacity lithium-ion cells via modifications in electrode constitution and fabrication

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

Trask, Stephen E.; Li, Yan; Kubal, Joseph J.

2014-08-01

In this article we describe efforts to improve performance and cycle life of cells containing Li1.2Ni0.15Mn0.55Co0.1O2-based positive and graphite-based negative electrodes. Initial work to identify high-performing materials, compositions, fabrication variables, and cycling conditions is conducted in coin cells. The resulting information is then used for the preparation of double-sided electrodes, assembly of pouch cells, and electrochemical testing. We report the cycling performance of cells with electrodes prepared under various conditions. Our data indicate that cells with positive electrodes containing 92 wt% Li1.2Ni0.15Mn0.55Co0.1O2, 4 wt% carbons (no graphite), and 4 wt% PVdF (92-4-4) show ~20% capacity fade after 1000 cycles inmore » the 2.5-4.4V range, significantly better than our baseline cells that show the same fade after only 450 cycles. Our analyses indicate that the major contributors to cell energy fade are capacity loss and impedance rise. Therefore incorporating approaches that minimize capacity fade and impedance rise, such as electrode coatings and electrolyte additives, can significantly enhance calendar and cycle life of this promising cell chemistry.« less

Capillary suspensions as beneficial formulation concept for high energy density Li-ion battery electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bitsch, Boris; Gallasch, Tobias; Schroeder, Melanie; Börner, Markus; Winter, Martin; Willenbacher, Norbert

2016-10-01

We introduce a novel formulation concept to prepare high capacity graphite electrodes for lithium ion batteries. The concept is based on the capillary suspension phenomenon: graphite and conductive agent are dispersed in an aqueous binder solution and the organic solvent octanol is added as immiscible, secondary fluid providing the formation of a sample-spanning network resulting in unique stability and coating properties. No additional processing steps compared to conventional slurry preparation are required. The resulting ultra-thick electrodes comprise mass loadings of about 16.5 mg cm-2, uniform layer thickness, and superior edge contours. The adjustment of mechanical energy input ensures uniform distribution of the conductive agent and sufficient electronic conductivity of the final dry composite electrode. The resulting pore structure is due to the stable network provided by the secondary fluid which evaporates residue-free during drying. Constant current-constant potential (CC-CP) cycling clearly indicates that the corresponding microstructure significantly improves the kinetics of reversible Li+ (de-) intercalation. A double layer electrode combining a conventionally prepared layer coated directly onto the Cu current collector with an upper layer stabilized with octanol was prepared applying wet-on-wet coating. CC-CP cycling data confirms that staged porosity within the electrode cross section results in superior electrochemical performance.

Development of a Novel, Low-Cost, Disposable Wooden Pencil Graphite Electrode for Use in the Determination of Antioxidants and Other Biological Compounds.

PubMed

Kariuki, James; Ervin, Emily; Olafson, Carly

2015-07-31

The development of portable sensors that can be used outside the lab is an active area of research in the electroanalytical field. A major focus of such research is the development of low-cost electrodes for use in these sensors. Current electrodes, such as glassy-carbon electrodes (GCEs), are costly and require time-consuming preparation. Alternatives have been proposed, including mechanical pencil-lead electrodes (MPEs). However, MPEs themselves possess numerous drawbacks, particularly structural fragility. In this paper, we present a novel pencil-graphite electrode (PGE) fabricated from a regular HB#2 pencil. This PGE is a simple, disposable, extremely low-cost alternative to GCEs ($0.30 per PGE, vs. $190 + per GCE), and possesses the structural stability that MPEs lack. PGEs were characterized by square-wave voltammetry of ferricyanide, gallic acid, uric acid, dopamine, and several foodstuffs. In all cases, PGEs demonstrated sensitivities comparable or superior to those of the GCE and MPE (LOD = 5.62 × 10(-4) M PGE, 4.80 × 10(-4) M GCE, 2.93 × 10(-4) M MPE). Signal areas and peak heights were typically four to ten times larger for the PGE relative to the GCE.

Crystallographic orientation and electrode nature are key factors for electric current generation by Geobacter sulfurreducens.

PubMed

Maestro, Beatriz; Ortiz, Juan M; Schrott, Germán; Busalmen, Juan P; Climent, Víctor; Feliu, Juan M

2014-08-01

We have investigated the influence of electrode material and crystallographic structure on electron transfer and biofilm formation of Geobacter sulfurreducens. Single-crystal gold-Au(110), Au(111), Au(210)-and platinum-Pt(100), Pt(110), Pt(111), Pt(210)-electrodes were tested and compared to graphite rods. G. sulfurreducens electrochemically interacts with all these materials with different attachment kinetics and final current production, although redox species involved in the electron transfer to the anode are virtually the same in all cases. Initial bacterial colonization was fastest on graphite up to the monolayer level, whereas gold electrodes led to higher final current densities. Crystal geometry was shown to have an important influence, with Au(210) sustaining a current density of up to 1442±101μAcm(-2) at the steady state, over Au(111) with 961±94μAcm(-2) and Au(110) with 944±89μAcm(-2). On the other hand, the platinum electrodes displayed the lowest performances, including Pt(210). Our results indicate that both crystal geometry and electrode material are key parameters for the efficient interaction of bacteria with the substrate and should be considered for the design of novel materials and microbial devices to optimize energy production. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A Novel In-situ Electrochemical Cell for Neutron Diffraction Studies of Phase Transitions in Small Volume Electrodes of Li-ion Batteries

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

Vadlamani, Bhaskar S; An, Ke; Jagannathan, M.

2014-01-01

The design and performance of a novel in-situ electrochemical cell that greatly facilitates the neutron diffraction study of complex phase transitions in small volume electrodes of Li-ion cells, is presented in this work. Diffraction patterns that are Rietveld-refinable could be obtained simultaneously for all the electrodes, which demonstrates that the cell is best suited to explore electrode phase transitions driven by the lithiation and delithiation processes. This has been facilitated by the use of single crystal (100) Si sheets as casing material and the planar cell configuration, giving improved signal-to-noise ratio relative to other casing materials. The in-situ cell hasmore » also been designed for easy assembly and to facilitate rapid experiments. The effectiveness of cell is demonstrated by tracking the neutron diffraction patterns during the charging of graphite/LiCoO2 and graphite/LiMn2O4 cells. It is shown that good quality neutron diffraction data can be obtained and that most of the finer details of the phase transitions, and the associated changes in crystallographic parameters in these electrodes, can be captured.« less

Imidazolium-organic solvent mixtures as electrolytes for lithium batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chagnes, A.; Diaw, M.; Carré, B.; Willmann, P.; Lemordant, D.

γ-Butyrolactone (BL) has been mixed to the room temperature ionic liquid (RTIL) 1-butyl 3-methyl-imidazolium tetrafluoroborate (BMIBF 4) (ratio: 3/2, v/v) in the presence of lithium tetrafluoroborate (LiBF 4) for use as electrolyte in lithium-ion batteries. This mixture exhibits a larger thermal stability than the reference electrolyte EC/DEC/DMC (2/2/1) + LiPF 6 (1 M) and can be considered as a new RTIL as no free BL molecules are present in the liquid phase. The cycling ability of this electrolyte has been investigated at a graphite, a titanate oxide (Li 4Ti 5O 12) and a cobalt oxide (Li xCoO 2) electrodes. The ionic liquid is strongly reduced at the graphite electrode near 1 V and leads to the formation of a blocking film, which prevents any further cycling. The titanate oxide electrode can be cycled with a high capacity without any significant fading. Cycling of the positive cobalt oxide electrode was unsuccessfully owing to an oxidation reaction at the electrode surface, which prevents the intercalation or de-intercalation of Li ions in and from the host material. Less reactive cathode material than cobalt oxide must be employed with this RTIL.

Catalytic behavior of a palladium doped binder free paper based cobalt electrode in electroreduction of hydrogen peroxide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Dongming; Ye, Ke; Cao, Dianxue; Yin, Jinling; Cheng, Kui; Wang, Bin; Xu, Yang; Wang, Guiling

2015-01-01

A piece of flexible and conductive A4 paper is prepared by coating a layer of graphite with a normal 8B pencil. Then, Co nano-plates and Pd are assembled by a simple electrodeposition and chemical-reduction methods on the surface of the electrified paper, respectively. The as-prepared paper substrate/graphite-Co film-Pd (PG-CoPd) electrode is characterized by scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer, transmission electron microscope and X-ray diffractometer. The catalytic activity of the PG-CoPd electrode for H2O2 electroreduction is investigated by means of cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. The preparation process of the PG-CoPd electrode does not use any binder and it exhibits a three dimensional (3D) nano structure, high stability and good electric conductivity. The mass of the Pd in PG-CoPd is about 0.0535 mg cm-2 and the reduction current density reaches to -4.30 A cm-2 mg-1 in 1 mol dm-3 NaOH and 1.4 mol dm-3 H2O2 at -0.5 V, which is higher than our previous reports of Au/Pd modified Co electrode.

Method for making nanotubes and nanoparticles

DOEpatents

Zettl, Alexander Karlwalter; Cohen, Marvin Lou

2000-01-01

The present invention is an apparatus and method for producing nano-scale tubes and particles. The apparatus comprises novel electrodes for use in arc discharge techniques. The electrodes have interior conduits for delivery and withdrawal of material from the arc region where product is formed. In one embodiment, the anode is optionally made from more than one material and is termed a compound anode. The materials used in the compound anode assist in the reaction that forms product in the arc region of the apparatus. The materials assist either by providing reaction ingredients, catalyst, or affecting the reaction kinetics. Among other uses, the inventive apparatus is used to produce nanotubes and nanoparticles having a variety of electrical and mechanical properties.

A Novel Approach for High Deposition Rate Cladding with Minimal Dilution with an Arc - Laser Process Combination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barroi, A.; Hermsdorf, J.; Prank, U.; Kaierle, S.

First results of the process development of a novel approach for a high deposition rate cladding process with minimal dilution are presented. The approach will combine the enormous melting potential of an electrical arc that burns between two consumable wire electrodes with the precision of a laser process. Separate test for the plasma melting and for the laser based surface heating have been performed. A steadily burning arc between the electrodes could be established and a deposition rate of 10 kg/h could be achieved. The laser was able to apply the desired heat profile, needed for the combination of the processes. Process problems were analyzed and solutions proposed.

Electrochemical characterisation of CaCl2 deficient LiCl-KCl-CaCl2 eutectic melt and electro-deoxidation of solid UO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sri Maha Vishnu, D.; Sanil, N.; Mohandas, K. S.; Nagarajan, K.

2016-03-01

The CaCl2 deficient ternary eutectic melt LiCl-KCl-CaCl2 (50.5: 44.2: 5.3 mol %) was electrochemically characterised by cyclic voltammetry and polarization techniques in the context of its probable use as the electrolyte in the electrochemical reduction of solid UO2 to uranium metal. Tungsten (cathodic polarization) and graphite (anodic polarization) working electrodes were used in these studies carried out in the temperature range 623 K-923 K. The cathodic limit of the melt was observed to be set by the deposition of Ca2+ ions followed by Li+ ions on the tungsten electrode and the anodic limit by oxidation of chloride ions on the graphite electrode (chlorine evolution). The difference between the onset potential of deposition of Ca2+ and Li+ was found to be 0.241 V at a scan rate of 20 mV/s at 623 K and the difference decreased with increase in temperature and vanished at 923 K. Polarization measurements with stainless steel (SS) cathode and graphite anode at 673 K showed the possibility of low-energy reactions occurring on the UO2 electrode in the melt. UO2 pellets were cathodically polarized at 3.9 V for 25 h to test the feasibility of electro-reduction to uranium in the melt. The surface of the pellets was found reduced to U metal.

Exploring electrolyte preference of vanadium nitride supercapacitor electrodes

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

Wang, Bo; Chen, Zhaohui; Lu, Gang

Highlights: • Hierarchical VN nanostructures were prepared on graphite foam. • Electrolyte preference of VN supercapacitor electrodes was explored. • VN showed better capacitive property in organic and alkaline electrolytes than LiCl. - Abstract: Vanadium nitride hierarchical nanostructures were prepared through an ammonia annealing procedure utilizing vanadium pentoxide nanostructures grown on graphite foam. The electrochemical properties of hierarchical vanadium nitride was tested in aqueous and organic electrolytes. As a result, the vanadium nitride showed better capacitive energy storage property in organic and alkaline electrolytes. This work provides insight into the charge storage process of vanadium nitride and our findings canmore » shed light on other transition metal nitride-based electrochemical energy storage systems.« less

Electrodeposition of Manganese-Nickel Oxide Films on a Graphite Sheet for Electrochemical Capacitor Applications.

PubMed

Lee, Hae-Min; Lee, Kangtaek; Kim, Chang-Koo

2014-01-09

Manganese-nickel (Mn-Ni) oxide films were electrodeposited on a graphite sheet in a bath consisting of manganese acetate and nickel chloride, and the structural, morphological, and electrochemical properties of these films were investigated. The electrodeposited Mn-Ni oxide films had porous structures covered with nanofibers. The X-ray diffractometer pattern revealed the presence of separate manganese oxide (g-MnO₂) and nickel oxide (NiO) in the films. The electrodeposited Mn-Ni oxide electrode exhibited a specific capacitance of 424 F/g in Na₂SO₄ electrolyte. This electrode maintained 86% of its initial specific capacitance over 2000 cycles of the charge-discharge operation, showing good cycling stability.

Validation of NHB 8060.1C, Test 18 Arc Tracking, September 30, 1991

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Linley, Larry

2005-01-01

A test project was conducted to validate Test 18 of NASA Handbook (NHB) 8060.1C and, if necessary, identify and recommend improvements in the procedures or criteria of the test. The NHB 8060.1C, Test 18 test system was modified to produce better discrimination of test results. Changes, and their effects on test results, in the graphite immersion-depth, test timing sequence, and atmospheric conditions were investigated for the wire-insulation constructions tested. Based on the test results, the graphite immersion-depths (between 0.8 mm and 1.6 mm), the timing sequence, and the change in the test conditions from ambient to three environments common in manned spaceflight did not significantly affect test results. The criteria used in Test 18 of NHB 8060.1C was found to be appropriate for qualifying arc-tracking and arc-propagation characteristics of wire-insulation materials, Using the Test 18 criteria, Kapton and ETFE were considered inappropriate for use, while PTFE was considered appropriate. Recommendations from this test project for Test 18 of NHB 8060.1C include changing the experimental setup and configurational tests and performing qualification testing in air rather than in the three environments common in manned spaceflight.

Power characteristics in GMAW: Experimental and numerical investigation

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

Joensson, P.G.; Szekely, J.; Madigan, R.B.

1995-03-01

The voltage and power distributions in gas metal arc welding (GMAW) were studied both experimentally and numerically. The principal voltage drop takes place in the arc, which also constitutes the dominant power contribution. Within the arc, the dominating voltage contributions are from the arc column and the cathode fall, while the anode fall and the electrode regions are less significant. The power input to the arc column increases with both increasing current and increasing arc length. These results indicate that it is critical to control the arc length in order to control the power input to the system.

Arc melting and homogenization of ZrC and ZrC + B alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Darolia, R.; Archbold, T. F.

1973-01-01

A description is given of the methods used to arc-melt and to homogenize near-stoichiometric ZrC and ZrC-boron alloys, giving attention to the oxygen contamination problem. The starting material for the carbide preparation was ZrC powder with an average particle size of 4.6 micron. Pellets weighing approximately 3 g each were prepared at room temperature from the powder by the use of an isostatic press operated at 50,000 psi. These pellets were individually melted in an arc furnace containing a static atmosphere of purified argon. A graphite resistance furnace was used for the homogenization process.

Effect of anode polarization on biofilm formation and electron transfer in Shewanella oneidensis/graphite felt microbial fuel cells.

PubMed

Pinto, David; Coradin, Thibaud; Laberty-Robert, Christel

2018-04-01

In microbial fuel cells, electricity generation is assumed by bacterial degradation of low-grade organics generating electrons that are transferred to an electrode. The nature and efficiency of the electron transfer from the bacteria to the electrodes are determined by several chemical, physical and biological parameters. Specifically, the application of a specific potential at the bioanode has been shown to stimulate the formation of an electro-active biofilm, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, we have investigated the effect of an applied potential on the formation and electroactivity of biofilms established by Shewanella oneidensis bacteria on graphite felt electrodes in single- and double-chamber reactor configurations in oxic conditions. Using amperometry, cyclic voltammetry, and OCP/Power/Polarization curves techniques, we showed that a potential ranging between -0.3V and +0.5V (vs. Ag/AgCl/KCl sat.) and its converse application to a couple of electrodes leads to different electrochemical behaviors, anodic currents and biofilm architectures. For example, when the bacteria were confined in the anodic compartment of a double-chamber cell, a negative applied potential (-0.3V) at the bioanode favors a mediated electron transfer correlated with the progressive formation of a biofilm that fills the felt porosity and bridges the graphite fibers. In contrast, a positive applied potential (+0.3V) at the bioanode stimulates a direct electron transfer resulting in the fast-bacterial colonization of the fibers only. These results provide significant insight for the understanding of the complex bacteria-electrode interactions in microbial fuel cells. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A High Performance Lithium-Ion Capacitor with Both Electrodes Prepared from Sri Lanka Graphite Ore.

PubMed

Gao, Xiaoyu; Zhan, Changzhen; Yu, Xiaoliang; Liang, Qinghua; Lv, Ruitao; Gai, Guosheng; Shen, Wanci; Kang, Feiyu; Huang, Zheng-Hong

2017-04-14

The natural Sri Lanka graphite (vein graphite) is widely-used as anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), due to its high crystallinity and low cost. In this work, graphitic porous carbon (GPC) and high-purity vein graphite (PVG) were prepared from Sri Lanka graphite ore by KOH activation, and high temperature purification, respectively. Furthermore, a lithium-ion capacitor (LIC) is fabricated with GPC as cathode, and PVG as anode. The assembled GPC//PVG LIC shows a notable electrochemical performance with a maximum energy density of 86 W·h·kg -1 at 150 W·kg -1 , and 48 W·h·kg -1 at a high-power density of 7.4 kW·kg -1 . This high-performance LIC based on PVG and GPC is believed to be promising for practical applications, due to its low-cost raw materials and industrially feasible production.

A High Performance Lithium-Ion Capacitor with Both Electrodes Prepared from Sri Lanka Graphite Ore

PubMed Central

Gao, Xiaoyu; Zhan, Changzhen; Yu, Xiaoliang; Liang, Qinghua; Lv, Ruitao; Gai, Guosheng; Shen, Wanci; Kang, Feiyu; Huang, Zheng-Hong

2017-01-01

The natural Sri Lanka graphite (vein graphite) is widely-used as anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), due to its high crystallinity and low cost. In this work, graphitic porous carbon (GPC) and high-purity vein graphite (PVG) were prepared from Sri Lanka graphite ore by KOH activation, and high temperature purification, respectively. Furthermore, a lithium-ion capacitor (LIC) is fabricated with GPC as cathode, and PVG as anode. The assembled GPC//PVG LIC shows a notable electrochemical performance with a maximum energy density of 86 W·h·kg−1 at 150 W·kg−1, and 48 W·h·kg−1 at a high-power density of 7.4 kW·kg−1. This high-performance LIC based on PVG and GPC is believed to be promising for practical applications, due to its low-cost raw materials and industrially feasible production. PMID:28772773

APPARATUS FOR ARC WELDING

DOEpatents

Lingafelter, J.W.

1960-04-01

An apparatus is described in which a welding arc created between an annular electrode and a workpiece moves under the influence of an electromagnetic field about the electrode in a closed or annular path. This mode of welding is specially suited to the enclosing of nuclear-fuel slugs in a protective casing. For example, a uranium slug is placed in an aluminum can, and an aluminum closure is welded to the open end of the can along a closed or annular path conforming to the periphery of the end closure.

Investigating the effects of proton exchange membrane fuel cell conditions on carbon supported platinum electrocatalyst composition and performance

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

Patel, Anant; Artyushkova, Kateryna; Atanassov, Plamen

2011-12-01

Changes that carbon-supported platinum electrocatalysts undergo in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell environment were simulated by ex situ heat treatment of catalyst powder samples at 150 C and 100% relative humidity. In order to study modifications that are introduced to chemistry, morphology, and performance of electrocatalysts, XPS, HREELS and three-electrode rotating disk electrode experiments were performed. Before heat treatment, graphitic content varied by 20% among samples with different types of carbon supports, with distinct differences between bulk and surface compositions within each sample. Following the aging protocol, the bulk and surface chemistry of the samples were similar, with graphitemore » content increasing or remaining constant and Pt-carbide decreasing for all samples. From the correlation of changes in chemical composition and losses in performance of the electrocatalysts, we conclude that relative distribution of Pt particles on graphitic and amorphous carbon is as important for electrocatalytic activity as the absolute amount of graphitic carbon present« less

Breakdown voltage reliability improvement in gas-discharge tube surge protectors employing graphite field emitters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Žumer, Marko; Zajec, Bojan; Rozman, Robert; Nemanič, Vincenc

2012-04-01

Gas-discharge tube (GDT) surge protectors are known for many decades as passive units used in low-voltage telecom networks for protection of electrical components from transient over-voltages (discharging) such as lightning. Unreliability of the mean turn-on DC breakdown voltage and the run-to-run variability has been overcome successfully in the past by adding, for example, a radioactive source inside the tube. Radioisotopes provide a constant low level of free electrons, which trigger the breakdown. In the last decades, any concept using environmentally harmful compounds is not acceptable anymore and new solutions were searched. In our application, a cold field electron emitter source is used as the trigger for the gas discharge but with no activating compound on the two main electrodes. The patent literature describes in details the implementation of the so-called trigger wires (auxiliary electrodes) made of graphite, placed in between the two main electrodes, but no physical explanation has been given yet. We present experimental results, which show that stable cold field electron emission current in the high vacuum range originating from the nano-structured edge of the graphite layer is well correlated to the stable breakdown voltage of the GDT surge protector filled with a mixture of clean gases.

Characteristics of cold atmospheric plasma source based on low-current pulsed discharge with coaxial electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bureyev, O. A.; Surkov, Yu S.; Spirina, A. V.

2017-05-01

This work investigates the characteristics of the gas discharge system used to create an atmospheric pressure plasma flow. The plasma jet design with a cylindrical graphite cathode and an anode rod located on the axis of the system allows to realize regularly reproducible spark breakdowns mode with a frequency ∼ 5 kHz and a duration ∼ 40 μs. The device generates a cold atmospheric plasma flame with 1 cm in diameter in the flow of various plasma forming gases including nitrogen and air at about 100 mA average discharge current. In the described construction the cathode spots of individual spark channels randomly move along the inner surface of the graphite electrode creating the secondary plasma stream time-average distributed throughout the whole exit aperture area after the decay of numerous filamentary discharge channels. The results of the spectral diagnostics of plasma in the discharge gap and in the stream coming out of the source are presented. Despite the low temperature of atoms and molecules in plasma stream the cathode spots operation with temperature of ∼ 4000 °C at a graphite electrode inside a discharge system enables to saturate the plasma by CN-radicals and atomic carbon in the case of using nitrogen as the working gas.

Macroporous graphitic carbon foam decorated with polydopamine as a high-performance anode for microbial fuel cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Hongmei; Yang, Lu; Deng, Wenfang; Tan, Yueming; Xie, Qingji

2017-09-01

Herein, a macroporous graphitic carbon foam (MGCF) electrode decorated with polydopamine (PDA) is used as a high-performance anode for microbial fuel cell (MFC) applications. The MGCF is facilely prepared by pyrolysis of a powder mixture comprising maltose, nickel nitrate, and ammonia chloride, without using solid porous template. The MGCF is coated with PDA by self-polymerization of dopamine in a basic solution. The MGCF can provide a large surface area for bacterial attachment, and PDA coated on the MGCF electrode can further promote bacterial adhesion resulting from the improved hydrophility, so the MGCF-PDA electrode as an anode in a MFC can show ultrahigh bacterial loading capacity. Moreover, the electrochemical oxidation of flavins at the MGCF-PDA electrode is greatly accelerated, so the extracellular electron transfer mediated by flavins is improved. As a result, the MFC equipped with a MGCF-PDA anode can show a maximum power density of 1735 mW cm-2, which is 6.7 times that of a MFC equipped with a commercial carbon felt anode, indicating a promising anode for MFC applications.

Voltammetric studies of hemoglobin-coated polystyrene latex bead films on pyrolytic graphite electrodes.

PubMed

Sun, Hong; Hu, Naifei

2004-08-01

A novel hemoglobin (Hb)-coated polystyrene (PS) latex bead film was deposited on pyrolytic graphite (PG) electrode surface. In the first step, positively charged Hb molecules in pH 5.0 buffers were adsorbed on the surface of negatively charged, 500 nm diameter PS latex beads bearing sulfate groups by electrostatic interaction. The aqueous dispersion of Hb-coated PS particles was then deposited on the surface of PG electrodes and, after evaporation of the solvent, Hb-PS films were formed. The Hb-PS film electrodes exhibited a pair of well-defined, quasi-reversible cyclic voltammetric (CV) peaks at about -0.36 V vs. SCE in pH 7.0 buffers, characteristic of Hb heme Fe(III)/Fe(II) redox couples. Positions of Soret absorption band of Hb-PS films suggest that Hb retains its near-native structure in the films in its dry form and in solution at medium pH. The Hb in PS films was also acted as a catalyst to catalyze electrochemical reduction of various substrates such as trichloroacetic acid (TCA), nitrite, oxygen and hydrogen peroxide.

Self-Supporting GaN Nanowires/Graphite Paper: Novel High-Performance Flexible Supercapacitor Electrodes.

PubMed

Wang, Shouzhi; Sun, Changlong; Shao, Yongliang; Wu, Yongzhong; Zhang, Lei; Hao, Xiaopeng

2017-02-01

Flexible supercapacitors have attracted great interest as energy storage devices because of their promise in applications such as wearable and smart electronic devices. Herein, a novel flexible supercapacitor electrode based on gallium nitride nanowire (GaN NW)/graphite paper (GP) nanocomposites is reported. The outstanding electrical conductivities of the GaN NW (6.36 × 10 2 S m -1 ) and GP (7.5 × 10 4 S m -1 ) deliver a synergistically enhanced electrochemical performance that cannot be achieved by either of the components alone. The composite electrode exhibits excellent specific capacitance (237 mF cm -2 at 0.1 mA cm -2 ) and outstanding cycling performance (98% capacitance retention after 10 000 cycles). The flexible symmetric supercapacitor also manifests high energy and power densities (0.30 mW h cm -3 and 1000 mW cm -3 ). These findings demonstrate that the GaN/GP composite electrode has significant potential as a candidate for the flexible energy storage devices. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Pb2+ ions mobility perturbation by iron particles during electrokinetic remediation of contaminated soil.

PubMed

Zulfiqar, Waqas; Iqbal, Muhammad Asad; Butt, Mehwish Khalid

2017-02-01

Electrokinetic (EK) remediation is one of the most useful approaches for de-contamination of soils. However, it is unclear that how and when the electrokinetic remediation gives advantages over other remediation techniques in soil. This study was designed to find the influence of Fe 2+ particles on the mobility of Pb 2+ ions, during electrokinetic remediation, in soil contaminated purposely by lead nitrate Pb(NO 3 ) 2 . Two types of electrokinetic experiments were performed, by using iron and graphite electrodes. The Fe 2+ ions from the iron electrodes, produced due to acidic environment in anode compartment, affected the mobility of lead particles by precipitating as Fe(OH) 2 . Fe 2+ ions enhance the adsorption of lead ions in soil. The results show Fe 2+ ions of lower ionic conductivity decreased mobility of other particles in soil. Electrokinetic remediation for up to 120 h with iron electrodes is shown to be less effective for removal of lead. In contrast, graphite electrodes were 15 times more effective in lead removal from soil. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Differential pulse voltammetric determination of acyclovir in pharmaceutical preparations using a pencil graphite electrode.

PubMed

Dilgin, Didem Giray; Karakaya, Serkan

2016-06-01

In this study, a new selective and sensitive voltammetric procedure for determination of acyclovir (ACV) was proposed using a disposable electrode, pencil graphite electrode (PGE). Cyclic and differential pulse voltammograms of ACV were recorded in Britton-Robinson buffer solution containing 0.10 M KCl with pH of 4.0 at PGE. The PGE displayed a very good electrochemical behavior with significant enhancement of the peak current compared to a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). Under experimental conditions, the PGE had a linear response range from 1.0 μM to 100.0 μM ACV with a detection limit of 0.3 μM (based on 3 Sb). Relative standard deviations of 4.8 and 3.6% were obtained for five successive determinations of 10.0 and 50.0 μM ACV, respectively, which indicate acceptable repeatability. This voltammetric method was successfully applied to the direct determination of ACV in real pharmaceutical samples. The effect of various interfering compounds on the ACV peak current was studied. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Ultra-thin passivating film induced by vinylene carbonate on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite negative electrode in lithium-ion cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsuoka, O.; Hiwara, A.; Omi, T.; Toriida, M.; Hayashi, T.; Tanaka, C.; Saito, Y.; Ishida, T.; Tan, H.; Ono, S. S.; Yamamoto, S.

We investigated the influence of vinylene carbonate, as an additive molecule, on the decomposition phenomena of electrolyte solution [ethylene carbonate (EC)—ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC) (1:2 by volume) containing 1 M LiPF 6] on a highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) negative electrode by using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Vinylene carbonate deactivated reactive sites (e.g. radicals and oxides at the defects and the edge of carbon layer) on the cleaved surface of the HOPG negative electrode, and prevented further decomposition of the other solvents there. Further, vinylene carbonate induced an ultra-thin film (less than 1.0 nm in thickness) on the terrace of the basal plane of the HOPG negative electrode, and this film suppressed the decomposition of electrolyte solution on the terraces of the basal plane. We consider that this ultra-thin passivating film is composed of a reduction product of vinylene carbonate (VC), and might have a polymer structure. These induced effects might explain how VC improves the life performance of lithium-ion cells.

Nano-graphite functionalized mesocellular carbon foam with enhanced intra-penetrating electrical percolation networks for high performance electrochemical energy storage electrode materials.

PubMed

Jo, Changshin; An, Sunhyung; Kim, Younghoon; Shim, Jongmin; Yoon, Songhun; Lee, Jinwoo

2012-04-28

Mesocellular carbon foam (MSU-F-C) is functionalized with hollow nanographite by a simple solution-phase method to enhance the intrapenetrating electrical percolation network. The electrical conductivity of the resulting material, denoted as MSU-F-C-G, is increased by a factor of 20.5 compared with the pristine MSU-F-C. Hollow graphite nanoparticles are well-dispersed in mesocellular carbon foam, as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and the d spacing of the (002) planes is 0.343 nm, which is only slightly larger than that of pure graphite (0.335 nm), suggesting a random combination of graphitic and turbostratic stacking. After nanographitic functionalization, the BET surface area and total pore volume decreased from 928 m(2) g(-1) and 1.5 cm(3) g(-1) to 394 m(2) g(-1) and 0.7 cm(3) g(-1), respectively. Thermogravimetric analysis in air shows that the thermal stability of MSU-F-C-G is improved relative to that of MSU-F-C, and the one-step weight loss indicates that the nanographite is homogeneously functionalized on the MSU-F-C particles. When the resulting mesocellular carbon materials are used as electrode materials for an electric double layer capacitor (EDLC), the specific capacitances (C(sp)) of the MSU-F-C and MSU-F-C-G electrodes at 4 mV s(-1) are 109 F g(-1) and 93 F g(-1), respectively. The MSU-F-C-G electrode exhibited a very high area capacitance (C(area), 23.5 μF cm(-2)) compared with that of the MSU-F-C electrode (11.7 μF cm(-2)), which is attributed to the enhanced intraparticle conductivity by the nanographitic functionalization. MSU-F-C-G exhibited high capacity retention (52%) at a very high scan rate of 512 mV s(-1), while only a 23% capacity retention at 512 mV s(-1) was observed in the case of the MSU-F-C electrode. When applied as an anode in a lithium ion battery, a significant increase in the initial efficiency (44%), high reversible discharge capacity (580 mA h g(-1)) in the lower voltage region, and a higher rate capability were observed. The high rate capability of the MSU-F-C-G electrode as charge storage was due to the low resistance derived from the nanographitic functionalization. This journal is © the Owner Societies 2012

Nucleation/Growth Mechanisms and Morphological Evolution of Porous MnO2 Coating Deposited on Graphite for Supercapacitor

PubMed Central

Huang, Wenxin; Xu, Yunhe

2017-01-01

The nucleation and growth mechanisms of porous MnO2 coating deposited on graphite in MnSO4 solution were investigated in detail by cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry and scanning electron microscopy. The electrochemical properties of honeycomb-like MnO2 were evaluated by cycle voltammetry and galvanostatic charge-discharge. Results indicated that MnO2 was synthesized by the following steps: Mn2+→Mn3++e−, Mn3++2H2O→MnOOH+3H+, and MnOOH→MnO2+H++e−. The deposition of MnO2 was divided into four stages. A short incubation period (approximately 1.5 s) was observed, prior to nucleation. The decreasing trend of the current slowed as time increased due to nucleation and MnO2 growth in the second stage. A huge number of nuclei were formed by instantaneous nucleation, and these nuclei grew and connected with one another at an exceedingly short time (0.5 s). In the third stage, the gaps in-between initial graphite flakes were filled with MnO2 until the morphology of the flakes gradually became similar to that of the MnO2-deposited layer. In the fourth stage, the graphite electrode was covered completely with a thick and dense layer of MnO2 deposits. All MnO2 electrodes at different deposition times obtained nearly the same specific capacitance of approximately 186 F/g, thus indicating that the specific capacitance of the electrodes is not related with deposition time. PMID:29048377

Multilayer Approach for Advanced Hybrid Lithium Battery.

PubMed

Ming, Jun; Li, Mengliu; Kumar, Pushpendra; Li, Lain-Jong

2016-06-28

Conventional intercalated rechargeable batteries have shown their capacity limit, and the development of an alternative battery system with higher capacity is strongly needed for sustainable electrical vehicles and hand-held devices. Herein, we introduce a feasible and scalable multilayer approach to fabricate a promising hybrid lithium battery with superior capacity and multivoltage plateaus. A sulfur-rich electrode (90 wt % S) is covered by a dual layer of graphite/Li4Ti5O12, where the active materials S and Li4Ti5O12 can both take part in redox reactions and thus deliver a high capacity of 572 mAh gcathode(-1) (vs the total mass of electrode) or 1866 mAh gs(-1) (vs the mass of sulfur) at 0.1C (with the definition of 1C = 1675 mA gs(-1)). The battery shows unique voltage platforms at 2.35 and 2.1 V, contributed from S, and 1.55 V from Li4Ti5O12. A high rate capability of 566 mAh gcathode(-1) at 0.25C and 376 mAh gcathode(-1) at 1C with durable cycle ability over 100 cycles can be achieved. Operando Raman and electron microscope analysis confirm that the graphite/Li4Ti5O12 layer slows the dissolution/migration of polysulfides, thereby giving rise to a higher sulfur utilization and a slower capacity decay. This advanced hybrid battery with a multilayer concept for marrying different voltage plateaus from various electrode materials opens a way of providing tunable capacity and multiple voltage platforms for energy device applications.

Low-Cost Flexible Nano-Sulfide/Carbon Composite Counter Electrode for Quantum-Dot-Sensitized Solar Cell

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Cu2S nanocrystal particles were in situ deposited on graphite paper to prepare nano-sulfide/carbon composite counter electrode for CdS/CdSe quantum-dot-sensitized solar cell (QDSC). By optimization of deposition time, photovoltaic conversion efficiency up to 3.08% was obtained. In the meantime, this composite counter electrode was superior to the commonly used Pt, Au and carbon counter electrodes. Electrochemical impedance spectra further confirmed that low charge transfer resistance at counter electrode/electrolyte interface was responsible for this, implied the potential application of this composite counter electrode in high-efficiency QDSC. PMID:20672135

Experimental research on electric propulsion. Note 7: Analysis of the performance of an arc-jet driven by means of hydrogen and nitrogen

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Robotti, A. C.; Oggero, M.

1984-01-01

Experiments which use a new type of arc-jet, characterized by composite electromagnetic and vortex stabilization and propelled by hydrogen and nitrogen in turn are described. The electrical characteristics of the arc and the loss of heat through the electrodes is emphasized.

Annular arc accelerator shock tube

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leibowitz, L. P. (Inventor)

1976-01-01

An annular arc accelerator shock tube employs a cold gas driver to flow a stream of gas from an expansion section through a high voltage electrode section to a test section, thus driving a shock wave in front of it. A glow discharge detects the shock wave and actuates a trigger generator which in turn fires spark-gap switches to discharge a bank of capacitors across a centered cathode and an annular anode in tandem electrode sections. The initial shock wave passes through the anode section from the cathode section thereby depositing energy into the flow gas without the necessity of any diaphragm opening in the gas flow from the expansion section through the electrode sections.

On the Modeling of Thermal Radiation at the Top Surface of a Vacuum Arc Remelting Ingot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delzant, P.-O.; Baqué, B.; Chapelle, P.; Jardy, A.

2018-02-01

Two models have been implemented for calculating the thermal radiation emitted at the ingot top in the VAR process, namely, a crude model that considers only radiative heat transfer between the free surface and electrode tip and a more detailed model that describes all radiative exchanges between the ingot, electrode, and crucible wall using a radiosity method. From the results of the second model, it is found that the radiative heat flux at the ingot top may depend heavily on the arc gap length and the electrode radius, but remains almost unaffected by variations of the electrode height. Both radiation models have been integrated into a CFD numerical code that simulates the growth and solidification of a VAR ingot. The simulation of a Ti-6-4 alloy melt shows that use of the detailed radiation model leads to some significant modification of the simulation results compared with the simple model. This is especially true during the hot-topping phase, where the top radiation plays an increasingly important role compared with the arc energy input. Thus, while the crude model has the advantage of its simplicity, use of the detailed model should be preferred.

Numerical simulation of hydrodynamic flows in the jet electric

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarychev, V. D.; Granovskii, A. Yu; Nevskii, S. A.

2016-02-01

On the basis of concepts from magnetic hydrodynamics the mathematical model of hydrodynamic flows in the stream of electric arc plasma, obtained between the rod electrode and the target located perpendicular to the flat conductive, was developed. The same phenomenon occurs in the welding arc, arc plasma and other injection sources of charged particles. The model is based on the equations of magnetic hydrodynamics with special boundary conditions. The obtained system of equations was solved by the numerical method of finite elements with an automatic selection of the time step. Calculations were carried out with regard to the normal plasma inleakage on the solid conducting surface and the surface with the orifice. It was found that the solid surface facilitates three swirling zones. Interaction of these zones leads to the formation of two stable swirling zones, one of which is located at a distance of two radii from the axis and midway between the electrodes, another is located in the immediate vicinity of the continuous electrode. In this zone plasma backflow scattering fine particles is created. Swirling zones are not formed by using the plane electrode with an orifice. Thus, the fine particles can pass through it and consolidate.

On the Modeling of Thermal Radiation at the Top Surface of a Vacuum Arc Remelting Ingot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delzant, P.-O.; Baqué, B.; Chapelle, P.; Jardy, A.

2018-06-01

Two models have been implemented for calculating the thermal radiation emitted at the ingot top in the VAR process, namely, a crude model that considers only radiative heat transfer between the free surface and electrode tip and a more detailed model that describes all radiative exchanges between the ingot, electrode, and crucible wall using a radiosity method. From the results of the second model, it is found that the radiative heat flux at the ingot top may depend heavily on the arc gap length and the electrode radius, but remains almost unaffected by variations of the electrode height. Both radiation models have been integrated into a CFD numerical code that simulates the growth and solidification of a VAR ingot. The simulation of a Ti-6-4 alloy melt shows that use of the detailed radiation model leads to some significant modification of the simulation results compared with the simple model. This is especially true during the hot-topping phase, where the top radiation plays an increasingly important role compared with the arc energy input. Thus, while the crude model has the advantage of its simplicity, use of the detailed model should be preferred.

Cellulose Derived Graphenic Fibers for Capacitive Desalination of Brackish Water.

PubMed

Pugazhenthiran, Nalenthiran; Sen Gupta, Soujit; Prabhath, Anupama; Manikandan, Muthu; Swathy, Jakka Ravindran; Raman, V Kalyan; Pradeep, Thalappil

2015-09-16

We describe a simple and inexpensive cellulose-derived and layer-by-layer stacked carbon fiber network electrode for capacitive deionization (CDI) of brackish water. The microstructure and chemical composition were characterized using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques; electrochemical/electrical performance was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry and 4-probe electrical conductivity and surface area by Brunauer-Emmett-Teller analysis, respectively. The desalination performance was investigated using a laboratory batch model CDI unit, under fixed applied voltage and varying salt concentrations. Electro-adsorption of NaCl on the graphite reinforced-cellulose (GrC) electrode reached equilibrium quickly (within 90 min) and the adsorbed salts were released swiftly (in 40 min) back into the solution, during reversal of applied potential. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic studies clearly illustrate that sodium and chloride ions were physisorbed on the negative and positive electrodes, respectively during electro-adsorption. This GrC electrode showed an electro-adsorption capacity of 13.1 mg/g of the electrode at a cell potential of 1.2 V, with excellent recyclability and complete regeneration. The electrode has a high tendency for removal of specific anions, such as fluoride, nitrate, chloride, and sulfate from water in the following order: Cl->NO3->F->SO4(2-). GrC electrodes also showed resistance to biofouling with negligible biofilm formation even after 5 days of incubation in Pseudomonas putida bacterial culture. Our unique cost-effective methodology of layer-by-layer stacking of carbon nanofibers and concurrent reinforcement using graphite provides uniform conductivity throughout the electrode with fast electro-adsorption, rapid desorption, and extended reuse, making the electrode affordable for capacitive desalination of brackish water.

Quantitative imaging of carbon dimer precursor for nanomaterial synthesis in the carbon arc

DOE PAGES

Vekselman, V.; Khrabry, A.; Kaganovich, I.; ...

2018-02-06

Delineating the dominant processes responsible for nanomaterial synthesis in a plasma environment requires measurements of the precursor species contributing to the growth of nanostructures. Here, we performed comprehensive measurements of spatial and temporal profiles of carbon dimers (C 2) in sub-atmospheric-pressure carbon arc by laser-induced fluorescence. Measured spatial profiles of C 2 coincide with the growth region of carbon nanotubes (Fang et al 2016 Carbon 107 273–80) and vary depending on the arc operation mode, which is determined by the discharge current and the ablation rate of the graphite anode. The C 2 density profile exhibits large spatial and timemore » variations due to motion of the arc core. A comparison of the experimental data with the 2D simulation results of self-consistent arc modeling shows good agreement. The model predicts well the main processes determining spatial profiles of carbon dimers (C 2).« less

Quantitative imaging of carbon dimer precursor for nanomaterial synthesis in the carbon arc

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

Vekselman, V.; Khrabry, A.; Kaganovich, I.

Delineating the dominant processes responsible for nanomaterial synthesis in a plasma environment requires measurements of the precursor species contributing to the growth of nanostructures. Here, we performed comprehensive measurements of spatial and temporal profiles of carbon dimers (C 2) in sub-atmospheric-pressure carbon arc by laser-induced fluorescence. Measured spatial profiles of C 2 coincide with the growth region of carbon nanotubes (Fang et al 2016 Carbon 107 273–80) and vary depending on the arc operation mode, which is determined by the discharge current and the ablation rate of the graphite anode. The C 2 density profile exhibits large spatial and timemore » variations due to motion of the arc core. A comparison of the experimental data with the 2D simulation results of self-consistent arc modeling shows good agreement. The model predicts well the main processes determining spatial profiles of carbon dimers (C 2).« less

Co-axial discharges

DOEpatents

Luce, J. S.; Smith, L. P.

1960-11-22

An apparatus is described for producing coaxial arc discharges in an evacuated enclosure and within a strong, confining magnetic field. The arcs are maintained at a high potential difference. Electrons diffuse to the more positive arc from the negative arc, and positive ions diffuse from the more positive arc to the negative arc. Coaxial arc discharges have the advantuge that ions that return to strike the positive arc discharge will lose no energy since they do not strike a solid wall or electrode. These discharges are useful in confining an ionized plasma between the discharges and have the advantage of preventing impurities from the walls of the enclosure from entering the plasma area because of the arc barrier set up by the cylindrical outer arc. (auth)

CO-AXIAL DISCHARGES

DOEpatents

Luce, J.S.; Smith, L.P.

1960-11-22

A method and apparatus are given for producing coaxial arc discharges in an evacuated enclosure and within a strong, confining magnetic field. The arcs are maintained at a high potential difference. Electrons will diffuse to the more positive arc from the negative arc, and positive ions will diffuse from the more positive arc to the negative arc. Coaxial arc discharges have the advantage that ions which return to strike the positive arc discharge will lose no energy since they do not strike a solid wall or electrode. Those discharges are useful in confining an ionized plasma between the discharges, and have the advantage of preventing impurities from the walls of the enclosure from entering ihe plasma area because of the arc barrier set up bv the cylindrical outer arc.

Electrometallurgy of Silicon

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-01-01

wind, plants, and water impounded in elevated reservoirs. Photovoltaic or solar cells, which convert sunlight directly to electricity, belongs tc, the...on record is that of St. Claire DeVille, who claimed that silicon was produced by electrolysing an impure melt of NaAlC14, but his material did not...this composition and purified melts were electrolysed at about 14500C in graphite crucible and using graphite electrodes. Applied potentials were

High-volumetric performance aligned nano-porous microwave exfoliated graphite oxide-based electrochemical capacitors.

PubMed

Ghaffari, Mehdi; Zhou, Yue; Xu, Haiping; Lin, Minren; Kim, Tae Young; Ruoff, Rodney S; Zhang, Q M

2013-09-20

Ultra-high volumetric performance electrochemical double layer capacitors based on high density aligned nano-porous microwave exfoliated graphite oxide have been studied. Elimination of macro-, meso-, and larger micro-pores from electrodes and controlling the nano-morphology results in very high volumetric capacitance, energy, and power density values. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

The Study of Complex (Ti, Zr, Cs) Nanopowder Influencing the Effective Ionization Potential of Arc Discharge When Mma Welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sapozhkov, S. B.; Burakova, E. M.

2016-08-01

Strength is one of the most important characteristics of a weld joint. Mechanical properties of a weld metal can be improved in a variety of ways. One of the possibilities is to add a nanopowder to the weld metal. Authors of the paper suggest changing the production process of MMA welding electrodes via adding nanopowder Ti, Zr, Cs to electrode components through liquid glass. Theoretical research into the nanopowder influence on the effective ionization potential (Ueff) of welding arc discharge is also necessitated. These measures support arcing stability, improve strength of a weld joint, as the consequence, ensure quality enhancing of a weld joint and the structure on the whole.

Graphene Transparent Conductive Electrodes for Next- Generation Microshutter Arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, Mary; Sultana, Mahmooda; Hess, Larry

2012-01-01

Graphene is a single atomic layer of graphite. It is optically transparent and has high electron mobility, and thus has great potential to make transparent conductive electrodes. This invention contributes towards the development of graphene transparent conductive electrodes for next-generation microshutter arrays. The original design for the electrodes of the next generation of microshutters uses indium-tin-oxide (ITO) as the electrode material. ITO is widely used in NASA flight missions. The optical transparency of ITO is limited, and the material is brittle. Also, ITO has been getting more expensive in recent years. The objective of the invention is to develop a graphene transparent conductive electrode that will replace ITO. An exfoliation procedure was developed to make graphene out of graphite crystals. In addition, large areas of single-layer graphene were produced using low-pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD) with high optical transparency. A special graphene transport procedure was developed for transferring graphene from copper substrates to arbitrary substrates. The concept is to grow large-size graphene sheets using the LPCVD system through chemical reaction, transfer the graphene film to a substrate, dope graphene to reduce the sheet resistance, and pattern the film to the dimension of the electrodes in the microshutter array. Graphene transparent conductive electrodes are expected to have a transparency of 97.7%. This covers the electromagnetic spectrum from UV to IR. In comparison, ITO electrodes currently used in microshutter arrays have 85% transparency in mid-IR, and suffer from dramatic transparency drop at a wavelength of near-IR or shorter. Thus, graphene also has potential application as transparent conductive electrodes for Schottky photodiodes in the UV region.

Nickel as a catalyst for the electro-oxidation of methanol in alkaline medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdel Rahim, M. A.; Abdel Hameed, R. M.; Khalil, M. W.

The use of Ni as a catalyst for the electro-oxidation of methanol in alkaline medium was studied by cyclic voltammetry. It was found that only Ni dispersed on graphite shows a catalytic activity towards methanol oxidation but massive Ni does not. Ni was dispersed on graphite by the electro-deposition from acidic NiSO 4 solution using potentiostatic and galvanostatic techniques. The catalytic activity of the C/Ni electrodes towards methanol oxidation was found to vary with the amount of electro-deposited Ni. The dependence of the oxidation current on methanol concentration and scan rate was discussed. It was concluded from the electro-chemical measurements and SEM analysis that methanol oxidation starts as Ni-oxide is formed on the electrode surface.

Electrode support for gas arc welding torch having coaxial vision

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richardson, Richard W. (Inventor)

1987-01-01

An improved electrode mounting structure for a gas tungsten arc welding torch having a coaxial imaging system. The electrode mounting structure includes a support having a central hub and a plurality of spokes which extend from the hub generally radially with respect to the axis of the torch into supporting engagement with the interior walls of the torch. The spaces between the spokes are optical passages for transmission of light to form the image. A tubular collet holder is threadedly engaged at its upper end to the hub and extends downwardly toward the open end of the torch. The collet holder has an inwardly tapering constriction near its lower end. An electrode-retaining, tubular collet is mounted within the collet holder and has a longitudinally split and tapered end seating against the tapered constriction. A spring seats against the upper end of the collet and forces the split end against the tapered constriction to wedge the split end radially inwardly to grip the electrode within the collet.

High-capacity nanostructured germanium-containing materials and lithium alloys thereof

DOEpatents

Graetz, Jason A.; Fultz, Brent T.; Ahn, Channing; Yazami, Rachid

2010-08-24

Electrodes comprising an alkali metal, for example, lithium, alloyed with nanostructured materials of formula Si.sub.zGe.sub.(z-1), where 0

Development and characterization of a rechargeable carbon foam electrode containing nickel oxyhydroxide active mass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chye, Matthew B.

2011-12-01

Batteries and asymmetric electrochemical capacitors using nickel-based positive electrodes can provide high currents due to their defect structure and low internal resistance. Nickel-based positive electrodes, therefore, are ideal for high current applications such as power tools and electric vehicles (EVs). The positive electrodes prepared in this research are monolithic graphitic foams electrochemically impregnated with nickel oxyhydroxide active mass and select additives that enhance electrode performance. Carbon foam is a good current collector due to its light-weight, porous, and graphitic nature, which give its good electrical properties and the ability to be used as a current collector. Replacing sintered nickel current collectors in nickel-based batteries with a low cost, readily available material, carbon foam, can reduce the mass of a rechargeable battery. The goal of this research has been to contribute to fundamental science through better understanding of optimizing the deposition and formation processes of the active mass onto carbon foams as well as investigating the active mass behavior under deposition, formation, and cycling conditions. Flooded cells and a PFA sealed asymmetric capacitor have been used. The effects of carbon foam surface pretreatments and how they affect the active material/carbon foam performance are demonstrated. Also the feasibility of this positive electrode as a component in nickel-based batteries, a Ni-Zn cells and an asymmetric capacitor pouch cell, is demonstrated.

Impedance spectroscopic analysis of composite electrode from activated carbon/conductive materials/ruthenium oxide for supercapacitor applications

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

Taer, E.; Awitdrus,; Farma, R.

Activated carbon powders (ACP) were produced from the KOH treated pre-carbonized rubber wood sawdust. Different conductive materials (graphite, carbon black and carbon nanotubes (CNTs)) were added with a binder (polivinylidene fluoride (PVDF)) into ACP to improve the supercapacitive performance of the activated carbon (AC) electrodes. Symmetric supercapacitor cells, fabricated using these AC electrodes and 1 molar H{sub 2}SO{sub 4} electrolyte, were analyzed using a standard electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technique. The addition of graphite, carbon black and CNTs was found effective in reducing the cell resistance from 165 to 68, 23 and 49 Ohm respectively, and increasing the specific capacitance ofmore » the AC electrodes from 3 to 7, 17, 32 F g{sup −1} respectively. Since the addition of CNTs can produce the highest specific capacitance, CNTs were chosen as a conductive material to produce AC composite electrodes that were added with 2.5 %, 5 % and 10 % (by weight) electro-active material namely ruthenium oxide; PVDF binder and CNTs contents were kept at 5 % by weight in each AC composite produced. The highest specific capacitance of the cells obtained in this study was 86 F g{sup −1}, i.e. for the cell with the resistance of 15 Ohm and composite electrode consists of 5 % ruthenium oxide.« less

Alkaline deoxygenated graphene oxide for supercapacitor applications: An effective green alternative for chemically reduced graphene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perera, Sanjaya D.; Mariano, Ruperto G.; Nijem, Nour; Chabal, Yves; Ferraris, John P.; Balkus, Kenneth J.

2012-10-01

Graphene is a promising electrode material for energy storage applications. The most successful method for preparing graphene from graphite involves the oxidation of graphite to graphene oxide (GO) and reduction back to graphene. Even though different chemical and thermal methods have been developed to reduce GO to graphene, the use of less toxic materials to generate graphene still remains a challenge. In this study we developed a facile one-pot synthesis of deoxygenated graphene (hGO) via alkaline hydrothermal process, which exhibits similar properties to the graphene obtained via hydrazine reduction (i.e. the same degree of deoxygenation found in hydrazine reduced GO). Moreover, the hGO formed freestanding, binder-free paper electrodes for supercapacitors. Coin cell type (CR2032) symmetric supercapacitors were assembled using the hGO electrodes. Electrochemical characterization of hGO was carried out using lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) and ethylmethylimidazolium bis-(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (EMITFSI) electrolytes. The results for the hGO electrodes were compared with the hydrazine reduced GO (rGO) electrode. The hGO electrode exhibits a energy density of 20 W h kg-1 and 50 W h kg-1 in LiTFSI and EMITFSI respectively, while delivering a maximum power density of 11 kW kg-1 and 14.7 kW kg-1 in LiTFSI and EMITFSI, respectively.

Electroanalytical detection of pindolol: comparison of unmodified and reduced graphene oxide modified screen-printed graphite electrodes.

PubMed

Cumba, Loanda R; Smith, Jamie P; Brownson, Dale A C; Iniesta, Jesús; Metters, Jonathan P; do Carmo, Devaney R; Banks, Craig E

2015-03-07

Recent work has reported the first electroanalytical detection of pindolol using reduced graphene oxide (RGO) modified glassy carbon electrodes [S. Smarzewska and W. Ciesielski, Anal. Methods, 2014, 6, 5038] where it was reported that the use of RGO provided significant improvements in the electroanalytical signal in comparison to a bare (unmodified) glassy carbon electrode. We demonstrate, for the first time, that the electroanalytical quantification of pindolol is actually possible using bare (unmodified) screen-printed graphite electrodes (SPEs). This paper addresses the electroanalytical determination of pindolol utilising RGO modified SPEs. Surprisingly, it is found that bare (unmodified) SPEs provide superior electrochemical signatures over that of RGO modified SPEs. Consequently the electroanalytical sensing of pindolol is explored at bare unmodified SPEs where a linear range between 0.1 μM-10.0 μM is found to be possible whilst offering a limit of detection (3σ) corresponding to 0.097 μM. This provides a convenient yet analytically sensitive method for sensing pindolol. The optimised electroanalytical protocol using the unmodified SPEs, which requires no pre-treatment (electrode polishing) or electrode modification step (such as with the use of RGO), was then further applied to the determination of pindolol in urine samples. This work demonstrates that the use of RGO modified SPEs have no significant benefits when compared to the bare (unmodified) alternative and that the RGO free electrode surface can provide electro-analytically useful performances.

Biodegradation of phenol in batch and continuous flow microbial fuel cells with rod and granular graphite electrodes.

PubMed

Moreno, Lyman; Nemati, Mehdi; Predicala, Bernardo

2018-01-01

Phenol biodegradation was evaluated in batch and continuous flow microbial fuel cells (MFCs). In batch-operated MFCs, biodegradation of 100-1000 mg L -1 phenol was four to six times faster when graphite granules were used instead of rods (3.5-4.8 mg L -1  h -1 vs 0.5-0.9 mg L -1  h -1 ). Similarly maximum phenol biodegradation rates in continuous MFCs with granular and single-rod electrodes were 11.5 and 0.8 mg L -1  h -1 , respectively. This superior performance was also evident in terms of electrochemical outputs, whereby continuous flow MFCs with granular graphite electrodes achieved maximum current and power densities (3444.4 mA m -3 and 777.8 mW m -3 ) that were markedly higher than those with single-rod electrodes (37.3 mA m -3 and 0.8 mW m -3 ). Addition of neutral red enhanced the electrochemical outputs to 5714.3 mA m -3 and 1428.6 mW m -3 . Using the data generated in the continuous flow MFC, biokinetic parameters including μ m , K S , Y and K e were determined as 0.03 h -1 , 24.2 mg L -1 , 0.25 mg cell (mg phenol) -1 and 3.7 × 10 -4  h -1 , respectively. Access to detailed kinetic information generated in MFC environmental conditions is critical in the design, operation and control of large-scale treatment systems utilizing MFC technology.

Graphite fiber brush anodes for increased power production in air-cathode microbial fuel cells.

PubMed

Logan, Bruce; Cheng, Shaoan; Watson, Valerie; Estadt, Garett

2007-05-01

To efficiently generate electricity using bacteria in microbial fuel cells (MFCs), highly conductive noncorrosive materials are needed that have a high specific surface area (surface area per volume) and an open structure to avoid biofouling. Graphite brush anodes, consisting of graphite fibers wound around a conductive, but noncorrosive metal core, were examined for power production in cube (C-MFC) and bottle (B-MFC) air-cathode MFCs. Power production in C-MFCs containing brush electrodes at 9600 m2/m3 reactor volume reached a maximum power density of 2400 mW/m2 (normalized to the cathode projected surface area), or 73 W/m3 based on liquid volume, with a maximum Coulombic efficiency (CE) of 60%. This power density, normalized by cathode projected area, is the highest value yet achieved by an air-cathode system. The increased power resulted from a reduction in internal resistance from 31 to 8 Q. Brush electrodes (4200 m2/m3) were also tested in B-MFCs, consisting of a laboratory media bottle modified to have a single side arm with a cathode clamped to its end. B-MFCs inoculated with wastewater produced up to 1430 mW/m2 (2.3 W/m3, CE = 23%) with brush electrodes, versus 600 mW/m2 with a plain carbon paper electrode. These findings show that brush anodes that have high surface areas and a porous structure can produce high power densities, and therefore have qualities that make them ideal for scaling up MFC systems.

Method and apparatus for controlling electrode gap during vacuum consumable arc remelting

DOEpatents

Fisher, R.W.; Maroone, J.P.; Tipping, D.W.; Zanner, F.J.

During vacuum consumable arc remelting the electrode gap between a consumable electrode and a pool of molten metal is difficult to control. The present invention monitors drop shorts by detecting a decrease in the voltage between the consumable electrode and molten pool. The drop shorts and their associated voltage reductions occur as repetitive pulses which are closely correlated to the electrode gap. Thus, the method and apparatus of the present invention controls electrode gap based upon drop shorts detected from the monitored anode-cathode voltage. The number of drop shorts are accumulated, and each time the number of drop shorts reach a predetermined number, the average period between drop shorts is calculated from this predetermined number and the time in which this number is accumulated. This average drop short period is used in a drop short period electrode gap model which determines the actual electrode gap from the drop short. The actual electrode gap is then compared with a desired electrode gap which is selected to produce optimum operating conditions and the velocity of the consumable error is varied based upon the gap error. The consumable electrode is driven according to any prior art system at this velocity. In the preferred embodiment, a microprocessor system is utilized to perform the necessary calculations and further to monitor the duration of each drop short. If any drop short exceeds a preset duration period, the consumable electrode is rapidly retracted a predetermined distance to prevent bonding of the consumable electrode to the molten remelt.

2D nanosheet molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) modified electrodes explored towards the hydrogen evolution reaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rowley-Neale, Samuel J.; Brownson, Dale A. C.; Smith, Graham C.; Sawtell, David A. G.; Kelly, Peter J.; Banks, Craig E.

2015-10-01

We explore the use of two-dimensional (2D) MoS2 nanosheets as an electrocatalyst for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER). Using four commonly employed commercially available carbon based electrode support materials, namely edge plane pyrolytic graphite (EPPG), glassy carbon (GC), boron-doped diamond (BDD) and screen-printed graphite electrodes (SPE), we critically evaluate the reported electrocatalytic performance of unmodified and MoS2 modified electrodes towards the HER. Surprisingly, current literature focuses almost exclusively on the use of GC as an underlying support electrode upon which HER materials are immobilised. 2D MoS2 nanosheet modified electrodes are found to exhibit a coverage dependant electrocatalytic effect towards the HER. Modification of the supporting electrode surface with an optimal mass of 2D MoS2 nanosheets results in a lowering of the HER onset potential by ca. 0.33, 0.57, 0.29 and 0.31 V at EPPG, GC, SPE and BDD electrodes compared to their unmodified counterparts respectively. The lowering of the HER onset potential is associated with each supporting electrode's individual electron transfer kinetics/properties and is thus distinct. The effect of MoS2 coverage is also explored. We reveal that its ability to catalyse the HER is dependent on the mass deposited until a critical mass of 2D MoS2 nanosheets is achieved, after which its electrocatalytic benefits and/or surface stability curtail. The active surface site density and turn over frequency for the 2D MoS2 nanosheets is determined, characterised and found to be dependent on both the coverage of 2D MoS2 nanosheets and the underlying/supporting substrate. This work is essential for those designing, fabricating and consequently electrochemically testing 2D nanosheet materials for the HER.We explore the use of two-dimensional (2D) MoS2 nanosheets as an electrocatalyst for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER). Using four commonly employed commercially available carbon based electrode support materials, namely edge plane pyrolytic graphite (EPPG), glassy carbon (GC), boron-doped diamond (BDD) and screen-printed graphite electrodes (SPE), we critically evaluate the reported electrocatalytic performance of unmodified and MoS2 modified electrodes towards the HER. Surprisingly, current literature focuses almost exclusively on the use of GC as an underlying support electrode upon which HER materials are immobilised. 2D MoS2 nanosheet modified electrodes are found to exhibit a coverage dependant electrocatalytic effect towards the HER. Modification of the supporting electrode surface with an optimal mass of 2D MoS2 nanosheets results in a lowering of the HER onset potential by ca. 0.33, 0.57, 0.29 and 0.31 V at EPPG, GC, SPE and BDD electrodes compared to their unmodified counterparts respectively. The lowering of the HER onset potential is associated with each supporting electrode's individual electron transfer kinetics/properties and is thus distinct. The effect of MoS2 coverage is also explored. We reveal that its ability to catalyse the HER is dependent on the mass deposited until a critical mass of 2D MoS2 nanosheets is achieved, after which its electrocatalytic benefits and/or surface stability curtail. The active surface site density and turn over frequency for the 2D MoS2 nanosheets is determined, characterised and found to be dependent on both the coverage of 2D MoS2 nanosheets and the underlying/supporting substrate. This work is essential for those designing, fabricating and consequently electrochemically testing 2D nanosheet materials for the HER. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr05164a|ART

Highly Flexible Freestanding Porous Carbon Nanofibers for Electrodes Materials of High-Performance All-Carbon Supercapacitors.

PubMed

Liu, Ying; Zhou, Jinyuan; Chen, Lulu; Zhang, Peng; Fu, Wenbin; Zhao, Hao; Ma, Yufang; Pan, Xiaojun; Zhang, Zhenxing; Han, Weihua; Xie, Erqing

2015-10-28

Highly flexible porous carbon nanofibers (P-CNFs) were fabricated by electrospining technique combining with metal ion-assistant acid corrosion process. The resultant fibers display high conductivity and outstanding mechanical flexibility, whereas little change in their resistance can be observed under repeatedly bending, even to 180°. Further results indicate that the improved flexibility of P-CNFs can be due to the high graphitization degree caused by Co ions. In view of electrode materials for high-performance supercapacitors, this type of porous nanostructure and high graphitization degree could synergistically facilitate the electrolyte ion diffusion and electron transportation. In the three electrodes testing system, the resultant P-CNFs electrodes can exhibit a specific capacitance of 104.5 F g(-1) (0.2 A g(-1)), high rate capability (remain 56.5% at 10 A g(-1)), and capacitance retention of ∼94% after 2000 cycles. Furthermore, the assembled symmetric supercapacitors showed a high flexibility and can deliver an energy density of 3.22 Wh kg(-1) at power density of 600 W kg(-1). This work might open a way to improve the mechanical properties of carbon fibers and suggests that this type of freestanding P-CNFs be used as effective electrode materials for flexible all-carbon supercapacitors.

Modified Au nanoparticles-imprinted sol-gel, multiwall carbon nanotubes pencil graphite electrode used as a sensor for ranitidine determination.

PubMed

Rezaei, B; Lotfi-Forushani, H; Ensafi, A A

2014-04-01

A new, simple, and disposable molecularly imprinted electrochemical sensor for the determination of ranitidine was developed on pencil graphite electrode (PGE) via cyclic voltammetry (CV). The PGEs were coated with MWCNTs containing the carboxylic functional group (f-MWCNTs), imprinted with sol-gel and Au nanoparticle (AuNPs) layers (AuNP/MIP-sol-gel/f-MWCNT/PGE), respectively, to enhance the electrode's electrical transmission and sensitivity. The thin film of molecularly imprinted sol-gel polymers with specific binding sites for ranitidine was cast on modified PGE by electrochemical deposition. The AuNP/MIP-sol-gel/f-MWCNT/PGE thus developed was characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and CV. The interaction between the imprinted sensor and the target molecule was also observed on the electrode by measuring the current response of 5.0mMK3[Fe(CN)6] solution as an electrochemical probe. The pick currents of ranitidine increased linearly with concentration in the ranges of 0.05 to 2.0μM, with a detection limit of (S/N=3) 0.02μM. Finally, the modified electrode was successfully employed to determine ranitidine in human urine samples. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

CALUTRON CONTROL DEVICE

DOEpatents

Baldwin, L.W.

1959-08-25

Several interlock and control circuits for a calutron are described. In one of the arrangements, the ton source cooling water flow is interlocked with the current supply to the heaters assoctated with the charge chamber, arc chamber, and electrode structure. When the ion source coolant flow rate exceeds a predetermined level, the heater associated with the charge chamber is energized. After the charge chamber has reached a predetermined temperature, the arc chamber heater is energized. Thereafter, the electrode structure heater is energized and the ion source is ready to have the operating voltages applied.

Resistance welding graphite-fiber composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lamoureux, R. T.

1980-01-01

High-strength joints are welded in seconds in carbon-reinfored thermoplastic beams. Resistance-welding electrode applies heat and pressure to joint and is spring-loaded to follow softening material to maintain contact; it also holds parts together for cooling and hardening. Both transverse and longitudinal configurations can be welded. Adhesive bonding and encapsulation are more time consuming methods and introduce additional material into joint, while ultrasonic heating can damage graphite fibers in composite.

A Nanoporous Carbon/Exfoliated Graphite Composite For Supercapacitor Electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rosi, Memoria; Ekaputra, Muhamad P.; Iskandar, Ferry; Abdullah, Mikrajuddin; Khairurrijal

2010-12-01

Nanoporous carbon was prepared from coconut shells using a simple heating method. The nanoporous carbon is subjected to different treatments: without activation, activation with polyethylene glycol (PEG), and activation with sodium hydroxide (NaOH)-PEG. The exfoliated graphite was synthesized from graphite powder oxidized with zinc acetate (ZnAc) and intercalated with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and NaOH. A composite was made by mixing the nanoporous carbon with NaOH-PEG activation, the exfoliated graphite and a binder of PVA solution, grinding the mixture, and annealing it using ultrasonic bath for 1 hour. All of as-synthesized materials were characterized by employing a scanning electron microscope (SEM), a MATLAB's image processing toolbox, and an x-ray diffractometer (XRD). It was confirmed that the composite is crystalline with (002) and (004) orientations. In addition, it was also found that the composite has a high surface area, a high distribution of pore sizes less than 40 nm, and a high porosity (67%). Noting that the pore sizes less than 20 nm are significant for ionic species storage and those in the range of 20 to 40 nm are very accessible for ionic clusters mobility across the pores, the composite is a promising material for the application as supercapacitor electrodes.

Carbon Nano-particle Synthesized by Pulsed Arc Discharge Method as a Light Emitting Device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmadi, Ramin; Ahmadi, Mohamad Taghi; Ismail, Razali

2018-07-01

Owing to the specific properties such as high mobility, ballistic carrier transport and light emission, carbon nano-particles (CNPs) have been employed in nanotechnology applications. In the presented work, the CNPs are synthesized by using the pulsed arc discharge method between two copper electrodes. The rectifying behaviour of produced CNPs is explored by assuming an Ohmic contact between the CNPs and the electrodes. The synthesized sample is characterized by electrical investigation and modelling. The current-voltage ( I- V) relationship is investigated and bright visible light emission from the produced CNPs was measured. The electroluminescence (EL) intensity was explored by changing the distance between two electrodes. An incremental behaviour on EL by a resistance gradient and distance reduction is identified.

Carbon Nano-particle Synthesized by Pulsed Arc Discharge Method as a Light Emitting Device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmadi, Ramin; Ahmadi, Mohamad Taghi; Ismail, Razali

2018-04-01

Owing to the specific properties such as high mobility, ballistic carrier transport and light emission, carbon nano-particles (CNPs) have been employed in nanotechnology applications. In the presented work, the CNPs are synthesized by using the pulsed arc discharge method between two copper electrodes. The rectifying behaviour of produced CNPs is explored by assuming an Ohmic contact between the CNPs and the electrodes. The synthesized sample is characterized by electrical investigation and modelling. The current-voltage (I-V) relationship is investigated and bright visible light emission from the produced CNPs was measured. The electroluminescence (EL) intensity was explored by changing the distance between two electrodes. An incremental behaviour on EL by a resistance gradient and distance reduction is identified.

Reagent-less amperometric glucose biosensor based on a graphite rod electrode layer-by-layer modified with 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dione and glucose oxidase.

PubMed

Kausaite-Minkstimiene, Asta; Simanaityte, Ruta; Ramanaviciene, Almira; Glumbokaite, Laura; Ramanavicius, Arunas

2017-08-15

A reagent-less amperometric glucose biosensor operating in not-stirred sample solution was developed. A working electrode of the designed biosensor was based on a graphite rod (GR) electrode, which was modified with 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dione (PD) and glucose oxidase (GOx). The PD and the GOx were layer-by-layer adsorbed on the GR electrode surface with subsequent drying followed by chemical cross-linking of the adsorbed GOx with glutaraldehyde (GA). Optimal preparation conditions of the working electrode (GR/PD/GOx) were achieved with 12.6μg and 0.24mg loading amount of PD and GOx, respectively and 25min lasting cross-linking of the GOx with GA. A current response to glucose of the GR/PD/GOx electrode was measured at +200mV potential vs Ag/AgCl reference electrode. Maximum current response was registered when the pH of the buffer solution was 6.0. The registered current response to glucose was linear in the concentration range of 0.1-76mmolL -1 (R 2 =0.9985) and a detection limit was 0.025mmolL -1 . The GR/PD/GOx electrode demonstrated good reproducibility and repeatability with the relative standard deviation of 6.2% and 1.8% (at 4.0mmolL -1 of glucose), respectively, high anti-interference ability to uric and ascorbic acids. It was highly selective to glucose and demonstrated good accuracy in the analysis of human serum samples. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Electronically conductive polymer binder for lithium-ion battery electrode

DOEpatents

Liu, Gao; Xun, Shidi; Battaglia, Vincent S.; Zheng, Honghe; Wu, Mingyan

2015-07-07

A family of carboxylic acid groups containing fluorene/fluorenon copolymers is disclosed as binders of silicon particles in the fabrication of negative electrodes for use with lithium ion batteries. Triethyleneoxide side chains provide improved adhesion to materials such as, graphite, silicon, silicon alloy, tin, tin alloy. These binders enable the use of silicon as an electrode material as they significantly improve the cycle-ability of silicon by preventing electrode degradation over time. In particular, these polymers, which become conductive on first charge, bind to the silicon particles of the electrode, are flexible so as to better accommodate the expansion and contraction of the electrode during charge/discharge, and being conductive promote the flow battery current.

Electronically conductive polymer binder for lithium-ion battery electrode

DOEpatents

Liu, Gao; Battaglia, Vincent S.; Park, Sang -Jae

2015-10-06

A family of carboxylic acid groups containing fluorene/fluorenon copolymers is disclosed as binders of silicon particles in the fabrication of negative electrodes for use with lithium ion batteries. Triethyleneoxide side chains provide improved adhesion to materials such as, graphite, silicon, silicon alloy, tin, tin alloy. These binders enable the use of silicon as an electrode material as they significantly improve the cycle-ability of silicon by preventing electrode degradation over time. In particular, these polymers, which become conductive on first charge, bind to the silicon particles of the electrode, are flexible so as to better accommodate the expansion and contraction of the electrode during charge/discharge, and being conductive promote the flow battery current.

Electronically conductive polymer binder for lithium-ion battery electrode

DOEpatents

Liu, Gao; Xun, Shidi; Battaglia, Vincent S.; Zheng, Honghe; Wu, Mingyan

2017-08-01

A family of carboxylic acid groups containing fluorene/fluorenon copolymers is disclosed as binders of silicon particles in the fabrication of negative electrodes for use with lithium ion batteries. Triethyleneoxide side chains provide improved adhesion to materials such as, graphite, silicon, silicon alloy, tin, tin alloy. These binders enable the use of silicon as an electrode material as they significantly improve the cycle-ability of silicon by preventing electrode degradation over time. In particular, these polymers, which become conductive on first charge, bind to the silicon particles of the electrode, are flexible so as to better accommodate the expansion and contraction of the electrode during charge/discharge, and being conductive promote the flow battery current.

Study of the ultraviolet emission of the electrode coatings of arc welding.

PubMed

Garcia-Guinea, J; Correcher, V; Lombardero, M; Gonzalez-Martin, R

2004-08-01

The optical emission properties of several minerals components employed in electrode coatings of arc welding have been investigated. The X-ray diffraction analysis shows that the composition of 14 commercial electrode coatings collected from different countries (Spain, France, UK, Poland, Argentina and Germany), consists of quartz, calcite, sodium and potassium rich feldspars, muscovite and rutile. The natural thermal stimulated luminescence (TSL) of these mineral phases, measured in the range of 200-800 nm at different temperatures (from room temperature to 400 degrees C) displays UV-A (wavelengths of 320 nm to 400 nm) and UV-B (from 280 nm to 320 nm) emissions, with the exception of rutile. The UV-B radiation, commonly described as the most dangerous form of radiation to human life, is here associated with structural defects in the crystallographic lattice of the mineral components of electrode coatings.

Uneven biofilm and current distribution in three-dimensional macroporous anodes of bio-electrochemical systems composed of graphite electrode arrays.

PubMed

Li, Jun; Hu, Linbin; Zhang, Liang; Ye, Ding-Ding; Zhu, Xun; Liao, Qiang

2017-03-01

A 3-D macroporous anode was constructed using different numbers of graphite rod arrays in fixed-volume bio-electrochemical systems (BESs), and the current and biofilm distribution were investigated by dividing the 3-D anode into several subunits. In the fixed-volume chamber, current production was not significantly improved after the electrode number increased to 36. In the case of 100 electrodes, a significant uneven current distribution was found in the macroporous anode. This was attributed to a differential pH distribution, which resulted from proton accumulation inside the macroporous anode. The pH distribution influenced the biofilm development and led to an uneven biofilm distribution. With respect to current generation, the uneven distribution of both the pH and biofilm contributed to the uneven current distribution. The center had a low pH, which led to less biofilm and a lower contribution to the total current, limiting the performance of the BESs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Safe and recyclable lithium-ion capacitors using sacrificial organic lithium salt.

PubMed

Jeżowski, P; Crosnier, O; Deunf, E; Poizot, P; Béguin, F; Brousse, T

2018-02-01

Lithium-ion capacitors (LICs) shrewdly combine a lithium-ion battery negative electrode capable of reversibly intercalating lithium cations, namely graphite, together with an electrical double-layer positive electrode, namely activated carbon. However, the beauty of this concept is marred by the lack of a lithium-cation source in the device, thus requiring a specific preliminary charging step. The strategies devised thus far in an attempt to rectify this issue all present drawbacks. Our research uncovers a unique approach based on the use of a lithiated organic material, namely 3,4-dihydroxybenzonitrile dilithium salt. This compound can irreversibly provide lithium cations to the graphite electrode during an initial operando charging step without any negative effects with respect to further operation of the LIC. This method not only restores the low CO 2 footprint of LICs, but also possesses far-reaching potential with respect to designing a wide range of greener hybrid devices based on other chemistries, comprising entirely recyclable components.

High efficiency organic-electrolyte DSSC based on hydrothermally deposited titanium carbide-carbon counter electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Towannang, Madsakorn; Kumlangwan, Pantiwa; Maiaugree, Wasan; Ratchaphonsaenwong, Kunthaya; Harnchana, Viyada; Jarenboon, Wirat; Pimanpang, Samuk; Amornkitbamrung, Vittaya

2015-07-01

Pt-free TiC based electrodes were hydrothermally deposited onto FTO/glass substrates and used as dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) counter electrodes. A promising efficiency of 3.07% was obtained from the annealed hydrothermal TiC DSSCs based on a disulfide/thiolate electrolyte. A pronounced improvement in performance of 3.59% was achieved by compositing TiC with carbon, compared to that of a Pt DSSC, 3.84%. TEM analysis detected that the TiC particle surfaces were coated by thin carbon layer (7 nm). The SAED pattern and Raman spectrum of TiC-carbon films suggested that the carbon layer was composed of amorphous and graphite carbon. The formation of graphite on the TiC nanoparticles plays a crucial role in enhancing the film's reduction current to 10.12 mA/cm2 and in reducing the film impedance to 237.63 Ω, resulting in a high efficiency of the TiC-carbon DSSC. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Safe and recyclable lithium-ion capacitors using sacrificial organic lithium salt

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeżowski, P.; Crosnier, O.; Deunf, E.; Poizot, P.; Béguin, F.; Brousse, T.

2018-02-01

Lithium-ion capacitors (LICs) shrewdly combine a lithium-ion battery negative electrode capable of reversibly intercalating lithium cations, namely graphite, together with an electrical double-layer positive electrode, namely activated carbon. However, the beauty of this concept is marred by the lack of a lithium-cation source in the device, thus requiring a specific preliminary charging step. The strategies devised thus far in an attempt to rectify this issue all present drawbacks. Our research uncovers a unique approach based on the use of a lithiated organic material, namely 3,4-dihydroxybenzonitrile dilithium salt. This compound can irreversibly provide lithium cations to the graphite electrode during an initial operando charging step without any negative effects with respect to further operation of the LIC. This method not only restores the low CO2 footprint of LICs, but also possesses far-reaching potential with respect to designing a wide range of greener hybrid devices based on other chemistries, comprising entirely recyclable components.

Graphene Oxide-Assisted Liquid Phase Exfoliation of Graphite into Graphene for Highly Conductive Film and Electromechanical Sensors.

PubMed

Tung, Tran Thanh; Yoo, Jeongha; Alotaibi, Faisal K; Nine, Md J; Karunagaran, Ramesh; Krebsz, Melinda; Nguyen, Giang T; Tran, Diana N H; Feller, Jean-Francois; Losic, Dusan

2016-06-29

Here, we report a new method to prepare graphene from graphite by the liquid phase exfoliation process with sonication using graphene oxide (GO) as a dispersant. It was found that GO nanosheets act a as surfactant to the mediated exfoliation of graphite into a GO-adsorbed graphene complex in the aqueous solution, from which graphene was separated by an additional process. The preparation of isolated graphene from a single to a few layers is routinely achieved with an exfoliation yield of up to higher than 40% from the initial graphite material. The prepared graphene sheets showed a high quality (C/O ∼ 21.5), low defect (ID/IG ∼ 0.12), and high conductivity (6.2 × 10(4) S/m). Moreover, the large lateral size ranging from 5 to 10 μm of graphene, which is believed to be due to the shielding effect of GO avoiding damage under ultrasonic jets and cavitation formed by the sonication process. The thin graphene film prepared by the spray-coating technique showed a sheet resistance of 668 Ω/sq with a transmittance of 80% at 550 nm after annealing at 350 °C for 3 h. The transparent electrode was even greater with the resistance only 66.02 Ω when graphene is deposited on an interdigitated electrode (1 mm gap). Finally, a flexible sensor based on a graphene spray-coating polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is demonstrated showing excellent performance working under human touch pressure (<10 kPa). The graphene prepared by this method has some distinct properties showing it as a promising material for applications in electronics including thin film coatings, transparent electrodes, wearable electronics, human monitoring sensors, and RFID tags.

Thermal emittance enhancement of graphite-copper composites for high temperature space based radiators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rutledge, Sharon K.; Forkapa, Mark J.; Cooper, Jill M.

1991-01-01

Graphite-copper composites are candidate materials for space based radiators. The thermal emittance of this material, however, is a factor of two lower than the desired emittance for these systems of greater than or equal to 0.85. Arc texturing was investigated as a surface modification technique for enhancing the emittance of the composite. Since the outer surface of the composite is copper, and samples of the composite could not be readily obtained for testing, copper was used for optimization testing. Samples were exposed to various frequencies and currents of arcs during texturing. Emittances near the desired goal were achieved at frequencies less than 500 Hz. Arc current did not appear to play a major role under 15 amps. Particulate carbon was observed on the surface, and was easily removed by vibration and handling. In order to determine morphology adherence, ultrasonic cleaning was used to remove the loosely adherent material. This reduced the emittance significantly. Emittance was found to increase with increasing frequency for the cleaned samples up to 500 Hz. The highest emittance achieved on these samples over the temperature range of interest was 0.5 to 0.6, which is approximately a factor of 25 increase over the untextured copper emittance.

Effect of electrolyte composition on initial cycling and impedance characteristics of lithium-ion cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abraham, D. P.; Furczon, M. M.; Kang, S.-H.; Dees, D. W.; Jansen, A. N.

Hybrid-electric vehicles require lithium-battery electrolytes that form stable, low impedance passivation layers to protect the electrodes, while allowing rapid lithium-ion transport under high current charge/discharge pulses. In this article, we describe data acquired on cells containing LiNi 0.8Co 0.15Al 0.05O 2-based positive electrodes, graphite-based negative electrodes, and electrolytes with lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF 6), lithium tetrafluoroborate (LiBF 4), lithium bis(oxalato)borate (LiBOB) and lithium difluoro(oxalato) borate (LiF 2OB) salts. The impedance data were collected in cells containing a Li-Sn reference electrode to determine effect of electrolyte composition and testing temperature on individual electrode impedance. The full cell impedance data showed the following trend: LiBOB > LiBF 4 > LiF 2OB > LiPF 6. The negative electrode impedance showed a trend similar to that of the full cell; this electrode was the main contributor to impedance in the LiBOB and LiBF 4 cells. The positive electrode impedance values for the LiBF 4, LiF 2OB, and LiPF 6 cells were comparable; the values were somewhat higher for the LiBOB cell. Cycling and impedance data were also obtained for cells containing additions of LiBF 4, LiBOB, LiF 2OB, and vinylene carbonate (VC) to the EC:EMC (3:7 by wt.) + 1.2 M LiPF 6 electrolyte. Our data indicate that the composition and morphology of the graphite SEI formed during the first lithiation cycle is an important determinant of the negative electrode impedance, and hence full cell impedance.

2D nanosheet molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) modified electrodes explored towards the hydrogen evolution reaction.

PubMed

Rowley-Neale, Samuel J; Brownson, Dale A C; Smith, Graham C; Sawtell, David A G; Kelly, Peter J; Banks, Craig E

2015-11-21

We explore the use of two-dimensional (2D) MoS2 nanosheets as an electrocatalyst for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER). Using four commonly employed commercially available carbon based electrode support materials, namely edge plane pyrolytic graphite (EPPG), glassy carbon (GC), boron-doped diamond (BDD) and screen-printed graphite electrodes (SPE), we critically evaluate the reported electrocatalytic performance of unmodified and MoS2 modified electrodes towards the HER. Surprisingly, current literature focuses almost exclusively on the use of GC as an underlying support electrode upon which HER materials are immobilised. 2D MoS2 nanosheet modified electrodes are found to exhibit a coverage dependant electrocatalytic effect towards the HER. Modification of the supporting electrode surface with an optimal mass of 2D MoS2 nanosheets results in a lowering of the HER onset potential by ca. 0.33, 0.57, 0.29 and 0.31 V at EPPG, GC, SPE and BDD electrodes compared to their unmodified counterparts respectively. The lowering of the HER onset potential is associated with each supporting electrode's individual electron transfer kinetics/properties and is thus distinct. The effect of MoS2 coverage is also explored. We reveal that its ability to catalyse the HER is dependent on the mass deposited until a critical mass of 2D MoS2 nanosheets is achieved, after which its electrocatalytic benefits and/or surface stability curtail. The active surface site density and turn over frequency for the 2D MoS2 nanosheets is determined, characterised and found to be dependent on both the coverage of 2D MoS2 nanosheets and the underlying/supporting substrate. This work is essential for those designing, fabricating and consequently electrochemically testing 2D nanosheet materials for the HER.

Proposal of simple and novel method of capacity fading analysis using pseudo-reference electrode in lithium ion cells: Application to solvent-free lithium ion polymer batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shono, Kumi; Kobayashi, Takeshi; Tabuchi, Masato; Ohno, Yasutaka; Miyashiro, Hajime; Kobayashi, Yo

2014-02-01

We propose a simple procedure for introducing a pseudo-reference electrode (PRE) to lithium ion batteries using isometric lithium metal placed between the cathode and anode, and we successfully obtained the cathode and anode voltage profiles, individual interfacial impedances, and the misalignment of the operation range between the cathode and anode after cycle operation. The proposed procedure is applicable to lithium ion battery systems using a solid electrolyte to prepare two cells with a lithium counter electrode. We determined the capacity decrease of a solvent-free lithium ion polymer battery consisting of a LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 (NMC), a polyether-based solid polymer electrolyte (SPE), and a graphite (Gr) with the proposed PRE over 1000 cycles. The capacity retention of the [Gr|SPE|NMC] cell reached 50% at the 1000th cycle upon the optimization of cell preparation, and we found that the main factor of the capacity decrease was the continuous irreversible loss of active lithium at the graphite anode, not the oxidation of the SPE. Our findings suggest that we should reconsider combining a polyether-based SPE with a conventionally used 4 V class cathode and a graphite anode to develop an innovative, safe, and low-cost battery for the expected large lithium ion battery systems for stationary use.

Improvement of Ion/Ioff for h-BN encapsulated bilayer graphene by graphite local back gate electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uwanno, Teerayut; Taniguchi, Takashi; Watanabe, Kenji; Nagashio, Kosuke

The critical issue for bilayer graphene (BLG) devices is low Ion/Ioff even at the band gap of 0.3eV. Band gap in BLG can be formed by creating potential difference between the two layers of BLG. This can be done by applying external electric field perpendicularly to BLG to induce different carrier densities in the two layers. Due to such origin, the spatial uniformity of band gap in the channel is quite sensitive to charge inhomogeneity in BLG. In order to apply electric field of 3V/nm to open the maximum band gap of 0.3eV, high- k gate stack has been utilized so far. However, oxide dielectrics usually have large charge inhomogeneity causing in-plane potential fluctuation in BLG channel. Due to surface flatness and small charge inhomogeneity, h-BN has been used as dielectrics to achieve high quality graphene devices, however, Ion/Iofffor BLG/ h-BN heterostuctures has not been reported yet. In this study, we used graphite as local back gate electrode to BLG encapsulated with h-BN. This resulted in much higher Ion/Ioff, indicating the importance of screening of charge inhomogeneity from SiO2 substrate surface by local graphite back gate electrode. This research was partly supported by JSPS Core-to-Core Program, A. Advanced Research Networks.

Carbon-oxygen reaction efficiency in air gap switch with graphite electrodes under high current pulse discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, Hongyu; Li, Lee; Peng, Ming-yang; Xiong, Jiaming; Wu, Haibo; Yu, Bin

2017-12-01

In order to reduce the effect of residual carbon on the insulation performance, after the GW-hundreds kiloampere graphite-electrode switch turning on, the chemical kinetics of the carbon-oxygen reaction is analyzed. The capacitive pulsed experimental circuit is used to reconstruct the actual condition of high power and high current discharge. The carbon-oxygen reaction efficiency is analyzed using a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer and a flue gas analyzer. The research shows that the gas products include NOX, O3, CH4, and COX. Through the quantitative analysis, the conversion efficiency of COX increases with the augment of the accumulated transferred charge, and the change law of the CO generation efficiency has an extreme value. With the corresponding calculation and the observation of the scanning electron microscope, it is found that most of the carbon consumed from the graphite electrodes is converted to amorphous elemental carbon, and the insufficiency of the carbon-oxygen reaction leads to the problem of carbon residue, for 20%-45% of elemental carbon is not oxidized. The size of amorphous elemental carbon is about several micrometers to tens micrometers by the analysis of metallographic microscope. In the condition of compressed air, changing the amount of transferred charge is helpful to improve the carbon-oxygen reaction efficiency and inhibit the problem of carbon residue.

Label-free voltammetric detection of MicroRNAs at multi-channel screen printed array of electrodes comparison to graphite sensors.

PubMed

Erdem, Arzum; Congur, Gulsah

2014-01-01

The multi-channel screen-printed array of electrodes (MUX-SPE16) was used in our study for the first time for electrochemical monitoring of nucleic acid hybridization related to different miRNA sequences (miRNA-16, miRNA-15a and miRNA-660, i.e, the biomarkers for Alzheimer disease). The MUX-SPE16 was also used for the first time herein for the label-free electrochemical detection of nucleic acid hybridization combined magnetic beads (MB) assay in comparison to the disposable pencil graphite electrode (PGE). Under the principle of the magnetic beads assay, the biotinylated inosine substituted DNA probe was firstly immobilized onto streptavidin coated MB, and then, the hybridization process between probe and its complementary miRNA sequence was performed at MB surface. The voltammetric transduction was performed using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) technique in combination with the single-use graphite sensor technologies; PGE and MUX-SPE16 for miRNA detection by measuring the guanine oxidation signal without using any external indicator. The features of single-use sensor technologies, PGE and MUX-SPE16, were discussed concerning to their reproducibility, detection limit, and selectivity compared to the results in the earlier studies presenting the electrochemical miRNA detection related to different miRNA sequences. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The cathode material for a plasma-arc heater

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yelyutin, A. V.; Berlin, I. K.; Averyanov, V. V.; Kadyshevskii, V. S.; Savchenko, A. A.; Putintseva, R. G.

1983-11-01

The cathode of a plasma arc heater experiences a large thermal load. The temperature of its working surface, which is in contact with the plasma, reaches high values, as a result of which the electrode material is subject to erosion. Refractory metals are usually employed for the cathode material, but because of the severe erosion do not usually have a long working life. The most important electrophysical characteristic of the electrode is the electron work function. The use of materials with a low electron work function allows a decrease in the heat flow to the cathode, and this leads to an increase in its erosion resistance and working life. The electroerosion of certain materials employed for the cathode in an electric arc plasma generator in the process of reduction smelting of refractory metals was studied.

Graphite Carbon-Supported Mo2C Nanocomposites by a Single-Step Solid State Reaction for Electrochemical Oxygen Reduction.

PubMed

Huang, K; Bi, K; Liang, C; Lin, S; Wang, W J; Yang, T Z; Liu, J; Zhang, R; Fan, D Y; Wang, Y G; Lei, M

2015-01-01

Novel graphite-molybdenum carbide nanocomposites (G-Mo2C) are synthesized by a typical solid state reaction with melamine and MoO3 as precursors under inert atmosphere. The characterization results indicate that G-Mo2C composites are composed of high crystallization and purity of Mo2C and few layers of graphite carbon. Mo2C nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 5 to 50 nm are uniformly supported by surrounding graphite layers. It is believed that Mo atom resulting from the reduction of MoO3 is beneficial to the immobilization of graphite carbon. Moreover, the electrocatalytic performances of G-Mo2C for ORR in alkaline medium are investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV), rotating disk electrode (RDE) and chronoamperometry test with 3M methanol. The results show that G-Mo2C has a considerable catalytic activity and superior methanol tolerance performance for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) benefiting from the chemical interaction between the carbide nanoparticles and graphite carbon.

Construction of 3D nanostructure hierarchical porous graphitic carbons by charge-induced self-assembly and nanocrystal-assisted catalytic graphitization for supercapacitors.

PubMed

Ma, Fangwei; Ma, Di; Wu, Guang; Geng, Weidan; Shao, Jinqiu; Song, Shijiao; Wan, Jiafeng; Qiu, Jieshan

2016-05-10

A smart and sustainable strategy based on charge-induced self-assembly and nanocrystal-assisted catalytic graphitization is explored for the efficient construction of 3D nanostructure hierarchical porous graphitic carbons from the pectin biopolymer. The electrostatic interaction between the negatively charged pectin chains and magnesium ions plays a crucial role in the formation of 3D architectures. The 3D HPGCs possess a three-dimensional carbon framework with a hierarchical porous structure, flake-like graphitic carbon walls and high surface area (1320 m(2) g(-1)). The 3D HPGCs show an outstanding specific capacitance of 274 F g(-1) and excellent rate capability with a high capacitance retention of 85% at a high current density of 50 A g(-1) for supercapacitor electrodes. This strategy provided a novel approach to effectively construct 3D porous carbon nanostructures from biopolymers.

Pillared graphite anodes for reversible sodiation.

PubMed

Zhang, Hanyang; Li, Zhifei; Xu, Wei; Chen, Yicong; Ji, Xiulei; Lerner, Michael M

2018-08-10

There has been a major effort recently to develop new rechargeable sodium-ion electrodes. In lithium ion batteries, LiC 6 forms from graphite and desolvated Li cations during the first charge. With sodium ions, graphite only shows a significant capacity when Na + intercalates as a solvated complex, resulting in ternary graphite intercalation compounds (GICs). Although this chemistry has been shown to be highly reversible and to support high rates in small test cells, these GICs can require >250% volume expansion and contraction during cycling. Here we demonstrate the first example of GICs that reversibly sodiate/desodiate without any significant volume change. These pillared GICs are obtained by electrochemical reduction of graphite in an ether/amine co-solvent electrolyte. The initial gallery expansion, 0.36 nm, is less than half of that in diglyme-based systems, and shows a similar capacity. Thermal analyses suggest the pillaring phenomenon arises from stronger co-intercalate interactions in the GIC galleries.

Note: Arc discharge plasma source with plane segmented LaB{sub 6} cathode

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

Akhmetov, T. D., E-mail: t.d.akhmetov@inp.nsk.su; Davydenko, V. I.; Ivanov, A. A.

2016-05-15

A plane cathode composed of close-packed hexagonal LaB{sub 6} (lanthanum hexaboride) segments is described. The 6 cm diameter circular cathode is heated by radiation from a graphite foil flat spiral. The cathode along with a hollow copper anode is used for the arc discharge plasma production in a newly developed linear plasma device. A separately powered coil located around the anode is used to change the magnetic field strength and geometry in the anode region. Different discharge regimes were realized using this coil.