Sample records for h7546b anode current

  1. 10 CFR 75.46 - Expenses.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 10 Energy 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Expenses. 75.46 Section 75.46 Energy NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION (CONTINUED) SAFEGUARDS ON NUCLEAR MATERIAL-IMPLEMENTATION OF US/IAEA AGREEMENT Advanced Notification and Expenses § 75.46 Expenses. (a) Under the Safeguards Agreement, the IAEA undertakes to...

  2. 10 CFR 75.46 - Expenses.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 10 Energy 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Expenses. 75.46 Section 75.46 Energy NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION (CONTINUED) SAFEGUARDS ON NUCLEAR MATERIAL-IMPLEMENTATION OF US/IAEA AGREEMENT Advanced Notification and Expenses § 75.46 Expenses. (a) Under the Safeguards Agreement, the IAEA undertakes to...

  3. 7 CFR 75.46 - When appeal refused or withdrawn.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 3 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false When appeal refused or withdrawn. 75.46 Section 75.46 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing Practices), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (CONTINUED) REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS UNDER THE AGRICULTURAL MARKETING ACT O...

  4. 40 CFR 75.46 - Missing data substitution criteria.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 17 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Missing data substitution criteria. 75... (CONTINUED) CONTINUOUS EMISSION MONITORING Alternative Monitoring Systems § 75.46 Missing data substitution criteria. The owner or operator shall demonstrate that all missing data can be accounted for in a manner...

  5. 40 CFR 75.46 - Missing data substitution criteria.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 17 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Missing data substitution criteria. 75... (CONTINUED) CONTINUOUS EMISSION MONITORING Alternative Monitoring Systems § 75.46 Missing data substitution criteria. The owner or operator shall demonstrate that all missing data can be accounted for in a manner...

  6. 40 CFR 75.46 - Missing data substitution criteria.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 16 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Missing data substitution criteria. 75... (CONTINUED) CONTINUOUS EMISSION MONITORING Alternative Monitoring Systems § 75.46 Missing data substitution criteria. The owner or operator shall demonstrate that all missing data can be accounted for in a manner...

  7. 40 CFR 75.46 - Missing data substitution criteria.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 17 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Missing data substitution criteria. 75... (CONTINUED) CONTINUOUS EMISSION MONITORING Alternative Monitoring Systems § 75.46 Missing data substitution criteria. The owner or operator shall demonstrate that all missing data can be accounted for in a manner...

  8. 40 CFR 75.46 - Missing data substitution criteria.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 16 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Missing data substitution criteria. 75... (CONTINUED) CONTINUOUS EMISSION MONITORING Alternative Monitoring Systems § 75.46 Missing data substitution criteria. The owner or operator shall demonstrate that all missing data can be accounted for in a manner...

  9. The effect of pH and buffer concentration on anode biofilms of Thermincola ferriacetica.

    PubMed

    Lusk, Bradley G; Parameswaran, Prathap; Popat, Sudeep C; Rittmann, Bruce E; Torres, Cesar I

    2016-12-01

    We assessed the effects of pH and buffer concentration on current production and growth of biofilms of Thermincola ferriacetica - a thermophilic, Gram-positive, anode-respiring bacterium (ARB) - grown on anodes poised at a potential of -0.06V vs. SHE in microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) at 60°C. T. ferriacetica generated current in the pH range of 5.2 to 8.3 with acetate as the electron donor and 50mM bicarbonate buffer. Maximum current density was reduced by ~80% at pH5.2 and ~14% at 7.0 compared to pH8.3. Increasing bicarbonate buffer concentrations from 10mM to 100mM resulted in an increase in the current density by 40±6%, from 6.8±1.1 to 11.2±2.7Am(-2), supporting that more buffer alleviated pH depression within T. ferriacetica biofilms. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) images indicated that higher bicarbonate buffer concentrations resulted in larger live biofilm thicknesses: from 68±20μm at 10mM bicarbonate to >150μm at 100mM, supporting that buffer availability was a strong influence on biofilm thickness. In comparison to mesophilic Geobacter sulfurreducens biofilms, the faster transport rates at higher temperature and the ability to grow at relatively lower pH allowed T. ferriacetica to produce higher current densities with lower buffer concentrations. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  10. Anode current density distribution in a cusped field thruster

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

    Wu, Huan, E-mail: wuhuan58@qq.com; Liu, Hui, E-mail: hlying@gmail.com; Meng, Yingchao

    2015-12-15

    The cusped field thruster is a new electric propulsion device that is expected to have a non-uniform radial current density at the anode. To further study the anode current density distribution, a multi-annulus anode is designed to directly measure the anode current density for the first time. The anode current density decreases sharply at larger radii; the magnitude of collected current density at the center is far higher compared with the outer annuli. The anode current density non-uniformity does not demonstrate a significant change with varying working conditions.

  11. A front-end read out chip for the OPERA scintillator tracker

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lucotte, A.; Bondil, S.; Borer, K.; Campagne, J. E.; Cazes, A.; Hess, M.; de La Taille, C.; Martin-Chassard, G.; Raux, L.; Repellin, J. P.

    2004-04-01

    Multi-anode photomultipliers H7546 are used to readout signal from the OPERA Scintillator Tracker (CERN/SPSC 2000-028, SPSC/P318, LNGSP 25/2000; CERN/SPSC 2001-025, SPSC/M668, LNGS-EXP30/2001). A 32-channel front-end Read Out Chip prototype accommodating the H7546 has been designed at LAL. This device features a low-noise, variable gain preamplifier to correct for multi-anode non-uniformity, an auto-trigger capability 100% efficient at a 0.3 photo-electron, and a charge measurement extending over a large dynamic range [0-100] photo-electrons. In this article we describe the ASIC architecture that is being implemented for the Target Tracker in OPERA, with a special emphasis put on the designs and the measured performance.

  12. Electrochemical Performance Estimation of Anodized AZ31B Magnesium Alloy as Function of Change in the Current Density

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Girón, L.; Aperador, W.; Tirado, L.; Franco, F.; Caicedo, J. C.

    2017-08-01

    The anodized AZ31B magnesium alloys were synthesized via electrodeposition processes. The aim of this work was to determine the electrochemical behavior of magnesium alloys by using anodized alloys as a protective coating. The anodized alloys were characterized by x-ray diffraction, exhibiting the crystallography orientation for Mg and MgO phases. The x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was used to determine the chemical composition of anodized magnesium alloys. By using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and Tafel curves, it was possible to estimate the electrochemical behavior of anodized AZ31B magnesium alloys in Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS). Scanning electron microscopy was performed to analyze chemical changes and morphological surface changes on anodized Mg alloys due to the reaction in HBSS/anodized magnesium surface interface. Electrochemical behavior in HBSS indicates that the coatings may be a promising material for biomedical industry.

  13. Fabrication of bristlegrass-like VO2 (B)-ZnO heteroarchitectures as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ma, Yining; Li, Wenjing; Ji, Shidong; Zhou, Huaijuan; Li, Rong; Li, Ning; Yao, Heliang; Cao, Xun; Jin, Ping

    2017-08-01

    Three-dimensional bristlegrass-like hierarchical VO2 (B)-ZnO heteroarchitectures with ZnO nanorods grown radially on VO2 (B) nanorods were successfully fabricated via a simple two-step synthesized method. When applied as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries, the VO2 (B)-ZnO hybrid electrode exhibited high reversible capacity and excellent recyclability, which could be originated from the unique hierarchical structure of the bristlegrass. After 80 cycles, the nanocomposite still maintained a higher reversible capacity of 329.4 mA h g-1 at a current density of 50 mA g-1. Therefore, the particular architecture of VO2 (B)-ZnO nanocomposite can be a promising candidate as the anode material in lithium-ion batteries.

  14. 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.

  15. Oxygen suppresses light-driven anodic current generation by a mixed phototrophic culture.

    PubMed

    Darus, Libertus; Ledezma, Pablo; Keller, Jürg; Freguia, Stefano

    2014-12-02

    This paper describes the detrimental effect of photosynthetically evolved oxygen on anodic current generation in the presence of riboflavin upon illumination of a mixed phototrophic culture enriched from a freshwater pond at +0.6 V vs standard hydrogen electrode. In the presence of riboflavin, the phototrophic biomass in the anodic compartment produced an electrical current in response to light/dark cycles (12 h/12 h) over 12 months of operation, generating a maximum current density of 17.5 mA x m(-2) during the dark phase, whereas a much lower current of approximately 2 mA x m(-2) was generated during illumination. We found that the low current generation under light exposure was caused by high rates of reoxidation of reduced riboflavin by oxygen produced during photosynthesis. Quantification of biomass by fluorescence in situ hybridization images suggested that green algae were predominant in both the anode-based biofilm (55.1%) and the anolyte suspension (87.9%) with the remaining biovolume accounted for by bacteria. Genus-level sequencing analysis revealed that bacteria were dominated by cyanobacterium Leptolyngbia (∼35%), while the prevailing algae were Dictyosphaerium, Coelastrum, and Auxenochlorella. This study offers a key comprehension of mediator sensitivity to reoxidation by dissolved oxygen for improvement of microbial solar cell performance.

  16. Safety parameter considerations of anodal transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in rats.

    PubMed

    Jackson, Mark P; Truong, Dennis; Brownlow, Milene L; Wagner, Jessica A; McKinley, R Andy; Bikson, Marom; Jankord, Ryan

    2017-08-01

    A commonly referenced transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) safety threshold derives from tDCS lesion studies in the rat and relies on electrode current density (and related electrode charge density) to support clinical guidelines. Concerns about the role of polarity (e.g. anodal tDCS), sub-lesion threshold injury (e.g. neuroinflammatory processes), and role of electrode montage across rodent and human studies support further investigation into animal models of tDCS safety. Thirty-two anesthetized rats received anodal tDCS between 0 and 5mA for 60min through one of three epicranial electrode montages. Tissue damage was evaluated using hemotoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, Iba-1 immunohistochemistry, and computational brain current density modeling. Brain lesion occurred after anodal tDCS at and above 0.5mA using a 25.0mm 2 electrode (electrode current density: 20.0A/m 2 ). Lesion initially occurred using smaller 10.6mm 2 or 5.3mm 2 electrodes at 0.25mA (23.5A/m 2 ) and 0.5mA (94.2A/m 2 ), respectively. Histological damage was correlated with computational brain current density predictions. Changes in microglial phenotype occurred in higher stimulation groups. Lesions were observed using anodal tDCS at an electrode current density of 20.0A/m 2 , which is below the previously reported safety threshold of 142.9A/m 2 using cathodal tDCS. The lesion area is not simply predicted by electrode current density (and so not by charge density as duration was fixed); rather computational modeling suggests average brain current density as a better predictor for anodal tDCS. Nonetheless, under the assumption that rodent epicranial stimulation is a hypersensitive model, an electrode current density of 20.0A/m 2 represents a conservative threshold for clinical tDCS, which typically uses an electrode current density of 2A/m 2 when electrodes are placed on the skin (resulting in a lower brain current density). Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Accommodating lithium into 3D current collectors with a submicron skeleton towards long-life lithium metal anodes

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Chun-Peng; Yin, Ya-Xia; Zhang, Shuai-Feng; Li, Nian-Wu; Guo, Yu-Guo

    2015-01-01

    Lithium metal is one of the most attractive anode materials for electrochemical energy storage. However, the growth of Li dendrites during electrochemical deposition, which leads to a low Coulombic efficiency and safety concerns, has long hindered the application of rechargeable Li-metal batteries. Here we show that a 3D current collector with a submicron skeleton and high electroactive surface area can significantly improve the electrochemical deposition behaviour of Li. Li anode is accommodated in the 3D structure without uncontrollable Li dendrites. With the growth of Li dendrites being effectively suppressed, the Li anode in the 3D current collector can run for 600 h without short circuit and exhibits low voltage hysteresis. The exceptional electrochemical performance of the Li-metal anode in the 3D current collector highlights the importance of rational design of current collectors and reveals a new avenue for developing Li anodes with a long lifespan. PMID:26299379

  18. Hierarchical TiO2-B composed of nanosheets with exposed {010} facets as a high-performance anode for lithium ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Yubin; Chen, Wenqiang; Yang, Chengyu; Wei, Qiaohua; Wei, Mingdeng

    2018-07-01

    Facet engineering of electrode materials with a special facet provides a new strategy to enhance their electrochemical properties. In the present work, hierarchical TiO2-B composed of nanosheets with exposed {010} facets are successfully synthesized via a facial hydrothermal route. When used as an anode for lithium ion batteries, this material demonstrates high capacities, excellent rata capability and remarkable cycling performance. For instance, it displays a reversible capacity of 200.9 mA h g-1 after 200 cycles at a current density of 1.675 A g-1 (5 C). Furthermore, a full cell consisted of hierarchical TiO2-B composed of nanosheets with exposed {010} facets anode and LiFePO4 cathode exhibits a high capacity of 125.6 mA h g-1 after 1000 cycles at a current density of 2 A g-1. Such outstanding electrochemical properties of this material can be attributed to hierarchical structure and the presence of exposed {010} facets which provides favorable lithium transport channels.

  19. Synthesis and characterization of nanoporous anodic oxide film on aluminum in H3PO4 + KMnO4 electrolyte mixture at different anodization conditions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Verma, Naveen; Jindal, Jitender; Singh, Krishan Chander; Mari, Bernabe

    2016-04-01

    The micro structural properties of nanoporous anodic oxide film formed in H3PO4 were highly influenced by addition of a low concentration of KMnO4 (0.0005 M) in 1 M H3PO4 solution. The KMnO4 as additive enhanced the growth rate of oxide film formation as well as thickness of pore walls. Furthermore the growth rate was found increased with increase in applied current density. The increase in temperature and lack of stirring during anodization causes the thinness of pore wall which leads to increase in pore volume. With the decrease in concentration of H3PO4 in anodizing electrolyte from 1M to 0.3 M, keeping all other conditions constant, the decrease in porosity was observed. This might be due to the dissolution of aluminium oxide film in highly concentrated acidic solution.

  20. Nanostructured ZnO-TiO2 thin film oxide as anode material in electrooxidation of organic pollutants. Application to the removal of dye Amido black 10B from water.

    PubMed

    El-Kacemi, Sana; Zazou, Hicham; Oturan, Nihal; Dietze, Matthias; Hamdani, Mohamed; Es-Souni, Mohammed; Oturan, Mehmet A

    2017-01-01

    Electrochemical oxidative degradation of diazo dye Amido black 10B (AB10B) as model pollutant in water has been studied using nanostructured ZnO-TiO 2 thin films deposited on graphite felt (GrF) substrate as anode. The influence of various operating parameters, namely the current intensity, the nature and concentration of catalyst, the nature of electrode materials (anode/cathode), and the adsorption of dye and ambient light were investigated. It was found that the oxidative degradation of AB10B followed pseudo first-order kinetics. The optimal operating conditions for the degradation of 0.12 mM (74 mg L -1 ) dye concentration and mineralization of its aqueous solution were determined as GrF-ZnO-TiO 2 thin film anode, 100 mA current intensity, and 0.1 mM Fe 2+ (catalyst) concentration. Under these operating conditions, discoloration of AB10B solution was reached at 60 min while 6 h treatment needed for a mineralization degree of 91 %. Therefore, this study confirmed that the electrochemical process is effective for the degradation of AB10B in water using nanostructured ZnO-TiO 2 thin film anodes.

  1. Direct current H- source for the medicine accelerator (invited)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Belchenko, Yu.; Savkin, V.

    2004-05-01

    A compact cw hydrogen negative ion source having reliable operation and a simplified maintenance is developed at Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics for a tandem accelerator of boron capture neutron therapy installation. The source uses a Penning discharge with a hydrogen and cesium feed through the hollows in the cathodes. Discharge voltage is about 60-80 V, current 9 A, hydrogen pressure 4-5 Pa, magnetic field 0.05-0.1 T, and cesium seed <1 mg/h. Negative ions are mainly produced on the cesiated anode surface due to conversion of hydrogen atoms. An optimal anode temperature is 250-350 °C. Negative ion beam current is directly proportional to the discharge current and to the emission hole area. A triode system for the beam extraction and acceleration system is used. The flux of accompanying extracted electrons was decreased by filtering in the transverse magnetic field. This electron flux was intercepted to the special electrode, biased at 4 kV potential with respect to the anode. Source stable cw operation for several hour runs was multiply tested. A H- ion beam with current up to 8 mA, beam energy 23 keV was produced regularly. Negative ion current of heavy impurities had a value of about 3% of the total beam current. Beam normalized emittance is about 0.3 π mm mrad and emission current density -0.1 A/cm2. A built-in cathode heater provides the operation quick start.

  2. Current collection by high voltage anodes in near ionospheric conditions

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Antoniades, John A.; Greaves, Rod G.; Boyd, D. A.; Ellis, R.

    1990-01-01

    The authors experimentally identified three distinct regimes with large differences in current collection in the presence of neutrals and weak magnetic fields. In magnetic field/anode voltage space the three regions are separated by very sharp transition boundaries. The authors performed a series of laboratory experiments to study the dependence of the region boundaries on several parameters, such as the ambient neutral density, plasma density, magnetic field strength, applied anode voltage, voltage pulsewidth, chamber material, chamber size and anode radius. The three observed regimes are: classical magnetic field limited collection; stable medium current toroidal discharge; and large scale, high current space glow discharge. There is as much as several orders of magnitude of difference in the amount of collected current upon any boundary crossing, particularly if one enters the space glow regime. They measured some of the properties of the plasma generated by the breakdown that is present in regimes II and III in the vicinity of the anode including the sheath modified electrostatic potential, I-V characteristics at high voltage as well as the local plasma density.

  3. Incorporation of Ca and P on anodized titanium surface: Effect of high current density.

    PubMed

    Laurindo, Carlos A H; Torres, Ricardo D; Mali, Sachin A; Gilbert, Jeremy L; Soares, Paulo

    2014-04-01

    This study systematically evaluated the surface and corrosion characteristics of commercially pure titanium (grade 2) modified by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) with high current density. The anodization process was carried out galvanostatically (constant current density) using a solution containing calcium glycerophosphate (0.02mol/L) and calcium acetate (0.15mol/L). The current densities applied were 400, 700, 1000 and 1200mA/cm(2) for a period of 15s. Composition, crystalline structure, morphology, roughness, wettability and "in-vitro" bioactivity test in SBF of the anodized layer were evaluated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, profilometry and contact angle measurements. Corrosion properties were evaluated by open circuit potential, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization measurements. The results show that the TiO2 oxide layers present an increase of thickness, porosity, roughness, wettability, Ca/P ratio, and bioactivity, with the applied current density up to 1000mA/cm(2). Corrosion resistance also increases with applied current density. It is observed that for 1200mA/cm(2), there is a degradation of the oxide layer. In general, the results suggest that the anodized TiO2 layer with better properties is formed with an applied current of 1000mA/cm(2). Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Laboratory performance of zinc anodes for impressed current cathodic protection of reinforced concrete

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

    Brousseau, R.; Arnott, M.; Baldock, B.

    1995-08-01

    Cathodic protection is used increasingly to mitigate steel reinforcement corrosion in concrete. the performance of zinc materials as impressed current anodes was evaluated. The anode materials investigated included rolled zinc sheets, metallized zinc, and 85% Zn-15% Al. The circuit resistance and the adhesion of the anodes was monitored with polarization time. Overall performance of arc-sprayed zinc was good. However, its adhesion to the concrete surface slowly decreased as the current density, or the polarization period, increased. Penny blank sheets and metallized 85% Zn-15% Al were found unsuitable as impressed current anodes.

  5. Stabilizing the baseline current of a microbial fuel cell-based biosensor through overpotential control under non-toxic conditions.

    PubMed

    Stein, Nienke E; Hamelers, Hubertus V M; Buisman, Cees N J

    2010-04-01

    A MFC-based biosensor can act as online toxicity sensor. Electrical current is a direct linear measure for metabolic activity of electrochemically active microorganisms. Microorganisms gain energy from anodic overpotential and current strongly depends on anodic overpotential. Therefore control of anodic overpotential is necessary to detect toxic events and prevent false positive alarms. Anodic overpotential and thus current is influenced by anode potential, pH, substrate and bicarbonate concentrations. In terms of overpotential all factor showed a comparable effect, anode potential 1.2% change in current density per mV, pH 0.43%/mV, bicarbonate 0.75%/mV and acetate 0.8%/mV. At acetate saturation the maximum acetate conversion rate is reached and with that a constant bicarbonate concentration. Control of acetate and bicarbonate concentration can be less strict than control of anode potential and pH. Current density changes due to changing anode potential and pH are in the same order of magnitude as changes due to toxicity. Strict control of pH and anode potential in a small range is required. The importance of anodic overpotential control for detection of toxic compounds is shown. To reach a stable baseline current under nontoxic conditions a MFC-based biosensor should be operated at controlled anode potential, controlled pH and saturated substrate concentrations. 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Anodic oxidation of benzoquinone using diamond anode.

    PubMed

    Panizza, Marco

    2014-01-01

    The anodic degradation of 1,4-benzoquinone (BQ), one of the most toxic xenobiotic, was investigated by electrochemical oxidation at boron-doped diamond anode. The electrolyses have been performed in a single-compartment flow cell in galvanostatic conditions. The influence of applied current (0.5-2 A), BQ concentration (1-2 g dm(-3)), temperature (20-45 °C) and flow rate (100-300 dm(3) h(-1)) has been studied. BQ decay kinetic, the evolution of its oxidation intermediates and the mineralization of the aqueous solutions were monitored during the electrolysis by high-performance liquid chromatograph (HPLC) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) measurements. The results obtained show that the use of diamond anode leads to total mineralization of BQ in any experimental conditions due to the production of oxidant hydroxyl radicals electrogenerated from water discharge. The decay kinetics of BQ removal follows a pseudo-first-order reaction, and the rate constant increases with rising current density. The COD removal rate was favoured by increasing of applied current, recirculating flow rate and it is almost unaffected by solution temperature.

  7. Characterization of the Hamamatsu H12700A-03 and R12699-03 multi-anode photomultiplier tubes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Calvi, M.; Carniti, P.; Cassina, L.; Gotti, C.; Maino, M.; Matteuzzi, C.; Pessina, G.

    2015-09-01

    The H12700 is a novel 64-channel 52 × 52 mm2 square Multi-Anode PhotoMultiplier Tube (MaPMT) produced by Hamamatsu. Its characteristics make this device suitable for high energy physics applications, such as in Ring Imaging Cherenkov (RICH) detectors. Hamamatsu provides the H12700 tube with an embedded socket connecting the anodes to the output pins and including an active voltage divider. A second device version, the R12699, is also available and differs from the former by the absence of the socket. This paper describes a complete characterization of both models, starting from the standard operating parameters (single photon spectra, average gain, anode uniformity and dark current value), investigating in detail the cross-talk effect among neighbouring pixels and considering the behaviour in critical environment conditions, such as in presence of a static magnetic field up to 100 Gauss, at different operating temperatures and after long exposure to intense light.

  8. Fabrication of porous anodic alumina using normal anodization and pulse anodization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chin, I. K.; Yam, F. K.; Hassan, Z.

    2015-05-01

    This article reports on the fabrication of porous anodic alumina (PAA) by two-step anodizing the low purity commercial aluminum sheets at room temperature. Different variations of the second-step anodization were conducted: normal anodization (NA) with direct current potential difference; pulse anodization (PA) alternate between potential differences of 10 V and 0 V; hybrid pulse anodization (HPA) alternate between potential differences of 10 V and -2 V. The method influenced the film homogeneity of the PAA and the most homogeneous structure was obtained via PA. The morphological properties are further elucidated using measured current-transient profiles. The absent of current rise profile in PA indicates the anodization temperature and dissolution of the PAA structure were greatly reduced by alternating potential differences.

  9. Anodic Oxidation of Carbon Steel at High Current Densities and Investigation of Its Corrosion Behavior

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fattah-Alhosseini, Arash; Khan, Hamid Yazdani

    2017-06-01

    This work aims at studying the influence of high current densities on the anodization of carbon steel. Anodic protective coatings were prepared on carbon steel at current densities of 100, 125, and 150 A/dm2 followed by a final heat treatment. Coatings microstructures and morphologies were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The corrosion resistance of the uncoated carbon steel substrate and the anodic coatings were evaluated in 3.5 wt pct NaCl solution through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization measurements. The results showed that the anodic oxide coatings which were prepared at higher current densities had thicker coatings as a result of a higher anodic forming voltage. Therefore, the anodized coatings showed better anti-corrosion properties compared to those obtained at lower current densities and the base metal.

  10. Theoretical derivation of anodizing current and comparison between fitted curves and measured curves under different conditions.

    PubMed

    Chong, Bin; Yu, Dongliang; Jin, Rong; Wang, Yang; Li, Dongdong; Song, Ye; Gao, Mingqi; Zhu, Xufei

    2015-04-10

    Anodic TiO2 nanotubes have been studied extensively for many years. However, the growth kinetics still remains unclear. The systematic study of the current transient under constant anodizing voltage has not been mentioned in the original literature. Here, a derivation and its corresponding theoretical formula are proposed to overcome this challenge. In this paper, the theoretical expressions for the time dependent ionic current and electronic current are derived to explore the anodizing process of Ti. The anodizing current-time curves under different anodizing voltages and different temperatures are experimentally investigated in the anodization of Ti. Furthermore, the quantitative relationship between the thickness of the barrier layer and anodizing time, and the relationships between the ionic/electronic current and temperatures are proposed in this paper. All of the current-transient plots can be fitted consistently by the proposed theoretical expressions. Additionally, it is the first time that the coefficient A of the exponential relationship (ionic current j(ion) = A exp(BE)) has been determined under various temperatures and voltages. And the results indicate that as temperature and voltage increase, ionic current and electronic current both increase. The temperature has a larger effect on electronic current than ionic current. These results can promote the research of kinetics from a qualitative to quantitative level.

  11. Theoretical derivation of anodizing current and comparison between fitted curves and measured curves under different conditions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chong, Bin; Yu, Dongliang; Jin, Rong; Wang, Yang; Li, Dongdong; Song, Ye; Gao, Mingqi; Zhu, Xufei

    2015-04-01

    Anodic TiO2 nanotubes have been studied extensively for many years. However, the growth kinetics still remains unclear. The systematic study of the current transient under constant anodizing voltage has not been mentioned in the original literature. Here, a derivation and its corresponding theoretical formula are proposed to overcome this challenge. In this paper, the theoretical expressions for the time dependent ionic current and electronic current are derived to explore the anodizing process of Ti. The anodizing current-time curves under different anodizing voltages and different temperatures are experimentally investigated in the anodization of Ti. Furthermore, the quantitative relationship between the thickness of the barrier layer and anodizing time, and the relationships between the ionic/electronic current and temperatures are proposed in this paper. All of the current-transient plots can be fitted consistently by the proposed theoretical expressions. Additionally, it is the first time that the coefficient A of the exponential relationship (ionic current jion = A exp(BE)) has been determined under various temperatures and voltages. And the results indicate that as temperature and voltage increase, ionic current and electronic current both increase. The temperature has a larger effect on electronic current than ionic current. These results can promote the research of kinetics from a qualitative to quantitative level.

  12. Parasitic Currents Caused by Different Ionic and Electronic Conductivities in Fuel Cell Anodes.

    PubMed

    Schalenbach, Maximilian; Zillgitt, Marcel; Maier, Wiebke; Stolten, Detlef

    2015-07-29

    The electrodes in fuel cells simultaneously realize electric and ionic conductivity. In the case of acidic polymer electrolytes, the electrodes are typically made of composites of carbon-supported catalyst and Nafion polymer electrolyte binder. In this study, the interaction of the proton conduction, the electron conduction, and the electrochemical hydrogen conversion in such composite electrode materials was examined. Exposed to a hydrogen atmosphere, these composites displayed up to 10-fold smaller resistivities for the proton conduction than that of Nafion membranes. This effect was ascribed to the simultaneously occurring electrochemical hydrogen oxidation and evolution inside the composite samples, which are driven by different proton and electron resistivities. The parasitic electrochemical currents resulting were postulated to occur in the anode of fuel cells with polymer, solid oxide, or liquid alkaline electrolytes, when the ohmic drop of the ion conduction in the anode is higher with the anodic kinetic overvoltage (as illustrated in the graphical abstract). In this case, the parasitic electrochemical currents increase the anodic kinetic overpotential and the ohmic drop in the anode. Thinner fuel cell anodes with smaller ohmic drops for the ion conduction may reduce the parasitic electrochemical currents.

  13. Structural changes of anodic layer on titanium in sulfate solution as a function of anodization duration in constant current mode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Komiya, Shinji; Sakamoto, Kouta; Ohtsu, Naofumi

    2014-03-01

    The present study investigated the effect of anodization time, in constant current mode, on the anodic oxide layer formed on titanium (Ti). Anodization of the Ti substrate was carried out in a 0.1 M (NH4)2SO4 aqueous solution with reaction times of various durations, after which the characteristics and photocatalytic activity were investigated in detail. The TiO2 layer fabricated in a short duration exhibited comparatively flat surface morphology and an anatase-type crystal structure. This layer acted as a photocatalyst only under ultraviolet light (UV) illumination. Upon prolonging the anodization, the layer structure changed drastically. The surface morphology became rough, and the crystal structure changed to rutile-type TiO2. Furthermore, the layer showed photocatalytic activity both under UV and visible light illumination. Further anodization increased the amount of methylene blue (MB) adsorbed on the surface, but did not cause additional change to the structure of the anodic layer. The surface morphology and crystal structure of the anodic layer were predominantly controlled by the anodization time; thus, the anodization time is an important parameter for controlling the characteristics of the anodic layer.

  14. Self-ordered, controlled structure nanoporous membranes using constant current anodization.

    PubMed

    Lee, Kwan; Tang, Yun; Ouyang, Min

    2008-12-01

    We report a constant current (CC) based anodization technique to fabricate and control structure of mechanically stable anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membranes with a long-range ordered hexagonal nanopore pattern. For the first time we show that interpore distance (Dint) of a self-ordered nanopore feature can be continuously tuned over a broad range with CC anodization and is uniquely defined by the conductivity of sulfuric acid as electrolyte. We further demonstrate that this technique can offer new degrees of freedom for engineering planar nanopore structures by fine tailoring the CC based anodization process. Our results not only facilitate further understanding of self-ordering mechanism of alumina membranes but also provide a fast, simple (without requirement of prepatterning or preoxide layer), and flexible methodology for controlling complex nanoporous structures, thus offering promising practical applications in nanotechnology.

  15. Modelling of crater formation on anode surface by high-current vacuum arcs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tian, Yunbo; Wang, Zhenxing; Jiang, Yanjun; Ma, Hui; Liu, Zhiyuan; Geng, Yingsan; Wang, Jianhua; Nordlund, Kai; Djurabekova, Flyura

    2016-11-01

    Anode melting and crater formation significantly affect interruption of high-current vacuum arcs. The primary objective of this paper is to theoretically investigate the mechanism of anode surface crater formation, caused by the combined effect of surface heating during the vacuum arc and pressure exerted on the molten surface by ions and electrons from the arc plasma. A model of fluid flow and heat transfer in the arc anode is developed and combined with a magnetohydrodynamics model of the vacuum arc plasma. Crater formation is observed in simulation for a peak arcing current higher than 15 kA on 40 mm diam. Cu electrodes spaced 10 mm apart. The flow of liquid metal starts after 4 or 5 ms of arcing, and the maximum velocities are 0.95 m/s and 1.39 m/s for 20 kA and 25 kA arcs, respectively. This flow redistributes thermal energy, and the maximum temperature of the anode surface does not remain in the center. Moreover, the condition for the liquid droplet formation on the anode surfaces is developed. The solidification process after current zero is also analyzed. The solidification time has been found to be more than 3 ms after 25 kA arcing. The long solidification time and sharp features on crater rims induce Taylor cone formation.

  16. Poisoning of Ni-Based anode for proton conducting SOFC by H2S, CO2, and H2O as fuel contaminants

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sun, Shichen; Awadallah, Osama; Cheng, Zhe

    2018-02-01

    It is well known that conventional solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) based on oxide ion conducting electrolyte (e.g., yttria-stabilized zirconia, YSZ) and nickel (Ni) - ceramic cermet anodes are susceptible to poisoning by trace amount of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) while not significantly impacted by the presence of carbon dioxide (CO2) and moisture (H2O) in the fuel stream unless under extreme operating conditions. In comparison, the impacts of H2S, CO2, and H2O on proton-conducting SOFCs remain largely unexplored. This study aims at revealing the poisoning behaviors caused by H2S, CO2, and H2O for proton-conducting SOFCs. Anode-supported proton-conducting SOFCs with BaZe0.1Ce0.7Y0.1Yb0.1O3 (BZCYYb) electrolyte and Ni-BZCYYb anode and La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3 (LSCF) cathode as well as Ni-BZCYYb/BZCYYb/Ni-BZCYYb anode symmetrical cells were subjected to low ppm-level H2S or low percentage-level CO2 or H2O in the hydrogen fuel, and the responses in cell electrochemical behaviors were recorded. The results suggest that, contrary to conventional SOFCs that show sulfur poisoning and CO2 and H2O tolerance, such proton-conducting SOFCs with Ni-BZCYYb cermet anode seem to be poisoned by all three types of "contaminants". Beyond that, the implications of the experimental observations on understanding the fundamental mechanism of anode hydrogen electrochemical oxidation reaction in proton conducting SOFCs are also discussed.

  17. 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.

  18. A Novel and Generalized Lithium-Ion-Battery Configuration utilizing Al Foil as Both Anode and Current Collector for Enhanced Energy Density.

    PubMed

    Ji, Bifa; Zhang, Fan; Sheng, Maohua; Tong, Xuefeng; Tang, Yongbing

    2017-02-01

    A novel battery configuration based on an aluminum foil anode and a conventional cathode is developed. The aluminum foil plays a dual role as both the active anode material and the current collector, which enhances the energy density of the packaged battery, and reduces the production cost. This generalized battery configuration has high potential for application in next-generation lithium-ion batteries. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  19. Time and space resolved spectroscopic investigation during anode plume formation in a high-current vacuum arc

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khakpour, A.; Methling, R.; Uhrlandt, D.; Franke, St.; Gortschakow, S.; Popov, S.; Batrakov, A.; Weltmann, K. D.

    2017-05-01

    This paper presents time and space resolved results of spectroscopic measurements during the formation of an anode plume in the late current pulse phase of a high-current vacuum arc. The formation of the anode plume is investigated systematically based on the occurrence of high-current anode spots, depending on gap distance and current for AC 100 Hz and CuCr7525 butt contacts with a diameter of 10 mm. The anode plume is observed after the extinction of anode spot type 2 in which both the anode and cathode are active. It is concluded from the spatial profiles of the atomic and ionic radiation, parallel and perpendicular to anode surface, that the inner part of the plume is dominated by Cu I radiation, whereas a halo of light emitted by Cu II covers the plume. The radiation intensity of Cu III lines is quite low across the whole anode plume. Upper level excited state densities corresponding to Cu I lines at 510.55, 515.32, 521.82, 578.21 nm are determined. The temporal evolution of the resulting excitation temperature in the centre of the plume varies from 8500 K to 6000 K at 500 µs to 100 µs before current zero, respectively. The density calculated for Cu I at position in the plume is in the range of 1-5  ×  1019 m-3.

  20. Carbon deposition thresholds on nickel-based solid oxide fuel cell anodes II. Steam:carbon ratio and current density

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kuhn, J.; Kesler, O.

    2015-03-01

    For the second part of a two part publication, coking thresholds with respect to molar steam:carbon ratio (SC) and current density in nickel-based solid oxide fuel cells were determined. Anode-supported button cell samples were exposed to 2-component and 5-component gas mixtures with 1 ≤ SC ≤ 2 and zero fuel utilization for 10 h, followed by measurement of the resulting carbon mass. The effect of current density was explored by measuring carbon mass under conditions known to be prone to coking while increasing the current density until the cell was carbon-free. The SC coking thresholds were measured to be ∼1.04 and ∼1.18 at 600 and 700 °C, respectively. Current density experiments validated the thresholds measured with respect to fuel utilization and steam:carbon ratio. Coking thresholds at 600 °C could be predicted with thermodynamic equilibrium calculations when the Gibbs free energy of carbon was appropriately modified. Here, the Gibbs free energy of carbon on nickel-based anode support cermets was measured to be -6.91 ± 0.08 kJ mol-1. The results of this two part publication show that thermodynamic equilibrium calculations with appropriate modification to the Gibbs free energy of solid-phase carbon can be used to predict coking thresholds on nickel-based anodes at 600-700 °C.

  1. Formation of self-organized nanoporous anodic oxide from metallic gallium.

    PubMed

    Pandey, Bipin; Thapa, Prem S; Higgins, Daniel A; Ito, Takashi

    2012-09-25

    This paper reports the formation of self-organized nanoporous gallium oxide by anodization of solid gallium metal. Because of its low melting point (ca. 30 °C), metallic gallium can be shaped into flexible structures, permitting the fabrication of nanoporous anodic oxide monoliths within confined spaces like the inside of a microchannel. Here, solid gallium films prepared on planar substrates were employed to investigate the effects of anodization voltage (1, 5, 10, 15 V) and H(2)SO(4) concentration (1, 2, 4, 6 M) on anodic oxide morphology. Self-organized nanopores aligned perpendicular to the film surface were obtained upon anodization of gallium films in ice-cooled 4 and 6 M aqueous H(2)SO(4) at 10 and 15 V. Nanopore formation could be recognized by an increase in anodic current after a current decrease reflecting barrier oxide formation. The average pore diameter was in the range of 18-40 nm with a narrow diameter distribution (relative standard deviation ca. 10-20%), and was larger at lower H(2)SO(4) concentration and higher applied voltage. The maximum thickness of nanoporous anodic oxide was ca. 2 μm. In addition, anodic formation of self-organized nanopores was demonstrated for a solid gallium monolith incorporated at the end of a glass capillary. Nanoporous anodic oxide monoliths formed from a fusible metal will lead to future development of unique devices for chemical sensing and catalysis.

  2. Graphene/Fe3 O4 Nanocomposites as Efficient Anodes to Boost the Lifetime and Current Output of Microbial Fuel Cells.

    PubMed

    Song, Rong-Bin; Zhao, Cui-E; Gai, Pan-Pan; Guo, Dan; Jiang, Li-Ping; Zhang, Qichun; Zhang, Jian-Rong; Zhu, Jun-Jie

    2017-02-01

    The enhancement of microbial activity and electrocatalysis through the design of new anode materials is essential to develop microbial fuel cells (MFCs) with longer lifetimes and higher output. In this research, a novel anode material, graphene/Fe 3 O 4 (G/Fe 3 O 4 ) composite, has been designed for Shewanella-inoculated MFCs. Because the Shewanella species could bind to Fe 3 O 4 with high affinity and their growth could be supported by Fe 3 O 4 , the bacterial cells attached quickly onto the anode surface and their long-term activity improved. As a result, MFCs with reduced startup time and improved stability were obtained. Additionally, the introduction of graphene not only provided a large surface area for bacterial attachment, but also offered high electrical conductivity to facilitate extracellular electron transfer (EET). The results showed that the current and power densities of a G/Fe 3 O 4 anode were much higher than those of each individual component as an anode. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  3. Highly efficient lithium composite anode with hydrophobic molten salt in seawater

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Yancheng; Urquidi-Macdonald, Mirna

    A lithium composite anode (lithium/1-butyl-3-methyl-imidazoleum hexafluorophosphate (BMI +PF 6-)/4-VLZ) for primary lithium/seawater semi-fuel-cells is proposed to reduce lithium-water parasitic reaction and, hence, increase the lithium anodic efficiency up to 100%. The lithium composite anode was activated when in contact with artificial seawater (3% NaCl solution) and the output was a stable anodic current density at 0.2 mA/cm 2, which lasted about 10 h under potentiostatic polarization at +0.5 V versus open circuit potential (OCP); the anodic efficiency was indirectly measured to be 100%. With time, a small traces of water diffused through the hydrophobic molten salt, BMI +PF 6-, reached the lithium interface and formed a double layer film (LiH/LiOH). Accordingly, the current density decreased and the anodic efficiency was estimated to be 90%. The hypothesis of small traces of water penetrating the molten salt and reaching the lithium anode—after several hours of operation—is supported by the collected experimental current density and hydrogen evolution, electrochemical impedance spectrum analysis, and non-mechanistic interface film modeling of lithium/BMI +PF 6-.

  4. Cyanide oxidation by singlet oxygen generated via reaction between H2O2 from cathodic reduction and OCl(-) from anodic oxidation.

    PubMed

    Tian, Shichao; Li, Yibing; Zeng, Huabin; Guan, Wei; Wang, Yan; Zhao, Xu

    2016-11-15

    Cyanide is widely present in electroplating wastewater or metallurgical effluents. In the present study, the electrochemical destruction of cyanide with various anode and cathode compositions under alkaline conditions was investigated. The results indicated that the electrochemical system using RuO2/Ti as anode and activated carbon fiber (ACF) as cathode in the presence of sodium chloride was efficient for the cyanide removal. In this system, in situ generation of HClO by anodic oxidation of Cl(-) at RuO2/Ti anode occurred with the H2O2 generation by O2 reduction at ACF cathode. As confirmed by the electron spin resonance technique, the reaction between HClO and H2O2 led to the generation of singlet oxygen, which was responsible for the cyanide removal. Further experiment indicated that the cyanide removal efficiency increased with the increase of the current density or the sodium chloride concentration. Cyanate was identified as main product in the system. Besides, the system exhibited good stability for the cyanide removal, which was beneficial to its practical application. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  5. Tricolor microcavity OLEDs based on P-nc-Si:H films as the complex anodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yang, Li; Xingyuan, Liu; Chunya, Wu; Zhiguo, Meng; Yi, Wang; Shaozhen, Xiong

    2009-06-01

    A P+-nc-Si:H film (boron-doped nc-Si:H thin film) was used as a complex anode of an OLED. As an ideal candidate for the composite anode, the P+-nc-Si:H thin film has a good conductivity with a high work function (~ 5.7 eV) and outstanding optical properties of high reflectivity, transmission, and a very low absorption. As a result, the combination of the relatively high reflectivity of a P+-nc-Si:H film/ITO complex anode with the very high reflectivity of an Al cathode could form a micro-cavity structure with a certain Q to improve the efficiency of the OLED fabricated on it. An RGB pixel generated by microcavity OLEDs is beneficial for both the reduction of the light loss and the improvement of the color purity and the efficiency. The small molecule Alq would be useful for the emitting light layer (EML) of the MOLED, and the P+-nc-Si film would be used as a complex anode of the MOLED, whose configuration can be constructed as Glass/LTO/P+-nc-Si:H/ITO/MoO3/NPB/Alq/LiF/Al. By adjusting the thickness of the organic layer NPB/Alq, the optical length of the microcavity and the REB colors of the device can be obtained. The peak wavelengths of an OLED are located at 486, 550, and 608 nm, respectively. The CIE coordinates are (0.21, 0.45), (0.33, 0.63), and (0.54, 0.54), and the full widths at half maximum (FWHM) are 35, 32, and 39 nm for red, green, and blue, respectively.

  6. Ohmic resistance in a multi-anode MxCs

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    A-3txf_sequence summary.xksx: Abundance of contigs or unique sequences for each biofilm samples from anodes in the MEC reactorHodon Waterloo final_fasta_working.docx: Raw sequences with their identification numbersRNA S1_MEC.docx: Representative sequences with their ID number and taxonomyThis dataset is associated with the following publication:Santodomingo, J., H. Ryu, B. Dhar, and H. Lee. Ohmic resistance affects microbial community and electrochemical kinetics in a multi-anode microbial electrochemical cell. JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES. Elsevier Science Ltd, New York, NY, USA, 331: 315-321, (2016).

  7. Electrode Reaction Pathway in Oxide Anode for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Wenyuan

    Oxide anodes for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) with the advantage of fuel flexibility, resistance to coarsening, small chemical expansion and etc. have been attracting increasing interest. Good performance has been reported with a few of perovskite structure anodes, such as (LaSr)(CrMn)O3. However, more improvements need to be made before meeting the application requirement. Understanding the oxidation mechanism is crucial for a directed optimization, but it is still on the early stage of investigation. In this study, reaction mechanism of oxide anodes is investigated on doped YCrO 3 with H2 fuel, in terms of the origin of electrochemical activity, rate-determining steps (RDS), extension of reactive zone, and the impact from overpotential under service condition to those properties. H2 oxidation on the YCs anodes is found to be limited by charge transfer and H surface diffusion. A model is presented to describe the elementary steps in H2 oxidation. From the reaction order results, it is suggested that any models without taking H into the charge transfer step are invalid. The nature of B site element determines the H2 oxidation kinetics primarily. Ni displays better adsorption ability than Co. However, H adsorption ability of such oxide anode is inferior to that of Ni metal anode. In addition, the charge transfer step is directly associated with the activity of electrons in the anode; therefore it can be significantly promoted by enhancement of the electron activity. It is found that A site Ca doping improves the polarization resistance about 10 times, by increasing the activity of electrons to promote the charge transfer process. For the active area in the oxide anode, besides the traditional three-phase boundary (3PB), the internal anode surface as two-phase boundary (2PB) is proven to be capable of catalytically oxidizing the H2 fuel also when the bulk lattice is activated depending on the B site elements. The contribution from each part is estimated by switching

  8. Removal of organic contaminants from secondary effluent by anodic oxidation with a boron-doped diamond anode as tertiary treatment.

    PubMed

    Garcia-Segura, Sergi; Keller, Jürg; Brillas, Enric; Radjenovic, Jelena

    2015-01-01

    Electrochemical advanced oxidation processes (EAOPs) have been widely investigated as promising technologies to remove trace organic contaminants from water, but have rarely been used for the treatment of real waste streams. Anodic oxidation with a boron-doped diamond (BDD) anode was applied for the treatment of secondary effluent from a municipal sewage treatment plant containing 29 target pharmaceuticals and pesticides. The effectiveness of the treatment was assessed from the contaminants decay, dissolved organic carbon and chemical oxygen demand removal. The effect of applied current and pH was evaluated. Almost complete mineralization of effluent organic matter and trace contaminants can be obtained by this EAOP primarily due to the action of hydroxyl radicals formed at the BDD surface. The oxidation of Cl(-) ions present in the wastewater at the BDD anode gave rise to active chlorine species (Cl2/HClO/ClO(-)), which are competitive oxidizing agents yielding chloramines and organohalogen byproducts, quantified as adsorbable organic halogen. However, further anodic oxidation of HClO/ClO(-) species led to the production of ClO3(-) and ClO4(-) ions. The formation of these species hampers the application as a single-stage tertiary treatment, but posterior cathodic reduction of chlorate and perchlorate species may reduce the risks associated to their presence in the environment. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. A POM–organic framework anode for Li-ion battery

    DOE PAGES

    Yue, Yanfeng; Li, Yunchao; Bi, Zhonghe; ...

    2015-10-12

    Rechargeable Li-ion batteries (LIBs) are currently the dominant power source for portable electronic devices and electric vehicles, and for small-scale stationary energy storage. However, one bottleneck of the anode materials for LIBs is the poor cycling performance caused by the fact that the anodes cannot maintain their integrity over several charge–discharge cycles. In this work, we demonstrate an approach to improving the cycling performance of lithium-ion battery anodes by constructing an extended 3D network of flexible redox active polyoxometalate (POM) clusters with redox active organic linkers, herein described as POMOF. In addition, this architecture enables the accommodation of large volumemore » changes during cycling at relatively high current rates. For example, the POMOF anode exhibits a high reversible capacity of 540 mA h g –1 after 360 cycles at a current rate of 0.25C and a long cycle life at a current rate of 1.25C (>500 cycles).« less

  10. Uncertainties in cylindrical anode current inferences on pulsed power drivers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Porwitzky, Andrew; Brown, Justin

    2018-06-01

    For over a decade, velocimetry based techniques have been used to infer the electrical current delivered to dynamic materials properties experiments on pulsed power drivers such as the Z Machine. Though originally developed for planar load geometries, in recent years, inferring the current delivered to cylindrical coaxial loads has become a valuable diagnostic tool for numerous platforms. Presented is a summary of uncertainties that can propagate through the current inference technique when applied to expanding cylindrical anodes. An equation representing quantitative uncertainty is developed which shows the unfold method to be accurate to a few percent above 10 MA of load current.

  11. Both anodal and cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation improves semantic processing.

    PubMed

    Brückner, Sabrina; Kammer, Thomas

    2017-02-20

    Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a common method to modulate cortical activity. Anodal tDCS is usually associated with an enhancement of the stimulated brain area, whereas cathodal tDCS is often described as inhibitory brain stimulation method. Our aim was to investigate whether this canonical assumption derived from the motor system could be transferred to the semantic system. Three groups with 20 healthy subjects each were stimulated at Wernicke's area with either anodal, cathodal or sham tDCS. Subsequently, they performed a simple lexical decision task for a duration of about 25min. Subjects receiving anodal tDCS revealed faster reaction times (RTs) compared to the sham group, although not reaching statistical significance. Surprisingly, in the cathodal group RTs were decreased significantly. All subjects were faster in the second half of the task, but the tDCS-induced improvement lasted for the entire duration of the task. Error rates were not influenced by tDCS, neither were RTs in a choice reaction time task. Thus, both anodal and cathodal tDCS applied to Wernicke's area improved semantic processing. Recently, a meta-analysis revealed that the canonical anodal excitation and cathodal inhibition assumption is observed rarely in cognitive studies. In particular, an inhibitory effect of cathodal tDCS on cognition is rare. Our findings thus support the speculation, that especially language functions could be somewhat 'immune' to cathodal inhibition. Copyright © 2016 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

  12. Additive-free thick graphene film as an anode material for flexible lithium-ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rana, Kuldeep; Kim, Seong Dae; Ahn, Jong-Hyun

    2015-04-01

    material in a half cell, it showed a discharge capacity of about 350 mA h g-1 and maintained nearly this capacity over 50 cycles at various current rates. This film was also tested as an anode material in a full cell with a LiCoO2 cathode and showed good electrochemical performance. Because the graphene-based flexible film showed good performance in half- and full coin cells, we used this film as a flexible anode for flexible LIBs. No conducting agent or binder was used in the anode side, which helped in realizing the flexible LIBs. Using this, we demonstrate a thin, lightweight and flexible lithium ion battery with good electrochemical performance in both its flat and bent states. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr06082b

  13. A novel compensation method for the anode gain non-uniformity of multi-anode photomultiplier tubes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Chan Mi; Kwon, Sun Il; Ko, Guen Bae; Ito, Mikiko; Yoon, Hyun Suk; Lee, Dong Soo; Jong Hong, Seong; Lee, Jae Sung

    2012-01-01

    The position-sensitive multi-anode photomultiplier tube (MA-PMT) is widely used in high-resolution scintillation detectors. However, the anode gain non-uniformity of this device is a limiting factor that degrades the intrinsic performance of the detector module. The aim of this work was to develop a gain compensation method for the MA-PMT and evaluate the resulting enhancement in the performance of the detector. The method employs a circuit that is composed only of resistors and is placed between the MA-PMT and a resistive charge division network (RCN) used for position encoding. The goal of the circuit is to divide the output current from each anode, so the same current flows into the RCN regardless of the anode gain. The current division is controlled by the combination of a fixed-value series resistor with an output impedance that is much larger than the input impedance of the RCN, and a parallel resistor, which detours part of the current to ground. PSpice simulations of the compensation circuit and the RCN were performed to determine optimal values for the compensation resistors when used with Hamamatsu H8500 MA-PMTs. The intrinsic characteristics of a detector module consisting of this MA-PMT and a lutetium-gadolinium-oxyorthosilicate (LGSO) crystal array were tested with and without the gain compensation method. In simulation, the average coefficient of variation and max/min ratio decreased from 15.7% to 2.7% and 2.0 to 1.2, respectively. In the flood map of the LGSO-H8500 detector, the uniformity of the photopeak position for individual crystals and the energy resolution were much improved. The feasibility of the method was shown by applying it to an octagonal prototype positron emission tomography scanner.

  14. Effect of the microstructure of Ti-5Mo on the anodic dissolution in H/sub 2/SO/sub 4/

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

    Kim, Y.J.; Oriani, R.A.

    1987-04-01

    The effect of microstructure of the Ti-5Mo alloy on its anodic dissolution rate in sulfuric acid solution at various temperatures has been investigated. TiMo alloys exhibit a region of increased dissolution rate in the vicinity of +0.20 V (saturated calomel electrode (SCE)) in 10% H/sub 2/SO/sub 4/, the same potential region in which pure Mo exhibits a large anodic dissolution rate. Aging of Ti-5Mo at 350 C was found to lead to the formation of ..omega.. phase. Heat treatment caused larger passive currents in 10% H/sub 2/SO/sub 4/, but the critical passivation potentials and corrosion potentials were not significantly affected.more » Molybdenum was enriched in the oxide formed on aged Ti-5Mo at +0.23 V (SCE), in comparison with the Mo concentration found in the oxide on as-received Ti-5Mo.« less

  15. A Model of Anode Sheath Potential Evolution in a Transverse Magnetic Field

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Foster, John E.; Gallimore, Alec D.

    1996-11-01

    It has been conjectured that the growth in the magnitude of the anode fall voltage with changing transverse magnetic field is a function of the ratio of available transverse current to the discharge current. It has been postulated that at small values of this ratio, the anode fall voltage and thus the near-anode electric field increases in order to assure that the prescribed discharge is maintained.footnote H. Hugel, IEEE Tran. Plas. Sci., PS-8,4, 1980 In this present work, a model is presented which predicts the behavior of the anode fall voltage as a function of transverse magnetic field. The model attempts to explain why the anode fall voltage depends so strongly on this ratio. In addition, it is further shown that because of the current ratio's strong dependence on local electron number density, ultimately it is the changes in near-anode ionization processes with varying transverse magnetic field that control the anode fall voltage.

  16. What is the optimal anodal electrode position for inducing corticomotor excitability changes in transcranial direct current stimulation?

    PubMed

    Lee, Minji; Kim, Yun-Hee; Im, Chang-Hwan; Kim, Jung-Hoon; Park, Chang-hyun; Chang, Won Hyuk; Lee, Ahee

    2015-01-01

    Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) non-invasively modulates brain function by inducing neuronal excitability. The conventional hot spot for inducing the highest current density in the hand motor area may not be the optimal site for effective stimulation. In this study, we investigated the influence of the center position of the anodal electrode on changes in motor cortical excitability. We considered three tDCS conditions in 16 healthy subjects: (i) real stimulation with the anodal electrode located at the conventional hand motor hot spot determined by motor evoked potentials (MEPs); (ii) real stimulation with the anodal electrode located at the point with the highest current density in the hand motor area as determined by electric current simulation; and (iii) sham stimulation. Motor cortical excitability as measured by MEP amplitude increased after both real stimulation conditions, but not after sham stimulation. Stimulation using the simulation-derived anodal electrode position, which was found to be posterior to the MEP hot spot for all subjects, induced higher motor cortical excitability. Individual positioning of the anodal electrode, based on the consideration of anatomical differences between subjects, appears to be important for maximizing the effects of tDCS. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Fault Detection and Diagnosis In Hall-Héroult Cells Based on Individual Anode Current Measurements Using Dynamic Kernel PCA

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yao, Yuchen; Bao, Jie; Skyllas-Kazacos, Maria; Welch, Barry J.; Akhmetov, Sergey

    2018-04-01

    Individual anode current signals in aluminum reduction cells provide localized cell conditions in the vicinity of each anode, which contain more information than the conventionally measured cell voltage and line current. One common use of this measurement is to identify process faults that can cause significant changes in the anode current signals. While this method is simple and direct, it ignores the interactions between anode currents and other important process variables. This paper presents an approach that applies multivariate statistical analysis techniques to individual anode currents and other process operating data, for the detection and diagnosis of local process abnormalities in aluminum reduction cells. Specifically, since the Hall-Héroult process is time-varying with its process variables dynamically and nonlinearly correlated, dynamic kernel principal component analysis with moving windows is used. The cell is discretized into a number of subsystems, with each subsystem representing one anode and cell conditions in its vicinity. The fault associated with each subsystem is identified based on multivariate statistical control charts. The results show that the proposed approach is able to not only effectively pinpoint the problematic areas in the cell, but also assess the effect of the fault on different parts of the cell.

  18. Pd-catalytic in situ generation of H2O2 from H2 and O2 produced by water electrolysis for the efficient electro-fenton degradation of rhodamine B.

    PubMed

    Yuan, Songhu; Fan, Ye; Zhang, Yucheng; Tong, Man; Liao, Peng

    2011-10-01

    A novel electro-Fenton process was developed for wastewater treatment using a modified divided electrolytic system in which H2O2 was generated in situ from electro-generated H2 and O2 in the presence of Pd/C catalyst. Appropriate pH conditions were obtained by the excessive H+ produced at the anode. The performance of the novel process was assessed by Rhodamine B (RhB) degradation in an aqueous solution. Experimental results showed that the accumulation of H2O2 occurred when the pH decreased and time elapsed. The maximum concentration of H2O2 reached 53.1 mg/L within 120 min at pH 2 and a current of 100 mA. Upon the formation of the Fenton reagent by the addition of Fe2+, RhB degraded completely within 30 min at pH 2 with a pseudo first order rate constant of 0.109 ± 0.009 min(-1). An insignificant decline in H2O2 generation and RhB degradation was found after six repetitions. RhB degradation was achieved by the chemisorption of H2O2 on the Pd/C surface, which subsequently decomposed into •OH upon catalysis by Pd0 and Fe2+. The catalytic decomposition of H2O2 to •OH by Fe2+ was more powerful than that by Pd0, which was responsible for the high efficiency of this novel electro-Fenton process.

  19. Carbonate species as OH- carriers for decreasing the pH gradient between cathode and anode in biological fuel cells.

    PubMed

    Torres, César I; Lee, Hyung-Sool; Rittmann, Bruce E

    2008-12-01

    Anodes of biological fuel cells (BFCs) normally must operate at a near-neutral pH in the presence of various ionic species required for the function of the biological catalyst (e.g., substrate, nutrients, and buffers). These ionic species are in higher concentration than protons (H+) and hydroxides (OH-); slow transport of H+ and OH- equivalents between anode and cathode compartments can lead to a large pH gradient that can inhibit the function of biological components, decrease voltage efficiency in BFCs, or both. We evaluate the use of carbonate species as OH- carriers from the cathode to the anode compartment. This is achieved by adding CO2 to the influent air in the cathode. CO2 is an acid that combines with OH- in the cathode to produce bicarbonate and carbonate. These species can migrate to the anode compartment as OH- carriers at a rate much greater than can OH- itself when the pH is not extremely high in the cathode compartment We demonstrate this concept by feeding different air/CO2 mixtures to the cathode of a dual-chamber microbial fuel cell (MFC) fed with acetate as substrate. Our results show a 45% increase in power density (from 1.9 to 2.8 W/m2) by feeding air augmented with 2-10% CO2. The cell voltage increased by as much as 120 mV, indicating that the pH gradient decreased by as much as 2 pH units. Analysis of the anode effluent showed an average increase of 4.9 mM in total carbonate, indicating that mostly carbonate was transferred from the cathode compartment This process provides a simple way to minimize potential losses in BFCs due to pH gradients between anode and cathode compartments.

  20. Anode sheath transition in an anodic arc for synthesis of nanomaterials

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nemchinsky, V. A.; Raitses, Y.

    2016-06-01

    The arc discharge with ablating anode or so-called anodic arc is widely used for synthesis of nanomaterials, including carbon nanotubes and fullerens, metal nanoparticles etc. We present the model of this arc, which confirms the existence of the two different modes of the arc operation with two different anode sheath regimes, namely, with negative anode sheath and with positive anode sheath. It was previously suggested that these regimes are associated with two different anode ablating modes—low ablation mode with constant ablation rate and the enhanced ablation mode (Fetterman et al 2008 Carbon 46 1322). The transition of the arc operation from low ablation mode to high ablation mode is determined by the current density at the anode. The model can be used to self-consistently determine the distribution of the electric field, electron density and electron temperature in the near-anode region of the arc discharge. Simulations of the carbon arc predict that for low arc ablating modes, the current is driven mainly by the electron diffusion to the anode. For positive anode sheath, the anode voltage is close to the ionization potential of anode material, while for negative anode sheath, the anode voltage is an order of magnitude smaller. It is also shown that the near-anode plasma, is far from the ionization equilibrium.

  1. Multishelled Si@Cu Microparticles Supported on 3D Cu Current Collectors for Stable and Binder-free Anodes of Lithium-Ion Batteries.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Zailei; Wang, Zhong Lin; Lu, Xianmao

    2018-04-24

    Silicon has proved to be a promising anode material of high-specific capacity for the next-generation lithium ion batteries (LIBs). However, during repeated discharge/charge cycles, Si-based electrodes, especially those in microscale size, pulverize and lose electrical contact with the current collectors due to large volume expansion. Here, we introduce a general method to synthesize Cu@M (M = Si, Al, C, SiO 2 , Si 3 N 4 , Ag, Ti, Ta, SnIn 2 O 5 , Au, V, Nb, W, Mg, Fe, Ni, Sn, ZnO, TiN, Al 2 O 3 , HfO 2 , and TiO 2 ) core-shell nanowire arrays on Cu substrates. The resulting Cu@Si nanowire arrays were employed as LIB anodes that can be reused via HCl etching and H 2 -reduction. Multishelled Cu@Si@Cu microparticles supported on 3D Cu current collectors were further prepared as stable and binder-free LIB anodes. This 3D Cu@Si@Cu structure allows the interior conductive Cu network to effectively accommodate the volume expansion of the electrode and facilitates the contact between the Cu@Si@Cu particles and the current collectors during the repeated insertion/extraction of lithium ions. As a result, the 3D Cu@Si@Cu microparticles at a high Si-loading of 1.08 mg/cm 2 showed a capacity retention of 81% after 200 cycles. In addition, charging tests of 3D Cu@Si@Cu-LiFePO 4 full cells by a triboelectric nanogenerator with a pulsed current demonstrated that LIBs with silicon anodes can effectively store energy delivered by mechanical energy harvesters.

  2. Facile Fabrication of Ordered Anodized Aluminum Oxide Membranes with Controlled Pore Size by Improved Hard Anodization.

    PubMed

    Fan, Jiangxia; Zhu, Xinxin; Wang, Kunzhou; Chen, Xiaoyuan; Wang, Xinqing; Yan, Minhao; Ren, Yong

    2018-05-01

    We have fabricated highly ordered anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) membranes with different diameter through improved hard anodization (HA) at high temperature. This process can generate thick AAO membranes (30 μm) in a short anodizing time with high growth rate 20-60 μm h-1 which is much faster than that in traditional mild two-step anodization. We enlarged the AAO pore diameter by adjusting the voltage rise rate at the same time, which has a great influence on current density and temperature. The AAO pore diameter varies from 60-110 nm to 160-190 nm. The pore diameter (Dp) of the AAO prepared by this improved process is much larger than that prepared by HA (40-60 nm) when H2C2O4 as electrolyte. It can expand potential use of the AAO membranes such as for the template-based synthesis of nanowires or nanotubes with modulated diameters and also for practical separation technology. We also has used the AAO with different diameters prepared by this improved HA to fabricate Co nanowires and γ-Fe2O3 superparamagnetic nanorods.

  3. Comparison of electrokinetic soil remediation methods using one fixed anode and approaching anodes.

    PubMed

    Shen, Zhemin; Chen, Xuejun; Jia, Jinping; Qu, Liya; Wang, Wenhua

    2007-11-01

    During the cation exchange membrane (CEM) enhanced electrokinetic (EK) soil remediation, the nearer to the anode, the higher are the H+ concentrations and the redox potentials. As both low pH and high redox potential are helpful to speed-up Cd electro-migration, soils near the anode can be quickly remedied. Usually EK process is operated with one fixed anode (FA). A novel CEM enhanced EK method with approaching anodes (AAs) is proposed to accelerate electro-migration effect. Several mesh Ti/Ru anodes were inserted as AAs in the treated soil. They were switched in turn from the anode towards the cathode. Thus high H+ ions concentrations and high redox potentials quickly migrate to the cathode. Consequently, soil remediation is accelerated and nearly 44% of energy and 40% of time can be saved. The mechanism of Cd electro-migration behavior in soils during CEM enhanced EK is described as the elution in an electrokinetically driven chromatogram.

  4. Effect of H(2)SO(4) and HCl in the anode purging solution for the electrokinetic-Fenton remediation of soil contaminated with phenanthrene.

    PubMed

    Kim, Jung-Hwan; Kim, Jong Yun; Kim, Soo-Sam

    2009-09-01

    The Electrokinetic-Fenton (EK-Fenton) process is a powerful technology to remediate organic-contaminated soil. The behavior of salts and acids introduced for the pH control has significant influence on the H(2)O(2) stabilization and destruction of organic contaminants. In this study, the effects of the type and concentration of acids, which were introduced at the anode, were investigated for the treatment of clayey soil contaminated with phenanthrene. In experiments with H(2)SO(4) as the anode solution, H(2)O(2) concentration in the anode reservoir decreased due to reaction between reduced species of sulfate and H(2)O(2), as time elapsed. By contrast, HCl as an electrolyte in the anode reservoir did not decrease the H(2)O(2) concentration in the anode reservoir. The reaction between the reduced species of sulfate and H(2)O(2) hindered the stabilization of H(2)O(2) in the soil and anode reservoir. In experiments with HCl for pH control, Cl(.), and Cl(2)(. -), which could be generated with mineral catalyzed Fenton-like reaction, did not significantly hinder H(2)O(2) stabilization. H(2)O(2) transportation with electro-osmotic flow and mineral catalyzed Fenton-like reaction on the soil surface resulted in the simultaneous transport and degradation of phenanthrene, which are dependent of the advancement rate of the acid front and electro-osmotic flow toward the cathode according to HCl and H(2)SO(4) concentrations in the anode purging solution.

  5. Electrical and Mechanical Performance of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Used as the Impressed Current Anode Material.

    PubMed

    Zhu, Ji-Hua; Zhu, Miaochang; Han, Ningxu; Liu, Wei; Xing, Feng

    2014-07-24

    An investigation was performed by using carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) as the anode material in the impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) system of steel reinforced concrete structures. The service life and performance of CFRP were investigated in simulated ICCP systems with various configurations. Constant current densities were maintained during the tests. No significant degradation in electrical and mechanical properties was found for CFRP subjected to anodic polarization with the selected applied current densities. The service life of the CFRP-based ICCP system was discussed based on the practical reinforced concrete structure layout.

  6. Hydrogen and Sulfur from Hydrogen Sulfide. 5. Anodic Oxidation of Sulfur on Activated Glassy Carbon

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1988-12-05

    electrolyses of H S can probably be carried out at high rates with modest cell voltages in the range 1-1.5 V. The variation in anode current densities...of H2S from solutions of NaSH in aqueous NaOH was achieved using suitably ac- tivated glassy carbon anodes. Thus electrolyses of H2S can probably be...passivation by using a basic solvent at 850C. Using an H2S-saturated 6M NaOH solution, they conducted electrolyses for extended periods at current densities

  7. Anodized aluminum on LDEF: A current status of measurements on chromic acid anodized aluminum

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Golden, Johnny L.

    1992-01-01

    Chromic acid anodize was used as the exterior coating for aluminum surfaces on LDEF to provide passive thermal control. Chromic acid anodized aluminum was also used as test specimens in thermal control coatings experiments. The following is a compilation and analysis of the data obtained thus far.

  8. Effects of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation over the leg motor area on lumbar spinal network excitability in healthy subjects

    PubMed Central

    Roche, N; Lackmy, A; Achache, V; Bussel, B; Katz, R

    2011-01-01

    Abstract In recent years, two techniques have become available for the non-invasive stimulation of human motor cortex: transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). The effects of TMS and tDCS when applied over motor cortex should be considered with regard not only to cortical circuits but also to spinal motor circuits. The different modes of action and specificity of TMS and tDCS suggest that their effects on spinal network excitability may be different from that in the cortex. Until now, the effects of tDCS on lumbar spinal network excitability have never been studied. In this series of experiments, on healthy subjects, we studied the effects of anodal tDCS over the lower limb motor cortex on (i) reciprocal Ia inhibition projecting from the tibialis anterior muscle (TA) to the soleus (SOL), (ii) presynaptic inhibition of SOL Ia terminals, (iii) homonymous SOL recurrent inhibition, and (iv) SOL H-reflex recruitment curves. The results show that anodal tDCS decreases reciprocal Ia inhibition, increases recurrent inhibition and induces no modification of presynaptic inhibition of SOL Ia terminals and of SOL-H reflex recruitment curves. Our results indicate therefore that the effects of tDCS are the opposite of those previously described for TMS on spinal network excitability. They also indicate that anodal tDCS induces effects on spinal network excitability similar to those observed during co-contraction suggesting that anodal tDCS activates descending corticospinal projections mainly involved in co-contractions. PMID:21502292

  9. Characterization of Anodic Aluminum Oxide Membrane with Variation of Crystallizing Temperature for pH Sensor.

    PubMed

    Yeo, Jin-Ho; Lee, Sung-Gap; Jo, Ye-Won; Jung, Hye-Rin

    2015-11-01

    We fabricated electrolyte-dielectric-metal (EDM) device incorporating a high-k Al2O3 sensing membrane from a porous anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) using a two step anodizing process for pH sensors. In order to change the properties of the AAO template, the crystallizing temperature was varied from 400 degrees C to 700 degrees C over 2 hours. The structural properties were observed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). The pH sensitivity increased with an increase in the crystallizing temperature from 400 degrees C to 600 degrees C. However at 700 degrees C, deformation occurred. The porous AAO sensor with a crystallizing temperature of 600 degrees C displayed the good sensitivity and long-term stability and the values were 55.7 mV/pH and 0.16 mV/h, respectively.

  10. Variation of nanopore diameter along porous anodic alumina channels by multi-step anodization.

    PubMed

    Lee, Kwang Hong; Lim, Xin Yuan; Wai, Kah Wing; Romanato, Filippo; Wong, Chee Cheong

    2011-02-01

    In order to form tapered nanocapillaries, we investigated a method to vary the nanopore diameter along the porous anodic alumina (PAA) channels using multi-step anodization. By anodizing the aluminum in either single acid (H3PO4) or multi-acid (H2SO4, oxalic acid and H3PO4) with increasing or decreasing voltage, the diameter of the nanopore along the PAA channel can be varied systematically corresponding to the applied voltages. The pore size along the channel can be enlarged or shrunken in the range of 20 nm to 200 nm. Structural engineering of the template along the film growth direction can be achieved by deliberately designing a suitable voltage and electrolyte together with anodization time.

  11. Effect of previous and current vaccination against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, A(H3N2), and B during the post-pandemic period 2010-2016 in Spain.

    PubMed

    Gherasim, Alin; Martínez-Baz, Iván; Castilla, Jesús; Pozo, Francisco; Larrauri, Amparo

    2017-01-01

    Recent studies suggest that the protective effect of the current influenza vaccine could be influenced by vaccination in previous seasons. We estimated the combined effect of the previous and current influenza vaccines from the 2010-2011 season to the 2015-2016 season in Spain. We performed a test-negative case-control study in patients ≥9 years old. We estimated the influenza vaccine effectiveness (IVE) against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, A(H3N2), and B virus. We included 1206 influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 cases, 1358 A(H3N2) cases and 1079 B cases. IVE against A(H1N1)pdm09 virus in the pooled-season analysis was 53% (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 21% to 72%) for those vaccinated only in the current season and 50% (95%CI: 23% to 68%) for those vaccinated in the both current and previous seasons. Against the influenza A(H3N2) virus, IVE was 17% (95%CI: -43% to 52%) for those vaccinated only in the current season and 3% (95%CI: -33% to 28%) for those vaccinated in both seasons. Regarding influenza B, we obtained similar IVEs for those vaccinated only in the current and those vaccinated in both seasons: 57% (95%CI: 12% to 79%) and 56% (95%CI: 36% to 70%), respectively. Our results suggested no interference between the previous and current influenza vaccines against A(H1N1)pdm09 and B viruses, but a possible negative interference against A(H3N2) virus.

  12. Assessment of anodal and cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on MMN-indexed auditory sensory processing.

    PubMed

    Impey, Danielle; de la Salle, Sara; Knott, Verner

    2016-06-01

    Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive form of brain stimulation which uses a very weak constant current to temporarily excite (anodal stimulation) or inhibit (cathodal stimulation) activity in the brain area of interest via small electrodes placed on the scalp. Currently, tDCS of the frontal cortex is being used as a tool to investigate cognition in healthy controls and to improve symptoms in neurological and psychiatric patients. tDCS has been found to facilitate cognitive performance on measures of attention, memory, and frontal-executive functions. Recently, a short session of anodal tDCS over the temporal lobe has been shown to increase auditory sensory processing as indexed by the Mismatch Negativity (MMN) event-related potential (ERP). This preliminary pilot study examined the separate and interacting effects of both anodal and cathodal tDCS on MMN-indexed auditory pitch discrimination. In a randomized, double blind design, the MMN was assessed before (baseline) and after tDCS (2mA, 20min) in 2 separate sessions, one involving 'sham' stimulation (the device is turned off), followed by anodal stimulation (to temporarily excite cortical activity locally), and one involving cathodal stimulation (to temporarily decrease cortical activity locally), followed by anodal stimulation. Results demonstrated that anodal tDCS over the temporal cortex increased MMN-indexed auditory detection of pitch deviance, and while cathodal tDCS decreased auditory discrimination in baseline-stratified groups, subsequent anodal stimulation did not significantly alter MMN amplitudes. These findings strengthen the position that tDCS effects on cognition extend to the neural processing of sensory input and raise the possibility that this neuromodulatory technique may be useful for investigating sensory processing deficits in clinical populations. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Method for providing uranium articles with a corrosion resistant anodized coating

    DOEpatents

    Waldrop, Forrest B.; Washington, Charles A.

    1982-01-01

    Uranium articles are provided with anodized oxide coatings in an aqueous solution of an electrolyte selected from the group consisting of potassium phosphate, potassium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, and a mixture of potassium tetraborate and boric acid. The uranium articles are anodized at a temperature greater than about 75.degree. C. with a current flow of less than about 0.036 A/cm.sup.2 of surface area while the pH of the solution is maintained in a range of about 2 to 11.5. The pH values of the aqueous solution and the low current density utilized during the electrolysis prevent excessive dissolution of the uranium and porosity in the film or watering. The relatively high temperature of the electrolyte bath inhibits hydration and the attendant deleterious pitting so as to enhance corrosion resistance of the anodized coating.

  14. Method for providing uranium articles with a corrosion-resistant anodized coating

    DOEpatents

    Waldrop, F.B.; Washington, C.A.

    1981-01-07

    Uranium articles are provided with anodized oxide coatings in an aqueous solution of an electrolyte selected from the group consisting of potassium phosphate, potassium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, and a mixture of potassium tetraborate and boric acid. The uranium articles are anodized at a temperature greater than about 75/sup 0/C with a current flow of less than about 0.036 A/cm/sup 2/ of surface area while the pH of the solution is maintained in a range of about 2 to 11.5. The pH values of the aqueous solution and the low current density utilized during the electrolysis prevent excessive dissolution of the uranium and porosity in the film or watering. The relatively high temperature of the electrolyte bath inhibits hydration and the attendant deleterious pitting so as to enhance corrosion resistance of the anodized coating.

  15. Anodic Dissolution of Al Current Collectors in Unconventional Solvents for High Voltage Electrochemical Double-Layer Capacitors.

    PubMed

    Krummacher, Jakob; Heß, Lars-Henning; Balducci, Andrea

    2017-09-04

    This study investigated the anodic dissolution of Al current collectors in unconventional electrolytes for high voltage electrochemical double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) containing adiponitrile (ADN), 3-cyanopropionic acid methyl ester (CPAME), 2-methyl-glutaronitrile (2-MGN) as solvent, and tetraethylammonium tetrafluoroborate (Et 4 NBF 4 ) and tetraethylammonium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (Et 4 NTFSI) as conductive salts. To have a comparison with the state-of-the-art electrolytes, the same salts were also used in combination with acetonitrile (ACN). The chemical-physical properties of the electrolytes were investigated. Furthermore, their impact on the anodic dissolution of Al was analyzed in detail as well as the influence of this process on the performance of high voltage EDLCs. The results of this study indicated that in the case of Et 4 NBF 4 -based electrolytes, the use of an alternative solvent is very beneficial for the realization of stable devices. When Et 4 NTFSI is used, the reduced solubility of the complex Al(TFSI) 3 appears to be the key for the realization of advanced electrolytes. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  16. EEG-NIRS based assessment of neurovascular coupling during anodal transcranial direct current stimulation--a stroke case series.

    PubMed

    Dutta, Anirban; Jacob, Athira; Chowdhury, Shubhajit Roy; Das, Abhijit; Nitsche, Michael A

    2015-04-01

    A method for electroencephalography (EEG) - near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) based assessment of neurovascular coupling (NVC) during anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Anodal tDCS modulates cortical neural activity leading to a hemodynamic response, which was used to identify impaired NVC functionality. In this study, the hemodynamic response was estimated with NIRS. NIRS recorded changes in oxy-hemoglobin (HbO2) and deoxy-hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations during anodal tDCS-induced activation of the cortical region located under the electrode and in-between the light sources and detectors. Anodal tDCS-induced alterations in the underlying neuronal current generators were also captured with EEG. Then, a method for the assessment of NVC underlying the site of anodal tDCS was proposed that leverages the Hilbert-Huang Transform. The case series including four chronic (>6 months) ischemic stroke survivors (3 males, 1 female from age 31 to 76) showed non-stationary effects of anodal tDCS on EEG that correlated with the HbO2 response. Here, the initial dip in HbO2 at the beginning of anodal tDCS corresponded with an increase in the log-transformed mean-power of EEG within 0.5Hz-11.25Hz frequency band. The cross-correlation coefficient changed signs but was comparable across subjects during and after anodal tDCS. The log-transformed mean-power of EEG lagged HbO2 response during tDCS but then led post-tDCS. This case series demonstrated changes in the degree of neurovascular coupling to a 0.526 A/m(2) square-pulse (0-30 s) of anodal tDCS. The initial dip in HbO2 needs to be carefully investigated in a larger cohort, for example in patients with small vessel disease.

  17. Double-walled structure of anodic TiO2 nanotubes in H3PO4/NH4F mixed electrolyte

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Siyu; Chen, Ying; Li, Chengyuan; Ouyang, Huijun; Qin, Shuai; Song, Ye

    2018-04-01

    Normally, the well-ordered anodic TiO2 nanotubes (ATNTs) are obtained in NH4F electrolyte, after annealing, the double-walled structure of nanotubes will appear. Here, after adding H3PO4 into NHF4 electrolyte, we got the double-walled structure of nanotubes by anodizing without annealing, which means the direct existence of anion-contaminated layer in ATNTs. Influence of H3PO4 content on anodizing voltage and morphology of ATNTs were compared in detail. The XRD pattern illustrated that the crystallinity decreases with increasing H3PO4 concentration, and the anion-contaminated layer thickens with the increase of H3PO4 concentration. Meanwhile, the existence of the anion-contaminated layer also proved the limitations of the filed-assisted dissolution theory, while the double-walled structure can be explained by oxygen bubble model and plastic flow model.

  18. Tuning the Reversibility of Mg Anodes via Controlled Surface Passivation by H 2O/Cl – in Organic Electrolytes

    DOE PAGES

    Connell, Justin G.; Genorio, Bostjan; Lopes, Pietro Papa; ...

    2016-10-17

    Developing a new generation of battery chemistries is a critical challenge to moving beyond current Li-ion technologies. In this work, we introduce a surface-science-based approach for understanding the complex phenomena controlling the reversibility of Mg anodes for Mg-ion batteries. In addition, we identify the profound impact of trace levels of H 2O (≤3 ppm) on the kinetics of Mg deposition and determine that passive films of MgO and Mg(OH) 2 are formed only after Mg deposition ceases, rather than continuously during Mg reduction. We also find that Cl – inhibits passivation through the formation of adsorbed Cl – (Mg–Cl(ad)) and/ormore » MgCl 2 on the surface, as well as through a dynamic competition with H 2O in the double layer. In conclusion, this surface-science-based approach goes well beyond Mg anodes, highlighting the need for more in-depth understanding of electrolyte chemistries before a new generation of efficient and reversible battery technologies can be realized.« less

  19. Anodes for protonic ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) =

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nasani, Narendar

    One of the more promising possibilities for future "green" electrical energy generation is the protonic ceramic fuel cell (PCFC). PCFCs offer a low-pollution technology to generate electricity electrochemically with high efficiency. Reducing the operating temperature of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) to the 500-700°C range is desirable to reduce fabrication costs and improve overall longevity. This aim can be achieved by using protonic ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) due to their higher electrolyte conductivity at these temperatures than traditional ceramic oxide-ion conducting membranes. This thesis deals with the state of the art Ni-BaZr0.85Y0.15O3-delta cermet anodes for PCFCs. The study of PCFCs is in its initial stage and currently only a few methods have been developed to prepare suitable anodes via solid state mechanical mixing of the relevant oxides or by combustion routes using nitrate precursors. This thesis aims to highlight the disadvantages of these traditional methods of anode preparation and to, instead, offer a novel, efficient and low cost nitrate free combustion route to prepare Ni-BaZr0.85Y0.15O3-delta cermet anodes for PCFCs. A wide range of techniques mainly X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), environmental scanning electron microscopy, (ESEM) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were employed in the cermet anode study. The work also offers a fundamental examination of the effect of porosity, redox cycling behaviour, involvement of proton conducting oxide phase in PCFC cermet anodes and finally progresses to study the electrochemical performance of a state of the art anode supported PCFC. The polarisation behaviour of anodes has been assessed as a function of temperature (T), water vapour (pH2O), hydrogen partial pressures (pH2) and phase purity for electrodes of comparable microstructure. The impedance spectra generally show two arcs at high frequency R2 and low frequency R3 at 600 °C, which correspond to the

  20. Effect of previous and current vaccination against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, A(H3N2), and B during the post-pandemic period 2010-2016 in Spain

    PubMed Central

    Castilla, Jesús; Pozo, Francisco

    2017-01-01

    Background Recent studies suggest that the protective effect of the current influenza vaccine could be influenced by vaccination in previous seasons. We estimated the combined effect of the previous and current influenza vaccines from the 2010–2011 season to the 2015–2016 season in Spain. Methods We performed a test-negative case-control study in patients ≥9 years old. We estimated the influenza vaccine effectiveness (IVE) against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, A(H3N2), and B virus. Results We included 1206 influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 cases, 1358 A(H3N2) cases and 1079 B cases. IVE against A(H1N1)pdm09 virus in the pooled-season analysis was 53% (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 21% to 72%) for those vaccinated only in the current season and 50% (95%CI: 23% to 68%) for those vaccinated in the both current and previous seasons. Against the influenza A(H3N2) virus, IVE was 17% (95%CI: -43% to 52%) for those vaccinated only in the current season and 3% (95%CI: -33% to 28%) for those vaccinated in both seasons. Regarding influenza B, we obtained similar IVEs for those vaccinated only in the current and those vaccinated in both seasons: 57% (95%CI: 12% to 79%) and 56% (95%CI: 36% to 70%), respectively. Conclusion Our results suggested no interference between the previous and current influenza vaccines against A(H1N1)pdm09 and B viruses, but a possible negative interference against A(H3N2) virus. PMID:28614376

  1. Electrostatic spray deposition of porous SnO₂/graphene anode films and their enhanced lithium-storage properties.

    PubMed

    Jiang, Yinzhu; Yuan, Tianzhi; Sun, Wenping; Yan, Mi

    2012-11-01

    Porous SnO₂/graphene composite thin films are prepared as anodes for lithium ion batteries by the electrostatic spray deposition technique. Reticular-structured SnO₂ is formed on both the nickel foam substrate and the surface of graphene sheets according to the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results. Such an assembly mode of graphene and SnO₂ is highly beneficial to the electrochemical performance improvement by increasing the electrical conductivity and releasing the volume change of the anode. The novel engineered anode possesses 2134.3 mA h g⁻¹ of initial discharge capacity and good capacity retention of 551.0 mA h g⁻¹ up to the 100th cycle at a current density of 200 mA g⁻¹. This anode also exhibits excellent rate capability, with a reversible capacity of 507.7 mA h g⁻¹ after 100 cycles at a current density of 800 mA g⁻¹. The results demonstrate that such a film-type hybrid anode shows great potential for application in high-energy lithium-ion batteries.

  2. Effect of Applied Current Density on Cavitation-Erosion Characteristics for Anodized Al Alloy.

    PubMed

    Lee, Seung-Jun; Kim, Seong-Jong

    2018-02-01

    Surface finishing is as important as selection of material to achieve durability. Surface finishing is a process to provide surface with the desired performance and features by applying external forces such as thermal energy or stress. This study investigated the optimum supply current density for preventing from cavitation damages by applying to an anodizing technique that artificially forms on the surface an oxide coating that has excellent mechanical characteristics, such as hardness, wear resistance. Result of hardness test, the greater hardness was associated with greater brittleness, resulting in deleterious characteristics. Consequently, under conditions such as the electrolyte concentration of 10 vol.%, the processing time of 40 min, the electrolyte temperature of 10 °C, and the current density of 20 mA/cm2 were considered to be the optimum anodizing conditions for improvement of durability in seawater.

  3. Anomalous acceleration of ions in a plasma accelerator with an anodic layer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    V, M. BARDAKOV; S, D. IVANOV; A, V. KAZANTSEV; N, A. STROKIN; A, N. STUPIN; Binhao, JIANG; Zhenyu, WANG

    2018-03-01

    In a plasma accelerator with an anodic layer (PAAL), we discovered experimentally the effect of ‘super-acceleration’ of the bulk of the ions to energies W exceeding the energy equivalent to the discharge voltage V d. The E × B discharge was ignited in an environment of atomic argon and helium and molecular nitrogen. Singly charged argon ions were accelerated most effectively in the case of the largest discharge currents and pressure P of the working gas. Helium ions with W > eV d (e being the electron charge) were only recorded at maximum pressures. Molecular nitrogen was not accelerated to energies W > eV d. Anomalous acceleration is realized in the range of radial magnetic fields on the anode 2.8 × 10 -2 ≤ B rA ≤ 4 × 10 -2 T. It was also found analytically that the cathode of the accelerator can receive anomalously accelerated ions. In this case, the value of the potential in the anodic layer becomes higher than the anode potential, and the anode current exceeds some critical value. Numerical modeling in terms of the developed theory showed qualitative agreement between modeling data and measurements.

  4. Model anodes and anode models for understanding the mechanism of hydrogen oxidation in solid oxide fuel cells.

    PubMed

    Bessler, Wolfgang G; Vogler, Marcel; Störmer, Heike; Gerthsen, Dagmar; Utz, Annika; Weber, André; Ivers-Tiffée, Ellen

    2010-11-14

    This article presents a literature review and new results on experimental and theoretical investigations of the electrochemistry of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) model anodes, focusing on the nickel/yttria-stabilized zirconia (Ni/YSZ) materials system with operation under H(2)/H(2)O atmospheres. Micropatterned model anodes were used for electrochemical characterization under well-defined operating conditions. Structural and chemical integrity was confirmed by ex situ pre-test and post-test microstructural and chemical analysis. Elementary kinetic models of reaction and transport processes were used to assess reaction pathways and rate-determining steps. The comparison of experimental and simulated electrochemical behaviors of pattern anodes shows quantitative agreement over a wide range of operating conditions (p(H(2)) = 8×10(2) - 9×10(4) Pa, p(H(2)O) = 2×10(1) - 6×10(4) Pa, T = 400-800 °C). Previously published experimental data on model anodes show a strong scatter in electrochemical performance. Furthermore, model anodes exhibit a pronounced dynamics on multiple time scales which is not reproduced in state-of-the-art models and which is also not observed in technical cermet anodes. Potential origin of these effects as well as consequences for further steps in model anode and anode model studies are discussed.

  5. Thin film buried anode battery

    DOEpatents

    Lee, Se-Hee [Lakewood, CO; Tracy, C Edwin [Golden, CO; Liu, Ping [Denver, CO

    2009-12-15

    A reverse configuration, lithium thin film battery (300) having a buried lithium anode layer (305) and process for making the same. The present invention is formed from a precursor composite structure (200) made by depositing electrolyte layer (204) onto substrate (201), followed by sequential depositions of cathode layer (203) and current collector (202) on the electrolyte layer. The precursor is subjected to an activation step, wherein a buried lithium anode layer (305) is formed via electroplating a lithium anode layer at the interface of substrate (201) and electrolyte film (204). The electroplating is accomplished by applying a current between anode current collector (201) and cathode current collector (202).

  6. Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation boosts synaptic plasticity and memory in mice via epigenetic regulation of Bdnf expression

    PubMed Central

    Podda, Maria Vittoria; Cocco, Sara; Mastrodonato, Alessia; Fusco, Salvatore; Leone, Lucia; Barbati, Saviana Antonella; Colussi, Claudia; Ripoli, Cristian; Grassi, Claudio

    2016-01-01

    The effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on brain functions and the underlying molecular mechanisms are yet largely unknown. Here we report that mice subjected to 20-min anodal tDCS exhibited one-week lasting increases in hippocampal LTP, learning and memory. These effects were associated with enhanced: i) acetylation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf) promoter I; ii) expression of Bdnf exons I and IX; iii) Bdnf protein levels. The hippocampi of stimulated mice also exhibited enhanced CREB phosphorylation, pCREB binding to Bdnf promoter I and recruitment of CBP on the same regulatory sequence. Inhibition of acetylation and blockade of TrkB receptors hindered tDCS effects at molecular, electrophysiological and behavioral levels. Collectively, our findings suggest that anodal tDCS increases hippocampal LTP and memory via chromatin remodeling of Bdnf regulatory sequences leading to increased expression of this gene, and support the therapeutic potential of tDCS for brain diseases associated with impaired neuroplasticity. PMID:26908001

  7. Electrochemical anodizing treatment to enhance localized corrosion resistance of pure titanium.

    PubMed

    Prando, Davide; Brenna, Andrea; Bolzoni, Fabio M; Diamanti, Maria V; Pedeferri, Mariapia; Ormellese, Marco

    2017-01-26

    Titanium has outstanding corrosion resistance due to the thin protective oxide layer that is formed on its surface. Nevertheless, in harsh and severe environments, pure titanium may suffer localized corrosion. In those conditions, costly titanium alloys containing palladium, nickel and molybdenum are used. This purpose investigated how it is possible to control corrosion, at lower cost, by electrochemical surface treatment on pure titanium, increasing the thickness of the natural oxide layer. Anodic oxidation was performed on titanium by immersion in H2SO4 solution and applying voltages ranging from 10 to 80 V. Different anodic current densities were considered. Potentiodynamic tests in chloride- and fluoride-containing solutions were carried out on anodized titanium to determine the pitting potential. All tested anodizing treatments increased corrosion resistance of pure titanium, but never reached the performance of titanium alloys. The best corrosion behavior was obtained on titanium anodized at voltages lower than 40 V at 20 mA/cm2. Titanium samples anodized at low cell voltage were seen to give high corrosion resistance in chloride- and fluoride-containing solutions. Electrolyte bath and anodic current density have little effect on the corrosion behavior.

  8. Relationship between anode material, supporting electrolyte and current density during electrochemical degradation of organic compounds in water.

    PubMed

    Guzmán-Duque, Fernando L; Palma-Goyes, Ricardo E; González, Ignacio; Peñuela, Gustavo; Torres-Palma, Ricardo A

    2014-08-15

    Taking crystal violet (CV) dye as pollutant model, the electrode, electrolyte and current density (i) relationship for electro-degrading organic molecules is discussed. Boron-doped diamond (BDD) or Iridium dioxide (IrO2) used as anode materials were tested with Na2SO4 or NaCl as electrolytes. CV degradation and generated oxidants showed that degradation pathways and efficiency are strongly linked to the current density-electrode-electrolyte interaction. With BDD, the degradation pathway depends on i: If icurrent density (i(lim)), CV is mainly degraded by OH radicals, whereas if i>i(lim), generated oxidants play a major role in the CV elimination. When IrO2 was used, CV removal was not dependent on i, but on the electrolyte. Pollutant degradation in Na2SO4 on IrO2 seems to occur via IrO3; however, in the presence of NaCl, degradation was dependent on the chlorinated oxidative species generated. In terms of efficiency, the Na2SO4 electrolyte showed better results than NaCl when BDD anodes were employed. On the contrary, NaCl was superior when combined with IrO2. Thus, the IrO2/Cl(-) and BDD/SO4(2-) systems were better at removing the pollutant, being the former the most effective. On the other hand, pollutant degradation with the BDD/SO4(2-) and IrO2/Cl(-) systems is favored at low and high current densities, respectively. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. Simulative research on the anode plasma dynamics in the high-power electron beam diode

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

    Cai, Dan; Liu, Lie; Ju, Jin-Chuan

    2015-07-15

    Anode plasma generated by electron beams could limit the electrical pulse-length, modify the impedance and stability of diode, and affect the generator to diode power coupling. In this paper, a particle-in-cell code is used to study the dynamics of anode plasma in the high-power electron beam diode. The effect of gas type, dynamic characteristic of ions on the diode operation with bipolar flow model are presented. With anode plasma appearing, the amplitude of diode current is increased due to charge neutralizations of electron flow. The lever of neutralization can be expressed using saturation factor. At same pressure of the anodemore » gas layer, the saturation factor of CO{sub 2} is bigger than the H{sub 2}O vapor, namely, the generation rate of C{sup +} ions is larger than the H{sup +} ions at the same pressure. The transition time of ions in the anode-cathode gap could be used to estimate the time of diode current maximum.« less

  10. Leakage current and charging/discharging processes in barrier-type anodic alumina thin films for use in metal-insulator-metal capacitors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hourdakis, E.; Koutsoureli, M.; Papaioannou, G.; Nassiopoulou, A. G.

    2018-06-01

    Barrier-type anodic alumina thin films are interesting for use in high capacitance density metal-insulator-metal capacitors due to their excellent dielectric properties at small thickness. This thickness is easily controlled by the anodization voltage. In previous papers we studied the main parameters of interest of the Al/barrier-type anodic alumina/Al structure for use in RF applications and showed the great potential of barrier-type anodic alumina in this respect. In this paper, we investigated in detail charging/discharging processes and leakage current of the above dielectric material. Two different sets of metal-insulator-metal capacitors were studied, namely, with the top Al electrode being either e-gun deposited or sputtered. The dielectric constant of the barrier-type anodic alumina was found at 9.3. Low leakage current was observed in all samples studied. Furthermore, depending on the film thickness, field emission following the Fowler-Nordheim mechanism was observed above an applied electric field. Charging of the anodic dielectric was observed, occurring in the bulk of the anodic layer. The stored charge was of the order of few μC/cm2 and the calculated trap density ˜2 × 1018 states/cm3, the most probable origin of charge traps being, in our opinion, positive electrolyte ions trapped in the dielectric during anodization. We do not think that oxygen vacancies play an important role, since their existence would have a more important impact on the leakage current characteristics, such as resistive memory effects or significant changes during annealing, which were not observed. Finally, discharging characteristic times as high as 5 × 109 s were measured.

  11. Nanofiber-deposited porous platinum enables glucose fuel cell anodes with high current density in body fluids

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Frei, Maxi; Erben, Johannes; Martin, Julian; Zengerle, Roland; Kerzenmacher, Sven

    2017-09-01

    The poisoning of platinum anodes by body-fluid constituents such as amino acids is currently the main hurdle preventing the application of abiotic glucose fuel cells as battery-independent power supply for medical implants. We present a novel anode material that enables continuous operation of glucose oxidation anodes in horse serum for at least 30 days at a current density of (7.2 ± 1.9) μA cm-2. The fabrication process is based on the electro-deposition of highly porous platinum onto a 3-dimensional carbon nanofiber support, leading to approximately 2-fold increased electrode roughness factors (up to 16500 ± 2300). The material's superior performance is not only related to its high specific surface area, but also to an improved catalytic activity and/or poisoning resistance. Presumably, this results from the micro- and nanostructure of the platinum deposits. This represents a major step forward in the development of implantable glucose fuel cells based on long-term stable platinum electrodes.

  12. Remediation of phosphate-contaminated water by electrocoagulation with aluminium, aluminium alloy and mild steel anodes.

    PubMed

    Vasudevan, Subramanyan; Lakshmi, Jothinathan; Jayaraj, Jeganathan; Sozhan, Ganapathy

    2009-05-30

    The present study provides an electrocoagulation process for the remediation of phosphate-contaminated water using aluminium, aluminium alloy and mild steel as the anodes and stainless steel as the cathode. The various parameters like effect of anode materials, effect of pH, concentration of phosphate, current density, temperature and co-existing ions, and so forth, and the adsorption capacity was evaluated using both Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models. The adsorption of phosphate preferably fitting the Langmuir adsorption isotherm suggests monolayer coverage of adsorbed molecules. The results showed that the maximum removal efficiency of 99% was achieved with aluminium alloy anode at a current density of 0.2 A dm(-2), at a pH of 7.0. The adsorption process follows second-order kinetics.

  13. Preparation and characterization of anodic films on AZ31B Mg alloy formed in the silicate electrolytes with ethylene glycol oligomers as additives

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhu, Feng; Wang, Jinwei; Li, Shanghua; Zhang, Jin

    2012-09-01

    Oxide coatings are prepared on AZ31B Mg alloy in an environment-friendly electrolyte with additives by plasma electrolytic anodization, and the effect of ethylene glycol oligmers on the performances of the anodized film is investigated. Under a constant current density of 10 mA cm-2, the reaction overpotential of the silicate electrolytes with additives are found higher than that of the original electrolyte as measured by potential-time test. The EIS and DC polarization results reveal that the addition of PEG increases the impedance of the film and reduces its corrosion current density (Icorr) at least by one order of magnitude. The surface morphologies are more and more compact and homogeneous with the increase in EG numbers, while a rougher surface appeared again if the PEG4000 is used as observed by SEM. As detected by XRD, the anodic films are found mainly consist of MgO, MgSiO3 and Mg2SiO4, and their relative amounts are related to the lengths of EGs, resulting in the differences in morphology and anticorrosion variations. Furthermore, the improvement in abrasive resistance of the anodic film formed in the electrolyte with PEG1000 may be attributed to its much more compact surface and the incorporation of ductile PEG chains among those oxides.

  14. Anode power deposition in applied-field MPD thrusters

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Myers, Roger M.; Soulas, George C.

    1992-01-01

    Anode power deposition is the principle performance limiter of magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) thrusters. Current thrusters lose between 50 and 70 percent of the input power to the anode. In this work, anode power deposition was studied for three cylindrical applied magnetic field thrusters for a range of argon propellant flow rates, discharge currents, and applied-field strengths. Between 60 and 95 percent of the anode power deposition resulted from electron current conduction into the anode, with cathode radiation depositing between 5 and 35 percent of the anode power, and convective heat transfer from the hot plasma accounting for less than 5 percent. While the fractional anode power loss decreased with increasing applied-field strength and anode size, the magnitude of the anode power increased. The rise in anode power resulted from a linear rise in the anode fall voltage with applied-field strength and anode radius. The anode fall voltage also rose with decreasing propellant flow rate. The trends indicate that the anode fall region is magnetized, and suggest techniques for reducing the anode power loss in MPD thrusters.

  15. Effect of TiO2 Addition on Grain Growth, Anodic Bubble Evolution and Anodic Overvoltage of NiFe2O4-Based Composite Inert Anodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Bin; Du, Jinjing; Liu, Yihan; Fang, Zhao; Hu, Ping

    2017-11-01

    A two-step powder compaction and sintering process was employed to fabricate TiO2-doped NiFe2O4 ceramic-based inert anodes. Grain growth during isothermal sintering was analyzed using Brook grain growth model. The bubble behavior of NiFe2O4 ceramic-based inert anodes was investigated in a two-compartment see-through quartz cell for aluminum electrolysis process. Anodic overvoltage and potential decay curves of the inert anodes were measured by using the steady state and current interruption technique. The results showed that the kinetic index of grain growth decreased with an increase in temperature. The average activation energy of grain growth for 1.0 wt.% TiO2-doped NiFe2O4 ceramic samples with a sintering temperature range from 1373 to 1673 K dropped from 675.30 to 183.47 kJ/mol. The diameter size of bubbles before releasing from the bottom surface of the anodes was reduced with increasing the current density, and the larger average releasing bubble size for carbon anode at the same current density could be obtained, which was compared to the NiFe2O4 inert anodes. Besides, the cell voltage of carbon anodes fluctuated much more violently under the same experimental conditions. After adding small amount of TiO2, a minor reduction in anodic overvoltage of NiFe2O4-based anodes can be observed.

  16. Anodizing color coded anodized Ti6Al4V medical devices for increasing bone cell functions

    PubMed Central

    Ross, Alexandra P; Webster, Thomas J

    2013-01-01

    Current titanium-based implants are often anodized in sulfuric acid (H2SO4) for color coding purposes. However, a crucial parameter in selecting the material for an orthopedic implant is the degree to which it will integrate into the surrounding bone. Loosening at the bone–implant interface can cause catastrophic failure when motion occurs between the implant and the surrounding bone. Recently, a different anodization process using hydrofluoric acid has been shown to increase bone growth on commercially pure titanium and titanium alloys through the creation of nanotubes. The objective of this study was to compare, for the first time, the influence of anodizing a titanium alloy medical device in sulfuric acid for color coding purposes, as is done in the orthopedic implant industry, followed by anodizing the device in hydrofluoric acid to implement nanotubes. Specifically, Ti6Al4V model implant samples were anodized first with sulfuric acid to create color-coding features, and then with hydrofluoric acid to implement surface features to enhance osteoblast functions. The material surfaces were characterized by visual inspection, scanning electron microscopy, contact angle measurements, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. Human osteoblasts were seeded onto the samples for a series of time points and were measured for adhesion and proliferation. After 1 and 2 weeks, the levels of alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium deposition were measured to assess the long-term differentiation of osteoblasts into the calcium depositing cells. The results showed that anodizing in hydrofluoric acid after anodizing in sulfuric acid partially retains color coding and creates unique surface features to increase osteoblast adhesion, proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity, and calcium deposition. In this manner, this study provides a viable method to anodize an already color coded, anodized titanium alloy to potentially increase bone growth for numerous implant applications

  17. Anodizing color coded anodized Ti6Al4V medical devices for increasing bone cell functions.

    PubMed

    Ross, Alexandra P; Webster, Thomas J

    2013-01-01

    Current titanium-based implants are often anodized in sulfuric acid (H(2)SO(4)) for color coding purposes. However, a crucial parameter in selecting the material for an orthopedic implant is the degree to which it will integrate into the surrounding bone. Loosening at the bone-implant interface can cause catastrophic failure when motion occurs between the implant and the surrounding bone. Recently, a different anodization process using hydrofluoric acid has been shown to increase bone growth on commercially pure titanium and titanium alloys through the creation of nanotubes. The objective of this study was to compare, for the first time, the influence of anodizing a titanium alloy medical device in sulfuric acid for color coding purposes, as is done in the orthopedic implant industry, followed by anodizing the device in hydrofluoric acid to implement nanotubes. Specifically, Ti6Al4V model implant samples were anodized first with sulfuric acid to create color-coding features, and then with hydrofluoric acid to implement surface features to enhance osteoblast functions. The material surfaces were characterized by visual inspection, scanning electron microscopy, contact angle measurements, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. Human osteoblasts were seeded onto the samples for a series of time points and were measured for adhesion and proliferation. After 1 and 2 weeks, the levels of alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium deposition were measured to assess the long-term differentiation of osteoblasts into the calcium depositing cells. The results showed that anodizing in hydrofluoric acid after anodizing in sulfuric acid partially retains color coding and creates unique surface features to increase osteoblast adhesion, proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity, and calcium deposition. In this manner, this study provides a viable method to anodize an already color coded, anodized titanium alloy to potentially increase bone growth for numerous implant applications.

  18. Effects of fuel cell anode recycle on catalytic fuel reforming

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

    shekhawat, D.; Berry, D.; Gardner, T.

    2007-01-01

    The presence of steam in the reactant gas of a catalytic fuel reformer decreases the formation of carbon, minimizing catalyst deactivation. However, the operation of the reformer without supplemental water reduces the size, weight, cost, and overall complexity of the system. The work presented here examines experimentally two options for adding steam to the reformer inlet: (I) recycle of a simulated fuel cell anode exit gas (comprised of mainly CO2, H2O, and N2 and some H2 and CO) and (II) recycle of the reformate from the reformer exit back to the reformer inlet (mainly comprised of H2, CO, and N2more » and some H2O and CO2). As expected, anode gas recycle reduced the carbon formation and increased the hydrogen concentration in the reformate. However, reformer recycle was not as effective due principally to the lower water content in the reformate compared to the anode gas. In fact, reformate recycle showed slightly increased carbon formation compared to no recycle. In an attempt to understand the effects of individual gases in these recycle streams (H2, CO, CO2, N2, and H2O), individual gas species were independently introduced to the reformer feed. Published by Elsevier B.V.« less

  19. Polarization-Induced Interfacial Reactions between Nickel and Selenium in Ni/Zirconia SOFC Anodes and Comparison with Sulfur Poisoning

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

    Marina, Olga A.; Pederson, Larry R.; Coyle, Christopher A.

    2011-01-10

    Three distinctly different characteristic responses of a nickel/yttria-stabilized zirconia (Ni/YSZ) cermet anode to the presence of hydrogen selenide in synthetic coal gas were observed, depending on temperature (650-800oC), H2Se concentration (0-40 ppm), and especially on the extent of anodic polarization (0 to ~0.5 V). The first level of response was characterized by a rapid but modest decrease in power density to a new steady state, with no further degradation observed in tests up to 700 hours in duration. Mostly observed at high temperatures, low H2Se concentrations, and low anodic polarizations, this response level was similar to effects caused by themore » presence of H2S, but with slower onset and lower reversibility. Higher anodic polarization at a constant current could trigger a second level of response characterized by oscillatory behavior involving cycles of rapid performance loss followed by rapid recovery. Oscillations at the constant current density were accompanied by the appearance and disappearance of a new feature in the electrochemical impedance spectrum with a summit frequency of ~100 Hz. Oscillatory behavior ceased when the current density was lowered. Such behavior was not observed for cells operated at a constant potential of similar magnitude, though. A third level of response, irreversible cell failure, could be induced by further increases in anodic polarization, additionally favored by low temperature and high H2Se concentration. Post-test analyses of failed cells by electron microscopy revealed the extensive microstructural changes including the appearance of nickel oxide and nickel selenide alteration phases, only at the anode/electrolyte interface. From bulk thermochemical considerations the formation of nickel selenides could not be expected. Local chemical conditions created at the anode/electrolyte interface appear to be of overriding importance with respect to the extent of Ni/YSZ anode interactions with H2Se in coal gas.« less

  20. The impact of anode acclimation strategy on microbial electrolysis cell treating hydrogen fermentation effluent.

    PubMed

    Li, Xiaohu; Zhang, Ruizhe; Qian, Yawei; Angelidaki, Irini; Zhang, Yifeng

    2017-07-01

    The impact of different anode acclimation methods for enhancing hydrogen production in microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) was investigated in this study. The anodes were first acclimated in microbial fuel cells using acetate, butyrate and corn stalk fermentation effluent (CSFE) as substrate before moving into MECs, respectively. Subsequently, CSFE was used as feedstock in all the three MECs. The maximum hydrogen yield with the anode pre-acclimated with butyrate (5.21±0.24L H 2 /L CSFE) was higher than that pre-acclimated with acetate (4.22±0.19L H 2 /L CSFE) and CSFE (4.55±0.14L H 2 /L CSFE). The current density (480±11A/m 3 ) and hydrogen production rate (4.52±0.13m 3 /m 3 /d) with the anode pre-acclimated with butyrate were also higher that another two reactors. These results demonstrated that the anode biofilm pre-acclimated with butyrate has significant advantages in CSFE treatment and could improve the performance of hydrogen production in MEC. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Anodal Cerebellar Direct Current Stimulation Reduces Facilitation of Propriospinal Neurons in Healthy Humans.

    PubMed

    Chothia, Muhammed; Doeltgen, Sebastian; Bradnam, Lynley V

    2016-01-01

    Coordinated muscle synergies in the human upper limb are controlled, in part, by a neural distribution network located in the cervical spinal cord, known as the cervical propriospinal system. Studies in the cat and non-human primate indicate the cerebellum is indirectly connected to this system via output pathways to the brainstem. Therefore, the cerebellum may indirectly modulate excitability of putative propriospinal neurons (PNs) in humans during upper limb coordination tasks. This study aimed to test whether anodal direct current stimulation (DCS) of the cerebellum modulates PNs and upper limb coordination in healthy adults. The hypothesis was that cerebellar anodal DCS would reduce descending facilitation of PNs and improve upper limb coordination. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), paired with peripheral nerve stimulation, probed activity in facilitatory and inhibitory descending projections to PNs following an established protocol. Coordination was tested using a pursuit rotor task performed by the non-dominant (ipsilateral) hand. Anodal and sham DCS were delivered over the cerebellum ipsilateral to the non-dominant hand in separate experimental sessions. Anodal DCS was applied to a control site lateral to the vertex in a third session. Twelve right-handed healthy adults participated. Pairing TMS with sub-threshold peripheral nerve stimulation facilitated motor evoked potentials at intensities just above threshold in accordance with the protocol. Anodal cerebellar DCS reduced facilitation without influencing inhibition, but the reduction in facilitation was not associated with performance of the pursuit rotor task. The results of this study indicate dissociated indirect control over cervical PNs by the cerebellum in humans. Anodal DCS of the cerebellum reduced excitability in the facilitatory descending pathway with no effect on the inhibitory pathway to cervical PNs. The reduction in PN excitability is likely secondary to modulation of primary motor

  2. The anode mechanism of a thermal argon arc

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Busz-Peuckert, G.; Finkelnburg, W.

    1984-01-01

    In order to clarify the anode mechanism in freely burning argon arcs, the anode drop was determined by probe measurements in the current intensity range of 10 to 200 A and arc lengths between 2 and 10 mm. Simultaneously, the power input at the anode was determined by measuring the temperature increase in the cooling water, using a thermoelement, and compared to the electrical output at the arc and in the anodic drop area. An anodic contraction was observed in the arc, at low current intensities. The results can be explained in terms of the effects of a cathodic plasma current, and in the contracted arc, in terms of an additional anodic plasma current.

  3. Development of Point of Care Testing Device for Neurovascular Coupling From Simultaneous Recording of EEG and NIRS During Anodal Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation

    PubMed Central

    Jindal, Utkarsh; Sood, Mehak; Dutta, Anirban; Chowdhury, Shubhajit Roy

    2015-01-01

    This paper presents a point of care testing device for neurovascular coupling (NVC) from simultaneous recording of electroencephalogram (EEG) and near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) during anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Here, anodal tDCS modulated cortical neural activity leading to hemodynamic response can be used to identify the impaired cerebral microvessels functionality. The impairments in the cerebral microvessels functionality may lead to impairments in the cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR), where severely reduced CVR predicts the chances of transient ischemic attack and ipsilateral stroke. The neural and hemodynamic responses to anodal tDCS were studied through joint imaging with EEG and NIRS, where NIRS provided optical measurement of changes in tissue oxy-(\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$HbO2)$ \\end{document} and deoxy-(\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$Hb$ \\end{document}) hemoglobin concentration and EEG captured alterations in the underlying neuronal current generators. Then, a cross-correlation method for the assessment of NVC underlying the site of anodal tDCS is presented. The feasibility studies on healthy subjects and stroke survivors showed detectable changes in the EEG and the NIRS responses to a 0.526 A/\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$\\mathrm{m}^{2}$ \\end{document} of anodal tDCS. The NIRS system

  4. Anode power deposition in quasi-steady MPD arcs. [accelerator anode heat flux measurement

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Saber, A. J.; Jahn, R. G.

    1973-01-01

    The power deposited in the anode of a quasi-steady MPD accelerator has been measured directly by thermocouples attached to the inside surface of a shell anode which provide a local measurement of anode heat flux. The results over a range of arc currents from 5.5 to 44 kiloamperes and argon mass flows from 1 g/sec to 48 g/sec show that the fraction of the total input power deposited in the anode decreases drastically from 50% at an arc power of 200 kW to 10% at 20 MW, and that anode power is not uniformly deposited in the anode. A theoretical model of the anode heat transfer, including effects of anode work function, electron thermal energy, and anode sheath, can be brought into reasonable agreement with the measurements, provided the effective range of the conduction electrons from within the discharge plasma to the anode surface is properly acknowledged.

  5. Cobalt-based metal organic framework with superior lithium anodic performance

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

    Hu, Xiaoshi; Hu, Huiping; Li, Chao

    The reversible charging of a Co-1,4-benzenedicarboxylate MOF (Co-BDC MOF) prepared via an one-pot solvothermal method was studied for use as the anode in a Li-ion cell. It was found that this MOF anode provides high reversible capacities (1090 and 611 mA h g{sup −1} at current densities of 0.2 and 1 A g{sup −1}, respectively), and an impressive rate performance. Such an outstanding Li-ion storage property has not been reported previously for the LIB anodes within the MOFs category. Ex-situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and infrared spectroscopy (IR) studies of this material at different state of charge suggest that cobaltmore » stays at Co{sup 2+} state during discharge/charge process, so that in this case Li{sup +} may be inserted into the organic moiety without the direct participation of cobalt ions. - Graphical abstract: Co-1,4-benzenedicarboxylate MOF, synthesized through a straightforward solvothermal method, shows outstanding lithium storage performance. - Highlights: • Co-1,4-benzenedicarboxylate MOF is synthesized by a one-pot solvothermal method. • Reversible capacity of 1090 mA h g{sup −1} is achieved at a current density of 200 mA g{sup −1}. • Reversible capacity of 611 mA h g{sup −1} is achieved at a current density of 1 A g{sup −1}. • Li-ions may be inserted into the organic moieties.« less

  6. Combined Effect of Alternating Current Interference and Cathodic Protection on Pitting Corrosion and Stress Corrosion Cracking Behavior of X70 Pipeline Steel in Near-Neutral pH Environment.

    PubMed

    Wang, Liwei; Cheng, Lianjun; Li, Junru; Zhu, Zhifu; Bai, Shuowei; Cui, Zhongyu

    2018-03-22

    Influence of alternating current (AC) on pitting corrosion and stress corrosion cracking (SCC) behavior of X70 pipeline steel in the near-neutral pH environment under cathodic protection (CP) was investigated. Both corrosion and SCC are inhibited by -0.775 V SCE CP without AC interference. With the superimposition of AC current (1-10 mA/cm²), the direct current (DC) potential shifts negatively under the CP of -0.775 V SCE and the cathodic DC current decreases and shifts to the anodic direction. Under the CP potential of -0.95 V SCE and -1.2 V SCE , the applied AC current promotes the cathodic reaction and leads to the positive shift of DC potential and increase of cathodic current. Local anodic dissolution occurs attributing to the generated anodic current transients in the positive half-cycle of the AC current, resulting in the initiation of corrosion pits (0.6-2 μm in diameter). AC enhances the SCC susceptibility of X70 steel under -0.775 V SCE CP, attributing to the promotion of anodic dissolution and hydrogen evolution. Even an AC current as low as 1 mA/cm² can enhance the SCC susceptibility.

  7. Anode power in quasisteady magnetoplasmadynamic accelerators

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Saber, A. J.; Jahn, R. G.

    1978-01-01

    Anode heat flux in a quasi-steady MPD accelerator has been measured directly and locally by thermocouples attached to the inside surface of a shell anode. These measurements show that over a range of arc current from 5.5 to 44 kA, and argon mass flow from 1 to 48 g/s, the fraction of the total arc power deposited in the anode decreases from 50% at 200 kW to 10% at 20 MW. A theoretical model of the anode heat transfer asserts that energy exchange between electrons and heavy particles in the plasma near the anode occurs over distances greater than the anode sheath thickness, and hence the usual anode fall voltage, electron temperature, and work function contributions to the anode heat flux are supplemented by a contribution from the interelectrode potential. Calculations of anode heat flux using the measured current density, plasma potential, and electron temperature in the plasma adjacent to the anode agree with the direct measurements and indicate that the decrease in anode power fraction at higher arc powers can be attributed to the smaller mean free paths in the interelectrode plasma.

  8. Investigation of mechanism of anode plasma formation in ion diode with dielectric anode

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

    Pushkarev, A., E-mail: aipush@mail.ru

    The results of investigation of the anode plasma formation in a diode with a passive anode in magnetic insulation mode are presented. The experiments have been conducted using the BIPPAB-450 ion accelerator (350–400 kV, 6–8 kA, 80 ns) with a focusing conical diode with B{sub r} external magnetic field (a barrel diode). For analysis of plasma formation at the anode and the distribution of the ions beam energy density, infrared imaging diagnostics (spatial resolution of 1–2 mm) is used. For analysis of the ion beam composition, time-of-flight diagnostics (temporal resolution of 1 ns) were used. Our studies have shown that when the magnetic induction inmore » the A-C gap is much larger than the critical value, the ion beam energy density is close to the one-dimensional Child-Langmuir limit on the entire working surface of the diode. Formation of anode plasma takes place only by the flashover of the dielectric anode surface. In this mode, the ion beam consists primarily of singly ionized carbon ions, and the delay of the start of formation of the anode plasma is 10–15 ns. By reducing the magnetic induction in the A-C gap to a value close to the critical one, the ion beam energy density is 3–6 times higher than that calculated by the one-dimensional Child-Langmuir limit, but the energy density of the ion beam is non-uniform in cross-section. In this mode, the anode plasma formation occurs due to ionization of the anode material with accelerated electrons. In this mode, also, the delay in the start of the formation of the anode plasma is much smaller and the degree of ionization of carbon ions is higher. In all modes occurred effective suppression of the electronic component of the total current, and the diode impedance was 20–30 times higher than the values calculated for the mode without magnetic insulation of the electrons. The divergence of the ion beam was 4.5°–6°.« less

  9. Bundled and densified carbon nanotubes (CNT) fabrics as flexible ultra-light weight Li-ion battery anode current collectors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yehezkel, Shani; Auinat, Mahmud; Sezin, Nina; Starosvetsky, David; Ein-Eli, Yair

    2016-04-01

    Carbon nanotubes (CNT) fabrics were studied and evaluated as anode current collectors, replacing the traditional copper foil current collector in Li-ion batteries. Glavanostatic measurements reveal high values of irreversible capacities (as high as 28%), resulted mainly from the formation of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer at the CNT fabric surface. Various pre-treatments to the CNT fabric prior to active anode material loading have shown that the lowest irreversible capacity is achieved by immersing and washing the CNT fabric with iso-propanol (IPA), which dramatically modified the fabric surface. Additionally, the use of very thin CNT fabrics (5 μm) results in a substantial irreversible capacity minimization. A combination of IPA rinse action and utilization of the thinnest CNT fabric provides the lowest irreversible capacity of 13%. The paper describes innovative and rather simple techniques towards a complete implementation of CNT fabric as an anode current collector in Li-ion batteries, instead of the relatively heavy and expensive copper foil, enabling an improvement in the gravimetric and volumetric energy densities of such advanced batteries.

  10. The effect of H+/- on B+/- rightarrow tau+/-nutau and B+/- rightarrow mu+/-numu

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Akeroyd, A. G.; Recksiegel, S.

    2003-10-01

    The hitherto unobserved purely leptonic decays B+/- rightarrow tau+/-nutau and B+/- rightarrow mu+/-numu are of much interest in current and future runs of the e+e-B factories. Such decays are sensitive to charged Higgs bosons (H+/-) at the tree-level and provide important constraints on tan beta/mH+/-. We include the large corrections to the H+/-ub coupling induced by virtual SUSY effects and show that the bounds on tan beta/mH+/- can be significantly weakened or strengthened.

  11. Cathodic and anodic biofilms in Single Chamber Microbial Fuel Cells.

    PubMed

    Cristiani, P; Carvalho, M L; Guerrini, E; Daghio, M; Santoro, C; Li, B

    2013-08-01

    The oxygen reduction due to microaerophilic biofilms grown on graphite cathodes (biocathodes) in Single Chamber Microbial Fuel Cells (SCMFCs) is proved and analysed in this paper. Pt-free cathode performances are compared with those of different platinum-loaded cathodes, before and after the biofilm growth. Membraneless SCMFCs were operating in batch-mode, filled with wastewater. A substrate (fuel) of sodium acetate (0.03 M) was periodically added and the experiment lasted more than six months. A maximum of power densities, up to 0.5 W m(-2), were reached when biofilms developed on the electrodes and the cathodic potential decreased (open circuit potential of 50-200 mV vs. SHE). The power output was almost constant with an acetate concentration of 0.01-0.05 M and it fell down when the pH of the media exceeded 9.5, independently of the Pt-free/Pt-loading at the cathodes. Current densities varied in the range of 1-5 Am(-2) (cathode area of 5 cm(2)). Quasi-stationary polarization curves performed with a three-electrode configuration on cathodic and anodic electrodes showed that the anodic overpotential, more than the cathodic one, may limit the current density in the SCMFCs for a long-term operation. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Embroidered Copper Microwire Current Collector for Improved Cycling Performance of Silicon Anodes in Lithium-Ion Batteries.

    PubMed

    Breitung, Ben; Aguiló-Aguayo, Noemí; Bechtold, Thomas; Hahn, Horst; Janek, Jürgen; Brezesinski, Torsten

    2017-10-12

    Si holds great promise as an alloying anode material for Li-ion batteries with improved energy density because of its high theoretical specific capacity and favorable operation voltage range. However, the large volume expansion of Si during electrochemical reaction with Li and the associated adverse effects strongly limit its prospect for application. Here, we report on the use of three-dimensional instead of flat current collectors for high-capacity Si anodes in an attempt to mitigate the loss of electrical contact of active electrode regions as a result of structural disintegration with cycling. The current collectors were produced by technical embroidery and consist of interconnected Cu wires of diameter <150 µm. In comparison to Si/Li cells using a conventional Cu foil current collector, the embroidered microwire network-based cells show much enhanced capacity and reversibility due to a higher degree of tolerance to cycling.

  13. Sorption of hydrophilic dyes on anodic aluminium oxide films and application to pH sensing.

    PubMed

    Silina, Yuliya E; Kuchmenko, Tatyana A; Volmer, Dietrich A

    2015-02-07

    The sorption of selected hydrophilic pH-sensitive dyes (bromophenol blue, bromothymol blue, bromocresol purple, alizarin red, methyl orange, congo red, rhodamine 6G) on films of anodized aluminium oxide (AAO) was investigated in this study. Depth and pore structure of the AAO channels were adjusted by changing electrolysis time and current density during treatment of aluminium foil in oxalic acid, sulfosalycilic acid and sulfuric acid at concentration levels between 0.2 and 0.6 M. The dyes were immobilized on the AAO surface by direct saturation of the films in dye solutions. It was shown by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray spectral analysis that the dyes penetrated into the AAO channels by more than 1.5 μm, even at static saturation conditions. The anionic dyes linked to the porous AAO surface exhibited differential shifts of the UV absorption bands in their acidic/basic forms. By combining several dyes, the films have an application range between pH = 0.5-9 in aqueous media. The dye-modified AAO film was a simple, portable, inexpensive and reusable pH sensor with very fast response time and clear colour transitions.

  14. Behavior of Lithium Metal Anodes under Various Capacity Utilization and High Current Density in Lithium Metal Batteries

    DOE PAGES

    Jiao, Shuhong; Zheng, Jianming; Li, Qiuyan; ...

    2017-11-06

    We report that lithium (Li) metal batteries (LMBs) have recently attracted extensive interest in the energy-storage field after silence from the public view for several decades. However, many challenges still need to be overcome before their practical application, especially those that are related to the interfacial instability of Li metal anodes. Here, we reveal for the first time that the thickness of the degradation layer on the metallic Li anode surface shows a linear relationship with Li areal capacity utilization up to 4.0 mAh cm -2 in a practical LMB system. The increase in Li capacity utilization in each cyclemore » causes variations in the morphology and composition of the degradation layer on the Li anode. Under high Li capacity utilization, the current density for charge (i.e., Li deposition) is identified to be a key factor controlling the corrosion of the Li metal anode. Lastly, these fundamental findings provide new perspectives for the development of rechargeable LMBs.« less

  15. Behavior of Lithium Metal Anodes under Various Capacity Utilization and High Current Density in Lithium Metal Batteries

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

    Jiao, Shuhong; Zheng, Jianming; Li, Qiuyan

    We report that lithium (Li) metal batteries (LMBs) have recently attracted extensive interest in the energy-storage field after silence from the public view for several decades. However, many challenges still need to be overcome before their practical application, especially those that are related to the interfacial instability of Li metal anodes. Here, we reveal for the first time that the thickness of the degradation layer on the metallic Li anode surface shows a linear relationship with Li areal capacity utilization up to 4.0 mAh cm -2 in a practical LMB system. The increase in Li capacity utilization in each cyclemore » causes variations in the morphology and composition of the degradation layer on the Li anode. Under high Li capacity utilization, the current density for charge (i.e., Li deposition) is identified to be a key factor controlling the corrosion of the Li metal anode. Lastly, these fundamental findings provide new perspectives for the development of rechargeable LMBs.« less

  16. Advanced Nanostructured Anode Materials for Sodium-Ion Batteries.

    PubMed

    Wang, Qidi; Zhao, Chenglong; Lu, Yaxiang; Li, Yunming; Zheng, Yuheng; Qi, Yuruo; Rong, Xiaohui; Jiang, Liwei; Qi, Xinguo; Shao, Yuanjun; Pan, Du; Li, Baohua; Hu, Yong-Sheng; Chen, Liquan

    2017-11-01

    Sodium-ion batteries (NIBs), due to the advantages of low cost and relatively high safety, have attracted widespread attention all over the world, making them a promising candidate for large-scale energy storage systems. However, the inherent lower energy density to lithium-ion batteries is the issue that should be further investigated and optimized. Toward the grid-level energy storage applications, designing and discovering appropriate anode materials for NIBs are of great concern. Although many efforts on the improvements and innovations are achieved, several challenges still limit the current requirements of the large-scale application, including low energy/power densities, moderate cycle performance, and the low initial Coulombic efficiency. Advanced nanostructured strategies for anode materials can significantly improve ion or electron transport kinetic performance enhancing the electrochemical properties of battery systems. Herein, this Review intends to provide a comprehensive summary on the progress of nanostructured anode materials for NIBs, where representative examples and corresponding storage mechanisms are discussed. Meanwhile, the potential directions to obtain high-performance anode materials of NIBs are also proposed, which provide references for the further development of advanced anode materials for NIBs. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  17. Studies of an extractor geometry magnetically insulated ion diode with an exploding metal film anode plasma

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

    Rondeau, G.D.

    1989-01-01

    Magnetically insulated diodes (MIDs) are of interest as ion sources for inertial confinement fusion. The authors examined several issues that are of concern with MIDs, including ion turn-on delay and anode plasma production, and diode impedance history and particle current scaling with the applied magnetic field and gas spacing. The LION pulsed power generator (1.5 MV, 4 {Omega}, 40 ns pulse length) was used to power an extractor geometry magnetically insulated (radical magnetic field) ion beam diode. The diode was studied with three anode configurations. In the first, with epoxy-filled-groove (epoxy) anodes, scaling of the ion and electron currents withmore » the gap and the magnetic field was examined. He found that the observed ion current is consistent with a diode model that has been successful with barrel geometry MIDs. The electron leakage current scaled proportionally to 1/Bd{sup 2}, where d is the anode-cathode gap spacing and B is the magnetic field strength. Studies of ion beam propagation in vacuum showed that space charge non-neutrality near the magnetic field coils caused the beam to expand initially. Later in the ion pulse (20 to 30 ns), the beam expansion became much less severe. The second anode configuration utilized an electron collector protruding above an epoxy anode surface. With the collector, he observed less bremsstrahlung across the active anode region. The last anode configuration studied was the exploding metal film active anode plasma source (EMFAAPS). Current from the accelerator was directed by an electron collector or a plasma opening switch through a thin aluminum film, which exploded to form the anode plasma.« less

  18. Phenol-degrading anode biofilm with high coulombic efficiency in graphite electrodes microbial fuel cell.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Dongdong; Li, Zhiling; Zhang, Chunfang; Zhou, Xue; Xiao, Zhixing; Awata, Takanori; Katayama, Arata

    2017-03-01

    A microbial fuel cell (MFC), with graphite electrodes as both the anode and cathode, was operated with a soil-free anaerobic consortium for phenol degradation. This phenol-degrading MFC showed high efficiency with a current density of 120 mA/m 2 and a coulombic efficiency of 22.7%, despite the lack of a platinum catalyst cathode and inoculation of sediment/soil. Removal of planktonic bacteria by renewing the anaerobic medium did not decrease the performance, suggesting that the phenol-degrading MFC was not maintained by the planktonic bacteria but by the microorganisms in the anode biofilm. Cyclic voltammetry analysis of the anode biofilm showed distinct oxidation and reduction peaks. Analysis of the microbial community structure of the anode biofilm and the planktonic bacteria based on 16S rRNA gene sequences suggested that Geobacter sp. was the phenol degrader in the anode biofilm and was responsible for current generation. Copyright © 2016 The Society for Biotechnology, Japan. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. Nano structural anodes for radiation detectors

    DOEpatents

    Cordaro, Joseph V.; Serkiz, Steven M.; McWhorter, Christopher S.; Sexton, Lindsay T.; Retterer, Scott T.

    2015-07-07

    Anodes for proportional radiation counters and a process of making the anodes is provided. The nano-sized anodes when present within an anode array provide: significantly higher detection efficiencies due to the inherently higher electric field, are amenable to miniaturization, have low power requirements, and exhibit a small electromagnetic field signal. The nano-sized anodes with the incorporation of neutron absorbing elements (e.g., .sup.10B) allow the use of neutron detectors that do not use .sup.3He.

  20. Porous nitrogen-doped carbon microspheres as anode materials for lithium ion batteries.

    PubMed

    Chen, Taiqiang; Pan, Likun; Loh, T A J; Chua, D H C; Yao, Yefeng; Chen, Qun; Li, Dongsheng; Qin, Wei; Sun, Zhuo

    2014-10-28

    Nitrogen-doped carbon microspheres (NCSs) were fabricated via a simple, fast and energy-saving microwave-assisted method followed by thermal treatment under an ammonia atmosphere. NCSs thermally treated at different temperatures were investigated as anode materials for lithium ion batteries (LIBs). The results show that NCSs treated at 900 °C exhibit a maximum reversible capacity of 816 mA h g(-1) at a current density of 50 mA g(-1) and preserve a capacity of 660 mA h g(-1) after 50 cycles, and even at a high current density of 1000 mA g(-1), a capacity of 255 mA h g(-1) is maintained. The excellent electrochemical performance of NCSs is due to their porous structure and nitrogen-doping. The present NCSs should be promising low-cost anode materials with a high capacity and good cycle stability for LIBs.

  1. Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation over the right hemisphere improves auditory comprehension in a case of dementia.

    PubMed

    Costa, Vanessa; Brighina, Filippo; Piccoli, Tommaso; Realmuto, Sabrina; Fierro, Brigida

    2017-01-01

    Noninvasive transcranial stimulation methods have been increasingly employed in order to improve cognitive performance in neurological patients. In previous studies with both stroke patients and healthy subjects, noninvasive stimulation of temporal-parietal regions and their homologue produced an improvement in linguistic tasks. The aim of the current study was to evaluate if anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over Brodmann areas 39/40 (angular and supramarginal gyri) could promote the recovery of linguistic functions, in particular comprehension and naming, in a single patient affected by dementia. Three preliminary explorative single sessions (right-side anodal, left-side anodal and sham tDCS) were carried out (Experiment 1). This procedure allows targeting the more effective site of stimulation for the treatment. Subsequently, we carried out a five-days tDCS treatment on the selected hemisphere (Experiment 2). We report verb comprehension amelioration after 5 days of anodal tDCS over the right BAs 39/40 compared with the placebo tDCS. This result is maintained until two weeks after the end of the 5-days treatment. Our findings provide new evidence for the therapeutic use of tDCS in degenerative diseases, suggesting that an explorative study can be useful for targeting the more appropriate stimulation site, and confirm the involvement of right-sided areas associated with language activities.

  2. Anodal Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Reduces Psychophysically Measured Surround Suppression in the Human Visual Cortex

    PubMed Central

    Spiegel, Daniel P.; Hansen, Bruce C.; Byblow, Winston D.; Thompson, Benjamin

    2012-01-01

    Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a safe, non-invasive technique for transiently modulating the balance of excitation and inhibition within the human brain. It has been reported that anodal tDCS can reduce both GABA mediated inhibition and GABA concentration within the human motor cortex. As GABA mediated inhibition is thought to be a key modulator of plasticity within the adult brain, these findings have broad implications for the future use of tDCS. It is important, therefore, to establish whether tDCS can exert similar effects within non-motor brain areas. The aim of this study was to assess whether anodal tDCS could reduce inhibitory interactions within the human visual cortex. Psychophysical measures of surround suppression were used as an index of inhibition within V1. Overlay suppression, which is thought to originate within the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN), was also measured as a control. Anodal stimulation of the occipital poles significantly reduced psychophysical surround suppression, but had no effect on overlay suppression. This effect was specific to anodal stimulation as cathodal stimulation had no effect on either measure. These psychophysical results provide the first evidence for tDCS-induced reductions of intracortical inhibition within the human visual cortex. PMID:22563485

  3. High-Capacity and Long-Cycle Life Aqueous Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery with the FePO4 Anode.

    PubMed

    Wang, Yuesheng; Yang, Shi-Ze; You, Ya; Feng, Zimin; Zhu, Wen; Gariépy, Vincent; Xia, Jiexiang; Commarieu, Basile; Darwiche, Ali; Guerfi, Abdelbast; Zaghib, Karim

    2018-02-28

    Aqueous lithium-ion batteries are emerging as strong candidates for a great variety of energy storage applications because of their low cost, high-rate capability, and high safety. Exciting progress has been made in the search for anode materials with high capacity, low toxicity, and high conductivity; yet, most of the anode materials, because of their low equilibrium voltages, facilitate hydrogen evolution. Here, we show the application of olivine FePO 4 and amorphous FePO 4 ·2H 2 O as anode materials for aqueous lithium-ion batteries. Their capacities reached 163 and 82 mA h/g at a current rate of 0.2 C, respectively. The full cell with an amorphous FePO 4 ·2H 2 O anode maintained 92% capacity after 500 cycles at a current rate of 0.2 C. The acidic aqueous electrolyte in the full cells prevented cathodic oxygen evolution, while the higher equilibrium voltage of FePO 4 avoided hydrogen evolution as well, making them highly stable. A combination of in situ X-ray diffraction analyses and computational studies revealed that olivine FePO 4 still has the biphase reaction in the aqueous electrolyte and that the intercalation pathways in FePO 4 ·2H 2 O form a 2-D mesh. The low cost, high safety, and outstanding electrochemical performance make the full cells with olivine or amorphous hydrated FePO 4 anodes commercially viable configurations for aqueous lithium-ion batteries.

  4. Delayed enhancement of multitasking performance: Effects of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation on the prefrontal cortex.

    PubMed

    Hsu, Wan-Yu; Zanto, Theodore P; Anguera, Joaquin A; Lin, Yung-Yang; Gazzaley, Adam

    2015-08-01

    The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) has been proposed to play an important role in neural processes that underlie multitasking performance. However, this claim is underexplored in terms of direct causal evidence. The current study aimed to delineate the causal involvement of the DLPFC during multitasking by modulating neural activity with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) prior to engagement in a demanding multitasking paradigm. The study is a single-blind, crossover, sham-controlled experiment. Anodal tDCS or sham tDCS was applied over left DLPFC in forty-one healthy young adults (aged 18-35 years) immediately before they engaged in a 3-D video game designed to assess multitasking performance. Participants were separated into three subgroups: real-sham (i.e., real tDCS in the first session, followed by sham tDCS in the second session 1 h later), sham-real (sham tDCS first session, real tDCS second session), and sham-sham (sham tDCS in both sessions). The real-sham group showed enhanced multitasking performance and decreased multitasking cost during the second session, compared to first session, suggesting delayed cognitive benefits of tDCS. Interestingly, performance benefits were observed only for multitasking and not on a single-task version of the game. No significant changes were found between the first and second sessions for either the sham-real or the sham-sham groups. These results suggest a causal role of left prefrontal cortex in facilitating the simultaneous performance of more than one task, or multitasking. Moreover, these findings reveal that anodal tDCS may have delayed benefits that reflect an enhanced rate of learning. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. The performance of 3-D graphite doped anodes in microbial electrolysis cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yasri, Nael G.; Nakhla, George

    2017-02-01

    This study investigated the use of granular activated carbon (GAC) as high surface area 3-dimensional (3-D) anode in MECs systems. The interfacial anodes' charge transfer resistance of the doped GAC did not impact the overall performance of MECs. Based on our finding, the 3-D anode packed with GAC-doped with nonconductive calcium sulfide (CaS) outperformed the more conductive iron (II) sulfide (FeS), magnetite (Fe3O4), or GAC without doping. The results showed higher current densities for 3-D CaS (40.1 A/m3), as compared with 3-D FeS (34.4 A/m3), 3-D Fe3O4 (29.8 A/m3), and 3-D GAC (23.1 A/m3). The higher current density in the 3-D CaS translated to higher coulombic efficiency (96.7%), hydrogen yield (3.6 mol H2/mol acetate), and attached biomass per anode mass (54.01 mg COD biomass/g GAC). Although the 3-D MEC achieved similar hydrogen yield, hydrogen recovery efficiency, and COD removal rate to a conventional sandwich type MEC, the current density, coulombic efficiency, and overall energy efficiency were higher.

  6. Counteracting Fatigue in Multiple Sclerosis with Right Parietal Anodal Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation.

    PubMed

    Hanken, Katrin; Bosse, Mona; Möhrke, Kim; Eling, Paul; Kastrup, Andreas; Antal, Andrea; Hildebrandt, Helmut

    2016-01-01

    Fatigue in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients appears to correlate with vigilance decrement as reflected in an increase in reaction time (RT) and errors with prolonged time-on-task. The aim of this study was to investigate whether anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the right parietal or frontal cortex counteracts fatigue-associated vigilance decrement and subjective fatigue. In study I, a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study, anodal tDCS (1.5 mA) was delivered to the right parietal cortex or the right frontal cortex of 52 healthy participants during the first 20 min of a 40-min lasting visual vigilance task. Study II, also a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study, investigated the effect of anodal tDCS (1.5 mA) over the right parietal cortex in 46 MS patients experiencing cognitive fatigue. tDCS was delivered for 20 min before patients performed a 20-min lasting visual vigilance task. Study I showed that right parietal stimulation, but not right frontal stimulation, counteracts the increase in RT associated with vigilance decrement. Hence, only right parietal stimulation was applied to the MS patients in study II. Stimulation had a significant effect on vigilance decrement in mildly to moderately cognitively fatigued MS patients. Vigilance testing significantly increased the feeling of fatigue independent of stimulation. Anodal tDCS over the right parietal cortex can counteract the increase in RTs during vigilance performance, but not the increase in subjective fatigue. This finding is compatible with our model of fatigue in MS, suggesting a dissociation between the feeling and the behavioral characteristics of fatigue.

  7. Polarization and Fowler-Nordheim tunneling in anodized Al-Al2O3-Au diodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hickmott, T. W.

    2000-06-01

    Polarization in anodic Al2O3 films is measured by using quasi-dc current-voltage (I-V) curves of Al-Al2O3-Au diodes. A reproducible polarization state is established by applying a negative voltage to the Au electrode of a rectifying Al-Al2O3-Au diode. The difference between subsequent I-V curves with Au positive is a measure of polarization in the sample. The magnitude of polarization charge in Al2O3 depends on the anodizing electrolyte. Al2O3 films formed in H2O-based electrolytes have approximately ten times the polarization charge of Al2O3 films formed in ethylene glycol-based electrolyte. Anodizing conditions that produce greater polarizing charge in anodic Al2O3 result in voltage-time curves during anodization under galvanostatic conditions that are nonlinear. Anodic films with greater polarizing charge also have a greater apparent interface capacitance which is independent of Al2O3 thickness. I-V curves of Al-Al2O3-Au diodes for increasing voltage are dominated by polarization. I-V curves for decreasing voltage are reproducible and parallel but depend on the maximum current and voltage reached during the measurement. There is no single current corresponding to a given voltage. I-V curves for decreasing voltage are analyzed assuming that the conduction mechanism is Fowler-Nordheim (FN) tunneling. There is a qualitative difference between the FN tunneling parameters for Al2O3 films formed in H2O-based electrolytes and those formed in ethylene glycol-based electrolyte. For the former the value of the exponential term in the FN analysis increases as the value of maximum voltage and current in an I-V characteristic increases, while the value of the pre-exponential term is nearly constant. For the latter, the exponential term is nearly constant as maximum voltage and current increase, but the pre-exponential term decreases by about 5 decades. Thus polarization charge incorporated during formation of anodized Al2O3 strongly affects the formation of the insulating

  8. Sulfur poisoning of Ni/Gadolinium-doped ceria anodes: A long-term study outlining stable solid oxide fuel cell operation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Riegraf, Matthias; Zekri, Atef; Knipper, Martin; Costa, Rémi; Schiller, Günter; Friedrich, K. Andreas

    2018-03-01

    This work presents an analysis of the long-term behavior of nickel/gadolinium-doped ceria (CGO) anode-based solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) under sulfur poisoning conditions. A parameter study of sulfur-induced irreversible long-term degradation of commercial, high-performance single cells was carried out at 900 °C for different H2/N2/H2S fuel gas atmospheres, current densities and Ni/CGO anodes. The poisoning periods of the cells varied from 200 to 1500 h. The possibility of stable long-term Ni/CGO anode operation under sulfur exposure is established and the critical operating regime is outlined. Depending on the operating conditions, two degradation phenomena can be observed. Small degradation of the ohmic resistance was witnessed for sulfur exposure times of approximately 1000 h. Moreover, degradation of the anode charge transfer resistance was observed to be triggered by the combination of a small anodic potential step and high sulfur coverage on Ni. The microstructural evolution of altered Ni/CGO anodes was examined post-mortem by means of SEM and FIB/SEM, and is correlated to the anode performance degradation under critical operating conditions, establishing Ni depletion, porosity increase and a tripe phase boundary density decrease in the anode functional layer. It is shown that short-term sulfur poisoning behavior can be used to assess long-term stability.

  9. Performance comparison of tin oxide anodes to commercially available dimensionally stable anodes.

    PubMed

    Watts, Richard J; Finn, Dennis D; Wyeth, Megan S; Teel, Amy L

    2008-06-01

    Dimensionally stable anodes (DSAs) demonstrate potential for the electrochemical treatment of industrial waste streams and disinfection of effluent. Oxidation by laboratory-prepared tin oxide DSAs was compared with that of commercially available ruthenium oxide, iridium oxide, and mixed metal oxide DSAs, using hexanol as a probe molecule. The performance of the four anodes was similar in two-chamber reactors, in which the anode cell was separated from the cathode cell by a Nafion membrane, which allows transmission of current between the chambers, but not passage of chemical constituents. The anodes were then evaluated in single-cell reactors, which are more representative of potential treatment and disinfection applications. However, in the single-cell reactors, the tin oxide anodes were significantly more effective at oxidation and generated higher quality cyclic voltammograms than the other DSAs. These results suggest that tin oxide anodes have greater potential than the three commercially available DSAs tested for industrial waste stream treatment and effluent disinfection.

  10. The anodizing behavior of aluminum in malonic acid solution and morphology of the anodic films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ren, Jianjun; Zuo, Yu

    2012-11-01

    The anodizing behavior of aluminum in malonic acid solution and morphology of the anodic films were studied. The voltage-time response for galvanostatic anodization of aluminum in malonic acid solution exhibits a conventional three-stage feature but the formation voltage is much higher. With the increase of electrolyte concentration, the electrolyte viscosity increases simultaneously and the high viscosity decreases the film growth rate. With the concentration increase of the malonic acid electrolyte, the critical current density that initiates local "burning" on the sample surface decreases. For malonic acid anodization, the field-assisted dissolution on the oxide surface is relatively weak and the nucleation of pores is more difficult, which results in greater barrier layer thickness and larger cell dimension. The embryo of the porous structure of anodic film has been created within the linear region of the first transient stage, and the definite porous structure has been established before the end of the first transient stage. The self-ordering behavior of the porous film is influenced by the electrolyte concentration, film thickness and the applied current density. Great current density not only improves the cell arrangement order but also brings about larger cell dimension.

  11. Improved Anode for a Direct Methanol Fuel Cell

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Valdez, Thomas; Narayanan, Sekharipuram

    2005-01-01

    A modified chemical composition has been devised to improve the performance of the anode of a direct methanol fuel cell. The main feature of the modified composition is the incorporation of hydrous ruthenium oxide into the anode structure. This modification can reduce the internal electrical resistance of the cell and increase the degree of utilization of the anode catalyst. As a result, a higher anode current density can be sustained with a smaller amount of anode catalyst. These improvements can translate into a smaller fuel-cell system and higher efficiency of conversion. Some background information is helpful for understanding the benefit afforded by the addition of hydrous ruthenium oxide. The anode of a direct methanol fuel cell sustains the electro-oxidation of methanol to carbon dioxide in the reaction CH3OH + H2O--->CO2 + 6H(+) + 6e(-). An electrocatalyst is needed to enable this reaction to occur. The catalyst that offers the highest activity is an alloy of approximately equal numbers of atoms of the noble metals platinum and ruthenium. The anode is made of a composite material that includes high-surface-area Pt/Ru alloy particles and a proton-conducting ionomeric material. This composite is usually deposited onto a polymer-electrolyte (proton-conducting) membrane and onto an anode gas-diffusion/current-collector sheet that is subsequently bonded to the proton-conducting membrane by hot pressing. Heretofore, the areal density of noble-metal catalyst typically needed for high performance has been about 8 mg/cm2. However, not all of the catalyst has been utilized in the catalyzed electro-oxidation reaction. Increasing the degree of utilization of the catalyst would make it possible to improve the performance of the cell for a given catalyst loading and/or reduce the catalyst loading (thereby reducing the cost of the cell). The use of carbon and possibly other electronic conductors in the catalyst layer has been proposed for increasing the utilization of the

  12. Effects of anodal tDCS on lumbar propriospinal system in healthy subjects.

    PubMed

    Roche, N; Lackmy, A; Achache, V; Bussel, B; Katz, R

    2012-05-01

    It has recently been shown that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) (1) can modify lumbar spinal network excitability and (2) decreases cervical propriospinal system excitability. Thus the purpose of this series of experiments was to determine if anodal tDCS applied over the leg motor cortex area induces changes in lumbar propriospinal system excitability. To that end, the effects of anodal tDCS and sham tDCS on group I and group II propriospinal facilitation of quadriceps motoneurones were studied in healthy subjects. Common peroneal nerve group I and group II quadriceps H-reflex facilitation was assessed in 15 healthy subjects in two randomised conditions: anodal tDCS condition and sham tDCS condition. Recordings were performed before, during and after the end of the cortical stimulation. Compared to sham, anodal tDCS decreases significantly CPN-induced group I and II quadriceps H-reflex facilitation during and also after the end of the cortical stimulation. Anodal tDCS induces (1) modulation of lumbar propriospinal system excitability (2) post-effects on spinal network. These results open a new vista to regulate propriospinal lumbar system excitability in patients and suggest that anodal tDCS would be interesting for neuro-rehabilitation of patients with central nervous system lesions. Copyright © 2011 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Mechanisms of anode power deposition in a low pressure free burning arc

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Soulas, George C.; Myers, Roger M.

    1994-01-01

    Anode power deposition is a dominant power loss mechanism for arc jets and MPD thrusters. In this study, a free burning arc experiment was operated at pressures and current densities similar to those in arc jets and MPD thrusters in an attempt to identify the physics controlling this loss mechanism. Use of a free burning arc allowed for the isolation of independent variables controlling anode power deposition and provided a convenient and flexible way to cover a broad range of currents, anode surface pressures, and applied magnetic field strengths and orientations using an argon gas. Test results showed that anode power deposition decreased with increasing anode surface pressure up to 6.7 Pa (0.05 torr) and then became insensitive to pressure. Anode power increased with increasing arc current while the electron number density near the anode surface increased linearity. Anode power also increased with increasing applied magnetic field strength due to an increasing anode fall voltage. Applied magnetic field orientation had an effect only at high currents and low anode surface pressures, where anode power decreased when applied field lines intercepted the anode surface. The results demonstrated that anode power deposition was dominated by the current carrying electrons and that the anode fall voltage was the largest contributor. Furthermore, the results showed that anode power deposition can be reduced by operating at increased anode pressures, reduced arc currents, and applied magnetic field strengths and with magnetic field lines intercepting the anode.

  14. Response variability of different anodal transcranial direct current stimulation intensities across multiple sessions.

    PubMed

    Ammann, Claudia; Lindquist, Martin A; Celnik, Pablo A

    It is well known that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is capable of modulating corticomotor excitability. However, a source of growing concern has been the observed inter- and intra-individual variability of tDCS-responses. Recent studies have assessed whether individuals respond in a predictable manner across repeated sessions of anodal tDCS (atDCS). The findings of these investigations have been inconsistent, and their methods have some limitations (i.e. lack of sham condition or testing only one tDCS intensity). To study inter- and intra-individual variability of atDCS effects at two different intensities on primary motor cortex (M1) excitability. Twelve subjects participated in a crossover study testing 7-min atDCS over M1 in three separate conditions (2 mA, 1 mA, sham) each repeated three times separated by 48 h. Motor evoked potentials were recorded before and after stimulation (up to 30min). Time of testing was maintained consistent within participants. To estimate the reliability of tDCS effects across sessions, we calculated the Intra-class Correlation Coefficient (ICC). AtDCS at 2 mA, but not 1 mA, significantly increased cortical excitability at the group level in all sessions. The overall ICC revealed fair to high reliability of tDCS effects for multiple sessions. Given that the distribution of responses showed important variability in the sham condition, we established a Sham Variability-Based Threshold to classify responses and to track individual changes across sessions. Using this threshold an intra-individual consistent response pattern was then observed only for the 2 mA condition. 2 mA anodal tDCS results in consistent intra- and inter-individual increases of M1 excitability. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. The corrosion protection of aluminum by various anodizing treatments

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Danford, Merlin D.

    1989-01-01

    Corrosion protection to 6061-T6 aluminum, afforded by both teflon-impregnated anodized coats (Polylube and Tufram) and hard-anodized coats (water sealed and dichromate sealed), was studied at both pH 5.5 and pH 9.5, with an exposure period of 28 days in 3.5 percent NaCl solution (25 C) for each specimen. In general, corrosion protection for all specimens was better at pH 9.5 than at pH 5.5. Protection by a Tufram coat proved superior to that afforded by Polylube at each pH, with corrosion protection by the hard-anodized, water-sealed coat at pH 9.5 providing the best protection. Electrochemical work in each case was corroborated by microscopic examination of the coats after exposure. Corrosion protection by Tufram at pH 9.5 was most comparable to that of the hard-anodized samples, although pitting and some cracking of the coat did occur.

  16. Electrochemical Degradation of Rhodamine B over Ti/SnO2-Sb Electrode.

    PubMed

    Maharana, Dusmant; Niu, Junfeng; Gao, Ding; Xu, Zesheng; Shi, Jianghong

    2015-04-01

    Electrochemical degradation of rhodamine B (C28H31ClN2O3) over Ti/SnO2-Sb anode was investigated in a rectangular cell. The degradation reaction follows pseudo-first-order kinetics. The degradation efficiency of rhodamine B attained >90.0% after 20 minutes of electrolysis at initial concentrations of 5 to 200 mg/L at a constant current density of 20 mA/cm2 with a 10 mmol/L Na2SO4 supporting electrolyte solution. Rhodamine B (50 mg/L) degradation and total organic carbon (TOC) removal ratio achieved 99.9 and 86.7%, respectively, at the optimal conditions after 30 minutes of electrolysis. The results showed that the energy efficiency of rhodamine B (50 mg/L) degradation at the optimal current densities from 2 to 30 mA/cm2 were 23.2 to 84.6 Wh/L, whereas the electrolysis time for 90% degradation of rhodamine B with Ti/SnO2-Sb anode was 36.6 and 7.3 minutes, respectively. The electrochemical method can be an advisable option for the treatment of dyes such as rhodamine B in wastewater.

  17. Si Oxidation and H 2 Gassing During Aqueous Slurry Preparation for Li-Ion Battery Anodes

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

    Hays, Kevin A.; Key, Baris; Li, Jianlin

    Si has the possibility to greatly increase the energy density of Li-ion battery anodes, though it is not without its problems. One issue often overlooked is the decomposition of Si during large scale slurry formulation and battery fabrication. Here, we investigate the mechanism of H 2 production to understand the role of different slurry components and their impact on the Si oxidation and surface chemistry. Mass spectrometry and in situ pressure monitoring identifies that carbon black plays a major role in promoting the oxidation of Si and generation of H 2. Si oxidation also occurs through atmospheric O 2 consumption.more » Both pathways, along with solvent choice, impact the surface silanol chemistry, as analyzed by 1H– 29Si cross-polarization magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS NMR) and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR FTIR). An understanding of the oxidation of Si, during slurry processing, provides a pathway toward improving the manufacturing of Si based anodes by maximizing its capacity and minimizing safety hazards.« less

  18. Si Oxidation and H 2 Gassing During Aqueous Slurry Preparation for Li-Ion Battery Anodes

    DOE PAGES

    Hays, Kevin A.; Key, Baris; Li, Jianlin; ...

    2018-04-24

    Si has the possibility to greatly increase the energy density of Li-ion battery anodes, though it is not without its problems. One issue often overlooked is the decomposition of Si during large scale slurry formulation and battery fabrication. Here, we investigate the mechanism of H 2 production to understand the role of different slurry components and their impact on the Si oxidation and surface chemistry. Mass spectrometry and in situ pressure monitoring identifies that carbon black plays a major role in promoting the oxidation of Si and generation of H 2. Si oxidation also occurs through atmospheric O 2 consumption.more » Both pathways, along with solvent choice, impact the surface silanol chemistry, as analyzed by 1H– 29Si cross-polarization magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS NMR) and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR FTIR). An understanding of the oxidation of Si, during slurry processing, provides a pathway toward improving the manufacturing of Si based anodes by maximizing its capacity and minimizing safety hazards.« less

  19. Simulator of Non-homogenous Alumina and Current Distribution in an Aluminum Electrolysis Cell to Predict Low-Voltage Anode Effects

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dion, Lukas; Kiss, László I.; Poncsák, Sándor; Lagacé, Charles-Luc

    2018-04-01

    Perfluorocarbons are important contributors to aluminum production greenhouse gas inventories. Tetrafluoromethane and hexafluoroethane are produced in the electrolysis process when a harmful event called anode effect occurs in the cell. This incident is strongly related to the lack of alumina and the current distribution in the cell and can be classified into two categories: high-voltage and low-voltage anode effects. The latter is hard to detect during the normal electrolysis process and, therefore, new tools are necessary to predict this event and minimize its occurrence. This paper discusses a new approach to model the alumina distribution behavior in an electrolysis cell by dividing the electrolytic bath into non-homogenous concentration zones using discrete elements. The different mechanisms related to the alumina distribution are discussed in detail. Moreover, with a detailed electrical model, it is possible to calculate the current distribution among the different anodic assemblies. With this information, the model can evaluate if low-voltage emissions are likely to be present under the simulated conditions. Using the simulator will help the understanding of the role of the alumina distribution which, in turn, will improve the cell energy consumption and stability while reducing the occurrence of high- and low-voltage anode effects.

  20. Patient-conducted anodal transcranial direct current stimulation of the motor cortex alleviates pain in trigeminal neuralgia

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) of the primary motor cortex has been shown to modulate pain and trigeminal nociceptive processing. Methods Ten patients with classical trigeminal neuralgia (TN) were stimulated daily for 20 minutes over two weeks using anodal (1 mA) or sham tDCS over the primary motor cortex (M1) in a randomized double-blind cross-over design. Primary outcome variable was pain intensity on a verbal rating scale (VRS 0–10). VRS and attack frequency were assessed for one month before, during and after tDCS. The impact on trigeminal pain processing was assessed with pain-related evoked potentials (PREP) and the nociceptive blink reflex (nBR) following electrical stimulation on both sides of the forehead before and after tDCS. Results Anodal tDCS reduced pain intensity significantly after two weeks of treatment. The attack frequency reduction was not significant. PREP showed an increased N2 latency and decreased peak-to-peak amplitude after anodal tDCS. No severe adverse events were reported. Conclusion Anodal tDCS over two weeks ameliorates intensity of pain in TN. It may become a valuable treatment option for patients unresponsive to conventional treatment. PMID:25424567

  1. Porous graphene current collectors filled with silicon as high-performance lithium battery anode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ababtain, Khalid; Babu, Ganguli; Susarla, Sandhya; Gullapalli, Hemtej; Masurkar, Nirul; Ajayan, Pulickel M.; Mohana Reddy Arava, Leela

    2018-01-01

    Despite the massive success for high energy density, the charge-discharge current rate performance of the lithium-ion batteries are still a major concern owing to inherent sluggish Li-ion kinetics. Herein, we demonstrate three-dimensional porous electrodes engineered on highly conductive graphene current collectors to enhance the Li-ion conductivity, thereby c-rate performance. Such high-quality graphene provides surface area for loading a large amount of electrochemically active material and strong adhesion with the electrode. The synergism of porous structure and conductive current collector enables us to realize high-performance new-generation silicon anodes with a high energy density of 1.8 mAh cm-2. Further, silicon electrodes revealed with excellent current rates up to 5C with a capacity of 0.37 mAh cm-2 for 500 nm planar thickness.

  2. Effects of anodizing conditions and annealing temperature on the morphology and crystalline structure of anodic oxide layers grown on iron

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pawlik, Anna; Hnida, Katarzyna; Socha, Robert P.; Wiercigroch, Ewelina; Małek, Kamilla; Sulka, Grzegorz D.

    2017-12-01

    Anodic iron oxide layers were formed by anodization of the iron foil in an ethylene glycol-based electrolyte containing 0.2 M NH4F and 0.5 M H2O at 40 V for 1 h. The anodizing conditions such as electrolyte composition and applied potential were optimized. In order to examine the influence of electrolyte stirring and applied magnetic field, the anodic samples were prepared under the dynamic and static conditions in the presence or absence of magnetic field. It was shown that ordered iron oxide nanopore arrays could be obtained at lower anodizing temperatures (10 and 20 °C) at the static conditions without the magnetic field or at the dynamic conditions with the applied magnetic field. Since the as-prepared anodic layers are amorphous in nature, the samples were annealed in air at different temperatures (200-500 °C) for a fixed duration of time (1 h). The morphology and crystal phases developed after anodization and subsequent annealing were characterized using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy. The results proved that the annealing process transforms the amorphous layer into magnetite and hematite phases. In addition, the heat treatment results in a substantial decrease in the fluorine content and increase in the oxygen content.

  3. Phase III Advanced Anodes and Cathodes Utilized in Energy Efficient Aluminum Production Cells

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

    R.A. Christini; R.K. Dawless; S.P. Ray

    2001-11-05

    During Phase I of the present program, Alcoa developed a commercial cell concept that has been estimated to save 30% of the energy required for aluminum smelting. Phase ii involved the construction of a pilot facility and operation of two pilots. Phase iii of the Advanced Anodes and Cathodes Program was aimed at bench experiments to permit the resolution of certain questions to be followed by three pilot cells. All of the milestones related to materials, in particular metal purity, were attained with distinct improvements over work in previous phases of the program. NiO additions to the ceramic phase andmore » Ag additions to the Cu metal phase of the cermet improved corrosion resistance sufficiently that the bench scale pencil anodes met the purity milestones. Some excellent metal purity results have been obtained with anodes of the following composition: Further improvements in anode material composition appear to be dependent on a better understanding of oxide solubilities in molten cryolite. For that reason, work was commissioned with an outside consultant to model the MeO - cryolite systems. That work has led to a better understanding of which oxides can be used to substitute into the NiO-Fe2O3 ceramic phase to stabilize the ferrites and reduce their solubility in molten cryolite. An extensive number of vertical plate bench electrolysis cells were run to try to find conditions where high current efficiencies could be attained. TiB2-G plates were very inconsistent and led to poor wetting and drainage. Pure TiB2 did produce good current efficiencies at small overlaps (shadowing) between the anodes and cathodes. This bench work with vertical plate anodes and cathodes reinforced the importance of good cathode wetting to attain high current efficiencies. Because of those conclusions, new wetting work was commissioned and became a major component of the research during the third year of Phase III. While significant progress was made in several areas, much work

  4. Effect of polymer binders in anode catalyst layer on performance of alkaline direct ethanol fuel cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Y. S.; Zhao, T. S.; Liang, Z. X.

    In preparing low-temperature fuel cell electrodes, a polymer binder is essential to bind discrete catalyst particles to form a porous catalyst layer that simultaneously facilitates the transfer of ions, electrons, and reactants/products. For two types of polymer binder, namely, an A3-an anion conducting ionomer and a PTFE-a neutral polymer, an investigation is made of the effect of the content of each binder in the anode catalyst layer on the performance of an alkaline direct ethanol fuel cell (DEFC) with an anion-exchange membrane and non-platinum (non-Pt) catalysts. Experiments are performed by feeding either ethanol (C 2H 5OH) solution or ethanol-potassium hydroxide (C 2H 5OH-KOH) solution. The experimental results for the case of feeding C 2H 5OH solution without added KOH indicate that the cell performance varies with the A3 ionomer content in the anode catalyst layer, and a content of 10 wt.% exhibits the best performance. When feeding C 2H 5OH-KOH solution, the results show that: (i) in the region of low current density, the best performance is achieved for a membrane electrode assembly without any binder in the anode catalyst layer; (ii) in the region of high current density, the performance is improved with incorporation of PTFE binder in the anode catalyst layer; (iii) the PTFE binder yields better performance than does the A3 binder.

  5. Anode film formation and control

    DOEpatents

    Koski, Oscar; Marschman, Steven C.

    1990-01-01

    A protective film is created about the anode within a cryolite-based electrolyte during electrolytic production of aluminum from alumina. The film function to minimize corrosion of the anode by the cryolitic electrolyte and thereby extend the life of the anode. Various operating parameters of the electrolytic process are controlled to maintain the protective film about the anode in a protective state throughout the electrolytic reduction of alumina. Such parameters include electrolyte temperature, electrolyte ratio, current density, and Al.sub.2 O.sub.3 concentration. An apparatus is also disclosed to enable identification of the onset of anode corrosion due to disruption of the film to provide real time information regarding the state of the film.

  6. Anode film formation and control

    DOEpatents

    Koski, O.; Marschman, S.C.

    1990-05-01

    A protective film is created about the anode within a cryolite-based electrolyte during electrolytic production of aluminum from alumina. The film functions to minimize corrosion of the anode by the cryolitic electrolyte and thereby extend the life of the anode. Various operating parameters of the electrolytic process are controlled to maintain the protective film about the anode in a protective state throughout the electrolytic reduction of alumina. Such parameters include electrolyte temperature, electrolyte ratio, current density, and Al[sub 2]O[sub 3] concentration. An apparatus is also disclosed to enable identification of the onset of anode corrosion due to disruption of the film to provide real time information regarding the state of the film. 3 figs.

  7. Maximization of current efficiency for organic pollutants oxidation at BDD, Ti/SnO2-Sb/PbO2, and Ti/SnO2-Sb anodes.

    PubMed

    Xing, Xuan; Ni, Jinren; Zhu, Xiuping; Jiang, Yi; Xia, Jianxin

    2018-08-01

    Whereas electrochemical oxidation is noted for its ability to degrade bio-refractory organics, it has also been incorrectly criticized for excessive energy consumption. The present paper rectifies this misunderstanding by demonstrating that the energy actually consumed in the degradation process is much less than that wasted in the side reaction of oxygen evolution. To minimize the side reaction, the possible highest instantaneous current efficiency (PHICE) for electrochemical oxidation of phenol at Boron-doped Diamond (BDD), Ti/SnO 2 -Sb/PbO 2 (PbO 2 ), and Ti/SnO 2 -Sb (SnO 2 ) anodes has been investigated systematically, and found to reach almost 100% at the BDD anode compared with 23% at the PbO 2 anode and 9% at the SnO 2 anode. The significant discrepancy between PHICE values at the various anodes is interpreted in terms of different existing forms of hydroxyl radicals. For each anode system, the PHICEs are maintained experimentally using a computer-controlled exponential decay current mode throughout the electrolysis process. For applications, the minimized energy consumption is predicted by response surface methodology, and demonstrated for the BDD anode system. Consequently, almost 100% current efficiency is achieved (for a relatively meagre energy consumption of 17.2 kWh kgCOD -1 ) along with excellent COD degradation efficiency by optimizing the initial current density, flow rate, electrolysis time, and exponential decay constant. Compared with galvanostatic conditions, over 70% of the energy is saved in the present study, thus demonstrating the great potential of electrochemical oxidation for practical applications. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  8. Electrochemical treatment of pharmaceutical wastewater by combining anodic oxidation with ozonation.

    PubMed

    Menapace, Hannes M; Diaz, Nicolas; Weiss, Stefan

    2008-07-01

    Wastewater effluents from sewage treatment plants (STP) are important point sources for residues of pharmaceuticals and complexing agents in the aquatic environment. For this reason a research project, which started in December 2006, was established to eliminate pharmaceutical substances and complexing agents found in wastewater as micropollutants. For the treatment process a combination of anodic oxidation by boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrodes and ozonation is examined and presented. For the ozone production a non-conventional, separate reactor was used, in which ozone was generated by electrolysis with diamond electrodes For the determination of the achievable remediation rates four complexing agents (e.g., EDTA, NTA) and eight pharmaceutical substances (e.g., diazepam, carbamazepin) were analyzed in several test runs under different conditions (varied flux, varied current density for the diamond electrode and the ozone producing electrode of the ozone generator, different packing materials for the column in the ozone injection system). The flowrates of the treated water samples were varied from 3 L/h up to 26 L/h. For the anodic oxidation the influence of the current density was examined in the range between 22.7 and 45.5 mA/cm(2), for the ozone producing reactor two densities (1.8 a/cm(2) and 2.0 A/cm(2)) were tested. Matrix effects were investigated by test runs with samples from the effluent of an STP and synthetic waste water. Therefore the impact of the organic material in the samples could be determined by the comparison of the redox potential and the achievable elimination rates of the investigated substances. Comparing both technologies anodic oxidation seems to be superior to ozonation in each investigated area. With the used technology of anodic oxidation elimination rates up to 99% were reached for the investigated pharmaceutical substances at a current density of 45.5 mA/cm(2) and a maximum sample flux of 26 L/h.

  9. Additive-free thick graphene film as an anode material for flexible lithium-ion batteries.

    PubMed

    Rana, Kuldeep; Kim, Seong Dae; Ahn, Jong-Hyun

    2015-04-28

    This work demonstrates a simple route to develop mechanically flexible electrodes for Li-ion batteries (LIBs) that are usable as lightweight effective conducting networks for both cathodes and anodes. Removing electrochemically dead elements, such as binders, conducting agents and metallic current collectors, from the battery components will allow remarkable progress in this area. To investigate the feasibility of using thick, additive-free graphene films as anodes for flexible LIBs, we have synthesized and tested thick, additive-free, freestanding graphene films as anodes, first in a coin cell and further in a flexible full cell. As an anode material in a half cell, it showed a discharge capacity of about 350 mA h g(-1) and maintained nearly this capacity over 50 cycles at various current rates. This film was also tested as an anode material in a full cell with a LiCoO2 cathode and showed good electrochemical performance. Because the graphene-based flexible film showed good performance in half- and full coin cells, we used this film as a flexible anode for flexible LIBs. No conducting agent or binder was used in the anode side, which helped in realizing the flexible LIBs. Using this, we demonstrate a thin, lightweight and flexible lithium ion battery with good electrochemical performance in both its flat and bent states.

  10. Effect of anode oxide films on glow discharge spatial structure

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gulamov, E. N.; Islamov, R. S.; Zabelin, Alexandre M.

    1994-04-01

    A self-consistent calculation of voltage fall on the anode film as a function of its resistance has been performed in the presence of anode current spots under elevated-pressure glow discharge in nitrogen and N2:He equals 1:1 mixture. It has been shown that resistance of anode oxide films in industrial lasers with continuous copper anode can reach the values when total suppression of anode current structures takes place.

  11. Improvement in Direct Methanol Fuel Cell Performance by Treating the Anode at High Anodic Potential

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-01-01

    stripping voltammetryReorganization of Na? on ionomer Prabhuram Joghee, Svitlana Pylypenko, Kevin Wood , April Corpuz, Guido Bender, Huyen N. Dinh...methanol fuel cell performance by treating the anode at high anodic potential Prabhuram Joghee a,*, Svitlana Pylypenko a,b, Kevin Wood a, April Corpuz c...References [1] B. McNicol, D.A.J. Rand, K.R. Williams, J. Power Sources 83 (1999) 15e31. [2] K. Scot , W.M. Taama, J. Power Sources 79 (1999) 43e59. [3] P

  12. Degradation of thiamethoxam by the synergetic effect between anodic oxidation and Fenton reactions.

    PubMed

    Meijide, J; Gómez, J; Pazos, M; Sanromán, M A

    2016-12-05

    In this work, a comparative study using anodic oxidation, Fenton and electro-Fenton treatments was performed in order to determine the synergic effect for the removal of thiamethoxan. The results determined that electro-Fenton process showed high efficiency in comparison with Fenton or anodic oxidation. After that, this hybrid process was optimized and the influence of iron catalyst concentration and applied current intensity on the degradation and mineralization were evaluated. Degradation profiles were monitored by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) being satisfactorily described by pseudo-first order kinetic model. At the optimal experimental conditions (300mA and 0.2mM Fe(+2)), the complete degradation of thiamethoxam was achieved after 10min. On the other hand, mineralization of thiamethoxam was monitored by total organic carbon (TOC) decay reaching more than 92% of TOC removal after 8h. Furthermore, a plausible mineralization pathway for the thiamethoxam degradation was proposed based on the identification of by-products such as aromatic intermediates, carboxylic acids and inorganic ions released throughout electro-Fenton process. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Uniform Li deposition regulated via three-dimensional polyvinyl alcohol nanofiber networks for effective Li metal anodes.

    PubMed

    Wang, Gang; Xiong, Xunhui; Lin, Zhihua; Zheng, Jie; Fenghua, Zheng; Li, Youpeng; Liu, Yanzhen; Yang, Chenghao; Tang, Yiwei; Liu, Meilin

    2018-05-31

    Lithium metal anodes are considered to be the most promising anode material for next-generation advanced energy storage devices due to their high reversible capacity and extremely low anode potential. Nevertheless, the formation of dendritic Li, induced by the repeated breaking and repairing of solid electrolyte interphase layers, always causes poor cycling performance and low coulombic efficiency, as well as serious safety problems, which have hindered the practical application of Li anodes for a long time. Herein, we design an electrode by covering a polyvinyl alcohol layer with a three-dimensional nanofiber network structure through an electrospinning technique. The polar functional groups on the surface of the polymer nanofibers can restrict the deposition of Li along the fibers and regulate the deposition of Li uniformly in the voids between the nanofibers. Owing to the structural features of the polymer, the modified Li|Cu electrode displays excellent cycle stability, with a high coulombic efficiency of 98.6% after 200 cycles at a current density of 1 mA cm-2 under a deposition capacity of 1 mA h cm-2, whilst the symmetric cell using the polymer modified Li anode shows stable cycling with a low hysteresis voltage of ∼80 mV over 600 h at a current density of 5 mA cm-2.

  14. Cobalt-based metal organic framework with superior lithium anodic performance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hu, Xiaoshi; Hu, Huiping; Li, Chao; Li, Tian; Lou, Xiaobing; Chen, Qun; Hu, Bingwen

    2016-10-01

    The reversible charging of a Co-1,4-benzenedicarboxylate MOF (Co-BDC MOF) prepared via an one-pot solvothermal method was studied for use as the anode in a Li-ion cell. It was found that this MOF anode provides high reversible capacities (1090 and 611 mA h g-1 at current densities of 0.2 and 1 A g-1, respectively), and an impressive rate performance. Such an outstanding Li-ion storage property has not been reported previously for the LIB anodes within the MOFs category. Ex-situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and infrared spectroscopy (IR) studies of this material at different state of charge suggest that cobalt stays at Co2+ state during discharge/charge process, so that in this case Li+ may be inserted into the organic moiety without the direct participation of cobalt ions.

  15. Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation of right temporoparietal area inhibits self-recognition.

    PubMed

    Payne, Sophie; Tsakiris, Manos

    2017-02-01

    Self-other discrimination is a crucial mechanism for social cognition. Neuroimaging and neurostimulation research has pointed to the involvement of the right temporoparietal region in a variety of self-other discrimination tasks. Although repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation over the right temporoparietal area has been shown to disrupt self-other discrimination in face-recognition tasks, no research has investigated the effect of increasing the cortical excitability in this region on self-other face discrimination. Here we used transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to investigate changes in self-other discrimination with a video-morphing task in which the participant's face morphed into, or out of, a familiar other's face. The task was performed before and after 20 min of tDCS targeting the right temporoparietal area (anodal, cathodal, or sham stimulation). Differences in task performance following stimulation were taken to indicate a change in self-other discrimination. Following anodal stimulation only, we observed a significant increase in the amount of self-face needed to distinguish between self and other. The findings are discussed in relation to the control of self and other representations and to domain-general theories of social cognition.

  16. Leakage current reduction of vertical GaN junction barrier Schottky diodes using dual-anode process

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hayashida, Tetsuro; Nanjo, Takuma; Furukawa, Akihiko; Watahiki, Tatsuro; Yamamuka, Mikio

    2018-04-01

    The origin of the leakage current of a trench-type vertical GaN diode was discussed. We found that the edge of p-GaN is the main leakage spot. To reduce the reverse leakage current at the edge of p-GaN, a dual-anode process was proposed. As a result, the reverse blocking voltage defined at the leakage current density of 1 mA/cm2 of a vertical GaN junction barrier Schottky (JBS) diode was improved from 780 to 1,190 V, which is the highest value ever reported for vertical GaN Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs).

  17. Metallic Sn‐Based Anode Materials: Application in High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion and Sodium‐Ion Batteries

    PubMed Central

    Ying, Hangjun

    2017-01-01

    Abstract With the fast‐growing demand for green and safe energy sources, rechargeable ion batteries have gradually occupied the major current market of energy storage devices due to their advantages of high capacities, long cycling life, superior rate ability, and so on. Metallic Sn‐based anodes are perceived as one of the most promising alternatives to the conventional graphite anode and have attracted great attention due to the high theoretical capacities of Sn in both lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) (994 mA h g−1) and sodium‐ion batteries (847 mA h g−1). Though Sony has used Sn–Co–C nanocomposites as its commercial LIB anodes, to develop even better batteries using metallic Sn‐based anodes there are still two main obstacles that must be overcome: poor cycling stability and low coulombic efficiency. In this review, the latest and most outstanding developments in metallic Sn‐based anodes for LIBs and SIBs are summarized. And it covers the modification strategies including size control, alloying, and structure design to effectually improve the electrochemical properties. The superiorities and limitations are analyzed and discussed, aiming to provide an in‐depth understanding of the theoretical works and practical developments of metallic Sn‐based anode materials. PMID:29201624

  18. Metallic Sn-Based Anode Materials: Application in High-Performance Lithium-Ion and Sodium-Ion Batteries.

    PubMed

    Ying, Hangjun; Han, Wei-Qiang

    2017-11-01

    With the fast-growing demand for green and safe energy sources, rechargeable ion batteries have gradually occupied the major current market of energy storage devices due to their advantages of high capacities, long cycling life, superior rate ability, and so on. Metallic Sn-based anodes are perceived as one of the most promising alternatives to the conventional graphite anode and have attracted great attention due to the high theoretical capacities of Sn in both lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) (994 mA h g -1 ) and sodium-ion batteries (847 mA h g -1 ). Though Sony has used Sn-Co-C nanocomposites as its commercial LIB anodes, to develop even better batteries using metallic Sn-based anodes there are still two main obstacles that must be overcome: poor cycling stability and low coulombic efficiency. In this review, the latest and most outstanding developments in metallic Sn-based anodes for LIBs and SIBs are summarized. And it covers the modification strategies including size control, alloying, and structure design to effectually improve the electrochemical properties. The superiorities and limitations are analyzed and discussed, aiming to provide an in-depth understanding of the theoretical works and practical developments of metallic Sn-based anode materials.

  19. Characterization and performance of anodic mixed culture biofilms in submersed microbial fuel cells.

    PubMed

    Saba, Beenish; Christy, Ann D; Yu, Zhongtang; Co, Anne C; Islam, Rafiq; Tuovinen, Olli H

    2017-02-01

    Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) were designed for laboratory scale experiments to study electroactive biofilms in anodic chambers. Anodic biofilms and current generation during biofilm growth were examined using single chambered MFCs submersed in algal catholyte. A culture of the marine green alga Nanochloropsis salina was used as a biocatholyte, and a rumen fluid microbiota was the anodic chamber inoculum. Electrical impedance spectroscopy was performed under varying external resistance once a week to identify mass transport limitations at the biofilm-electrolyte interface during the four-week experiment. The power generation increased from 249 to 461mWm -2 during the time course. Confocal laser scanning microscopy imaging showed that the depth of the bacterial biofilm on the anode was about 65μm. There were more viable bacteria on the biofilm surface and near the biofilm-electrolyte interface as compared to those close to the anode surface. The results suggest that biofilm growth on the anode creates a conductive layer, which can help overcome mass transport limitations in MFCs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Generation of Low-Energy High-Current Electron Beams in Plasma-Anode Electron Guns

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ozur, G. E.; Proskurovsky, D. I.

    2018-01-01

    This paper is a review of studies on the generation of low-energy high-current electron beams in electron guns with a plasma anode and an explosive-emission cathode. The problems related to the initiation of explosive electron emission under plasma and the formation and transport of high-current electron beams in plasma-filled systems are discussed consecutively. Considerable attention is given to the nonstationary effects that occur in the space charge layers of plasma. Emphasis is also placed on the problem of providing a uniform energy density distribution over the beam cross section, which is of critical importance in using electron beams of this type for surface treatment of materials. Examples of facilities based on low-energy high-current electron beam sources are presented and their applications in materials science and practice are discussed.

  1. Novel structure formation at the bottom surface of porous anodic alumina fabricated by single step anodization process.

    PubMed

    Ali, Ghafar; Ahmad, Maqsood; Akhter, Javed Iqbal; Maqbool, Muhammad; Cho, Sung Oh

    2010-08-01

    A simple approach for the growth of long-range highly ordered nanoporous anodic alumina film in H(2)SO(4) electrolyte through a single step anodization without any additional pre-anodizing procedure is reported. Free-standing porous anodic alumina film of 180 microm thickness with through hole morphology was obtained. A simple and single step process was used for the detachment of alumina from aluminum substrate. The effect of anodizing conditions, such as anodizing voltage and time on the pore diameter and pore ordering is discussed. The metal/oxide and oxide/electrolyte interfaces were examined by high resolution scanning transmission electron microscope. The arrangement of pores on metal/oxide interface was well ordered with smaller diameters than that of the oxide/electrolyte interface. The inter-pore distance was larger in metal/oxide interface as compared to the oxide/electrolyte interface. The size of the ordered domain was found to depend strongly upon anodizing voltage and time. (c) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. In situ Van der Pauw measurements of the Ni/YSZ anode during exposure to syngas with phosphine contaminant

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Demircan, Oktay; Xu, Chunchuan; Zondlo, John; Finklea, Harry O.

    Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) represent an option to provide a bridging technology for energy conversion (coal syngas) as well as a long-term technology (hydrogen from biomass). Whether the fuel is coal syngas or hydrogen from biomass, the effect of impurities on the performance of the anode is a vital question. The anode resistivity during SOFC operation with phosphine-contaminated syngas was studied using the in situ Van der Pauw method. Commercial anode-supported solid oxide fuel cells (Ni/YSZ composite anodes, YSZ electrolytes) were exposed to a synthetic coal syngas mixture (H 2, H 2O, CO, and CO 2) at a constant current and their performance evaluated periodically with electrochemical methods (cyclic voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy, and polarization curves). In one test, after 170 h of phosphine exposure, a significant degradation of cell performance (loss of cell voltage, increase of series resistance and increase of polarization resistance) was evident. The rate of voltage loss was 1.4 mV h -1. The resistivity measurements on Ni/YSZ anode by the in situ Van der Pauw method showed that there were no significant changes in anode resistivity both under clean syngas and syngas with 10 ppm PH 3. XRD analysis suggested that Ni 5P 2 and P 2O 5 are two compounds accumulated on the anode. XPS studies provided support for the presence of two phosphorus phases with different oxidation states on the external anode surface. Phosphorus, in a positive oxidation state, was observed in the anode active layer. Based on these observations, the effect of 10 ppm phosphine impurity (or its reaction products with coal syngas) is assigned to the loss of performance of the Ni/YSZ active layer next to the electrolyte, and not to any changes in the thick Ni/YSZ support layer.

  3. B7-H4 as a protective shield for pancreatic islet beta cells.

    PubMed

    Sun, Annika C; Ou, Dawei; Luciani, Dan S; Warnock, Garth L

    2014-12-15

    Auto- and alloreactive T cells are major culprits that damage β-cells in type 1 diabetes (T1D) and islet transplantation. Current immunosuppressive drugs can alleviate immune-mediated attacks on islets. T cell co-stimulation blockade has shown great promise in autoimmunity and transplantation as it solely targets activated T cells, and therefore avoids toxicity of current immunosuppressive drugs. An attractive approach is offered by the newly-identified negative T cell co-signaling molecule B7-H4 which is expressed in normal human islets, and its expression co-localizes with insulin. A concomitant decrease in B7-H4/insulin co-localization is observed in human type 1 diabetic islets. B7-H4 may play protective roles in the pancreatic islets, preserving their function and survival. In this review we outline the protective effect of B7-H4 in the contexts of T1D, islet cell transplantation, and potentially type 2 diabetes. Current evidence offers encouraging data regarding the role of B7-H4 in reversal of autoimmune diabetes and donor-specific islet allograft tolerance. Additionally, unique expression of B7-H4 may serve as a potential biomarker for the development of T1D. Future studies should continue to focus on the islet-specific effects of B7-H4 with emphasis on mechanistic pathways in order to promote B7-H4 as a potential therapy and cure for T1D.

  4. Behavior of Lithium Metal Anodes under Various Capacity Utilization and High Current Density in Lithium Metal Batteries

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

    Jiao, Shuhong; Zheng, Jianming; Li, Qiuyan

    Lithium (Li) metal batteries (LMBs) are regarded as the most promising power sources for electric vehicles. Besides the Li dendrite growth and low Li Coulombic efficiency, how to well match Li metal anode with a high loading (normally over 3.0 mAh cm-2) cathode is another key challenge to achieve the real high energy density battery. In this work, we systematically investigate the effects of the Li metal capacity usage in each cycle, manipulated by varying the cathode areal loading, on the stability of Li metal anode and the cycling performance of LMBs using the LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 (NMC) cathode and an additive-containingmore » dual-salt/carbonate-solvent electrolyte. It is demonstrated that the Li||NMC cells show decent long-term cycling performance even with NMC areal capacity loading up to ca. 4.0 mAh cm-2 and at a charge current density of 1.0 mA cm-2. The increase of the Li capacity usage in each cycle causes variation in the components of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer on Li metal anode and generates more ionic conductive species from this electrolyte. Further study reveals for the first time that the degradation of Li metal anode and the thickness of SEI layer on Li anode show linear relationship with the areal capacity of NMC cathode. Meanwhile, the expansion rate of consumed Li and the ratio of SEI thickness to NMC areal loading are kept almost the same value with increasing cathode loading, respectively. These fundamental findings provide new perspectives on the rational evaluation of Li metal anode stability for the development of rechargeable LMBs.« less

  5. Interfacial morphology of low-voltage anodic aluminium oxide

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

    Hu, Naiping; Dongcinn, Xuecheng; He, Xueying

    X-ray reflectivity (XRR) and neutron reflectivity (NR), as well as ultra-smallangle X-ray scattering (USAXS), are used to examine the in-plane and surfacenormal structure of anodic films formed on aluminium alloy AA2024 and pure aluminium. Aluminium and alloy films up to 3500 A thick were deposited on Si wafers by electron beam evaporation of ingots. Porous anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) films are formed by polarizing at constant voltage up to 20 V noble to the open circuit potential. The voltage sweet spot (5 V) appropriate for constant-voltage anodization of such thin films was determined for both alloy and pure Al. Inmore » addition, a new concurrent voltage- and current-control protocol was developed to prepare films with larger pores (voltages higher than 5 V), but formed at a controlled current so that pore growth is slow enough to avoid stripping the aluminium substrate layer. USAXS shows that the pore size and interpore spacing are fixed in the first 10 s after initiation of anodization. Pores then grow linearly in time, at constant radius and interpore spacing. Using a combination of XRR and NR, the film density and degree of hydration of the films were determined from the ratio of scattering length densities. Assuming a chemical formula Al2O3xH2O, it was found that x varies from 0.29 for the native oxide to 1.29 for AAO grown at 20 V under concurrent voltage and current control. The average AAO film density of the porous film at the air surface is 2.45 (20) g cm3. The density of the barrier layer at the metal interface is 2.9 (4) g cm3, which indicates that this layer is also quite porous« less

  6. Nanocomposite protective coatings for battery anodes

    DOEpatents

    Lemmon, John P; Xiao, Jie; Liu, Jun

    2014-01-21

    Modified surfaces on metal anodes for batteries can help resist formation of malfunction-inducing surface defects. The modification can include application of a protective nanocomposite coating that can inhibit formation of surface defects. such as dendrites, on the anode during charge/discharge cycles. For example, for anodes having a metal (M'), the protective coating can be characterized by products of chemical or electrochemical dissociation of a nanocomposite containing a polymer and an exfoliated compound (M.sub.a'M.sub.b''X.sub.c). The metal, M', comprises Li, Na, or Zn. The exfoliated compound comprises M' among lamella of M.sub.b''X.sub.c, wherein M'' is Fe, Mo, Ta, W, or V, and X is S, O, or Se.

  7. BiVO4 Fern Architectures: A Competitive Anode for Lithium-Ion Batteries.

    PubMed

    Dubal, Deepak P; Patil, Deepak R; Patil, Santosh S; Munirathnam, N R; Gomez-Romero, Pedro

    2017-09-21

    The development of high-performance anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is currently subject to much interest. In this study, BiVO 4 fern architectures are introduced as a new anode material for LIBs. The BiVO 4 fern shows an excellent reversible capacity of 769 mAh g -1 (ultrahigh volumetric capacity of 3984 mAh cm -3 ) at 0.12 A g -1 with large capacity retention. A LIB full cell is then assembled with a BiVO 4 fern anode and LiFePO 4 (LFP, commercial) as cathode material. The device can achieve a capacity of 140 mAh g -1 at 1C rate, that is, 81 % of the capacity of the cathode and maintained to 104 mAh g -1 at a high rate of 8C, which makes BiVO 4 a promising candidate as a high-energy anode material for LIBs. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  8. In-situ study of the gas-phase composition and temperature of an intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cell anode surface fed by reformate natural gas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Santoni, F.; Silva Mosqueda, D. M.; Pumiglia, D.; Viceconti, E.; Conti, B.; Boigues Muñoz, C.; Bosio, B.; Ulgiati, S.; McPhail, S. J.

    2017-12-01

    An innovative experimental setup is used for in-depth and in-operando characterization of solid oxide fuel cell anodic processes. This work focuses on the heterogeneous reactions taking place on a 121 cm2 anode-supported cell (ASC) running with a H2, CH4, CO2, CO and steam gas mixture as a fuel, using an operating temperature of 923 K. The results have been obtained by analyzing the gas composition and temperature profiles along the anode surface in different conditions: open circuit voltage (OCV) and under two different current densities, 165 mA cm-2 and 330 mA cm-2, corresponding to 27% and 54% of fuel utilization, respectively. The gas composition and temperature analysis results are consistent, allowing to monitor the evolution of the principal chemical and electrochemical reactions along the anode surface. A possible competition between CO2 and H2O in methane internal reforming is shown under OCV condition and low current density values, leading to two different types of methane reforming: Steam Reforming and Dry Reforming. Under a current load of 40 A, the dominance of exothermic reactions leads to a more marked increase of temperature in the portion of the cell close to the inlet revealing that current density is not uniform along the anode surface.

  9. Sandwiched Thin-Film Anode of Chemically Bonded Black Phosphorus/Graphene Hybrid for Lithium-Ion Battery.

    PubMed

    Liu, Hanwen; Zou, Yuqin; Tao, Li; Ma, Zhaoling; Liu, Dongdong; Zhou, Peng; Liu, Hongbo; Wang, Shuangyin

    2017-09-01

    A facile vacuum filtration method is applied for the first time to construct sandwich-structure anode. Two layers of graphene stacks sandwich a composite of black phosphorus (BP), which not only protect BP from quickly degenerating but also serve as current collector instead of copper foil. The BP composite, reduced graphene oxide coated on BP via chemical bonding, is simply synthesized by solvothermal reaction at 140 °C. The sandwiched film anode used for lithium-ion battery exhibits reversible capacities of 1401 mAh g -1 during the 200th cycle at current density of 100 mA g -1 indicating superior cycle performance. Besides, this facile vacuum filtration method may also be available for other anode material with well dispersion in N-methyl pyrrolidone (NMP). © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  10. Novel Conjugated Ladder-Structured Oligomer Anode with High Lithium Storage and Long Cycling Capability.

    PubMed

    Xie, Jian; Rui, Xianhong; Gu, Peiyang; Wu, Jiansheng; Xu, Zhichuan J; Yan, Qingyu; Zhang, Qichun

    2016-07-06

    Herein we report the development of nanostructured poly(1,4-dihydro-11H-pyrazino[2',3':3,4]cyclopenta[1,2-b]quinoxalin-11-one) (PPCQ), a novel conjugated ladderlike oligomer with the presence of a rich amount of heteroatoms, as the anode material. Beyond its remarkable lithium storage of 972 mAh g(-1) after 120 cycles, the superior cycle life and stable capacity performance of 489 mAh g(-1) revealed by ultralong testing of 1000 cycles (with an average Coulombic efficiency 99.8%) at a high current density of 2.5 A g(-1) indicate its excellent electrochemical stability to be promisingly applied for high-performance lithium-ion batteries (LIBs).

  11. A biohydrogen fuel cell using a conductive polymer nanocomposite based anode.

    PubMed

    Hoa, Le Quynh; Sugano, Yasuhito; Yoshikawa, Hiroyuki; Saito, Masato; Tamiya, Eiichi

    2010-07-15

    This paper introduces a newly designed biohydrogen fuel cell by integrating a bioreactor for hydrogen production with the anode chamber in a hydrogen fuel cell. Two different composites of platinum nanoparticles decorated on functionalised multi-walled carbon nanotubes (Pt/fMWCNTs) and polyaniline (PANI) were fabricated using the electrochemical polymerisation method and used as anodes. The biohydrogen fuel cell using a thin film of PANI nanofibres deposited on Pt/fMWCNTs/carbon paper as the anode showed much higher power density than the cell using a core-shell structure PANI/Pt/fMWCNTs and Pt/fMWCNTs without PANI based anodes. The structural differences between these two composites and their effects on the interaction with hydrogen gas inside the anode chamber leading to the difference in power density of the fuel cell were also discussed. The maximum power density was 613.5 mW m(-2), which was obtained at a current density of about 2.55 A m(-2) with a cell voltage of 0.24 V using 20 mL single-chamber air-cathode, compact biohydrogen fuel cell. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Effects of anodizing parameters and heat treatment on nanotopographical features, bioactivity, and cell culture response of additively manufactured porous titanium.

    PubMed

    Amin Yavari, S; Chai, Y C; Böttger, A J; Wauthle, R; Schrooten, J; Weinans, H; Zadpoor, A A

    2015-06-01

    Anodizing could be used for bio-functionalization of the surfaces of titanium alloys. In this study, we use anodizing for creating nanotubes on the surface of porous titanium alloy bone substitutes manufactured using selective laser melting. Different sets of anodizing parameters (voltage: 10 or 20V anodizing time: 30min to 3h) are used for anodizing porous titanium structures that were later heat treated at 500°C. The nanotopographical features are examined using electron microscopy while the bioactivity of anodized surfaces is measured using immersion tests in the simulated body fluid (SBF). Moreover, the effects of anodizing and heat treatment on the performance of one representative anodized porous titanium structures are evaluated using in vitro cell culture assays using human periosteum-derived cells (hPDCs). It has been shown that while anodizing with different anodizing parameters results in very different nanotopographical features, i.e. nanotubes in the range of 20 to 55nm, anodized surfaces have limited apatite-forming ability regardless of the applied anodizing parameters. The results of in vitro cell culture show that both anodizing, and thus generation of regular nanotopographical feature, and heat treatment improve the cell culture response of porous titanium. In particular, cell proliferation measured using metabolic activity and DNA content was improved for anodized and heat treated as well as for anodized but not heat-treated specimens. Heat treatment additionally improved the cell attachment of porous titanium surfaces and upregulated expression of osteogenic markers. Anodized but not heat-treated specimens showed some limited signs of upregulated expression of osteogenic markers. In conclusion, while varying the anodizing parameters creates different nanotube structure, it does not improve apatite-forming ability of porous titanium. However, both anodizing and heat treatment at 500°C improve the cell culture response of porous titanium

  13. Electrochemical treatment of cork boiling wastewater with a boron-doped diamond anode.

    PubMed

    Fernandes, Annabel; Santos, Diana; Pacheco, Maria José; Ciríaco, Lurdes; Simões, Rogério; Gomes, Arlindo C; Lopes, Ana

    2015-01-01

    Anodic oxidation at a boron-doped diamond anode of cork boiling wastewater was successfully used for mineralization and biodegradability enhancement required for effluent discharge or subsequent biological treatment, respectively. The influence of the applied current density (30-70 mA/cm2) and the background electrolyte concentration (0-1.5 g/L Na2SO4) on the performance of the electrochemical oxidation was investigated. The supporting electrolyte was required to achieve conductivities that enabled anodic oxidation at the highest current intensities applied. The results indicated that pollutant removal increased with the applied current density, and after 8 h, reductions greater than 90% were achieved for COD, dissolved organic carbon, total phenols and colour. The biodegradability enhancement was from 0.13 to 0.59 and from 0.23 to 0.72 for the BOD/COD ratios with BOD of 5 and 20 days' incubation period, respectively. The tests without added electrolyte were performed at lower applied electrical charges (15 mA/cm2 or 30 V) with good organic load removal (up to 80%). For an applied current density of 30 mA/cm2, there was a minimum of electric conductivity of 1.9 mS/cm (corresponding to 0.75 g/L of Na2SO4), which minimized the specific energy consumption.

  14. Enhanced degradation of Orange G by permanganate with the employment of iron anode.

    PubMed

    Bu, Lingjun; Shi, Zhou; Zhou, Shiqing

    2017-01-01

    Iron anode was employed to enhance the degradation of Orange G (OG) by permanganate (EC/KMnO 4 ). Continuously generated Fe 2+ from iron anode facilitated the formation of fresh MnO 2 , which plays a role in catalyzing permanganate oxidation. The EC/KMnO 4 system also showed a better performance to remove OG than Fe 2+ /KMnO 4 , indicating the importance of in situ formed fresh MnO 2 . Besides, the effects of applied current, KMnO 4 dosage, solution pH, and natural organics were evaluated and results demonstrated that high current and oxidant dosage are favorable for OG removal. And the application of iron anode has a promoting effect on the KMnO 4 oxidation over a wide pH range (5.0-9.0), while the Fe 2+ /KMnO 4 process does not. For natural organics, its presence could inhibit OG removal due to its competitive role. And the promoting effect of OG removal by the EC/KMnO 4 process in natural water was confirmed. At last, the EC/KMnO 4 process showed a satisfying performance on the decolorization and mineralization of OG. This study provides a potential technology to enhance permanganate oxidation and broadens the knowledge of azo dye removal.

  15. Enhanced electrochemical performance and carbon anti-coking ability of solid oxide fuel cells with silver modified nickel-yttrium stabilized zirconia anode by electroless plating

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Xiaoyan; Tian, Yu; Zhang, Jun; Zuo, Wei; Kong, Xiaowei; Wang, Jinghui; Sun, Kening; Zhou, Xiaoliang

    2016-01-01

    In this paper, silver (Ag) particles are introduced into the conventional Ni/YSZ anode by utilizing electroless plating method to improve its carbon anti-coking ability in hydrocarbons. The experimental results show that electrochemical performances of the decorated cells in H2, CH4 and C2H6 are all increased as compared to the cell with unmodified Ni/YSZ anode, which are verified by impedance spectrums as well. The durability experiment is carried out for as long as 24 h at the current density of 0.33 A/cm2 where the modified anode is subjected to dry C2H6 indicating the anti-coking ability of the anode is greatly improved. Scanning electron microscope shows that the slight decreasing in the cell terminal voltage can be attributed to the minimized carbon deposition which maybe resulted from the aggregation of silver particles at high temperature. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy line scanning results after long-term stability operation of the anode suggest that the carbon deposition can be depressed effectively both inside the anode and on the surface of the anode. Therefore, the results show that silver is a promising candidate material for modifying the Ni/YSZ anode with regard to improving electrochemical performance and suppressing the carbon deposition when taking the hydrocarbons as fuels.

  16. Finding Platinum-Coating Gaps On Titanium Anodes

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bodemeijer, Ronnald; Flowers, Cecil E.

    1990-01-01

    Simple procedure makes gaps visible to eye. New gap-detection method consists of plating thin layer of non-silver-colored metal like copper or gold on anode. Contrast in color between plated metal and bare anode material makes gaps stand out. If anode passes inspection, copper or gold plate removable by reversal of test-plating current. Remains to be determined whether test plating and removal damages anode. New method simpler and more economical than previous attempts to identify gaps in platinum.

  17. Electrochemical incineration of omeprazole in neutral aqueous medium using a platinum or boron-doped diamond anode: degradation kinetics and oxidation products.

    PubMed

    Cavalcanti, Eliane Bezerra; Garcia-Segura, Sergi; Centellas, Francesc; Brillas, Enric

    2013-04-01

    The electrochemical incineration of omeprazole, a widely prescribed gastrointestinal drug which is detected in natural waters, has been studied in a phosphate buffer of pH 7.0 by anodic oxidation with electrogenerated H(2)O(2) (AO-H(2)O(2)) operating at constant current density (j). The experiments were carried out in a cell equipped with either a Pt or a boron-doped diamond (BDD) anode and an air-diffusion cathode to continuously produce H(2)O(2). In these systems, organics are mainly oxidized by hydroxyl radicals formed at the Pt or BDD surface from water oxidation. A partial total organic carbon (TOC) abatement close to 78% for omeprazole was achieved by AO-H(2)O(2) with a BDD anode after consumption of 18 Ah L(-1) at 100 mA cm(-2), whereas the alternative use of Pt did not allow mineralizing the drug. However, the drug was totally removed using both anodes, although it decayed more rapidly using BDD. In this latter system, increasing j accelerated the degradation process, but lowering the mineralization current efficiency. Greater drug content also enhanced the degradation rate with higher mineralization degree and current efficiency. The kinetics for omeprazole decay always followed a pseudo-first-order reaction and its rate constant increased with increasing j and with decreasing its concentration. Seven heteroaromatic intermediates and four hydroxylated derivatives were detected by LC-MS, while nine short-linear carboxylic acids were identified and quantified by ion-exclusion HPLC. These acids were largely accumulated using Pt and rapidly removed using BDD, thus explaining the partial mineralization of omeprazole achieved by AO-H(2)O(2) with the latter anode. The release of inorganic ions such as NO(3)(-), NH(4)(+) and SO(4)(2-) was followed by ionic chromatography. A plausible reaction sequence for omeprazole mineralization involving all intermediates detected is proposed. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. The Homeostatic Interaction Between Anodal Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation and Motor Learning in Humans is Related to GABAA Activity.

    PubMed

    Amadi, Ugwechi; Allman, Claire; Johansen-Berg, Heidi; Stagg, Charlotte J

    2015-01-01

    The relative timing of plasticity-induction protocols is known to be crucial. For example, anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), which increases cortical excitability and typically enhances plasticity, can impair performance if it is applied before a motor learning task. Such timing-dependent effects have been ascribed to homeostatic plasticity, but the specific synaptic site of this interaction remains unknown. We wished to investigate the synaptic substrate, and in particular the role of inhibitory signaling, underpinning the behavioral effects of anodal tDCS in homeostatic interactions between anodal tDCS and motor learning. We used transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to investigate cortical excitability and inhibitory signaling following tDCS and motor learning. Each subject participated in four experimental sessions and data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVAs and post-hoc t-tests as appropriate. As predicted, we found that anodal tDCS prior to the motor task decreased learning rates. This worsening of learning after tDCS was accompanied by a correlated increase in GABAA activity, as measured by TMS-assessed short interval intra-cortical inhibition (SICI). This provides the first direct demonstration in humans that inhibitory synapses are the likely site for the interaction between anodal tDCS and motor learning, and further, that homeostatic plasticity at GABAA synapses has behavioral relevance in humans. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Single chamber microbial fuel cell with spiral anode for dairy wastewater treatment.

    PubMed

    Mardanpour, Mohammad Mahdi; Nasr Esfahany, Mohsen; Behzad, Tayebeh; Sedaqatvand, Ramin

    2012-01-01

    This study reports on the fabrication of a novel annular single chamber microbial fuel cell (ASCMFC) with spiral anode. The stainless steel mesh anode with graphite coating was used as anode. Dairy wastewater, containing complex organic matter, was used as substrate. ASCMFC had been operated for 450 h and results indicated a high open circuit voltage (about 810 mV) compared with previously published results. The maximum power density of 20.2 W/m(3) obtained in this study is significantly greater than the power densities reported in previous studies. Besides, a maximum coulombic efficiency of 26.87% with 91% COD removal was achieved. Good bacterial adhesion on the spiral anode is clearly shown in SEM micrographs. High power density and a successful performance in wastewater treatment in ASCMFC suggest it as a promising alternative to conventional MFCs for power generation and wastewater treatment. ASCMFC performance as a power generator was characterized based on polarization behavior and cell potentials. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Anodal Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Enhances Survival and Integration of Dopaminergic Cell Transplants in a Rat Parkinson Model

    PubMed Central

    Winkler, Christian; Reis, Janine; Hoffmann, Nadin; Gellner, Anne-Kathrin; Münkel, Christian; Curado, Marco Rocha

    2017-01-01

    Abstract Restorative therapy concepts, such as cell based therapies aim to restitute impaired neurotransmission in neurodegenerative diseases. New strategies to enhance grafted cell survival and integration are still needed to improve functional recovery. Anodal direct current stimulation (DCS) promotes neuronal activity and secretion of the trophic factor BDNF in the motor cortex. Transcranial DCS applied to the motor cortex transiently improves motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. In this proof-of-concept study, we combine cell based therapy and noninvasive neuromodulation to assess whether neurotrophic support via transcranial DCS would enhance the restitution of striatal neurotransmission by fetal dopaminergic transplants in a rat Parkinson model. Transcranial DCS was applied daily for 20 min on 14 consecutive days following striatal transplantation of fetal ventral mesencephalic (fVM) cells derived from transgenic rat embryos ubiquitously expressing GFP. Anodal but not cathodal transcranial DCS significantly enhanced graft survival and dopaminergic reinnervation of the surrounding striatal tissue relative to sham stimulation. Behavioral recovery was more pronounced following anodal transcranial DCS, and behavioral effects correlated with the degree of striatal innervation. Our results suggest anodal transcranial DCS may help advance cell-based restorative therapies in neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, such an assistive approach may be beneficial for the already established cell transplantation therapy in PD. PMID:28966974

  1. Anodal Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Enhances Survival and Integration of Dopaminergic Cell Transplants in a Rat Parkinson Model.

    PubMed

    Winkler, Christian; Reis, Janine; Hoffmann, Nadin; Gellner, Anne-Kathrin; Münkel, Christian; Curado, Marco Rocha; Furlanetti, Luciano; Garcia, Joanna; Döbrössy, Máté D; Fritsch, Brita

    2017-01-01

    Restorative therapy concepts, such as cell based therapies aim to restitute impaired neurotransmission in neurodegenerative diseases. New strategies to enhance grafted cell survival and integration are still needed to improve functional recovery. Anodal direct current stimulation (DCS) promotes neuronal activity and secretion of the trophic factor BDNF in the motor cortex. Transcranial DCS applied to the motor cortex transiently improves motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. In this proof-of-concept study, we combine cell based therapy and noninvasive neuromodulation to assess whether neurotrophic support via transcranial DCS would enhance the restitution of striatal neurotransmission by fetal dopaminergic transplants in a rat Parkinson model. Transcranial DCS was applied daily for 20 min on 14 consecutive days following striatal transplantation of fetal ventral mesencephalic (fVM) cells derived from transgenic rat embryos ubiquitously expressing GFP. Anodal but not cathodal transcranial DCS significantly enhanced graft survival and dopaminergic reinnervation of the surrounding striatal tissue relative to sham stimulation. Behavioral recovery was more pronounced following anodal transcranial DCS, and behavioral effects correlated with the degree of striatal innervation. Our results suggest anodal transcranial DCS may help advance cell-based restorative therapies in neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, such an assistive approach may be beneficial for the already established cell transplantation therapy in PD.

  2. Kinetic experiments for evaluating the Nernst-Monod model for anode-respiring bacteria (ARB) in a biofilm anode.

    PubMed

    Torres, César I; Marcus, Andrew Kato; Parameswaran, Prathap; Rittmann, Bruce E

    2008-09-01

    Anode-respiring bacteria (ARB) are able to transfer electrons from reduced substrates to a solid electrode. Previously, we developed a biofilm model based on the Nernst-Monod equation to describe the anode potential losses of ARB that transfer electrons through a solid conductive matrix. In this work, we develop an experimental setup to demonstrate how well the Nernst-Monod equation is able to represent anode potential losses in an ARB biofilm. We performed low-scan cyclic voltammetry (LSCV) throughout the growth phase of an ARB biofilm on a graphite electrode growing on acetate in continuous mode. The (j)V response of 9 LSCVs corresponded well to the Nernst-Monod equation, and the half-saturation potential (E(KA)) was -0.425 +/- 0.002 V vs Ag/AgCl at 30 degrees C (-0.155 +/- 0.002 V vs SHE). Anode-potential losses from the potential of acetate reached approximately 0.225 V at current density saturation, and this loss was determined by our microbial community's E(KA) value. The LSCVs at high current densities showed no significant deviation from the Nernst-Monod ideal shape, indicating that the conductivity of the biofilm matrix (kappa(bio)) was high enough (> or = 0.5 mS/cm) that potential loss did not affect the performance of the biofilm anode. Our results confirm the applicability of the Nernst-Monod equation for a conductive biofilm anode and give insights of the processes that dominate anode potential losses in microbial fuel cells.

  3. Voltage Oscillations in a Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell with Pd-Pt/C and Pd/C Anodes.

    PubMed

    Nogueira, Jéssica Alves; Varela, Hamilton

    2017-10-01

    Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) fed with H 2 contaminated with CO may exhibit oscillatory behavior when operated galvanostatically. The self-organization of the anodic overpotential is interesting because it can be accompanied by an increase in the average performance. Herein we report experimental studies of voltage oscillations that emerge in a PEMFC equipped with a Pd/C or PdPt/C anode and fed with H 2 contaminated with CO (100 ppm). We used on-line mass spectrometry to investigate how the mass fragments associated with CO 2 and CO ( m / z 44 and 28, respectively) varied with the voltage oscillations. Overall, we observed that oscillations in the anodic overpotential are in phase with that of the CO and CO 2 signals. This fact is consistent with an autonomous adsorption-oxidation cyclic process. For both anodes, it has been observed that, in general, an increase in current density implies an increase in oscillatory frequency. By using CO stripping, we also discuss how the onset of CO oxidation is related to the maximum overpotential reached during a cycle, whereas the minimum overpotential can be associated with the catalytic activity of the electrode for H 2 oxidation.

  4. In-depth porosity control of mesoporous silicon layers by an anodization current adjustment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lascaud, J.; Defforge, T.; Certon, D.; Valente, D.; Gautier, G.

    2017-12-01

    The formation of thick mesoporous silicon layers in P+-type substrates leads to an increase in the porosity from the surface to the interface with silicon. The adjustment of the current density during the electrochemical etching of porous silicon is an intuitive way to control the layer in-depth porosity. The duration and the current density during the anodization were varied to empirically model porosity variations with layer thickness and build a database. Current density profiles were extracted from the model in order to etch layer with in-depth control porosity. As a proof of principle, an 80 μm-thick porous silicon multilayer was synthetized with decreasing porosities from 55% to 35%. The results show that the assessment of the in-depth porosity could be significantly enhanced by taking into account the pure chemical etching of the layer in the hydrofluoric acid-based electrolyte.

  5. The influence of anode position and structure on cusped field thruster

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Niu, Xiang; Liu, Hui; Yang, Chiyu; Jiang, Wenjia; Yu, Daren; Ning, Zhongxi

    2018-04-01

    A cusped field thruster is a kind of electric propulsion device using multi-stage cusped fields to realize plasma discharges and produce thrust. A previous study showed that plasma discharges in this thruster are non-uniform. In this work, a multi-annulus anode is used to measure the radial distribution of anode current density at different anode positions. The experimental results reveal that some electrons may reach the anode along the axis after they accelerate from the final cusp regardless of the anode positions. To further validate this idea and find out the mechanism of this central path along the axis, the central part of the anode is replaced with ceramics. This results in an increase in the total current with larger contributions at larger radii. The current oscillations also get larger. This brief letter is helpful to further understand the movement of electrons in cusped field thrusters and provide guidance on reducing the non-uniform degree of current density.

  6. Synthesis, characterization, antimicrobial and enzymatic activity of 4b,9b-dihydroxy-7,8-dihydro-4bH-indeno[1,2-b]benzofuran-9,10(6H,9bH)-dione

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mehdi, Sayed Hasan; Hashim, Rokiah; Ghalib, Raza Murad; Fátima C. Guedes da Silva, M.; Sulaiman, Othman; Rahman, Syed Ziaur; Murugaiyah, Vikneswaran; Marimuthu, Mani Maran

    2011-12-01

    The crystal structure of the title compound, 4b,9b-dihydroxy-7,8-dihydro-4bH-indeno[1,2-b]benzofuran-9,10(6H,9bH)-dione has been determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction. It crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P2 1/c with Z = 4. The FTIR as well as the 1H and 13C NMR spectra of the compound were also recorded and briefly discussed. The compound showed potential antimicrobial activity comparable to that of clinically used antimicrobial agents against selected microorganisms. It has selective and moderate inhibitory activity on butyryl cholinesterase enzyme and could serve as potential lead compound for synthesis of more bioactive derivatives.

  7. 4-Hydroxyphenylacetic acid oxidation in sulfate and real olive oil mill wastewater by electrochemical advanced processes with a boron-doped diamond anode.

    PubMed

    Flores, Nelly; Cabot, Pere Lluís; Centellas, Francesc; Garrido, José Antonio; Rodríguez, Rosa María; Brillas, Enric; Sirés, Ignasi

    2017-01-05

    The degradation of 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, a ubiquitous component of olive oil mill wastewater (OOMW), has been studied by anodic oxidation with electrogenerated H 2 O 2 (AO-H 2 O 2 ), electro-Fenton (EF) and photoelectro-Fenton (PEF). Experiments were performed in either a 0.050M Na 2 SO 4 solution or a real OOMW at pH 3.0, using a cell with a boron-doped diamond (BDD) anode and an air-diffusion cathode for H 2 O 2 generation. Hydroxyl radicals formed at the BDD surface from water oxidation in all processes and/or in the bulk from Fenton's reaction between added Fe 2+ and generated H 2 O 2 in EF and PEF were the main oxidants. In both matrices, the oxidation ability of the processes increased in the order AO-H 2 O 2 current density and organic content on the performance of all treatments was examined. 4-Hydroxyphenylacetic acid decay obeyed a pseudo-first-order kinetics. The PEF treatment of 1.03mM 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid in 0.050M Na 2 SO 4 allowed 98% mineralization at 360min even at low current density, whereas 80% mineralization and a significant enhancement of biodegradability were achieved with the real OOMW. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. 18 CFR Appendix B to Subpart H of... - Appendix B to Subpart H of Part 35

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Appendix B to Subpart H of Part 35 B Appendix B to Subpart H of Part 35 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL... Rates Pt. 35, Subpt. H, App. B Appendix B to Subpart H of Part 35 This is an example of the required...

  9. Structure that encapsulates lithium metal for high energy density battery anode

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

    Cui, Yi; Yan, Kai; Chu, Steven

    A battery includes 1) an anode, 2) a cathode, and 3) an electrolyte disposed between the anode and the cathode. The anode includes a current collector and an interfacial layer disposed over the current collector, and the interfacial layer includes an array of interconnected, protruding regions that define spaces.

  10. Graphite anode surface modification with controlled reduction of specific aryl diazonium salts for improved microbial fuel cells power output.

    PubMed

    Picot, Matthieu; Lapinsonnière, Laure; Rothballer, Michael; Barrière, Frédéric

    2011-10-15

    Graphite electrodes were modified with reduction of aryl diazonium salts and implemented as anodes in microbial fuel cells. First, reduction of 4-aminophenyl diazonium is considered using increased coulombic charge density from 16.5 to 200 mC/cm(2). This procedure introduced aryl amine functionalities at the surface which are neutral at neutral pH. These electrodes were implemented as anodes in "H" type microbial fuel cells inoculated with waste water, acetate as the substrate and using ferricyanide reduction at the cathode and a 1000 Ω external resistance. When the microbial anode had developed, the performances of the microbial fuel cells were measured under acetate saturation conditions and compared with those of control microbial fuel cells having an unmodified graphite anode. We found that the maximum power density of microbial fuel cell first increased as a function of the extent of modification, reaching an optimum after which it decreased for higher degree of surface modification, becoming even less performing than the control microbial fuel cell. Then, the effect of the introduction of charged groups at the surface was investigated at a low degree of surface modification. It was found that negatively charged groups at the surface (carboxylate) decreased microbial fuel cell power output while the introduction of positively charged groups doubled the power output. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the microbial anode modified with positively charged groups was covered by a dense and homogeneous biofilm. Fluorescence in situ hybridization analyses showed that this biofilm consisted to a large extent of bacteria from the known electroactive Geobacter genus. In summary, the extent of modification of the anode was found to be critical for the microbial fuel cell performance. The nature of the chemical group introduced at the electrode surface was also found to significantly affect the performance of the microbial fuel cells. The method used for

  11. Modeling for CO poisoning of a fuel cell anode

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dhar, H. P.; Kush, A. K.; Patel, D. N.; Christner, L. G.

    1986-01-01

    Poisoning losses in a half-cell in the 110-190 C temperature range have been measured in 100 wt pct H3PO4 for various mixtures of H2, CO, and CO2 gases in order to investigate the polarization loss due to poisoning by CO of a porous fuel cell Pt anode. At a fixed current density, the poisoning loss was found to vary linearly with ln of the CO/H2 concentration ratio, although deviations from linearity were noted at lower temperatures and higher current densities for high CO/H2 concentration ratios. The surface coverages of CO were also found to vary linearly with ln of the CO/H2 concentration ratio. A general adsorption relationship is derived. Standard free energies for CO adsorption were found to vary from -14.5 to -12.1 kcal/mol in the 130-190 C temperature range. The standard entropy for CO adsorption was found to be -39 cal/mol per deg K.

  12. Engineering of highly ordered TiO2 nanopore arrays by anodization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Huijie; Huang, Zhennan; Zhang, Li; Ding, Jie; Ma, Zhaoxia; Liu, Yong; Kou, Shengzhong; Yang, Hangsheng

    2016-07-01

    Finite element analysis was used to simulate the current density distributions in the TiO2 barrier layer formed at the initial stage of Ti anodization. The morphology modification of the barrier layer was found to induce current density distribution change. By starting the anodization with proper TiO2 barrier layer morphology, the current density distribution can be adjusted to favor the formation of either nanotube arrays or nanopore arrays of anodic TiO2. We also found that the addition of sodium acetate into the electrolyte suppressed both the field-assisted chemical dissolution of TiO2 and the TiF62- hydrolysis induced TiO2 deposition during anodization, and thus further favored the nanopore formation. Accordingly, highly ordered anodic TiO2 nanopore arrays, similar to anodic aluminum oxide nanopore arrays, were successfully prepared.

  13. Carbon materials derived from waste tires as high-performance anodes in microbial fuel cells.

    PubMed

    Chen, Wei; Feng, Huajun; Shen, Dongsheng; Jia, Yufeng; Li, Na; Ying, Xianbin; Chen, Ting; Zhou, Yuyang; Guo, Jiayun; Zhou, Mengjiao

    2018-03-15

    In this study, carbonized waste tires were directly used as a high-performance anode material in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). The effect of the pyrolysis temperature used for waste tire carbonization on the current output performance was investigated to determine the optimal pyrolysis temperature. Thermal gravimetric analysis/differential scanning calorimetry showed that tire carbonization started at 200°C and ended at about 500°C; the weight loss was about 64%. When used in an MFC, the electrode obtained from waste tires carbonized at 800°C gave a current density of 23.1±1.4Am -2 , which is much higher than that achieved with traditional graphite felt anodes (5.5±0.1Am -2 ). The results of this study will be useful in optimizing the design of carbonized waste tire anodes for enhancing MFC performances and will alleviate the environmental problems caused by waste tires. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Enhanced lithium storage in Fe2O3-SnO2-C nanocomposite anode with a breathable structure

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rahman, Md Mokhlesur; Glushenkov, Alexey M.; Ramireddy, Thrinathreddy; Tao, Tao; Chen, Ying

    2013-05-01

    A novel nanocomposite architecture of a Fe2O3-SnO2-C anode, based on clusters of Fe2O3 and SnO2 nanoparticles dispersed along the conductive chains of Super P Li™ carbon black (Timcal Ltd.), is presented as a breathable structure in this paper for lithium-ion batteries. The synthesis of the nanocomposite is achieved by combining a molten salt precipitation process and a ball milling method for the first time. The crystalline structure, morphology, and electrochemical characterization of the synthesised product are investigated systematically. Electrochemical results demonstrate that the reversible capacity of the composite anode is 1110 mA h g-1 at a current rate of 158 mA g-1 with only 31% of initial irreversible capacity in the first cycle. A high reversible capacity of 502 mA h g-1 (higher than the theoretical capacity of graphite, ~372 mA h g-1) can be obtained at a high current rate of 3950 mA g-1. The electrochemical performance is compared favourably with those of Fe2O3-SnO2 and Fe2O3-SnO2-C composite anodes for lithium-ion batteries reported in the literature. This work reports a promising method for the design and preparation of nanocomposite electrodes for lithium-ion batteries.A novel nanocomposite architecture of a Fe2O3-SnO2-C anode, based on clusters of Fe2O3 and SnO2 nanoparticles dispersed along the conductive chains of Super P Li™ carbon black (Timcal Ltd.), is presented as a breathable structure in this paper for lithium-ion batteries. The synthesis of the nanocomposite is achieved by combining a molten salt precipitation process and a ball milling method for the first time. The crystalline structure, morphology, and electrochemical characterization of the synthesised product are investigated systematically. Electrochemical results demonstrate that the reversible capacity of the composite anode is 1110 mA h g-1 at a current rate of 158 mA g-1 with only 31% of initial irreversible capacity in the first cycle. A high reversible capacity of 502 m

  15. SnO2, IrO2, Ta2O5, Bi2O3, and TiO2 nanoparticle anodes: electrochemical oxidation coupled with the cathodic reduction of water to yield molecular H2

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Choi, Jina; Qu, Yan; Hoffmann, Michael R.

    2012-08-01

    In recent years, the search for environmentally friendly alternative energy sources with reduced carbon footprints has increased. The coupling of photovoltaic power sources with advanced electrolysis systems for hydrogen production via water splitting using organic contaminants as sacrificial electron donors has been considered to a be viable alternative. In this report, we demonstrated the feasibility of a scaled-up rooftop prototype of the proposed hybrid photovoltaic-electrolysis system, which utilizes semiconductor nanoparticles coated on to metal substrates as electrodes for the generation of hydrogen coupled with the oxidation of wastewater. Application of an anodic bias of >2.0 V to bismuth-doped TiO2 (BiO x -TiO2) on Ti metal anodes with a sequential under-coatings of nanoparticulate SnO2, IrO2, Ta2O5, and Bi2O3 results in the electrochemical degradation of a variety of organic chemical contaminants in water (i.e., rhodamine B (Rh.B), methylene blue (MB), salicylic acid, triclosan, and phenol) and actual wastewater from a chemical manufacturing plant, while at the same time, molecular hydrogen is produced at stainless steel (SS) cathodes. The kinetics of the anodic substrates oxidation is investigated as a function of the cell current ( I cell), substrate concentration, and background electrolyte composition (e.g., NaCl, Na2SO4, or seawater). Average current efficiencies were found to be in the range of 4-22 %, while the cathodic current and energy efficiencies for hydrogen production were found to be in the range of 50-70 % and 20-40 %, respectively.

  16. Enhanced lithium ion battery cycling of silicon nanowire anodes by template growth to eliminate silicon underlayer islands.

    PubMed

    Cho, Jeong-Hyun; Picraux, S Tom

    2013-01-01

    It is well-known that one-dimensional nanostructures reduce pulverization of silicon (Si)-based anode materials during Li ion cycling because they allow lateral relaxation. However, even with improved designs, Si nanowire-based structures still exhibit limited cycling stability for extended numbers of cycles, with the specific capacity retention with cycling not showing significant improvements over commercial carbon-based anode materials. We have found that one important reason for the lack of long cycling stability can be the presence of milli- and microscale Si islands which typically form under nanowire arrays during their growth. Stress buildup in these Si island underlayers with cycling results in cracking, and the loss of specific capacity for Si nanowire anodes, due to progressive loss of contact with current collectors. We show that the formation of these parasitic Si islands for Si nanowires grown directly on metal current collectors can be avoided by growth through anodized aluminum oxide templates containing a high density of sub-100 nm nanopores. Using this template approach we demonstrate significantly enhanced cycling stability for Si nanowire-based lithium-ion battery anodes, with retentions of more than ~1000 mA·h/g discharge capacity over 1100 cycles.

  17. Numerical simulation and analysis of electromagnetic-wave absorption of a plasma slab created by a direct-current discharge with gridded anode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yuan, Chengxun; Tian, Ruihuan; Eliseev, S. I.; Bekasov, V. S.; Bogdanov, E. A.; Kudryavtsev, A. A.; Zhou, Zhongxiang

    2018-03-01

    In this paper, we present investigation of a direct-current discharge with a gridded anode from the point of view of using it as a means of creating plasma coating that could efficiently absorb incident electromagnetic (EM) waves. A single discharge cell consists of two parallel plates, one of which (anode) is gridded. Electrons emitted from the cathode surface are accelerated in the short interelectrode gap and are injected into the post-anode space, where they lose acquired energy on ionization and create plasma. Numerical simulations were used to investigate the discharge structure and obtain spatial distributions of plasma density in the post-anode space. The numerical model of the discharge was based on a simple hybrid approach which takes into account non-local ionization by fast electrons streaming from the cathode sheath. Specially formulated transparency boundary conditions allowed performing simulations in 1D. Simulations were carried out in air at pressures of 10 Torr and higher. Analysis of the discharge structure and discharge formation is presented. It is shown that using cathode materials with lower secondary emission coefficients can allow increasing the thickness of plasma slabs for the same discharge current, which can potentially enhance EM wave absorption. Spatial distributions of electron density obtained during simulations were used to calculate attenuation of an incident EM wave propagating perpendicularly to the plasma slab boundary. It is shown that plasma created by means of a DC discharge with a gridded anode can efficiently absorb EM waves in the low frequency range (6-40 GHz). Increasing gas pressure results in a broader range of wave frequencies (up to 500 GHz) where a considerable attenuation is observed.

  18. Fabrication of ZnO Nanowires Arrays by Anodization and High-Vacuum Die Casting Technique, and Their Piezoelectric Properties

    PubMed Central

    Kuo, Chin-Guo; Chang, Ho; Wang, Jian-Hao

    2016-01-01

    In this investigation, anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) with arrayed and regularly arranged nanopores is used as a template in the high-vacuum die casting of molten zinc metal (Zn) into the nanopores. The proposed technique yields arrayed Zn nanowires with an aspect ratio of over 600. After annealing, arrayed zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowires are obtained. Varying the anodizing time yields AAO templates with thicknesses of approximately 50 μm, 60 μm, and 70 μm that can be used in the fabrication of nanowires of three lengths with high aspect ratios. Experimental results reveal that a longer nanowire generates a greater measured piezoelectric current. The ZnO nanowires that are fabricated using an alumina template are anodized for 7 h and produce higher piezoelectric current of up to 69 pA. PMID:27023546

  19. Fabrication of ZnO Nanowires Arrays by Anodization and High-Vacuum Die Casting Technique, and Their Piezoelectric Properties.

    PubMed

    Kuo, Chin-Guo; Chang, Ho; Wang, Jian-Hao

    2016-03-24

    In this investigation, anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) with arrayed and regularly arranged nanopores is used as a template in the high-vacuum die casting of molten zinc metal (Zn) into the nanopores. The proposed technique yields arrayed Zn nanowires with an aspect ratio of over 600. After annealing, arrayed zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowires are obtained. Varying the anodizing time yields AAO templates with thicknesses of approximately 50 μm, 60 μm, and 70 μm that can be used in the fabrication of nanowires of three lengths with high aspect ratios. Experimental results reveal that a longer nanowire generates a greater measured piezoelectric current. The ZnO nanowires that are fabricated using an alumina template are anodized for 7 h and produce higher piezoelectric current of up to 69 pA.

  20. Aluminothermic Reduction-Molten Salt Electrolysis Using Inert Anode for Oxygen and Al-Base Alloy Extraction from Lunar Soil Simulant

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xie, Kaiyu; Shi, Zhongning; Xu, Junli; Hu, Xianwei; Gao, Bingliang; Wang, Zhaowen

    2017-10-01

    Aluminothermic reduction-electrolysis using an inert anode process is proposed to extract oxygen and metals from Minnesota Lunar Simulant-1 (MLS-1). Effective aluminothermic reduction between dissolved MLS-1 and dissolved metal aluminum was achieved in cryolite salt media. The product phases obtained by aluminothermic reduction at 980°C for 4 h were Al, Si, and Al5FeSi, while the chemical components were 79.71 mass% aluminum, 12.03 mass% silicon, 5.91 mass% iron, and 2.35 mass% titanium. The cryolite salt containing Al2O3 was subsequently electrolyzed with Fe0.58-Ni0.42 inert anode at 960°C for 4 h. Oxygen was evolved at the anode with an anodic current efficiency of 78.28%. The results demonstrate that this two-step process is remarkably feasible for the extraterrestrial extraction of oxygen and metals. This process will help expand the existing in situ resource utilization methods.

  1. Sustainable Interfaces between Si Anodes and Garnet Electrolytes for Room-Temperature Solid-State Batteries.

    PubMed

    Chen, Cheng; Li, Quan; Li, Yiqiu; Cui, Zhonghui; Guo, Xiangxin; Li, Hong

    2018-01-17

    Solid-state batteries (SSBs) have seen a resurgence of research interests in recent years for their potential to offer high energy density and excellent safety far beyond current commercialized lithium-ion batteries. The compatibility of Si anodes and Ta-doped Li 7 La 3 Zr 2 O 12 (Li 6.4 La 3 Zr 1.4 Ta 0.6 O 12 , LLZTO) solid electrolytes and the stability of the Si anode have been investigated. It is found that Si layer anodes thinner than 180 nm can maintain good contact with the LLZTO plate electrolytes, leading the Li/LLZTO/Si cells to exhibit excellent cycling performance with a capacity retention over 85% after 100 cycles. As the Si layer thickness is increased to larger than 300 nm, the capacity retention of Li/LLZTO/Si cells becomes 77% after 100 cycles. When the thickness is close to 900 nm, the cells can cycle only for a limited number of times because of the destructive volume change at the interfaces. Because of the sustainable Si/LLZTO interfaces with the Si layer anodes with a thickness of 180 nm, full cells with the LiFePO 4 cathodes show discharge capacities of 120 mA h g -1 for LiFePO 4 and 2200 mA h g -1 for the Si anodes at room temperature. They cycle 100 times with a capacity retention of 72%. These results indicate that the combination between the Si anodes and the garnet electrolytes is a promising strategy for constructing high-performance SSBs.

  2. Anti-H-Y responses of H-2b mutant mice.

    PubMed

    Simpson, E; Gordon, R D; Chandler, P R; Bailey, D

    1978-10-01

    Two strains of H-2b mutant mice, H-2ba and H-2bf, in which the mutational event took place at H-2K, make anti-H-Y cytotoxic T cell responses which are H-2-restricted, Db-associated and indistinguishable in target cell specificity from those of H-2b mice. Thus, alteration of the H-2K molecule affects neither the Ir gene controlling the response, nor the associative antigen. On the other hand, one H-2Db mutant strain, H-2bo, although it makes a good anti-H-Y cytotoxic response, shows target cell specificity restricted to its own Dbo antigen(s), and neither H-2b, H-2ba or H-2bf anti-H-Y cytotoxic cells kill H-2bo male target cells. Thus, the alteration of the H-2Db molecule does not affect the Ir gene of H-2b mice, but it does alter the H-2Db-associative antigen.

  3. Degradation Mechanisms of Magnesium Metal Anodes in Electrolytes Based on (CF 3SO 2) 2N – at High Current Densities

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

    Yoo, Hyun Deog; Han, Sang-Don; Bolotin, Igor L.

    The energy density of rechargeable batteries utilizing metals as anodes surpasses that of Li ion batteries, which employ carbon instead. Among possible metals, magnesium represents a potential alternative to the conventional choice, lithium, in terms of storage density, safety,stability, and cost. However, a major obstacle for metal-based batteries is the identification of electrolytes that show reversible deposition/dissolution of the metal anode and support reversible intercalation of ions into a cathode. Traditional Grignard-based Mg electrolytes are excellent with respect to the reversible deposition of Mg, but their limited anodic stability and compatibility with oxide cathodes hinder their applicability in Mg batteriesmore » with higher voltage. Non-Grignard electrolytes, which consist of ethereal solutions of magnesium(II) bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (Mg(TFSI) 2), remain fairly stable near the potential of Mg deposition. The slight reactivity of these electrolytes toward Mg metal can be remedied by the addition of surface-protecting agents, such as MgCl 2. Hence, ethereal solutions of Mg(TFSI) 2 salt with MgCl 2 as an additive have been suggested as a representative non-Grignard Mg electrolyte. In this work, the degradation mechanisms of a Mg metal anode in the TFSI-based electrolyte were studied using a current density of 1 mA cm -2 and an areal capacity of ~0.4 mAh cm -2, which is close to those used in practical applications. The degradation mechanisms identified include the corrosion of Mg metal, which causes the loss of electronic pathways and mechanical integrity, the nonuniform deposition of Mg, and the decomposition of TFSI - anions. This study not only represents an assessment of the behavior of Mg metal anodes at practical current density and areal capacity but also details the outcomes of interfacial passivation, which was detected by simple cyclic voltammetry experiments. This study also points out the absolute absence of any passivation

  4. Degradation Mechanisms of Magnesium Metal Anodes in Electrolytes Based on (CF 3SO 2) 2N – at High Current Densities

    DOE PAGES

    Yoo, Hyun Deog; Han, Sang-Don; Bolotin, Igor L.; ...

    2017-06-21

    The energy density of rechargeable batteries utilizing metals as anodes surpasses that of Li ion batteries, which employ carbon instead. Among possible metals, magnesium represents a potential alternative to the conventional choice, lithium, in terms of storage density, safety,stability, and cost. However, a major obstacle for metal-based batteries is the identification of electrolytes that show reversible deposition/dissolution of the metal anode and support reversible intercalation of ions into a cathode. Traditional Grignard-based Mg electrolytes are excellent with respect to the reversible deposition of Mg, but their limited anodic stability and compatibility with oxide cathodes hinder their applicability in Mg batteriesmore » with higher voltage. Non-Grignard electrolytes, which consist of ethereal solutions of magnesium(II) bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (Mg(TFSI) 2), remain fairly stable near the potential of Mg deposition. The slight reactivity of these electrolytes toward Mg metal can be remedied by the addition of surface-protecting agents, such as MgCl 2. Hence, ethereal solutions of Mg(TFSI) 2 salt with MgCl 2 as an additive have been suggested as a representative non-Grignard Mg electrolyte. In this work, the degradation mechanisms of a Mg metal anode in the TFSI-based electrolyte were studied using a current density of 1 mA cm -2 and an areal capacity of ~0.4 mAh cm -2, which is close to those used in practical applications. The degradation mechanisms identified include the corrosion of Mg metal, which causes the loss of electronic pathways and mechanical integrity, the nonuniform deposition of Mg, and the decomposition of TFSI - anions. This study not only represents an assessment of the behavior of Mg metal anodes at practical current density and areal capacity but also details the outcomes of interfacial passivation, which was detected by simple cyclic voltammetry experiments. This study also points out the absolute absence of any passivation

  5. MoTe2, A novel anode material for sodium ion battery

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Panda, Manas Ranjan; Anish Raj, K.; Bao, Qiaoliang; Mitra, Sagar

    2018-04-01

    2D layered transition metal dichalcogenides are considered as a potential anode for sodium-ion batteries due to their high specific capacity, structural stability and its well-developed two-dimensional layers. 2D layered structure Molybdenum ditelluride (MoTe2) provides a superior Na-ion storage properties in sodium ion battery due to its comparative more interlayer spacing (0.699 nm). In the current study MoTe2 polycrystalline powder sample has been prepared by solid state reaction process, the structural and morphological studies have been carried out by XRD, FE-SEM and EDS etc. XRD study revealsthe well crystalline structure of the material having hexagonal structure. FE-SEM and EDS studies depict the uniformflakes like structure of the material. When it is tested as sodium-ion battery anode by applying a potential window 0.1-2.5 V, the material demonstrates a high capacity and high power performances. The as prepared MoTe2 shows an initial discharge capacity of 376 mA h g-1 and a corresponding discharge capacity of 303 mA h g-1 after the 50th cycle at a current density of 500 mA g-1.

  6. Electrolytic Cell For Production Of Aluminum Employing Planar Anodes.

    DOEpatents

    Barnett, Robert J.; Mezner, Michael B.; Bradford, Donald R

    2004-10-05

    A method of producing aluminum in an electrolytic cell containing alumina dissolved in an electrolyte, the method comprising providing a molten salt electrolyte having alumina dissolved therein in an electrolytic cell. A plurality of anodes and cathodes having planar surfaces are disposed in a generally vertical orientation in the electrolyte, the anodes and cathodes arranged in alternating or interleaving relationship to provide anode planar surfaces disposed opposite cathode planar surfaces, the anode comprised of carbon. Electric current is passed through anodes and through the electrolyte to the cathodes depositing aluminum at the cathodes and forming carbon containing gas at the anodes.

  7. X-ray diagnostic development for measurement of electron deposition to the SABRE anode

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

    Lash, J.S.; Derzon, M.S.; Cuneo, M.E.

    Extraction applied-B ion diodes are under development on the SABRE (6 MV, 250 kA) accelerator at Sandia. The authors are assessing this technology for the production of high brightness lithium ion beams for inertial confinement fusion. Electron loss physics is a focus of effort since electron sheath physics affects ion beam divergence, ion beam purity, and diode impedance. An x-ray slit-imaging diagnostic is under development for detection of x-rays produced during electron deposition to the anode. This diagnostic will aid in the correlation of electron deposition to ion production to better understand the ion diode physics. The x-ray detector consistsmore » of a filter pack, scintillator and optical fiber array that is streaked onto a CCD camera. Current orientation of the diagnostic provides spatial information across the anode radius at three different azimuths or at three different x-ray energy cuts. The observed x-ray emission spectrum can then be compared to current modeling efforts examining electron deposition to the anode.« less

  8. Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex enhances emotion recognition in depressed patients and controls.

    PubMed

    Brennan, Sean; McLoughlin, Declan M; O'Connell, Redmond; Bogue, John; O'Connor, Stephanie; McHugh, Caroline; Glennon, Mark

    2017-05-01

    Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can enhance a range of neuropsychological functions but its efficacy in addressing clinically significant emotion recognition deficits associated with depression is largely untested. A randomized crossover placebo controlled study was used to investigate the effects of tDCS over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (L-DLPFC) on a range of neuropsychological variables associated with depression as well as neural activity in the associated brain region. A series of computerized tests was administered to clinical (n = 17) and control groups (n = 20) during sham and anodal (1.5 mA) stimulation. Anodal tDCS led to a significant main effect for overall emotion recognition (p = .02), with a significant improvement in the control group (p = .04). Recognition of disgust was significantly greater in the clinical group (p = .01). Recognition of anger was significantly improved for the clinical group (p = .04) during anodal stimulation. Differences between groups for each of the six emotions at varying levels of expression found that at 40% during anodal stimulation, happy recognition significantly improved for the clinical group (p = .01). Anger recognition at 80% during anodal stimulation significantly improved for the clinical group (p = .02). These improvements were observed in the absence of any change in psychomotor speed or trail making ability during anodal stimulation. Working memory significantly improved during anodal stimulation for the clinical group but not for controls (p = .03). The tentative findings of this study indicate that tDCS can have a neuromodulatory effect on a range of neuropsychological variables. However, it is clear that there was a wide variation in responses to tDCS and that individual difference and different approaches to testing and stimulation have a significant impact on final outcomes. Nonetheless, tDCS remains a promising tool for future neuropsychological research.

  9. Fabrication of ultra thin anodic aluminium oxide membranes by low anodization voltages

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pastore, I.; Poplausks, R.; Apsite, I.; Pastare, I.; Lombardi, F.; Erts, D.

    2011-06-01

    Formation of ultrathin anodised aluminium oxide (AAO) membranes with high aspect ratio by Al anodization in sulphuric and oxalic acids at low potentials was investigated. Low anodization potentials ensure slow electrochemical reaction speeds and formation of AAO membranes with pore diameter and thickness below 20 nm and 70 nm respectively. Minimum time necessary for formation of continuous AAO membranes was determined. AAO membrane pore surface was covered with polymer Paraloid B72TM to transport it to the selected substrate. The fabricated ultra thin AAO membranes could be used to fabricate nanodot arrays on different surfaces.

  10. Efficient treatment of an electroplating wastewater containing heavy metal ions, cyanide, and organics by H2O2 oxidation followed by the anodic Fenton process.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Xu; Wang, Haidong; Chen, Fayuan; Mao, Ran; Liu, Huijuan; Qu, Jiuhui

    2013-01-01

    A real electroplating wastewater, containing heavy metals, cyanide, and organic contaminants, was treated by electrocoagulation (EC), H2O2 oxidation, H2O2 pre-oxidation followed by EC, and the anodic Fenton process and the efficacy of the processes was compared. Concentration of cyanide, Cu, Ni, Zn, and Cr was largely decreased by EC within 5 min. When the reaction time was extended, removal of residual cyanide, Cu, and Ni was limited. In H2O2 oxidation, the concentration of cyanide decreased from initial 75 to 12 mg L(-1) in 30 min. The effluents from the H2O2 oxidation were further treated by EC or anodic Fenton. In EC, the concentration of total cyanide, Ni, and Cu decreased to below 0.3, 0.5, and 1.5 mg L(-1), respectively. Removal efficiency of chemical oxygen demand by EC was less than 20.0%. By contrast, there was 73.5% reduction by the anodic Fenton process with 5 mM H2O2 at 30 min; this can be attributed to the oxidation induced by hydroxyl radicals generated by the reaction of H2O2 with the electrogenerated Fe(2+). Meanwhile, residual cyanide, Cu, and Ni can also be efficiently removed. Transformation of organic components in various processes was analyzed using UV-visible and fluorescence excitation-emission spectra.

  11. Formation and disruption of current paths of anodic porous alumina films by conducting atomic force microscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Oyoshi, K.; Nigo, S.; Inoue, J.; Sakai, O.; Kitazawa, H.; Kido, G.

    2010-11-01

    Anodic porous alumina (APA) films have a honeycomb cell structure of pores and a voltage-induced bi-stable switching effect. We have applied conducting atomic force microscopy (CAFM) as a method to form and to disrupt current paths in the APA films. A bi-polar switching operation was confirmed. We have firstly observed terminals of current paths as spots or areas typically on the center of the triangle formed by three pores. In addition, though a part of the current path showed repetitive switching, most of them were not observed again at the same position after one cycle of switching operations in the present experiments. This suggests that a part of alumina structure and/or composition along the current paths is modified during the switching operations.

  12. A prefilter for mitigating PH 3 contamination of a Ni-YSZ anode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xu, Chunchuan; Zondlo, John W.; Sabolsky, Edward M.

    Ni-YSZ is used as the anode of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) because it has excellent electrochemical performance for operation with coal-derived syngas. However, trace impurities, PH 3 H 2S AsH 3, and Sb in coal-syngas can cause SOFC degradation. Described here is a means of removing PH 3 impurity from syngas by using a Ni-based prefilter. In one test, a thin Ni-based filter was set upstream of a Ni-YSZ anode-supported SOFC. The SOFC was exposed to syngas with PH 3 under a constant current load at 800 °C. The filter decreased 20 ppm PH 3 in the feed to a level which did not degrade the SOFC for over 400 h until the filter became saturated. In another test, both H 2S and PH 3 were co-fed to the cell with Ni-based and Fe/Ni-based filters. The interaction between these two impurities did not significantly impact the filter performance with respect to PH 3 removal for both filter formulations. The cell performance was evaluated by current-voltage measurements and impedance spectroscopy. Post-mortem analyses of the cell and filter were performed by means of XRD, SEM/EDS and XPS. With proper filter design, the Ni-YSZ SOFC can operate on contaminated coal-syngas without degradation over a prescribed period of time.

  13. Reassortment and evolution of current human influenza A and B viruses.

    PubMed

    Xu, Xiyan; Lindstrom, Stephen E; Shaw, Michael W; Smith, Catherine B; Hall, Henrietta E; Mungall, Bruce A; Subbarao, Kanta; Cox, Nancy J; Klimov, Alexander

    2004-07-01

    During the 2001-2002 influenza season, human influenza A (H1N2) reassortant viruses were detected globally. The hemagglutinin (HA) of these H1N2 viruses was similar to that of the A/New Caledonia/20/99 (H1N1) vaccine strain both antigenically and genetically, while their neuraminidase (NA) was antigenically and genetically related to that of recent human influenza H3N2 reference viruses such as A/Moscow/10/99. All six internal genes of the H1N2 reassortants originated from an H3N2 virus. After being detected only in eastern Asia during the past 10 years, Influenza B/Victoria/2/87 lineage viruses reappeared in many countries outside of Asia in 2001. Additionally, reassortant influenza B viruses possessing an HA similar to that of B/Shandong/7/97, a recent B/Victoria/2/87 lineage reference strain, and an NA closely related to that of B/Sichuan/379/99, a recent B/Yamagata/16/88 lineage reference strain, were isolated globally and became the predominant influenza B epidemic strain. The current influenza vaccine is expected to provide good protection against H1N2 viruses because it contains A/New Caledonia/20/99 (H1N1) and A/Panama/2007/99 (H3N2) like viruses whose H1 HA or N2 NA are antigenically similar to those of recent circulating H1N2 viruses. On the other hand, widespread circulation of influenza B Victoria lineage viruses required inclusion of a strain from this lineage in influenza vaccines for the 2002-2003 season.

  14. Microbial Activity Influences Electrical Conductivity of Biofilm Anode

    EPA Science Inventory

    This study assessed the conductivity of a Geobacter-enriched biofilm anode along with biofilm activity in a microbial electrochemical cell (MxC) equipped with two gold anodes (25 mM acetate medium), as different proton gradients were built throughout the biofilm. There was no pH ...

  15. Buried anode lithium thin film battery and process for forming the same

    DOEpatents

    Lee, Se-Hee; Tracy, C. Edwin; Liu, Ping

    2004-10-19

    A reverse configuration, lithium thin film battery (300) having a buried lithium anode layer (305) and process for making the same. The present invention is formed from a precursor composite structure (200) made by depositing electrolyte layer (204) onto substrate (201), followed by sequential depositions of cathode layer (203) and current collector (202) on the electrolyte layer. The precursor is subjected to an activation step, wherein a buried lithium anode layer (305) is formed via electroplating a lithium anode layer at the interface of substrate (201) and electrolyte film (204). The electroplating is accomplished by applying a current between anode current collector (201) and cathode current collector (202).

  16. Electroless Cu Plating on Anodized Al Substrate for High Power LED.

    PubMed

    Rha, Sa-Kyun; Lee, Youn-Seoung

    2015-03-01

    Area-selective copper deposition on screen printed Ag pattern/anodized Al/Al substrate was attempted using a neutral electroless plating processes for printed circuit boards (PCBs), according to a range of variation of pH 6.5-pH 8 at 70 °C. The utilized basic electroless solution consisted of copper(II) sulfate pentahydrate, sodium phosphinate monohydrate, sodium citrate tribasic dihydrate, ammonium chloride, and nickel(II) sulfate hexahydrate. The pH of the copper plating solutions was adjusted from pH 6.5 to pH 8 using NH4OH. Using electroless plating in pH 6.5 and pH 7 baths, surface damage to the anodized Al layer hardly occurred; the structure of the plated Cu-rich films was a typical fcc-Cu, but a small Ni component was co-deposited. In electroless plating at pH 8, the surface of the anodized Al layer was damaged and the Cu film was composed of a lot of Ni and P which were co-deposited with Cu. Finally, in a pH 7 bath, we can make a selectively electroless plated Cu film on a PCB without any lithography and without surface damage to the anodized Al layer.

  17. Evaluation of Kefir as a New Anodic Biocatalyst Consortium for Microbial Fuel Cell.

    PubMed

    Silveira, Gustavo; Schneedorf, José Maurício

    2018-02-21

    Kefir, a combined consortium of bacteria and yeast encapsulated by a polymeric matrix of exopolysaccharides, was used as anodic biocatalyst in a two-chamber microbial fuel cell (MFC). Fermentation was followed during 72 h and polarization curves were obtained from linear sweep voltammetry. The effect of methylene blue as charge-transfer mediator in the kefir metabolism was evaluated. UV/Vis spectrophotometry and cyclic voltammetry were applied to evaluate the redox state of the mediator and to characterize the electrochemical activity, whereas current interruption was used for internal resistance determination. Aiming to establish a relationship between the microbial development inside the anodic chamber with the generated power in the MFC, total titratable acidity, pH, viscosity, carbohydrate assimilation, and microbial counting were assayed. The kefir-based MFC demonstrated a maximum power density of 54 mW m -2 after 24 h fermentation, revealing the potential use of kefir as a biocatalyst for microbial fuel cells.

  18. Voltage Oscillations in a Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell with Pd‐Pt/C and Pd/C Anodes

    PubMed Central

    Nogueira, Jéssica Alves

    2017-01-01

    Abstract Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) fed with H2 contaminated with CO may exhibit oscillatory behavior when operated galvanostatically. The self‐organization of the anodic overpotential is interesting because it can be accompanied by an increase in the average performance. Herein we report experimental studies of voltage oscillations that emerge in a PEMFC equipped with a Pd/C or PdPt/C anode and fed with H2 contaminated with CO (100 ppm). We used on‐line mass spectrometry to investigate how the mass fragments associated with CO2 and CO (m/z 44 and 28, respectively) varied with the voltage oscillations. Overall, we observed that oscillations in the anodic overpotential are in phase with that of the CO and CO2 signals. This fact is consistent with an autonomous adsorption–oxidation cyclic process. For both anodes, it has been observed that, in general, an increase in current density implies an increase in oscillatory frequency. By using CO stripping, we also discuss how the onset of CO oxidation is related to the maximum overpotential reached during a cycle, whereas the minimum overpotential can be associated with the catalytic activity of the electrode for H2 oxidation. PMID:29046857

  19. Anode power in a quasi-steady MPD thruster. Ph.D. Thesis

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Saber, A. J.

    1974-01-01

    Local anode heat flux in a quasi-steady MPD thruster is measured by thermocouples attached to the inside surface of a shell anode. Over a range of arc currents J from 5.5 to 44 kiloamperes and argon propellant mass flows m from 1 to 48 g/sec, with the ratio J2/m held constant, the fraction of arc power deposited in the anode is found to decrease with increasing arc power. Specifically, this anode power fraction decreases from 50% at 200 kW arc power, to 10% at 20 MW. In an effort to account for this functional behavior, the current density, plasma potential, and electron temperature in the plasma adjacent to the anode are measured with probes, and the results are used in a theoretical anode heat flux model. The model asserts that energy exchange between electrons and heavy particles in the plasma near the anode occur over distances greater than the anode sheath thickness.

  20. Electrode effects on temporal changes in electrolyte pH and redox potential for water treatment

    PubMed Central

    Ciblak, Ali; Mao, Xuhui; Padilla, Ingrid; Vesper, Dorothy; Alshawabkeh, Iyad; Alshawabkeh, Akram N.

    2012-01-01

    The performance of electrochemical remediation methods could be optimized by controlling the physicochemical conditions of the electrochemical redox system. The effects of anode type (reactive or inert), current density and electrolyte composition on the temporal changes in pH and redox potential of the electrolyte were evaluated in divided and mixed electrolytes. Two types of electrodes were used: iron as a reactive electrode and mixed metal oxide coated titanium (MMO) as an inert electrode. Electric currents of 15, 30, 45 and 60 mA (37.5 mA L−1, 75 mA L−1, 112.5 mA L−1 and 150 mA L−1) were applied. Solutions of NaCl, Na2SO4 and NaHCO3 were selected to mimic different wastewater or groundwater composition. Iron anodes resulted in highly reducing electrolyte conditions compared to inert anodes. Electrolyte pH was dependent on electrode type, electrolyte composition and current density. The pH of mixed-electrolyte was stable when MMO electrodes were used. When iron electrodes were used, the pH of electrolyte with relatively low current density (37.5 mA L−1) did not show significant changes but the pH increased sharply for relatively high current density (150 mA L−1). Sulfate solution showed more basic and relatively more reducing electrolyte condition compared to bicarbonate and chloride solution. The study shows that a highly reducing environment could be achieved using iron anodes in divided or mixed electrolytes and the pH and redox potential could be optimized by using appropriate current and polarity reversal. PMID:22416866

  1. Nb-doped rutile TiO₂: a potential anode material for Na-ion battery.

    PubMed

    Usui, Hiroyuki; Yoshioka, Sho; Wasada, Kuniaki; Shimizu, Masahiro; Sakaguchi, Hiroki

    2015-04-01

    The electrochemical properties of the rutile-type TiO2 and Nb-doped TiO2 were investigated for the first time as Na-ion battery anodes. Ti(1-x)Nb(x)O2 thick-film electrodes without a binder and a conductive additive were prepared using a sol-gel method followed by a gas-deposition method. The TiO2 electrode showed reversible reactions of Na insertion/extraction accompanied by expansion/contraction of the TiO2 lattice. Among the Ti(1-x)Nb(x)O2 electrodes with x = 0-0.18, the Ti(0.94)Nb(0.06)O2 electrode exhibited the best cycling performance, with a reversible capacity of 160 mA h g(-1) at the 50th cycle. As the Li-ion battery anode, this electrode also attained an excellent rate capability, with a capacity of 120 mA h g(-1) even at the high current density of 16.75 A g(-1) (50C). The improvements in the performances are attributed to a 3 orders of magnitude higher electronic conductivity of Ti(0.94)Nb(0.06)O2 compared to that of TiO2. This offers the possibility of Nb-doped rutile TiO2 as a Na-ion battery anode as well as a Li-ion battery anode.

  2. Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation of the motor cortex increases cortical voluntary activation and neural plasticity.

    PubMed

    Frazer, Ashlyn; Williams, Jacqueline; Spittles, Michael; Rantalainen, Timo; Kidgell, Dawson

    2016-11-01

    We examined the cumulative effect of 4 consecutive bouts of noninvasive brain stimulation on corticospinal plasticity and motor performance, and whether these responses were influenced by the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) polymorphism. In a randomized double-blinded cross-over design, changes in strength and indices of corticospinal plasticity were analyzed in 14 adults who were exposed to 4 consecutive sessions of anodal and sham transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Participants also undertook a blood sample for BDNF genotyping (N = 13). We observed a significant increase in isometric wrist flexor strength with transcranial magnetic stimulation revealing increased corticospinal excitability, decreased silent period duration, and increased cortical voluntary activation compared with sham tDCS. The results show that 4 consecutive sessions of anodal tDCS increased cortical voluntary activation manifested as an improvement in strength. Induction of corticospinal plasticity appears to be influenced by the BDNF polymorphism. Muscle Nerve 54: 903-913, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  3. MIL-H-8501B: Application to shipboard terminal operations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Cappetta, A. N.; Johns, J. B.

    1993-01-01

    The philosophy and structure of the proposed U.S. Military Specification for Handling Qualities Requirements for Military Rotorcraft, MIL-H-8501B, are presented with emphasis on shipboard terminal operations. The impact of current and future naval operational requirements on the selection of appropriate combinations of basic vehicle dynamics and usable cue environments are identified. An example 'walk through' of MIL-H-8501B is conducted from task identification to determination of stability and control requirements. For selected basic vehicle dynamics, criteria as a function of input/response magnitude are presented. Additionally, rotorcraft design development implications are discussed.

  4. Electrostatic/magnetic ion acceleration through a slowly diverging magnetic nozzle between a ring anode and an on-axis hollow cathode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sasoh, A.; Mizutani, K.; Iwakawa, A.

    2017-06-01

    Ion acceleration through a slowly diverging magnetic nozzle between a ring anode and a hollow cathode set on the axis of symmetry has been realized. Xenon was supplied as the propellant gas from an annular slit along the inner surface of the ring anode so that it was ionized near the anode, and the applied electric potential was efficiently transformed to an ion kinetic energy. As an electrostatic thruster, within the examined operation conditions, the thrust, F, almost scaled with the propellant mass flow rate; the discharge current, Jd, increased with the discharge voltage, Vd. An important characteristic was that the thrust also exhibited electromagnetic acceleration performance, i.e., the so-called "swirl acceleration," in which F ≅JdB Ra /√{2 }, where B and Ra were a magnetic field and an anode inner radius, respectively. Such a unique thruster performance combining both electrostatic and electromagnetic accelerations is expected to be useful as another option for in-space electric propulsion in its broad functional diversity.

  5. Preparation of Ti/IrO2 Anode with Low Iridium Content by Thermal Decomposition Process: Electrochemical removal of organic pollutants in water

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yaqub, Asim; Isa, Mohamed Hasnain; Ajab, Huma; Kutty, S. R. M.; Ezechi, Ezerie H.; Farooq, Robina

    2018-04-01

    In this study IrO2 (Iridium oxide) was coated onto a titanium plate anode from a dilute (50 mg/10 ml) IrCl3×H2O salt solution. Coating was done at high temperature (550∘C) using thermal decomposition. Surface morphology and characteristics of coated surface of Ti/IrO2 anode were examined by FESEM and XRD. The coated anode was applied for electrochemical removal of organic pollutants from synthetic water samples in 100 mL compartment of batch electrochemical cell. About 50% COD removal was obtained at anode prepared with low Ir content solution while 72% COD removal was obtained with anode prepared at high Ir content. Maximum COD removal was obtained at 10 mA/cm2 current density.

  6. Identification of a Secondary Promoter within the Human B Cell Receptor Component Gene hCD79b*

    PubMed Central

    Yoo, Eung Jae; Cooke, Nancy E.; Liebhaber, Stephen A.

    2013-01-01

    The human B cell-specific protein, CD79b (also known as Igβ and B29) constitutes an essential signal transduction component of the B cell receptor. Although its function is central to the triggering of B cell terminal differentiation in response to antigen stimulation, the transcriptional determinants that control CD79b gene expression remain poorly defined. In the present study, we explored these determinants using a series of hCD79b transgenic mouse models. Remarkably, we observed that the previously described hCD79b promoter along with its associated enhancer elements and first exon could be deleted without appreciable loss of hCD79b transcriptional activity or tissue specificity. In this deletion setting, a secondary promoter located within exon 2 maintained full levels and specificity of hCD79b transcription. Of note, this secondary promoter was also active, albeit at lower levels, in the wild-type hCD79b locus. The activity of the secondary promoter was dependent on the action(s) of a conserved sequence element mapping to a chromatin DNase I hypersensitive site located within intron 1. mRNA generated from this secondary promoter is predicted to encode an Igβ protein lacking a signal sequence and thus unable to serve normal B cell receptor function. Although the physiologic role of the hCD79b secondary promoter and its encoded protein remain unclear, the current data suggest that it has the capacity to play a role in normal as well as pathologic states in B cell proliferation and function. PMID:23649625

  7. A High-Performing Sulfur-Tolerant and Redox-Stable Layered Perovskite Anode for Direct Hydrocarbon Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

    PubMed Central

    Ding, Hanping; Tao, Zetian; Liu, Shun; Zhang, Jiujun

    2015-01-01

    Development of alternative ceramic oxide anode materials is a key step for direct hydrocarbon solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Several lanthanide based layered perovskite-structured oxides demonstrate outstanding oxygen diffusion rate, favorable electronic conductivity, and good oxygen surface exchange kinetics, owing to A-site ordered structure in which lanthanide and alkali-earth ions occupy alternate (001) layers and oxygen vacancies are mainly located in [LnOx] planes. Here we report a nickel-free cation deficient layered perovskite, (PrBa)0.95(Fe0.9Mo0.1)2O5 + δ (PBFM), for SOFC anode, and this anode shows an outstanding performance with high resistance against both carbon build-up and sulfur poisoning in hydrocarbon fuels. At 800 °C, the layered PBFM showed high electrical conductivity of 59.2 S cm−1 in 5% H2 and peak power densities of 1.72 and 0.54 W cm−2 using H2 and CH4 as fuel, respectively. The cell exhibits a very stable performance under a constant current load of 1.0 A cm−2. To our best knowledge, this is the highest performance of ceramic anodes operated in methane. In addition, the anode is structurally stable at various fuel and temperature conditions, suggesting that it is a feasible material candidate for high-performing SOFC anode. PMID:26648509

  8. A High-Performing Sulfur-Tolerant and Redox-Stable Layered Perovskite Anode for Direct Hydrocarbon Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ding, Hanping; Tao, Zetian; Liu, Shun; Zhang, Jiujun

    2015-12-01

    Development of alternative ceramic oxide anode materials is a key step for direct hydrocarbon solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Several lanthanide based layered perovskite-structured oxides demonstrate outstanding oxygen diffusion rate, favorable electronic conductivity, and good oxygen surface exchange kinetics, owing to A-site ordered structure in which lanthanide and alkali-earth ions occupy alternate (001) layers and oxygen vacancies are mainly located in [LnOx] planes. Here we report a nickel-free cation deficient layered perovskite, (PrBa)0.95(Fe0.9Mo0.1)2O5 + δ (PBFM), for SOFC anode, and this anode shows an outstanding performance with high resistance against both carbon build-up and sulfur poisoning in hydrocarbon fuels. At 800 °C, the layered PBFM showed high electrical conductivity of 59.2 S cm-1 in 5% H2 and peak power densities of 1.72 and 0.54 W cm-2 using H2 and CH4 as fuel, respectively. The cell exhibits a very stable performance under a constant current load of 1.0 A cm-2. To our best knowledge, this is the highest performance of ceramic anodes operated in methane. In addition, the anode is structurally stable at various fuel and temperature conditions, suggesting that it is a feasible material candidate for high-performing SOFC anode.

  9. A High-Performing Sulfur-Tolerant and Redox-Stable Layered Perovskite Anode for Direct Hydrocarbon Solid Oxide Fuel Cells.

    PubMed

    Ding, Hanping; Tao, Zetian; Liu, Shun; Zhang, Jiujun

    2015-12-09

    Development of alternative ceramic oxide anode materials is a key step for direct hydrocarbon solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Several lanthanide based layered perovskite-structured oxides demonstrate outstanding oxygen diffusion rate, favorable electronic conductivity, and good oxygen surface exchange kinetics, owing to A-site ordered structure in which lanthanide and alkali-earth ions occupy alternate (001) layers and oxygen vacancies are mainly located in [LnOx] planes. Here we report a nickel-free cation deficient layered perovskite, (PrBa)0.95(Fe0.9Mo0.1)2O5 + δ (PBFM), for SOFC anode, and this anode shows an outstanding performance with high resistance against both carbon build-up and sulfur poisoning in hydrocarbon fuels. At 800 °C, the layered PBFM showed high electrical conductivity of 59.2 S cm(-1) in 5% H2 and peak power densities of 1.72 and 0.54 W cm(-2) using H2 and CH4 as fuel, respectively. The cell exhibits a very stable performance under a constant current load of 1.0 A cm(-2). To our best knowledge, this is the highest performance of ceramic anodes operated in methane. In addition, the anode is structurally stable at various fuel and temperature conditions, suggesting that it is a feasible material candidate for high-performing SOFC anode.

  10. Metal-based anode for high performance bioelectrochemical systems through photo-electrochemical interaction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liang, Yuxiang; Feng, Huajun; Shen, Dongsheng; Long, Yuyang; Li, Na; Zhou, Yuyang; Ying, Xianbin; Gu, Yuan; Wang, Yanfeng

    2016-08-01

    This paper introduces a novel composite anode that uses light to enhance current generation and accelerate biofilm formation in bioelectrochemical systems. The composite anode is composed of 316L stainless steel substrate and a nanostructured α-Fe2O3 photocatalyst (PSS). The electrode properties, current generation, and biofilm properties of the anode are investigated. In terms of photocurrent, the optimal deposition and heat-treatment times are found to be 30 min and 2 min, respectively, which result in a maximum photocurrent of 0.6 A m-2. The start-up time of the PSS is 1.2 days and the maximum current density is 2.8 A m-2, twice and 25 times that of unmodified anode, respectively. The current density of the PSS remains stable during 20 days of illumination. Confocal laser scanning microscope images show that the PSS could benefit biofilm formation, while electrochemical impedance spectroscopy indicates that the PSS reduce the charge-transfer resistance of the anode. Our findings show that photo-electrochemical interaction is a promising way to enhance the biocompatibility of metal anodes for bioelectrochemical systems.

  11. The impact of steam and current density on carbon formation from biomass gasification tar on Ni/YSZ, and Ni/CGO solid oxide fuel cell anodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mermelstein, Joshua; Millan, Marcos; Brandon, Nigel

    The combination of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and biomass gasification has the potential to become an attractive technology for the production of clean renewable energy. However the impact of tars, formed during biomass gasification, on the performance and durability of SOFC anodes has not been well established experimentally. This paper reports an experimental study on the mitigation of carbon formation arising from the exposure of the commonly used Ni/YSZ (yttria stabilized zirconia) and Ni/CGO (gadolinium-doped ceria) SOFC anodes to biomass gasification tars. Carbon formation and cell degradation was reduced through means of steam reforming of the tar over the nickel anode, and partial oxidation of benzene model tar via the transport of oxygen ions to the anode while operating the fuel cell under load. Thermodynamic calculations suggest that a threshold current density of 365 mA cm -2 was required to suppress carbon formation in dry conditions, which was consistent with the results of experiments conducted in this study. The importance of both anode microstructure and composition towards carbon deposition was seen in the comparison of Ni/YSZ and Ni/CGO anodes exposed to the biomass gasification tar. Under steam concentrations greater than the thermodynamic threshold for carbon deposition, Ni/YSZ anodes still exhibited cell degradation, as shown by increased polarization resistances, and carbon formation was seen using SEM imaging. Ni/CGO anodes were found to be more resilient to carbon formation than Ni/YSZ anodes, and displayed increased performance after each subsequent exposure to tar, likely due to continued reforming of condensed tar on the anode.

  12. Treatment of Ni-EDTA containing wastewater by electrocoagulation using iron scraps packed-bed anode.

    PubMed

    Ye, Xiaokun; Zhang, Junya; Zhang, Yan; Lv, Yuancai; Dou, Rongni; Wen, Shulong; Li, Lianghao; Chen, Yuancai; Hu, YongYou

    2016-12-01

    The unique electrocoagulator proposed in this study is highly efficient at removing Ni-EDTA, providing a potential remediation option for wastewater containing lower concentrations of Ni-EDTA (Ni ≤ 10 mg L -1 ). In the electrocoagulation (EC) system, cylindrical graphite was used as a cathode, and a packed-bed formed from iron scraps was used as an anode. The results showed that the removal of Ni-EDTA increased with the application of current and favoured acidic conditions. We also found that the iron scrap packed-bed anode was superior in its treatment ability and specific energy consumption (SECS) compared with the iron rod anode. In addition, the packed density and temperature had a large influence on the energy consumption (ECS). Over 94.3% of Ni and 95.8% of TOC were removed when conducting the EC treatment at an applied current of 0.5 A, initial pH of 3, air-purged rate 0.2 L min -1 , anode packed density of 400 kg m -3 temperature of 313 K and time of 30 min. SEM analysis of the iron scraps indicated that the specific area of the anode increased after the EC. The XRD analysis of flocs produced during EC revealed that hematite (α-Fe 2 O 3 ) and magnetite (Fe 3 O 4 ) were the main by-products under aerobic and anoxic conditions, respectively. A kinetic study demonstrated that the removal of Ni-EDTA followed a first-order model with the current parameters. Moreover, the removal efficiency of real wastewater was essentially consistent with that of synthetic wastewater. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Effects of anodic oxidation parameters on a modified titanium surface.

    PubMed

    Park, Il Song; Lee, Min Ho; Bae, Tae Sung; Seol, Kyeong Won

    2008-02-01

    Anodic oxidation is an electrochemical treatment that can be used to control the thickness of an oxide layer formed on a titanium surface. This procedure has the advantage of allowing the ions contained in an electrolyte to deposit onto the oxide layer. The characteristics of a layer treated with anodic oxidation can vary according to the type and concentration of the electrolytes as well as the processing variables used during anodic oxidation. In this study, the constant electrolyte for anodic oxidation was a mixed solution containing 0.02 M DL-alpha-glycerophosphate disodium salt and 0.2M calcium acetate. Anodic oxidation was carried out at different voltages, current densities, and duration of anodic oxidation. The results showed that the current density and variation in the duration of anodic oxidation did not have a large effect on the change in the characteristics of the layer. On the other hand, the size of the micropores was increased with increasing voltage of anodic oxidation, and anatase and rutile phases were found to co-exist in the porous titanium dioxide layer. In addition, the thickness of the oxide layer on titanium and the characteristic of corrosion resistance increased with increasing voltage. The MTT test showed that the cell viability was increased considerably as a result of anodic oxidation. The anodizing voltage is an important parameter that determines the characteristics of the anodic oxide layer of titanium. (c) 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  14. After-effects of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation on the excitability of the motor cortex in rats.

    PubMed

    Koo, Ho; Kim, Min Sun; Han, Sang Who; Paulus, Walter; Nitche, Michael A; Kim, Yun-Hee; Kim, Hyoung-Ihl; Ko, Sung-Hwa; Shin, Yong-Il

    2016-09-21

    Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is increasingly seen as a useful tool for noninvasive cortical neuromodulation. A number of studies in humans have shown that when tDCS is applied to the motor cortex it can modulate cortical excitability. It is especially interesting to note that when applied with sufficient duration and intensity, tDCS can enable long-lasting neuroplastic effects. However, the mechanism by which tDCS exerts its effects on the cortex is not fully understood. We investigated the effects of anodal tDCS under urethane anesthesia on field potentials in in vivo rats. These were measured on the skull over the right motor cortex of rats immediately after stimulating the left corpus callosum. Evoked field potentials in the motor cortex were gradually increased for more than one hour after anodal tDCS. To induce these long-lasting effects, a sufficient duration of stimulation (20 minutes or more) was found to may be required rather than high stimulation intensity. We propose that anodal tDCS with a sufficient duration of stimulation may modulate transcallosal plasticity.

  15. Hybrid pulse anodization for the fabrication of porous anodic alumina films from commercial purity (99%) aluminum at room temperature.

    PubMed

    Chung, C K; Zhou, R X; Liu, T Y; Chang, W T

    2009-02-04

    Most porous anodic alumina (PAA) or anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) films are fabricated using the potentiostatic method from high-purity (99.999%) aluminum films at a low temperature of approximately 0-10 degrees C to avoid dissolution effects at room temperature (RT). In this study, we have demonstrated the fabrication of PAA film from commercial purity (99%) aluminum at RT using a hybrid pulse technique which combines pulse reverse and pulse voltages for the two-step anodization. The reaction mechanism is investigated by the real-time monitoring of current. A possible mechanism of hybrid pulse anodization is proposed for the formation of pronounced nanoporous film at RT. The structure and morphology of the anodic films were greatly influenced by the duration of anodization and the type of voltage. The best result was obtained by first applying pulse reverse voltage and then pulse voltage. The first pulse reverse anodization step was used to form new small cells and pre-texture concave aluminum as a self-assembled mask while the second pulse anodization step was for the resulting PAA film. The diameter of the nanopores in the arrays could reach 30-60 nm.

  16. Interfacial chemistry of zinc anodes for reinforced concrete structures

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

    Covino, B.S. Jr.; Bullard, S.J.; Cramer, S.D.

    1997-12-01

    Thermally-sprayed zinc anodes are used in both galvanic and impressed current cathodic protection systems for reinforced concrete structures. The Albany Research Center, in collaboration with the Oregon Department of Transportation, has been studying the effect of electrochemical aging on the bond strength of zinc anodes for bridge cathodic protection systems. Changes in anode bond strength and other anode properties can be explained by the chemistry of the zinc-concrete interface. The chemistry of the zinc-concrete interface in laboratory electrochemical aging studies is compared with that of several bridges with thermal-sprayed zinc anodes and which have been in service for 5 tomore » 10 years using both galvanic and impressed current cathodic protection systems. The bridges are the Cape Creek Bridge on the Oregon coast and the East Camino Undercrossing near Placerville, CA. Also reported are interfacial chemistry results for galvanized steel rebar from the 48 year old Longbird Bridge in Bermuda.« less

  17. Green synthesis of boron doped graphene and its application as high performance anode material in Li ion battery

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

    Sahoo, Madhumita; Sreena, K.P.; Vinayan, B.P.

    2015-01-15

    Graphical abstract: Boron doped graphene (B-G), synthesized by simple hydrogen induced reduction technique using boric acid as boron precursor, have more uneven surface as a result of smaller bonding distance of boron compared to carbon, showed high capacity and high rate capability compared to pristine graphene as an anode material for Li ion battery application. - Abstract: The present work demonstrates a facile route for the large-scale, catalyst free, and green synthesis approach of boron doped graphene (B-G) and its use as high performance anode material for Li ion battery (LIB) application. Boron atoms were doped into graphene framework withmore » an atomic percentage of 5.93% via hydrogen induced thermal reduction technique using graphite oxide and boric acid as precursors. Various characterization techniques were used to confirm the boron doping in graphene sheets. B-G as anode material shows a discharge capacity of 548 mAh g{sup −1} at 100 mA g{sup −1} after 30th cycles. At high current density value of 1 A g{sup −1}, B-G as anode material enhances the specific capacity by about 1.7 times compared to pristine graphene. The present study shows a simplistic way of boron doping in graphene leading to an enhanced Li ion adsorption due to the change in electronic states.« less

  18. Experimental Studies of the Effects of Anode Composition and Process Parameters on Anode Slime Adhesion and Cathode Copper Purity by Performing Copper Electrorefining in a Pilot-Scale Cell

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zeng, Weizhi; Wang, Shijie; Free, Michael L.

    2016-10-01

    Copper electrorefining tests were conducted in a pilot-scale cell under commercial tankhouse environment to study the effects of anode compositions, current density, cathode blank width, and flow rate on anode slime behavior and cathode copper purity. Three different types of anodes (high, mid, and low impurity levels) were used in the tests and were analyzed under SEM/EDS. The harvested copper cathodes were weighed and analyzed for impurities concentrations using DC Arc. The adhered slimes and released slimes were collected, weighed, and analyzed for compositions using ICP. It was shown that the lead-to-arsenic ratio in the anodes affects the sintering and coalescence of slime particles. High current density condition can improve anode slime adhesion and cathode purity by intensifying slime particles' coalescence and dissolving part of the particles. Wide cathode blanks can raise the anodic current densities significantly and result in massive release of large slime particle aggregates, which are not likely to contaminate the cathode copper. Low flow rate can cause anode passivation and increase local temperatures in front of the anode, which leads to very intense sintering and coalescence of slime particles. The results and analyses of the tests present potential solutions for industrial copper electrorefining process.

  19. Mechanism and kinetics of electrochemical degradation of uric acid using conductive-diamond anodes.

    PubMed

    Dbira, Sondos; Bensalah, Nasr; Bedoui, Ahmed

    2016-12-01

    Uric acid (UA) is one of the principal effluents of urine wastewaters, widely used in agriculture as fertilizer, which is potentially dangerous and biorefractory. Hence, the degradation of UA (2,6,8-trihydroxy purine) in aqueous solution of pH 3.0 has been studied by conductive-diamond electrochemical oxidation. Hydroxyl radicals formed from water oxidation at the surface of boron-doped diamond anodes were the main oxidizing agents. Effects of current density and supporting electrolyte on the degradation rate and process efficiency are assessed. Results show that the increase of current density from 20 to 60 mA cm(-2) leads to a decrease in the efficiency of the electrochemical process. In addition, the best degradation occurred in the presence of NaCl as conductive electrolyte. Interestingly, an almost total mineralization of 50 ppm UA was obtained when anodic oxidation was performed at low current densities (20 mA cm(-2)) and in the presence of NaCl. This result confirmed that the electrolysis using diamond anodes is a very interesting technology for the treatment of UA. The identification of UA transformation products was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). HPLC analysis of treated solutions revealed that oxalic acid and urea were the two intermediates found. Oxalic acid was the most persistent product. Based on detected intermediates and bibliographic research, a mechanism of UA mineralization by anodic oxidation has been proposed. Ionic chromatography analysis confirmed the release of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] ions during UA mineralization.

  20. Gold-coated silicon nanowire-graphene core-shell composite film as a polymer binder-free anode for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Han-Jung; Lee, Sang Eon; Lee, Jihye; Jung, Joo-Yun; Lee, Eung-Sug; Choi, Jun-Hyuk; Jung, Jun-Ho; Oh, Minsub; Hyun, Seungmin; Choi, Dae-Geun

    2014-07-01

    We designed and fabricated a gold (Au)-coated silicon nanowires/graphene (Au-SiNWs/G) hybrid composite as a polymer binder-free anode for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). A large amount of SiNWs for LIB anode materials can be prepared by metal-assisted chemical etching (MaCE) process. The Au-SiNWs/G composite film on current collector was obtained by vacuum filtration using an anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membrane and hot pressing method. Our experimental results show that the Au-SiNWs/G composite has a stable reversible capacity of about 1520 mA h/g which was maintained for 20 cycles. The Au-SiNWs/G composite anode showed much better cycling performance than SiNWs/polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/Super-P, SiNWs/G composite, and pure SiNWs anodes. The improved electrochemical properties of the Au-SiNWs/G composite anode material is mainly ascribed to the composite's porous network structure.

  1. An unexpected target of spinal direct current stimulation: Interhemispheric connectivity in humans.

    PubMed

    Bocci, Tommaso; Caleo, Matteo; Vannini, Beatrice; Vergari, Maurizio; Cogiamanian, Filippo; Rossi, Simone; Priori, Alberto; Sartucci, Ferdinando

    2015-10-30

    Transcutaneous spinal Direct Current Stimulation (tsDCS) is a noninvasive technique based on the application of weak electrical currents over spinal cord. We studied the effects of tsDCS on interhemispheric motor connectivity and visual processing by evaluating changes in ipsilateral Silent Period (iSP), Transcallosal Conduction Time (TCT) and hemifield Visual Evoked Potentials (hVEPs), before (T0) and at a different intervals following sham, anodal and cathodal tsDCS (T9-T11 level, 2.0 mA, 20'). Motor Evoked Potentials (MEPs) were recorded from abductor pollicis brevis (APB), abductor hallucis (AH) and deltoid muscles. hVEPs were recorded bilaterally by reversal of a horizontal square wave grating with the display positioned in the right hemifield. Anodal tsDCS increased TCT (p < 0.001) and the interhemispheric delay for both the main VEP components (N1: p = 0.0003; P1: p < 0.0001), dampening at the same time iSP duration (APB: p < 0.0001; AH: p = 0.0005; deltoid: p < 0.0001), while cathodal stimulation elicited opposite effects (p < 0.0001). tsDCS modulates interhemispheric processing in a polarity-specific manner, with anodal stimulation leading to a functional disconnection between hemispheres. tsDCS would be a new promising therapeutic tool in managing a number of human diseases characterized by an impaired interhemispheric balance, or an early rehabilitation strategy in patients with acute brain lesions, when other non-invasive brain stimulation techniques (NIBS) are not indicated due to safety concerns. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. Theoretical study of a consumable anode in a gas metal welding arc

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

    Zhu, P.; Simpson, S.W.

    1996-12-31

    A better understanding of the behavior of the metal transfer process in a welding arc is important for further improvement of quality control for gas-metal-arc welding (GMAW). The problems related to the metal transfer are generally complicated because (a) the metal transfer process is strongly coupled with the arc plasma, which is not stable, for example, the length of the arc plasma varies during the formation and detachment of a metal droplet, and (b) the formation of the electrode droplet itself is influenced by energy transfer, the anode-plasma interface, and also the location of the liquid-solid interface inside the anode.more » This paper presents primary results of an investigation of the consumable anode in a gas metal welding arc. The study includes theoretical predictions of the properties related to metal transfer including moving anode temperature profile, welding arc length and arc current as a function of time for various wire feed rates, as well as numerical treatment of droplet formation. The anode temperature profile and the melting rate are analyzed by a metal transfer model which couples a two-dimensional arc model to a one-dimensional anode thermal model. The droplet formation is predicted by a quasi-one-dimensional dynamic model of a pendant drop which accounts for the electromagnet pinch effect, the surface tension, gravitation and the momentum transfer due to wire motion. Comparison between experimental observation and theoretical predictions will also be discussed.« less

  3. Liquid permeation and chemical stability of anodic alumina membranes

    PubMed Central

    Buldakov, Dmitrii A; Tishkin, Alexey A; Lukashin, Alexey V; Eliseev, Andrei A

    2017-01-01

    A study on the chemical stability of anodic alumina membranes and their performance in long-term water and organic solvent permeation experiments is reported. Anodic alumina possesses high stability for both protonic and aprotonic organic solvents. However, serious degradation of the membrane occurs in pure water, leading to a drastic decrease of permeance (over 20% of the initial value after the passing of 0.250 m3/m2 of pure water). The drying of the membrane induces further permeance drop-off. The rate of membrane degradation strongly depends on the pH of the penetrant solution and increases in basic media. According to 27Al NMR and thermogravimetry results, the degradation of the membranes is associated with the dissolution of water-soluble [Al13O4(OH)24(H2O)12]7+ polyhydroxocomplexes and their further redeposition in the form of [Al(OH)4]−, resulting in channels blocking. This process intensifies in basic pH due to the high positive charge of the anodic alumina surface. An approach for improving anodic aluminum oxide stability towards dissolution in water by carbon CVD coating of the membrane walls is suggested. PMID:28382245

  4. Performance of a Dual Anode Nickel-Hydrogen Cell

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Gahn, Randall F.

    1991-01-01

    Nickel-hydrogen batteries are presently being used for energy storage on satellites in low Earth orbit and in geosynchronous orbit, and have also been selected for use on the proposed Space Station Freedom. Development continues on the cell technology in order to improve the specific energy and lengthen the cycle life. An experimental study was conducted to compare the voltage performance of a nickel-hydrogen cell containing a dual anode with the standard cell design which uses a single hydrogen electrode. Since the principle voltage loss in a nickel-hydrogen cell is attributed to the mass transport and resistive polarization parameters of the nickel electrode, addition of a hydrogen electrode on the other side of the nickel electrode should reduce the electrochemical polarizations by a factor of two. A 3.5 in. diameter boilerplate cell with a single 30 mils thick nickel electrode was cycled under various current conditions to evaluate its performance with a single anode and then with a double anode. A layered separator consisting of one Zircar cloth separator and one radiation-grafted polyethylene separator were used between the electrodes. The electrolyte was 26% KOH, and the tests were done at room temperature. The discharge voltage characteristics were determined as a function of current and depth-of-discharge. At the 4C discharge rate and 50% DOD, the voltage of the dual anode cell was 100 mV higher than the single anode cell. At 75% DOD the dual anode cell voltage was about 130 mV higher than the standard cell design. Resistances of the two c ell designs obtained from the slope of the mid-discharge voltages plotted against various currents indicated that the dual anode cell resistance was one-half of the state-of-the-art cell.

  5. Electrochemical incineration of diclofenac in neutral aqueous medium by anodic oxidation using Pt and boron-doped diamond anodes.

    PubMed

    Brillas, Enric; Garcia-Segura, Sergi; Skoumal, Marcel; Arias, Conchita

    2010-04-01

    The degradation of diclofenac, a common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, in aqueous medium has been studied by anodic oxidation (AO) using an undivided cell with a Pt or boron-doped diamond (BDD) anode. Operating without pH regulation, AO with Pt acidifies the solution with precipitation of its protonated form, whereas using BDD, the solution becomes alkaline and only attains partial mineralization. Total incineration of low contents of the drug is feasible by AO with BDD in a neutral buffer medium of pH 6.5. Comparative treatment with Pt gives poor decontamination. The diclofenac decay always follows a pseudo first-order reaction. The increase in current for AO with BDD accelerates the degradative process, but decreases its efficiency. 2-Hydroxyphenylacetic acid, 2,5-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, 2,6-dichloroaniline and 2,6-dichlorohydroquinone have been identified as aromatic intermediates. For AO with Pt, high amounts of malic, succinic, tartaric and oxalic acids are accumulated in the bulk and the N-derivatives produced are rapidly destroyed with loss of NH4+. When BDD is employed, some carboxylic acids are also accumulated in small extent, with a larger persistence of oxalic and oxamic acids. The process involves the formation of different N-derivatives that slowly release NH4+ and NO3(-) ions. Chloride ion is lost in all cases. 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. 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.

  7. Cu-Ni-Fe anodes having improved microstructure

    DOEpatents

    Bergsma, S. Craig; Brown, Craig W.

    2004-04-20

    A method of producing aluminum in a low temperature electrolytic cell containing alumina dissolved in an electrolyte. The method comprises the steps of providing a molten electrolyte having alumina dissolved therein in an electrolytic cell containing the electrolyte. A non-consumable anode and cathode is disposed in the electrolyte, the anode comprised of Cu--Ni--Fe alloys having single metallurgical phase. Electric current is passed from the anode, through the electrolyte to the cathode thereby depositing aluminum on the cathode, and molten aluminum is collected from the cathode.

  8. Large area organic light emitting diodes with multilayered graphene anodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Moon, Jaehyun; Hwang, Joohyun; Choi, Hong Kyw; Kim, Taek Yong; Choi, Sung-Yool; Joo, Chul Woong; Han, Jun-Han; Shin, Jin-Wook; Lee, Bong Joon; Cho, Doo-Hee; Huh, Jin Woo; Park, Seung Koo; Cho, Nam Sung; Chu, Hye Yong; Lee, Jeong-Ik

    2012-09-01

    In this work, we demonstrate fully uniform blue fluorescence graphene anode OLEDs, which have an emission area of 10×7 mm2. Catalytically grown multilayered graphene films have been used as the anode material. In order to compensate the current drop, which is due to the graphene's electrical resistance, we have furnished metal bus lines on the support. Processing and optical issues involved in graphene anode OLED fabrications are presented. The fabricated OLEDs with graphene anode showed comparable performances to that of ITO anode OLEDs. Our works shows that metal bus furnished graphene anode can be extended into large area OLED lighting applications in which flexibility and transparency is required.

  9. Improved performance of anodic titanium oxide nanotube arrays synthesized by sonoelectrochemical anodization method for dye-sensitized solar cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Peighambardoust, Naeimeh-Sadat; Khameneh-Asl, Shahin; Azimi, Hamid

    2017-05-01

    With rising demand for using solar cell systems for energy and environmental applications, considerable interest in anode materials of these cells has dramatically emerged. In this work, TiO2 nanotubular electrodes of varying thicknesses as anode were fabricated using effective process in a short time by sonoelectrochemical anodizing of Ti using an organic electrolyte, containing Na2[H2EDTA]. Long TiO2 nanotubes about 30-40 μm thick containing ordered hexagonal TiO2 were achieved through manipulating anodization parameters. Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) with different TiO2 electrode morphologies of varying thicknesses were compared to DSSCs based on TiO2 Nanoparticle electrodes. The effect of controlling parameters of the sonoelectrochemical process including surface preparation and anodizing time was investigated. This report brings to attention the desirable properties of the structurally oriented TiO2 for dye-sensitized solar cell applications. It found that the best cell performance was achieved about 3.14% in the case of using TiO2 NT layers that were treated by TiCl4 treatment.

  10. Performance of a dual anode nickel-hydrogen cell

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Gahn, Randall F.

    1991-01-01

    An experimental study was conducted to characterize the voltage performance of a nickel hydrogen cell containing a hydrogen electrode on both sides of the nickel electrode. The dual anode cell was compared with a convenient single anode cell using the same nickel electrode. Higher discharge voltages and lower charge voltages were obtained with the dual anode cell during constant current discharges to 10C, pulse discharges to 8C, and polarization measurements at 50 percent of charge.

  11. Resistive anode image converter

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lampton, M. L.; Paresce, F. (Inventor)

    1976-01-01

    The invention of an apparatus for imaging soft X-ray and ultraviolet electromagnetic radiation and charged particles was described. The apparatus includes a pair of microchannel electron multiplier plates connected in a cascaded chevron configuration which intercepts an incident beam of radiation or charged particles. Incident photons or charged particles strike the front surface of the chevron configuration causing emission of electrons. The electrons are accelerated by a voltage gradient and strike the inner side walls of the individual channels, causing emission of secondary electrons. Accelerated and multiplied secondary electrons impinge upon a resistive anode after they transverse the chevron configuration. A pulse position circuit converts the magnitude or transit time of the currents flowing from the point of impact of the electrons on the resistive anode to four contact electrodes mounted on their periphery of the resistive anode into the spatial coordinates of electron impact.

  12. Enhanced sulfur tolerance of nickel-based anodes for oxygen-ion conducting solid oxide fuel cells by incorporating a secondary water storing phase.

    PubMed

    Wang, Feng; Wang, Wei; Qu, Jifa; Zhong, Yijun; Tade, Mose O; Shao, Zongping

    2014-10-21

    In this work, a Ni+BaZr(0.4)Ce(0.4)Y(0.2)O(3-δ) (Ni+BZCY) anode with high water storage capability is used to increase the sulfur tolerance of nickel electrocatalysts for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) with an oxygen-ion conducting Sm(0.2)Ce(0.8)O(1.9) (SDC) electrolyte. Attractive power outputs are still obtained for the cell with a Ni+BZCY anode that operates on hydrogen fuels containing 100-1000 ppm of H2S, while for a similar cell with a Ni+SDC anode, it displays a much reduced performance by introducing only 100 ppm of H2S into hydrogen. Operating on a hydrogen fuel containing 100 ppm of H2S at 600 °C and a fixed current density of 200 mA cm(-2), a stable power output of 148 mW cm(-2) is well maintained for a cell with a Ni+BZCY anode within a test period of 700 min, while it was decreased from an initial value of 137 mW cm(-2) to only 81 mW cm(-2) for a similar cell with a Ni+SDC anode after a test period of only 150 min. After the stability test, a loss of the Ni percolating network and reaction between nickel and sulfur appeared over the Ni+SDC anode, but it is not observed for the Ni+BZCY anode. This result highly promises the use of water-storing BZCY as an anode component to improve sulfur tolerance for SOFCs with an oxygen-ion conducting SDC electrolyte.

  13. Movable anode x-ray source with enhanced anode cooling

    DOEpatents

    Bird, Charles R.; Rockett, Paul D.

    1987-01-01

    An x-ray source having a cathode and a disc-shaped anode with a peripheral surface at constant radius from the anode axis opposed to the cathode. The anode has stub axle sections rotatably carried in heat conducting bearing plates which are mounted by thermoelectric coolers to bellows which normally bias the bearing plates to a retracted position spaced from opposing anode side faces. The bellows cooperate with the x-ray source mounting structure for forming closed passages for heat transport fluid. Flow of such fluid under pressure expands the bellows and brings the bearing plates into heat conducting contact with the anode side faces. A worm gear is mounted on a shaft and engages serrations in the anode periphery for rotating the anode when flow of coolant is terminated between x-ray emission events.

  14. Anode materials for lithium-ion batteries

    DOEpatents

    Manthiram, Arumugam; Applestone, Danielle; Yoon, Sukeun

    2017-03-21

    The current disclosure relates to an anode material with the general formula M.sub.ySb-M'O.sub.x--C, where M and M' are metals and M'O.sub.x--C forms a matrix containing M.sub.ySb. It also relates to an anode material with the general formula M.sub.ySn-M'C.sub.x--C, where M and M' are metals and M'C.sub.x--C forms a matrix containing M.sub.ySn. It further relates to an anode material with the general formula Mo.sub.3Sb.sub.7--C, where --C forms a matrix containing Mo.sub.3Sb.sub.7. The disclosure also relates to an anode material with the general formula M.sub.ySb-M'C.sub.x--C, where M and M' are metals and M'C.sub.x--C forms a matrix containing M.sub.ySb. Other embodiments of this disclosure relate to anodes or rechargeable batteries containing these materials as well as methods of making these materials using ball-milling techniques and furnace heating.

  15. Systematic assessment of duration and intensity of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation on primary motor cortex excitability.

    PubMed

    Tremblay, Sara; Larochelle-Brunet, Félix; Lafleur, Louis-Philippe; El Mouderrib, Sofia; Lepage, Jean-François; Théoret, Hugo

    2016-09-01

    Since the initial demonstration of linear effects of stimulation duration and intensity on the strength of after-effects associated with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), few studies have systematically assessed how varying these parameters modulates corticospinal excitability. Therefore, the objective of this study was to systematically evaluate the effects of anodal tDCS on corticospinal excitability at two stimulation intensities (1 mA, 2 mA) and durations (10 min, 20 min), and determine the value of several variables in predicting response. Two groups of 20 individuals received, in two separate sessions, 1 and 2 mA anodal tDCS (left primary motor cortex (M1)-right supra-orbital montage) for either 10- or 20-min. Transcranial magnetic stimulation was delivered over left M1 and motor evoked potentials (MEPs) of the contralateral hand were recorded prior to tDCS and every 5 min for 20-min post-tDCS. The following predictive variables were evaluated: I-wave recruitment, stimulation intensity, baseline M1 excitability and inter-trial MEP variability. Results show that anodal tDCS failed to significantly modulate corticospinal excitability in all conditions. Furthermore, low response rates were identified across all parameter combinations. No baseline measure was significantly correlated with increases in MEP amplitude. However, a decrease in inter-trial MEP variability was linked to response to anodal tDCS. In conclusion, the present findings are consistent with recent reports showing high levels of inter-subject variability in the neurophysiological response to tDCS, which may partly explain inconsistent group results. Furthermore, the level of variability in the neurophysiological outcome measure, i.e. MEPs, appears to be related to response. © 2016 Federation of European Neuroscience Societies and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  16. Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation enhances the effects of motor imagery training in a finger tapping task.

    PubMed

    Saimpont, Arnaud; Mercier, Catherine; Malouin, Francine; Guillot, Aymeric; Collet, Christian; Doyon, Julien; Jackson, Philip L

    2016-01-01

    Motor imagery (MI) training and anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) applied over the primary motor cortex can independently improve hand motor function. The main objective of this double-blind, sham-controlled study was to examine whether anodal tDCS over the primary motor cortex could enhance the effects of MI training on the learning of a finger tapping sequence. Thirty-six right-handed young human adults were assigned to one of three groups: (i) who performed MI training combined with anodal tDCS applied over the primary motor cortex; (ii) who performed MI training combined with sham tDCS; and (iii) who received tDCS while reading a book. The MI training consisted of mentally rehearsing an eight-item complex finger sequence for 13 min. Before (Pre-test), immediately after (Post-test 1), and at 90 min after (Post-test 2) MI training, the participants physically repeated the sequence as fast and as accurately as possible. An anova showed that the number of sequences correctly performed significantly increased between Pre-test and Post-test 1 and remained stable at Post-test 2 in the three groups (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the percentage increase in performance between Pre-test and Post-test 1 and Post-test 2 was significantly greater in the group that performed MI training combined with anodal tDCS compared with the other two groups (P < 0.05). As a potential physiological explanation, the synaptic strength within the primary motor cortex could have been reinforced by the association of MI training and tDCS compared with MI training alone and tDCS alone. © 2015 Federation of European Neuroscience Societies and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  17. Stable silicon/3D porous N-doped graphene composite for lithium-ion battery anodes with self-assembly

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tang, Xiaofu; Wen, Guangwu; Song, Yan

    2018-04-01

    We fabricate a novel 3D N-doped graphene/silicon composite for lithium-ion battery anodes, with Si nanoparticles uniformly dispersed and thoroughly embedded in the N-doped graphene matrix. The favorable structure of the composite results in a BET surface area and an average mesopore diameter of 189.2 m2 g-1 and 3.82 nm, respectively. The composite delivers reversible capacities as high as 1132 mA h g-1 after 100 cycles under a current of 5 A g-1 and 1017 mA h g-1 after 200 cycles at 1 A g-1, and exhibits an improved rate capability. The present approach shows promise for the preparation of other high-performance anode materials for lithium-ion batteries.

  18. Effective anodic oxidation of naproxen by platinum nanoparticles coated FTO glass.

    PubMed

    Chin, Ching-Ju Monica; Chen, Tsan-Yao; Lee, Menshan; Chang, Chiung-Fen; Liu, Yu-Ting; Kuo, Yu-Tsun

    2014-07-30

    This study investigated applications of the electrochemical anodic oxidation process with Pt-FTO and Pt/MWCNTs-FTO glasses as anodes on the treatment of one of the most important emerging contaminants, naproxen. The anodes used in this study have been synthesized using commercial FTO, MWCNTs and Pt nanoparticles (PtNP). XRD patterns of Pt nanoparticles coated on FTO and MWCNTs revealed that MWCNTs can prevent the surface of PtNPs from sintering and thus provide a greater reaction sites density to interact with naproxen, which have also been confirmed by higher degradation and mineralization efficiencies in the Pt/MWCNTs-FTO system. Results from the CV analysis showed that the Pt-FTO and Pt/MWCNTs-FTO electrodes possessed dual functions of decreasing activation energy and interactions between hydroxyl radicals to effectively degrade naproxen. The lower the solution pH value, the better the degradation efficiency. The existence of humic acid indeed inhibited the degradation ability of naproxen due to the competitions in the multiple-component system. The electrochemical degradation processes were controlled by diffusion mechanism and two major intermediates of 2-acetyl-6-methoxynaphthalene and 2-(6-Hydroxy-2-naphthyl)propanoic acid were identified. This study has successfully demonstrated new, easy, flexible and effective anodic materials which can be feasibly applied to the electrochemical oxidation of naproxen. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. Tubular solid oxide fuel cell current collector

    DOEpatents

    Bischoff, Brian L.; Sutton, Theodore G.; Armstrong, Timothy R.

    2010-07-20

    An internal current collector for use inside a tubular solid oxide fuel cell (TSOFC) electrode comprises a tubular coil spring disposed concentrically within a TSOFC electrode and in firm uniform tangential electrical contact with the electrode inner surface. The current collector maximizes the contact area between the current collector and the electrode. The current collector is made of a metal that is electrically conductive and able to survive under the operational conditions of the fuel cell, i.e., the cathode in air, and the anode in fuel such as hydrogen, CO, CO.sub.2, H.sub.2O or H.sub.2S.

  20. The contribution of mediated oxidation mechanisms in the electrolytic degradation of cyanuric acid using diamond anodes.

    PubMed

    Bensalah, Nasr; Dbira, Sondos; Bedoui, Ahmed

    2016-07-01

    In this work, the contribution of mediated oxidation mechanisms in the electrolytic degradation of cyanuric acid using boron-doped diamond (BDD) anodes was investigated in different electrolytes. A complete mineralization of cyanuric acid was obtained in NaCl; however lower degrees of mineralization of 70% and 40% were obtained in Na2SO4 and NaClO4, respectively. This can be explained by the nature of the oxidants electrogenerated in each electrolyte. It is clear that the contribution of active chlorine (Cl2, HClO, ClO(-)) electrogenerated from oxidation of chlorides on BDD is much more important in the electrolytic degradation of cyanuric acid than the persulfate and hydroxyl radicals produced by electro-oxidation of sulfate and water on BDD anodes. This could be explained by the high affinity of active chlorine towards nitrogen compounds. No organic intermediates were detected during the electrolytic degradation of cyanuric acid in any the electrolytes, which can be explained by their immediate depletion by hydroxyl radicals produced on the BDD surface. Nitrates and ammonium were the final products of electrolytic degradation of cyanuric acid on BDD anodes in all electrolytes. In addition, small amounts of chloramines were formed in the chloride medium. Low current density (≤10mA/cm(2)) and neutral medium (pH in the range 6-9) should be used for high efficiency electrolytic degradation and negligible formation of hazardous chlorate and perchlorate. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  1. The morphological study of porous silicon formed by electrochemical anodization method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Suryana, R.; Sandi, D. K.; Nakatsuka, O.

    2018-03-01

    Due to its good physical and chemical properties, porous silicon (PSi) is very attractive to study. In this research, PSi has been fabricated on n-type Si (100) by the electrochemical anodization method. The electrolyte solution used was a mixture of HF (40%), ethanol (99%) and aquadest with volume ratio of 1:1:2, respectively. It was anodized on Si(100) surface at different current densities of 10 mA/cm2 and 20 mA/cm2 with the anodization time at each current density for 10 min, 20 min, and 30 min. The Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images showed that the PSi surfaces have inhomogeneous sized pores in the range of 95.00 nm–1.46 μm. The PSi layers with current density and anodization time of 10 mA/cm2 (10 min), 10mA/cm2 (20 min), and 20mA/cm2 (10 min) have spherical shaped pores while the others have some uncommon (cross sectional) shaped pores on surfaces. It is considered that the cross sectional shaped maybe caused by unstable the current during the electrochemical anodization process.

  2. Evidence for the η(b)(2S) and observation of h(b)(1P)→η(b)(1S)γ and h(b)(2P)→η(b)(1S)γ.

    PubMed

    Mizuk, R; Asner, D M; Bondar, A; Pedlar, T K; Adachi, I; Aihara, H; Arinstein, K; Aulchenko, V; Aushev, T; Aziz, T; Bakich, A M; Bay, A; Belous, K; Bhardwaj, V; Bhuyan, B; Bischofberger, M; Bonvicini, G; Bozek, A; Bračko, M; Brodzicka, J; Browder, T E; Chekelian, V; Chen, A; Chen, P; Cheon, B G; Chilikin, K; Chistov, R; Cho, I-S; Cho, K; Choi, S-K; Choi, Y; Dalseno, J; Danilov, M; Doležal, Z; Drásal, Z; Drutskoy, A; Eidelman, S; Epifanov, D; Fast, J E; Gaur, V; Gabyshev, N; Garmash, A; Golob, B; Haba, J; Hara, T; Hayasaka, K; Hayashii, H; Horii, Y; Hoshi, Y; Hou, W-S; Hsiung, Y B; Hyun, H J; Iijima, T; Ishikawa, A; Itoh, R; Iwabuchi, M; Iwasaki, Y; Iwashita, T; Jaegle, I; Julius, T; Kang, J H; Kapusta, P; Kawasaki, T; Kim, H J; Kim, H O; Kim, J H; Kim, K T; Kim, M J; Kim, Y J; Kinoshita, K; Ko, B R; Koblitz, S; Kodyš, P; Korpar, S; Kouzes, R T; Križan, P; Krokovny, P; Kuhr, T; Kumita, T; Kuzmin, A; Kwon, Y-J; Lange, J S; Lee, S-H; Li, J; Libby, J; Liu, C; Liu, Y; Liu, Z Q; Liventsev, D; Louvot, R; Matvienko, D; McOnie, S; Miyabayashi, K; Miyata, H; Mohanty, G B; Mohapatra, D; Moll, A; Muramatsu, N; Mussa, R; Nakao, M; Natkaniec, Z; Ng, C; Nishida, S; Nishimura, K; Nitoh, O; Nozaki, T; Ohshima, T; Okuno, S; Olsen, S L; Onuki, Y; Pakhlov, P; Pakhlova, G; Park, C W; Park, H; Pestotnik, R; Petrič, M; Piilonen, L E; Poluektov, A; Röhrken, M; Sakai, Y; Sandilya, S; Santel, D; Sanuki, T; Sato, Y; Schneider, O; Schwanda, C; Senyo, K; Seon, O; Sevior, M E; Shapkin, M; Shen, C P; Shibata, T-A; Shiu, J-G; Shwartz, B; Sibidanov, A; Simon, F; Smerkol, P; Sohn, Y-S; Sokolov, A; Solovieva, E; Stanič, S; Starič, M; Sumihama, M; Sumiyoshi, T; Tanida, K; Tatishvili, G; Teramoto, Y; Tikhomirov, I; Trabelsi, K; Tsuboyama, T; Uchida, M; Uehara, S; Uglov, T; Unno, Y; Uno, S; Vanhoefer, P; Varner, G; Varvell, K E; Vinokurova, A; Vorobyev, V; Wang, C H; Wang, M-Z; Wang, P; Wang, X L; Watanabe, M; Watanabe, Y; Williams, K M; Won, E; Yabsley, B D; Yamaoka, J; Yamashita, Y; Yuan, C Z; Zhang, Z P; Zhilich, V

    2012-12-07

    We report the first evidence for the η(b)(2S) using the h(b)(2P)→η(b)(2S)γ transition and the first observation of the h(b)(1P)→η(b)(1S)γ and h(b)(2P)→η(b)(1S)γ transitions. The mass and width of the η(b)(1S) and η(b)(2S) are measured to be m(η(b)(1S))=(9402.4±1.5±1.8) MeV/c(2), m(η(b)(2S))=(9999.0±3.5(-1.9)(+2.8)) MeV/c(2), and Γ(η(b)(1S))=(10.8(-3.7-2.0)(+4.0+4.5)) MeV. We also update the h(b)(1P) and h(b)(2P) mass measurements. We use a 133.4 fb(-1) data sample collected at energies near the Υ(5S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e(+)e(-) collider.

  3. Integrated anode structure for passive direct methanol fuel cells with neat methanol operation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Huijuan; Zhang, Haifeng; Chen, Peng; Guo, Jing; Yuan, Ting; Zheng, Junwei; Yang, Hui

    2014-02-01

    A microporous titanium plate based integrated anode structure (Ti-IAS) suitable for passive direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) fueled with neat methanol is reported. This anode structure incorporates a porous titanium plate as a methanol mass transfer barrier and current collector, pervaporation film for passively vaporizing methanol, vaporous methanol cavity for evenly distributing fuel, and channels for carbon dioxide venting. With the effective control of methanol delivery rate, the Ti-IAS based DMFC allows the direct use of neat methanol as the fuel source. In the meantime, the required water for methanol-oxidation reaction at the anode can also be fully recovered from the cathode with the help of the highly hydrophobic microporous layer in the cathode. DMFCs incorporating this new anode structure exhibit a power density as high as 40 mW cm-2 and a high volumetric energy density of 489 Wh L-1 operating with neat methanol and at 25 °C. Importantly, no obvious performance degradation of the passive DMFC system is observed after more than 90 h of continuous operation. The experimental results reveal that the compact DMFC based on the Ti-IAS exhibits a substantial potential as power sources for portable applications.

  4. Advanced oxidation of real sulfamethoxazole + trimethoprim formulations using different anodes and electrolytes.

    PubMed

    Murillo-Sierra, Juan C; Sirés, Ignasi; Brillas, Enric; Ruiz-Ruiz, Edgar J; Hernández-Ramírez, Aracely

    2018-02-01

    A commercial sulfamethoxazole + trimethoprim formulation has been degraded in 0.050 M Na 2 SO 4 at pH 3.0 by electrochemical oxidation with electrogenerated H 2 O 2 (EO-H 2 O 2 ), electro-Fenton (EF), photoelectro-Fenton with a 6-W UVA lamp (PEF) and solar photoelectro-Fenton (SPEF). The tests were performed in an undivided cell with an IrO 2 -based, Pt or boron-doped diamond (BDD) anode and an air-diffusion cathode for H 2 O 2 electrogeneration. The anode material had little effect on the accumulated H 2 O 2 concentration. Both drugs always obeyed a pseudo-first-order decay with low apparent rate constant in EO-H 2 O 2 . Much higher values were found in EF, PEF and SPEF, showing no difference because the main oxidant was always OH formed from Fenton's reaction between H 2 O 2 and added Fe 2+ . The solution mineralization increased in the sequence EO-H 2 O 2  < EF < PEF < SPEF regardless of the anode. The IrO 2 -based and Pt anodes behaved similarly but BDD was always more powerful. In SPEF, similar mineralization profiles were found for all anodes because of the rapid removal of photoactive intermediates by sunlight. About 87% mineralization was obtained as maximum for the powerful SPEF with BDD anode. Addition of Cl - enhanced the decay of both drugs due to their quicker reaction with generated active chlorine, but the formation of persistent chloroderivatives decelerated the mineralization process. Final carboxylic acids like oxalic and oxamic were detected, yielding Fe(III) complexes that remained stable in EF with BDD but were rapidly photolyzed in SPEF with BDD, explaining its superior mineralization ability. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Movable anode x-ray source with enhanced anode cooling

    DOEpatents

    Bird, C.R.; Rockett, P.D.

    1987-08-04

    An x-ray source is disclosed having a cathode and a disc-shaped anode with a peripheral surface at constant radius from the anode axis opposed to the cathode. The anode has stub axle sections rotatably carried in heat conducting bearing plates which are mounted by thermoelectric coolers to bellows which normally bias the bearing plates to a retracted position spaced from opposing anode side faces. The bellows cooperate with the x-ray source mounting structure for forming closed passages for heat transport fluid. Flow of such fluid under pressure expands the bellows and brings the bearing plates into heat conducting contact with the anode side faces. A worm gear is mounted on a shaft and engages serrations in the anode periphery for rotating the anode when flow of coolant is terminated between x-ray emission events. 5 figs.

  6. Bone Cell–materials Interactions and Ni Ion Release of Anodized Equiatomic NiTi Alloy

    PubMed Central

    Bernard, Sheldon A.; Balla, Vamsi Krishna; Davies, Neal M.; Bose, Susmita; Bandyopadhyay, Amit

    2011-01-01

    Laser processed NiTi alloy was anodized for different durations in H2SO4 electrolyte with varying pH to create biocompatible surfaces with low Ni ion release as well as bioactive surfaces to enhance biocompatibility and bone cell-materials interactions. The anodized surfaces were assessed for their in vitro cell-materials interactions using human fetal osteoblast (hFOB) cells for 3, 7 and 11 days, and Ni ion release up to 8 weeks in simulated body fluids. The results were correlated with surface morphologies of anodized surfaces characterized using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The results show that the anodization creates a surface with nano/micro roughness depending on anodization conditions. The hydrophilicity of NiTi surface was found to improve after anodization due to lower contact angles in cell media, which dropped from 32° to < 5°. The improved wettability of anodized surfaces is further corroborated by their high surface energy comparable to that of cp Ti. Relatively high surface energy, especially polar component, and nano/micro surface features of anodized surfaces significantly increased the number of living cells and their adherence and growth on these surfaces. Finally, a significant drop in Ni ion release from 268 ± 11 to 136 ± 15 ppb was observed for NiTi surfaces after anodization. This work indicates that anodization of NiTi alloy has a positive influence on the surface energy and surface morphology, which in turn improve bone cell-materials interactions and reduce Ni ion release in vitro. PMID:21232641

  7. Plasma-anode electron gun

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Santoru, Joseph; Schumacher, Robert W.; Gregoire, Daniel J.

    1994-11-01

    The plasma-anode electron gun (PAG) is an electron source in which the thermionic cathode is replaced with a cold, secondary-electron-emitting electrode. Electron emission is stimulated by bombarding the cathode with high-energy ions. Ions are injected into the high-voltage gap through a gridded structure from a plasma source (gas pressure less than or equal to 50 mTorr) that is embedded in the anode electrode. The gridded structure serves as both a cathode for the plasma discharge and as an anode for the PAG. The beam current is modulated at near ground potential by modulating the plasma source, eliminating the need for a high-voltage modulator system. During laboratory tests, the PAG has demonstrated square-wave, 17-microsecond-long beam pulses at 100 kV and 10 A, and it has operated stably at 70 kV and 2.5 A for 210 microsecond pulse lengths without gap closure.

  8. Porous Si spheres encapsulated in carbon shells with enhanced anodic performance in lithium-ion batteries

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

    Wang, Hui; Wu, Ping, E-mail: zjuwuping@njnu.edu.cn; Shi, Huimin

    2014-07-01

    Highlights: • In situ magnesiothermic reduction route for the formation of porous Si@C spheres. • Unique microstructural characteristics of both porous sphere and carbon matrix. • Enhanced anodic performance in term of cycling stability for lithium-ion batteries. - Abstract: A novel type of porous Si–C micro/nano-hybrids, i.e., porous Si spheres encapsulated in carbon shells (porous Si@C spheres), has been constructed through the pyrolysis of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and subsequent magnesiothermic reduction methodology by using SiO{sub 2} spheres as precursors. The as-synthesized porous Si@C spheres have been applied as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), and exhibit enhanced anodic performance inmore » term of cycling stability compared with bare Si spheres. For example, the porous Si@C spheres are able to exhibit a high reversible capacity of 900.0 mA h g{sup −1} after 20 cycles at a current density of 0.05 C (1 C = 4200 mA g{sup −1}), which is much higher than that of bare Si spheres (430.7 mA h g{sup −1})« less

  9. Effect of friction on anodic polarization properties of metallic biomaterials.

    PubMed

    Okazaki, Yoshimitsu

    2002-05-01

    The effect of friction on the anodic polarization properties of metallic biomaterials in a physiological saline solution was investigated. The current density during friction becomes higher than during the static condition. The fluctuation range of the current density caused by the destruction and formation of passive film was observed. For SUS316L stainless steel and Co-Cr-Mo casting alloy, the fluctuation range was observed in the passivity zone. Otherwise, for Ti alloys, the fluctuation range was observed in both the activity and passivity zones. The decrease of the corrosion potential for Ti alloys due to friction was much larger than that of SUS316L stainless steel and Co-Cr-Mo casting alloy. From this result, it was considered that in a the frictional environment, the stressing zone turned anodic and its periphery cathodic, and corrosion tended to progress more than in the static environment. The effect of wear on the anodic polarization curves also changed depending on the frictional load, potential zone and the pH of the solution. A rapid increase in current density due to corrosion starting from the frictional area was found in the Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-15Mo-5Zr-3Al alloys containing Al. However, for the new Ti-15Zr-4Nb-4Ta alloy, this rapid increase was not seen in the high-potential region. The effect of the lateral reciprocal speed was also negligible for the new Ti alloy. It was found that the new Ti-15Zr-4Nb-4Ta alloy exhibited excellent corrosion resistance under friction.

  10. Design, fabrication and testing of an air-breathing micro direct methanol fuel cell with compound anode flow field

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Luwen; Zhang, Yufeng; Zhao, Youran; An, Zijiang; Zhou, Zhiping; Liu, Xiaowei

    2011-10-01

    An air-breathing micro direct methanol fuel cell (μDMFC) with a compound anode flow field structure (composed of the parallel flow field and the perforated flow field) is designed, fabricated and tested. To better analyze the effect of the compound anode flow field on the mass transfer of methanol, the compound flow field with different open ratios (ratio of exposure area to total area) and thicknesses of current collectors is modeled and simulated. Micro process technologies are employed to fabricate the end plates and current collectors. The performances of the μDMFC with a compound anode flow field are measured under various operating parameters. Both the modeled and the experimental results show that, comparing the conventional parallel flow field, the compound one can enhance the mass transfer resistance of methanol from the flow field to the anode diffusion layer. The results also indicate that the μDMFC with an anode open ratio of 40% and a thickness of 300 µm has the optimal performance under the 7 M methanol which is three to four times higher than conventional flow fields. Finally, a 2 h stability test of the μDMFC is performed with a methanol concentration of 7 M and a flow velocity of 0.1 ml min-1. The results indicate that the μDMFC can work steadily with high methanol concentration.

  11. Ternary tin-based chalcogenide nanoplates as a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tang, Qiming; Su, Heng; Cui, Yanhui; Baker, Andrew P.; Liu, Yanchen; Lu, Juan; Song, Xiaona; Zhang, Huayu; Wu, Junwei; Yu, Haijun; Qu, Deyang

    2018-03-01

    As an advanced anode material for lithium-ion batteries, tin-chalcogenides receive substantial attention due to their high lithium-ion storage capacity. Here, tin chalcogenide (SnSe0.5S0.5) nanoplates are synthesized using a facile and quick polyol-method, followed by heating at different temperatures. Results show that the as-prepared of SnSe0.5S0.5 heated at temperature of 180 °C exhibits the best electrochemical performance with an outstanding discharge specific capacity of 1144 mA h g-1 at 0.1 A g-1 after 100 cycles and 682 mA h g-1 at 0.5 A g-1 after 200 cycles with a high coulombic efficiency (CE) of 98.7%. Even at a high current density of 5 A g-1, this anode material delivers a specific capacity of 473 mA h g-1. The high electrochemical performance of SnSe0.5S0.5 is shown by in-situ XRD analysis to originate from an enhanced Li+ intercalation and an alloy conversion process.

  12. H2-K(b) and H2-D(b) regulate cerebellar long-term depression and limit motor learning.

    PubMed

    McConnell, Michael J; Huang, Yanhua H; Datwani, Akash; Shatz, Carla J

    2009-04-21

    There are more than 50 class I MHC (MHCI) molecules in the mouse genome, some of which are now known to be expressed in neurons; however, the role of classical MHCI molecules in synaptic plasticity is unknown. We report that the classical MHCI molecules, H2-K(b) and H2-D(b), are co-expressed by Purkinje cells (PCs). In the cerebellum of mice deficient for both H2-K(b) and H2-D(b) (K(b)D(b-/-)), there is a lower threshold for induction of long-term depression (LTD) at parallel fiber to PC synapses. This change may be a result of additional glutamate release observed at K(b)D(b-/-) CF to PC synapses, which are thought to "train" the cerebellar circuit. A behavioral correlate of cerebellar LTD is motor learning; acquisition and retention of a Rotarod behavioral task is significantly better in K(b)D(b-/-) mice than in WT cohorts. These physiological and behavioral phenotypes in K(b)D(b-/-) mice reveal a surprising role for classical MHCI molecules in synaptic plasticity and motor learning.

  13. Micro-size spherical TiO2(B) secondary particles as anode materials for high-power and long-life lithium-ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Takami, Norio; Harada, Yasuhiro; Iwasaki, Takuya; Hoshina, Keigo; Yoshida, Yorikazu

    2015-01-01

    Electrochemical properties of micro-size spherical TiO2(B) secondary particles have been investigated in order to develop TiO2(B) anodes for lithium-ion batteries with high-power and long-life performance. The spherical TiO2(B) electrodes with a small amount of a carbon conductor additive had a high electrode density of 2.2 g cm-3 and a volumetric reversible capacity of 475 mAh cm-3 comparable to that of graphite electrodes. Compared with nano-size needle-like TiO2(B) electrodes, the spherical TiO2(B) electrodes exhibited higher-rate discharge capability and longer-cycle life performance. The impedance of the TiO2(B)/electrolyte interface model indicated that the charge transfer resistance Rc and the passivating film resistance Rf of the spherical TiO2(B) were much smaller than those of the needle-like one. The high-rate discharge and the long-cycle performance of the spherical TiO2(B) electrode are attributed to the superior electronic connective property and Rc and Rf values smaller than those of the needle-like one. Lithium-ion cells using the spherical TiO2(B) anodes and LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathode with a capacity of 2.8 Ah exhibited a high energy density of 100 Wh kg-1, a high output power density of 1800 W kg-1 for 10 s pulse, and a long cycle life of more than 3000 cycles.

  14. Molybdenum dioxide-based anode for solid oxide fuel cell applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kwon, Byeong Wan; Ellefson, Caleb; Breit, Joe; Kim, Jinsoo; Grant Norton, M.; Ha, Su

    2013-12-01

    The present paper describes the fabrication and performance of a molybdenum dioxide (MoO2)-based anode for liquid hydrocarbon/oxygenated hydrocarbon-fueled solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). These fuel cells first internally reform the complex liquid fuel into carbon fragments and hydrogen, which are then electrochemically oxidized to produce electrical energy without external fuel processors. The MoO2-based anode was fabricated on to an yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) electrolyte via combined electrostatic spray deposition (ESD) and direct painting methods. The cell performance was measured by directly feeding liquid fuels such as n-dodecane (i.e., a model diesel/kerosene fuel) or biodiesel (i.e., a future biomass-based liquid fuel) to the MoO2-based anode at 850 °C. The maximum initial power densities obtained from our MoO2-based SOFC were 34 mW cm-2 and 45 mW cm-2 using n-dodecane and biodiesel, respectively. The initial power density of the MoO2-based SOFC was improved up to 2500 mW cm-2 by optimizing the porosity of the MoO2-based anode. To test the long-term stability of the MoO2-based anode SOFC against coking, n-dodecane was continuously fed into the cell for 24 h at the open circuit voltage (OCV). During long-term testing, voltage-current density (V-I) plots were periodically obtained and they showed no significant changes over the operation time. Microstructural examination of the tested cells indicated that the MoO2-based anode displayed negligible coke formation, which explains its stability. On the other hand, SOFCs with conventional nickel (Ni)-based anodes under the same operating conditions showed a significant amount of coke formation on the metal surface, which led to a rapid drop in cell performance. Hence, the present work demonstrates that MoO2-based anodes exhibit outstanding tolerance to coke formation. This result opens up the opportunity for more efficiently generating electrical energy from both existing transportation and next generation

  15. Synthesis of highly ordered TiO2 nanotube in malonic acid solution by anodization.

    PubMed

    Ryu, Won Hee; Park, Chan Jin; Kwon, Hyuk Sang

    2008-10-01

    We synthesized TiO2 nanotube array by anodizing in a solution of malonic acid (HOOCCH2COOH) and NH4F, and analyzed the morphology of the nanotube using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The morphology of TiO2 nanotube was largely affected by anodizing time, anodizing voltage, and malonic acid concentration. With increasing the anodizing voltage from 5 V to 20 V, the diameter of TiO2 nanotube was increased from about 20 nm to 110 nm and its length from about 10 nm to 700 nm. In addition, the length of TiO2 nanotube was increased with increasing anodizing time up to 6 h at 20 V. We obtained the longest and the most highly ordered nanotube structure when anodizing Ti in a solution of 0.5 wt% NH4F and 1 M malonic acid at 20 V for 6 h.

  16. Bone cell-materials interactions and Ni ion release of anodized equiatomic NiTi alloy.

    PubMed

    Bernard, Sheldon A; Balla, Vamsi Krishna; Davies, Neal M; Bose, Susmita; Bandyopadhyay, Amit

    2011-04-01

    A laser processed NiTi alloy was anodized for different times in H(2)SO(4) electrolyte with varying pH to create biocompatible surfaces with low Ni ion release as well as bioactive surfaces to enhance biocompatibility and bone cell-material interactions. The anodized surfaces were assessed for their in vitro cell-material interactions using human fetal osteoblast (hFOB) cells for 3, 7 and 11 days, and Ni ion release up to 8 weeks in simulated body fluids. The results were correlated with the surface morphologies of anodized surfaces characterized using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The results show that anodization creates a surface with nano/micro-roughness depending on the anodization conditions. The hydrophilicity of the NiTi surface was found to improve after anodization, as shown by the lower contact angles in cell medium, which dropped from 32° to <5°. The improved wettability of anodized surfaces is further corroborated by their high surface energy, comparable with that of commercially pure Ti. Relatively high surface energies, especially the polar component, and nano/micro surface features of anodized surfaces significantly increased the number of living cells and their adherence and growth on these surfaces. Finally, a significant drop in Ni ion release from 268±11 to 136±15 ppb was observed for NiTi surfaces after anodization. This work indicates that anodization of a NiTi alloy has a positive influence on the surface energy and surface morphology, which in turn improves bone cell-material interactions and reduces Ni ion release in vitro. Copyright © 2011 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Performance of (in)active anodic materials for the electrooxidation of phenolic wastewaters from cashew-nut processing industry.

    PubMed

    Oliveira, Edna M S; Silva, Francisco R; Morais, Crislânia C O; Oliveira, Thiago Mielle B F; Martínez-Huitle, Carlos A; Motheo, Artur J; Albuquerque, Cynthia C; Castro, Suely S L

    2018-06-01

    This study investigated the anodic oxidation of phenolic wastewater generated by cashew-nut processing industry (CNPI) using active (Ti/RuO 2 -TiO 2 ) and inactive (boron doped diamond, BDD) anodes. During electrochemical treatment, various operating parameters were investigated, such as current density, chemical oxygen demand (COD), total phenols, O 2 production, temperature, pH, as well as current efficiency and energy consumption. After electrolysis under optimized working conditions, samples were evaluated by chromatography and toxicological tests against L. sativa. When both electrode materials were compared under the same operating conditions, higher COD removal efficiency was achieved for BDD anode; achieving lower energy requirements when compared with the values estimated for Ti/RuO 2 -TiO 2 . The presence of Cl - in the wastewater promoted the electrogeneration of strong oxidant species as chlorine, hypochlorite and mainly hypochlorous acid, increasing the efficiency of degradation process. Regarding the temperature effect, BDD showed slower performances than those achieved for Ti/RuO 2 -TiO 2 . Chromatographic and phytotoxicity studies indicated formation of some by-products after electrolytic process, regardless of the anode evaluated, and phytotoxic action of the effluent. Results encourage the applicability of the electrochemical method as wastewater treatment process for the CNPI, reducing depuration time. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  18. Robust Expandable Carbon Nanotube Scaffold for Ultrahigh-Capacity Lithium-Metal Anodes.

    PubMed

    Sun, Zhaowei; Jin, Song; Jin, Hongchang; Du, Zhenzhen; Zhu, Yanwu; Cao, Anyuan; Ji, Hengxing; Wan, Li-Jun

    2018-06-19

    There has been a renewed interest in using lithium (Li) metal as an anode material for rechargeable batteries owing to its high theoretical capacity of 3860 mA h g -1 . Despite extensive research, modifications to effectively inhibit Li dendrite growth still result in decreased Li loading and Li utilization. As a result, real capacities are often lower than values expected, if the total mass of the electrode is taken into consideration. Herein, a lightweight yet mechanically robust carbon nanotube (CNT) paper is demonstrated as a freestanding framework to accommodate Li metal with a Li mass fraction of 80.7 wt%. The highly conductive network made of sp2-hybridized carbon effectively inhibits formation of Li dendrites and affords a favorable coulombic efficiency of >97.5%. Moreover, the Li/CNT electrode retains practical areal and gravimetric capacities of 10 mA h cm -2 and 2830 mA h g -1 (vs the mass of electrode), respectively, with 90.9% Li utilization for 1000 cycles at a current density of 10 mA cm -2 . It is demonstrated that the robust and expandable nature is a distinguishing feature of the CNT paper as compared to other 3D scaffolds, and is a key factor that leads to the improved electrochemical performance of the Li/CNT anodes. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  19. Status of display systems in B-52H

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hopper, Darrel G.; Meyer, Frederick M.; Wodke, Kenneth E.

    1999-08-01

    Display technologies for the B-52 were selected some 40 years ago have become unsupportable. Electromechanical and old cathode ray tube technologies, including an exotic six-gun 13 in. tube, have become unsupportable due to the vanishing vendor syndrome. Thus, it is necessary to insert new technologies which will be available for the next 40 years to maintain the capability heretofore provided by those now out of favor with the commercial sector. With this paper we begin a look at the status of displays in the B-52H, which will remain in inventory until 2046 according to current plans. From a component electronics technology perspective, such as displays, the B-52H provides several 10-year life cycle cost (LCC) planning cycles to consider multiple upgrades. Three Productivity, Reliability, Availability, and Maintainability (PRAM) projects are reviewed to replace 1950s CRTs in several sizes: 3, 9, and 13 in. A different display technology has been selected in each case. Additional display upgrades in may be anticipated and are discussed.

  20. Effects of direct current on dog liver: Possible mechanisms for tumor electrochemical treatment

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

    Li, K.H.; Gu, Y.N.; Xu, B.I.

    1997-03-01

    Mechanisms of tumor electrochemical treatment (ECT) were studied using normal dog liver. Five physical and chemical methods were used. Two platinum electrodes were inserted into an anesthetized dog`s liver at 3 cm separation. A voltage of 8.5 V direct current (DC) at an average current of 30 mA was applied for 69 min; total charge was 124 coulombs. Concentrations of selected ions near the anode and cathode were measured. The concentrations of Na{sup +} and K{sup +} ions were higher around the cathode, whereas the concentration of Cl{sup {minus}} ions was higher around the anode. Water contents and pH weremore » determined near the anode and the cathode at the midpoint between the two electrodes and in an untreated area away from the electrodes. Hydration occurred around the cathode, and dehydration occurred around the anode. The pH values were 2.1 near the anode and 12.9 near the cathode. Spectrophotometric scans of the liver sample extract were obtained, and the released gases were identified by gas chromatography as chlorine at the anode and hydrogen at the cathode. These results indicate that a series of electrochemical reactions take place during ECT. The cell metabolism and its environment are severely disturbed. Both normal and tumor cells are rapidly and completely destroyed in this altered environment. The authors believe that the above reactions are the ECT mechanisms for treating tumors.« less

  1. Investigation of different anode materials for aluminium rechargeable batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Muñoz-Torrero, David; Leung, Puiki; García-Quismondo, Enrique; Ventosa, Edgar; Anderson, Marc; Palma, Jesús; Marcilla, Rebeca

    2018-01-01

    In order to shed some light into the importance of the anodic reaction in reversible aluminium batteries, we investigate here the electrodeposition of aluminium in an ionic liquid electrolyte (BMImCl-AlCl3) using different substrates. We explore the influence of the type of anodic material (aluminium, stainless steel and carbon) and its 3D geometry on the reversibility of the anodic reaction by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge-discharge. The shape of the CVs confirms that electrodeposition of aluminium was feasible in the three materials but the highest peak currents and smallest peak separation in the CV of the aluminium anode suggested that this material was the most promising. Interestingly, carbon-based substrates appeared as an interesting alternative due to the high peak currents in CV, moderate overpotentials and dual role as anode and cathode. 3D substrates such as fiber-based carbon paper and aluminium mesh showed significantly smaller overpotentials and higher efficiencies for Al reaction suggesting that the use of 3D substrates in full batteries might result in enhanced power. This is corroborated by polarization testing of full Al-batteries.

  2. Effect of anodization on the surface characteristics and electrochemical behaviour of zirconium in artificial saliva.

    PubMed

    Romonti, Daniela E; Gomez Sanchez, Andrea V; Milošev, Ingrid; Demetrescu, Ioana; Ceré, Silvia

    2016-05-01

    The paper is focused on elaboration of ZrO2 films on pure zirconium via anodizing in phosphoric acid with and without fluoride at constant potentials of 30 V and 60 V. The structure and composition of the films were investigated using scanning electronic microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The composition of the oxides formed at both potentials can be identified as monoclinic ZrO2. In addition to Zr and O, the layers formed in phosphoric acid contain phosphorus originating from the phosphoric acid. When the phosphoric acid solution contains NaF, fluorine is also incorporated into the oxide layer. The oxides formed at a higher voltage have greater roughness than those formed at 30 V. Anodized samples exhibit smaller current densities during anodic polarization compared to the as-received zirconium covered with native oxide. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Optimization of Aluminum Anodization Conditions for the Fabrication of Nanowires by Electrodeposition

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Fucsko, Viola

    2005-01-01

    Anodized alumina nanotemplates have a variety of potential applications in the development of nanotechnology. Alumina nanotemplates are formed by oxidizing aluminum film in an electrolyte solution.During anodization, aluminum oxidizes, and, under the proper conditions, nanometer-sized pores develop. A series of experiments was conducted to determine the optimal conditions for anodization. Three-micrometer thick aluminum films on silicon and silicon oxide substrates were anodized using constant voltages of 13-25 V. 0.1-0.3M oxalic acid was used as the electrolyte. The anodization time was found to increase and the overshooting current decreased as both the voltage and the electrolyte concentrations were decreased. The samples were observed under a scanning electron microscope. Anodizing with 25V in 0.3M oxalic acid appears to be the best process conditions. The alumina nanotemplates are being used to fabricate nanowires by electrodeposition. The current-voltage characteristics of copper nanowires have also been studied.

  4. Effect of current crowding on whisker growth at the anode in flip chip solder joints

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ouyang, Fan-Yi; Chen, Kai; Tu, K. N.; Lai, Yi-Shao

    2007-12-01

    Owing to the line-to-bump configuration in flip chip solder joints, current crowding occurs when electrons enter into or exit from the solder bump. At the cathode contact, where electrons enter into the bump, current crowding induced pancake-type void formation has now been observed widely. At the anode contact, where electrons exit from the bump, we report here that whisker is formed. Results of both eutectic SnPb and SnAgCu solder joints are presented and compared. The cross-sectioned surface in SnPb showed dimple and bulge after electromigration, while that of SnAgCu remained flat. The difference is due to a larger back stress in the SnAgCu, consequently, electromigration in SnAgCu is slower than that in SnPb. Nanoindentation markers were used to measure the combined atomic fluxes of back stress and electromigration.

  5. Solution Synthesis of Iodine-Doped Red Phosphorus Nanoparticles for Lithium-Ion Battery Anodes.

    PubMed

    Chang, Wei-Chung; Tseng, Kuan-Wei; Tuan, Hsing-Yu

    2017-02-08

    Red phosphorus (RP) is a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries due to its earth abundance and a high theoretical capacity of 2596 mA h g -1 . Although RP-based anodes for lithium-ion batteries have been reported, they were all in the form of carbon-P composites, including P-graphene, P-graphite, P-carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and P-carbon black, to improve P's extremely low conductivity and large volume change during cycling process. Here, we report the large-scale synthesis of red phosphorus nanoparticles (RPNPs) with sizes ranging from 100 to 200 nm by reacting PI 3 with ethylene glycol in the presence of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) in ambient environment. Unlike the insulator behavior of commercial RP (conductivity of <10 -12 S m -1 ), the conductivity of RPNPs is between 2.62 × 10 -3 and 1.81 × 10 -2 S m -1 , which is close to that of semiconductor germanium (1.02 × 10 -2 S m -1 ), and 2 orders of magnitude higher than silicon (5.35 × 10 -4 S m -1 ). Around 3-5 wt % of iodine-doping was found in RPNPs, which was speculated as the key to significantly improve the conductivity of RPNPs. The significantly improved conductivity of RPNPs and their uniform colloidal nanostructures enable them to be used solely as active materials for LIBs anodes. The RPNPs electrodes exhibit a high specific capacity of 1700 mA h g -1 (0.2 C after 100 cycles, 1 C = 2000 mA g -1 ), long cycling life (∼900 mA h g -1 after 500 cycles at 1 C), and outstanding rate capability (175 mA h g -1 at the charge current density of 120 A g -1 , 60 C). Moreover, as a proof-of-concept example, pouch-type full cells using RPNPs anodes and Li(Ni 0.5 Co 0.3 Mn 0.2 )O 2 (NCM-532) cathodes were assembled to show their practical uses.

  6. Propham mineralization in aqueous medium by anodic oxidation using boron-doped diamond anode: influence of experimental parameters on degradation kinetics and mineralization efficiency.

    PubMed

    Ozcan, Ali; Sahin, Yücel; Koparal, A Savaş; Oturan, Mehmet A

    2008-06-01

    This study aims the removal of a carbamate herbicide, propham, from aqueous solution by direct electrochemical advanced oxidation process using a boron-doped diamond (BDD) anode. This electrode produces large quantities of hydroxyl radicals from oxidation of water, which leads to the oxidative degradation of propham up to its total mineralization. Effect of operational parameters such as current, temperature, pH and supporting electrolyte on the degradation and mineralization rate was studied. The applied current and temperature exert a prominent effect on the total organic carbon (TOC) removal rate of the solutions. The mineralization of propham can be performed at any pH value between 3 and 11 without any loss in oxidation efficiency. The propham decay and its overall mineralization reaction follows a pseudo-first-order kinetics. The apparent rate constant value of propham oxidation was determined as 4.8 x 10(-4)s(-1) at 100 mA and 35 degrees C in the presence of 50mM Na(2)SO(4) in acidic media (pH: 3). A general mineralization sequence was proposed considering the identified oxidation intermediates.

  7. Adhesive Bonding Experiments for Titanium 6 Aluminum 4 Vanadium (Ti6Al4V). Part I. Anodization Treatments.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1979-12-01

    Identification of Surface Treat- 4 ments of Ti 6-4 II Effect of Increasing Oxide Porosity on H20 Contact Angle on Titanium 6 Aluminum 4 Vanadium 26 viii SECTIONI...and a high SIMS yield. The lithium does not appear in the oxide formed on titanium by this mixture. Similarly porosity may be induced by anodization at...Porous Oxide (B). 25 TABLE II EFFECT OF INCREASING OXIDE POROSITY ON H2 0 CONTACT ANGLE ON TITANIUM 6 ALUMINUM 4 VANADIUM - I H 2 0Sample Electrolyte

  8. The mechanistic exploration of porous activated graphene sheets-anchored SnO2 nanocrystals for application in high-performance Li-ion battery anodes.

    PubMed

    Yang, Yingchang; Ji, Xiaobo; Lu, Fang; Chen, Qiyuan; Banks, Craig E

    2013-09-28

    Porous activated graphene sheets have been for the first time exploited herein as encapsulating substrates for lithium ion battery (LIB) anodes. The as-fabricated SnO2 nanocrystals-porous activated graphene sheet (AGS) composite electrode exhibits improved electrochemical performance as an anode material for LIBs, such as better cycle performance and higher rate capability in comparison with graphene sheets, activated graphene sheets, bare SnO2 and SnO2-graphene sheet composites. The superior electrochemical performances of the designed anode can be ascribed to the porous AGS substrate, which improves the electrical conductivity of the electrode, inhibits agglomeration between particles and effectively buffers the strain from the volume variation during Li(+)-intercalation-de-intercalation and provides more cross-plane diffusion channels for Li(+) ions. As a result, the designed anode exhibits an outstanding capacity of up to 610 mA h g(-1) at a current density of 100 mA g(-1) after 50 cycles and a good rate performance of 889, 747, 607, 482 and 372 mA h g(-1) at a current density of 100, 200, 500, 1000, and 2000 mA g(-1), respectively. This work is of importance for energy storage as it provides a new substrate for the design and implementation of next-generation LIBs exhibiting exceptional electrochemical performances.

  9. Influence of Fluoride Ion on the Performance of Pb-Ag Anode During Long-Term Galvanostatic Electrolysis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhong, Xiaocong; Yu, Xiaoying; Jiang, Liangxing; Lv, Xiaojun; Liu, Fangyang; Lai, Yanqing; Li, Jie

    2015-09-01

    Anodic potential, morphology and phase composition of the anodic layer, corrosion morphology of the metallic substrate, and oxygen evolution behavior of Pb-Ag anode in H2SO4 solution without/with fluoride ion were investigated and compared. The results showed that the presence of fluoride ions contributed to a smoother anodic layer with lower PbO2 concentration, which resulted in lower double layer capacity and higher charge transfer resistance for the oxygen evolution reaction. Consequently, the Pb-Ag anode showed a higher anodic potential (about 35 mV) in the fluoride-containing electrolyte. In addition, the fluoride ions accelerated the detachment of loose flakes on the anodic layer. It was demonstrated that the anodic layer formed in the fluoride-containing H2SO4 solution was thinner. Furthermore, fluoride ions aggravated the corrosion of the metallic substrate at interdendritic boundary regions. Hence, the presence of fluoride ions is detrimental to oxygen evolution reactivity and increases the corrosion of the Pb-Ag anode, which may further increase the energy consumption and capital cost of zinc plants.

  10. Transformation and removal of arsenic in groundwater by sequential anodic oxidation and electrocoagulation.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Peng; Tong, Man; Yuan, Songhu; Liao, Peng

    2014-08-01

    Oxidation of As(III) to As(V) is generally essential for the efficient remediation of As(III)-contaminated groundwater. The performance and mechanisms of As(III) oxidation by an as-synthesized active anode, SnO2 loaded onto Ti-based TiO2 nanotubes (Ti/TiO2NTs/Sb-SnO2), were investigated. The subsequent removal of total arsenic by electrocoagulation (EC) was further tested. The Ti/TiO2NTs/Sb-SnO2 anode showed a high and lasting electrochemical activity for As(III) oxidation. 6.67μM As(III) in synthetic groundwater was completely oxidized to As(V) within 60min at 50mA. Direct electron transfer was mainly responsible at the current below 30mA, while hydroxyl radicals contributed increasingly with the increase in the current above 30mA. As(III) oxidation was moderately inhibited by the presence of bicarbonate (20mM), while was dramatically increased with increasing the concentration of chloride (0-10mM). After the complete oxidation of As(III) to As(V), total arsenic was efficiently removed by EC in the same reactor by reversing electrode polarity. The removal efficiency increased with increasing the current but decreased by the presence of phosphate and silica. Anodic oxidation represents an effective pretreatment approach to increasing EC removal of As(III) in groundwater under O2-limited conditions. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. Effect of anode firing on the performance of lanthanum and nickel co-doped SrTiO3 (La0.2Sr0.8Ti0.9Ni0.1O3-δ) anode of solid oxide fuel cell

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Park, Byung Hyun; Choi, Gyeong Man

    2015-10-01

    Perovskite oxides have potential for use as alternative anode materials in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) due to stability in anode atmosphere; donor-doped SrTiO3 (e.g., La0.2Sr0.8TiO3-δ) is a good candidate for this purpose. Electro-catalytic nanoparticles can be produced in oxide anodes by the ex-solution method, e.g., by incorporating Ni into a perovskite oxide in air, then reducing the oxide in H2 atmosphere. In this study, we varied the temperature (1100, 1250 °C) and atmosphere (air, H2) of La0.2Sr0.8Ti0.9Ni0.1O3-δ (LSTN) anode firing to control the degree of Ni ex-solution and microstructure. LSTN fired at 1250 °C in H2 showed the best anodic performance for scandia-stabilized zirconia (ScSZ) electrolyte-supported cells in H2 and CH4 fuels due to the favorable microstructure and Ni ex-solution.

  12. Optimal condition for fabricating superhydrophobic Aluminum surfaces with controlled anodizing processes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Saffari, Hamid; Sohrabi, Beheshteh; Noori, Mohammad Reza; Bahrami, Hamid Reza Talesh

    2018-03-01

    A single step anodizing process is used to produce micro-nano structures on Aluminum (1050) substrates with sulfuric acid as electrolyte. Therefore, surface energy of the anodized layer is reduced using stearic acid modification. Undoubtedly, effects of different parameters including anodizing time, electrical current, and type and concentration of electrolyte on the final contact angle are systemically studied and optimized. Results show that anodizing current of 0.41 A, electrolyte (sulfuric acid) concentration of 15 wt.% and anodizing time of 90 min are optimal conditions which give contact angle as high as 159.2° and sliding angle lower than 5°. Moreover, the study reveals that adding oxalic acid to the sulfuric acid cannot enhance superhydrophobicity of the samples. Also, scanning electron microscopy images of samples show that irregular (bird's nest) structures present on the surface instead of high-ordered honeycomb structures expecting from normal anodizing process. Additionally, X-ray diffraction analysis of the samples shows that only amorphous structures present on the surface. The Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) specific surface area of the anodized layer is 2.55 m2 g-1 in optimal condition. Ultimately, the surface keeps its hydrophobicity in air and deionized water (DIW) after one week and 12 weeks, respectively.

  13. Effects of Fuel Cell Anode Recycle on Catalytic Fuel Reforming

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

    Shekhawat, Dushyant; Berry, D.A.; Gardner, T.H.

    2007-06-01

    The presence of steam in the reactant gas of a catalytic fuel reformer decreases the formation of carbon, minimizing catalyst deactivation. However, the operation of the reformer without supplemental water reduces the size, weight, cost, and overall complexity of the system. The work presented here examines experimentally two options for adding steam to the reformer inlet: (I) recycle of a simulated fuel cell anode exit gas (comprised of mainly CO2, H2O, and N2 and some H2 and CO) and (II) recycle of the reformate from the reformer exit back to the reformer inlet (mainly comprised of H2, CO, and N2more » and some H2O and CO2). As expected, anode gas recycle reduced the carbon formation and increased the hydrogen concentration in the reformate. However, reformer recycle was not as effective due principally to the lower water content in the reformate compared to the anode gas. In fact, reformate recycle showed slightly increased carbon formation compared to no recycle. In an attempt to understand the effects of individual gases in these recycle streams (H2, CO, CO2, N2, and H2O), individual gas species were independently introduced to the reformer feed.« less

  14. Evaluation of the Effect of Sulfur on the Performance of Nickel/Gadolinium‐Doped Ceria Based Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Anodes

    PubMed Central

    Yurkiv, Vitaliy; Costa, Rémi; Schiller, Günter; Friedrich, K. Andreas

    2016-01-01

    Abstract The focus of this study is the measurement and understanding of the sulfur poisoning phenomena of Ni/gadolinium‐doped ceria (CGO) based solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC). Cells with Ni/CGO10 and NiCu5/CGO40 anodes were characterized by using impedance spectroscopy at different temperatures and H2/H2O fuel ratios. The short‐term sulfur poisoning behavior was investigated systematically at temperatures of 800–950 °C, current densities of 0–0.75 A cm−2, and H2S concentrations of 1–20 ppm. A sulfur poisoning mitigation effect was observed at high current loads and temperatures. The poisoning behavior was reversible for short exposure times. It was observed that the sulfur‐affected processes exhibited significantly different relaxation times that depend on the Gd content in the CGO phase. Moreover, it was demonstrated that the capacitance of Ni/CGO10 anodes is strongly dependent on the temperature and gas‐phase composition, which reflects a changing Ce3+/Ce4+ ratio. PMID:27863123

  15. Scaled-up dual anode/cathode microbial fuel cell stack for actual ethanolamine wastewater treatment.

    PubMed

    An, Byung-Min; Heo, Yoon; Maitlo, Hubdar-Ali; Park, Joo-Yang

    2016-06-01

    The aim of this work was to develop the scale-up microbial fuel cell technology for actual ethanolamine wastewater treatment, dual anode/cathode MFC stacks connected in series to achieve any desired current, treatment capacity, and volume capacity. However, after feeding actual wastewater into the MFC, maximum power density decreased while the corresponding internal resistance increased. With continuous electricity production, a stack of eight MFCs in series achieved 96.05% of COD removal and 97.30% of ammonia removal at a flow rate of 15.98L/d (HRT 12h). The scaled-up dual anode/cathode MFC stack system in this research was demonstrated to treat actual ETA wastewater with the added benefit of harvesting electricity energy. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Current-induced spin-orbit torque switching of perpendicularly magnetized Hf|CoFeB|MgO and Hf|CoFeB|TaO{sub x} structures

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

    Akyol, Mustafa; Department of Physics, University of Çukurova, Adana 01330; Yu, Guoqiang

    2015-04-20

    We study the effect of the oxide layer on current-induced perpendicular magnetization switching properties in Hf|CoFeB|MgO and Hf|CoFeB|TaO{sub x} tri-layers. The studied structures exhibit broken in-plane inversion symmetry due to a wedged CoFeB layer, resulting in a field-like spin-orbit torque (SOT), which can be quantified by a perpendicular (out-of-plane) effective magnetic field. A clear difference in the magnitude of this effective magnetic field (H{sub z}{sup FL}) was observed between these two structures. In particular, while the current-driven deterministic perpendicular magnetic switching was observed at zero magnetic bias field in Hf|CoFeB|MgO, an external magnetic field is necessary to switch the CoFeBmore » layer deterministically in Hf|CoFeB|TaO{sub x}. Based on the experimental results, the SOT magnitude (H{sub z}{sup FL} per current density) in Hf|CoFeB|MgO (−14.12 Oe/10{sup 7} A cm{sup −2}) was found to be almost 13× larger than that in Hf|CoFeB|TaO{sub x} (−1.05 Oe/10{sup 7} A cm{sup −2}). The CoFeB thickness dependence of the magnetic switching behavior, and the resulting  H{sub z}{sup FL} generated by in-plane currents are also investigated in this work.« less

  17. Influence of anodizing conditions on generation of internal cracks in anodic porous tin oxide films grown in NaOH electrolyte

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zaraska, Leszek; Gawlak, Karolina; Gurgul, Magdalena; Dziurka, Magdalena; Nowak, Marlena; Gilek, Dominika; Sulka, Grzegorz D.

    2018-05-01

    Nanoporous tin oxide layers were synthesized via simple one-step anodic oxidation of a low-purity Sn foil (98.8%) in sodium hydroxide electrolyte. The process of pore formation at the early stage of anodization was discussed on the basis of concepts of oxygen bubble mould effect and viscous flow of oxide. The effect of anodizing conditions on the generation of internal cracks and fractures within the anodic film was investigated in detail. It was confirmed that crack-free tin oxide films can be obtained if the anodization is carried out at the potential of 4 V independently of the electrolyte concentration. On the other hand, the porous anodic film with a totally stacked internal morphology is obtained at the potential of 5 V in 0.1 M NaOH electrolyte. The generation of internal cracks and voids can be attributed to a much lower surface porosity and local trapping of O2 inside the pores of the oxide layer. However, increasing electrolyte concentration allows for obtaining less cracked porous films due to effective and uniform liberation of oxygen bubbles from the channels through completely open pore mouths. Furthermore, it was confirmed that uniformity of the anodic tin oxide layers can be significantly improved by vigorous electrolyte stirring. Finally, we observed that the addition of ethanol to the electrolyte can reduce anodic current density and the oxide growth rate. In consequence, less cracked anodic film can be formed even at the potential of 6 V. The generation of oxygen at the pore bottoms, together with the open pore mouths were found to be critical factors responsible for the anodic formation of crack-free porous tin oxide films.

  18. Lithium Dendrite Suppression and Enhanced Interfacial Compatibility Enabled by an Ex Situ SEI on Li Anode for LAGP-Based All-Solid-State Batteries.

    PubMed

    Hou, Guangmei; Ma, Xiaoxin; Sun, Qidi; Ai, Qing; Xu, Xiaoyan; Chen, Lina; Li, Deping; Chen, Jinghua; Zhong, Hai; Li, Yang; Xu, Zhibin; Si, Pengchao; Feng, Jinkui; Zhang, Lin; Ding, Fei; Ci, Lijie

    2018-06-06

    The electrode-electrolyte interface stability is a critical factor influencing cycle performance of All-solid-state lithium batteries (ASSLBs). Here, we propose a LiF- and Li 3 N-enriched artificial solid state electrolyte interphase (SEI) protective layer on metallic lithium (Li). The SEI layer can stabilize metallic Li anode and improve the interface compatibility at the Li anode side in ASSLBs. We also developed a Li 1.5 Al 0.5 Ge 1.5 (PO 4 ) 3 -poly(ethylene oxide) (LAGP-PEO) concrete structured composite solid electrolyte. The symmetric Li/LAGP-PEO/Li cells with SEI-protected Li anodes have been stably cycled with small polarization at a current density of 0.05 mA cm -2 at 50 °C for nearly 400 h. ASSLB-based on SEI-protected Li anode, LAGP-PEO electrolyte, and LiFePO 4 (LFP) cathode exhibits excellent cyclic stability with an initial discharge capacity of 147.2 mA h g -1 and a retention of 96% after 200 cycles.

  19. Microbial fuel cells equipped with an iron-plated carbon-felt anode and Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 with corn steep liquor as a fuel.

    PubMed

    Phansroy, Nichanan; Khawdas, Wichean; Watanabe, Keigo; Aso, Yuji; Ohara, Hitomi

    2018-05-12

    A single chamber type microbial fuel cell (MFC) with 100 mL of chamber volume and 50 cm 2 of air-cathode was developed in this study wherein a developed iron-plated carbon-felt anode and Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 were used. The performance of the iron-plated carbon-felt anode and the possibility of corn steep liquor (CSL) as a fuel, which was the byproduct of corn wet milling and contained lactic acid, was investigated here. MFCs equipped with iron-plated or non-plated carbon-felt anodes exhibited maximum current densities of 443 or 302 mA/m 2 using 10 g/L of reagent-grade lactic acid, respectively. In addition, using centrifuged CSL without insoluble ingredients or non-centrifuged CSL as a fuel, the maximum current densities of the MFCs with iron-plated carbon-felt anode were 321 or 158 mA/m 2 , respectively. This report demonstrated the effect of iron-plated carbon-felt anode for electricity generation of MFC using S. oneidensis MR-1 and the performance of CSL as a fuel. Copyright © 2018 The Society for Biotechnology, Japan. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Cross-tail current, field-aligned current, and B(y)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kaufmann, Richard L.; Lu, Chen; Larson, Douglas J.

    1994-01-01

    Orbits of individual charged particles were traced in a one-dimensional magnetic field model that included a uniform cross-tail component B(sub yo). The effects of B(sub yo) on the cross-tail current distribution j(sub y)(z), the average cross-tail drift velocity(nu(sub y)z), and the average pitch angle change(delta alpha) experienced during current sheet encounters were calculated. The addition of a B(sub yo) that exceeded several tenths of one nanotesla completely eliminated all resonance effects for odd-N orbits. An odd-N resonance involves ions that enter and exit the current sheet on the same side. Pitch angles of nearly all such ions changed substantially during a typical current sheet interaction, and there was no region of large cross-tail drift velocity in the presence of a modest B(sub yo). the addition of a very large B(sub yo) guide field in the direction that enhances the natural drift produces a large j(y) and small (Delta alpha) for ions with all energies. The addition of a modest B(sub yo) had less effect near even-N resonances. In this case, ions in a small energy range were found to undergo so little change in pitch angle that particles which originated in the ionosphere would pass through the current sheet and return to the conjugate ionosphere. Finally, the cross-tail drift of ions from regions dominated by stochastic orbits to regions dominated by either resonant or guiding center orbits was considered. The ion drift speed changed substantially during such transitions. The accompanying electrons obey the guiding center equations, so electron drift is more uniform. Any difference between gradients in the fluxes associated with electron and ion drifts requires the presence of a Birkeland current in order to maintain charge neutrality. This plasma sheet region therefore serves as a current generator. The analysis predicts that the resulting Birkeland current connects to the lowest altitude equatorial regions in which ions drift to or from a point

  1. Molecular Level Understanding of Electrocatalysis in High pH Environment

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-07-08

    consisting of alkali metal hydroxide doped PBI membrane with 2.0 mgPtRu cm-2 anode and 1.0 mgPt cm-2 loadings at the anode and cathode, respectively...Direct!ethanol!fuel!cells!using!an!anion! exchange!membrane.!J!Power!Sources.!2008;185:621*6.! [4]!Hou!H,!Sun!G,!He!R,!Wu!Z,!Sun!B.!Alkali! doped ...electrocatalysts! for!oxygen!reduction! derived!from!polyaniline,!iron,!and! cobalt .!Science!(Washington,!DC,!U!S).!2011;332:443*7.! [17]! Zagal! JH

  2. Methods for solid electrolyte interphase formation and anode pre-lithiation of lithium ion capacitors

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

    Raman, Santhanam; Xi, Xiaomei; Ye, Xiang-Rong

    A method of pre-doping an anode of an energy storage device can include immersing the anode and a dopant source in an electrolyte, and coupling a substantially constant current between the anode and the dopant source. A method of pre-doping an anode of an energy storage device can include immersing the anode and a dopant source in an electrolyte, and coupling a substantially constant voltage across the anode and the dopant source. An energy storage device can include an anode having a lithium ion pre-doping level of about 60% to about 90%.

  3. Low cost fuel cell diffusion layer configured for optimized anode water management

    DOEpatents

    Owejan, Jon P; Nicotera, Paul D; Mench, Matthew M; Evans, Robert E

    2013-08-27

    A fuel cell comprises a cathode gas diffusion layer, a cathode catalyst layer, an anode gas diffusion layer, an anode catalyst layer and an electrolyte. The diffusion resistance of the anode gas diffusion layer when operated with anode fuel is higher than the diffusion resistance of the cathode gas diffusion layer. The anode gas diffusion layer may comprise filler particles having in-plane platelet geometries and be made of lower cost materials and manufacturing processes than currently available commercial carbon fiber substrates. The diffusion resistance difference between the anode gas diffusion layer and the cathode gas diffusion layer may allow for passive water balance control.

  4. Graphene-Oxide-Assisted Synthesis of GaN Nanosheets as a New Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Battery.

    PubMed

    Sun, Changlong; Yang, Mingzhi; Wang, Tailin; Shao, Yongliang; Wu, Yongzhong; Hao, Xiaopeng

    2017-08-16

    As the most-studied III-nitride, theoretical researches have predicted the presence of gallium nitride (GaN) nanosheets (NSs). Herein, a facile synthesis approach is reported to prepare GaN NSs using graphene oxide (GO) as sacrificial template. As a new anode material of Li-ion battery (LIBs), GaN NSs anodes deliver the reversible discharge capacity above 600 mA h g -1 at 1.0 A g -1 after 1000 cycles, and excellent rate performance at current rates from 0.1 to 10 A g -1 . These results not only extend the family of 2D materials but also facilitate their use in energy storage and other applications.

  5. Properties of a new type Al/Pb-0.3%Ag alloy composite anode for zinc electrowinning

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yang, Hai-tao; Liu, Huan-rong; Zhang, Yong-chun; Chen, Bu-ming; Guo, Zhong-cheng; Xu, Rui-dong

    2013-10-01

    An Al/Pb-0.3%Ag alloy composite anode was produced via composite casting. Its electrocatalytic activity for the oxygen evolution reaction and corrosion resistance was evaluated by anodic polarization curves and accelerated corrosion test, respectively. The microscopic morphologies of the anode section and anodic oxidation layer during accelerated corrosion test were obtained by scanning electron microscopy. It is found that the composite anode (hard anodizing) displays a more compact interfacial combination and a better adhesive strength than plating tin. Compared with industrial Pb-0.3%Ag anodes, the oxygen evolution overpotentials of Al/Pb-0.3%Ag alloy (hard anodizing) and Al/Pb-0.3%Ag alloy (plating tin) at 500 A·m-2 were lower by 57 and 14 mV, respectively. Furthermore, the corrosion rates of Pb-0.3%Ag alloy, Al/Pb-0.3%Ag alloy (hard anodizing), and Al/Pb-0.3%Ag alloy (plating tin) were 13.977, 9.487, and 11.824 g·m-2·h-1, respectively, in accelerated corrosion test for 8 h at 2000 A·m-2. The anodic oxidation layer of Al/Pb-0.3%Ag alloy (hard anodizing) is more compact than Pb-0.3%Ag alloy and Al/Pb-0.3%Ag alloy (plating tin) after the test.

  6. Internal passivation of Al-based microchannel devices by electrochemical anodization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hymel, Paul J.; Guan, D. S.; Mu, Yang; Meng, W. J.; Meng, Andrew C.

    2015-02-01

    Metal-based microchannel devices have wide-ranging applications. We report here a method to electrochemically anodize the internal surfaces of Al microchannels, with the purpose of forming a uniform and dense anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) layer on microchannel internal surfaces for chemical passivation and corrosion resistance. A pulsed electrolyte flow was utilized to emulate conventional anodization processes while replenishing depleted ionic species within Al microtubes and microchannels. After anodization, the AAO film was sealed in hot water to close the nanopores. Focused ion beam (FIB) sectioning, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) were utilized to characterize the AAO morphology and composition. Potentiodynamic polarization corrosion testing of anodized Al microtube half-sections in a NaCl solution showed an order of magnitude decrease in anodic corrosion current when compared to an unanodized tube. The surface passivation process was repeated for Al-based microchannel heat exchangers. A corrosion testing method based on the anodization process showed higher resistance to ion transport through the anodized specimens than unanodized specimens, thus verifying the internal anodization and sealing process as a viable method for surface passivation of Al microchannel devices.

  7. Ultra-High Density Single Nanometer-Scale Anodic Alumina Nanofibers Fabricated by Pyrophosphoric Acid Anodizing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kikuchi, Tatsuya; Nishinaga, Osamu; Nakajima, Daiki; Kawashima, Jun; Natsui, Shungo; Sakaguchi, Norihito; Suzuki, Ryosuke O.

    2014-12-01

    Anodic oxide fabricated by anodizing has been widely used for nanostructural engineering, but the nanomorphology is limited to only two oxides: anodic barrier and porous oxides. Therefore, the discovery of an additional anodic oxide with a unique nanofeature would expand the applicability of anodizing. Here we demonstrate the fabrication of a third-generation anodic oxide, specifically, anodic alumina nanofibers, by anodizing in a new electrolyte, pyrophosphoric acid. Ultra-high density single nanometer-scale anodic alumina nanofibers (1010 nanofibers/cm2) consisting of an amorphous, pure aluminum oxide were successfully fabricated via pyrophosphoric acid anodizing. The nanomorphologies of the anodic nanofibers can be controlled by the electrochemical conditions. Anodic tungsten oxide nanofibers can also be fabricated by pyrophosphoric acid anodizing. The aluminum surface covered by the anodic alumina nanofibers exhibited ultra-fast superhydrophilic behavior, with a contact angle of less than 1°, within 1 second. Such ultra-narrow nanofibers can be used for various nanoapplications including catalysts, wettability control, and electronic devices.

  8. Ultra-High Density Single Nanometer-Scale Anodic Alumina Nanofibers Fabricated by Pyrophosphoric Acid Anodizing

    PubMed Central

    Kikuchi, Tatsuya; Nishinaga, Osamu; Nakajima, Daiki; Kawashima, Jun; Natsui, Shungo; Sakaguchi, Norihito; Suzuki, Ryosuke O.

    2014-01-01

    Anodic oxide fabricated by anodizing has been widely used for nanostructural engineering, but the nanomorphology is limited to only two oxides: anodic barrier and porous oxides. Therefore, the discovery of an additional anodic oxide with a unique nanofeature would expand the applicability of anodizing. Here we demonstrate the fabrication of a third-generation anodic oxide, specifically, anodic alumina nanofibers, by anodizing in a new electrolyte, pyrophosphoric acid. Ultra-high density single nanometer-scale anodic alumina nanofibers (1010 nanofibers/cm2) consisting of an amorphous, pure aluminum oxide were successfully fabricated via pyrophosphoric acid anodizing. The nanomorphologies of the anodic nanofibers can be controlled by the electrochemical conditions. Anodic tungsten oxide nanofibers can also be fabricated by pyrophosphoric acid anodizing. The aluminum surface covered by the anodic alumina nanofibers exhibited ultra-fast superhydrophilic behavior, with a contact angle of less than 1°, within 1 second. Such ultra-narrow nanofibers can be used for various nanoapplications including catalysts, wettability control, and electronic devices. PMID:25491282

  9. A comparison of chromic acid and sulfuric acid anodizing

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Danford, M. D.

    1992-01-01

    Because of federal and state mandates restricting the use of hexavalent chromium, it was deemed worthwhile to compare the corrosion protection afforded 2219-T87 aluminum alloy by both Type I chromic acid and Type II sulfuric acid anodizing per MIL-A-8625. Corrosion measurements were made on large, flat 2219-T87 aluminum alloy sheet material with an area of 1 cm(exp 2) exposed to a corrosive medium of 3.5-percent sodium chloride at pH 5.5. Both ac electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and the dc polarization resistance techniques were employed. The results clearly indicate that the corrosion protection obtained by Type II sulfuric acid anodizing is superior, and no problems should result by substituting Type II sulfuric acid anodizing for Type I chromic acid anodizing.

  10. The effect of grain size on aluminum anodes for Al-air batteries in alkaline electrolytes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fan, Liang; Lu, Huimin

    2015-06-01

    Aluminum is an ideal material for metallic fuel cells. In this research, different grain sizes of aluminum anodes are prepared by equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) at room temperature. Microstructure of the anodes is examined by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) in scanning electron microscope (SEM). Hydrogen corrosion rates of the Al anodes in 4 mol L-1 NaOH are determined by hydrogen collection method. The electrochemical properties of the aluminum anodes are investigated in the same electrolyte using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and polarization curves. Battery performance is also tested by constant current discharge at different current densities. Results confirm that the electrochemical properties of the aluminum anodes are related to grain size. Finer grain size anode restrains hydrogen evolution, improves electrochemical activity and increases anodic utilization rate. The proposed method is shown to effectively improve the performance of Al-air batteries.

  11. Electrochemical mineralization and detoxification of naphthenic acids on boron-doped diamond anodes.

    PubMed

    Diban, Nazely; Urtiaga, Ane

    2018-01-05

    Electrochemical oxidation (ELOX) with boron-doped diamond (BDD) anodes was successfully applied to degrade a model aqueous solution of a mixture of commercial naphthenic acids (NAs). The model mixture was prepared resembling the NA and salt composition of oil sands process-affected water (OSPW) as described in the literature. The initial concentration of NAs between 70 and 120 mg/L did not influence the electrooxidation kinetics. However, increasing the applied current density from 20 to 100 A/m 2 and the initial chloride concentration from 15 to 70 and 150 mg/L accelerated the rate of NA degradation. At higher chloride concentration, the formation of indirect oxidative species could contribute to the faster oxidation of NAs. Complete chemical oxygen demand removal at an initial NA concentration of 120 mg/L, 70 mg/L of chloride and applied 50 A/m 2 of current density was achieved, and 85% mineralization, defined as the decrease of the total organic carbon (TOC) content, was attained. Moreover, after 6 h of treatment and independently on the experimental conditions, the formation of more toxic species, i.e. perchlorate and organochlorinated compounds, was not detected. Finally, the use of ELOX with BDD anodes produced a 7 to 11-fold reduction of toxicity (IC 50 towards Vibrio fischeri) after 2 h of treatment.

  12. Anodic oxidation of coke oven wastewater: Multiparameter optimization for simultaneous removal of cyanide, COD and phenol.

    PubMed

    Sasidharan Pillai, Indu M; Gupta, Ashok K

    2016-07-01

    Anodic oxidation of industrial wastewater from a coke oven plant having cyanide including thiocyanate (280 mg L(-1)), chemical oxygen demand (COD - 1520 mg L(-1)) and phenol (900 mg L(-1)) was carried out using a novel PbO2 anode. From univariate optimization study, low NaCl concentration, acidic pH, high current density and temperature were found beneficial for the oxidation. Multivariate optimization was performed with cyanide including thiocyanate, COD and phenol removal efficiencies as a function of changes in initial pH, NaCl concentration and current density using Box-Behnken experimental design. Optimization was performed for maximizing the removal efficiencies of these three parameters simultaneously. The optimum condition was obtained as initial pH 3.95, NaCl as 1 g L(-1) and current density of 6.7 mA cm(-2), for which the predicted removal efficiencies were 99.6%, 86.7% and 99.7% for cyanide including thiocyanate, COD and phenol respectively. It was in agreement with the values obtained experimentally as 99.1%, 85.2% and 99.7% respectively for these parameters. The optimum conditions with initial pH constrained to a range of 6-8 was initial pH 6, NaCl as 1.31 g L(-1) and current density as 6.7 mA cm(-2). The predicted removal efficiencies were 99%, 86.7% and 99.6% for the three parameters. The efficiencies obtained experimentally were in agreement at 99%, 87.8% and 99.6% respectively. The cost of operation for degradation at optimum conditions was calculated as 21.4 USD m(-3). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Effects of B{sub 18}H{sub x}{sup +} and B{sub 18}H{sub x} dimer ion implantations on crystallinity and retained B dose in silicon

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

    Kawasaki, Yoji; Shibahara, Kentaro; Research Institute for Nanodevice and Bio Systems, Hiroshima University, 1-4-2 Kagamiyama, Higashihiroshima, Hiroshima 739-8527

    2012-01-15

    The effects of B{sub 18}H{sub x}{sup +} and B{sub 18}H{sub x} dimer ion (B{sub 36}H{sub y}{sup +}) implantations on Si crystallinity and the retained B dose in Si were investigated using B{sub 18}H{sub x} bombardment and compared with the effects of B{sup +} implantation. Crystallinity was estimated for the implantation dose using molecular dynamic simulations (MDSs) and was quantified using the optical thickness obtained from spectroscopic ellipsometry. The authors focused on the crystallinity at a low B dose and compared the amorphized zones predicted by MDS for B{sub 18}H{sub x}{sup +} implantation with those measured using transmission electron microscopy; themore » predicted and measured results were in reasonable agreement. The authors then used their understanding of B{sub 18}H{sub x} bombardment to discuss the process for the generation of larger amorphized zones and thicker amorphized layers, as observed in B{sub 36}H{sub y}{sup +} implantation. The retained B dose and the sputtering were examined with secondary ion mass spectroscopy, focusing on a comparison of the retained B and the sputtering of Si and SiO{sub 2} surfaces. The retained B dose was lower for B{sub 18}H{sub x}{sup +} and B{sub 36}H{sub y}{sup +} implantations, with and without surface SiO{sub 2}, than for B{sup +} implantation, although no sputtering was observed. The reduction of the retained B dose was more severe in the samples with SiO{sub 2}. The origin of the differences between Si and SiO{sub 2} surfaces was considered to be Si melting; this was predicted by the MDSs, and observed indirectly as flat B profiles in the Si region. To examine the effects of both crystallinity and retained B dose on the electrical characteristics, the sheet resistance (R{sub S}) was measured. The R{sub S} for B{sub 18}H{sub x}{sup +} implantation was lower than that for B{sup +} implantation at both B doses studied. Additionally, the B{sub 36}H{sub y}{sup +} implantation under conditions that produced

  14. The effect of segmented anodes on the performance and plume of a Hall thruster

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kieckhafer, Alexander W.

    Development of alternative propellants for Hall thruster operation is an active area of research. Xenon is the current propellant of choice for Hall thrusters, but can be costly in large thrusters and for extended test periods. Condensible propellants may offer an alternative to xenon, as they will not require costly active pumping to remove from a test facility, and may be less expensive to purchase. A method has been developed which uses segmented electrodes in the discharge channel of a Hall thruster to divert discharge current to and from the main anode and thus control the anode temperature. By placing a propellant reservoir in the anode, the evaporation rate, and hence, mass flow of propellant can be controlled. Segmented electrodes for thermal control of a Hall thruster represent a unique strategy of thruster design, and thus the performance of the thruster must be measured to determine the effect the electrodes have on the thruster. Furthermore, the source of any changes in thruster performance due to the adjustment of discharge current between the shims and the main anode must be characterized. A Hall thruster was designed and constructed with segmented electrodes. It was then tested at anode voltages between 300 and 400 V and mass flows between 4 and 6 mg/s, as well as 100%, 75%, 50%, 25%, and <5% of the discharge current on the shim electrodes. The level of current on the shims was adjusted by changing the shim voltage. At each operating point, the thruster performance, plume divergence, ion energy, and multiply charged ion fraction were measured. Thruster performance exhibited a small change with the level of discharge current on the shim electrodes. Thrust and specific impulse increased by as much as 6% and 7.7%, respectively, as discharge current was shifted from the main anode to the shims at constant anode voltage. Thruster efficiency did not change. Plume divergence was reduced by approximately 4 degrees of half-angle at high levels of current on

  15. Al-C hybrid nanoclustered anodes for lithium ion batteries with high electrical capacity and cyclic stability.

    PubMed

    Park, Ji Hun; Hudaya, Chairul; Kim, A-Young; Rhee, Do Kyung; Yeo, Seon Ju; Choi, Wonchang; Yoo, Pil J; Lee, Joong Kee

    2014-03-18

    Structurally regulated and hybridized Al-C nanoclusters are prepared from C60 and Al precursors by thermal evaporation-combined plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition. The resulting Al-C hybrid nanoclustered anodes for Li-ion batteries exhibit a high reversible capacity of >900 mA h g(-1) at an optimized current density of 6 A g(-1) for over 100 cycles.

  16. Preparation of bioactive titania films on titanium metal via anodic oxidation.

    PubMed

    Cui, X; Kim, H-M; Kawashita, M; Wang, L; Xiong, T; Kokubo, T; Nakamura, T

    2009-01-01

    To research the crystal structure and surface morphology of anodic films on titanium metal in different electrolytes under various electrochemical conditions and investigate the effect of the crystal structure of the oxide films on apatite-forming ability in simulated body fluid (SBF). Titanium oxide films were prepared using an anodic oxidation method on the surface of titanium metal in four different electrolytes: sulfuric acid, acetic acid, phosphoric acid and sodium sulfate solutions with different voltages for 1 min at room temperature. Anodic films that consisted of rutile and/or anatase phases with porous structures were formed on titanium metal after anodizing in H(2)SO(4) and Na(2)SO(4) electrolytes, while amorphous titania films were produced after anodizing in CH(3)COOH and H(3)PO(4) electrolytes. Titanium metal with the anatase and/or rutile crystal structure films showed excellent apatite-forming ability and produced a compact apatite layer covering all the surface of titanium after soaking in SBF for 7d, but titanium metal with amorphous titania layers was not able to induce apatite formation. The resultant apatite layer formed on titanium metal in SBF could enhance the bonding strength between living tissue and the implant. Anodic oxidation is believed to be an effective method for preparing bioactive titanium metal as an artificial bone substitute even under load-bearing conditions.

  17. Effects of Anodal High-Definition Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Bilateral Sensorimotor Cortex Activation During Sequential Finger Movements: An fNIRS Study.

    PubMed

    Muthalib, Makii; Besson, Pierre; Rothwell, John; Ward, Tomas; Perrey, Stephane

    2016-01-01

    Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive electrical brain stimulation technique that can modulate cortical neuronal excitability and activity. This study utilized functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) neuroimaging to determine the effects of anodal high-definition (HD)-tDCS on bilateral sensorimotor cortex (SMC) activation. Before (Pre), during (Online), and after (Offline) anodal HD-tDCS (2 mA, 20 min) targeting the left SMC, eight healthy subjects performed a simple finger sequence (SFS) task with their right or left hand in an alternating blocked design (30-s rest and 30-s SFS task, repeated five times). In order to determine the level of bilateral SMC activation during the SFS task, an Oxymon MkIII fNIRS system was used to measure from the left and right SMC, changes in oxygenated (O2Hb) and deoxygenated (HHb) haemoglobin concentration values. The fNIRS data suggests a finding that compared to the Pre condition both the "Online" and "Offline" anodal HD-tDCS conditions induced a significant reduction in bilateral SMC activation (i.e., smaller decrease in HHb) for a similar motor output (i.e., SFS tap rate). These findings could be related to anodal HD-tDCS inducing a greater efficiency of neuronal transmission in the bilateral SMC to perform the same SFS task.

  18. Experimental breakdown of selected anodized aluminum samples in dilute plasmas

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Grier, Norman T.; Domitz, Stanley

    1992-01-01

    Anodized aluminum samples representative of Space Station Freedom structural material were tested for electrical breakdown under space plasma conditions. In space, this potential arises across the insulating anodized coating when the spacecraft structure is driven to a negative bias relative to the external plasma potential due to plasma-surface interaction phenomena. For anodized materials used in the tests, it was found that breakdown voltage varied from 100 to 2000 volts depending on the sample. The current in the arcs depended on the sample, the capacitor, and the voltage. The level of the arc currents varied from 60 to 1000 amperes. The plasma number density varied from 3 x 10 exp 6 to 10 exp 3 ions per cc. The time between arcs increased as the number density was lowered. Corona testing of anodized samples revealed that samples with higher corona inception voltage had higher arcing inception voltages. From this it is concluded that corona testing may provide a method of screening the samples.

  19. Anodization Mechanism on SiC Nanoparticle Reinforced Al Matrix Composites Produced by Power Metallurgy.

    PubMed

    Ferreira, Sonia C; Conde, Ana; Arenas, María A; Rocha, Luis A; Velhinho, Alexandre

    2014-12-19

    Specimens of aluminum-based composites reinforced by silicon carbide nanoparticles (Al/SiC np ) produced by powder metallurgy (PM) were anodized under voltage control in tartaric-sulfuric acid (TSA). In this work, the influence of the amount of SiC np on the film growth during anodizing was investigated. The current density versus time response and the morphology of the porous alumina film formed at the composite surface are compared to those concerning a commercial aluminum alloy (AA1050) anodized under the same conditions. The processing method of the aluminum alloys influences the efficiency of the anodizing process, leading to a lower thicknesses for the unreinforced Al-PM alloy regarding the AA1050. The current density versus time response is strongly dependent on the amount of SiC np . The current peaks and the steady-state current density recorded at each voltage step increases with the SiC np volume fraction due to the oxidation of the SiC np . The formation mechanism of the anodic film on Al/SiC np composites is different from that occurring in AA1050, partly due the heterogeneous distribution of the reinforcement particles in the metallic matrix, but also to the entrapment of SiC np in the anodic film.

  20. Anodization Mechanism on SiC Nanoparticle Reinforced Al Matrix Composites Produced by Power Metallurgy

    PubMed Central

    Ferreira, Sonia C.; Conde, Ana; Arenas, María A.; Rocha, Luis A.; Velhinho, Alexandre

    2014-01-01

    Specimens of aluminum-based composites reinforced by silicon carbide nanoparticles (Al/SiCnp) produced by powder metallurgy (PM) were anodized under voltage control in tartaric-sulfuric acid (TSA). In this work, the influence of the amount of SiCnp on the film growth during anodizing was investigated. The current density versus time response and the morphology of the porous alumina film formed at the composite surface are compared to those concerning a commercial aluminum alloy (AA1050) anodized under the same conditions. The processing method of the aluminum alloys influences the efficiency of the anodizing process, leading to a lower thicknesses for the unreinforced Al-PM alloy regarding the AA1050. The current density versus time response is strongly dependent on the amount of SiCnp. The current peaks and the steady-state current density recorded at each voltage step increases with the SiCnp volume fraction due to the oxidation of the SiCnp. The formation mechanism of the anodic film on Al/SiCnp composites is different from that occurring in AA1050, partly due the heterogeneous distribution of the reinforcement particles in the metallic matrix, but also to the entrapment of SiCnp in the anodic film. PMID:28788295

  1. Non-consumable anode and lining for aluminum electrolytic reduction cell

    DOEpatents

    Beck, Theodore R.; Brooks, Richard J.

    1994-01-01

    An oxidation resistant, non-consumable anode, for use in the electrolytic reduction of alumina to aluminum, has a composition comprising copper, nickel and iron. The anode is part of an electrolytic reduction cell comprising a vessel having an interior lined with metal which has the same composition as the anode. The electrolyte is preferably composed of a eutectic of AlF.sub.3 and either (a) NaF or (b) primarily NaF with some of the NaF replaced by an equivalent molar amount of KF or KF and LiF.

  2. Destination of organic pollutants during electrochemical oxidation of biologically-pretreated dye wastewater using boron-doped diamond anode.

    PubMed

    Zhu, Xiuping; Ni, Jinren; Wei, Junjun; Xing, Xuan; Li, Hongna

    2011-05-15

    Electrochemical oxidation of biologically-pretreated dye wastewater was performed in a boron-doped diamond (BDD) anode system. After electrolysis of 12h, the COD was decreased from 532 to 99 mg L(-1) (<100 mg L(-1), the National Discharge Standard of China). More importantly, the destination of organic pollutants during electrochemical oxidation process was carefully investigated by molecular weight distribution measurement, resin fractionation, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, HPLC and GC-MS analysis, and toxicity test. As results, most organic pollutants were completely removed by electrochemical oxidation and the rest was primarily degraded to simpler compounds (e.g., carboxylic acids and short-chain alkanes) with less toxicity, which demonstrated that electrochemical oxidation of biologically-pretreated dye wastewater with BDD anode was very effective and safe. Especially, the performance of BDD anode system in degradation of large molecular organics such as humic substances makes it very promising in practical applications as an advanced treatment of biologically-pretreated wastewaters. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. In operando neutron diffraction study of LaNdMgNi9H13 as a metal hydride battery anode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nazer, N. S.; Denys, R. V.; Yartys, V. A.; Hu, Wei-Kang; Latroche, M.; Cuevas, F.; Hauback, B. C.; Henry, P. F.; Arnberg, L.

    2017-03-01

    La2MgNi9-related alloys are superior metal hydride battery anodes as compared to the commercial AB5 alloys. Nd-substituted La2-yNdyMgNi9 intermetallics are of particular interest because of increased diffusion rate of hydrogen and thus improved performance at high discharge currents. The present work presents in operando characterization of the LaNdMgNi9 intermetallic as anode for the nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery. We have studied the structural evolution of LaNdMgNi9 during its charge and discharge using in situ neutron powder diffraction. The work included experiments using deuterium gas and electrochemical charge-discharge measurements. The alloy exhibited a high electrochemical discharge capacity (373 mAh/g) which is 20% higher than the AB5 type alloys. A saturated β-deuteride synthesized by solid-gas reaction at PD2 = 1.6 MPa contained 12.9 deuterium atoms per formula unit (D/f.u.) which resulted in a volume expansion of 26.1%. During the electrochemical charging, the volume expansion (23.4%) and D-contents were found to be slightly reduced. The reversible electrochemical cycling is performed through the formation of a two-phase mixture of the α-solid solution and β-hydride phases. Nd substitution contributes to the high-rate dischargeability, while maintaining a good cyclic stability. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) was used to characterize the anode electrode on cycling. A mathematical model for the impedance response of a porous electrode was utilized. The EIS showed a decreased hydrogen transport rate during the long-term cycling, which indicated a corresponding slowing down of the electrochemical processes at the surface of the metal hydride anode.

  4. Applications of Carbon Nanotubes for Lithium Ion Battery Anodes

    PubMed Central

    Xiong, Zhili; Yun, Young Soo; Jin, Hyoung-Joon

    2013-01-01

    Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have displayed great potential as anode materials for lithium ion batteries (LIBs) due to their unique structural, mechanical, and electrical properties. The measured reversible lithium ion capacities of CNT-based anodes are considerably improved compared to the conventional graphite-based anodes. Additionally, the opened structure and enriched chirality of CNTs can help to improve the capacity and electrical transport in CNT-based LIBs. Therefore, the modification of CNTs and design of CNT structure provide strategies for improving the performance of CNT-based anodes. CNTs could also be assembled into free-standing electrodes without any binder or current collector, which will lead to increased specific energy density for the overall battery design. In this review, we discuss the mechanism of lithium ion intercalation and diffusion in CNTs, and the influence of different structures and morphologies on their performance as anode materials for LIBs. PMID:28809361

  5. Task 1: Modeling Study of CO Effects on Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Anodes Task 2: Study of Ac Impedance as Membrane/Electrode Manufacturing Diagnostic Tool

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

    Thomas E. Springer

    Carbon monoxide poisoning of polymer electrolyte fuel cell anodes is a key problem to be overcome when operating a polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) on reformed fuels. CO adsorbs preferentially on the precious metal surface leading to substantial performance losses. Some recent work has explored this problem, primarily using various Pt alloys in attempts to lower the degree of surface deactivation. In their studies of hydrogen oxidation on Pt and Pt alloy (Pt/Sn, Pt/Ru) rotating disk electrodes exposed to H{sub 2}/CO mixtures, Gasteiger et al. showed that a small hydrogen oxidation current is observed well before the onset of majormore » CO oxidative stripping (ca. 0.4 V) on Pt/Ru. However, these workers concluded that such current observed at low anode overpotentials was too low to be of practical value. Nonetheless, MST-11 researchers and others have found experimentally that it is possible to run a PEFC, e.g., with a Pt/Ru anode, in the presence of CO levels in the range 10--100 ppm with little voltage loss. Such experimental results suggest that, in fact, PEFC operation at significant current densities under low anode overpotentials is possible in the presence of such levels of CO, even before resorting to air bleeding into the anode feed stream. The latter approach has been shown to be effective in elimination of Pt anode catalyst poisoning effects at CO levels of 20--50 ppm for cells operating at 80 C with low Pt catalyst loading. The effect of oxygen bleeding is basically to lower P{sub CO} down to extremely low levels in the anode plenum thanks to the catalytic (chemical) oxidation of CO by dioxygen at the anode catalyst. In this modeling work the authors do not include specific description of oxygen bleeding effects and concentrate on the behavior of the anode with feed streams of H{sub 2} or reformate containing low levels of CO. The anode loss is treated in this work as a hydrogen and carbon monoxide electrode kinetics problem, but includes the

  6. Bismuth Nanoparticles Embedded in Carbon Spheres as Anode Materials for Sodium/Lithium-Ion Batteries.

    PubMed

    Yang, Fuhua; Yu, Fan; Zhang, Zhian; Zhang, Kai; Lai, Yanqing; Li, Jie

    2016-02-12

    Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are regarded as an attractive alternative to lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) for large-scale commercial applications, because of the abundant terrestrial reserves of sodium. Exporting suitable anode materials is the key to the development of SIBs and LIBs. In this contribution, we report on the fabrication of Bi@C microspheres using aerosol spray pyrolysis technique. When used as SIBs anode materials, the Bi@C microsphere delivered a high capacity of 123.5 mAh g(-1) after 100 cycles at 100 mA g(-1) . The rate performance is also impressive (specific capacities of 299, 252, 192, 141, and 90 mAh g(-1) are obtained under current densities of 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, and 2 A g(-1) , respectively). Furthermore, the Bi@C microsphere also proved to be suitable LIB anode materials. The excellent electrochemical performance for both SIBs and LIBs can attributed to the Bi@C microsphere structure with Bi nanoparticles uniformly dispersed in carbon spheres. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  7. Does anodal transcranial direct current stimulation modulate sensory perception and pain? A meta-analysis study.

    PubMed

    Vaseghi, B; Zoghi, M; Jaberzadeh, S

    2014-09-01

    The primary aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effects of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (a-tDCS) on sensory (STh) and pain thresholds (PTh) in healthy individuals and pain levels (PL) in patients with chronic pain. Electronic databases were searched for a-tDCS studies. Methodological quality was examined using the PEDro and Downs and Black (D&B) assessment tools. a-tDCS of the primary motor cortex (M1) increases both STh (P<0.005, with the effect size of 22.19%) and PTh (P<0.001, effect size of 19.28%). In addition, STh was increased by a-tDCS of the primary sensory cortex (S1) (P<0.05 with an effect size of 4.34). Likewise, PL decreased significantly in the patient group following application of a-tDCS to both the M1 and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). The average decrease in visual analogue score was 14.9% and 19.3% after applying a-tDCS on the M1 and DLPFC. Moreover, meta-analysis showed that in all subgroups (except a-tDCS of S1) active a-tDCS and sham stimulation produced significant differences. This review provides evidence for the effectiveness of a-tDCS in increasing STh/PTh in healthy group and decreasing PL in patients. However, due to small sample sizes in the included studies, our results should be interpreted cautiously. Given the level of blinding did not considered in inclusion criteria, the result of current study should be interpreted with caution. Site of stimulation should have a differential effect over pain relief. Copyright © 2014 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  8. The Electrochemical Properties of Sr(Ti,Fe)O 3-δ for Anodes in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

    DOE PAGES

    Nenning, Andreas; Volgger, Lukas; Miller, Elizabeth; ...

    2017-02-18

    Reduction-stable mixed ionic and electronic conductors such as Sr(Ti,Fe)O 3-δ (STF) are promising materials for application in anodes of solid oxide fuel cells. The defect chemistry of STF and its properties as solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) cathode have been studied thoroughly, while mechanistic investigations of its electrochemical properties as SOFC anode material are still scarce. In this study, thin film model electrodes of STF with 30% and 70% Fe content were investigated in H 2+H 2O atmosphere by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Lithographically patterned thin film Pt current collectors were applied on top or beneath the STF thin films tomore » compensate for the low electronic conductivity under reducing conditions. Oxygen exchange resistances, electronic and ionic conductivities and chemical capacitances were quantified and discussed in a defect chemical model. Increasing Fe content increases the electro-catalytic activity of the STF surface as well as the electronic and ionic conductivity. Current collectors on top also increase the electrochemical activity due to a highly active Pt-atmosphere-STF triple phase boundary. Furthermore, the electrochemical activity depends decisively on the H 2:H 2O mixing ratio and the polarization. Lastly, Fe 0 nanoparticles may evolve on the surface in hydrogen rich atmospheres and increase the hydrogen adsorption rate.« less

  9. Diazo dye Congo Red degradation using a Boron-doped diamond anode: An experimental study on the effect of supporting electrolytes.

    PubMed

    Jalife-Jacobo, H; Feria-Reyes, R; Serrano-Torres, O; Gutiérrez-Granados, S; Peralta-Hernández, Juan M

    2016-12-05

    Diazo dye Congo Red (CR) solutions at 100mg/L, were degraded using different supporting electrolytes in an electrochemical advanced oxidation process (EAOPs), like the anodic oxidation (AOx/BDD). All experiments were carried out in a 3L flow reactor with a Boron-doped diamond (BDD) anode and stainless steel cathode (AISI 304), at 7.5, 15, 30 and 50mA/cm(2) current densities (j). Furthermore, each experiment was carried out under a flow rate of 7L/min. Additionally, HClO4, NaCl, Na2SO4, and H2SO4 were tested as supporting electrolytes at a 50mM concentration. The degradation process was at all times considerably faster in NaCl medium. Solutions containing SO4(2-) or ClO4(-) ions were less prompted to degradation due to the low oxidation power of these species into the bulk. Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) analysis, was carried out to evaluate the mineralization of CR. The degradation of CR, was evaluated with the HPLC analysis of the treated solutions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Dendrite Suppression by Synergistic Combination of Solid Polymer Electrolyte Crosslinked with Natural Terpenes and Lithium-Powder Anode for Lithium-Metal Batteries.

    PubMed

    Shim, Jimin; Lee, Jae Won; Bae, Ki Yoon; Kim, Hee Joong; Yoon, Woo Young; Lee, Jong-Chan

    2017-05-22

    Lithium-metal anode has fundamental problems concerning formation and growth of lithium dendrites, which prevents practical applications of next generation of high-capacity lithium-metal batteries. The synergistic combination of solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) crosslinked with naturally occurring terpenes and lithium-powder anode is promising solution to resolve the dendrite issues by substituting conventional liquid electrolyte/separator and lithium-foil anode system. A series of SPEs based on polysiloxane crosslinked with natural terpenes are prepared by facile thiol-ene click reaction under mild condition and the structural effect of terpene crosslinkers on electrochemical properties is studied. Lithium powder with large surface area is prepared by droplet emulsion technique (DET) and used as anode material. The effect of the physical state of electrolyte (solid/liquid) and morphology of lithium-metal anode (powder/foil) on dendrite growth behavior is systematically studied. The synergistic combination of SPE and lithium-powder anode suggests an effective solution to suppress the dendrite growth owing to the formation of a stable solid-electrolyte interface (SEI) layer and delocalized current density. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  11. Probing anode degradation in automotive Li-ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kwon, Ou Jung

    circumstances, no more Li+ ions can be intercalated but should be reduced to metallic form on the anode particle surface. This is validated by calculating the distribution of Li concentration inside the anode particle with electrochemical modeling. In part three, a novel pulse charge protocol is developed, which consists of two steps. First high current charge/discharge pulses increase the cell temperature from a subzero temperature up to above room temperature in a short time, and next, high current charge provides the net charge capacity. Sluggish Li diffusion at low temperature becomes fast thanks to cell temperature elevation by high current pulses (1st step), which plays a role of preventing surface saturation during high current charge (2nd step). Thus, this charge protocol is not only Li deposition-free but also leads to rapid charge at subzero temperatures.

  12. Study the effect of striping in two-step anodizing process on pore arrangement of nano-porous alumina

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rahimi, M. H.; Saramad, S.; Tabaian, S. H.; Marashi, S. P.; Zolfaghari, A.; Mohammadalinezhad, M.

    2009-10-01

    Two-step anodic oxidation of aluminum is generally employed to produce the ordered porous anodized alumina (PAA). Dissolving away (striping) the oxide film after the first anodizing step plays a key role in the final arrangement of nano-pores. In this work, different striping durations between 1 and 6 h were applied to the sample that was initially anodized at a constant voltage of 40 V at 17 °C for 15 h. The striping duration of 3 h was realized as the optimum time for achieving the best ordering degree for the pores. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used during and at the end of the process to examine the cross section and finishing surface of the specimens. Linear-angular fast Fourier transform (LA-FFT), an in-house technique based on MATLAB software, was employed to assess the ordering degree of the anodized samples.

  13. Lead electrowinning in a fluoborate medium. Use of hydrogen diffusion anodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Expósito, E.; González-García, J.; Bonete, P.; Montiel, V.; Aldaz, A.

    The results of an investigation of the electrowinning of lead employing a fluoboric acid bath are reported. The electrodeposition lead reaction was studied by voltammetric methods and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) microphotographs of the electrodeposited lead were taken. The effects of current density, temperature, catholyte flow and H + concentration were investigated on a laboratory scale to optimise operating conditions. Finally, the substitution of the traditionally used Dimensionally Stable Anode (DSA) by a Hydrogen Diffusion Electrode (HDE) was made in order to decrease the energy consumption (EC) of the overall process.

  14. Anode Improvement in Rechargeable Lithium-Sulfur Batteries.

    PubMed

    Tao, Tao; Lu, Shengguo; Fan, Ye; Lei, Weiwei; Huang, Shaoming; Chen, Ying

    2017-12-01

    Owing to their theoretical energy density of 2600 Wh kg -1 , lithium-sulfur batteries represent a promising future energy storage device to power electric vehicles. However, the practical applications of lithium-sulfur batteries suffer from poor cycle life and low Coulombic efficiency, which is attributed, in part, to the polysulfide shuttle and Li dendrite formation. Suppressing Li dendrite growth, blocking the unfavorable reaction between soluble polysulfides and Li, and improving the safety of Li-S batteries have become very important for the development of high-performance lithium sulfur batteries. A comprehensive review of various strategies is presented for enhancing the stability of the anode of lithium sulfur batteries, including inserting an interlayer, modifying the separator and electrolytes, employing artificial protection layers, and alternative anodes to replace the Li metal anode. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  15. Delayed enhancement of multitasking performance: Effects of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation on the prefrontal cortex

    PubMed Central

    Hsu, Wan-Yu; Zanto, Theodore P.; Anguera, Joaquin A.; Lin, Yung-Yang; Gazzaley, Adam

    2015-01-01

    Background The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) has been proposed to play an important role in neural processes that underlie multitasking performance. However, this claim is underexplored in terms of direct causal evidence. Objective The current study aimed to delineate the causal involvement of the DLPFC during multitasking by modulating neural activity with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) prior to engagement in a demanding multitasking paradigm. Methods The study is a single-blind, crossover, sham-controlled experiment. Anodal tDCS or sham tDCS was applied over left DLPFC in forty-one healthy young adults (aged 18–35 years) immediately before they engaged in a 3-D video game designed to assess multitasking performance. Participants were separated into three subgroups: real-sham (i.e., real tDCS in the first session, followed by sham tDCS in the second session one hour later), sham-real (sham tDCS first session, real tDCS second session), and sham-sham (sham tDCS in both sessions). Results The real-sham group showed enhanced multitasking performance and decreased multitasking cost during the second session, compared to first session, suggesting delayed cognitive benefits of tDCS. Interestingly, performance benefits were observed only for multitasking and not on a single-task version of the game. No significant changes were found between the first and second sessions for either the sham-real or the sham-sham groups. Conclusions These results suggest a causal role of left prefrontal cortex in facilitating the simultaneous performance of more than one task, or multitasking. Moreover, these findings reveal that anodal tDCS may have delayed benefits that reflect an enhanced rate of learning. PMID:26073148

  16. Effect of Ti Substrate Ion Implantation on the Physical Properties of Anodic TiO2 Nanotubes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jedi-Soltanabadi, Zahra; Ghoranneviss, Mahmood; Ghorannevis, Zohreh; Akbari, Hossein

    2018-03-01

    The influence of nitrogen-ion implantation on the titanium (Ti) surface is studied. The nontreated Ti and the Ti treated with ion implantation were anodized in an ethylene-glycol-based electrolyte solution containing 0.3 wt% ammonium fluoride (NH4F) and 3 vol% deionized (DI) water at a potential of 60 V for 1 h at room temperature. The current density during the growth of the TiO2 nanotubes was monitored in-situ. The surface roughnesses of the Ti substrates before and after the ion implantation were investigated with atomic force microscopy (AFM). The surface roughness was lower for the treated Ti substrate. The morphology of the anodic TiO2 nanotubes was studied by using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Clearly, the titanium nanotubes grown on the treated substrate were longer. In addition, some ribs were observed on their walls. The optical band gap of the anodic TiO2 nanotubes was characterized by using a diffuse reflection spectral (DRS) analysis. The anodic TiO2 nanotubes grown on the treated Ti substrate revealed a band gap energy of approximately 3.02 eV.

  17. Production of B atoms and BH radicals from B2H6/He/H2 mixtures activated on heated W wires.

    PubMed

    Umemoto, Hironobu; Kanemitsu, Taijiro; Tanaka, Akihito

    2014-07-17

    B atoms and BH radicals could be identified by laser-induced fluorescence when B2H6/He/H2 mixtures were activated on heated tungsten wires. The densities of these radical species increased not only with the wire temperature but also with the partial pressure of H2. The densities in the presence of 0.026 Pa of B2H6 and 2.6 Pa of H2 were on the order of 10(11) cm(-3) both for B and BH when the wire temperature was 2000 K. Densities in the absence of a H2 flow were much smaller, suggesting that the direct production of these species on wire surfaces is minor. B and BH must be produced in the H atom shifting reactions, BH(x) + H → BH(x-1) + H2 (x = 1-3), in the gas phase, while H atoms are produced from H2 on wire surfaces. The B atom density increased monotonously with the H atom density, while the BH density showed saturation. These tendencies could be reproduced by simple modeling based on ab initio potential energy calculations and the transition-state theoretical calculations of the rate constants. The absolute densities could also be reproduced within a factor of 2.5.

  18. Anodal tDCS Over the Left DLPFC Did Not Affect the Encoding and Retrieval of Verbal Declarative Information.

    PubMed

    de Lara, Gabriel A; Knechtges, Philipp N; Paulus, Walter; Antal, Andrea

    2017-01-01

    Several studies imply that anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) can modulate the formation of verbal episodic memories. The aim of this study was to test if tDCS through a multi-electrode Laplacian montage over the left DLPFC could differentially modulate declarative memory performance depending on the application phase. Two groups of healthy participants ( n = 2 × 15) received 1 mA anodal or sham stimulation for 20 min during the encoding or during the recall phase on a delayed cued-recall, using a randomized, double-blinded, repeated-measures experimental design. Memory performance was assessed at two time points: 10 min and 24 h after learning. We found no significant difference between anodal and sham stimulation with regard to the memory scores between conditions (stimulation during encoding or recall) or between time points, suggesting that anodal tDCS over the left DLPFC with these stimulation parameters had no effect on the encoding and the consolidation of associative verbal content.

  19. Anodal tDCS Over the Left DLPFC Did Not Affect the Encoding and Retrieval of Verbal Declarative Information

    PubMed Central

    de Lara, Gabriel A.; Knechtges, Philipp N.; Paulus, Walter; Antal, Andrea

    2017-01-01

    Several studies imply that anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) can modulate the formation of verbal episodic memories. The aim of this study was to test if tDCS through a multi-electrode Laplacian montage over the left DLPFC could differentially modulate declarative memory performance depending on the application phase. Two groups of healthy participants (n = 2 × 15) received 1 mA anodal or sham stimulation for 20 min during the encoding or during the recall phase on a delayed cued-recall, using a randomized, double-blinded, repeated-measures experimental design. Memory performance was assessed at two time points: 10 min and 24 h after learning. We found no significant difference between anodal and sham stimulation with regard to the memory scores between conditions (stimulation during encoding or recall) or between time points, suggesting that anodal tDCS over the left DLPFC with these stimulation parameters had no effect on the encoding and the consolidation of associative verbal content. PMID:28848378

  20. Integrated main rail, feed rail, and current collector

    DOEpatents

    Petri, Randy J.; Meek, John; Bachta, Robert P.; Marianowski, Leonard G.

    1994-01-01

    A separator plate for a fuel cell comprising an anode current collector, a cathode current collector and a main plate, the main plate disposed between the anode current collector and the cathode current collector. The anode current collector forms a flattened peripheral wet seal structure and manifold wet seal structure on the anode side of the separator plate and the cathode current collector forms a flattened peripheral wet seal structure and manifold wet seal structure on the cathode side of the separator plate. In this manner, the number of components required to manufacture and assemble a fuel cell stack is reduced.

  1. Branched nanostructured anodes for dye-sensitized solar cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Alayashi, Wissal

    The high relative efficiency demonstrated in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) arises from a combination of light scattering within, and photo-generated electron transport through, the porous structure of a TiO2 anodes. However, the convoluted conduction path for extracting photo-generated electrons through the sponge-like structure of conventional DSSC anodes has limited further improvement. This thesis is an investigation of thin film deposited TiO2 anodes with branched tree-like structures that mimic the highly-efficient natural flow structures of trees, rivers, and the human vascular system, which can providing uninterrupted paths for photo-generated electron transport through the hierarchical branches. The main goal has been the development of a robust fabrication process for the study of DSSCs with anodes deposited with glancing angle deposition (GLAD) as it is a new area of research and the first DSSCs produced in our lab. The anodes are deposited as thin films using electron-beam evaporation with two different source of material: metallic Ti and TiO2. Ti films are shown to exhibit highly branched characteristics, with distinct branches when deposited at rate of 15 A/s versus 5 A/s (i.e. rate dependence). A thermal oxidation study for these films is performed using H2/ O2 at 450°C-520°C. For TiO2 films, post deposition annealing is performed in O2 at 450°C. Two methods are explored to create defined active areas of the films: dilute hydrofluoric acid (HF) wet etching, and lift-off lithography. DSSCs are constructed using standard components (N719 dye, I-/I3- electrolyte, and Pt cathode) paired with the photoanodes. The films are characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and x-ray diffraction (XRD). The properties of DSSCs are investigated with current density-voltage measurements (J-V). Annealed TiO2 films with thickness ranging from 1 microm-3.3 microm exhibit power conversion efficiency of DSSC of 0.5% -3.7%, respectively, which are high

  2. Rapid fabrication of self-ordered porous alumina with 10-/sub-10-nm-scale nanostructures by selenic acid anodizing

    PubMed Central

    Nishinaga, Osamu; Kikuchi, Tatsuya; Natsui, Shungo; Suzuki, Ryosuke O.

    2013-01-01

    Anodic porous alumina has been widely investigated and used as a nanostructure template in various nanoapplications. The porous structure consists of numerous hexagonal cells perpendicular to the aluminum substrate and each cell has several tens or hundreds of nanoscale pores at its center. Because the nanomorphology of anodic porous alumina is limited by the electrolyte during anodizing, the discovery of additional electrolytes would expand the applicability of porous alumina. In this study, we report a new self-ordered nanoporous alumina formed by selenic acid (H2SeO4) anodizing. By optimizing the anodizing conditions, anodic alumina possessing 10-nm-scale pores was rapidly assembled (within 1 h) during selenic acid anodizing without any special electrochemical equipment. Novel sub-10-nm-scale spacing can also be achieved by selenic acid anodizing and metal sputter deposition. Our new nanoporous alumina can be used as a nanotemplate for various nanostructures in 10-/sub-10-nm-scale manufacturing. PMID:24067318

  3. Machine learning techniques in searches for$$t\\bar{t}$$h in the h → $$b\\bar{b}$$ decay channel

    DOE PAGES

    Santos, Robert; Nguyen, M.; Webster, Jordan; ...

    2017-04-10

    Study of the production of pairs of top quarks in association with a Higgs boson is one of the primary goals of the Large Hadron Collider over the next decade, as measurements of this process may help us to understand whether the uniquely large mass of the top quark plays a special role in electroweak symmetry breaking. Higgs bosons decay predominantly to bmore » $$\\bar{_b}$$, yielding signatures for the signal that are similar to t$$\\bar{_t}$$ + jets with heavy flavor. Though particularly challenging to study due to the similar kinematics between signal and background events, such final states (t$$\\bar{_t}$$b$$\\bar{b}$$) are an important channel for studying the top quark Yukawa coupling. This paper presents a systematic study of machine learning (ML) methods for detecting t$$\\bar{_t}$$h in the hb$$\\bar{b}$$ decay channel. Among the seven ML methods tested, we show that neural network models outperform alternative methods. In addition, two neural models used in this paper outperform NeuroBayes, one of the standard algorithms used in current particle physics experiments. We further study the effectiveness of ML algorithms by investigating the impact of feature set and data size, as well as the depth of the networks for neural models. We demonstrate that an extended feature set leads to improvement of performance over basic features. Furthermore, the availability of large samples for training is found to be important for improving the performance of the techniques. For the features and the data set studied here, neural networks of more layers deliver comparable performance to their simpler counterparts.« less

  4. Machine learning techniques in searches for$$t\\bar{t}$$h in the h → $$b\\bar{b}$$ decay channel

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

    Santos, Robert; Nguyen, M.; Webster, Jordan

    Study of the production of pairs of top quarks in association with a Higgs boson is one of the primary goals of the Large Hadron Collider over the next decade, as measurements of this process may help us to understand whether the uniquely large mass of the top quark plays a special role in electroweak symmetry breaking. Higgs bosons decay predominantly to bmore » $$\\bar{_b}$$, yielding signatures for the signal that are similar to t$$\\bar{_t}$$ + jets with heavy flavor. Though particularly challenging to study due to the similar kinematics between signal and background events, such final states (t$$\\bar{_t}$$b$$\\bar{b}$$) are an important channel for studying the top quark Yukawa coupling. This paper presents a systematic study of machine learning (ML) methods for detecting t$$\\bar{_t}$$h in the hb$$\\bar{b}$$ decay channel. Among the seven ML methods tested, we show that neural network models outperform alternative methods. In addition, two neural models used in this paper outperform NeuroBayes, one of the standard algorithms used in current particle physics experiments. We further study the effectiveness of ML algorithms by investigating the impact of feature set and data size, as well as the depth of the networks for neural models. We demonstrate that an extended feature set leads to improvement of performance over basic features. Furthermore, the availability of large samples for training is found to be important for improving the performance of the techniques. For the features and the data set studied here, neural networks of more layers deliver comparable performance to their simpler counterparts.« less

  5. Optical properties of anodically degraded ZnO

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

    Messerschmidt, Daniel, E-mail: daniel.messerschmidt@bosch.com; Gnehr, Wolf-Michael; Eberhardt, Jens

    2014-03-07

    We discuss the optical properties of non-degraded and anodically degraded boron-doped zinc oxide (ZnO:B) deposited by low-pressure chemical vapour deposition on soda-lime glass. The optical model used to simulate the infrared reflectance in the wavelength range between 1.2 and 25 μm is based on the Maxwell-Garnett effective-medium theory. The model is sensitive to the conditions at the grain boundaries of the investigated polycrystalline ZnO:B films. We confirm that the presence of defect-rich grain boundaries, especially after degradation, causes a highly resistive ZnO:B film. Furthermore, indications of a degraded zinc oxide layer next to the ZnO:B/glass interface with different refractive index aremore » found. We present evidence for the creation of oxygen vacancies, based on Raman investigations, which correlate with a shift of the optical absorption edge of the ZnO:B. Investigations with scanning and transmission electron microscopy show microvoids at the grain boundaries after anodic degradation. This indicates that the grain/grain interfaces are the principle location of defects after degradation.« less

  6. Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation to the cerebellum improves handwriting and cyclic drawing kinematics in focal hand dystonia.

    PubMed

    Bradnam, Lynley V; Graetz, Lynton J; McDonnell, Michelle N; Ridding, Michael C

    2015-01-01

    There is increasing evidence that the cerebellum has a role in the pathophysiology of primary focal hand dystonia and might provide an intervention target for non-invasive brain stimulation to improve function of the affected hand. The primary objective of this study was to determine if cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) improves handwriting and cyclic drawing kinematics in people with hand dystonia, by reducing cerebellar-brain inhibition (CBI) evoked by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Eight people with dystonia (5 writer's dystonia, 3 musician's dystonia) and eight age-matched controls completed the study and underwent cerebellar anodal, cathodal and sham tDCS in separate sessions. Dystonia severity was assessed using the Writer's Cramp Rating Scale (WRCS) and the Arm Dystonia Disability Scale (ADDS). The kinematic measures that differentiated the groups were; mean stroke frequency during handwriting and fast cyclic drawing and average pen pressure during light cyclic drawing. TMS measures of cortical excitability were no different between people with FHD and controls. There was a moderate, negative relationship between TMS-evoked CBI at baseline and the WRCS in dystonia. Anodal cerebellar tDCS reduced handwriting mean stroke frequency and average pen pressure, and increased speed and reduced pen pressure during fast cyclic drawing. Kinematic measures were not associated with a decrease in CBI within an individual. In conclusion, cerebellar anodal tDCS appeared to improve kinematics of handwriting and circle drawing tasks; but the underlying neurophysiological mechanism remains uncertain. A study in a larger homogeneous population is needed to further investigate the possible therapeutic benefit of cerebellar tDCS in dystonia.

  7. FLUORINE CELL ANODE ASSEMBLY

    DOEpatents

    Cable, R.E.; Goode, W.B. Jr.; Henderson, W.K.; Montillon, G.H.

    1962-06-26

    An improved anode assembly is deslgned for use in electrolytlc cells ln the productlon of hydrogen and fluorlne from a moIten electrolyte. The anode assembly comprises a copper post, a copper hanger supported by the post, a plurality of carbon anode members, and bolt means for clamplng half of the anode members to one slde of the hanger and for clamplng the other half of the anode members to the other slde of the hanger. The heads of the clamplng bolts are recessed withln the anode members and carbon plugs are inserted ln the recesses above the bolt heads to protect the boIts agalnst corroslon. A copper washer is provided under the head of each clamplng boIt such that the anode members can be tightly clamped to the hanger with a resultant low anode jolnt resistance. (AEC)

  8. The corrosion protection of 6061-T6 aluminum by a polyurethane-sealed anodized coat

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Danford, M. D.

    1990-01-01

    The corrosion protection of 6061-T6 anodized aluminum afforded by a newly patented polyurethane seal was studied using the ac impedance technique. Values of the average corrosion rates over a 27-day exposure period in 3.5 percent NaCl solutions at pH 5.2 and pH 9.5 compared very favorably for Lockheed-prepared polyurethane-sealed and dichromate-sealed coats of the same thickness. Average corrosion rates for both specimens over the first 7 days of exposure compared well with those for a hard anodized, dichromate-sealed coat, but rose well above those for the hard anodized coat over the entire 27-day period. This is attributed both to the greater thickness of the hard anodized coat, and possibly to its inherently better corrosion protective capability.

  9. A simplified approach to predict performance degradation of a solid oxide fuel cell anode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khan, Muhammad Zubair; Mehran, Muhammad Taqi; Song, Rak-Hyun; Lee, Jong-Won; Lee, Seung-Bok; Lim, Tak-Hyoung

    2018-07-01

    The agglomeration of nickel (Ni) particles in a Ni-cermet anode is a significant degradation phenomenon for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). This work aims to predict the performance degradation of SOFCs due to Ni grain growth by using a simplified approach. Accelerated aging of Ni-scandia stabilized zirconia (SSZ) as an SOFC anode is carried out at 900 °C and subsequent microstructural evolution is investigated every 100 h up to 1000 h using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The resulting morphological changes are quantified using a two-dimensional image analysis technique that yields the particle size, phase proportion, and triple phase boundary (TPB) point distribution. The electrochemical properties of an anode-supported SOFC are characterized using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The changes of particle size and TPB length in the anode as a function of time are in excellent agreement with the power-law coarsening model. This model is further combined with an electrochemical model to predict the changes in the anode polarization resistance. The predicted polarization resistances are in good agreement with the experimentally obtained values. This model for prediction of anode lifetime provides deep insight into the time-dependent Ni agglomeration behavior and its impact on the electrochemical performance degradation of the SOFC anode.

  10. Hydrothermal vanadium manganese oxides: Anode and cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Simões, Mário; Surace, Yuri; Yoon, Songhak; Battaglia, Corsin; Pokrant, Simone; Weidenkaff, Anke

    2015-09-01

    Vanadium manganese oxides with Mn content up to 33 at% were synthesized by a low temperature hydrothermal route allowing for the preparation of both anodic and cathodic materials for Li-ion batteries. Low amounts of manganese (below 13 at%) lead to the formation of elongated particles of layered hydrated vanadium oxides with manganese and water intercalated between the V2O5 slabs, while for higher Mn content of 33 at%, monoclinic MnV2O6 is formed. Former materials are suitable for high energy cathodes while the latter one is an anodic compound. The material containing 10 at% Mn has the composition Mn0.2V2O5·0.9H2O and shows the best cathodic activity with 20% capacity improvement over V2O5·0.5H2O. Lithiated MnV2O6 with Li5MnV2O6 composition prepared electrochemically was evaluated for the first time as anode in a full-cell against Mn0.2V2O5·0.9H2O cathode. An initial capacity ca. 300 A h kg-1 was measured with this battery corresponding to more than 500 Wh kg-1. These results confirm the prospect of using Li5MnV2O6 anodes in lithium-ion batteries as well as high-capacity layered hydrated vanadium oxides cathodes such as V2O5·0.5H2O and Mn0.2V2O5·0.9H2O.

  11. Nanostructured silicon anodes for lithium ion rechargeable batteries.

    PubMed

    Teki, Ranganath; Datta, Moni K; Krishnan, Rahul; Parker, Thomas C; Lu, Toh-Ming; Kumta, Prashant N; Koratkar, Nikhil

    2009-10-01

    Rechargeable lithium ion batteries are integral to today's information-rich, mobile society. Currently they are one of the most popular types of battery used in portable electronics because of their high energy density and flexible design. Despite their increasing use at the present time, there is great continued commercial interest in developing new and improved electrode materials for lithium ion batteries that would lead to dramatically higher energy capacity and longer cycle life. Silicon is one of the most promising anode materials because it has the highest known theoretical charge capacity and is the second most abundant element on earth. However, silicon anodes have limited applications because of the huge volume change associated with the insertion and extraction of lithium. This causes cracking and pulverization of the anode, which leads to a loss of electrical contact and eventual fading of capacity. Nanostructured silicon anodes, as compared to the previously tested silicon film anodes, can help overcome the above issues. As arrays of silicon nanowires or nanorods, which help accommodate the volume changes, or as nanoscale compliant layers, which increase the stress resilience of silicon films, nanoengineered silicon anodes show potential to enable a new generation of lithium ion batteries with significantly higher reversible charge capacity and longer cycle life.

  12. Improvement of corrosion resistance of NiTi sputtered thin films by anodization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bayat, N.; Sanjabi, S.; Barber, Z. H.

    2011-08-01

    Anodization of sputtered NiTi thin films has been studied in 1 M acetic acid at 23 °C for different voltages from 2 to 10 V. The morphology and cross-sectional structures of the untreated and anodized surfaces were investigated by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). The results show that increasing anodization voltage leads to film surface roughening and unevenness. It can be seen that the thickness of the anodized layer formed on the NiTi surface is in the nanometer range. The corrosion resistance of anodized thin films was studied by potentiodynamic scan (PDS) and impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques in Hank's solution at 310 K (37 °C). It was shown that the corrosion resistance of the anodized film surface improved with increasing voltage to 6 V. Anodization of austenitic sputtered NiTi thin films has also been studied, in the same anodizing conditions, at 4 V. Comparison of anodized sputtered NiTi thin films with anodized austenitic shape memory films illustrate that the former are more corrosion resistant than the latter after 1 h immersion in Hank's solution, which is attributed to the higher grain boundary density to quickly form a stable and protective passive film.

  13. Nanostructural Engineering of Nanoporous Anodic Alumina for Biosensing Applications

    PubMed Central

    Ferré-Borrull, Josep; Pallarès, Josep; Macías, Gerard; Marsal, Lluis F.

    2014-01-01

    Modifying the diameter of the pores in nanoporous anodic alumina opens new possibilities in the application of this material. In this work, we review the different nanoengineering methods by classifying them into two kinds: in situ and ex situ. Ex situ methods imply the interruption of the anodization process and the addition of intermediate steps, while in situ methods aim at realizing the in-depth pore modulation by continuous changes in the anodization conditions. Ex situ methods permit a greater versatility in the pore geometry, while in situ methods are simpler and adequate for repeated cycles. As an example of ex situ methods, we analyze the effect of changing drastically one of the anodization parameters (anodization voltage, electrolyte composition or concentration). We also introduce in situ methods to obtain distributed Bragg reflectors or rugate filters in nanoporous anodic alumina with cyclic anodization voltage or current. This nanopore engineering permits us to propose new applications in the field of biosensing: using the unique reflectance or photoluminescence properties of the material to obtain photonic barcodes, applying a gold-coated double-layer nanoporous alumina to design a self-referencing protein sensor or giving a proof-of-concept of the refractive index sensing capabilities of nanoporous rugate filters. PMID:28788127

  14. Performance of Zinc Anodes for Cathodic Protection of Reinforced Concrete Bridges

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

    Covino, Bernard S. Jr.; Cramer, Stephen D.; Bullard, Sophie J.

    2002-03-01

    Operation of thermal spray zinc (Zn) anodes for cathodic protection (CP) of reinforced concrete structures was investigated in laboratory and field studies conducted by the Albany Research Center (ARC) in collaboration with the Oregon Department of Transportation. The purposes of the research presented in this report were: evaluate the need for preheating concrete to improve the adhesion of the anode; estimate the service life of thermal spray Zn CP anodes; determine the optimum thickness for Zn CP anodes; characterize the anode-concrete interfacial chemistry; and correlate field and laboratory results. Laboratory studies involved accelerated electrochemical aging of thermal sprayed Zn anodesmore » on concrete slabs, some of which were periodically wetted while others were unwetted. Concrete used in the slabs contained either 1.2 or 3 kg NaCl /m3 (2 or 5 lbs NaCl /yd3) as part of the concrete mix design. The Zn anodes were applied to the slabs using the twin wire arc-spray technique. Half of the slabs were preheated to 120-160 C (250-320 F) to improve the initial Zn anode bond strength and the other half were not. Accelerated aging was done at a current density of 0.032 A/m2 (3 mA/ft2), 15 times that used on Oregon DOT Coastal bridges, i.e, . 0.0022 A/m2 (0.2 mA/ft2) Cores from the Cape Creek Bridge (OR), the Richmond San Rafael Bridge (CA), and the East Camino Underpass (CA) were used to study the anode-concrete interfacial chemistry, to relate the chemistry to electrochemical age at the time of sampling, and to compare the chemistry of the field anodes to the chemistry of anodes from the laboratory studies. Cores from a CALTRANS study of a silane sealant used prior to the application of the Zn anodes and cores with galvanized rebar from the Longbird Bridge (Bermuda) were also studied. Aged laboratory and field anodes were characterized by measuring some or all of the following parameters: thickness, bond strength, anode-concrete interfacial chemistry, bulk

  15. ITO/metal/ITO anode for efficient transparent white organic light-emitting diodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Joo, Chul Woong; Lee, Jonghee; Sung, Woo Jin; Moon, Jaehyun; Cho, Nam Sung; Chu, Hye Yong; Lee, Jeong-Ik

    2015-02-01

    We report on the characteristics of enhanced and balanced white-light emission of transparent organic light emitting diodes (TOLEDs) by introducing anode that has a stack structure of ITO/metal/ITO (IMI). We have investigated an anode that has a stack structure of IMI. IMI anodes are typically composed of a thin Ag layer (˜15 nm) sandwiched between two ITO layers (˜50 nm). By inserting an Ag layer it was possible to achieve sheet resistance lower than 3 Ω/sq. and transmittance of 86% at a wavelength of 550 nm. The Ag insert can act as a reflective component. With its counterpart, a transparent cathode made of a thin Ag layer (˜15 nm), micro-cavities (MC) can be effectively induced in the OLED, leading to improved performance. Using an IMI anode, it was possible to significantly increase the current efficiencies. The current efficiencies of the top and the bottom of the IMI TOLED increased to 23.0 and 15.6 cd/A, respectively, while those of the white TOLED with the ITO anode were 20.7 and 5.1 cd/A, respectively. A 30% enhancement in the overall current efficiency was achieved by taking advantage of the MC effect and the low sheet resistance.

  16. Gasoline-fueled solid oxide fuel cell using MoO2-Based Anode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hou, Xiaoxue; Marin-Flores, Oscar; Kwon, Byeong Wan; Kim, Jinsoo; Norton, M. Grant; Ha, Su

    2014-12-01

    This short communication describes the performance of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) fueled by directly feeding premium gasoline to the anode without using external reforming. The novel component of the fuel cell that enables such operation is the mixed conductivity of MoO2-based anode. Using this anode, a fuel cell demonstrating a maximum power density of 31 mW/cm2 at 0.45 V was successfully fabricated. Over a 24 h period of operation, the open cell voltage remained stable at ∼0.92 V. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examination of the anode surface pre- and post-testing showed no evidence of coking.

  17. Superhydrophilicity of a nanofiber-covered aluminum surface fabricated via pyrophosphoric acid anodizing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nakajima, Daiki; Kikuchi, Tatsuya; Natsui, Shungo; Suzuki, Ryosuke O.

    2016-12-01

    A superhydrophilic aluminum surface covered by numerous alumina nanofibers was fabricated via pyrophosphoric acid anodizing. High-density anodic alumina nanofibers grow on the bottom of a honeycomb oxide via anodizing in concentrated pyrophosphoric acid. The water contact angle on the nanofiber-covered aluminum surface decreased with time after a 4 μL droplet was placed on the surface, and a superhydrophilic behavior with a contact angle measuring 2.2° was observed within 2 s; this contact angle is considerably lower than those observed for electropolished and porous alumina-covered aluminum surfaces. There was no dependence of the superhydrophilicity on the density of alumina nanofibers fabricated via different constant voltage anodizing conditions. The superhydrophilic property of the surface covered by anodic alumina nanofibers was maintained during an exposure test for 359 h. The quick-drying and snow-sliding behaviors of the superhydrophilic aluminum covered with anodic alumina nanofibers were demonstrated.

  18. Integrated main rail, feed rail, and current collector

    DOEpatents

    Petri, R.J.; Meek, J.; Bachta, R.P.; Marianowski, L.G.

    1994-11-08

    A separator plate is described for a fuel cell comprising an anode current collector, a cathode current collector and a main plate, the main plate disposed between the anode current collector and the cathode current collector. The anode current collector forms a flattened peripheral wet seal structure and manifold wet seal structure on the anode side of the separator plate and the cathode current collector forms a flattened peripheral wet seal structure and manifold wet seal structure on the cathode side of the separator plate. In this manner, the number of components required to manufacture and assemble a fuel cell stack is reduced. 9 figs.

  19. Stress Analysis of B-52B and B-52H Air-Launching Systems Failure-Critical Structural Components

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ko, William L.

    2005-01-01

    The operational life analysis of any airborne failure-critical structural component requires the stress-load equation, which relates the applied load to the maximum tangential tensile stress at the critical stress point. The failure-critical structural components identified are the B-52B Pegasus pylon adapter shackles, B-52B Pegasus pylon hooks, B-52H airplane pylon hooks, B-52H airplane front fittings, B-52H airplane rear pylon fitting, and the B-52H airplane pylon lower sway brace. Finite-element stress analysis was performed on the said structural components, and the critical stress point was located and the stress-load equation was established for each failure-critical structural component. The ultimate load, yield load, and proof load needed for operational life analysis were established for each failure-critical structural component.

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

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

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

    2015-11-01

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

  1. Improving Efficiency of Aluminium Sacrificial Anode Using Cold Work Process

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Asmara, Y. P.; Siregar, J. P.; Tezara, C.; Ann, Chang Tai

    2016-02-01

    Aluminium is one of the preferred materials to be used as sacrificial anode for carbon steel protection. The efficiency of these can be low due to the formation of oxide layer which passivate the anodes. Currently, to improve its efficiency, there are efforts using a new technique called surface modifications. The objective of this research is to study corrosion mechanism of aluminium sacrificial anode which has been processed by cold work. The cold works are applied by reducing the thickness of aluminium sacrificial anodes at 20% and 40% of thickness reduction. The cathodic protection experiments were performed by immersion of aluminium connected to carbon steel cylinder in 3% NaCl solutions. Visual inspections using SEM had been conducted during the experiments and corrosion rate data were taken in every week for 8 weeks of immersion time. Corrosion rate data were measured using weight loss and linear polarization technique (LPR). From the results, it is observed that cold worked aluminium sacrificial anode have a better corrosion performance. It shows higher corrosion rate and lower corrosion potential. The anodes also provided a long functional for sacrificial anode before it stop working. From SEM investigation, it is shown that cold works have changed the microstructure of anodes which is suspected in increasing corrosion rate and cause de-passivate of the surface anodes.

  2. Anodized aluminum on LDEF

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Golden, Johnny L.

    1993-01-01

    A compilation of reported analyses and results obtained for anodized aluminum flown on the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) was prepared. Chromic acid, sulfuric acid, and dyed sulfuric acid anodized surfaces were exposed to the space environment. The vast majority of the anodized surface on LDEF was chromic acid anodize because of its selection as a thermal control coating for use on the spacecraft primary structure, trays, tray clamps, and space end thermal covers. Reports indicate that the chromic acid anodize was stable in solar absorptance and thermal emittance, but that contamination effects caused increases in absorptance on surfaces exposed to low atomic oxygen fluences. There were some discrepancies, however, in that some chromic acid anodized specimens exhibited significant increases in absorptance. Sulfuric acid anodized surfaces also appeared stable, although very little surface area was available for evaluation. One type of dyed sulfuric acid anodize was assessed as an optical baffle coating and was observed to have improved infrared absorptance characteristics with exposure on LDEF.

  3. EphB4-targeted imaging with antibody h131, h131-F(ab′)2 and h131-Fab

    PubMed Central

    Li, Dan; Liu, Shuanglong; Liu, Ren; Zhou, Yue; Park, Ryan; Naga, Kranthi; Krasnoperov, Valery; Gill, Parkash S.; Li, Zibo; Shan, Hong; Conti, Peter S.

    2013-01-01

    Accumulating evidence suggests that overexpression of the tyrosine kinase receptor EphB4, a mediator of vascular development, is a novel target for tumor diagnosis, prognosis and therapy. Noninvasive imaging of EphB4 expression could therefore be valuable for evaluating disease course and therapeutic efficacy at the earliest stages of anti-EphB4 treatment. In this study, we systematically investigated the use of anti-EphB4 antibody h131 (150 kD) and its fragments (h131-F(ab′)2, 110 kD; h131-Fab, 50 kD) for near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging of EphB4 expression in vivo. h131-F(ab′)2 and h131-Fab were produced through pepsin and papain digestion of h131 respectively, whose purity was confirmed by FPLC and SDS-PAGE. After conjugation with Cy5.5, in vivo characteristics of h131, h131-F(ab′)2 and h131-Fab were evaluated in EphB4-positive HT29 tumor model. Although h131-Cy5.5 demonstrated highest tumor uptake among these probes, its optimal tumor uptake level was obtained at 2 d post injection (p.i.). For h131-Fab-Cy5.5, maximum tumor uptake was achieved at 4 h p.i.. However, no significant difference was observed between h131-Fab-Cy5.5 and hIgG-Fab-Cy5.5, indicating the tumor accumulation was mainly caused by passive targeting. In contrast, h131-F(ab′)2-Cy5.5 demonstrated prominent tumor uptake at 6 h p.i. The target specificity was confirmed by hIgG-F(ab′)2-Cy5.5 control and immunofluorescent staining. Collectively, h131-F(ab′)2 exhibited prominent and specific tumor uptake at early time points, which suggests it is a promising agent for EphB4-targeted imaging. PMID:24147882

  4. Cu--Ni--Fe anode for use in aluminum producing electrolytic cell

    DOEpatents

    Bergsma, S. Craig; Brown, Craig W.; Bradford, Donald R; Barnett, Robert J.; Mezner, Michael B.

    2006-07-18

    A method of producing aluminum in an electrolytic cell containing alumina dissolved in an electrolyte, the method comprising the steps of providing a molten salt electrolyte at a temperature of less than 900.degree. C. having alumina dissolved therein in an electrolytic cell having a liner for containing the electrolyte, the liner having a bottom and walls extending upwardly from said bottom. A plurality of non-consumable Cu--Ni--Fe anodes and cathodes are disposed in a vertical direction in the electrolyte, the cathodes having a plate configuration and the anodes having a flat configuration to compliment the cathodes. The anodes contain apertures therethrough to permit flow of electrolyte through the apertures to provide alumina-enriched electrolyte between the anodes and the cathodes. Electrical current is passed through the anodes and through the electrolyte to the cathodes, depositing aluminum at the cathodes and producing gas at the anodes.

  5. Diversities and similarities in pH dependency among bacterial NhaB-like Na+/H+ antiporters.

    PubMed

    Kiriyama, Wakako; Honma, Kei; Hiratsuka, Tomoaki; Takahashi, Itsuka; Nomizu, Takahiro; Takashima, Yuta; Ohtsuka, Masataka; Takahashi, Daiki; Moriyama, Kazuya; Mori, Sayoko; Nishiyama, Shiho; Fukuhara, Masahiro; Nakamura, Tatsunosuke; Shigematsu, Toru; Yamaguchi, Toshio

    2013-10-01

    NhaB-like antiporters were the second described class of Na(+)/H(+) antiporters, identified in bacteria more than 20 years ago. While nhaB-like gene sequences have been found in a number of bacterial genomes, only a few of the NhaB-like antiporters have been functionally characterized to date. Although earlier studies have identified a few pH-sensitive and -insensitive NhaB-like antiporters, the mechanisms that determine their pH responses still remain elusive. In this study, we sought to investigate the diversities and similarities among bacterial NhaB-like antiporters, with particular emphasis on their pH responsiveness. Our phylogenetic analysis of NhaB-like antiporters, combined with pH profile analyses of activities for representative members of several phylogenetic groups, demonstrated that NhaB-like antiporters could be classified into three distinct types according to the degree of their pH dependencies. Interestingly, pH-insensitive NhaB-like antiporters were only found in a limited proportion of enterobacterial species, which constitute a subcluster that appears to have diverged relatively recently among enterobacterial NhaB-like antiporters. Furthermore, kinetic property analyses of NhaB-like antiporters at different pH values revealed that the degree of pH sensitivity of antiport activities was strongly correlated with the magnitude of pH-dependent change in apparent Km values, suggesting that the dramatic pH sensitivities observed for several NhaB-like antiporters might be mainly due to the significant increases of apparent Km at lower pH. These results strongly suggested the possibility that the loss of pH sensitivity of NhaB-like antiporters had occurred relatively recently, probably via accumulation of the mutations that impair pH-dependent change of Km in the course of molecular evolution.

  6. Carbon and Carbon Hybrid Materials as Anodes for Sodium-Ion Batteries.

    PubMed

    Zhong, Xiongwu; Wu, Ying; Zeng, Sifan; Yu, Yan

    2018-02-12

    Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have attracted much attention for application in large-scale grid energy storage owing to the abundance and low cost of sodium sources. However, low energy density and poor cycling life hinder practical application of SIBs. Recently, substantial efforts have been made to develop electrode materials to push forward large-scale practical applications. Carbon materials can be directly used as anode materials, and they show excellent sodium storage performance. Additionally, designing and constructing carbon hybrid materials is an effective strategy to obtain high-performance anodes for SIBs. In this review, we summarize recent research progress on carbon and carbon hybrid materials as anodes for SIBs. Nanostructural design to enhance the sodium storage performance of anode materials is discussed, and we offer some insight into the potential directions of and future high-performance anode materials for SIBs. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  7. Ellipsometry of anodic film growth

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

    Smith, C.G.

    1978-08-01

    An automated computer interpretation of ellisometer measurements of anodic film growth was developed. Continuous mass and charge balances were used to utilize more fully the time dependence of the ellipsometer data and the current and potential measurements. A multiple-film model was used to characterize the growth of films which proceeds via a dissolution--precipitation mechanism; the model also applies to film growth by adsorption and nucleation mechanisms. The characteristic parameters for film growth describe homogeneous and heterogeneous crystallization rates, film porosities and degree of hydration, and the supersaturation of ionic species in the electrolyte. Additional descriptions which may be chosen aremore » patchwise film formation, nonstoichiometry of the anodic film, and statistical variations in the size and orientation of secondary crystals. Theories were developed to describe the optical effects of these processes. An automatic, self-compensating ellipsometer was used to study the growth in alkaline solution of anodic films on silver, cadmium, and zinc. Mass-transport conditions included stagnant electrolyte and forced convection in a flow channel. Multiple films were needed to characterize the optical properties of these films. Anodic films grew from an electrolyte supersatuated in the solution-phase dissolution product. The degree of supersaturation depended on transport conditions and had a major effect on the structure of the film. Anodic reaction rates were limited by the transport of charge carriers through a primary surface layer. The primary layers on silver, zinc, and cadmium all appeared to be nonstoichiometric, containing excess metal. Diffusion coefficients, transference numbers, and the free energy of adsorption of zinc oxide were derived from ellipsometer measurements. 97 figures, 13 tables, 198 references.« less

  8. Plasma properties and heating at the anode of a 1 kW arcjet using electrostatic probes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tiliakos, Nicholas

    A 1 kW hydrazine arcjet thruster has been modified for internal probing of the near-anode boundary layer with an array of fourteen electrostatic micro-probes. The main objectives of this experimental investigation were to: (1) obtain axial and azimuthal distributions of floating potential phisbf, anode sheath potential phisbs, probe current density at zero volts jsba, electron number density nsbes, electron temperature Tsbes, and anode heating due to electrons qsbe for arc currents Isbarc, between 7.8 and 10.6 A, propellant flow rates m = 40-60 mg/s, and specific energies, 18.8 MJ/kg ≤ P/m ≤ 27.4 MJ/kg; (2) probe the anode boundary layer using flush-mounted and cylindrical micro-probes; (3) verify azimuthal current symmetry; (4) understand what affects anode heating, a critical thruster lifetime issue; and (5) provide experimental data for validation of the Megli-Krier-Burton (MKB) model. All of the above objectives were met through the design, fabrication and implementation of fourteen electrostatic micro-probes, of sizes ranging from 0.170 mm to 0.43 mm in diameter. A technique for cleaning and implementing these probes was developed. Two configurations were used: flush-mounted planar probes and cylindrical probes extended 0.10-0.30 mm into the plasma flow. The main results of this investigation are: (1) electrostatic micro-probes can successfully be used in the harsh environment of an arcjet; (2) under all conditions tested the plasma is highly non-equilibrium in the near-anode region; (3) azimuthal current symmetry exists for most operating conditions; (4) the propellant flow rate affects the location of maximum anode sheath potential, current density, and anode heating more than the arc current; (5) the weighted anode sheath potential is always positive and varies from 8-17 V depending on thruster operating conditions; (6) the fraction of anode heating varies from 18-24% of the total input power over the range of specific energies tested; and (7) based on

  9. Protection of MOS capacitors during anodic bonding

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schjølberg-Henriksen, K.; Plaza, J. A.; Rafí, J. M.; Esteve, J.; Campabadal, F.; Santander, J.; Jensen, G. U.; Hanneborg, A.

    2002-07-01

    We have investigated the electrical damage by anodic bonding on CMOS-quality gate oxide and methods to prevent this damage. n-type and p-type MOS capacitors were characterized by quasi-static and high-frequency CV-curves before and after anodic bonding. Capacitors that were bonded to a Pyrex wafer with 10 μm deep cavities enclosing the capacitors exhibited increased leakage current and interface trap density after bonding. Two different methods were successful in protecting the capacitors from such damage. Our first approach was to increase the cavity depth from 10 μm to 50 μm, thus reducing the electric field across the gate oxide during bonding from approximately 2 × 105 V cm-1 to 4 × 104 V cm-1. The second protection method was to coat the inside of a 10 μm deep Pyrex glass cavity with aluminium, forming a Faraday cage that removed the electric field across the cavity during anodic bonding. Both methods resulted in capacitors with decreased interface trap density and unchanged leakage current after bonding. No change in effective oxide charge or mobile ion contamination was observed on any of the capacitors in the study.

  10. Developing High-Performance Lithium Metal Anode in Liquid Electrolytes: Challenges and Progress.

    PubMed

    Li, Sa; Jiang, Mengwen; Xie, Yong; Xu, Hui; Jia, Junyao; Li, Ju

    2018-04-01

    Lithium metal anodes are potentially key for next-generation energy-dense batteries because of the extremely high capacity and the ultralow redox potential. However, notorious safety concerns of Li metal in liquid electrolytes have significantly retarded its commercialization: on one hand, lithium metal morphological instabilities (LMI) can cause cell shorting and even explosion; on the other hand, breaking of the grown Li arms induces the so-called "dead Li"; furthermore, the continuous consumption of the liquid electrolyte and cycleable lithium also shortens cell life. The research community has been seeking new strategies to protect Li metal anodes and significant progress has been made in the last decade. Here, an overview of the fundamental understandings of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation, conceptual models, and advanced real-time characterizations of LMI are presented. Instructed by the conceptual models, strategies including increasing the donatable fluorine concentration (DFC) in liquid to enrich LiF component in SEI, increasing salt concentration (ionic strength) and sacrificial electrolyte additives, building artificial SEI to boost self-healing of natural SEI, and 3D electrode frameworks to reduce current density and delay Sand's extinction are summarized. Practical challenges in competing with graphite and silicon anodes are outlined. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  11. Investigation of the short argon arc with hot anode. I. Numerical simulations of non-equilibrium effects in the near-electrode regions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

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

    2018-01-01

    The atmospheric pressure arcs have recently found application in the production of nanoparticles. The distinguishing features of such arcs are small length and hot ablating anode characterized by intensive electron emission and radiation from its surface. We performed a one-dimensional modeling of argon arc, which shows that near-electrode effects of thermal and ionization non-equilibrium play an important role in the operation of a short arc, because the non-equilibrium regions are up to several millimeters long and are comparable to the arc length. The near-anode region is typically longer than the near-cathode region and its length depends more strongly on the current density. The model was extensively verified and validated against previous simulation results and experimental data. The Volt-Ampere characteristic (VAC) of the near-anode region depends on the anode cooling mechanism. The anode voltage is negative. In the case of strong anode cooling (water-cooled anode) when the anode is cold, temperature and plasma density gradients increase with current density, resulting in a decrease of the anode voltage (the absolute value increases). Falling VAC of the near-anode region suggests the arc constriction near the anode. Without anode cooling, the anode temperature increases significantly with the current density, leading to a drastic increase in the thermionic emission current from the anode. Correspondingly, the anode voltage increases to suppress the emission, and the opposite trend in the VAC is observed. The results of simulations were found to be independent of sheath model used: collisional (fluid) or collisionless model gave the same plasma profiles for both near-anode and near-cathode regions.

  12. Investigation of the short argon arc with hot anode. I. Numerical simulations of non-equilibrium effects in the near-electrode regions

    DOE PAGES

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

    2018-01-22

    The atmospheric pressure arcs have recently found application in the production of nanoparticles. The distinguishing features of such arcs are small length and hot ablating anode characterized by intensive electron emission and radiation from its surface. We performed a one-dimensional modeling of argon arc, which shows that near-electrode effects of thermal and ionization non-equilibrium play an important role in the operation of a short arc, because the non-equilibrium regions are up to several millimeters long and are comparable to the arc length. The near-anode region is typically longer than the near-cathode region and its length depends more strongly on themore » current density. The model was extensively verified and validated against previous simulation results and experimental data. The Volt-Ampere characteristic (VAC) of the near-anode region depends on the anode cooling mechanism. The anode voltage is negative. In the case of strong anode cooling (water-cooled anode) when the anode is cold, temperature and plasma density gradients increase with current density, resulting in a decrease of the anode voltage (the absolute value increases). Falling VAC of the near-anode region suggests the arc constriction near the anode. Without anode cooling, the anode temperature increases significantly with the current density, leading to a drastic increase in the thermionic emission current from the anode. Correspondingly, the anode voltage increases to suppress the emission, and the opposite trend in the VAC is observed. Here, the results of simulations were found to be independent of sheath model used: collisional (fluid) or collisionless model gave the same plasma profiles for both near-anode and near-cathode regions.« less

  13. Investigation of the short argon arc with hot anode. I. Numerical simulations of non-equilibrium effects in the near-electrode regions

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

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

    The atmospheric pressure arcs have recently found application in the production of nanoparticles. The distinguishing features of such arcs are small length and hot ablating anode characterized by intensive electron emission and radiation from its surface. We performed a one-dimensional modeling of argon arc, which shows that near-electrode effects of thermal and ionization non-equilibrium play an important role in the operation of a short arc, because the non-equilibrium regions are up to several millimeters long and are comparable to the arc length. The near-anode region is typically longer than the near-cathode region and its length depends more strongly on themore » current density. The model was extensively verified and validated against previous simulation results and experimental data. The Volt-Ampere characteristic (VAC) of the near-anode region depends on the anode cooling mechanism. The anode voltage is negative. In the case of strong anode cooling (water-cooled anode) when the anode is cold, temperature and plasma density gradients increase with current density, resulting in a decrease of the anode voltage (the absolute value increases). Falling VAC of the near-anode region suggests the arc constriction near the anode. Without anode cooling, the anode temperature increases significantly with the current density, leading to a drastic increase in the thermionic emission current from the anode. Correspondingly, the anode voltage increases to suppress the emission, and the opposite trend in the VAC is observed. Here, the results of simulations were found to be independent of sheath model used: collisional (fluid) or collisionless model gave the same plasma profiles for both near-anode and near-cathode regions.« less

  14. Accelerating anodic biofilms formation and electron transfer in microbial fuel cells: Role of anionic biosurfactants and mechanism.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Yunshu; Jiang, Junqiu; Zhao, Qingliang; Gao, YunZhi; Wang, Kun; Ding, Jing; Yu, Hang; Yao, Yue

    2017-10-01

    Anodic electron transfer is the predominant electricity generation process of MFCs. To accelerate anodic biofilms formation and electron transfer, 40mg/L, 80mg/L, and 120mg/L of rhamnolipid biosurfactants were added to the anolyte, resulting in an increased abiotic capacitance from 15.12F/m 2 (control) to 16.54F/m 2 , 18.00F/m 2 , and 19.39F/m 2 , respectively. Anodic biofilm formation was facilitated after dosing 40mg/L of rhamnolipids on the 7th day after inoculation, resulting in an increased anodic biofilm coverage from 0.43% to 42.51%, and an increased maximum power density from 6.92±1.18W/m 3 to 9.93±0.88W/m 3 . Furthermore, the adsorption of rhamnolipids on the anode caused the Frumkin effect, leading to a decrease of equilibrium potential from -0.43V to -0.56V, and an increase of exchange current density from 5.09×10 -3 A/m 2 to 8.72×10 -3 A/m 2 . However, electron transfer was blocked when the rhamnolipid concentration was further increased to 80mg/L, and 120mg/L. Analysis of the anodic bacterial communities revealed that rhamnolipids facilitated the enrichment of exoelectrogen, increasing the total proportion from 65% to 81%. Additionally, biosurfactants were found to have significant impacts on the composition of exoelectrogens. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Solution processed transition metal oxide anode buffer layers for efficiency and stability enhancement of polymer solar cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ameen, M. Yoosuf; Shamjid, P.; Abhijith, T.; Reddy, V. S.

    2018-01-01

    Polymer solar cells were fabricated with solution-processed transition metal oxides, MoO3 and V2O5 as anode buffer layers (ABLs). The optimized device with V2O5 ABL exhibited considerably higher power conversion efficiency (PCE) compared to the devices based on MoO3 and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) ABLs. The space charge limited current measurements and impedance spectroscopy results of hole-only devices revealed that V2O5 provided a very low charge transfer resistance and high hole mobility, facilitating efficient hole transfer from the active layer to the ITO anode. More importantly, incorporation of V2O5 as ABL resulted in substantial improvement in device stability compared to MoO3 and PEDOT:PSS based devices. Unencapsulated PEDOT:PSS-based devices stored at a relative humidity of 45% have shown complete failure within 96 h. Whereas, MoO3 and V2O5 based devices stored in similar conditions retained 22% and 80% of their initial PCEs after 96 h. Significantly higher stability of the V2O5-based device is ascribed to the reduction in degradation of the anode/active layer interface, as evident from the electrical measurements.

  16. The impact of NiO on microstructure and electrical property of solid oxide fuel cell anode

    PubMed Central

    Li, Yan; Luo, Zhong-yang; Yu, Chun-jiang; Luo, Dan; Xu, Zhu-an; Cen, Ke-fa

    2005-01-01

    Ni-Ce0.8Sm0.2O1.9 (Ni-SDC) cermet was selected as anode material for reduced temperature (800 °C) solid oxide fuel cells in this study. The influence of NiO powder fabrication methods for Ni-SDC cermets on the electrode performance was investigated so that the result obtained can be applied to make high-quality anode. Three kinds of NiO powder were synthesized with a fourth kind being available in the market. Four types of anode precursors were fabricated with these NiO powders and Ce0.8Sm0.2O1.9 (SDC), and then were reduced to anode wafers for sequencing measurement. The electrical conductivity of the anodes was measured and the effect of microstructure was investigated. It was found that the anode electrical conductivity depends strongly on the NiO powder morphologies, microstructure of the cermet anode and particle sizes, which are decided by NiO powder preparation technique. The highest electrical conductivity is obtained for anode cermets with NiO powder synthesized by NiCO3·2Ni(OH)2·4H2O or Ni(NO3)2·6H2O decomposition technique. PMID:16252348

  17. 20 CFR 655.700 - What statutory provisions govern the employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do employers apply for H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 visas... Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b Visas in Specialty Occupations and as Fashion Models, and Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b1 and E-3 Visas in...

  18. 20 CFR 655.700 - What statutory provisions govern the employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do employers apply for H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 visas... Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b Visas in Specialty Occupations and as Fashion Models, and Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b1 and E-3 Visas in...

  19. 20 CFR 655.700 - What statutory provisions govern the employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do employers apply for H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 visas... Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b Visas in Specialty Occupations and as Fashion Models, and Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b1 and E-3 Visas in...

  20. 20 CFR 655.700 - What statutory provisions govern the employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do employers apply for H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 visas... Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b Visas in Specialty Occupations and as Fashion Models, and Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b1 and E-3 Visas in...

  1. 20 CFR 655.700 - What statutory provisions govern the employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... employment of H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 nonimmigrants and how do employers apply for H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 visas... Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b Visas in Specialty Occupations and as Fashion Models, and Requirements for Employers Seeking To Employ Nonimmigrants on H-1b1 and E-3 Visas in...

  2. Simulation results of influence of constricted arc column on anode deformation and melting pool swirl in vacuum arcs with AMF contacts

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Lijun; Zhang, Xiao; Huang, Xiaolong; Jia, Shenli

    2017-11-01

    In the process of vacuum arc breaking, the energy injected into the anode will cause anode melting, evaporation, and deformation, resulting in the formation of the anode melting pool. The anode activities have great influence on the arc behavior. When the arc current is large enough, even the influence of axial magnetic field is considered, the arc column still is in contraction state, which means the arc burns only on a part of the electrode. In this paper, the model of anode melting pool deformation and rotation is used, and the model includes anode melting and solidification module, magneto-hydro-dynamic module of the anode melting pool, the volume of fraction method, and the current continuity equation. In this paper, the diffuse arc area is selected as 100%, 75%, and 50%, respectively. The anode temperature and deformation, the anode melting layer thickness, and the rotational velocity of the anode melting pool are obtained. The results show that when the current is at 17.5 kA (rms) and the diffuse arc area is 100%, the anode's maximum temperature is 1477 K and the crater depth is 0.83 mm. But when the diffuse arc areas are 75% and 50%, the anode's maximum temperatures reach 1500 K and 1761 K, and the crater depths reach 1.2 mm and 3 mm, respectively. Arc contraction will lead to more serious anode deformation. A similar result is obtained when the simulation current is 12.5 kA. Under the similar situation, the simulation results in the crater depth, the residual melt layer thickness, the rotational speed of the melting pool, and the maximum temperature of the anode at current zero are in good agreement with the experimental results.

  3. Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation to the cerebellum improves handwriting and cyclic drawing kinematics in focal hand dystonia

    PubMed Central

    Bradnam, Lynley V.; Graetz, Lynton J.; McDonnell, Michelle N.; Ridding, Michael C.

    2015-01-01

    There is increasing evidence that the cerebellum has a role in the pathophysiology of primary focal hand dystonia and might provide an intervention target for non-invasive brain stimulation to improve function of the affected hand. The primary objective of this study was to determine if cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) improves handwriting and cyclic drawing kinematics in people with hand dystonia, by reducing cerebellar-brain inhibition (CBI) evoked by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Eight people with dystonia (5 writer’s dystonia, 3 musician’s dystonia) and eight age-matched controls completed the study and underwent cerebellar anodal, cathodal and sham tDCS in separate sessions. Dystonia severity was assessed using the Writer’s Cramp Rating Scale (WRCS) and the Arm Dystonia Disability Scale (ADDS). The kinematic measures that differentiated the groups were; mean stroke frequency during handwriting and fast cyclic drawing and average pen pressure during light cyclic drawing. TMS measures of cortical excitability were no different between people with FHD and controls. There was a moderate, negative relationship between TMS-evoked CBI at baseline and the WRCS in dystonia. Anodal cerebellar tDCS reduced handwriting mean stroke frequency and average pen pressure, and increased speed and reduced pen pressure during fast cyclic drawing. Kinematic measures were not associated with a decrease in CBI within an individual. In conclusion, cerebellar anodal tDCS appeared to improve kinematics of handwriting and circle drawing tasks; but the underlying neurophysiological mechanism remains uncertain. A study in a larger homogeneous population is needed to further investigate the possible therapeutic benefit of cerebellar tDCS in dystonia. PMID:26042019

  4. Battery with modular air cathode and anode cage

    DOEpatents

    Niksa, Marilyn J.; Pohto, Gerald R.; Lakatos, Leslie K.; Wheeler, Douglas J.; Niksa, Andrew J.; Schue, Thomas J.

    1987-01-01

    A battery assembly of the consumable metal anode type has now been constructed for ready assembly as well as disassembly. In a non-conductive and at least substantially inert cell body, space is provided for receiving an open-structured, non-consumable anode cage. The cage has an open top for facilitating insertion of an anode. A modular cathode is used, comprising a peripheral current conductor frame clamped about a grid reinforced air cathode in sheet form. The air cathode may be double gridded. The cathode frame can be sealed, during assembly, with electrolyte-resistant-sealant as well as with adhesive. The resulting cathode module can be assembled outside the cell body and readily inserted therein, or can later be easily removed therefrom.

  5. Battery with modular air cathode and anode cage

    DOEpatents

    Niksa, Marilyn J.; Pohto, Gerald R.; Lakatos, Leslie K.; Wheeler, Douglas J.; Niksa, Andrew J.; Schue, Thomas J.; Turk, Thomas R.

    1988-01-01

    A battery assembly of the consumable metal anode type has now been constructed for ready assembly as well as disassembly. In a non-conductive and at least substantially inert cell body, space is provided for receiving an open-structured, non-consumable anode cage. The cage has an open top for facilitating insertion of an anode. A modular cathode is used, comprising a peripheral current conductor frame clamped about a grid reinforced air cathode in sheet form. The air cathode may be double gridded. The cathode frame can be sealed, during assembly, with electrolyte-resistant-sealant as well as with adhesive. The resulting cathode module can be assembled outside the cell body and readily inserted therein, or can later be easily removed therefrom.

  6. A novel photoactive and three-dimensional stainless steel anode dramatically enhances the current density of bioelectrochemical systems.

    PubMed

    Feng, Huajun; Tang, Chenyi; Wang, Qing; Liang, Yuxiang; Shen, Dongsheng; Guo, Kun; He, Qiaoqiao; Jayaprada, Thilini; Zhou, Yuyang; Chen, Ting; Ying, Xianbin; Wang, Meizhen

    2018-04-01

    This study reports a high-performance 3D stainless-steel photoanode (3D SS photoanode) for bioelectrochemical systems (BESs). The 3D SS photoanode consists of 3D carbon-coated SS felt bioactive side and a flat α-Fe 2 O 3 -coated SS plate photoactive side. Without light illumination, the electrode reached a current density of 26.2 ± 1.9 A m -2 , which was already one of the highest current densities reported thus far. Under illumination, the current density of the electrode was further increased to 46.5 ± 2.9 A m -2 . The mechanism of the photo-enhanced current production can be attributed to the reduced charge-transfer resistance between electrode surface and the biofilm with illumination. It was also found that long-term light illumination can enhance the biofilm formation on the 3D SS photoanode. These findings demonstrate that using the synergistic effect of photocatalysis and microbial electrocatalysis is an efficient way to boost the current production of the existing high-performance 3D anodes for BESs. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Self-consistent modeling of self-organized patterns of spots on anodes of DC glow discharges

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bieniek, M. S.; Almeida, P. G. C.; Benilov, M. S.

    2018-05-01

    Self-organized patterns of spots on a flat metallic anode in a cylindrical glow discharge tube are simulated. A standard model of glow discharges is used, comprising conservation and transport equations for a single species of ion and electrons, written with the use of the drift-diffusion and local-field approximations, and the Poisson equation. Only processes in the near-anode region are considered and the computation domain is the region between the anode and the discharge column. Multiple solutions, existing in the same range of discharge current and describing modes with and without anode spots, are computed for the first time. A reversal of the local anode current density in the spots was found, i.e. mini-cathodes are formed inside the spots or, as one could say, anode spots operate as a unipolar glow discharge. The solutions do not fit into the conventional pattern of self-organization in bistable nonlinear dissipative systems; In particular, the modes are not joined by bifurcations.

  8. Fabrication of the superhydrophobic surface on aluminum alloy by anodizing and polymeric coating

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Wenyong; Luo, Yuting; Sun, Linyu; Wu, Ruomei; Jiang, Haiyun; Liu, Yuejun

    2013-01-01

    We reported the preparation of the superhydrophobic surface on aluminum alloy via anodizing and polymeric coating. Both the different anodizing processes and different polymeric coatings of aluminum alloy were investigated. The effects of different anodizing conditions, such as electrolyte concentration, anodization time and current on the superhydrophobic surface were discussed. The results showed that a good superhydrophobic surface was facilely fabricated by polypropylene (PP) coating after anodizing. The optimum conditions for anodizing were determined by orthogonal experiments. When the concentration of oxalic acid was 10 g/L, the concentration of NaCl was 1.25 g/L, anodization time was 40 min, and anodization current was 0.4 A, the best superhydrophobic surface on aluminum alloy with the contact angle (CA) of 162° and the sliding angle of 2° was obtained. On the other hand, the different polymeric coatings, such as polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP) and polypropylene grafting maleic anhydride (PP-g-MAH) were used to coat the aluminum alloy surface after anodizing. The results showed that the superhydrophobicity was most excellent by coating PP, while the duration of the hydrophobic surface was poor. By modifying the surface with the silane coupling agent before PP coating, the duration of the superhydrophobic surface was improved. The morphologies of the superhydrophobic surface were further confirmed by optical microscope (OM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Combined with the material of PP with the low surface free energy, the micro/nano-structures of the surface resulted in the superhydrophobicity of the aluminum alloy surface.

  9. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Improves Executive Dysfunctions in ADHD: Implications for Inhibitory Control, Interference Control, Working Memory, and Cognitive Flexibility.

    PubMed

    Nejati, Vahid; Salehinejad, Mohammad Ali; Nitsche, Michael A; Najian, Asal; Javadi, Amir-Homayoun

    2017-09-01

    This study examined effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) on major executive functions (EFs), including response inhibition, executive control, working memory (WM), and cognitive flexibility/task switching in ADHD. ADHD children received (a) left anodal/right cathodal DLPFC tDCS and (b) sham stimulation in Experiment 1 and (a) left anodal DLPFC/right cathodal OFC tDCS, (b) left cathodal DLPFC/right anodal OFC tDCS, and (c) sham stimulation in Experiment 2. The current intensity was 1 mA for 15 min with a 72-hr interval between sessions. Participants underwent Go/No-Go task, N-back test, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), and Stroop task after each tDCS condition. Anodal left DLPFC tDCS most clearly affected executive control functions (e.g., WM, interference inhibition), while cathodal left DLPFC tDCS improved inhibitory control. Cognitive flexibility/task switching benefited from combined DLPFC-OFC, but not DLPFC stimulation alone. Task-specific stimulation protocols can improve EFs in ADHD.

  10. Effects of anodic potential and chloride ion on overall reactivity in electrochemical reactors designed for solar-powered wastewater treatment.

    PubMed

    Cho, Kangwoo; Qu, Yan; Kwon, Daejung; Zhang, Hao; Cid, Clément A; Aryanfar, Asghar; Hoffmann, Michael R

    2014-02-18

    We have investigated electrochemical treatment of real domestic wastewater coupled with simultaneous production of molecular H2 as useful byproduct. The electrolysis cells employ multilayer semiconductor anodes with electroactive bismuth-doped TiO2 functionalities and stainless steel cathodes. DC-powered laboratory-scale electrolysis experiments were performed under static anodic potentials (+2.2 or +3.0 V NHE) using domestic wastewater samples, with added chloride ion in variable concentrations. Greater than 95% reductions in chemical oxygen demand (COD) and ammonium ion were achieved within 6 h. In addition, we experimentally determined a decreasing overall reactivity of reactive chlorine species toward COD with an increasing chloride ion concentration under chlorine radicals (Cl·, Cl2(-)·) generation at +3.0 V NHE. The current efficiency for COD removal was 12% with the lowest specific energy consumption of 96 kWh kgCOD(-1) at the cell voltage of near 4 V in 50 mM chloride. The current efficiency and energy efficiency for H2 generation were calculated to range from 34 to 84% and 14 to 26%, respectively. The hydrogen comprised 35 to 60% by volume of evolved gases. The efficacy of our electrolysis cell was further demonstrated by a 20 L prototype reactor totally powered by a photovoltaic (PV) panel, which was shown to eliminate COD and total coliform bacteria in less than 4 h of treatment.

  11. Possibility of High Phosphorus Pig Iron as Sacrificial Anode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Prasad, Nisheeth Kr.; Pathak, A. S.; Kundu, S.; Mondal, K.

    2018-05-01

    Cathodic protection is an effective method to control the corrosion of underground pipelines and submerged structures. In the present work, high phosphorus containing pig iron was utilized as sacrificial anode for cathodic protection of underground mild steel plates and the results were compared with that of a commercially pure magnesium sacrificial anode. Driving potential and current between the galvanically coupled sacrificial anodes and mild steel plates were continuously monitored in real time for one month. Microstructure and morphology of the corrosion products formed on the surface of pig iron, magnesium sacrificial anodes and mild steel plates were observed with the help of optical microscope and scanning electron microscopy, and phase identification were performed using x-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The distribution of phosphorus in the pig iron matrix and soluble rust formation on the surface of pig iron under buried condition were critical from the point of sacrificial effect, indicating the possible scientific reasons for high phosphorous pig iron to be used as sacrificial anode.

  12. H2O2_COD_EPA; MEC_acclimation

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    H2O2_COD_EPA: Measurements of hydrogen peroxide and COD concentrations for water samples from the MEC reactors.MEC_acclimation: raw data for current and voltage of the anode in the MEC reactor.This dataset is associated with the following publication:Sim, J., J. An, E. Elbeshbishy, R. Hodon, and H. Lee. Characterization and optimization of cathodic conditions for H2O2 synthesis in microbial electrochemical cells. Bioresource Technology. Elsevier Online, New York, NY, USA, 195: 31-36, (2015).

  13. A Database Approach for Predicting and Monitoring Baked Anode Properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lauzon-Gauthier, Julien; Duchesne, Carl; Tessier, Jayson

    2012-11-01

    The baked anode quality control strategy currently used by most carbon plants based on testing anode core samples in the laboratory is inadequate for facing increased raw material variability. The low core sampling rate limited by lab capacity and the common practice of reporting averaged properties based on some anode population mask a significant amount of individual anode variability. In addition, lab results are typically available a few weeks after production and the anodes are often already set in the reduction cells preventing early remedial actions when necessary. A database approach is proposed in this work to develop a soft-sensor for predicting individual baked anode properties at the end of baking cycle. A large historical database including raw material properties, process operating parameters and anode core data was collected from a modern Alcoa plant. A multivariate latent variable PLS regression method was used for analyzing the large database and building the soft-sensor model. It is shown that the general low frequency trends in most anode physical and mechanical properties driven by raw material changes are very well captured by the model. Improvements in the data infrastructure (instrumentation, sampling frequency and location) will be necessary for predicting higher frequency variations in individual baked anode properties. This paper also demonstrates how multivariate latent variable models can be interpreted against process knowledge and used for real-time process monitoring of carbon plants, and detection of faults and abnormal operation.

  14. Simultaneous Perforation and Doping of Si Nanoparticles for Lithium-Ion Battery Anode.

    PubMed

    Lv, Guangxin; Zhu, Bin; Li, Xiuqiang; Chen, Chuanlu; Li, Jinlei; Jin, Yan; Hu, Xiaozhen; Zhu, Jia

    2017-12-27

    Silicon nanostructures have served as promising building blocks for various applications, such as lithium-ion batteries, thermoelectrics, and solar energy conversions. Particularly, control of porosity and doping is critical for fine-tuning the mechanical, optical, and electrical properties of these silicon nanostructures. However, perforation and doping are usually separated processes, both of which are complicated and expensive. Here, we demonstrate that the porous nano-Si particles with controllable dopant can be massively produced through a facile and scalable method, combining ball-milling and acid-etching. Nano-Si with porosity as high as 45.8% can be achieved with 9 orders of magnitude of conductivity changes compared to intrinsic silicon. As an example for demonstration, the obtained nano-Si particles with 45.8% porosity and 3.7 atom % doping can serve as a promising anode for lithium-ion batteries with 2000 mA h/g retained over 100 cycles at the current density of 0.5 C, excellent rate performance with 1600 mA h/g at the current density of 5 C, and a stable cycling performance of above 1500 mA h/g retained over 940 cycles at the current density of 1 C with carbon coating.

  15. The Hepatitis B Virus Ribonuclease H as a Drug Target

    PubMed Central

    Tavis, John E.; Lomonosova, Elena

    2015-01-01

    Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a leading cause of hepatitis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma. An outstanding vaccine is available; however the number of infections remains high. Current anti-HBV treatments with interferon α and nucleos(t)ide analogs clear the infection in only a small minority of patients, and either induce serious side-effects or are of very long duration. HBV is a small, enveloped DNA virus that replicates by reverse transcription via an RNA intermediate. The HBV ribonuclease H (RNaseH) is essential for viral replication, but it has not been exploited as a drug target. Recent low-throughput screening of compound classes with anti-Human Immunodeficiency Virus RNaseH activity led to identification of HBV RNaseH inhibitors in three different chemical families that block HBV replication. These inhibitors are promising candidates for development into new anti-HBV drugs. The RNaseH inhibitors may help improve treatment efficacy enough to clear the virus from the liver when used in combination with existing anti-HBV drugs and/or with other novel inhibitors under development. This article forms part of a symposium in Antiviral Research on “An unfinished story: from the discovery of the Australia antigen to the development of new curative therapies for hepatitis B.” PMID:25862291

  16. Carbon-based coating containing ultrafine MoO2 nanoparticles as an integrated anode for high-performance lithium-ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Quanyi; Yang, Qi; Zhao, Yanhong; Wan, Bin

    2017-10-01

    Copper-supported MoO2-C composite as an integrated anode with excellent battery performance was synthesized by a facile knife coating technique followed by heat treatment in a vacuum. The obtained samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermal analysis, nitrogen adsorption and desorption analysis, field emission scanning microscopy (FESEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results show the MoO2-C composite coating is comprised of a porous carbon matrix with a pore size of 1-3 nm and ultrafine MoO2 nanoparticles with a size of 5-10 nm encapsulated inside, the coating is tightly attached on the surface of copper foil, and the interface between them is free of cracks. Stable PAN-DMF-H2O system containing ammonium molybdate suitable for knife coating technique and the MoO2-C composite with ultrafine MoO2 nanoparticles encapsulated in the carbon matrix can be prepared through controlling amount of added ammonium molybdate solution. The copper-supported MoO2-C composite coating can be directly utilized as the integrated anode for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). It delivers a capacity of 814 mA h g-1 at a current density of 100 mA g-1 after 100 cycles without apparent capacity fading. Furthermore, with increase of current densities to 200, 500, 1000, 2000, and 5000 mA g-1, it exhibits average capacities of 809, 697, 568, 383, and 188 mA h g-1. Its outstanding electrochemical performance is attributed to combined merits of integrated anode and structure with ultrafine MoO2 nanoparticles embedded in the porous carbon matrix.

  17. Searching for flavor changing neutral currents in t →H c , H →τ τ decays at the LHC

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Xin; Xia, Li-Gang

    2016-06-01

    The prospects of searching for the flavor changing neutral current effect in the decay of t →H c , H →τ τ are investigated with the simulated p -p collision data for the ATLAS detector at the LHC, where the Higgs mass is assumed to be 125 GeV. A fit based on the constraints from the Higgs mass and the tau decay kinematics is performed for each event, which improves significantly the Higgs and top mass reconstruction and helps the signal-background separation. Boosted decision trees discriminants are developed to achieve an optimal sensitivity of searching for the flavor changing neutral current signal. An expected upper limit of the branching ratio B (t →H c ) at 95% confidence level of 0.25% is obtained with a data set of 100 fb-1 at √{s }=13 TeV during the LHC Run-2 period.

  18. B7-H3 expression and its correlation with clinicopathologic features, angiogenesis, and prognosis in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.

    PubMed

    Cheng, Rui; Chen, Yongqin; Zhou, Haohui; Wang, Bi; Du, Qiang; Chen, Yanling

    2018-05-01

    This study was designed to explore the expression of B7-H3 in human intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) and its association with the clinicopathologic factors. In the current study, the expression of B7-H3 in 45 patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and 8 patients with hepatolithiasis was analyzed by immunohistochemistry, which revealed that B7-H3 was not expressed in hepatolithiatic tissues, but positively expressed in 57.8% (26/45) of the ICC cases. The expression of B7-H3 was significantly associated with lymph node metastases and venous invasion. A positive correlation was also observed between the expression of B7-H3 and MVD, an index for tumor angiogenesis. Further survival analysis indicated that patients with B7-H3 negative expression had higher overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) rates than those with B7-H3 positive expression. Multivariate analysis revealed that B7-H3 expression was an independent prognostic indicator for poor OS and CSS of ICC patients. Our results suggest that B7-H3 may be a valuable biomarker in determining tumor progression and prognosis of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. It is also a potential target for antivascular therapy of ICC. © 2018 APMIS. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  19. Mitigation of Sulfur Poisoning of Ni/Zirconia SOFC Anodes by Antimony and Tin

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

    Marina, Olga A.; Coyle, Christopher A.; Engelhard, Mark H.

    2011-02-28

    Surface Ni/Sb and Ni/Sb alloys were found to efficiently minimize the negative effects of sulfur on the performance of Ni/zirconia anode-supported solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC). Prior to operating on fuel gas containing low concentrations of H2S, the nickel/zirconia anodes were briefly exposed to antimony or tin vapor, which only slightly affected the SOFC performance. During the subsequent exposures to 1 and 5 ppm H2S, increases in anodic polarization losses were minimal compared to those observed for the standard nickel/zirconia anodes. Post-test XPS analyses showed that Sb and Sn tended to segregate to the surface of Ni particles, and furthermore » confirmed a significant reduction of adsorbed sulfur on the Ni surface in Ni/Sn and Ni/Sb samples compared to the Ni. The effect may be the result of weaker sulfur adsorption on bimetallic surfaces, adsorption site competition between sulfur and Sb or Sn on Ni, or other factors. The use of dilute binary alloys of Ni-Sb or Ni-Sn in the place of Ni, or brief exposure to Sb or Sn vapor, may be effective means to counteract the effects of sulfur poisoning in SOFC anodes and Ni catalysts. Other advantages, including suppression of coking or tailoring the anode composition for the internal reforming, are also expected.« less

  20. Facile Stabilization of the Sodium Metal Anode with Additives: Unexpected Key Role of Sodium Polysulfide and Adverse Effect of Sodium Nitrate.

    PubMed

    Wang, Huan; Wang, Chuanlong; Matios, Edward; Li, Weiyang

    2018-06-25

    Sodium metal is an attractive anode for next-generation energy storage systems owing to its high specific capacity, low cost, and high abundance. Nevertheless, uncontrolled Na dendrite growth caused by the formation of unstable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) leads to poor cycling performance and severe safety concerns. Sodium polysulfide (Na 2 S 6 ) alone is revealed to serve as a positive additive or pre-passivation agent in ether electrolyte to improve the long-term stability and reversibility of the Na anode, while Na 2 S 6 -NaNO 3 as co-additive has an adverse effect, contrary to the prior findings in the lithium anode system. A superior cycling behavior of Na anode is first demonstrated at a current density up to 10 mA cm -2 and a capacity up to 5 mAh cm -2 over 100 cycles. As a proof of concept, a high-capacity Na-S battery was prepared by pre-passivating the Na anode with Na 2 S 6 . This study gives insights into understanding the differences between Li and Na systems. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  1. In-Situ Anode Heating and Its Effects on Atomic Constituents in the A-K Gap in Self-Magnetic Pinch (SMP) Experiments

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Simpson, Sean; Renk, Timothy; Johnston, Mark; Mazarakis, Mike; Patel, Sonal

    2015-11-01

    The RITS-6 inductive voltage adder (IVA) accelerator (3.5-8.5 MeV) at Sandia National Laboratories produces high-power (TW) focused electron beams (<3mm diameter) for flash x-ray radiography applications. The Self-Magnetic Pinch (SMP) diode utilizes a hollowed metal cathode to produce a pinched focus onto a high-Z metal anode converter. There is not a clear understanding as to the effects various contaminants such as C, CO, H, H2O, HmCn, O2, and N2, on the anode surface or in the bulk may have on impedance dynamics, beam stability, beam spot size, and reproducibility. Heating pure Ta anodes with and without a thin Al coating have been investigated using temperatures ranging from 400 °C to 1000 °C. Initial experiments indicate a significant reduction in H and C as seen in high-speed spectral analysis of plasmas at the converter and a reduction in the back-streaming proton current. Experiments are ongoing, and latest results will be reported. Sandia National Laboratories is a multi-program laboratory managed and operated by Sandia Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Lockheed Martin Corporation, for the U.S. Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration under contract DE-AC04-94AL85000.

  2. Structural Engineering of Nanoporous Anodic Alumina Photonic Crystals by Sawtooth-like Pulse Anodization.

    PubMed

    Law, Cheryl Suwen; Santos, Abel; Nemati, Mahdieh; Losic, Dusan

    2016-06-01

    This study presents a sawtooth-like pulse anodization approach aiming to create a new type of photonic crystal structure based on nanoporous anodic alumina. This nanofabrication approach enables the engineering of the effective medium of nanoporous anodic alumina in a sawtooth-like manner with precision. The manipulation of various anodization parameters such as anodization period, anodization amplitude, number of anodization pulses, ramp ratio and pore widening time allows a precise control and fine-tuning of the optical properties (i.e., characteristic transmission peaks and interferometric colors) exhibited by nanoporous anodic alumina photonic crystals (NAA-PCs). The effect of these anodization parameters on the photonic properties of NAA-PCs is systematically evaluated for the establishment of a fabrication methodology toward NAA-PCs with tunable optical properties. The effective medium of the resulting NAA-PCs is demonstrated to be optimal for the development of optical sensing platforms in combination with reflectometric interference spectroscopy (RIfS). This application is demonstrated by monitoring in real-time the formation of monolayers of thiol molecules (11-mercaptoundecanoic acid) on the surface of gold-coated NAA-PCs. The obtained results reveal that the adsorption mechanism between thiol molecules and gold-coated NAA-PCs follows a Langmuir isotherm model, indicating a monolayer sorption mechanism.

  3. Effects of Coke Calcination Level on Pore Structure in Carbon Anodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fang, Ning; Xue, Jilai; Lang, Guanghui; Bao, Chongai; Gao, Shoulei

    2016-02-01

    Effects of coke calcination levels on pore structure of carbon anodes have been investigated. Bench anodes were prepared by 3 types of cokes with 4 calcination temperatures (800°C, 900°C, 1000°C and 1100°C). The cokes and anodes were characterized using hydrostatic method, air permeability determination, mercury porosimetry, image analysis and confocal microscopy (CSLM). The cokes with different calcination levels are almost the same in LC values (19-20 Å) and real density (1.967-1.985 g/cm3), while the anode containing coke calcined at 900°C has the lowest open porosity and air permeability. Pore size distribution (represented by Anode H sample) can be roughly divided into two ranges: small and medium pores in diameter of 10-400 μm and large pores of 400-580 μm. For the anode containing coke calcined at 800°C, a number of long, narrow pores in the pore size range of 400-580 μm are presented among cokes particles. Formation of these elongated pores may be attributed to coke shrinkages during the anode baking process, which may develop cracking in the anode under cell operations. More small or medium rounded pores with pore size range of 10-400 μm emerge in the anodes with coke calcination temperatures of 900°C, 1000°C and 1100°C, which may be generated due to release of volatiles from the carbon anode during baking. For the anode containing coke calcined at 1100°C, it is found that many rounded pores often closely surround large coke particles, which have potential to form elongated, narrow pores.

  4. Thin film integrated capacitors with sputtered-anodized niobium pentoxide dielectric for decoupling applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jacob, Susan

    Electronics system miniaturization is a major driver for high-k materials. High-k materials in capacitors allow for high capacitance, enabling system miniaturization. Ta2O5 (k˜24) has been the dominant high-k material in the electronic industry for decoupling capacitors, filter capacitors, etc. In order to facilitate further system miniaturization, this project has investigated thin film integrated capacitors with Nb2O5 dielectric. Nb2O 5 has k˜41 and is a potential candidate for replacing Ta2O5. But, the presence of suboxides (NbO2 and NbO) in the dielectric deteriorates the electrical properties (leakage current, thermal instability of capacitance, etc.). Also, the high oxygen solubility of niobium results in oxygen diffusion from the dielectric to niobium metal, if any is present. The major purpose of this project was to check the ability of NbN as a diffusion barrier and fabricate thermally stable niobium capacitors. As a first step to produce niobium capacitors, the material characterizations of reactively sputtered Nb2O5 and NbN were done. Thickness and film composition, and crystal structures of the sputtered films were obtained and the deposition parameters for the desired stoichiometry were found. Also, anodized Nb2O5 was characterized for its stoichiometry and thickness. To study the effect of nitrides on capacitance and thermal stability, Ta2O5 capacitors were initially fabricated with and without TaN. The results showed that the nitride does not affect the capacitance, and that capacitors with TaN are stable up to 150°C. In the next step, niobium capacitors were first fabricated with anodized dielectric and the oxygen diffusion issues associated with capacitor processing were studied. Reactively sputtered Nb2O5 was anodized to form complete Nb2O5 (with few oxygen vacancies) and NbN was used to sandwich the dielectric. The capacitor fabrication was not successful due to the difficulties in anodizing the sputtered dielectric. Another method, anodizing

  5. K1-xMn1+x/2[Fe(CN)6]·yH2O Prussian blue analogues as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhou, Feng-Chen; Sun, Yan-Hui; Li, Jie-Qiong; Nan, Jun-Min

    2018-06-01

    Hexacyanoferrate, KMn[Fe(CN)6]·yH2O (KMnHCF), a Prussian blue analogue (PBA), is synthesized by a solution precipitation method under alkaline condition at room temperature. After treated with diluted hydrochloride acid, the KMnHCF is turned into Mn3[Fe(CN)6]2·yH2O (MnHCF). Then both synthesized KMnHCF and MnHCF are applied as anode material for lithium ion batteries (LIBs). The KMnHCF anode exhibits a super electrochemical performance than MnHCF. It shows a very low discharge voltage plateau of 0.6 V, an initial capacity of 777 mAh g-1, and a reversible capacity of 434 mAh g-1 after 50 cycles at a current density of 50 mA g-1. Furthermore, it keeps 425 mAh g-1 after 100 cycles at 100 mA g-1 and 215 mAh g-1 after 200 cycles even at 500 mA g-1. It is remarkable that the coulombic efficiency can be maintained larger than 98.4% from the 5th cycle at 50 mA g-1, 99.2% at 100 mA g-1, and 96.8% even at 500 mA g-1. In addition, the original structure of the KMnHCF has no obvious change after lithiation/de-lithiation based on the ex-situ X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR) characterization, indicating large channels and interstitial sites in the open-framework can allow rapid insertion and extraction of Li+ and constrain volume expansion during charge/discharge process.

  6. [Correlation of Plasma Co-stimulatory Molecules B7-H2 and B7-H3 with Platelet Auto-antibodies in Patients with Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura].

    PubMed

    Zuo, Bin; Zhao, Yun-Xiao; Yang, Jian-Feng; He, Yang

    2015-08-01

    To investigate whether the plasma level of platelet auto- antibodies in ITP patients is related to that of co-stimulatory molecules sB7-H2 and sB7-H3. A total of 61 ITP patients and 25 healthy controls from the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University from June 2012 to August 2013 were enrolled in this study. The expression levels of platelet auto-antibodies against 5 glycoproteins (GPIX, GP Ib, GP IIIa, GPIIb and P-selectin) in plasma were detected by flow cytometric immuno-beads array, and the expression of soluable co-stimulatory molecules sB7-H2 and sB7-H3 was measured by ELISA. The plasma levels of 5 auto-antibodies against platelet membrance glycoproteins significantly increased in ITP patiens (P < 0.01). Compared with healthy controls, sB7-H2 levels increased (P < 0.05), while the sB7-H3 level did not significantly change (r = 0.13, P > 0.05). However, the correlation analysis showed that sB7-H3 negatively correlated with platelet P-selectin auto-antibody (r = -0.46, P < 0.05), and sB7-H2 and sB7-H3 significantly reduced in ITP patients with positive P-selectin auto-antibody (P < 0.01). In ITP patients, platelet counts negatively correlated with sB7-H2 (r = -0.3907, P < 0.01), but did not correlate with sB7-H3. Soluble costimulatory molecule sB7-H2 elevates in ITP patients, and the level of sB7-H3 is associated with auto-antibodies against P-selectin, suggesting that costimulatory molecules B7-H2 and B7-H3 may be involved in the pathogenesis of immune regulation abnormality in ITP.

  7. Electrochemical removal of carbamazepine in water with Ti/PbO2 cylindrical mesh anode.

    PubMed

    García-Espinoza, J D; Gortáres-Moroyoqui, P; Orta-Ledesma, M T; Drogui, P; Mijaylova-Nacheva, P

    2016-01-01

    Carbamazepine (CBZ) is one of the most frequently detected organic compounds in the aquatic environment. Due to its bio-persistence and toxicity for humans and the environment its removal has become an important issue. The performance of the electrochemical oxidation process and in situ production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as O3 and H2O2, for CBZ removal have been studied using Ti/PbO2 cylindrical mesh anode in the presence of Na2SO4 as supporting electrolyte in a batch electrochemical reactor. In this integrated process, direct oxidation at anode and indirect oxidation by in situ electrogenerated ROS can occur simultaneously. The effect of several factors such as electrolysis time, current intensity, initial pH and oxygen flux was investigated by means of an experimental design methodology, using a 2(4) factorial matrix. CBZ removal of 83.93% was obtained and the most influential parameters turned out to be electrolysis time, current intensity and oxygen flux. Later, the optimal experimental values for CBZ degradation were obtained by means of a central composite design. The best operating conditions, analyzed by Design Expert(®) software, are the following: 110 min of electrolysis at 3.0 A, pH = 7.05 and 2.8 L O2/min. Under these optimal conditions, the model prediction (82.44%) fits very well with the experimental response (83.90 ± 0.8%). Furthermore, chemical oxygen demand decrease was quantified. Our results illustrated significant removal efficiency for the CBZ in optimized condition with second order kinetic reaction.

  8. Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation over the primary motor cortex does not enhance the learning benefits of self-controlled feedback schedules.

    PubMed

    Carter, Michael J; Smith, Victoria; Carlsen, Anthony N; Ste-Marie, Diane M

    2018-05-01

    A distinct learning advantage has been shown when participants control their knowledge of results (KR) scheduling during practice compared to when the same KR schedule is imposed on the learner without choice (i.e., yoked schedules). Although the learning advantages of self-controlled KR schedules are well-documented, the brain regions contributing to these advantages remain unknown. Identifying key brain regions would not only advance our theoretical understanding of the mechanisms underlying self-controlled learning advantages, but would also highlight regions that could be targeted in more applied settings to boost the already beneficial effects of self-controlled KR schedules. Here, we investigated whether applying anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to the primary motor cortex (M1) would enhance the typically found benefits of learning a novel motor skill with a self-controlled KR schedule. Participants practiced a spatiotemporal task in one of four groups using a factorial combination of KR schedule (self-controlled vs. yoked) and tDCS (anodal vs. sham). Testing occurred on two consecutive days with spatial and temporal accuracy measured on both days and learning was assessed using 24-h retention and transfer tests without KR. All groups improved their performance in practice and a significant effect for practicing with a self-controlled KR schedule compared to a yoked schedule was found for temporal accuracy in transfer, but a similar advantage was not evident in retention. There were no significant differences as a function of KR schedule or tDCS for spatial accuracy in retention or transfer. The lack of a significant tDCS effect suggests that M1 may not strongly contribute to self-controlled KR learning advantages; however, caution is advised with this interpretation as typical self-controlled learning benefits were not strongly replicated in the present experiment.

  9. SiC Nanofibers as Long-Life Lithium-Ion Battery Anode Materials.

    PubMed

    Sun, Xuejiao; Shao, Changzhen; Zhang, Feng; Li, Yi; Wu, Qi-Hui; Yang, Yonggang

    2018-01-01

    The development of high energy lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has spurred the designing and production of novel anode materials to substitute currently commercial using graphitic materials. Herein, twisted SiC nanofibers toward LIBs anode materials, containing 92.5 wt% cubic β-SiC and 7.5 wt% amorphous C, were successfully synthesized from resin-silica composites. The electrochemical measurements showed that the SiC-based electrode delivered a stable reversible capacity of 254.5 mAh g -1 after 250 cycles at a current density of 0.1 A g -1 . It is interesting that a high discharge capacity of 540.1 mAh g -1 was achieved after 500 cycles at an even higher current density of 0.3 A g -1 , which is higher than the theoretical capacity of graphite. The results imply that SiC nanomaterials are potential anode candidate for LIBs with high stability due to their high structure stability as supported with the transmission electron microscopy images.

  10. Aqueous supercapacitors of high energy density based on MoO3 nanoplates as anode material.

    PubMed

    Tang, Wei; Liu, Lili; Tian, Shu; Li, Lei; Yue, Yunbo; Wu, Yuping; Zhu, Kai

    2011-09-28

    MoO(3) nanoplates were prepared as anode material for aqueous supercapacitors. They can deliver a high energy density of 45 W h kg(-1) at 450 W kg(-1) and even maintain 29 W h kg(-1) at 2 kW kg(-1) in 0.5 M Li(2)SO(4) aqueous electrolyte. These results present a new direction to explore non-carbon anode materials.

  11. Electrical properties, phase transitions and conduction mechanisms of the [(C2H5)NH3]2CdCl4 compound

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mohamed, C. Ben; Karoui, K.; Saidi, S.; Guidara, K.; Rhaiem, A. Ben

    2014-10-01

    The [(C2H5)NH3]2CdCl4 hybrid material was prepared and its calorimetric study and electric properties were investigated at low temperature. The X-ray powder diffractogram has shown that the compound is crystallized in the orthorhombic system with Abma space group, and the refined unit cell parameters are a=7.546 Å, b=7.443 Å, and c=21.831 Å. The calorimetric study has revealed two endothermic peaks at 216 K and 357 K, which are confirmed by the variation of fp and σdc as a function of temperature. The equivalent circuit based on the Z-View-software was proposed and the conduction mechanisms were determined. The obtained results have been discussed in terms of the correlated barrier hopping model (CBH) in phase I (low temperature (OLT)), non-overlapping small polaron tunneling model (NSPT) in phase II (room temperature (ORT)) and the overlapping large polaron tunneling model in phase III (high temperature (OHT)). The density of localized states NF(E) at the Fermi level and the binding energy Wm were calculated. The variation of the dielectric loss log(εʺ) with log(ω) was found to follow the empirical law, ε″=B ωm(T).

  12. Alternative Anodes for the Electrolytic Reduction of Uranium Dioxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Merwin, Augustus

    Reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel is an essential step in closing the nuclear fuel cycle. In order to consume current stockpiles, ceramic uranium dioxide spent nuclear fuel will be subjected to an electrolytic reduction process. The current reduction process employs a platinum anode and a stainless steel alloy 316 cathode in a molten salt bath consisting of LiCl-2wt% Li 2O and occurs at 700°C. A major shortcoming of the existing process is the degradation of the platinum anode under the severely oxidizing conditions encountered during electrolytic reduction. This work investigates alternative anode materials for the electrolytic reduction of uranium oxide. The high temperature and extreme oxidizing conditions encountered in these studies necessitated a unique set of design constraints on the system. Thus, a customized experimental apparatus was designed and constructed. The electrochemical experiments were performed in an electrochemical reactor placed inside a furnace. This entire setup was housed inside a glove box, in order to maintain an inert atmosphere. This study investigates alternative anode materials through accelerated corrosion testing. Surface morphology was studied using scanning electron microscopy. Surface chemistry was characterized using energy dispersive spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Electrochemical behavior of candidate materials was evaluated using potentiodynamic polarization characteristics. After narrowing the number of candidate electrode materials, ferrous stainless steel alloy 316, nickel based Inconel 718 and elemental tungsten were chosen for further investigation. Of these materials only tungsten was found to be sufficiently stable at the anodic potential required for electrolysis of uranium dioxide in molten salt. The tungsten anode and stainless steel alloy 316 cathode electrode system was studied at the required reduction potential for UO2 with varying lithium oxide concentrations. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy

  13. Nanoscale Engineering of Heterostructured Anode Materials for Boosting Lithium-Ion Storage.

    PubMed

    Chen, Gen; Yan, Litao; Luo, Hongmei; Guo, Shaojun

    2016-09-01

    Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), as one of the most important electrochemical energy-storage devices, currently provide the dominant power source for a range of devices, including portable electronic devices and electric vehicles, due to their high energy and power densities. The interest in exploring new electrode materials for LIBs has been drastically increasing due to the surging demands for clean energy. However, the challenging issues essential to the development of electrode materials are their low lithium capacity, poor rate ability, and low cycling stability, which strongly limit their practical applications. Recent remarkable advances in material science and nanotechnology enable rational design of heterostructured nanomaterials with optimized composition and fine nanostructure, providing new opportunities for enhancing electrochemical performance. Here, the progress as to how to design new types of heterostructured anode materials for enhancing LIBs is reviewed, in the terms of capacity, rate ability, and cycling stability: i) carbon-nanomaterials-supported heterostructured anode materials; ii) conducting-polymer-coated electrode materials; iii) inorganic transition-metal compounds with core@shell structures; and iv) combined strategies to novel heterostructures. By applying different strategies, nanoscale heterostructured anode materials with reduced size, large surfaces area, enhanced electronic conductivity, structural stability, and fast electron and ion transport, are explored for boosting LIBs in terms of high capacity, long cycling lifespan, and high rate durability. Finally, the challenges and perspectives of future materials design for high-performance LIB anodes are considered. The strategies discussed here not only provide promising electrode materials for energy storage, but also offer opportunities in being extended for making a variety of novel heterostructured nanomaterials for practical renewable energy applications. © 2016

  14. Electron-irradiated n+-Si as hole injection tunable anode of organic light-emitting diode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Y. Z.; Wang, Z. L.; Wang, Y. Z.; Luo, H.; Xu, W. J.; Ran, G. Z.; Qin, G. G.

    2013-01-01

    Traditionally, n-type silicon is not regarded as a good anode of organic light emitting diode (OLED) due to the extremely low hole concentration in it; however, when doped with Au element which acts as carrier generation centers, it can be, as shown in our previous work. In this study, we demonstrate a new kind of carrier generation centers in n+-type silicon, which are the defects produced by 5 MeV electron irradiation. The density of carrier generation centers in the irradiated n+-Si anode can be controlled by tuning the electron irradiation time, and thus hole injection current in the OLEDs with the irradiated n+-Si anode can be optimized, leading to their much higher maximum efficiencies than those of the OLEDs with non-irradiated n+-Si anode. For a green phosphorescent OLED with the irradiated n+-Si anode, the current efficiency and power efficiency reach up to 12.1 cd/A and 4.2 lm/W, respectively.

  15. Structural and characteristic variation of anodic oxide on pure Ti with anodization duration

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mizukoshi, Yoshiteru; Ohtsu, Naofhumi; Masahashi, Naoya

    2013-10-01

    Change in the structural and characteristic of the anodic oxide on pure Ti with the duration of anodization time was investigated. With the progress of the anodization, the phase of the formed TiO2 successively changed from anatase phase to rutile phase. In the transition process, peak intensities of rutile TiO2 1 0 1, 1 1 1 and 2 1 1 planes of X-ray diffraction characteristically increased. The contact angles of water droplets on the anodize TiO2 were monotonously decreased with the progress of the anodization except on the characteristically oriented rutile surface. In the evaluations of acetaldehyde photocatalysis under UV illumination, the anatase TiO2 anodized for short period exhibited high activities. On the other hand, when illuminated with visible light (>422 nm), rutile-structured TiO2 formed by anodization with a long duration exhibited superior photocatalytic activities probably due to high rutile fraction and sulfur incorporation from the electrolyte.

  16. Nanostructured Anodic Multilayer Dielectric Stacked Metal-Insulator-Metal Capacitors.

    PubMed

    Karthik, R; Kannadassan, D; Baghini, Maryam Shojaei; Mallick, P S

    2015-12-01

    This paper presents the fabrication of Al2O3/TiO2/Al2O3 metal-insulator-metal (MIM) capacitor using anodization technique. High capacitance density of > 3.5 fF/μm2, low quadratic voltage coefficient of capacitance of < 115 ppm/V2 and a low leakage current density of 4.457 x 10(-11) A/cm2 at 3 V are achieved which are suitable for analog and mixed signal applications. We found that the anodization voltage played a major role in electrical and structural properties of the thin film. This work suggests that the anodization method can offer crystalline multilayer dielectric stack required for high performance MIM capacitor.

  17. A confined "microreactor" synthesis strategy to three dimensional nitrogen-doped graphene for high-performance sodium ion battery anodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Jiajie; Zhang, Yumin; Gao, Tangling; Han, Jiecai; Wang, Xianjie; Hultman, Benjamin; Xu, Ping; Zhang, Zhihua; Wu, Gang; Song, Bo

    2018-02-01

    In virtue of abundant sodium resources, sodium ion batteries (SIBs) have been regarded as one of the most promising alternatives for large-scale energy storage applications. However, the absence of a suitable anode material makes it difficult to realize these applications. Here, we demonstrate an effective synthesis strategy of using a "microreactor" consisting of melamine fiber (inside) and graphene oxide (GO, outside) to fabricate three dimensional (3D) nitrogen doped (N-doped) graphene as high-performance anode materials for sodium ion batteries. Through a controlled pyrolysis, the inside melamine fiber and the outside GO layer has been converted into N-doped graphene and reduced graphene oxide (r-GO) respectively, and thus the "microreactor" is transformed into interconnected 3D N-doped graphene structures. Such highly desired 3D graphene structures show reversible sodium storage capacities up to ∼305 mA h g-1 after 500 cycles at a current density of 0.2 A g-1 and promising long cycling stability with a stable capacity of ∼198 mA h g-1 at 5 A g-1 after 5000 cycles. The high capacity and superior durability in combination with the facile synthesis procedure of the 3D graphene structure make it a promising anode material for SIBs and other energy storage applications.

  18. Open circuit versus closed circuit enrichment of anodic biofilms in MFC: effect on performance and anodic communities.

    PubMed

    Larrosa-Guerrero, Amor; Scott, Keith; Katuri, Krishna P; Godinez, Carlos; Head, Ian M; Curtis, Thomas

    2010-08-01

    The influence of various carbon anodes; graphite, sponge, paper, cloth, felt, fiber, foam and reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC); on microbial fuel cell (MFC) performance is reported. The feed was brewery wastewater diluted in domestic wastewater. Biofilms were grown at open circuit or under an external load. Microbial diversity was analysed as a function of current and anode material. The bacterial community formed at open circuit was influenced by the anode material. However at closed circuit its role in determining the bacterial consortia formed was less important than the passage of current. The rate and extent of organic matter removal were similar for all materials: over 95% under closed circuit. The biofilm in MFCs working at open circuit and in the control reactors, increased COD removal by up to a factor of nine compared with that for baseline reactors. The average voltage output was 0.6 V at closed circuit, with an external resistor of 300 kOmega and 0.75 V at open circuit for all materials except RVC. The poor performance of this material might be related to the surface area available and concentration polarizations caused by the morphology of the material and the structure of the biofilm. Peak power varied from 1.3 mW m(-2) for RVC to 568 mW m(-2) for graphite with biofilm grown at closed circuit.

  19. Kinetics determination of electrogenerated hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) using carbon fiber microelectrode in electroenzymatic degradation of phenolic compounds.

    PubMed

    Cho, Seung-Hee; Jang, Am; Bishop, Paul L; Moon, Seung-Hyeon

    2010-03-15

    The kinetics of electrogenerated hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)), which can activate peroxidases in an electroenzymatic process, was examined by an amperometric technique using a carbon fiber microelectrode that was modified by polyaniline (PAn) film and platinum particles. The electrogeneration of H(2)O(2) was found to be dependent on the pH and applied potential, and resulting in a variable current response of the carbon fiber microelectrode. The highest amount of H(2)O(2) was electrogenerated when 2.3 V was applied between the Pt/Ti anode and a reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC) cathode at pH 6.0, with a current response of 0.0190 microA min(-1). Phenol was completely degraded by the electroenzymatic reaction of the immobilized horseradish peroxidase (HRP), and the time required for the electrogeneration of H(2)O(2) increased according to the initial concentration of phenol. The degradation stoichiometric ratio between the electrogenerated H(2)O(2) and the aqueous phenol under HRP immobilized on RVC was found to be 1:1. (c) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Anodic concentration loss and impedance characteristics in rotating disk electrode microbial fuel cells.

    PubMed

    Shen, Liye; Ma, Jingxing; Song, Pengfei; Lu, Zhihao; Yin, Yao; Liu, Yongdi; Cai, Lankun; Zhang, Lehua

    2016-10-01

    A rotating disk electrode (RDE) was used to investigate the concentration loss and impedance characteristics of anodic biofilms in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). Amperometric time-current analysis revealed that at the rotation rate of 480 rpm, a maximum current density of 168 µA cm(-2) can be achieved, which was 22.2 % higher than when there was no rotation. Linear sweep voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy tests showed that when the anodic potential was set to -300 mV vs. Ag/AgCl reference, the power densities could increase by 59.0  %, reaching 1385 mW m(-2), the anodic resistance could reduce by 19  %, and the anodic capacitance could increase by 36 %. These results concur with a more than 85 % decrease of the diffusion layer thickness. Data indicated that concentration loss, diffusion layer thickness, and the mixing velocity play important roles in anodic resistance reduction and power output of MFCs. These findings could be helpful to the design of future industrial-scale MFCs with mixed bacteria biofilms.

  1. Evolution of the B7 family: co-evolution of B7H6 and NKp30, identification of a new B7 family member, B7H7, and of B7's historical relationship with the MHC.

    PubMed

    Flajnik, Martin F; Tlapakova, Tereza; Criscitiello, Michael F; Krylov, Vladimir; Ohta, Yuko

    2012-08-01

    The B7 family of genes is essential in the regulation of the adaptive immune system. Most B7 family members contain both variable (V)- and constant (C)-type domains of the immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF). Through in silico screening of the Xenopus genome and subsequent phylogenetic analysis, we found novel genes belonging to the B7 family, one of which is the recently discovered B7H6. Humans and rats have a single B7H6 gene; however, many B7H6 genes were detected in a single large cluster in the Xenopus genome. The B7H6 expression patterns also varied in a species-specific manner. Human B7H6 binds to the activating natural killer receptor, NKp30. While the NKp30 gene is single-copy and maps to the MHC in most vertebrates, many Xenopus NKp30 genes were found in a cluster on a separate chromosome that does not harbor the MHC. Indeed, in all species so far analyzed from sharks to mammals, the number of NKp30 and B7H6 genes correlates well, suggestive of receptor-ligand co-evolution. Furthermore, we identified a Xenopus-specific B7 homolog (B7HXen) and revealed its close linkage to B2M, which we have demonstrated previously to have been originally encoded in the MHC. Thus, our study provides further proof that the B7 precursor was included in the proto MHC. Additionally, the comparative analysis revealed a new B7 family member, B7H7, which was previously designated in the literature as an unknown gene, HHLA2.

  2. Growth behavior of anodic oxide formed by aluminum anodizing in glutaric and its derivative acid electrolytes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nakajima, Daiki; Kikuchi, Tatsuya; Natsui, Shungo; Suzuki, Ryosuke O.

    2014-12-01

    The growth behavior of anodic oxide films formed via anodizing in glutaric and its derivative acid solutions was investigated based on the acid dissociation constants of electrolytes. High-purity aluminum foils were anodized in glutaric, ketoglutaric, and acetonedicarboxylic acid solutions under various electrochemical conditions. A thin barrier anodic oxide film grew uniformly on the aluminum substrate by glutaric acid anodizing, and further anodizing caused the film to breakdown due to a high electric field. In contrast, an anodic porous alumina film with a submicrometer-scale cell diameter was successfully formed by ketoglutaric acid anodizing at 293 K. However, the increase and decrease in the temperature of the ketoglutaric acid resulted in non-uniform oxide growth and localized pitting corrosion of the aluminum substrate. An anodic porous alumina film could also be fabricated by acetonedicarboxylic acid anodizing due to the relatively low dissociation constants associated with the acid. Acid dissociation constants are an important factor for the fabrication of anodic porous alumina films.

  3. Corrosion Prevention of Steel Reinforcement in 7.5% NaCl Solution using Pure Magnesium Anode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Iyer Murthy, Yogesh; Gandhi, Sumit; Kumar, Abhishek

    2018-03-01

    The current work investigates the performance of pure Magnesium on corrosion prevention of steel reinforcements by way of sacrificial anoding. Two set of six steel reinforcements were tested for half-cell potential, weight loss, anode efficiency and tensile strength for each of the sacrificial anodes in a high chloride atmosphere of 7.5% NaCl in tap water. Significant reduction in weight of anode was observed during the initial 12 days. The reduction in weight of steel reinforcements tied with anodes was found to be negligible, while that of reinforcements without anodes was significantly higher. Five distinct zones of corrosion were observed during the test. The tensile strength of steel cathodically protected by Mg alloy anodes was found less affected. It could be concluded that pure Mg anode provides an effective way of corrosion mitigation.

  4. Novel Non-Carbonate Based Electrolytes for Silicon Anodes

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

    Zhu, Ye; Yang, Johnny; Cheng, Gang

    2016-09-09

    Substantial improvement in the energy density of rechargeable lithium batteries is required to meet the future needs for electric and plug-in electric vehicles (EV and PHEV). Present day lithium ion battery technology is based on shuttling lithium between graphitic carbon and inorganic oxides. Non-graphitic anodes, such as silicon can provide significant improvements in energy density but are currently limited in cycle life due to reactivity with the electrolyte. Wildcat/3M proposes the development of non-carbonate electrolyte formulations tailored for silicon alloy anodes. Combining these electrolytes with 3M’s anode and an NMC cathode will enable up to a 20% increase in themore » volumetric cell energy density, while still meeting the PHEV/EV cell level cycle/calendar life goals.« less

  5. A new structure design and the basic radiation characteristics test of the intense current tube

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Zhiyuan; Ai, Xianyun; Fu, Li; Cui, Hui

    2018-02-01

    As a kind of special G-M counter, the intense current tube (ICT) is characterized by small ratio of cathode to anode radius, high working current or count rate, and can be used as the detection units of ultra-high range radiation instruments. In this paper, a new design of ICT structure is introduced, not only does it have a minimum ratio of cathode to anode but it also has a cathode which directly sticks out from the sensitive gas. Using COMSOL Multiphysics, we simulated the electric field between the anode and cathode and finalized the optimal structure. The results of processes and experiments show that the structure has better properties, with plateau slope reaching up to 7.4% within 100V, and it also has a wider range of dose rate. The linear data between the bottom limit of 0.2mGy/h and the upper limit of 1Gy/h is quite accurate but it becomes less reliable beyond 1Gy/h. By using Paralyzable model, we deduce that the dead time of the said ICT is less than 13.4 µs, and we will further optimize the readout circuit in order to reduce the resolution time of the circuit in the near future.

  6. Nucleoplasmin Binds Histone H2A-H2B Dimers through Its Distal Face*

    PubMed Central

    Ramos, Isbaal; Martín-Benito, Jaime; Finn, Ron; Bretaña, Laura; Aloria, Kerman; Arizmendi, Jesús M.; Ausió, Juan; Muga, Arturo; Valpuesta, José M.; Prado, Adelina

    2010-01-01

    Nucleoplasmin (NP) is a pentameric chaperone that regulates the condensation state of chromatin extracting specific basic proteins from sperm chromatin and depositing H2A-H2B histone dimers. It has been proposed that histones could bind to either the lateral or distal face of the pentameric structure. Here, we combine different biochemical and biophysical techniques to show that natural, hyperphosphorylated NP can bind five H2A-H2B dimers and that the amount of bound ligand depends on the overall charge (phosphorylation level) of the chaperone. Three-dimensional reconstruction of NP/H2A-H2B complex carried out by electron microscopy reveals that histones interact with the chaperone distal face. Limited proteolysis and mass spectrometry indicate that the interaction results in protection of the histone fold and most of the H2A and H2B C-terminal tails. This structural information can help to understand the function of NP as a histone chaperone. PMID:20696766

  7. Properties of nanostructures obtained by anodization of aluminum in phosphoric acid at moderate potentials

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zaraska, L.; Sulka, G. D.; Jaskuła, M.

    2009-01-01

    The influence of the process duration, anodizing potential and methanol addition on the structural features of porous anodic alumina formed in a 0.3 M H3PO4 solutions by twostep self-organized anodizing was investigated for potentials ranging from 100 to 170 V. The structural features of porous structures including pore diameter and interpore distance were evaluated from FE-SEM top-view images for samples anodized in the presence and absence of methanol. For the highest studied anodizing time and methanol volume fraction, an excellent agreement between experimental values of the interpore distance and theoretical predictions was observed. The pore arrangement regularity was analyzed for various electrolyte compositions and anodizing potentials. It was found that the regularity ratio of porous alumina increases linearly with increasing anodizing potential and time. The addition of methanol improves the quality of nanostructures and especially better uniformity of pore sizes is observed in the presence of the highest studied methanol content.

  8. ANODIC TREATMENT OF URANIUM

    DOEpatents

    Kolodney, M.

    1959-02-01

    A method is presented for effecting eloctrolytic dissolution of a metallic uranium article at a uniform rate. The uranium is made the anode in an aqueous phosphoric acid solution containing nitrate ions furnished by either ammonium nitrate, lithium nitrate, sodium nitrate, or potassium nitrate. A stainless steel cathode is employed and electrolysls carried out at a current density of about 0.1 to 1 ampere per square inch.

  9. Interfacial Li-ion localization in hierarchical carbon anodes

    DOE PAGES

    McNutt, Nicholas W.; Rios, Orlando; Maroulas, Vasileios; ...

    2016-10-24

    An understanding of the nanoscale structure and energetics of carbon composites is critical for their applications in electric energy storage. Here, we study the properties of carbon anodes synthesized from low-cost renewable lignin biopolymers for use in energy storage applications such as Li-ion batteries. The anodes possess both nanoscale and mesoscale order, consisting of carbon nanocrystallites distributed within an amorphous carbon matrix. Molecular dynamics simulations of an experimentally validated model of the anode is used to elucidate the nature of Li-ion storage. We report the discovery of a novel mechanism of Li-ion storage, one in which Li+ is not intercalatedmore » between layers of carbon (as is the case in graphitic anodes), but rather is localized at the interface of crystalline carbon domains. In particular, the effects of Li-ion binding energy on the Li-Li, Li-H, and Li-C pair distribution functions are revealed, along with the effect on charge distribution. As a result, the atomic environments surrounding the Li-ions are grouped on the basis of ion energy and then convolved into archetypal structural motifs that reveal deep insight into the geometry of ion localization in disordered systems.« less

  10. Nanostructural characterization of large-scale porous alumina fabricated via anodizing in arsenic acid solution

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Akiya, Shunta; Kikuchi, Tatsuya; Natsui, Shungo; Suzuki, Ryosuke O.

    2017-05-01

    Anodizing of aluminum in an arsenic acid solution is reported for the fabrication of anodic porous alumina. The highest potential difference (voltage) without oxide burning increased as the temperature and the concentration of the arsenic acid solution decreased, and a high anodizing potential difference of 340 V was achieved. An ordered porous alumina with several tens of cells was formed in 0.1-0.5 M arsenic acid solutions at 310-340 V for 20 h. However, the regularity of the porous alumina was not improved via anodizing for 72 h. No pore sealing behavior of the porous alumina was observed upon immersion in boiling distilled water, and it may be due to the formation of an insoluble complex on the oxide surface. The porous alumina consisted of two different layers: a hexagonal alumina layer that contained arsenic from the electrolyte and a pure alumina honeycomb skeleton. The porous alumina exhibited a white photoluminescence emission at approximately 515 nm under UV irradiation at 254 nm.

  11. Anode macrostructures influence electricity generation in microbial fuel cells for wastewater treatment.

    PubMed

    Ishii, Yoshikazu; Miyahara, Morio; Watanabe, Kazuya

    2017-01-01

    Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are devices that exploit microbes for generating electricity from organic substrates, including waste biomass and wastewater pollutants. MFCs have the potential to treat wastewater and simultaneously generate electricity. The present study examined how anode macrostructure influences wastewater treatment, electricity generation and microbial communities in MFCs. Cassette-electrode MFCs were equipped with graphite-felt anodes with three different macrostructures, flat-plate (FP), vertical-fin (VF), and horizontal-fin (HF) structures (these were composed of a same amount of graphite felt), and were continuously supplied with artificial wastewater containing starch as the major organic constituent. Polarization analyses revealed that MFCs equipped with VF and HF anodes generated 33% and 21% higher volumetric power densities, respectively, than that of MFCs equipped with FP anodes. Organics were also more efficiently removed from wastewater in MFCs with VF and HF anodes compared to reactors containing FP anodes. In addition, pyrosequencing of PCR-amplified 16S rRNA gene fragments from microbial samples collected from the anodes showed that the presence of fins also affected the bacterial compositions in anode biofilms. Taken together, the findings presented here suggest that the modification of anodes with fins improves organics removal and electricity generation in MFCs. The optimization of anode macrostructure therefore appears to be a promising strategy for improving MFC performance without additional material costs. Copyright © 2016 The Society for Biotechnology, Japan. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Electrodegradation of the Acid Green 28 dye using Ti/β-PbO2 and Ti-Pt/β-PbO2 anodes.

    PubMed

    Irikura, Kallyni; Bocchi, Nerilso; Rocha-Filho, Romeu C; Biaggio, Sonia R; Iniesta, Jesús; Montiel, Vicente

    2016-12-01

    The statistical Response Surface Methodology (RSM) is applied to investigate the effect of different parameters (current density, j, NaCl concentration, [NaCl], pH, and temperature, θ) and their interactions on the electrochemical degradation of the Acid Green (AG) 28 dye using a Ti/β-PbO2 or Ti-Pt/β-PbO2 anode in a filter-press reactor. LC/MS is employed to identify intermediate compounds. For both anodes, the best experimental conditions are j = 50 mA cm(-2), [NaCl] = 1.5 g L(-1), pH = 5, and θ = 25 °C. After 3 h of electrolysis, a dye solution treated under these conditions presents the following parameters: electric charge per unit volume of the electrolyzed solution required for 90% decolorization (Q(90)) of 0.34-0.37 A h L(-1), %COD removal of ∼100%, specific energy consumption of 18-20 kW h m(-3), and %TOC removal of 32-33%. No loss of the β-PbO2 film is observed during all the experiments. The β-PbO2 films present excellent stability for solutions with pH ≥ 5 ([Pb(2+)] < 0.5 mg L(-1)). Chloroform is the only volatile organic halo compound present in the treated solution under those optimized conditions. Hydroxylated anthraquinone derivatives, aromatic chloramines, and naphthoquinones are formed during the electrolyses. The Ti/β-PbO2 and Ti-Pt/β-PbO2 anodes show significantly better performance than a commercial DSA anode for the electrochemical degradation of the AG 28 dye. The Ti/β-PbO2 anode, prepared as described in this work, is an excellent option for the treatment of textile effluents because of its low cost of fabrication and good performance. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Water and oil wettability of anodized 6016 aluminum alloy surface

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rodrigues, S. P.; Alves, C. F. Almeida; Cavaleiro, A.; Carvalho, S.

    2017-11-01

    This paper reports on the control of wettability behaviour of a 6000 series aluminum (Al) alloy surface (Al6016-T4), which is widely used in the automotive and aerospace industries. In order to induce the surface micro-nanostructuring of the surface, a combination of prior mechanical polishing steps followed by anodization process with different conditions was used. The surface polishing with sandpaper grit size 1000 promoted aligned grooves on the surface leading to static water contact angle (WCA) of 91° and oil (α-bromonaphthalene) contact angle (OCA) of 32°, indicating a slightly hydrophobic and oleophilic character. H2SO4 and H3PO4 acid electrolytes were used to grow aluminum oxide layers (Al2O3) by anodization, working at 15 V/18° C and 100 V/0 °C, respectively, in one or two-steps configuration. Overall, the anodization results showed that the structured Al surfaces were hydrophilic and oleophilic-like with both WCA and OCA below 90°. The one-step configuration led to a dimple-shaped Al alloy surface with small diameter of around 31 nm, in case of H2SO4, and with larger diameters of around 223 nm in case of H3PO4. The larger dimples achieved with H3PO4 electrolyte allowed to reach a slight hydrophobic surface. The thicker porous Al oxide layers, produced by anodization in two-step configuration, revealed that the liquids can penetrate easily inside the non-ordered porous structures and, thus, the surface wettability tended to superhydrophilic and superoleophilic character (CA < 10°). These results indicate that the capillary-pressure balance model, described for wettability mechanisms of porous structures, was broken. Moreover, thicker oxide layers with narrow pores of about 29 nm diameter allowed to achieve WCA < OCA. This inversion in favour of the hydrophilic-oleophobic surface behaviour is of great interest either for lubrication of mechanical components or in water-oil separation process.

  14. Effect of anode position on the performance characteristics of a low-power cylindrical Hall thruster

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gao, Yuanyuan; Liu, Hui; Hu, Peng; Huang, Hongyan; Yu, Daren

    2017-06-01

    In this paper, the design of a new cylindrical Hall thruster (CHT) is presented. Its anode is separated from the gas distributor, which is made of ceramic. The effect of the anode position on the performance characteristics of the CHT was investigated by mounting a series of anodes with different radii inside the CHT. It is found that progressively positioning the anode away from the axis along the radial direction increases the ion current and reduces the electron current. Meanwhile, the peak energy in the ion energy distribution function increases, and the shape of the ion energy distribution function noticeably narrows; the ion beam in the plume converges. It is suggested that moving the anode away from the axis may strengthen the electron confinement, thus optimizing the ionization efficiency. Additionally, the electric field near the anode appears to deflect toward the axis, which may promote the collimation of the ion beam in the plume. As a result, the overall performance of the CHT is significantly enhanced in our proposed design.

  15. Enhancing Sulfur Tolerance of Ni-Based Cermet Anodes of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells by Ytterbium-Doped Barium Cerate Infiltration.

    PubMed

    Li, Meng; Hua, Bin; Luo, Jing-Li; Jiang, San Ping; Pu, Jian; Chi, Bo; Li, Jian

    2016-04-27

    Conventional anode materials for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are Ni-based cermets, which are highly susceptible to deactivation by contaminants in hydrocarbon fuels. Hydrogen sulfide is one of the commonly existed contaminants in readily available natural gas and gasification product gases of pyrolysis of biomasses. Development of sulfur tolerant anode materials is thus one of the critical challenges for commercial viability and practical application of SOFC technologies. Here we report a viable approach to enhance substantially the sulfur poisoning resistance of a Ni-gadolinia-doped ceria (Ni-GDC) anode through impregnation of proton conducting perovskite BaCe0.9Yb0.1O3-δ (BCYb). The impregnation of BCYb nanoparticles improves the electrochemical performance of the Ni-GDC anode in both H2 and H2S containing fuels. Moreover, more importantly, the enhanced stability is observed in 500 ppm of H2S/H2. The SEM and XPS analysis indicate that the infiltrated BCYb fine particles inhibit the adsorption of sulfur and facilitate sulfur removal from active sites, thus preventing the detrimental interaction between sulfur and Ni-GDC and the formation of cerium sulfide. The preliminary results of the cell with the BCYb+Ni-GDC anode in methane fuel containing 5000 ppm of H2S show the promising potential of the BCYb infiltration approach in the development of highly active and stable Ni-GDC-based anodes fed with hydrocarbon fuels containing a high concentration of sulfur compounds.

  16. Light-weight free-standing carbon nanotube-silicon films for anodes of lithium ion batteries.

    PubMed

    Cui, Li-Feng; Hu, Liangbing; Choi, Jang Wook; Cui, Yi

    2010-07-27

    Silicon is an attractive alloy-type anode material because of its highest known capacity (4200 mAh/g). However, lithium insertion into and extraction from silicon are accompanied by a huge volume change, up to 300%, which induces a strong strain on silicon and causes pulverization and rapid capacity fading due to the loss of the electrical contact between part of silicon and current collector. Si nanostructures such as nanowires, which are chemically and electrically bonded to the current collector, can overcome the pulverization problem, however, the heavy metal current collectors in these systems are larger in weight than Si active material. Herein we report a novel anode structure free of heavy metal current collectors by integrating a flexible, conductive carbon nanotube (CNT) network into a Si anode. The composite film is free-standing and has a structure similar to the steel bar reinforced concrete, where the infiltrated CNT network functions as both mechanical support and electrical conductor and Si as a high capacity anode material for Li-ion battery. Such free-standing film has a low sheet resistance of approximately 30 Ohm/sq. It shows a high specific charge storage capacity (approximately 2000 mAh/g) and a good cycling life, superior to pure sputtered-on silicon films with similar thicknesses. Scanning electron micrographs show that Si is still connected by the CNT network even when small breaking or cracks appear in the film after cycling. The film can also "ripple up" to release the strain of a large volume change during lithium intercalation. The conductive composite film can function as both anode active material and current collector. It offers approximately 10 times improvement in specific capacity compared with widely used graphite/copper anode sheets.

  17. Collective acceleration of ions in a system with an insulated anode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bystritskii, V. M.; Didenko, A. N.; Krasik, Ya. E.; Lopatin, V. S.; Podkatov, V. I.

    1980-11-01

    An investigation was made of the processes of collective acceleration of protons in vacuum in a system with an insulated anode and trans-anode electrodes, which were insulated or grounded, in high-current Tonus and Vera electron accelerators. The influence of external conditions and parameters of the electron beam on the efficiency of acceleration processes was investigated. Experiments were carried out in which protons were accelerated in a system with trans-anode electrodes. A study was made of the influence of a charge prepulse and of the number of trans-anode electrodes on the energy of the accelerated electrons. A system with a single anode produced Np=1014 protons of 2Ee < Ep < 3Ee energy. Suppression of a charge prepulse increased the proton energy to (6 8)Ee and the yield was then 1013. The maximum proton energy of 14Ee was obtained in a system with three trans-anode electrodes. A possible mechanism of proton acceleration was analyzed. The results obtained were compared with those of other investigations. Ways of increasing the efficiency of this acceleration method were considered.

  18. High-energy lithium-ion hybrid supercapacitors composed of hierarchical urchin-like WO3/C anodes and MOF-derived polyhedral hollow carbon cathodes.

    PubMed

    Xu, Juan; Li, Yuanyuan; Wang, Lei; Cai, Qifa; Li, Qingwei; Gao, Biao; Zhang, Xuming; Huo, Kaifu; Chu, Paul K

    2016-09-22

    A lithium-ion hybrid supercapacitor (Li-HSC) comprising a Li-ion battery type anode and an electrochemical double layer capacitance (EDLC) type cathode has attracted much interest because it accomplishes a large energy density without compromising the power density. In this work, hierarchical carbon coated WO 3 (WO 3 /C) with a unique mesoporous structure and metal-organic framework derived nitrogen-doped carbon hollow polyhedra (MOF-NC) are prepared and adopted as the anode and the cathode for Li-HSCs. The hierarchical mesoporous WO 3 /C microspheres assembled by radially oriented WO 3 /C nanorods along the (001) plane enable effective Li + insertion, thus exhibit high capacity, excellent rate performance and a long cycling life due to their high Li + conductivity, electronic conductivity and structural robustness. The WO 3 /C structure shows a reversible specific capacity of 508 mA h g -1 at a 0.1 C rate (1 C = 696 mA h g -1 ) after 160 discharging-charging cycles with excellent rate capability. The MOF-NC achieved the specific capacity of 269.9 F g -1 at a current density of 0.2 A g -1 . At a high current density of 6 A g -1 , 92.4% of the initial capacity could be retained after 2000 discharging-charging cycles, suggesting excellent cycle stability. The Li-HSC comprising a WO 3 /C anode and a MOF-NC cathode boasts a large energy density of 159.97 W h kg -1 at a power density of 173.6 W kg -1 and 88.3% of the capacity is retained at a current density of 5 A g -1 after 3000 charging-discharging cycles, which are better than those previously reported for Li-HSCs. The high energy and power densities of the Li-HSCs of WO 3 /C//MOF-NC render large potential in energy storage.

  19. Investigation of residual anode material after electrorefining uranium in molten chloride salt

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rose, M. A.; Williamson, M. A.; Willit, J.

    2015-12-01

    A buildup of material at uranium anodes during uranium electrorefining in molten chloride salts has been observed. Potentiodynamic testing has been conducted using a three electrode cell, with a uranium working electrode in both LiCl/KCl eutectic and LiCl each containing ∼5 mol% UCl3. The anodic current response was observed at 50° intervals between 450 °C and 650 °C in the eutectic salt. These tests revealed a buildup of material at the anode in LiCl/KCl salt, which was sampled at room temperature, and analyzed using ICP-MS, XRD and SEM techniques. Examination of the analytical data, current response curves and published phase diagrams has established that as the uranium anode dissolves, the U3+ ion concentration in the diffusion layer surrounding the electrode rises precipitously to levels, which may at low temperatures exceed the solubility limit for UCl3 or in the case of the eutectic salt for K2UCl5. The reduction in current response observed at low temperature in eutectic salt is eliminated at 650 °C, where K2UCl5 is absent due to its congruent melting and only simple concentration polarization effects are seen. In LiCl similar concentration effects are seen though significantly longer time at applied potential is required to effect a reduction in the current response as compared to the eutectic salt.

  20. Leakage current conduction and reliability assessment of passivating thin silicon dioxide films on n-4H-SiC

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Samanta, Piyas; Mandal, Krishna C.

    2016-09-01

    We have analyzed the mechanisms of leakage current conduction in passivating silicon dioxide (SiO2) films grown on (0 0 0 1) silicon (Si) face of n-type 4H-SiC (silicon carbide). It was observed that the experimentally measured gate current density in metal-oxide-silicon carbide (MOSiC) structures under positive gate bias at an oxide field Eox above 5 MV/cm is comprised of Fowler-Nordheim (FN) tunneling of electrons from the accumulated n-4H-SiC and Poole-Frenkel (PF) emission of trapped electrons from the localized neutral traps in the SiO2 gap, IFN and IPF, respectively at temperatures between 27 and 200 °C. In MOSiC structures, PF mechanism dominates FN tunneling of electrons from the accumulation layer of n-4H-SiC due to high density (up to 1013 cm-2) of carbon-related acceptor-like traps located at about 2.5 eV below the SiO2 conduction band (CB). These current conduction mechanisms were taken into account in studying hole injection/trapping into 10 nm-thick tunnel oxide on the Si face of 4H-SiC during electron injection from n-4H-SiC under high-field electrical stress with positive bias on the heavily doped n-type polysilicon (n+-polySi) gate at a wide range of temperatures between 27 and 200 °C. Holes were generated in the n+-polySi anode material by the hot-electrons during their transport through thin oxide films at oxide electric fields Eox from 5.6 to 8.0 MV/cm (prior to the intrinsic oxide breakdown field). Time-to-breakdown tBD of the gate dielectric was found to follow reciprocal field (1/E) model irrespective of stress temperatures. Despite the significant amount of process-induced interfacial electron traps contributing to a large amount of leakage current via PF emission in thermally grown SiO2 on the Si-face of n-4H-SiC, MOSiC devices having a 10 nm-thick SiO2 film can be safely used in 5 V TTL logic circuits over a period of 10 years.

  1. Application of silicon zig-zag wall arrays for anodes of Li-ion batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, G. V.; Rumyantsev, A. M.; Levitskii, V. S.; Beregulin, E. V.; Zhdanov, V. V.; Terukov, E. I.; Astrova, E. V.

    2016-01-01

    Cyclic tests of anodes based on zigzag wall arrays fabricated by the electrochemical etching and post-anodization treatment of silicon have been performed. Compared with anodes based on nanowires and planar thin films, these structures have several advantages. An ex situ analysis of the morphology and structural transformations in a material subjected to cyclic lithiation was conducted by electron microscopy and micro-Raman spectroscopy. The effect of geometrical parameters and a cycling mode on the degradation rate was studied. It is shown that a significant rise in the cycle life of the anode can be obtained by the restriction of the inserted amount of lithium. The anode, subjected to galvanostatic cycling at a rate C/2.8 at a limited charge capacity of 1000 mA · h g-1, demonstrates no degradation after 1200 cycles.

  2. Carbon Dioxide Addition to Microbial Fuel Cell Cathodes Maintains Sustainable Catholyte pH and Improves Anolyte pH, Alkalinity, and Conductivity

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Bioelectrochemical system (BES) pH imbalances develop due to anodic proton-generating oxidation reactions and cathodic hydroxide-ion-generating reduction reactions. Until now, workers added unsustainable buffers to reduce the pH difference between the anode and cathode because the pH imbalance cont...

  3. Effects of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on behavioral and spatial memory during the early stage of traumatic brain injury in the rats.

    PubMed

    Yoon, Kyung Jae; Lee, Yong-Taek; Chae, Seoung Wan; Park, Chae Ri; Kim, Dae Yul

    2016-03-15

    Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive technique to modulate the neural membrane potential. Its effects in the early stage of traumatic brain injury (TBI) have rarely been investigated. This study assessed the effects of anodal tDCS on behavioral and spatial memory in a rat model of traumatic brain injury. Thirty six rats underwent lateral fluid percussion and were then randomly assigned to one of three groups: control (n=12), five-day tDCS over peri-lesional cortex at one (1W, n=12), or two (2W, n=12) weeks post-injury. The Barnes maze (BM) and Rotarod (RR) tests were evaluated in a blind manner on day 1, week 3 and week 5 post-injury. After three weeks, both the 1W and 2W groups showed significant improvements in the BM ratio (P<0.05), whereas only group 2W obtained a significant improvement in the RR ratio compared with the control group (P<0.05). However, there were no significant differences between any of the groups at five weeks after TBI. Immunohistochemistry revealed that only group 2W had a significantly higher brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in the peri-lesional cortex, which was significantly correlated with the improvement of the Rotarod test at 3-week post-injury. However, BDNF expression in the ipsi-lesional hippocampus was not significantly different among the three groups. Group 1W tended to have increased choline/creatine ratios, as measured by magnetic resonance spectroscopy in the peri-lesional cortex, than the control group (P=0.051). Neither regimen aggravated the lesion volume or brain edema measured by MRI. These beneficial effects were not observed with either regimen at five weeks post-injury. In conclusions, anodal tDCS ameliorated behavioral and spatial memory function in the early phase after TBI when it is delivered two weeks post-injury. Earlier stimulation (one week post-injury) improves spatial memory only. However, the beneficial effects did not persist after cessation of the anodal

  4. Carbon deposition thresholds on nickel-based solid oxide fuel cell anodes I. Fuel utilization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kuhn, J.; Kesler, O.

    2015-03-01

    In the first of a two part publication, the effect of fuel utilization (Uf) on carbon deposition rates in solid oxide fuel cell nickel-based anodes was studied. Representative 5-component CH4 reformate compositions (CH4, H2, CO, H2O, & CO2) were selected graphically by plotting the solutions to a system of mass-balance constraint equations. The centroid of the solution space was chosen to represent a typical anode gas mixture for each nominal Uf value. Selected 5-component and 3-component gas mixtures were then delivered to anode-supported cells for 10 h, followed by determination of the resulting deposited carbon mass. The empirical carbon deposition thresholds were affected by atomic carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O) fractions of the delivered gas mixtures and temperature. It was also found that CH4-rich gas mixtures caused irreversible damage, whereas atomically equivalent CO-rich compositions did not. The coking threshold predicted by thermodynamic equilibrium calculations employing graphite for the solid carbon phase agreed well with empirical thresholds at 700 °C (Uf ≈ 32%); however, at 600 °C, poor agreement was observed with the empirical threshold of ∼36%. Finally, cell operating temperatures correlated well with the difference in enthalpy between the supplied anode gas mixtures and their resulting thermodynamic equilibrium gas mixtures.

  5. H2MBH2 and M(μ-H)2BH2 Molecules Isolated in Solid Argon: Interelement M-B and M-H-B Bonds (M = Ge, Sn).

    PubMed

    Zhao, Jie; Beckers, Helmut; Huang, Tengfei; Wang, Xuefeng; Riedel, Sebastian

    2018-02-19

    Laser-ablated boron atoms react with GeH 4 molecules to form novel germylidene borane H 2 GeBH 2 , which undergoes a photochemical rearrangement to the germanium tetrahydroborate Ge(μ-H) 2 BH 2 upon irradiation with light of λ = 405 nm. For comparison, the boron atom reactions with SnH 4 only gave the tin tetrahydroborate Sn(μ-H) 2 BH 2 . Infrared matrix-isolation spectroscopy with deuterium substitution and the state-of-the-art quantum-chemical calculations are used to identify these species in solid argon. A planar structure of H 2 GeBH 2 with an electron-deficient B-Ge bond with a partial multiple bond character (bond order = 1.5) is predicted by quantum-chemical calculations. In the case of M(μ-H) 2 BH 2 (M = Ge, Sn) two 3c-2e B-H-M hydrogen bridged bonds are formed by donation of electrons from the B-H σ-bonds into empty p-orbitals of M.

  6. Effect of Slotted Anode on Gas Bubble Behaviors in Aluminum Reduction Cell

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sun, Meijia; Li, Baokuan; Li, Linmin; Wang, Qiang; Peng, Jianping; Wang, Yaowu; Cheung, Sherman C. P.

    2017-12-01

    In the aluminum reduction cells, gas bubbles are generated at the bottom of the anode which eventually reduces the effective current contact area and the system efficiency. To encourage the removal of gas bubbles, slotted anode has been proposed and increasingly adopted by some industrial aluminum reduction cells. Nonetheless, the exact gas bubble removal mechanisms are yet to be fully understood. A three-dimensional (3D) transient, multiphase flow mathematical model coupled with magnetohydrodynamics has been developed to investigate the effect of slotted anode on the gas bubble movement. The Eulerian volume of fluid approach is applied to track the electrolyte (bath)-molten aluminum (metal) interface. Meanwhile, the Lagrangian discrete particle model is employed to handle the dynamics of gas bubbles with considerations of the buoyancy force, drag force, virtual mass force, and pressure gradient force. The gas bubble coalescence process is also taken into account based on the O'Rourke's algorithm. The two-way coupling between discrete bubbles and fluids is achieved by the inter-phase momentum exchange. Numerical predictions are validated against the anode current variation in an industrial test. Comparing the results using slotted anode with the traditional one, the time-averaged gas bubble removal rate increases from 36 to 63 pct; confirming that the slotted anode provides more escaping ways and shortens the trajectories for gas bubbles. Furthermore, the slotted anode also reduces gas bubble's residence time and the probability of coalescence. Moreover, the bubble layer thickness in aluminum cell with slotted anode is reduced about 3.5 mm (17.4 pct), so the resistance can be cut down for the sake of energy saving and the metal surface fluctuation amplitude is significantly reduced for the stable operation due to the slighter perturbation with smaller bubbles.

  7. Development of high-energy silicon-based anode materials for lithium-ion storage

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yi, Ran

    . Corresponding reasons underneath electrochemical performance have been revealed by various characterizations. Combining both optimized Si building block size and carbon coating temperature, the resultant composite can sustain 600 cycles at 1.2 A/g with a fixed lithiation capacity of 1200 mAh/g, the best cycling performance with such a high capacity for micro-sized Si-based anodes. To further improve the the rate capability of Si-based anode materials, an effecitive method of facile boron doping was demonstrated. Boron-doped Si-C composite can deliver a high capacity of 575 mAh/g at 6.4 A/g without addition of any conductive additives, 80% higher than that of undoped composite. Compared to the obvious capacity fading of undoped Si-C composite, boron-doped Si-C composite maintains its capacity well upon long cycling at a high current density. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurement shows boron-doped Si-C composite has lower charge transfer resistance, which helps improve its rate capability. A novel micro-sized graphene/Si-C composite (G/Si-C) was then developed to translate the performance of such micro-sized Si-C composites from the material level to the electrode level aiming to achieve high areal capacities (mAh/cm2) besides gravimetric capacities (mAh/g). Owing to dual conductive networks both within single particles formed by carbon and between different particles formed by graphene, low electrical resistance can be maintained at high mass loading, which enables a high degree of material utilization. Areal capacity thus increases almost linearly with mass loading. As a result, G/Si-C exhibits a high areal capacity of 3.2 mAh/cm2 after 100 cycles with high coulombic efficiency (average 99.51% from 2nd to 100th cycle), comparable to that of commercial anodes. Finally, a micro-sized Si-based material (B-Si/SiO2/C) featuring high rate performance was developed via a facile route without use of toxic hydrofluoric acid. A Li-ion hybrid battery constructed of such

  8. Carbon dioxide as a green carbon source for the synthesis of carbon cages encapsulating porous silicon as high performance lithium-ion battery anodes.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Yaguang; Du, Ning; Chen, Yifan; Lin, Yangfan; Jiang, Jinwei; He, Yuanhong; Lei, Yu; Yang, Deren

    2018-03-28

    Si/C composite is one of the most promising candidate materials for next-generation lithium-ion battery anodes. Herein, we demonstrate the novel structure of carbon cages encapsulating porous Si synthesized by the reaction between magnesium silicide (Mg 2 Si) and carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) and subsequent acid washing. Benefitting from the in situ deposition through magnesiothermic reduction of CO 2 , the carbon cage seals the inner Si completely and shows higher graphitization than that obtained from the decomposition of acetylene. After removing MgO, pores are created, which can accommodate the volume change of the Si anode during the charge/discharge process. As the anode material for lithium-ion batteries, the porous Si/C electrode shows a charge capacity of ∼1124 mA h g -1 after 100 cycles with 86.4% capacity retention at the current density of 0.4 A g -1 . When the current density increases to 1.6 and 3.2 A g -1 , the capacity can still be maintained at ∼860 and ∼460 mA h g -1 , respectively. The prominent cycling and rate performance is contributed by the built-in space for Si expansion, static carbon cages that prevent penetration of electrolyte and stabilize the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) outside, and fast charge transport by the novel structure.

  9. Li+-Permeable Film on Lithium Anode for Lithium Sulfur Battery.

    PubMed

    Yang, Yan-Bo; Liu, Yun-Xia; Song, Zhiping; Zhou, Yun-Hong; Zhan, Hui

    2017-11-08

    Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) battery is an important candidate for next-generation energy storage. However, the reaction between polysulfide and lithium (Li) anode brings poor cycling stability, low Coulombic efficiency, and Li corrosion. Herein, we report a Li protection technology. Li metal was treated in crown ether containing electrolyte, and thus, treated Li was further used as the anode in Li-S cell. Due to the coordination between Li + and crown ether, a Li + -permeable film can be formed on Li, and the film is proved to be able to block the detrimental reaction between Li anode and polysulfide. By using the Li anode pretreated in 2 wt % B15C5-containing electrolyte, Li-S cell exhibits significantly improved cycling stability, such as∼900 mAh g -1 after 100 cycles, and high Coulombic efficiency of>93%. In addition, such effect is also notable when high S loading condition is applied.

  10. Sn4+x P3 @ amorphous Sn-P composites as anodes for sodium-ion batteries with low cost, high capacity, long life, and superior rate capability.

    PubMed

    Li, Weijie; Chou, Shu-Lei; Wang, Jia-Zhao; Kim, Jung Ho; Liu, Hua-Kun; Dou, Shi-Xue

    2014-06-25

    Sn4+x P3 @ amorphous Sn-P composites are a promising cheap anode material for sodium-ion batteries with high capacity (502 mA h g(-1) at a current density of 100 mA g(-1)), long cycling stability (92.6% capacity retention up to 100 cycles), and high rate capability (165 mA h g(-1) at the 10C rate). © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  11. Improved performance of the microbial electrolysis desalination and chemical-production cell with enlarged anode and high applied voltages.

    PubMed

    Ye, Bo; Luo, Haiping; Lu, Yaobin; Liu, Guangli; Zhang, Renduo; Li, Xiao

    2017-11-01

    The aim of this study was to improve performance of the microbial electrolysis desalination and chemical-production cell (MEDCC) using enlarged anode and high applied voltages. MEDCCs with anode lengths of 9 and 48cm (i.e., the 9cm-anode MEDCC and 48cm-anode MEDCC, respectively) were tested under different voltages (1.2-3.0V). Our results demonstrated for the first time that the MEDCC could maintain high performance even under the applied voltage higher than that for water dissociation (i.e., 1.8V). Under the applied voltage of 2.5V, the maximum current density in the 48cm-anode MEDCC reached 32.8±2.6A/m 2 , which is one of the highest current densities reported so far in the bioelectrochemical system (BES). The relative abundance of Geobacter was changed along the anode length. Our results show the great potential of the BES with enlarged anode and high applied voltages. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Modelling the growth process of porous aluminum oxide film during anodization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Aryslanova, E. M.; Alfimov, A. V.; Chivilikhin, S. A.

    2015-11-01

    Currently it has become important for the development of metamaterials and nanotechnology to obtain regular self-assembled structures. One such structure is porous anodic alumina film that consists of hexagonally packed cylindrical pores. In this work we consider the anodization process, our model takes into account the influence of layers of aluminum and electrolyte on the rate of growth of aluminum oxide, as well as the effect of surface diffusion. In present work we consider those effects. And as a result of our model we obtain the minimum distance between centers of alumina pores in the beginning of anodizing process.

  13. Anode power deposition in a MPD thruster with a magnetically annulled Hall parameter anode

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Gallimore, Alec D.; Kelly, Arnold J.; Jahn, Robert G.

    1992-01-01

    Results from previous studies indicate that the anode fall increases monotonically with the electron Hall parameter. In an attempt to reduce the anode fall by decreasing the local electron Hall parameter, a proof-of-concept test was performed in which an array of 36 permanent magnets were imbedded within the anode of a high power quasi-steady MPD thruster to decrease the local azimuthal component of the induced magnetic field. The modified thruster was operated at power levels between 150 kW and 4 MW with Ar and He propellants. Terminal voltage, triple probe, floating probe, and magnetic probe measurements were made to characterize the performance of the thruster with new anode. Incorporation of the modified anode resulted in a reduction of the anode fall by up to 15 V with Ar and 20 V with He, which corresponded to decreased anode power fractions of 40 and 45 percent with Ar and He, respectively.

  14. Mesoporous Hollow Ge Microspheres Prepared via Molten-Salt Metallothermic Reaction for High-Performance Li-Storage Anode.

    PubMed

    Lin, Ning; Li, Tieqiang; Han, Ying; Zhang, Qianliang; Xu, Tianjun; Qian, Yitai

    2018-03-14

    Generally, Ge-based anodes are prepared by metallothermic reduction of GeO 2 with Mg at 650 °C. Herein, a molten-salt system is developed a low-temperature metallothermic reduction of GeO 2 to prepare nanostructured Ge based anode materials. Typically, mesoporous hollow Ge microspheres are prepared by reduction of GeO 2 with metallic Mg in molten ZnCl 2 (mp 292) at 350 °C. Monodispersed Ge particles are synthesized through reduction of GeO 2 with Mg in molten AlCl 3 (mp 192 °C) at 250 °C. The meso-porous Ge anode delivers the reversible capacity of 1291 mA h g -1 at 0.2 C after 150 cycles with a retention of 97.3%, 1217 mA h g -1 at 0.8 C after 400 cycles with a retention of 91.9%, and superior rate capability with a capacity of 673 mA h g -1 even at 10 C. Then, the reaction mechanism and full-cell performance of as-prepared Ge anodes are studied systemically.

  15. Effects of Heat Treatment on the Discharge Behavior of Mg-6wt.%Al-1wt.%Sn Alloy as Anode For Magnesium-Air Batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xiong, Hanqing; Zhu, Hualong; Luo, Jie; Yu, Kun; Shi, Chunli; Fang, Hongjie; Zhang, Yu

    2017-05-01

    Mg-6wt.%Al-1wt.%Sn alloys under different conditions are prepared. Primary magnesium-air batteries are assembled using such experimental Mg-Al-Sn alloys as anodes. The discharge behaviors of different alloys are investigated in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. The results show that the solution treatment can facilitate the homogeneous distribution of alloy elements and reduce the accumulation of discharge products. The magnesium-air battery based on the solution-treated Mg-Al-Sn anode presents higher operating voltage and more stable discharge process than those on the as-cast and the aged ones. Although the solution treatment cannot effectively improve the capacity density and the anodic efficiency of the experimental Mg-Al-Sn alloy, it is an effective approach to increasing the power and the energy density during discharge process. Especially at the applied current density of 30 mA cm-2 for 5 h, the solution-treated anode supplies 1.212 V average operating voltage, the anode energy density reaches 1527.2 mWhg-1, while the cast one is 1481.3 mWhg-1 and the aged one is 1478.8 mWhg-1.

  16. Carbonate fuel cell anodes

    DOEpatents

    Donado, R.A.; Hrdina, K.E.; Remick, R.J.

    1993-04-27

    A molten alkali metal carbonates fuel cell porous anode of lithium ferrite and a metal or metal alloy of nickel, cobalt, nickel/iron, cobalt/iron, nickel/iron/aluminum, cobalt/iron/aluminum and mixtures thereof wherein the total iron content including ferrite and iron of the composite is about 25 to about 80 percent, based upon the total anode, provided aluminum when present is less than about 5 weight percent of the anode. A process is described for production of the lithium ferrite containing anode by slipcasting.

  17. Carbonate fuel cell anodes

    DOEpatents

    Donado, Rafael A.; Hrdina, Kenneth E.; Remick, Robert J.

    1993-01-01

    A molten alkali metal carbonates fuel cell porous anode of lithium ferrite and a metal or metal alloy of nickel, cobalt, nickel/iron, cobalt/iron, nickel/iron/aluminum, cobalt/iron/aluminum and mixtures thereof wherein the total iron content including ferrite and iron of the composite is about 25 to about 80 percent, based upon the total anode, provided aluminum when present is less than about 5 weight percent of the anode. A process for production of the lithium ferrite containing anode by slipcasting.

  18. Bending-Tolerant Anodes for Lithium-Metal Batteries.

    PubMed

    Wang, Aoxuan; Tang, Shan; Kong, Debin; Liu, Shan; Chiou, Kevin; Zhi, Linjie; Huang, Jiaxing; Xia, Yong-Yao; Luo, Jiayan

    2018-01-01

    Bendable energy-storage systems with high energy density are demanded for conformal electronics. Lithium-metal batteries including lithium-sulfur and lithium-oxygen cells have much higher theoretical energy density than lithium-ion batteries. Reckoned as the ideal anode, however, Li has many challenges when directly used, especially its tendency to form dendrite. Under bending conditions, the Li-dendrite growth can be further aggravated due to bending-induced local plastic deformation and Li-filaments pulverization. Here, the Li-metal anodes are made bending tolerant by integrating Li into bendable scaffolds such as reduced graphene oxide (r-GO) films. In the composites, the bending stress is largely dissipated by the scaffolds. The scaffolds have increased available surface for homogeneous Li plating and minimize volume fluctuation of Li electrodes during cycling. Significantly improved cycling performance under bending conditions is achieved. With the bending-tolerant r-GO/Li-metal anode, bendable lithium-sulfur and lithium-oxygen batteries with long cycling stability are realized. A bendable integrated solar cell-battery system charged by light with stable output and a series connected bendable battery pack with higher voltage is also demonstrated. It is anticipated that this bending-tolerant anode can be combined with further electrolytes and cathodes to develop new bendable energy systems. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  19. In situ fabrication of green reduced graphene-based biocompatible anode for efficient energy recycle.

    PubMed

    Cheng, Ying; Mallavarapu, Megharaj; Naidu, Ravi; Chen, Zuliang

    2018-02-01

    Improving the anode configuration to enhance biocompatibility and accelerate electron shuttling is critical for efficient energy recovery in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). In this paper, green reduced graphene nanocomposite was successfully coated using layer-by-layer assembly technique onto carbon brush anode. The modified anode achieved a 3.2-fold higher power density of 33.7 W m -3 at a current density of 69.4 A m -3 with a 75% shorter start period. As revealed in the characterization, the green synthesized nanocomposite film affords larger surface roughness for microbial colonization. Besides, gold nanoparticles, which anchored on graphene sheets, promise the relatively high electroactive sites and facilitate electron transfer from electricigens to the anode. The reduction-oxidation peaks in cyclic voltammograms indicated the mechanism of surface cytochromes facilitated current generation while the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy confirmed the enhanced electron transfer from surface cytochrome to electrode. The green synthesis process has the potential to generate a high performing anode in further applications of MFCs. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. Immunoregulatory protein B7-H3 promotes growth and decreases sensitivity to therapy in metastatic melanoma cells.

    PubMed

    Flem-Karlsen, Karine; Tekle, Christina; Andersson, Yvonne; Flatmark, Kjersti; Fodstad, Øystein; Nunes-Xavier, Caroline E

    2017-09-01

    B7-H3 (CD276) belongs to the B7 family of immunoregulatory proteins and has been implicated in cancer progression and metastasis. In this study, we found that metastatic melanoma cells with knockdown expression of B7-H3 showed modest decrease in proliferation and glycolytic capacity and were more sensitive to dacarbazine (DTIC) chemotherapy and small-molecule inhibitors targeting MAP kinase (MAPK) and AKT/mTOR pathways: vemurafenib (PLX4032; BRAF inhibitor), binimetinib (MEK-162; MEK inhibitor), everolimus (RAD001; mTOR inhibitor), and triciribidine (API-2; AKT inhibitor). Similar effects were observed in melanoma cells in the presence of an inhibitory B7-H3 monoclonal antibody, while the opposite was seen in B7-H3-overexpressing cells. Further, combining B7-H3 inhibition with small-molecule inhibitors resulted in significantly increased antiproliferative effect in melanoma cells, as well as in BRAF V 600E mutated cell lines derived from patient biopsies. Our findings indicate that targeting B7-H3 may be a novel alternative to improve current therapy of metastatic melanoma. © 2017 The Authors Pigment Cell & Melonoma Research Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  1. A Reduced Graphene Oxide/Disodium Terephthalate Hybrid as a High-Performance Anode for Sodium-Ion Batteries.

    PubMed

    Cao, Tengfei; Lv, Wei; Zhang, Si-Wei; Zhang, Jun; Lin, Qiaowei; Chen, Xiangrong; He, Yanbing; Kang, Fei-Yu; Yang, Quan-Hong

    2017-11-21

    As a promising candidate for large-scale energy storage systems, sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are experiencing a rapid development. Organic conjugated carboxylic acid anodes not only have tailorable electrochemical properties but also are easily accessible. However, the low stability and electrical conductivity hamper their practical applications. In this study, disodium terephthalate (Na 2 TP), the most favorable organic conjugated carboxylic acid anode material for SIBs, was proposed to integrate with graphene oxide (GO) by an anti-solvent precipitation process, which ensures the uniform and tight coating of GO on the Na 2 TP surface. GO is electrochemically reduced during the first several cycles of the electrochemical measurement, which buffers the volume change and improves the electrical conductivity of Na 2 TP, resulting in a better cyclic and rate performance. The incorporation of only 5 wt % GO onto Na 2 TP leads to a reversible capability of 235 mA h g -1 after 100 cycles at a current rate of 0.1 C, which is the best among the state of the art organic anodes for SIBs. The one-step synthesis together with the low costs of the raw materials show a promise for the scalable preparation of anode materials for practical SIBs. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  2. Elimination of a pollution associated with chromic acid during the electro-deposition of Cr(III) using appropriate anodic and membrane materials in a double film bath.

    PubMed

    Jiang, Xiaojun; Chen, Wenchao; Xu, Hongbo

    2009-01-01

    A method using trivalent chromium has been used to replace hexavalent chromium for the electro-deposition of chromium. Using a tri-chamber bath system various anodic materials and membranes were evaluated to minimize the production of environmentally and health damaging chromic acid. By measuring the absorbance of Cr(VI) at 640 nm, the results indicate that the use of a titanium plated ruthenium (Ti-Ru) anode produces the least amount of chromic acid byproduct compared to lead-gold alloy and graphite anodes. The concentration of Cr(VI) in the immediate vicinity of the Ti-Ru anode decreased from 0.389 mg/L to 0 during a 40-min deposition period. The use of a Nafion(TM) quaternary cation exchange membrane portioning the buffer and anode selectively prevented Cr(III) from entering the anode compartment whilst allowing the migration of H(+) to maintain overall voltaic continuity. It has been demonstrated that the use of a Ti-Ru anode with a Nafion(TM) membrane can eliminate the production of chromic acid associated with the electro-deposition of chromium plate thereby preventing its health damaging exposure to plant operators and preventing discharge of Cr(VI) into the environment. Addition of a surfactant improved current efficiency by 34.7%.

  3. Carbon treated commercial aluminium alloys as anodes for aluminium-air batteries in sodium chloride electrolyte

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pino, M.; Herranz, D.; Chacón, J.; Fatás, E.; Ocón, P.

    2016-09-01

    An easy treatment based in carbon layer deposition into aluminium alloys is presented to enhance the performance of Al-air primary batteries with neutral pH electrolyte. The jellification of aluminate in the anode surface is described and avoided by the carbon covering. Treated commercial Al alloys namely Al1085 and Al7475 are tested as anodes achieving specific capacities above 1.2 Ah g-1vs 0.5 Ah g-1 without carbon covering. The influence of the binder proportion in the treatment as well as different carbonaceous materials, Carbon Black, Graphene and Pyrolytic Graphite are evaluated as candidates for the covering. Current densities of 1-10 mA cm-2 are measured and the influence of the alloy explored. A final battery design of 4 cells in series is presented for discharges with a voltage plateau of 2 V and 1 Wh g-1 energy density.

  4. Conductive Polymeric Binder for Lithium-Ion Battery Anode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gao, Tianxiang

    Tin (Sn) has a high-specific capacity (993 mAhg-1) as an anode material for Li-ion batteries. To overcome the poor cycling performance issue caused by its large volume expansion and pulverization during the charging and discharging process, many researchers put efforts into it. Most of the strategies are through nanostructured material design and introducing conductive polymer binders that serve as matrix of the active material in anode. This thesis aims for developing a novel method for preparing the anode to improve the capacity retention rate. This would require the anode to have high electrical conductivity, high ionic conductivity, and good mechanical properties, especially elasticity. Here the incorporation of a conducting polymer and a conductive hydrogel in Sn-based anodes using a one-step electrochemical deposition via a 3-electrode cell method is reported: the Sn particles and conductive component can be electrochemically synthesized and simultaneously deposited into a hybrid thin film onto the working electrode directly forming the anode. A well-defined three dimensional network structure consisting of Sn nanoparticles coated by conducting polymers is achieved. Such a conductive polymer-hydrogel network has multiple advantageous features: meshporous polymeric structure can offer the pathway for lithium ion transfer between the anode and electrolyte; the continuous electrically conductive polypyrrole network, with the electrostatic interaction with elastic, porous hydrogel, poly (2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid-co-acrylonitrile) (PAMPS) as both the crosslinker and doping anion for polypyrrole (PPy) can decrease the volume expansion by creating porous scaffold and softening the system itself. Furthermore, by increasing the amount of PAMPS and creating an interval can improve the cycling performance, resulting in improved capacity retention about 80% after 20 cycles, compared with only 54% of that of the control sample without PAMPS. The cycle

  5. The H2A.Z/H2B dimer is unstable compared to the dimer containing the major H2A isoform.

    PubMed

    Placek, Brandon J; Harrison, L Nicole; Villers, Brooke M; Gloss, Lisa M

    2005-02-01

    The nucleosome, the basic fundamental repeating unit of chromatin, contains two H2A/H2B dimers and an H3/H4 tetramer. Modulation of the structure and dynamics of the nucleosome is an important regulation mechanism of DNA-based chemistries in the eukaryotic cell, such as transcription and replication. One means of altering the properties of the nucleosome is by incorporation of histone variants. To provide insights into how histone variants may impact the thermodynamics of the nucleosome, the stability of the heterodimer between the H2A.Z variant and H2B was determined by urea-induced denaturation, monitored by far-UV circular dichroism, intrinsic Tyr fluorescence intensity, and anisotropy. In the absence of stabilizing agents, the H2A.Z/H2B dimer is only partially folded. The stabilizing cosolute, trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) was used to promote folding of the unstable heterodimer. The equilibrium stability of the H2A.Z/H2B dimer is compared to that of the H2A/H2B dimer. The equilibrium folding of both histone dimers is highly reversible and best described by a two-state model, with no detectable equilibrium intermediates populated. The free energies of unfolding, in the absence of denaturant, of H2A.Z/H2B and H2A/H2B are 7.3 kcal mol(-1) and 15.5 kcal mol(-1), respectively, in 1 M TMAO. The H2A.Z/H2B dimer is the least stable histone fold characterized to date, while H2A/H2B appears to be the most stable. It is speculated that this difference in stability may contribute to the different biophysical properties of nucleosomes containing the major H2A and the H2A.Z variant.

  6. Multidimensional Anodized Titanium Foam Photoelectrode for Efficient Utilization of Photons in Mesoscopic Solar Cells.

    PubMed

    Kang, Jin Soo; Choi, Hyelim; Kim, Jin; Park, Hyeji; Kim, Jae-Yup; Choi, Jung-Woo; Yu, Seung-Ho; Lee, Kyung Jae; Kang, Yun Sik; Park, Sun Ha; Cho, Yong-Hun; Yum, Jun-Ho; Dunand, David C; Choe, Heeman; Sung, Yung-Eun

    2017-09-01

    Mesoscopic solar cells based on nanostructured oxide semiconductors are considered as a promising candidates to replace conventional photovoltaics employing costly materials. However, their overall performances are below the sufficient level required for practical usages. Herein, this study proposes an anodized Ti foam (ATF) with multidimensional and hierarchical architecture as a highly efficient photoelectrode for the generation of a large photocurrent. ATF photoelectrodes prepared by electrochemical anodization of freeze-cast Ti foams have three favorable characteristics: (i) large surface area for enhanced light harvesting, (ii) 1D semiconductor structure for facilitated charge collection, and (iii) 3D highly conductive metallic current collector that enables exclusion of transparent conducting oxide substrate. Based on these advantages, when ATF is utilized in dye-sensitized solar cells, short-circuit photocurrent density up to 22.0 mA cm -2 is achieved in the conventional N719 dye-I 3 - /I - redox electrolyte system even with an intrinsically inferior quasi-solid electrolyte. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  7. Incorporation of ZrO2 particles in the oxide layer formed on Mg by anodizing: Influence of electrolyte concentration and current modes.

    PubMed

    Sankara Narayanan, T S N; Lee, Min Ho

    2016-02-15

    The objectives of the present study are to ascertain, particle incorporation during the initial stages of microarc oxidation (MAO), feasibility of increasing the level of particle incorporation through manipulation of process variables and, the use of MgO-ZrO2 composite coatings either as a pre-treatment or as a post-treatment for MAO coated Mg. Anodic oxide coatings were prepared using 0.3M NaOH+15g/l ZrO2 and 3M NaOH+15g/l ZrO2 at 10V under direct current, pulsed current (PC) unipolar and PC bipolar modes. MAO coatings were prepared using 5g/l NaOH+15g/l Na2SiO3 at 250V under direct current mode for 2min. The study reveals that it is possible to incorporate ZrO2 particles in the anodic oxide layer, suggesting such a possibility during the initial stages of MAO. When the MgO-ZrO2 composite coating is used as a pre-treatment, it helps to reduce the size and density of the pores of the MAO coatings and increased the corrosion resistance. When it is used as a post-treatment, lamellar shaped Mg(OH)2 with a very high surface area is formed on the surface, which would be beneficial to impart a better bioactivity and to facilitate immobilization of biomolecules. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  8. Fabrication of Well-Ordered, Anodic Aluminum Oxide Membrane Using Hybrid Anodization.

    PubMed

    Kim, Jungyoon; Ganorkar, Shraddha; Choi, Jinnil; Kim, Young-Hwan; Kim, Seong-II

    2017-01-01

    Anodic Aluminum Oxide (AAO) is one of the most favorable candidates for fabrication of nano-meshed membrane for various applications due to its controllable pore size and self-ordered structure. The mechanism of AAO membrane is a simple and has been studied by many research groups, however the actual fabrication of membrane has several difficulties owing to its sensitivity of ordering, long anodizing time and unclearness of the pore. In this work, we have demonstrated enhanced process of fabrication symmetric AAO membrane by using “hybrid anodizing” (Hyb-A) method which include mild anodization (MA) followed by hard anodization (HA). This Hyb-A process can give highly ordered membrane with more vivid pore than two-step anodizing process. HA was implemented on the Al plate which has been already textured by MA for more ordered structure and HA plays a key role for formation of more obvious pore in Hyb-A. Our experimental results indicate that Hyb-A with proper process sequence would be one of the fast and useful fabrication methods for the AAO membrane.

  9. Flame oxidation of stainless steel felt enhances anodic biofilm formation and current output in bioelectrochemical systems.

    PubMed

    Guo, Kun; Donose, Bogdan C; Soeriyadi, Alexander H; Prévoteau, Antonin; Patil, Sunil A; Freguia, Stefano; Gooding, J Justin; Rabaey, Korneel

    2014-06-17

    Stainless steel (SS) can be an attractive material to create large electrodes for microbial bioelectrochemical systems (BESs), due to its low cost and high conductivity. However, poor biocompatibility limits its successful application today. Here we report a simple and effective method to make SS electrodes biocompatible by means of flame oxidation. Physicochemical characterization of electrode surface indicated that iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) were generated in situ on an SS felt surface by flame oxidation. IONPs-coating dramatically enhanced the biocompatibility of SS felt and consequently resulted in a robust electroactive biofilm formation at its surface in BESs. The maximum current densities reached at IONPs-coated SS felt electrodes were 16.5 times and 4.8 times higher than the untreated SS felts and carbon felts, respectively. Furthermore, the maximum current density achieved with the IONPs-coated SS felt (1.92 mA/cm(2), 27.42 mA/cm(3)) is one of the highest current densities reported thus far. These results demonstrate for the first time that flame oxidized SS felts could be a good alternative to carbon-based electrodes for achieving high current densities in BESs. Most importantly, high conductivity, excellent mechanical strength, strong chemical stability, large specific surface area, and comparatively low cost of flame oxidized SS felts offer exciting opportunities for scaling-up of the anodes for BESs.

  10. Electrically conductive anodized aluminum coatings

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Alwitt, Robert S. (Inventor); Liu, Yanming (Inventor)

    2001-01-01

    A process for producing anodized aluminum with enhanced electrical conductivity, comprising anodic oxidation of aluminum alloy substrate, electrolytic deposition of a small amount of metal into the pores of the anodized aluminum, and electrolytic anodic deposition of an electrically conductive oxide, including manganese dioxide, into the pores containing the metal deposit; and the product produced by the process.

  11. Long-term high-intensity sound stimulation inhibits h current (Ih ) in CA1 pyramidal neurons.

    PubMed

    Cunha, A O S; Ceballos, C C; de Deus, J L; Leão, R M

    2018-05-19

    Afferent neurotransmission to hippocampal pyramidal cells can lead to long-term changes to their intrinsic membrane properties and affect many ion currents. One of the most plastic neuronal currents is the hyperpolarization activated cationic current (I h ), which changes in CA1 pyramidal cells in response to many types of physiological and pathological processes, including auditory stimulation. Recently we demonstrated that long-term potentiation (LTP) in rat hippocampal Schaffer-CA1 synapses is depressed by high-intensity sound stimulation. Here we investigated if a long-term high-intensity sound stimulation could affect intrinsic membrane properties of rat CA1 pyramidal neurons. Our results showed that I h is depressed by long-term high intensity sound exposure (1 minute of 110 dB sound, applied two times per day for 10 days). This resulted in a decreased resting membrane potential, increased membrane input resistance and time constant, and decreased action potential threshold. In addition, CA1 pyramidal neurons from sound-exposed animals fired more action potentials than neurons from control animals; However, this effect was not caused by a decreased I h . Interestingly, a single episode (1 minute) of 110 dB sound stimulation which also inhibits hippocampal LTP did not affect I h and firing in pyramidal neurons, suggesting that effects on I h are long-term responses to high intensity sound exposure. Our results show that prolonged exposure to high-intensity sound affects intrinsic membrane properties of hippocampal pyramidal neurons, mainly by decreasing the amplitude of I h . This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

  12. B7-H3 Negatively Modulates CTL-Mediated Cancer Immunity.

    PubMed

    Yonesaka, Kimio; Haratani, Koji; Takamura, Shiki; Sakai, Hitomi; Kato, Ryoji; Takegawa, Naoki; Takahama, Takayuki; Tanaka, Kaoru; Hayashi, Hidetoshi; Takeda, Masayuki; Kato, Sigeki; Maenishi, Osamu; Sakai, Kazuko; Chiba, Yasutaka; Okabe, Takafumi; Kudo, Keita; Hasegawa, Yoshikazu; Kaneda, Hiroyasu; Yamato, Michiko; Hirotani, Kenji; Miyazawa, Masaaki; Nishio, Kazuto; Nakagawa, Kazuhiko

    2018-06-01

    Purpose: Anti-programmed-death-1 (PD-1) immunotherapy improves survival in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but some cases are refractory to treatment, thereby requiring alternative strategies. B7-H3, an immune-checkpoint molecule, is expressed in various malignancies. To our knowledge, this study is the first to evaluate B7-H3 expression in NSCLCs treated with anti-PD-1 therapy and the therapeutic potential of a combination of anti-PD-1 therapy and B7-H3 targeting. Experimental Design: B7-H3 expression was evaluated immunohistochemically in patients with NSCLC ( n = 82), and its relationship with responsiveness to anti-PD-1 therapy and CD8 + tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) was analyzed. The antitumor efficacy of dual anti-B7-H3 and anti-programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) antibody therapy was evaluated using a syngeneic murine cancer model. T-cell numbers and functions were analyzed by flow cytometry. Results: B7-H3 expression was evident in 74% of NSCLCs and was correlated critically with nonresponsiveness to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. A small number of CD8 + TILs was observed as a subpopulation with PD-L1 tumor proportion score less than 50%, whereas CD8 + TILs were still abundant in tumors not expressing B7-H3. Anti-B7-H3 blockade showed antitumor efficacy accompanied with an increased number of CD8 + TILs and recovery of effector function. CD8 + T-cell depletion negated antitumor efficacy induced by B7-H3 blockade, indicating that improved antitumor immunity is mediated by CD8 + T cells. Compared with a single blocking antibody, dual blockade of B7-H3 and PD-L1 enhanced the antitumor reaction. Conclusions: B7-H3 expressed on tumor cells potentially circumvents CD8 + -T-cell-mediated immune surveillance. Anti-B7-H3 immunotherapy combined with anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibody therapy is a promising approach for B7-H3-expressing NSCLCs. Clin Cancer Res; 24(11); 2653-64. ©2018 AACR . ©2018 American Association for Cancer Research.

  13. A Flexible Solid Electrolyte Interphase Layer for Long-Life Lithium Metal Anodes.

    PubMed

    Li, Nian-Wu; Shi, Yang; Yin, Ya-Xia; Zeng, Xian-Xiang; Li, Jin-Yi; Li, Cong-Ju; Wan, Li-Jun; Wen, Rui; Guo, Yu-Guo

    2018-02-05

    Lithium (Li) metal is a promising anode material for high-energy density batteries. However, the unstable and static solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) can be destroyed by the dynamic Li plating/stripping behavior on the Li anode surface, leading to side reactions and Li dendrites growth. Herein, we design a smart Li polyacrylic acid (LiPAA) SEI layer high elasticity to address the dynamic Li plating/stripping processes by self-adapting interface regulation, which is demonstrated by in situ AFM. With the high binding ability and excellent stability of the LiPAA polymer, the smart SEI can significantly reduce the side reactions and improve battery safety markedly. Stable cycling of 700 h is achieved in the LiPAA-Li/LiPAA-Li symmetrical cell. The innovative strategy of self-adapting SEI design is broadly applicable, providing opportunities for use in Li metal anodes. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  14. Influence of anodization parameters on the morphology of TiO 2 nanotube arrays

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Omidvar, Hamid; Goodarzi, Saba; Seif, Ahmad; Azadmehr, Amir R.

    2011-07-01

    TiO 2 nanotube arrays can be fabricated by electrochemical anodization in organic and inorganic electrolytes. Morphology of these nanotube arrays changes when anodization parameters such as applied voltage, type of electrolyte, time and temperature are varied. Nanotube arrays fabricated by anodization of commercial titanium in electrolytes containing NH 4F solution and either sulfuric or phosphoric acid were studied at room temperature; time of anodization was kept constant. Applied voltage, fluoride ion concentration, and acid concentrations were varied and their influences on TiO 2 nanotubes were investigated. The current density of anodizing was recorded by computer controlled digital multimeter. The surface morphology (top-view) of nanotube arrays were observed by SEM. The nanotube arrays in this study have inner diameters in range of 40-80 nm.

  15. Melt-Spun Fe-Sb Intermetallic Alloy Anode for Performance Enhanced Sodium-Ion Batteries.

    PubMed

    Edison, Eldho; Sreejith, Sivaramapanicker; Madhavi, Srinivasan

    2017-11-15

    Owing to the high theoretical sodiation capacities, intermetallic alloy anodes have attracted considerable interest as electrodes for next-generation sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). Here, we demonstrate the fabrication of intermetallic Fe-Sb alloy anode for SIBs via a high-throughput and industrially viable melt-spinning process. The earth-abundant and low-cost Fe-Sb-based alloy anode exhibits excellent cycling stability with nearly 466 mAh g -1 sodiation capacity at a specific current of 50 mA g -1 with 95% capacity retention after 80 cycles. Moreover, the alloy anode displayed outstanding rate performance with ∼300 mAh g -1 sodiation capacity at 1 A g -1 . The crystalline features of the melt-spun fibers aid in the exceptional electrochemical performance of the alloy anode. Further, the feasibility of the alloy anode for real-life applications was demonstrated in a sodium-ion full-cell configuration which could deliver a sodiation capacity of over 300 mAh g -1 (based on anode) at 50 mA g -1 with more than 99% Coulombic efficiency. The results further exhort the prospects of melt-spun alloy anodes to realize fully functional sodium-ion batteries.

  16. Determining localized anode condition to maintain effective corrosion protection.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2010-01-01

    Thermal sprayed zinc anodes used for impressed current cathodic protection of reinforced concrete deteriorate over time. : Two different technologies, ultrasound and electrical circuit resistance combined with water permeability, were : investigated ...

  17. A high performance hybrid battery based on aluminum anode and LiFePO4 cathode.

    PubMed

    Sun, Xiao-Guang; Bi, Zhonghe; Liu, Hansan; Fang, Youxing; Bridges, Craig A; Paranthaman, M Parans; Dai, Sheng; Brown, Gilbert M

    2016-01-28

    A novel hybrid battery utilizing an aluminum anode, a LiFePO4 cathode and an acidic ionic liquid electrolyte based on 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (EMImCl) and aluminum trichloride (AlCl3) (EMImCl-AlCl3, 1-1.1 in molar ratio) with or without LiAlCl4 is proposed. The hybrid ion battery delivers an initial high capacity of 160 mA h g(-1) at a current rate of C/5. It also shows good rate capability and cycling performance.

  18. Conversion Reaction-Based Oxide Nanomaterials for Lithium Ion Battery Anodes.

    PubMed

    Yu, Seung-Ho; Lee, Soo Hong; Lee, Dong Jun; Sung, Yung-Eun; Hyeon, Taeghwan

    2016-04-27

    Developing high-energy-density electrodes for lithium ion batteries (LIBs) is of primary importance to meet the challenges in electronics and automobile industries in the near future. Conversion reaction-based transition metal oxides are attractive candidates for LIB anodes because of their high theoretical capacities. This review summarizes recent advances on the development of nanostructured transition metal oxides for use in lithium ion battery anodes based on conversion reactions. The oxide materials covered in this review include oxides of iron, manganese, cobalt, copper, nickel, molybdenum, zinc, ruthenium, chromium, and tungsten, and mixed metal oxides. Various kinds of nanostructured materials including nanowires, nanosheets, hollow structures, porous structures, and oxide/carbon nanocomposites are discussed in terms of their LIB anode applications. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  19. Time-implicit fluid/particle hybrid simulations of the anode plasma dynamics in ion diodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pointon, T. D.; Boine-Frankenheim, O.; Mehlhorn, T. A.

    1997-04-01

    Applied-B ion diode experiments with Li+1 ion sources on the PBFA II and SABRE ion accelerators show that early in the pulse the beam is essentially pure Li+1, but is rapidly overwhelmed by impurity ions, called the `parasitic load'. Furthermore, the increasing parasitic current rapidly drops the diode voltage, limiting the accelerator power that can be coupled into the beam. This `impedance collapse' is believed to arise from the desorption of impurity neutrals from the anode surface. These neutrals charge-exchange with the ions, rapidly expanding into the anode-cathode gap where they are ionized by beam ions or secondary electrons. In order to model these processes we are developing a 1 1/2 D electrostatic multifluid/PIC (hybrid) code, designed to self-consistently simulate collisional plasma/neutral systems with an arbitrary number of interacting species, over greatly varying density regimes and together with applied electric and magnetic fields.

  20. Progress in Nano-Engineered Anodic Aluminum Oxide Membrane Development.

    PubMed

    Poinern, Gerrard Eddy Jai; Ali, Nurshahidah; Fawcett, Derek

    2011-02-25

    The anodization of aluminum is an electro-chemical process that changes the surface chemistry of the metal, via oxidation, to produce an anodic oxide layer. During this process a self organized, highly ordered array of cylindrical shaped pores can be produced with controllable pore diameters, periodicity and density distribution. This enables anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membranes to be used as templates in a variety of nanotechnology applications without the need for expensive lithographical techniques. This review article is an overview of the current state of research on AAO membranes and the various applications of nanotechnology that use them in the manufacture of nano-materials and devices or incorporate them into specific applications such as biological/chemical sensors, nano-electronic devices, filter membranes and medical scaffolds for tissue engineering.

  1. Progress in Nano-Engineered Anodic Aluminum Oxide Membrane Development

    PubMed Central

    Poinern, Gerrard Eddy Jai; Ali, Nurshahidah; Fawcett, Derek

    2011-01-01

    The anodization of aluminum is an electro-chemical process that changes the surface chemistry of the metal, via oxidation, to produce an anodic oxide layer. During this process a self organized, highly ordered array of cylindrical shaped pores can be produced with controllable pore diameters, periodicity and density distribution. This enables anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membranes to be used as templates in a variety of nanotechnology applications without the need for expensive lithographical techniques. This review article is an overview of the current state of research on AAO membranes and the various applications of nanotechnology that use them in the manufacture of nano-materials and devices or incorporate them into specific applications such as biological/chemical sensors, nano-electronic devices, filter membranes and medical scaffolds for tissue engineering. PMID:28880002

  2. Use of Both Anode and Cathode Reactions in Wastewater Treatment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brillas, Enric; Sirés, Ignasi; Cabot, Pere LluíS.

    Here, we describe the fundamentals, laboratory experiments, and environmental applications of indirect electrooxidation methods based on H2O2 electrogeneration such as electro-Fenton, photoelectro-Fenton and peroxicoagulation for the treatment of acidic wastewaters containing toxic and recalcitrant organics. These methods are electrochemical advanced oxidation processes that can be used in divided and undivided electrolytic cells in which pollutants are oxidized by hydroxyl radical (•OH) produced from anode and/or cathode reactions. H2O2 is generated from the two-electron reduction of O2 at reticulated vitreous carbon, graphite, carbon-felt, and O2-diffusion cathodes. The most usual method is electro-Fenton where Fe2 + added to the wastewater reacts with electrogenerated H2O2 to yield •OH and Fe3 + from Fenton's reaction. An advantage of this technique is that Fe2 + is continuously regenerated from cathodic reduction of Fe3 +. The characteristics of different electro-Fenton systems where pollutants are simultaneously destroyed by •OH formed in the medium from Fenton's reaction and at the anode surface from water oxidation are explained. The effect of the anode [Pt or boron-doped diamond (BDD)] and cathode (carbon-felt or O2-diffusion) on the degradation rate of persistent industrial by-products, herbicides, pharmaceuticals, dyes, etc. is examined. Initial pollutants react much more rapidly with •OH formed in the medium and their degradation sequences are discussed from aromatic intermediates and finally short aliphatic acids are detected. The synergetic positive catalytic effect of Cu2 + on the electro-Fenton process is evidenced. The photoelectro-Fenton method involves the irradiation of the wastewater with UVA light that rapidly photodecomposes complexes of Fe3 + with final carboxylic acids enhancing total decontamination. The peroxicoagulation method uses a sacrificial Fe anode that is continuously oxidized to Fe2 + and organics are either mineralized

  3. Magnesium Hydride Nanoparticles Self-Assembled on Graphene as Anode Material for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Baoping; Xia, Guanglin; Sun, Dalin; Fang, Fang; Yu, Xuebin

    2018-04-24

    MgH 2 nanoparticles (NPs) uniformly anchored on graphene (GR) are fabricated based on a bottom-up self-assembly strategy as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Monodisperse MgH 2 NPs with an average particle size of ∼13.8 nm are self-assembled on the flexible GR, forming interleaved MgH 2 /GR (GMH) composite architectures. Such nanoarchitecture could effectively constrain the aggregation of active materials, buffer the strain of volume changes, and facilitate the electron/lithium ion transfer of the whole electrode, leading to a significant enhancement of the lithium storage capacity of the GMH composite. Furthermore, the performances of GMH composite as anode materials for LIBs are enabled largely through robust interfacial interactions with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) binder, which plays multifunctional roles in forming a favorable solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) film, alleviating the volume expansion and detachment of active materials, and maintaining the structural integrity of the whole electrode. As a result, these synergistic effects endow the obtained GMH composite with a significantly enhanced reversible capacity and cyclability as well as a good rate capability. The GMH composite with 50 wt % MgH 2 delivers a high reversible capacity of 946 mA h g -1 at 100 mA g -1 after 100 cycles and a capacity of 395 mAh g -1 at a high current density of 2000 mA g -1 after 1000 cycles.

  4. Anodal Direct Current Stimulation of the Cerebellum Reduces Cerebellar Brain Inhibition but Does Not Influence Afferent Input from the Hand or Face in Healthy Adults.

    PubMed

    Doeltgen, Sebastian H; Young, Jessica; Bradnam, Lynley V

    2016-08-01

    The cerebellum controls descending motor commands by outputs to primary motor cortex (M1) and the brainstem in response to sensory feedback. The cerebellum may also modulate afferent input en route to M1 and the brainstem. The objective of this study is to determine if anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to the cerebellum influences cerebellar brain inhibition (CBI), short afferent inhibition (SAI) and trigeminal reflexes (TRs) in healthy adults. Data from two studies evaluating effects of cerebellar anodal and sham tDCS are presented. The first study used a twin coil transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) protocol to investigate CBI and combined TMS and cutaneous stimulation of the digit to assess SAI. The second study evaluated effects on trigemino-cervical and trigemino-masseter reflexes using peripheral nerve stimulation of the face. Fourteen right-handed healthy adults participated in experiment 1. CBI was observed at baseline and was reduced by anodal cerebellar DCS only (P < 0.01). There was SAI at interstimulus intervals of 25 and 30 ms at baseline (both P < 0.0001), but cerebellar tDCS had no effect. Thirteen right-handed healthy adults participated in experiment 2. Inhibitory reflexes were evoked in the ipsilateral masseter and sternocleidomastoid muscles. There was no effect of cerebellar DCS on either reflex. Anodal DCS reduced CBI but did not change SAI or TRs in healthy adults. These results require confirmation in individuals with neurological impairment.

  5. Effect of pH buffer molecules on the light-induced currents from oriented purple membrane.

    PubMed Central

    Liu, S Y; Kono, M; Ebrey, T G

    1991-01-01

    The effect of pH buffers on the microsecond photocurrent component, B2, of oriented purple membranes has been studied. We found that under low salt conditions (less than 10 mM monovalent cationic salt) pH buffers can dramatically alter the waveform of the B2 component. The effect is induced by the protonation process of the buffer molecules by protons expelled from the membrane. These effects can be classified according to the charge transition upon protonation of the buffer. Buffers that carry two positive charges in their protonated form add a negative current component (N component) to B2. Almost all of the other buffers add a positive current component (P component) to B2, which is essentially a mirror image of the N component. Buffers with a pK less than 5.5 have only a small positive buffer component. The pH dependence of the buffer effect is closely related to the pK of the buffer; it requires that the buffer be in its unprotonated form. The rise time of the buffer component increases with the concentration of the buffer molecules. All the buffer effects can be inhibited by the addition of 5 mM of a divalent cation such as Ca2+. Reducing the surface potential slows down the N component but accelerates the P component without affecting the amplitude of the buffer effect significantly. Many of the buffer effects can be explained if we assume that upon protonation of the buffer by a proton expelled from the membrane by light, the buffer molecules move toward the membrane. This backward movement of buffer molecules forms a counter current very similar to that due to cations discussed in Liu, S. Y., R. Govindjee, and T. G. Ebrey. (1990. Biophys. J. 57:951-963). PMID:1883939

  6. Tin Oxynitride Anodes by Atomic Layer Deposition for Solid-State Batteries

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

    Stewart, David M.; Pearse, Alexander J.; Kim, Nam S.

    Major advances in thin-film solid-state batteries (TFSSBs) may capitalize on 3D structuring using high-aspect-ratio substrates such as nanoscale pits, pores, trenches, flexible polymers, and textiles. This will require conformal processes such as atomic layer deposition (ALD) for every active functional component of the battery. In this paper, we explore the deposition and electrochemical properties of SnO 2, SnN y, and SnO xN y thin films as TFSSB anode materials, grown by ALD using tetrakisdimethylamido(tin), H 2O, and N 2 plasma as precursors. By controlling the dose ratio between H 2O and N 2, the N–O fraction can be tuned betweenmore » 0% N and 95% N. The electrochemical properties of these materials were tested across a composition range varying from pure SnO 2, to SnON intermediates, and pure SnNy. In TFSSBs, the SnNy anodes are found to be more stable during cycling than the SnO 2 or SnO xN y films, with an initial reversible capacity beyond that of Li–Sn alloying, retaining 75% of their capacity over 200 cycles compared to only 50% for SnO 2. Lastly, the performance of the SnO xN y anodes indicates that SnN y anodes should not be negatively impacted by small levels of O contamination.« less

  7. Tin Oxynitride Anodes by Atomic Layer Deposition for Solid-State Batteries

    DOE PAGES

    Stewart, David M.; Pearse, Alexander J.; Kim, Nam S.; ...

    2018-03-30

    Major advances in thin-film solid-state batteries (TFSSBs) may capitalize on 3D structuring using high-aspect-ratio substrates such as nanoscale pits, pores, trenches, flexible polymers, and textiles. This will require conformal processes such as atomic layer deposition (ALD) for every active functional component of the battery. In this paper, we explore the deposition and electrochemical properties of SnO 2, SnN y, and SnO xN y thin films as TFSSB anode materials, grown by ALD using tetrakisdimethylamido(tin), H 2O, and N 2 plasma as precursors. By controlling the dose ratio between H 2O and N 2, the N–O fraction can be tuned betweenmore » 0% N and 95% N. The electrochemical properties of these materials were tested across a composition range varying from pure SnO 2, to SnON intermediates, and pure SnNy. In TFSSBs, the SnNy anodes are found to be more stable during cycling than the SnO 2 or SnO xN y films, with an initial reversible capacity beyond that of Li–Sn alloying, retaining 75% of their capacity over 200 cycles compared to only 50% for SnO 2. Lastly, the performance of the SnO xN y anodes indicates that SnN y anodes should not be negatively impacted by small levels of O contamination.« less

  8. Electrochemical performance of Ni0.8Cu0.2/Ce0.8Gd0.2O1.9 cermet anodes with functionally graded structures for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cell fueled with syngas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Miyake, Michihiro; Iwami, Makoto; Takeuchi, Mizue; Nishimoto, Shunsuke; Kameshima, Yoshikazu

    2018-06-01

    The electrochemical performance of layered Ni0.8Cu0.2/Ce0.8Gd0.2O1.9 (GDC) cermet anodes is investigated for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs) at 600 °C using humidified (3% H2O) model syngas with a molar ratio of H2/CO = 3/2 as the fuel. From the results obtained, the electrochemical performance of the functionally graded multi-layered anodes is found to be superior to the mono-layered anodes. The test cell with a bi-layered anode consisting of 100 mass% Ni0.8Cu0.2/0 mass% GDC (10M/0E) and 70 mass% Ni0.8Cu0.2/30 mass% GDC (7M/3E) exhibits high power density. The test cell with a tri-layered anode consisting of 10M/0E, 7M/3E, and 50 mass% Ni0.8Cu0.2/50 mass% GDC (5M/5E) exhibits an even higher power density, suggesting that 10M/0E and 5M/5E layers contribute to the current collecting part and active part, respectively.

  9. A dynamic inert metal anode.

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

    Hryn, J. N.

    1998-11-09

    A new concept for a stable anode for aluminum electrowinning is described. The anode consists of a cup-shaped metal alloy container filled with a molten salt that contains dissolved aluminum. The metal alloy can be any of a number of alloys, but it must contain aluminum as a secondary alloying metal. A possible alloy composition is copper with 5 to 15 weight percent aluminum. In the presence of oxygen, aluminum on the metal anode's exterior surface forms a continuous alumina film that is thick enough to protect the anode from chemical attack by cryolite during electrolysis and thin enough tomore » maintain electrical conductivity. However, the alumina film is soluble in cryolite, so it must be regenerated in situ. Film regeneration is achieved by the transport of aluminum metal from the anode's molten salt interior through the metal wall to the anode's exterior surface, where the transported aluminum oxidizes to alumina in the presence of evolving oxygen to maintain the protective alumina film. Periodic addition of aluminum metal to the anode's interior keeps the aluminum activity in the molten salt at the desired level. This concept for an inert anode is viable as long as the amount of aluminum produced at the cathode greatly exceeds the amount of aluminum required to maintain the anode's protective film.« less

  10. 10 CFR Appendix H to Subpart B of... - [Reserved

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 10 Energy 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false [Reserved] H Appendix H to Subpart B of Part 430 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY ENERGY CONSERVATION ENERGY CONSERVATION PROGRAM FOR CONSUMER PRODUCTS Test Procedures Appendix H to Subpart B of Part 430 [Reserved] ...

  11. Spontaneous oscillations of cell voltage, power density, and anode exit CO concentration in a PEM fuel cell.

    PubMed

    Lu, Hui; Rihko-Struckmann, Liisa; Sundmacher, Kai

    2011-10-28

    The spontaneous oscillations of the cell voltage and output power density of a PEMFC (with PtRu/C anode) using CO-containing H(2) streams as anodic fuels have been observed during galvanostatic operating. It is ascribed to the dynamic coupling of the CO adsorption (poisoning) and the electrochemical CO oxidation (reactivating) processes in the anode chamber of the single PEMFC. Accompanying the cell voltage and power density oscillations, the discrete CO concentration oscillations at the anode outlet of the PEMFC were also detected, which directly confirms the electrochemical CO oxidation taking place in the anode chamber during galvanostatic operating. This journal is © the Owner Societies 2011

  12. The Murine Factor H-Related Protein FHR-B Promotes Complement Activation.

    PubMed

    Cserhalmi, Marcell; Csincsi, Ádám I; Mezei, Zoltán; Kopp, Anne; Hebecker, Mario; Uzonyi, Barbara; Józsi, Mihály

    2017-01-01

    Factor H-related (FHR) proteins consist of varying number of complement control protein domains that display various degrees of sequence identity to respective domains of the alternative pathway complement inhibitor factor H (FH). While such FHR proteins are described in several species, only human FHRs were functionally investigated. Their biological role is still poorly understood and in part controversial. Recent studies on some of the human FHRs strongly suggest a role for FHRs in enhancing complement activation via competing with FH for binding to certain ligands and surfaces. The aim of the current study was the functional characterization of a murine FHR, FHR-B. To this end, FHR-B was expressed in recombinant form. Recombinant FHR-B bound to human C3b and was able to compete with human FH for C3b binding. FHR-B supported the assembly of functionally active C3bBb alternative pathway C3 convertase via its interaction with C3b. This activity was confirmed by demonstrating C3 activation in murine serum. In addition, FHR-B bound to murine pentraxin 3 (PTX3), and this interaction resulted in murine C3 fragment deposition due to enhanced complement activation in mouse serum. FHR-B also induced C3 deposition on C-reactive protein, the extracellular matrix (ECM) extract Matrigel, and endothelial cell-derived ECM when exposed to mouse serum. Moreover, mouse C3 deposition was strongly enhanced on necrotic Jurkat T cells and the mouse B cell line A20 by FHR-B. FHR-B also induced lysis of sheep erythrocytes when incubated in mouse serum with FHR-B added in excess. Altogether, these data demonstrate that, similar to human FHR-1 and FHR-5, mouse FHR-B modulates complement activity by promoting complement activation via interaction with C3b and via competition with murine FH.

  13. Protected Lithium-Metal Anodes in Batteries: From Liquid to Solid.

    PubMed

    Yang, Chunpeng; Fu, Kun; Zhang, Ying; Hitz, Emily; Hu, Liangbing

    2017-09-01

    High-energy lithium-metal batteries are among the most promising candidates for next-generation energy storage systems. With a high specific capacity and a low reduction potential, the Li-metal anode has attracted extensive interest for decades. Dendritic Li formation, uncontrolled interfacial reactions, and huge volume effect are major hurdles to the commercial application of Li-metal anodes. Recent studies have shown that the performance and safety of Li-metal anodes can be significantly improved via organic electrolyte modification, Li-metal interface protection, Li-electrode framework design, separator coating, and so on. Superior to the liquid electrolytes, solid-state electrolytes are considered able to inhibit problematic Li dendrites and build safe solid Li-metal batteries. Inspired by the bright prospects of solid Li-metal batteries, increasing efforts have been devoted to overcoming the obstacles of solid Li-metal batteries, such as low ionic conductivity of the electrolyte and Li-electrolyte interfacial problems. Here, the approaches to protect Li-metal anodes from liquid batteries to solid-state batteries are outlined and analyzed in detail. Perspectives regarding the strategies for developing Li-metal anodes are discussed to facilitate the practical application of Li-metal batteries. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  14. The anodic emitter effect and its inversion demonstrated by temperature measurements at doped and undoped tungsten electrodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hoebing, T.; Bergner, A.; Hermanns, P.; Mentel, J.; Awakowicz, P.

    2016-04-01

    The admixture of a small amount of emitter oxides, e.g. \\text{Th}{{\\text{O}}2} , \\text{L}{{\\text{a}}2}{{\\text{O}}3} or \\text{C}{{\\text{e}}2}{{\\text{O}}3} to tungsten generates the so-called emitter effect. It reduces the work function of tungsten cathodes, that are applied in high intensity discharge (HID) lamps. After leaving the electrode bulk and moving to the surface, a monolayer of Th, La, or Ce atoms is formed on the surface, which reduces the effective work function ϕ. Depending on the coverage of the electrode, the effective reduction in ϕ is subjected to the thermal desorption of the monolayer from the hot electrode surface. The thermal desorption of emitter atoms from the cathode is compensated not only by the supply from the interior of the electrode and by surface diffusion of the emitter material to its tip, but also to a large extent by a repatriation of the emitter ions from the plasma by the strong electric field in front of the cathode. Yet, an emitter ion current from the arc discharge to the anode may only be present, if the anode is cold enough to refrain from thermionic emission. Therefore, the ability of emitter oxides to reduce the temperature of tungsten anodes is only given for a moderate temperature so that the thermal desorption is low and an additional ion current is present in front of the anode. A higher electrode temperature leads to their evaporation and to an inversion of the emitter effect, which increases the temperature of the respective anodes in comparison with pure tungsten anodes. Within this article, the emitter effect of doped tungsten anodes and the transition to its inversion is investigated for thoriated, lanthanated, and ceriated tungsten electrodes by measurements of the electrode temperature in dependence on the discharge current. It is shown for a lanthanated and a ceriated anode that the emitter effect is sustained by an ion current at anode temperatures at which the thermal evaporation of emitter material

  15. Anodic Behavior of the Aluminum Current Collector in Imide-Based Electrolytes: Influence of Solvent, Operating Temperature, and Native Oxide-Layer Thickness.

    PubMed

    Meister, Paul; Qi, Xin; Kloepsch, Richard; Krämer, Elisabeth; Streipert, Benjamin; Winter, Martin; Placke, Tobias

    2017-02-22

    The inability of imide salts to form a sufficiently effective passivation layer on aluminum current collectors is one of the main obstacles that limit their broad application in electrochemical energy-storage systems. However, under certain circumstances, the use of electrolytes with imide electrolyte salts in combination with the aluminum current collector is possible. In this contribution, the stability of the aluminum current collector in electrolytes containing either lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide (LiTFSI) or lithium fluorosulfonyl-(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide (LiFTFSI) as conductive salt was investigated by electrochemical techniques, that is, cyclic voltammetry (CV) and chronocoulometry (CC) in either room-temperature ionic liquids or in ethyl methyl sulfone. In particular, the influence of the solvent, operating temperature, and thickness of the native oxide layer of aluminum on the pit formation at the aluminum current collector surface was studied by means of scanning electron microscopy. In general, a more pronounced aluminum dissolution and pit formation was found at elevated temperatures as well as in solvents with a high dielectric constant. An enhanced thickness of the native aluminum oxide layer increases the oxidative stability versus dissolution. Furthermore, we found a different reaction rate depending on dwell time at the upper cut-off potential for aluminum dissolution in TFSI- and FTFSI-based electrolytes during the CC measurements; the use of LiFTFSI facilitated the dissolution of aluminum compared to LiTFSI. Overall, the mechanism of anodic aluminum dissolution is based on: i) the attack of the Al 2 O 3 surface by acidic species and ii) the dissolution of bare aluminum into the electrolyte, which, in turn, is influenced by the electrolyte's dielectric constant. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  16. Signal to background interference in p p →t H-→t W-b b ¯ at the LHC Run II

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Arhrib, Abdesslam; Benbrik, Rachid; Moretti, Stefano; Santos, Rui; Sharma, Pankaj

    2018-04-01

    We investigate in the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) environment the possibility that sizeable interference effects between a heavy charged Higgs boson signal produced via b g →t H- (+c .c . ) scattering and decaying via H-→W-A →W-b b ¯ (+c .c . ) and the irreducible background given by b g →t W-b b ¯ topologies could spoil current search approaches where the former and latter channels are treated separately. The rationale for this comes from the fact that a heavy charged Higgs state can have a large width, which can also happen for the C P -odd neutral Higgs state emerging in the ensuing decays, which in turn enables such interferences. We conclude that effects are very significant, both at the inclusive and exclusive level (i.e., both before and after H± selection cuts are enforced, respectively) and typically of a destructive nature. This, therefore, implies that currently established LHC reaches for heavy charged Higgs bosons require some level of rescaling. However, this is possible a posteriori, as the aforementioned H± selection cuts shape the interference contributions at the differential level in a way similar to that of the isolated H± signal, so there is no need to reassess the efficiency of the individual cuts. We show such effects quantitatively by borrowing benchmark points from different Yukawa types of a 2-Higgs doublet model parameter space for H± values starting from around 200 GeV.

  17. Dendrite-Free Sodium-Metal Anodes for High-Energy Sodium-Metal Batteries.

    PubMed

    Sun, Bing; Li, Peng; Zhang, Jinqiang; Wang, Dan; Munroe, Paul; Wang, Chengyin; Notten, Peter H L; Wang, Guoxiu

    2018-05-31

    Sodium (Na) metal is one of the most promising electrode materials for next-generation low-cost rechargeable batteries. However, the challenges caused by dendrite growth on Na metal anodes restrict practical applications of rechargeable Na metal batteries. Herein, a nitrogen and sulfur co-doped carbon nanotube (NSCNT) paper is used as the interlayer to control Na nucleation behavior and suppress the Na dendrite growth. The N- and S-containing functional groups on the carbon nanotubes induce the NSCNTs to be highly "sodiophilic," which can guide the initial Na nucleation and direct Na to distribute uniformly on the NSCNT paper. As a result, the Na-metal-based anode (Na/NSCNT anode) exhibits a dendrite-free morphology during repeated Na plating and striping and excellent cycling stability. As a proof of concept, it is also demonstrated that the electrochemical performance of sodium-oxygen (Na-O 2 ) batteries using the Na/NSCNT anodes show significantly improved cycling performances compared with Na-O 2 batteries with bare Na metal anodes. This work opens a new avenue for the development of next-generation high-energy-density sodium-metal batteries. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  18. Structure of anodized Al-Zr sputter deposited coatings and effect on optical appearance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gudla, Visweswara Chakravarthy; Canulescu, Stela; Shabadi, Rajashekhara; Rechendorff, Kristian; Dirscherl, Kai; Ambat, Rajan

    2014-10-01

    The mechanism of interaction of light with the microstructure of anodized layer giving specific optical appearance is investigated using Al-Zr sputter deposited coating as a model system on an AA6060 substrate. Differences in the oxidative nature of various microstructural components result in the evolution of typical features in the anodized layer, which are investigated as a function of microstructure and correlated with its optical appearance. The Zr concentration in the coating was varied from 6 wt.% to 23 wt.%. Heat treatment of the coated samples was carried out at 550 °C for 4 h in order to evolve Al-Zr based second phase precipitates in the microstructure. Anodizing was performed using 20 wt.% sulphuric acid at 18 °C with an intention to study the effect of anodizing on the Al-Zr based precipitates in the coating. Detailed microstructural characterization of the coating and anodized layer was carried out using high resolution scanning and transmission electron microscopy, grazing incidence X-ray diffraction analysis, glow discharge optical emission spectroscopy, and optical appearance using spectrophotometry. The evolution of microstructure in the anodized layer as a function of anodizing parameters and their influence on the interaction of light is investigated and the results in general are applicable to discolouration of anodized layer on recycled aluminium alloys due to intermetallics.

  19. Electrochemical Treatment of Textile Dye Wastewater by Mild Steel Anode.

    PubMed

    Bhavya, J G; Rekha, H B; Murthy, Usha N

    2014-04-01

    This paper presents the results of the treatment of textile dye wastewater generated from a textile processing industry by electrochemical method. Experiments were conducted at current densities of 12, 24 and 48 A/m2 using mild steel as anode and cathode. During the various stages of electrolysis, parameters such as COD, color and BOD5 were determined in order to know the feasibility of electrochemical treatment. It was observed that increasing the electrolysis time and increased current density bring down the concentration of pollutants. Also COD removal rate and energy consumption during the electrolysis were calculated and presented in this paper. The present study proves the effectiveness of electrochemical treatment using MS as anode for TDW oxidation.

  20. B7-H4 overexpression in ovarian tumors.

    PubMed

    Tringler, Barbara; Liu, Wenhui; Corral, Laura; Torkko, Kathleen C; Enomoto, Takayuki; Davidson, Susan; Lucia, M Scott; Heinz, David E; Papkoff, Jackie; Shroyer, Kenneth R

    2006-01-01

    Despite great advances in therapeutic management, the mortality rate for ovarian cancer has remained relatively stable over the past 50 years. This study was designed to evaluate the expression of B7-H4 protein, recently identified as a potential molecular marker of breast and ovarian cancer by quantitative PCR analysis, in benign tumors, tumors of low malignant potential and malignant tumors of the ovary. Archival formalin-fixed tissue blocks from serous, mucinous, endometrioid and clear cell ovarian tumors were evaluated by immunohistochemistry for the distribution of B7-H4 expression, and staining intensity was measured by automated image analysis. Univariate analyses were used to test for statistically significant relationships. B7-H4 cytoplasmic and membranous expression was detected in all primary serous (n = 32), endometrioid (n = 12), and clear cell carcinomas (n = 15), and in all metastatic serous (n = 23) and endometrioid (n = 7) ovarian carcinomas. By contrast, focal B7-H4 expression was detected in only 1/11 mucinous carcinomas. The proportion of positive cells and median staining intensity was greater in serous carcinomas than in serous cystadenomas or serous tumors of low malignant potential, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.034, respectively). The median staining intensity was also significantly greater in endometrioid carcinomas than in endometriosis (P = 0.005). The consistent overexpression of B7-H4 in serous, endometrioid and clear cell ovarian carcinomas and the relative absence of expression in most normal somatic tissues indicates that B7-H4 should be further investigated as a potential diagnostic marker or therapeutic target for ovarian cancer.