A Model for Evaluating Topical Antimicrobial Efficacy against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Biofilms in Superficial Murine Wounds

PubMed Central

Renick, Paul J.; Tetens, Shannon P.; Carson, Dennis L.

2012-01-01

A wound biofilm model was created by adapting a superficial infection model. Partial-thickness murine wounds were inoculated with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Dense biofilm communities developed at the wound surface after 24 h as demonstrated by microscopy and quantitative microbiology. Common topical antimicrobial agents had reduced efficacy when treatment was initiated 24 h after inoculation compared to 4 h after inoculation. This model provides a rapid in vivo test for new agents to treat wound biofilm infections. PMID:22644024

HIGH-DOSE HIGH-FREQUENCY AFLIBERCEPT FOR RECALCITRANT NEOVASCULAR AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION.

PubMed

You, Qi Sheng; Gaber, Raouf; Meshi, Amit; Ramkumar, Hema L; Alam, Mostafa; Muftuoglu, Ilkay Kilic; Freeman, William R

2018-06-01

To determine the efficacy of monthly (0.1 mL/4 mg) aflibercept for refractory neovascular age-related macular degeneration (wet age-related macular degeneration). This was a retrospective interventional case series in which patients with wet age-related macular degeneration were treated with stepwise dose escalation. Nonvitrectomized patients resistant to monthly (Q4W) ranibizumab/bevacizumab were switched to 2 mg aflibercept every 8 weeks. With resistance, they were escalated to Q4W 2 mg aflibercept, then Q4W 4 mg (high dose high frequency, 4Q4W) aflibercept. Resistance was defined as ≥2 recurrences after being dry following ≥3 injections or persistent exudation on treatment of ≥5 injections. Thirty-three eyes of 28 patients were treated with 4Q4W aflibercept and followed for a mean of 16 months. A dry retina (no intraretinal or subretinal fluid) was achieved after initiating 4Q4W aflibercept treatment at a mean of 3.8 months. Central foveal thickness, maximum foveal thickness, intraretinal fluid, subretinal fluid, and retinal pigment detachment height decreased significantly at 1 month after initiating the 4Q4W aflibercept, and the morphologic therapeutic effect was sustained until the last visit. Forty-five percent of eyes had one or more lines of vision improvement. New geographic atrophy developed in 9% of eyes during follow-up. No ocular or systemic adverse events occurred after initiating 4Q4W aflibercept. Intravitreal high-dose high-frequency aflibercept is an effective treatment for patients with refractory wet age-related macular degeneration.

Influence of ceramic thickness and ceramic materials on fracture resistance of posterior partial coverage restorations.

PubMed

Bakeman, E M; Rego, N; Chaiyabutr, Y; Kois, J C

2015-01-01

This study evaluated the influence of ceramic thickness and ceramic materials on fracture resistance of posterior partial coverage ceramic restorations. Forty extracted molars were allocated into four groups (n=10) to test for two variables: 1) the thickness of ceramic (1 mm or 2 mm) and 2) the ceramic materials (a lithium disilicate glass-ceramic [IPS e.max] or leucite-reinforced glass ceramic [IPS Empress]). All ceramic restorations were luted with resin cement (Variolink II) on the prepared teeth. These luted specimens were loaded to failure in a universal testing machine, in the compression mode, with a crosshead speed of 1.0 mm/min. The data were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance and the Tukey Honestly Significantly Different multiple comparison test (α =0.05). The fracture resistance revealed a significant effect for materials (p<0.001); however, the thickness of ceramic was not significant (p=0.074), and the interaction between the thickness of ceramic and the materials was not significant (p=0.406). Mean (standard deviation) fracture resistance values were as follows: a 2-mm thickness of a lithium disilicate bonded to tooth structure (2505 [401] N) revealed a significantly higher fracture resistance than did a 1-mm thickness of leucite-reinforced (1569 [452] N) and a 2-mm thickness of leucite-reinforced ceramic bonded to tooth structure (1716 [436] N) (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in fracture resistance values between a lithium disilicate ceramic at 1-mm thickness (2105 [567] N) and at 2-mm thickness. Using a lithium disilicate glass ceramic for partial coverage restoration significantly improved fracture resistance compared to using a leucite-reinforced glass ceramic. The thickness of ceramic had no significant effect on fracture resistance when the ceramics were bonded to the underlying tooth structure.

The Effect of Valinomycin on the Electrical Properties of Solutions of Red Cell Lipids in n-Decane

PubMed Central

Andreoli, Thomas E.; Tosteson, Daniel C.

1971-01-01

This paper reports the electrical properties of thick lipid membranes in the absence and presence of valinomycin. The thick lipid membranes were formed by placing a solution of sheep red cell lipids in decane between two cellophane partitions which formed the interfaces between the membrane and the two aqueous bathing solutions. The DC electrical resistance of these structures was found to be directly proportional to the reciprocal of the concentration of lipids in the decane (CL). The limiting resistance, as (CL -1) approached zero, was 3 x 108 ohm-cm2. Resistance was also found to be linearly related to membrane thickness. The limiting resistance at zero thickness was again 1–3 x 108 ohm-cm2. These data are interpreted to indicate that the DC resistance of thick lipid membranes comprises two surface resistances (RS) at each interface with the aqueous bathing solutions, and a bulk resistance (RB) of the lipid-decane solution, arranged in series. Measurements of the effect of variations of area on resistance were consistent with this interpretation. Valinomycin reduced RS but had no effect on RB. Under certain conditions, thick lipid membranes containing valinomycin behaved like highly selective K+ electrodes. PMID:5553100

Thin Cu film resistivity using four probe techniques: Effect of film thickness and geometrical shapes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choudhary, Sumita; Narula, Rahul; Gangopadhyay, Subhashis

2018-05-01

Precise measurement of electrical sheet resistance and resistivity of metallic thin Cu films may play a significant role in temperature sensing by means of resistivity changes which can further act as a safety measure of various electronic devices during their operation. Four point probes resistivity measurement is a useful approach as it successfully excludes the contact resistance between the probes and film surface of the sample. Although, the resistivity of bulk samples at a particular temperature mostly depends on its materialistic property, however, it may significantly differ in the case of thin films, where the shape and thickness of the sample can significantly influence on it. Depending on the ratio of the film thickness to probe spacing, samples are usually classified in two segments such as (i) thick films or (ii) thin films. Accordingly, the geometric correction factors G can be related to the sample resistivity r, which has been calculated here for thin Cu films of thickness up to few 100 nm. In this study, various rectangular shapes of thin Cu films have been used to determine the shape induced geometric correction factors G. An expressions for G have been obtained as a function of film thickness t versus the probe spacing s. Using these expressions, the correction factors have been plotted separately for each cases as a function of (a) film thickness for fixed linear probe spacing and (b) probe distance from the edge of the film surface for particular thickness. Finally, we compare the experimental results of thin Cu films of various rectangular geometries with the theoretical reported results.

Electrical resistivity of CuAlMo thin films grown at room temperature by dc magnetron sputtering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Birkett, Martin; Penlington, Roger

2016-07-01

We report on the thickness dependence of electrical resistivity of CuAlMo films grown by dc magnetron sputtering on glass substrates at room temperature. The electrical resistance of the films was monitored in situ during their growth in the thickness range 10-1000 nm. By theoretically modelling the evolution of resistivity during growth we were able to gain an insight into the dominant electrical conduction mechanisms with increasing film thickness. For thicknesses in the range 10-25 nm the electrical resistivity is found to be a function of the film surface roughness and is well described by Namba’s model. For thicknesses of 25-40 nm the experimental data was most accurately fitted using the Mayadas and Shatkes model which accounts for grain boundary scattering of the conduction electrons. Beyond 40 nm, the thickness of the film was found to be the controlling factor and the Fuchs-Sonheimer (FS) model was used to fit the experimental data, with diffuse scattering of the conduction electrons at the two film surfaces. By combining the Fuchs and Namba (FN) models a suitable correlation between theoretical and experimental resistivity can be achieved across the full CuAlMo film thickness range of 10-1000 nm. The irreversibility of resistance for films of thickness >200 nm, which demonstrated bulk conductivity, was measured to be less than 0.03% following subjection to temperature cycles of -55 and +125 °C and the temperature co-efficient of resistance was less than ±15 ppm °C-1.

Out-of-plane properties

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jackson, Wade C.; Portanova, Marc A.

1995-01-01

This paper summarizes three areas of research which were performed to characterize out-of-plane properties of composite materials. In the first investigation, a series of tests was run to characterize the through-the-thickness tensile strength for a variety of composites that included 2D braids, 2D and 3D weaves, and prepreg tapes. A new test method based on a curved beam was evaluated. Failures were significantly different between the 2D materials and the 3D weaves. The 2D materials delaminated between layers due to out-of-plane tensile stresses while the 3D weaves failed due to the formation of radial cracks between the surface plies caused by high circumferential stresses along the inner radius. The strength of the 2D textile composites did not increase relative to the tapes. Final failure in the 3D weaves was caused by a circumferential crack similar to the 2D materials and occurred at a lower bending moment than in other materials. The early failures in the 3D weaves were caused by radial crack formation rather than a low through-the-thickness strength. The second investigation focused on the development of a standard impact test method to measure impact damage resistance. The only impact tests that currently exist are compression after impact (CAI) tests which incorporate elements of both damage resistance and damage tolerance. A new impact test method is under development which uses a quasi-static indentation (QSI) test to directly measure damage resistance. Damage resistance is quantified in terms of the contact force to produce a unit of damage where a metric for damage may be area in C-scan, depth of residual dent , penetration, damage growth, etc. A final draft of an impact standard that uses a QSI test method will be presented to the ASTM Impact Task Group on impact. In the third investigation, the impact damage resistance behavior of a variety of textile materials was studied using the QSI test method. In this study, the force where large damage initiates was measured and the delamination size as a function of force was determined. The force to initiate large damage was significantly lower in braids and weaves. The delamination diameter - impact forace relationship was quanitfied using a damage resistance parameter, Q(*), which related delamination diameter to imapct force over a range of delamination sizes. Using this Q(*) parameter to rate the materials, the stitched uniweaves, toughened epoxy tapes, and through-the-thickness orthogonal interlock weave were the most damage resistant.

Thickness effect of nickel oxide thin films on associated solution-processed write-once-read-many-times memory devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xiao Lin; Liu, Zhen; Wen, Chao; Liu, Yang; Wang, Hong Zhe; Chen, T. P.; Zhang, Hai Yan

2018-06-01

With self-prepared nickel acetate based solution, NiO thin films with different thicknesses have been fabricated by spin coating followed by thermal annealing. By forming a two-terminal Ag/NiO/ITO structure on glass, write-once-read-many-times (WORM) memory devices are realized. The WORM memory behavior is based on a permanent switching from an initial high-resistance state (HRS) to an irreversible low-resistance state (LRS) under the application of a writing voltage, due to the formation of a solid bridge across Ag and ITO electrodes by conductive filaments (CFs). The memory performance is investigated as a function of the NiO film thickness, which is determined by the number of spin-coated NiO layers. For devices with 4 and 6 NiO layers, data retention up to 104 s and endurance of 103 reading operations in the measurement range have been obtained with memory window maintained above four orders for both HRS and LRS. Before and after writing, the devices show the hopping and ohmic conduction behaviors, respectively, confirming that the CF formation could be the mechanism responsible for writing in the WORM memory devices.

Quantification of the resist dissolution process: an in situ analysis using high speed atomic force microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santillan, Julius Joseph; Shichiri, Motoharu; Itani, Toshiro

2016-03-01

This work focuses on the application of a high speed atomic force microscope (HS-AFM) for the in situ visualization / quantification of the resist dissolution process. This technique, as reported in the past, has provided useful pointers on the formation of resist patterns during dissolution. This paper discusses about an investigation made on the quantification of what we refer to as "dissolution unit size" or the basic units of patterning material dissolution. This was done through the establishment of an originally developed analysis method which extracts the difference between two succeeding temporal states of the material film surface (images) to indicate the amount of change occurring in the material film at a specific span of time. Preliminary experiments with actual patterning materials were done using a positive-tone EUV model resist composed only of polyhydroxystyrene (PHS)-based polymer with a molecular weight of 2,500 and a polydispersity index of 1.2. In the absence of a protecting group, the material was utilized at a 50nm film thickness with post application bake of 90°C/60s. The resulting film is soluble in the alkali-based developer even without exposure. Results have shown that the dissolution components (dissolution unit size) of the PHS-based material are not of fixed size. Instead, it was found that aside from one constantly dissolving unit size, another, much larger dissolution unit size trend also occurs during material dissolution. The presence of this larger dissolution unit size suggests an occurrence of "polymer clustering". Such polymer clustering was not significantly present during the initial stages of dissolution (near the original film surface) but becomes more persistently obvious after the dissolution process reaches a certain film thickness below the initial surface.

Construction of protein-resistant pOEGMA films by helicon plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition.

PubMed

Lee, Bong Soo; Yoon, Ok Ja; Cho, Woo Kyung; Lee, Nae-Eung; Yoon, Kuk Ro; Choi, Insung S

2009-01-01

This paper describes the formation of protein-resistant, poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (pOEGMA) thin films by helicon plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (helicon-PECVD). pOEGMA was successfully grafted onto a silicon substrate, as a model substrate, without any additional surface initiators, by plasma polymerization of OEGMA. The resulting pOEGMA films were characterized by ellipsometry, FT-IR spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and contact angle goniometry. To investigate the protein-resistant property of the pOEGMA films, four different proteins, bovine serum albumin, fibrinogen, lysozyme and ribonuclease A, were tested as model proteins for ellipsometric measurements. The ellipsometric thickness change for all the model proteins was less than 3 A, indicating that the formed pOEGMA films are protein-resistant. (c) Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2009

Study on diesel vertical migration characteristics and mechanism in water-bearing sand stratum using an automated resistivity monitoring system.

PubMed

Pan, Yuying; Jia, Yonggang; Wang, Yuhua; Xia, Xin; Guo, Lei

2018-02-01

Oil spills frequently occur on both land and sea. Petroleum in mobile phase will cause serious pollution in the sediment and can form a secondary pollution source. Therefore, it is very important to study the migration of petroleum in sediments ideally in a rapid and simplified approach. The release of diesel was simulated using fine beach sand to construct a model aquifer, and dynamic monitoring was carried out using an automated monitoring system including a resistivity probe originally developed by our research group. The mobile phase migration fronts were determined accurately using wavelet analysis method combined with resistivity curve method. Then, a relationship between resistivity and the joint oil-water content was established. The main conclusions were as follows. The seepage velocity of the diesel with high mobility at the initial stage of infiltration was faster, followed by a period when gravity seepage was dominant, and finally a redistribution period at the later stage, which was mainly an oil-water displacement process. The resistivity trends for diesel infiltration in different water-saturated soil layers varied with depth. The resistivity in the vadose zone fluctuated significantly, increasing initially and later decreasing. The resistivity change in the capillary zone was relatively small and constant in the initial stage; then, it increased and subsequently decreased. The resistivity in the saturated zone was basically unchanged with depth, and the value became slightly larger than the background value over time. Overall, for a large volume of mobile phase diesel leakage, the arrival migration fronts can be detected by wavelet analysis combined with resistivity curves. The thickness of the oil slick in the capillary zone can be estimated by resistivity changes. The relationships between resistivity and both the moisture content and oil-water joint saturation are in agreement with the linear models. The research results provide basic data and a new data processing method for monitoring of contaminated sites following major oil spills using the resistivity method.

Thickness and resistivity variations over the upper surface of the human skull.

PubMed

Law, S K

1993-01-01

A study of skull thickness and resistivity variations over the upper surface was made for an adult human skull. Physical measurements of thickness and qualitative analysis of photographs and CT scans of the skull were performed to determine internal and external features of the skull. Resistivity measurements were made using the four-electrode method and ranged from 1360 to 21400 Ohm-cm with an overall mean of 7560 +/- 4130 Ohm-cm. The presence of sutures was found to decrease resistivity substantially. The absence of cancellous bone was found to increase resistivity, particularly for samples from the temporal bone. An inverse relationship between skull thickness and resistivity was determined for trilayer bone (n = 12, p < 0.001). The results suggest that the skull cannot be considered a uniform layer and that local resistivity variations should be incorporated into realistic geometric and resistive head models to improve resolution in EEG. Influences of these variations on head models, methods for determining these variations, and incorporation into realistic head models, are discussed.

A Simplified Analytic Investigation of the Riverside Effects of Sediment Diversions

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-09-01

demonstrated that the river bed consists of a sand layer of variable thickness, underlain by erosion resistant strata (either relict glacial deposits...following analysis. Simplifications and Initial Conditions. Consider a river modeled as a wide rectangular channel of constant width (Figure 1). The...CHETN-VII-13 September 2013 14  Short term effects include the redistribution of sediment by erosion upstream of the diversion to deposition

Plasma electrolytic oxidation of Titanium Aluminides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morgenstern, R.; Sieber, M.; Grund, T.; Lampke, T.; Wielage, B.

2016-03-01

Due to their outstanding specific mechanical and high-temperature properties, titanium aluminides exhibit a high potential for lightweight components exposed to high temperatures. However, their application is limited through their low wear resistance and the increasing high-temperature oxidation starting from about 750 °C. By the use of oxide ceramic coatings, these constraints can be set aside and the possible applications of titanium aluminides can be extended. The plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) represents a process for the generation of oxide ceramic conversion coatings with high thickness. The current work aims at the clarification of different electrolyte components’ influences on the oxide layer evolution on alloy TNM-B1 (Ti43.5Al4Nb1Mo0.1B) and the creation of compact and wear resistant coatings. Model experiments were applied using a ramp-wise increase of the anodic potential in order to show the influence of electrolyte components on the discharge initiation and the early stage of the oxide layer growth. The production of PEO layers with technically relevant thicknesses close to 100 μm was conducted in alkaline electrolytes with varying amounts of Na2SiO3·5H2O and K4P2O7 under symmetrically pulsed current conditions. Coating properties were evaluated with regard to morphology, chemical composition, hardness and wear resistance. The addition of phosphates and silicates leads to an increasing substrate passivation and the growth of compact oxide layers with higher thicknesses. Optimal electrolyte compositions for maximum coating hardness and thickness were identified by statistical analysis. Under these conditions, a homogeneous inner layer with low porosity can be achieved. The frictional wear behavior of the compact coating layer is superior to a hard anodized layer on aluminum.

Materials, Manufacturing and Test Development of a Composite Fan Blade Leading Edge Subcomponent for Improved Impact Resistance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Handschuh, Katherine M.; Miller, Sandi G.; Sinnott, Matthew J.; Kohlman, Lee W.; Roberts, Gary D.; Pereira, J. Michael; Ruggeri, Charles R.

2014-01-01

Application of polymer matrix composite materials for jet engine fan blades is becoming attractive as an alternative to metallic blades; particularly for large engines where significant weight savings are recognized on moving to a composite structure. However, the weight benefit of the composite of is offset by a reduction of aerodynamic efficiency resulting from a necessary increase in blade thickness; relative to the titanium blades. Blade dimensions are largely driven by resistance to damage on bird strike. Further development of the composite material is necessary to allow composite blade designs to approximate the dimensions of a metallic fan blade. The reduction in thickness over the state of the art composite blades is expected to translate into structural weight reduction, improved aerodynamic efficiency, and therefore reduced fuel consumption. This paper presents test article design, subcomponent blade leading edge fabrication, test method development, and initial results from ballistic impact of a gelatin projectile on the leading edge of composite fan blades. The simplified test article geometry was developed to realistically simulate a blade leading edge while decreasing fabrication complexity. Impact data is presented on baseline composite blades and toughened blades; where a considerable improvement to impact resistance was recorded.

Materials, Manufacturing, and Test Development of a Composite Fan Blade Leading Edge Subcomponent for Improved Impact Resistance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, Sandi G.; Handschuh, Katherine; Sinnott, Matthew J.; Kohlman, Lee W.; Roberts, Gary D.; Martin, Richard E.; Ruggeri, Charles R.; Pereira, J. Michael

2015-01-01

Application of polymer matrix composite materials for jet engine fan blades is becoming attractive as an alternative to metallic blades; particularly for large engines where significant weight savings are recognized on moving to a composite structure. However, the weight benefit of the composite is offset by a reduction of aerodynamic efficiency resulting from a necessary increase in blade thickness; relative to the titanium blades. Blade dimensions are largely driven by resistance to damage on bird strike. Further development of the composite material is necessary to allow composite blade designs to approximate the dimensions of a metallic fan blade. The reduction in thickness over the state of the art composite blades is expected to translate into structural weight reduction, improved aerodynamic efficiency, and therefore reduced fuel consumption. This paper presents test article design, subcomponent blade leading edge fabrication, test method development, and initial results from ballistic impact of a gelatin projectile on the leading edge of composite fan blades. The simplified test article geometry was developed to realistically simulate a blade leading edge while decreasing fabrication complexity. Impact data is presented on baseline composite blades and toughened blades; where a considerable improvement to impact resistance was recorded.

Experimental and analytical study of high velocity impact on Kevlar/Epoxy composite plates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sikarwar, Rahul S.; Velmurugan, Raman; Madhu, Velmuri

2012-12-01

In the present study, impact behavior of Kevlar/Epoxy composite plates has been carried out experimentally by considering different thicknesses and lay-up sequences and compared with analytical results. The effect of thickness, lay-up sequence on energy absorbing capacity has been studied for high velocity impact. Four lay-up sequences and four thickness values have been considered. Initial velocities and residual velocities are measured experimentally to calculate the energy absorbing capacity of laminates. Residual velocity of projectile and energy absorbed by laminates are calculated analytically. The results obtained from analytical study are found to be in good agreement with experimental results. It is observed from the study that 0/90 lay-up sequence is most effective for impact resistance. Delamination area is maximum on the back side of the plate for all thickness values and lay-up sequences. The delamination area on the back is maximum for 0/90/45/-45 laminates compared to other lay-up sequences.

Improving cylinder-type LiFePO4 battery performance via control of internal resistance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Purwanto, Agus; Jumari, Arif; Nizam, Muhammad; Widiyandari, Hendri; Sudaryanto; Deswita; Azmin Mohamad, Ahmad

2018-04-01

Strategies for controlling the internal resistance to improve battery performance were systematically investigated. Electrode densification of LiFePO4 cathodes significantly reduced the internal resistance of the prepared batteries. Densification by reduction to 31.25% of initial thickness resulted in optimal electrochemical performance of the prepared LiFePO4 batteries. The addition of KS 6 graphite material improved the conductivity of the cathodes, which was indicated by a lowering of the internal resistance. The internal resistance was decreased from 73 to 54 when the KS6/AB ratio was varied from 3 to 1. Another factor in controlling the internal resistance was the location of a welded aluminum tab in the cathode. The welding of an aluminum tab in a small gap in the cathode significantly reduced the internal resistance. Thus, three main factors can be performed during fabrication to reduce the internal resistance of a LiFePO4 battery: cathode densification, KS-6 graphite addition, and the arrangement of an aluminum tab welded to the cathode. By optimizing these factors, high-performance LFP batteries were produced.

Tuning resistance states by thickness control in an electroforming-free nanometallic complementary resistance random access memory

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

Yang, Xiang; Lu, Yang; Lee, Jongho

2016-01-04

Tuning low resistance state is crucial for resistance random access memory (RRAM) that aims to achieve optimal read margin and design flexibility. By back-to-back stacking two nanometallic bipolar RRAMs with different thickness into a complementary structure, we have found that its low resistance can be reliably tuned over several orders of magnitude. Such high tunability originates from the exponential thickness dependence of the high resistance state of nanometallic RRAM, in which electron wave localization in a random network gives rise to the unique scaling behavior. The complementary nanometallic RRAM provides electroforming-free, multi-resistance-state, sub-100 ns switching capability with advantageous characteristics formore » memory arrays.« less

CD uniformity control for thick resist process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Chi-hao; Liu, Yu-Lin; Wang, Weihung; Yang, Mars; Yang, Elvis; Yang, T. H.; Chen, K. C.

2017-03-01

In order to meet the increasing storage capacity demand and reduce bit cost of NAND flash memories, 3D stacked flash cell array has been proposed. In constructing 3D NAND flash memories, the higher bit number per area is achieved by increasing the number of stacked layers. Thus the so-called "staircase" patterning to form electrical connection between memory cells and word lines has become one of the primarily critical processes in 3D memory manufacture. To provide controllable critical dimension (CD) with good uniformity involving thick photo-resist has also been of particular concern for staircase patterning. The CD uniformity control has been widely investigated with relatively thinner resist associated with resolution limit dimension but thick resist coupling with wider dimension. This study explores CD uniformity control associated with thick photo-resist processing. Several critical parameters including exposure focus, exposure dose, baking condition, pattern size and development recipe, were found to strongly correlate with the thick photo-resist profile accordingly affecting the CD uniformity control. To minimize the within-wafer CD variation, the slightly tapered resist profile is proposed through well tailoring the exposure focus and dose together with optimal development recipe. Great improvements on DCD (ADI CD) and ECD (AEI CD) uniformity as well as line edge roughness were achieved through the optimization of photo resist profile.

Study of a chemically amplified resist for X-ray lithography by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.

PubMed

Tan, T L; Wong, D; Lee, P; Rawat, R S; Patran, A

2004-11-01

Future applications of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) require lithographic performance of very high aspect ratio. Chemically amplified resists (CARs) such as the negative tone commercial SU-8 provide critical advantages in sensitivity, resolution, and process efficiency in deep ultraviolet, electron-beam, and X-ray lithographies (XRLs), which result in a very high aspect ratio. In this investigation, an SU-8 resist was characterized and optimized for X-ray lithographic applications by studying the cross-linking process of the resist under different conditions of resist thickness and X-ray exposure dose. The exposure dose of soft X-ray (SXR) irradiation at the average weighted wavelength of 1.20 nm from a plasma focus device ranges from 100 to 1600 mJ/cm(2) on the resist surface. Resist thickness varies from 3.5 to 15 mum. The cross-linking process of the resist during post-exposure bake (PEB) was accurately monitored using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The infrared absorption peaks at 862, 914, 972, and 1128 cm(-1) in the spectrum of the SU-8 resist were found to be useful indicators for the completion of cross-linking in the resist. Results of the experiments showed that the cross-linking of SU-8 was optimized at the exposure dose of 800 mJ/cm(2) for resist thicknesses of 3.5, 9.5, and 15 microm. PEB temperature was set at 95 degrees C and time at 3 min. The resist thickness was measured using interference patterns in the FT-IR spectra of the resist. Test structures with an aspect ratio 3:1 on 10 microm thick SU-8 resist film were obtained using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Thermal conductivity and thermal boundary resistance of atomic layer deposited high-k dielectric aluminum oxide, hafnium oxide, and titanium oxide thin films on silicon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scott, Ethan A.; Gaskins, John T.; King, Sean W.; Hopkins, Patrick E.

2018-05-01

The need for increased control of layer thickness and uniformity as device dimensions shrink has spurred increased use of atomic layer deposition (ALD) for thin film growth. The ability to deposit high dielectric constant (high-k) films via ALD has allowed for their widespread use in a swath of optical, optoelectronic, and electronic devices, including integration into CMOS compatible platforms. As the thickness of these dielectric layers is reduced, the interfacial thermal resistance can dictate the overall thermal resistance of the material stack compared to the resistance due to the finite dielectric layer thickness. Time domain thermoreflectance is used to interrogate both the thermal conductivity and the thermal boundary resistance of aluminum oxide, hafnium oxide, and titanium oxide films on silicon. We calculate a representative design map of effective thermal resistances, including those of the dielectric layers and boundary resistances, as a function of dielectric layer thickness, which will be of great importance in predicting the thermal resistances of current and future devices.

IR Window Studies

DTIC Science & Technology

1974-09-15

molten gallium but still have a lew resistivity. Stabilized zirconia was used to remove and monitor oxygen. KC1 crystals with a-j« 5 m = lO...information that GaAs grown from Ga solutions at low temperatures can be made with higher purities than that grown at the melting point . The initial...goals were to grow thick films below the melting point which would be semi-insulating and to measure their absorption coefficients. This goal was to

The Effects of Film Thickness and Evaporation Rate on Si-Cu Thin Films for Lithium Ion Batteries.

PubMed

Polat, B Deniz; Keles, Ozgul

2015-12-01

The reversible cyclability of Si based composite anodes is greatly improved by optimizing the atomic ratio of Si/Cu, the thickness and the evaporation rates of films fabricated by electron beam deposition method. The galvanostatic test results show that 500 nm thick flim, having 10%at. Cu-90%at. Si, deposited with a moderate evaporation rate (10 and 0.9 Å/s for Si and Cu respectively) delivers 2642.37 mAh g(-1) as the first discharge capacity with 76% Coulombic efficiency. 99% of its initial capacity is retained after 20 cycles. The electron conductive pathway and high mechanical tolerance induced by Cu atoms, the low electrical resistivity of the film due to Cu3Si particles, and the homogeneously distributed nano-sized/amorphous particles in the composite thin film could explain this outstanding electrochemical performance of the anode.

Thin silicon solar cell performance characteristics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gay, C. F.

1978-01-01

Refined techniques for surface texturizing, back surface field and back surface reflector formation were evaluated for use with shallow junction, single-crystal silicon solar cells. Each process was characterized individually and collectively as a function of device thickness and bulk resistivity. Among the variables measured and reported are open circuit voltage, short circuit current and spectral response. Substantial improvements were obtained by the utilization of a low cost aluminum paste process to simultaneously remove the unwanted n(+) diffused region, form the back surface field and produce an ohmic contact metallization. The highly effective BSF which results from applying this process has allowed fabrication of cells 0.05 mm thick with initial outputs as high as 79.5 mW/4 sq cm (28 C, AM0) and superior electron radiation tolerance. Cells of 0.02 mm to 0.04 mm thickness have been fabricated with power to mass ratios well in excess of 2 watts per gram.

Modeling of thin, back-wall silicon solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baraona, C. R.

1979-01-01

The performance of silicon solar cells with p-n junctions on the nonilluminated surface (i.e., upside-down or back-wall cells) was calculated. These structures consisted of a uniformly shaped p-type substrate layer, a p(+)-type field layer on the front (illuminated) surface, and a shallow, n-type junction on the back (nonilluminated) surface. A four-layer solar cell model was used to calculate efficiency, open-circuit voltage, and short-circuit current. The effect on performance of p-layer thickness and resistivity was determined. The diffusion length was varied to simulate the effect of radiation damage. The results show that peak initial efficiencies greater than 15 percent are possible for cell thicknesses or 100 micrometers or less. After 10 years of radiation damage in geosynchronous orbit, thin (25 to 50 micrometers thick) cells made from 10 to 100 ohm cm material show the smallest decrease (approximately 10 percent) in performance.

The effect of multiple antireflective coatings and center thickness on resistance of polycarbonate spectacle lenses to penetration by pointed missiles.

PubMed

Chou, B Ralph; Gupta, Alina; Hovis, Jeffery K

2005-11-01

Previous work has shown that the impact resistance to blunt missiles is affected by coatings applied to either CR-39 or polycarbonate lenses. We investigated the effects of multiple antireflection (minimum angle of resolution [MAR]) coatings on the resistance of polycarbonate lenses to puncture on impact by sharp, high-speed missiles. Four groups of surfaced plano polycarbonate lenses were investigated. Two groups had a scratch-resistant (SR) coating applied to both surfaces. One of these groups had a 2-mm center thickness and the other had a 3-mm center thickness. The other two groups of 2-mm and 3-mm thick lenses had a MAR coating applied over the SR coating. The lenses were impacted by a missile consisting of an industrial sewing machine needle mounted in a cylindrical aluminum carrier. The sharp missiles were able to pierce the lenses at speeds between 29.6 m/s and 46.2 m/s. Impact resistance was lowest for the thinner lenses and lenses with a MAR coating. The effect of the MAR and lens thickness was subadditive. We have confirmed previous observations that polycarbonate lenses are more susceptible to penetration by sharp, high-speed missiles than blunt missiles. We have also found that reducing lens center thickness and applying a MAR coating further reduces the penetration resistance. Therefore, the use of 2-mm center thickness and MAR-coated polycarbonate lenses should be discouraged for industrial eye protectors where sharp missile hazards are possible.

Hf layer thickness dependence of resistive switching characteristics of Ti/Hf/HfO2/Au resistive random access memory device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakajima, Ryo; Azuma, Atsushi; Yoshida, Hayato; Shimizu, Tomohiro; Ito, Takeshi; Shingubara, Shoso

2018-06-01

Resistive random access memory (ReRAM) devices with a HfO2 dielectric layer have been studied extensively owing to the good reproducibility of their SET/RESET switching properties. Furthermore, it was reported that a thin Hf layer next to a HfO2 layer stabilized switching properties because of the oxygen scavenging effect. In this work, we studied the Hf thickness dependence of the resistance switching characteristics of a Ti/Hf/HfO2/Au ReRAM device. It is found that the optimum Hf thickness is approximately 10 nm to obtain good reproducibility of SET/RESET voltages with a small RESET current. However, when the Hf thickness was very small (∼2 nm), the device failed after the first RESET process owing to the very large RESET current. In the case of a very thick Hf layer (∼20 nm), RESET did not occur owing to the formation of a leaky dielectric layer. We observed the occurrence of multiple resistance states in the RESET process of the device with a Hf thickness of 10 nm by increasing the RESET voltage stepwise.

Integrity of the Plasma Magnetic Nozzle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gerwin, Richard A.

2009-01-01

This report examines the physics governing certain aspects of plasma propellant flow through a magnetic nozzle, specifically the integrity of the interface between the plasma and the nozzle s magnetic field. The injection of 100s of eV plasma into a magnetic flux nozzle that converts thermal energy into directed thrust is fundamental to enabling 10 000s of seconds specific impulse and 10s of kW/kg specific power piloted interplanetary propulsion. An expression for the initial thickness of the interface is derived and found to be approx.10(exp -2) m. An algorithm is reviewed and applied to compare classical resistivity to gradient-driven microturbulent (anomalous) resistivity, in terms of the spatial rate and time integral of resistive interface broadening, which can then be related to the geometry of the nozzle. An algorithm characterizing plasma temperature, density, and velocity dependencies is derived and found to be comparable to classical resistivity at local plasma temperatures of approx. 200 eV. Macroscopic flute-mode instabilities in regions of "adverse magnetic curvature" are discussed; a growth rate formula is derived and found to be one to two e-foldings of the most unstable Rayleigh-Taylor (RT) mode. After establishing the necessity of incorporating the Hall effect into Ohm s law (allowing full Hall current to flow and concomitant plasma rotation), a critical nozzle length expression is derived in which the interface thickness is limited to about 1 ion gyroradius.

Ballistic impact resistance of selected organic ophthalmic lenses.

PubMed

Chou, B Ralph; Yuen, Gloria S-C; Dain, Stephen J

2011-11-01

The aim was to assess the impact resistance of coated and uncoated mid-index spectacle lens materials using the ballistic impact test. Nominally plano lenses of each material in three thicknesses were obtained. The lenses were flat edged to a 50 mm diameter. Each lens was impacted by a 6.35 mm steel ball. Impact velocities were selected using the Zippy Estimation by Sequential Testing protocol to determine the threshold fracture impact velocity. Threshold fracture impact velocity generally increased with thickness; however, there was a wide variation in performance among the various lens materials at each thickness. In all but two instances, the differences in impact velocity at each thickness of lens material were significant. Comparison of the data for CR39 and Hoya Phoenix with the results of earlier studies showed that the lens mounting is a significant factor. The fracture velocities found in the present study were significantly lower than the fracture velocities found when the lens edge is restrained in the mounting. A scratch resistant coating reduced the impact resistance of CR39. The effect of the antireflection coating on the fracture velocity depended on the nature of the base scratch-resistant coating. Mid-index lens materials of the same thickness show widely varying levels of impact resistance under the ballistic test. Impact resistance increases non-linearly with centre thickness. The lens mounting might affect the results of the ballistic impact test. The presence of 'cushion coatings' might enhance impact resistance. © 2011 The Authors. Clinical and Experimental Optometry © 2011 Optometrists Association Australia.

Acoustic emission analysis of crack resistance and fracture behavior of 20GL steel having the gradient microstructure and strength

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nikulin, S.; Nikitin, A.; Belov, V.; Rozhnov, A.; Turilina, V.; Anikeenko, V.; Khatkevich, V.

2017-07-01

The crack resistances as well as fracture behavior of 20GL steel quenched with a fast-moving water stream and having gradient microstructure and strength are analyzed. Crack resistance tests with quenched and normalized flat rectangular specimens having different cut lengths loaded by three-point bending with acoustic emission measurements have been performed. The critical J-integral has been used as the crack resistance parameter of the material. Quenching with a fast moving water stream leads to gradient (along a specimen wall thickness) strengthening of steel due to highly refined gradient microstructure formation of the troostomartensite type. Quenching with a fast-moving water stream increases crack resistance Jc , of 20GL steel by a factor of ∼ 1.5. The fracture accrues gradually with the load in the normalized specimens while the initiated crack is hindered in the variable ductility layer and further arrested in the more ductile core in the quenched specimens.

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

Chang, Seo Hyoung; Kim, Jungho; Phatak, Charudatta

The interaction between X-rays and matter is an intriguing topic for both fundamental science and possible applications. In particular, synchrotron-based brilliant X-ray beams have been used as a powerful diagnostic tool to unveil nanoscale phenomena in functional materials. But, it has not been widely investigated how functional materials respond to the brilliant X-rays. Here, we report the X-ray-induced reversible resistance change in 40-nm-thick TiO 2 films sandwiched by Pt top and bottom electrodes, and propose the physical mechanism behind the emergent phenomenon. Our findings indicate that there exists a photovoltaic-like effect, which modulates the resistance reversibly by a few ordersmore » of magnitude, depending on the intensity of impinging X-rays. Furthermore, we found that this effect, combined with the X-ray irradiation induced phase transition confirmed by transmission electron microscopy, triggers a nonvolatile reversible resistance change. In understanding X-ray-controlled reversible resistance changes we can provide possibilities to control initial resistance states of functional materials, which could be useful for future information and energy storage devices.« less

Photoinduced Cross-Linking of Dynamic Poly(disulfide) Films via Thiol Oxidative Coupling.

PubMed

Feillée, Noémi; Chemtob, Abraham; Ley, Christian; Croutxé-Barghorn, Céline; Allonas, Xavier; Ponche, Arnaud; Le Nouen, Didier; Majjad, Hicham; Jacomine, Léandro

2016-01-01

Initially developed as an elastomer with an excellent record of barrier and chemical resistance properties, poly(disulfide) has experienced a revival linked to the dynamic nature of the S-S covalent bond. A novel photobase-catalyzed oxidative polymerization of multifunctional thiols to poly(disulfide) network is reported. Based solely on air oxidation, the single-step process is triggered by the photodecarboxylation of a xanthone acetic acid liberating a strong bicyclic guanidine base. Starting with a 1 μm thick film based on trithiol poly(ethylene oxide) oligomer, the UV-mediated oxidation of thiols to disulfides occurs in a matter of minutes both selectively, i.e., without overoxidation, and quantitatively as assessed by a range of spectroscopic techniques. Thiolate formation and film thickness determine the reaction rates and yield. Spatial control of the photopolymerization serves to generate robust micropatterns, while the reductive cleavage of S-S bridges allows the recycling of 40% of the initial thiol groups. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Influence of helical external driven current on nonlinear resistive tearing mode evolution and saturation in tokamaks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, W.; Wang, S.; Ma, Z. W.

2017-06-01

The influences of helical driven currents on nonlinear resistive tearing mode evolution and saturation are studied by using a three-dimensional toroidal resistive magnetohydrodynamic code (CLT). We carried out three types of helical driven currents: stationary, time-dependent amplitude, and thickness. It is found that the helical driven current is much more efficient than the Gaussian driven current used in our previous study [S. Wang et al., Phys. Plasmas 23(5), 052503 (2016)]. The stationary helical driven current cannot persistently control tearing mode instabilities. For the time-dependent helical driven current with f c d = 0.01 and δ c d < 0.04 , the island size can be reduced to its saturated level that is about one third of the initial island size. However, if the total driven current increases to about 7% of the total plasma current, tearing mode instabilities will rebound again due to the excitation of the triple tearing mode. For the helical driven current with time dependent strength and thickness, the reduction speed of the radial perturbation component of the magnetic field increases with an increase in the driven current and then saturates at a quite low level. The tearing mode is always controlled even for a large driven current.

X-ray Irradiation Induced Reversible Resistance Change in Pt/TiO 2 /Pt Cells

DOE PAGES

Chang, Seo Hyoung; Kim, Jungho; Phatak, Charudatta; ...

2014-02-25

The interaction between X-rays and matter is an intriguing topic for both fundamental science and possible applications. In particular, synchrotron-based brilliant X-ray beams have been used as a powerful diagnostic tool to unveil nanoscale phenomena in functional materials. But, it has not been widely investigated how functional materials respond to the brilliant X-rays. Here, we report the X-ray-induced reversible resistance change in 40-nm-thick TiO 2 films sandwiched by Pt top and bottom electrodes, and propose the physical mechanism behind the emergent phenomenon. Our findings indicate that there exists a photovoltaic-like effect, which modulates the resistance reversibly by a few ordersmore » of magnitude, depending on the intensity of impinging X-rays. Furthermore, we found that this effect, combined with the X-ray irradiation induced phase transition confirmed by transmission electron microscopy, triggers a nonvolatile reversible resistance change. In understanding X-ray-controlled reversible resistance changes we can provide possibilities to control initial resistance states of functional materials, which could be useful for future information and energy storage devices.« less

X-ray irradiation induced reversible resistance change in Pt/TiO2/Pt cells.

PubMed

Chang, Seo Hyoung; Kim, Jungho; Phatak, Charudatta; D'Aquila, Kenneth; Kim, Seong Keun; Kim, Jiyoon; Song, Seul Ji; Hwang, Cheol Seong; Eastman, Jeffrey A; Freeland, John W; Hong, Seungbum

2014-02-25

The interaction between X-rays and matter is an intriguing topic for both fundamental science and possible applications. In particular, synchrotron-based brilliant X-ray beams have been used as a powerful diagnostic tool to unveil nanoscale phenomena in functional materials. However, it has not been widely investigated how functional materials respond to the brilliant X-rays. Here, we report the X-ray-induced reversible resistance change in 40-nm-thick TiO2 films sandwiched by Pt top and bottom electrodes, and propose the physical mechanism behind the emergent phenomenon. Our findings indicate that there exists a photovoltaic-like effect, which modulates the resistance reversibly by a few orders of magnitude, depending on the intensity of impinging X-rays. We found that this effect, combined with the X-ray irradiation induced phase transition confirmed by transmission electron microscopy, triggers a nonvolatile reversible resistance change. Understanding X-ray-controlled reversible resistance changes can provide possibilities to control initial resistance states of functional materials, which could be useful for future information and energy storage devices.

Resistance Spot Welding of AA5052 Sheet Metal of Dissimilar Thickness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mat Din, N. A.; Zuhailawati, H.; Anasyida, A. S.

2016-02-01

Resistance spot welding of dissimilar thickness of AA5052 aluminum alloy was performed in order to investigate the effect of metal thickness on the weldment strength. Resistance spot welding was done using a spot welder machine available in Coraza Systems Sdn Bhd using a hemispherical of chromium copper electrode tip with radius of 6.00 mm under 14 kA of current and 0.02 bar of pressure for all thickness combinations. Lap joint configuration was produced between 2.0 mm thick sheet and 1.2 - 3.2 mm thick sheet, respectively. Microstructure of joint showed asymmetrical nugget shape that was larger on the thicker side indicating larger molten metal volume. Joint 2.0 mm x 3.2 mm sheets has the lowest hardness in both transverse direction and through thickness direction because less heat left in the weld nugget. The microstructure shows that this joint has coarse grains of HAZ. As thickness of sheet metal increased, the failure load of the joints increased. However, there was no linear correlation established between joint strength and metal thickness due to different shape of fusion zone in dissimilar thickness sheet metal.

Reduced dorso-lateral prefrontal cortex in treatment resistant schizophrenia.

PubMed

Zugman, André; Gadelha, Ary; Assunção, Idaiane; Sato, João; Ota, Vanessa K; Rocha, Deyvis L; Mari, Jair J; Belangero, Sintia I; Bressan, Rodrigo A; Brietzke, Elisa; Jackowski, Andrea P

2013-08-01

Treatment resistance affects up to one third of patients with schizophrenia (SCZ). A better understanding of its biological underlying processes could improve treatment. The aim of this study was to compare cortical thickness between non-resistant SCZ (NR-SCZ), treatment-resistant SCZ (TR-SCZ) patients and healthy controls (HC). Structural MRI scans were obtained from 3 groups of individuals: 61 treatment resistant SCZ individuals, 67 non-resistant SCZ and 80 healthy controls. Images were analyzed using cortical surface modelling (implemented in freesurfer package) to identify group differences in cortical thickness. Statistical significant differences were identified using Monte-Carlo simulation method with a corrected p-cluster<0.01. Patients in the TR-SCZ group showed a widespread reduction in cortical thickness in frontal, parietal, temporal and occipital regions bilaterally. NR-SCZ group had reduced cortex in two regions (left superior frontal cortex and left caudal middle frontal cortex). TR-SCZ group also showed decreased thickness in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) when compared with patients from NR-SCZ group. The reduction in cortical thickness in DLPFC indicates a more severe form of the disease or a specific finding for this group. Alterations in this region should be explored as a putative marker for treatment resistance. Prospective studies, with individuals being followed from first episode psychosis until refractoriness is diagnosed, are needed to clarify these hypotheses. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Insulin resistance and carotid intima-media thickness mediate the association between resting-state heart rate variability and executive function: A path modelling study.

PubMed

Kemp, Andrew H; López, Santiago Rodríguez; Passos, Valeria M A; Bittencourt, Marcio S; Dantas, Eduardo M; Mill, José G; Ribeiro, Antonio L P; Thayer, Julian F; Bensenor, Isabela M; Lotufo, Paulo A

2016-05-01

Research has linked high-frequency heart rate variability (HF-HRV) to cognitive function. The present study adopts a modern path modelling approach to understand potential causal pathways that may underpin this relationship. Here we examine the association between resting-state HF-HRV and executive function in a large sample of civil servants from Brazil (N=8114) recruited for the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). HF-HRV was calculated from 10-min resting-state electrocardiograms. Executive function was assessed using the trail-making test (version B). Insulin resistance (a marker of type 2 diabetes mellitus) and carotid intima-media thickness (subclinical atherosclerosis) mediated the relationship between HRV and executive function in seriatim. A limitation of the present study is its cross-sectional design; therefore, conclusions must be confirmed in longitudinal study. Nevertheless, findings support that possibility that HRV provides a 'spark' that initiates a cascade of adverse downstream effects that subsequently leads to cognitive impairment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

In vitro analysis of the fracture resistance of CAD-CAM monolithic zirconia molar crowns with different occlusal thickness.

PubMed

Sorrentino, Roberto; Triulzio, Clementina; Tricarico, Maria Gabriella; Bonadeo, Giovanni; Gherlone, Enrico Felice; Ferrari, Marco

2016-08-01

To compare the fracture resistance and mode of failure of CAD-CAM monolithic zirconia crowns with different occlusal thickness. Forty CAD-CAM monolithic zirconia crowns with different occlusal thickness were randomly distributed into 4 experimental groups: 2.0mm (group 1), 1.5mm (group 2), 1.0mm (group 3) and 0.5mm (group 4). The restorations were cemented onto human molars with a self-adhesive resin cement. The specimens were loaded until fracture; the fracture resistance and mode of failure were recorded. The data were statistically analyzed with the one-way ANOVA followed by the Fisher׳s Exact test with Bonferroni׳s correction (p=0.05). The fracture resistance values of all the specimens exceeded the maximum physiological occlusal loads in molar regions. All the crowns showed cohesive microcracks of the zirconia core; only 1 crown with a thickness of 0.5mm was interested by a complete fracture. The occlusal thickness of CAD-CAM monolithic zirconia crowns did not influence either the fracture resistance and the mode of failure of the restorations; the occlusal thickness of CAD-CAM monolithic zirconia crowns can be reduced up to a lower bound of 0.5mm keeping a sufficient strength to withstand occlusal loads; CAD-CAM monolithic zirconia crowns showed sufficient fracture resistance to be used in molar regions, even in a thin configuration (0.5mm). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Laser resist screening for iP3500/3600 replacement for advanced reticle fabrication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ota, Fumiko; Kobayashi, Hideo; Higuchi, Takao; Asakawa, Keishi

2001-01-01

This paper will describe resist screening results for iP3500/3600 replacement for the advanced laser reticle fabrication, resist coating thickness optimization proposal for the next generation as well. THMR-M100 (TOK) showed the best pattern profile with sharp shoulders and almost with no footing, and a newly developed resist, a joint-work between HOYA and a resist maker, showed the best performance in adhesion to chrome. However, there was not the best selection found unfortunately by this screening, which exceeded iP3500 in linearity and iso-dense bias (IDB) that was indispensable one for the advanced laser reticle fabrication. As regards coating thickness, we selected 307.5 nm thick as a candidate for coating thickness standard for the future with considering resist resolution performance such as linearity, γp(0-80) value and undercut, in conjunction with a risk of clear pinhole defects. For more precise comparison of iso-dense bias (IDB) performance, it would be better that the examination method is standardized because of the design pattern dependence of IDB.

Vertical resistivity in nanocrystalline ZnO and amorphous InGaZnO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCandless, Jonathan P.; Leedy, Kevin D.; Schuette, Michael L.

2018-02-01

The goal is to gain additional insight into physical mechanisms and the role of microstructure on the formation of ohmic contacts and the reduction of contact resistance. We have measured a decreasing film resistivity in the vertical direction with increasing thickness of pulsed-laser deposited ZnO and IGZO. As the ZnO thickness increases from 122 nm to 441 nm, a reduction in resistivity from 3.29 Ω-cm to 0.364 Ω-cm occurred. The IGZO resistivity changes from 72.4 Ω-cm to 0.642 Ω-cm as the film is increased from 108nm to 219 nm. In the ZnO, the size of nanocolumnar grains increase with thickness resulting in fewer grain boundaries, and in the amorphous IGZO, the thicker region exhibits tunnel-like artifacts which may contribute to the reduced resistivity.

Fracture resistance of Nd:YAG laser-welded cast titanium joints with various clinical thicknesses and welding pulse energies.

PubMed

Lin, Mau-Chin; Lin, Sheng-Chieh; Wang, Yu-Tsai; Hu, Suh-Woan; Lee, Tzu-Hsin; Chen, Li-Kai; Huang, Her-Hsiung

2007-05-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the fracture resistance of Nd:YAG laser-welded cast titanium (Ti) joints with various clinical thicknesses and welding pulse energies. A four-point bending test was used to assess the effects of various specimen thicknesses (1-3 mm) and welding pulse energies (11-24 J) on the fracture resistance of Nd:YAG laser-welded Ti dental joints. Fracture resistance was evaluated in terms of the ratio of the number of fractured specimens to the number of tested specimens. As for the fracture frequencies, they were compared using the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test. Morphology of the fractured Ti joints was observed using a scanning electron microscope. Results showed that decreasing the specimen thickness and/or increasing the welding pulse energy, i.e., increasing the welded area percentage, resulted in an increase in the fracture resistance of the Ti joint. Where fracture occurred, the fracture site would be at the center of the weld metal.

High efficiency solar panel /HESP/

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stella, P. M.; Gay, C.; Uno, F.; Scott-Monck, J.

1978-01-01

A family of high efficiency, weldable silicon solar cells, incorporating nearly every feature of advanced cell technology developed in the past four years, was produced and subjected to space qualification testing. This matrix contained both field and non-field cells ranging in thickness from 0.10 mm to 0.30 mm, and in base resistivity from nominal two to one hundred ohm-cm. Initial power outputs as high as 20 mW/sq cm (14.8% AM0 efficiency) were produced by certain cell types within the matrix.

Low-temperature technique for thick film resist stabilization and curing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Minter, Jason P.; Wong, Selmer S.; Marlowe, Trey; Ross, Matthew F.; Narcy, Mark E.; Livesay, William R.

1999-06-01

For a range of thick film photoresist applications, including MeV ion implant processing, thin film head manufacturing, and microelectromechanical systems processing, there is a need for a low-temperature method for resist stabilization and curing. Traditional methods of stabilizing or curing resist films have relied on thermal cycling, which may not be desirable due to device temperature limitations or thermally-induced distortion of the resist features.

The influence of electrode and separator thickness on the cell resistance of symmetric cellulose-polypyrrole-based electric energy storage devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tammela, Petter; Olsson, Henrik; Strømme, Maria; Nyholm, Leif

2014-12-01

The influence of the cell design of symmetric polypyrrole and cellulose-based electric energy storage devices on the cell resistance was investigated using chronopotentiometric and ac impedance measurements with different separator and electrode thicknesses. The cell resistance was found to be dominated by the electrolyte and current collector resistances while the contribution from the composite electrode material was negligible. Due to the electrolyte within the porous electrodes thin separators could be used in combination with thick composite electrodes without loss of performance. The paper separator contributed with a resistance of ∼1.5 Ω mm-1 in a 1.0 M NaNO3 electrolyte and the tortuosity value for the separator was about 2.5. The contribution from the graphite foil current collectors was about ∼0.4-1.1 Ω and this contribution could not be reduced by using platinum foil current collectors due to larger contact resistances. The introduction of chopped carbon fibres into the electrode material or the application of pressure across the cells, however, decreased the charge transfer resistance significantly. As the present results demonstrate that cells with higher charge storage capacities but with the same cell resistance can be obtained by increasing the electrode thickness, the development of paper based energy storage devices is facilitated.

Controlling the formation and stability of ultra-thin nickel silicides - An alloying strategy for preventing agglomeration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geenen, F. A.; van Stiphout, K.; Nanakoudis, A.; Bals, S.; Vantomme, A.; Jordan-Sweet, J.; Lavoie, C.; Detavernier, C.

2018-02-01

The electrical contact of the source and drain regions in state-of-the-art CMOS transistors is nowadays facilitated through NiSi, which is often alloyed with Pt in order to avoid morphological agglomeration of the silicide film. However, the solid-state reaction between as-deposited Ni and the Si substrate exhibits a peculiar change for as-deposited Ni films thinner than a critical thickness of tc = 5 nm. Whereas thicker films form polycrystalline NiSi upon annealing above 450 ° C , thinner films form epitaxial NiSi2 films that exhibit a high resistance toward agglomeration. For industrial applications, it is therefore of utmost importance to assess the critical thickness with high certainty and find novel methodologies to either increase or decrease its value, depending on the aimed silicide formation. This paper investigates Ni films between 0 and 15 nm initial thickness by use of "thickness gradients," which provide semi-continuous information on silicide formation and stability as a function of as-deposited layer thickness. The alloying of these Ni layers with 10% Al, Co, Ge, Pd, or Pt renders a significant change in the phase sequence as a function of thickness and dependent on the alloying element. The addition of these ternary impurities therefore changes the critical thickness tc. The results are discussed in the framework of classical nucleation theory.

Resistive switching in a few nanometers thick tantalum oxide film formed by a metal oxidation

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

Ohno, Takeo, E-mail: t-ohno@wpi-aimr.tohoku.ac.jp; Japan Science and Technology Agency; Samukawa, Seiji, E-mail: samukawa@ifs.tohoku.ac.jp

2015-04-27

Resistive switching in a Cu/Ta{sub 2}O{sub 5}/Pt structure that consisted of a few nanometer-thick Ta{sub 2}O{sub 5} film was demonstrated. The Ta{sub 2}O{sub 5} film with thicknesses of 2–5 nm was formed with a combination of Ta metal film deposition and neutral oxygen particle irradiation at room temperature. The device exhibited a bipolar resistive switching with a threshold voltage of 0.2 V and multilevel switching operation.

High wear resistance of femoral components coated with titanium nitride: a retrieval analysis.

PubMed

Fabry, Christian; Zietz, Carmen; Baumann, Axel; Ehall, Reinhard; Bader, Rainer

2017-05-20

The objective of this study was to evaluate the in vivo wear resistance of cobalt-chromium femoral components coated with titanium nitride (TiN). Our null hypothesis was that the surface damage and the thickness of the TiN coating do not correlate with the time in vivo. Twenty-five TiN-coated bicondylar femoral retrievals with a mean implantation period of 30.7 ± 11.7 months were subjected to an objective surface damage analysis with a semi-quantitative assessment method. A visual examination of scratches, indentations, notches and coating breakthroughs of the surfaces was performed. The roughness and the coating thickness of the TiN coating were evaluated in the main articulation regions. Narrow scratches and indentations in the range of low flexion angles on the retrieval surfaces were the most common modes of damage. There was no evidence of delamination on the articulation surface but rather at the bottom of isolated severe indentations or notches. An analysis of three retrievals revealed a coating breakthrough in the patellofemoral joint region, resulting from patella maltracking and a dislocation. The arithmetical mean roughness of the TiN surface slightly increased with the implantation period. In contrast, the maximum peak height of the roughness profile was reduced at the condyles of the retrieved components in comparison with new, unused surfaces. No significant association between the coating thickness and implantation period was determined. Moreover, the measured values were retained in the range of the initial coating thickness even after several years of in vivo service. As was demonstrated by the results of this study, the surface damage to the TiN coating did not deteriorate with the implantation period. The calculated damage scores and the measured coating thickness in particular both confirmed that the TiN coating provides low wear rates. Our findings support the use of wear-resistant TiN-coated components in total knee arthroplasty with the objective of reducing the risk of aseptic loosening. However, in terms of TiN-coated femoral components, particular attention should be paid to a correct patellar tracking in order to avoid wear propagation at the implant.

A new method for the automatic interpretation of Schlumberger and Wenner sounding curves

USGS Publications Warehouse

Zohdy, A.A.R.

1989-01-01

A fast iterative method for the automatic interpretation of Schlumberger and Wenner sounding curves is based on obtaining interpreted depths and resistivities from shifted electrode spacings and adjusted apparent resistivities, respectively. The method is fully automatic. It does not require an initial guess of the number of layers, their thicknesses, or their resistivities; and it does not require extrapolation of incomplete sounding curves. The number of layers in the interpreted model equals the number of digitized points on the sounding curve. The resulting multilayer model is always well-behaved with no thin layers of unusually high or unusually low resistivities. For noisy data, interpretation is done in two sets of iterations (two passes). Anomalous layers, created because of noise in the first pass, are eliminated in the second pass. Such layers are eliminated by considering the best-fitting curve from the first pass to be a smoothed version of the observed curve and automatically reinterpreting it (second pass). The application of the method is illustrated by several examples. -Author

Does Retinal Neurodegeneration Seen in Diabetic Patients Begin in the Insulin Resistance Stage?

PubMed

Arıkan, Sedat; Erşan, İsmail; Eroğlu, Mustafa; Yılmaz, Mehmet; Tufan, Hasan Ali; Gencer, Baran; Kara, Selçuk; Aşık, Mehmet

2016-12-01

To investigate whether retinal neurodegeneration and impairment in contrast sensitivity (CS), which have been demonstrated to begin in diabetic patients before the presence of signs of diabetic retinal vasculopathy, also occur in the stage of insulin resistance. The average, minimum and sectoral (inferior, superior, inferonasal, superonasal, inferotemporal and superotemporal) thicknesses of the ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) measured using optical coherence tomography were compared between an insulin-resistant group and control group in order to evaluate the presence of retinal neurodegeneration. The CS of the two groups was also compared according to the logarithmic values measured at spatial frequencies of 1.5, 3, 6, 12 and 18 cycles per degree in photopic light using functional acuity contrast test (FACT). Twenty-five eyes of 25 patients with insulin resistance (insulin resistant group) and 25 eyes of 25 healthy subjects (control group) were included in this study. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in any of the spatial frequencies in the FACT. The mean average GCIPL thickness and mean GCIPL thickness in the inferotemporal sector were significantly less in the insulin-resistant group when compared with the control group (mean average GCIPL thicknesses in the insulin-resistant and control groups were 83.6±4.7 µm and 86.7±3.7 µm respectively, p=0.01; mean inferotemporal GCIPL thicknesses in the insulin-resistant and control groups were 83±6.0 µm and 86.7±4.6 µm respectively, p=0.02). Although it may not lead to functional visual impairment such as CS loss, the retinal neurodegeneration seen in diabetic patients may begin in the insulin resistance stage.

Comparison of deep and superficial abdominal muscle activity between experienced Pilates and resistance exercise instructors and controls during stabilization exercise.

PubMed

Moon, Ji-Hyun; Hong, Sang-Min; Kim, Chang-Won; Shin, Yun-A

2015-06-01

Pilates and resistance exercises are used for lumbar stabilization training. However, it is unclear which exercise is more effective for lumbar stabilization. In our study, we aimed to compare surface muscle activity and deep muscle thickness during relaxation and spinal stabilization exercise in experienced Pilates and resistance exercise instructors. This study is a retrospective case control study set in the Exercise Prescription Laboratory and Sports Medicine Center. The participants included Pilates instructors (mean years of experience, 3.20±1.76; n=10), resistance exercise instructors (mean years of experience, 2.53±0.63; n=10), and controls (n=10). The participants performed 4 different stabilization exercises: abdominal drawing-in maneuver, bridging, roll-up, and one-leg raise. During the stabilization exercises, surface muscle activity was measured with electromyography, whereas deep muscle thickness was measured by ultrasound imaging. During the 4 stabilization exercises, the thickness of the transverse abdominis (TrA) was significantly greater in the Pilates-trained group than the other 2 other groups. The internal oblique (IO) thickness was significantly greater in the Pilates- and resistance-trained group than the control group, during the 4 exercises. However, the surface muscle activities were similar between the groups. Both Pilates and resistance exercise instructors had greater activation of deep muscles, such as the TrA and IO, than the control subjects. Pilates and resistance exercise are both effective for increasing abdominal deep muscle thickness.

Comparison of deep and superficial abdominal muscle activity between experienced Pilates and resistance exercise instructors and controls during stabilization exercise

PubMed Central

Moon, Ji-Hyun; Hong, Sang-Min; Kim, Chang-Won; Shin, Yun-A

2015-01-01

Pilates and resistance exercises are used for lumbar stabilization training. However, it is unclear which exercise is more effective for lumbar stabilization. In our study, we aimed to compare surface muscle activity and deep muscle thickness during relaxation and spinal stabilization exercise in experienced Pilates and resistance exercise instructors. This study is a retrospective case control study set in the Exercise Prescription Laboratory and Sports Medicine Center. The participants included Pilates instructors (mean years of experience, 3.20±1.76; n=10), resistance exercise instructors (mean years of experience, 2.53±0.63; n=10), and controls (n=10). The participants performed 4 different stabilization exercises: abdominal drawing-in maneuver, bridging, roll-up, and one-leg raise. During the stabilization exercises, surface muscle activity was measured with electromyography, whereas deep muscle thickness was measured by ultrasound imaging. During the 4 stabilization exercises, the thickness of the transverse abdominis (TrA) was significantly greater in the Pilates-trained group than the other 2 other groups. The internal oblique (IO) thickness was significantly greater in the Pilates- and resistance-trained group than the control group, during the 4 exercises. However, the surface muscle activities were similar between the groups. Both Pilates and resistance exercise instructors had greater activation of deep muscles, such as the TrA and IO, than the control subjects. Pilates and resistance exercise are both effective for increasing abdominal deep muscle thickness. PMID:26171383

Electroless silver coating of rod-like glass particles.

PubMed

Moon, Jee Hyun; Kim, Kyung Hwan; Choi, Hyung Wook; Lee, Sang Wha; Park, Sang Joon

2008-09-01

An electroless silver coating of rod-like glass particles was performed and silver glass composite powders were prepared to impart electrical conductivity to these non-conducting glass particles. The low density Ag-coated glass particles may be utilized for manufacturing conducting inorganic materials for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications and the techniques for controlling the uniform thickness of silver coating can be employed in preparation of biosensor materials. For the surface pretreatment, Sn sensitization was performed and the coating powders were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), focused ion beam microscopy (FIB), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) along with the surface resistant measurements. In particular, the use of FIB technique for determining directly the Ag-coating thickness was very effective on obtaining the optimum conditions for coating. The surface sensitization and initial silver loading for electroless silver coating could be found and the uniform and smooth silver-coated layer with thickness of 46 nm was prepared at 2 mol/l of Sn and 20% silver loading.

Optimization of Heat Transfer on Thermal Barrier Coated Gas Turbine Blade

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aabid, Abdul; Khan, S. A.

2018-05-01

In the field of Aerospace Propulsion technology, material required to resist the maximum temperature. In this paper, using thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) method in gas turbine blade is used to protect hot section component from high-temperature effect to extend the service life and reduce the maintenance costs. The TBCs which include three layers of coating corresponding initial coat is super alloy-INCONEL 718 with 1 mm thickness, bond coat is Nano-structured ceramic-metallic composite-NiCoCrAIY with 0.15 mm thickness and top coat is ceramic composite-La2Ce2O7 with 0.09 mm thickness on the nickel alloy turbine blade which in turn increases the strength, efficiency and life span of the blades. Modeling a gas turbine blade using CATIA software and determining the amount of heat transfer on thermal barrier coated blade using ANSYS software has been performed. Thermal stresses and effects of different TBCs blade base alloys are considered using CATIA and ANSYS.

Optical investigation of the interaction of an automotive spray and thin films by utilization of a high-pressure spin coater

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seel, Kevin; Reddemann, Manuel A.; Kneer, Reinhold

2018-03-01

Although the interaction of automotive sprays with thin films is of high technical relevance for IC engine applications, fundamental knowledge about underlying physical mechanisms is still limited. This work presents a systematic study of the influence of the film's initial thickness—homogeneously spread over a flat wall before the initial spray impingement—on film surface structures and thickness after the interaction. For this purpose, interferometric film thickness measurements and complementary high-speed visualizations are used. By gradually increasing the initial film thickness on a micrometer scale, a shift from a regime of liquid deposition (increasing film thickness with respect to initial film thickness) to a regime of liquid removal (decreasing film thickness with respect to initial film thickness) is observed at the stagnation zone of the impinging spray. This transition is accompanied by the formation of radially propagating surface waves, transporting liquid away from the stagnation zone. Wavelengths and amplitudes of the surface waves are increased with increasing initial film thickness.

[Relationship between leaf anatomical structure and heat resistance of 15 Rhododendron cultivars].

PubMed

Shen, Hui Fei; Zhao, Bing; Xu, Jing Jing

2016-12-01

In this study, 17 anatomical structure indexes of 15 Rhododendron cultivars were mea-sured by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Leaf anatomical structure indexes were screened via coefficient of variation, analysis of correlation and hierarchical cluster analysis, and comprehensive evaluation on heat resistance for each cultivar was conducted by the subordinate function. The results showed that the leaves of Rhododendron cultivars were typical bifacial leaf and the epidermal anticlinal walls showed slightly sinuate. The stomata only distributed in the lower epidermis and the shape was ruleless. The anatomical structure indexes all reached a significant level difference among 15 cultivars (P<0.01), except for lower epidermis thickness (P<0.05). Thickness of lamina corneum, stomatal density, stomatal width, the thickness palisade tissue and looseness of leaf spongy tissue were the main factors related to the hardness, while other indexes, such as stomatal length, stoma aperture, stomatal opening, length and thickness of upper epidermis, length and thickness of lower epidermis, thickness of spongy tissue, the ratio of the palisade tissue to spongy tissue, tightness of leaf palisade tissue, leaf thickness and media thickness didn't show much effect on heat resistance. There were some differences among 15 cultivars in heat resistance, and the order was Rhododendron 'Song Jiang Da Tao Hong' > Rhododendron 'Zhuang Yuan Hong' > Rhododendron 'Lv Se Guang Hui' > Rhododendron 'Fen Zhen Zhu' > Rhododendron 'Wai Guo Hong' > Rhododendron 'Lan Yin' > Rhododendron 'Bi Zhi' >Rhododendron 'Da He Zhi Chun' > Rhododendron 'Guo Qi Hong' > Rhododendron 'Yu Ling Long' > Rhododendron 'Hong Shan Hu' > Rhododendron 'Ning Bo Hong' > Rhododendron 'Tao Ban Zhu Sha' > Rhododendron 'Ai Ding Bao' > Rhododendron 'Liu Qiu Hong'. According to the heat hardiness, the cultivars could be divided into 4 groups: R. 'Song Jiang Da Tao Hong', R. 'Zhuang Yuan Hong' and R. 'Lv Se Guang Hui' with high heat resistance, R. 'Fen Zhen Zhu', R. 'Wai Guo Hong', R. 'Lan Yin', R. 'Bi Zhi', R. 'Da He Zhi Chun', R. 'Guo Qi Hong' and R. 'Yu Ling Long' with medium heat resistance, R. 'Hong Shan Hu', R. 'Ning Bo Hong', R. 'Tao Ban Zhu Sha' and R. 'Ai Ding Bao' with lower heat resistance, R. 'Liu Qiu Hong' without heat resistance. However, the accurate heat hardiness evaluation of Rhododendron still needs to consider other factors, including morphological structure, physiological and biochemical indicators and genetic factor of heat resistance, the harmfulness of Rhododendron, and the recovery state after being injured by high temperature.

Measurement the thickness of the transverse abdominal muscle in different tasks.

PubMed

Pang, Ling; Yin, Liquan; Tajiri, Kimiko; Huo, Ming; Maruyama, Hitoshi

2017-02-01

[Purpose] This study examined the measurement of the thickness of the transverse abdominal muscle in different tasks. [Subjects and Methods] The subjects were eleven healthy adult females. Thicknesses of transverse abdominal muscle were measured in seven tasks in the supine position. The tasks were: 1) Resting state, 2) Maximal contraction of transverse abdominal muscle, 3) Maximal contraction of levator ani muscle, 4) Maximal simultaneous contraction of both transverse abdominal muscle and levator ani muscle, 5) Maximal simultaneous contraction of both transverse abdominal muscle and levator ani muscle with front side resistance added to both knee, 6) Maximal simultaneous contraction of both transverse abdominal muscle and levator ani muscle with diagonal resistance added to both knees, and 7) Maximal simultaneous contraction of both transverse abdominal muscle and levator ani muscle with lateral resistance added to both knees. [Results] The thicknesses of transverse abdominal muscle during maximal simultaneous contraction and maximal simultaneous contraction with resistance were greater than during the resting state. [Conclusion] The muscle output during simultaneous contraction and resistance movement were larger than that of each individual muscle.

Application of Matrix Projection Exposure Using a Liquid Crystal Display Panel to Fabricate Thick Resist Molds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fukasawa, Hirotoshi; Horiuchi, Toshiyuki

2009-08-01

The patterning characteristics of matrix projection exposure using an analog liquid crystal display (LCD) panel in place of a reticle were investigated, in particular for oblique patterns. In addition, a new method for fabricating practical thick resist molds was developed. At first, an exposure system fabricated in past research was reconstructed. Changes in the illumination optics and the projection lens were the main improvements. Using fly's eye lenses, the illumination light intensity distribution was homogenized. The projection lens was changed from a common camera lens to a higher-grade telecentric lens. In addition, although the same metal halide lamp was used as an exposure light source, the central exposure wavelength was slightly shortened from 480 to 450 nm to obtain higher resist sensitivity while maintaining almost equivalent contrast between black and white. Circular and radial patterns with linewidths of approximately 6 µm were uniformly printed in all directions throughout the exposure field owing to these improvements. The patterns were smoothly printed without accompanying stepwise roughness caused by the cell matrix array. On the bases of these results, a new method of fabricating thick resist molds for electroplating was investigated. It is known that thick resist molds fabricated using the negative resist SU-8 (Micro Chem) are useful because very high aspect patterns are printable and the side walls are perpendicular to the substrate surfaces. However, the most suitable exposure wavelength of SU-8 is 365 nm, and SU-8 is insensitive to light of 450 nm wavelength, which is most appropriate for LCD matrix exposure. For this reason, a novel multilayer resist process was proposed, and micromolds of SU-8 of 50 µm thickness were successfully obtained. As a result, feasibility for fabricating complex resist molds including oblique patterns was demonstrated.

Evaluation of the fracture resistance of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing monolithic crowns prepared in different cement thicknesses.

PubMed

Sagsoz, N Polat; Yanıkoglu, N

2018-04-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the fracture resistance of monolithic computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) crowns that are prepared with different cement thickness. For this investigation, a human maxillary premolar tooth was selected. Master model preparation was performed with a demand bur under water spray. Master die was taken to fabricate 105 epoxy resin replicas. The crowns were milled using a CEREC 4 CAD/CAM system (Software Version, 4.2.0.57192). CAD/CAM crowns were made using resin nanoceramic, feldspathic glass ceramic, lithium disilicate, and leucite-reinforced ceramics. Each group was subdivided into three groups in accordance with three different cement thicknesses (30, 90, and 150 μm). Crowns milled out. Then RelyX ™ U200 was used as a luting agent to bond the crowns to the prepared samples. After one hour cementations, the specimens were stored in water bath at 37°C for 1 week before testing. Seven unprepared and unrestored teeth were kept and tested as a control group. A universal test machine was used to assume the fracture resistance of all specimens. The compressive load (N) that caused fracture was recorded for each specimen. Fracture resistance data were statistically analyzed by one-way ANOVA and two-factor interaction modeling test (α = 0.001). There are statistically significant differences between fracture resistances of CAD/CAM monolithic crown materials (P < 0.001). It is seen that cement thickness is not statistically significant for fracture resistance of CAD/CAM monolithic crowns (P > 0.001). CAD/CAM monolithic crown materials affected fracture resistance. Cement thickness (30, 90, and 150 μm) was not effective on fracture resistance of CAD/CAM monolithic crowns.

2 D-Conductivity of thin Pd films condensed at low temperatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dumpich, G.; Kristen, H.; Wassermann, E. F.

1983-09-01

Resistance measurements have been made on quenched condensed Pd films with thicknesses between 25 Å and 350Å. The films are prepared under different evaporation conditions by varying the system pressure between 10-8 and 10-5 mbar. Resistance minima with a logarithmic increase of the sheet resistance are observed for thick films ( d<350Å) condensed under intentionally “bad” (10-5 mbar) vacuum conditions, as well as for thin films ( d<50Å) condensed at pressures around 10-8 mbar. Structure investigations show that the thick films are granular. For these films the relation of granularity to 2 D localization is discussed. The thin films are continuous and the logarithmic resistance increase is in agreement with predictions of 2 D-theories.

Correlative transmission electron microscopy and electrical properties study of switchable phase-change random access memory line cells

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

Oosthoek, J. L. M.; Kooi, B. J., E-mail: B.J.Kooi@rug.nl; Voogt, F. C.

2015-02-14

Phase-change memory line cells, where the active material has a thickness of 15 nm, were prepared for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation such that they still could be switched and characterized electrically after the preparation. The result of these observations in comparison with detailed electrical characterization showed (i) normal behavior for relatively long amorphous marks, resulting in a hyperbolic dependence between SET resistance and SET current, indicating a switching mechanism based on initially long and thin nanoscale crystalline filaments which thicken gradually, and (ii) anomalous behavior, which holds for relatively short amorphous marks, where initially directly a massive crystalline filament ismore » formed that consumes most of the width of the amorphous mark only leaving minor residual amorphous regions at its edges. The present results demonstrate that even in (purposely) thick TEM samples, the TEM sample preparation hampers the probability to observe normal behavior and it can be debated whether it is possible to produce electrically switchable TEM specimen in which the memory cells behave the same as in their original bulk embedded state.« less

Correlative transmission electron microscopy and electrical properties study of switchable phase-change random access memory line cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oosthoek, J. L. M.; Voogt, F. C.; Attenborough, K.; Verheijen, M. A.; Hurkx, G. A. M.; Gravesteijn, D. J.; Kooi, B. J.

2015-02-01

Phase-change memory line cells, where the active material has a thickness of 15 nm, were prepared for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation such that they still could be switched and characterized electrically after the preparation. The result of these observations in comparison with detailed electrical characterization showed (i) normal behavior for relatively long amorphous marks, resulting in a hyperbolic dependence between SET resistance and SET current, indicating a switching mechanism based on initially long and thin nanoscale crystalline filaments which thicken gradually, and (ii) anomalous behavior, which holds for relatively short amorphous marks, where initially directly a massive crystalline filament is formed that consumes most of the width of the amorphous mark only leaving minor residual amorphous regions at its edges. The present results demonstrate that even in (purposely) thick TEM samples, the TEM sample preparation hampers the probability to observe normal behavior and it can be debated whether it is possible to produce electrically switchable TEM specimen in which the memory cells behave the same as in their original bulk embedded state.

Degradation Characterization of Thermal Interface Greases

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

DeVoto, Douglas J; Major, Joshua; Paret, Paul P

Thermal interface materials (TIMs) are used in power electronics packaging to minimize thermal resistance between the heat generating component and the heat sink. Thermal greases are one such class. The conformability and thin bond line thickness (BLT) of these TIMs can potentially provide low thermal resistance throughout the operation lifetime of a component. However, their performance degrades over time due to pump-out and dry-out during thermal and power cycling. The reliability performance of greases through operational cycling needs to be quantified to develop new materials with superior properties. NREL, in collaboration with DuPont, has performed thermal and reliability characterization ofmore » several commercially available thermal greases. Initial bulk and contact thermal resistance of grease samples were measured, and then the thermal degradation that occurred due to pump-out and dry-out during temperature cycling was monitored. The thermal resistances of five different grease materials were evaluated using NREL's steady-state thermal resistance tester based on the ASTM test method D5470. Greases were then applied, utilizing a 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm stencil, between invar and aluminum plates to compare the thermomechanical performance of the materials in a representative test fixture. Scanning Acoustic microscopy, thermal, and compositional analyses were performed periodically during thermal cycling from -40 degrees Celcius to 125 degrees Celcius. Completion of this characterization has allowed for a comprehensive evaluation of thermal greases both for their initial bulk and contact thermal performance, as well as their degradation mechanisms under accelerated thermal cycling conditions.« less

Degradation Characterization of Thermal Interface Greases: Preprint

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

DeVoto, Douglas J; Major, Joshua; Paret, Paul P

Thermal interface materials (TIMs) are used in power electronics packaging to minimize thermal resistance between the heat generating component and the heat sink. Thermal greases are one such class. The conformability and thin bond line thickness (BLT) of these TIMs can potentially provide low thermal resistance throughout the operation lifetime of a component. However, their performance degrades over time due to pump-out and dry-out during thermal and power cycling. The reliability performance of greases through operational cycling needs to be quantified to develop new materials with superior properties. NREL, in collaboration with DuPont, has performed thermal and reliability characterization ofmore » several commercially available thermal greases. Initial bulk and contact thermal resistance of grease samples were measured, and then the thermal degradation that occurred due to pump-out and dry-out during temperature cycling was monitored. The thermal resistances of five different grease materials were evaluated using NREL's steady-state thermal resistance tester based on the ASTM test method D5470. Greases were then applied, utilizing a 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm stencil, between invar and aluminum plates to compare the thermomechanical performance of the materials in a representative test fixture. Scanning Acoustic microscopy, thermal, and compositional analyses were performed periodically during thermal cycling from -40 degrees Celcius to 125 degrees Celcius. Completion of this characterization has allowed for a comprehensive evaluation of thermal greases both for their initial bulk and contact thermal performance, as well as their degradation mechanisms under accelerated thermal cycling conditions.« less

Degradation Characterization of Thermal Interface Greases

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

Major, Joshua; Narumanchi, Sreekant V; Paret, Paul P

Thermal interface materials (TIMs) are used in power electronics packaging to minimize thermal resistance between the heat generating component and the heat sink. Thermal greases are one such class. The conformability and thin bond line thickness (BLT) of these TIMs can potentially provide low thermal resistance throughout the operation lifetime of a component. However, their performance degrades over time due to pump-out and dry-out during thermal and power cycling. The reliability performance of greases through operational cycling needs to be quantified to develop new materials with superior properties. NREL, in collaboration with DuPont, has performed thermal and reliability characterization ofmore » several commercially available thermal greases. Initial bulk and contact thermal resistance of grease samples were measured, and then the thermal degradation that occurred due to pump-out and dry-out during temperature cycling was monitored. The thermal resistances of five different grease materials were evaluated using NREL's steady-state thermal resistance tester based on the ASTM test method D5470. Greases were then applied, utilizing a 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm stencil, between invar and aluminum plates to compare the thermomechanical performance of the materials in a representative test fixture. Scanning Acoustic microscopy, thermal, and compositional analyses were performed periodically during thermal cycling from -40 degrees C to 125 degrees C. Completion of this characterization has allowed for a comprehensive evaluation of thermal greases both for their initial bulk and contact thermal performance, as well as their degradation mechanisms under accelerated thermal cycling conditions.« less

Evaluation of anodic behavior of commercially pure titanium in tungsten inert gas and laser welds.

PubMed

Orsi, Iara Augusta; Raimundo, Larica B; Bezzon, Osvaldo Luiz; Nóbilo, Mauro Antonio de Arruda; Kuri, Sebastião E; Rovere, Carlos Alberto D; Pagnano, Valeria Oliveira

2011-12-01

This study evaluated the resistance to corrosion in welds made with Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) in specimens made of commercially pure titanium (cp Ti) in comparison with laser welds. A total of 15 circular specimens (10-mm diameter, 2-mm thick) were fabricated and divided into two groups: control group-cp Ti specimens (n = 5); experimental group-cp Ti specimens welded with TIG (n = 5) and with laser (n = 5). They were polished mechanically, washed with isopropyl alcohol, and dried with a drier. In the anodic potentiodynamic polarization assay, measurements were taken using a potentiostat/galvanostat in addition to CorrWare software for data acquisition and CorrView for data visualization and treatment. Three curves were made for each working electrode. Corrosion potential values were statistically analyzed by the Student's t-test. Statistical analysis showed that corrosion potentials and passive current densities of specimens welded with TIG are similar to those of the control group, and had lower values than laser welding. TIG welding provided higher resistance to corrosion than laser welding. Control specimens welded with TIG were more resistant to local corrosion initiation and propagation than those with laser welding, indicating a higher rate of formation and growth of passive film thickness on the surfaces of these alloys than on specimens welded with laser, making it more difficult for corrosion to occur. © 2011 by the American College of Prosthodontists.

Understanding Breaks in Flare X-Ray Spectra: Evaluation of a Cospatial Collisional Return-current Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alaoui, Meriem; Holman, Gordon D.

2017-12-01

Hard X-ray (HXR) spectral breaks are explained in terms of a one-dimensional model with a cospatial return current. We study 19 flares observed by the Ramaty High Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager with strong spectral breaks at energies around a few deka-keV, which cannot be explained by isotropic albedo or non-uniform ionization alone. We identify these breaks at the HXR peak time, but we obtain 8 s cadence spectra of the entire impulsive phase. Electrons with an initially power-law distribution and a sharp low-energy cutoff lose energy through return-current losses until they reach the thick target, where they lose their remaining energy through collisions. Our main results are as follows. (1) The return-current collisional thick-target model provides acceptable fits for spectra with strong breaks. (2) Limits on the plasma resistivity are derived from the fitted potential drop and deduced electron-beam flux density, assuming the return current is a drift current in the ambient plasma. These resistivities are typically 2–3 orders of magnitude higher than the Spitzer resistivity at the fitted temperature, and provide a test for the adequacy of classical resistivity and the stability of the return current. (3) Using the upper limit of the low-energy cutoff, the return current is always stable to the generation of ion-acoustic and electrostatic ion-cyclotron instabilities when the electron temperature is nine times lower than the ion temperature. (4) In most cases, the return current is most likely primarily carried by runaway electrons from the tail of the thermal distribution rather than by the bulk drifting thermal electrons. For these cases, anomalous resistivity is not required.

Impact of polymer film thickness and cavity size on polymer flow during embossing : towards process design rules for nanoimprint lithography.

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

Schunk, Peter Randall; King, William P.; Sun, Amy Cha-Tien

2006-08-01

This paper presents continuum simulations of polymer flow during nanoimprint lithography (NIL). The simulations capture the underlying physics of polymer flow from the nanometer to millimeter length scale and examine geometry and thermophysical process quantities affecting cavity filling. Variations in embossing tool geometry and polymer film thickness during viscous flow distinguish different flow driving mechanisms. Three parameters can predict polymer deformation mode: cavity width to polymer thickness ratio, polymer supply ratio, and Capillary number. The ratio of cavity width to initial polymer film thickness determines vertically or laterally dominant deformation. The ratio of indenter width to residual film thickness measuresmore » polymer supply beneath the indenter which determines Stokes or squeeze flow. The local geometry ratios can predict a fill time based on laminar flow between plates, Stokes flow, or squeeze flow. Characteristic NIL capillary number based on geometry-dependent fill time distinguishes between capillary or viscous driven flows. The three parameters predict filling modes observed in published studies of NIL deformation over nanometer to millimeter length scales. The work seeks to establish process design rules for NIL and to provide tools for the rational design of NIL master templates, resist polymers, and process parameters.« less

Evaluation of attenuated PSM photomask blanks with TF11 chrome and FEP-171 resist on a 248 nm DUV laser pattern generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xing, Kezhao; Björnborg, Charles; Karlsson, Henrik; Paulsson, Adisa; Rosendahl, Anna; Beiming, Peter; Vedenpää, Jukka; Walford, Jonathan; Newman, Tom

2007-10-01

Tighter requirements on mask resolution, CD and image positioning accuracy at and beyond the 45 nm technology node push the development of improved photomask blanks. One such blank for attenuated phase-shift masks (att-PSM) provides a thinner chrome film, named TF11, with higher chrome etch rate compared to the previous generation Att- PSM blank (NTAR5 chrome film) from the same supplier. Reduced stress in the chrome film also results in less image placement error induced by the material. FEP-171 is the positive chemically amplified resist (PCAR) that is most commonly used in advanced mask manufacturing with both 50 keV variable shaped e-beam (VSB) and DUV laser pattern generators. TF11 allows an FEP-171 resist film down to about 2000 Å thickness with sufficient etch resistance, while the standard resist thickness for NTAR5 is around 3000 Å. This work has experimentally evaluated the use of TF11 chrome and FEP-171 resist together with a 248 nm DUV laser pattern generator, the Sigma7500. First, patterning performance in resist with thicknesses from 2000 Å to 2600 Å, in steps of 100 Å, was tested with respect to swing curve and basic lithographic parameters including resolution, CD linearity, CD iso-dense bias and dose sensitivity. Patterning results on mask showed a swing minimum at around 2200 Å and a swing maximum at around 2500 Å, which correspond to reflectivity measurements for 248 nm wavelength performed by the blank supplier. It was concluded that the overall patterning performance was best close to the swing maximum. Thereafter the patterning performance using TF11 at two resist thicknesses, 2000 Å and 2550 Å, was studied in more detail and compared to performance using NTAR5 with 3200 Å resist. The evaluation showed that the Sigma7500-II offers good compatibility with TF11, especially using the optimized FEP-171 resist thickness of 2550 Å. It also showed that the patterning capability of the Sigma7500-II using TF11 and 2550 Å resist is improved compared to using NTAR5 and 3200 Å resist.

Simulation and measurement of nanometer-scale resistivity of copper films for interconnect applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yarimbiyik, Arif Emre

2007-12-01

A highly versatile simulation program is developed and used to examine how the resistivity of thin metal films and lines increases as their dimensions approach and become smaller than the mean fee path of electrons in metals such as copper (size effect). The simulation program: (1) provides a more accurate calculation of surface scattering effects than that obtained from the usual formulation of Fuchs' theory, (2) calculates grain-boundary effects that are consistent with the theory of Mayadas and Shatzkes, (3) includes the effects of surface and grain-boundary scattering either separately or together, and (4) simulates the effect on resistivity if a surface of a film or line has a different value for the scattering parameter. The increase in resistivity with decreasing thickness of thin, evaporated copper films (approximately 10 nm to 150 nm thick) was determined from sheet resistance and film thickness measurements. Good agreement between the experimental results with those of the simulation program was obtained when the measured mean grain sizes were used by the simulation program. The mean of the grain sizes tend to decrease with decreasing film thickness and thereby increase the impact of grain-boundary scattering on the effective resistivity of the film. Estimates of the mean grain size for each film were determined from using, in combination, the electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and the X-ray diffraction (XRD) methods. With values for the measured change in sheet resistance with temperature of these films, it is shown that measurements of the electrical film thickness, using Matthiessen's rule, agreed to within 3 nm of the physical measurements (profilometer) of these films. Hence, Matthiessen's rule can continue to be used to measure the thickness of a copper film and, by inference, the cross-sectional area of a copper line for dimensions well below the mean free path of electrons in copper at room temperature (39 nm).

Gold nanoparticles deposited on glass: physicochemical characterization and cytocompatibility

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Properties of gold films sputtered under different conditions onto borosilicate glass substrate were studied. Mean thickness of sputtered gold film was measured by gravimetry, and film contact angle was determined by goniometry. Surface morphology was examined by atomic force microscopy, and electrical sheet resistance was determined by two-point technique. The samples were seeded with rat vascular smooth muscle cells, and their adhesion and proliferation were studied. Gold depositions lead to dramatical changes in the surface morphology and roughness in comparison to pristine substrate. For sputtered gold structures, the rapid decline of the sheet resistance appears on structures deposited for the times above 100 s. The thickness of deposited gold nanoparticles/layer is an increasing function of sputtering time and current. AFM images prove the creation of separated gold islands in the initial deposition phase and a continuous gold coverage for longer deposition times. Gold deposition has a positive effect on the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells. Largest number of cells was observed on sample sputtered with gold for 20 s and at the discharge current of 40 mA. This sample exhibits lowest contact angle, low relative roughness, and only mild increase of electrical conductivity. PMID:23705782

Three Dimensional Microfabrication On Thick Film Photoresist Mandrels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salmre, William

1984-05-01

Small, three-dimensional structures are fabricated by the use of thick film photoresist mandrels as substrates for electoforming or other deposition techniques. Novel methods have been developed for the sculpting of the resist to desired shapes. These techniques rely heavily on the use of glass or other substrates coated with layers of metal. The metal serves both as a photomask and as a conductor of electricity. Commercially available chrome-on-glass photomasks are convenient for this purpose although other substrates have also been used. By controlling the thickness and light transmission of the metal layer, the amount of exposure of the resist can also be controlled to produce the desired shapes in the resist. For even more complex mandrels the resist can be exposed from both sides using self-aligned photomasks.

Elemental depth profiles and plasma etching rates of positive-tone electron beam resists after sequential infiltration synthesis of alumina

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ozaki, Yuki; Ito, Shunya; Hiroshiba, Nobuya; Nakamura, Takahiro; Nakagawa, Masaru

2018-06-01

By scanning transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (STEM–EDS), we investigated the elemental depth profiles of organic electron beam resist films after the sequential infiltration synthesis (SIS) of inorganic alumina. Although a 40-nm-thick poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) film was entirely hybridized with alumina, an uneven distribution was observed near the interface between the substrate and the resist as well as near the resist surface. The uneven distribution was observed around the center of a 100-nm-thick PMMA film. The thicknesses of the PMMA and CSAR62 resist films decreased almost linearly as functions of plasma etching period. The comparison of etching rate among oxygen reactive ion etching, C3F8 reactive ion beam etching (RIBE), and Ar ion beam milling suggested that the SIS treatment enhanced the etching resistance of the electron beam resists to chemical reactions rather than to ion collisions. We proposed oxygen- and Ar-assisted C3F8 RIBE for the fabrication of silica imprint molds by electron beam lithography.

Study on Pyroelectric Harvesters with Various Geometry

PubMed Central

Siao, An-Shen; Chao, Ching-Kong; Hsiao, Chun-Ching

2015-01-01

Pyroelectric harvesters convert time-dependent temperature variations into electric current. The appropriate geometry of the pyroelectric cells, coupled with the optimal period of temperature fluctuations, is key to driving the optimal load resistance, which enhances the performance of pyroelectric harvesters. The induced charge increases when the thickness of the pyroelectric cells decreases. Moreover, the induced charge is extremely reduced for the thinner pyroelectric cell when not used for the optimal period. The maximum harvested power is achieved when a 100 μm-thick PZT (Lead zirconate titanate) cell is used to drive the optimal load resistance of about 40 MΩ. Moreover, the harvested power is greatly reduced when the working resistance diverges even slightly from the optimal load resistance. The stored voltage generated from the 75 μm-thick PZT cell is less than that from the 400 μm-thick PZT cell for a period longer than 64 s. Although the thinner PZT cell is advantageous in that it enhances the efficiency of the pyroelectric harvester, the much thinner 75 μm-thick PZT cell and the divergence from the optimal period further diminish the performance of the pyroelectric cell. Therefore, the designers of pyroelectric harvesters need to consider the coupling effect between the geometry of the pyroelectric cells and the optimal period of temperature fluctuations to drive the optimal load resistance. PMID:26270666

In vitro fracture resistance of three commercially available zirconia crowns for primary molars.

PubMed

Townsend, Janice A; Knoell, Patrick; Yu, Qingzhao; Zhang, Jian-Feng; Wang, Yapin; Zhu, Han; Beattie, Sean; Xu, Xiaoming

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was to measure the fracture resistance of primary mandibular first molar zirconia crowns from three different manufacturers-EZ Pedo (EZP), NuSmile (NSZ), and Kinder Krowns (KK)-and compare it with the thickness of the zirconia crowns and the measured fracture resistance of preveneered stainless steel crowns (SSCs). The thickness of 20 zirconia crowns from three manufacturers were measured. The mean force required to fracture the crowns was determined. Preveneered NuSmile (NSW) SSCs were tested as a control. EZP crowns were significantly thicker in three of the six measured locations. The force required to fracture the EZP crown was significantly higher than that required for NSZ and KK. There was a positive correlation between fracture resistance and crown thickness in the mesial, distal, mesioocclusal, and distoocclusal dimensions. None of the zirconia crowns proved to be as resistant to fracture as the preveneered SSCs. Statistically significant differences were found among the forces required to fracture zirconia crowns by three different manufacturers. The increase in force correlated with crown thickness. The forces required to fracture the preveneered stainless steel crowns were greater than the forces required to fracture all manufacturers' zirconia crowns.

Effect of Atomic Layer Depositions (ALD)-Deposited Titanium Oxide (TiO2) Thickness on the Performance of Zr40Cu35Al15Ni10 (ZCAN)/TiO2/Indium (In)-Based Resistive Random Access Memory (RRAM) Structures

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-01

metal structures, memristors, resistive random access memory, RRAM, titanium dioxide, Zr40Cu35Al15Ni10, ZCAN, resistive memory, tunnel junction 16...TiO2 thickness ........................6 1 1. Introduction Resistive-switching memory elements based on metal-insulator-metal (MIM) diodes ...have attracted great interest due to their potential as components for simple, inexpensive, and high-density non-volatile storage devices. MIM diodes

Acute muscular strength assessment using free weight bars of different thickness.

PubMed

Ratamess, Nicholas A; Faigenbaum, Avery D; Mangine, Gerald T; Hoffman, Jay R; Kang, Jie

2007-02-01

The purpose of the present investigation was to examine strength performance of 6 common resistance training exercises using free weight bars of different thickness. Eleven resistance-trained men (8.2 +/- 2.6 years of experience; age: 22.1 +/- 1.6 years; body mass: 90.5 +/- 8.9 kg) underwent 1 repetition maximum (1RM) strength testing on 6 occasions in random order for the deadlift, bent-over row, upright row, bench press, seated shoulder press, and arm curl exercises under 3 conditions using: (a) a standard Olympic bar (OL), (b) a 2-inch thick bar (5.08 cm grip span), and (c) a 3-inch thick bar (7.62 cm grip span). Significant (p < 0.05) interactions were observed for the "pulling" exercises. For the deadlift and bent-over row, highest 1RM values were obtained with OL, followed by the 2- and 3-inch bar. Significant 1RM performance decrements for the 2- and 3-inch bars were approximately 28.3 and 55.0%, respectively, for the deadlift; decrements for the 2- and 3-inch bars were approximately 8.9 and 37.3%, respectively, for the bent-over row. For the upright row and arm curl, similar 1RMs were obtained for OL and the 2-inch bar. However, a significant performance reduction was observed using the 3-inch bar (approximately 26.1% for the upright row and 17.6% for the arm curl). The reductions in 1RM loads correlated significantly to hand size and maximal isometric grip strength (r = -0.55 to -0.73). No differences were observed between bars for the bench press or shoulder press. In conclusion, the use of 2- and 3-inch thick bars may result in initial weight reductions primarily for pulling exercises presumably due to greater reliance on maximal grip strength and larger hand size.

A comparison of single-cycle versus multiple-cycle proof testing strategies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hudak, S. J., Jr.; Mcclung, R. C.; Bartlett, M. L.; Fitzgerald, J. H.; Russell, D. A.

1990-01-01

An evaluation of single-cycle and multiple-cycle proof testing (MCPT) strategies for SSME components is described. Data for initial sizes and shapes of actual SSME hardware defects are analyzed statistically. Closed-form estimates of the J-integral for surface flaws are derived with a modified reference stress method. The results of load- and displacement-controlled stable crack growth tests on thin IN-718 plates with deep surface flaws are summarized. A J-resistance curve for the surface-cracked configuration is developed and compared with data from thick compact tension specimens. The potential for further crack growth during large unload/reload cycles is discussed, highlighting conflicting data in the literature. A simple model for ductile crack growth during MCPT based on the J-resistance curve is used to study the potential effects of key variables. The projected changes in the crack size distribution during MCPT depend on the interactions between several key parameters, including the number of proof cycles, the nature of the resistance curve, the initial crack size distribution, the component boundary conditions (load vs. displacement control), and the magnitude of the applied load or displacement. The relative advantages of single-cycle and multiple-cycle proof testing appear to be specific, therefore, to individual component geometry, material, and loading.

Progressive Fracture of [0/90/ + or - Theta]s Composite Structure Under Uniform Pressure Load

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gotsis, Pascalis K.; Chamis, Christos C.; Gotsis, Christos K.; Mouratidis, Ericos

2007-01-01

S-Glass/epoxy [0/90/plus or minus theta]s for theta =45 deg., 60 deg., and 75 deg. laminated fiber-reinforced composite stiffened plate was simulated to investigated for damage and fracture progression under uniform pressure. An integrated computer code was augmented for the simulation of the damage initiation, growth, accumulation, and propagation to fracture and to structural collapse. Results show in detail the damage progression sequence and structural fracture resistance during different degradation stages. Damage through the thickness of the laminate initiated first at [0/90/plus or minus 45]s at 15.168 MPa (2200 psi), followed by [0/90/plus or minus 60]s at 16.96 MPa (2460 psi) and finally by [0/90/plus or minus 75]s at 19.3 MPa (2800 psi). After damage initiation happened the cracks propagate rapidly to structural fracture.

Effect of layer thickness on the properties of nickel thermal sprayed steel

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

Nurisna, Zuhri, E-mail: zuhri-nurisna@yahoo.co.id; Triyono,, E-mail: triyonomesin@uns.ac.id; Muhayat, Nurul, E-mail: nurulmuhayat@staff.uns.ac.id

Thermal arc spray nickel coating is widely used for decorative and functional applications, by improving corrosion resistance, wear resistance, heat resistence or by modifying other properties of the coated materials. There are several properties have been studied. Layer thickness of nickel thermal sprayed steel may be make harder the substrate surface. In this study, the effect of layer thickness of nickel thermal sprayed steel has been investigated. The rectangular substrate specimens were coated by Ni–5 wt.% Al using wire arc spray method. The thickness of coating layers were in range from 0.4 to 1.0 mm. Different thickness of coating layers weremore » conducted to investigate their effect on hardness and morphology. The coating layer was examined by using microvickers and scanning electron microscope with EDX attachment. Generally, the hardness at the interface increased with increasing thickness of coating layers for all specimens due to higher heat input during spraying process. Morphology analysis result that during spraying process aluminum would react with surrounding oxygen and form aluminum oxide at outer surface of splat. Moreover, porosity was formed in coating layers. However, presence porosity is not related to thickness of coating material. The thicker coating layer resulted highesr of hardness and bond strength.« less

Nondestructive evaluation of composite materials by electrical resistance measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mei, Zhen

This dissertation investigates electrical resistance measurement for nondestructive evaluation of carbon fiber (CF) reinforced polymer matrix composites. The method involves measuring the DC electrical resistance in either the longitudinal or through thickness direction. The thermal history and thermal properties of thermoplastic/CF composites were studied by longitudinal and through-thickness resistance measurements. The resistance results were consistent with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermomechanical analysis (TMA) results. The resistance measurements gave more information on the melting of the polymer matrix than TMA. They were more sensitive to the glass transition of the polymer matrix than DSC. The through-thickness resistance decreased as autohesion progressed. The activation energy of autohesion was 21.2 kJ/mol for both nylon-6 and polyphenylene sulfide (PPS)/CF composites. Adhesive bonding and debonding were monitored in real-time by measurement of the through-thickness resistance between the adherends in an adhesive joint during heating and subsequent cooling. Debonding occurred during cooling when the pressure or temperature during prior bonding was not sufficiently high. A long heating time below the melting temperature (T m) was found to be detrimental to subsequent PPS adhesive joint development above Tm, due to curing reactions below Tm and consequent reduced mass flow response above Tm. A high heating rate (small heating time) enhanced the bonding more than a high pressure. The longitudinal resistance measurement was used to investigate the effects of temperature and stress on the interface between a concrete substrate and its epoxy/CF composite retrofit. The resistance of the retrofit was increased by bond degradation, whether the degradation was due to heat or stress. The degradation was reversible. Irreversible disturbance in the fiber arrangement occurred slightly as thermal or load cycling occurred, as indicated by the resistance decreasing cycle by cycle. This dissertation also addresses the use of the electrical resistance method to observe thermal and mechanical damage in real time. A temperature increase caused the interlaminar contact resistance to decrease reversibly within each thermal cycle, while thermal damage caused the resistance to decrease abruptly and irreversibly, due to matrix molecular movement and the consequent increase in the chance of fibers of one lamina touching those of an adjacent lamina. The through-thickness volume resistivity irreversibly and gradually decreased upon mechanical damage, which was probably fiber-matrix debonding. Moreover, it reversibly and abruptly increased upon matrix micro-structural change, which occurred reversibly near the peak stress of a stress cycle.

Electrochemical testing of suspension plasma sprayed solid oxide fuel cell electrolytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Waldbillig, D.; Kesler, O.

Electrochemical performance of metal-supported plasma sprayed (PS) solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) was tested for three nominal electrolyte thicknesses and three electrolyte fabrication conditions to determine the effects of electrolyte thickness and microstructure on open circuit voltage (OCV) and series resistance (R s). The measured OCV values were approximately 90% of the Nernst voltages, and electrolyte area specific resistances below 0.1 Ω cm 2 were obtained at 750 °C for electrolyte thicknesses below 20 μm. Least-squares fitting was used to estimate the contributions to R s of the YSZ bulk material, its microstructure, and the contact resistance between the current collectors and the cells. It was found that the 96% dense electrolyte layers produced from high plasma gas flow rate conditions had the lowest permeation rates, the highest OCV values, and the smallest electrolyte-related voltage losses. Optimal electrolyte thicknesses were determined for each electrolyte microstructure that would result in the lowest combination of OCV loss and voltage loss due to series resistance for operating voltages of 0.8 V and 0.7 V.

The effect of abdominal resistance training and energy restricted diet on lateral abdominal muscles thickness of overweight and obese women.

PubMed

Noormohammadpour, Pardis; Kordi, Ramin; Dehghani, Saeed; Rostami, Mohsen

2012-07-01

The role of transabdominal muscles (external oblique, internal oblique and transversus abdominis) on core stability has been shown previously. Energy restricted diet and abdominal resistance training are commonly used by overweight and obese people to reduce their weight. In this study we investigated the impact of 12 weeks concurrent energy restricted diet and abdominal resistance training on the thickness of the lateral abdominal muscles of 19 obese and overweight women employing ultrasonography in resting and drawing-in maneuvers. The results showed significant increase of the muscle thicknesses during drawing-in maneuver after 12 weeks intervention. Based on our findings, it can be concluded that 12 weeks concurrent abdominal resistance training and energy restricted diet in addition to weight loss lead to improvement of transabdominal muscles thickness in obese and overweight people. Considering the role of these muscles in core stability, using this therapeutic protocol in obese people, particularly in those who have weakness of these muscles might be helpful. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

High-throughput resistivity apparatus for thin-film combinatorial libraries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hewitt, K. C.; Casey, P. A.; Sanderson, R. J.; White, M. A.; Sun, R.

2005-09-01

An apparatus, capable of measuring the dc resistance versus temperature of a 49-member library prepared by thin-film deposition techniques was designed and tested. The library is deposited by dc magnetron sputtering onto 10.16cm×10.16cm alumina substrates on which are placed aluminum masks consisting of 8mm diam holes cut on a 7×7 grid, the center-to-center spacing being 10.15mm. Electrical contact to the library is made in a standard van der Pauw geometry using 196 spring-loaded, gold-coated pins, four pins for each member of the library. The temperature is controlled using a helium refrigerator in combination with a liquid-nitrogen radiation shield that greatly reduces radiative heating of the sample stage. With the radiation shield, the cold finger is able to sustain a minimum temperature of 7K and the sample stage a minimum temperature of 27K. The temperature (27-291K) dependent dc resistivity of a thin-film silver library of varying thickness (48-639nm) is presented to highlight the capabilities of the apparatus. The thickness dependence of both the resistivity and the temperature coefficient of resistivity are quantitatively consistent with the literature. For thicknesses greater than about 100nm, the room-temperature resistivity (3.4μΩcm) are consistent with Matthiessen's rule for 1%-2% impurity content, and the temperature coefficient of resistivity is consistent with the bulk value. For thicknesses less than 100nm, an increase in resistivity by a factor of 8 is found, which may be due to surface and boundary scattering effects; a corresponding increase in the temperature coefficient of resistivity is consistent with a concomitant decrease in the magnitude of the elastic constants and surface scattering effects.

Ultrasound evaluation of muscle thickness changes in the external oblique, internal oblique, and transversus abdominis muscles considering the influence of posture and muscle contraction.

PubMed

Sugaya, Tomoaki; Abe, Yota; Sakamoto, Masaaki

2014-09-01

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to investigate muscle thickness changes in the external oblique (EO), internal oblique (IO), and transversus abdominis (TrA) muscles between the neutral position and trunk rotation, under a state of rest without voluntary contractions, and isometric contractions to both sides with resistance of 50% of the maximum trunk rotation strength. [Subjects] The subjects of this study were 21 healthy young men. [Methods] Muscle thickness changes in the EO, IO, and TrA in each position and state were evaluated by ultrasound. The range of motion at maximum trunk rotation and the maximum strength of trunk rotation were measured using a hand-held dynamometer. [Results] In the neutral position and at 50% trunk rotation to the right side, the thicknesses of the IO and TrA significantly increased with resistance. In both states, the thicknesses of the IO and TrA significantly increased at 50% trunk rotation to the right side. [Conclusion] The muscular contractions of the IO and TrA were stronger during ipsilateral rotation than in the neutral position and with resistance than at rest. Moreover, the muscular contraction was strongest in the resistive state during ipsilateral rotation.

Effect of Various Interface Thicknesses on the Behaviour of Infilled frame Subjected to Lateral Load

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Senthil, K.; Muthukumar, S.; Rupali, S.; Satyanarayanan, K. S.

2018-03-01

Two dimensional numerical investigations were carried out to study the influence of interface thickness on the behaviour of reinforced concrete frames subjected to in-plane lateral loads using commercial finite element tool SAP 2000. The cement mortar, cork and foam was used as interface material and their effect was studied by varying thicknesses as 6, 8, 10, 14 and 20 mm. The effect of lateral loads on infill masonry wall was also studied by varying arbitrary loads as 10, 20, 40 and 60 kN. The resistance of the frame with cement mortar was found maximum with the interface thickness 10 mm therefore, it is concluded that the maximum influence of interface thickness of 10 mm was found effective. The resistance of integral infill frame with cork and foam interface was found maximum with the interface thickness 6 mm and it is concluded that 6 mm thick interface among the chosen thickness was found effective.

Narrowband noise study of sliding charge density waves in NbSe3 nanoribbons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Onishi, Seita; Jamei, Mehdi; Zettl, Alex

2017-02-01

Transport properties (dc electrical resistivity, threshold electric field, and narrow-band noise) are reported for nanoribbon specimens of NbSe3 with thicknesses as low as 18 nm. As the sample thickness decreases, the resistive anomalies characteristic of the charge density wave (CDW) state are suppressed and the threshold fields for nonlinear CDW conduction apparently diverge. Narrow-band noise measurements allow determination of the concentration of carriers condensed in the CDW state n c , reflective of the CDW order parameter Δ. Although the CDW transition temperatures are relatively independent of sample thickness, in the lower CDW state Δ decreases dramatically with decreasing sample thickness.

The electrical resistance of gold-capped chromium thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohashi, Masashi; Sawabu, Masaki; Ohashi, Kohei; Miyagawa, Masahiro; Maeta, Kae; Kubota, Takahide; Takanashi, Koki

2018-03-01

We studied the electrical resistance of polycrystalline chromium films capped by a gold layer. No anomaly was detected by resistance measurements of 10 nm thick film around room temperature, indicating that the antiferromagnetic interaction may be suppressed as decreasing the thickness of the chromium film. The sheet resistance Rs (T) curves differ from polycrystalline chromium films in previous studies because of the electrical current flows through a gold capping layer. On the other hand, the resistance drop is observed at T C = 1.15±0.05 K as that of polycrystalline chromium films in the previous report. It means that such resistance drop is not related to the chromium oxide layer on a polycrystalline chromium films. However, it is difficult to conclude that superconducting transition occurs because of the large residual resistance below the temperature where the resistance drop is observed.

Formation of nickel germanides from Ni layers with thickness below 10 nm

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

Jablonka, Lukas; Kubart, Tomas; Primetzhofer, Daniel

2017-03-01

The authors have studied the reaction between a Ge (100) substrate and thin layers of Ni ranging from 2 to 10 nm in thickness. The formation of metal-rich Ni5Ge3Ni5Ge3 was found to precede that of the monogermanide NiGe by means of real-time in situ x-ray diffraction during ramp-annealing and ex situ x-ray pole figure analyses for phase identification. The observed sequential growth of Ni5Ge3Ni5Ge3 and NiGe with such thin Ni layers is different from the previously reported simultaneous growth with thicker Ni layers. The phase transformation from Ni5Ge3Ni5Ge3 to NiGe was found to be nucleation-controlled for Ni thicknesses <5 nm<5more » nm, which is well supported by thermodynamic considerations. Specifically, the temperature for the NiGe formation increased with decreasing Ni (rather Ni5Ge3Ni5Ge3) thickness below 5 nm. In combination with sheet resistance measurement and microscopic surface inspection of samples annealed with a standard rapid thermal processing, the temperature range for achieving morphologically stable NiGe layers was identified for this standard annealing process. As expected, it was found to be strongly dependent on the initial Ni thickness« less

Effect of ultrasonic reactor and auxiliary stirring on oil removal from oily sludge.

PubMed

Zhao, Xiaofei; Zhang, Xiaoyang; Liu, Lixin; Fan, Lei; Ge, Dan

2017-12-01

In this paper, oily sludge cleaning by using ultrasonic waves was further studied to ensure how the ultrasonic reactor, such as material, bottom thickness, diameter, and auxiliary mixing, effects oil removal from oily sludge. Oily sludge (S) with an initial oil content of 19.29% was mixed with distilled water (W) and treated in an ultrasonic cleaning tank, f = 40,000 Hz at 30°C. This paper was carried out around the ultrasonic reactor, such as material, diameter, and bottom thickness. The results show that acoustic resistance is the main factor affecting the material of the ultrasonic reactor. The larger the diameter of the reaction, the lower the thickness of the S-W mixture of the same quality; the smaller the diffusion attenuation of the ultrasonic wave, the higher the oil removal rate. In this paper, the cleaning efficiency seems to be independent of the bottom thickness of the reactor. This may be due to the hale wavelengths (λ/2) in polyethylene (λ/2 = 2.4 cm) and glass (λ/2 = 7.08 cm) being far greater than the range of bottom thickness. Proper mixing (200 rmin -1 ) can improve the oil removal rate (92.8%), increased by 8.69%, but when the strength is too large, the oil removal rate is reduced.

Measured Propagation Characteristics of Finite Ground Coplanar Waveguide on Silicon with a Thick Polyimide Interface Layer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ponchak, George E.; Papapolymerou, John; Tentzeris, Emmanouil M.; Williams, W. O. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

Measured propagation characteristics of Finite Ground Coplanar (FGC) waveguide on silicon substrates with resistivities spanning 3 orders of magnitude (0.1 to 15.5 Ohm cm) and a 20 micron thick polyimide interface layer is presented as a function of the FGC geometry. Results show that there is an optimum FGC geometry for minimum loss, and silicon with a resistivity of 0.1 Ohm cm has greater loss than substrates with higher and lower resistivity. Lastly, substrates with a resistivity of 10 Ohm cm or greater have acceptable loss.

A method to investigate the electron scattering characteristics of ultrathin metallic films by in situ electrical resistance measurements.

PubMed

Trindade, I G; Fermento, R; Leitão, D; Sousa, J B

2009-07-01

In this article, a method to measure the electrical resistivity/conductivity of metallic thin films during layer growth on specific underlayers is described. The in situ monitoring of an underlayer electrical resistance, its change upon the incoming of new material atoms/molecules, and the growth of a new layer are presented. The method is easy to implement and allows obtaining in situ experimental curves of electrical resistivity dependence upon film thickness with a subatomic resolution, providing insight in film growth microstructure characteristics, specular/diffuse electron scattering surfaces, and optimum film thicknesses.

Will Arctic sea ice thickness initialization improve seasonal forecast skill?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Day, J. J.; Hawkins, E.; Tietsche, S.

2014-11-01

Arctic sea ice thickness is thought to be an important predictor of Arctic sea ice extent. However, coupled seasonal forecast systems do not generally use sea ice thickness observations in their initialization and are therefore missing a potentially important source of additional skill. To investigate how large this source is, a set of ensemble potential predictability experiments with a global climate model, initialized with and without knowledge of the sea ice thickness initial state, have been run. These experiments show that accurate knowledge of the sea ice thickness field is crucially important for sea ice concentration and extent forecasts up to 8 months ahead, especially in summer. Perturbing sea ice thickness also has a significant impact on the forecast error in Arctic 2 m temperature a few months ahead. These results suggest that advancing capabilities to observe and assimilate sea ice thickness into coupled forecast systems could significantly increase skill.

Thickness effect of ultra-thin Ta2O5 resistance switching layer in 28 nm-diameter memory cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Tae Hyung; Song, Seul Ji; Kim, Hae Jin; Kim, Soo Gil; Chung, Suock; Kim, Beom Yong; Lee, Kee Jeung; Kim, Kyung Min; Choi, Byung Joon; Hwang, Cheol Seong

2015-11-01

Resistance switching (RS) devices with ultra-thin Ta2O5 switching layer (0.5-2.0 nm) with a cell diameter of 28 nm were fabricated. The performance of the devices was tested by voltage-driven current—voltage (I-V) sweep and closed-loop pulse switching (CLPS) tests. A Ta layer was placed beneath the Ta2O5 switching layer to act as an oxygen vacancy reservoir. The device with the smallest Ta2O5 thickness (0.5 nm) showed normal switching properties with gradual change in resistance in I-V sweep or CLPS and high reliability. By contrast, other devices with higher Ta2O5 thickness (1.0-2.0 nm) showed abrupt switching with several abnormal behaviours, degraded resistance distribution, especially in high resistance state, and much lower reliability performance. A single conical or hour-glass shaped double conical conducting filament shape was conceived to explain these behavioural differences that depended on the Ta2O5 switching layer thickness. Loss of oxygen via lateral diffusion to the encapsulating Si3N4/SiO2 layer was suggested as the main degradation mechanism for reliability, and a method to improve reliability was also proposed.

Hydrogel brushes grafted from stainless steel via surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization for marine antifouling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jingjing; Wei, Jun

2016-09-01

Crosslinked hydrogel brushes were grafted from stainless steel (SS) surfaces for marine antifouling. The brushes were prepared by surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (SI-ATRP) of 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) and poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (PEGMA) respectively with different fractions of crosslinker in the feed. The grafted layers prepared with different thickness were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), atomic force microscopy (AFM), ellipsometry and water contact angle measurements. With the increase in the fraction of crosslinker in the feed, the thickness of the grafted layer increased and the surface became smooth. All the brush-coated SS surfaces could effectively reduce the adhesion of bacteria and microalgae and settlement of barnacle cyprids, as compared to the pristine SS surface. The antifouling efficacy of the PEGMA polymer (PPEGMA)-grafted surface was higher than that of the MPC polymer (PMPC)-grafted surfaces. Furthermore, the crosslinked hydrogel brush-grafted surfaces exhibited better fouling resistance than the non-crosslinked polymer brush-grafted surfaces, and the antifouling efficacy increased with the crosslinking density. These hydrogel coatings of low toxicity and excellent anti-adhesive characteristics suggested their useful applications as environmentally friendly antifouling coatings.

Corrosion resistance of nanostructured titanium.

PubMed

Garbacz, H; Pisarek, M; Kurzydłowski, K J

2007-11-01

The present work reports results of studies of corrosion resistance of pure nano-Ti-Grade 2 after hydrostatic extrusion. The grain size of the examined samples was below 90 nm. Surface analytical technique including AES combined with Ar(+) ion sputtering, were used to investigate the chemical composition and thicknesses of the oxides formed on nano-Ti. It has been found that the grain size of the titanium substrate did not influence the thickness of oxide formed on the titanium. The thickness of the oxide observed on the titanium samples before and after hydrostatic extrusion was about 6 nm. Tests carried out in a NaCl solution revealed a slightly lower corrosion resistance of nano-Ti in comparison with the titanium with micrometric grain size.

Electron scattering characteristics of polycrystalline metal transition films by in-situ electrical resistance measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trindade, I. G.; Leitão, D.; Fermento, R.; Pogorelev, Y.; Sousa, J. B.

2009-08-01

In-situ electrical resistance measurements were performed to obtain the scattering characteristics of very thin polycrystalline metal transition magnetic alloys grown by ion beam deposition (IBD) on specific underlayers. The experimental curves show size effects at small film thicknesses and important differences between Co 85Fe 15 and Ni 81Fe 19 thin layers grown on identical underlayers of Ta70 Å/Ru13 Å. The largest difference was observed in Ni 81Fe 19 films grown on underlayers of amorphous Ta70 Å. The experimental curves of electrical resistivity/conductivity variation with layer thickness were well fit within the Mayadas and Shatzkes (M-S) model, assuming specific formulations for grain growth with layer thickness.

Ply cracking in composite laminates

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

Han, Youngmyong.

1989-01-01

Ply cracking behavior and accompanying stiffness changes in thermoset as well as thermoplastic matrix composites under various loading conditions are investigated. Specific topics addressed are: analytical model development for property degradations due to ply cracking under general in-plane loading; crack initiation and multiplication under static loading; and crack multiplication under cyclic loading. A model was developed to calculate the energy released due to ply cracking in a composite laminate subjected to general in-plane loading. The method is based on the use of a second order polynomial to represent the crack opening displacement and the concept of a through-the-thickness inherent flaw.more » The model is then used in conjunction with linear elastic fracture mechanics to predict the progressive ply cracking as well as first ply cracking. A resistance curve for crack multiplication is proposed as a means of characterizing the resistance to ply cracking in composite laminates. A methodology of utilizing the resistance curve to assess the crack density or overloading is also discussed. The method was applied to the graphite/thermoplastic polyimide composite to predict progressive ply cracking. However, unlike the thermoset matrix composites, a strength model is found to fit the experimental results better than the fracture mechanics based model. A set of closed form equations is also developed to calculate the accompanying stiffness changes due to the ply cracking. The effect of thermal residual stress is included in the analysis. A new method is proposed to characterize transverse ply cracking of symmetric balanced laminates under cyclic loading. The method is based on the concept of a through-the-thickness inherent flaw, the Paris law, and the resistance curve. Only two constants are needed to predict the crack density as a function of fatigue cycles.« less

Thickness and Closure Kinetics of the Suprachoroidal Space Following Microneedle Injection of Liquid Formulations

PubMed Central

Chiang, Bryce; Venugopal, Nitin; Grossniklaus, Hans E.; Jung, Jae Hwan; Edelhauser, Henry F.; Prausnitz, Mark R.

2017-01-01

Purpose To determine the effect of injection volume and formulation of a microneedle injection into the suprachoroidal space (SCS) on SCS thickness and closure kinetics. Methods Microneedle injections containing 25 to 150 μL Hanks' balanced salt solution (HBSS) were performed in the rabbit SCS ex vivo. Distribution of SCS thickness was measured by ultrasonography and three-dimensional (3D) cryo-reconstruction. Microneedle injections were performed in the rabbit SCS in vivo using HBSS, Discovisc, and 1% to 5% carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) in HBSS. Ultrasonography was used to track SCS thickness over time. Results Increasing HBSS injection volume increased the area of expanded SCS, but did not increase SCS thickness ex vivo. With SCS injections in vivo, the SCS initially expanded to thicknesses of 0.43 ± 0.06 mm with HBSS, 1.5 ± 0.4 mm with Discovisc, and 0.69 to 2.1 mm with 1% to 5% CMC. After injection with HBSS, Discovisc, and 1% CMC solution, the SCS collapsed to baseline with time constants of 19 minutes, 6 hours, and 2.4 days, respectively. In contrast, injections with 3% to 5% CMC solution resulted in SCS expansion to 2.3 to 2.8 mm over the course of 2.8 to 9.1 hours, after which the SCS collapsed to baseline with time constants of 4.5 to 9.2 days. Conclusions With low-viscosity formulations, SCS expands to a thickness that remains roughly constant, independent of the volume of fluid injected. Increasing injection fluid viscosity significantly increased SCS thickness. Expansion of the SCS is hypothesized to be controlled by a balance between the viscous forces of the liquid formulation and the resistive biomechanical forces of the tissue. PMID:28125842

Thickness and Closure Kinetics of the Suprachoroidal Space Following Microneedle Injection of Liquid Formulations.

PubMed

Chiang, Bryce; Venugopal, Nitin; Grossniklaus, Hans E; Jung, Jae Hwan; Edelhauser, Henry F; Prausnitz, Mark R

2017-01-01

To determine the effect of injection volume and formulation of a microneedle injection into the suprachoroidal space (SCS) on SCS thickness and closure kinetics. Microneedle injections containing 25 to 150 μL Hanks' balanced salt solution (HBSS) were performed in the rabbit SCS ex vivo. Distribution of SCS thickness was measured by ultrasonography and three-dimensional (3D) cryo-reconstruction. Microneedle injections were performed in the rabbit SCS in vivo using HBSS, Discovisc, and 1% to 5% carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) in HBSS. Ultrasonography was used to track SCS thickness over time. Increasing HBSS injection volume increased the area of expanded SCS, but did not increase SCS thickness ex vivo. With SCS injections in vivo, the SCS initially expanded to thicknesses of 0.43 ± 0.06 mm with HBSS, 1.5 ± 0.4 mm with Discovisc, and 0.69 to 2.1 mm with 1% to 5% CMC. After injection with HBSS, Discovisc, and 1% CMC solution, the SCS collapsed to baseline with time constants of 19 minutes, 6 hours, and 2.4 days, respectively. In contrast, injections with 3% to 5% CMC solution resulted in SCS expansion to 2.3 to 2.8 mm over the course of 2.8 to 9.1 hours, after which the SCS collapsed to baseline with time constants of 4.5 to 9.2 days. With low-viscosity formulations, SCS expands to a thickness that remains roughly constant, independent of the volume of fluid injected. Increasing injection fluid viscosity significantly increased SCS thickness. Expansion of the SCS is hypothesized to be controlled by a balance between the viscous forces of the liquid formulation and the resistive biomechanical forces of the tissue.

Longevity of HDPE Geomembranes in Geoenvironmental Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ewais, Amr Mohamed Ragab Abdel Samad

With sufficient time, a high density polyethylene geomembrane will degrade and lose its engineering properties until ruptures signal the end of its service-life. This thesis examines the longevity of nine different geomembranes; five of them were of different thickness manufactured from the same resin. The degradation of properties and time to failure are investigated for geomembranes: in immersion tests; as a part of a landfill composite liner; and, exposed to the elements. The different thermal and stress histories associated with manufacturing geomembranes of different thickness are shown to affect their morphological structure; consequently, their stress crack resistance. When immersed in synthetic leachate, it was found that: (a) thicker geomembranes have a longer antioxidants depletion time but the effect of thickness decreases with temperature and is less than expected; (b) inferences of geomembrane's longevity based on its initial properties may be misleading because a geomembrane may chemically degrade (as manifested by the change in melt index) despite the presence of a significant amount of stabilizers (as manifested by the measured high pressure oxidative induction time); and, (c) stress crack resistance may change before antioxidant depletion or chemical degradation takes place, likely, due to changes in geomembrane morphological structure with the maximum decrease being observed at 55°C. Reductions also were measured for geomembrane immersed in air and water at 55°C. The geomembrane aged in a simulated landfill liner at 85°C is shown to have service-life as little as three years with 30,000 to >2.0 million ruptures/hectare at failure. For exposed geomembranes in Alumbrera (Argentina), samples were exhumed from two mine facilities after ~16 years of exposure. The antioxidants in exposed samples depleted to residual and the stress crack resistance had dropped to as low as 70 hours. Samples were exhumed from a different exposed geomembrane in a test site in Godfrey (Canada) after six years of exposure. The antioxidants were partially depleted, with depletion to residual projected to take at least 20 years; however, despite no evidence of chemical ageing, the stress crack resistance had decreased from 330 to 190 hours, likely due to changes in the morphological structure of the geomembrane.

A Simple Model of a LINUS Fusion System with a Thick, Compressible, Resistive Liner.

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-04-01

analysis of Ref. 1 to a plasma compressed by the inner shell only. If Q is the ratio of the fusion energy yield to the energy E initially in the...field B = 0.8 MG. A system designed to achieve fusion energy = plasma energy needs only Q = E^/E = 0.57, in which case r„ = 1.7 cm and E = 7-3 MJ.m 1...delivered to ehe plasma, Tji (1 - E„/E ) remain in the liner. *W O k. OJli units of fusion energy are produced, of which a fraction C is in

Enhancing power density of strained In0.8Ga0.2As/AlAs resonant tunneling diode for terahertz radiation by optimizing emitter spacer layer thickness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Xiangyang; Wu, Yuanyuan; Wang, Ding; Su, Juan; Liu, Jie; Yang, Wenxian; Xiao, Meng; Tan, Wei; Lu, Shulong; Zhang, Jian

2017-12-01

We demonstrate both theoretically and experimentally that the power density of resonant tunneling diode (RTD) can be enhanced by optimizing emitter spacer layer thickness, in addition to reducing barrier thickness. Compared to the widely used epitaxial structure with ultrathin emitter spacer layer thickness, appropriate increasing the thickness will increase the voltage drop in accumulation region, leading to larger voltage widths of negative differential resistance region. By measuring J-V characteristics, the specific contact resistivity, and the self-capacitance, we theoretically analyze the maximum output power of the fabricated RTDs. It shows that the optimized In0.8Ga0.2As/AlAs RTD with 20 nm emitter spacer thickness and 5 μm2 mesa area theoretically possesses the capability to reach 3.1 mW at 300 GHz and 1.8 mW at 600 GHz.

Identification of Sungai Batu Sediment using 2-D Resistivity Imaging and Seismic Refraction Methods for Ancient River Mapping at Kedah, Malaysia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andika, F.; Saad, R.; Saidin, M. M.; Muztaza, N. M.; Amsir

2018-04-01

Sungai Batu is an earliest civilization in Southeast Asia with evidenced by the discovery of riverside jetty, iron smelting, and ritual monuments. The evidences can lead to prediction of buried river caused by geological and sedimentation process. This study was conducted to study sediment deposit characteristic and to map thickness of the sediments using 2-D resistivity imaging and seismic refraction for ancient river mapping. A total of thirty, 2-D resistivity and nine seismic survey lines were conducted at the study area. Four of the lines R1-R4 and S1-S4 were correlated and validated with existing on site boreholes BH1-BH4 to identify sediment type and thickness. The validated values applied to the remaining survey lines which no borehole record to map the subsurface of the study area. Based on the results, Sungai Batu area consist of clay with resistivity value of 6.6-25.9 Ω.m and velocity value of 716.9-1606.9 m/s; sandy clay with resistivity value of 6-265.1 Ω.m and velocity value of 1003.6-1901.4 m/s; while shale was identified with resistivity value of >668.6 Ω.m and velocity value of >2051.7 m/s. Boundary between clay/sandy clay with shale was identified with resistivity value of 314 Ω.m and velocity value of 1822 m/s. The integration of the 2-D resistivity and seismic refraction identified that the thickness of Sungai Batu sediment is 0-150 m and Sungai Batu ancient river was successfully map based on thickness of sediment which is >45 m.

Real weld geometry determining mechanical properties of high power laser welded medium plates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Sang; Mi, Gaoyang; Yan, Fei; Wang, Chunming; Li, Peigen

2018-06-01

Weld width is commonly used as one of main factors to assess joint performances in laser welding. However, it changes significantly through the thickness direction in conditions of medium or thick plates. In this study, high-power autogenous laser welding was conducted on 7 mm thickness 201 stainless steel to elucidate the factor of whole weld transverse shape critically affecting the mechanical properties with the aim of predicting the performance visually through the weld appearance. The results show that single variation of welding parameters could result in great changes of weld pool figures and subsequently weld transverse shapes. All the obtained welds are composed of austenite containing small amount of cellular dendritic δ-Ferrite. The 0.2% proof stresses of Nail- and Peanut-shaped joint reach 458 MPa and 454 MPa, 88.2% and 87.5% of the base material respectively, while that of Wedge-shaped joint only comes to 371 MPa, 71.5% of the base material. The deterioration effect is believed to be caused by the axial grain zone in the weld center. The fatigue strength of joint P is a bit lower than N, but much better than W. Significant deformation incompatibility through the whole thickness and microstructure resistance to crack initiation should be responsible for the poor performance of W-shaped joints.

Geophysical constraints on Rio Grande rift structure and stratigraphy from magnetotelluric models and borehole resistivity logs, northern New Mexico

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rodriguez, Brian D.; Sawyer, David A.; Hudson, Mark R.; Grauch, V.J.S.

2013-01-01

Two- and three-dimensional electrical resistivity models derived from the magnetotelluric method were interpreted to provide more accurate hydrogeologic parameters for the Albuquerque and Española Basins. Analysis and interpretation of the resistivity models are aided by regional borehole resistivity data. Examination of the magnetotelluric response of hypothetical stratigraphic cases using resistivity characterizations from the borehole data elucidates two scenarios where the magnetotelluric method provides the strongest constraints. In the first scenario, the magnetotelluric method constrains the thickness of extensive volcanic cover, the underlying thickness of coarser-grained facies of buried Santa Fe Group sediments, and the depth to Precambrian basement or overlying Pennsylvanian limestones. In the second scenario, in the absence of volcanic cover, the magnetotelluric method constrains the thickness of coarser-grained facies of buried Santa Fe Group sediments and the depth to Precambrian basement or overlying Pennsylvanian limestones. Magnetotelluric surveys provide additional constraints on the relative positions of basement rocks and the thicknesses of Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Tertiary sedimentary rocks in the region of the Albuquerque and Española Basins. The northern extent of a basement high beneath the Cerros del Rio volcanic field is delineated. Our results also reveal that the largest offset of the Hubbell Spring fault zone is located 5 km west of the exposed scarp. By correlating our resistivity models with surface geology and the deeper stratigraphic horizons using deep well log data, we are able to identify which of the resistivity variations in the upper 2 km belong to the upper Santa Fe Group sediment

Oxidation characteristics of 440 C CRES in gaseous oxygen (GOX) environments. [Corrosion Resistant Steel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dennies, Daniel P.; Parsons, Terry D.

1986-01-01

The oxidation characteristics of 440 C corrosion-resistant steel are evaluated. The dependence of oxide color, type, and thickness, material hardness, and microstructure on temperature is examined. The effects of exposure time, passivation layer, and oxygen pressure on the oxide formation are investigated. A direct relationship between temperature and oxide color, formation, and thickness is detected. It is observed that the exposure time does not affect the microstructure or oxide color, type, or thickness; however, the passivation layer does affect oxide color and type.

The history and fate of three families of lithosphere on Earth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, C. T.

2016-12-01

Based on compilations of surface heat flux to constrain the thermal boundary layer thickness, lithosphere thickness can be shown to have a trimodal distribution. In ocean basins, lithosphere thickness ranges from thin (<10 km) beneath young ocean basins, which dominate, to thick (<100 km) beneath old ocean basins, which are rare due to subduction. Continents have thicker lithospheres and define two additional peaks: 30%, reflecting most of the Archean cratons, are 180-220 km thick and 60% are 90-140 km thick. While ocean basins subduct after their lithospheres grow thick, continents do not, despite their thicker lithospheres. The insubductibility of continents is because the buoyancy of thick crust compensates for the thick cold lithosphere and because continental thermal boundary layers do not grow indefinitely. Lithospheric growth is understood to be limited by the onset of small-scale convective instabilities, but why then do continental lithospheres have two different critical thicknesses? Initial thickness, at the time of formation, is critical. Continental lithospheres less than 120 km thick are subject to magmatic modification (refertilization) in the form of thermo-chemical erosion, which gradually thins the lithosphere. Lithospheres greater than 120 km appear to be relatively immune to significant lithospheric thinning. This may in part be because refertilization-driven destabilization does not occur since deep melting is suppressed beneath thick lithosphere. To resist thermal thinning, it seems necessary that anomalously thick lithospheres were born with intrinsic strength, widely hypothesized to have been imparted by the unusual petrogenesis of cratonic mantle, wherein high degrees of melting early in Earth's history resulted in the formation of a dehydrated and strong chemical boundary layer. Another possibility is that cratonic mantle is characterized by the strengthening effects of larger grain size, owing to the high degrees of melting that decrease the number of clinopyroxene pinning points. In summary, a lithosphere's fate depends on the nature of its origin. Continental lithospheres born thick will have long, boring lives, continental lithospheres born thin will be forever tormented, and oceanic lithospheres are fated to have calm but brief lives at the Earth's surface.

Narrowband noise study of sliding charge density waves in NbSe 3 nanoribbons

DOE PAGES

Onishi, Seita; Jamei, Mehdi; Zettl, Alex

2017-01-12

Transport properties (dc electrical resistivity, threshold electric field, and narrow-band noise) are reported for nanoribbon specimens of NbSe 3 with thicknesses as low as 18 nm. As the sample thickness decreases, the resistive anomalies characteristic of the charge density wave (CDW) state are suppressed and the threshold fields for nonlinear CDW conduction apparently diverge. Narrow-band noise measurements allow determination of the concentration of carriers condensed in the CDW state n c , reflective of the CDW order parameter Δ. Although the CDW transition temperatures are relatively independent of sample thickness, in the lower CDW state Δ decreases dramatically with decreasingmore » sample thickness.« less

Thickness and microstructure effects in the optical and electrical properties of silver thin films

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

Ding, Guowen, E-mail: gding@intermolecular.com; Clavero, César; Schweigert, Daniel

The optical and electrical response of metal thin films approaching thicknesses in the range of the electron mean free path is highly affected by electronic scattering with the interfaces and defects. Here, we present a theoretical and experimental study on how thickness and microstructure affect the properties of Ag thin films. We are able to successfully model the electrical resistivity and IR optical response using a thickness dependent electronic scattering time. Remarkably, the product of electronic scattering time and resistivity remains constant regardless of the thickness (τx ρ = C), with a value of 59 ± 2 μΩ cm ⋅more » fs for Ag films in the investigated range from 3 to 74 nm. Our findings enable us to develop a theoretically framework that allows calculating the optical response of metal thin films in the IR by using their measured thickness and resistivity. An excellent agreement is found between experimental measurements and predicted values. This study also shows the theoretical lower limit for emissivity in Ag thin films according to their microstructure and thickness. Application of the model presented here will allow rapid characterization of the IR optical response of metal thin films, with important application in a broad spectrum of fundamental and industrial applications, including optical coatings, low-emissivity windows and semiconductor industry.« less

Microstructure optimization for high-performance PrBa0.5Sr0.5Co1.5Fe0.5O5+δ-La2NiO4+δ core-shell cathode of solid oxide fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jin; Qiu, Peng; Xia, Meng; Jia, Lichao; Chi, Bo; Pu, Jian; Li, Jian

2018-03-01

Four PrBa0.5Sr0.5Co1.5Fe0.5O5+δ (PBSCF)-La2NiO4+δ (LN) core-shell cathodes, designated as PL-0, PL-1, PL-3 and PL-5, are prepared by infiltrating LN solution into PBSCF scaffold, and they are investigated in terms of the effect of LN thickness on their electrochemical performance. PL-3 with a continuous LN coating of a moderate average thickness (∼9 nm) demonstrates the lowest initial polarization resistance (0.51 Ω cm2) and highest power density (0.71 W cm-2) among all the cathodes. Polarized at 400 mA cm-2 and 700 °C for up to 40 h, the polarization resistance of all the prepared cathodes increases to approach a stable level after early stage decrease due to current activation, and PL-3 exhibits a slower average rate of performance degradation (25%). The electrochemical performance improvement is mainly attributed to that LN has a relatively high oxygen surface exchange coefficient and continuous LN coating depresses Sr segregation at PBSCF/LN interface.

Synthesis and characterization of antifouling poly(N-acryloylaminoethoxyethanol) with ultralow protein adsorption and cell attachment.

PubMed

Chen, Hong; Zhang, Mingzhen; Yang, Jintao; Zhao, Chao; Hu, Rundong; Chen, Qiang; Chang, Yung; Zheng, Jie

2014-09-02

Rational design of effective antifouling polymers is challenging but important for many fundamental and applied applications. Herein we synthesize and characterize an N-acryloylaminoethoxyethanol (AAEE) monomer, which integrates three hydrophilic groups of hydroxyl, amide, and ethylene glycol in the same material. AAEE monomers were further grafted and polymerized on gold substrates to form polyAAEE brushes with well-controlled thickness via surface-initiated atomic transfer radical polymerization (SI-ATRP), with particular attention to a better understanding of the molecular structure-antifouling property relationship of hydroxyl-acrylic-based polymers. The surface hydrophilicity and antifouling properties of polyAAEE brushes as a function of film thickness are studied by combined experimental and computational methods including surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensors, atomic force microscopy (AFM), cell adhesion assay, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. With the optimal polymer film thicknesses (∼10-40 nm), polyAAEE-grafted surfaces can effectively resist protein adsorption from single-protein solutions and undiluted human blood plasma and serum to a nonfouling level (i.e., <0.3 ng/cm(2)). The polyAAEE brushes also highly resist mammalian cell attachment up to 3 days. MD simulations confirm that the integration of three hydrophilic groups induce a stronger and closer hydration layer around polyAAEE, revealing a positive relationship between surface hydration and antifouling properties. The molecular structure-antifouling properties relationship of a series of hydroxyl-acrylic-based polymers is also discussed. This work hopefully provides a promising structural motif for the design of new effective antifouling materials beyond traditional ethylene glycol-based antifouling materials.

Tailoring the heat transfer on the injection moulding cavity by plasma sprayed ceramic coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bobzin, K.; Hopmann, Ch; Öte, M.; Knoch, M. A.; Alkhasli, I.; Dornebusch, H.; Schmitz, M.

2017-03-01

Inhomogeneous material shrinkage in injection moulding can cause warpage in thermoplastic components. To minimise the deformations of the injection moulding parts, the heat transfer during the cooling phase can be adjusted according to the local cooling demand on the surface of the mould cavity by means of plasma sprayed coatings with locally variable thermal resistance over the surface of the mould. Thermal resistance is a function of thermal conductivity and thickness of the coatings, where thermal conductivity of thermal barrier coatings can be adjusted by altering the chemical composition and the microstructure, which is depending on the thickness. This work evaluates the application of plasma sprayed coatings with variable thickness as thermal barrier coatings in the mould cavity. The thermal resistance of the coating and thereby the heat transfer from the melt into the mould will be influenced locally by varying the coating thickness over the cavity area according to the local cooling demand. Using the laser flash method, the thermal conduction of coatings with different thicknesses will be determined. On the basis of the experimentally determined thermal conduction, the effect of the coatings on the temperature field of the mould cavity will be numerically calculated and the required thickness distribution of the coating for an optimal temperature gradient will be determined.

X-ray and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy Diagnostic Investigations of Liquid Water in Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Gas Diffusion Layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Antonacci, Patrick

In this thesis, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and synchrotron x-ray radiography were utilized to characterize the impact of liquid water distributions in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) gas diffusion layers (GDLs) on fuel cell performance. These diagnostic techniques were used to quantify the effects of liquid water visualized on equivalent resistances measured through EIS. The effects of varying the thickness of the microporous layer (MPL) of GDLs were studied using these diagnostic techniques. In a first study on the feasibility of this methodology, two fuel cell cases with a 100 microm-thick and a 150 microm-thick MPL were compared under constant current density operation. In a second study with 10, 30, 50, and 100 microm-thick MPLs, the liquid water in the cathode substrate was demonstrated to affect mass transport resistance, while the liquid water content in the anode (from back diffusion) affected membrane hydration, evidenced through ohmic resistance measurements.

Simulation of water-table aquifers using specified saturated thickness

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sheets, Rodney A.; Hill, Mary C.; Haitjema, Henk M.; Provost, Alden M.; Masterson, John P.

2014-01-01

Simulating groundwater flow in a water-table (unconfined) aquifer can be difficult because the saturated thickness available for flow depends on model-calculated hydraulic heads. It is often possible to realize substantial time savings and still obtain accurate head and flow solutions by specifying an approximate saturated thickness a priori, thus linearizing this aspect of the model. This specified-thickness approximation often relies on the use of the “confined” option in numerical models, which has led to confusion and criticism of the method. This article reviews the theoretical basis for the specified-thickness approximation, derives an error analysis for relatively ideal problems, and illustrates the utility of the approximation with a complex test problem. In the transient version of our complex test problem, the specified-thickness approximation produced maximum errors in computed drawdown of about 4% of initial aquifer saturated thickness even when maximum drawdowns were nearly 20% of initial saturated thickness. In the final steady-state version, the approximation produced maximum errors in computed drawdown of about 20% of initial aquifer saturated thickness (mean errors of about 5%) when maximum drawdowns were about 35% of initial saturated thickness. In early phases of model development, such as during initial model calibration efforts, the specified-thickness approximation can be a very effective tool to facilitate convergence. The reduced execution time and increased stability obtained through the approximation can be especially useful when many model runs are required, such as during inverse model calibration, sensitivity and uncertainty analyses, multimodel analysis, and development of optimal resource management scenarios.

A temperature correlation for the radiation resistance of a thick-walled circular duct exhausting a hot gas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mahan, J. R.; Cline, J. G.; Jones, J. D.

1984-01-01

It is often useful to know the radiation impedance of an unflanged but thick-walled circular duct exhausting a hot gas into relatively cold surroundings. The reactive component is shown to be insensitive to temperature, but the resistive component is shown to be temperature dependent. A temperature correlation is developed permitting prediction of the radiation resistance from a knowledge of the temperature difference between the ambient air and the gas flowing from the duct, and a physical basis for this correlation is presented.

The 60 GHz IMPATT diode development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dat, Rovindra; Ayyagari, Murthy; Hoag, David; Sloat, David; Anand, Yogi; Whitely, Stan

1986-01-01

The objective is to develop 60 GHz IMPATT diodes suitable for communications applications. The performance goals of the 60 GHz IMPATT is 1W CW output power with a conversion efficiency of 15 percent and 10-year lifetime. The final design of the 60 GHz IMPATT structure evolved from computer simulations performed at the University of Michigan. The initial doping profile, involving a hybrid double-drift (HDD) design, was derived from a drift-diffusion model that used the static velocity-field characteristics for GaAs. Unfortunately, the model did not consider the effects of velocity undershoot and delay of the avalanche process due to energy relaxation. Consequently, the initial devices were oscillating at a much lower frequency than anticipated. With a revised simulation program that included the two effects given above, a second HDD profile was generated and was used as a basis for fabrication efforts. In the area of device fabrication, significant progress was made in epitaxial growth and characterization, wafer processing, and die assembly. The organo-metallic chemical vapor deposition (OMCVD) was used. Starting with a baseline X-Band IMPATT technology, appropriate processing steps were modified to satisfy the device requirements at V-Band. In terms of efficiency and reliability, the device requirements dictate a reduction in its series resistance and thermal resistance values. Qualitatively, researchers were able to reduce the diodes' series resistance by reducing the thickness of the N+ GaAs substrate used in its fabrication.

Pressurised electro-osmotic dewatering of activated and anaerobically digested sludges: electrical variables analysis.

PubMed

Citeau, M; Olivier, J; Mahmoud, A; Vaxelaire, J; Larue, O; Vorobiev, E

2012-09-15

Pressurised electro-osmotic dewatering (PEOD) of two sewage sludges (activated and anaerobically digested) was studied under constant electric current (C.C.) and constant voltage (C.V.) with a laboratory chamber simulating closely an industrial filter. The influence of sludge characteristics, process parameters, and electrode/filter cloth position was investigated. The next parameters were tested: 40 and 80 A/m², 20, 30, and 50 V-for digested sludge dewatering; and 20, 40 and 80 A/m², 20, 30, and 50 V-for activated sludge dewatering. Effects of filter cloth electric resistance and initial cake thickness were also investigated. The application of PEOD provides a gain of 12 points of dry solids content for the digested sludge (47.0% w/w) and for the activated sludge (31.7% w/w). In PEOD processed at C.C. or at C.V., the dewatering flow rate was similar for the same electric field intensity. In C.C. mode, both the electric resistance of cake and voltage increase, causing a temperature rise by ohmic effect. In C.V. mode, a current intensity peak was observed in the earlier dewatering period. Applying at first a constant current and later on a constant voltage, permitted to have better control of ohmic heating effect. The dewatering rate was not significantly affected by the presence of filter cloth on electrodes, but the use of a thin filter cloth reduced remarkably the energy consumption compared to a thicker one: 69% of reduction energy input at 45% w/w of dry solids content. The reduction of the initial cake thickness is advantageous to increase the final dry solids content. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Patterns of cell division, DNA base compositions, and fine structures of some radiation-resistant vegetative bacteria found in food

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

Sanders, S.W.; Maxcy, R.B.

1979-01-01

Representative highly radiation-resistant Moraxella-Acinetobacter (M-A), Pseudomonas radiora, Micrococcus radiodurans, and Micrococcus radiophilus exhibited a wide variety of division systems and cell wall characteristics. However, the more resistant M-A possessed unusually thick cell walls, indicating a possible role of the cell wall in radiation resistance in the M-A. Thick septation was present in most of the bacteria studied, but was absent in P. radiora, thus excluding this as a necessity for high resistance. Reliable determination of the number of division planes of the M-A for use as a taxonomic criterion was achieved by the direct observation of dividing cells. The highlymore » resistant M-A were found to divide in multiple planes and had base compositions of 54.0 to 57.5%, unlike typical Moraxella and/or Acinetobacter species. The taxonomic position of most highly resistant bacteria remains unclear.« less

Evaluation of TF11 attenuated-PSM mask blanks with DUV laser patterning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xing, Kezhao; Björnberg, Charles; Karlsson, Henrik; Paulsson, Adisa; Beiming, Peter; Vedenpää, Jukka; Walford, Jonathan

2008-05-01

Tightening requirements on resolution, CD uniformity and positional accuracy push the development of improved photomask blanks. One such blank for 45nm node attenuated phase shift masks (att-PSM) provides a thinner chrome film, TF11, with a higher etch rate compared to previous generation NTAR5 att-PSM blanks from the same supplier. FEP-171, a positive chemically amplified resist, is commonly used in mask manufacturing for both e-beam and DUV laser pattern generators. TF11 chrome allows the FEP-171 resist thickness to be decreased at least down to 2000 Å while maintaining sufficient etch resistance, thereby improving photomask CD performance. The lower stress level in TF11 chrome films also reduces the image placement error induced by the material. In this study, TF11 chrome and FEP-171 resist are evaluated with exposures on a 248 nm DUV laser pattern generator, the Sigma7500. Patterning is first characterized for resist thicknesses of 2000 Å to 2600 Å in steps of 100 Å, assessing the minimum feature resolution, CD linearity, isolated-dense CD bias and dose sensitivity. Swing curve analysis shows a minimum near 2200 Å and a maximum near 2500 Å, corresponding closely to the reflectivity measurements provided by the blank supplier. The best overall patterning performance is obtained when operating near the swing maximum. The patterning performance is then studied in more detail with a resist thickness of 2550 Å that corresponds to the reflectivity maximum. This is compared to the results with 2000 Å resist, a standard thickness for e-beam exposures on TF11. The lithographic performance on NTAR5 att-PSM blanks with 3200 Å resist is also included for reference. This evaluation indicates that TF11 blanks with 2550 Å resist provide the best overall mask patterning performance obtained with the Sigma7500, showing a global CD uniformity below 4 nm (3s) and minimum feature resolution below 100 nm.

Evidence of electrochemical resistive switching in the hydrated alumina layers of Cu/CuTCNQ/(native AlOx)/Al junctions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knorr, Nikolaus; Bamedi, Ameneh; Karipidou, Zoi; Wirtz, René; Sarpasan, Mustafa; Rosselli, Silvia; Nelles, Gabriele

2013-09-01

We have investigated bipolar resistive switching of Cu/CuTCNQ/Al cross-junctions in both vacuum and different gas environments. While the generally observed S-shaped I-V hysteresis was reproduced in ambient air, it was reversibly suppressed in well-degassed samples in vacuum and in dry N2. The OFF-switching currents in ambient air peaked when approximately +2.6 V was applied to the Al electrode at low voltage sweep rates. OFF-switching at constant bias was accelerated in humid and oxygen-rich atmospheres. For unbiased samples stored in air, ON-state (RON) and OFF-state (ROFF) resistances increased with time, and RON surpassed the initial ROFF after approximately one week. Retention times were enhanced for samples stored in vacuum and those with a larger cross-junction area. We suggest that resistive switching occurs in a hydrated native alumina layer at the CuTCNQ/Al interface that grows in thickness during exposure to ambient humidity: ON-switching by electrochemical metallization of free Al and/or Cu ions and OFF-switching by anodic oxidation of the Al electrode and previously grown metal filaments.

Combined In-Plane and Through-the-Thickness Analysis for Failure Prediction of Bolted Composite Joints

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kradinov, V.; Madenci, E.; Ambur, D. R.

2004-01-01

Although two-dimensional methods provide accurate predictions of contact stresses and bolt load distribution in bolted composite joints with multiple bolts, they fail to capture the effect of thickness on the strength prediction. Typically, the plies close to the interface of laminates are expected to be the most highly loaded, due to bolt deformation, and they are usually the first to fail. This study presents an analysis method to account for the variation of stresses in the thickness direction by augmenting a two-dimensional analysis with a one-dimensional through the thickness analysis. The two-dimensional in-plane solution method based on the combined complex potential and variational formulation satisfies the equilibrium equations exactly, and satisfies the boundary conditions and constraints by minimizing the total potential. Under general loading conditions, this method addresses multiple bolt configurations without requiring symmetry conditions while accounting for the contact phenomenon and the interaction among the bolts explicitly. The through-the-thickness analysis is based on the model utilizing a beam on an elastic foundation. The bolt, represented as a short beam while accounting for bending and shear deformations, rests on springs, where the spring coefficients represent the resistance of the composite laminate to bolt deformation. The combined in-plane and through-the-thickness analysis produces the bolt/hole displacement in the thickness direction, as well as the stress state in each ply. The initial ply failure predicted by applying the average stress criterion is followed by a simple progressive failure. Application of the model is demonstrated by considering single- and double-lap joints of metal plates bolted to composite laminates.

Cuticle Thickening in a Pyrethroid-Resistant Strain of the Common Bed Bug, Cimex lectularius L. (Hemiptera: Cimicidae)

PubMed Central

Lilly, David G.; Latham, Sharissa L.; Webb, Cameron E.; Doggett, Stephen L.

2016-01-01

Thickening of the integument as a mechanism of resistance to insecticides is a well recognised phenomenon in the insect world and, in recent times, has been found in insects exhibiting pyrethroid-resistance. Resistance to pyrethroid insecticides in the common bed bug, Cimex lectularius L., is widespread and has been frequently inferred as a reason for the pest’s resurgence. Overexpression of cuticle depositing proteins has been demonstrated in pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs although, to date, no morphological analysis of the cuticle has been undertaken in order to confirm a phenotypic link. This paper describes examination of the cuticle thickness of a highly pyrethroid-resistant field strain collected in Sydney, Australia, in response to time-to-knockdown upon forced exposure to a pyrethroid insecticide. Mean cuticle thickness was positively correlated to time-to-knockdown, with significant differences observed between bugs knocked-down at 2 hours, 4 hours, and those still unaffected at 24 hours. Further analysis also demonstrated that the 24 hours survivors possessed a statistically significantly thicker cuticle when compared to a pyrethroid-susceptible strain of C. lectularius. This study demonstrates that cuticle thickening is present within a pyrethroid-resistant strain of C. lectularius and that, even within a stable resistant strain, cuticle thickness will vary according to time-to-knockdown upon exposure to an insecticide. This response should thus be considered in future studies on the cuticle of insecticide-resistant bed bugs and, potentially, other insects. PMID:27073871

Cuticle Thickening in a Pyrethroid-Resistant Strain of the Common Bed Bug, Cimex lectularius L. (Hemiptera: Cimicidae).

PubMed

Lilly, David G; Latham, Sharissa L; Webb, Cameron E; Doggett, Stephen L

2016-01-01

Thickening of the integument as a mechanism of resistance to insecticides is a well recognised phenomenon in the insect world and, in recent times, has been found in insects exhibiting pyrethroid-resistance. Resistance to pyrethroid insecticides in the common bed bug, Cimex lectularius L., is widespread and has been frequently inferred as a reason for the pest's resurgence. Overexpression of cuticle depositing proteins has been demonstrated in pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs although, to date, no morphological analysis of the cuticle has been undertaken in order to confirm a phenotypic link. This paper describes examination of the cuticle thickness of a highly pyrethroid-resistant field strain collected in Sydney, Australia, in response to time-to-knockdown upon forced exposure to a pyrethroid insecticide. Mean cuticle thickness was positively correlated to time-to-knockdown, with significant differences observed between bugs knocked-down at 2 hours, 4 hours, and those still unaffected at 24 hours. Further analysis also demonstrated that the 24 hours survivors possessed a statistically significantly thicker cuticle when compared to a pyrethroid-susceptible strain of C. lectularius. This study demonstrates that cuticle thickening is present within a pyrethroid-resistant strain of C. lectularius and that, even within a stable resistant strain, cuticle thickness will vary according to time-to-knockdown upon exposure to an insecticide. This response should thus be considered in future studies on the cuticle of insecticide-resistant bed bugs and, potentially, other insects.

Greyscale Photolithography for Multilayer PZT Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) Device Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

We present development of a process to perform greyscale photolithography on a 2.55-m thick photoresist in order to transfer tiered and sloped...platinum or iridium oxide (IrO2) electrodes above and below each layer. Process variables including resist rehydration , focus of the exposure, and UV cure...bake temperature were optimized to produce the best greyscale profile through the thickness of the resist.

Structural, transport and microwave properties of 123/sapphire films: Thickness effect

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

Predtechensky, MR.; Smal, A.N.; Varlamov, Y.D.

1994-12-31

The effect of thickness and growth conditions on the structure and microwave properties has been investigated for the 123/sapphire films. It has been shown that in the conditions of epitaxial growth and Al atoms do not diffuse from substrate into the film and the films with thickness up to 100nm exhibit the excellent DC properties. The increase of thickness of GdBaCuO films causes the formation of extended line-mesh defects and the increase of the surface resistance (R{sub S}). The low value of surface resistance R{sub S}(75GHz,77K)=20 mOhm has been obtained for the two layer YBaCuO/CdBaCuO/sapphire films.

Unidirectional magnetoresistance in magnetic thin films with non-uniform thickness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia, M. W.; Zhou, C.; Zeng, F. L.; Wu, Y. Z.

2018-05-01

The magnetoresistance (MR) of Co film and Co/Pt bilayers was studied systematically as a function of Co and Pt thickness at room temperature. In the samples with the wedge shape, we found the unidirectional MR which has the characteristics of R (Mz )≠R (-Mz ) with the magnetization normal to the film. The measured unidirectional MR is attributed to the differential anomalous Hall resistance due to the thickness difference at the electrodes for the longitudinal resistance measurements. The unidirectional MR effect in the Co/Pt bilayers can be greatly suppressed by a non-magnetic Cu inserting layer.

Effects of 4 weeks of low-load unilateral resistance training, with and without blood flow restriction, on strength, thickness, V wave, and H reflex of the soleus muscle in men.

PubMed

Colomer-Poveda, David; Romero-Arenas, Salvador; Vera-Ibáñez, Antonio; Viñuela-García, Manuel; Márquez, Gonzalo

2017-07-01

To test the effects of 4 weeks of unilateral low-load resistance training (LLRT), with and without blood flow restriction (BFR), on maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), muscle thickness, volitional wave (V wave), and Hoffmann reflex (H reflex) of the soleus muscle. Twenty-two males were randomly distributed into three groups: a control group (CTR; n = 8); a low-load blood flow restriction resistance training group (BFR-LLRT; n = 7), who were an inflatable cuff to occlude blood flow; and a low-load resistance training group without blood flow restriction (LLRT; n = 7). The training consisted of four sets of unilateral isometric LLRT (25% of MVC) three times a week over 4 weeks. MVC increased 33% (P < 0.001) and 22% (P < 0.01) in the trained leg of both BFR-LLRT and LLRT groups, respectively. The soleus thickness increased 9.5% (P < 0.001) and 6.5% (P < 0.01) in the trained leg of both BFR-LLRT and LLRT groups, respectively. However, neither MVC nor thickness changed in either of the legs tested in the CTR group (MVC -1 and -5%, and muscle thickness 1.9 and 1.2%, for the control and trained leg, respectively). Moreover, V wave and H reflex did not change significantly in all the groups studied (V wave /M wave ratio -7.9 and -2.6%, and H max /M max ratio -3.8 and -4%, for the control and trained leg, respectively). Collectively, the present data suggest that in spite of the changes occurring in soleus strength and thickness, 4 weeks of low-load resistance training, with or without BFR, does not cause any change in neural drive or motoneuronal excitability.

The effect of obesity and insulin resistance on macular choroidal thickness in a pediatric population as assessed by enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Topcu-Yilmaz, Pinar; Akyurek, Nesibe; Erdogan, Erkan

2018-06-23

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the macular choroidal thickness in obese children with and without insulin resistance (IR). Thirty-six patients with obesity and 26 healthy volunteers were included in this cross-sectional study. The choroidal thickness was measured with enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) at the fovea and at positions 500 μm, 1000 μm, 1500 μm nasal and temporal to the fovea. The choroidal thickness measurements of the groups were compared and the correlation between the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and choroidal thickness values was evaluated. The average choroidal thickness in the obese group was significantly lower than that of controls at locations 1000 μm (303.31±58.52 vs. 340.58±69.47, p=0.026) and 1500 μm (284.14±65.06 vs. 336.85±71.37, p=0.004) temporal to the fovea. A subgroup analysis depending on the presence of IR revealed that the choroidal thickness measurements at all positions were thinner in obese children without IR compared to children with IR and healthy controls. This thinning reached a statistical significance at locations 500 μm temporal, 1000 μm temporal and 1500 μm temporal to the fovea (p=0.03, p=0.009 and p=0.006; respectively). There was a moderate correlation between the choroidal thickness measurements and HOMA-IR values (r-values between 0.37 and 0.48; p<0.05). Our results suggest that obesity and IR may have an influence on the choroidal thickness in children. Longitudinal studies will clarify whether these choroidal changes are progressive and are a sign of microvascular dysfunction in childhood obesity.

Effect of Metamorphic Foliation on Regolith Thickness, Catalina Critical Zone Observatory, Arizona

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leone, J. D.; Holbrook, W. S.; Chorover, J.; Carr, B.

2016-12-01

Terrestrial life is sustained by nutrients and water held in soil and weathered rock, which are components of the Earth's critical zone, referred to as regolith. The thickness of regolith in the near-surface is thought to be influenced by factors such as climate, topographic stress, erosion and lithology. Our study has two aims: to determine the effect of metamorphic foliation on regolith thickness and to test an environmental model, Effective Energy Mass Transfer (EEMT), within a zero-order basin (ZOB) in the Santa Catalina Mountains. Seismic refraction and electrical resistivity data show a stark contrast in physical properties, and inferred regolith thickness, on north- versus south-facing slopes: north-facing slopes are characterized by higher seismic velocities and higher resistivities, consistent with thin regolith, while south-facing slopes show lower resistivities and velocities, indicative of deeper and more extensive weathering. This contrast is exactly the opposite of that expected from most climatic models, including the EEMT model, which predicts deeper regolith on north-facing slopes. Instead, regolith thickness appears to be controlled by metamorphic foliation: we observed a general, positive correlation between interpreted regolith thickness and foliation dip within heavily foliated lithologies and no correlation in weakly foliated lithologies. We hypothesize that hydraulic conductivity controls weathering here: where foliation is parallel to the surface topography, regolith is thin, but where foliation pierces the surface topography at a substantial angle, regolith is thick. The effect of foliation is much larger than that expected from environmental models: regolith thickness varies by a factor of 4 (2.5 m vs. 10 m). These results suggest that metamorphic foliation, and perhaps by extension sedimentary layering, plays a key role in determining regolith thickness and must be accounted for in models of critical zone development.

Slow movement resistance training using body weight improves muscle mass in the elderly: A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Tsuzuku, S; Kajioka, T; Sakakibara, H; Shimaoka, K

2018-04-01

To examine the effect of a 12-week slow movement resistance training using body weight as a load (SRT-BW) on muscle mass, strength, and fat distribution in healthy elderly people. Fifty-three men and 35 women aged 70 years old or older without experience in resistance training participated, and they were randomly assigned to a SRT-BW group or control group. The control group did not receive any intervention, but participants in this group underwent a repeat measurement 12 weeks later. The SRT-BW program consisted of 3 different exercises (squat, tabletop push-up, and sit-up), which were designed to stimulate anterior major muscles. Initially, these exercises were performed by 2 sets of 10 repetitions, and subsequently, the number of repetitions was increased progressively by 2 repetitions every 4 weeks. Participants were instructed to perform each eccentric and concentric phase of movement slowly (spending 4 seconds on each movement), covering the full range of motion. We evaluated muscle mass, strength, and fat distribution at baseline and after 12 weeks of training. Changes over 12 weeks were significantly greater in the SRT-BW group than in the control group, with a decrease in waist circumference, hip circumference, and abdominal preperitoneal and subcutaneous fat thickness, and an increase in thigh muscle thickness, knee extension strength, and hip flexion strength. In conclusion, relatively short-term SRT-BW was effective in improving muscle mass, strength, and fat distribution in healthy elderly people. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Evaluation of fouling in nanofiltration for desalination using a resistance-in-series model and optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Park, Jongkwan; Lee, Sungyun; You, Jeongyeop; Park, Sanghun; Ahn, Yujin; Jung, Woonggyu; Cho, Kyung Hwa

2018-06-12

Resistance-in-series models have been applied to investigate fouling behavior. However, it is difficult to model the influence of morphology on fouling behavior because resistance is indirectly calculated from the water flux and transmembrane pressure. In this study, optical coherence tomography (OCT) was applied to evaluate the resistance of the fouling layer based on fouling morphology. Sodium alginate, humic acid, and bovine serum albumin (BSA) with high salts concentrations (conductivity: 23 mS/cm) were used as model foulants. At the same total fouling resistance, BSA showed the highest cake layer thickness (BSA (114.5 μm) > humic acid (53.5 μm) > sodium alginate (20.0 μm)). However, a different order was found for the cake layer resistance (BSA > sodium alginate > humic acid). This indicates that fouling thickness is not correlated with cake layer resistance. According to the Carman-Kozeny equation, fouling layer porosity decreased in the following order: humic acid (0.30) > BSA (0.21) > sodium alginate (0.20). In addition, we provided a specific value that was calculated using the ratio between the fouling thickness and cake layer resistance. The results show that alginic acid induced a stronger cake layer resistance, despite its thin fouling layer, whereas BSA showed a relatively low potential for inducing cake layer resistance. The results obtained in this study could be used for estimating and predicting fouling behavior. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

K13 Propeller Alleles, mdr1 Polymorphism, and Drug Effectiveness at Day 3 after Artemether-Lumefantrine Treatment for Plasmodium falciparum Malaria in Colombia, 2014-2015.

PubMed

Montenegro, Madeline; Neal, Aaron T; Posada, Maritza; De Las Salas, Briegel; Lopera-Mesa, Tatiana M; Fairhurst, Rick M; Tobon-Castaño, Alberto

2017-12-01

High treatment failure rates for Plasmodium falciparum malaria have been reported in Colombia for chloroquine, amodiaquine, and sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine. Artemisinin combination therapies were introduced in 2006 in Colombia, where artemether-lumefantrine (AL) is currently used to treat uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria. Artemisinin (ART) resistance was initially observed in Southeast Asia as an increased parasite clearance time, manifesting as a positive thick-blood smear on day 3 after treatment (D3 positivity). Recently, mutations in the propeller domain of the P. falciparum kelch13 gene ( K13 propeller) have been associated with ART resistance. In this study, we surveyed AL effectiveness at D3 and molecular markers of drug resistance among 187 uncomplicated P. falciparum cases in 4 regions of Colombia from June 2014 to July 2015. We found that 3.2% (4/125) of patients showed D3 positivity, 100% (163/163) of isolates carried wild-type K13 propeller alleles, 12.9% (23/178) of isolates had multiple copies of the multidrug resistance 1 gene ( mdr1 ), and 75.8% (113/149) of isolates harbored the double mutant N F S D D mdr1 haplotype (the underlining indicates mutant alleles). These data suggest that ART resistance is not currently suspected in Colombia but that monitoring for lumefantrine resistance and AL failures should continue. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Microbiology.

K13 Propeller Alleles, mdr1 Polymorphism, and Drug Effectiveness at Day 3 after Artemether-Lumefantrine Treatment for Plasmodium falciparum Malaria in Colombia, 2014-2015

PubMed Central

Montenegro, Madeline; Neal, Aaron T.; Posada, Maritza; De las Salas, Briegel; Lopera-Mesa, Tatiana M.

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT High treatment failure rates for Plasmodium falciparum malaria have been reported in Colombia for chloroquine, amodiaquine, and sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine. Artemisinin combination therapies were introduced in 2006 in Colombia, where artemether-lumefantrine (AL) is currently used to treat uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria. Artemisinin (ART) resistance was initially observed in Southeast Asia as an increased parasite clearance time, manifesting as a positive thick-blood smear on day 3 after treatment (D3 positivity). Recently, mutations in the propeller domain of the P. falciparum kelch13 gene (K13 propeller) have been associated with ART resistance. In this study, we surveyed AL effectiveness at D3 and molecular markers of drug resistance among 187 uncomplicated P. falciparum cases in 4 regions of Colombia from June 2014 to July 2015. We found that 3.2% (4/125) of patients showed D3 positivity, 100% (163/163) of isolates carried wild-type K13 propeller alleles, 12.9% (23/178) of isolates had multiple copies of the multidrug resistance 1 gene (mdr1), and 75.8% (113/149) of isolates harbored the double mutant NFSDD mdr1 haplotype (the underlining indicates mutant alleles). These data suggest that ART resistance is not currently suspected in Colombia but that monitoring for lumefantrine resistance and AL failures should continue. PMID:28947476

Composite superconducting wires obtained by high-rate tinning in molten Bi-Pb-Sr-Ca-Cu-O system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grosav, A. D.; Konopko, L. A.; Leporda, N. I.

1991-01-01

Long lengths of metal superconductor composites were prepared by passing a copper wire through the bismuth based molten oxide system at a constant speed. The key to successful composite preparation is the high pulling speed involved, which permits minimization of the severe interaction between the unbuffered metal surface and the oxide melt. Depending on the temperature of the melt and the pulling speed, a coating with different thickness and microstructure appeared. The nonannealed thick coatings contained a Bi2(Sr,Ca)2Cu1O6 phase as a major component. After relatively short time annealing at 800 C, both resistivity and initial magnetization versus temperature measurements show superconducting transitions beginning in the 110 to 115 K region. The effects of annealing and composition on obtained results are discussed. This method of manufacture led to the fabrication of wire with a copper core in a dense covering with uniform thickness of about h approximately equal to 5 to 50 microns. Composite wires with h approximately equal to 10 microns (h/d approximately equal to 0.1) sustained bending on a 15 mm radius frame without cracking during flexing.

Development and Evaluation of Stitched Sandwich Panels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stanley, Larry E.; Adams, Daniel O.; Reeder, James R. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

This study explored the feasibility and potential benefits provided by the addition of through-the-thickness reinforcement to sandwich structures. Through-the-thickness stitching is proposed to increase the interlaminar strength and damage tolerance of composite sandwich structures. A low-cost, out-of-autoclave processing method was developed to produce composite sandwich panels with carbon fiber face sheets, a closed-cell foam core, and through-the-thickness Kevlar stitching. The sandwich panels were stitched in a dry preform state, vacuum bagged, and infiltrated using Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) processing. For comparison purposes, unstitched sandwich panels were produced using the same materials and manufacturing methodology. Test panels were produced initially at the University of Utah and later at NASA Langley Research Center. Four types of mechanical tests were performed: flexural testing, flatwise tensile testing, core shear testing, and edgewise compression testing. Drop-weight impact testing followed by specimen sectioning was performed to characterize the damage resistance of stitched sandwich panels. Compression after impact (CAI) testing was performed to evaluate the damage tolerance of the sandwich panels. Results show significant increases in the flexural stiffness and strength, out-of-plane tensile strength, core shear strength, edgewise compression strength, and compression-after-impact strength of stitched sandwich structures.

Discrete component bonding and thick film materials study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kinser, D. L.

1975-01-01

The results are summarized of an investigation of discrete component bonding reliability and a fundamental study of new thick film resistor materials. The component bonding study examined several types of solder bonded components with some processing variable studies to determine their influence upon bonding reliability. The bonding reliability was assessed using the thermal cycle: 15 minutes at room temperature, 15 minutes at +125 C 15 minutes at room temperature, and 15 minutes at -55 C. The thick film resistor materials examined were of the transition metal oxide-phosphate glass family with several elemental metal additions of the same transition metal. These studies were conducted by preparing a paste of the subject composition, printing, drying, and firing using both air and reducing atmospheres. The resulting resistors were examined for adherence, resistance, thermal coefficient of resistance, and voltage coefficient of resistance.

Spin-orbit torques in high-resistivity-W/CoFeB/MgO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takeuchi, Yutaro; Zhang, Chaoliang; Okada, Atsushi; Sato, Hideo; Fukami, Shunsuke; Ohno, Hideo

2018-05-01

Magnetic heterostructures consisting of high-resistivity (238 ± 5 µΩ cm)-W/CoFeB/MgO are prepared by sputtering and their spin-orbit torques are evaluated as a function of W thickness through an extended harmonic measurement. W thickness dependence of the spin-orbit torque with the Slonczewski-like symmetry is well described by the drift-diffusion model with an efficiency parameter, the so-called effective spin Hall angle, of -0.62 ± 0.03. In contrast, the field-like spin-orbit torque is one order of magnitude smaller than the Slonczewski-like torque and shows no appreciable dependence on the W thickness, suggesting a different origin from the Slonczewski-like torque. The results indicate that high-resistivity W is promising for low-current and reliable spin-orbit torque-controlled devices.

Domain epitaxy for thin film growth

DOEpatents

Narayan, Jagdish

2005-10-18

A method of forming an epitaxial film on a substrate includes growing an initial layer of a film on a substrate at a temperature T.sub.growth, said initial layer having a thickness h and annealing the initial layer of the film at a temperature T.sub.anneal, thereby relaxing the initial layer, wherein said thickness h of the initial layer of the film is greater than a critical thickness h.sub.c. The method further includes growing additional layers of the epitaxial film on the initial layer subsequent to annealing. In some embodiments, the method further includes growing a layer of the film that includes at least one amorphous island.

Crack growth through the thickness of thin-sheet Hydrided Zircaloy-4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raynaud, Patrick A. C.

In recent years, the limits on fuel burnup have been increased to allow an increase in the amount of energy produced by a nuclear fuel assembly thus reducing waste volume and allowing greater capacity factors. As a result, it is paramount to ensure safety after longer reactor exposure times in the case of design-basis accidents, such as reactivity-initiated accidents (RIA). Previously proposed failure criteria do not directly address the particular cladding failure mechanism during a RIA, in which crack initiation in brittle outer-layers is immediately followed by crack growth through the thickness of the thin-wall tubing. In such a case, the fracture toughness of hydrided thin-wall cladding material must be known for the conditions of through-thickness crack growth in order to predict the failure of high-burnup cladding. The fracture toughness of hydrided Zircaloy-4 in the form of thin-sheet has been examined for the condition of through-thickness crack growth as a function of hydride content and distribution at 25°C, 300°C, and 375°C. To achieve this goal, an experimental procedure was developed in which a linear hydride blister formed across the width of a four-point bend specimen was used to inject a sharp crack that was subsequently extended by fatigue pre-cracking. The electrical potential drop method was used to monitor the crack length during fracture toughness testing, thus allowing for correlation of the load-displacement record with the crack length. Elastic-plastic fracture mechanics were used to interpret the experimental test results in terms of fracture toughness, and J-R crack growth resistance curves were generated. Finite element modeling was performed to adapt the classic theories of fracture mechanics applicable to thick-plate specimens to the case of through-thickness crack growth in thin-sheet materials, and to account for non-uniform crack fronts. Finally, the hydride microstructure was characterized in the vicinity of the crack tip by means of digital image processing, so as to understand the influence of the hydride microstructure on fracture toughness, at the various test temperatures. Crack growth occurred through a microstructure which varied within the thickness of the thin-sheet Zircaloy-4 such that the hydrogen concentration and the radial hydride content decreased with increasing distance from the hydride blister. At 25°C, the fracture toughness was sensitive to the changes in hydride microstructure, such that the toughness KJi decreased from 39 MPa√m to 24 MPa√m with increasing hydrogen content and increasing the fraction of radial hydrides. The hydride particles present in the Zircaloy-4 substrate fractured ahead of the crack tip, and crack growth occurred by linking the crack-tip with the next hydride-induced primary void ahead of it. Unstable crack growth was observed at 25°C prior to any stable crack growth in the specimens where the hydrogen content was the highest. At 375°C as well as in most cases at 300°C, the hydride particles were resistant to cracking and the resistance to crack-growth initiation was very high. As a result, for this bend test procedure, crack extension was solely due to crack-tip blunting instead of crack growth in all tests at 375°C and in most cases at 300°C. The lower bound for fracture toughness at these temperatures, the parameter KJPmax, had values of K JPmax˜54MPa√m at both 300°C and 375°C. For cases where stable crack growth occurred at 300°C, the fracture toughness was K Ji˜58MPa√m and the tearing modulus was twice as high as that at 25°C. It is believed that the failure of hydrided Zircaloy-4 thin-wall cladding can be predicted using fracture mechanics analyses when failure occurs by crack growth. This failure mechanism was observed to occur in all cases at 25°C and in some cases at 300°C. However, at more elevated temperatures, such as 375°C, failure will likely occur by a mechanism other than crack growth, possibly by an imperfection-induced shear instability.

Will sea ice thickness initialisation improve Arctic seasonal-to-interannual forecast skill?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Day, J. J.; Hawkins, E.; Tietsche, S.

2014-12-01

A number of recent studies have suggested that Arctic sea ice thickness is an important predictor of Arctic sea ice extent. However, coupled forecast systems do not currently use sea ice thickness observations in their initialization and are therefore missing a potentially important source of additional skill. A set of ensemble potential predictability experiments, with a global climate model, initialized with and without knowledge of the sea ice thickness initial state, have been run to investigate this. These experiments show that accurate knowledge of the sea ice thickness field is crucially important for sea ice concentration and extent forecasts up to eight months ahead. Perturbing sea ice thickness also has a significant impact on the forecast error in the 2m temperature and surface pressure fields a few months ahead. These results show that advancing capabilities to observe and assimilate sea ice thickness into coupled forecast systems could significantly increase skill.

Influence of the doping type and level on the morphology of porous Si formed by galvanic etching

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

Pyatilova, O. V., E-mail: 5ilova87@gmail.com; Gavrilov, S. A.; Shilyaeva, Yu. I.

The formation of porous silicon (por-Si) layers by the galvanic etching of single-crystal Si samples (doped with boron or phosphorus) in an HF/C{sub 2}H{sub 5}OH/H{sub 2}O{sub 2} solution is investigated. The por-Si layers are analyzed by the capillary condensation of nitrogen and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The dependences of the morphological characteristics of por-Si (pore diameter, specific surface area, pore volume, and thickness of the pore walls), which determine the por-Si combustion kinetics, on the dopant type and initial wafer resistivity are established.

Triplex molecular layers with nonlinear nanomechanical response

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsukruk, V. V.; Ahn, H.-S.; Kim, D.; Sidorenko, A.

2002-06-01

The molecular design of surface structures with built-in mechanisms for mechanical energy dissipation under nanomechanical deformation and compression resistance provided superior nanoscale wear stability. We designed robust, well-defined trilayer surface nanostructures chemically grafted to a silicon oxide surface with an effective composite modulus of about 1 GPa. The total thickness was within 20-30 nm and included an 8 nm rubber layer sandwiched between two hard layers. The rubber layer provides an effective mechanism for energy dissipation, facilitated by nonlinear, giant, reversible elastic deformations of the rubber matrix, restoring the initial status due to the presence of an effective nanodomain network and chemical grafting within the rubber matrix.

Progress and opportunities for tissue-engineered skin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

MacNeil, Sheila

2007-02-01

Tissue-engineered skin is now a reality. For patients with extensive full-thickness burns, laboratory expansion of skin cells to achieve barrier function can make the difference between life and death, and it was this acute need that drove the initiation of tissue engineering in the 1980s. A much larger group of patients have ulcers resistant to conventional healing, and treatments using cultured skin cells have been devised to restart the wound-healing process. In the laboratory, the use of tissue-engineered skin provides insight into the behaviour of skin cells in healthy skin and in diseases such as vitiligo, melanoma, psoriasis and blistering disorders.

Resistive and Hall weighting functions in three dimensions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koon, D. W.; Knickerbocker, C. J.

1998-10-01

The authors extend their study of the effect of macroscopic impurities on resistive and Hall measurements to include objects of finite thickness. The effect of such impurities is calculated for a series of rectangular parallelepipeds with two current and two voltage contacts on the corners of one square face. The weighting functions display singularities near these contacts, but these are shown to vanish in the two-dimensional limit, in agreement with previous results. Finally, it is shown that while Hall measurements principally sample the plane of the electrodes, resistivity measurements sample more of the interior of an object of finite thickness.

On the influence of Ti-Al intermetallic coating architecture on mechanical properties and wear resistance of end mills

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vardanyan, E. L.; Budilov, V. V.; Ramazanov, K. N.; Ataullin, Z. R.

2017-07-01

Thin-film wear-resistant coatings are widely used to increase life and efficiency of metal cutting tools. This paper shows the results of a study on the influence of architecture (number, sequence and thickness of layers) of wear-resistant coatings on physical, mechanical and operational properties of end mills. Coatings consisting of alternating Ti-Al/Ti-Al-N layers of equal thickness demonstrated the best physical and mechanical properties. Durability of coated tools when processing materials from chromium-vanadium steel increased twice as compared to uncoated tools.

Prospects for using existing resists for evaluating 157-nm imaging systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fedynyshyn, Theodore H.; Kunz, Roderick R.; Doran, Scott P.; Goodman, Russell B.; Lind, Michele L.; Curtin, Jane E.

2000-06-01

Lithography at 157 nm represents the next evolutionary step in the Great Optical Continuum and is currently under investigation as a possible successor to 193-nm lithography. If successful, the photoresists used for this technology must be initially capable of 100-nm resolution and be extendable to less than 70 nm. Unfortunately, as with the transition to shorter wavelengths in the past, the photoresist materials developed for longer wavelengths appear to be too absorbent for practical use as a traditional high resolution single layer resist imageable with 157 nm radiation. Until new photoresist materials are developed that are sufficiently transparent to be used as single layer resists, the existing need for a resist to be used to evaluate 157 nm imaging systems, such as the prototype steppers now under development, will have to be met by employing existing resists. We have surveyed the commercial resist market with the dual purpose of identifying the general categories of commercial resists that have potential for use as tool evaluation resist and to baseline these resists for comparison against future 157 nm resist candidates. Little difference was observed in the 157- nm absorbance between different classes of resists with most resists having an absorbance between 6 and 8 per micron. Due to the high absorbance at 157 nm of polyhydroxystyrene, polyacrylate, and polycyclic copolymer based resists, the coated resist thickness will need to be under 100 nm. All four commercial resists evaluated for imaging at 157 nm showed that they are capable of acting as a tool testing resist to identify issues attributed focus, illumination, and vibration. Finally, an improved tool testing resist can be developed within the existing resist material base, that is capable of 100 nm imaging with a binary mask and 70 nm imaging with a phase shift mask. Minor formulation modification can greatly improve resist performance including improved resolution and reduced line edge roughness.

Flexible IZO/Ag/IZO/Ag multilayer electrode grown on a polyethylene terephthalate substrate using roll-to-roll sputtering

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

We investigated the optical, electrical, structural, and surface properties of roll-to-roll [R2R] sputter-grown flexible IZO/Ag/IZO/Ag [IAIA] multilayer films on polyethylene terephthalate substrates as a function of the top indium zinc oxide [IZO] thickness. It was found that the optical transmittance of the IAIA multilayer was significantly influenced by the top IZO layer thickness, which was grown on identical AIA multilayers. However, the sheet resistance of the IAIA multilayer was maintained between the range 5.01 to 5.1 Ω/square regardless of the top IZO thickness because the sheet resistance of the IAIA multilayer was mainly dependent on the thickness of the Ag layers. Notably, the optimized IAIA multilayer had a constant resistance change (ΔR/R0) under repeated outer bending tests with a radius of 10 mm. The mechanical integrity of the R2R-sputtered IAIA multilayer indicated that hybridization of an IZO and Ag metal layer is a promising flexible electrode scheme for the next-generation flexible optoelectronics. PMID:22222144

Fracture resistance of welded thick-walled high-pressure vessels in power plants. Report No. 2. Approach to evaluating static strength

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

Gorynin, I.V.; Filatov, V.M.; Ignatov, V.A.

1986-07-01

The authors examine data on the effect of defects on the fracture resistance of high-pressure vessels and their models obtained within the framework of the HSST program. Results of internal-pressure tests of two types of vessels with a wall thickness of 152 mm made from forgings of steels SA508 and SA533, as well as small vessels with a wall thickness of 11.5 and 23mm made of steel SA533 are shown. The authors state that testing thick-walled welded high-pressure vessels and thin-walled vessels with surface defects of different sizes has demonstrated that there are substantial static-strength reserves in structures designed bymore » existing domestic and foreign standards on the strength of power-plant equipment. A correction was proposed for the presently used method of calculating the resistance of highpressure vessels to brittle fracture that allows for the dimensions of the defects in relation to the type of vessel, the manufacturing technology, and the method of inspection.« less

Different Bleeding Patterns with the Use of Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System: Are They Associated with Changes in Uterine Artery Blood Flow?

PubMed Central

Bastianelli, Carlo; Rapiti, Stefania; Bruno Vecchio, Roberta; Benagiano, Giuseppe

2014-01-01

Objective. Evaluate if different bleeding patterns associated with the use of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) are associated with different uterine and endometrial vascularization patterns, as evidenced by ultrasound power Doppler analysis. Methodology. A longitudinal study, with each subject acting as its own control was conducted between January 2010 and December 2012. Healthy volunteers with a history of heavy but cyclic and regular menstrual cycles were enrolled in the study. Ultrasonographic examination was performed before and after six months of LNG-IUS placement: uterine volume, endometrial thickness, and subendometrial and myometrial Doppler blood flow patterns have been evaluated. Results. A total of 32 women were enrolled out of 186 initially screened. At six months of follow-up, all subjects showed a reduction in menstrual blood loss; for analysis, they were retrospectively divided into 3 groups: normal cycling women (Group I), amenorrheic women (Group II), and women with prolonged bleedings (Group III). Intergroup analysis documented a statistically significant difference in endometrial thickness among the three groups; in addition, mean pulsatility index (PI) and resistance index (RI) in the spiral arteries were significantly lower in Group I and Group III compared to Group II. This difference persisted also when comparing—within subjects of Group III—mean PI and RI mean values before and after insertion. Conclusions. The LNG-IUS not only altered endometrial thickness, but—in women with prolonged bleedings—also significantly changed uterine artery blood flow. Further studies are needed to confirm these results and enable gynecologists to properly counsel women, improving initial continuation rates. PMID:24868549

Thickness, humidity, and polarization dependent ferroelectric switching and conductivity in Mg doped lithium niobate

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

Neumayer, Sabine M.; Rodriguez, Brian J., E-mail: brian.rodriguez@ucd.ie; Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4

2015-12-28

Mg doped lithium niobate (Mg:LN) exhibits several advantages over undoped LN such as resistance to photorefraction, lower coercive fields, and p-type conductivity that is particularly pronounced at domain walls and opens up a range of applications, e.g., in domain wall electronics. Engineering of precise domain patterns necessitates well founded knowledge of switching kinetics, which can differ significantly from that of undoped LN. In this work, the role of humidity and sample composition in polarization reversal has been investigated under application of the same voltage waveform. Control over domain sizes has been achieved by varying the sample thickness and initial polarizationmore » as well as atmospheric conditions. In addition, local introduction of proton exchanged phases allows for inhibition of domain nucleation or destabilization, which can be utilized to modify domain patterns. Polarization dependent current flow, attributed to charged domain walls and band bending, demonstrates the rectifying ability of Mg:LN in combination with suitable metal electrodes that allow for further tailoring of conductivity.« less

Fracture Resistance of Lithium Disilicate Ceramics Bonded to Enamel or Dentin Using Different Resin Cement Types and Film Thicknesses.

PubMed

Rojpaibool, Thitithorn; Leevailoj, Chalermpol

2017-02-01

To investigate the influence of cement film thickness, cement type, and substrate (enamel or dentin) on ceramic fracture resistance. One hundred extracted human third molars were polished to obtain 50 enamel and 50 dentin specimens. The specimens were cemented to 1-mm-thick lithium disilicate ceramic plates with different cement film thicknesses (100 and 300 μm) using metal strips as spacers. The cements used were etch-and-rinse (RelyX Ultimate) and self-adhesive (RelyX U200) resin cements. Compressive load was applied on the ceramic plates using a universal testing machine, and fracture loads were recorded in Newtons (N). Statistical analysis was performed by multiple regression (p < 0.05). Representative specimens were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy to control the cement film thickness. The RelyX Ultimate group with a cement thickness of 100 μm cemented to enamel showed the highest mean fracture load (MFL; 1591 ± 172.59 N). The RelyX Ultimate groups MFLs were significantly higher than the corresponding RelyX U200 groups (p < 0.05), and thinner film cement demonstrated a higher MFL than thicker films (p < 0.05). Bonding to dentin resulted in lower MFL than with enamel (p < 0.001). Higher fracture loads were related to thinner cement film thickness and RelyX Ultimate resin cement. Bonding to dentin resulted in lower fracture loads than bonding to enamel. Reduced resin film thickness could reduce lithium disilicate restoration fracture. Etch-and-rinse resin cements are recommended for cementing on either enamel or dentin, compared with self-adhesive resin cement, for improved fracture resistance. © 2015 by the American College of Prosthodontists.

Conditioning of the Achilles tendon via ankle exercise improves correlations between sonographic measures of tendon thickness and body anthropometry.

PubMed

Wearing, Scott C; Grigg, Nicole L; Hooper, Sue L; Smeathers, James E

2011-05-01

Although conditioning is routinely used in mechanical tests of tendon in vitro, previous in vivo research evaluating the influence of body anthropometry on Achilles tendon thickness has not considered its potential effects on tendon structure. This study evaluated the relationship between Achilles tendon thickness and body anthropometry in healthy adults both before and after resistive ankle plantarflexion exercise. A convenience sample of 30 healthy male adults underwent sonographic examination of the Achilles tendon in addition to standard anthropometric measures of stature and body weight. A 10-5 MHz linear array transducer was used to acquire longitudinal sonograms of the Achilles tendon, 20 mm proximal to the tendon insertion. Participants then completed a series (90-100 repetitions) of conditioning exercises against an effective resistance between 100% and 150% body weight. Longitudinal sonograms were repeated immediately on completion of the exercise intervention, and anteroposterior Achilles tendon thickness was determined. Achilles tendon thickness was significantly reduced immediately following conditioning exercise (t = 9.71, P < 0.001), resulting in an average transverse strain of -18.8%. In contrast to preexercise measures, Achilles tendon thickness was significantly correlated with body weight (r = 0.72, P < 0.001) and to a lesser extent height (r = 0.45, P = 0.01) and body mass index (r = 0.63, P < 0.001) after exercise. Conditioning of the Achilles tendon via resistive ankle exercises induces alterations in tendon structure that substantially improve correlations between Achilles tendon thickness and body anthropometry. It is recommended that conditioning exercises, which standardize the load history of tendon, are employed before measurements of sonographic tendon thickness in vivo.

Allergen-induced resistin-like molecule-α promotes esophageal epithelial cell hyperplasia in eosinophilic esophagitis

PubMed Central

Mavi, Parm; Niranjan, Rituraj; Dutt, Parmesh; Zaidi, Asifa; Shukla, Jai Shankar; Korfhagen, Thomas

2014-01-01

Resistin-like molecule (Relm)-α is a secreted, cysteine-rich protein belonging to a newly defined family of proteins, including resistin, Relm-β, and Relm-γ. Although resistin was initially defined based on its insulin-resistance activity, the family members are highly induced in various inflammatory states. Earlier studies implicated Relm-α in insulin resistance, asthmatic responses, and intestinal inflammation; however, its function still remains an enigma. We now report that Relm-α is strongly induced in the esophagus in an allergen-challenged murine model of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Furthermore, to understand the in vivo role of Relm-α, we generated Relm-α gene-inducible bitransgenic mice by using lung-specific CC-10 promoter (CC10-rtTA-Relm-α). We found Relm-α protein is significantly induced in the esophagus of CC10-rtTA-Relm-α bitransgenic mice exposed to doxycycline food. The most prominent effect observed by the induction of Relm-α is epithelial cell hyperplasia, basal layer thickness, accumulation of activated CD4+ and CD4− T cell subsets, and eosinophilic inflammation in the esophagus. The in vitro experiments further confirm that Relm-α promotes primary epithelial cell proliferation but has no chemotactic activity for eosinophils. Taken together, our studies report for the first time that Relm-α induction in the esophagus has a major role in promoting epithelial cell hyperplasia and basal layer thickness, and the accumulation of activated CD4+ and CD4− T cell subsets may be responsible for partial esophageal eosinophilia in the mouse models of EoE. Notably, the epithelial cell hyperplasia and basal layer thickness are the characteristic features commonly observed in human EoE. PMID:24994859

Allergen-induced resistin-like molecule-α promotes esophageal epithelial cell hyperplasia in eosinophilic esophagitis.

PubMed

Mavi, Parm; Niranjan, Rituraj; Dutt, Parmesh; Zaidi, Asifa; Shukla, Jai Shankar; Korfhagen, Thomas; Mishra, Anil

2014-09-01

Resistin-like molecule (Relm)-α is a secreted, cysteine-rich protein belonging to a newly defined family of proteins, including resistin, Relm-β, and Relm-γ. Although resistin was initially defined based on its insulin-resistance activity, the family members are highly induced in various inflammatory states. Earlier studies implicated Relm-α in insulin resistance, asthmatic responses, and intestinal inflammation; however, its function still remains an enigma. We now report that Relm-α is strongly induced in the esophagus in an allergen-challenged murine model of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Furthermore, to understand the in vivo role of Relm-α, we generated Relm-α gene-inducible bitransgenic mice by using lung-specific CC-10 promoter (CC10-rtTA-Relm-α). We found Relm-α protein is significantly induced in the esophagus of CC10-rtTA-Relm-α bitransgenic mice exposed to doxycycline food. The most prominent effect observed by the induction of Relm-α is epithelial cell hyperplasia, basal layer thickness, accumulation of activated CD4(+) and CD4(-) T cell subsets, and eosinophilic inflammation in the esophagus. The in vitro experiments further confirm that Relm-α promotes primary epithelial cell proliferation but has no chemotactic activity for eosinophils. Taken together, our studies report for the first time that Relm-α induction in the esophagus has a major role in promoting epithelial cell hyperplasia and basal layer thickness, and the accumulation of activated CD4(+) and CD4(-) T cell subsets may be responsible for partial esophageal eosinophilia in the mouse models of EoE. Notably, the epithelial cell hyperplasia and basal layer thickness are the characteristic features commonly observed in human EoE. Copyright © 2014 the American Physiological Society.

ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY VERIFICATION: ALLIED PHOTOCHEMICAL KROHNZONE 7014 UV-CURABLE COATING

EPA Science Inventory

This Environmental Technology Verification report reports on reasearch done on a UV-curable automotive paint. The paint was tested for thickness, appearance, gloss, salt spray resistance, humidity resistance, adhesion, impact, mandrel bend, MEK rub, and abrasion resistance.

Inference of lithologic distributions in an alluvial aquifer using airborne transient electromagnetic surveys

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dickinson, Jesse; Pool, D.R.; Groom, R.W.; Davis, L.J.

2010-01-01

An airborne transient electromagnetic (TEM) survey was completed in the Upper San Pedro Basin in southeastern Arizona to map resistivity distributions within the alluvial aquifer. This investigation evaluated the utility of 1D vertical resistivity models of the TEM data to infer lithologic distributions in an alluvial aquifer. Comparisons of the resistivity values and layers in the 1D resistivity models of airborne TEM data to 1D resistivity models of ground TEM data, borehole resistivity logs, and lithologic descriptions in drill logs indicated that the airborne TEM identified thick conductive fine-grained sediments that result in semiconfined groundwater conditions. One-dimensional models of ground-based TEM surveys and subsurface lithology at three sites were used to determine starting models and constraints to invert airborne TEM data using a constrained Marquardt-styleunderparameterized method. A maximum structural resolution of six layers underlain by a half-space was determined from the resistivity structure of the 1D models of the ground TEM data. The 1D resistivity models of the airborne TEM data compared well with the control data to depths of approximately 100 m in areas of thick conductive silt and clay and to depths of 200 m in areas of resistive sand and gravel. Comparison of a 3D interpolation of the 1D resistivity models to drill logs indicated resistive (mean of 65 ohm-m ) coarse-grained sediments along basin margins and conductive (mean of 8 ohm-m ) fine-grained sediments at the basin center. Extents of hydrologically significant thick silt and clay were well mapped by the 1D resistivity models of airborne TEM data. Areas of uncertain lithology remain below conductive fine-grained sediments where the 1D resistivity structure is not resolved: in areas where multiple lithologies have similar resistivity values and in areas of high salinity.

Enhancement of the optical and electrical properties of ITO thin films deposited by electron beam evaporation technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ali, H. M.; Mohamed, H. A.; Mohamed, S. H.

2005-08-01

Indium tin oxide (ITO) is widely utilized in numerous industrial applications due to its unique combined properties of transparency to visible light and electrical conductivity. ITO films were deposited on glass substrates by an electron beam evaporation technique at room temperature from bulk samples, with different thicknesses. The film with 1500 Å thick was selected to perform annealing in the temperature range of 200 400 °C and annealing for varying times from 15 to 120 min at 400 °C. The X-ray diffraction of the films was analyzed in order to investigate its dependence on thickness, and annealing. Electrical and optical measurements were also carried out. Transmittance, optical energy gap, refractive index, carrier concentration, thermal emissivity and resistivity were investigated. It was found that the as-deposited films with different thicknesses were highly absorbing and have relatively poor electrical properties. The films become opaque with increasing the film thickness. After thermal annealing, the resistance decreases and a simultaneous variation in the optical transmission occurs. A transmittance value of 85.5% in the IR region and 82% in the visible region of the spectrum and a resistivity of 2.8 × 10-4 Ω Cm were obtained at annealing temperature of 400 °C for 120 min.

van der Pauw's Theorem on Sheet Resistance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bolt, Michael

2017-01-01

The sheet resistance of a conducting material of uniform thickness is analogous to the resistivity of a solid material and provides a measure of electrical resistance. In 1958, L. J. van der Pauw found an effective method for computing sheet resistance that requires taking two electrical measurements from four points on the edge of a simply…

Corrosion-resistant metal surfaces

DOEpatents

Sugama, Toshifumi [Wading River, NY

2009-03-24

The present invention relates to metal surfaces having thereon an ultrathin (e.g., less than ten nanometer thickness) corrosion-resistant film, thereby rendering the metal surfaces corrosion-resistant. The corrosion-resistant film includes an at least partially crosslinked amido-functionalized silanol component in combination with rare-earth metal oxide nanoparticles. The invention also relates to methods for producing such corrosion-resistant films.

Effects of neuromuscular joint facilitation on bridging exercises with respect to deep muscle changes.

PubMed

Zhou, Bin; Huang, QiuChen; Zheng, Tao; Huo, Ming; Maruyama, Hitoshi

2015-05-01

[Purpose] This study examined the effects of neuromuscular joint facilitation on bridging exercises by assessing the cross-sectional area of the multifidus muscle and thickness of the musculus transversus abdominis. [Subjects] Twelve healthy men. [Methods] Four exercises were evaluated: (a) supine resting, (b) bridging resistance exercise involving posterior pelvic tilting, (c) bridging resistance exercise involving anterior pelvic tilting, and (d) bridging resistance exercise involving neuromuscular joint facilitation. The cross-sectional area of the multifidus muscle and thickness of the musculus transversus abdominis were measured during each exercise. [Results] The cross-sectional area of the multifidus muscle and thickness of the musculus transversus abdominis were significantly greater in the neuromuscular joint facilitation group than the others. [Conclusion] Neuromuscular joint facilitation intervention improves the function of deep muscles such as the multifidus muscle and musculus transversus abdominis. Therefore, it can be recommended for application in clinical treatments such as that for back pain.

Development of a plasma sprayed ceramic gas path seal for high pressure turbine applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shiembob, L. T.

1977-01-01

The plasma sprayed graded layered yittria stabilized zirconia (ZrO2)/metal(CoCrAlY) seal system for gas turbine blade tip applications up to 1589 K (2400 F) seal temperatures was studied. Abradability, erosion, and thermal fatigue characteristics of the graded layered system were evaluated by rig tests. Satisfactory abradability and erosion resistance was demonstrated. Encouraging thermal fatigue tolerance was shown. Initial properties for the plasma sprayed materials in the graded, layered seal system was obtained, and thermal stress analyses were performed. Sprayed residual stresses were determined. Thermal stability of the sprayed layer materials was evaluated at estimated maximum operating temperatures in each layer. Anisotropic behavior in the layer thickness direction was demonstrated by all layers. Residual stresses and thermal stability effects were not included in the analyses. Analytical results correlated reasonably well with results of the thermal fatigue tests. Analytical application of the seal system to a typical gas turbine engine application predicted performance similar to rig specimen thermal fatigue performance. A model for predicting crack propagation in the sprayed ZrO2/CoCrAlY seal system was proposed, and recommendations for improving thermal fatigue resistance were made. Seal system layer thicknesses were analytically optimized to minimize thermal stresses in the abradability specimen during thermal fatigue testing. Rig tests on the optimized seal configuration demonstrated some improvement in thermal fatigue characteristics.

Packaging Technology Developed for High-Temperature Silicon Carbide Microsystems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, Liang-Yu; Hunter, Gary W.; Neudeck, Philip G.

2001-01-01

High-temperature electronics and sensors are necessary for harsh-environment space and aeronautical applications, such as sensors and electronics for space missions to the inner solar system, sensors for in situ combustion and emission monitoring, and electronics for combustion control for aeronautical and automotive engines. However, these devices cannot be used until they can be packaged in appropriate forms for specific applications. Suitable packaging technology for operation temperatures up to 500 C and beyond is not commercially available. Thus, the development of a systematic high-temperature packaging technology for SiC-based microsystems is essential for both in situ testing and commercializing high-temperature SiC sensors and electronics. In response to these needs, researchers at Glenn innovatively designed, fabricated, and assembled a new prototype electronic package for high-temperature electronic microsystems using ceramic substrates (aluminum nitride and aluminum oxide) and gold (Au) thick-film metallization. Packaging components include a ceramic packaging frame, thick-film metallization-based interconnection system, and a low electrical resistance SiC die-attachment scheme. Both the materials and fabrication process of the basic packaging components have been tested with an in-house-fabricated SiC semiconductor test chip in an oxidizing environment at temperatures from room temperature to 500 C for more than 1000 hr. These test results set lifetime records for both high-temperature electronic packaging and high-temperature electronic device testing. As required, the thick-film-based interconnection system demonstrated low (2.5 times of the room-temperature resistance of the Au conductor) and stable (decreased 3 percent in 1500 hr of continuous testing) electrical resistance at 500 C in an oxidizing environment. Also as required, the electrical isolation impedance between printed wires that were not electrically joined by a wire bond remained high (greater than 0.4 GW) at 500 C in air. The attached SiC diode demonstrated low (less than 3.8 W/mm2) and relatively consistent dynamic resistance from room temperature to 500 C. These results indicate that the prototype package and the compatible die-attach scheme meet the initial design standards for high-temperature, low-power, and long-term operation. This technology will be further developed and evaluated, especially with more mechanical tests of each packaging element for operation at higher temperatures and longer lifetimes.

Magnetoresistance enhancement in specular, bottom-pinned, Mn83Ir17 spin valves with nano-oxide layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Veloso, A.; Freitas, P. P.; Wei, P.; Barradas, N. P.; Soares, J. C.; Almeida, B.; Sousa, J. B.

2000-08-01

Bottom-pinned Mn83Ir17 spin valves with enhanced specular scattering were fabricated, showing magnetoresistance (MR) values up to 13.6%, lower sheet resistance R□ and higher ΔR□. Two nano-oxide layers (NOL) are grown on both sides of the CoFe/Cu/CoFe spin valve structure by natural oxidation or remote plasma oxidation of the starting CoFe layer. Maximum MR enhancement is obtained after just 1 min plasma oxidation. Rutherford backscattering analysis shows that a 15±2 Å oxide layer grows at the expense of the initial (prior to oxidation) CoFe layer, with ˜12% reduction of the initial 40 Å CoFe thickness. X-ray reflectometry indicates that Kiessig fringes become better defined after NOL growth, indicating smoother inner interfaces, in agreement with the observed decrease of the spin valve ferromagnetic Néel coupling.

Modification of graphene oxide films by radiofrequency N2 plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neustroev, E. P.; Burtseva, E. K.; Soloviev, B. D.; Prokopiev, A. R.; Popov, V. I.; Timofeev, V. B.

2018-04-01

The effect of treatment in nitrogen plasma on the properties of partially reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was studied. A comparison is made between two different sample locations in the reaction chamber. It is shown that in the case when rGO films were turned towards the inductor of the plasma system, the etching rate is much higher. Effective nitrogen functionalization of rGO was established in the second position, when the rGO films were turned in the opposite direction. In this case, the nitrogen content increases to 5 at% of the initial value. The change in the current-voltage characteristics is observed under illumination, which is independent of the wavelength. On and off daylight changes the resistance to 30% of the initial value. The magnitude of the photocurrent increases depending on the applied voltage. The effect is most noticeable for thin rGO films 10-15 nm in thickness.

The Geophysical Investigation of Drinkable Water at Shkodra Region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jata, I. B.; Kavaja, V. S.; Kotori, A. N.

2002-12-01

The drinkable water has been and is a great problem for the population of Shkodra region, NW of Albania. Many studies have been widely used in this domain by Geophysical Center of Tirana.Two case histories are presented in this paper.One, the Drini river terraces and other example near coast line.Actually, the need from fresh water are increasing due to the high demand for water supply. In compliance with geographical and geological classification the survey is in a narrow sense belongs to marginal part of the Nenshkodra plain. Geological situation of survey area consists on diverse geological make up.The stratigrafic section begins with carbonate formations (Cr2) have a monoclyne structure, nearly NW-SE trending. Paleogene formations is composed mainly: by carbonatic flysch (Pg2), alevrolitic-sanstone formation(Pg31 - Pg32) and Oligocene deposits with alevrolitic-clay-sandston formation (Pg13). Quaternary formation interbeded by silt, clay, sand and gravel layers. In survey area the thickness of concerned younger deposits does not surpass 50-70m, therefor we were able to draw up a picture of the thickness and depositional conditions of the Quaternary accumulations as corresponding in precision to given scale. The aim of the study is been delineation of aquifers and aquicludes soils extension within terrace profile based in the resistivity parameter as well as zone of aeration and water table. In the paper are described all the phases from field measurements, data processing and interpretation, as well as the soil thickness and resistivity maps, the thickness and resistivity maps of gravel terraces was build up. The high resistivity values show best aquifers gravel deposits. But when the gravel terrace companies with large thickness of the layers it is practical to multiply these two parameters, Hi x *i = S. In the other hand, one and more important maps are the correlation of rocks permeability T (sq.m/day) with transversal resistivity (S) parameters. In preparing such maps the descriptive logs of latest survey boreholes and resistivity data of field have been provided by vertical electric soundings extending over whole area was fundamental.Histories of terrestrial erosion,near shore sediment and land-sea interaction are obvious now. For a gravel deposition, in addition to the usual parameter maps as resistivity and thickness maps, combined multiparametric characterization maps have been plotted. These maps are more application on hydrogeologic domain than conventional parameter maps. Based in above maps are shown prospective areas in Quaternary deposits, in which the drillings have the positive results for fresh water.

Discrete component bonding and thick film materials study. [of capacitor chips bonded with solders and conductive epoxies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kinser, D. L.

1976-01-01

The bonding reliability of discrete capacitor chips bonded with solders and conductive epoxies was examined along with the thick film resistor materials consisting of iron oxide phosphate and vanadium oxide phosphates. It was concluded from the bonding reliability studies that none of the wide range of types of solders examined is capable of resisting failure during thermal cycling while the conductive epoxy gives substantially lower failure rates. The thick film resistor studies proved the feasibility of iron oxide phosphate resistor systems although some environmental sensitivity problems remain. One of these resistor compositions has inadvertently proven to be a candidate for thermistor applications because of the excellent control achieved upon the temperature coefficient of resistance. One new and potentially damaging phenomenon observed was the degradation of thick film conductors during the course of thermal cycling.

Bilateral ECT induces bilateral increases in regional cortical thickness.

PubMed

van Eijndhoven, P; Mulders, P; Kwekkeboom, L; van Oostrom, I; van Beek, M; Janzing, J; Schene, A; Tendolkar, I

2016-08-23

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective treatment for patients suffering from severe or treatment-resistant major depressive disorder (MDD). Unfortunately its underlying neurobiological mechanisms are still unclear. One line of evidence indicates that the seizures produced by ECT induce or stimulate neuroplasticity effects. Although these seizures also affect the cortex, the effect of ECT on cortical thickness is not investigated until now. We acquired structural magnetic resonance imaging data in 19 treatment-resistant MDD patients before and after a bilateral ECT course, and 16 healthy controls at 2 time points, and compared changes in cortical thickness between the groups. Our results reveal that ECT induces significant, bilateral increases in cortical thickness, including the temporal pole, inferior and middle temporal cortex and the insula. The pattern of increased cortical thickness was predominant in regions that are associated with seizure onset in ECT. Post hoc analyses showed that the increase in thickness of the insular cortex was larger in responders than in non-responders, which may point to a specific relationship of this region with treatment effects of ECT.

The relationship of geophysical measurements to engineering and construction parameters in the Straight Creek Tunnel pilot bore, Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Scott, J.H.; Lee, F.T.; Carroll, R.D.; Robinson, C.S.

1968-01-01

Seismic-refraction and electrical-resistivity measurements made along the walls of the Straight Creek Tunnel pilot bore indicate that both a low-velocity and a high-resistivity layer exist in the disturbed rock surrounding the excavation. Seismic measurements were analyzed to obtain the thickness and seismic velocity of rock in the low-velocity layer, the velocity of rock behind the layer and the amplitude of seismic energy received at the detectors. Electrical-resistivity measurements were analyzed to obtain the thickness and electrical resistivity of the high-resistivity layer and the resistivity of rock behind the layer. The electrical resistivity and the seismic velocity of rock at depth, the thickness of rock in the low-velocity layer, and the relative amplitude of seismic energy were correlated against the following parameters, all of which are important in tunnel construction: height of the tension arch, stable vertical rock load, rock quality, rate of construction and cost per foot, percentage of lagging and blocking, set spacing, and type and amount of steel support required, The correlations were statistically meaningful, having correlation coefficients ranging in absolute value from about 0??7 to nearly 1??0. This finding suggests the possibility of predicting parameters of interest in tunnel construction from geophysical measurements made in feeler holes drilled ahead of a working face. Predictions might be based on correlations established either during the early stages of construction or from geophysical surveys in other tunnels of similar design in similar geologic environments. ?? 1968.

Effect of clamping pressure on ohmic resistance and compression of gas diffusion layers for polymer electrolyte fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mason, Thomas J.; Millichamp, Jason; Neville, Tobias P.; El-kharouf, Ahmad; Pollet, Bruno G.; Brett, Daniel J. L.

2012-12-01

This paper describes the use of an in situ analytical technique based on simultaneous displacement and resistance measurement of gas diffusion layers (GDLs) used in polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs), when exposed to varying compaction pressure. In terms of the losses within fuel cells, the ohmic loss makes up a significant portion. Of this loss, the contact resistance between the GDL and the bipolar plate (BPP) is an important constituent. By analysing the change in thickness and ohmic resistance of GDLs under compression, important mechanical and electrical properties are obtained. Derived parameters such as the 'displacement factor' are used to characterise a representative range of commercial GDLs. Increasing compaction pressure leads to a non-linear decrease in resistance for all GDLs. For Toray paper, compaction becomes more irreversible with pressure with no elastic region observed. Different GDLs have different intrinsic resistance; however, all GDLs of the same class share a common compaction profile (change in resistance with pressure). Cyclic compression of Toray GDL leads to progressive improvement in resistance and reduction in thickness that stabilises after ∼10 cycles.

Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitor, Vildagliptin, Improves Trabecular Bone Mineral Density and Microstructure in Obese, Insulin-Resistant, Pre-diabetic Rats.

PubMed

Charoenphandhu, Narattaphol; Suntornsaratoon, Panan; Sa-Nguanmoo, Piangkwan; Tanajak, Pongpan; Teerapornpuntakit, Jarinthorn; Aeimlapa, Ratchaneevan; Chattipakorn, Nipon; Chattipakorn, Siriporn

2018-02-02

Obese insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus profoundly impair bone mechanical properties and bone quality. However, because several antidiabetes drugs, especially thiazolidinediones, further aggravate bone loss in individuals with diabetes, diabetic osteopathy should not be treated by using simply any glucose-lowering agents. Recently, incretins have been reported to affect osteoblast function positively. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of vildagliptin, an inhibitor of dipeptidyl peptidase-4, on bone of rats with high-fat-diet-induced prediabetes. Male rats were fed a high-fat diet for 12 weeks to induce obese insulin resistance and then treated with vildagliptin for 4 weeks. The effects of the drug on bone were determined by microcomputed tomography and bone histomorphometry. Vildagliptin markedly improved insulin resistance in these obese insulin-resistant rats. It also significantly increased volumetric bone mineral density. Specifically, vildagliptin-treated obese insulin-resistant rats exhibited higher trabecular volumetric bone mineral density than vehicle-treated obese insulin-resistant rats, whereas cortical volumetric bone mineral density, cortical thickness and area were not changed. Bone histomorphometric analysis in a trabecular-rich area (i.e. tibial metaphysis) revealed greater trabecular bone volume and number and less trabecular separation without change in trabecular thickness, osteocyte lacunar area or cortical thickness in the vildagliptin-treated group. Vildagliptin had a beneficial effect on the bone of obese insulin-resistant rats with prediabetes, particularly at the trabecular site. Such benefit probably results from enhanced bone formation rather than from suppressed bone resorption. Copyright © 2018 Diabetes Canada. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Resistance training improves aortic structure in Wistar rats.

PubMed

Souza, Romeu R; de França, Elias; Madureira, Diana; Pontes, Carla C R; Santana, Jeferson O; Caperuto, Erico C

Little information is available on the effects of resistance training on the aortic wall. This study aimed to quantify the effects of a resistance-training program on blood pressure and aortic wall structural components. Rats (aged three months) were randomized into sedentary group (control group, CG; n=10) or trained group (TG; n=10). The TG rats performed resistance training by climbing a 1.1-m vertical ladder (80° incline) five times a week for 12 weeks, and the CG remained sedentary. The rats were sacrificed and 5mm of the ascending aorta was submitted to histological sections, which were stained with hematoxylin-eosin, Picrosirius red, and Verhoeff's elastin, and used for morphometric studies. Left ventricle (LV) hypertrophy was determined by measuring LV wall thickness and LV internal diameter. The rats had similar repetition maximum before the resistance training. At the end of the resistance training period, the repetition maximum of the TG was 3.04-fold greater than the body weight. In the twelfth month, the left ventricular weight was 15.3% larger in the TG than in the CG, and the left ventricular internal diameter was reduced by 10% in the TG. Rats exposed to resistance training had a significant increase in aortic wall thickness, in both elastic lamina and collagen fibers, and in the thickness of collagen fibrils. Resistance training induces the development of concentric cardiac hypertrophy and improves the aortic wall components by producing a morphological expression pattern distinct from aortic pathological adaptation. Copyright © 2017. Publicado por Elsevier Editora Ltda.

Effect of abdominal resistance exercise on abdominal subcutaneous fat of obese women: a randomized controlled trial using ultrasound imaging assessments.

PubMed

Kordi, Ramin; Dehghani, Saeed; Noormohammadpour, Pardis; Rostami, Mohsen; Mansournia, Mohammad Ali

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of diet and an abdominal resistance training program to diet alone on abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness and waist circumference of overweight and obese women. This randomized clinical trial included 40 overweight and obese women randomly divided into 2 groups: diet only and diet combined with 12 weeks of abdominal resistance training. Waist and hip circumferences and abdominal skin folds of the subjects were measured at the beginning and 12 weeks after the interventions. In addition, abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness of the subjects was measured using ultrasonography. Percentage body fat and lean body mass of all the subjects were also measured using a bioelectric impedance device. After 12 weeks of intervention, the weight of participants in both groups decreased; but the difference between the 2 groups was not significant (P = .45). Similarly, other variables including abdominal subcutaneous fat, waist circumference, hip circumference, body mass index, body fat percentage, and skin fold thickness were reduced in both groups; but there were no significant differences between the groups. This study found that abdominal resistance training besides diet did not reduce abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness compared to diet alone in overweight or obese women. Copyright © 2015 National University of Health Sciences. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Influence of processing parameters on the characteristics of surface layers of low temperature plasma nitrocarburized AISI 630 martensitic stainless steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Insup

2017-11-01

Plasma nitrocarburizing was performed on solution-treated AISI 630 martensitic precipitation hardening stainless steel samples with a gas mixture of H2, N2, and CH4 with changing temperature, discharge voltage and amount of CH4. When nitrocarburized with increasing temperature from 380 °C to 430 °C at fixed 25% N2 and 6% CH4, the thickness of expanded martensite (α'N) layer and surface hardness increased up to 10 μm and 1323 HV0.05, respectively but the corrosion resistance decreased. Though the increase of discharge voltage from 400 V to 600 V increased α'N layer thickness and surface hardness (up to 13 μm and 1491 HV0.05, respectively), the treated samples still showed very poor corrosion behavior. Thus, to further improve the corrosion resistance, the influence of variation of the amount of CH4 in the nitrocarburizing process was investigated. Increasing the CH4 percentage aided higher corrosion resistance, although it decreased the α'N layer thickness. The most appropriate conditions for moderate α'N layer thickness, high surface hardness and better corrosion resistance than the solution-treated bare sample were established, which is plasma nitrocarburizing at 400 °C with 400 V discharge voltage and containing 25% N2 and 4% CH4.

Effects of gravity in folding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Minkel, Donald Howe

Effects of gravity on buckle folding are studied using a Newtonian fluid finite element model of a single layer embedded between two thicker less viscous layers. The methods allow arbitrary density jumps, surface tension coefficients, resistance to slip at the interfaces, and tracking of fold growth to a large amplitudes. When density increases downward in two equal jumps, a layer buckles less and thickens more than with uniform density. When density increases upward in two equal jumps, it buckles more and thickens less. A low density layer with periodic thickness variations buckles more, sometimes explosively. Thickness variations form, even if not present initially. These effects are greater with; smaller viscosities, larger density jump, larger length scale, and slower shortening rate. They also depend on wavelength and amplitude, and these dependencies are described in detail. The model is applied to the explosive growth of the salt anticlines of the Paradox Basin, Colorado and Utah. There, shale (higher density) overlies salt (lower density). Methods for simulating realistic earth surface erosion and deposition conditions are introduced. Growth rates increase both with ease of slip at the salt-shale interface, and when earth surface relief stays low due to erosion and deposition. Model anticlines grow explosively, attaining growth rates and amplitudes close to those of the field examples. Fastest growing wavelengths are the same as seen in the field. It is concluded that a combination of partial-slip at the salt-shale interface, with reasonable earth surface conditions, promotes sufficiently fast buckling of the salt-shale interface due to density inversion alone. Neither basement faulting, nor tectonic shortening is required to account for the observed structures. Of fundamental importance is the strong tendency of gravity to promote buckling in low density layers with thickness variations. These develop, even if not present initially.

Large negative differential resistance in graphene nanoribbon superlattices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tseng, P.; Chen, C. H.; Hsu, S. A.; Hsueh, W. J.

2018-05-01

A graphene nanoribbon superlattice with a large negative differential resistance (NDR) is proposed. Our results show that the peak-to-valley ratio (PVR) of the graphene superlattices can reach 21 at room temperature with bias voltages between 90-220 mV, which is quite large compared with the one of traditional graphene-based devices. It is found that the NDR is strongly influenced by the thicknesses of the potential barrier. Therefore, the NDR effect can be optimized by designing a proper barrier thickness. The large NDR effect can be attributed to the splitting of the gap in transmission spectrum (segment of Wannier-Stark ladder) with larger thicknesses of barrier when the applied voltage increases.

All high Tc edge-geometry weak links utilizing Y-Ba-Cu-O barrier layers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hunt, B. D.; Foote, M. C.; Bajuk, L. J.

1991-01-01

High quality YBa2Cu3O(7-x) normal-metal/YBa2Cu3O(7-x) edge-geometry weak links have been fabricated using nonsuperconducting Y-Ba-Cu-O barrier layers deposited by laser ablation at reduced growth temperatures. Devices incorporating 25-100 A thick barrier layers exhibit current-voltage characteristics consistent with the resistively shunted junction model, with strong microwave and magnetic field response at temperatures up to 85 K. The critical currents vary exponentially with barrier thickness, and the resistances scale linearly with Y-Ba-Cu-O interlayer thickness and device area, indicating good barrier uniformity, with an effective mormal metal coherence length of 20 A.

Inedible cellulose-based biomass resist material amenable to water-based processing for use in electron beam lithography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takei, Satoshi; Maki, Hirotaka; Sugahara, Kigen; Ito, Kenta; Hanabata, Makoto

2015-07-01

An electron beam (EB) lithography method using inedible cellulose-based resist material derived from woody biomass has been successfully developed. This method allows the use of pure water in the development process instead of the conventionally used tetramethylammonium hydroxide and anisole. The inedible cellulose-based biomass resist material, as an alternative to alpha-linked disaccharides in sugar derivatives that compete with food supplies, was developed by replacing the hydroxyl groups in the beta-linked disaccharides with EB-sensitive 2-methacryloyloxyethyl groups. A 75 nm line and space pattern at an exposure dose of 19 μC/cm2, a resist thickness uniformity of less than 0.4 nm on a 200 mm wafer, and low film thickness shrinkage under EB irradiation were achieved with this inedible cellulose-based biomass resist material using a water-based development process.

Erosion-resistant coatings for gas turbine engine compressor blades

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kablov, E. N.; Muboyadzhyan, S. A.

2017-06-01

The erosion-resistant ZrN and Cr3C2 coatings intended for the protection of the titanium and steel blades in a GTE compressor are studied. The erosion resistance of the substrate-coating composition is shown to depend on the coating thickness, the deposition conditions, and the coating texture. Ion-assisted deposition changes the structure-phase state of a coating and substantially increases its erosion resistance. It is found that a nanolayer 2D TiN/CrN coating with an average nanolayer thickness of 60 nm is the best erosion- corrosion-resistant coating for titanium alloys and that a (NiCrTiAlHf)C + CrC coating formed by ionassisted deposition is the best coating for steels. The testing of alloy VT8 compressor blades in an engine supported high protective properties of the nanolayer TiN/CrN coating.

EFFECTS OF TiOx INTERLAYER ON RESISTANCE SWITCHING OF Pt/TiOx/ZnO/n+-Si STRUCTURES

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Hongxia; Lv, Xiaojun; Xi, Junhua; Wu, Xin; Mao, Qinan; Liu, Qingmin; Ji, Zhenguo

2014-08-01

In this paper, we fabricated Pt/TiOx/ZnO/n+-Si structures by inserting TiOx interlayer between Pt top electrode (TE) and ZnO thin film for non-volatile resistive random access memory (ReRAM) applications. Effects of TiOx interlayer with different thickness on the resistance switching of Pt/TiOx/ZnO/n+-Si structures were investigated. Conduction behaviors in high and low resistance state (HRS and LRS) fit well with the trap-controlled space-charge-limited conduction (SCLC) and Ohmic behavior, respectively. Variations of set and reset voltages and HRS and LRS resistances of Pt/TiOx/ZnO/n+-Si structures were investigated as a function of TiOx thickness. Switching cycling tests were attempted to evaluate the endurance reliability of Pt/TiOx/ZnO/n+-Si structures. Additionally, the switching mechanism was analyzed by the filament model.

Electrical Resistance Based Damage Modeling of Multifunctional Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hart, Robert James

In the current thesis, the 4-probe electrical resistance of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites is utilized as a metric for sensing low-velocity impact damage. A robust method has been developed for recovering the directionally dependent electrical resistivities using an experimental line-type 4-probe resistance method. Next, the concept of effective conducting thickness was uniquely applied in the development of a brand new point-type 4-probe method for applications with electrically anisotropic materials. An extensive experimental study was completed to characterize the 4-probe electrical resistance of CFRP specimens using both the traditional line-type and new point-type methods. Leveraging the concept of effective conducting thickness, a novel method was developed for building 4-probe electrical finite element (FE) models in COMSOL. The electrical models were validated against experimental resistance measurements and the FE models demonstrated predictive capabilities when applied to CFRP specimens with varying thickness and layup. These new models demonstrated a significant improvement in accuracy compared to previous literature and could provide a framework for future advancements in FE modeling of electrically anisotropic materials. FE models were then developed in ABAQUS for evaluating the influence of prescribed localized damage on the 4-probe resistance. Experimental data was compiled on the impact response of various CFRP laminates, and was used in the development of quasi- static FE models for predicting presence of impact-induced delamination. The simulation-based delamination predictions were then integrated into the electrical FE models for the purpose of studying the influence of realistic damage patterns on electrical resistance. When the size of the delamination damage was moderate compared to the electrode spacing, the electrical resistance increased by less than 1% due to the delamination damage. However, for a specimen with large delamination extending beyond the electrode locations, the oblique resistance increased by 30%. This result suggests that for damage sensing applications, the spacing of electrodes relative to the size of the delamination is important. Finally CT image data was used to model 3-D void distributions and the electrical response of such specimens were compared to models with no voids. As the void content increased, the electrical resistance increased non-linearly. The relationship between void content and electrical resistance was attributed to a combination of three factors: (i) size and shape, (ii) orientation, and (iii) distribution of voids. As a whole, the current thesis provides a comprehensive framework for developing predictive, resistance-based damage sensing models for CFRP laminates of various layup and thickness.

Impact resistance of materials for guards on cutting machine tools--requirements in future European safety standards.

PubMed

Mewes, D; Trapp, R P

2000-01-01

Guards on machine tools are meant to protect operators from injuries caused by tools, workpieces, and fragments hurled out of the machine's working zone. This article presents the impact resistance requirements, which guards according to European safety standards for machine tools must satisfy. Based upon these standards the impact resistance of different guard materials was determined using cylindrical steel projectiles. Polycarbonate proves to be a suitable material for vision panels because of its high energy absorption capacity. The impact resistance of 8-mm thick polycarbonate is roughly equal to that of a 3-mm thick steel sheet Fe P01. The limited ageing stability, however, makes it necessary to protect polycarbonate against cooling lubricants by means of additional panes on both sides.

Effect of cathode thickness on the performance of planar Na-NiCl 2 battery

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

Lu, Xiaochuan; Chang, Hee Jung; Bonnett, Jeff F.

Na-beta alumina batteries (NBBs) are one of the most promising technologies for renewable energy storage and grid applications. Commercial NBBs are typically constructed in tubular designs, primarily because of their ease of sealing. But, planar designs are considered superior to tubular counterparts in terms of power output, cell packing, ease of assembly, and thermal management. In this paper, the performance of planar NBBs has been evaluated at an intermediate temperature. In particular, planar Na-NiCl 2 cells with different cathode loadings and thicknesses have been studied at 190 °C. We investigated the effects of the cathode thickness, charging current, and dischargingmore » power output on the cell capacity and resistance. More than 60% of theoretical cell capacity was retained with constant discharging power levels of 200, 175, and 100 mW/cm 2 for 1x, 2x, and 3x cathode loadings, respectively. The cell resistance with 1x and 2x cathode loadings was dominated by ohmic resistance with discharging currents up to 105 mA/cm 2, while for 3x cathode loading, it was primarily dominated by ohmic resistance with currents less than 66.67 mA/cm 2 and by polarization resistance above 66.67 mA/cm 2.« less

Effect of cathode thickness on the performance of planar Na-NiCl 2 battery

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

Lu, Xiaochuan; Chang, Hee Jung; Bonnett, Jeff F.

Na-beta alumina batteries (NBBs) are one of the most promising technologies for renewable energy storage and grid applications. Commercial NBBs are typically constructed in tubular designs, primarily because of their ease of sealing. However, planar designs are considered superior to tubular designs in terms of power output, cell packing, ease of assembly, and thermal management. In this paper, the performance of planar NBBs has been evaluated at an intermediate temperature. In particular, planar Na-NiCl2 cells with different cathode loadings and thicknesses have been studied at 190oC. The effects of the cathode thickness, charging current, and discharging power output on themore » cell capacity and resistance have been investigated. More than 60% of theoretical cell capacity could be retained with constant discharging power levels of 600, 525, and 300 mW for 1x, 2x, and 3x cathode loadings, respectively. The cell resistance with 1x and 2x cathode loadings was dominated by ohmic resistance with discharging currents up to 105 mA/cm2, while for 3x cathode loading, it was primarily dominated by ohmic resistance with currents less than 66.7 mA/cm2 and by polarization resistance above 66.7 mA/cm2.« less

Electrical resistivity tomography determines the spatial distribution of clay layer thickness and aquifer vulnerability, Kandal Province, Cambodia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uhlemann, Sebastian; Kuras, Oliver; Richards, Laura A.; Naden, Emma; Polya, David A.

2017-10-01

Despite being rich in water resources, many areas of South East Asia face difficulties in securing clean water supply. This is particularly problematic in regions with a rapidly growing population. In this study, the spatial variability of the thickness of a clay layer, controlling surface - groundwater interactions that affect aquifer vulnerability, was investigated using electrical resistivity tomography (ERT). Data were acquired along two transects, showing significant differences in the imaged resistivities. Borehole samples were analyzed regarding particle density and composition, and linked to their resistivity. The obtained relationships were used to translate the field electrical resistivities into lithologies. Those revealed considerable variations in the thickness of the clay layer, ranging from 0 m up to 25 m. Geochemical data, highlighting zones of increased ingress of surface water into the groundwater, confirmed areas of discontinuities in the clay layer, which act as preferential flow paths. The results may guide urban planning of the Phnom Penh city expansion, in order to supply the growing population with safe water. The presented approach of using geophysics to estimate groundwater availability, accessibility, and vulnerability is not only applicable to Kandal Province, Cambodia, but also to many other areas of fast urbanization in South East Asia and beyond.

Effect of cathode thickness on the performance of planar Na-NiCl 2 battery

DOE PAGES

Lu, Xiaochuan; Chang, Hee Jung; Bonnett, Jeff F.; ...

2017-10-18

Na-beta alumina batteries (NBBs) are one of the most promising technologies for renewable energy storage and grid applications. Commercial NBBs are typically constructed in tubular designs, primarily because of their ease of sealing. But, planar designs are considered superior to tubular counterparts in terms of power output, cell packing, ease of assembly, and thermal management. In this paper, the performance of planar NBBs has been evaluated at an intermediate temperature. In particular, planar Na-NiCl 2 cells with different cathode loadings and thicknesses have been studied at 190 °C. We investigated the effects of the cathode thickness, charging current, and dischargingmore » power output on the cell capacity and resistance. More than 60% of theoretical cell capacity was retained with constant discharging power levels of 200, 175, and 100 mW/cm 2 for 1x, 2x, and 3x cathode loadings, respectively. The cell resistance with 1x and 2x cathode loadings was dominated by ohmic resistance with discharging currents up to 105 mA/cm 2, while for 3x cathode loading, it was primarily dominated by ohmic resistance with currents less than 66.67 mA/cm 2 and by polarization resistance above 66.67 mA/cm 2.« less

The study on the electrical resistivity of Cu/V multilayer films subjected to helium (He) ion irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, P. P.; Xu, C.; Fu, E. G.; Du, J. L.; Gao, Y.; Wang, X. J.; Qiu, Y. H.

2018-05-01

Sputtering-deposited Cu/V multilayer films with the individual layer thickness varying from 2.5 nm to 100 nm were irradiated by 1 MeV helium (He) ion at the fluence of 6 ×1016 ions ·cm-2 at room temperature. The resistivity of Cu/V multilayer films after ion irradiation was evaluated as a function of individual layer thickness at 300 K and compared with their resistivity before ion irradiation. The results show that the resistivity change before and after ion irradiation is largely determined by the interface structure, grain boundary and radiation induced defects. A model amended based on the model used in describing the resistivity of as-deposited Cu/V multilayer films was proposed to describe the resistivity of ion irradiated Cu/V multilayer films by considering the point defects induced by ion irradiation, the effect of interface absorption on defects and the effect of interface microstructure in the multilayer films.

Patterning of Thick Parylene Films by Oxygen Plasma for Application as Exploding Foil Initiator Flyer Material

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-09-01

exploding foil initiator ( EFI ) type fuzes are being explored to...Acronyms Au gold Cr chromium Cu copper EFI exploding foil initiator BOE buffered oxide etch MEMS microelectromechanical systems RIE reactive ion...Patterning of Thick Parylene Films by Oxygen Plasma for Application as Exploding Foil Initiator Flyer Material by Eugene Zakar and Michael

Periodic folding of viscous sheets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ribe, Neil M.

2003-09-01

The periodic folding of a sheet of viscous fluid falling upon a rigid surface is a common fluid mechanical instability that occurs in contexts ranging from food processing to geophysics. Asymptotic thin-layer equations for the combined stretching-bending deformation of a two-dimensional sheet are solved numerically to determine the folding frequency as a function of the sheet’s initial thickness, the pouring speed, the height of fall, and the fluid properties. As the buoyancy increases, the system bifurcates from “forced” folding driven kinematically by fluid extrusion to “free” folding in which viscous resistance to bending is balanced by buoyancy. The systematics of the numerically predicted folding frequency are in good agreement with laboratory experiments.

Effect of r-value and texture on plastic deformation and necking behavior in interstitial-free steel sheets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oh, Gyu-Jin; Lee, Kye-Man; Huh, Moo-Young; Park, Jin Eon; Park, Soo Ho; Engler, Olaf

2017-01-01

Three initial tensile specimens having different textures and, in consequence, different r-values were cut from a sheet of an interstitial-free steel. Using these specimens, the effect of r-value and texture on plastic deformation and the necking behavior were studied by tackling the strain state and texture during tensile tests. A reduced decrease in work hardening rate of tensile specimens with higher r-values led to a slower onset of diffuse necking which offers an increased uniform elongation. A slower reduction in thickness of specimens with a higher r-value provided a favorable resistance against onset of failure by localized necking.

Influence of various thickness metallic interlayers on opto-electric and mechanical properties of AZO thin films on PET substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, R. C.; Li, T. C.; Lin, C. W.

2012-02-01

Various thickness metallic interlayers to improve the opto-electric and mechanical properties of aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) thin films deposited on flexible polyethylene terephtalate (PET) substrates are studied. The effects of the interlayers on the resistance and transmittance of the AZO thin films are discussed. The result shows that the metallic interlayers effectively improve the electric resistance but reduce the optical transmittance of the AZO thin films. These phenomena become more obvious as the interlayer thickness increases. However, the AZO with an aluminum interlayer still behaves an acceptable transmittance. Moreover, mechanical tests indicate that the aluminum interlayer increases the hardness and modulus, and reduce the residual stress of the AZO thin films. In contrast, the silver and copper interlayers decrease the AZO's mechanical properties. Comparing to those without any interlayer, the results show that the best interlayer is the 6 nm thick aluminum film.

Highly efficient phosphorescent organic light-emitting diode with a nanometer-thick Ni silicide/polycrystalline p-Si composite anode.

PubMed

Li, Y Z; Wang, Z L; Luo, H; Wang, Y Z; Xu, W J; Ran, G Z; Qin, G G; Zhao, W Q; Liu, H

2010-07-19

A phosphorescent organic light-emitting diode (PhOLED) with a nanometer-thick (approximately 10 nm) Ni silicide/ polycrystalline p-Si composite anode is reported. The structure of the PhOLED is Al mirror/ glass substrate / Si isolation layer / Ni silicide / polycrystalline p-Si/ V(2)O(5)/ NPB/ CBP: (ppy)(2)Ir(acac)/ Bphen/ Bphen: Cs(2)CO(3)/ Sm/ Au/ BCP. In the composite anode, the Ni-induced polycrystalline p-Si layer injects holes into the V(2)O(5)/ NPB, and the Ni silicide layer reduces the sheet resistance of the composite anode and thus the series resistance of the PhOLED. By adopting various measures for specially optimizing the thickness of the Ni layer, which induces Si crystallization and forms a Ni silicide layer of appropriate thickness, the highest external quantum efficiency and power conversion efficiency have been raised to 26% and 11%, respectively.

Modified developer increases line resolution in photosensitive resist

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1965-01-01

Standard developer solution is mixed with dipropyl carbonate. This reduces swelling in the photosensitive resist and permits application of relatively thick films with minimal pinhole formation and increased line resolution.

Atomic Layer Deposition of TiO2 for a High-Efficiency Hole-Blocking Layer in Hole-Conductor-Free Perovskite Solar Cells Processed in Ambient Air.

PubMed

Hu, Hang; Dong, Binghai; Hu, Huating; Chen, Fengxiang; Kong, Mengqin; Zhang, Qiuping; Luo, Tianyue; Zhao, Li; Guo, Zhiguang; Li, Jing; Xu, Zuxun; Wang, Shimin; Eder, Dominik; Wan, Li

2016-07-20

In this study we design and construct high-efficiency, low-cost, highly stable, hole-conductor-free, solid-state perovskite solar cells, with TiO2 as the electron transport layer (ETL) and carbon as the hole collection layer, in ambient air. First, uniform, pinhole-free TiO2 films of various thicknesses were deposited on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) electrodes by atomic layer deposition (ALD) technology. Based on these TiO2 films, a series of hole-conductor-free perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with carbon as the counter electrode were fabricated in ambient air, and the effect of thickness of TiO2 compact film on the device performance was investigated in detail. It was found that the performance of PSCs depends on the thickness of the compact layer due to the difference in surface roughness, transmittance, charge transport resistance, electron-hole recombination rate, and the charge lifetime. The best-performance devices based on optimized TiO2 compact film (by 2000 cycles ALD) can achieve power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of as high as 7.82%. Furthermore, they can maintain over 96% of their initial PCE after 651 h (about 1 month) storage in ambient air, thus exhibiting excellent long-term stability.

High performance novel gadolinium doped ceria/yttria stabilized zirconia/nickel layered and hybrid thin film anodes for application in solid oxide fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garcia-Garcia, F. J.; Beltrán, A. M.; Yubero, F.; González-Elipe, A. R.; Lambert, R. M.

2017-09-01

Magnetron sputtering under oblique angle deposition was used to produce Ni-containing ultra thin film anodes comprising alternating layers of gadolinium doped ceria (GDC) and yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ) of either 200 nm or 1000 nm thickness. The evolution of film structure from initial deposition, through calcination and final reduction was examined by XRD, SEM, TEM and TOF-SIMS. After subsequent fuel cell usage, the porous columnar architecture of the two-component layered thin film anodes was maintained and their resistance to delamination from the underlying YSZ electrolyte was superior to that of corresponding single component Ni-YSZ and Ni-GDC thin films. Moreover, the fuel cell performance of the 200 nm layered anodes compared favorably with conventional commercially available thick anodes. The observed dependence of fuel cell performance on individual layer thicknesses prompted study of equivalent but more easily fabricated hybrid anodes consisting of simultaneously deposited Ni-GDC and Ni-YSZ, which procedure resulted in exceptionally intimate mixing and interaction of the components. The hybrids exhibited very unusual and favorable Isbnd V characteristics, along with exceptionally high power densities at high currents. Their discovery is the principal contribution of the present work.

Effects of phosphatidic acid supplementation on muscle thickness and strength in resistance-trained men.

PubMed

Gonzalez, Adam M; Sell, Katie M; Ghigiarelli, Jamie J; Kelly, Christopher F; Shone, Edward W; Accetta, Matthew R; Baum, Jamie B; Mangine, Gerald T

2017-04-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of phosphatidic acid (PA) supplementation on muscle thickness and strength following an 8 week supervised resistance-training program. Fifteen resistance trained men (22.8 ± 3.5 years; 80.6 ± 8.7 kg; 178.1 ± 5.6 cm; 14.6% ± 8.8% body fat) were randomly assigned to a group that either consumed 750 mg of PA or a placebo (PL). Testing was carried out before (PRE) and after (POST) training/supplementation for muscle thickness and strength. Muscle thickness of the rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL), biceps brachii (BB), and triceps brachii (TB) muscles were measured via ultrasonography, along with 1 repetition maximum (1RM) of squat, deadlift, and bench press. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), using PRE values as the covariate, did not reveal any group differences for measures of muscle thickness in the RF (PA: 3.6% ± 5.2%; PL: 3.2% ± 4.2%, p = 0.97), VL (PA: 23.4% ± 18.1%, PL: 12.5% ± 15.4%, p = 0.37), BB (PA: 3.7% ± 6.4%, PL: 9.6% ± 12.4%, p = 0.86), or TB (PA: 15.1% ± 17.9%, PL: 10.7% ± 19.3%, p = 0.79). Likewise, no group differences were observed in changes in squat (PA: 8.4% ± 4.1%, PL: 8.1% ± 4.2%, p = 0.79), deadlift (PA: 10.1% ± 10.1%, PL: 8.9% ± 9.5%, p = 0.66), or bench press (PA: 5.7% ± 5.5%, PL: 5.1% ± 3.0%, p = 0.76) exercises. Collectively, however, all participants experienced significant (p < 0.05) improvements in each measure of muscle thickness and strength. Results of this study suggest that PA supplementation, in combination with a 3 days·week -1 resistance-training program for 8 weeks, did not have a differential effect compared with PL on changes in muscle thickness or 1RM strength.

Sensitive SERS detection at the single-particle level based on nanometer-separated mushroom-shaped plasmonic dimers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiang, Quan; Li, Zhiqin; Zheng, Mengjie; Liu, Qing; Chen, Yiqin; Yang, Lan; Jiang, Tian; Duan, Huigao

2018-03-01

Elevated metallic nanostructures with nanogaps (<10 nm) possess advantages for surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) via the synergic effects of nanogaps and efficient decoupling from the substrate through an elevated three-dimensional (3D) design. In this work, we demonstrate a pattern-transfer-free process to reliably define elevated nanometer-separated mushroom-shaped dimers directly from 3D resist patterns based on the gap-narrowing effect during the metallic film deposition. By controlling the initial size of nanogaps in resist structures and the following deposited film thickness, metallic nanogaps could be tuned at the sub-10 nm scale with single-digit nanometer precision. Both experimental and simulated results revealed that gold dimer on mushroom-shaped pillars have the capability to achieve higher SERS enhancement factor comparing to those plasmonic dimers on cylindrical pillars or on a common SiO2/Si substrate, implying that the nanometer-gapped elevated dimer is an ideal platform to achieve the highest possible field enhancement for various plasmonic applications.

Voltage Controlled Hot Carrier Injection Enables Ohmic Contacts Using Au Island Metal Films on Ge.

PubMed

Ganti, Srinivas; King, Peter J; Arac, Erhan; Dawson, Karl; Heikkilä, Mikko J; Quilter, John H; Murdoch, Billy; Cumpson, Peter; O'Neill, Anthony

2017-08-23

We introduce a new approach to creating low-resistance metal-semiconductor ohmic contacts, illustrated using high conductivity Au island metal films (IMFs) on Ge, with hot carrier injection initiated at low applied voltage. The same metallization process simultaneously allows ohmic contact to n-Ge and p-Ge, because hot carriers circumvent the Schottky barrier formed at metal/n-Ge interfaces. A 2.5× improvement in contact resistivity is reported over previous techniques to achieve ohmic contact to both n- and p- semiconductor. Ohmic contacts at 4.2 K confirm nonequilibrium current transport. Self-assembled Au IMFs are strongly orientated to Ge by annealing near the Au/Ge eutectic temperature. Au IMF nanostructures form, provided the Au layer is below a critical thickness. We anticipate that optimized IMF contacts may have applicability to many material systems. Optimizing this new paradigm for metal-semiconductor contacts offers the prospect of improved nanoelectronic systems and the study of voltage controlled hot holes and electrons.

Corrosion resistance of the microarc oxidation coatings prepared on magnesium alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lv, Ying; Li, Jun Gang; Wu, Ming Zhong; Ma, Zhen; Zhang, Jing Qiang; Wang, Le Le

2018-06-01

Ceramic coatings were prepared on the surface of AZ91D magnesium alloy by microarc oxidation technology. The effects of different voltages on morphology, phase composition and thickness of the coatings were characterized by SEM and XRD. The corrosion resistance of the coatings was measured by electrochemical workstation. Results indicated that the microarc oxidation coatings prepared in sodium silicate electrolyte exhibited porous surface and mainly comprised MgO, Mg2SiO4 and a small amount of MgAl2O4. The thickness of the oxide coatings increased rapidly with the increase of voltage. The coating prepared at 400V voltage had good electrochemical corrosion resistance in 3.5wt% NaCl solution.

Calculation of the Thermal Resistance of a Heat Distributer in the Cooling System of a Heat-Loaded Element

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vasil'ev, E. N.

2018-04-01

Numerical simulation is performed for heat transfer in a heat distributer of a thermoelectric cooling system, which is located between the heat-loaded element and the thermoelectric module, for matching their sizes and for heat flux equalization. The dependences of the characteristic values of temperature and thermal resistance of the copper and aluminum heat distributer on its thickness and on the size of the heatloaded element. Comparative analysis is carried out for determining the effect of the thermal conductivity of the material and geometrical parameters on the heat resistance. The optimal thickness of the heat distributer depending on the size of the heat-loaded element is determined.

A new high-κ Al2O3 based metal-insulator-metal antifuse

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Min; Zhong, Huicai; Li, Li; Wang, Zhigang

2018-06-01

In this paper, a new metal-insulator-metal (MIM) antifuse was fabricated with the high κ Al2O3 deposited by atomic layer deposition (ALD) as the dielectric. On this high κ antifuse structure, the very low on-state resistance was obtained under certain programming conditions. It is the first time that the antifuse on-state resistance has been found decreasing along with the increase of dielectric film thickness, which is attributed to a large current overshoot during breakdown. For the device with a dielectric thickness of 12 nm, very large overshoot current (∼60 mA) was observed and extremely low on-state resistance (∼10 Ω) was achieved.

Multiple sclerosis and optic nerve: an analysis of retinal nerve fiber layer thickness and color Doppler imaging parameters

PubMed Central

Akçam, H T; Capraz, I Y; Aktas, Z; Batur Caglayan, H Z; Ozhan Oktar, S; Hasanreisoglu, M; Irkec, C

2014-01-01

Purpose To compare both retinal nerve fiber layer thickness and orbital color Doppler ultrasonography parameters in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) versus healthy controls. Methods This is an observational case–control study. Forty eyes from MS patients and twenty eyes from healthy volunteers were examined. Eyes were classified into three groups as group 1, eyes from MS patients with previous optic neuritis (n=20); group 2, eyes from MS patients without previous optic neuritis (n=20); and group 3, eyes from healthy controls (n=20). Following complete ophthalmologic examination and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness measurement for each group, blood flow velocities of posterior ciliary arteries, central retinal artery, ophthalmic artery, and superior ophthalmic vein were measured. Pourcelot index (resistive index), an indicator of peripheral vascular resistance, was also calculated. The statistical assessment was performed with the assistance of Pearson's Chi-square test, Mann–Whitney U-test, Kruskal–Wallis test, and Spearman's correlation test. Results The studied eyes exposed similar values in terms of intraocular pressure and central corneal thickness, implying no evidence in favor of glaucoma. All nerve fiber layer thickness values, except superior nasal quadrants, in group 1 were found to be significantly thinner than groups 2 and 3. Blood flow velocity and mean resistivity index parameters were similar in all the groups. Conclusions In MS patients, especially with previous optic neuritis, diminished retinal nerve fiber layer thickness was observed. Contrary to several studies in the current literature, no evidence supporting potential vascular origin of ocular involvement in MS was found. PMID:25081285

Effect of the layer of anodized 7075-T6 aluminium corrosion properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Montoya Z, R. D.; L, E. Vera; Pineda T, Y.; Cedeño, M. L.

2017-01-01

Aluminium alloys are widely used in various sectors of industry. The 7075-T6 alloy corresponding to an Al-Zn T6, is mostly used as structural component in the aviation industry, due to the good relationship between weight and mechanical properties. However, the negative point of this alloys is the resistance to corrosion, which is why they need to be coated with an anodic film. Different surface treatments, such as anodizing, are used to improve corrosion resistance. Anodizing is an electrolytic process by which a protective layer on aluminium known as “alumina” is formed, this is formed by the passage of an electric current in an acidic electrolyte. This investigation presents a study of the effect of the thickness of layers of alumina deposited by anodized method, in the corrosion resistance of 7075-T6 aluminium. This study was performed by using in a solution of tartaric acid - sulfuric acid and an inorganic salt. To evaluate the influence alumina layer thickness on the corrosion properties some tests were carried out by using the electrochemical spectroscopy impedances (EIS) technique and Tafel polarization curves. It was found that the grown of the thickness of film favourably influences in the corrosion resistance.

Effect of manufacturing process sequence on the corrosion resistance characteristics of coated metallic bipolar plates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dur, Ender; Cora, Ömer Necati; Koç, Muammer

2014-01-01

Metallic bipolar plate (BPP) with high corrosion and low contact resistance, durability, strength, low cost, volume, and weight requirements is one of the critical parts of the PEMFC. This study is dedicated to understand the effect of the process sequence (manufacturing then coating vs. coating then manufacturing) on the corrosion resistance of coated metallic bipolar plates. To this goal, three different PVD coatings (titanium nitride (TiN), chromium nitride (CrN), zirconium nitride (ZrN)), with three thicknesses, (0.1, 0.5, 1 μm) were applied on BPPs made of 316L stainless steel alloy before and after two types of manufacturing (i.e., stamping or hydroforming). Corrosion test results indicated that ZrN coating exhibited the best corrosion protection while the performance of TiN coating was the lowest among the tested coatings and thicknesses. For most of the cases tested, in which coating was applied before manufacturing, occurrence of corrosion was found to be more profound than the case where coating was applied after manufacturing. Increasing the coating thickness was found to improve the corrosion resistance. It was also revealed that hydroformed BPPs performed slightly better than stamped BPPs in terms of the corrosion behavior.

Mechanical evaluation of the resistance and elastance of post-burn scars after topical treatment with tretinoin

PubMed Central

Dematte, Maria Fernanda; Gemperli, Rolf; Salles, Alessandra Grassi; Dolhnikoff, Marisa; Lanças, Tatiana; Saldiva, Paulo Hilário Nascimento; Ferreira, Marcus Castro

2011-01-01

OBJECTIVE: After burn injuries, scarred skin lacks elasticity, especially in hypertrophic scars. Topical treatment with tretinoin can improve the appearance and quality of the skin (i.e., texture, distensibility, color, and hydration). The objective of this prospective study was to examine the effects of treatment with 0.05% tretinoin for one year on the biomechanical behavior and histological changes undergone by facial skin with post-burn scarring. Setting: Tertiary, Institutional. METHOD: Fifteen female patients who had suffered partial thickness burns with more than two years of evolution were selected. Skin biopsies were obtained initially and after one year of treatment. The resistance and elastance of these skin biopsies were measured using a mechanical oscillation analysis system. The density of collagen fibers, elastic fibers, and versican were determined using immunohistochemical analysis. RESULTS: Tretinoin treatment significantly lowered skin resistance and elastance, which is a result that indicates higher distensibility of the skin. However, tretinoin treatment did not significantly affect the density of collagen fibers, elastic fibers, or versican. CONCLUSION: Topical tretinoin treatment alters the mechanical behavior of post-burn scarred skin by improving its distensibility and thus leads to improved quality of life for patients. PMID:22086527

Mechanical evaluation of the resistance and elastance of post-burn scars after topical treatment with tretinoin.

PubMed

Dematte, Maria Fernanda; Gemperli, Rolf; Salles, Alessandra Grassi; Dolhnikoff, Marisa; Lanças, Tatiana; Saldiva, Paulo Hilário Nascimento; Ferreira, Marcus Castro

2011-01-01

After burn injuries, scarred skin lacks elasticity, especially in hypertrophic scars. Topical treatment with tretinoin can improve the appearance and quality of the skin (i.e., texture, distensibility, color, and hydration). The objective of this prospective study was to examine the effects of treatment with 0.05% tretinoin for one year on the biomechanical behavior and histological changes undergone by facial skin with post-burn scarring. Tertiary, Institutional. Fifteen female patients who had suffered partial thickness burns with more than two years of evolution were selected. Skin biopsies were obtained initially and after one year of treatment. The resistance and elastance of these skin biopsies were measured using a mechanical oscillation analysis system. The density of collagen fibers, elastic fibers, and versican were determined using immunohistochemical analysis. Tretinoin treatment significantly lowered skin resistance and elastance, which is a result that indicates higher distensibility of the skin. However, tretinoin treatment did not significantly affect the density of collagen fibers, elastic fibers, or versican. Topical tretinoin treatment alters the mechanical behavior of post-burn scarred skin by improving its distensibility and thus leads to improved quality of life for patients.

Effects of channel thickness on oxide thin film transistor with double-stacked channel layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Kimoon; Kim, Yong-Hoon; Yoon, Sung-Min; Kim, Jiwan; Oh, Min Suk

2017-11-01

To improve the field effect mobility and control the threshold voltage ( V th ) of oxide thin film transistors (TFTs), we fabricated the oxide TFTs with double-stacked channel layers which consist of thick Zn-Sn-O (ZTO) and very thin In-Zn-O (IZO) layers. We investigated the effects of the thickness of thin conductive layer and the conductivity of thick layer on oxide TFTs with doublestacked channel layer. When we changed the thickness of thin conductive IZO channel layer, the resistivity values were changed. This resistivity of thin channel layer affected on the saturation field effect mobility and the off current of TFTs. In case of the thick ZTO channel layer which was deposited by sputtering in Ar: O2 = 10: 1, the device showed better performances than that which was deposited in Ar: O2 = 1: 1. Our TFTs showed high mobility ( μ FE ) of 40.7 cm2/Vs and V th of 4.3 V. We assumed that high mobility and the controlled V th were caused by thin conductive IZO layer and thick stable ZTO layer. Therefore, this double-stacked channel structure can be very promising way to improve the electrical characteristics of various oxide thin film transistors.

High-efficiency preparation of poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) grafting layer on poly(ether ether ketone) by photoinduced and self-initiated graft polymerization in an aqueous solution in the presence of inorganic salt additives.

PubMed

Shiojima, Taro; Inoue, Yuuki; Kyomoto, Masayuki; Ishihara, Kazuhiko

2016-08-01

A highly efficient methodology for preparing a poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) (PMPC) layer on the surface of poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK) was examined by photoinduced and self-initiated graft polymerization. To enhance the polymerization rate, we demonstrated the effects of inorganic salt additives in the feed monomer solution on thickness of grafted PMPC layer. Photoinduced polymerization occurred and the PMPC graft layer was successfully formed on the PEEK surface, regardless of inorganic salt additives. Moreover, it was clearly observed that the addition of inorganic salt enhanced the grafting thickness of PMPC layer on the surface even when the photoirradiation time was shortened. The addition of inorganic salt additives in the feed monomer solution enhanced the polymerization rate of MPC and resulted in thicker PMPC layers. In particular, we evaluated the effect of NaCl concentration and how this affected the polymerization rate and layer thickness. We considered that this phenomenon was due to the hydration of ions in the feed monomer solution and subsequent apparent increase in the MPC concentration. A PMPC layer with over 100-nm-thick, which was prepared by 5-min photoirradiation in 2.5mol/L inorganic salt aqueous solution, showed good wettability and protein adsorption resistance compared to that of untreated PEEK. Hence, we concluded that the addition of NaCl into the MPC feed solution would be a convenient and efficient method for preparing a graft layer on PEEK. Photoinduced and self-initiated graft polymerization on the PEEK surface is one of the several methodologies available for functionalization. However, in comparison with free-radical polymerization, the efficiency of polymerization at the solid-liquid interface is limited. Enhancement of the polymerization rate for grafting could solve the problem. In this study, we observed the acceleration of the polymerization rate of MPC in an aqueous solution by the addition of inorganic salt. The salt itself did not show any adverse effects on the radical polymerization; however, the apparent concentration of the monomer in feed may be increased due to the hydration of ions attributed to salt additives. We could obtain PMPC-grafted PEEK with sufficient PMPC thickness to obtain good functionality with only 5-min photoirradiation by using 2.5mol/L NaCl in the feed solution. Copyright © 2016 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Novel PLA-Based Conductive Polymer Composites for Biomedical Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shah, Aziurah Mohd; Kadir, Mohammed Rafiq Abdul; Razak, Saiful Izwan Abd

2017-12-01

In this study, the electrical conductivity of polylactic acid (PLA)-based composites has been improved using polyaniline (PANI) with two different solvents: dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid and citric acid. The effects of various factors including PLA quantity, solvent concentration, type of solvent and thickness on the resistivity were investigated using the design of experiments. The experimental plan was based on irregular fraction design to develop the regression models. The results revealed that the proposed mathematical models were sufficient and could describe the performance of resistivity of PLA within the limits of a factor. The findings also indicated that thickness had the most significant effect on the resistivity of PLA, while the effect of the type of solvent was of least significance. Moreover, it was illustrated that, by incorporating two different solvents into PANI, the resistivity could be changed for further applications.

Association of peripheral total and differential leukocyte counts with obesity-related complications in young adults.

PubMed

Yoshimura, Aya; Ohnishi, Shunsuke; Orito, Chieko; Kawahara, Yukako; Takasaki, Hiroyo; Takeda, Hiroshi; Sakamoto, Naoya; Hashino, Satoshi

2015-01-01

Obesity has been demonstrated to be associated with elevated leukocytes in adults and children. This study assessed the associations between peripheral total and differential leukocyte counts and obesity-related complications in young adults. 12 obese (median age 21.5 (range 19-28) years, median BMI 35.7 (range 32.0-44.9) kg/m(2)) and 11 normal (median age 23 (range 18-27) years, median BMI 19.5 (range 18.1-21.7) kg/m(2)) adults were enrolled. Complete blood count and serum levels of liver enzymes, fasting blood glucose, insulin and lipids were measured, and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance was calculated. Fat mass was calculated using a bioimpedance analysis device, and ultrasonography was performed to measure fat thickness and to detect fatty change of the liver. Total leukocyte and monocyte counts were significantly increased in obese young adults. Total leukocyte count was associated with liver enzyme levels, insulin resistance as well as visceral and subcutaneous fat thickness. Neutrophil count was associated with insulin resistance. Lymphocyte count was associated with serum liver enzymes, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia. Monocyte count was associated with serum liver enzyme, insulin resistance, visceral and subcutaneous fat thickness, body fat mass, and percentage body fat. The results of this study suggest that chronic low-grade systemic inflammation is associated with obesity-related complications such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia in young adults. © 2015 S. Karger GmbH, Freiburg.

Anomalous electron transport in metal/carbon multijunction devices by engineering of the carbon thickness and selecting metal layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dwivedi, Neeraj; Dhand, Chetna; Rawal, Ishpal; Kumar, Sushil; Malik, Hitendra K.; Lakshminarayanan, Rajamani

2017-06-01

A longstanding concern in the research of amorphous carbon films is their poor electrical conductivity at room temperature which constitutes a major barrier for the development of cost effective electronic and optoelectronic devices. Here, we propose metal/carbon hybrid multijunction devices as a promising facile way to overcome room temperature electron transport issues in amorphous carbon films. By the tuning of carbon thickness and swapping metal layers, we observe giant (upto ˜7 orders) reduction of electrical resistance in metal/carbon multijunction devices with respect to monolithic amorphous carbon device. We engineer the maximum current (electrical resistance) from about 10-7 to 10-3 A (˜107 to 103 Ω) in metal (Cu or Ti)/carbon hybrid multijunction devices with a total number of 10 junctions. The introduction of thin metal layers breaks the continuity of relatively higher resistance carbon layer as well as promotes the nanostructuring of carbon. These contribute to low electrical resistance of metal/carbon hybrid multijunction devices, with respect to monolithic carbon device, which is further reduced by decreasing the thickness of carbon layers. We also propose and discuss equivalent circuit model to explain electrical resistance in monolithic carbon and metal/carbon multijunction devices. Cu/carbon multijunction devices display relatively better electrical transport than Ti/carbon devices owing to low affinity of Cu with carbon that restricts carbide formation. We also observe that in metal/carbon multijunction devices, the transport mechanism changes from Poole-Frenkel/Schottky model to the hopping model with a decrease in carbon thickness. Our approach opens a new route to develop carbon-based inexpensive electronic and optoelectronic devices.

Retinal nerve fibre layer thinning is associated with drug resistance in epilepsy

PubMed Central

Balestrini, Simona; Clayton, Lisa M S; Bartmann, Ana P; Chinthapalli, Krishna; Novy, Jan; Coppola, Antonietta; Wandschneider, Britta; Stern, William M; Acheson, James; Bell, Gail S; Sander, Josemir W; Sisodiya, Sanjay M

2016-01-01

Objective Retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness is related to the axonal anterior visual pathway and is considered a marker of overall white matter ‘integrity’. We hypothesised that RNFL changes would occur in people with epilepsy, independently of vigabatrin exposure, and be related to clinical characteristics of epilepsy. Methods Three hundred people with epilepsy attending specialist clinics and 90 healthy controls were included in this cross-sectional cohort study. RNFL imaging was performed using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT). Drug resistance was defined as failure of adequate trials of two antiepileptic drugs to achieve sustained seizure freedom. Results The average RNFL thickness and the thickness of each of the 90° quadrants were significantly thinner in people with epilepsy than healthy controls (p<0.001, t test). In a multivariate logistic regression model, drug resistance was the only significant predictor of abnormal RNFL thinning (OR=2.09, 95% CI 1.09 to 4.01, p=0.03). Duration of epilepsy (coefficient −0.16, p=0.004) and presence of intellectual disability (coefficient −4.0, p=0.044) also showed a significant relationship with RNFL thinning in a multivariate linear regression model. Conclusions Our results suggest that people with epilepsy with no previous exposure to vigabatrin have a significantly thinner RNFL than healthy participants. Drug resistance emerged as a significant independent predictor of RNFL borderline attenuation or abnormal thinning in a logistic regression model. As this is easily assessed by OCT, RNFL thickness might be used to better understand the mechanisms underlying drug resistance, and possibly severity. Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm our findings. PMID:25886782

Integrated thick-film nanostructures based on spinel ceramics

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Integrated temperature-humidity-sensitive thick-film structures based on spinel-type semiconducting ceramics of different chemical compositions and magnesium aluminate ceramics were prepared and studied. It is shown that temperature-sensitive thick-film structures possess good electrophysical characteristics in the region from 298 to 358 K. The change of electrical resistance in integrated thick-film structures is 1 order, but these elements are stable in time and can be successfully used for sensor applications. PMID:24670141

Variation among northern red oak provenances in bark thickness:dbh ratios

Treesearch

Matthew S. Russell; Jeffrey O. Dawson

1995-01-01

Differences in bark thickness in relation to diameter at breast height were observed in a 30-32 year old Illinois planting of 32 provenances of northern red oak (Quercus rubra) from throughout its natural range. Bark thickness by itself is often a good indication of relative cambial insulation from fire. Fire resistance in trees can largely be...

Measuring Thicknesses of Wastewater Films

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schubert, F. H.; Davenport, R. J.

1987-01-01

Sensor determines when thickness of film of electrically conductive wastewater on rotating evaporator drum exceeds preset value. Sensor simple electrical probe that makes contact with liquid surface. Made of materials resistant to chemicals in liquid. Mounted on shaft in rotating cylinder, liquid-thickness sensor extends toward cylinder wall so tip almost touches. Sensor body accommodates probe measuring temperature of evaporated water in cylinder.

On the early and developed stages of surface condensation: competition mechanism between interfacial and condensate bulk thermal resistances.

PubMed

Sun, Jie; Wang, Hua Sheng

2016-10-10

We use molecular dynamics simulation to investigate the early and developed stages of surface condensation. We find that the liquid-vapor and solid-liquid interfacial thermal resistances depend on the properties of solid and fluid, which are time-independent, while the condensate bulk thermal resistance depends on the condensate thickness, which is time-dependent. There exists intrinsic competition between the interfacial and condensate bulk thermal resistances in timeline and the resultant total thermal resistance determines the condensation intensity for a given vapor-solid temperature difference. We reveal the competition mechanism that the interfacial thermal resistance dominates at the onset of condensation and holds afterwards while the condensate bulk thermal resistance gradually takes over with condensate thickness growing. The weaker the solid-liquid bonding, the later the takeover occurs. This competition mechanism suggests that only when the condensate bulk thermal resistance is reduced after it takes over the domination can the condensation be effectively intensified. We propose a unified theoretical model for the thermal resistance analysis by making dropwise condensation equivalent to filmwise condensation. We further find that near a critical point (contact angle being ca. 153°) the bulk thermal resistance has the least opportunity to take over the domination while away from it the probability increases.

On the early and developed stages of surface condensation: competition mechanism between interfacial and condensate bulk thermal resistances

PubMed Central

Sun, Jie; Wang, Hua Sheng

2016-01-01

We use molecular dynamics simulation to investigate the early and developed stages of surface condensation. We find that the liquid-vapor and solid-liquid interfacial thermal resistances depend on the properties of solid and fluid, which are time-independent, while the condensate bulk thermal resistance depends on the condensate thickness, which is time-dependent. There exists intrinsic competition between the interfacial and condensate bulk thermal resistances in timeline and the resultant total thermal resistance determines the condensation intensity for a given vapor-solid temperature difference. We reveal the competition mechanism that the interfacial thermal resistance dominates at the onset of condensation and holds afterwards while the condensate bulk thermal resistance gradually takes over with condensate thickness growing. The weaker the solid-liquid bonding, the later the takeover occurs. This competition mechanism suggests that only when the condensate bulk thermal resistance is reduced after it takes over the domination can the condensation be effectively intensified. We propose a unified theoretical model for the thermal resistance analysis by making dropwise condensation equivalent to filmwise condensation. We further find that near a critical point (contact angle being ca. 153°) the bulk thermal resistance has the least opportunity to take over the domination while away from it the probability increases. PMID:27721397

49 CFR 179.220-25 - Stamping.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...: Material ASTM A240-316L. Shell thickness Shell 0.167 in. Head thickness Head 0.150 in. Tank builders initials ABC. Date of original test 00-0000. Outer shell: Material ASTM A285-C. Tank builders initials WYZ...

Effect of ultra-thin liner materials on copper nucleation/wetting and copper grain growth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mueller, Justin E.

One of the key challenges facing future integrated circuit copper (Cu) interconnect manufacturing is to achieve uniform coverage of PVD Cu seed layer at minimum thickness on a liner and barrier. We have therefore characterized the nucleation and wetting of PVD Cu on various liner surfaces by monitoring in-situ the film's electrical conductance during the initial stages of deposition (0 to 25 nm). Our results showed that the Cu wetting is sensitive to the Cu/liner interfacial properties, while the nucleation depends on the liner microstructure. It was found that a ruthenium (Ru) liner has a good Cu wetting characteristic and allows at the onset nearly layer by layer Cu growth. Because of good wetting, Cu growth is not significantly affected by Ru liner grain size. Tantalum (Ta), however, exhibits poor Cu wetting, which results in an initial stage of three dimensional island growth of Cu. In this case, Cu island coalescing occurs sooner, at a smaller Cu film thickness, when the nucleation site density is increased with a smaller grain size Ta liner. To optimize the seed layer's conductance and step coverage, a liner with combined properties of Ta (for adhesion and barrier formation) and Ru (for wetting and grain growth) may be desired. A hybrid magnetron target has been developed for depositing TaRu liner films at various compositions. The microstructure of the compound liners and their effects on the overgrown Cu seed layer over a wide range of TaRu composition is presented. It was found that below 80% Ru concentration, TaRu films are amorphous. An amorphous liner results in poor Cu nucleation as compared with a crystalline Ta or Ru liner. A comparison of the microstructure of thin Cu films deposited on bcc alpha-Ta and tetragonal beta-Ta surfaces has been carried out. Cu resistivity is lower by 10-15%, accompanied by larger Cu grain size, in as-deposited Cu films of various thickness' (30-120 nm) on beta-Ta as compared to those deposited on alpha-Ta. This is due to the presence of an epitaxial relationship between Cu (111) and beta-Ta (002) planes. After annealing, the difference was only seen in films thinner than 60 nm. Results were confirmed when Cu film resistance was measured in-situ during deposition on each phase of Ta liner. Serpentine interconnect line structures of various line widths and aspect ratios were fabricated using either alpha- or beta-Ta liners, and subjected to a similar heat treatment. Results showed a similar ˜10% lower resistivity in the thinnest interconnects (˜40 nm) when a beta-Ta liner was used.

Synthesis and Evaluation of Thick Films of Electrochemically Deposited Bi₂Te₃ and Sb₂Te₃ Thermoelectric Materials.

PubMed

Trung, Nguyen Huu; Sakamoto, Kei; Toan, Nguyen Van; Ono, Takahito

2017-02-10

This paper presents the results of the synthesis and evaluation of thick thermoelectric films that may be used for such applications as thermoelectric power generators. Two types of electrochemical deposition methods, constant and pulsed deposition with improved techniques for both N-type bismuth telluride (Bi₂Te₃) and P-type antimony telluride (Sb₂Te₃), are performed and compared. As a result, highly oriented Bi₂Te₃ and Sb₂Te₃ thick films with a bulk-like structure are successfully synthesized with high Seebeck coefficients and low electrical resistivities. Six hundred-micrometer-thick Bi₂Te₃ and 500-µm-thick Sb₂Te₃ films are obtained. The Seebeck coefficients for the Bi₂Te₃ and Sb₂Te₃ films are -150 ± 20 and 170 ± 20 µV/K, respectively. Additionally, the electrical resistivity for the Bi₂Te₃ is 15 ± 5 µΩm and is 25 ± 5 µΩm for the Sb₂Te₃. The power factors of each thermoelectric material can reach 15 × 10 -4 W/mK² for Bi₂Te₃ and 11.2 × 10 -4 W/mK² for Sb₂Te₃.

Study of Shell-Mold Thermal Resistance: Laboratory Measurements, Estimation from Compact Strip Production Plant Data, and Observation of Simulated Flux-Mold Interface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

González de la C., J. Manuel; Flores F., Tania M.; Castillejos E., A. Humberto

2016-08-01

The slag film that forms between the shell and mold in steel continuous casting is key in regulating the heat transfer between them. Generally, the mechanisms proposed are related to the phenomena associated with the formation of crystals in the solid layer of the film, such as the appearance of internal pores and surface roughness, which decrease phononic conduction through the layer and interfacial gap with the mold, respectively, and the emergence of crystals themselves, which reduce the transmissivity of infrared radiation across the layer. Due to the importance of the solid layer, this study investigates experimentally the effective thermal resistance, R T, between a hot Inconel surface and a cold Cu surface separated by an initially glassy slag disk, made from powders for casting low and medium-carbon steels, denoted as A and B, respectively. In the tests, an initially mirror-polished disk is sandwiched for 10,800 seconds while the Inconel temperature, away from the disk face, is maintained steady at a value, T c, between 973 K and 1423 K (700 °C and 1150 °C)-below the liquidus temperature of the slags. The disks have a thickness, d t, between ~0.7 and 3.2 mm. Over the range of conditions studied, mold slag B shows R T 33 pct larger than slag A, and microscopic observation of disks hints that the greater resistance arises from the larger porosity developed in B. This finding is supported by high-temperature confocal laser scanning microscope observations of the evolution of the surface of slag parallelepipeds encased between Pt sheets, which reveal that during devitrification the film surface moves outward not inward, contrary with what is widely claimed. This behavior would favor contact of the slag with the mold for both kinds of powders. However, in the case of slag A, the crystalline grains growing at or near the surface pack closely together, leaving only few and small empty spaces. In slag B, crystalline grains pack loosely and many and large empty spaces arise in and below the surface. Estimation from plant data shows R T values smaller than measured ones, suggesting that the process film slag thickness must be considerably thinner than those of laboratory disks. However, the difference in thermal resistance of both powders, averaged over the mold length, is close to the dissimilarity found in laboratory.

Bark heat resistance of small trees in Californian mixed conifer forests: Testing some model assumptions

USGS Publications Warehouse

van Mantgem, Phillip J.; Schwartz, Mark

2003-01-01

An essential component to models of fire-caused tree mortality is an assessment of cambial damage. Cambial heat resistance has been traditionally measured in large overstory trees with thick bark, although small trees have thinner bark and thus are more sensitive to fire. We undertook this study to determine if current models of bark heat transfer are applicable to small trees (<20 cm diameter at breast height (dbh)). We performed this work in situ on four common species in the mixed conifer forests of the Sierra Nevada, California.The allometric relationship between bole diameter and bark thickness for each species was linear, even for very small trees (5 cm dbh). Heating experiments demonstrated that bark thickness was the primary determinant of cambial heat resistance. We found only slight, but statistically significant, among species differences in bark thermal properties. Our most significant finding was that small trees were more resistant to heating than expected from commonly used models of bark heat transfer. Our results may differ from those of existing models because we found smaller trees to have a greater proportion of inner bark, which appears to have superior insulating properties compared to outer bark. From a management perspective, growth projections suggest that a 50-year fire-free interval may allow some fire intolerant species to achieve at least some degree of cambial heat resistance in the Sierra Nevada.

Initial study of sediment antagonism and characteristics of silver nanoparticle-coated biliary stents in an experimental animal model.

PubMed

Tian, Yigeng; Xia, Mingfeng; Zhang, Shuai; Fu, Zhen; Wen, Qingbin; Liu, Feng; Xu, Zongzhen; Li, Tao; Tian, Hu

2016-01-01

Plastic biliary stents used to relieve obstructive jaundice are frequently blocked by sediment, resulting in loss of drainage. We prepared stents coated with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and compared their ability to resist sedimentation with Teflon stents in a beagle model of obstructive jaundice. AgNP-coated Teflon biliary stents were prepared by chemical oxidation-reduction and evaluated in an obstructive jaundice model that was produced by ligation of common bile duct (CBD); animals were randomized to two equal groups for placement of AgNP-coated or Teflon control stents. Liver function and inflammatory index were found to be similar in the two groups, and the obstruction was relieved. Stents were removed 21 days after insertion and observed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The AgNP coating was analyzed by energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDXA), and the composition of sediment was assayed by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Electron microscopy revealed a black, closely adherent AgNP stent coating, with thicknesses of 1.5-6 µm. Sediment thickness and density were greater on Teflon than on AgNP-coated stents. EDXA confirmed the stability and integrity of the AgNP coating before and after in vivo animal experimentation. FTIR spectroscopy identified stent sediment components including bilirubin, cholesterol, bile acid, protein, calcium, and other substances. AgNP-coated biliary stents resisted sediment accumulation in this canine model of obstructive jaundice caused by ligation of the CBD.

Initial study of sediment antagonism and characteristics of silver nanoparticle-coated biliary stents in an experimental animal model

PubMed Central

Tian, Yigeng; Xia, Mingfeng; Zhang, Shuai; Fu, Zhen; Wen, Qingbin; Liu, Feng; Xu, Zongzhen; Li, Tao; Tian, Hu

2016-01-01

Objective Plastic biliary stents used to relieve obstructive jaundice are frequently blocked by sediment, resulting in loss of drainage. We prepared stents coated with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and compared their ability to resist sedimentation with Teflon stents in a beagle model of obstructive jaundice. Methods AgNP-coated Teflon biliary stents were prepared by chemical oxidation–reduction and evaluated in an obstructive jaundice model that was produced by ligation of common bile duct (CBD); animals were randomized to two equal groups for placement of AgNP-coated or Teflon control stents. Liver function and inflammatory index were found to be similar in the two groups, and the obstruction was relieved. Stents were removed 21 days after insertion and observed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The AgNP coating was analyzed by energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDXA), and the composition of sediment was assayed by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Results Electron microscopy revealed a black, closely adherent AgNP stent coating, with thicknesses of 1.5–6 µm. Sediment thickness and density were greater on Teflon than on AgNP-coated stents. EDXA confirmed the stability and integrity of the AgNP coating before and after in vivo animal experimentation. FTIR spectroscopy identified stent sediment components including bilirubin, cholesterol, bile acid, protein, calcium, and other substances. Conclusion AgNP-coated biliary stents resisted sediment accumulation in this canine model of obstructive jaundice caused by ligation of the CBD. PMID:27217749

Delivery of doxorubicin and paclitaxel from double-layered microparticles: The effects of layer thickness and dual-drug vs. single-drug loading.

PubMed

Lee, Wei Li; Guo, Wei Mei; Ho, Vincent H B; Saha, Amitaksha; Chong, Han Chung; Tan, Nguan Soon; Tan, Ern Yu; Loo, Say Chye Joachim

2015-11-01

Double-layered microparticles composed of poly(d,l-lactic-co-glycolic acid, 50:50) (PLGA) and poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) were loaded with doxorubicin HCl (DOX) and paclitaxel (PCTX) through a solvent evaporation technique. DOX was localized in the PLGA shell, while PCTX was localized in the PLLA core. The aim of this study was to investigate how altering layer thickness of dual-drug, double-layered microparticles can influence drug release kinetics and their antitumor capabilities, and against single-drug microparticles. PCTX-loaded double-layered microparticles with denser shells retarded the initial release of PCTX, as compared with dual-drug-loaded microparticles. The DOX release from both DOX-loaded and dual-drug-loaded microparticles were observed to be similar with an initial burst. Through specific tailoring of layer thicknesses, a suppressed initial burst of DOX and a sustained co-delivery of two drugs can be achieved over 2months. Viability studies using spheroids of MCF-7 cells showed that controlled co-delivery of PCTX and DOX from dual-drug-loaded double-layered microparticles were better in reducing spheroid growth rate. This study provides mechanistic insights into how by tuning the layer thickness of double-layered microparticles the release kinetics of two drugs can be controlled, and how co-delivery can potentially achieve better anticancer effects. While the release of multiple drugs has been reported to achieve successful apoptosis and minimize drug resistance, most conventional particulate systems can only deliver a single drug at a time. Recently, although a number of formulations (e.g. micellar nanoparticles, liposomes) have been successful in delivering two or more anticancer agents, sustained co-delivery of these agents remains inadequate due to the complex agent loading processes and rapid release of hydrophilic agents. Therefore, the present work reports the multilayered particulate system that simultaneously hosts different drugs, while being able to tune their individual release over months. We believe that our findings would be of interest to the readers of Acta Biomaterialia because the proposed system could open a new avenue on how two drugs can be released, through rate-controlling carriers, for combination chemotherapy. Copyright © 2015 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Deep drawability of Ti/resin/Ti laminated sheet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hardada, Yasunroi; Hattori, Shuji

2017-10-01

Aiming to enhance functionality of titanium cup, the formability of titanium/resin/titanium laminated sheet by deep drawing was investigated. Although pure titanium has excellent corrosion resistance, the density of titanium is higher than that of light metals, such as aluminum and magnesium. Part of the titanium cup made of resin allows for weight reduction of the cup. Furthermore, the clad cup is more likely to have heat retention and protection against vibration characteristics. In the experiment, the materials were pure titanium and polycarbonate. The initial thickness of the sheet was 0.2 to 0.5 mm in thickness. A total plate thickness of the blank was 1.0 to 1.5 mm in thickness. The blank diameter is 70 mm. The laminated sheet was constituted by interposing resin between two titanium sheets. Each sheet in stacked condition was not joined each other. In the deep drawing process, the laminated sheet was employed and a flat sheet blank was formed into a circle by a punch. For the prevention of seizure in contact area between a drawing tool and titanium, titanium blank was treated by oxide coating. By this method, the fresh and clean titanium is not in direct contact with the die during the forming due to the existence of the oxide layer. The deep drawing was carried out to investigate the formability. The laminated sheet was successfully drawn without the cracks. The section of the drawn cup was observed to examine a formability of the resin sheet. The reduction rate of the thickness was less than 10%. It was found that the titanium/resin/titanium clad cup was successfully drawn.

Ocean Engineering Studies Compiled 1991. Volume 11. Pressure-Resistant Glass Light Enclosures

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-01-01

resting on this gasket than when they were resting on bare type 316 stainless steel end closures, aluminum gasket, or glass fiber- phenolic laminate ...316 2.58 inches thick Brass (naval) 2.58 inches thick Titanium (Ti-6AI-4V) 1.82 inches thick Phenolic resin-glass fiber laminate 4.40 inches thick...The 6061-T6 aluminum and the 94 spcimen s phenolic resin-impregnated glass fiber 18,000 imploded at -- /- laminate materials performed the best 18,000

Development of Resistive Electrode Gas Electron Multiplier (RE-GEM)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yoshikawa, A.; Tamagawa, T.; Iwahashi, T.; Asami, F.; Takeuchi, Y.; Hayato, A.; Hamagaki, H.; Gunji, T.; Akimoto, R.; Nukariya, A.;

A Portable Thermoelectric Power Generator Based on a Microfabricated Silicon Combustor with Low Resistance to Flow

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-12-14

conductive heat losses to dominate the energy balance. The manifold and inlet and outlet tubes were insulated using lI16-in-thick CeraTex ceramic tape...small cut in the graphite). On either side of the TE modules, O.27-mm-thick alumina insulating shims (Hi-Z Technologies) were used to prevent...accounting for the themml resistance of the alumina insulating shim) close to 300"C, which was identified by the manufacturer as a moderately "safe" limit

Resistance of Concrete Masonry Walls With Membrane Catcher Systems Subjected to Blast Loading

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-12-01

fiber reinforcement) sprayed-on polymers. The early versions of this approach were a polyurea -based coating similar to that used for truck bed liners...displacement. Figure 5 illustrates a resistance function using a polyurea membrane retrofit, and Figure 6 shows the complete resistance function. The...resistance function is truncated for these conditions: Figure 5. Resistance function — 3 mm thick polyurea retrofit DIsplacement (mm) P re s s u re

Thickness, humidity, and polarization dependent ferroelectric switching and conductivity in Mg doped lithium niobate

DOE PAGES

Neumayer, Sabine M.; Strelcov, Evgheni; Manzo, Michele; ...

2015-12-28

Mg doped lithium niobate (Mg:LN) exhibits several advantages over undoped LN such as resistance to photorefraction, lower coercive fields, and p-type conductivity that is particularly pronounced at domain walls and opens up a range of applications, e.g., in domain wall electronics. Engineering of precise domain patterns necessitates well founded knowledge of switching kinetics, which can differ significantly from that of undoped LN. In this work, the role of humidity and sample composition in polarization reversal has been investigated under application of the same voltage waveform. Control over domain sizes has been achieved by varying the sample thickness and initial polarizationmore » as well as atmospheric conditions. Additionally, local introduction of proton exchanged phases allows for inhibition of domain nucleation or destabilization, which can be utilized to modify domain patterns. In polarization dependent current flow, attributed to charged domain walls and band bending, it the rectifying ability of Mg: LN in combination with suitable metal electrodes that allow for further tailoring of conductivity is demonstrated.« less

An assessment of the process capabilities of nanoimprint lithography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balla, Tobias; Spearing, S. Mark; Monk, Andrew

2008-09-01

Nanoimprint lithography (NIL) is an emerging nanofabrication tool, able to replicate imprint patterns quickly and at high volumes. The present study was performed in order to define the capabilities of NIL, based on a study of published research and to identify the application areas where NIL has the greatest potential. The process attributes of different NIL process chains were analysed, and their process capabilities were compared to identify trends and process limitations. The attributes chosen include the line width, relief height, initial resist thickness, residual layer thickness, imprint area and line width tolerances. In each case well-defined limits can be identified, which are a direct result of the mechanisms involved in the NIL process. These quantitative results were compared with the assessments of individuals in academia and within the microfabrication industry. The results suggest NIL is most suited to producing photonic, microfluidic and patterned media applications, with photonic applications the closest to market. NIL needs to address overlay alignment issues for wider use, while an analysis is needed for each market, as to whether NIL adds value.

Sputtered silver films to improve chromium carbide based solid lubricant coatings for use to 900 C

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dellacorte, Christopher; Sliney, Harold E.; Deadmore, Daniel L.

1988-01-01

Thin silver films, 250 to 3500 A thick, were sputtered onto PS200, a plasma sprayed, chromium carbide based solid lubricant coating, to reduce run-in wear and improve tribological properties. The coating contains bonded chromium carbide as the wear resistant base stock with silver and barium fluoride/calcium fluoride eutectic added as low and high temperature lubricants, respectively. Potential applications for the PS200 coating are cylinder wall/piston ring lubrication for Stirling engines and foil bearing journal lubrication. In this preliminary program, the silver film overlay thickness was optimized based on tests using a pin-on-disk tribometer. The friction and wear studies were performed in a helium atmosphere at temperatures from 25 to 760 C with a sliding velocity of 2.7 m/s under a 4.9 N load. Films between 1000 and 1500 A provide the best lubrication of the counterface material. The films enrich the sliding surface with lubricant and reduce the initial abrasiveness of the as ground, plasma-sprayed coating surface, thus reducing wear.

Sputtered silver films to improve chromium carbide based solid lubricant coatings for use to 900 C

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dellacorte, Christopher; Sliney, Harold E.; Deadmore, Daniel L.

1988-01-01

Thin silver films, 250 to 3500 A thick, were sputtered onto PS200, a plasma sprayed, chromium carbide based solid lubricant coating, to reduce run-in wear and improve tribological properties. The coating contains bonded chromium carbide as the wear resistant base stock with silver and barium fluoride/calcium fluoride eutectic added as low and high temperature lubricants respectively. Potential applications for the PS200 coating are cylinder wall/piston ring lubrication for Stirling engines and foil bearing journal lubrication. In this preliminary program, the silver film overlay thickness was optimized based on tests using a pin-on-disk tribometer. The friction and wear studies were performed in a helium atmosphere at temperatures from 25 to 760 C with a sliding velocity of 2.7 m/s under a 4.9 N load. Films between 1000 and 1500 A provide the best lubrication of the counterface material. The films enrich the sliding surface with lubricant and reduce the initial abrasiveness of the as ground, plasma-sprayed coating surface, thus reducing wear.

Sink property of metallic glass free surfaces

DOE PAGES

Shao, Lin; Fu, Engang; Price, Lloyd; ...

2015-03-16

When heated to a temperature close to glass transition temperature, metallic glasses (MGs) begin to crystallize. Under deformation or particle irradiation, crystallization occurs at even lower temperatures. Hence, phase instability represents an application limit for MGs. Here, we report that MG membranes of a few nanometers thickness exhibit properties different from their bulk MG counterparts. The study uses in situ transmission electron microscopy with concurrent heavy ion irradiation and annealing to observe crystallization behaviors of MGs. For relatively thick membranes, ion irradiations introduce excessive free volumes and thus induce nanocrystal formation at a temperature linearly decreasing with increasing ion fluences.more » For ultra-thin membranes, however, the critical temperature to initiate crystallization is about 100 K higher than the bulk glass transition temperature. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that this effect is due to the sink property of the surfaces which can effectively remove excessive free volumes. These findings suggest that nanostructured MGs having a higher surface to volume ratio are expected to have higher crystallization resistance, which could pave new paths for materials applications in harsh environments requiring higher stabilities.« less

Phase transition of AISI type 304L stainless steel induced by severe plastic deformation via cryo-rolling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shit, Gopinath; Bhaskar, Pragna; Ningshen, S.; Dasgupta, A.; Mudali, U. Kamachi; Bhaduri, A. Kumar

2017-05-01

The phase transition induced by Severe Plastic Deformation (SPD) was confirmed in metastable AISI type 304L austenitic stainless steel (SS). SPD via cryo-rolling in liquid nitrogen (L-N2) temperature is the adopted route for correlating the phase transition and corrosion resistance. The thickness of the annealed AISI type 304L SS at 1050°C sheet was reduced step by step from 15% to 50% of its initial thickness. The phase changes and phase transformation are qualitatively analyzed by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) method. During the process, the XRD of each Cryo-Rolled and annealed sample was analyzed and different phases and phase transitions are measured. The investigated AISI type 304L SS by SPD reveals a microstructure of γ-austenite; α'-marternsite and ɛ-martensite formation depending on the percentage of cryo-rolling. The Vickers hardness (HV) of the samples is also measured. The corrosion rate of the annealed sheet and cryo rolled sample was estimated in boiling nitric acid as per ASTM A-262 practice-C test.

Ceramic capacitor exhibiting graceful failure by self-clearing, method for fabricating self-clearing capacitor

DOEpatents

Kaufman, David Y [Chicago, IL; Saha, Sanjib [Santa Clara, CA

2006-08-29

A short-resistant capacitor comprises an electrically conductive planar support substrate having a first thickness, a ceramic film deposited over the support substrate, thereby defining a ceramic surface; and a metallic film deposited over the ceramic surface, said film having a second thickness which is less than the first thickness and which is between 0.01 and 0.1 microns.

Development plates for stable internal fixation: Study of mechanical resistance in simulated fractures of the mandibular condyle.

PubMed

Celegatti Filho, Tóride Sebastião; Rodrigues, Danillo Costa; Lauria, Andrezza; Moreira, Roger William Fernandes; Consani, Simonides

2015-01-01

To develop Y-shaped plates with different thicknesses to be used in simulated fractures of the mandibular condyle. Ten plates were developed in Y shape, containing eight holes, and 30 synthetic polyurethane mandible replicas were developed for the study. The load test was performed on an Instron Model 4411 universal testing machine, applying load in the mediolateral and anterior-posterior positions on the head of the condyle. Two-way ANOVA with Tukey testing with a 5% significance level was used. It was observed that when the load was applied in the medial-lateral plate of greater thickness (1.5 mm), it gave the highest strength, while in the anteroposterior direction, the plate with the highest resistance was of the lesser thickness (0.6 mm). A plate with a thickness of 1.5 mm was the one with the highest average value for all displacements. In the anteroposterior direction, the highest values of resistance were seen in the displacement of 15 mm. After comparing the values of the biomechanical testing found in the scientific literature, it is suggested that the use of Y plates are suitable for use in subcondylar fractures within the limitations of the study. Copyright © 2014 European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Thin films of topological Kondo insulator candidate SmB6: Strong spin-orbit torque without exclusive surface conduction

PubMed Central

Li, Yufan; Ma, Qinli; Huang, S. X.; Chien, C. L.

2018-01-01

The advent of topological insulators (TIs), a novel class of materials that harbor a metallic spin-chiral surface state coexisting with band-insulating bulk, opens up new possibilities for spintronics. One promising route is current-induced switching of an adjacent magnetic layer via spin-orbit torque (SOT), arising from the large spin-orbit coupling intrinsically possessed by TIs. The Kondo insulator SmB6 has been recently proposed to be a strongly correlated TI, supported by the observation of a metallic surface state in bulk SmB6, as evidenced by the thickness independence of the low-temperature resistance plateau. We report the synthesis of epitaxial (001) SmB6/Si thin films and a systematic thickness-dependent electrical transport study. Although the low-temperature resistance plateau is observed for all films from 50 to 500 nm in thickness, the resistance is distinctively thickness-dependent and does not support the notion of surface conduction and interior insulation. On the other hand, we demonstrate that SmB6 can generate a large SOT to switch an adjacent ferromagnetic layer, even at room temperature. The effective SOT generated from SmB6 is comparable to that from β-W, one of the strongest SOT materials. PMID:29376125

Regulation of the forming process and the set voltage distribution of unipolar resistance switching in spin-coated CoFe2O4 thin films.

PubMed

Mustaqima, Millaty; Yoo, Pilsun; Huang, Wei; Lee, Bo Wha; Liu, Chunli

2015-01-01

We report the preparation of (111) preferentially oriented CoFe2O4 thin films on Pt(111)/TiO2/SiO2/Si substrates using a spin-coating process. The post-annealing conditions and film thickness were varied for cobalt ferrite (CFO) thin films, and Pt/CFO/Pt structures were prepared to investigate the resistance switching behaviors. Our results showed that resistance switching without a forming process is preferred to obtain less fluctuation in the set voltage, which can be regulated directly from the preparation conditions of the CFO thin films. Therefore, instead of thicker film, CFO thin films deposited by two times spin-coating with a thickness about 100 nm gave stable resistance switching with the most stable set voltage. Since the forming process and the large variation in set voltage have been considered as serious obstacles for the practical application of resistance switching for non-volatile memory devices, our results could provide meaningful insights in improving the performance of ferrite material-based resistance switching memory devices.

Dependence of lattice strain relaxation, absorbance, and sheet resistance on thickness in textured ZnO@B transparent conductive oxide for thin-film solar cell applications.

PubMed

Kou, Kuang-Yang; Huang, Yu-En; Chen, Chien-Hsun; Feng, Shih-Wei

2016-01-01

The interplay of surface texture, strain relaxation, absorbance, grain size, and sheet resistance in textured, boron-doped ZnO (ZnO@B), transparent conductive oxide (TCO) materials of different thicknesses used for thin film, solar cell applications is investigated. The residual strain induced by the lattice mismatch and the difference in the thermal expansion coefficient for thicker ZnO@B is relaxed, leading to an increased surface texture, stronger absorbance, larger grain size, and lower sheet resistance. These experimental results reveal the optical and material characteristics of the TCO layer, which could be useful for enhancing the performance of solar cells through an optimized TCO layer.

Negative differential resistance in electron tunneling in ultrathin films near the two-dimensional limit

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

Batabyal, R.; Abdul Wasey, A. H. M.; Mahato, J. C.

We report on our observation of negative differential resistance (NDR) in electron tunneling conductance in atomic-scale ultrathin Ag films on Si(111) substrates. NDR was observed by scanning tunneling spectroscopy measurements. The tunneling conductance depends on the electronic local density of states (LDOS) of the sample. We show that the sample bias voltage, at which negative differential resistance and peak negative conductance occur, depends on the film thickness. This can be understood from the variation in the LDOS of the Ag films as a function of film thickness down to the two-dimensional limit of one atomic layer. First principles density functionalmore » theory calculations have been used to explain the results.« less

Direct-current resistivity data from 94 sites in northeastern Palm Beach County, Florida

USGS Publications Warehouse

Peterson, Cathleen J.

1988-01-01

Direct-current resistivity data were collected from 94 vertical electric sounding profiles in northeastern Palm Beach County, Florida. Direct-current resistivity data, which may be used to determine the location and thicknesses of shallow, semipermeable marls or locate zones of high chloride concentration, are presented in this report. The resistivity data consist of field data, smoothed data, layer resistivity from smoothed data, and Cartesian graphs of resistivity in relation to depth for 94 sites located in northeastern Palm Beach County. (USGS)

White primer permits a corrosion-resistant coating of minimum weight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Albrecht, R. H.; Jensen, D. P.; Schnake, P.

1966-01-01

White primer for coating 2219 aluminum alloy supplies a base for a top coating of enamel. A formulation of pigments and vehicle results in a primer with high corrosion resistance and minimum film thickness.

Numerical simulation on behaviour of timber-concrete composite beams in fire

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, Hao; Hu, Xiamin; Zhang, Bing; Minli, Yao

2017-08-01

This paper established sequentially coupled thermal-mechanical models of timber--concrete composite (TCC) beams by finite element software ANSYS to investigate the fire resistance of TCC beam. Existing experimental results were used to verify the coupled thermal-mechanical model. The influencing parameters consisted of the width of timber beam, the thickness of the concrete slab and the timber board. Based on the numerical results, the effects of these parameters on fire resistance of TCC beams were investigated in detail. The results showed that modeling results agreed well with test results, and verified the reliability of the finite element model. The width of the timber beam had a significant influence on the fire resistance of TCC beams. The fire resistance of TCC beams would be enhanced by increasing the width of timber beam, the thickness of concrete slab and the timber board.

The one-step electroposition of superhydrophobic surface on AZ31 magnesium alloy and its time-dependence corrosion resistance in NaCl solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, Yuxing; Hu, Jin; Zhang, Yufen; Tang, Shawei

2018-01-01

A calcium myristic superhydrophobicity coating with a hierarchical micro-nanostructure was fabricated on AZ31 magnesium alloy by one-step electroposition. The effects of deposition time on the coating structure, such as morphology, thickness, wettability and phase composition of the coating were studied. The corrosion behavior of the coated samples in 3.5% NaCl solution was also investigated and the corrosion mechanism was discussed. It was found that the deposition time has a visible effect on the morphology, thickness and wettability, which distinctly affects the corrosion resistance of coatings. The corrosion resistance of the coating gradually decreases with the increase in the immersion time due to the disappearance of the air layer which exists on the coating surface. The superhydrophobic surfaces present the temporal limitations to the corrosion resistance of AZ31 magnesium alloy.

Microstructure, phase composition and corrosion resistance of Ni2O3 coatings produced using laser alloying method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bartkowska, Aneta; Przestacki, Damian; Chwalczuk, Tadeusz

2016-12-01

The paper presents the studies' results of microstructure, microhardness, cohesion, phase composition and the corrosion resistance analysis of C45 steel after laser alloying with nickel oxide (Ni2O3). The aim of the laser alloying was to obtain the surface layer with new properties through covering C45 steel by precoat containing modifying compound, and then remelting this precoat using laser beam. As a result of this process the surface layer consisting of remelted zone and heat affected zone was obtained. In the remelted zone an increased amount of modifying elements was observed. It was also found that the surface layer formed during the laser alloying with Ni2O3 was characterized by good corrosion resistance. This property has changed depending on the thickness of the applied precoat. It was observed that the thickness increase of nickel oxides precoat improves corrosion resistance of produced coatings.

Thickness and temperature dependent electrical characteristics of crystalline BaxSr1-xTiO3 thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panda, B.; Roy, A.; Dhar, A.; Ray, S. K.

2007-03-01

Polycrystalline Ba1-xSrxTiO3 (BST) thin films with three different compositions have been deposited by radio-frequency magnetron sputtering technique on platinum coated silicon substrates. Samples with buffer and barrier layers for different film thicknesses and processing temperatures have been studied. Crystallite size of BST films has been found to increase with increasing substrate temperature. Thickness dependent dielectric constant has been studied and discussed in the light of an interfacial dead layer and the finite screening length of the electrode. Ferroelectric properties of the films have also been studied for various deposition conditions. The electrical resistivity of the films measured at different temperatures shows a positive temperature coefficient of resistance under a constant bias voltage.

Resistance of non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae biofilms is independent of biofilm size

PubMed Central

Reimche, Jennifer L.; Kirse, Daniel J.; Whigham, Amy S.; Swords, W. Edward

2016-01-01

Abstract The inflammatory middle ear disease known as otitis media can become chronic or recurrent in some cases due to failure of the antibiotic treatment to clear the bacterial etiological agent. Biofilms are known culprits of antibiotic-resistant infections; however, the mechanisms of resistance for non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae biofilms have not been completely elucidated. In this study, we utilized in vitro static biofilm assays to characterize clinical strain biofilms and addressed the hypothesis that biofilms with greater biomass and/or thickness would be more resistant to antimicrobial-mediated eradication than thinner and/or lower biomass biofilms. Consistent with previous studies, antibiotic concentrations required to eliminate biofilm bacteria tended to be drastically higher than concentrations required to kill planktonic bacteria. The size characterizations of the biofilms formed by the clinical isolates were compared to their minimum biofilm eradication concentrations for four antibiotics. This revealed no correlation between biofilm thickness or biomass and the ability to resist eradication by antibiotics. Therefore, we concluded that biofilm size does not play a role in antibiotic resistance, suggesting that reduction of antibiotic penetration may not be a significant mechanism for antibiotic resistance for this bacterial opportunist. PMID:27956464

Electrochemical Properties of RuO2 Electrodes as a Function of Thin Film Thickness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xiang; Xiong, Jian; Luo, Yuan; Luo, Yongmei

2018-01-01

A thin film RuO2 electrode was prepared by spin coating thermal decomposition methods. Precursor containing RuCl3·nH2O and isopropyl alcohol was coated on tantalum substrate and annealed at 250-260°C for 3 h to form a thin film RuO2 electrode of about 2.5 μm, 5.6 μm, 11.4 μm, and 14.5 μm in thickness. X-ray diffraction revealed that peak intensities of those electrodes were similar and close to each other. Scanning electron microscopy showed that thin film of 5.6 μm in thickness was dense and free of cracks. Electrochemical performances of electrodes were examined by cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge as well as equivalent series resistance. The highest specific capacitance value of 725 F g-1 was registered for the electrode of 5.6 μm in thickness with good constant current charge/discharge and equivalent series resistance of 0.36 Ω as well as cyclic stability.

Influences of layer thickness on the compatibility and physical properties of polycarbonate/polystyrene multilayered film via nanolayer coextrusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Junfeng; Chen, Zhiru; Zhou, Jiaqi; Cao, Zheng; Wu, Dun; Liu, Chunlin; Pu, Hongting

2018-05-01

The effects of layer thickness on the compatibility between polycarbonate (PC) and polystyrene (PS) and physical properties of PC/PS multilayered film via nanolayer coextrusion are studied. The morphology of multilayered structure is observed using a scanning electron microscope. This multilayered structure may have a negative impact on the transparency, but it can improve the water resistance and heat resistance of film. To characterize the compatibility between PC and PS, differential scanning calorimetry is used to measure the glass transition temperature. The compatibility is found to be improved with the decrease of layer thickness. Therefore, the viscosity of multilayered film is also reduced with the decrease of layer thickness. In addition, the multilayered structure can improve the tensile strength with the increase of layer numbers. Because of the complete and continuous layer structure of PC, the PC/PS multilayered film can retain its mechanical strength at the temperature above Tg of PS.

Doped bottom-contact organic field-effect transistors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Shiyi; Billig, Paul; Al-Shadeedi, Akram; Kaphle, Vikash; Lüssem, Björn

2018-07-01

The influence of doping on doped bottom-gate bottom-contact organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) is discussed. It is shown that the inclusion of a doped layer at the dielectric/organic semiconductor layer leads to a significant reduction in the contact resistances and a fine control of the threshold voltage. Through varying the thickness of the doped layer, a linear shift of threshold voltage V T from ‑3.1 to ‑0.22 V is observed for increasing thickness of doped layer. Meanwhile, the contact resistance at the source and drain electrode is reduced from 138.8 MΩ at V GS = ‑10 V for 3 nm to 0.3 MΩ for 7 nm thick doped layers. Furthermore, an increase of charge mobility is observed for increasing thickness of doped layer. Overall, it is shown that doping can minimize injection barriers in bottom-contact OFETs with channel lengths in the micro-meter regime, which has the potential to increase the performance of this technology further.

The Effect of the Thickness of the Sensitive Layer on the Performance of the Accumulating NOx Sensor

PubMed Central

Groß, Andrea; Richter, Miriam; Kubinski, David J.; Visser, Jacobus H.; Moos, Ralf

2012-01-01

A novel and promising method to measure low levels of NOx utilizes the accumulating sensor principle. During an integration cycle, incoming NOx molecules are stored in a sensitive layer based on an automotive lean NOx trap (LNT) material that changes its electrical resistivity proportional to the amount of stored NOx, making the sensor suitable for long-term detection of low levels of NOx. In this study, the influence of the thickness of the sensitive layer, prepared by multiple screen-printing, is investigated. All samples show good accumulating sensing properties for both NO and NO2. In accordance to a simplified model, the base resistance of the sensitive layer and the sensitivity to NOx decrease with increasing thickness. Contrarily, the sensor response time increases. The linear measurement range of all samples ends at a sensor response of about 30% resulting in an increase of the linearly detectable amount with the thickness. Hence, the variation of the thickness of the sensitive layer is a powerful tool to adapt the linear measurement range (proportional to the thickness) as well as the sensitivity (proportional to the inverse thickness) to the application requirements. Calculations combining the sensor model with the measurement results indicate that for operation in the linear range, about 3% of the LNT material is converted to nitrate.

Structural, optical and ac electrical characterization of CBD synthesized NiO thin films: Influence of thickness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, M. R.; Mukherjee, A.; Mitra, P.

2017-09-01

We have studied the electrical conductivity, dielectric relaxation mechanism and impedance spectroscopy characteristics of nickel oxide (NiO) thin films synthesized by chemical bath deposition (CBD) method. Thickness dependent structural, optical and ac electrical characterization has been carried out and deposition time was varied to control the thickness. The material has been characterized using X-ray diffraction and UV-VIS spectrophotometer. Impedance spectroscopy analysis confirmed enhancement of ac conductivity and dielectric constant for films deposited with higher deposition time. Decrease of grain size in thicker films were confirmed from XRD analysis and activation energy of the material for electrical charge hopping process was increased with thickness of the film. Decrease in band gap in thicker films were observed which could be associated with creation of additional energy levels in the band gap of the material. Cole-Cole plot shows contribution of both grain and grain boundary towards total resistance and capacitance. The overall resistance was found to decrease from 14.6 × 105 Ω for 30 min deposited film ( 120 nm thick) to 2.42 × 105 Ω for 120 min deposited film ( 307 nm thick). Activation energy value to electrical conduction process evaluated from conductivity data was found to decrease with thickness. Identical result was obtained from relaxation time approach suggesting hopping mechanism of charge carriers.

Selective decontamination of the digestive tract ameliorates severe burn-induced insulin resistance in rats.

PubMed

Li, Jun; Zhu, Liang; Xu, Ming; Han, Juntao; Bai, Xiaozhi; Yang, Xuekang; Zhu, Huayu; Xu, Jie; Zhang, Xing; Gong, Yangfan; Hu, Dahai; Gao, Feng

2015-08-01

Severe burns often initiate the prevalence of hyperglycemia and insulin resistance, significantly contributing to adverse clinical outcomes. However, there are limited treatment options. This study was designed to investigate the role and the underlying mechanisms of oral antibiotics to selectively decontaminate the digestive tract (SDD) on burn-induced insulin resistance. Rats were subjected to 40% of total body surface area full-thickness burn or sham operation with or without SDD treatment. Translocation of FITC-labeled LPS was measured at 4h after burn. Furthermore, the effect of SDD on post-burn quantity of gram-negative bacteria in gut was investigated. Serum or muscle LPS and proinflammatory cytokines were measured. Intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test and insulin tolerance test were used to determine the status of systemic insulin resistance. Furthermore, intracellular insulin signaling (IRS-1 and Akt) and proinflammatory related kinases (JNK and IKKβ) were assessed by western blot. Burn increased the translocation of LPS from gut 4h after injury. SDD treatment effectively inhibited post-burn overgrowth of gram-negative enteric bacilli in gut. In addition, severe burns caused significant increases in the LPS and proinflammatory cytokines levels, activation of proinflammatory related kinases, and systemic insulin resistance as well. But SDD treatment could significantly attenuate burn-induced insulin resistance and improve the whole-body responsiveness to insulin, which was associated with the inhibition of gut-derived LPS, cytokines, proinflammatory related kinases JNK and IKKβ, as well as activation of IRS-1 and Akt. SDD appeared to have an effect on proinflammatory signaling cascades and further reduced severe burn-induced insulin resistance. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd and ISBI. All rights reserved.

The Effects of Zr Doping on the Optical, Electrical and Microstructural Properties of Thin ZnO Films Deposited by Atomic Layer Deposition

PubMed Central

Herodotou, Stephania; Treharne, Robert E.; Durose, Ken; Tatlock, Gordon J.; Potter, Richard J.

2015-01-01

Transparent conducting oxides (TCOs), with high optical transparency (≥85%) and low electrical resistivity (10−4 Ω·cm) are used in a wide variety of commercial devices. There is growing interest in replacing conventional TCOs such as indium tin oxide with lower cost, earth abundant materials. In the current study, we dope Zr into thin ZnO films grown by atomic layer deposition (ALD) to target properties of an efficient TCO. The effects of doping (0–10 at.% Zr) were investigated for ~100 nm thick films and the effect of thickness on the properties was investigated for 50–250 nm thick films. The addition of Zr4+ ions acting as electron donors showed reduced resistivity (1.44 × 10−3 Ω·cm), increased carrier density (3.81 × 1020 cm−3), and increased optical gap (3.5 eV) with 4.8 at.% doping. The increase of film thickness to 250 nm reduced the electron carrier/photon scattering leading to a further reduction of resistivity to 7.5 × 10−4 Ω·cm and an average optical transparency in the visible/near infrared (IR) range up to 91%. The improved n-type properties of ZnO: Zr films are promising for TCO applications after reaching the targets for high carrier density (>1020 cm−3), low resistivity in the order of 10−4 Ω·cm and high optical transparency (≥85%). PMID:28793633

Impact of residual defects caused by extension ion implantation in FinFETs on parasitic resistance and its fluctuation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsukawa, Takashi; Liu, Yongxun; Mori, Takahiro; Morita, Yukinori; Otsuka, Shintaro; O'uchi, Shin-ichi; Fuketa, Hiroshi; Migita, Shinji; Masahara, Meishoku

2017-06-01

The influence of extension doping on parasitic resistance and its variability has been investigated for FinFETs. Electrical characterization of FinFETs and crystallinity evaluation of the doped fin structure are carried out for different fin thicknesses and different donor species for ion implantation, i.e., As and P. Reducing the fin thickness and the use of donor species with a larger mass cause serious degradation in the variability and median value of the parasitic resistance. Crystallinity evaluation by transmission electron microscope reveals that significant crystal defects remain after dopant activation annealing for the cases of smaller fin thickness and the implanted dopant with a larger mass. The unrecovered defects cause serious degradation in the parasitic resistance and its variability. In 1998, he joined the Electrotechnical Laboratory, which is former organization of National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST). He has been working on development of front-end process technology, variability issues of the FinFETs and technologies for suppressing the variability. He is now a group leader of the AIST and leads the research on the silicon-based CMOS devices. He is a member of the IEEE Electron Devices Society, and the Japan Society of Applied Physics.

Sample preparation for total reflection X-ray fluorescence analysis using resist pattern technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsuji, K.; Yomogita, N.; Konyuba, Y.

2018-06-01

A circular resist pattern layer with a diameter of 9 mm was prepared on a glass substrate (26 mm × 76 mm; 1.5 mm thick) for total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) analysis. The parallel cross pattern was designed with a wall thickness of 10 μm, an interval of 20 μm, and a height of 1.4 or 0.8 μm. This additional resist layer did not significantly increase background intensity on the XRF peaks in TXRF spectra. Dotted residue was obtained from a standard solution (10 μL) containing Ti, Cr, Ni, Pb, and Ga, each at a final concentration of 10 ppm, on a normal glass substrate with a silicone coating layer. The height of the residue was more than 100 μm, where self-absorption in the large residue affected TXRF quantification (intensity relative standard deviation (RSD): 12-20%). In contrast, from a droplet composed of a small volume of solution dropped and cast on the resist pattern structure, the obtained residue was not completely film but a film-like residue with a thickness less than 1 μm, where self-absorption was not a serious problem. In the end, this sample preparation was demonstrated to improve TXRF quantification (intensity RSD: 2-4%).

Optical and electrical properties of Mn1.56Co0.96Ni0.48O4 thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Y. Q.; Huang, Z. M.; Hou, Y.; Wu, J.; Chu, J. H.

2013-12-01

Mn1.56Co0.96Ni0.48O4 (MCN) films with different layers have been prepared on Al2O3 substrate by chemical solution deposition method. The microstructures, optical and electrical properties of the films are investigated. X-ray diffraction and microstructure analyses show good crystallization and both the crystalline quality and the grain size are improved with the increasing thickness of the films. Mid-infrared optical properties of MCN films have been investigated using transmission spectra. The results show the red shift of absorption with the increasing film thickness and the energy gap Eg decrease from 0.6422 eV to 0.6354 eV. All the MCN films show an exponential decrease in the resistivity with increasing temperature within the measured range. The temperature dependence resistivity can be described by the small polarons hopping model. Using this model, the characteristic temperature T0 and activation energy E of the MCN films were derived. With the film thickness increase, the T0 and E of the MCN films increase. The calculated room temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) of MCN film with 100 layers is -3.5% K-1. The MCN films showed appropriate resistance and high value of TCR, these advantages make them very preponderant for thermal sensors.

The forming simulation of flexible glass with silt down draw method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yansheng, Hou; Jinshu, Cheng; Junfeng, Kang; Jing, Cui

2018-03-01

The slit down draw method is the main manufacturing process of flexible glass. In this study, Flow3DTM software was used to simulate the process of drawing and thinning glass slits during the slit down draw process. The influence of glass viscosity, initial plate thickness and initial plate speed on the glass spreading process was studied. The maximum pull-down force that the root can bear is linearly proportional to the viscosity, the initial thickness of 1.3837 power and the initial plate speed, respectively. The best way to improve the tensile strength of flexible glass is to increase the viscosity. Flexible glass was more easily to obtain with low viscosity, low thickness and low drawing speed.

Electricity generation in low cost microbial fuel cell made up of earthenware of different thickness.

PubMed

Behera, M; Ghangrekar, M M

2011-01-01

Performance of four microbial fuel cells (MFC-1, MFC-2, MFC-3 and MFC-4) made up of earthen pots with wall thicknesses of 3, 5, 7 and 8.5 mm, respectively, was evaluated. The MFCs were operated in fed batch mode with synthetic wastewater having sucrose as the carbon source. The power generation decreased with increase in the thickness of the earthen pot which was used to make the anode chamber. MFC-1 generated highest sustainable power density of 24.32 mW/m(2) and volumetric power of 1.04 W/m(3) (1.91 mA, 0.191 V) at 100 Ω external resistance. The maximum Coulombic efficiencies obtained in MFC-1, MFC-2, MFC-3 and MFC-4 were 7.7, 7.1, 6.8 and 6.1%, respectively. The oxygen mass transfer and oxygen diffusion coefficients measured for earthen plate of 3 mm thickness were 1.79 × 10(-5) and 5.38 × 10(-6) cm(2)/s, respectively, which implies that earthen plate is permeable to oxygen as other polymeric membranes. The internal resistance increased with increase in thickness of the earthen pot MFCs. The thickness of the earthen material affected the overall performance of MFCs.

Comparison of soil thickness in a zero-order basin in the Oregon Coast Range using a soil probe and electrical resistivity tomography

USGS Publications Warehouse

Morse, Michael S.; Lu, Ning; Godt, Jonathan W.; Revil, André; Coe, Jeffrey A.

2012-01-01

Accurate estimation of the soil thickness distribution in steepland drainage basins is essential for understanding ecosystem and subsurface response to infiltration. One important aspect of this characterization is assessing the heavy and antecedent rainfall conditions that lead to shallow landsliding. In this paper, we investigate the direct current (DC) resistivity method as a tool for quickly estimating soil thickness over a steep (33–40°) zero-order basin in the Oregon Coast Range, a landslide prone region. Point measurements throughout the basin showed bedrock depths between 0.55 and 3.2 m. Resistivity of soil and bedrock samples collected from the site was measured for degrees of saturation between 40 and 92%. Resistivity of the soil was typically higher than that of the bedrock for degrees of saturation lower than 70%. Results from the laboratory measurements and point-depth measurements were used in a numerical model to evaluate the resistivity contrast at the soil-bedrock interface. A decreasing-with-depth resistivity contrast was apparent at the interface in the modeling results. At the field site, three transects were surveyed where coincident ground truth measurements of bedrock depth were available, to test the accuracy of the method. The same decreasing-with-depth resistivity trend that was apparent in the model was also present in the survey data. The resistivity contour of between 1,000 and 2,000 Ωm that marked the top of the contrast was our interpreted bedrock depth in the survey data. Kriged depth-to-bedrock maps were created from both the field-measured ground truth obtained with a soil probe and interpreted depths from the resistivity tomography, and these were compared for accuracy graphically. Depths were interpolated as far as 16.5 m laterally from the resistivity survey lines with root mean squared error (RMSE) = 27 cm between the measured and interpreted depth at those locations. Using several transects and analysis of the subsurface material properties, the direct current (DC) resistivity method is shown to be able to delineate bedrock depth trends within the drainage basin.

Variations the diameter tip of electrode on the resistance spot welding using electrode Cu on worksheet Fe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baskoro, A. S.; Sugeng, S.; Sifa, Agus; Badruzzaman; Endramawan, Tito

2018-04-01

Resistance Spot Weld (RSW) is a welding technology which plays an important role that is often used in industry in large manufacturing industries, especially in the automotive sector, some of the parameters are affecting the welding process that give impact in the weld quality, diameter tip important impact on the resistance spot welding, This study can be categorized as experimental study by using Electrode material such as Cu and Fe Worksheet Materials, with a material thickness of 1 mm,0,8 mm, and 0,6 mm on each worksheet, and the large diameter of tip electrode (5√t) depend on the thickness of worksheet. Testing the material in the electrode and the worksheet by testing the composition and tensile test, and the hardness of the material used are to know the material used certainly. The result of the welding process was done by using the parameters voltage of 8KV, with a duty cycle of 50% using a variation of the time 8s-10s, and variations the electrode tip diameter that are affected by the thickness of the worksheet 5\\sqrt{t}, plate thickness used 1 mm, 0,8 mm and 0,6 mm, so that the electrodes was used to a thickness of 1 mm diameter tip electrode 5 mm, thickness 0,8 mm with an electrode tip diameter 4,5 mm and a thickness 0,6 mm with an electrode diameter of 4 mm, with current welding parameter 8kVA, and variations in holding time 10s, 9s and 8s 50% duty cycle, then testing welds with the standard shear test refers ASTM A370-2012 with more results to a thickness of 0,6 has the ability to withstand greater load on the holding time 8s and 9s, 10s, to a thickness 0,8 mm and 1 mm shear test results demonstrate the ability to withstand loads on the holding time of 10s and 9s have a greater ability than 8s on worksheet that has thickness 1 mm at a holding time of 10s, and then Maximum shear test averaging of 36,41 N at a worksheet with a thickness of 0,8 mm (diameter tip 4,5 mm) at a holding time of 8s and a mean minimum shear stress of 23,73 N at worksheet that has thickness 0,6 mm (diameter tip 4 mm).

Fabrication and Characterization of Vertical Gallium Nitride Power Schottky Diodes on Bulk GaN Substrates FY2016

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-12-01

2000 rpm to give a resist thickness of approximately 2 µm. Following resist exposure, a soft bake was performed at 95 °C for 60 s on a hot plate. The...resist was then exposed to UV light for 4.2 s while in contact with the mask. To perform image reversal, the exposed resist was baked at 105 °C for

The Steady Flow Resistance of Perforated Sheet Materials in High Speed Grazing Flows

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Syed, Asif A.; Yu, Jia; Kwan, H. W.; Chien, E.; Jones, Michael G. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

A study was conducted to determine the effects of high speed grazing air flow on the acoustic resistance of perforated sheet materials used in the construction of acoustically absorptive liners placed in commercial aircraft engine nacelles. Since DC flow resistance of porous sheet materials is known to be a major component of the acoustic resistance of sound suppression liners, the DC flow resistance of a set of perforated face-sheets and linear 'wiremesh' face-sheets was measured in a flow duct apparatus (up to Mach 0.8). Samples were fabricated to cover typical variations in perforated face-sheet parameters, such as hole diameter, porosity and sheet thickness, as well as those due to different manufacturing processes. The DC flow resistance data from perforated sheets were found to correlate strongly with the grazing flow Mach number and the face-sheet porosity. The data also show correlation against the boundary layer displacement thickness to hole-diameter ratio. The increase in resistance with grazing flow for punched aluminum sheets is in good agreement with published results up to Mach 0.4, but is significantly larger than expected above Mach 0.4. Finally, the tests demonstrated that there is a significant increase in the resistance of linear 'wiremesh' type face-sheet materials.

Improved Laser Scribing of Transparent Conductive Oxide for Fabrication of Thin-Film Solar Module

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Egorov, F. S.; Kukin, A. V.; Terukov, E. I.; Titov, A. S.

2018-04-01

Nonuniform thickness of the front transparent conductive oxide (TCO) used for fabrication of thin-film solar module (TFSM) based on micromorphic technology affects P1 laser scribing (P1 scribing on the TCO front layer). A method for improvement of the thickness uniformity of the front TCO using modification of the existing system for gas supply of the LPCVD (TCO1200) vacuum setup with the aid of gasdistributing tubes is proposed. The thickness nonuniformity of the deposition procedure is decreased from 15.2 to 11.4% to improve uniformity of the resistance of the front TCO and light-scattering factor of TFSM. In addition, the number of P1 laser scribes with inadmissible resistance of insulation (less than 2 MΩ) is decreased by a factor of 7. A decrease in the amount of melt at the P1 scribe edges leads to an increase in the TFSM shunting resistance by 56 Ω. The TFSM output power is increased by 0.4 W due to improvement of parameters of the front TCO related to application of gas-distributing tubes.

High-intensity corneal collagen crosslinking with riboflavin and UVA in rat cornea.

PubMed

Zhu, Yirui; Reinach, Peter S; Zhu, Hanlei; Tan, Qiufan; Zheng, Qinxiang; Qu, Jia; Chen, Wei

2017-01-01

Corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) halts human corneal ectasias progression by increasing stromal mechanical stiffness. Although some reports describe that this procedure is effective in dealing with some infectious and immunologic corneal thinning diseases, there is a need for more animal models whose corneal thickness more closely resemble those occurring in these patients. To meet this need, we describe here high-intensity protocols that are safe and effective for obtaining CXL in rat corneas. Initially, a range of potentially effective UVA doses were evaluated based on their effectiveness in increasing tissue enzymatic resistance to dissolution. At UVA doses higher than a threshold level of 0.54 J/cm2, resistance to enzymatic digestion increased relative to that in non-irradiated corneas. Based on the theoretical threshold CXL dose, a CXL regimen was established in which the UVA tissue irradiance was 9 mW/cm2, which was delivered at doses of either 2.16, 2.7 or 3.24 J/cm2. Their dose dependent effects were evaluated on ocular surface morphological integrity, keratocyte apoptotic frequency, tissue thickness and endothelial cell layer density. Doses of 2.16 and 2.7 J/cm2 transiently decreased normal corneal transparency and increased thickness. These effects were fully reversed after 14 days. In contrast, 3.24 J/cm2 had more irreversible side effects. Three days after treatment, apoptotic frequency in the CXL-2.16 group was lower than that at higher doses. Endothelial cell losses remained evident only in the CXL-3.24 group at 42 days posttreatment. Stromal fiber thickening was evident in all the CXL-treated groups. We determined both the threshold UVA dose using the high-intensity CXL procedure and identified an effective dose range that provides optimal CXL with minimal transient side effects in the rat cornea. These results may help to provide insight into how to improve the CXL outcome in patients afflicted with a severe corneal thinning disease.

Predictors of Renal Denervation Efficacy in the Treatment of Resistant Hypertension.

PubMed

Ripp, Tatiana M; Mordovin, Victor F; Pekarskiy, Stanislav E; Ryabova, Tamara R; Zlobina, Marina V; Baev, Andrei E; Anfinogenova, Yana; Popov, Sergey V

2015-12-01

The aims of the study were to evaluate the effects of renal sympathetic denervation (RSD) on the heart and to identify the predictors of RSD efficacy in patients with resistant arterial hypertension. The study comprised 60 RSD patients (54.6 ± 9.5 years) who received full-dose antihypertensive therapy (4.1 drugs) including diuretics. Initially, 58.6% of patients had abnormal left ventricular (LV) diastolic function. All patients received echocardiography before and 24 weeks after RSD. Renal sympathetic denervation was achieved through the endovascular radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the renal arteries. Drug therapy continued for the entire period of observation. After RSD, all patients were retrospectively assigned to two groups: group 1 comprised patients (n = 22; 36.7%) in whom the myocardial mass (MM) of the left ventricle decreased by more than 10 g after RSD; group 2 comprised patients (n = 38; 63.3%) in whom LV MM increased or decreased by less than 10 g. Anthropometry, arterial blood pressure, heart rate, therapy, and LV end-diastolic dimensions (EDD) were comparable in these groups. After RSD, the values of office blood pressure significantly decreased and MM regressed by more than 10 g in 36.7% of patients; LV diastolic function normalized in 31% of patients, and diastolic dysfunction improved in 14% of patients. The study found the associations between the initial LV wall dimensions and LV MM changes. Unlike LV EDD, arterial blood pressure, or heart rate, the initial values of LV wall thickness predicted LV MM regress. #NCT01499810 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01499810.

Effect of film morphology on oxygen and water interaction with copper phthalocyanine

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

Miller, Nicholas; Gredig, Thomas; Ivanov, Ilia N

2016-01-01

Copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) films of thickness 25 nm and 100 nm were grown by thermal sublimation at 25 C, 150 C, and 250 C in order to vary morphology. Using a source-measure unit and a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM), we measured changes in electrical resistance and film mass in situ during exposure to controlled pulses of O2 and H2O vapor. Mass loading by O2 was enhanced by a factor of 5 in films deposited at 250 C, possibly due to the ~200 C CuPc transition which allows higher O2 mobility between stacked molecules. While gas/vapor sorption occurred over timescales ofmore » < 10 minutes, resistance change occurred over timescales > 1 hour, suggesting that mass change occurs by rapid adsorption at active surface sites, whereas resistive response is dominated by slow diffusion of adsorbates into the film bulk. Resistive response generally increases with film deposition temperature due to increased porosity associated with larger crystalline domains. The 25 nm thick films exhibit higher resistive response than 100 nm thick films after an hour of O2/H2O exposure due to the smaller analyte diffusion length required for reaching the film/electrode interface. We found evidence of decoupling of CuPc from the gold-coated QCM crystal due to preferential adsorption of O2/H2O molecules on gold, which is consistent with findings of other studies.« less

Effect of film morphology on oxygen and water interaction with copper phthalocyanine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muckley, Eric S.; Miller, Nicholas; Gredig, Thomas; Ivanov, Ilia N.

2016-09-01

Copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) films of thickness 25 nm and 100 nm were grown by thermal sublimation at 25°C, 150°C, and 250°C in order to vary morphology. Using a source-measure unit and a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM), we measured changes in electrical resistance and film mass in situ during exposure to controlled pulses of O2 and H2O vapor. Mass loading by O2 was enhanced by a factor of 5 in films deposited at 250°C, possibly due to the 200°C CuPc α->β transition which allows higher O2 mobility between stacked molecules. While gas/vapor sorption occurred over timescales of < 10 minutes, resistance change occurred over timescales < 1 hour, suggesting that mass change occurs by rapid adsorption at active surface sites, whereas resistive response is dominated by slow diffusion of adsorbates into the film bulk. Resistive response generally increases with film deposition temperature due to increased porosity associated with larger crystalline domains. The 25 nm thick films exhibit higher resistive response than 100 nm thick films after an hour of O2/H2O exposure due to the smaller analyte diffusion length required for reaching the film/electrode interface. We found evidence of decoupling of CuPc from the gold-coated QCM crystal due to preferential adsorption of O2/H2O molecules on gold, which is consistent with findings of other studies.

Control of base-excited dynamical systems through piezoelectric energy harvesting absorber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdelmoula, H.; Dai, H. L.; Abdelkefi, A.; Wang, L.

2017-09-01

The spring-mass absorber usually offers a good control to dynamical systems under direct base excitations for a specific value of the excitation frequency. As the vibrational energy of a primary dynamical system is transferred to the absorber, it gets dissipated. In this study, this energy is no longer dissipated but converted to available electrical power by designing efficient energy harvesters. A novel design of a piezoelectric beam installed inside an elastically-mounted dynamical system undergoing base excitations is considered. A design is carried out in order to determine the properties and dimensions of the energy harvester with the constraint of simultaneously decreasing the oscillating amplitudes of the primary dynamical system and increasing the harvested power of the energy harvesting absorber. An analytical model for the coupled system is constructed using Euler-Lagrange principle and Galerkin discretization. Different strategies for controlling the primary structure displacement and enhancing the harvested power as functions of the electrical load resistance and thickness of the beam substrate are performed. The linear polynomial approximation of the system’s key parameters as a function of the beam’s substrate thickness is first carried out. Then, the gradient method is applied to determine the adequate values of the electrical load resistance and thickness of the substrate under the constraints of minimizing the amplitudes of the primary structure or maximizing the levels of the harvested power. After that, an iterative strategy is considered in order to simultaneously minimize the amplitudes of the primary structure and maximize the levels of the harvested power as functions of the thickness of the substrate and electrical load resistance. In addition to harmonic excitations, the coupled system subjected to a white noise is explored. Through this analysis, the load resistance and thickness of the substrate of the piezoelectric energy harvester are determined. It is shown that, in addition to efficiently control the oscillating amplitudes of the primary structure, broadband resonance regions can take place and hence high levels of the harvested power are obtained.

ZnS/diamond composite coatings for infrared transmission applications formed by the aerosol deposition method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, Scooter D.; Kub, Fritz J.; Eddy, Charles R.

2013-06-01

The deposition of nano-crystalline ZnS/diamond composite protective coatings on silicon, sapphire, and ZnS substrates, as a preliminary step to coating infrared transparent ZnS substrates from powder mixtures by the aerosol deposition method is presented. Advantages of the aerosol deposition method include the ability to form dense, nanocrystalline lms up to hundreds of microns thick at room temperature and at a high deposition rate on a variety of substrates. Deposition is achieved by creating a pressure gradient that accelerates micrometer- scale particles in an aerosol to high velocity. Upon impact with the target substrate the particles fracture and embed. Continued deposition forms the thick compacted lm. Deposition from an aerosolized mixture of ZnS and diamond powders onto all targets results in linear trend from apparent sputter erosion of the substrate at 100% diamond to formation of a lm with increasing fractions of ZnS. The crossover from abrasion to lm formation on sapphire occurs above about 50% ZnS and a mixture of 90% ZnS and 10% diamond forms a well-adhered lm of about 0.7 μm thickness at a rate of 0.14 μm/min. Resulting lms are characterized by scanning electron microscopy, pro lometry, infrared transmission spectroscopy, and x-ray photoemission spectroscopy. These initial lms mark progress toward the future goal of coating ZnS substrates for abrasion resistance.

Heat Transfer Coefficient at Cast-Mold Interface During Centrifugal Casting: Calculation of Air Gap

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bohacek, Jan; Kharicha, Abdellah; Ludwig, Andreas; Wu, Menghuai; Karimi-Sibaki, Ebrahim

2018-06-01

During centrifugal casting, the thermal resistance at the cast-mold interface represents a main blockage mechanism for heat transfer. In addition to the refractory coating, an air gap begins to form due to the shrinkage of the casting and the mold expansion, under the continuous influence of strong centrifugal forces. Here, the heat transfer coefficient at the cast-mold interface h has been determined from calculations of the air gap thickness d a based on a plane stress model taking into account thermoelastic stresses, centrifugal forces, plastic deformations, and a temperature-dependent Young's modulus. The numerical approach proposed here is rather novel and tries to offer an alternative to the empirical formulas usually used in numerical simulations for a description of a time-dependent heat transfer coefficient h. Several numerical tests were performed for different coating thicknesses d C, rotation rates Ω, and temperatures of solidus T sol. Results demonstrated that the scenario at the interface is unique for each set of parameters, hindering the possibility of employing empirical formulas without a preceding experiment being performed. Initial values of h are simply equivalent to the ratio of the coating thermal conductivity and its thickness ( 1000 Wm-2 K-1). Later, when the air gap is formed, h drops exponentially to values at least one order of magnitude smaller ( 100 Wm-2 K-1).

Damage Mechanisms and Controlled Crack Propagation in a Hot Pressed Silicon Nitride Ceramic. Ph.D. Thesis - Northwestern Univ., 1993

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Calomino, Anthony Martin

1994-01-01

The subcritical growth of cracks from pre-existing flaws in ceramics can severely affect the structural reliability of a material. The ability to directly observe subcritical crack growth and rigorously analyze its influence on fracture behavior is important for an accurate assessment of material performance. A Mode I fracture specimen and loading method has been developed which permits the observation of stable, subcritical crack extension in monolithic and toughened ceramics. The test specimen and procedure has demonstrated its ability to generate and stably propagate sharp, through-thickness cracks in brittle high modulus materials. Crack growth for an aluminum oxide ceramic was observed to be continuously stable throughout testing. Conversely, the fracture behavior of a silicon nitride ceramic exhibited crack growth as a series of subcritical extensions which are interrupted by dynamic propagation. Dynamic initiation and arrest fracture resistance measurements for the silicon nitride averaged 67 and 48 J/sq m, respectively. The dynamic initiation event was observed to be sudden and explosive. Increments of subcritical crack growth contributed to a 40 percent increase in fracture resistance before dynamic initiation. Subcritical crack growth visibly marked the fracture surface with an increase in surface roughness. Increments of subcritical crack growth loosen ceramic material near the fracture surface and the fracture debris is easily removed by a replication technique. Fracture debris is viewed as evidence that both crack bridging and subsurface microcracking may be some of the mechanisms contributing to the increase in fracture resistance. A Statistical Fracture Mechanics model specifically developed to address subcritical crack growth and fracture reliability is used together with a damaged zone of material at the crack tip to model experimental results. A Monte Carlo simulation of the actual experiments was used to establish a set of modeling input parameters. It was demonstrated that a single critical parameter does not characterize the conditions required for dynamic initiation. Experimental measurements for critical crack lengths, and the energy release rates exhibit significant scatter. The resulting output of the model produces good agreement with both the average values and scatter of experimental measurements.

Leakage effects in n-GaAs MESFET with n-GaAs buffer layer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Y. C.; Bahrami, M.

1983-01-01

Whereas improvement of the interface between the active layer and the buffer layer has been demonstrated, the leakage effects can be important if the buffer layer resistivity is not sufficiently high and/or the buffer layer thickness is not sufficiently small. It was found that two buffer leakage currents exist from the channel under the gate to the source and from drain to the channel in addition to the buffer leakage resistance between drain and source. It is shown that for a 1 micron gate-length n-GaAs MESFET, if the buffer layer resistivity is 12 OHM-CM and the buffer layer thickness h is 2 microns, the performance of the device degrades drastically. It is suggested that h should be below 2 microns.

Design of Stretchable Electronics Against Impact.

PubMed

Yuan, J H; Pharr, M; Feng, X; Rogers, John A; Huang, Yonggang

2016-10-01

Stretchable electronics offer soft, biocompatible mechanical properties; these same properties make them susceptible to device failure associated with physical impact. This paper studies designs for stretchable electronics that resist failure from impacts due to incorporation of a viscoelastic encapsulation layer. Results indicate that the impact resistance depends on the thickness and viscoelastic properties of the encapsulation layer, as well as the duration of impact. An analytic model for the critical thickness of the encapsulation layer is established. It is shown that a commercially available, low modulus silicone material offers viscous properties that make it a good candidate as the encapsulation layer for stretchable electronics.

Electrical and structural properties of epitaxially deposited chromium thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohashi, M.; Sawabu, M.; Nakanishi, H.; Ohashi, K.; Maeta, K.

2018-05-01

We studied the electrical resistance and crystal structure of epitaxial chromium (Cr) films. The lattice constant of the Cr films was larger than that of the bulk Cr because of MgO substrate on which Cr was epitaxially deposited. A chromium oxide layer having a thickness of 1 nm was found on all films from the result of X-ray reflectivity measurements. The electrical resistivity ρ(T) shows metallic behavior for all epitaxial Cr films in contrast with polycrystalline one. However, the magnitude of ρ tends to increase and the antiferromagnetic interaction is suppressed as decreasing thickness of film.

High-velocity impact loading of thick GFRP blocks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ernst, H.-J.; Merkel, Th.; Wolf, Th.; Hoog, K.

2003-09-01

In previous depth of penetration experiments with tungsten long rod projectiles was found that the ballistic resistance of a relatively thick-up to the penetrator length-glass fibre reinforced plastic block grows with increasing penetration depth. This penetration behaviour significantly differs from that of other inert armour materials. Until now, no significant difference between unconfined and totally confined GFRP configurations bas been found. Newest experiments with up to semi-infinite thick GFRP blocks show a change in the penetration process: For thicknesses significantly higher than the penetrator length the protective power may saturate. During the late penetration phase the shortening and deceleration of the projectile induce a change of penetration mechanism from erosion to rigid body penetration. Additionally, the projectile may break into several individually tumbling parts. Reflected tension waves and, probably, pyrolysis effects may cause increasing precursory damage. These effects together are likely to explain the reduction of the ballistic resistance increase during the late penetration phase. Based on these experimental results the published working hypothesis on the governing mechanism of the GFRP penetration behaviour had to be completed. A new approach based on a hyperbolic tangent function seems to satisfactorily describe the observed thickness dependent phenomena.

Forming limit diagrams of tubes with initial wall-thickness difference based on different instability criteria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Qiwen; Yang, Lianfa; He, Yulin

2018-05-01

The Forming limit diagram (FLD), also known as a forming limit curves (FLC), is generally used in metal forming for predicting forming behavior of metals. The purpose of the study is to clarify the difference among the FLC of tubes with initial wall-thickness difference under tension-compression strain states using finite element (FE) simulation of tube hydroforming (THF) and different instability criteria. Firstly, geometrical models for SUS304 stainless steel tubes with initial wall-thickness differences were built by introducing an index `wall-thickness deviation rate'. Secondly, forced-end hydro-bugling of the tubes was modeled and the forming process was simulated by using the commercial finite element (FE) code ABAQUS/Explicit 6.10. Afterwards, the limiting strains of the material in the hydro-bugling process were calculated based on the simulated resultant data and three instability criteria-strain change criterion, strain rate change criterion and strain path change criterion, respectively. Finally, the FLD for the tubes was established and the effect of wall-thickness deviation rate on the FLD was analyzed and the differences among the FLC based on the three instability criteria were compared. The results showed that the FLC are observed to shift in the major-minor strain coordinate system due to the initial non-uniform wall-thickness; however, no distinct differences among the FLC based on the three instability criteria were observed.

Four-terminal electrical testing device. [initiator bridgewire resistance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Robinson, Robert L. (Inventor); Graves, Thomas J. (Inventor); Hoffman, William C., III (Inventor)

1987-01-01

The invention relates to a four-terminal electrical connector device for testing and measuring unknown resistances of initiators used for starting pyrotechnic events aboard the space shuttle. The testing device minimizes contact resistance degradation effects and so improves the reliability of resistance measurements taken with the device. Separate and independent voltage sensing and current supply circuits each include a pair of socket contacts for mating engagement with the pins of the initiator. The unknown resistance that is measured by the device is the resistance of the bridgewire of the initiator which is required to be between 0.95 and 1.15 ohms.

46 CFR 56.85-10 - Preheating.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

.... (9) Heating rate for furnace, gas, electric resistance, and other surface heating methods must not... thickness in inches for thickness over 2 inches. (10) Heating route for induction heating must not exceed... still air. When furnace cooling is used, the pipe sections must be cooled in the furnace to 1000 °F and...

46 CFR 56.85-10 - Preheating.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

.... (9) Heating rate for furnace, gas, electric resistance, and other surface heating methods must not... thickness in inches for thickness over 2 inches. (10) Heating route for induction heating must not exceed... still air. When furnace cooling is used, the pipe sections must be cooled in the furnace to 1000 °F and...

46 CFR 56.85-10 - Preheating.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

.... (9) Heating rate for furnace, gas, electric resistance, and other surface heating methods must not... thickness in inches for thickness over 2 inches. (10) Heating route for induction heating must not exceed... still air. When furnace cooling is used, the pipe sections must be cooled in the furnace to 1000 °F and...

46 CFR 56.85-10 - Preheating.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

.... (9) Heating rate for furnace, gas, electric resistance, and other surface heating methods must not... thickness in inches for thickness over 2 inches. (10) Heating route for induction heating must not exceed... still air. When furnace cooling is used, the pipe sections must be cooled in the furnace to 1000 °F and...

46 CFR 56.85-10 - Preheating.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

.... (9) Heating rate for furnace, gas, electric resistance, and other surface heating methods must not... thickness in inches for thickness over 2 inches. (10) Heating route for induction heating must not exceed... still air. When furnace cooling is used, the pipe sections must be cooled in the furnace to 1000 °F and...

INTRAVITREAL DEXAMETHASONE IMPLANT AS ADJUVANT TREATMENT FOR BEVACIZUMAB- AND RANIBIZUMAB-RESISTANT NEOVASCULAR AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION: A Prospective Pilot Study.

PubMed

Barikian, Anita; Salti, Haytham; Safar, Ammar; Mahfoud, Ziyad R; Bashshur, Ziad F

2017-07-01

To study the benefit of intravitreal dexamethasone implant in the management of neovascular age-related macular degeneration resistant to bevacizumab and ranibizumab. Patients with persistent macular fluid on optical coherence tomography despite monthly treatment with at least three consecutive bevacizumab injections followed by at least three ranibizumab injections were prospectively enrolled. A single dexamethasone implant was administered followed by intravitreal ranibizumab 1 week later. Ranibizumab was continued afterward on an as-needed basis. Main outcomes were improvement in central retinal thickness and best-corrected visual acuity. Nineteen patients (19 eyes) were enrolled. There was no significant change in best-corrected visual acuity over 6 months. Greatest reduction in mean central retinal thickness, from 295.2 μm to 236.2 μm, occurred 1 month after dexamethasone implant (P < 0.0001). By Month 6, mean central retinal thickness was 287.3 μm (P = 0.16). Eyes with only intraretinal fluid (13 eyes) achieved a fluid-free macula. Eyes with predominantly subretinal fluid (6 eyes) did not improve central retinal thickness and continued monthly ranibizumab. Mean baseline intraocular pressure was 13.2 mmHg, which peaked at 15.6 mmHg by Month 2 (P = 0.004). Intravitreal dexamethasone implant improved only macular intraretinal fluid in eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration resistant to bevacizumab and ranibizumab. However, this treatment had a limited duration.

Contact resistance and normal zone formation in coated yttrium barium copper oxide superconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duckworth, Robert Calvin

2001-11-01

This project presents a systematic study of contact resistance and normal zone formation in silver coated YBa2CU3Ox (YBCO) superconductors. A unique opportunity exists in YBCO superconductors because of the ability to use oxygen annealing to influence the interfacial properties and the planar geometry of this type of superconductor to characterize the contact resistance between the silver and YBCO. The interface represents a region that current must cross when normal zones form in the superconductor and a high contact resistance could impede the current transfer or produce excess Joule heating that would result in premature quench or damage of the sample. While it has been shown in single-crystalline YBCO processing methods that the contact resistance of the silver/YBCO interface can be influenced by post-process oxygen annealing, this has not previously been confirmed for high-density films, nor for samples with complete layers of silver deposited on top of the YBCO. Both the influence of contact resistance and the knowledge of normal zone formation on conductor sized samples is essential for their successful implementation into superconducting applications such as transmission lines and magnets. While normal zone formation and propagation have been studied in other high temperature superconductors, the amount of information with respect to YBCO has been very limited. This study establishes that the processing method for the YBCO does not affect the contact resistance and mirrors the dependence of contact resistance on oxygen annealing temperature observed in earlier work. It has also been experimentally confirmed that the current transfer length provides an effective representation of the contact resistance when compared to more direct measurements using the traditional four-wire method. Finally for samples with low contact resistance, a combination of experiments and modeling demonstrate an accurate understanding of the key role of silver thickness and substrate thickness on the stability of silver-coated YBCO Rolling Assisted Bi-Axially Textured Substrates conductors. Both the experimental measurements and the one-dimensional model show that increasing the silver thickness results in an increased thermal runaway current; that is, the current above which normal zones continue to grow due to insufficient local cooling.

Effects of nanoscale coatings on reliability of MEMS ohmic contact switches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tremper, Amber Leigh

This thesis examines how the electrical and mechanical behavior of Au thin films is altered by the presence of ultra-thin metallic coatings. To examine the mechanical behavior, nanoindentation, nano-scratch, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) testing was performed. The electrical behavior was evaluated through Kelvin probe contact resistance measurements. This thesis shows that ultra-thin, hard, ductile coatings on a softer, ductile underlying layer (such as Ru or Pt on Au) had a significant effect on mechanical behavior of the system, and can be tailored to control the deformation resistance of the thin film system. Despite Ru and Pt having a higher hardness and plane strain modulus than Au, the Ru and Pt coatings decreased both the hardness and plane strain modulus of the layered system when the indentation depth was on the order of the coating thickness. Alternately, when the indentation depth was several times the coating thickness, the ductile, plastically hard, elastically stiff layer significantly hardened the contact response. These results correlate well with membrane stress theoretical predictions, and demonstrate that membrane theory can be applied even when the ratio of indentation depth, h, to coating thickness, t, is very large ( h/t<10). The transition from film-substrate models to membrane models occurs when the indent penetration depth to coating thickness ratio is less than ˜0.5. When the electrical behavior of the Ru-coated Au films was examined, it was found that all the measured resistances of the Au-only film and Ru-coated systems were several orders of magnitude larger than those predicted by Holm's law, but were still in good agreement with previously reported values in the literature. Previous studies attributed the high contact resistances to a variety of causes, including the buildup of an insulating contamination layer. This thesis determined the cause of the deviations to be large sheet resistance contributions to the total measured resistance. Further, studies on aged samples (with thicker contamination layers) conclusively showed that, while contamination increases the contact resistance, it also increases the dependence on force. This thesis also details that the relative contribution of contact resistance to the total measured resistance can be maximized by decreasing the probe spacing and tip radius. AFM testing of the layered systems showed that the coated samples had larger predicted plane strain moduli than the Au sample, in contrast to the nanoindentation testing. Thus, when the contact depth was kept sufficiently small, the contact stiffness increased as predicted by substrate models. When the contact depth was on the order of the coating thickness, the contact stiffness actually decreased. Additionally, the forceseparation plots showed that the Ru and Pt surfaces either accumulated large amounts of contamination or were less susceptible to being wiped clean than the Au film. Further, scratch testing of the Au film and Ru and Pt coatings show that the hard surface coatings reduce material removal and contact wear. Ultra-thin Ru and Pt surface coatings on Au films are shown to be improved material systems for ohmic contact switches. The wear is reduced for coated materials, while the resistance and power consumption through the coating are not significantly affected.

Wear and Corrosion Resistance of Thick Ti-6Al-4V Coating Deposited on Ti-6Al-4V Substrate via High-Pressure Cold Spray

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khun, N. W.; Tan, A. W. Y.; Sun, W.; Liu, E.

2017-08-01

Ti-6Al-4V (Ti64) coating with a thickness of about 9 mm was deposited on commercial Ti64 substrate via a high-pressure cold spray process. The microstructure, hardness, and wear and corrosion resistance of the Ti64 coating were systematically investigated. The hardness of the Ti64 coating was higher than that of the Ti64 substrate due to the cold-worked microstructure of the coating. The tribological results showed that there was no significant difference in the surface wear rates of the Ti64 coating measured on its different layers while the surface wear resistance of the Ti64 coating was lower than its cross-sectional wear resistance. The corrosion results showed that the Ti64 coating did not effectively prevent its underlying Ti64 substrate from corrosion due to the occurrence of pores in the coating microstructure. It could be concluded that the hardness and wear resistance of the Ti64 coating were comparable to those of the commercial Ti64 substrate.

Effect of Microstructure on Stress Corrosion Cracking Behaviour of High Nitrogen Stainless Steel Gas Tungsten Arc Welds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohammed, Raffi; Srinivasa Rao, K.; Madhusudhan Reddy, G.

2018-03-01

Present work is aimed to improve stress corrosion cracking resistance of high nitrogen steel and its welds. An attempt to weld high nitrogen steel of 5 mm thick plate using gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) with three high strength age hardenable fillers i.e., 11-10 PH filler, PH 13- 8Mo and maraging grade of MDN 250 filler is made. Welds were characterized by optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Vickers hardness testing of the welds was carried out to study the mechanical behaviour of welds. Potentio-dynamic polarization studies were done to determine pitting corrosion resistance in aerated 3.5% NaCl solution. Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) testing was carried out using constant load type machine with applied stress of 50% yield strength and in 45% MgCl2 solution boiling at 155°C. The results of the present investigation established that improvement in resistance to stress corrosion cracking was observed for PH 13- 8Mo GTA welds when compared to 11-10 PH and MDN 250 GTA welds. However, All GTA welds failed in the weld interface region. This may be attributed to relatively lower pitting potential in weld interface which acts as active site and the initiation source of pitting.

Polymer brush covalently attached to OH-functionalized mica surface via surface-initiated ATRP: control of grafting density and polymer chain length.

PubMed

Lego, Béatrice; François, Marion; Skene, W G; Giasson, Suzanne

2009-05-05

The controlled grafting density of poly(tert-butyl acrylate) was studied on OH-activated mica substrates via surface-initiated atom-transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). By properly adjusting parameters such as the immobilization reaction time and the concentration of an ATRP initiator, a wide range of initiator surface coverages and hence polymer densities on mica were possible. The covalently immobilized initiator successfully promoted the polymerization of tert-butyl acrylate on mica surfaces. The resulting polymer layer thickness was measured by AFM using a step-height method. Linear relationships of the polymer thickness with respect to the molecular weight of the free polymer and with respect to the monomer conversion were observed, suggesting that ATRP is well controlled and relatively densely end-grafted layers were obtained. The polymer grafting density controlled by adjusting the initiator surface coverage was confirmed by the polymer layer swelling capacity and film thickness measurements.

Effect of Thickness on the Structural, Microstructural, Electrical and Magnetic Properties of ni Films Elaborated by Pulsed Electrodeposition on si Substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kacel, T.; Guittoum, A.; Hemmous, M.; Dirican, E.; Öksüzoglu, R. M.; Azizi, A.; Laggoun, A.; Zergoug, M.

We have studied the effect of thickness on the structural, microstructural, electrical and magnetic properties of Ni films electrodeposited onto n-Si (100) substrates. A series of Ni films have been prepared for different potentials ranging from -1.6V to -2.6V. Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), four point probe technique, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) have been used to investigate the physical properties of elaborated Ni thin films. From the analysis of RBS spectra, we have extracted the films thickness t (t ranges from 83nm to 422nm). We found that the Ni thickness, t (nm), linearly increases with the applied potential. The Ni thin films are polycrystalline and grow with the 〈111〉 texture. The lattice parameter a (Å) monotonously decreases with increasing thickness. However, a positive strain was noted indicating that all the samples are subjected to a tensile stress. The mean grain sizes D (nm) and the strain ɛhkl decrease with increasing thickness. The electrical resistivity ρ (μΩ.cm) increases with t for t less than 328nm. The diffusion at the grain boundaries may be the important factor in the electrical resistivity. From AFM images, we have shown that the Ni surface roughness decreases with increasing thickness. The coercive field HC, the squareness factor S, the saturation field HS and the effective anisotropy constant K1eff are investigated as a function of Ni thickness and grain sizes. The correlation between the magnetic and the structural properties is discussed.

Evaluation of coated metallic bipolar plates for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoon, Wonseok; Huang, Xinyu; Fazzino, Paul; Reifsnider, Kenneth L.; Akkaoui, Michael A.

Metallic bipolar plates for polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells typically require coatings for corrosion protection. Other requirements for the corrosion protective coatings include low electrical contact resistance, good mechanical robustness, low material and fabrication cost. The authors have evaluated a number of protective coatings deposited on stainless steel substrates by electroplating and physical vapor deposition (PVD) methods. The coatings are screened with an electrochemical polarization test for corrosion resistance; then the contact resistance test was performed on selected coatings. The coating investigated include Gold with various thicknesses (2 nm, 10 nm, and 1 μm), Titanium, Zirconium, Zirconium Nitride (ZrN), Zirconium Niobium (ZrNb), and Zirconium Nitride with a Gold top layer (ZrNAu). The substrates include three types of stainless steel: 304, 310, and 316. The results show that Zr-coated samples satisfy the DOE target for corrosion resistance at both anode and cathode sides in typical PEM fuel cell environments in the short-term, but they do not meet the DOE contact resistance goal. Very thin gold coating (2 nm) can significantly decrease the electrical contact resistance, however a relatively thick gold coating (>10 nm) with our deposition method is necessary for adequate corrosion resistance, particularly for the cathode side of the bipolar plate.

Resistance of non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae biofilms is independent of biofilm size.

PubMed

Reimche, Jennifer L; Kirse, Daniel J; Whigham, Amy S; Swords, W Edward

2017-02-01

The inflammatory middle ear disease known as otitis media can become chronic or recurrent in some cases due to failure of the antibiotic treatment to clear the bacterial etiological agent. Biofilms are known culprits of antibiotic-resistant infections; however, the mechanisms of resistance for non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae biofilms have not been completely elucidated. In this study, we utilized in vitro static biofilm assays to characterize clinical strain biofilms and addressed the hypothesis that biofilms with greater biomass and/or thickness would be more resistant to antimicrobial-mediated eradication than thinner and/or lower biomass biofilms. Consistent with previous studies, antibiotic concentrations required to eliminate biofilm bacteria tended to be drastically higher than concentrations required to kill planktonic bacteria. The size characterizations of the biofilms formed by the clinical isolates were compared to their minimum biofilm eradication concentrations for four antibiotics. This revealed no correlation between biofilm thickness or biomass and the ability to resist eradication by antibiotics. Therefore, we concluded that biofilm size does not play a role in antibiotic resistance, suggesting that reduction of antibiotic penetration may not be a significant mechanism for antibiotic resistance for this bacterial opportunist. © FEMS 2016. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Microstructure evolution of the Ir-inserted Ni silicides with additional annealing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoon, Kijeong; Song, Ohsung

2009-02-01

Thermally-evaporated 10 nm-Ni/1 nm-Ir/(poly)Si structures were fabricated in order to investigate the thermal stability of Ir-inserted nickel silicide after additional annealing. The silicide samples underwent rapid thermal annealing at 300 ° C to 1200 ° C for 40 s, followed by 30 min annealing at the given RTA temperatures. Silicides suitable for the salicide process were formed on the top of the single crystal and polycrystalline silicon substrates, mimicking actives and gates. The sheet resistance was measured using a four-point probe. High resolution x-ray diffraction and Auger depth profiling were used for phase and chemical composition analysis, respectively. Transmission electron microscope and scanning probe microscope were used to determine the cross-section structure and surface roughness. The silicide, which formed on single crystal silicon substrate with surface agglomeration after additional annealing, could defer the transformation of Ni(Ir)Si to Ni(Ir)Si2 and was stable at temperatures up to 1200 °C. Moreover, the silicide thickness doubled. There were no outstanding changes in the silicide thickness on polycrystalline silicon. However, after additional annealing, the silicon-silicide mixing became serious and showed high resistance at temperatures >700 °C. Auger depth profiling confirmed the increased thickness of the silicide layers after additional annealing without a change in composition. For a single crystal silicon substrate, the sheet resistance increased slightly due to the significant increases in surface roughness caused by surface agglomeration after additional annealing. Otherwise, there were almost no changes in surface roughness on the polycrystalline silicon substrate. The Ir-inserted nickel monosilicide was able to maintain a low resistance in a wide temperature range and is considered suitable for the nano-thick silicide process.

Formation of Bimolecular Membranes from Lipid Monolayers and a Study of Their Electrical Properties

PubMed Central

Montal, M.; Mueller, P.

1972-01-01

Bimolecular membranes are formed from two lipid monolayers at an air-water interface by the apposition of their hydrocarbon chains when an aperture in a Teflon partition separating two aqueous phases is lowered through the interface. Formation of the membrane is monitored by an increase of the electrical capacity, as measured with a voltage clamp. Electrical resistance of the unmodified membrane is analogous to that of conventional planar bilayers (black lipid membranes) prepared in the presence of a hydrocarbon solvent, i.e., 106-108 ohm cm2; the resistance can be lowered to values of 103 ohm cm2 by gramicidin, an antibiotic that modifies the conductance only when the membranes are of biomolecular thickness. In contrast to the resistance, there is a significant difference between the capacity of bilayers made from mono-layers and that of hydrocarbon-containing bilayers made by phase transition; the average values are 0.9 and 0.45 μF cm-2, respectively. The value of 0.9 μF cm-2 approximates that of biological membranes. Assuming a dielectric constant of 2.1 for the hydrocarbon region, the dielectric thickness, as calculated from a capacity of 0.9 μF cm-2, is 22 Å. This value is 6-10 Å smaller than the actual thickness of the hydrocarbon region of bilayers and cell membranes, as determined by x-ray diffraction. The difference may be due to a limited penetration of water into the hydrocarbon region near the ester groups that would lower the electrical resistance of this region and reduce the dielectric thickness. Asymmetric membranes have been formed by adjoining two lipid monolayers of different chemical composition. Images PMID:4509315

Characterization of micro-contact resistance between a gold nanocrystalline line and a tungsten electrode probe in interconnect fatigue testing.

PubMed

Ling, Xue; Wang, Yusheng; Li, Xide

2014-10-01

An electromechanically-coupled micro-contact resistance measurement system is built to mimic the contact process during fatigue testing of nanoscale-thickness interconnects using multiple probe methods. The design combines an optical microscope, high-resolution electronic balance, and micromanipulator-controlled electric probe, and is coupled with electrical measurements to investigate microscale contact physics. Experimental measurements are performed to characterize the contact resistance response of the gold nanocrystalline pad of a 35-nm-thick interconnect under mechanical force applied by a tungsten electrode probe. Location of a stable region for the contact resistance and the critical contact force provides better understanding of micro-contact behavior relative to the effects of the contact force and the nature of the contact surface. Increasing contact temperature leads to reduced contact resistance, softens the pad material, and modifies the contact surface. The stability of both contact resistance and interconnect resistance is studied under increasing contact force. Major fluctuations emerge when the contact force is less than the critical contact force, which shows that temporal contact resistance will affect interconnect resistance measurement accuracy, even when using the four-wire method. This performance is demonstrated experimentally by heating the Au line locally with a laser beam. Finally, the contact resistances are calculated using the LET (Li-Etsion-Talke) model together with combined Holm and Sharvin theory under various contact forces. Good agreement between the results is obtained. This research provides a way to measure change in interconnect line resistance directly under a stable contact resistance regime with a two-wire method that will greatly reduce the experimental costs.

Characterization of micro-contact resistance between a gold nanocrystalline line and a tungsten electrode probe in interconnect fatigue testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ling, Xue; Wang, Yusheng; Li, Xide

2014-10-01

An electromechanically-coupled micro-contact resistance measurement system is built to mimic the contact process during fatigue testing of nanoscale-thickness interconnects using multiple probe methods. The design combines an optical microscope, high-resolution electronic balance, and micromanipulator-controlled electric probe, and is coupled with electrical measurements to investigate microscale contact physics. Experimental measurements are performed to characterize the contact resistance response of the gold nanocrystalline pad of a 35-nm-thick interconnect under mechanical force applied by a tungsten electrode probe. Location of a stable region for the contact resistance and the critical contact force provides better understanding of micro-contact behavior relative to the effects of the contact force and the nature of the contact surface. Increasing contact temperature leads to reduced contact resistance, softens the pad material, and modifies the contact surface. The stability of both contact resistance and interconnect resistance is studied under increasing contact force. Major fluctuations emerge when the contact force is less than the critical contact force, which shows that temporal contact resistance will affect interconnect resistance measurement accuracy, even when using the four-wire method. This performance is demonstrated experimentally by heating the Au line locally with a laser beam. Finally, the contact resistances are calculated using the LET (Li-Etsion-Talke) model together with combined Holm and Sharvin theory under various contact forces. Good agreement between the results is obtained. This research provides a way to measure change in interconnect line resistance directly under a stable contact resistance regime with a two-wire method that will greatly reduce the experimental costs.

Four-terminal connector for measuring resistance of a pyrotechnic initiator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Robinson, Robert L. (Inventor); Graves, Thomas J. (Inventor); Hoffman, III, William C. (Inventor)

1989-01-01

A four-terminal electrical connector device (40) for testing and measuring unknown resistances of initiators (11) used for starting pyrotechnic events aboard a Space Transportation System. The testing device minimizes contact resistance degradation effects and so improves the reliability of resistance measurement taken with the device. Separate and independent voltage sensing (19) and current supply (20) circuits each includes a pair of socket contacts (13-16) for mating engagement with the pins (17,18) of the initiator. The unknown resistance that is measured by the device is the resistance of the bridgewire (23) of the initiator which is required to be between 0.95 and 1.15 ohms.

Long-term flow rates and biomat zone hydrology in soil columns receiving septic tank effluent.

PubMed

Beal, C D; Gardner, E A; Kirchhof, G; Menzies, N W

2006-07-01

Soil absorption systems (SAS) are used commonly to treat and disperse septic tank effluent (STE). SAS can hydraulically fail as a result of the low permeable biomat zone that develops on the infiltrative surface. The objectives of this experiment were to compare the hydraulic properties of biomats grown in soils of different textures, to investigate the long-term acceptance rates (LTAR) from prolonged application of STE, and to assess if soils were of major importance in determining LTAR. The STE was applied to repacked sand, Oxisol and Vertisol soil columns over a period of 16 months, at equivalent hydraulic loading rates of 50, 35 and 8L/m(2)/d, respectively. Infiltration rates, soil matric potentials, and biomat hydraulic properties were measured either directly from the soil columns or calculated using established soil physics theory. Biomats 1 to 2 cm thick developed in all soils columns with hydraulic resistances of 27 to 39 d. These biomats reduced a 4 order of magnitude variation in saturated hydraulic conductivity (K(s)) between the soils to a one order of magnitude variation in LTAR. A relationship between biomat resistance and organic loading rate was observed in all soils. Saturated hydraulic conductivity influenced the rate and extent of biomat development. However, once the biomat was established, the LTAR was governed by the resistance of the biomat and the sub-biomat soil unsaturated flow regime induced by the biomat. Results show that whilst initial soil K(s) is likely to be important in the establishment of the biomat zone in a trench, LTAR is determined by the biomat resistance and the unsaturated soil hydraulic conductivity, not the K(s) of a soil. The results call into question the commonly used approach of basing the LTAR, and ultimately trench length in SAS, on the initial K(s) of soils.

The effect of alloying elements and microstructure on the strength and fracture resistance of pearlitic steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakase, K.; Bernstein, I. M.

1988-11-01

The processes of ductile and brittle fracture in fully pearlitic steel and their relation to both the scale of the microstructure and the presence of substitutional alloy elements have been investigated at room temperature using smooth tensile and over a range of temperatures using V-notched Charpy impact specimens. The results show that the early stages of cracking, revealed in both types of specimen, are largely the result of shear cracking of the pearlite lamellae. These cracks grow and can reach a size when they impinge upon the prior austenite boundary; afterward the character of fracture can be either microvoid coalescence or cleavage, depending on test conditions and metallurgical variables. Further, the carbide plates of the pearlite lamellae can act as barriers to the movement of dislocations as is the case normally with grain boundaries. For pearlite an optimum spacing of approximately 0.2 μm resulting from a balance between carbide plate thickness and interlamellar spacing was found to enhance toughness, although such changes are much smaller than corresponding changes due to varying alloy elements. Specific alloy elements used herein strengthened the lamellar ferrite in pearlite, inhibiting the movement of dislocations while also usually decreasing the lamellar cementite plate thickness for the same spacing. This dual behavior results in enhanced resistance to the initiation and propagation of microcracks leading to an improvement in strength, ductility, and toughness. The most effective alloy elements for the composition ranges studied in fully pearlitic steels are Si and Ni for strength improvement, and Ni and Mn for toughness.

ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY VERIFICATION REPORT--EVERMORE PAINTS AND COATINGS INC. FORMULA 5 COATING

EPA Science Inventory

This report is of a test of the pollution prevention capabilities of a polyamide-epoxy-silicone modified paint coating. It was analyzed for volatile organic emissions, hazardous air pollutants, film thickness, gloss, appearance, MEK rub resistance, abrasion resistance and other ...

Oxidation-resistant silicide coating applied to columbium alloy screen

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Torgerson, R. T.

1971-01-01

Coated screens withstand temperature cycling in special transpiration-cooling systems and provide porous surface that is effective at temperatures well above those limiting superalloy screen efficiency. Thickness of coating depends on time, temperature and activator concentration. Coatings are uniform and resistant to thermal cycling.

Electrical four-point probing of spherical metallic thin films coated onto micron sized polymer particles

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

Pettersen, Sigurd R., E-mail: sigurd.r.pettersen@ntnu.no, E-mail: jianying.he@ntnu.no; Stokkeland, August Emil; Zhang, Zhiliang

Micron-sized metal-coated polymer spheres are frequently used as filler particles in conductive composites for electronic interconnects. However, the intrinsic electrical resistivity of the spherical thin films has not been attainable due to deficiency in methods that eliminate the effect of contact resistance. In this work, a four-point probing method using vacuum compatible piezo-actuated micro robots was developed to directly investigate the electric properties of individual silver-coated spheres under real-time observation in a scanning electron microscope. Poly(methyl methacrylate) spheres with a diameter of 30 μm and four different film thicknesses (270 nm, 150 nm, 100 nm, and 60 nm) were investigated. By multiplying the experimental resultsmore » with geometrical correction factors obtained using finite element models, the resistivities of the thin films were estimated for the four thicknesses. These were higher than the resistivity of bulk silver.« less

Calorimetric gas sensor

DOEpatents

Ricco, A.J.; Hughes, R.C.; Smith, J.H.; Moreno, D.J.; Manginell, R.P.; Senturia, S.D.; Huber, R.J.

1998-11-10

A combustible gas sensor is described that uses a resistively heated, noble metal-coated, micromachined polycrystalline Si filament to calorimetrically detect the presence and concentration of combustible gases. The filaments tested to date are 2 {micro}m thick {times} 10{micro}m wide {times} 100, 250, 500, or 1000 {micro}m-long polycrystalline Si; some are overcoated with a 0.25 {micro}m-thick protective CVD Si{sub 3}N{sub 4} layer. A thin catalytic Pt film was deposited by CVD from the precursor Pt(acac){sub 2} onto microfilaments resistively heated to approximately 500 C; Pt deposits only on the hot filament. Using a constant-resistance-mode feedback circuit, Pt-coated filaments operating at ca. 300 C (35 mW input power) respond linearly, in terms of the change in supply current required to maintain constant resistance (temperature), to H{sub 2} concentrations between 100 ppm and 1% in an 80/20 N{sub 2}/O{sub 2} mixture. Other catalytic materials can also be used. 11 figs.

Calorimetric gas sensor

DOEpatents

Ricco, Antonio J.; Hughes, Robert C.; Smith, James H.; Moreno, Daniel J.; Manginell, Ronald P.; Senturia, Stephen D.; Huber, Robert J.

1998-01-01

A combustible gas sensor that uses a resistively heated, noble metal-coated, micromachined polycrystalline Si filament to calorimetrically detect the presence and concentration of combustible gases. The filaments tested to date are 2 .mu.m thick.times.10 .mu.m wide.times.100, 250, 500, or 1000 .mu.m-long polycrystalline Si; some are overcoated with a 0.25 .mu.m-thick protective CVD Si.sub.3 N.sub.4 layer. A thin catalytic Pt film was deposited by CVD from the precursor Pt(acac).sub.2 onto microfilaments resistively heated to approximately 500.degree. C.; Pt deposits only on the hot filament. Using a constant-resistance-mode feedback circuit, Pt-coated filaments operating at ca. 300.degree. C. (35 mW input power) respond linearly, in terms of the change in supply current required to maintain constant resistance (temperature), to H.sub.2 concentrations between 100 ppm and 1% in an 80/20 N.sub.2 /O.sub.2 mixture. Other catalytic materials can also be used.

Impact of AlO x layer on resistive switching characteristics and device-to-device uniformity of bilayered HfO x -based resistive random access memory devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chuang, Kai-Chi; Chung, Hao-Tung; Chu, Chi-Yan; Luo, Jun-Dao; Li, Wei-Shuo; Li, Yi-Shao; Cheng, Huang-Chung

2018-06-01

An AlO x layer was deposited on HfO x , and bilayered dielectric films were found to confine the formation locations of conductive filaments (CFs) during the forming process and then improve device-to-device uniformity. In addition, the Ti interposing layer was also adopted to facilitate the formation of oxygen vacancies. As a result, the resistive random access memory (RRAM) device with TiN/Ti/AlO x (1 nm)/HfO x (6 nm)/TiN stack layers demonstrated excellent device-to-device uniformity although it achieved slightly larger resistive switching characteristics, which were forming voltage (V Forming) of 2.08 V, set voltage (V Set) of 1.96 V, and reset voltage (V Reset) of ‑1.02 V, than the device with TiN/Ti/HfO x (6 nm)/TiN stack layers. However, the device with a thicker 2-nm-thick AlO x layer showed worse uniformity than the 1-nm-thick one. It was attributed to the increased oxygen atomic percentage in the bilayered dielectric films of the 2-nm-thick one. The difference in oxygen content showed that there would be less oxygen vacancies to form CFs. Therefore, the random growth of CFs would become severe and the device-to-device uniformity would degrade.

Preparation of multi-layer film consisting of hydrogen-free DLC and nitrogen-containing DLC for conductive hard coating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iijima, Yushi; Harigai, Toru; Isono, Ryo; Degai, Satoshi; Tanimoto, Tsuyoshi; Suda, Yoshiyuki; Takikawa, Hirofumi; Yasui, Haruyuki; Kaneko, Satoru; Kunitsugu, Shinsuke; Kamiya, Masao; Taki, Makoto

2018-01-01

Conductive hard-coating films have potential application as protective films for contact pins used in the electrical inspection process for integrated circuit chips. In this study, multi-layer diamond-like carbon (DLC) films were prepared as conductive hard-coating films. The multi-layer DLC films consisting of DLC and nitrogen-containing DLC (N-DLC) film were prepared using a T-shape filtered arc deposition method. Periodic DLC/N-DLC four-layer and eight-layer films had the same film thickness by changing the thickness of each layer. In the ball-on-disk test, the N-DLC mono-layer film showed the highest wear resistance; however, in the spherical polishing method, the eight-layer film showed the highest polishing resistance. The wear and polishing resistance and the aggressiveness against an opponent material of the multi-layer DLC films improved by reducing the thickness of a layer. In multi-layer films, the soft N-DLC layer between hard DLC layers is believed to function as a cushion. Thus, the tribological properties of the DLC films were improved by a multi-layered structure. The electrical resistivity of multi-layer DLC films was approximately half that of the DLC mono-layer film. Therefore, the periodic DLC/N-DLC eight-layer film is a good conductive hard-coating film.

Evaluation of Parallel-Element, Variable-Impedance, Broadband Acoustic Liner Concepts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, Michael G.; Howerton, Brian M.; Ayle, Earl

2012-01-01

Recent trends in aircraft engine design have highlighted the need for acoustic liners that provide broadband sound absorption with reduced liner thickness. Three such liner concepts are evaluated using the NASA normal incidence tube. Two concepts employ additive manufacturing techniques to fabricate liners with variable chamber depths. The first relies on scrubbing losses within narrow chambers to provide acoustic resistance necessary for sound absorption. The second employs wide chambers that provide minimal resistance, and relies on a perforated sheet to provide acoustic resistance. The variable-depth chambers used in both concepts result in reactance spectra near zero. The third liner concept employs mesh-caps (resistive sheets) embedded at variable depths within adjacent honeycomb chambers to achieve a desired impedance spectrum. Each of these liner concepts is suitable for use as a broadband sound absorber design, and a transmission line model is presented that provides good comparison with their respective acoustic impedance spectra. This model can therefore be used to design acoustic liners to accurately achieve selected impedance spectra. Finally, the effects of increasing the perforated facesheet thickness are demonstrated, and the validity of prediction models based on lumped element and wave propagation approaches is investigated. The lumped element model compares favorably with measured results for liners with thin facesheets, but the wave propagation model provides good comparisons for a wide range of facesheet thicknesses.

Increased lodging resistance in long-culm, low-lignin gh2 rice for improved feed and bioenergy production

PubMed Central

Ookawa, Taiichiro; Inoue, Kazuya; Matsuoka, Makoto; Ebitani, Takeshi; Takarada, Takeshi; Yamamoto, Toshio; Ueda, Tadamasa; Yokoyama, Tadashi; Sugiyama, Chisato; Nakaba, Satoshi; Funada, Ryo; Kato, Hiroshi; Kanekatsu, Motoki; Toyota, Koki; Motobayashi, Takashi; Vazirzanjani, Mehran; Tojo, Seishu; Hirasawa, Tadashi

2014-01-01

Lignin modification has been a breeding target for the improvements of forage digestibility and energy yields in forage and bioenergy crops, but decreased lignin levels are often accompanied by reduced lodging resistance. The rice mutant gold hull and internode2 (gh2) has been identified to be lignin deficient. GH2 has been mapped to the short arm of chromosome 2 and encodes cinnamyl-alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD). We developed a long-culm variety, ‘Leaf Star’, with superior lodging resistance and a gh phenotype similar to one of its parents, ‘Chugoku 117’. The gh loci in Leaf Star and Chugoku 117 were localized to the same region of chromosome 2 as the gh2 mutant. Leaf Star had culms with low lignin concentrations due to a natural mutation in OsCAD2 that was not present in Chugoku 117. However, this variety had high culm strength due to its strong, thick culms. Additionally, this variety had a thick layer of cortical fiber tissue with well-developed secondary cell walls. Our results suggest that rice can be improved for forage and bioenergy production by combining superior lodging resistance, which can be obtained by introducing thick and stiff culm traits, with low lignin concentrations, which can be obtained using the gh2 variety. PMID:25298209

Correlation between apical protrusion in the Scheimflug imaging and Corneal Hysteresis and Corneal Resistance factor by Ocular Response Analyzer, among refractive non-keratoconic Egyptian patients.

PubMed

Refai, Tamer Adel

2015-10-01

Apical protrusion in the central 4-mm ring in the Scheimflug imaging (Pentacam), both for the anterior and posterior floats as well as Corneal Hysteresis and Corneal Resistance Factor by Ocular Response Analyzer (ORA), generally are considered important predictors for post-Lasik ectasia. The aim of this work was to find out if there is a statistically significant correlation between these different predictors and their correlation with the central corneal thickness for refractive non-keratoconic Egyptian patients trying to achieve a better decision and avoiding ectasia. This case-control study involved 142 eyes (of 77 patients with various refractive errors) arriving at the refractive surgery unit in the Research Institute of Ophthalmology in Giza (Egypt) in 2014-2015 seeking excimer laser ablation. The flattest, steepest keratometry readings, central corneal thickness as well as the apical protrusion in the central 4-mm ring, both for the anterior and posterior floats, in microns were measured by Scheimflug imaging. The Corneal Hysteresis and Corneal Resistance Factor were measured by the ocular response analyzer. Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS, using the Pearson correlation test. The spherical refractive error ranged from +7.00 to -13.00 diopters (-3.80 ± 2.89). The central pachymetry ranged from 494 to 634 μm (550.35 ± 32.13). For the central 4-mm ring, the apical protrusion ranged from 0 to +15 μ (6.93 ± 2.99) for the anterior float and from -3 to +20 μ (9.33 ± 4.55) for the posterior float. The Corneal Hysterisis (CH) ranged from 7 to 14.8 mmHg (10.18±1.44), while the Corneal Resistance Factor (CRF) ranged from 7.5 to 14.9 mmHg (10.58 ± 1.67). There was a strong positive correlation between the central corneal thickness and both Corneal Hysteresis (CH: r = 0.56, P ≤ 0.01) and Corneal Resistance Factor (r = 0.46, P ≤ 0.01). A significant correlation (P < 0.05, r = 0.15) existed between apical protrusion in the posterior float and the central corneal thickness. Also, significant negative correlation (P < 0.05, r = -0.12) existed between apical protrusion in the anterior float by pentacam and the Corneal Resistance Factor by ocular response analyzer. Our finding of a strong positive correlation between both Corneal Hysteresis and Corneal Resistance Factor and the Central corneal thickness being important for biomechanical corneal stability. The findings of this study also support using both machines preoperatively to decrease the risk of post-Lasik ectasia.

Some Properties of Composite Panels Made from Wood Flour and Recycled Polyethylene

PubMed Central

Ozdemir, Turgay; Mengeloglu, Fatih

2008-01-01

This study investigated the effect of board type (unmodified vs. MAPE modified) on the surface quality and thickness swelling-water absorption properties of recycled high density polyethylene (HDPE) based wood plastic composites. Additionally, two commercially available coatings (cellulosic coating and polyurethane lacquer coating) were also applied to composite surfaces and their adhesion strength, abrasion and scratch resistance, and gloss values were determined. This study showed that modification of the composites with MAPE coupling agent increased the surface smoothness and reduced the water absorption and thickness swelling of the panels. Abrasion resistance of the composites was also improved through MAPE modification. Regardless of board type, higher scratch resistance and gloss values were observed for polyurethane lacquer coated samples compared to those of cellulosic varnish coated ones. Improvement of adhesion strength was also seen on SEM micrographs. PMID:19330092

Thin silicon-solar cell fabrication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lindmayer, J.

1979-01-01

Flexible silicon slices of uniform thicknesses are fabricated by etching in sodium hydroxide solution. Maintaining uniform thickness across slices during process(fabrication) is important for cell strength and resistance to damage in handling. Slices formed by procedure have reproducible surface with fine orange peel texture, and are far superior to slices prepared by other methods.

46 CFR 164.006-4 - Inspection and testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... the Coast Guard. (b) Smoke tests. (1) A sample of each thickness submitted shall be tested for smoke... observations shall be made at intervals not greater than five minutes during the one-hour period of test. (2... integrity tests. (1) A sample of each thickness submitted shall be tested for fire resistance and integrity...

Correlation of Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Thickness and Visual Fields in Glaucoma: A broken stick model

PubMed Central

Alasil, Tarek; Wang, Kaidi; Yu, Fei; Field, Matthew G.; Lee, Hang; Baniasadi, Neda; de Boer, Johannes F.; Coleman, Anne L.; Chen, Teresa C.

2015-01-01

Purpose To determine the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness at which visual field (VF) damage becomes detectable and associated with structural loss. Design Retrospective cross-sectional study. Methods Eighty seven healthy and 108 glaucoma subjects (one eye per subject) were recruited from an academic institution. All patients had VF examinations (Swedish Interactive Threshold Algorithm 24-2 test of the Humphrey visual field analyzer 750i; Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA) and spectral domain optical coherence tomography RNFL scans (Spectralis, Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany). Comparison of RNFL thicknesses values with VF threshold values showed a plateau of VF threshold values at high RNFL thickness values and then a sharp decrease at lower RNFL thickness values. A broken stick statistical analysis was utilized to estimate the tipping point at which RNFL thickness values are associated with VF defects. The slope for the association between structure and function was computed for data above and below the tipping point. Results The mean RNFL thickness value that was associated with initial VF loss was 89 μm. The superior RNFL thickness value that was associated with initial corresponding inferior VF loss was 100 μm. The inferior RNFL thickness value that was associated with initial corresponding superior VF loss was 73 μm. The differences between all the slopes above and below the aforementioned tipping points were statistically significant (p<0.001). Conclusions In open angle glaucoma, substantial RNFL thinning or structural loss appears to be necessary before functional visual field defects become detectable. PMID:24487047

Development of the α-IGZO/Ag/α-IGZO Triple-Layer Structure Films for the Application of Transparent Electrode.

PubMed

Chen, Kun-Neng; Yang, Cheng-Fu; Wu, Chia-Ching; Chen, Yu-Hsin

2017-02-24

We investigated the structural, optical, and electrical properties of amorphous IGZO/silver/amorphous IGZO (α-IGZO/Ag/α-IGZO) triple-layer structures that were deposited at room temperature on Eagle XG glass and flexible polyethylene terephthalate substrates through the sputtering method. Thin Ag layers with different thicknesses were inserted between two IGZO layers to form a triple-layer structure. Ag was used because of its lower absorption and resistivity. Field emission scanning electron microscopy measurements of the triple-layer structures revealed that the thicknesses of the Ag layers ranged from 13 to 41 nm. The thickness of the Ag layer had a large effect on the electrical and optical properties of the electrodes. The optimum thickness of the Ag metal thin film could be evaluated according to the optical transmittance, electrical conductivity, and figure of merit of the electrode. This study demonstrates that the α-IGZO/Ag/α-IGZO triple-layer transparent electrode can be fabricated with low sheet resistance (4.2 Ω/□) and high optical transmittance (88.1%) at room temperature without postannealing processing on the deposited thin films.

Theoretical and simulation analysis of piezoelectric liquid resistance captor filled with pipeline

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Li; Zhigang, Yang; Junwu, Kan; Lisheng; Bo, Yan; Dan, Lu

2018-03-01

This paper designs a kind of Piezoelectric liquid resistance capture energy device, by using the superposition theory of the sheet deformation, the calculation model of the displacement curve of the circular piezoelectric vibrator and the power generation capacity under the concentrated load is established. The results show that the radius ratio, thickness ratio and Young’s modulus of the circular piezoelectric vibrator have greater influence on the power generation capacity. When the material of piezoelectric oscillator is determined, the best radius ratio and thickness ratio make the power generation capacity the largest. Excessive or small radius ratio and thickness ratio will reduce the generating capacity and even generate zero power. In addition, the electromechanical equivalent model is established. Equivalent analysis is made by changing the circuit impedance. The results are consistent with the theoretical simulation results, indicating that the established circuit model can truly reflect the characteristics of the theoretical model.

Effect of thickness on optoelectrical properties of Nb-doped indium tin oxide thin films deposited by RF magnetron sputtering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Shi-na; Ma, Rui-xin; Ma, Chun-hong; Li, Dong-ran; Xiao, Yu-qin; He, Liang-wei; Zhu, Hong-min

2013-05-01

Niobium-doped indium tin oxide (ITO:Nb) thin films are prepared on glass substrates with various film thicknesses by radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering from one piece of ceramic target material. The effects of thickness (60-360 nm) on the structural, electrical and optical properties of ITO: Nb films are investigated by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet (UV)-visible spectroscopy, and electrical measurements. XRD patterns show the highly oriented (400) direction. The lowest resistivity of the films without any heat treatment is 3.1×10-4Ω·cm-1, and the resistivity decreases with the increase of substrate temperature. The highest Hall mobility and carrier concentration are 17.6 N·S and 1.36×1021 cm-3, respectively. Band gap energy of the films depends on substrate temperature, which varies from 3.48 eV to 3.62 eV.

Anomalous Hall effect scaling in ferromagnetic thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grigoryan, Vahram L.; Xiao, Jiang; Wang, Xuhui; Xia, Ke

2017-10-01

We propose a scaling law for anomalous Hall effect in ferromagnetic thin films. Our approach distinguishes multiple scattering sources, namely, bulk impurity, phonon for Hall resistivity, and most importantly the rough surface contribution to longitudinal resistivity. In stark contrast to earlier laws that rely on temperature- and thickness-dependent fitting coefficients, this scaling law fits the recent experimental data excellently with constant parameters that are independent of temperature and film thickness, strongly indicating that this law captures the underlying physical processes. Based on a few data points, this scaling law can even fit all experimental data in full temperature and thickness range. We apply this law to interpret the experimental data for Fe, Co, and Ni and conclude that (i) the phonon-induced skew scattering is unimportant as expected; (ii) contribution from the impurity-induced skew scattering is negative; (iii) the intrinsic (extrinsic) mechanism dominates in Fe (Co), and both the extrinsic and intrinsic contributions are important in Ni.

Evaluation of the Technical Feasibility and Effective Cost of Various Wafer Thicknesses for the Manufacture of Solar Cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1979-01-01

Fourteen wafering characterization runs were completed on a wire saw. Wafer thickness/taper uniformity was excellent. Several alternations and design adjustments were made, facilitating saw operation. A wafering characterization cycle was initiated, and is close to completion. A cell characterization cycle was initiated.

Thickness dependence of crystal and optical characterization on ZnO thin film grown by atomic layer deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baek, Seung-Hye; Lee, Hyun-Jin; Lee, Sung-Nam

2018-06-01

We studied the thickness dependence of the crystallographic and optical properties of ZnO thin films grown on c-plane sapphire substrate using atomic layer deposition. High-resolution X-ray diffraction (HR-XRD) revealed two peaks at 34.5° and 36.2° in the initial growth stage of ZnO on the sapphire substrate, corresponding to the (002) and (101) ZnO planes, respectively. However, as the thickness of the ZnO film increased, the XRD intensity of the (002) ZnO peak increased drastically, compared with that of the (101) ZnO peak. This indicated that (002) and (101) ZnO were simultaneously grown on the c-plane sapphire substrate in the initial growth stage, and that (002) ZnO was predominantly grown with the increase in the thickness of ZnO film. The ZnO thin film presented an anisotropic surface structure at the initial stage, whereas the isotropic surface morphology was developed with an increase in the film thickness of ZnO. These observations were consistent with the HR-XRD results.

Tensile cracking of a brittle conformal coating on a rough substrate

DOE PAGES

Reedy, Jr., E. D.

2016-04-07

This note examines the effect of interfacial roughness on the initiation and growth of channel cracks in a brittle film. A conformal film with cusp-like surface flaws that replicate the substrate roughness is investigated. This type of surface flaw is relatively severe in the sense that stress diverges as the cusp-tip is approached (i.e., there is a power-law stress singularity). For the geometry and range of film properties considered, the analysis suggests that smoothing the substrate could substantially increase the film’s resistance to the formation of the through-the-thickness cracks that precede channel cracking. Furthermore, smoothing the substrate’s surface has amore » relatively modest effect on the film stress needed to propagate a channel crack.« less

The fine structure of the Saturnian ring system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Houpis, H. L. F.; Mendis, D. A.

1983-01-01

A dust disk within a planetary magnetosphere constitutes a novel type of dust-ring current. Such an azimuthal current carrying dust disk is subject to the dusty plasma analog of the well known finite-resistivity 'tearing' mode instability in regular plasma current sheets, at long wavelengths. It is proposed that the presently observed fine ringlet of the Saturnian ring system is a relic of this process operating at cosmogonic times and breaking up the initial proto-ring (which may be regarded as an admixture of fine dust and plasma) into an ensemble of thin ringlets. It is shown that this instability develops at a rate that is many orders of magnitude faster than any other known instability, when the disk thickness reaches a value that is comparable to its present observed value.

The resistance to deformation and facture of magnesium ma2-1 under shock-wave loading at 293 k and 823 k of the temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garkushin, Gennady; Kanel, Gennady I.; Razorenov, Sergey V.

2012-03-01

The Hugoniot elastic limit and spall strength of Ma2-1 magnesium deformable alloy were measured at the sample thickness varied from 0.25 mm to 10 mm at room and elevated temperatures. By means of analysis of decay of an elastic precursor wave it is found that initial plastic strain rate decreases from 2×105 s-1 at distance of 0.25 mm to 103 s-1 at distance of 10 mm. The strain rate in plastic shock wave is by order of magnitude higher at the same value of the shear stress. The spall strength of the alloy grows with increasing the strain rate and decreases with approach to the solidus temperature.

ACTN3 R577X Polymorphism and Neuromuscular Response to Resistance Training

PubMed Central

Gentil, Paulo; Pereira, Rinaldo W.; Leite, Tailce K.M.; Bottaro, Martim

2011-01-01

The R577X polymorphism at the ACTN3 gene has been associated with muscle strength, hypertrophy and athletic status. The X allele, which is associated with the absence of ACTN3 protein is supposed to impair performance of high force/velocity muscle contractions. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the association of the R577X polymorphism with the muscle response to resistance training in young men. One hundred forty one men performed two resistance training sessions per week for 11 weeks. Participants were tested for 1RM bench press, knee extensors peak torque, and knee extensors muscle thickness at baseline and after the training period. Genotyping was conducted using de DdeI restriction enzyme. Genotype distribution was 34.4% for RR, 47% for RX and 18.6% for the XX genotype. According to the results, the R577X polymorphism at the ACTN3 gene is not associated with baseline muscle strength or with the muscle strength response to resistance training. However, only carriers of the R allele showed increases in muscle thickness in response to training. Key points ACTN3 Genotype distribution in the present study was similar to others populations (34.4% for RR, 47% for RX, and 18.6% for the XX). The R577X polymorphism at the ACTN3 gene is not associated with baseline muscle strength or with the muscle strength response to resistance training. It appears that the R allele carriers respond better to muscle thickness gains in response to training. PMID:24149888

ACTN3 R577X Polymorphism and Neuromuscular Response to Resistance Training.

PubMed

Gentil, Paulo; Pereira, Rinaldo W; Leite, Tailce K M; Bottaro, Martim

2011-01-01

The R577X polymorphism at the ACTN3 gene has been associated with muscle strength, hypertrophy and athletic status. The X allele, which is associated with the absence of ACTN3 protein is supposed to impair performance of high force/velocity muscle contractions. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the association of the R577X polymorphism with the muscle response to resistance training in young men. One hundred forty one men performed two resistance training sessions per week for 11 weeks. Participants were tested for 1RM bench press, knee extensors peak torque, and knee extensors muscle thickness at baseline and after the training period. Genotyping was conducted using de DdeI restriction enzyme. Genotype distribution was 34.4% for RR, 47% for RX and 18.6% for the XX genotype. According to the results, the R577X polymorphism at the ACTN3 gene is not associated with baseline muscle strength or with the muscle strength response to resistance training. However, only carriers of the R allele showed increases in muscle thickness in response to training. Key pointsACTN3 Genotype distribution in the present study was similar to others populations (34.4% for RR, 47% for RX, and 18.6% for the XX).The R577X polymorphism at the ACTN3 gene is not associated with baseline muscle strength or with the muscle strength response to resistance training.It appears that the R allele carriers respond better to muscle thickness gains in response to training.

Novel wafer stepper with violet LED light source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ting, Yung-Chiang; Shy, Shyi-Long

2014-03-01

Novel wafer stepper by using contact or proximity printing will be developed, using violet LED light source to replace Hg Arc. lamp or laser. Mirror, filter and condenser lens for Hg Arc. Lamp or laser and reduction lens for projection printing can be discarded. Reliability and manufacturing cost of wafer stepper can be improved. Exposure result by using IP3600 resist and wafer stepper with violet LED light source (wave-length 360nm to 410 nm) will be obtained. This novel wafer stepper can be used for 3DIC, MEMS and bio-chip lithography application by using thin and thick resist with sub-micron to 100 micron thickness.

Specific features of single-pulse femtosecond laser micron and submicron ablation of a thin silver film coated with a micron-thick photoresist layer

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

Zayarnyi, D A; Ionin, A A; Kudryashov, S I

Specific features of ablation of a thin silver film with a 1-μm-thick layer of a highly transparent photoresist and the same film without a photoresist layer under single tightly focused femtosecond laser pulses in the visible range (515 nm) are experimentally investigated. Interference effects of internal modification of the photoresist layer, its spallation ablation from the film surface and formation of through hollow submicron channels in the resist without its spallation but with ablation of the silver film lying under the resist are found and discussed. (extreme light fields and their applications)

Method for localized deposition of noble metal catalysts with control of morphology

DOEpatents

Ricco, Antonio J.; Manginell, Ronald P.; Huber, Robert J.

1998-01-01

A combustible gas sensor that uses a resistively heated, noble metal-coated, micromachined polycrystalline Si filament to calorimetrically detect the presence and concentration of combustible gases. A thin catalytic Pt film was deposited by CVD from the precursor Pt(acac).sub.2 onto microfilaments resistively heated to approximately 500 .degree. C.; Pt deposits only on the hot filament. The filaments tested to date are 2 .mu.m thick .times.10 .mu.m wide .times.100, 250, 500, or 1000 .mu.m-long polycrystalline Si; some are overcoated with a 0.25 .mu.m-thick protective CVD Si.sub.3 N.sub.4 layer.

Stretchable Characteristics of Thin Au Film on Polydimethylsiloxane Substrate with Parylene Intermediate Layer for Stretchable Electronic Packaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Donghyun; Shin, Soo Jin; Oh, Tae Sung

2018-01-01

Thin Au films with thickness of 150 nm could be reversibly stretched up to 30% elongation on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrate with 150-nm-thick Parylene C deposited as intermediate layer instead of a Cr adhesion layer. Prestretching of the Parylene-deposited PDMS was effective to suppress the resistance increase of Au films during their tensile elongation. While the resistance change rate Δ R/ R 0 of the Au film at 30% elongation was 11 without prestretching of the Parylene-deposited PDMS, it was substantially suppressed to 0.4 with 30% prestretching of the Parylene-deposited PDMS.

Microscale measurements of oxygen concentration across the thickness of diffusion media in operating polymer electrolyte fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Epting, William K.; Litster, Shawn

2016-02-01

Although polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) offer promise as efficient, low emission power sources, the large amount of platinum catalyst used for the cathode's oxygen reduction (ORR) results in high costs. One approach to using less Pt is to increase the oxygen concentration at the catalyst by reducing the oxygen transport resistances. An important resistance is that of the diffusion media (DM). The DM are highly heterogeneous porous carbon fiber substrates with a graded composition of additives across their thickness. In this work we use an oxygen microsensor with a micro-positioning system to measure the oxygen concentration and presence of liquid water in the pores at discrete points across the thickness of a commercial carbon felt DM in operating PEFCs. Under conditions with no liquid water, the DM accounts for 60% of the oxygen depletion, with 60-70% of that depletion being due to the thin microporous layer (MPL) on the catalyst layer (CL) side. Using concentration gradient data, we quantify the non-uniform local transport resistance across the DM and relate it to high resolution 3D X-ray computed tomography of the same DM.

Hybrid ZnO/phthalocyanine photovoltaic device with highly resistive ZnO intermediate layer.

PubMed

Izaki, Masanobu; Chizaki, Ryo; Saito, Takamasa; Murata, Kazufumi; Sasano, Junji; Shinagawa, Tsutomu

2013-10-09

We report a hybrid photovoltaic device composed of a 3.3 eV bandgap zinc oxide (ZnO) semiconductor and metal-free phthalocyanine layers and the effects of the insertion of the highly resistive ZnO buffer layer on the electrical characteristics of the rectification feature and photovoltaic performance. The hybrid photovoltaic devices have been constructed by electrodeposition of the 300 nm thick ZnO layer in a simple zinc nitrate aqueous solution followed by vacuum evaporation of 50-400 nm thick-phthalocyanine layers. The ZnO layers with the resistivity of 1.8 × 10(3) and 1 × 10(8) Ω cm were prepared by adjusting the cathodic current density and were installed into the hybrid photovoltaic devices as the n-type and buffer layer, respectively. The phthalocyanine layers with the characteristic monoclinic lattice showed a characteristic optical absorption feature regardless of the thickness, but the preferred orientation changed depending on the thickness. The ZnO buffer-free hybrid 50 nm thick phthalocyanine/n-ZnO photovoltaic device showed a rectification feature but possessed a poor photovoltaic performance with a conversion efficiency of 7.5 × 10(-7) %, open circuit voltage of 0.041 V, and short circuit current density of 8.0 × 10(-5) mA cm(-2). The insertion of the ZnO buffer layer between the n-ZnO and phthalocyanine layers induced improvements in both the rectification feature and photovoltaic performance. The excellent rectification feature with a rectification ratio of 3188 and ideally factor of 1.29 was obtained for the hybrid 200 nm thick phthalocyanine/ZnO buffer/n-ZnO photovoltaic device, and the hybrid photovoltaic device possessed an improved photovoltaic performance with the conversion efficiency of 0.0016%, open circuit voltage of 0.31 V, and short circuit current density of 0.015 mA cm(-2).

The electrical resistivity of rough thin films: A model based on electron reflection at discrete step edges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Tianji; Zheng, Pengyuan; Pandey, Sumeet C.; Sundararaman, Ravishankar; Gall, Daniel

2018-04-01

The effect of the surface roughness on the electrical resistivity of metallic thin films is described by electron reflection at discrete step edges. A Landauer formalism for incoherent scattering leads to a parameter-free expression for the resistivity contribution from surface mound-valley undulations that is additive to the resistivity associated with bulk and surface scattering. In the classical limit where the electron reflection probability matches the ratio of the step height h divided by the film thickness d, the additional resistivity Δρ = √{3 /2 } /(g0d) × ω/ξ, where g0 is the specific ballistic conductance and ω/ξ is the ratio of the root-mean-square surface roughness divided by the lateral correlation length of the surface morphology. First-principles non-equilibrium Green's function density functional theory transport simulations on 1-nm-thick Cu(001) layers validate the model, confirming that the electron reflection probability is equal to h/d and that the incoherent formalism matches the coherent scattering simulations for surface step separations ≥2 nm. Experimental confirmation is done using 4.5-52 nm thick epitaxial W(001) layers, where ω = 0.25-1.07 nm and ξ = 10.5-21.9 nm are varied by in situ annealing. Electron transport measurements at 77 and 295 K indicate a linear relationship between Δρ and ω/(ξd), confirming the model predictions. The model suggests a stronger resistivity size effect than predictions of existing models by Fuchs [Math. Proc. Cambridge Philos. Soc. 34, 100 (1938)], Sondheimer [Adv. Phys. 1, 1 (1952)], Rossnagel and Kuan [J. Vac. Sci. Technol., B 22, 240 (2004)], or Namba [Jpn. J. Appl. Phys., Part 1 9, 1326 (1970)]. It provides a quantitative explanation for the empirical parameters in these models and may explain the recently reported deviations of experimental resistivity values from these models.

Do xylem fibers affect vessel cavitation resistance?

PubMed

Jacobsen, Anna L; Ewers, Frank W; Pratt, R Brandon; Paddock, William A; Davis, Stephen D

2005-09-01

Possible mechanical and hydraulic costs to increased cavitation resistance were examined among six co-occurring species of chaparral shrubs in southern California. We measured cavitation resistance (xylem pressure at 50% loss of hydraulic conductivity), seasonal low pressure potential (P(min)), xylem conductive efficiency (specific conductivity), mechanical strength of stems (modulus of elasticity and modulus of rupture), and xylem density. At the cellular level, we measured vessel and fiber wall thickness and lumen diameter, transverse fiber wall and total lumen area, and estimated vessel implosion resistance using (t/b)(h)(2), where t is the thickness of adjoining vessel walls and b is the vessel lumen diameter. Increased cavitation resistance was correlated with increased mechanical strength (r(2) = 0.74 and 0.76 for modulus of elasticity and modulus of rupture, respectively), xylem density (r(2) = 0.88), and P(min) (r(2) = 0.96). In contrast, cavitation resistance and P(min) were not correlated with decreased specific conductivity, suggesting no tradeoff between these traits. At the cellular level, increased cavitation resistance was correlated with increased (t/b)(h)(2) (r(2) = 0.95), increased transverse fiber wall area (r(2) = 0.89), and decreased fiber lumen area (r(2) = 0.76). To our knowledge, the correlation between cavitation resistance and fiber wall area has not been shown previously and suggests a mechanical role for fibers in cavitation resistance. Fiber efficacy in prevention of vessel implosion, defined as inward bending or collapse of vessels, is discussed.

Joint inversions of three types of electromagnetic data explicitly constrained by seismic observations: results from the central Okavango Delta, Botswana

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kalscheuer, Thomas; Blake, Sarah; Podgorski, Joel E.; Wagner, Frederic; Green, Alan G.; Maurer, Hansruedi; Jones, Alan G.; Muller, Mark; Ntibinyane, Ongkopotse; Tshoso, Gomotsang

2015-09-01

The Okavango Delta of northern Botswana is one of the world's largest inland deltas or megafans. To obtain information on the character of sediments and basement depths, audiomagnetotelluric (AMT), controlled-source audiomagnetotelluric (CSAMT) and central-loop transient electromagnetic (TEM) data were collected on the largest island within the delta. The data were inverted individually and jointly for 1-D models of electric resistivity. Distortion effects in the AMT and CSAMT data were accounted for by including galvanic distortion tensors as free parameters in the inversions. By employing Marquardt-Levenberg inversion, we found that a 3-layer model comprising a resistive layer overlying sequentially a conductive layer and a deeper resistive layer was sufficient to explain all of the electromagnetic data. However, the top of the basal resistive layer from electromagnetic-only inversions was much shallower than the well-determined basement depth observed in high-quality seismic reflection images and seismic refraction velocity tomograms. To resolve this discrepancy, we jointly inverted the electromagnetic data for 4-layer models by including seismic depths to an interface between sedimentary units and to basement as explicit a priori constraints. We have also estimated the interconnected porosities, clay contents and pore-fluid resistivities of the sedimentary units from their electrical resistivities and seismic P-wave velocities using appropriate petrophysical models. In the interpretation of our preferred model, a shallow ˜40 m thick freshwater sandy aquifer with 85-100 Ωm resistivity, 10-32 per cent interconnected porosity and <13 per cent clay content overlies a 105-115 m thick conductive sequence of clay and intercalated salt-water-saturated sands with 15-20 Ωm total resistivity, 1-27 per cent interconnected porosity and 15-60 per cent clay content. A third ˜60 m thick sandy layer with 40-50 Ωm resistivity, 10-33 per cent interconnected porosity and <15 per cent clay content is underlain by the basement with 3200-4000 Ωm total resistivity. According to an interpretation of helicopter TEM data that cover the entire Okavango Delta and borehole logs, the second and third layers may represent lacustrine sediments from Paleo Lake Makgadikgadi and a moderately resistive freshwater aquifer comprising sediments of the recently proposed Paleo Okavango Megafan, respectively.

Coal Layer Identification using Electrical Resistivity Imaging Method in Sinjai Area South Sulawesi

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ilham Samanlangi, Andi

2018-03-01

The purpose of this research is to image subsurface resistivity for coal identification in Panaikang Village, Sinjai, South Sulawesi.Resistivity measurements were conducted in 3 lines of length 400 meters and 300 meter using resistivity imaging, dipole-dipole configuration. Resistivity data was processed using Res2DInv software to image resistivity variation and interpret lithology. The research results shown that coal resistivity in Line is about 70-200 Ωm, Line 2 is about 70-90 Ωm, and Line 3 is about 70-200 Ωm with average thickness about 10 meters and distributed to the east of research area.

Verification of flux measurements made with in situ benthic chambers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Devol, Allan H.

1987-06-01

Exchange of solutes between the sediments and overlying water was measured in situ at two locations where the overlying waters were devoid of dissolved oxygen (Skan Bay, Alaska and the Tres Marias depression on the Mexican continental shelf). Measurements were made with a tripod capable of collecting eight sequential samples for analysis of dissolved gases and ions. The tripod also permitted tracer injection and the retrieval of sediments underlying the flux chambers. Because of the absence of oxygen, sediments from these areas did not contain benthic faunal populations, and it was possible to compare the benthic fluxes measured with the tripod with those calculated from pore water profiles. For solutes for which exchange was not limited by resistance in the diffuse sublayer (alkalinity, Si(OH) 4+, NH 4+, and PO 43-), tje 11 tirpod-measured fluxes agreed with those calculated from pore water gradients to within 25%. Benthic boundary layer thickness within the chambers as calculated from the initial rate of radiotracer uptake (tritiated water) varied from 405 to 605 μm in stirred chambers. Measured rates of NO 3- uptake were concordant with a boundary layer thickness of 600 μm.

Growth condition optimization and mobility enhancement through prolonging the GaN nuclei coalescence process of AlGaN/AlN/GaN structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Xiao-Guang; Zhao, De-Gang; Jiang, De-Sheng; Zhu, Jian-Jun; Chen, Ping; Liu, Zong-Shun; Le, Ling-Cong; Yang, Jing; Li, Xiao-Jing; Zhang, Shu-Ming; Yang, Hui

2015-09-01

AlGaN/AlN/GaN structures are grown by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy on sapphire substrates. Influences of AlN interlayer thickness, AlGaN barrier thickness, and Al composition on the two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) performance are investigated. Lowering the V/III ratio and enhancing the reactor pressure at the initial stage of the high-temperature GaN layer growth will prolong the GaN nuclei coalescence process and effectively improve the crystalline quality and the interface morphology, diminishing the interface roughness scattering and improving 2DEG mobility. AlGaN/AlN/GaN structure with 2DEG sheet density of 1.19 × 1013 cm-2, electron mobility of 2101 cm2·V-1·s-1, and square resistance of 249 Ω is obtained. Project support by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 61474110, 61377020, 61376089, 61223005, and 61176126), the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars, China (Grant No. 60925017), the One Hundred Person Project of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and the Basic Research Project of Jiangsu Province, China (Grant No. BK20130362).

Synthesis and Evaluation of Thick Films of Electrochemically Deposited Bi2Te3 and Sb2Te3 Thermoelectric Materials

PubMed Central

Trung, Nguyen Huu; Sakamoto, Kei; Toan, Nguyen Van; Ono, Takahito

2017-01-01

This paper presents the results of the synthesis and evaluation of thick thermoelectric films that may be used for such applications as thermoelectric power generators. Two types of electrochemical deposition methods, constant and pulsed deposition with improved techniques for both N-type bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) and P-type antimony telluride (Sb2Te3), are performed and compared. As a result, highly oriented Bi2Te3 and Sb2Te3 thick films with a bulk-like structure are successfully synthesized with high Seebeck coefficients and low electrical resistivities. Six hundred-micrometer-thick Bi2Te3 and 500-µm-thick Sb2Te3 films are obtained. The Seebeck coefficients for the Bi2Te3 and Sb2Te3 films are −150 ± 20 and 170 ± 20 µV/K, respectively. Additionally, the electrical resistivity for the Bi2Te3 is 15 ± 5 µΩm and is 25 ± 5 µΩm for the Sb2Te3. The power factors of each thermoelectric material can reach 15 × 10−4 W/mK2 for Bi2Te3 and 11.2 × 10−4 W/mK2 for Sb2Te3. PMID:28772511

NiCrNx interlayer thickness dependence of spectral performance and environmental durability of protected-silver mirrors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Xu; Li, Bincheng; He, Wenyan; Wang, Changjun; Wei, Ming

2018-04-01

Gemini-style protected-silver mirror (Sub / NiCrNx / Ag / NiCrNx / SiNx / Air) is a suitable choice for optical instruments requiring both long-term environmental durability and high broadband reflectance. Three Gemini-style protected-silver mirrors with NiCrNx interlayer thicknesses between 0.1 and 0.6 nm were prepared by magnetron sputtering, and the dependences of spectral properties and environmental durability of these protected-silver mirrors on the thickness of NiCrNx interlayer between the silver layer and SiNx layer were investigated in-depth. The reflectance, transmittance and total scattering loss measurements, optical microscope, and scanning electron microscope imaging were employed to characterize the spectral properties and surface morphology, and accelerated environmental tests, including humidity test and salt fog test, were applied to investigate the environmental durability. The experimental results showed that both optical and corrosion-resistant properties of protected-silver mirrors were NiCrNx interlayer thickness dependent, and an optimum NiCrNx interlayer thickness should be ˜0.3 nm for Gemini-style protected-silver mirrors to have reasonably both high reflectance in a broadband spectral range from visible to far infrared and good corrosion resistance for long-lifetime applications in harsh environments.

Electrical Characteristics CuFe2O4 Thick Film Ceramics Made with Different Screen Size Utiizing Fe2O3 Nanopowder Derived from Yarosite for NTC Thermistor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wiendartun, Syarif, Dani Gustaman

2010-10-01

Fabrication of CuFe2O4 thick film ceramics utilizing Fe2O3 derived from yarosite using screen printing technique for NTC thermistor has been carried out. Effect of thickness variation due to different size of screen (screen 225; 300 and 375 mesh) has been studied. X-ray diffraction analyses (XRD) was done to know crystal structure and phases formation. SEM analyses was carried out to know microstructure of the films. Electrical properties characterization was done through measurement of electrical resistance at various temperatures (room temperature to 100° C). The XRD data showed that the films crystalize in tetragonal spinel. The SEM images showed that the screen with the smaller of the hole size, made the grain size was bigger. Electrical data showed that the larger the screen different size thickness variation (mesh), the larger the resistance, thermistor constant and sensitivity. From the electrical characteristics data, it was known that the electrical characteristics of the CuFe2O4 thick film ceramics followed the NTC characteristic. The value of B and RRT of the produced CuFe2O4 ceramics namely B = 3241-3484 K and RRT = 25.6-87.0 M Ohm, fitted market requirement.

Five-Year Follow-up of Knee Joint Distraction: Clinical Benefit and Cartilaginous Tissue Repair in an Open Uncontrolled Prospective Study.

PubMed

van der Woude, Jan-Ton A D; Wiegant, Karen; van Roermund, Peter M; Intema, Femke; Custers, Roel J H; Eckstein, Felix; van Laar, Jaap M; Mastbergen, Simon C; Lafeber, Floris P J G

2017-07-01

Objective In end-stage knee osteoarthritis, total knee arthroplasty (TKA) may finally become inevitable. At a relatively young age, this comes with the risk of future revision surgery. Therefore, in these cases, joint preserving surgery such as knee joint distraction (KJD) is preferred. Here we present 5-year follow-up data of KJD. Design Patients ( n = 20; age <60 years) with conservative therapy resistant tibiofemoral osteoarthritis considered for TKA were treated. Clinical evaluation was performed by questionnaires. Change in cartilage thickness was quantified on radiographs and magnetic resonance images (MRI). The 5-year changes after KJD were evaluated and compared with the natural progression of osteoarthritis using Osteoarthritis Initiative data. Results Five-years posttreatment, patients still reported clinical improvement from baseline: ΔWOMAC (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index) +21.1 points (95% CI +8.9 to +33.3; P = 0.002), ΔVAS (visual analogue scale score) pain -27.6 mm (95%CI -13.3 to -42.0; P < 0.001), and minimum radiographic joint space width (JSW) of the most affected compartment (MAC) remained increased as well: Δ +0.43 mm (95% CI +0.02 to +0.84; P = 0.040). Improvement of mean JSW (x-ray) and mean cartilage thickness (MRI) of the MAC, were not statistically different from baseline anymore (Δ +0.26 mm; P = 0.370, and Δ +0.23 mm; P = 0.177). Multivariable linear regression analysis indicated that KJD treatment was associated with significantly less progression in mean and min JSW (x-ray) and mean cartilage thickness (MRI) compared with natural progression (all Ps <0.001). Conclusions KJD treatment results in prolonged clinical benefit, potentially explained by an initial boost of cartilaginous tissue repair that provides a long-term tissue structure benefit as compared to natural progression. Level of evidence, II.

Effect of core thickness differences on post-fatigue indentation fracture resistance of veneered zirconia crowns.

PubMed

Alhasanyah, Abdulrahman; Vaidyanathan, Tritala K; Flinton, Robert J

2013-07-01

Despite the excellent esthetics of veneered zirconia crowns, the incidence of chipping and fracture of veneer porcelain on zirconia crowns has been recognized to be higher than in metal ceramic crowns. The objective of this investigation was to study the effect of selected variations in core thickness on the post-fatigue fracture resistance of veneer porcelain on zirconia crowns. Zirconia crowns for veneering were prepared with three thickness designs of (a) uniform 0.6-mm thick core (group A), (b) extra-thick 1.7 mm occlusal core support (group B), and (c) uniform 1.2-mm thick core (group C). The copings were virtually designed and milled by the CAD/CAM technique. Metal ceramic copings (group D) with the same design as in group C were used as controls. A sample size of N = 20 was used for each group. The copings were veneered with compatible porcelain and fatigue tested under a sinusoidal loading regimen. Loading was done with a 200 N maximum force amplitude under Hertzian axial loading conditions at the center of the crowns using a spherical tungsten carbide indenter. After 100,000 fatigue cycles, the crowns were axially loaded to fracture and maximum load levels before fracture was recorded. One-way ANOVA (P < 0.05) and post hoc Tukey tests (α = 0.05) were used to determine significant differences between means. The mean fracture failure load of group B was not significantly different from that of control group D. In contrast, the mean failure loads of groups A and C were significantly lower than that of control group D. Failure patterns also indicated distinct differences in failure mode distributions. The results suggest that proper occlusal core support improves veneer chipping fracture resistance in zirconia crowns. Extra-thick occlusal core support for porcelain veneer may significantly reduce the veneer chipping and fracture of zirconia crowns. This is suggested as an important consideration in the design of copings for zirconia crowns. © 2013 by the American College of Prosthodontists.

46 CFR 164.006-4 - Inspection and testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... attachments shall be incorporated in the samples. Each sample shall be heated in a furnace whose temperature... minutes—60 percent light transmission. 60 minutes—50 percent light transmission. (c) Fire resistance and integrity tests. (1) A sample of each thickness submitted shall be tested for fire resistance and integrity...

46 CFR 164.006-4 - Inspection and testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... attachments shall be incorporated in the samples. Each sample shall be heated in a furnace whose temperature... minutes—60 percent light transmission. 60 minutes—50 percent light transmission. (c) Fire resistance and integrity tests. (1) A sample of each thickness submitted shall be tested for fire resistance and integrity...

46 CFR 164.006-4 - Inspection and testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... attachments shall be incorporated in the samples. Each sample shall be heated in a furnace whose temperature... minutes—60 percent light transmission. 60 minutes—50 percent light transmission. (c) Fire resistance and integrity tests. (1) A sample of each thickness submitted shall be tested for fire resistance and integrity...

46 CFR 164.006-4 - Inspection and testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... attachments shall be incorporated in the samples. Each sample shall be heated in a furnace whose temperature... minutes—60 percent light transmission. 60 minutes—50 percent light transmission. (c) Fire resistance and integrity tests. (1) A sample of each thickness submitted shall be tested for fire resistance and integrity...

30 CFR 7.48 - Acid resistance test.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... MINING PRODUCTS TESTING BY APPLICANT OR THIRD PARTY Battery Assemblies § 7.48 Acid resistance test. (a) Test procedures. (1) Prepare one sample each of the insulated surfaces of the battery box and of the... insulation plus the battery cover or box material. The insulation thickness shall be representative of that...

30 CFR 7.48 - Acid resistance test.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... MINING PRODUCTS TESTING BY APPLICANT OR THIRD PARTY Battery Assemblies § 7.48 Acid resistance test. (a) Test procedures. (1) Prepare one sample each of the insulated surfaces of the battery box and of the... insulation plus the battery cover or box material. The insulation thickness shall be representative of that...

Simulation on Effect of Preform Diameter in Injection Stretch Blow Molding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Z. Q.; Rosli, Nurrina; Oktaviandri, Muchamad

2018-03-01

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is the most common material of resin for manufacturing plastic bottle by injection stretch blow molding due to its excellent properties. As various issues of health and environmental hazards due to the PET use have risen, PET bottle manufacture may be improved by minimizing the wall thickness to reduce the PET use. One of the critical qualifications of the manufacturing process which lead to the wall thickness distribution is the initial preform diameter. In this project, we used the ANSYS Polyflow with aim to evaluate the wall thickness distribution of PET bottle for different diameter of initial preform. As a result, only 4 mm preform diameter presented wall thickness below than 1 mm. On the other hand, at least 6 mm preform diameter can permit the wall thickness 1.3 mm i.e. at the shoulder area.

Crack Initiation and Growth in Rigid Polymeric Closed-Cell Foam Cryogenic Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sayyah, Tarek; Steeve, Brian; Wells, Doug

2006-01-01

Cryogenic vessels, such as the Space Shuttle External Tank, are often insulated with closed-cell foam because of its low thermal conductivity. The coefficient of thermal expansion mismatch between the foam and metallic substrate places the foam under a biaxial tension gradient through the foam thickness. The total foam thickness affects the slope of the stress gradient and is considered a significant contributor to the initiation of subsurface cracks. Rigid polymeric foams are brittle in nature and any subsurface cracks tend to propagate a finite distance toward the surface. This presentation investigates the relationship between foam thickness and crack initiation and subsequent crack growth, using linear elastic fracture mechanics, in a rigid polymeric closed-cell foam through analysis and comparison with experimental results.

Characterization of micro-contact resistance between a gold nanocrystalline line and a tungsten electrode probe in interconnect fatigue testing

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

Ling, Xue; Wang, Yusheng; Li, Xide, E-mail: lixide@tsinghua.edu.cn

An electromechanically-coupled micro-contact resistance measurement system is built to mimic the contact process during fatigue testing of nanoscale-thickness interconnects using multiple probe methods. The design combines an optical microscope, high-resolution electronic balance, and micromanipulator-controlled electric probe, and is coupled with electrical measurements to investigate microscale contact physics. Experimental measurements are performed to characterize the contact resistance response of the gold nanocrystalline pad of a 35-nm-thick interconnect under mechanical force applied by a tungsten electrode probe. Location of a stable region for the contact resistance and the critical contact force provides better understanding of micro-contact behavior relative to the effects ofmore » the contact force and the nature of the contact surface. Increasing contact temperature leads to reduced contact resistance, softens the pad material, and modifies the contact surface. The stability of both contact resistance and interconnect resistance is studied under increasing contact force. Major fluctuations emerge when the contact force is less than the critical contact force, which shows that temporal contact resistance will affect interconnect resistance measurement accuracy, even when using the four-wire method. This performance is demonstrated experimentally by heating the Au line locally with a laser beam. Finally, the contact resistances are calculated using the LET (Li–Etsion–Talke) model together with combined Holm and Sharvin theory under various contact forces. Good agreement between the results is obtained. This research provides a way to measure change in interconnect line resistance directly under a stable contact resistance regime with a two-wire method that will greatly reduce the experimental costs.« less

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 chemistry, anode resistance, circuit resistance, electrochemical age, and air and water permeability. Models are presented for the operation of periodically-wetted and unwetted thermal spray Zn anodes from the initial energizing of the anode to the end of its service life. The models were developed in terms of bond strength, circuit resistance, anode-concrete interfacial chemistry, electrochemical age, and anode condition. The most significant results of the research are: (1) preheating concrete surfaces prior to coating with Zn is unnecessary; (2) anodes generally fail due to loss of bond strength rather than Zn consumption; (3) Unwetted anodes fail more quickly than periodically-wetted anodes; (4) 0.47-0.60 mm (12-15 mil) anode thickness is adequate for most Oregon DOT coastal impressed current CP (ICCP) installations; (5) based on bond strength, thermal spray Zn ICCP anode service life is approximately 27 years at 0.0022 A/m2 (0.2 mA/ft2); (6) anode reaction products alter the anode-concrete interface by rejecting Ca from the cement paste, by replacing it with Zn, and by the accumulation of a Zn mineral layer that includes chloride and sulfur compounds; (7) CP system circuit resistance provides an effective means for monitoring the condition of Zn ICCP anodes as they age.« less

Mechanism for detecting NAPL using electrical resistivity imaging.

PubMed

Halihan, Todd; Sefa, Valina; Sale, Tom; Lyverse, Mark

2017-10-01

The detection of non-aqueous phase liquid (NAPL) related impacts in freshwater environments by electrical resistivity imaging (ERI) has been clearly demonstrated in field conditions, but the mechanism generating the resistive signature is poorly understood. An electrical barrier mechanism which allows for detecting NAPLs with ERI is tested by developing a theoretical basis for the mechanism, testing the mechanism in a two-dimensional sand tank with ERI, and performing forward modeling of the laboratory experiment. The NAPL barrier theory assumes at low bulk soil NAPL concentrations, thin saturated NAPL barriers can block pore throats and generate a detectable electrically resistive signal. The sand tank experiment utilized a photographic technique to quantify petroleum saturation, and to help determine whether ERI can detect and quantify NAPL across the water table. This experiment demonstrates electrical imaging methods can detect small quantities of NAPL of sufficient thickness in formations. The bulk volume of NAPL is not the controlling variable for the amount of resistivity signal generated. The resistivity signal is primarily due to a zone of high resistivity separate phase liquid blocking current flow through the fully NAPL saturated pores spaces. For the conditions in this tank experiment, NAPL thicknesses of 3.3cm and higher in the formation was the threshold for detectable changes in resistivity of 3% and greater. The maximum change in resistivity due to the presence of NAPL was an increase of 37%. Forward resistivity models of the experiment confirm the barrier mechanism theory for the tank experiment. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Spatial and thickness dependence of coupling interaction of surface states and influence on transport and optical properties of few-layer Bi2Se3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Zhongjun; Chen, Shi; Sun, Jiuyu; Li, Xingxing; Qiu, Huaili; Yang, Jinlong

2018-02-01

Coupling interaction between the bottom and top surface electronic states and the influence on transport and optical properties of Bi2Se3 thin films with 1-8 quintuple layers (QLs) have been investigated by first principles calculations. Obvious spatial and thickness dependences of coupling interaction are found by analyzing hybridization of two surface states. In the thin film with a certain thickness, from the outer to inner atomic layers, the coupling interaction exhibits an increasing trend. On the other hand, as thickness increases, the coupling interaction shows a disproportionate decrease trend. Moreover, the system with 3 QLs exhibits stronger interaction than that with 2 QLs. The presence of coupling interaction would suppress destructive interference of surface states and enhance resistance in various degrees. In view of the inversely proportional relation to transport channel width, the resistance of thin films should show disproportionate thickness dependence. This prediction is qualitatively consistent with the transport measurements at low temperature. Furthermore, the optical properties also exhibit obvious thickness dependence. Especially as the thickness increases, the coupling interaction results in red and blue shifts of the multiple-peak structures in low and high energy regions of imaginary dielectric function, respectively. The red shift trend is in agreement with the recent experimental observation and the blue shift is firstly predicted by the present calculation. The present results give a concrete understanding of transport and optical properties in devices based on Bi2Se3 thin films with few QLs.

Coincident Above- and Below-ground Autonomous Monitoring to Quantify Co-variability in Permafrost, Soil and Vegetation Properties in Arctic Tundra: Supporting Data

DOE Data Explorer

Baptiste Dafflon; Rusen Oktem; John Peterson; Craig Ulrich; Anh Phuong Tran; Vladimir Romanovsky; Susan Hubbard

2017-05-10

The dataset contains measurements obtained through electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) to monitor soil properties, pole-mounted optical cameras to monitor vegetation dynamics, point probes to measure soil temperature, and periodic manual measurements of thaw layer thickness, snow thickness and soil dielectric permittivity.

Article and method for making an article

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

Lacy, Benjamin Paul; Schick, David Edward; Kottilingam, Srikanth Chandrudu

An article and a method for making shaped cooling holes in an article are provided. The method includes the steps of providing a metal alloy powder; forming an initial layer with the metal alloy powder, the initial layer having a preselected thickness and a preselected shape, the preselected shape including at least one aperture; sequentially forming an additional layer over the initial layer with the metal alloy powder, the additional layer having a second preselected thickness and a second preselected shape, the second preselected shape including at least one aperture corresponding to the at least one aperture in the initialmore » layer; and joining the additional layer to the initial layer, forming a structure having a predetermined thickness, a predetermined shape, and at least one aperture having a predetermined profile. The structure is attached to a substrate to make the article.« less

Analyse de la formation des phases du systeme cuivre-germanium par diffraction des rayons X sur des echantillons d'epaisseur nanoscopique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aubin, Alexandre

With the miniaturization of electronic devices, driven by cost reduction and performance increase, new materials have to be introduced in their fabrication process to solve many emerging problems. These challenges are brought forth by the ITRS (International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors), a comity in charge of listing the technological needs for the upcoming generations of integrated circuits. Many fields of interest require new technological developments, from global to local interconnections, the transistor gate, the gate insulator thickness, etc. One of the major challenges mentioned in the ITRS roadmap is the need for a new interconnection material. Indeed, the need for a diffusion barrier for the copper lines in local and global interconnections of integrated circuits, the main technology in today's devices, is becoming more hindering with the decrease of the metallization lines. cross-section. In the 90's, a binary compound of copper and germanium, known as the epsilon1-Cu3Ge phase, was investigated as a replacement for aluminum because of its low resistivity, that can reach as low as 5.5muO·cm [1], its stability in contact with both silicon and silicon oxide [2] as well as its thermal stability during anneals [3]. However, copper proved to be a better choice at the time because of its low bulk resistivity of 1.68muO·cm at room temperature[4]. The objective of this master thesis is to re-examine the copper-germanium system, and more specifically the epsilon1-Cu3Ge, for future applications in the microelectronics industry. Different X ray diffraction techniques were used to obtain more information on the system, including in situ X ray diffraction during 3°C/s anneals in an inert helium atmosphere with simultaneous resistance measurement, theta-2theta scans to detect diffraction peaks of the present phases after sample quenching as well as partial acquisition of the reciprocal space of quenched samples which allowed to obtain pole figures for d-spacings of interest. Results obtained on germanium and copper bilayers of total thicknesses between 20nm and 89nm deposited on an inert silicon nitride layer using magnetron sputtering in an MRC-673 show that with an atomic copper concentration between 72 and 87%, the epsilon1-Cu3Ge phase starts to form between 180°C and 210°C during a 3°C/s ramp anneal. At 72% at. copper (50nm thickness) and 75% at. copper (20nm thickness), the epsilon1-Cu3Ge phase is stable above 500°C. However, the measured resistance of the 50nm sample is low between 220°C and 500°C while measured resistance for the 20nm sample it decreases by 45% between 205 and 540°C. At a temperature of 540°C, measured resistance is 10% smaller than on the initial bilayer at room temperature. This value of measured resistance is the same at the end of the measurement during the cooling of the sample at 230°C., which implies that the low resistance is kept after the phase formation. Smaller technology nodes may then require higher formation temperatures to completely form the epsilon1-Cu3Ge phase. Further challenges thus exist to make epsilon1-Cu3Ge interconnections in modern microelectronics devices. Tests with deposition techniques like co-deposition and multilayer stacks of germanium and copper must be made to determine if they can help resolve this problem. Another field of interest for further tests are isothermal anneals, which would allow the formation of the epsilon1-Cu3Ge phase during longer anneals at lower temperatures. This thesis also allowed the acquisition of the phase formation sequence of different samples thicknesses between 20 and 89nm and copper concentrations between 72 and 87% atomic copper during 3°C/s anneals up to 850°C using in situ X ray diffraction. Brand new information was acquired on the metastable phases of the copper-germanium system. Observed diffraction peaks allowed to confirm the crystalline structures observed by Schubert and Brandauer in the 50's [5] as well as estimate the cell parameter of the body centered cubic epsilon2- Cu3Ge, which is approximately 5.03 A. Simultaneous formation of zeta-Cu5Ge and epsilon1-Cu 3Ge was also observed in a 82 % at. copper sample, which had not previously been reported in the literature.

Adolescent cortical thickness pre- and post marijuana and alcohol initiation.

PubMed

Jacobus, Joanna; Castro, Norma; Squeglia, Lindsay M; Meloy, M J; Brumback, Ty; Huestis, Marilyn A; Tapert, Susan F

Cortical thickness abnormalities have been identified in youth using both alcohol and marijuana. However, limited studies have followed individuals pre- and post initiation of alcohol and marijuana use to help identify to what extent discrepancies in structural brain integrity are pre-existing or substance-related. Adolescents (N=69) were followed from ages 13 (pre-initiation of substance use, baseline) to ages 19 (post-initiation, follow-up). Three subgroups were identified, participants that initiated alcohol use (ALC, n=23, >20 alcohol use episodes), those that initiated both alcohol and marijuana use (ALC+MJ, n=23, >50 marijuana use episodes) and individuals that did not initiate either substance regularly by follow-up (CON, n=23, <3 alcohol use episodes, no marijuana use episodes). All adolescents underwent neurocognitive testing, neuroimaging, and substance use and mental health interviews. Significant group by time interactions and main effects on cortical thickness estimates were identified for 18 cortical regions spanning the left and right hemisphere (ps<0.05). The vast majority of findings suggest a more substantial decrease, or within-subjects effect, in cortical thickness by follow-up for individuals who have not initiated regular substance use or alcohol use only by age 19; modest between-group differences were identified at baseline in several cortical regions (ALC and CON>ALC+MJ). Minimal neurocognitive differences were observed in this sample. Findings suggest pre-existing neural differences prior to marijuana use may contribute to initiation of use and observed neural outcomes. Marijuana use may also interfere with thinning trajectories that contribute to morphological differences in young adulthood that are often observed in cross-sectional studies of heavy marijuana users. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Adolescent Cortical Thickness Pre- and Post Marijuana and Alcohol Initiation

PubMed Central

Jacobus, Joanna; Castro, Norma; Squeglia, Lindsay M.; Meloy, M.J.; Brumback, Ty; Huestis, Marilyn; Tapert, Susan F.

2016-01-01

Cortical thickness abnormalities have been identified in youth using both alcohol and marijuana. However, limited studies have followed individuals pre- and post initiation of alcohol and marijuana use to help identify to what extent discrepancies in structural brain integrity are pre-existing or substance-related. Adolescents (N=69) were followed from ages 13 (pre-initiation of substance use, baseline) to ages 19 (post-initiation, follow-up). Three subgroups were identified, participants that initiated alcohol use (ALC, n=23, >20 alcohol use episodes), those that initiated both alcohol and marijuana use (ALC+MJ, n=23, >50 marijuana use episodes) and individuals that did not initiate either substance regularly by follow-up (CON, n=23, <3 alcohol use episodes, no marijuana use episodes). All adolescents underwent neurocognitive testing, neuroimaging, and substance use and mental health interviews. Significant group by time interactions and main effects on cortical thickness estimates were identified for 18 cortical regions spanning the left and right hemisphere (ps<.05). The vast majority of findings suggest a more substantial decrease, or within-subjects effect, in cortical thickness by follow-up for individuals who have not initiated regular substance use or alcohol use only by age 19; modest between-group differences were identified at baseline in several cortical regions (ALC and CON>ALC+MJ). Minimal neurocognitive differences were observed in this sample. Findings suggest pre-existing neural differences prior to marijuana use may contribute to initiation of use and observed neural outcomes. Marijuana use may also interfere with thinning trajectories that contribute to morphological differences in young adulthood that are often observed in cross-sectional studies of heavy marijuana users. PMID:27687470

Development of an Anti-Corrosion Conductive Nano Carbon Coating Layer on Metal Bipolar Plates.

PubMed

Yeo, Kiho; Kim, Juyong; Kim, Jongryoul

2018-09-01

For automotive applications of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells, the enhancement of the corrosion resistance of metal bipolar plates has been a critical issue with regard to the lifespan of fuel cell stacks. In this paper, we present a novel method for increasing the lifespan by means of a conductive carbon coating on bipolar plates. Conductive carbon films were plasma coated onto metal bipolar plates in a vacuum at various temperatures. As a result, 316L stainless plates with a 10-nm-thick carbon coating layer on a 20-nm-thick CrN undercoat layer showed-contact resistance of 10.71 mΩcm2@10 kgf/cm2 and a corrosion current of 0.5 μA/cm2@0.6 V. This thin coating layer with high conductivity and excellent corrosion resistance suggests a new, effective coating method for the mass production of metal bipolar plates.

TEM measurement in a low resistivity overburden performed by using low temperature SQUID

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ji, Yanju; Du, Shangyu; Xie, Lijun; Chang, Kai; Liu, Yang; Zhang, Yi; Xie, Xiaoming; Wang, Yuan; Lin, Jun; Rong, Liangliang

2016-12-01

Exploration of areas with thick low resistivity overburden is still a challenge for time domain transient electromagnetic method (TEM). We report modeling of a sandwich-layered earth by simulating the B field response with different conductive target layer thicknesses, thus obtaining a relationship between the resolution of the B field and the exploration depth. A low temperature Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) is an ideal sensor for measuring the secondary magnetic field B in TEM measurements, because its sensitivity of several fT/√Hz is independent of frequency. In our TEM experiments, we utilized two different coils as receivers, a simple SQUID system, and a large transmitter loop of 200 × 200 m2 to compare the detected decay curves. At some measurement points, a decay signal of more than 300 ms duration was obtained by using the SQUID. Apparent resistivity profiles of about 9 km length are presented.

Effect of Pd Interlayer on Electrochemical Properties of ENIG Surface Finish in 3.5 wt.% NaCl Solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nam, N. D.; Bui, Q. V.; Nhan, H. T.; Phuong, D. V.; Bian, M. Z.

2014-09-01

The corrosion resistance of a multilayered (NiP-Pd-Au) coating with various thicknesses of palladium (Pd) interlayer deposited on copper by an electroless method was investigated using electrochemical techniques including potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. In addition, the surface finish was examined by x-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy, and the contact angle of the liquid-solid interface was recorded. The corrosion resistance of the copper substrate was considerably improved by Pd interlayer addition. Increase of the thickness of the Pd interlayer enhanced the performance of the Cu-NiP-Pd-Au coating due to low porosity, high protective efficiency, high charge-transfer resistance, and contact angle. These are attributed to the diffusion of layers in the Cu-NiP-Pd-Au coating acting as a physical barrier layer, leading to the protection provided by the coating.

Effects of Plasma ZrN Metallurgy and Shot Peening Duplex Treatment on Fretting Wear and Fretting Fatigue Behavior of Ti6Al4V Alloy.

PubMed

Tang, Jingang; Liu, Daoxin; Zhang, Xiaohua; Du, Dongxing; Yu, Shouming

2016-03-23

A metallurgical zirconium nitride (ZrN) layer was fabricated using glow metallurgy using nitriding with zirconiuming prior treatment of the Ti6Al4V alloy. The microstructure, composition and microhardness of the corresponding layer were studied. The influence of this treatment on fretting wear (FW) and fretting fatigue (FF) behavior of the Ti6Al4V alloy was studied. The composite layer consisted of an 8-μm-thick ZrN compound layer and a 50-μm-thick nitrogen-rich Zr-Ti solid solution layer. The surface microhardness of the composite layer is 1775 HK 0.1 . A gradient in cross-sectional microhardness distribution exists in the layer. The plasma ZrN metallurgical layer improves the FW resistance of the Ti6Al4V alloy, but reduces the base FF resistance. This occurs because the improvement in surface hardness results in lowering of the toughness and increasing in the notch sensitivity. Compared with shot peening treatment, plasma ZrN metallurgy and shot peening composite treatment improves the FW resistance and enhances the FF resistance of the Ti6Al4V alloy. This is attributed to the introduction of a compressive stress field. The combination of toughness, strength, FW resistance and fatigue resistance enhance the FF resistance for titanium alloy.

Effects of Plasma ZrN Metallurgy and Shot Peening Duplex Treatment on Fretting Wear and Fretting Fatigue Behavior of Ti6Al4V Alloy

PubMed Central

Tang, Jingang; Liu, Daoxin; Zhang, Xiaohua; Du, Dongxing; Yu, Shouming

2016-01-01

A metallurgical zirconium nitride (ZrN) layer was fabricated using glow metallurgy using nitriding with zirconiuming prior treatment of the Ti6Al4V alloy. The microstructure, composition and microhardness of the corresponding layer were studied. The influence of this treatment on fretting wear (FW) and fretting fatigue (FF) behavior of the Ti6Al4V alloy was studied. The composite layer consisted of an 8-μm-thick ZrN compound layer and a 50-μm-thick nitrogen-rich Zr–Ti solid solution layer. The surface microhardness of the composite layer is 1775 HK0.1. A gradient in cross-sectional microhardness distribution exists in the layer. The plasma ZrN metallurgical layer improves the FW resistance of the Ti6Al4V alloy, but reduces the base FF resistance. This occurs because the improvement in surface hardness results in lowering of the toughness and increasing in the notch sensitivity. Compared with shot peening treatment, plasma ZrN metallurgy and shot peening composite treatment improves the FW resistance and enhances the FF resistance of the Ti6Al4V alloy. This is attributed to the introduction of a compressive stress field. The combination of toughness, strength, FW resistance and fatigue resistance enhance the FF resistance for titanium alloy. PMID:28773345

Spectra of surface plasmon polariton enhanced electroluminescence from electroformed Al-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Ag diodes

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

Hickmott, T. W.

Narrow band-pass filters have been used to measure the spectral distribution of electroluminescent photons with energies between 1.8 eV and 3.0 eV from electroformed Al-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Ag diodes with anodic Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} thicknesses between 12 nm and 18 nm. Electroforming of metal-insulator-metal (MIM) diodes is a non-destructive dielectric breakdown that results in a conducting channel in the insulator and changes the initial high resistance of the MIM diode to a low resistance state. It is a critical step in the development of resistive-switching memories that utilize MIM diodes as the active element. Electroforming of Al-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Ag diodes in vacuum results in voltage-controlledmore » negative resistance (VCNR) in the current-voltage (I-V) characteristics. Electroluminescence (EL) and electron emission into vacuum (EM) develop simultaneously with the current increase that results in VCNR in the I-V characteristics. EL is due to recombination of electrons injected at the Al-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} interface with radiative defect centers in Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}. Measurements of EL photons between 1.8 eV and 3.0 eV using a wide band-pass filter showed that EL intensity is exponentially dependent on Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} thickness for Al-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Ag diodes between 12 nm and 20 nm thick. Enhanced El intensity in the thinnest diodes is attributed to an increase in the spontaneous emission rate of recombination centers due to high electromagnetic fields generated in Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} when EL photons interact with electrons in Ag or Al to form surface plasmon polaritons at the Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Ag or Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Al interface. El intensity is a maximum at 2.0–2.2 eV for Al-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Ag diodes with Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} thicknesses between 12 nm and 18 nm. EL in diodes with 12 nm or 14 nm of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} is enhanced by factors of 8–10 over EL from a diode with 18 nm of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}. The extent of EL enhancement in the thinnest diodes can vary significantly between samples. A narrow band of recombination centers was found in one Al-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Ag diode with 12 nm of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}; it had EL intensity 100 times greater at 2.15 eV than the diode with 18 nm of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}. EL intensity for photons with energies greater than 2.6 eV is nearly the same for all diodes.« less

Using direct current resistivity sounding and geostatistics to aid in hydrogeological studies in the Choshuichi alluvial fan, Taiwan.

PubMed

Yang, Chieh-Hou; Lee, Wei-Feng

2002-01-01

Ground water reservoirs in the Choshuichi alluvial fan, central western Taiwan, were investigated using direct-current (DC) resistivity soundings at 190 locations, combined with hydrogeological measurements from 37 wells. In addition, attempts were made to calculate aquifer transmissivity from both surface DC resistivity measurements and geostatistically derived predictions of aquifer properties. DC resistivity sounding data are highly correlated to the hydraulic parameters in the Choshuichi alluvial fan. By estimating the spatial distribution of hydraulic conductivity from the kriged well data and the cokriged thickness of the correlative aquifer from both resistivity sounding data and well information, the transmissivity of the aquifer at each location can be obtained from the product of kriged hydraulic conductivity and computed thickness of the geoelectric layer. Thus, the spatial variation of the transmissivities in the study area is obtained. Our work is more comparable to Ahmed et al. (1988) than to the work of Niwas and Singhal (1981). The first "constraint" from Niwas and Singhal's work is a result of their use of linear regression. The geostatistical approach taken here (and by Ahmed et al. [1988]) is a natural improvement on the linear regression approach.

A novel and generalized approach in the inversion of geoelectrical resistivity data using Artificial Neural Networks (ANN)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raj, A. Stanley; Srinivas, Y.; Oliver, D. Hudson; Muthuraj, D.

2014-03-01

The non-linear apparent resistivity problem in the subsurface study of the earth takes into account the model parameters in terms of resistivity and thickness of individual subsurface layers using the trained synthetic data by means of Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). Here we used a single layer feed-forward neural network with fast back propagation learning algorithm. So on proper training of back propagation networks it tends to give the resistivity and thickness of the subsurface layer model of the field resistivity data with reference to the synthetic data trained in the appropriate network. During training, the weights and biases of the network are iteratively adjusted to make network performance function level more efficient. On adequate training, errors are minimized and the best result is obtained using the artificial neural networks. The network is trained with more number of VES data and this trained network is demonstrated by the field data. The accuracy of inversion depends upon the number of data trained. In this novel and specially designed algorithm, the interpretation of the vertical electrical sounding has been done successfully with the more accurate layer model.

Measurement of resistance switching dynamics in copper sulfide memristor structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCreery, Kaitlin; Olson, Matthew; Teitsworth, Stephen

Resistance switching materials are the subject of current research in large part for their potential to enable novel computing devices and architectures such as resistance random access memories and neuromorphic chips. A common feature of memristive structures is the hysteretic switching between high and low resistance states which is induced by the application of a sufficiently large electric field. Here, we describe a relatively simple wet chemistry process to fabricate Cu2 S / Cu memristive structures with Cu2 S film thickness ranging up to 150 micron. In this case, resistance switching is believed to be mediated by electromigration of Cu ions from the Cu substrate into the Cu2 S film. Hysteretic current-voltage curves are measured and reveal switching voltages of about 0.8 Volts with a relatively large variance and independent of film thickness. In order to gain insight into the dynamics and variability of the switching process, we have measured the time-dependent current response to voltage pulses of varying height and duration with a time resolution of 1 ns. The transient response consists of a deterministic RC component as well as stochastically varying abrupt current steps that occur within a few microseconds of the pulse application.

A Six-Week Resistance Training Program Does Not Change Shear Modulus of the Triceps Brachii.

PubMed

Akagi, Ryota; Shikiba, Tomofumi; Tanaka, Jun; Takahashi, Hideyuki

2016-08-01

We investigated the effect of a 6-week resistance training program on the shear modulus of the triceps brachii (TB). Twenty-three young men were randomly assigned to either the training (n = 13) or control group (n = 10). Before and after conducting the resistance training program, the shear modulus of the long head of the TB was measured at the point 70% along the length of the upper arm from the acromial process of the scapula to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus using shear wave ultrasound elastography. Muscle thickness of the long head of the TB was also determined at the same site by ultrasonography used during both tests. A resistance exercise was performed 3 days a week for 6 weeks using a dumbbell mass-adjusted to 80% of the 1-repetition maximum (1RM). The training effect on the muscle thickness and 1RM was significant. Nevertheless, the muscle shear modulus was not significantly changed after the training program. From the perspective of muscle mechanical properties, the present results indicate that significant adaptation must occur to make the TB more resistant to subsequent damaging bouts during the 6-week training program to target the TB.

WATER STABILITY OF FILLED ELASTOMERS,

DTIC Science & Technology

ELECTRICAL INSULATION, *BUTYL RUBBER , ELASTOMERS, STABILITY, STABILITY, HYDROLYSIS, CURING AGENTS, ADDITIVES, WATER, ABSORPTION, THICKNESS, ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE, LEAKAGE(ELECTRICAL), DIFFUSION, TALC, ELECTRIC CABLES.

Finite plate thickness effects on the Rayleigh-Taylor instability in elastic-plastic materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Polavarapu, Rinosh; Banerjee, Arindam

2017-11-01

The majority of theoretical studies have tackled the Rayleigh-Taylor instability (RTI) problem in solids using an infinitely thick plate. Recent theoretical studies by Piriz et al. (PRE 95, 053108, 2017) have explored finite thickness effects. We seek to validate this recent theoretical estimate experimentally using our rotating wheel RTI experiment in an accelerated elastic-plastic material. The test section consists of a container filled with air and mayonnaise (a non-Newtonian emulsion) with an initial perturbation between two materials. The plate thickness effects are studied by varying the depth of the soft-solid. A set of experiments is run by employing different initial conditions with different container dimensions. Additionally, the effect of acceleration rate (driving pressure rise time) on the instability threshold with reference to the finite thickness will also be inspected. Furthermore, the experimental results are compared to the analytical strength models related to finite thickness effects on RTI. Authors acknowledge financial support from DOE-SSAA Grant # DE-NA0003195 and LANL subcontract #370333.

Relations among Adiposity and Insulin Resistance with Flow-Mediated Dilation, Carotid Intima-Media Thickness, and Arterial Stiffness in Children.

PubMed

Ryder, Justin R; Dengel, Donald R; Jacobs, David R; Sinaiko, Alan R; Kelly, Aaron S; Steinberger, Julia

2016-01-01

To determine the associations of adiposity and insulin resistance with measures of vascular structure and function in children. A cross-sectional study included 252 children (age 15.1 ± 2.4 years; body mass index percentile 68.2 ± 26.5%; Tanner 2-5). Measurements of body fat percentage were obtained with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) with computed tomography. Insulin resistance was measured with hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp. Vascular measurements for endothelial function (brachial artery flow-mediated dilation [FMD]), vascular structure (carotid intima-media thickness [cIMT]), vascular stiffness (carotid incremental elastic modulus), and pulse wave velocity were analyzed by tertiles of adiposity and insulin resistance. Additional analyses with ANCOVA and linear regression were adjusted for Tanner, sex, race, and family relationship; FMD was also adjusted for baseline artery diameter. FMD was positively associated with high adiposity (body mass index, body fat percentage, and VAT) (P < .01 all). Insulin resistance was not associated with FMD. cIMT was significantly, positively related to obesity, VAT, and insulin resistance (P < .05 all). No differences in carotid incremental elastic modulus and pulse wave velocity were observed in relation to adiposity or insulin resistance. The findings suggest that adiposity is associated with higher FMD, and insulin resistance and VAT are associated with higher cIMT in children. Further research is needed to clarify the progression of these relations. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of thickness on electrical properties of SILAR deposited SnS thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akaltun, Yunus; Astam, Aykut; Cerhan, Asena; ćayir, Tuba

2016-03-01

Tin sulfide (SnS) thin films of different thickness were prepared on glass substrates by successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method at room temperature using tin (II) chloride and sodium sulfide aqueous solutions. The thicknesses of the films were determined using spectroscopic ellipsometry measurements and found to be 47.2, 65.8, 111.0, and 128.7nm for 20, 25, 30 and 35 deposition cycles respectively. The electrical properties of the films were investigated using d.c. two-point probe method at room temperature and the results showed that the resistivity was found to decrease with increasing film thickness.

Sensitivity of dual-wall structures under hypervelocity impact to multi-layer thermal insulation thickness and placement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schonberg, William P.

1993-04-01

Results are presented from an experimental study in which Al dual-wall structures were tested, under various high-speed impact conditions, with a view to the effect of multilayer insulation thickness and location on perforation resistance. Attention is given to comparisons of the damage sustained by dual-wall systems with multilayer insulation blankets of various thicknesses and at various locations within the dual-wall system, under comparable impact loading conditions. The placement of the insulation has a significant effect on the ballistic limit of the dual-wall structures considered, while reducing insulation thickness by as much as a third did not.

Cuticular colour reflects underlying architecture and is affected by a limiting resource.

PubMed

Evison, Sophie E F; Gallagher, Joe D; Thompson, John J W; Siva-Jothy, Michael T; Armitage, Sophie A O

2017-04-01

Central to the basis of ecological immunology are the ideas of costs and trade-offs between immunity and life history traits. As a physical barrier, the insect cuticle provides a key resistance trait, and Tenebrio molitor shows phenotypic variation in cuticular colour that correlates with resistance to the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae. Here we first examined whether there is a relationship between cuticular colour variation and two aspects of cuticular architecture that we hypothesised may influence resistance to fungal invasion through the cuticle: its thickness and its porosity. Second, we tested the hypothesis that tyrosine, a semi-essential amino acid required for immune defence and cuticular melanisation and sclerotisation, can act as a limiting resource by supplementing the larval diet and subsequently examining adult cuticular colouration and thickness. We found that stock beetles and beetles artificially selected for extremes of cuticular colour had thicker less porous cuticles when they were darker, and thinner more porous cuticles when they were lighter, showing that colour co-varies with two architectural cuticular features. Experimental supplementation of the larval diet with tyrosine led to the development of darker adult cuticle and affected thickness in a sex-specific manner. However, it did not affect two immune traits. The results of this study provide a mechanism for maintenance of cuticular colour variation in this species of beetle; darker cuticles are thicker, but their production is potentially limited by resource constraints and differential investments in resistance mechanisms between the sexes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A case study of liquefaction risk analysis based on the thickness and depth of the liquefaction layer using CPT and electric resistivity data in the Hinode area, Itako City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jinguuji, Motoharu; Toprak, Selcuk

2017-12-01

The Hinode area of Itako City in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, suffered some of the most severe liquefaction damage of any areas in the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake in 2011. This liquefaction damage has been investigated by Itako City, as well as by universities and research institutes in Japan. The National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) has carried out numerous investigations along the Tone River, and in particular, intensive surveys were done in the Hinode area. We have conducted a risk analysis based on the thickness and depth of the liquefaction layer measured using cone penetration testing (CPT) data and electric resistivity data obtained in the Hinode area. The distribution of the risk estimated from CPT at 143 points, and that obtained from analysis of the resistivity survey data, agreed with the distribution of actual damage. We also carried out conventional risk analyses method using the liquefaction resistance factor (FL) and liquefaction potential index (PL) methods with CPT data. The results show high PL values over the entire area, but their distribution did not agree well with actual damage in some parts of the study area. Because the analysis of the thickness and depth of the liquefaction layer, using geophysical prospecting methods, can cover a widespread area, this method will be very useful in investigating liquefaction risk, especially for gas and water pipelines.

Surface modification of SU8 photoresist for shrinkage improvement in a monolithic MEMS microstructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chung, C. K.; Hong, Y. Z.

2007-02-01

The effect of O2 plasma treatment on the surface property of exposed and unexposed SU8 photoresist has been investigated for the fabrication of a monolithic MEMS microstructure. It can solve the non-uniformity problem of second resist coating on the SU8 with high intrinsic shrinkage after exposure and post-exposure baking (PEB) in the fabrication of the stacked polymer-metal or polymer-polymer structure, which was used in the application of microfluid, bio and chemistry. The thickness difference of untreated SU8 before PEB between the exposed and unexposed SU8 was about 0.3% while that after PEB increased to about 6%. It could result in large non-uniformity of about 18 µm thickness difference for the following second resist coating on the hydrophobic surface without plasma treatment. The surface property of SU8 in terms of the contact angle and surface energy can be adjusted by O2 plasma treatment for enhancing the coating uniformity of the following resist. The measured contact angles of the exposed and unexposed SU8 decrease with O2 plasma time, corresponding to the increased surface energy determined by the Lifshitz-van der Waals/Lewis acid-base approach. It displayed that the similar hydrophilic surface property can minimize the thickness difference of second resist coating on the first shrunken SU8. A monolithic nozzle plate with a physical resolution of 600 dpi in a single column was demonstrated for an inkjet application based on the improved uniformity.

Delineating the Groundwater Recharge Zone in the Pingtung Plan , Taiwan with Electrical Resistivity Surveys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, C.; Chang, P.; Chang, L.; Chen, J.; Huang, C.

2012-12-01

In this study we used the two-dimensional electrical resistivity imaging (ERI) method, as well as the core records of monitoring wells to help determine the groundwater recharge zone in Pingtung plain in southwestern Taiwan. Pingtung fluvial plain is one of the major groundwater resources in Taiwan which is composed of several alluvial fans deriving from the uplifted mountain area to the east and north of the plain. The thick gravel layer constitutes the main recharge area of the upper alluvial fans and the conductive clay sediments dominate most of the lower fans. With the core records, we found that, the gravel layers have higher resistivity (mostly over 200 Ohm-m) and the resistivities of the clayey layers are low (about 1~10 Ohm-m). Therefore with the resistivity surveys we can have more confidences for determining the boundary of the groundwater recharge area in the area in-between the monitoring wells. In the past two years, we have finished 24 two-dimensional electrical resistivity imaging profile lines from Meinong to Fangliao, the lines are oriented in the east-west direction, and each line was about 400 meters long. With the inverted results, we are able to characterize two major alluvial systems and their recharge zones in the Pingtung fluvial plain. The resistivities we measured almost are consistent to the core records of monitoring wells except for the Wanluan site, which shows thick gravel layer in the drilling records but has low resistivity in the nearby resistivity survey. A reasonable explanation is that the electrical resistivity is sensitive to clayey materials with lower resistivities. The intercalated clay within the gravel layers is not shown in the churn drilling records.

Characterization and growth of epitaxial layers of Gs exhibiting high resistivity for ionic implantation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1979-01-01

Either classical or low temperature epitaxial growth techniques can be used to control the deposition of buffer layers of GaAs on semiconducting substrates and to obtain the resistivity and purity desired. Techniques developed to study, as a function of thickness, the evolution of mobilities by photoHall, and the spectroscopy of shallow and deep centers by cathodoluminescence and current transients reveal one very pure layer of medium resistivity and high mobility, and another "dead layer" of elevated resistivity far from the surface. The highly resistive layer remains pure over several microns, which appears interesting for implantation.

Morphology-defined interaction of copper phthalocyanine with O 2/H 2O

DOE PAGES

Muckley, Eric S.; Miller, Nicholas; Jacobs, Christopher B.; ...

2016-11-01

Copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) is an important hole transport layer for organic photovoltaics (OPVs), but its interaction with ambient gas/vapor may lead to changes in electronic properties of the material which subsequently limits the lifetime of OPV devices. CuPc films of thickness 25 nm and 100 nm were grown by thermal sublimation at 25°C, 150°C, and 250°C in order to vary morphology. Using a source-measure unit and a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM), we measured changes in electrical resistance and film mass in situ during exposure to controlled pulses of O 2 and H 2O vapor. Mass loading by O 2 wasmore » enhanced by a factor of 5 in films deposited at 250 C, possibly due to the ~200° C CuPc -> transition which allows higher O 2 mobility between stacked molecules. While gas/vapor sorption occurred over timescales of < 10 minutes, resistance change occurred over timescales > 1 hour, suggesting that mass change occurs by rapid adsorption at active surface sites, whereas resistive response is dominated by slow diffusion of adsorbates into the film bulk. Resistive response generally increases with film deposition temperature due to increased porosity associated with larger crystalline domains. The 25 nm thick films exhibit higher resistive response than 100 nm thick films after an hour of O 2/H 2O exposure due to the smaller analyte diffusion length required for reaching the film/electrode interface. We found evidence of decoupling of CuPc from the gold-coated QCM crystal due to preferential adsorption of O 2/H 2O molecules on gold, which is consistent with findings of other studies.« less

Investigations on the corrosion resistance of metallic bipolar plates (BPP) in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) - understanding the effects of material, coating and manufacturing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dur, Ender

Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) systems are promising technology for contributing to meet the deficiency of world`s clean and sustainable energy requirements in the near future. Metallic bipolar plate (BPP) as one of the most significant components of PEMFC device accounts for the largest part of the fuel cell`s stack. Corrosion for metallic bipolar plates is a critical issue, which influences the performance and durability of PEMFC. Corrosion causes adverse impacts on the PEMFC`s performance jeopardizing commercialization. This research is aimed at determining the corrosion resistance of metallic BPPs, particularly stainless steels, used in PEMFC from different aspects. Material selection, coating selection, manufacturing process development and cost considerations need to be addressed in terms of the corrosion behavior to justify the use of stainless steels as a BPP material in PEMFC and to make them commercially feasible in industrial applications. In this study, Ti, Ni, SS304, SS316L, and SS 430 blanks, and BPPs comprised of SS304 and SS316L were examined in terms of the corrosion behavior. SS316L plates were coated to investigate the effect of coatings on the corrosion resistance performance. Stamping and hydroforming as manufacturing processes, and three different coatings (TiN, CrN, ZrN) applied via the Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) method in three different thicknesses were selected to observe the effects of manufacturing processes, coating types and coating thicknesses on the corrosion resistance of BPP, respectively. Uncoated-coated blank and formed BPP were subjected to two different corrosion tests: potentiostatic and potentiodynamic. Some of the substantial results: 1- Manufacturing processes have an adverse impact on the corrosion resistance. 2- Hydroformed plates have slightly higher corrosion resistance than stamped samples. 3- BPPs with higher channel size showed better corrosion resistance. 4- Since none of the uncoated samples meet the 2015 target of the U.S. Department of Energy, surface coating is required. 5- ZrN and CrN coated BPPs exhibited higher corrosion resistance meeting DOE target while TiN coated samples had the lowest corrosion resistance. Higher coating thicknesses improved the corrosion resistance of the BPPs. 6- Process sequence between coating and manufacturing is not significant for hydroforming case (ZrN and CrN) and stamping case (CrN) in terms of the corrosion resistance. In other words, coating the BPP`s substrate material before manufacturing process does not always decrease the corrosion resistance of the BPPs.

Effects of initial amplitude and pycnocline thickness on the evolution of mode-2 internal solitary waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Ming-Hung; Hsieh, Chih-Min; Hwang, Robert R.; Hsu, John R.-C.

2018-04-01

Numerical simulations are performed to investigate the effects of the initial amplitude and pycnocline thickness on the evolutions of convex mode-2 internal solitary waves propagating on the flat bottom. A finite volume method based on a Cartesian grid system is adopted to solve the Navier-Stokes equations using the improved delayed detached eddy simulation turbulent closure model. Mode-2 internal solitary waves (ISWs) are found to become stable at t = 15 s after lifting a vertical sluice gate by a gravity collapse mechanism. Numerical results from three cases of pycnocline thickness reveal the following: (1) the occurrence of a smooth mode-2 ISW when the wave amplitude is small; (2) the PacMan phenomenon for large amplitude waves; and (3) pseudo vortex shedding in the case of very large amplitudes. In general, basic wave properties (wave amplitude, wave speed, vorticity, and wave energy) increase as the wave amplitude increases for a specific value of the pycnocline thickness. Moreover, the pycnocline thickness chiefly determines the core size of a convex mode-2 ISW, while the step depth (that generates an initial wave amplitude) and offset in pycnocline govern the waveform type during its propagation on the flat bottom.

Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein.

PubMed

Babault, Nicolas; Païzis, Christos; Deley, Gaëlle; Guérin-Deremaux, Laetitia; Saniez, Marie-Hélène; Lefranc-Millot, Catherine; Allaert, François A

2015-01-01

The effects of protein supplementation on muscle thickness and strength seem largely dependent on its composition. The current study aimed at comparing the impact of an oral supplementation with vegetable Pea protein (NUTRALYS®) vs. Whey protein and Placebo on biceps brachii muscle thickness and strength after a 12-week resistance training program. One hundred and sixty one males, aged 18 to 35 years were enrolled in the study and underwent 12 weeks of resistance training on upper limb muscles. According to randomization, they were included in the Pea protein (n = 53), Whey protein (n = 54) or Placebo (n = 54) group. All had to take 25 g of the proteins or placebo twice a day during the 12-week training period. Tests were performed on biceps muscles at inclusion (D0), mid (D42) and post training (D84). Muscle thickness was evaluated using ultrasonography, and strength was measured on an isokinetic dynamometer. Results showed a significant time effect for biceps brachii muscle thickness (P < 0.0001). Thickness increased from 24.9 ± 3.8 mm to 26.9 ± 4.1 mm and 27.3 ± 4.4 mm at D0, D42 and D84, respectively, with only a trend toward significant differences between groups (P = 0.09). Performing a sensitivity study on the weakest participants (with regards to strength at inclusion), thickness increases were significantly different between groups (+20.2 ± 12.3%, +15.6 ± 13.5% and +8.6 ± 7.3% for Pea, Whey and Placebo, respectively; P < 0.05). Increases in thickness were significantly greater in the Pea group as compared to Placebo whereas there was no difference between Whey and the two other conditions. Muscle strength also increased with time with no statistical difference between groups. In addition to an appropriate training, the supplementation with pea protein promoted a greater increase of muscle thickness as compared to Placebo and especially for people starting or returning to a muscular strengthening. Since no difference was obtained between the two protein groups, vegetable pea proteins could be used as an alternative to Whey-based dietary products. The present trial has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02128516).

In vitro degradation and biocompatibility of a strontium-containing micro-arc oxidation coating on the biodegradable ZK60 magnesium alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Xiao; Yang, Xiaoming; Tan, Lili; Li, Mei; Wang, Xin; Zhang, Yu; Yang, Ke; Hu, Zhuangqi; Qiu, Jianhong

2014-01-01

Magnesium alloys are promising biodegradable implant candidates for orthopedic application. In the present study, a phosphate-based micro-arc oxidation (MAO) coating was applied on the ZK60 alloy to decrease its initial degradation rate. Strontium (Sr) was incorporated into the coating in order to improve the bioactivity of the coating. The in vitro degradation studies showed that the MAO coating containing Sr owned a better initial corrosion resistance, which was mainly attributed to the superior inner barrier layer, and a better long-term protective ability, probably owning to its larger thickness, superior inner barrier layer and the superior apatite formation ability. The degradation of MAO coating was accompanied by the formation of degradation layer and Ca-P deposition layer. The in vitro cell tests demonstrated that the incorporation of Sr into the MAO coating enhanced both the proliferation of preosteoblast cells and the alkaline phosphatase activity of the murine bone marrow stromal cells. In conclusion, the MAO coating with Sr is a promising surface treatment for the biodegradable magnesium alloys.

LITERATURE REVIEW: HEAT TRANSFER THROUGH TWO-PHASE INSULATION SYSTEMS CONSISTING OF POWDERS IN A CONTINUOUS GAS PHASE

EPA Science Inventory

The report, a review of the literature on heat flow through powders, was motivated by the use of fine powder systems to produce high thermal resistivities (thermal resistance per unit thickness). he term "superinsulations" has been used to describe this type of material, which ha...

On the localization properties of an RPWELL gas-avalanche detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moleri, L.; Bhattacharya, P.; Coimbra, A. E. C.; Breskin, A.; Bressler, S.

2017-10-01

A study of the localization properties of a single-element Resistive Plate WELL (RPWELL) detector is presented. The detector comprises of a single-sided THick Gaseous Electron Multiplier (THGEM) coupled to a segmented readout anode through a doped silicate-glass plate of 1010 Ωṡcm bulk resistivity. Operated in ambient \

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

Smeets, A. J., E-mail: radiol@eztilburg.nl; Nijenhuis, R. J.; Boekkooi, P. F.

Introduction: Long-term results of uterine artery embolization (UAE) for adenomyosis are largely unknown. We assess long-term outcome of UAE in 40 women with adenomyosis. Materials and methods: Between March 1999 and October 2006, 40 consecutive women with adenomyosis (22 in combination with fibroids) were treated with UAE. Changes in junction zone thickness were assessed with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at baseline and again at 3 months. After a mean clinical follow-up of 65 months (median 58 [range 38-129]), women filled out the uterine fibroid symptom and quality of life (UFS-QoL) questionnaire, which had additional questions on the long-term evolution ofmore » baseline symptoms and adverse events. Results: During follow-up, 7 of 40 women (18%) underwent hysterectomy. Among these 7 women, the junction zones were significantly thicker, both at baseline (mean 23 vs. 16 mm, P = 0.028) and at 3-month follow-up (mean 15 vs. 9 mm, P = 0.034). Of 33 women with preserved uterus, 29 were asymptomatic. Four patients had symptom severity scores of 50 to 85 and overall QoL scores of 60 to 66, indicating substantial clinical symptoms. There was no relation between clinical outcome and the initial presence of fibroids in addition to adenomyosis. Conclusion: In women with therapy-resistant adenomyosis, UAE resulted in long-term preservation of the uterus in the majority. Most patients with preserved uterus were asymptomatic. The only predictor for hysterectomy during follow-up was initial thickness of the junction zone. The presence or absence of fibroids in addition to adenomyosis had no relation with the need for hysterectomy or clinical outcome.« less

Structural remodeling of coronary resistance arteries: effects of age and exercise training

PubMed Central

Hanna, Mina A.; Taylor, Curtis R.; Chen, Bei; La, Hae-Sun; Maraj, Joshua J.; Kilar, Cody R.; Behnke, Bradley J.; Delp, Michael D.

2014-01-01

Age is known to induce remodeling and stiffening of large-conduit arteries; however, little is known of the effects of age on remodeling and mechanical properties of coronary resistance arteries. We employed a rat model of aging to investigate whether 1) age increases wall thickness and stiffness of coronary resistance arteries, and 2) exercise training reverses putative age-induced increases in wall thickness and stiffness of coronary resistance arteries. Young (4 mo) and old (21 mo) Fischer 344 rats remained sedentary or underwent 10 wk of treadmill exercise training. Coronary resistance arteries were isolated for determination of wall-to-lumen ratio, effective elastic modulus, and active and passive responses to changes in intraluminal pressure. Elastin and collagen content of the vascular wall were assessed histologically. Wall-to-lumen ratio increased with age, but this increase was reversed by exercise training. In contrast, age reduced stiffness, and exercise training increased stiffness in coronary resistance arteries from old rats. Myogenic responsiveness was reduced with age and restored by exercise training. Collagen-to-elastin ratio (C/E) of the wall did not change with age and was reduced with exercise training in arteries from old rats. Thus age induces hypertrophic remodeling of the vessel wall and reduces the stiffness and myogenic function of coronary resistance arteries. Exercise training reduces wall-to-lumen ratio, increases wall stiffness, and restores myogenic function in aged coronary resistance arteries. The restorative effect of exercise training on myogenic function of coronary resistance arteries may be due to both changes in vascular smooth muscle phenotype and expression of extracellular matrix proteins. PMID:25059239

Inverse Tomo-Lithography for Making Microscopic 3D Parts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

White, Victor; Wiberg, Dean

2003-01-01

According to a proposal, basic x-ray lithography would be extended to incorporate a technique, called inverse tomography, that would enable the fabrication of microscopic three-dimensional (3D) objects. The proposed inverse tomo-lithographic process would make it possible to produce complex shaped, submillimeter-sized parts that would be difficult or impossible to make in any other way. Examples of such shapes or parts include tapered helices, paraboloids with axes of different lengths, and even Archimedean screws that could serve as rotors in microturbines. The proposed inverse tomo-lithographic process would be based partly on a prior microfabrication process known by the German acronym LIGA (lithographie, galvanoformung, abformung, which means lithography, electroforming, molding). In LIGA, one generates a precise, high-aspect ratio pattern by exposing a thick, x-ray-sensitive resist material to an x-ray beam through a mask that contains the pattern. One can electrodeposit metal into the developed resist pattern to form a precise metal part, then dissolve the resist to free the metal. Aspect ratios of 100:1 and patterns into resist thicknesses of several millimeters are possible.

Low carrier concentration crystals of the topological insulator Bi2-xSbxTe3-ySey: a magnetotransport study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Y.; Wu, D.; Angevaare, J. R.; Luigjes, H.; Frantzeskakis, E.; de Jong, N.; van Heumen, E.; Bay, T. V.; Zwartsenberg, B.; Huang, Y. K.; Snelder, M.; Brinkman, A.; Golden, M. S.; de Visser, A.

2014-12-01

In 3D topological insulators achieving a genuine bulk-insulating state is an important research topic. Recently, the material system (Bi,Sb)2(Te,Se)3 (BSTS) has been proposed as a topological insulator with high resistivity and a low carrier concentration (Ren et al 2011 Phys. Rev. B 84 165311). Here we present a study to further refine the bulk-insulating properties of BSTS. We have synthesized BSTS single crystals with compositions around x = 0.5 and y = 1.3. Resistance and Hall effect measurements show high resistivity and record low bulk carrier density for the composition Bi1.46Sb0.54Te1.7Se1.3. The analysis of the resistance measured for crystals with different thicknesses within a parallel resistor model shows that the surface contribution to the electrical transport amounts to 97% when the sample thickness is reduced to 1 μm. The magnetoconductance of exfoliated BSTS nanoflakes shows 2D weak antilocalization with α ≃ -1 as expected for transport dominated by topological surface states.

The efficacy and tolerability of azilsartan in obese insulin-resistant mice with left ventricular pressure overload.

PubMed

Tarikuz Zaman, A K M; McLean, Danielle L; Sobel, Burton E

2013-10-01

Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are used widely for the treatment of heart failure. However, their use in obese and insulin-resistant patients remains controversial. To clarify their potential efficacy in these conditions, we administered azilsartan medoxomil (azilsartan), a prodrug of an angiotensin II receptor blocker to mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD) with left ventricular (LV) pressure overload (aortic banding). LV fibrosis (hydroxyproline), cardiac plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1; a marker of profibrosis), and creatine kinase (a marker of myocardial viability and energetics) were assessed. LV wall thickness and cardiac function were assessed echocardiographically. Mice given a HFD were obese and insulin resistant. Their LV hypertrophy was accompanied by greater LV PAI-1 and reduced LV creatine kinase compared with normal diet controls. Drug treatment reduced LV wall thickness, hypertrophy, and PAI-1 and increased cardiac output after aortic banding compared with results in HFD vehicle controls. Thus, azilsartan exerted favorable biological effects on the hearts of obese insulin-resistant mice subjected to LV pressure overload consistent with its potential utility in patients with analogous conditions.

Through-the Thickness(R) braided composites for aircraft applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brown, Richard T.

1992-01-01

Material and structural specimens of Through-the-Thickness(R) braided textile composites were tested in a variety of experiments. The results have demonstrated that the preform architecture provides significant payoffs in damage tolerance, delamination resistance, and attachment strength. This paper describes the braiding process, surveys the experimental data base, and illustrates the application of three dimensional braiding in aircraft structures.

Characterization and study of mechanical and tribological properties on titanium di oxide (TiO2) coated 304L stainless steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghanaraja, S.; Ali, Syed Imran; Ravikumar, K. S.; Likith, P.

2018-04-01

In the present investigation Atmospheric Plasma Spraying (APS) method is selected for coating the materials on 304L Stainless Steel as a substrate material, also called as substrate of Thermal Barrier Coating (TBC) system developed in the present work. Commercially available Ni-Cr metal powder is selected for bond coat and TiO2 powder is selected for Top Coat. The thickness of bond coat is taken as 75 µm where as the top coat thickness is varied as 100 µm, 200 µm and 300 µm. In plasma sprayed coating more attention is given to obtain uniform thickness on the given substrate. The various surface texture parameters of each sample is tested, morphology and coating thickness of above TBC system are studied with the help of SEM and X-Ray Diffraction for phase analysis. Micro-hardness of each layer of coating is measured by using Vicker's diamond indentation and the abrasive wear resistance of each system has been investigated through Pin-on-disc test, at room temperature by using wear and friction tribometer. The coating system possesses good wear resistance and can be used in various applications.

High Transparent and Conductive TiO2/Ag/TiO2 Multilayer Electrode Films Deposited on Sapphire Substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Loka, Chadrasekhar; Moon, Sung Whan; Choi, YiSik; Lee, Kee-Sun

2018-03-01

Transparent conducting oxides attract intense interests due to its diverse industrial applications. In this study, we report sapphire substrate-based TiO2/Ag/TiO2 (TAT) multilayer structure of indium-free transparent conductive multilayer coatings. The TAT thin films were deposited at room temperature on sapphire substrates and a rigorous analysis has been presented on the electrical and optical properties of the films as a function of Ag thickness. The optical and electrical properties were mainly controlled by the Ag mid-layer thickness of the TAT tri-layer. The TAT films showed high luminous transmittance 84% at 550 nm along with noteworthy low electrical resistance 3.65 × 10-5 Ω-cm and sheet resistance of 3.77 Ω/square, which is better are than those of amorphous ITO films and any sapphire-based dielectric/metal/dielectric multilayer stack. The carrier concentration of the films was increased with respect to Ag thickness. We obtained highest Hackke's figure of merit 43.97 × 10-3 Ω-1 from the TAT multilayer thin film with a 16 nm thick Ag mid-layer.

Development of the α-IGZO/Ag/α-IGZO Triple-Layer Structure Films for the Application of Transparent Electrode

PubMed Central

Chen, Kun-Neng; Yang, Cheng-Fu; Wu, Chia-Ching; Chen, Yu-Hsin

2017-01-01

We investigated the structural, optical, and electrical properties of amorphous IGZO/silver/amorphous IGZO (α-IGZO/Ag/α-IGZO) triple-layer structures that were deposited at room temperature on Eagle XG glass and flexible polyethylene terephthalate substrates through the sputtering method. Thin Ag layers with different thicknesses were inserted between two IGZO layers to form a triple-layer structure. Ag was used because of its lower absorption and resistivity. Field emission scanning electron microscopy measurements of the triple-layer structures revealed that the thicknesses of the Ag layers ranged from 13 to 41 nm. The thickness of the Ag layer had a large effect on the electrical and optical properties of the electrodes. The optimum thickness of the Ag metal thin film could be evaluated according to the optical transmittance, electrical conductivity, and figure of merit of the electrode. This study demonstrates that the α-IGZO/Ag/α-IGZO triple-layer transparent electrode can be fabricated with low sheet resistance (4.2 Ω/□) and high optical transmittance (88.1%) at room temperature without postannealing processing on the deposited thin films. PMID:28772586

Transport in ultrathin gold films decorated with magnetic Gd atoms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alemani, Micol; Helgren, Erik; Hugel, Addison; Hellman, Frances

2008-03-01

We have performed four-probe transport measurements of ultrathin Au films decorated with Gd ad-atoms. The samples were prepared by quench condensation, i.e., sequential evaporation on a cryogenically cooled substrate under UHV conditions while monitoring the film thickness and resistance. Electrically continuous Au films at thickness of about 2 mono-layers of material are grown on an amorphous Ge wetting layer. The quench condensation method provides a sensitive control on the sample growth process, allowing us to tune the morphological and electrical configuration of the system. The ultrathin gold films develop from an insulating to a metallic state as a function of film thickness. The temperature dependence of the Au conductivity for different thickness is studied. It evolves from hopping transport for the insulating films, to a ln T dependence for thicker films. For gold films in the insulating regime we found a decreasing resistance by adding Gd. This is in agreement with a decreasing tunneling barrier height between metallic atoms. The Gd magnetic moments are randomly oriented for isolated atoms. This magnetic disorder leads to scattering of the charge carriers and a reduced conductivity compared to nonmagnetic materials.

Electromagnetic study of lithospheric structure in Trans-European Suture Zone in Poland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jóźwiak, Waldemar; Ślęzak, Katarzyna; Nowożyński, Krzysztof; Neska, Anne

2016-04-01

The area covered by magnetotelluric surveys in Poland is mostly related to the Trans-European Suture Zone (TESZ), the largest tectonic boundary in Europe. Numerous 1D, 2D, and pseudo-3D and 3D models of the electrical resistivity distribution were constructed, and a new interpretation method based on Horizontal Magnetic Tensor analysis has been applied recently. The results indicate that the TESZ is a lithospheric discontinuity and there are noticeable differences in geoelectric structures between the East European Craton (EEC), the transitional zone (TESZ), and the Paleozoic Platform (PP). The electromagnetic sounding is a very efficient tool for recognizing the lithospheric structure especially it helps in identification of important horizontal (or lateral) inhomogeneities in the crust. Due to our study we can clearly determine the areas of the East European Craton of high resistivity, Paleozoic Platform of somewhat lower resistivity value, and transitional TESZ of complicated structure. At the East European Craton, we observe very highly resistive lithosphere, reaching 220-240 km depth. Underneath, there is distinctly greater conductivity values, most probably resulting from partial melting of rocks; this layer may represent the asthenosphere. The resistivity of the lithosphere under the Paleozoic Platform is somewhat lower, and its thickness does not exceed 150 km. The properties of the lithosphere in the transition zone, under the TESZ, differ significantly. The presented models include prominent, NW-SE striking conductive lineaments. These structures, that related with the TESZ, lie at a depth of 10-30 km. They are located in a mid-crustal level and they reach the boundary of the EEC. The structures we initially connect to the Variscan Deformation Front (VDF) and the Caledonian Deformation Front (CDF). The differentiation of conductivity visible in the crust continues in the upper mantle.

Explosive Magnetic Reconnection in Double-current Sheet Systems: Ideal versus Resistive Tearing Mode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baty, Hubert

2017-03-01

Magnetic reconnection associated with the tearing instability occurring in double-current sheet systems is investigated within the framework of resistive magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) in a two-dimensional Cartesian geometry. A special emphasis on the existence of fast and explosive phases is taken. First, we extend the recent theory on the ideal tearing mode of a single-current sheet to a double-current layer configuration. A linear stability analysis shows that, in long and thin systems with (length to shear layer thickness) aspect ratios scaling as {S}L9/29 (S L being the Lundquist number based on the length scale L), tearing modes can develop on a fast Alfvénic timescale in the asymptotic limit {S}L\\to ∞ . The linear results are confirmed by means of compressible resistive MHD simulations at relatively high S L values (up to 3× {10}6) for different current sheet separations. Moreover, the nonlinear evolution of the ideal double tearing mode (IDTM) exhibits a richer dynamical behavior than its single-tearing counterpart, as a nonlinear explosive growth violently ends up with a disruption when the two current layers interact trough the merging of plasmoids. The final outcome of the system is a relaxation toward a new state, free of magnetic field reversal. The IDTM dynamics is also compared to the resistive double tearing mode dynamics, which develops in similar systems with smaller aspect ratios, ≳ 2π , and exhibits an explosive secondary reconnection, following an initial slow resistive growth phase. Finally, our results are used to discuss the flaring activity in astrophysical magnetically dominated plasmas, with a particular emphasis on pulsar systems.

Effect of thick blanket modules on neoclassical tearing mode locking in ITER

DOE PAGES

La Haye, R. J.; Paz-Soldan, C.; Liu, Y. Q.

2016-11-03

The rotation of m/n = 2/1 tearing modes can be slowed and stopped (i.e. locked) by eddy currents induced in resistive walls in conjunction with residual error fields that provide a final 'notch' point. This is a particular issue in ITER with large inertia and low applied torque (m and n are poloidal and toroidal mode numbers respectively). Previous estimates of tolerable 2/1 island widths in ITER found that the ITER electron cyclotron current drive (ECCD) system could catch and subdue such islands before they persisted long enough and grew large enough to lock. These estimates were based on amore » forecast of initial island rotation using the n = 1 resistive penetration time of the inner vacuum vessel wall and benchmarked to DIII-D high-rotation plasmas, However, rotating tearing modes in ITER will also induce eddy currents in the blanket as the effective first wall that can shield the inner vessel. The closer fitting blanket wall has a much shorter time constant and should allow several times smaller islands to lock several times faster in ITER than previously considered; this challenges the ECCD stabilization. Here, recent DIII-D ITER baseline scenario (IBS) plasmas with low rotation through small applied torque allow better modeling and scaling to ITER with the blanket as the first resistive wall.« less

Effect of thick blanket modules on neoclassical tearing mode locking in ITER

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

La Haye, R. J.; Paz-Soldan, C.; Liu, Y. Q.

The rotation of m/n = 2/1 tearing modes can be slowed and stopped (i.e. locked) by eddy currents induced in resistive walls in conjunction with residual error fields that provide a final 'notch' point. This is a particular issue in ITER with large inertia and low applied torque (m and n are poloidal and toroidal mode numbers respectively). Previous estimates of tolerable 2/1 island widths in ITER found that the ITER electron cyclotron current drive (ECCD) system could catch and subdue such islands before they persisted long enough and grew large enough to lock. These estimates were based on amore » forecast of initial island rotation using the n = 1 resistive penetration time of the inner vacuum vessel wall and benchmarked to DIII-D high-rotation plasmas, However, rotating tearing modes in ITER will also induce eddy currents in the blanket as the effective first wall that can shield the inner vessel. The closer fitting blanket wall has a much shorter time constant and should allow several times smaller islands to lock several times faster in ITER than previously considered; this challenges the ECCD stabilization. Here, recent DIII-D ITER baseline scenario (IBS) plasmas with low rotation through small applied torque allow better modeling and scaling to ITER with the blanket as the first resistive wall.« less

Electrical and optical properties of sub-10 nm nickel silicide films for silicon solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brahmi, Hatem; Ravipati, Srikanth; Yarali, Milad; Shervin, Shahab; Wang, Weijie; Ryou, Jae-Hyun; Mavrokefalos, Anastassios

2017-01-01

Highly conductive and transparent films of ultra-thin p-type nickel silicide films have been prepared by RF magnetron sputtering of nickel on silicon substrates followed by rapid thermal annealing in an inert environment in the temperature range 400-600 °C. The films are uniform throughout the wafer with thicknesses in the range of 3-6 nm. The electrical and optical properties are presented for nickel silicide films with varying thickness. The Drude-Lorentz model and Fresnel equations were used to calculate the dielectric properties, sheet resistance, absorption and transmission of the films. These ultrathin nickel silicide films have excellent optoelectronic properties for p-type contacts with optical transparencies up to 80% and sheet resistance as low as ~0.15 µΩ cm. Furthermore, it was shown that the use of a simple anti-reflection (AR) coating can recover most of the reflected light approaching the values of a standard Si solar cell with the same AR coating. Overall, the combination of ultra-low thickness, high transmittance, low sheet resistance and ability to recover the reflected light by utilizing standard AR coating makes them ideal for utilization in silicon based photovoltaic technologies as a p-type transparent conductor.

Spatial and temporal variations of thaw layer thickness and its controlling factors identified using time-lapse electrical resistivity tomography and hydro-thermal modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tran, Anh Phuong; Dafflon, Baptiste; Bisht, Gautam; Hubbard, Susan S.

2018-06-01

Quantitative understanding of controls on thaw layer thickness (TLT) dynamics in the Arctic peninsula is essential for predictive understanding of permafrost degradation feedbacks to global warming and hydrobiochemical processes. This study jointly interprets electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) measurements and hydro-thermal numerical simulation results to assess spatiotemporal variations of TLT and to determine its controlling factors in Barrow, Alaska. Time-lapse ERT measurements along a 35-m transect were autonomously collected from 2013 to 2015 and inverted to obtain soil electrical resistivity. Based on several probe-based TLT measurements and co-located soil electrical resistivity, we estimated the electrical resistivity thresholds associated with the boundary between the thaw layer and permafrost using a grid search optimization algorithm. Then, we used the obtained thresholds to derive the TLT from all soil electrical resistivity images. The spatiotemporal analysis of the ERT-derived TLT shows that the TLT at high-centered polygons (HCPs) is smaller than that at low-centered polygons (LCPs), and that both thawing and freezing occur earlier at the HCPs compared to the LCPs. In order to provide a physical explanation for dynamics in the thaw layer, we performed 1-D hydro-thermal simulations using the community land model (CLM). Simulation results showed that air temperature and precipitation jointly govern the temporal variations of TLT, while the topsoil organic content (SOC) and polygon morphology are responsible for its spatial variations. When the topsoil SOC and its thickness increase, TLT decreases. Meanwhile, at LCPs, a thicker snow layer and saturated soil contribute to a thicker TLT and extend the time needed for TLT to freeze and thaw. This research highlights the importance of combination of measurements and numerical modeling to improve our understanding spatiotemporal variations and key controls of TLT in cold regions.

Superposition of Cohesive Elements to Account for R-Curve Toughening in the Fracture of Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davila, Carlos G.; Rose, Cheryl A.; Song, Kyongchan

2008-01-01

The relationships between a resistance curve (R-curve), the corresponding fracture process zone length, the shape of the traction/displacement softening law, and the propagation of fracture are examined in the context of the through-the-thickness fracture of composite laminates. A procedure that accounts for R-curve toughening mechanisms by superposing bilinear cohesive elements is proposed. Simple equations are developed for determining the separation of the critical energy release rates and the strengths that define the independent contributions of each bilinear softening law in the superposition. It is shown that the R-curve measured with a Compact Tension specimen test can be reproduced by superposing two bilinear softening laws. It is also shown that an accurate representation of the R-curve is essential for predicting the initiation and propagation of fracture in composite laminates.

Electrical geophysical study over the Norman Landfill, near Norman, Oklahoma

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

Bisdorf, R.J.

In 1995 and 1996 the US Geological Survey made 40 Schlumberger dc electrical resistivity soundings at the Norman Landfill, near Norman, Oklahoma. Interpretation of the resistivity data indicates that high resistivities (>300 ohm-m) are related to dry sand, intermediate resistivities (45-300 ohm-m) are related to freshwater saturated sand, and low resistivities (<45 ohm-m) are related to fine-grained materials or materials saturated with the conductive fluids. Interpreted resistivity maps show a low resistivity anomaly that extends from under the landfill to just past a nearby slough. This anomaly corresponds to known areas of ground water contamination. A resistivity cross section, constructedmore » from interpreted Schlumberger soundings, shows that this low resistivity anomaly is about 5 m deep and up to 9 m thick.« less

Effects of ultrasound and sodium lauryl sulfate on the transdermal delivery of hydrophilic permeants: Comparative in vitro studies with full-thickness and split-thickness pig and human skin

PubMed Central

Seto, Jennifer E.; Polat, Baris E.; Lopez, Renata F.V.; Blankschtein, Daniel; Langer, Robert

2010-01-01

The simultaneous application of ultrasound and the surfactant sodium lauryl sulfate (referred to as US/SLS) to skin enhances transdermal drug delivery (TDD) in a synergistic mechanical and chemical manner. Since full-thickness skin (FTS) and split-thickness skin (STS) differ in mechanical strength, US/SLS treatment may have different effects on their transdermal transport pathways. Therefore, we evaluated STS as an alternative to the well-established US/SLS-treated FTS model for TDD studies of hydrophilic permeants. We utilized the aqueous porous pathway model to compare the effects of US/SLS treatment on the skin permeability and the pore radius of pig and human FTS and STS over a range of skin electrical resistivity values. Our findings indicate that the US/SLS-treated pig skin models exhibit similar permeabilities and pore radii, but the human skin models do not. Furthermore, the US/SLS-enhanced delivery of gold nanoparticles and quantum dots (two model hydrophilic macromolecules) is greater through pig STS than through pig FTS, due to the presence of less dermis that acts as an artificial barrier to macromolecules. In spite of greater variability in correlations between STS permeability and resistivity, our findings strongly suggest the use of 700-μm-thick pig STS to investigate the in vitro US/SLS-enhanced delivery of hydrophilic macromolecules. PMID:20346994

Fabrication of a high aspect ratio thick silicon wafer mold and electroplating using flipchip bonding for MEMS applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Bong-Hwan; Kim, Jong-Bok

2009-06-01

We have developed a microfabrication process for high aspect ratio thick silicon wafer molds and electroplating using flipchip bonding with THB 151N negative photoresist (JSR micro). This fabrication technique includes large area and high thickness silicon wafer mold electroplating. The process consists of silicon deep reactive ion etching (RIE) of the silicon wafer mold, photoresist bonding between the silicon mold and the substrate, nickel electroplating and a silicon removal process. High thickness silicon wafer molds were made by deep RIE and flipchip bonding. In addition, nickel electroplating was developed. Dry film resist (ORDYL MP112, TOK) and thick negative-tone photoresist (THB 151N, JSR micro) were used as bonding materials. In order to measure the bonding strength, the surface energy was calculated using a blade test. The surface energy of the bonding wafers was found to be 0.36-25.49 J m-2 at 60-180 °C for the dry film resist and 0.4-1.9 J m-2 for THB 151N in the same temperature range. Even though ORDYL MP112 has a better value of surface energy than THB 151N, it has a critical disadvantage when it comes to removing residue after electroplating. The proposed process can be applied to high aspect ratio MEMS structures, such as air gap inductors or vertical MEMS probe tips.

The opportunity and challenge of spin coat based nanoimprint lithography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, Wooyung; Cho, Jungbin; Choi, Eunhyuk; Lim, Yonghyun; Bok, Cheolkyu; Tsuji, Masatoshi; Kobayashi, Kei; Kono, Takuya; Nakasugi, Tetsuro

2017-03-01

Since multi patterning with spacer was introduced in NAND flash memory1, multi patterning with spacer has been a promising solution to overcome the resolution limit. However, the increase in process cost of multi patterning with spacer must be a serious burden to device manufacturers as half pitch of patterns gets smaller.2, 3 Even though Nano Imprint Lithography (NIL) has been considered as one of strong candidates to avoid cost issue of multi patterning with spacer, there are still negative viewpoints; template damage induced from particles between template and wafer, overlay degradation induced from shear force between template and wafer, and throughput loss induced from dispensing and spreading resist droplet. Jet and Flash Imprint Lithography (J-FIL4, 5, 6) has contributed to throughput improvement, but still has these above problems. J-FIL consists of 5 steps; dispense of resist droplets on wafer, imprinting template on wafer, filling the gap between template and wafer with resist, UV curing, and separation of template from wafer. If dispensing resist droplets by inkjet is replaced with coating resist at spin coater, additional progress in NIL can be achieved. Template damage from particle can be suppressed by thick resist which is spin-coated at spin coater and covers most of particles on wafer, shear force between template and wafer can be minimized with thick resist, and finally additional throughput enhancement can be achieved by skipping dispense of resist droplets on wafer. On the other hand, spin-coat-based NIL has side effect such as pattern collapse which comes from high separation energy of resist. It is expected that pattern collapse can be improved by the development of resist with low separation energy.

Ultra-Thin Monocrystalline Silicon Solar Cell with 12.2% Efficiency Using Silicon-On-Insulator Substrate.

PubMed

Bian, Jian-Tao; Yu, Jian; Duan, Wei-Yuan; Qiu, Yu

2015-04-01

Single side heterojunction silicon solar cells were designed and fabricated using Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) substrate. The TCAD software was used to simulate the effect of silicon layer thickness, doping concentration and the series resistance. A 10.5 µm thick monocrystalline silicon layer was epitaxially grown on the SOI with boron doping concentration of 2 x 10(16) cm(-3) by thermal CVD. Very high Voc of 678 mV was achieved by applying amorphous silicon heterojunction emitter on the front surface. The single cell efficiency of 12.2% was achieved without any light trapping structures. The rear surface recombination and the series resistance are the main limiting factors for the cell efficiency in addition to the c-Si thickness. By integrating an efficient light trapping scheme and further optimizing fabrication process, higher efficiency of 14.0% is expected for this type of cells. It can be applied to integrated circuits on a monolithic chip to meet the requirements of energy autonomous systems.

Evaluation of electrical properties of Cr/CrN nano-multilayers for electronic applications.

PubMed

Marulanda, D M; Olaya, J J; Patiño, E J

2011-06-01

The electrical properties of Cr/CrN nano-multilayers produced by Unbalanced Magnetron Sputtering have been studied as a function of bilayer period and total thickness. Two groups of multilayers were produced: in the first group the bilayer period varied between 20 nm, 100 nm and 200 nm with total thickness of 1 microm, and in the second group the bilayer period varied between 25 nm, 50 nm and 100 nm and a total thickness of 100 nm. X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) were used in order to investigate the microstructure characteristics of the multilayers, and the Four Point Probe (FPP) method was used to evaluate in-plane and transverse electrical resistivity. XRD results show (111) and (200) orientations for all the CrN coatings and the presence of a multilayer structure was confirmed through SEM studies. Transverse electrical resistivity results show that this property is strongly dependent on the bilayer period.

Reaching the Ionic Current Detection Limit in Silicon-Based Nanopores

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Puster, Matthew; Rodriguez-Manzo, Julio Alejandro; Nicolai, Adrien; Meunier, Vincent; Drndic, Marija

2015-03-01

Solid-state nanopores act as single-molecule sensors whereby passage of an individual molecule in aqueous electrolyte through a nanopore is registered as a change in ionic conductance (ΔG). Future nanopore applications such as DNA sequencing at high bandwidth require high ΔG for optimal signal-to-noise ratio. Reducing the nanopore diameter and thickness increase ΔG. Molecule size limits the diameter, thus efforts concentrate on minimizing the thickness by thinning oxide/nitride films or using 2D materials. Weighted by electrolyte conductivity the highest ΔG reported to date for DNA translocations were obtained with nanopores made in oxide/nitride films. We present a controlled electron irradiation technique to thin such films to the limit of their stability, producing nanopores tailored to molecule size in amorphous Si with thicknesses less than 2 nm. We compare ΔG values with results found in the literature for DNA translocation through these nanopores, where access resistance becomes comparable to the resistance through the nanopore itself.

Microstructural Study on Oxidation Resistance of Nonmodified and Platinum Modified Aluminide Coating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zagula-Yavorska, Maryana; Sieniawski, Jan

2014-03-01

Platinum electroplating layers (3 and 7 μm thick) were deposited on the surface of the Inconel 713 LC, CMSX 4, and Inconel 625 Ni-base superalloys. Diffusion treatment at 1050°C for 2 h under argon atmosphere was performed after electroplating. Diffusion treated samples were aluminized according to the low activity CVD process at 1050°C for 8 h. The nonmodified aluminide coatings consist of NiAl phase. Platinum modification let to obtain the (Ni,Pt)Al phase in coatings. The coated samples were subjected to cyclic oxidation testing at 1100°C. It was discovered that increase of the platinum electroplating thickness from 3 to 7 μm provides the improvement of oxidation resistance of aluminide coatings. Increase of the platinum thickness causes decreases in weight change and decreases in parabolic constant during oxidation. The platinum provides the pure Al2O3 oxide formation, slow growth oxide layer, and delay the oxide spalling during heating-cooling thermal cycles.

Microstructure, thickness and sheet resistivity of Cu/Ni thin film produced by electroplating technique on the variation of electrolyte temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Toifur, M.; Yuningsih, Y.; Khusnani, A.

2018-03-01

In this research, it has been made Cu/Ni thin film produced with electroplating technique. The deposition process was done in the plating bath using Cu and Ni as cathode and anode respectively. The electrolyte solution was made from the mixture of HBrO3 (7.5g), NiSO4 (100g), NiCl2 (15g), and aquadest (250 ml). Electrolyte temperature was varied from 40°C up to 80°C, to make the Ni ions in the solution easy to move to Cu cathode. The deposition was done during 2 minutes on the potential of 1.5 volt. Many characterizations were done including the thickness of Ni film, microstructure, and sheet resistivity. The results showed that at all samples Ni had attacked on the Cu substrate to form Cu/Ni. The raising of electrolyte temperature affected the increasing of Ni thickness that is the Ni thickness increase with the increasing electrolyte temperature. From the EDS spectrum, it can be informed that samples already contain Ni and Cu elements and NiO and CuO compounds. Addition element and compound are found for sample Cu/Ni resulted from 70° electrolyte temperature of Ni deposition, that are Pt and PtO2. From XRD pattern, there are several phases which have crystal structure i.e. Cu, Ni, and NiO, while CuO and PtO2 have amorphous structure. The sheet resistivity linearly decreases with the increasing electrolyte temperature.

Genetic Diversity, Population Structure, and Heritability of Fruit Traits in Capsicum annuum.

PubMed

Naegele, Rachel P; Mitchell, Jenna; Hausbeck, Mary K

2016-01-01

Cultivated pepper (Capsicum annuum) is a phenotypically diverse species grown throughout the world. Wild and landrace peppers are typically small-fruited and pungent, but contain many important traits such as insect and disease resistance. Cultivated peppers vary dramatically in size, shape, pungency, and color, and often lack resistance traits. Fruit characteristics (e.g. shape and pericarp thickness) are major determinants for cultivar selection, and their association with disease susceptibility can reduce breeding efficacy. This study evaluated a diverse collection of peppers for mature fruit phenotypic traits, correlation among fruit traits and Phytophthora fruit rot resistance, genetic diversity, population structure, and trait broad sense heritability. Significant differences within all fruit phenotype categories were detected among pepper lines. Fruit from Europe had the thickest pericarp, and fruit from Ecuador had the thinnest. For fruit shape index, fruit from Africa had the highest index, while fruit from Europe had the lowest. Five genetic clusters were detected in the pepper population and were significantly associated with fruit thickness, end shape, and fruit shape index. The genetic differentiation between clusters ranged from little to very great differentiation when grouped by the predefined categories. Broad sense heritability for fruit traits ranged from 0.56 (shoulder height) to 0.98 (pericarp thickness). When correlations among fruit phenotypes and fruit disease were evaluated, fruit shape index was negatively correlated with pericarp thickness, and positively correlated with fruit perimeter. Pepper fruit pericarp, perimeter, and width had a slight positive correlation with Phytophthora fruit rot, whereas fruit shape index had a slight negative correlation.

Genetic Diversity, Population Structure, and Heritability of Fruit Traits in Capsicum annuum

PubMed Central

Naegele, Rachel P.; Mitchell, Jenna; Hausbeck, Mary K.

2016-01-01

Cultivated pepper (Capsicum annuum) is a phenotypically diverse species grown throughout the world. Wild and landrace peppers are typically small-fruited and pungent, but contain many important traits such as insect and disease resistance. Cultivated peppers vary dramatically in size, shape, pungency, and color, and often lack resistance traits. Fruit characteristics (e.g. shape and pericarp thickness) are major determinants for cultivar selection, and their association with disease susceptibility can reduce breeding efficacy. This study evaluated a diverse collection of peppers for mature fruit phenotypic traits, correlation among fruit traits and Phytophthora fruit rot resistance, genetic diversity, population structure, and trait broad sense heritability. Significant differences within all fruit phenotype categories were detected among pepper lines. Fruit from Europe had the thickest pericarp, and fruit from Ecuador had the thinnest. For fruit shape index, fruit from Africa had the highest index, while fruit from Europe had the lowest. Five genetic clusters were detected in the pepper population and were significantly associated with fruit thickness, end shape, and fruit shape index. The genetic differentiation between clusters ranged from little to very great differentiation when grouped by the predefined categories. Broad sense heritability for fruit traits ranged from 0.56 (shoulder height) to 0.98 (pericarp thickness). When correlations among fruit phenotypes and fruit disease were evaluated, fruit shape index was negatively correlated with pericarp thickness, and positively correlated with fruit perimeter. Pepper fruit pericarp, perimeter, and width had a slight positive correlation with Phytophthora fruit rot, whereas fruit shape index had a slight negative correlation. PMID:27415818

Effect of coating thickness on microstructure and low temperature cyclic thermal fatigue behavior of thermal barrier coating (Al2O3)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Verma, Vijay; Patel, Sachin; Swarnkar, Vikas; K, Rajput S.

2018-03-01

Effect of coating thickness on low temperature cyclic thermal fatigue behaviour of Al2O3 thermal barrier coating (TBC) was concluded through the cyclic furnace thermal fatigue test (CFTF). Detonation gun (Thermal Spray) process was used for bond coating of NiCr and top coating of Al2O3 on Aluminium Alloy 6061 substrate. Top coating was done at two level of thickness to investigate the effect of coating thickness on low temperature cyclic thermal fatigue. The top coat of thickness 100μm-150μm was considered as thin TBC while the top coat of thickness 250μm-300μm was considered as thick TBC. The thickness of bond coat was taken as 120μm constant for both level of Al2O3 top coating. During CFTF test appearance of any crack on coated surface was adapted as main criterion of coating failure. Crack initiation was observed at edges and corner of thin thermal barrier coating after 60 number of thermal fatigue cycles while in case of thick thermal barrier coating these crack initiation was observed after 72 cycles of cyclic thermal fatigue test. During the study, it was observed that thick thermal barrier coating survived for long duration in comparison of thin TBC. Hence it can be concluded that application of thick TBC is more favourable to improve thermal durability of any component.

Thickness distribution of a cooling pyroclastic flow deposit on Augustine Volcano, Alaska: Optimization using InSAR, FEMs, and an adaptive mesh algorithm

USGS Publications Warehouse

Masterlark, Timothy; Lu, Zhong; Rykhus, Russell P.

2006-01-01

Interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) imagery documents the consistent subsidence, during the interval 1992–1999, of a pyroclastic flow deposit (PFD) emplaced during the 1986 eruption of Augustine Volcano, Alaska. We construct finite element models (FEMs) that simulate thermoelastic contraction of the PFD to account for the observed subsidence. Three-dimensional problem domains of the FEMs include a thermoelastic PFD embedded in an elastic substrate. The thickness of the PFD is initially determined from the difference between post- and pre-eruption digital elevation models (DEMs). The initial excess temperature of the PFD at the time of deposition, 640 °C, is estimated from FEM predictions and an InSAR image via standard least-squares inverse methods. Although the FEM predicts the major features of the observed transient deformation, systematic prediction errors (RMSE = 2.2 cm) are most likely associated with errors in the a priori PFD thickness distribution estimated from the DEM differences. We combine an InSAR image, FEMs, and an adaptive mesh algorithm to iteratively optimize the geometry of the PFD with respect to a minimized misfit between the predicted thermoelastic deformation and observed deformation. Prediction errors from an FEM, which includes an optimized PFD geometry and the initial excess PFD temperature estimated from the least-squares analysis, are sub-millimeter (RMSE = 0.3 mm). The average thickness (9.3 m), maximum thickness (126 m), and volume (2.1 × 107m3) of the PFD, estimated using the adaptive mesh algorithm, are about twice as large as the respective estimations for the a priori PFD geometry. Sensitivity analyses suggest unrealistic PFD thickness distributions are required for initial excess PFD temperatures outside of the range 500–800 °C.

Metabolic spatial variability in electrode-respiring Geobacter sulfurreducens biofilms

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

Renslow, Ryan S.; Babauta, Jerome T.; Dohnalkova, Alice

2013-06-01

Certain bacteria are capable of transferring electrons derived from respiratory metabolism to solid extracellular electron-accepting materials1-4. This ability allows the organisms to use conductive substrata as their sole electron sink, generating electricity that is available for practical applications5-7. Geobacter is a biofilm-forming genus capable of this extracellular electron transfer8-11. Evidence in the literature suggests that Geobacter cells produce a conductive matrix to gain access to electron-accepting surfaces12,13. It has been hypothesized that cells that are more than tens of microns from the electron-accepting surface cannot respire because of electrical resistance in the matrix and thus remain metabolically inactive14-16. To testmore » this hypothesis, we sought to determine whether the entire biofilm remains metabolically active and able to respire on an electron-accepting surface as the biofilm thickness increases. We developed and used a novel electrochemical-nuclear magnetic resonance (EC-NMR) microimaging system capable of sustaining an electrochemically active biofilm on a polarized electrode inside a superconducting magnet, allowing for simultaneous NMR and electrochemical investigation of a biofilm for the first time. Here, we show that Geobacter biofilms can grow to several hundred microns thick while respiring on an electrode and that the top of the biofilm remains metabolically active. This is only possible if the cells near the top are able to transfer electrons through the initial biofilm matrix to the electrode. We used X-ray absorption spectroscopy to verify electron transfer to uranium ions by metabolically active cells near the top of the biofilm. Our results reveal that extracellular electron transfer is not prevented by electrical resistance, even when the biofilm is hundreds of microns thick. Furthermore, the electron donor may be the limiting factor for respiration and the base of the biofilm may be less active despite being in close proximity to the electrode. Long-range electron transfer across metabolically inactive regions within Geobacter biofilms adds a novel facet to our comprehension of electrochemically active biology.« less

Bismuth molybdate thick films as ethanol sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jain, Kiran; Kumar, Vipin; Gupta, H. P.; Rastogi, A. C.

2003-10-01

Ethanol sensitivity of bismuth molybdate thick films and sintered pellets were investigated. Sintered pellets were prepared by traditional ceramic processing. Thick films were prepared by metallorganic decomposition process. Ethanol gas sensitivity was measured at various temperatures and concentrations. Thick films of alpha phase bismuth molybdate prepared by spray pyrolysis showed a very fast response to ethanol detection. The response time for the bulk samples is about 40 sec which decreased to about 6 sec for thick films at an operating temperature of 300°C. An extremely low level approximately 10 ppm detection and fast response makes this technique ideal for sensor element fabrication for detection and estimation of alcohol in breath-analyzer. Unlike SnO2, the resistance of these sensors is not affected by humidity at the operating temperature.

Temporal context, preference, and resistance to change.

PubMed

Podlesnik, Christopher A; Jimenez-Gomez, Corina; Thrailkill, Eric A; Shahan, Timothy A

2011-09-01

According to behavioral momentum theory, preference and relative resistance to change in concurrent-chains schedules are correlated and reflect the relative conditioned value of discriminative stimuli. In the present study, we explore the generality of this relation by manipulating the temporal context within a concurrent-chains procedure through changes in the duration of the initial links. Consistent with previous findings, preference for a richer terminal link was less extreme with longer initial links across three experiments with pigeons. In Experiment 1, relative resistance to change and preference were related inversely when responding was disrupted with response-independent food presentations during initial links, replicating a previous finding with rats. However, more food was presented with longer initial links, confounding the disrupter and initial-link duration. In Experiment 2, presession feeding was used instead and eliminated the negative relation between relative resistance to change and preference, but relative resistance to change was not sensitive to relative terminal-link reinforcement rates. In Experiment 3, with more extreme relative terminal-link reinforcement rates, increasing initial-link duration similarly decreased preference and relative resistance to change for the richer terminal link. Thus, when conditions of disruption are equal and assessed under the appropriate reinforcement conditions, changes in temporal context impact relative resistance to change and preference similarly.

Layered ultra-thin coherent structures used as electrical resistors having low-temperature coefficient of resistivity

DOEpatents

Werner, T.R.; Falco, C.M.; Schuller, I.K.

1982-08-31

A thin film resistor having a controlled temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) ranging from negative to positive degrees kelvin and having relatively high resistivity. The resistor is a multilayer superlattice crystal containing a plurality of alternating, ultra-thin layers of two different metals. TCR is varied by controlling the thickness of the individual layers. The resistor can be readily prepared by methods compatible with thin film circuitry manufacturing techniques.

Semiconductor-like behavior in superconducting Nb/Al films

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

Greco, M.; Menichetti, E.; Rinaudo, G.

1999-04-20

The authors report here the experimental evidence of semiconductor-superconductor transitions in relatively thick Nb/Al structures. The temperature dependence of resistivity {rho}(T) shows a sharp superconducting transition followed by either a normal metallic behavior in low-resistivity samples, or a semiconducting behavior when the sample resistivity at 10 K is above 100 {mu}{Omega} cm. The authors discuss here the fabrication conditions and the electron localization regime associated with the measured {rho}(T) dependence.

Effect of pH on Semiconducting Property of Passive Film Formed on Ultra-High-Strength Corrosion-Resistant Steel in Sulfuric Acid Solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Min; Xiao, Kui; Dong, Chaofang; Li, Xiaogang; Zhong, Ping

2013-10-01

Because Cr9Ni5MoCo14 is a new ultra-high-strength corrosion-resistant steel, it is important to study its corrosion behavior in sulfuric acid solution, which is used to simulate the aggressive environment. The effect of pH on the electrochemical and semiconducting properties of passive films formed on ultra-high-strength corrosion-resistant steel in sulfuric acid solution was investigated by means of the potentiodynamic polarization technique, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), Mott-Schottky analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results indicated that Cr9Ni5MoCo14 steel showed a passive state in acid solutions. The corrosion behavior of this Cr9Ni5MoCo14 alloy was influenced by the passive film formed on the surface, including thickness, stability, and partitioning of elements of the passive film. The passive current density decreases with increasing pH, and the corrosion resistance was enhanced by the increasing thickness and depletion of the defects within the passive film. Moreover, an enrichment of chromium (primarily the oxides of Cr) and depletion of iron in the passive film led to improved corrosion resistance. These results can provide a theoretical basis for use of this alloy and further development of ultra-high-strength corrosion-resistant steel in today's society.

The Effect of Modulation Ratio of Cu/Ni Multilayer Films on the Fretting Damage Behaviour of Ti-811 Titanium Alloy.

PubMed

Zhang, Xiaohua; Liu, Daoxin; Li, Xiaoying; Dong, Hanshan; Xi, Yuntao

2017-05-26

To improve the fretting damage (fretting wear and fretting fatigue) resistance of Ti-811 titanium alloy, three Cu/Ni multilayer films with the same modulation period thickness (200 nm) and different modulation ratios (3:1, 1:1, 1:3) were deposited on the surface of the alloy via ion-assisted magnetron sputtering deposition (IAD). The bonding strength, micro-hardness, and toughness of the films were evaluated, and the effect of the modulation ratio on the room-temperature fretting wear (FW) and fretting fatigue (FF) resistance of the alloy was determined. The results indicated that the IAD technique can be successfully used to prepare Cu/Ni multilayer films, with high bonding strength, low-friction, and good toughness, which yield improved room-temperature FF and FW resistance of the alloy. For the same modulation period (200 nm), the micro-hardness, friction, and FW resistance of the coated alloy increased, decreased, and improved, respectively, with increasing modulation ratio of the Ni-to-Cu layer thickness. However, the FF resistance of the coated alloy increased non-monotonically with the increasing modulation ratio. Among the three Cu/Ni multilayer films, those with a modulation ratio of 1:1 can confer the highest FF resistance to the Ti-811 alloy, owing mainly to their unique combination of good toughness, high strength, and low-friction.

Evaluation of the optoelectronic properties and corrosion behavior of Al2O3-doped ZnO films prepared by dc pulsed magnetron sputtering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zubizarreta, C.; Berasategui, E. G.; Bayón, R.; Escobar Galindo, R.; Barros, R.; Gaspar, D.; Nunes, D.; Calmeiro, T.; Martins, R.; Fortunato, E.; Barriga, J.

2014-12-01

The main requirements for transparent conducting oxide (TCO) films acting as electrodes are a high transmission rate in the visible spectral region and low resistivity. However, in many cases, tolerance to temperature and humidity exposure is also an important requirement to be fulfilled by the TCOs to assure proper operation and durability. Besides improving current encapsulation methods, the corrosion resistance of the developed TCOs must also be enhanced to warrant the performance of optoelectronic devices. In this paper the performance of aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) films deposited by pulsed dc magnetron sputtering has been studied. Structure, optical transmittance/reflectance, electrical properties (resistivity, carrier concentration and mobility) and corrosion resistance of the developed coatings have been analyzed as a function of the doping of the target and the coating thickness. Films grown from a 2.0 wt% Al2O3 target with a thickness of approximately 1 µm showed a very low resistivity of 6.54  ×  10-4 Ωcm and a high optical transmittance in the visible range of 84%. Corrosion studies of the developed samples have shown very low corrosion currents (nanoamperes), very high corrosion resistances (in the order of 107 Ω) and very high electrochemical stability, indicating no tendency for electrochemical corrosion degradation.

The Effect of Modulation Ratio of Cu/Ni Multilayer Films on the Fretting Damage Behaviour of Ti-811 Titanium Alloy

PubMed Central

Zhang, Xiaohua; Liu, Daoxin; Li, Xiaoying; Dong, Hanshan; Xi, Yuntao

2017-01-01

To improve the fretting damage (fretting wear and fretting fatigue) resistance of Ti-811 titanium alloy, three Cu/Ni multilayer films with the same modulation period thickness (200 nm) and different modulation ratios (3:1, 1:1, 1:3) were deposited on the surface of the alloy via ion-assisted magnetron sputtering deposition (IAD). The bonding strength, micro-hardness, and toughness of the films were evaluated, and the effect of the modulation ratio on the room-temperature fretting wear (FW) and fretting fatigue (FF) resistance of the alloy was determined. The results indicated that the IAD technique can be successfully used to prepare Cu/Ni multilayer films, with high bonding strength, low-friction, and good toughness, which yield improved room-temperature FF and FW resistance of the alloy. For the same modulation period (200 nm), the micro-hardness, friction, and FW resistance of the coated alloy increased, decreased, and improved, respectively, with increasing modulation ratio of the Ni-to-Cu layer thickness. However, the FF resistance of the coated alloy increased non-monotonically with the increasing modulation ratio. Among the three Cu/Ni multilayer films, those with a modulation ratio of 1:1 can confer the highest FF resistance to the Ti-811 alloy, owing mainly to their unique combination of good toughness, high strength, and low-friction. PMID:28772947

Fabrication of large area woodpile structure in polymer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Jaya Prakash; Dutta, Neilanjan; Yao, Peng; Sharkawy, Ahmed S.; Prather, Dennis W.

2009-02-01

A fabrication process of three-dimensional Woodpile photonic crystals based on multilayer photolithography from commercially available photo resist SU8 have been demonstrated. A 6-layer, 2 mm × 2mm woodpile has been fabricated. Different factors that influence the spin thickness on multiple resist application have been studied. The fabrication method used removes, the problem of intermixing, and is more repeatable and robust than the multilayer fabrication techniques for three dimensional photonic crystal structures that have been previously reported. Each layer is developed before next layer photo resist spin, instead of developing the whole structure in the final step as used in multilayer process. The desired thickness for each layer is achieved by the calibration of spin speed and use of different photo resist compositions. Deep UV exposure confinement has been the defining parameter in this process. Layer uniformity for every layer is independent of the previous developed layers and depends on the photo resist planarizing capability, spin parameters and baking conditions. The intermixing problem, which results from the previous layers left uncrossed linked photo resist, is completely removed in this process as the previous layers are fully developed, avoiding any intermixing between the newly spun and previous layers. Also this process gives the freedom to redo every spin any number of times without affecting the previously made structure, which is not possible in other multilayer process where intermediate developing is not performed.

Reflow process stabilization by chemical characteristics and process conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Myoung-Soo; Park, Jeong-Hyun; Kim, Hak-Joon; Kim, Il-Hyung; Jeon, Jae-Ha; Gil, Myung-Goon; Kim, Bong-Ho

2002-07-01

With the shrunken device rule below 130nm, the patterning of smaller contact hole with enough process margin is required for mass production. Therefore, shrinking technology using thermal reflow process has been applied for smaller contact hole formation. In this paper, we have investigated the effects of chemical characteristics such as molecular weight, blocking ratio of resin, cross-linker amount and solvent type with its composition to reflow process of resist and found the optimized chemical composition for reflow process applicable condition. And several process conditions like resist coating thickness and multi-step thermal reflow method have been also evaluated to stabilize the pattern profile and improve CD uniformity after reflow process. From the experiment results, it was confirmed that the effect of crosslinker in resist to reflow properties such as reflow temperature and reflow rate were very critical and it controlled the pattern profile during reflow processing. And also, it showed stable CD uniformity and improved resist properties for top loss, film shrinkage and etch selectivity. The application of lower coating thickness of resist induced symmetric pattern profile even at edge with wider process margin. The introduction of two-step baking method for reflow process showed uniform CD value, also. It is believed that the application of resist containing crosslinker and optimized process conditions for smaller contact hole patterning is necessary for the mass production with a design rule below 130nm.

The initiation and tectonic regimes of the Cenozoic extension in the Bohai Bay Basin, North China revealed by numerical modelling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Lu; Qiu, Nansheng

2017-06-01

In this study the dynamic aspects of the Cenozoic extension in the Bohai Bay Basin are considered in the context of initial thickness of the crust and lithosphere, tectonic force, strain rate and thermal rheology, which are directly or indirectly estimated from a pure shear extensional model. It is accordingly reasonable to expect that, in the Bohai Bay Basin, the thickness variation could be present prior to the initiation of extension. The extensional deformation is localized by a thickness variation of the crust and lithosphere and the heterogeneity of the initial thickness plays an important role in rifting dynamics. The onset of rifting requires a critical tectonic force (initial tectonic force) to be applied, which then immediately begins to decay gradually. Rifting will only occur when the total effective buoyancy force of the subducting slab reaches a critical level, after a certain amount of subduction taking place. The magnitude of the tectonic force decreases with time in the early phase of rifting, which indicates the weakening due to the increase in geothermal gradient. In order to deform the continental lithosphere within the currently accepted maximum magnitude of the force derived from subducted slab roll-back, the following conditions should be satisfied: (1) the thickness of the continental lithosphere is significantly thin and less than 125 km and (2) the lithosphere has a wet and hot rheology, which provides implications for rheological layering in continental lithosphere. Our results are strongly supported by the ;crème brûlée; model, in which the lower crust and mantle are relatively ductile.

Effects of borehole design on complex electrical resistivity measurements: laboratory validation and numerical experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Treichel, A.; Huisman, J. A.; Zhao, Y.; Zimmermann, E.; Esser, O.; Kemna, A.; Vereecken, H.

2012-12-01

Geophysical measurements within a borehole are typically affected by the presence of the borehole. The focus of the current study is to quantify the effect of borehole design on broadband electrical impedance tomography (EIT) measurements within boreholes. Previous studies have shown that effects on the real part of the electrical resistivity are largest for boreholes with large diameters and for materials with a large formation factor. However, these studies have not considered the effect of the well casing and the filter gravel on the measurement of the real part of the electrical resistivity. In addition, the effect of borehole design on the imaginary part of the electrical resistivity has not been investigated yet. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the effect of borehole design on the complex electrical resistivity using laboratory measurements and numerical simulations. In order to do so, we developed a high resolution two dimensional axisymmetric finite element model (FE) that enables us to simulate the effects of several key borehole design parameters (e.g. borehole diameter, thickness of PVC well casing) on the measurement process. For the material surrounding the borehole, realistic values for complex resistivity were obtained from a database of laboratory measurements of complex resistivity from the test site Krauthausen (Germany). The slotted PVC well casing is represented by an effective resistivity calculated from the water-filled slot volume and the PVC volume. Measurements with and without PVC well casing were made with a four-electrode EIT logging tool in a water-filled rain barrel. The initial comparison for the case that the logging tool was inserted in the PVC well casing showed a considerable mismatch between measured and modeled values. It was required to consider a complete electrode model instead of point electrodes to remove this mismatch. This validated model was used to investigate in detail how complex resistivity measurements with different electrode configurations are affected by borehole design. Finally, the plausibility of our results was verified by comparing the simulation results with borehole EIT measurements made at the test site Krauthausen.

Experimental Investigation of the Electrothermal Instability on Planar Foil Ablation Experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steiner, Adam; Patel, Sonal; Yager-Elorriaga, David; Jordan, Nicholas; Gilgenbach, Ronald; Lau, Y. Y.

2014-10-01

The electrothermal instability (ETI) is an important early-time physical effect on pulsed power foil ablation experiments due to its ability to seed the destructive magneto-Rayleigh-Taylor (MRT) instability. ETI occurs whenever electrical resistivity has temperature dependence; when resistivity increases with temperature, as with solid metal liners or foils, ETI forms striation structures perpendicular to current flow. These striations provide an initial perturbation for the MRT instability, which is the dominant late-time instability in planar foil ablations. The MAIZE linear transformer driver was used to drive current pulses of approximately 600 kA into 400 nm-thick aluminum foils in order to study ETI in planar geometry. Shadowgraph images of the aluminum plasmas were taken for multiple shots at various times within approximately 50 ns of current start. Fourier analysis extracted the approximate wavelengths of the instability structures on the plasma-vacuum interface. Surface metrology of pre-shot foils was performed to provide a comparison between surface roughness features and resulting plasma structure. This work was supported by US DoE. S.G. Patel and A.M. Steiner supported by NPSC funded by Sandia. D.A. Yager supported by NSF fellowship Grant # DGE 1256260.

Calibration of thin-foil manganin gauge in ALOX material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benham, R. A.; Weirick, L. J.; Lee, L. M.

1996-05-01

The purpose of this program was to develop a calibration curve (stress as a function of change in gauge resistance/gauge resistance) and to obtain gauge repeatability data for Micro-Measurements stripped manganin thin-foiled gauges up to 6.1 GPa in ALOX (42% by volume alumina in Epon 828 epoxy) material. A light-gas gun was used to drive an ALOX impactor into the ALOX target containing four gauges in a centered diamond arrangement. Tilt and velocity of the impactor were measured along with the gauge outputs. Impact stresses from 0.5 to 6.1 GPa were selected in increments of 0.7 GPa with duplicate tests done at 0.5, 3.3 and 6.1 GPa. A total of twelve tests was conducted using ALOX. Three initial tests were done using polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) as the impactor and target at an impact pressure of 3.0 GPa for comparison of gauge output with analysis and literature values. The installed gauge, stripped of its backing, has a nominal thickness of 5 μm. The thin gauge and high speed instrumentation allowed higher time resolution measurements than can be obtained with manganin wire.

Investigation of percolation thickness of sputter coated thin NiCr films on clear float glass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Erkan, Selen; Arpat, Erdem; Peters, Sven

2017-11-01

Percolation thickness of reactively sputtered nickel chromium (NiCr) thin films is reported in this study. Nickel-chromium films with the thicknesses in between 1 and 10 nm were deposited on 4 mm clear glass substrate by dc magnetron sputtering. Optical properties such as refractive index, extinction coefficient and also sheet resistance, carrier concentration and mobility of NiCr films were determined by a combination of variable-angle spectroscopic ellipsometry and four point probe measurements. We show both the percolation phenomena in atmosphere and critical percolation thickness for thin NiCr films by both electrical and optical techniques. The two techniques gave consistent results with each other.

Emissivity of freestanding membranes with thin metal coatings

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

Zwol, P. J. van, E-mail: Pieter-jan.van.zwol@asml.com; Vles, D. F.; Voorthuijzen, W. P.

Freestanding silicon nitride membranes with thicknesses down to a few tens of nanometers find use as TEM windows or soft X-ray spectral purity filters. As the thickness of a membrane decreases, emissivity vanishes, which limits radiative heat emission and resistance to heat loads. We show that thin metal layers with thicknesses in the order of 1 nm enhance the emissivity of thin membranes by two to three orders of magnitude close to the theoretical limit of 0.5. This considerably increases thermal load capacity of membranes in vacuum environments. Our experimental results are in line with classical theory in which we adaptmore » thickness dependent scattering terms in the Drude and Lorentz oscillators.« less

Bioactive glass-ceramic coating for enhancing the in vitro corrosion resistance of biodegradable Mg alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ye, Xinyu; Cai, Shu; Dou, Ying; Xu, Guohua; Huang, Kai; Ren, Mengguo; Wang, Xuexin

2012-10-01

In this work, a bioactive 45S5 glass-ceramic coating was synthesized on magnesium (Mg) alloy substrate by using a sol-gel dip-coating method, to improve the initial corrosion resistance of AZ31 Mg alloy. The surface morphology and phase composition of the glass-ceramic coating were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The coating composed of amorphous phase and crystalline phase Na2Ca2Si3O9, with the thickness of ∼1.0 μm, exhibited a uniform and crack-free surface morphology. The corrosion behavior of the uncoated and coated Mg alloy substrates was investigated by the electrochemical measurements and immersion tests in simulated body fluid (SBF). Potentiodynamic polarization tests recorded an increase of potential (Ecorr) form -1.60 V to -1.48 V, and a reduction of corrosion current density (icorr) from 4.48 μA cm-2 to 0.16 μA cm-2, due to the protection provided by the glass-ceramic coating. Immersion tests also showed the markedly improved corrosion resistance of the coated sample over the immersion period of 7 days. Moreover, after 14 days of immersion in SBF, the corrosion resistance of the coated sample declined due to the cracking of the glass-ceramic coating, which was confirmed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis. The results suggested that the 45S5 glass-ceramic coated Mg alloy could provide a suitable corrosion behavior for use as degradable implants.

Amputee socks: Sock thickness changes with normal use.

PubMed

Cagle, John C; D'Silva, Krittika J; Hafner, Brian J; Harrison, Daniel S; Sanders, Joan E

2016-06-01

Prosthetic socks are expected to decrease in thickness and have reduced volume accommodation with normal use. It is unknown, however, to what degree they reduce in thickness over time. The goal of this study was to determine a correlation between the age of a prosthetic sock (defined as the out-of-package time) and the resulting change in thickness under standardized weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing conditions. Experimental, mechanical assessment. Used prosthetic socks were donated by donors with transtibial amputation. Sock thickness was measured on a custom instrument under conditions representative of normal use. Stress-thickness response was compared to that of equivalent new socks to quantify the effects of use on sock performance. Sock thickness changed non-linearly over time. On average, socks were 75% ± 17% of their initial thickness after 1 month, while socks older than 1 month were 72% ± 18% of their initial thickness. The elasticity of socks did not change with age. The volume accommodation provided by used socks cannot be reliably predicted by ply or age. Direct measurement of total sock thickness may provide meaningful insight to quantify prosthetic users' socket fit and guide volume accommodation recommendations. The mean difference in thickness between 3-ply and 5-ply used socks was equal to the standard deviation of each ply group (0.3mm). Therefore, it is possible that a 3-ply sock worn for as a little as 1 month could have a greater thickness than a 5-ply sock worn for a month. © The International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics 2015.

Characterization of Titanium films for low temperature detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Monticone, E.; Rajteri, M.; Rastello, M. L.; Lacquaniti, V.; Gandini, C.; Pasca, E.; Ventura, G.

2002-02-01

In this work we study Ti films, with thickness between 10 nm and 1000 nm, deposited by e-gun on silicon nitride. Critical temperatures and electrical resistivities of these films have been measured and related each other. The behavior of critical temperatures versus the residual resistivities is discussed in the frame of the Testardi and Mattheiss theory .

Influence of preparation design and ceramic thicknesses on fracture resistance and failure modes of premolar partial coverage restorations

PubMed Central

Guess, Petra C.; Schultheis, Stefan; Wolkewitz, Martin; Zhang; Strub, Joerg R.

2015-01-01

Statement of problem Preparation designs and ceramic thicknesses are key factors for the long-term success of minimally invasive premolar partial coverage restorations. However, only limited information is presently available on this topic. Purpose The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the fracture resistance and failure modes of ceramic premolar partial coverage restorations with different preparation designs and ceramic thicknesses. Material and methods Caries-free human premolars (n= 144) were divided into 9 groups. Palatal onlay preparation comprised reduction of the palatal cusp by 2 mm (Palatal-Onlay-Standard), 1 mm (Palatal-Onlay-Thin), or 0.5 mm (Palatal-Onlay-Ultra-Thin). Complete-coverage onlay preparation additionally included the buccal cusp (Occlusal-Onlay-Standard; Occlusal-Onlay-Thin; Occlusal-Onlay-Ultra-Thin). Labial surface preparations with chamfer reductions of 0.8 mm (Complete-Veneer-Standard), 0.6 mm (Complete-Veneer-Thin) and 0.4 mm (Complete-Veneer-Ultra-Thin) were implemented for complete veneer restorations. Restorations were fabricated from a pressable lithium-disilicate ceramic (IPS-e.max-Press) and cemented adhesively (Syntac-Classic/Variolink-II). All specimens were subjected to cyclic mechanical loading (F= 49 N, 1.2 million cycles) and simultaneous thermocycling (5°C to 55°C) in a mouth-motion simulator. After fatigue, restorations were exposed to single-load-to-failure. Two-way ANOVA was used to identify statistical differences. Pair-wise differences were calculated and P-values were adjusted by the Tukey–Kramer method (α= .05). Results All specimens survived fatigue. Mean (SD) load to failure values (N) were as follows: 837 (320/Palatal-Onlay-Standard), 1055 (369/Palatal-Onlay-Thin), 1192 (342/Palatal-Onlay-Ultra-Thin), 963 (405/Occlusal-Onlay-Standard), 1108 (340/Occlusal-Onlay-Thin), 997 (331/Occlusal-Onlay-Ultra-Thin), 1361 (333/Complete-Veneer-Standard), 1087 (251/Complete-Veneer-Thin), 883 (311/Complete-Veneer-Ultra-Thin). Palatal-onlay restorations revealed a significantly higher fracture resistance with ultra-thin thicknesses than with standard thicknesses (P=.015). Onlay restorations were not affected by thickness variations. Fracture loads of standard complete veneers were significantly higher than thin (P=.03) and ultra-thin (P<.001) restorations. Conclusions In this in vitro study, the reduction of preparation depth to 1.00 and 0.5 mm did not impair fracture resistance of pressable lithium-disilicate ceramic onlay restorations but resulted in lower failure loads in complete veneer restorations on premolars. PMID:24079561

Degradation of Polymer-Coated Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-10-01

Al and Al - Cu alloy metallizations about 800 nm thick were deposited on glass substrates and...accumulation under corrosion resistant organic coatings. Al and Al - Cu alloy metallizations about 800 nm thick were deposited on glass substrates and then...exposed to salt spray chamber for 16 days. Figure 1.4.10 Images of corrosion sites in Al - Cu thin film at “As deposited ” condition under

Effect of photoanode thickness on electrochemical performance of dye sensitized solar cell

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

Khatani, Mehboob, E-mail: mkhatani@hotmail.com; Hamid, Nor Hisham, E-mail: hishmid@petronas.com.my; Sahmer, Ahmed Zahrin, E-mail: azclement@yahoo.com

2015-07-22

The thickness of photoanode is crucial as it adsorbed a large amount of dye molecules that provide electrons for generation of electricity in dye sensitized solar cell (DSC). Thus, in order to realize the practical application of DSC, study on various thickness of photoanode need to be carried out to analyze its effect on the electrochemical behavior of dye sensitized solar cell. To enhance the conversion efficiency, an additional layer of TiO{sub 2} using TiCl{sub 4} treatment was deposited prior to the deposition of the photoanode (active area of 1cm{sup 2}) with the thickness of 6, 12, 18, 24, andmore » 30 µm on fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) glass substrate. The resulting photoanode after the soak in N719 dye for more than 12hrs were used to be assembled in a test cell in combination with liquid electrolyte and counter electrode. The fabricated cells were characterized by solar simulator, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to approximate the thickness of photoanode. An optimum power conversion efficiency of 4.54% was obtained for the cell fabricated with 18 µm photoanode thickness. This is attributed to the reduced resistance related to electron transport in the TiO{sub 2}/dye/electrolyte interface as proven by the EIS result. This led to the reduction of internal resistance, the increase in the electron life time and the improvement in the conversion efficiency.« less

Investigation of Thermal Interface Materials Using Phase-Sensitive Transient Thermoreflectance Technique: Preprint

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

Feng, X.; King, C.; DeVoto, D.

2014-08-01

With increasing power density in electronics packages/modules, thermal resistances at multiple interfaces are a bottleneck to efficient heat removal from the package. In this work, the performance of thermal interface materials such as grease, thermoplastic adhesives and diffusion-bonded interfaces are characterized using the phase-sensitive transient thermoreflectance technique. A multi-layer heat conduction model was constructed and theoretical solutions were derived to obtain the relation between phase lag and the thermal/physical properties. This technique enables simultaneous extraction of the contact resistance and bulk thermal conductivity of the TIMs. With the measurements, the bulk thermal conductivity of Dow TC-5022 thermal grease (70 tomore » 75 um bondline thickness) was 3 to 5 W/(m-K) and the contact resistance was 5 to 10 mm2-K/W. For the Btech thermoplastic material (45 to 80 μm bondline thickness), the bulk thermal conductivity was 20 to 50 W/(m-K) and the contact resistance was 2 to 5 mm2-K/W. Measurements were also conducted to quantify the thermal performance of diffusion-bonded interface for power electronics applications. Results with the diffusion-bonded sample showed that the interfacial thermal resistance is more than one order of magnitude lower than those of traditional TIMs, suggesting potential pathways to efficient thermal management.« less

Improved pulmonary function in the nitrofen model of congenital diaphragmatic hernia following prenatal maternal dexamethasone and/or sildenafil.

PubMed

Burgos, Carmen Mesas; Pearson, Erik G; Davey, Marcus; Riley, John; Jia, Huimin; Laje, Pablo; Flake, Alan W; Peranteau, William H

2016-10-01

Pulmonary hypoplasia and hypertension is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). The etiologic insult occurs early in gestation highlighting the potential of prenatal interventions. We evaluated prenatal pharmacologic therapies in the nitrofen CDH model. Olive oil or nitrofen were administered alone or with dexamethasone (DM), sildenafil, or DM+sildenafil to pregnant rats. Newborn pups were assessed for lung function, structure and pulmonary artery (PA) flow and resistance. Prenatal DM treatment of CDH pups increased alveolar volume density (Vva), decreased interalveloar septal thickness, increased tidal volumes and improved ventilation without improving oxygenation or PA resistance. Sildenafil decreased PA resistance and improved oxygenation without improving ventilation or resulting in significant histologic changes. DM+sildenafil decreased PA resistance, improved oxygenation and ventilation while increasing Vva and decreasing interalveolar septal and pulmonary arteriole medial wall thickness. Lung and body weights were decreased in pups treated with DM and/or sildenafil. Prenatal DM or sildenafil treatment increased pulmonary compliance and decreased pulmonary vascular resistance respectively, and was associated with improved neonatal gas exchange but had a detrimental effect on lung and fetal growth. This study highlights the potential of individual and combined prenatal pharmacologic therapies for CDH management.

Shatter resistance of spectacle lenses.

PubMed

Vinger, P F; Parver, L; Alfaro, D V; Woods, T; Abrams, B S

1997-01-08

To evaluate the relative strength and shatter resistance of spectacle lenses currently used in sunglasses and dress, sports, and industrial eyewear. Seven lenses that met the US American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z80 standards for dress glasses (made of high-index plastic, allyl resin plastic, heat tempered glass, chemically tempered glass, and polycarbonate, and with center thickness ranging from 1 mm to 2.2 mm) and 4 lenses that met ANSI Z87 standards for industrial safety eyewear (allyl resin plastic, heat-tempered glass, chemically tempered glass, and polycarbonate, all with 3.0-mm center thickness) were tested for impact resistance to 5 projectiles (air gun pellets, golf balls, tennis balls, lacrosse balls, and baseballs). Impact energy required to shatter spectacle lenses. Based on 348 lens impacts, dress and industrial lenses made from glass, allyl resin plastic, and high-index plastic shattered at impact energies less than those expected to be encountered from the test projectiles during their routine use. Polycarbonate lenses demonstrated resistance to impact for all tested projectiles exceeding the impact potential expected during routine use. Under the test conditions of this study, polycarbonate lenses demonstrated greater impact resistance than other commonly used spectacle lenses that conform to prevailing eyewear standards. These findings suggest that current ANSI Z80 and ANSI Z87 standards should be reevaluated.

Air-Impregnated Nanoporous Anodic Aluminum Oxide Layers for Enhancing the Corrosion Resistance of Aluminum.

PubMed

Jeong, Chanyoung; Lee, Junghoon; Sheppard, Keith; Choi, Chang-Hwan

2015-10-13

Nanoporous anodic aluminum oxide layers were fabricated on aluminum substrates with systematically varied pore diameters (20-80 nm) and oxide thicknesses (150-500 nm) by controlling the anodizing voltage and time and subsequent pore-widening process conditions. The porous nanostructures were then coated with a thin (only a couple of nanometers thick) Teflon film to make the surface hydrophobic and trap air in the pores. The corrosion resistance of the aluminum substrate was evaluated by a potentiodynamic polarization measurement in 3.5 wt % NaCl solution (saltwater). Results showed that the hydrophobic nanoporous anodic aluminum oxide layer significantly enhanced the corrosion resistance of the aluminum substrate compared to a hydrophilic oxide layer of the same nanostructures, to bare (nonanodized) aluminum with only a natural oxide layer on top, and to the latter coated with a thin Teflon film. The hydrophobic nanoporous anodic aluminum oxide layer with the largest pore diameter and the thickest oxide layer (i.e., the maximized air fraction) resulted in the best corrosion resistance with a corrosion inhibition efficiency of up to 99% for up to 7 days. The results demonstrate that the air impregnating the hydrophobic nanopores can effectively inhibit the penetration of corrosive media into the pores, leading to a significant improvement in corrosion resistance.

Solid-state and fusion resistance spot welding of TD-NiCr sheet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moore, T. J.

1973-01-01

By using specially processed TD-NiCr sheet in both 0.4-mm (0.015-in.) and 1.6-mm (0.062-in.) thicknesses and carefully selected welding procedures, solid state resistance spot welds were produced which, after postheating at 1200 C, were indistinguishable from the parent material. Stress-rupture shear tests of single-spot lap joints in 0.4-mm (0.015-in.) thick sheet showed that these welds were as strong as the parent material. Similar results were obtained in tensile-shear tests at room temperature and 1100 C and in fatigue tests. Conventional fusion spot welds in commercial sheet were unsatisfactory because of poor stress-rupture shear properties resulting from metallurgical damage to the parent material.

Organic nonvolatile resistive memory devices based on thermally deposited Au nanoparticle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jin, Zhiwen; Liu, Guo; Wang, Jizheng

2013-05-01

Uniform Au nanoparticles (NPs) are formed by thermally depositing nominal 2-nm thick Au film on a 10-nm thick polyimide film formed on a Al electrode, and then covered by a thin polymer semiconductor film, which acts as an energy barrier for electrons to be injected from the other Al electrode (on top of polymer film) into the Au NPs, which are energetically electron traps in such a resistive random access memory (RRAM) device. The Au NPs based RRAM device exhibits estimated retention time of 104 s, cycle times of more than 100, and ON-OFF ratio of 102 to 103. The carrier transport properties are also analyzed by fitting the measured I-V curves with several conduction models.

Performance of epitaxial back surface field cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brandhorst, H. W., Jr.; Baraona, C. R.; Swartz, C. K.

1973-01-01

Epitaxial back surface field structures were formed by depositing a 10 micron thick 10 Omega-cm epitaxial silicon layer onto substrates with resistivities of 0.01, 0.1, 1.0 and 10 Omega-cm. A correlation between cell open-circuit voltage and substrate resistivity was observed and was compared to theory. The cells were also irradiated with 1 MeV electrons to a fluence of 5 X 10 to the 15th power e/cm2. The decrease of cell open-circuit voltage was in excellent agreement with theoretical predictions and the measured short circuit currents were within 2% of the prediction. Calculations are presented of optimum cell performance as functions of epitaxial layer thickness, radiation fluence and substrate diffusion length.

Photorefractive keratectomy in the cat eye: biological and optical outcomes.

PubMed

Nagy, Lana J; MacRae, Scott; Yoon, Geunyoung; Wyble, Matthew; Wang, Jianhua; Cox, Ian; Huxlin, Krystel R

2007-06-01

To quantify optical and biomechanical properties of the feline cornea before and after photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and assess the relative contribution of different biological factors to refractive outcome. Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA. Adult cats had 6.0 diopter (D) myopic or 4.0 D hyperopic PRK over 6.0 or 8.0 mm optical zones (OZ). Preoperative and postoperative wavefront aberrations were measured, as were intraocular pressure (IOP), corneal hysteresis, the corneal resistance factor, axial length, corneal thickness, and radii of curvature. Finally, postmortem immunohistochemistry for vimentin and alpha-smooth muscle actin was performed. Photorefractive keratectomy changed ocular defocus, increased higher-order aberrations, and induced myofibroblast differentiation in cats. However, the intended defocus corrections were only achieved with 8.0 mm OZs. Long-term flattening of the epithelial and stromal surfaces was noted after myopic, but not after hyperopic, PRK. The IOP was unaltered by PRK; however, corneal hysteresis and the corneal resistance factor decreased. Over the ensuing 6 months, ocular aberrations and the IOP remained stable, while central corneal thickness, corneal hysteresis, and the corneal resistance factor increased toward normal levels. Cat corneas exhibited optical, histological, and biomechanical reactions to PRK that resembled those previously described in humans, especially when the OZ size was normalized to the total corneal area. However, cats exhibited significant stromal regeneration, causing a return to preoperative corneal thickness, corneal hysteresis and the corneal resistance factor without significant regression of optical changes induced by the surgery. Thus, the principal effects of laser refractive surgery on ocular wavefront aberrations can be achieved despite clear interspecies differences in corneal biology.

Facile Synthesis of Thick Films of Poly(methyl methacrylate), Poly(styrene), and Poly(vinyl pyridine) from Au Surfaces

PubMed Central

Saha, Sampa

2011-01-01

Atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) is commonly used to grow polymer brushes from Au surfaces, but the resulting film thicknesses are usually significantly less than with ATRP from SiO2 substrates. On Au, growth of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) blocks from poly(tert-butyl acrylate) brushes occurs more rapidly than growth of PMMA from initiator monolayers, suggesting that the disparity between growth rates from Au and SiO2 stems from the Au surface. Radical quenching by electron transfer from Au is probably not the termination mechanism because polymerization from thin, cross-linked initiators gives film thicknesses that are essentially the same as the thicknesses of films grown from SiO2 under the same polymerization conditions. However, this result is consistent with termination through desorption of thiols from non-cross-linked films, and reaction of these thiols with growing polymer chains. The enhanced stability of cross-linked initiators allows ATRP at temperatures up to ~100 °C and enables the growth of thick films of PMMA (350 nm), polystyrene (120 nm) and poly(vinyl pyridine) (200 nm) from Au surfaces in 1 hour. At temperatures >100 °C, the polymer brush layers delaminate as large area films. PMID:21728374

Spin-dependent heat transport and thermal boundary resistance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeong, Taehee

In this thesis, thermal conductivity change depending on the magnetic configurations has been studied. In order to make different magnetic configurations, we developed a spin valve structure, which has high MR ratio and low saturation field. The high MR ratio was achieved using Co/Cu multilayer and 21A or 34A thick Cu layer. The low saturation field was obtained by implementing different coercivities of the successive ferromagnetic layers. For this purpose, Co/Cu/Cu tri-layered structure was used with the thicknesses of the Co layers; 15 A and 30 A. For the thermal conductivity measurement, a three-omega method was employed with a thermally isolated microscale rod. We fabricated the microscale rod using optical lithography and MEMS process. Then the rod was wire-bonded to a chip-carver for further electrical measurement. For the thermal conductivity measurement, we built the three-omega measurement system using two lock-in amplifiers and two differential amplifiers. A custom-made electromagnet was added to the system to investigate the impact of magnetic field. We observed titanic thermal conductivity change depending on the magnetic configurations of the Co/Cu/Co multilayer. The thermal conductivity change was closely correlated with that of the electric conductivity in terms of the spin orientation, but the thermal conductivity was much more sensitive than that of the electric conductivity. The relative thermal conductivity change was 50% meanwhile that of electric resistivity change was 8.0%. The difference between the two ratios suggests that the scattering mechanism for charge and heat transport in the Co/Cu/Co multilayer is different. The Lorentz number in Weidemann-Franz law is also spin-dependent. Thermal boundary resistance between metal and dielectrics was also studied in this thesis. The thermal boundary resistance becomes critical for heat transport in a nanoscale because the thermal boundary resistance can potentially determine overall heat transport in thin film structures. A transient theraroreflectance (TTR) technique can be used for measuring the thermal conductivity of thin films in cross-sectional direction. In this study, a pump-probe scheme was employed for the TTR technique. We built an optical pump-probe system by using a nanosecond pulse laser for pumping and a continuous-wave laser for probing. A short-time heating event occured at the surface of a sample by shining a laser pulse on the surface. Then the time-resolved thermoreflectance signals were detected using a photodetector and an oscilloscope. The increased temperature decreases slowly and its thermal decay depends on the thermal properties of a sample. Since the reflectivity is linearly proportional to the temperature, the time-resolved thermoreflectance signals have the information of the thermal properties of a sample. In order to extract the thermal properties of a sample, a thermal analysis was performed by fitting the experimental data with thermal models. We developed 2-layered and 3-layered thermal models using the analogies between thermal conduction and electric conduction and a transmission-line concept. We used two sets of sample structures: Au/SiNx/Si substrate and Au/CoFe/SiNx/Si substrate with various thickness of SiN x layer. Using the pump-probe system, we measured the time-resolved thermoreflectance signals for each sample. Then, the thermal conductivity and thermal boundary resistance were obtained by fitting the experimental data with the thermal models. The thermal conductivity of SiNx films was measured to be 2.0 W/mK for both structures. In the case of the thermal boundary resistance, it was 0.81x10-5 m 2K/W at the Au/SiNx interface and 0.54x10 -5 m2K/W at the CoFe/SiNx interface, respectively. The difference of the thermal boundary resistance between Au/SiNx and CoFe/SiNx might be came from the different phonon dispersion of Au and CoFe. The thermal conductivity did not depend on the thickness of SiNx films in the thickness range of 50-200nm. However, the thermal boundary resistance at metal/SiNx interfaces will impact overall thermal conduction when the thickness of SiNx thin films is in a nanometer order. For example, apparent thermal conductivity of SiN x film becomes half of the intrinsic thermal conductivity when the thickness decreases to 16nm. Therefore, it is advised that the thermal boundary resistance between metal and dielectrics should be counted in nano-scale electronic devices. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

Characterization of major lithologic units underlying the lower American River using water-borne continuous resistivity profiling, Sacramento, California, June 2008

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ball, Lyndsay B.; Teeple, Andrew

2013-01-01

The levee system of the lower American River in Sacramento, California, is situated above a mixed lithology of alluvial deposits that range from clay to gravel. In addition, sand deposits related to hydraulic mining activities underlie the floodplain and are preferentially prone to scour during high-flow events. In contrast, sections of the American River channel have been observed to be scour resistant. In this study, the U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, explores the resistivity structure of the American River channel to characterize the extent and thickness of lithologic units that may impact the scour potential of the area. Likely lithologic structures are interpreted, but these interpretations are non-unique and cannot be directly related to scour potential. Additional geotechnical data would provide insightful data on the scour potential of certain lithologic units. Additional interpretation of the resistivity data with respect to these results may improve interpretations of lithology and scour potential throughout the American River channel and floodplain. Resistivity data were collected in three profiles along the American River using a water-borne continuous resistivity profiling technique. After processing and modeling these data, inverted resistivity profiles were used to make interpretations about the extent and thickness of possible lithologic units. In general, an intermittent high-resistivity layer likely indicative of sand or gravel deposits extends to a depth of around 30 feet (9 meters) and is underlain by a consistent low-resistivity layer that likely indicates a high-clay content unit that extends below the depth of investigation (60 feet or 18 meters). Immediately upstream of the Watt Avenue Bridge, the high-resistivity layer is absent, and the low-resistivity layer extends to the surface where a scour-resistant layer has been previously observed in the river bed.

Impact damage resistance and damage suppression properties of shape memory alloys in hybrid composites—a review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Angioni, S. L.; Meo, M.; Foreman, A.

2011-01-01

Composite materials are known to have a poor resistance to through-the-thickness impact loading. There are various methods for improving their impact damage tolerance, such as fiber toughening, matrix toughening, interface toughening, through-the-thickness reinforcements, and selective interlayers and hybrids. Hybrid composites with improved impact resistance are particularly useful in military and commercial civil applications. Hybridizing composites using shape memory alloys (SMA) is one solution since SMA materials can absorb the energy of the impact through superelastic deformation or recovery stress, reducing the effects of the impact on the composite structure. The SMA material may be embedded in the hybrid composites (SMAHC) in many different forms and also the characteristics of the fiber reinforcements may vary, such as SMA wires in woven laminates or SMA foils in unidirectional laminates, only to cite two examples. We will review the state of the art of SMAHC for the purpose of damage suppression. Both the active and passive damage suppression mechanisms will be considered.

[Preliminary analysis about influence of porcelain thickness on interfacial crack of PFM].

PubMed

Zhu, Ziyuan; Zhang, Baowei; Zhang, Xiuyin; Xu, Kan; Fang, Ruhua; Wang, Dongmei

2002-01-01

This study was about the influence of porcelain thickness on crack at interface. The effect of porcelain thickness on the flaw at the interface between porcelain and metal was studied in three groups with porcelain thickness of 0.5 mm, 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm (metal thickness of 0.5 mm) by means of moire interferometre and interfacial fracture mechanics. The parameter Jc was compared among the three groups and the growing of the flaw was observed. Jc and the extreme strength of group with porcelain thickness of 0.5 mm (2.813 N/m and 9.979 N) were lower than those of the groups with porcelain thickness of 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm (5.395 N/m, 19.134 N and 5.429 N/m, 19.256 N). Flaws extend along the interface in the groups with porcelain thickness of 1.5 mm and 0.5 mm. (1) Fracture resistance of the interface in the groups with porcelain thickness of 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm is similar and it decreases in the group with 0.5 mm thick porcelain. (2) When porcelain is 1.5 mm or 0.5 mm thick, flaws will extend along the interface. When porcelain is 2.5 mm thick, flaws will extend into the porcelain layer.

Novel synthesis of highly durable and active Pt catalyst encapsulated in nitrogen containing carbon for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Hyunjoon; Sung, Yung-Eun; Choi, Insoo; Lim, Taeho; Kwon, Oh Joong

2017-09-01

Novel synthesis of a Pt catalyst encapsulated in a N-containing carbon layer for use in a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell is described in this study. A Pt-aniline complex, formed by mixing Pt precursor and aniline monomer, was used as the source of Pt, C, and N. Heat treatment of the Pt-aniline complex with carbon black yielded 5 nm Pt nanoparticles encapsulated by a N-containing carbon layer originating from aniline carbonization. The synthesized Pt catalyst exhibited higher mass specific activity to oxygen reduction reaction than that shown by conventional Pt/C catalyst because pyridinic N with graphitic carbon in the carbon layer provided active sites for oxygen reduction reaction in addition to those provided by Pt. In single cell testing, initial performance of the synthesized catalyst was limited because the thick catalyst layer increased resistance related to mass transfer. However, it was observed that the carbon layer successfully prevented Pt nanoparticles from growing via agglomeration and Ostwald ripening under fuel cell operation, thereby improving durability. Furthermore, a mass specific performance of the synthesized catalyst higher than that of a conventional Pt/C catalyst was achieved by modifying the synthesized catalyst's layer thickness.

Influence of Nitinol wire surface treatment on oxide thickness and composition and its subsequent effect on corrosion resistance and nickel ion release.

PubMed

Clarke, B; Carroll, W; Rochev, Y; Hynes, M; Bradley, D; Plumley, D

2006-10-01

Medical implants and devices are now used successfully in surgical procedures on a daily basis. Alloys of nickel and titanium, and in particular Nitinol are of special interest in the medical device industry, because of their shape memory and superelastic properties. The corrosion behavior of nitinol in the body is also of critical importance because of the known toxicological effects of nickel. The stability of a NiTi alloy in the physiological environment is dependant primarily on the properties of the mostly TiO(2) oxide layer that is present on the surface. For the present study, a range of nitinol wires have been prepared using different drawing processes and a range of surface preparation procedures. It is clear from the results obtained that the wire samples with very thick oxides also contain a high nickel content in the oxide layer. The untreated samples with the thicker oxides show the lowest pitting potential values and greater nickel release in both long and short-term experiments. It was also found that after long-term immersion tests breakdown potentials increased for samples that exhibited lower values initially. From these results it would appear that surface treatment is essential for the optimum bioperformance of nitinol. (c) 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc

Kapitza thermal resistance studied by high-frequency photothermal radiometry

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

Horny, Nicolas; Chirtoc, Mihai; Hamaoui, Georges

2016-07-18

Kapitza thermal resistance is determined using high-frequency photothermal radiometry (PTR) extended for modulation up to 10 MHz. Interfaces between 50 nm thick titanium coatings and silicon or stainless steel substrates are studied. In the used configuration, the PTR signal is not sensitive to the thermal conductivity of the film nor to its optical absorption coefficient, thus the Kapitza resistance is directly determined from single thermal parameter fits. Results of thermal resistances show the significant influence of the nature of the substrate, as well as of the presence of free electrons at the interface.

Microenergetic Shock Initiation Studies on Deposited Films of Petn

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tappan, Alexander S.; Wixom, Ryan R.; Trott, Wayne M.; Long, Gregory T.; Knepper, Robert; Brundage, Aaron L.; Jones, David A.

2009-12-01

Films of the high explosive PETN (pentaerythritol tetranitrate) up to 500-μm thick have been deposited through physical vapor deposition, with the intent of creating well-defined samples for shock-initiation studies. PETN films were characterized with microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and focused ion beam nanotomography. These high-density films were subjected to strong shocks in both the out-of-plane and in-plane orientations. Initiation behavior was monitored with high-speed framing and streak camera photography. Direct initiation with a donor explosive (either RDX with binder, or CL-20 with binder) was possible in both orientations, but with the addition of a thin aluminum buffer plate (in-plane configuration only), initiation proved to be difficult. Initiation was possible with an explosively-driven 0.13-mm thick Kapton flyer and direct observation of initiation behavior was examined using streak camera photography at different flyer velocities. Models of this configuration were created using the shock physics code CTH.

Process for manufacture of thick film hydrogen sensors

DOEpatents

Perdieu, Louisa H.

2000-09-09

A thick film process for producing hydrogen sensors capable of sensing down to a one percent concentration of hydrogen in carrier gasses such as argon, nitrogen, and air. The sensor is also suitable to detect hydrogen gas while immersed in transformer oil. The sensor includes a palladium resistance network thick film printed on a substrate, a portion of which network is coated with a protective hydrogen barrier. The process utilizes a sequence of printing of the requisite materials on a non-conductive substrate with firing temperatures at each step which are less than or equal to the temperature at the previous step.

The application of the barrier-type anodic oxidation method to thickness testing of aluminum films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Jianwen; Yao, Manwen; Xiao, Ruihua; Yang, Pengfei; Hu, Baofu; Yao, Xi

2014-09-01

The thickness of the active metal oxide film formed from a barrier-type anodizing process is directly proportional to its formation voltage. The thickness of the consumed portion of the metal film is also corresponding to the formation voltage. This principle can be applied to the thickness test of the metal films. If the metal film is growing on a dielectric substrate, when the metal film is exhausted in an anodizing process, because of the high electrical resistance of the formed oxide film, a sudden increase of the recorded voltage during the anodizing process would occur. Then, the thickness of the metal film can be determined from this voltage. As an example, aluminum films are tested and discussed in this work. This method is quite simple and is easy to perform with high precision.

Stability of spinosad resistance in Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) under laboratory conditions.

PubMed

Bielza, P; Quinto, V; Grávalos, C; Fernández, E; Abellán, J; Contreras, J

2008-08-01

The stability of spinosad resistance in western flower thrips (WFT), Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), populations with differing initial frequencies of resistance was studied in laboratory conditions. The stability of resistance was assessed in bimonthly residual bioassays in five populations with initial frequencies of 100, 75, 50, 25 and 0% of resistant individuals. There were no consistent changes in susceptibility of the susceptible strain after eight months without insecticide pressure. In the resistant strain, very highly resistant to spinosad (RF50>23,000-fold), resistance was maintained up to eight months without further exposure to spinosad. In the absence of any immigration of susceptible genes into the population, resistance was stable. In the case of the population with different initial frequency of resistant thrips, spinosad resistance declined significantly two months later in the absence of selection pressure. With successive generations, these strains did not change significantly in sensitivity. Spinosad resistance in F. occidentalis declined significantly in the absence of selection pressure and the presence of susceptible WFT. These results suggest that spinosad resistance probably is unstable under field conditions, primarily due to the immigration of susceptible WFT. Factors influencing stability or reversion of spinosad resistance are discussed.

Analysis of the moments of the sensitivity function for resistivity over a homogeneous half-space: Rules of thumb for pseudoposition, offline sensitivity and resolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Butler, S. L.

2017-08-01

It is instructive to consider the sensitivity function for a homogeneous half space for resistivity since it has a simple mathematical formula and it does not require a priori knowledge of the resistivity of the ground. Past analyses of this function have allowed visualization of the regions that contribute most to apparent resistivity measurements with given array configurations. The horizontally integrated form of this equation gives the sensitivity function for an infinitesimally thick horizontal slab with a small resistivity contrast and analysis of this function has admitted estimates of the depth of investigation for a given electrode array. Recently, it has been shown that the average of the vertical coordinate over this function yields a simple formula that can be used to estimate the depth of investigation. The sensitivity function for a vertical inline slab has also been previously calculated. In this contribution, I show that the sensitivity function for a homogeneous half-space can also be integrated so as to give sensitivity functions to semi-infinite vertical slabs that are perpendicular to the array axis. These horizontal sensitivity functions can, in turn, be integrated over the spatial coordinates to give the mean horizontal positions of the sensitivity functions. The mean horizontal positions give estimates for the centres of the regions that affect apparent resistivity measurements for arbitrary array configuration and can be used as horizontal positions when plotting pseudosections even for non-collinear arrays. The mean of the horizontal coordinate that is perpendicular to a collinear array also gives a simple formula for estimating the distance over which offline resistivity anomalies will have a significant effect. The root mean square (rms) widths of the sensitivity functions are also calculated in each of the coordinate directions as an estimate of the inverse of the resolution of a given array. For depth and in the direction perpendicular to the array, the rms thickness is shown to be very similar to the mean distance. For the direction parallel to the array, the rms thickness is shown to be proportional to the array length and similar to the array length divided by 2 for many arrays. I expect that these formulas will provide useful rules of thumb for estimating the centres and extents of regions influencing apparent resistivity measurements for survey planning and for education.

Effect of transmitter turn-off time on transient soundings

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fitterman, D.V.; Anderson, W.L.

1987-01-01

A general procedure for computing the effect of non-zero turn-off time on the transient electromagnetic response is presented which can be applied to forward and inverse calculation methods for any transmitter-receiver configuration. We consider in detail the case of a large transmitter loop which has a receiver coil located at the center of the loop (central induction or in-loop array). For a linear turn-off ramp of width t0, the voltage response is shown to be the voltage due to an ideal step turn-off averaged over windows of width t0. Thus the effect is similar to that obtained by using averaging windows in the receiver. In general when time zero is taken to be the end of the ramp, the apparent resistivity increases for a homogeneous half-space over a limited time range. For time zero taken to be the start of the ramp the apparent resistivity is affected in the opposite direction. The effect of the ramp increases with increasing t0 and first-layer resistivity, is largest during the intermediate stage, and decreases with increasing time. It is shown that for a ramp turn-off, there is no effect in the early and late stages. For two-layered models with a resistive first layer (??1>??2), the apparent resistivity is increased in the intermediate stage. When the first layer is more conductive than the second layer (??1

Study on thick film spin-on carbon hardmask

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Taeho; Kim, Youngmin; Hwang, Sunmin; Lee, Hyunsoo; Han, Miyeon; Lim, Sanghak

2017-03-01

A thick spin-on carbon hardmask (SOH) material is designed to overcome inherent problems of amorphous deposited carbon layer (ACL) and thick photoresist. For ACL in use of semiconductor production process, especially when film thickness from sub-micrometer up to few micrometers is required, not only its inherent low transparency at long wavelength light often causes alignment problems with under layers, but also considerable variation of film thickness within a wafer can also cause patterning problems. To avoid these issues, a thick SOH is designed with monomers of high transparency and good solubility at the same time. In comparison with photoresist, the SOH has good etch resistance and high thermal stability, and it provides wide process window of decreased film thickness and increased thermal budget up to 400°C after processes such as high temperature deposition of SiON. In order to achieve high thickness along with uniform film, many solvent factors was considered such as solubility parameter, surface tension, vapor pressure, and others. By optimizing many solvent factors, we were able to develop a product with a good coating performance

Bark Thickness of 17-Year-Old Loblolly Pine Planted at Different Spacings

Treesearch

Donald P. Feduccia; William F. Mann

1975-01-01

Diameter at breast height was the only variable affecting double bark thickness at d.b.h. and midpoint of the merchantable stem for young loblolly pine planted at five initial spacings on plots with site indices of 77 to 111 feet. Bark thickness at the 4-inch top was not correlated with breast-height diameter.

Method and Apparatus for Precisely Applying Large Planar Equi-Biaxial Strains to a Circular Membrane

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-04-01

potential future Army applications. Electronic properties, such as dielectric strength , capacitance, resistance, and inductance, vary significantly and... dielectric strength and resistance are primarily determined by inherent bulk material properties, including microstructure, while shifts in inductance...less and a nominal thickness up to ~1 mm. 15. SUBJECT TERMS large planar equi-biaxial strain, membrane, dielectric elastomers, electromechanical

Characterizing the Material Properties of Polymer-Based Microelectrode Arrays for Retinal Prosthesis

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

Park, Christina Soyeun

2003-06-01

The Retinal Prosthesis project is a three year project conducted in part at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and funded by the Department of Energy to create an epiretinal microelectrode array for stimulating retinal cells. The implant must be flexible to conform to the retina, robust to sustain handling during fabrication and implantation, and biocompatible to withstand physiological conditions within the eye. Using poly(dimethyl siloxane) (PDMS), LLNL aims to use microfabrication techniques to increase the number of electrodes and integrate electronics. After the initial designs were fabricated and tested in acute implantation, it became obvious that there was a needmore » to characterize and understand the mechanical and electrical properties of these new structures. This knowledge would be imperative in gaining credibility for polymer microfabrication and optimizing the designs. Thin composite microfabricated devices are challenging to characterize because they are difficult to handle, and exhibit non-linear, viscoelastic, and anisotropic properties. The objective of this research is to device experiments and protocols, develop an analytical model to represent the composite behavior, design and fabricate test structures, and conduct experimental testing to determine the mechanical and electrical properties of PDMS-metal composites. Previous uniaxial stretch tests show an average of 7% strain before failure on resistive heaters of similar dimensions deposited on PDMS. Lack of background information and questionable human accuracy demands a more sophisticated and thorough testing method. An Instron tensile testing machine was set up to interface with a digital multiplexor and computer interface to simultaneously record and graph position, load, and resistance across devices. With a compliant load cell for testing polymers and electrical interconnect grips designed and fabricated to interface the sample to the electronics, real-time resistance measurements were taken. Wafers of test structures were fabricated with variables such as lead width, pad to lead interface shape, PDMS thickness, metal (Ti and Au) thickness, and lead shape. Results showed that the serpentine shaped leads were 70% more effective, and that thicker adhesion layers of Ti were too brittle for testing. The other variables did not produce significant results.« less

Improving Powder Magnetic Core Properties via Application of Thin, Insulating Silica-Nanosheet Layers on Iron Powder Particles

PubMed Central

Ishizaki, Toshitaka; Nakano, Hideyuki; Tajima, Shin; Takahashi, Naoko

2016-01-01

A thin, insulating layer with high electrical resistivity is vital to achieving high performance of powder magnetic cores. Using layer-by-layer deposition of silica nanosheets or colloidal silica over insulating layers composed of strontium phosphate and boron oxide, we succeeded in fabricating insulating layers with high electrical resistivity on iron powder particles, which were subsequently used to prepare toroidal cores. The compact density of these cores decreased after coating with colloidal silica due to the substantial increase in the volume, causing the magnetic flux density to deteriorate. Coating with silica nanosheets, on the other hand, resulted in a higher electrical resistivity and a good balance between high magnetic flux density and low iron loss due to the thinner silica layers. Transmission electron microscopy images showed that the thickness of the colloidal silica coating was about 700 nm, while that of the silica nanosheet coating was 30 nm. There was one drawback to using silica nanosheets, namely a deterioration in the core mechanical strength. Nevertheless, the silica nanosheet coating resulted in nanoscale-thick silica layers that are favorable for enhancing the electrical resistivity. PMID:28336835

Changes in pulmonary circulation in severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

PubMed Central

Bush, A; Busst, C M; Knight, W B; Hislop, A A; Haworth, S G; Shinebourne, E A

1990-01-01

Eight patients with severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia underwent cardiac catheterisation. Seven had a pulmonary vascular resistance greater than 3 mm Hg.l-1 min.m2 (mean 8.9, range 2.2-13.8). All had raised intrapulmonary shunts (mean 25.6%, range 5.4-50%, normal less than 5%). Two had a high alveolar dead space, and two had unsuspected congenital heart disease. Epoprostenol (prostacyclin), but not 100% oxygen, caused a significant fall in pulmonary vascular resistance. Death was associated with a high pulmonary vascular resistance and a high shunt. Morphometric studies in three cases showed normal numbers of airways, but increased thickness of bronchial muscle. The numbers of alveoli were reduced and the walls thickened. There was increased medial thickness in small pulmonary arteries with distal extension of muscle. In the oldest child some vessels were obliterated by fibrosis. We speculate that measurements of pulmonary vascular resistance and shunt may have prognostic value; that a trial of pulmonary vasodilators other than oxygen might be worthwhile in patients with poor prognosis; and that abnormalities of the pulmonary circulation contribute to the difficulties of managing patients with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Images Figure 7 PMID:2117421

Effect of cements on fracture resistance of monolithic zirconia crowns

PubMed Central

Nakamura, Keisuke; Mouhat, Mathieu; Nergård, John Magnus; Lægreid, Solveig Jenssen; Kanno, Taro; Milleding, Percy; Örtengren, Ulf

2016-01-01

Abstract Objectives The present study investigated the effect of cements on fracture resistance of monolithic zirconia crowns in relation to their compressive strength. Materials and methods Four different cements were tested: zinc phosphate cement (ZPC), glass-ionomer cement (GIC), self-adhesive resin-based cement (SRC) and resin-based cement (RC). RC was used in both dual cure mode (RC-D) and chemical cure mode (RC-C). First, the compressive strength of each cement was tested according to a standard (ISO 9917-1:2004). Second, load-to-failure test was performed to analyze the crown fracture resistance. CAD/CAM-produced monolithic zirconia crowns with a minimal thickness of 0.5 mm were prepared and cemented to dies with each cement. The crown–die samples were loaded until fracture. Results The compressive strength of SRC, RC-D and RC-C was significantly higher than those of ZPC and GIC (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the fracture load of the crown between the groups. Conclusion The values achieved in the load-to-failure test suggest that monolithic zirconia crowns with a minimal thickness of 0.5 mm may have good resistance against fracture regardless of types of cements. PMID:27335900

Analysis of the Effect of Module Thickness Reduction on Thermoelectric Generator Output

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brito, F. P.; Figueiredo, L.; Rocha, L. A.; Cruz, A. P.; Goncalves, L. M.; Martins, J.; Hall, M. J.

2016-03-01

Conventional thermoelectric generators (TEGs) used in applications such as exhaust heat recovery are typically limited in terms of power density due to their low efficiency. Additionally, they are generally costly due to the bulk use of rare-earth elements such as tellurium. If less material could be used for the same output, then the power density and the overall cost per kilowatt (kW) of electricity produced could drop significantly, making TEGs a more attractive solution for energy harvesting of waste heat. The present work assesses the effect of reducing the amount of thermoelectric (TE) material used (namely by reducing the module thickness) on the electrical output of conventional bismuth telluride TEGs. Commercial simulation packages (ANSYS CFX and thermal-electric) and bespoke models were used to simulate the TEGs at various degrees of detail. Effects such as variation of the thermal and electrical contact resistance and the component thickness and the effect of using an element supporting matrix (e.g., eggcrate) instead of having air conduction in void areas have been assessed. It was found that indeed it is possible to reduce the use of bulk TE material while retaining power output levels equivalent to thicker modules. However, effects such as thermal contact resistance were found to become increasingly important as the active TE material thickness was decreased.

Effect of multi-layer thermal insulation thickness and location on the hypervelocity impact response of dual-wall structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schonberg, William P.

Traditional perforation-resistant wall design for long-duration spacecraft consists of a "bumper" that is placed a small distance away from the main "pressure wall" of a spacecraft compartment or module. This concept has been studied extensively as a means of reducing the perforation threat of hypervelocity projectiles such as meteoroids and orbital debris. If a dual-wall system is employed on an earth-orbiting spacecraft, then a blanket of multi-layer insulation (MLI) will typically be included within the dual-wall system for thermal protection purposes. This paper presents the results of an experimental study in which aluminum dual-wall structures were tested under a variety of high-speed impact conditions to study the effect of MLI thickness and location on perforation resistance. The results presented consist of test-by-test comparisons of the damage sustained by similar dual-wall systems with blanket MLI of various thicknesses and at various locations within the dual-wall systems under similar impact loading conditions. The analyses performed revealed that the placement of the MLI had a significant effect on the ballistic limit of the dual-wall structures considered while reducing the thickness of the MLI by as much as 1/3 did not.

Effect of the hexagonal phase interlayer on rectification properties of boron nitride heterojunctions to silicon

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

Teii, K., E-mail: teii@asem.kyushu-u.ac.jp; Ito, H.; Katayama, N.

2015-02-07

Rectification properties of boron nitride/silicon p-n heterojunction diodes fabricated under low-energy ion impact by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition are studied in terms of the resistive sp{sup 2}-bonded boron nitride (sp{sup 2}BN) interlayer. A two-step biasing technique is developed to control the fraction of cubic boron nitride (cBN) phase and, hence, the thickness of the sp{sup 2}BN interlayer in the films. The rectification ratio at room temperature is increased up to the order of 10{sup 4} at ±10 V of biasing with increasing the sp{sup 2}BN thickness up to around 130 nm due to suppression of the reverse leakage current. The variation ofmore » the ideality factor in the low bias region is related to the interface disorders and defects, not to the sp{sup 2}BN thickness. The forward current follows the Frenkel-Poole emission model in the sp{sup 2}BN interlayer at relatively high fields when the anomalous effect is assumed. The transport of the minority carriers for reverse current is strongly limited by the high bulk resistance of the thick sp{sup 2}BN interlayer, while that of the major carriers for forward current is much less affected.« less

Surface characterization and corrosion behavior of calcium phosphate-base composite layer on titanium and its alloys via plasma electrolytic oxidation: A review paper.

PubMed

Rafieerad, A R; Ashra, M R; Mahmoodian, R; Bushroa, A R

2015-12-01

In recent years, calcium phosphate-base composites, such as hydroxyapatite (HA) and carbonate apatite (CA) have been considered desirable and biocompatible coating layers in clinical and biomedical applications such as implants because of the high resistance of the composites. This review focuses on the effects of voltage, time and electrolytes on a calcium phosphate-base composite layer in case of pure titanium and other biomedical grade titanium alloys via the plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) method. Remarkably, these parameters changed the structure, morphology, pH, thickness and crystallinity of the obtained coating for various engineering and biomedical applications. Hence, the structured layer caused improvement of the biocompatibility, corrosion resistance and assignment of extra benefits for Osseo integration. The fabricated layer with a thickness range of 10 to 20 μm was evaluated for physical, chemical, mechanical and tribological characteristics via XRD, FESEM, EDS, EIS and corrosion analysis respectively, to determine the effects of the applied parameters and various electrolytes on morphology and phase transition. Moreover, it was observed that during PEO, the concentration of calcium, phosphor and titanium shifts upward, which leads to an enhanced bioactivity by altering the thickness. The results confirm that the crystallinity, thickness and contents of composite layer can be changed by applying thermal treatments. The corrosion behavior was investigated via the potentiodynamic polarization test in a body-simulated environment. Here, the optimum corrosion resistance was obtained for the coating process condition at 500 V for 15 min in Ringer solution. This review has been summarized, aiming at the further development of PEO by producing more adequate titanium-base implants along with desired mechanical and biomedical features. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Anatomical basis of variation in mesophyll resistance in eastern Australian sclerophylls: news of a long and winding path

PubMed Central

Tosens, Tiina

2012-01-01

In sclerophylls, photosynthesis is particularly strongly limited by mesophyll diffusion resistance from substomatal cavities to chloroplasts (r m), but the controls on diffusion limits by integral leaf variables such as leaf thickness, density, and dry mass per unit area and by the individual steps along the diffusion pathway are imperfectly understood. To gain insight into the determinants of r m in leaves with varying structure, the full CO2 physical diffusion pathway was analysed in 32 Australian species sampled from sites contrasting in soil nutrients and rainfall, and having leaf structures from mesophytic to strongly sclerophyllous. r m was estimated based on combined measurements of gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence. In addition, r m was modelled on the basis of detailed anatomical measurements to separate the importance of different serial resistances affecting CO2 diffusion into chloroplasts. The strongest sources of variation in r m were S c/S, the exposed surface area of chloroplasts per unit leaf area, and mesophyll cell wall thickness, t cw. The strong correlation of r m with t cw could not be explained by cell wall thickness alone, and most likely arose from a further effect of cell wall porosity. The CO2 drawdown from intercellular spaces to chloroplasts was positively correlated with t cw, suggesting enhanced diffusional limitations in leaves with thicker cell walls. Leaf thickness and density were poorly correlated with S c/S, indicating that widely varying combinations of leaf anatomical traits occur at given values of leaf integrated traits, and suggesting that detailed anatomical studies are needed to predict r m for any given species. PMID:22888123

Crack-tip-opening angle measurements and crack tunneling under stable tearing in thin sheet 2024-T3 aluminum alloy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dawicke, D. S.; Sutton, M. A.

1993-01-01

The stable tearing behavior of thin sheets 2024-T3 aluminum alloy was studied for middle crack tension specimens having initial cracks that were: flat cracks (low fatigue stress) and 45 degrees through-thickness slant cracks (high fatigue stress). The critical crack-tip-opening angle (CTOA) values during stable tearing were measured by two independent methods, optical microscopy and digital image correlation. Results from the two methods agreed well. The CTOA measurements and observations of the fracture surfaces showed that the initial stable tearing behavior of low and high fatigue stress tests is significantly different. The cracks in the low fatigue stress tests underwent a transition from flat-to-slant crack growth, during which the CTOA values were high and significant crack tunneling occurred. After crack growth equal to about the thickness, CTOA reached a constant value of 6 deg and after crack growth equal to about twice the thickness, crack tunneling stabilized. The initial high CTOA values, in the low fatigue crack tests, coincided with large three-dimensional crack front shape changes due to a variation in the through-thickness crack tip constraint. The cracks in the high fatigue stress tests reach the same constant CTOA value after crack growth equal to about the thickness, but produced only a slightly higher CTOA value during initial crack growth. For crack growth on the 45 degree slant, the crack front and local field variables are still highly three-dimensional. However, the constant CTOA values and stable crack front shape may allow the process to be approximated with two-dimensional models.

Analytic Closed-Form Solution of a Mixed Layer Model for Stratocumulus Clouds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akyurek, Bengu Ozge

Stratocumulus clouds play an important role in climate cooling and are hard to predict using global climate and weather forecast models. Thus, previous studies in the literature use observations and numerical simulation tools, such as large-eddy simulation (LES), to solve the governing equations for the evolution of stratocumulus clouds. In contrast to the previous works, this work provides an analytic closed-form solution to the cloud thickness evolution of stratocumulus clouds in a mixed-layer model framework. With a focus on application over coastal lands, the diurnal cycle of cloud thickness and whether or not clouds dissipate are of particular interest. An analytic solution enables the sensitivity analysis of implicitly interdependent variables and extrema analysis of cloud variables that are hard to achieve using numerical solutions. In this work, the sensitivity of inversion height, cloud-base height, and cloud thickness with respect to initial and boundary conditions, such as Bowen ratio, subsidence, surface temperature, and initial inversion height, are studied. A critical initial cloud thickness value that can be dissipated pre- and post-sunrise is provided. Furthermore, an extrema analysis is provided to obtain the minima and maxima of the inversion height and cloud thickness within 24 h. The proposed solution is validated against LES results under the same initial and boundary conditions. Then, the proposed analytic framework is extended to incorporate multiple vertical columns that are coupled by advection through wind flow. This enables a bridge between the micro-scale and the mesoscale relations. The effect of advection on cloud evolution is studied and a sensitivity analysis is provided.

Effects of ultrasound and sodium lauryl sulfate on the transdermal delivery of hydrophilic permeants: Comparative in vitro studies with full-thickness and split-thickness pig and human skin.

PubMed

Seto, Jennifer E; Polat, Baris E; Lopez, Renata F V; Blankschtein, Daniel; Langer, Robert

2010-07-01

The simultaneous application of ultrasound and the surfactant sodium lauryl sulfate (referred to as US/SLS) to skin enhances transdermal drug delivery (TDD) in a synergistic mechanical and chemical manner. Since full-thickness skin (FTS) and split-thickness skin (STS) differ in mechanical strength, US/SLS treatment may have different effects on their transdermal transport pathways. Therefore, we evaluated STS as an alternative to the well-established US/SLS-treated FTS model for TDD studies of hydrophilic permeants. We utilized the aqueous porous pathway model to compare the effects of US/SLS treatment on the skin permeability and the pore radius of pig and human FTS and STS over a range of skin electrical resistivity values. Our findings indicate that the US/SLS-treated pig skin models exhibit similar permeabilities and pore radii, but the human skin models do not. Furthermore, the US/SLS-enhanced delivery of gold nanoparticles and quantum dots (two model hydrophilic macromolecules) is greater through pig STS than through pig FTS, due to the presence of less dermis that acts as an artificial barrier to macromolecules. In spite of greater variability in correlations between STS permeability and resistivity, our findings strongly suggest the use of 700microm-thick pig STS to investigate the in vitro US/SLS-enhanced delivery of hydrophilic macromolecules. 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Electrical Characteristics CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} Thick Film Ceramics Made with Different Screen Size Utilizing Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} Nanopowder Derived from Yarosite for NTC Thermistor

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

Wiendartun,; Syarif, Dani Gustaman

2010-10-24

Fabrication of CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} thick film ceramics utilizing Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} derived from yarosite using screen printing technique for NTC thermistor has been carried out. Effect of thickness variation due to different size of screen (screen 225; 300 and 375 mesh) has been studied. X-ray diffraction analyses (XRD) was done to know crystal structure and phases formation. SEM analyses was carried out to know microstructure of the films. Electrical properties characterization was done through measurement of electrical resistance at various temperatures (room temperature to 100 deg. C). The XRD data showed that the films crystalize in tetragonal spinel. Themore » SEM images showed that the screen with the smaller of the hole size, made the grain size was bigger. Electrical data showed that the larger the screen different size thickness variation (mesh), the larger the resistance, thermistor constant and sensitivity. From the electrical characteristics data, it was known that the electrical characteristics of the CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} thick film ceramics followed the NTC characteristic. The value of B and R{sub RT} of the produced CuFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} ceramics namely B = 3241-3484 K and R{sub RT} = 25.6-87.0 M Ohm, fitted market requirement.« less

Elastic band prediction equations for combined free-weight and elastic band bench presses and squats.

PubMed

Shoepe, Todd C; Ramirez, David A; Almstedt, Hawley C

2010-01-01

Elastic bands added to traditional free-weight techniques have become a part of suggested training routines in recent years. Because of the variable loading patterns of elastic bands (i.e., greater stretch produces greater resistance), it is necessary to quantify the exact loading patterns of bands to identify the volume and intensity of training. The purpose of this study was to determine the length vs. tension properties of multiple sizes of a set of commonly used elastic bands to quantify the resistance that would be applied to free-weight plus elastic bench presses (BP) and squats (SQ). Five elastic bands of varying thickness were affixed to an overhead support beam. Dumbbells of varying weights were progressively added to the free end while the linear deformation was recorded with each subsequent weight increment. The resistance was plotted as a factor of linear deformation, and best-fit nonlinear logarithmic regression equations were then matched to the data. For both the BP and SQ loading conditions and all band thicknesses tested, R values were greater than 0.9623. These data suggest that differences in load exist as a result of the thickness of the elastic band, attachment technique, and type of exercise being performed. Facilities should adopt their own form of loading quantification to match their unique set of circumstances when acquiring, researching, and implementing elastic band and free-weight exercises into the training programs.