Recent developments of nano-structured materials as the catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, SungYeon; Kim, HuiJung; Chung, Yong-Ho

2018-04-01

Developments of high efficient materials for electrocatalyst are significant topics of numerous researches since a few decades. Recent global interests related with energy conversion and storage lead to the expansion of efforts to find cost-effective catalysts that can substitute conventional catalytic materials. Especially, in the field of fuel cell, novel materials for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) have been noticed to overcome disadvantages of conventional platinum-based catalysts. Various approaching methods have been attempted to achieve low cost and high electrochemical activity comparable with Pt-based catalysts, including reducing Pt consumption by the formation of hybrid materials, Pt-based alloys, and not-Pt metal or carbon based materials. To enhance catalytic performance and stability, numerous methods such as structural modifications and complex formations with other functional materials are proposed, and they are basically based on well-defined and well-ordered catalytic active sites by exquisite control at nanoscale. In this review, we highlight the development of nano-structured catalytic materials for ORR based on recent findings, and discuss about an outlook for the direction of future researches.

Carbon materials-functionalized tin dioxide nanoparticles toward robust, high-performance nitrogen dioxide gas sensor.

PubMed

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

2018-08-15

Carbon (C) materials, which process excellent electrical conductivity and high carrier mobility, are promising sensing materials as active units for gas sensors. However, structural agglomeration caused by chemical processes results in a small resistance change and low sensing response. To address the above issues, structure-derived carbon-coated tin dioxide (SnO 2 ) nanoparticles having distinct core-shell morphology with a 3D net-like structure and highly uniform size are prepared by careful synthesis and fine structural design. The optimum carbon-coated SnO 2 nanoparticles (SnO 2 /C)-based gas sensor exhibits a low working temperature, excellent selectivity and fast response-recovery properties. In addition, the SnO 2 /C-based gas sensor can maintain a sensitivity to nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ) of 3 after being cycled 4 times at 140 °C for, suggesting its good long-term stability. The structural integrity, good synergistic properties, and high gas-sensing performance of SnO 2 /C render it a promising sensing material for advanced gas sensors. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Low damage electrical modification of 4H-SiC via ultrafast laser irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahn, Minhyung; Cahyadi, Rico; Wendorf, Joseph; Bowen, Willie; Torralva, Ben; Yalisove, Steven; Phillips, Jamie

2018-04-01

The electrical properties of 4H-SiC under ultrafast laser irradiation in the low fluence regime (<0.50 J/cm2) are presented. The appearance of high spatial frequency laser induced periodic surface structures is observed at a fluence near 0.25 J/cm2 and above, with variability in environments like in air, nitrogen, and a vacuum. In addition to the formation of periodic surface structures, ultrafast laser irradiation results in possible surface oxidation and amorphization of the material. Lateral conductance exhibits orders of magnitude increase, which is attributed to either surface conduction or modification of electrical contact properties, depending on the initial material conductivity. Schottky barrier formation on ultrafast laser irradiated 4H-SiC shows an increase in the barrier height, an increase in the ideality factor, and sub-bandgap photovoltaic responses, suggesting the formation of photo-active point defects. The results suggest that the ultrafast laser irradiation technique provides a means of engineering spatially localized structural and electronic modification of wide bandgap materials such as 4H-SiC with relatively low surface damage via low temperature processing.

Activated carbon from biomass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manocha, S.; Manocha, L. M.; Joshi, Parth; Patel, Bhavesh; Dangi, Gaurav; Verma, Narendra

2013-06-01

Activated carbon are unique and versatile adsorbents having extended surface area, micro porous structure, universal adsorption effect, high adsorption capacity and high degree of surface reactivity. Activated carbons are synthesized from variety of materials. Most commonly used on a commercial scale are cellulosic based precursors such as peat, coal, lignite wood and coconut shell. Variation occurs in precursors in terms of structure and carbon content. Coir having very low bulk density and porous structure is found to be one of the valuable raw materials for the production of highly porous activated carbon and other important factor is its high carbon content. Exploration of good low cost and non conventional adsorbent may contribute to the sustainability of the environment and offer promising benefits for the commercial purpose in future. Carbonization of biomass was carried out in a horizontal muffle furnace. Both carbonization and activation were performed in inert nitrogen atmosphere in one step to enhance the surface area and to develop interconnecting porosity. The types of biomass as well as the activation conditions determine the properties and the yield of activated carbon. Activated carbon produced from biomass is cost effective as it is easily available as a waste biomass. Activated carbon produced by combination of chemical and physical activation has higher surface area of 2442 m2/gm compared to that produced by physical activation (1365 m2/gm).

Waste-efficient materials procurement for construction projects: A structural equation modelling of critical success factors.

PubMed

Ajayi, Saheed O; Oyedele, Lukumon O

2018-05-01

Albeit the understanding that construction waste is caused by activities ranging from all stages of project delivery process, research efforts have been concentrated on design and construction stages, while the possibility of reducing waste through materials procurement process is widely neglected. This study aims at exploring and confirming strategies for achieving waste-efficient materials procurement in construction activities. The study employs sequential exploratory mixed method approach as its methodological framework, using focus group discussion, statistical analysis and structural equation modelling. The study suggests that for materials procurement to enhance waste minimisation in construction projects, the procurement process would be characterised by four features. These include suppliers' commitment to low waste measures, low waste purchase management, effective materials delivery management and waste-efficient Bill of Quantity, all of which have significant impacts on waste minimisation. This implies that commitment of materials suppliers to such measures as take back scheme and flexibility in supplying small materials quantity, among others, are expected of materials procurement. While low waste purchase management stipulates the need for such measures as reduced packaging and consideration of pre-assembled/pre-cut materials, efficient delivery management entails effective delivery and storage system as well as adequate protection of materials during the delivery process, among others. Waste-efficient specification and bill of quantity, on the other hand, requires accurate materials take-off and ordering of materials based on accurately prepared design documents and bill of quantity. Findings of this study could assist in understanding a set of measures that should be taken during materials procurement process, thereby corroborating waste management practices at other stages of project delivery process. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Double differential light charged particle emission cross sections for some structural fusion materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarpün, Ismail Hakki; n, Abdullah Aydı; Tel, Eyyup

2017-09-01

In fusion reactors, neutron induced radioactivity strongly depends on the irradiated material. So, a proper selection of structural materials will have been limited the radioactive inventory in a fusion reactor. First-wall and blanket components have high radioactivity concentration due to being the most flux-exposed structures. The main objective of fusion structural material research is the development and selection of materials for reactor components with good thermo-mechanical and physical properties, coupled with low-activation characteristics. Double differential light charged particle emission cross section, which is a fundamental data to determine nuclear heating and material damages in structural fusion material research, for some elements target nuclei have been calculated by the TALYS 1.8 nuclear reaction code at 14-15 MeV neutron incident energy and compared with available experimental data in EXFOR library. Direct, compound and pre-equilibrium reaction contribution have been theoretically calculated and dominant contribution have been determined for each emission of proton, deuteron and alpha particle.

Activated alumina preparation and characterization: The review on recent advancement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rabia, A. R.; Ibrahim, A. H.; Zulkepli, N. N.

2018-03-01

Aluminum and aluminum based material are significant industrial materials synthesis because of their abandonment, low weight and high-quality corrosion resistance. The most advances in aluminum processing are the ability to synthesize it's under suitable chemical composition and conditions, a porous structure can be formed on the surface. Activated alumina particles (AAP) synthesized by the electrochemically process from aluminum have gained serious attention, inexpensive material that can be employed for water filtration due to its active surface. Thus, the paper present a review study based on recent progress and advances in synthesizing activated alumina, various techniques currently being used in preparing activated alumina and its characteristics are studied and summarized

Study of the sodium phenytoin effect on the formation of sol-gel SiO 2 nanotubes by TEM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

López, T.; Asomoza, M.; Picquart, M.; Castillo-Ocampo, P.; Manjarrez, J.; Vázquez, A.; Ascencio, J. A.

2005-04-01

Microencapsulation is a versatile technology that allows controlling the release of different active molecules. Recently the sol-gel process has emerged like a promising method to immobilization and stabilization of biologically active compounds like enzymes, antigens, microorganisms and drugs. Porous silica and titanium dioxide materials made by low temperature sol-gel processes are promising host matrixes for encapsulation of biological molecules. The preparation of a low-temperature silica sol followed by gelation to neutral pH with water for injection containing the antiepileptic drug is reported here. The structure is very important so the analysis of the new developed material is also reported. Particularly interesting is the presence of nanotubes and microtubes, produced in the inorganic matrix in the presence of the sodium phenytoin. The use of transmission electron microscopy and quantum mechanics molecular simulation allows determining a micelle-like effect during the synthesis of these materials, which controls the size, structure and stability of them.

Induced radioactivity of LDEF materials and structural components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harmon, B. A.; Laird, C. E.; Fishman, G. J.; Parnell, T. A.; Camp, D. C.; Frederick, C. E.; Hurley, D. L.; Lindstrom, D. J.; Moss, C. E.; Reedy, R. C.;

Design, prototyping and autonomous control of gasoline-engine variable-pitch quadcopter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tao, Pang

Supercapacitors, benefited from superb energy and power characteristics, have now drawn intensive interest for their capability of meeting the above requirements. However, traditional materials for supercapacitor electrodes such as activated carbon and metal oxide/hydroxides suffer either a low energy density or poor power input/output rate. The work presented here offer a new strategy to develop novel composites based on carbon nanotubes (CNT) to utilize the synergistic effects of both carbon host and pseudocapacitive guest materials. The main focus is located on how CNT structures with different dimensions affect the device performance. The 0 D particle-like, 2D film-structured and 3D gel-assembled CNT composites have been thoroughly investigated. It is found that CNT structures with higher dimensions are significant in preventing the agglomeration of active materials and improving the electrical conductivity, leading to satisfactory electrochemical performance.

Outstanding visible photocatalytic activity of a new mixed bismuth titanatate material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zambrano, P.; Sayagués, M. J.; Navío, J. A.; Hidalgo, M. C.

2017-02-01

In this work, a new photocatalyst based on bismuth titanates with outstanding visible photocatalytic activity was prepared by a facile hydrothermal method. The synthesised material showed visible activity as high as UV activity of commercial TiO2 P25 under the same experimental conditions for phenol degradation. A wide characterisation of the photocatalyst was performed. The material was composed of three phases; majority of Bi20TiO32 closely interconnected to Bi4Ti3O12 and amorphous TiO2. The high visible activity showed by this material could be ascribed to a combination of several features; i.e. low band gap energy value (2.1 eV), a structure allowing a good separation path for visible photogenerated electron-holes pairs and a relatively high surface area. This photocatalyst appeared as a promising material for solar and visible applications of photocatalysis.

Structure Effects of 2D Materials on α-Nickel Hydroxide for Oxygen Evolution Reaction.

PubMed

Luan, Chenglong; Liu, Guangli; Liu, Yujie; Yu, Lei; Wang, Yao; Xiao, Yun; Qiao, Hongyan; Dai, Xiaoping; Zhang, Xin

2018-04-24

To engineer low-cost, high-efficiency, and stable oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts, structure effects should be primarily understood. Focusing on this, we systematically investigated the relationship between structures of materials and their OER performances by taking four 2D α-Ni(OH) 2 as model materials, including layer-stacked bud-like Ni(OH) 2 -NB, flower-like Ni(OH) 2 -NF, and petal-like Ni(OH) 2 -NP as well as the ultralarge sheet-like Ni(OH) 2 -NS. For the first three (layer-stacking) catalysts, with the decrease of stacked layers, their accessible surface areas, abilities to adsorb OH - , diffusion properties, and the intrinsic activities of active sites increase, which accounts for their steadily enhanced activity. As expected, Ni(OH) 2 -NP shows the lowest overpotential (260 mV at 10 mA cm -2 ) and Tafel slope (78.6 mV dec -1 ) with a robust stability over 10 h among the samples, which also outperforms the benchmark IrO 2 (360 mV and 115.8 mV dec -1 ) catalyst. Interestingly, Ni(OH) 2 -NS relative to Ni(OH) 2 -NP exhibits even faster substance diffusion due to the sheet-like structure, but shows inferior OER activity, which is mainly because the Ni(OH) 2 -NP with a smaller size possesses more active boundary sites (higher reactivity of active sites) than Ni(OH) 2 -NS, considering the adsorption properties and accessible surface areas of the two samples are quite similar. By comparing the different structures and their OER behaviors of four α-Ni(OH) 2 samples, our work may shed some light on the structure effect of 2D materials and accelerate the development of efficient OER catalysts.

Multiple imaging mode X-ray computed tomography for distinguishing active and inactive phases in lithium-ion battery cathodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Komini Babu, Siddharth; Mohamed, Alexander I.; Whitacre, Jay F.; Litster, Shawn

2015-06-01

This paper presents the use of nanometer scale resolution X-ray computed tomography (nano-CT) in the three-dimensional (3D) imaging of a Li-ion battery cathode, including the separate volumes of active material, binder plus conductive additive, and pore. The different high and low atomic number (Z) materials are distinguished by sequentially imaging the lithium cobalt oxide electrode in absorption and then Zernike phase contrast modes. Morphological parameters of the active material and the additives are extracted from the 3D reconstructions, including the distribution of contact areas between the additives and the active material. This method could provide a better understanding of the electric current distribution and structural integrity of battery electrodes, as well as provide detailed geometries for computational models.

Materials and structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saito, Theodore T.; Langenbeck, Sharon L.; Al-Jamily, Ghanim; Arnold, Joe; Barbee, Troy; Coulter, Dan; Dolgin, Ben; Fichter, Buck; George, Patricia; Gorenstein, Paul

1992-08-01

Materials and structures technology covers a wide range of technical areas. Some of the most pertinent issues for the Astrotech 21 missions include dimensionally stable structural materials, advanced composites, dielectric coatings, optical metallic coatings for low scattered light applications, low scattered light surfaces, deployable and inflatable structures (including optical), support structures in 0-g and 1-g environments, cryogenic optics, optical blacks, contamination hardened surfaces, radiation hardened glasses and crystals, mono-metallic telescopes and instruments, and materials characterization. Some specific examples include low coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) structures (0.01 ppm/K), lightweight thermally stable mirror materials, thermally stable optical assemblies, high reliability/accuracy (1 micron) deployable structures, and characterization of nanometer level behavior of materials/structures for interferometry concepts. Large filled-aperture concepts will require materials with CTE's of 10(exp 9) at 80 K, anti-contamination coatings, deployable and erectable structures, composite materials with CTE's less than 0.01 ppm/K and thermal hysteresis, 0.001 ppm/K. Gravitational detection systems such as LAGOS will require rigid/deployable structures, dimensionally stable components, lightweight materials with low conductivity, and high stability optics. The Materials and Structures panel addressed these issues and the relevance of the Astrotech 21 mission requirements by dividing materials and structures technology into five categories. These categories, the necessary development, and applicable mission/program development phasing are summarized. For each of these areas, technology assessments were made and development plans were defined.

Advances in Structures for Large Space Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Belvin, W. Keith

2004-01-01

The development of structural systems for scientific remote sensing and space exploration has been underway for four decades. The seminal work from 1960 to 1980 provided the basis for many of the design principles of modern space systems. From 1980- 2000 advances in active materials and structures and the maturing of composites technology led to high precision active systems such those used in the Space Interferometry Mission. Recently, thin-film membrane or gossamer structures are being investigated for use in large area space systems because of their low mass and high packaging efficiency. Various classes of Large Space Systems (LSS) are defined in order to describe the goals and system challenges in structures and materials technologies. With an appreciation of both past and current technology developments, future technology challenges are used to develop a list of technology investments that can have significant impacts on LSS development.

Childhood Antecedents of Achievement in Professional Women.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Coats, Patricia Boyne; Overman, Steve

While the trend for increasing numbers of women to enter the labor market is clear and career opportunities for women have expanded, women continue to be employed in occupations that are traditionally female and low-paying. This study examined childhood preferred play materials, structured and free play activities, and leisure time activities of…

Structures and fabrication techniques for solid state electrochemical devices

DOEpatents

Visco, Steven J.; Jacobson, Craig P.; DeJonghe, Lutgard C.

2012-10-09

Porous substrates and associated structures for solid-state electrochemical devices, such as solid-oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), are low-cost, mechanically strong and highly electronically conductive. Some preferred structures have a thin layer of an electrocatalytically active material (e.g., Ni--YSZ) coating a porous high-strength alloy support (e.g., SS-430) to form a porous SOFC fuel electrode. Electrode/electrolyte structures can be formed by co-firing or constrained sintering processes.

Structures and fabrication techniques for solid state electrochemical devices

DOEpatents

Visco, Steven J.; Jacobson, Craig P.; DeJonghe, Lutgard C.

2008-04-01

Porous substrates and associated structures for solid-state electrochemical devices, such as solid-oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), are low-cost, mechanically strong and highly electronically conductive. Some preferred structures have a thin layer of an electrocatalytically active material (e.g., Ni--YSZ) coating a porous high-strength alloy support (e.g., SS-430) to form a porous SOFC fuel electrode. Electrode/electrolyte structures can be formed by co-firing or constrained sintering processes.

Investigation of Interrelation between Deformation, Composition and Structural Characteristics of Magnesium Oxychloride Cements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Averina, G. F.; Chernykh, T. N.; Kramar, L. Ya

2017-11-01

The paper studies the process of volume deformation changes in magnesium cement at its hardening in accordance with its composition and structural peculiarities, which result from the roasting parameters of the raw materials. The study has been carried out with the aim of broadening raw materials sources for production of magnesia cements and construction materials through the use waste products of ore-dressing and processing enterprises. The mineralogical and phase composition of magnesium cements, obtained on the basis of magnesite with high content of impurity minerals from the mine dumps, has been studied by the X-ray phase analysis and derivatography. The roasting of the initial raw materials was carried out at various temperature conditions in order to get cements of different activities. The typical content of hydrated phases has been found for the hardened magnesian stone obtained from cements with different activity degrees. The characteristics of volume deformations developed in the magnesian stone have been described in relation to its phase composition. The influence of low- and high-activity crystals and calcium oxide crystals on the soundness and the structural integrity of magnesian stone has been covered.

Elevated gamma-rays shielding property in lead-free bismuth tungstate by nanofabricating structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Jun-Hua; Zhang, Quan-Ping; Sun, Nan; Zhao, Yang; Shi, Rui; Zhou, Yuan-Lin; Zheng, Jian

2018-01-01

Radiation shielding materials have attracted much attention across academia and industry because of the increasing of nuclear activities. To achieve the materials with low toxicity but good protective capability is one of the most significant goals for personal protective articles. Here, bismuth tungstate nanostructures are controllably fabricated by a versatile hydrothermal treatment under various temperatures. The crystals structure and morphology of products are detailedly characterized with X-ray diffraction, electron microscope and specific surface area. It is noteworthy that desired Bi2WO6 nanosheets treated with 190 °C show the higher specific surface area (19.5 m2g-1) than that of the other two products. Importantly, it has a close attenuating property to lead based counterpart for low energy gamma-rays. Due to the less toxicity, Bi2WO6 nanosheets are more suitable than lead based materials to fabricate personal protective articles for shielding low energy radiations and have great application prospect as well as market potential.

Improved actuation strain of PDMS-based DEA materials chemically modified with softening agents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biedermann, Miriam; Blümke, Martin; Wegener, Michael; Krüger, Hartmut

2015-04-01

Dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) are smart materials that gained much in interest particularly in recent years. One active field of research is the improvement of their properties by modification of their structural framework. The object of this work is to improve the actuation properties of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based DEAs by covalent incorporation of mono-vinyl-terminated low-molecular PDMS chains into the PDMS network. These low-molecular units act as a kind of softener within the PDMS network. The loose chain ends interfere with the network formation and lower the network's density. PDMS films with up to 50wt% of low-molecular PDMS additives were manufactured and the chemical, mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical properties of these novel materials were investigated.

Understanding low temperature oxidation activity of nanoarray-based monolithic catalysts: from performance observation to structural and chemical insights

DOE PAGES

Du, Shoucheng; Tang, Wenxiang; Guo, Yanbing; ...

2016-12-30

Monolithic catalysts have been widely used in automotive, chemical, and energy relevant industries. Nano-array based monolithic catalysts have been developed, demonstrating high catalyst utilization efficiency and good thermal/mechanical robustness. Compared with the conventional wash-coat based monolithic catalysts, they have shown advances in precise and optimum microstructure control and feasibility in correlating materials structure with properties. Recently, the nano-array based monolithic catalysts have been studied for low temperature oxidation of automotive engine exhaust and exhibited interesting and promising catalytic activities. Here, this review focuses on discussing the key catalyst structural parameters that affect the catalytic performance from the following aspects, (1)more » geometric shape and crystal planes, (2) guest atom doping and defects, (3) array size and size-assisted active species loading, and (4) the synergy effect of metal oxide in composite nano-arrays. Prior to the discussion, an overview of the current status of synthesis and development of the nano-array based monolithic catalysts is introduced. The performance of these materials in low temperature simulated engine exhaust oxidation is also demonstrated. Finally, we hope this review will elucidate the science and chemistry behind the good oxidation performance of the nanoarray- based monolithic catalysts, and serve as a timely and useful research guide for rational design and further improvement of the nano-array based monolithic catalysts for automobile emission control.« less

Understanding low temperature oxidation activity of nanoarray-based monolithic catalysts: from performance observation to structural and chemical insights

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

Du, Shoucheng; Tang, Wenxiang; Guo, Yanbing

Monolithic catalysts have been widely used in automotive, chemical, and energy relevant industries. Nano-array based monolithic catalysts have been developed, demonstrating high catalyst utilization efficiency and good thermal/mechanical robustness. Compared with the conventional wash-coat based monolithic catalysts, they have shown advances in precise and optimum microstructure control and feasibility in correlating materials structure with properties. Recently, the nano-array based monolithic catalysts have been studied for low temperature oxidation of automotive engine exhaust and exhibited interesting and promising catalytic activities. Here, this review focuses on discussing the key catalyst structural parameters that affect the catalytic performance from the following aspects, (1)more » geometric shape and crystal planes, (2) guest atom doping and defects, (3) array size and size-assisted active species loading, and (4) the synergy effect of metal oxide in composite nano-arrays. Prior to the discussion, an overview of the current status of synthesis and development of the nano-array based monolithic catalysts is introduced. The performance of these materials in low temperature simulated engine exhaust oxidation is also demonstrated. Finally, we hope this review will elucidate the science and chemistry behind the good oxidation performance of the nanoarray- based monolithic catalysts, and serve as a timely and useful research guide for rational design and further improvement of the nano-array based monolithic catalysts for automobile emission control.« less

[Effect of emotional content and self reference of learning materials on recall performance].

PubMed

Spies, K

1994-01-01

It is assumed that high affective value and high self-reference of learning material help to improve memory performance as these factors allow better memory consolidation (activation hypothesis) or better integration of the new material into existing knowledge structures (extent-of-processing hypothesis). To test this assumption, 60 subjects were shown 16 short advertising films characterized by low vs. high affective value and low vs. high self-reference. Both factors were varied within subjects. After the films had each been presented twice, subjects had to recall the product names and answer two questions to each film. Results showed for both dependent variables that films with high affective values were better remembered than films with low affective values. The same held true--though to a lower extent--with respect to self-reference. According to the expected linear trend, performance was best for material scoring high on affective value as well as on self-reference, while it was worst for material scoring low on both factors.

Materials Refining for Structural Elements From Lunar Resources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Landis, Geoffrey A.

1998-01-01

Use of in situ resources for construction on the Moon will require manufacturing structural materials out of lunar resources. Many materials that are currently used for aerospace and construction require materials that have low availability on the Moon. For example, graphite fiber, SiC fiber, and artificial fiber composites (such as Kevlar, Spectra, etc.) are used as advanced lightweight structural materials on Earth, but the low availability of C on the Moon makes these poor choices. Likewise the polymers used as the matrix for these composites, epoxy or polyester, also suffer from the low availability of C. Bulk paving and construction materials such as cement or concrete suffer from the low availability of water on the Moon, while asphalt, a common paving material on Earth, suffers from the low availability of C.

Fiber-Optic Sensor And Smart Structures Research At Florida Institute Of Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grossman, Barry G.; Alavie, A. Tino; Ham, Fredric M.; Franke, Jorge E.; Thursby, Michael H.

1990-02-01

This paper discusses the fundamental issues being investigated by Florida Institute of Technology (F.I.T.) to implement the technology of smart structural systems for DoD, NASA, and commercial applications. Embedded sensors and actuators controlled by processors can provide a modification of the mechanical characteristics of composite structures to produce smart structures1-3. Recent advances in material science have spurred the development and use of composite materials in a wide range of applications from rotocraft blades and advanced tactical fighter aircraft to undersea and aerospace structures. Along with the advantages of an increased strength-to-weight ratio, the use of these materials has raised a number of questions related to understanding their failure mechanisms. Also, being able to predict structural failures far enough in advance to prevent them and to provide real-time structural health and damage monitoring has become a realistic possibility. Unfortunately, conventional sensors, actuators, and digital processors, although highly developed and well proven for other systems, may not be best suited for most smart structure applications. Our research has concentrated on few-mode and polarimetric single-fiber strain sensors4-7 and optically activated shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators controlled by artificial neural processors. We have constructed and characterized both few-mode and polarimetric sensors for a variety of fiber types, including standard single-mode, high-birefringence polarization preserving, and low-birefringence polarization insensitive fibers. We have investigated signal processing techniques for these sensors and have demonstrated active phase tracking for the high- and low-birefringence polarimetric sensors through the incorporation into the system of an electrooptic modulator designed and fabricated at F.I.T.. We have also started the design and testing of neural network architectures for processing the sensor signal outputs to calculate strain magnitude and actuator control signals for simple structures.

Drying-induced atomic structural rearrangements in sodium-based calcium-alumino-silicate-hydrate gel and the mitigating effects of ZrO2 nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Kengran; Özçelik, V. Ongun; Garg, Nishant; Gong, Kai; White, Claire E.

Conventional drying of colloidal materials and gels (including cement) can lead to detrimental effects due to the buildup of internal stresses as water evaporates from the nano/microscopic pores. However, the underlying nanoscopic alterations in these gel materials that are, in part, responsible for macroscopically-measured strain values, especially at low relative humidity, remain a topic of open debate in the literature. In this study, sodium-based calcium-alumino-silicate-hydrate (C-(N)-A-S-H) gel, the major binding phase of silicate-activated blast furnace slag (one type of low-CO$_2$ cement), is investigated from a drying perspective, since it is known to suffer extensively from drying-induced microcracking. By employing in situ synchrotron X-ray total scattering measurements and pair distribution function (PDF) analysis we show that the significant contributing factor to the strain development in this material at extremely low relative humidity (0%) is the local atomic structural rearrangement of the C-(N)-A-S-H gel, including collapse of interlayer spacing and slight disintegration of the gel. Moreover, analysis of the medium range (1.0 - 2.2 nm) ordering in the PDF data reveals that the PDF-derived strain values are in much closer agreement (same order of magnitude) with the macroscopically measured strain data, compared to previous results based on reciprocal space X-ray diffraction data. From a mitigation standpoint, we show that small amounts of ZrO$_2$ nanoparticles are able to actively reinforce the structure of silicate-activated slag during drying, preventing atomic level strains from developing. Mechanistically, these nanoparticles induce growth of a silica-rich gel during drying, which, via density functional theory calculations, we show is attributed to the high surface reactivity of tetragonal ZrO$_2$.

An existence criterion for low-dimensional materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Jiapeng; Wang, Biao; Hu, Yangfan

2017-10-01

The discovery of graphene and other two-dimensional (2-D) materials has stimulated a general interest in low-dimensional (low-D) materials. Whereas long time ago, Peierls (1935) and Landau's (1937) theoretical work demonstrated that any one- and two-dimensional materials could not exist in any finite temperature environment. Then, two basic issues became a central concern for many researchers: How can stable low-D materials exist? What kind of low-D materials are stable? Here, we establish an energy stability criterion for low-D materials, which seeks to provide a clear answer to these questions. For a certain kind of element, the stability of its specific low-D structure is determined by several derivatives of its interatomic potential. This atomistic-based approach is then applied to study any straight/planar, low-D, equal-bond-length elemental materials. We found that 1-D monatomic chains, 2-D honeycomb lattices, square lattices, and triangular lattices are the only four permissible structures, and the stability of these structures can only be understood by assuming multi-body interatomic potentials. Using this approach, the stable existence of graphene, silicene and germanene can be explained.

Electrochemical tuning of vertically aligned MoS2 nanofilms and its application in improving hydrogen evolution reaction

PubMed Central

Wang, Haotian; Lu, Zhiyi; Xu, Shicheng; Kong, Desheng; Cha, Judy J.; Zheng, Guangyuan; Hsu, Po-Chun; Yan, Kai; Bradshaw, David; Prinz, Fritz B.; Cui, Yi

2013-01-01

The ability to intercalate guest species into the van der Waals gap of 2D layered materials affords the opportunity to engineer the electronic structures for a variety of applications. Here we demonstrate the continuous tuning of layer vertically aligned MoS2 nanofilms through electrochemical intercalation of Li+ ions. By scanning the Li intercalation potential from high to low, we have gained control of multiple important material properties in a continuous manner, including tuning the oxidation state of Mo, the transition of semiconducting 2H to metallic 1T phase, and expanding the van der Waals gap until exfoliation. Using such nanofilms after different degree of Li intercalation, we show the significant improvement of the hydrogen evolution reaction activity. A strong correlation between such tunable material properties and hydrogen evolution reaction activity is established. This work provides an intriguing and effective approach on tuning electronic structures for optimizing the catalytic activity. PMID:24248362

All dispenser printed flexible 3D structured thermoelectric generators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Z.; Shi, J. J.; Torah, R. N.; Tudor, M. J.; Beeby, S. P.

2015-12-01

This work presents a vertically fabricated 3D thermoelectric generator (TEG) by dispenser printing on flexible polyimide substrate. This direct-write technology only involves printing of electrodes, thermoelectric active materials and structure material, which needs no masks to transfer the patterns onto the substrate. The dimension for single thermoelectric element is 2 mm × 2 mm × 0.5 mm while the distance between adjacent cubes is 1.2 mm. The polymer structure layer was used to support the electrodes which are printed to connect the top ends of the thermoelectric material and ensure the flexibility as well. The advantages and the limitations of the dispenser printed 3D TEGs will also be evaluated in this paper. The proposed method is potential to be a low-cost and scalable fabrication solution for TEGs.

Nontargeted multicomponent analytical screening of plastic food contact materials using fast interpretation of deliverables via expert structure-activity relationship software.

PubMed

Rothenbacher, Thorsten; Schwack, Wolfgang

2009-01-01

Plastic packaging materials may release compounds into packed foodstuffs. To identify potential migrants of toxicological concern, resins, and multilayer foils (mainly polyethylene) intended for the production of food contact materials were extracted and analyzed by GC/mass spectrometry. To identify even compounds of low concentrations, AMDIS software was used and data evaluation was safeguarded by the Kovats retention index (RI) system. In this way, 46 compounds were identified as possible migrants. The expert structure-activity relationship software DEREK for Windows was utilized to evaluate all identified substances in terms of carcinogenicity, genotoxicity, thyroid toxicity, and miscellaneous endpoints for humans. Additionally, a literature search for these compounds was performed with Sci-Finder, but relevant data were missing for 28 substances. Seven compounds with adverse toxicological effects were identified. In addition, the RIs of 24 commercial additive standards, measured with a GC capillary column of intermediate polarity, are given.

Effect of Different Structural Materials on Neutronic Performance of a Hybrid Reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Übeyli, Mustafa; Tel, Eyyüp

2003-06-01

Selection of structural material for a fusion-fission (hybrid) reactor is very important by taking into account of neutronic performance of the blanket. Refractory metals and alloys have much higher operating temperatures and neutron wall load (NWL) capabilities than low activation materials (ferritic/martensitic steels, vanadium alloys and SiC/SiC composites) and austenitic stainless steels. In this study, effect of primary candidate refractory alloys, namely, W-5Re, T111, TZM and Nb-1Zr on neutronic performance of the hybrid reactor was investigated. Neutron transport calculations were conducted with the help of SCALE 4.3 System by solving the Boltzmann transport equation with code XSDRNPM. Among the investigated structural materials, tantalum had the worst performance due to the fact that it has higher neutron absorption cross section than others. And W-5Re and TZM having similar results showed the best performance.

An EBIC study of HEM polycrystalline silicon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koch, T.; Ast, D.

1982-01-01

Low-cost silicon for solar cells grown by the heat exchanger method (HEM) was studied in the electron beam induced current (EBIC) mode of a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Comparisons were made between the defects observed optically and the recombination centers visible in EBIC. Much of the HEM material was single crystalline, but structural defects were found from areas near the corners of the grown material. Most of these defects consisted of linear twin boundaries and grain boundaries. The electrical activity of these boundaries was dependent on symmetry of the boundaries. Symmetric twin boundaries did not exhibit recombination activity while unsymmetric twin boundaries were electrically active.

Development of New Cementitious Caterials by Alkaline Activating Industrial by-Products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fernández-Jimenez, A.; García-Lodeiro, I.; Palomo, A.

2015-11-01

The alkaline activation of aluminosiliceous industrial by-products such as blast furnace slag and fly ash is widely known to yield binders whose properties make them comparable to or even stronger and more durable than ordinary Portland cement. The present paper discusses activation fundamentals (such as the type and concentration of alkaline activator and curing conditions) as well as the structure of the cementitious gels formed (C-A-S-H, N-A-S-H). The durability and strength of these systems make these materials apt for use in many industrial applications, such as precast concrete elements (masonery blocks, railroad sleepers), protective coatings for materials with low fire ratings and lightweight elements.

Salt melt synthesis of curved nitrogen-doped carbon nanostructures: ORR kinetics boost

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rybarczyk, Maria K.; Gontarek, Emilia; Lieder, Marek; Titirici, Maria-Magdalena

2018-03-01

Implementing metal-free electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and revealing crucial chemical or topographical parameters driving their activity are vital for the development of power cells. The carbon-based catalysts are very often synthesized through carbonization of biopolymers, in particular, those one containing nitrogen groups such as chitosan. Unfortunately, the resulting carbonaceous materials usually lack specific porosity and exhibit low catalytic activity. Here, we demonstrate that pyrolysis of chitosan in a ZnCl2 melt assisted by the presence of LiCl results not only in a highly porous activated carbon material with a specific surface area of 1317.97 m2/g and the total nitrogen content of 6.5%, but also induces unexpected curvature in the grown graphitic layers. This is the first work that shows curved graphene layers obtained from a biopolymer precursor by its pyrolytic decomposition in the melted salt media. On the other hand, a carbonaceous material obtained from chitosan but without the salts has very low specific surface area of 7.8 m2/g, possesses no specific structural features, and contains 4.7% of nitrogen. The electrochemical studies show, that the former material is highly active towards four-electron pathway of the ORR in terms of an onset potential (0.89 V vs RHE) and the turnover frequency (TOFmax = 0.095 e site-1 s-1). We attribute this high catalytic performance to the presence of the pyridinic and pyrrolic sites in the structure. The ORR kinetics is probably further promoted by curvature in the graphitic layers.

Perovskite- and Heusler based materials for thermoelectric converters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weidenkaff, Anke

2015-03-01

The broad application of thermoelectric converters in future energy technologies requires the development of active, stable, low cost and sustainable materials. Semiconductors based on perovskite and heusler structures show substantial potential for thermoelectric energy conversion processes. Their good performance can be explained based on their suitable band structure, adjusted charge carrier density, mass and mobility, limited phonon transport, electron filtering possibilities, strongly correlated electronic systems, etc. These properties are widely tuneable by following theoretical concepts and a deep composition-structure-property understanding to change the composition, structure and size of the crystallites in innovative scalable synthesis procedures. Improved thermoelectric materials are developed, synthesised and tested in diverse high temperature applications to improve the efficiency and energy density of the thermoelectric conversion process. The lecture will provide a summary on the field of advanced perovskite-type ceramics and Heusler compounds gaining importance for a large number of future energy technologies.

On the use of tin?lithium alloys as breeder material for blankets of fusion power plants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fütterer, M. A.; Aiello, G.; Barbier, F.; Giancarli, L.; Poitevin, Y.; Sardain, P.; Szczepanski, J.; Li Puma, A.; Ruvutuso, G.; Vella, G.

2000-12-01

Tin-lithium alloys have several attractive thermo-physical properties, in particular high thermal conductivity and heat capacity, that make them potentially interesting candidates for use in liquid metal blankets. This paper presents an evaluation of the advantages and drawbacks caused by the substitution of the currently employed alloy lead-lithium (Pb-17Li) by a suitable tin-lithium alloy: (i) for the European water-cooled Pb-17Li (WCLL) blanket concept with reduced activation ferritic-martensitic steel as the structural material; (ii) for the European self-cooled TAURO blanket with SiC f/SiC as the structural material. It was found that in none of these blankets Sn-Li alloys would lead to significant advantages, in particular due to the low tritium breeding capability. Only in forced convection cooled divertors with W-alloy structure, Sn-Li alloys would be slightly more favorable. It is concluded that Sn-Li alloys are only advantageous in free surface cooled reactor internals, as this would make maximum use of the principal advantage of Sn-Li, i.e., the low vapor pressure.

Electric Pulse Discharge Activated Carbon Supercapacitors for Transportation Application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nayak, Subhadarshi; Agrawal, Jyoti

2012-03-01

ScienceTomorrow is developing a high-speed, low-cost process for synthesizing high-porosity electrodes for electrochemical double-layer capacitors. Four types of coal (lignite, subbituminous, bituminous, and anthracite) were used as precursor materials for spark discharge activation with multiscale porous structure. The final porosity and pore distribution depended, among other factors, on precursor type. The high gas content in low-grade carbon resulted in mechanical disintegration, whereas high capacitance was attained in higher-grade coal. The properties, including capacitance, mechanical robustness, and internal conductivity, were excellent when the cost is taken into consideration.

46 CFR 148.04-1 - Radioactive material, Low Specific Activity (LSA).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Radioactive material, Low Specific Activity (LSA). 148... § 148.04-1 Radioactive material, Low Specific Activity (LSA). (a) Authorized materials are limited to: (1) Uranium or thorium ores and physical or chemical concentrates of such ores; (2) Uranium metal...

Triazatruxene: A Rigid Central Donor Unit for a D-A3 Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Material Exhibiting Sub-Microsecond Reverse Intersystem Crossing and Unity Quantum Yield via Multiple Singlet-Triplet State Pairs.

PubMed

Dos Santos, Paloma L; Ward, Jonathan S; Congrave, Daniel G; Batsanov, Andrei S; Eng, Julien; Stacey, Jessica E; Penfold, Thomas J; Monkman, Andrew P; Bryce, Martin R

2018-06-01

By inverting the common structural motif of thermally activated delayed fluorescence materials to a rigid donor core and multiple peripheral acceptors, reverse intersystem crossing (rISC) rates are demonstrated in an organic material that enables utilization of triplet excited states at faster rates than Ir-based phosphorescent materials. A combination of the inverted structure and multiple donor-acceptor interactions yields up to 30 vibronically coupled singlet and triplet states within 0.2 eV that are involved in rISC. This gives a significant enhancement to the rISC rate, leading to delayed fluorescence decay times as low as 103.9 ns. This new material also has an emission quantum yield ≈1 and a very small singlet-triplet gap. This work shows that it is possible to achieve both high photoluminescence quantum yield and fast rISC in the same molecule. Green organic light-emitting diode devices with external quantum efficiency >30% are demonstrated at 76 cd m -2 .

Defects in Arsenic Implanted p + -n- and n + -p- Structures Based on MBE Grown CdHgTe Films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Izhnin, I. I.; Fitsych, E. I.; Voitsekhovskii, A. V.; Korotaev, A. G.; Mynbaev, K. D.; Varavin, V. S.; Dvoretsky, S. A.; Mikhailov, N. N.; Yakushev, M. V.; Bonchyk, A. Yu.; Savytskyy, H. V.; Świątek, Z.

2018-02-01

Complex studies of the defect structure of arsenic-implanted (with the energy of 190 keV) Cd x Hg 1-x Te ( x = 0.22) films grown by molecular-beam epitaxy are carried out. The investigations were performed using secondary-ion mass spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, optical reflection in the visible region of the spectrum, and electrical measurements. Radiation donor defects were studied in n +- p- and n +- n-structures obtained by implantation and formed on the basis of p-type and n-type materials, respectively, without activation annealing. It is shown that in the layer of the distribution of implanted ions, a layer of large extended defects with low density is formed in the near-surface region followed by a layer of smaller extended defects with larger density. A different character of accumulation of electrically active donor defects in the films with and without a protective graded-gap surface layer has been revealed. It is demonstrated that p +- n- structures are formed on the basis of n-type material upon activation of arsenic in the process of postimplantation thermal annealing with 100% activation of impurity and complete annihilation of radiation donor defects.

Rice Husk Silica-Derived Nanomaterials for Battery Applications: A Literature Review.

PubMed

Shen, Yafei

2017-02-08

Silica-rich rice husk (RH) is an abundant and sustainable agricultural waste. The recovery of value-added products from RH or its ash to explore an economic way for the valorization of agricultural wastes has attracted wide attention. For instance, RH can be converted to biofuels and biochars simultaneously via thermochemical processes. In general, the applications of RH biochars include soil remediation, pollutant removal, silicon battery materials, and so forth. This review concludes recent progress in the synthesis of RH-derived silicon materials for lithium-ion battery (LIB) applications. Silica nanomaterials produced from RH are initially discussed. RH amorphous silica can also be fabricated to crystal silicon used for battery materials via widely used magnesiothermic reduction. However, the RH-derived Si nanoparticles suffer from a low Coulombic efficiency in the initial charge/discharge and limited cycle life as anode materials due to high surface reactions and low thermodynamic stability. The synthesis of Si materials with nano/microhierarchical structure would be an ideal way to improve their electrochemical performances. Embedding nano-Si into 3D conductive matrix is an effective way to improve the structural stability. Among the Si/carbon composite materials, carbon nanotubdes (CNTs) are a promising matrix due to the wired morphology, high electronic conductivity, and robust structure. Additionally, CNTs can easily form 3D cross-linked conducting networks, ensuring effective electron transportation among active particles. Si nanomaterials with microhierarchical structures in which CNTs are tightly intertwined between the RH-derived Si nanoparticles have been proven to be ideal LIB anode materials.

Healing efficiency of epoxy-based materials for structural application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raimondo, Marialuigia; Guadagno, Liberata

2012-07-01

This paper describes a self-healing composite exhibiting high levels of healing efficiency under working conditions typical of aeronautic applications. The self-healing material is composed of a thermosetting epoxy matrix in which a catalyst of Ring Opening Metathesis Polymerization (ROMP) and nanocapsules are dispersed. The nanocapsules contain a monomer able to polymerize via ROMP. The preliminary results demonstrate an efficient self-repair function which is also active at very low temperatures.

Photoelectron Pumped Phosphors,

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-07-01

result of SEE, if the screen is made from a dielectric or a semi- conductor with a high resistivity . The CL brightness depends on the energy of the...1. The rare-earth ion activated high resistance phos- phors based on the materials with garnet, spinel and diamond structure can be considered as the...most prospective CL materials, especially in the compounds that include the rare-earth elements in their host matrix. 2. The low resistance CL oxides

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

Wei, Xiaoliang; Pan, Wenxiao; Duan, Wentao

Redox flow batteries are propitious stationary energy storage technologies with exceptional scalability and flexibility to improve the stability, efficiency and sustainability of our power grid. The redox-active materials are the central component to RFBs for achieving high energy density and good cyclability. Traditional inorganic-based materials encounter critical technical and economic limitations such as low solubility, inferior electrochemical activity, and high cost. Redox-active organic materials (ROMs) are promising alternative “green” candidates to push the boundaries of energy storage because of the significant advantages of molecular diversity, structural tailorability, and natural abundance. Here the recent development of a variety of ROM familiesmore » and associated battery designs in both aqueous and nonaqueous electrolytes are reviewed. Moreover, the critical challenges and potential research opportunities for developing practically relevant organic flow batteries are discussed.« less

Li-S batteries: Firing for compactness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yanguang; Chen, Fengjiao

2017-07-01

Conventional Li-S batteries have a non-compact cathode structure containing low areal loading of active materials. Now, a strategy of burning Li foils in a CS2 vapour is presented, which leads to the formation of highly compact Li2S nanoparticles as a lithiated sulfur cathode, offering promising battery performance.

Intermetallic Al-, Fe-, Co- and Ni-Based Thermal Barrier Coatings Prepared by Cold Spray for Applications on Low Heat Rejection Diesel Engines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leshchinsky, E.; Sobiesiak, A.; Maev, R.

2018-02-01

Conventional thermal barrier coating (TBC) systems consist of a duplex structure with a metallic bond coat and a ceramic heat insulating topcoat. They possess the desired low thermal conductivity, but at the same time they are very brittle and sensitive to thermal shock and thermal cycling due to the inherently low coefficient of thermal expansion. Recent research activities are focused on the developing of multilayer TBC structures obtained using cold spraying and following annealing. Aluminum intermetallics have demonstrated thermal and mechanical properties that allow them to be used as the alternative TBC materials, while the intermetallic layers can be additionally optimized to achieve superior thermal physical properties. One example is the six layer TBC structure in which cold sprayed Al-based intermetallics are synthesized by annealing in nitrogen atmosphere. These multilayer coating systems demonstrated an improved thermal fatigue capability as compared to conventional ceramic TBC. The microstructures and properties of the coatings were characterized by SEM, EDS and mechanical tests to define the TBC material properties and intermetallic formation mechanisms.

Fracture zone drilling through Atotsugawa fault in central Japan - geological and geophysical structure -

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Omura, K.; Yamashita, F.; Yamada, R.; Matsuda, T.; Fukuyama, E.; Kubo, A.; Takai, K.; Ikeda, R.; Mizuochi, Y.

2004-12-01

Drilling is an effective method to investigate the structure and physical state in and around the active fault zone, such as, stress and strength distribution, geological structure and materials properties. In particular, the structure in the fault zone is important to understand where and how the stress accumulates during the earthquake cycle. In previous studies, we did integrate investigation on active faults in central Japan by drilling and geophysical prospecting. Those faults are estimated to be at different stage in the earthquake cycle, i.e., Nojima fault which appeared on the surface by the 1995 Great Kobe earthquake (M=7.2), the Neodani fault which appeared by the 1891 Nobi earth-quake (M=8.0), the Atera fault, of which some parts have seemed to be dislocated by the 1586 Tensyo earthquake (M=7.9), and Gofukuji Fault that is considered to have activated about 1200 years ago. Each faults showed characteristic features of fracture zone structure according to their geological and geophysical situations. In a present study, we did core recovery and down hole measurements at the Atotsugawa fault, central Japan, that is considered to have activated at 1858 Hida earthquake (M=7.0). The Atotsugawa fault is characterized by active seismicity along the fault. But, at the same time, the shallow region in the central segment of the fault seems to have low seismicity. The high seismicity segment and low seismicity segments may have different mechanical, physical and material properties. A 350m depth borehole was drilled vertically beside the surface trace of the fault in the low seismicity segment. Recovered cores were overall heavily fractured and altered rocks. In the cores, we observed many shear planes holding fault gouge. Logging data showed that the apparent resistance was about 100 - 600 ohm-m, density was about 2.0 - 2.5g/cm3, P wave velocity was approximately 3.0 - 4.0 km/sec, neutron porosity was 20 - 40 %. Results of physical logging show features of fault fracture zone that were the same as the fault fracture zones of other active faults that we have drilled previously. By the BHTV logging, we detected many fractures of which the strikes are not only parallel to the fault trace bur also oblique to the fault trace. The observations of cores and logging data indicate that the borehole passed in the fracture zone down to the bottom, and that the fracture zone has complicate internal structure including foliation not parallel to the fault trace. The core samples are significant for further investigation on material properties in the fracture zone. And we need data of geophysical prospecting to infer the deeper structure of the fracture zone.

Preliminary findings of the LDEF Materials Special Investigation Group

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stein, Bland A.; Pippin, H. Gary

1992-01-01

The retrieval of NASA's LDEF from low Earth orbit provided an opportunity for the study of long duration space environmental effects on materials. The five year, nine month flight of the LDEF greatly enhanced the potential value of most LDEF materials. NASA recognized this potential by forming the LDEF Space Environmental Effects on Materials Special Investigation Group (MSIG). Its goal is to explore the expanded materials analysis opportunities available in the LDEF structure and on experiment trays. The charter and scope of MSIG activities is presented, followed by an overview of the preliminary MSIG observations. These observations of low Earth orbit environmental effects on materials were made in-space during LDEF retrieval and during LDEF tray disintegration. Also presented are initial findings of lab analyses of LDEF materials. Included are effects of individual environmental parameters: atomic oxygen, ultraviolet radiation, meteoroid and debris impacts, thermal cycling, vacuum, and contamination, plus combined effects of these parameters. Materials considered include anodized aluminum, polymer matrix composites, polymer films, silvered Teflon thermal blankets, and a white thermal control paint.

The study about the use of the natural fibres in composite materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hristian, L.; Ostafe, M. M.; Manea, L. R.; Leon, A. L.

2016-08-01

The current technological development, the crises of raw materials and energy, the increased aggression towards the environment have led to the development of the new materials and unconventional technologies. The composite materials have both many important advantages compared to the traditional materials and provide many functional advantages: low weight, mechanical resistance, low maintenance costs. The main advantage of the composites lies in their ability to combine the physical properties of components to achieve new structural functionalities, so the modulation of the properties and finally, to obtain a wide variety of materials which may be used in all areas of activities. Some biodegradable fibers, flax, hemp, may provide the specific mechanical properties compared to those of the glass fiber, due to their high strength and low density of their volume. To make the right choice, even if the natural fibers have very low power consumption compared with the synthetic fibers, such as glass or carbon, it should be considered a careful assessment of the environmental impact. The present study shows that the validity of the replacement of the synthetic fibers with natural fibers, depends on the reinforcement type and the complexity of the problems due to the processing of natural fibers.

Fully inkjet-printed two-dimensional material field-effect heterojunctions for wearable and textile electronics.

PubMed

Carey, Tian; Cacovich, Stefania; Divitini, Giorgio; Ren, Jiesheng; Mansouri, Aida; Kim, Jong M; Wang, Chaoxia; Ducati, Caterina; Sordan, Roman; Torrisi, Felice

2017-10-31

Fully printed wearable electronics based on two-dimensional (2D) material heterojunction structures also known as heterostructures, such as field-effect transistors, require robust and reproducible printed multi-layer stacks consisting of active channel, dielectric and conductive contact layers. Solution processing of graphite and other layered materials provides low-cost inks enabling printed electronic devices, for example by inkjet printing. However, the limited quality of the 2D-material inks, the complexity of the layered arrangement, and the lack of a dielectric 2D-material ink able to operate at room temperature, under strain and after several washing cycles has impeded the fabrication of electronic devices on textile with fully printed 2D heterostructures. Here we demonstrate fully inkjet-printed 2D-material active heterostructures with graphene and hexagonal-boron nitride (h-BN) inks, and use them to fabricate all inkjet-printed flexible and washable field-effect transistors on textile, reaching a field-effect mobility of ~91 cm 2  V -1  s -1 , at low voltage (<5 V). This enables fully inkjet-printed electronic circuits, such as reprogrammable volatile memory cells, complementary inverters and OR logic gates.

Development of an active structure flight experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manning, R. A.; Wyse, R. E.; Schubert, S. R.

1993-02-01

The design and development of the Air Force and TRW's Advanced Control Technology Experiment (ACTEX) flight experiment is described in this paper. The overall objective of ACTEX is to provide an active structure trailblazer which will demonstrate the compatibility of active structures with operational spacecraft performance and lifetime measures. At the heart of the experiment is an active tripod driven by a digitally-programmable analog control electronics subsystem. Piezoceramic sensors and actuators embedded in a graphite epoxy host material provide the sensing and actuation mechanism for the active tripod. Low noise ground-programmable electronics provide a virtually unlimited number of control schemes that can be implemented in the space environment. The flight experiment program provides the opportunity to gather performance, reliability, adaptability, and lifetime performance data on vibration suppression hardware for the next generation of DoD and NASA spacecraft.

Lightweight fibrous nickel electrodes for nickel-hydrogen batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Britton, Doris L.

1989-01-01

The NASA Lewis Research Center is currently developing nickel electrodes for nickel-hydrogen batteries. These electrodes are lighter in weight and have higher energy densities than the heavier state-of-the-art sintered nickel electrodes. Lightweight fibrous materials or plaques are used as conductive supports for the nickel hydroxide active material. These materials are commercial products that are fabricated into nickel electrodes by electrochemically impregnating them with active material. Evaluation is performed in half cells structured in the bipolar configuration. Initial performance tests include capacity measurements at five discharge levels, C/2, 1.0C, 1.37C, 2.0C, and 2.74C. The electrodes that pass the initial tests are life cycle-tested in a low Earth orbit regime at 80 percent depth of discharge.

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

Xu, Gui -Liang; Sheng, Tian; Chong, Lina

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have been considered as one of the promising power source candidates for the stationary storage industries owing to the much lower cost of sodium than lithium. It is well-known that the electrode materials largely determine the energy density of the battery systems. However, recent discoveries on the electrode materials showed that most of them present distinct lithium and sodium storage performance, which is not yet well understood. In this work, we performed a comparative understanding on the structural changes of porous cobalt oxide during its electrochemical lithiation and sodiation process by in operando synchrotron small angel X-raymore » scattering, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray absorption spectroscopy. It was found that compared to the lithiation process, the porous cobalt oxide undergoes less pore structure changes, oxidation state, and local structure changes as well as crystal structure evolution during its sodiation process, which is attributed to the intrinsic low sodiation activity of cobalt oxide as evidenced by ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. Moreover, it was indicated that the sodiation activity of metal sulfides is higher than that of metal oxides, indicating a better candidate for SIBs. Furthermore, such understanding is crucial for future design and improvement of high-performance electrode materials for SIBs.« less

Laser-induced transformation of graphitic materials to two-dimensional graphene-like structures at ambient conditions.

PubMed

Antonelou, Aspasia; Benekou, Vasiliki; Dracopoulos, Vasileios; Kollia, Mary; Yannopoulos, Spyros N

2018-06-27

Laser processing of carbon containing compounds towards the formation of graphene-based structures gains ground over the last years in view of the practicality that lasers offer against other conventional graphene preparation methods. The current work explores the viability of low-cost lasers, operating at ambient conditions, for the transformation of various graphitic materials to structures with graphene-like atomic arrangement. Starting materials are at two opposing sides. On one side stand typical graphite powder with Bernal stacking and strong sp2 character, while nanocrystalline or quasi-amorphous graphitic powders such as carbon black and activated carbon are also investigated. Electron microscopies are employed to observe post-irradiation morphological changes while Raman scattering identifies details on atomic arrangement. It is demonstrated that graphene-like structures can be prepared either by starting from a well-organized Bernal-stacked network or by irradiating the quasi-amorphous forms of nanocrystalline carbon. Mild structural changes in the former case pertain to increase of the interlayer spacing, which could possibly be rationalized by considering a mechanism based on Coulomb expansion. For less organized carbon structures, reorganization of the atomic arrangement with an appreciable sp3 to sp2 transformation is observed. The findings of this work confirm that laser processing at minimal chamber conditions demonstrate high potential for preparing high-quality graphene-based structures starting from low cost materials. The proposed method being easily scalable adaptable to current technological platforms is expected to be transformed to a viable and eco-friendly graphene production technology. © 2018 IOP Publishing Ltd.

Light-Activated Content Release from Liposomes

PubMed Central

Leung, Sarah J.; Romanowski, Marek

2012-01-01

Successful integration of diagnostic and therapeutic actions at the level of individual cells requires new materials that combine biological compatibility with functional versatility. This review focuses on the development of liposome-based functional materials, where payload release is activated by light. Methods of sensitizing liposomes to light have progressed from the use of organic molecular moieties to the use of metallic plasmon resonant structures. This development has facilitated application of near infrared light for activation, which is preferred for its deep penetration and low phototoxicity in biological tissues. Presented mechanisms of light-activated liposomal content release enable precise in vitro manipulation of minute amounts of reagents, but their use in clinical diagnostic and therapeutic applications will require demonstration of safety and efficacy. PMID:23139729

Facile synthesis of reduced graphene oxide/peroxomolybdate(VI)-citrate composite and its potential energy storage application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ciszewski, Mateusz; Benke, Grzegorz; Leszczyńska-Sejda, Katarzyna; Kopyto, Dorota

2017-11-01

A new energy storage material based on molybdate active species has been presented. Molybdenum seems to be a perspective material in supercapacitors because of numerous possible metal oxidation states, electrolyte storage by means of various chemical reactions and availability in comparison to other refractory metals. Material synthesized within this research was composed of reduced graphene oxide matrix and peroxomolybdate(VI)-citrate active dimers. It was showed that peroxomolybdate(VI)-citrate structure enhanced electrochemical activity of symmetric supercapacitor. Simple methodology was used to synthesize a composite with pH adjustment as the key step. The specific capacity calculated from galvanostatic charge/discharge curves was as high as 250 F/g. Material was distinguished by good cyclability with 5% capacity loss after 1000 cycles. The increase in charge transfer resistance, induced by metal-oxygen compound within the carbon matrix was relatively low, compared to parent reduced graphene oxide. Amorphous structure of peroxomolybdate(VI)-modified material was observed with slight increase in the interlayer distance in comparison to parent reduced graphene oxide. The height and lateral size of crystallites were also determined. Significant decrease in the specific surface area of peroxomolybdate(VI)-modified composite was observed, in comparison to the parent reduced graphene oxide.

Ultrahigh-sensitive sensing platform based on p-type dumbbell-like Co3O4 network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Tingting; Zhang, Tong; Zhang, Rui; Lou, Zheng; Deng, Jianan; Wang, Lili

2017-12-01

Development of high performance room temperature sensors remains a grand challenge for high demand of practical application. Metal oxide semiconductors (MOSs) have many advantages over others due to their easy functionalization, high surface area, and low cost. However, they typically need a high work temperature during sensing process. Here, p-type sensing layer is reported, consisting of pore-rich dumbbell-like Co3O4 particles (DP-Co3O4) with intrinsic high catalytic activity. The gas sensor (GS) based DP-Co3O4 catalyst exhibits ultrahigh NH3 sensing activity along with excellent stability over other structure based NH3 GSs in room temperature work environment. In addition, the unique structure of DP-Co3O4 with pore-rich and high catalytic activity endows fast gas diffusion rate and high sensitivity at room temperature. Taken together, the findings in this work highlight the merit of integrating highly active materials in p-type materials, offering a framework to develop high-sensitivity room temperature sensing platforms.

Resilient Flexible Pressure-Activated Seal

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Steinetz, Bruce M. (Inventor); Dunlap, Patrick H., Jr. (Inventor)

2009-01-01

A resilient, flexible, pressure-activated, high-temperature seal is adapted to be interposed between high and low pressure regions to provide sealing between opposing surfaces of adjacent relatively movable structures. The seal comprises at least one C-shaped sheet element. The C-shaped element design enables the seal to be pressure-activated to provide a radially outward biasing force, responsive to a seal-activating pressure differential acting across the seal thereby increasing resiliency. A centrally-located, resilient core structure provides load bearing and insulating properties. In an exemplary embodiment where at least two seal elements are used, each layer has a cutout slot pattern and the remaining strip material pattern. The slots provide flexibility to the seal, enabling the seal to be manually contoured to seal around corners and curves. The strip material of each layer covers the slots in each adjacent layer to minimize leakage through the slots. Attached barrier strips can block interface leakage between the seal and the opposing surfaces.

Targeted Basic Studies of Ferroelectric and Ferroelastic Materials for Piezoelectric Transducer Applications.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-03-01

PLZT ceramics. Low temperature studies on pure and doped PZTs have given the first clear indi- cation of the intrinsic (averaged) single domain...8217 11 4.0 PYROELECTRIC MATERIALS 27 4.1 Micro Composites 27 4.2 ’ Doped ’ Tungsten Bronze and TGS Structure Single Crystals 28 5.0 FERROELECTRIC...differences in piezo- electric activity, coupling constant and permittivity between differently doped PZTs are extrinsic and freeze out at 4°K. Extending

Detailed Structural Analyses of KOH Activated Carbon from Waste Coffee Beans

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takahata, Tomokazu; Toda, Ikumi; Ono, Hiroki; Ohshio, Shigeo; Akasaka, Hiroki; Himeno, Syuji; Kokubu, Toshinori; Saitoh, Hidetoshi

2009-11-01

The relationship of the detailed structural change of KOH activated carbon and hydrogen storage ability was investigated in activated carbon materials fabricated from waste coffee beans. The specific surface area of porous carbon materials calculated from N2 adsorption isotherms stood at 2070 m2/g when the weight ratio of KOH to carbon materials was 5:1, and pore size was in the range of approximately 0.6 to 1.1 nm as micropores. In the structural analysis, X-ray diffraction analysis and Raman spectroscopy indicated structural change in these carbon materials through KOH activation. The order of the graphite structure changed to a smaller scale with this activation. It is theorized that specific surface area increased using micropores provided by carbon materials developed from the descent of the graphite structure. Hydrogen storage ability improved with these structural changes, and reached 0.6 wt % at 2070 m2/g. These results suggest that hydrogen storage ability is conferred by the chemical effect on graphite of carbon materials.

Composite Structures and Materials Research at NASA Langley Research Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Starnes, James H., Jr.; Dexter, H. Benson; Johnston, Norman J.; Ambur, Damodar R.; Cano, roberto J.

2003-01-01

A summary of recent composite structures and materials research at NASA Langley Research Center is presented. Fabrication research to develop low-cost automated robotic fabrication procedures for thermosetting and thermoplastic composite materials, and low-cost liquid molding processes for preformed textile materials is described. Robotic fabrication procedures discussed include ply-by-ply, cure-on-the-fly heated placement head and out-of-autoclave electron-beam cure methods for tow and tape thermosetting and thermoplastic materials. Liquid molding fabrication processes described include Resin Film Infusion (RFI), Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) and Vacuum-Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM). Results for a full-scale composite wing box are summarized to identify the performance of materials and structures fabricated with these low-cost fabrication methods.

Composite Structures and Materials Research at NASA Langley Research Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Starnes, James H., Jr.; Dexter, H. Benson; Johnston, Norman J.; Ambur, Damodar R.; Cano, Roberto J.

2001-01-01

A summary of recent composite structures and materials research at NASA Langley Research Center is presented. Fabrication research to develop low-cost automated robotic fabrication procedures for thermosetting and thermoplastic composite materials, and low-cost liquid molding processes for preformed textile materials is described. Robotic fabrication procedures discussed include ply-by-ply, cure-on-the-fly heated placement head and out-of-autoclave electron-beam cure methods for tow and tape thermosetting and thermoplastic materials. Liquid molding fabrication processes described include Resin Film Infusion (RFI) Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) and Vacuum-Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM). Results for a full-scale composite wing box are summarized to identify the performance of materials and structures fabricated with these low-cost fabrication methods.

Mulifunctional Dendritic Emitter: Aggregation-Induced Emission Enhanced, Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescent Material for Solution-Processed Multilayered Organic Light-Emitting Diodes

PubMed Central

Matsuoka, Kenichi; Albrecht, Ken; Yamamoto, Kimihisa; Fujita, Katsuhiko

2017-01-01

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials emerged as promising light sources in third generation organic light-emitting diodes (OLED). Much effort has been invested for the development of small molecular TADF materials and vacuum process-based efficient TADF-OLEDs. In contrast, a limited number of solution processable high-molecular weight TADF materials toward low cost, large area, and scalable manufacturing of solution processed TADF-OLEDs have been reported so far. In this context, we report benzophenone-core carbazole dendrimers (GnB, n = generation) showing TADF and aggregation-induced emission enhancement (AIEE) properties along with alcohol resistance enabling further solution-based lamination of organic materials. The dendritic structure was found to play an important role for both TADF and AIEE activities in the neat films. By using these multifunctional dendritic emitters as non-doped emissive layers, OLED devices with fully solution processed organic multilayers were successfully fabricated and achieved maximum external quantum efficiency of 5.7%. PMID:28139768

Mulifunctional Dendritic Emitter: Aggregation-Induced Emission Enhanced, Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescent Material for Solution-Processed Multilayered Organic Light-Emitting Diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsuoka, Kenichi; Albrecht, Ken; Yamamoto, Kimihisa; Fujita, Katsuhiko

2017-01-01

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials emerged as promising light sources in third generation organic light-emitting diodes (OLED). Much effort has been invested for the development of small molecular TADF materials and vacuum process-based efficient TADF-OLEDs. In contrast, a limited number of solution processable high-molecular weight TADF materials toward low cost, large area, and scalable manufacturing of solution processed TADF-OLEDs have been reported so far. In this context, we report benzophenone-core carbazole dendrimers (GnB, n = generation) showing TADF and aggregation-induced emission enhancement (AIEE) properties along with alcohol resistance enabling further solution-based lamination of organic materials. The dendritic structure was found to play an important role for both TADF and AIEE activities in the neat films. By using these multifunctional dendritic emitters as non-doped emissive layers, OLED devices with fully solution processed organic multilayers were successfully fabricated and achieved maximum external quantum efficiency of 5.7%.

Enhanced multimaterial 4D printing with active hinges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akbari, Saeed; Hosein Sakhaei, Amir; Kowsari, Kavin; Yang, Bill; Serjouei, Ahmad; Yuanfang, Zhang; Ge, Qi

2018-06-01

Despite great progress in four-dimensional (4D) printing, i.e. three-dimensional (3D) printing of active (stimuli-responsive) materials, the relatively low actuation force of the 4D printed structures often impedes their engineering applications. In this study, we use multimaterial inkjet 3D printing technology to fabricate shape memory structures, including a morphing wing flap and a deployable structure, which consist of active and flexible hinges joining rigid (non-active) parts. The active hinges, printed from a shape memory polymer (SMP), lock the structure into a second temporary shape during a thermomechanical programming process, while the flexible hinges, printed from an elastomer, effectively increase the actuation force and the load-bearing capacity of the printed structure as reflected in the recovery ratio. A broad range of mechanical properties such as modulus and failure strain can be achieved for both active and flexible hinges by varying the composition of the two base materials, i.e. the SMP and the elastomer, to accommodate large deformation induced during programming step, and enhance the recovery in the actuating step. To find the important design parameters, including local deformation, shape fixity and recovery ratio, we conduct high fidelity finite element simulations, which are able to accurately predict the nonlinear deformation of the printed structures. In addition, a coupled thermal-electrical finite element analysis was performed to model the heat transfer within the active hinges during the localized Joule heating process. The model predictions showed good agreement with the measured temperature data and were used to find the major parameters affecting temperature distribution including the applied voltage and the convection rate.

Metal-organic frameworks for thermoelectric energy-conversion applications

DOE PAGES

Talin, Albert Alec; Jones, Reese E.; Hopkins, Patrick E.

2016-11-07

Motivated by low cost, low toxicity, mechanical flexibility, and conformability over complex shapes, organic semiconductors are currently being actively investigated as thermoelectric (TE) materials to replace the costly, brittle, and non-eco-friendly inorganic TEs for near-ambient-temperature applications. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) share many of the attractive features of organic polymers, including solution processability and low thermal conductivity. A potential advantage of MOFs and MOFs with guest molecules (Guest@MOFs) is their synthetic and structural versatility, which allows both the electronic and geometric structure to be tuned through the choice of metal, ligand, and guest molecules. This could solve the long-standing challenge of findingmore » stable, high-TE-performance n-type organic semiconductors, as well as promote high charge mobility via the long-range crystalline order inherent in these materials. In this paper, we review recent advances in the synthesis of MOF and Guest@MOF TEs and discuss how the Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity, and thermal conductivity could be tuned to further optimize TE performance.« less

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

Talin, Albert Alec; Jones, Reese E.; Hopkins, Patrick E.

Motivated by low cost, low toxicity, mechanical flexibility, and conformability over complex shapes, organic semiconductors are currently being actively investigated as thermoelectric (TE) materials to replace the costly, brittle, and non-eco-friendly inorganic TEs for near-ambient-temperature applications. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) share many of the attractive features of organic polymers, including solution processability and low thermal conductivity. A potential advantage of MOFs and MOFs with guest molecules (Guest@MOFs) is their synthetic and structural versatility, which allows both the electronic and geometric structure to be tuned through the choice of metal, ligand, and guest molecules. This could solve the long-standing challenge of findingmore » stable, high-TE-performance n-type organic semiconductors, as well as promote high charge mobility via the long-range crystalline order inherent in these materials. In this paper, we review recent advances in the synthesis of MOF and Guest@MOF TEs and discuss how the Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity, and thermal conductivity could be tuned to further optimize TE performance.« less

EDITORIAL: Adaptive and Active Materials: Selected Papers from the ASME 2008 Conference on Smart Materials, Adaptive Structures and Intelligent Systems (SMASIS 08) (Maryland, USA, 28-30 October 2008) Adaptive and Active Materials: Selected Papers from the ASME 2008 Conference on Smart Materials, Adaptive Structures and Intelligent Systems (SMASIS 08) (Maryland, USA, 28-30 October 2008)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lynch, Christopher

2009-10-01

The rapid development of the field of Smart Materials, Adaptive Structures, and Materials Systems led the Aerospace Division ASMS TC to launch the new annual SMASIS conference in 2008. The conference focuses on the multi-disciplinary challenges of developing new multifunctional materials and implementing them in advanced systems. The research spans length scales from nano-structured materials to civil, air, and space structures. The first conference consisted of six symposia, each focusing on a different research area. This special issue of Smart Materials and Structures summarizes some of the top research presented at the 2008 SMASIS conference in the materials-focused symposia. These symposia focused on the behavior and mechanics of active materials, on multifunctional materials, and on bio-inspired materials. The behavior and mechanics of active materials is an approach that combines observed material behavior with mechanism-based models that not only give insight into the observed behavior, but guide the development of new materials. This approach has been applied to shape memory metals and polymers, ferroelectrics, ferromagnetics, and recently to multiferroic materials, and has led to considerable improvements in our understanding of multi-field phenomena. Multifunctional materials are the next generation of active materials. These materials include structural, sensing, and actuation components integrated into a material system. A natural extension of multifunctional materials is a new class of bio-inspired materials. Bio-inspired materials range from detailed bio-mimicry of sensing and self healing materials to nano and microstructures that take advantage of features observed in biological systems. The Editors would like to express their sincere thanks to all of the authors for their contributions to this special issue on 'Adaptive and Active Materials' for Smart Materials and Structures. We convey our gratitude to all of the reviewers for their time and dedication. We thank IOP Publishing for their support and encouragement of this special issue and the staff for their special attention and timely response.

Discovery of core-structurally novel PTP1B inhibitors with specific selectivity containing oxindole-fused spirotetrahydrofurochroman by one-pot reaction.

PubMed

Dong, Suzhen; Lei, Yubing; Jia, Shikun; Gao, Lixin; Li, Jia; Zhu, Tong; Liu, Shunying; Hu, Wenhao

2017-02-15

Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) has been proposed to be an ideal target for treatment of type II diabetes and obesity. However, no druggable PTP1B inhibitor has been established and there is still an urgent demand for the development of structurally novel PTPIB inhibitor. Herein, we reported core-structurally novel PTP1B inhibitors with low micromole-ranged inhibitory activity by one-pot reaction from simple starting materials. Further studies demonstrated some of these active compounds had a specific selectivity over other PTPs. The structure and activity relationship was also described. The best active and selective compound 5e inhibited PTP1B activity with an IC 50 of 4.53μM. Molecular docking analysis further demonstrated that compound 5e bound to the active pocket of PTP1B. The results might provide some insights for further development of new drugs for type II diabetes and obesity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Challenges and advances in the field of self-assembled membranes.

PubMed

van Rijn, Patrick; Tutus, Murat; Kathrein, Christine; Zhu, Leilei; Wessling, Matthias; Schwaneberg, Ulrich; Böker, Alexander

2013-08-21

Self-assembled membranes are of vital importance in biological systems e.g. cellular and organelle membranes, however, more focus is being put on synthetic self-assembled membranes not only as an alternative for lipid membranes but also as an alternative for lithographic methods. More investigations move towards self-assembly processes because of the low-cost preparations, structural self-regulation and the ease of creating composite materials and tunable properties. The fabrication of new smart membrane materials via self-assembly is of interest for delivery vessels, size selective separation and purification, controlled-release materials, sensors and catalysts, scaffolds for tissue engineering, low dielectric constant materials for microelectronic devices, antireflective coatings and proton exchange membranes for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells. Polymers and nanoparticles offer the most straightforward approaches to create membrane structures. However, alternative approaches using small molecules or composite materials offer novel ultra-thin membranes or multi-functional membranes, respectively. Especially, the composite material membranes are regarded as highly promising since they offer the possibility to combine properties of different systems. The advantages of polymers which provide elastic and flexible yet stable matrices can be combined with nanoparticles being either inorganic, organic or even protein-based which offers pore-size control, catalytic activity or permeation regulation. It is therefore believed that at the interface of different disciplines with each offering different materials or approaches, the most novel and interesting membrane structures are going to be produced. The combinations and approaches presented in this review offer non-conventional self-assembled membrane materials which exhibit a high potential to advance membrane science and find more practical applications.

New Insights in Thrombin Inhibition Structure-Activity Relationships by Characterization of Octadecasaccharides from Low Molecular Weight Heparin.

PubMed

Mourier, Pierre A J; Guichard, Olivier Y; Herman, Fréderic; Sizun, Philippe; Viskov, Christian

2017-03-08

Low Molecular Weight Heparins (LMWH) are complex anticoagulant drugs that mainly inhibit the blood coagulation cascade through indirect interaction with antithrombin. While inhibition of the factor Xa is well described, little is known about the polysaccharide structure inhibiting thrombin. In fact, a minimal chain length of 18 saccharides units, including an antithrombin (AT) binding pentasaccharide, is mandatory to form the active ternary complex for LMWH obtained by alkaline β-elimination (e.g., enoxaparin). However, the relationship between structure of octadecasaccharides and their thrombin inhibition has not been yet assessed on natural compounds due to technical hurdles to isolate sufficiently pure material. We report the preparation of five octadecasaccharides by using orthogonal separation methods including size exclusion, AT affinity, ion pairing and strong anion exchange chromatography. Each of these octadecasaccharides possesses two AT binding pentasaccharide sequences located at various positions. After structural elucidation using enzymatic sequencing and NMR, in vitro aFXa and aFIIa were determined. The biological activities reveal the critical role of each pentasaccharide sequence position within the octadecasaccharides and structural requirements to inhibit thrombin. Significant differences in potency, such as the twenty-fold magnitude difference observed between two regioisomers, further highlights the importance of depolymerisation process conditions on LMWH biological activity.

Multimaterial 3D Printing of Graphene-Based Electrodes for Electrochemical Energy Storage Using Thermoresponsive Inks.

PubMed

Rocha, Victoria G; García-Tuñón, Esther; Botas, Cristina; Markoulidis, Foivos; Feilden, Ezra; D'Elia, Eleonora; Ni, Na; Shaffer, Milo; Saiz, Eduardo

2017-10-25

The current lifestyles, increasing population, and limited resources result in energy research being at the forefront of worldwide grand challenges, increasing the demand for sustainable and more efficient energy devices. In this context, additive manufacturing brings the possibility of making electrodes and electrical energy storage devices in any desired three-dimensional (3D) shape and dimensions, while preserving the multifunctional properties of the active materials in terms of surface area and conductivity. This paves the way to optimized and more efficient designs for energy devices. Here, we describe how three-dimensional (3D) printing will allow the fabrication of bespoke devices, with complex geometries, tailored to fit specific requirements and applications, by designing water-based thermoresponsive inks to 3D-print different materials in one step, for example, printing the active material precursor (reduced chemically modified graphene (rCMG)) and the current collector (copper) for supercapacitors or anodes for lithium-ion batteries. The formulation of thermoresponsive inks using Pluronic F127 provides an aqueous-based, robust, flexible, and easily upscalable approach. The devices are designed to provide low resistance interface, enhanced electrical properties, mechanical performance, packing of rCMG, and low active material density while facilitating the postprocessing of the multicomponent 3D-printed structures. The electrode materials are selected to match postprocessing conditions. The reduction of the active material (rCMG) and sintering of the current collector (Cu) take place simultaneously. The electrochemical performance of the rCMG-based self-standing binder-free electrode and the two materials coupled rCMG/Cu printed electrode prove the potential of multimaterial printing in energy applications.

Postirradiation thermocyclic loading of ferritic-martensitic structural materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belyaeva, L.; Orychtchenko, A.; Petersen, C.; Rybin, V.

Thermonuclear fusion reactors of the Tokamak-type will be unique power engineering plants to operate in thermocyclic mode only. Ferritic-martensitic stainless steels are prime candidate structural materials for test blankets of the ITER fusion reactor. Beyond the radiation damage, thermomechanical cyclic loading is considered as the most detrimental lifetime limiting phenomenon for the above structure. With a Russian and a German facility for thermal fatigue testing of neutron irradiated materials a cooperation has been undertaken. Ampule devices to irradiate specimens for postirradiation thermal fatigue tests have been developed by the Russian partner. The irradiation of these ampule devices loaded with specimens of ferritic-martensitic steels, like the European MANET-II, the Russian 05K12N2M and the Japanese Low Activation Material F82H-mod, in a WWR-M-type reactor just started. A description of the irradiation facility, the qualification of the ampule device and the modification of the German thermal fatigue facility will be presented.

Bone regeneration of critical calvarial defect in goat model by PLGA/TCP/rhBMP-2 scaffolds prepared by low-temperature rapid-prototyping technology.

PubMed

Yu, D; Li, Q; Mu, X; Chang, T; Xiong, Z

2008-10-01

Active artificial bone composed of poly lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA)/ tricalcium phosphate (TCP) was prefabricated using low-temperature rapid-prototyping technology so that the process of osteogenesis could be observed in it. PLGA and TCP were the primary materials, they were molded at low temperature, then recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) was added to form an active artificial bone. Goats with standard cranial defects were randomly divided into experimental (implants with rhBMP-2 added) and control (implants without rhBMP-2) groups, and osteogenesis was observed and evaluated by imaging and biomechanical and histological examinations. The PLGA-TCP artificial bone scaffold (90% porosity) had large and small pores of approximately 360microm and 3-5microm diameter. Preliminary and complete repair of the cranial defect in the goats occurred 12 and 24 weeks after surgery, respectively. The three-point bending strength of the repaired defects attained that of the normal cranium. In conclusion, low-temperature rapid-prototyping technology can preserve the biological activity of this scaffold material. The scaffold has a good three-dimensional structure and it becomes an active artificial bone after loading with rhBMP-2 with a modest degradation rate and excellent osteogenesis in the goat.

Ab initio investigation of the surface properties of dispenser B-type and scandate thermionic emission cathodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vlahos, Vasilios; Lee, Yueh-Lin; Booske, John H.; Morgan, Dane; Turek, Ladislav; Kirshner, Mark; Kowalczyk, Richard; Wilsen, Craig

2009-05-01

Scandate cathodes (BaxScyOz on W) are important thermionic electron emission materials whose emission mechanism remains unclear. Ab initio modeling is used to investigate the surface properties of both scandate and traditional B-type (Ba-O on W) cathodes. We demonstrate that the Ba-O dipole surface structure believed to be present in active B-type cathodes is not thermodynamically stable, suggesting that a nonequilibrium steady state dominates the active cathode's surface structure. We identify a stable, low work function BaxScyOz surface structure, which may be responsible for some scandate cathode properties and demonstrate that multicomponent surface coatings can lower cathode work functions.

Design of active and stable Co-Mo-S x chalcogels as pH-universal catalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction

DOE PAGES

Staszak-Jirkovský, Jakub; Malliakas, Christos D.; Lopes, Pietro P.; ...

2015-11-30

Three of the fundamental catalytic limitations that have plagued the electrochemical production of hydrogen for decades still remain: low efficiency, short lifetime of catalysts and a lack of low-cost materials. Here, we address these three challenges by establishing and exploring an intimate functional link between the reactivity and stability of crystalline (CoS 2 and MoS 2) and amorphous (CoS x and MoS x) hydrogen evolution catalysts. We propose that Co 2+ and Mo 4+ centers promote the initial discharge of water (alkaline solutions) or hydronium ions (acid solutions). We establish that although CoS x materials are more active than MoSmore » x they are also less stable, suggesting that the active sites are defects formed after dissolution of Co and Mo cations. Finally, by combining the higher activity of CoS x building blocks with the higher stability of MoS x units into a compact and robust CoMoS x structure, we are able to design a low-cost alternative to noble metal catalysts for efficient electrocatalytic production of hydrogen in both alkaline and acidic environments.« less

Composite materials for rail transit systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Griffin, O. Hayden, Jr.; Guerdal, Zafer; Herakovich, Carl T.

1987-01-01

The potential is explored for using composite materials in urban mass transit systems. The emphasis was to identify specific advantages of composite materials in order to determine their actual and potential usage for carbody and guideway structure applications. The literature was reviewed, contacts were made with major domestic system operators, designers, and builders, and an analysis was made of potential composite application to railcar construction. Composites were found to be in use throughout the transit industry, usually in secondary or auxiliary applications such as car interior and nonstructural exterior panels. More recently, considerable activity has been initiated in the area of using composites in the load bearing elements of civil engineering structures such as highway bridges. It is believed that new and improved manufacturing refinements in pultrusion and filament winding will permit the production of beam sections which can be used in guideway structures. The inherent corrosion resistance and low maintenance characteristics of composites should result in lowered maintenance costs over a prolonged life of the structure.

Raman vibrational spectra of bulk to monolayer Re S 2 with lower symmetry

DOE PAGES

Feng, Yanqing; Zhou, Wei; Wang, Yaojia; ...

2015-08-26

Lattice structure and symmetry of two-dimensional (2D) layered materials are of key importance to their fundamental mechanical, thermal, electronic and optical properties. Raman spectroscopy, as a convenient and nondestructive tool, however has its limitations on identifying all symmetry allowing Raman modes and determining the corresponding crystal structure of 2D layered materials with high symmetry like graphene and MoS 2. Due to lower structural symmetry and extraordinary weak interlayer coupling of ReS 2, we successfully identified all 18 first-order Raman active modes for bulk and monolayer ReS 2. Without van der Waals (vdW) correction, our local density approximation (LDA) calculations successfullymore » reproduce all the Raman modes. Our calculations also suggest no surface reconstruction effect and the absence of low frequency rigid-layer Raman modes below 100 cm -1. As a result, combining with Raman and LDA thus provides a general approach for studying the vibrational and structural properties of 2D layered materials with lower symmetry.« less

A facile and green approach for the controlled synthesis of porous SnO₂ nanospheres: application as an efficient photocatalyst and an excellent gas sensing material.

PubMed

Manjula, P; Boppella, Ramireddy; Manorama, Sunkara V

2012-11-01

A facile and elegant methodology invoking the principles of Green Chemistry for the synthesis of porous tin dioxide nanospheres has been described. The low-temperature (∼50 °C) synthesis of SnO₂ nanoparticles and their self-assembly into organized, uniform, and monodispersed porous nanospheres with high surface area is facilitated by controlling the concentration of glucose, which acts as a stabilizing as well as structure-directing agent. A systematic control on the stannate to glucose molar concentration ratio determines the exact conditions to obtain monodispersed nanospheres, preferentially over random aggregation. Detailed characterization of the structure, morphology, and chemical composition reveals that the synthesized material, 50 nm SnO₂ porous nanospheres possess BET surface area of about 160 m²/g. Each porous nanosphere consists of a few hundred nanoparticles ∼2-3 nm in diameter with tetragonal cassiterite crystal structure. The SnO₂ nanospheres exhibit elevated photocatalytic activity toward methyl orange with good recyclability. Because of the high activity and stability of this photocatalyst, the material is ideal for applications in environmental remediation. Moreover, SnO₂ nanospheres display excellent gas sensing capabilities toward hydrogen. Surface modification of the nanospheres with Pd transforms this sensing material into a highly sensitive and selective room-temperature hydrogen sensor.

A flexible pressure responsive device based on the interaction between silver nanoparticles and an aluminum reflector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rankin, Alasdair; McGarry, Steven

2018-01-01

The unique and tunable optical properties of metal nanoparticles have attracted intense and sustained academic attention in recent years. In tandem with the demand for low-cost responsive materials, one particular topic of interest is the development of mechanically responsive device structures. This work describes the design, fabrication, and testing of a mechanically responsive plasmonic device structure that has been integrated onto a standard commercial plastic substrate. With a low actuation force and a visually perceivable color shift, this device would be attractive for applications requiring responsive features that can be activated by the human hand.

Preparation of activated carbon hollow fibers from ramie at low temperature for electric double-layer capacitor applications.

PubMed

Du, Xuan; Zhao, Wei; Wang, Yi; Wang, Chengyang; Chen, Mingming; Qi, Tao; Hua, Chao; Ma, Mingguo

2013-12-01

Activated carbon hollow fibers (ACHFs) with high surface area were prepared from inexpensive, renewable ramie fibers (RFs) by a single-step activation method under lower temperature than that of other reports. The effects of activation conditions on the pore structure and turbostratic structure of ACHFs were investigated systematically. The results show that ACHFs surface area decreased but micropore volume and conductivity increased as the increase of activation temperature and activation time. The electrochemical measurements of supercapacitors fabricated from these ACHFs electrodes reveal that the electrochemical properties improved with the enhancing of activation degree. However, too high activation temperature can make the ion diffusion resistance increase. It suggests that pore structure and conductivity are as important as surface area to decide the electrochemical performances of ACHFs electrode materials. A maximum capacity of 287 F g(-1) at 50 mA g(-1) was obtained for the ACHFs electrode prepared under suitable conditions. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Influence of laser pulse duration on the electrochemical performance of laser structured LiFePO4 composite electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mangang, M.; Seifert, H. J.; Pfleging, W.

2016-02-01

Lithium iron phosphate is a promising cathode material for lithium-ion batteries, despite its low electrical conductivity and lithium-ion diffusion kinetic. To overcome the reduced rate performance, three dimensional (3D) architectures were generated in composite cathode layers. By using ultrashort laser radiation with pulse durations in the femtosecond regime the ablation depth per pulse is three times higher compared to nanosecond laser pulses. Due to the 3D structuring, the surface area of the active material which is in direct contact with liquid electrolyte, i.e. the active surface, is increased. As a result the capacity retention and the cycle stability were significantly improved, especially for high charging/discharging currents. Furthermore, a 3D structure leads to higher currents during cyclic voltammetry. Thus, the lithium-ion diffusion kinetic in the cell was improved. In addition, using ultrashort laser pulses results in a high aspect ratio and further improvement of the cell kinetic was achieved.

NASA's activities in the conservation of strategic aerospace materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stephens, J. R.

1980-01-01

The United States imports 50-100 percent of certain metals critical to the aerospace industry, namely, cobalt, columbium, chromium, and tantalum. In an effort to reduce this dependence on foreign sources, NASA is planning a program called Conservation of Strategic Aerospace Materials (COSAM), which will provide technology minimizing strategic metal content in the components of aerospace structures such as aircraft engines. With a proposed starting date of October 1981, the program will consist of strategic element substitution, process technology development, and alternate materials research. NASA's two-fold pre-COSAM studies center on, first, substitution research involving nickel-base and cobalt-base superalloys (Waspaloy, Udimet-700, MAE-M247, Rene 150, HA-188) used in turbine disks, low-pressure blades, turbine blades, and combustors; and, second, alternate materials research devoted initially to investigating possible structural applications of the intermetallic alloys nickel aluminide and iron aluminide.

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

Xu, Wu; Canfield, Nathan L.; Zhang, Ji-Guang

Methods for making composite anodes, such as macroporous composite anodes, are disclosed. Embodiments of the methods may include forming a tape from a slurry including a substrate metal precursor, an anode active material, a pore-forming agent, a binder, and a solvent. A laminated structure may be prepared from the tape and sintered to produce a porous structure, such as a macroporous structure. The macroporous structure may be heated to reduce a substrate metal precursor and/or anode active material. Macroporous composite anodes formed by some embodiments of the disclosed methods comprise a porous metal and an anode active material, wherein themore » anode active material is both externally and internally incorporated throughout and on the surface of the macroporous structure.« less

Synthesis and thermal conductivity of type II silicon clathrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beekman, M.; Nolas, G. S.

2006-08-01

We have synthesized and characterized polycrystalline Na 1Si 136 and Na 8Si 136, compounds possessing the type II clathrate hydrate crystal structure. Resistivity measurements from 10 to 300 K indicate very large resistivities in this temperature range, with activated temperature dependences indicative of relatively large band gap semiconductors. The thermal conductivity is very low; two orders-of-magnitude lower than that of diamond-structure silicon at room temperature. The thermal conductivity of Na 8Si 136 displays a temperature dependence that is atypical of crystalline solids and more indicative of amorphous materials. This work is part of a continuing effort to explore the many different compositions and structure types of clathrates, a class of materials that continues to be of interest for scientific and technological applications.

Insights into the Distinct Lithiation/Sodiation of Porous Cobalt Oxide by in Operando Synchrotron X-ray Techniques and Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics Simulations.

PubMed

Xu, Gui-Liang; Sheng, Tian; Chong, Lina; Ma, Tianyuan; Sun, Cheng-Jun; Zuo, Xiaobing; Liu, Di-Jia; Ren, Yang; Zhang, Xiaoyi; Liu, Yuzi; Heald, Steve M; Sun, Shi-Gang; Chen, Zonghai; Amine, Khalil

2017-02-08

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have been considered as one of the promising power source candidates for the stationary storage industries owing to the much lower cost of sodium than lithium. It is well-known that the electrode materials largely determine the energy density of the battery systems. However, recent discoveries on the electrode materials showed that most of them present distinct lithium and sodium storage performance, which is not yet well understood. In this work, we performed a comparative understanding on the structural changes of porous cobalt oxide during its electrochemical lithiation and sodiation process by in operando synchrotron small angel X-ray scattering, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray absorption spectroscopy. It was found that compared to the lithiation process, the porous cobalt oxide undergoes less pore structure changes, oxidation state, and local structure changes as well as crystal structure evolution during its sodiation process, which is attributed to the intrinsic low sodiation activity of cobalt oxide as evidenced by ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. Moreover, it was indicated that the sodiation activity of metal sulfides is higher than that of metal oxides, indicating a better candidate for SIBs. Such understanding is crucial for future design and improvement of high-performance electrode materials for SIBs.

Joint Test Protocol for Validation of Alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lewis, Pattie

2005-01-01

Headquarters National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) chartered the Acquisition Pollution Prevention (AP2) Office to coordinate agency activities affecting pollution prevention issues identified during system and component acquisition and sustainment processes. The primary objectives of the AP2 Office are to: (1) Reduce or eliminate the use of hazardous materials (HazMats) or hazardous processes at manufacturing, remanufacturing, and sustainment locations. (2) A void duplication of effort in actions required to reduce or eliminate HazMats through joint center cooperation and technology sharing. This project will identify, evaluate and approve alternative surface preparation technologies for use at NASA and Air Force Space Command (AFSPC) installations. Materials and processes will be evaluated with the goal of selecting those processes that will improve corrosion protection at critical systems, facilitate easier maintenance activity, extend maintenance cycles, eliminate flight hardware contamination and reduce the amount of hazardous waste generated. This Joint Test Protocol (JTP) contains the critical requirements and tests necessary to qualify alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel Applications. These tests were derived from engineering, performance, and operational impact (supportability) requirements defined by a consensus of NASA and Air Force Space Command (AFSPC) participants. The Field Test Plan (FTP), entitled Joint Test Protocol for Validation of Alternative Low Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel, prepared by ITB, defines the field evaluation and testing requirements for validating alternative surface preparation/depainting technologies and supplements the JTP.

Capacity loss on storage and possible capacity recovery for HST nickel-hydrogen cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lowery, John E.

1992-01-01

Negatively precharged nickel hydrogen cells will experience a useable capacity loss during extended open circuit storage periods. Some of the lost capacity can be recovered through cycling. Capacity recovery through cycling can be enhanced by cycling at high depths of discharge (DOD). The most timely procedure for recovering the faded capacity is to charge the cell fully and allow the cell to sit open-circuit at room temperature. This procedure seems to be effective in part because of the enlarged structure of the active materials. The compounds that formed during storage at the low electrode potentials can more easily dissolve and redistribute. All of the original capacity cannot be recovered because the lattice structure of the active material is irreversibly altered during storage. The recommendation is to use positively precharged cells activated with 26 percent KOH if possible. In aerospace applications, the benefits of negative precharge are offset by the possibility of delays and storage periods.

Composite electrode/electrolyte structure

DOEpatents

Visco, Steven J.; Jacobson, Craig P.; DeJonghe, Lutgard C.

2004-01-27

Provided is an electrode fabricated from highly electronically conductive materials such as metals, metal alloys, or electronically conductive ceramics. The electronic conductivity of the electrode substrate is maximized. Onto this electrode in the green state, a green ionic (e.g., electrolyte) film is deposited and the assembly is co-fired at a temperature suitable to fully densify the film while the substrate retains porosity. Subsequently, a catalytic material is added to the electrode structure by infiltration of a metal salt and subsequent low temperature firing. The invention allows for an electrode with high electronic conductivity and sufficient catalytic activity to achieve high power density in ionic (electrochemical) devices such as fuel cells and electrolytic gas separation systems.

Amorphous Mn oxide-ordered mesoporous carbon hybrids as a high performance electrode material for supercapacitors.

PubMed

Nam, Inho; Kim, Nam Dong; Kim, Gil-Pyo; Park, Junsu; Yi, Jongheop

2012-07-01

A supercapacitor has the advantages of both the conventional capacitors and the rechargeable batteries. Mn oxide is generally recognized one of the potential materials that can be used for a supercapacitor, but its low conductivity is a limiting factor for electrode materials. In this study, a hybrid of amorphous Mn oxide (AMO) and ordered mesoporous carbon (OMC) was prepared and characterized using X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, N2/77 K sorption techniques, and electrochemical analyses. The findings indicate that the electrochemical activities of Mn oxide were facilitated when it was in the hybrid state because OMC acted as a pathway for both the electrolyte ions and the electrons due to the characteristics of the ordered mesoporous structure. The ordered mesoporous structure of OMC was well maintained even after hybridization with amorphous Mn oxide. The electrochemical-activity tests revealed that the AMO/OMC hybrid had a higher specific capacitance and conductivity than pure Mn oxide. In the case where the Mn/C weight ratio was 0.75, the composite showed a high capacitance of 153 F/g, which was much higher than that for pure Mn oxide, due to the structural effects of OMC.

Joint Test Report for Validation of Alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lewis, Pattie

2007-01-01

Headquarters National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) chartered the NASA Acquisition Pollution Prevention (AP2) Office to coordinate agency activities affecting pollution prevention issues identified during system and component acquisition and sustainment processes. The primary objectives of the AP2 Office are to: (1) Reduce or eliminate the use of hazardous materials or hazardous processes at manufacturing, remanufacturing, and sustainment locations. (2) Avoid duplication of effort in actions required to reduce or eliminate hazardous materials through joint center cooperation and technology sharing. The objective of this project was to qualify candidate alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel applications at NASA facilities. This project compares the surface preparation/depainting performance of the proposed alternatives to existing surface preparation/depainting systems or standards. This Joint Test Report (JTR) contains the results of testing as per the outlines of the Joint Test Protocol (JTP), Joint Test Protocol for Validation of Alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel, and the Field Test Plan (FTP), Field Evaluations Test Plan for Validation of Alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel, for critical requirements and tests necessary to qualify alternatives for coating removal systems. These tests were derived from engineering, performance, and operational impact (supportability) requirements defined by a consensus of government and industry participants. This JTR documents the results of the testing as well as any test modifications made during the execution of the project. This JTR is made available as a reference for future pollution prevention endeavors by other NASA Centers, the Department of Defense and commercial users to minimize duplication of effort. The current coating removal processes identified herein are for polyurethane, epoxy and other paint systems applied by conventional wet-spray processes. A table summarizes the target hazardous materials, processes and materials, applications, affected programs, and candidate substrates.

Canadian Activities in Space Debris Mitigation Technologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nikanpour, Darius; Jiang, Xin Xiang; Goroshin, Samuel; Haddad, Emile; Kruzelecky, Roman; Hoa, Suong; Merle, Philippe; Kleiman, Jacob; Gendron, Stephane; Higgins, Andrew; Jamroz, Wes

The space environment, and in particular the Low Earth Orbit (LEO), is becoming increasingly populated with space debris which include fragments of dysfunctional spacecraft parts and materials traveling at speeds up to 15 km per second. These pose an escalating potential threat to LEO spacecraft, the international space station, and manned missions. This paper presents the Canadian activities to address the concerns over space debris in terms of debris mitigation measures and technologies; these include novel spacecraft demise technologies to safely decommission the spacecraft at the end of the mission, integrated self-healing material technologies for spacecraft structures to facilitate self-repair and help maintain the spacecraft structural and thermal performance, hypervelocity ground test capability to predict the impact of space debris on spacecraft performance, and ways of raising awareness within the space community through participation in targeted Science and Technology conferences and international forums.

Towards a lattice-matching solid-state battery: synthesis of a new class of lithium-ion conductors with the spinel structure.

PubMed

Rosciano, Fabio; Pescarmona, Paolo P; Houthoofd, Kristof; Persoons, Andre; Bottke, Patrick; Wilkening, Martin

2013-04-28

Lithium ion batteries have conquered most of the portable electronics market and are now on the verge of deployment in large scale applications. To be competitive in the automotive and stationary sectors, however, they must be improved in the fields of safety and energy density (W h L(-1)). Solid-state batteries with a ceramic electrolyte offer the necessary advantages to significantly improve the current state-of-the-art technology. The major limit towards realizing a practical solid-state lithium-ion battery lies in the lack of viable ceramic ionic conductors. Only a few candidate materials are available, each carrying a difficult balance between advantages and drawbacks. Here we introduce a new class of possible solid-state lithium-ion conductors with the spinel structure. Such compounds could be coupled with spinel-type electrode materials to obtain a "lattice matching" solid device where low interfacial resistance could be achieved. Powders were prepared by wet chemistry, their structure was studied by means of diffraction techniques and magic angle spinning NMR, and Li(+) self-diffusion was estimated by static NMR line shape measurements. Profound differences in the Li(+) diffusion properties were observed depending on the composition, lithium content and cationic distribution. Local Li(+) hopping in the spinel materials is accompanied by a low activation energy of circa 0.35 eV being comparable with that of, e.g., LLZO-type garnets, which represent the current benchmark in this field. We propose these novel materials as a building block for a lattice-matching all-spinel solid-state battery with low interfacial resistance.

Ultra-low threshold gallium nitride photonic crystal nanobeam laser

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

Niu, Nan, E-mail: nanniu@fas.harvard.edu; Woolf, Alexander; Wang, Danqing

2015-06-08

We report exceptionally low thresholds (9.1 μJ/cm{sup 2}) for room temperature lasing at ∼450 nm in optically pumped Gallium Nitride (GaN) nanobeam cavity structures. The nanobeam cavity geometry provides high theoretical Q (>100 000) with small modal volume, leading to a high spontaneous emission factor, β = 0.94. The active layer materials are Indium Gallium Nitride (InGaN) fragmented quantum wells (fQWs), a critical factor in achieving the low thresholds, which are an order-of-magnitude lower than obtainable with continuous QW active layers. We suggest that the extra confinement of photo-generated carriers for fQWs (compared to QWs) is responsible for the excellent performance.

Affordable Manufacturing Technologies Being Developed for Actively Cooled Ceramic Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bhatt, Ramakrishna T.

1999-01-01

Efforts to improve the performance of modern gas turbine engines have imposed increasing service temperature demands on structural materials. Through active cooling, the useful temperature range of nickel-base superalloys in current gas turbine engines has been extended, but the margin for further improvement appears modest. Because of their low density, high-temperature strength, and high thermal conductivity, in situ toughened silicon nitride ceramics have received a great deal of attention for cooled structures. However, high processing costs have proven to be a major obstacle to their widespread application. Advanced rapid prototyping technology, which is developing rapidly, offers the possibility of an affordable manufacturing approach.

Structural materials for space applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tenney, Darrel R.

1989-01-01

The long-term performance of structural materials in the space environment is a key research activity within NASA. The primary concerns for materials in low Earth orbit (LEO) are atomic oxygen erosion and space debris impact. Atomic oxygen studies have included both laboratory exposures in atomic oxygen facilities and flight exposures using the Shuttle. Characterization of atomic oxygen interaction with materials has included surface recession rates, residual mechanical properties, optical property measurements, and surface analyses to establish chemical changes. The Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) is scheduled to be retrieved in 1989 and is expected to provide a wealth of data on atomic oxygen erosion in space. Hypervelocity impact studies have been conducted to establish damage mechanisms and changes in mechanical properties. Samples from LDEF will be analyzed to determine the severity of space debris impact on coatings, films, and composites. Spacecraft placed in geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO) will be subjected to high doses of ionizing radiation which for long term exposures will exceed the damage threshold of many polymeric materials. Radiation interaction with polymers can result in chain scission and/or cross-linking. The formation of low molecular weight products in the epoxy plasticize the matrix at elevated temperatures and embrittle the matrix at low temperatures. This affects both the matrix-dominated mechanical properties and the dimensional stability of the composite. Embrittlement of the matrix at low temperatures results in enhanced matrix microcracking during thermal cycling. Matrix microcracking changes the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of composite laminates and produces permanent length changes. Residual stress calculations were performed to estimate the conditions necessary for microcrack development in unirradiated and irradiated composites. The effects of UV and electron exposure on the optical properties of transparent polymer films were also examined to establish the optimum chemical structure for good radiation resistance. Thoughts on approaches to establishing accelerated testing procedures are discussed.

Structural Relaxation of Vit4Amorphous Alloy by the Enthalpy Relaxation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Reilly, James; Hammond, Vincent

2002-03-01

The structural relaxation of an amorphous alloy designated Vit4 has been investigated as a function of thermal history using differential scanning calorimetry. Results indicate that the width of the glass transition region is approximately 30 °C, which is broader than molecular or polymeric glasses but similar to inorganic glasses. The broad transition implies a large distribution of relaxation times, a low activation energy, or a combination of these effects. The Tool-Narayanaswamy model for structural relaxation has been used to analyze the change in fictive temperature that occurs for a series of cooling rates. The activation energy calculated from these data the is 187 kJ/mol, a value that is low compared to other glasses. Using optimization programs, the other relaxation parameters, the characteristic relaxation time, the non-linearity parameter, x, and the fractional exponent of distribution of relaxation times, b, were determined from the experimental specific heat curves. Although the parameters were in good agreement with values typical of other glassy materials, there appears to be less correlation between them than is observed in molecular and polymeric glasses. The results obtained in this study indicate that the structural relaxation of Vit 4 is similar to other glasses except for a low activation energy with high glass transition. This could be due to a low free volume or configurational entropy. The width of the glass transition could result from a large distribution of relaxation times or a low activation energy. The exponent of the distribution of relaxation times, b, is 0.45±0.1 and the non-linearity parameter, x =0.5±0.2. The structural relaxation of Vit 4 is dominated by a low activation energy which is related to the atomic jump motion of hard spheres. The DCp at Tg should be 11.7 J/mol. deg per bead according to Wunderlich’s rule. This means that the change in Cp at Tg in Vit4 can be accounted for by one bead although there are five metal components in the glass. More detailed comparisons with other glass formers will be presented.

High surface area, low weight composite nickel fiber electrodes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Bradley A.; Ferro, Richard E.; Swain, Greg M.; Tatarchuk, Bruce J.

1993-01-01

The energy density and power density of light weight aerospace batteries utilizing the nickel oxide electrode are often limited by the microstructures of both the collector and the resulting active deposit in/on the collector. Heretofore, these two microstructures were intimately linked to one another by the materials used to prepare the collector grid as well as the methods and conditions used to deposit the active material. Significant weight and performance advantages were demonstrated by Britton and Reid at NASA-LeRC using FIBREX nickel mats of ca. 28-32 microns diameter. Work in our laboratory investigated the potential performance advantages offered by nickel fiber composite electrodes containing a mixture of fibers as small as 2 microns diameter (Available from Memtec America Corporation). These electrode collectors possess in excess of an order of magnitude more surface area per gram of collector than FIBREX nickel. The increase in surface area of the collector roughly translates into an order of magnitude thinner layer of active material. Performance data and advantages of these thin layer structures are presented. Attributes and limitations of their electrode microstructure to independently control void volume, pore structure of the Ni(OH)2 deposition, and resulting electrical properties are discussed.

Method of Synthesizing a Novel Absorbent Titanosilicate Material (UPRM-5)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hernandez-Maldonado, Arturo (Inventor); Primera-Pedrozo, Jose N (Inventor)

2013-01-01

A titanium silicate variant named UPRM-5 was prepared using tetraethylammonium hydroxide as a structure-directing agent (SDA). Successful detemplation was achieved via ion exchange with NH4Cl. Effective functionalization was obtained after ion exchanging the detemplated material using SrCl2 and BaCl2. Adsorption of CO2 at 25 deg C in Sr(-) and Ba-UPRM-5 materials activated at different temperatures. For low partial pressures, the observed CO2 adsorption capacities increased as follows: NH4-UPRM-5 less than Sr-UPRM-5 less than Ba-UPRM-5. Both the Sr(-) and Ba-UPRM-5 materials exhibited outstanding selectivity for CO2 over CH4, N2 and O2.

Underground waste barrier structure

DOEpatents

Saha, Anuj J.; Grant, David C.

1988-01-01

Disclosed is an underground waste barrier structure that consists of waste material, a first container formed of activated carbonaceous material enclosing the waste material, a second container formed of zeolite enclosing the first container, and clay covering the second container. The underground waste barrier structure is constructed by forming a recessed area within the earth, lining the recessed area with a layer of clay, lining the clay with a layer of zeolite, lining the zeolite with a layer of activated carbonaceous material, placing the waste material within the lined recessed area, forming a ceiling over the waste material of a layer of activated carbonaceous material, a layer of zeolite, and a layer of clay, the layers in the ceiling cojoining with the respective layers forming the walls of the structure, and finally, covering the ceiling with earth.

Challenges and Perspectives for NASICON-Type Electrode Materials for Advanced Sodium-Ion Batteries.

PubMed

Chen, Shuangqiang; Wu, Chao; Shen, Laifa; Zhu, Changbao; Huang, Yuanye; Xi, Kai; Maier, Joachim; Yu, Yan

2017-12-01

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have attracted increasing attention in the past decades, because of high overall abundance of precursors, their even geographical distribution, and low cost. Apart from inherent thermodynamic disadvantages, SIBs have to overcome multiple kinetic problems, such as fast capacity decay, low rate capacities and low Coulombic efficiencies. A special case is sodium super ion conductor (NASICON)-based electrode materials as they exhibit - besides pronounced structural stability - exceptionally high ion conductivity, rendering them most promising for sodium storage. Owing to the limiting, comparatively low electronic conductivity, nano-structuring is a prerequisite for achieving satisfactory rate-capability. In this review, we analyze advantages and disadvantages of NASICON-type electrode materials and highlight electrode structure design principles for obtaining the desired electrochemical performance. Moreover, we give an overview of recent approaches to enhance electrical conductivity and structural stability of cathode and anode materials based on NASICON structure. We believe that this review provides a pertinent insight into relevant design principles and inspires further research in this respect. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Neutron Deep Penetration Calculations in Light Water with Monte Carlo TRIPOLI-4® Variance Reduction Techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Yi-Kang

2017-09-01

Nuclear decommissioning takes place in several stages due to the radioactivity in the reactor structure materials. A good estimation of the neutron activation products distributed in the reactor structure materials impacts obviously on the decommissioning planning and the low-level radioactive waste management. Continuous energy Monte-Carlo radiation transport code TRIPOLI-4 has been applied on radiation protection and shielding analyses. To enhance the TRIPOLI-4 application in nuclear decommissioning activities, both experimental and computational benchmarks are being performed. To calculate the neutron activation of the shielding and structure materials of nuclear facilities, the knowledge of 3D neutron flux map and energy spectra must be first investigated. To perform this type of neutron deep penetration calculations with the Monte Carlo transport code, variance reduction techniques are necessary in order to reduce the uncertainty of the neutron activation estimation. In this study, variance reduction options of the TRIPOLI-4 code were used on the NAIADE 1 light water shielding benchmark. This benchmark document is available from the OECD/NEA SINBAD shielding benchmark database. From this benchmark database, a simplified NAIADE 1 water shielding model was first proposed in this work in order to make the code validation easier. Determination of the fission neutron transport was performed in light water for penetration up to 50 cm for fast neutrons and up to about 180 cm for thermal neutrons. Measurement and calculation results were benchmarked. Variance reduction options and their performance were discussed and compared.

Surprises in low dimensional spin 1/2 magnets - from crystal chemistry to microscopic magnetic models of complex oxides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rosner, Helge

2011-03-01

A microscopic understanding of the structure-properties relation in crystalline materials is a main goal of modern solid state chemistry and physics. Due to their peculiar magnetism, low dimensional spin 1/2 systems are often highly sensitive to structural details. Seemingly unimportant structural details can be crucial for the magnetic ground state of a compound, especially in the case of competing interactions, frustration and near-degeneracy. Here, we present for selected, complex Cu 2+ systems that a first principles based approach can reliably provide the correct magnetic model, especially in cases where the interpretation of experimental data meets serious difficulties or fails. We demonstrate that the magnetism of low dimensional insulators crucially depends on the magnetically active orbitals which are determined by details of the ligand field of the magnetic cation. Our theoretical results are in very good agreement with thermodynamic and spectroscopic data and provide deep microscopic insight into topical low dimensional magnets.

Role of Cobalt Content in Improving the Low-Temperature Performance of Layered Lithium-Rich Cathode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries.

PubMed

Kou, Jianwen; Chen, Lai; Su, Yuefeng; Bao, Liying; Wang, Jing; Li, Ning; Li, Weikang; Wang, Meng; Chen, Shi; Wu, Feng

2015-08-19

Layered lithium-rich cathode material, Li1.2Ni0.2-xCo2xMn0.6-xO2 (x = 0-0.05) was successfully synthesized using a sol-gel method, followed by heat treatment. The effects of trace amount of cobalt doping on the structure, morphology, and low-temperature (-20 °C) electrochemical properties of these materials are investigated systematically. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results confirm that the Co has been doped into the Ni/Mn sites in the transition-metal layers without destroying the pristine layered structure. The morphological observations reveal that there are no changes of morphology or particle size after Co doping. The electrochemical performance results indicate that the discharge capacities and operation voltages are drastically lowered along with the decreasing temperature, but their fading rate becomes slower when increasing the Co contents. At -20 °C, the initial discharge capacity of sample with x = 0 could retain only 22.1% (57.3/259.2 mAh g(-1)) of that at 30 °C, while sample with x = 0.05 could maintain 39.4% (111.3/282.2 mAh g(-1)). Activation energy analysis and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) results reveal that such an enhancement of low-temperature discharge capacity is originated from the easier interface reduction reaction of Ni(4+) or Co(4+) after doping trace amounts of Co, which decreases the activation energy of the charge transfer process above 3.5 V during discharging.

Silver coated aluminium microrods as highly colloidal stable SERS platforms.

PubMed

Pazos-Perez, Nicolas; Borke, Tina; Andreeva, Daria V; Alvarez-Puebla, Ramon A

2011-08-01

We report on the fabrication of a novel material with the ability to remain in solution even under the very demanding conditions required for structural and dynamic characterization of biomacromolecule assays. This stability is provided by the increase in surface area of a low density material (aluminium) natively coated with a very hydrophilic surface composed of aluminium oxide (Al(2)O(3)) and metallic silver nanoparticles. Additionally, due to the dense collection of active hot spots on their surface, this material offers higher levels of SERS intensity as compared with the same free and aggregated silver nanoparticles. This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2011

Tubular structured hierarchical mesoporous titania material derived from natural cellulosic substances and application as photocatalyst for degradation of methylene blue

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

Huang, Haiqing; Liu, Xiaoyan; Huang, Jianguo, E-mail: jghuang@zju.edu.cn

Graphical abstract: Bio-inspired, tubular structured hierarchical mesoporous titania material with high photocatalytic activity under UV light was fabricated employing natural cellulosic substance (cotton) as hard template and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) surfactant as soft template using a one-pot sol-gel method. Highlights: {yields} Tubular structured mesoporous titania material was fabricated by sol-gel method. {yields} The titania material faithfully recorded the hierarchical structure of the template substrate (cotton). {yields} The titania material exhibited high photocatalytic activity in decomposition of methylene blue. -- Abstract: Bio-inspired, tubular structured hierarchical mesoporous titania material was designed and fabricated employing natural cellulosic substance (cotton) as hard template andmore » cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) surfactant as soft template by one-pot sol-gel method. The tubular structured hierarchical mesoporous titania material processes large specific surface area (40.23 m{sup 2}/g) and shows high photocatalytic activity in the photodegradation of methylene blue under UV light irradiation.« less

Supercapacitors from Activated Carbon Derived from Granatum.

PubMed

Wang, Qiannan; Yang, Lin; Wang, Zhao; Chen, Kexun; Zhang, Lipeng

2015-12-01

Granatum carbon (GC) as electrode materials for supercapacitors is prepared via the chemical activation with different activating agent such as ZnC2 and KOH with an intention to improve the surface area and their electrochemical performance. The structure and electrochemical properties of GC materials are characterized with N2 adsorption/desorption measurements, scanning electron microscope (SEM), cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge/discharge cycling and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The obtained results show that the specific surface area of the granatum-based activated carbons increased obviously from 573 m2 x g(-1) to 1341 m2 x g(-1) by ZnC2 activation and to 930 m2 x g(-1) by KOH treatment. Furthermore, GCZ also delivers specific capacitance of 195.1 Fx g(-1) at the current density of 0.1 A x g(-1) in 30 wt.% KOH aqueous electrolyte and low capacitance loss of 28.5% when the current density increased by 10 times.

Composite fiber structures for catalysts and electrodes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marrion, Christopher J.; Cahela, Donald R.; Ahn, Soonho; Tatarchuk, Bruce J.

1993-01-01

We have recently envisioned a process wherein fibers of various metals in the 0.5 to 15 micron diameter range are slurried in concert with cellulose fibers and various other materials in the form of particulates and/or fibers. The resulting slurry is cast via a wet-lay process into a sheet and dried to produce a free-standing sheet of 'composite paper.' When the 'preform' sheet is sintered in hydrogen, the bulk of the cellulose is removed with the secondary fibers and/or particulates being entrapped by the sinter-locked network provided by the metal fibers. The resulting material is unique, in that it allows the intimate contacting and combination of heretofore mutually exclusive materials and properties. Moreover, due to the ease of paper manufacture and processing, the resulting materials are relatively inexpensive and can be fabricated into a wide range of three-dimensional structures. Also, because cellulose is both a binder and a pore-former, structures combining high levels of active surface area and high void volume (i.e., low pressure drop) can be prepared as freestanding flow through monoliths.

Overview of CMC Development Activities in NASA's Ultra-Efficient Engine Technology (UEET) Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brewer, Dave

2001-01-01

The primary objective of the UEET (Ultra-Efficient Engine Technology) Program is to address two of the most critical propulsion issues: performance/efficiency and reduced emissions. High performance, low emissions engine systems will lead to significant improvement in local air quality, minimum impact on ozone depletion and level to an overall reduction in aviation contribution to global warming. The Materials and Structures for High Performance project will develop and demonstrate advanced high temperature materials to enable high-performance, high efficiency, and environmentally compatible propulsion systems.

An exploratory study to determine applicability of nano-hardness and micro-compression measurements for yield stress estimation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hosemann, P.; Swadener, J. G.; Kiener, D.; Was, G. S.; Maloy, S. A.; Li, N.

2008-03-01

The superior properties of ferritic/martensitic steels in a radiation environment (low swelling, low activation under irradiation and good corrosion resistance) make them good candidates for structural parts in future reactors and spallation sources. While it cannot substitute for true reactor experiments, irradiation by charged particles from accelerators can reduce the number of reactor experiments and support fundamental research for a better understanding of radiation effects in materials. Based on the nature of low energy accelerator experiments, only a small volume of material can be uniformly irradiated. Micro and nanoscale post irradiation tests thus have to be performed. We show here that nanoindentation and micro-compression testing on T91 and HT-9 stainless steel before and after ion irradiation are useful methods to evaluate the radiation induced hardening.

Qualitative evaluation of rock weir field performance and failure mechanisms

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mooney, David M.; Holmquist-Johnson, Christopher L.; Holburn, Elaina

2007-01-01

River spanning loose-rock structures provide sufficient head for irrigation diversion, permit fish passage over barriers, protect banks, stabilize degrading channels, activate side channels, reconnect floodplains, and create in-channel habitat. These structures are called by a variety of names including rock weirs, alphabet (U-, A-, V-, W-) weirs, Jhooks, and rock ramps. These structures share the common characteristics of:Loose rock construction materials (individually placed or dumped rocks with little or no concrete);Extents spanning the width of the river channel; andAn abrupt change in the water surface elevation at low flows.

Materials Science of Electrodes and Interfaces for High-Performance Organic Photovoltaics

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

Marks, Tobin

The science of organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells has made dramatic advances over the past three years with power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) now reaching ~12%. The upper PCE limit of light-to-electrical power conversion for single-junction OPVs as predicted by theory is ~23%. With further basic research, the vision of such devices, composed of non-toxic, earth-abundant, readily easily processed materials replacing/supplementing current-generation inorganic solar cells may become a reality. Organic cells offer potentially low-cost, roll-to-roll manufacturable, and durable solar power for diverse in-door and out-door applications. Importantly, further gains in efficiency and durability, to that competitive with inorganic PVs, will require fundamental,more » understanding-based advances in transparent electrode and interfacial materials science and engineering. This team-science research effort brought together an experienced and highly collaborative interdisciplinary group with expertise in hard and soft matter materials chemistry, materials electronic structure theory, solar cell fabrication and characterization, microstructure characterization, and low temperature materials processing. We addressed in unconventional ways critical electrode-interfacial issues underlying OPV performance -- controlling band offsets between transparent electrodes and organic active-materials, addressing current loss/leakage phenomena at interfaces, and new techniques in cost-effective low temperature and large area cell fabrication. The research foci were: 1) Theory-guided design and synthesis of advanced crystalline and amorphous transparent conducting oxide (TCO) layers which test our basic understanding of TCO structure-transport property relationships, and have high conductivity, transparency, and tunable work functions but without (or minimizing) the dependence on indium. 2) Development of theory-based understanding of optimum configurations for the interfaces between oxide electrodes/interfacial layers and OPV active layer organic molecules/polymers. 3) Exploration and perfection of new processing strategies and cell architectures for the next-generation, large-area flexible OPVs. The goal has been to develop for the solar energy community the fundamental scientific understanding needed to design, fabricate, prototype, and ultimately test high-efficiency cells incorporating these new concepts. We achieved success in all of these directions.« less

Polypyrrole/sargassum activated carbon modified stainless-steel sponge as high-performance and low-cost bioanode for microbial fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Gaoming; Bao, Han; Xia, Zheng; Yang, Bin; Lei, Lecheng; Li, Zhongjian; Liu, Chunxian

2018-04-01

Anode materials, as the core component of microbial fuel cells (MFCs), have huge impacts on power generation performance and overall cost. Stainless-steel sponge (SS) can be a promising material for MFC anodes, due to its open continuous three-dimensional structure, high conductivity and low cost. However, poor biocompatibility limits its application. In this paper, a polypyrrole/sargassum activated carbon modified SS anode (Ppy/SAC/SS) is developed by electrochemical polymerization of pyrrole on the SS with the SAC as a dopant. The maximum power density achieved with the Ppy/SAC/SS anode is 45.2 W/m3, which is increased by 2 orders of magnitude and 2.9 times compared with an unmodified SS anode and a solely Ppy modified SS anode (Ppy/SS), respectively. In addition, the Ppy/SAC layer effectively eliminates electrochemical corrosion of the SS substrate. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy reveals that Ppy/SAC modification decreases electron transfer resistance between the bacteria and the electrode. Furthermore, in vivo fluorescence imaging indicates that a more uniform biofilm is formed on the Ppy/SAC/SS compared to the unmodified SS and Ppy/SS. Due to the low cost of the materials, easy fabrication process and relatively high performance, our developed Ppy/SAC/SS can be a cost efficient anode material for MFCs in practical applications.

Silicon nitride ceramic development in Thales Alenia Space : qualification achievement and further developments for future applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cornillon, L.; Devilliers, C.; Behar-Lafenetre, S.; Ait-Zaid, S.; Berroth, K.; Bravo, A. C.

2017-11-01

Dealing with ceramic materials for more than two decades, Thales Alenia Space - France has identified Silicon Nitride Si3N4 as a high potential material for the manufacturing of stiff, stable and lightweight truss structure for future large telescopes. Indeed, for earth observation or astronomic observation, space mission requires more and more telescopes with high spatial resolution, which leads to the use of large primary mirrors, and a long distance between primary and secondary mirrors. Therefore current and future large space telescopes require a huge truss structure to hold and locate precisely the mirrors. Such large structure requires very strong materials with high specific stiffness and a low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). Based on the silicon nitride performances and on the know how of FCT Ingenieurkeramik to manufacture complex parts, Thales Alenia Space (TAS) has engaged, in cooperation with FCT, activities to develop and qualify silicon nitride parts for other applications for space projects.

Silicon nitride ceramic development in Thales Alenia Space: qualification achiement and further developments for future applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cornillon, L.; Devilliers, C.; Behar-Lafenetre, S.; Ait-Zaid, S.; Berroth, K.; Bravo, A. C.

2017-11-01

Dealing with ceramic materials for more than two decades, Thales Alenia Space - France has identified Silicon Nitride Si3N4 as a high potential material for the manufacturing of stiff, stable and lightweight truss structure for future large telescopes. Indeed, for earth observation or astronomic observation, space mission requires more and more telescopes with high spatial resolution, which leads to the use of large primary mirrors, and a long distance between primary and secondary mirrors. Therefore current and future large space telescopes require a huge truss structure to hold and locate precisely the mirrors. Such large structure requires very strong materials with high specific stiffness and a low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). Based on the silicon nitride performances and on the know how of FCT Ingenieurkeramik to manufacture complex parts, Thales Alenia Space (TAS) has engaged, in cooperation with FCT, activities to develop and qualify silicon nitride parts for other applications for space projects.

Post-impact behavior of composite solid rocket motor cases

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Highsmith, Alton L.

1992-01-01

In recent years, composite materials have seen increasing use in advanced structural applications because of the significant weight savings they offer when compared to more traditional engineering materials. The higher cost of composites must be offset by the increased performance that results from reduced structural weight if these new materials are to be used effectively. At present, there is considerable interest in fabricating solid rocket motor cases out of composite materials, and capitalizing on the reduced structural weight to increase rocket performance. However, one of the difficulties that arises when composite materials are used is that composites can develop significant amounts of internal damage during low velocity impacts. Such low velocity impacts may be encountered in routine handling of a structural component like a rocket motor case. The ability to assess the reduction in structural integrity of composite motor cases that experience accidental impacts is essential if composite rocket motor cases are to be certified for manned flight. The study described herein was an initial investigation of damage development and reduction of tensile strength in an idealized composite subjected to low velocity impacts.

A highly-active and stable hydrogen evolution catalyst based on pyrite-structured cobalt phosphosulfide

DOE PAGES

Liu, Wen; Hu, Enyuan; Jiang, Hong; ...

2016-02-19

Rational design and controlled synthesis of hybrid structures comprising multiple components with distinctive functionalities are an intriguing and challenging approach to materials development for important energy applications like electrocatalytic hydrogen production, where there is a great need for cost effective, active and durable catalyst materials to replace the precious platinum. Here we report a structure design and sequential synthesis of a highly active and stable hydrogen evolution electrocatalyst material based on pyrite-structured cobalt phosphosulfide nanoparticles grown on carbon nanotubes. The three synthetic steps in turn render electrical conductivity, catalytic activity and stability to the material. The hybrid material exhibits superiormore » activity for hydrogen evolution, achieving current densities of 10 mA cm –2 and 100 mA cm –2 at overpotentials of 48 mV and 109 mV, respectively. Lastly, phosphorus substitution is crucial for the chemical stability and catalytic durability of the material, the molecular origins of which are uncovered by X-ray absorption spectroscopy and computational simulation.« less

Active vibration control of thin-plate structures with partial SCLD treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Jun; Wang, Pan; Zhan, Zhenfei

2017-02-01

To effectively suppress the low-frequency vibration of a thin-plate, the strategy adopted is to develop a model-based approach to the investigation on the active vibration control of a clamped-clamped plate with partial SCLD treatment. Firstly, a finite element model is developed based on the constitutive equations of elastic, piezoelectric and viscoelastic materials. The characteristics of viscoelastic materials varying with temperature and frequency are described by GHM damping model. A low-dimensional real modal control model which can be used as the basis for active vibration control is then obtained from the combined reduction. The emphasis is placed on the feedback control system to attenuate the vibration of plates with SCLD treatments. A modal controller in conjunction with modal state estimator is designed to solve the problem of full state feedback, making it much more feasible to real-time control. Finally, the theoretical model is verified by modal test, and an active vibration control is validated by hardware-in-the-loop experiment under different external excitations. The numerical and experimental study demonstrate how the piezoelectric actuators actively control the lower modes (first bending and torsional modes) using modal controller, while the higher frequency vibration attenuated by viscoelastic passive damping layer.

Active and passive interaction mechanism of smart materials for health monitoring of engineering structures: a review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Annamdas, Venu Gopal Madhav; Annamdas, Kiran Kumar

2009-03-01

Smart materials when interact with engineering structures, should have the capability to sense, measure, process, and detect any change in the selected variables (stress, damage) at critical locations. These smart materials can be classified into active and passive depending on the type of the structure, variables to be monitored, and interaction mechanism due to surface bonding or embedment. Some of the prominent smart materials are piezoelectric materials, micro fiber composite, polymers, shape memory alloys, electrostrictive and magnetostrictive materials, electrorheological and magnetorheological fluids and fiber optics. In addition, host structures do have the properties to support or repel the usage of smart materials inside or on it. This paper presents some of the most widely used smart materials and their interaction mechanism for structural health monitoring of engineering structures.

3D-nanostructured boron-doped diamond for microelectrode array neural interfacing.

PubMed

Piret, Gaëlle; Hébert, Clément; Mazellier, Jean-Paul; Rousseau, Lionel; Scorsone, Emmanuel; Cottance, Myline; Lissorgues, Gaelle; Heuschkel, Marc O; Picaud, Serge; Bergonzo, Philippe; Yvert, Blaise

2015-06-01

The electrode material is a key element in the design of long-term neural implants and neuroprostheses. To date, the ideal electrode material offering high longevity, biocompatibility, low-noise recording and high stimulation capabilities remains to be found. We show that 3D-nanostructured boron doped diamond (BDD), an innovative material consisting in a chemically stable material with a high aspect ratio structure obtained by encapsulation of a carbon nanotube template within two BDD nanolayers, allows neural cell attachment, survival and neurite extension. Further, we developed arrays of 20-μm-diameter 3D-nanostructured BDD microelectrodes for neural interfacing. These microelectrodes exhibited low impedances and low intrinsic recording noise levels. In particular, they allowed the detection of low amplitude (10-20 μV) local-field potentials, single units and multiunit bursts neural activity in both acute whole embryonic hindbrain-spinal cord preparations and long-term hippocampal cell cultures. Also, cyclic voltammetry measurements showed a wide potential window of about 3 V and a charge storage capacity of 10 mC.cm(-2), showing high potentiality of this material for neural stimulation. These results demonstrate the attractiveness of 3D-nanostructured BDD as a novel material for neural interfacing, with potential applications for the design of biocompatible neural implants for the exploration and rehabilitation of the nervous system. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Stimulation of processes of self-propagating high temperature synthesis in system Ti + Al at low temperatures by influence of γ-quanta

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sobachkin, A. V.; Loginova, M. V.; Sitnikov, A. A.; Yakovlev, V. I.; Filimonov, V. Yu; Gradoboev, A. V.

2018-03-01

In the present work, the influence of the irradiation with gamma-quanta 60Co upon the structural and phase state of the components of the mechanically activated powder composition of Ti+Al is investigated. The phase composition, structural parameters, and crystallinity are examined by means of X-ray diffractometry. It is found out that the irradiation with gamma-quanta changes the structure of the mechanically activated powder composition. The higher irradiation dose, the higher the structure crystallinity of both components with no change in phase state. At the same time, the parameters of Ti and Al crystal lattices approach to the initial parameters observed before the mechanical activation. The irradiation with gammaquanta leads to decrease of internal stresses in the mechanically activated powder composition while nanocrystallinity of the structure remains unchanged. Using of powder compositions exposed to the irradiation with gamma-quanta for the SH-synthesis helps to increase speed of the reaction, decrease the peak firing temperature and improve homogeneity, as well as the main phase of the produced material is TiAl.

Lithium-drifted silicon detector with segmented contacts

DOEpatents

Tindall, Craig S.; Luke, Paul N.

2006-06-13

A method and apparatus for creating both segmented and unsegmented radiation detectors which can operate at room temperature. The devices include a metal contact layer, and an n-type blocking contact formed from a thin layer of amorphous semiconductor. In one embodiment the material beneath the n-type contact is n-type material, such as lithium compensated silicon that forms the active region of the device. The active layer has been compensated to a degree at which the device may be fully depleted at low bias voltages. A p-type blocking contact layer, or a p-type donor material can be formed beneath a second metal contact layer to complete the device structure. When the contacts to the device are segmented, the device is capable of position sensitive detection and spectroscopy of ionizing radiation, such as photons, electrons, and ions.

Purely Organic Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Materials for Organic Light-Emitting Diodes.

PubMed

Wong, Michael Y; Zysman-Colman, Eli

2017-06-01

The design of thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials both as emitters and as hosts is an exploding area of research. The replacement of phosphorescent metal complexes with inexpensive organic compounds in electroluminescent (EL) devices that demonstrate comparable performance metrics is paradigm shifting, as these new materials offer the possibility of developing low-cost lighting and displays. Here, a comprehensive review of TADF materials is presented, with a focus on linking their optoelectronic behavior with the performance of the organic light-emitting diode (OLED) and related EL devices. TADF emitters are cross-compared within specific color ranges, with a focus on blue, green-yellow, orange-red, and white OLEDs. Organic small-molecule, dendrimer, polymer, and exciplex emitters are all discussed within this review, as is their use as host materials. Correlations are provided between the structure of the TADF materials and their optoelectronic properties. The success of TADF materials has ushered in the next generation of OLEDs. © 2017 The Authors. Published by WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Structural and Machine Design Using Piezoceramic Materials: A Guide for Structural Design Engineers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Inman, Daniel J.; Cudney, Harley H.

2000-01-01

Using piezoceramic materials is one way the design engineer can create structures which have an ability to both sense and respond to their environment. Piezoceramic materials can be used to create structural sensors and structural actuators. Because piezoceramic materials have transduction as a material property, their sensing or actuation functions are a result of what happens to the material. This is different than discrete devices we might attach to the structure. For example, attaching an accelerometer to a structure will yield an electrical signal proportional to the acceleration at the attachment point on the structure. Using a electromagnetic shaker as an actuator will create an applied force at the attachment point. Active material elements in a structural design are not easily modeled as providing transduction at a point, but rather they change the physics of the structure in the areas where they are used. Hence, a designer must not think of adding discrete devices to a structure to obtain an effect, but rather must design a structural system which accounts for the physical principles of all the elements in the structure. The purpose of this manual is to provide practicing engineers the information necessary to incorporate piezoelectric materials in structural design and machine design. First, we will review the solid-state physics of piezoelectric materials. Then we will discuss the physical characteristics of the electrical-active material-structural system. We will present the elements of this system which must be considered as part of the design task for a structural engineer. We will cover simple modeling techniques and review the features and capabilities of commercial design tools that are available. We will then cover practical how-to elements of working with piezoceramic materials. We will review sources of piezoceramic materials and built-up devices, and their characteristics. Finally, we will provide two design examples using piezoceramic materials, first as discrete actuators for vibration isolation, and second as structurally-distributed sensor/actuators for active acoustic control.

A new solution chemical method to make low dimensional thermoelectric materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, Zhongfen

2001-11-01

Bismuth telluride and its alloys are currently the best thermoelectric materials known at room temperature and are therefore used for portable solid-state refrigeration. If the thermal electric figure of merit ZT could be improved by a factor of about 3, quiet and rugged solid-state devices could eventually replace conventional compressor based cooling systems. In order to test a theory that improved one-dimensional or two-dimensional materials could enhance ZT due to lower thermal conductivity, we are developing solution processing methods to make low dimensional materials. Bismuth telluride and its p-type and n-type alloys have layered structures consisting of 5 atom thick Te-Bi-Te-Bi-Te sheets, each sheet about 10 A thick. Lithium ions are intercalated into the layered materials using liquid ammonia. The lithium-intercalated materials are then exfoliated in water to form colloidal suspensions with narrow particle size distributions and are stable for more than 24 hours. The layers are then deposited on substrates, which after annealing at low temperatures, form highly c-axis oriented thin films. The exfoliated layers can potentially be restacked with other ions or layered materials in between the sheets to form novel structures. The restacked layers when treated with nitric acid and sonication form high yield nanorod structured materials. This new intercalation and exfoliation followed by sonication method could potentially be used for many other layered materials to make nanorod structured materials. The low dimensional materials are characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), inductively coupled plasma (ICP) and dynamic light scattering.

Evaluation of polymer based third order nonlinear integrated optics devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Driessen, A.; Hoekstra, H. J. W. M.; Blom, F. C.; Horst, F.; Krijnen, G. J. M.; van Schoot, J. B. P.; Lambeck, P. V.; Popma, Th. J. A.; Diemeer, M. B.

1998-01-01

Nonlinear polymers are promising materials for high speed active integrated optics devices. In this paper we evaluate the perspectives polymer based nonlinear optical devices can offer. Special attention is directed to the materials aspects. In our experimental work we applied mainly Akzo Nobel DANS side-chain polymer that exhibits large second and third order coefficients. This material has been characterized by third harmonic generation, z-scan and pump-probe measurements. In addition, various waveguiding structures have been used to measure the nonlinear absorption (two photon absorption) on a ps time-scale. Finally an integrated optics Mach Zehnder interferometer has been realized and evaluated. It is shown that the DANS side-chain polymer has many of the desired properties: the material is easily processable in high-quality optical waveguiding structures, has low linear absorption and its nonlinearity has a pure electronic origin. More materials research has to be done to arrive at materials with higher nonlinear coefficients to allow switching at moderate light intensity ( < 1 W peak power) and also with lower nonlinear absorption coefficients.

Method of making a layered composite electrode/electrolyte

DOEpatents

Visco, Steven J.; Jacobson, Craig P.; DeJonghe, Lutgard C.

2005-01-25

An electrode/electrolyte structure is prepared by a plurality of methods. An unsintered (possibly bisque fired) moderately catalytic electronically-conductive or homogeneous mixed ionic electronic conductive electrode material is deposited on a layer composed of a sintered or unsintered ionically-conductive electrolyte material prior to being sintered. A layer of particulate electrode material is deposited on an unsintered ("green") layer of electrolyte material and the electrode and electrolyte layers are sintered simultaneously, sometimes referred to as "co-firing," under conditions suitable to fully densify the electrolyte while the electrode retains porosity. Or, the layer of particulate electrode material is deposited on a previously sintered layer of electrolyte, and then sintered. Subsequently, a catalytic material is added to the electrode structure by infiltration of an electrolcatalyst precursor (e.g., a metal salt such as a transition metal nitrate). This may be followed by low temperature firing to convert the precursor to catalyst. The invention allows for an electrode with high electronic conductivity and sufficient catalytic activity to achieve high power density in an ionic (electrochemical) device such as fuel cells and electrolytic gas separation systems.

Novel drift structures for silicon and compound semiconductor X-ray and gamma-ray detectors

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

Patt, B.E.; Iwanczyk, J.S.

Recently developed silicon- and compound-semiconductor-based drift detector structures have produced excellent performance for charged particles, X-rays, and gamma rays and for low-signal visible light detection. The silicon drift detector (SDD) structures that the authors discuss relate to direct X-ray detectors and scintillation photon detectors coupled with scintillators for gamma rays. Recent designs include several novel features that ensure very low dark current and hence low noise. In addition, application of thin window technology ensures a very high quantum efficiency entrance window on the drift photodetector. The main features of the silicon drift structures for X rays and light detection aremore » very small anode capacitance independent of the overall detector size, low noise, and high throughput. To take advantage of the small detector capacitance, the first stage of the electronics needs to be integrated into the detector anode. In the gamma-ray application, factors other than electronic noise dominate, and there is no need to integrate the electronics into the anode. Thus, a different drift structure is needed in conjunction with a high-Z material. The main features in this case are large active detector volume and electron-only induced signal.« less

High-performance symmetric sodium-ion batteries using a new, bipolar O3-type material, Na 0.8 Ni 0.4 Ti 0.6 O 2

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

Guo, Shaohua; Yu, Haijun; Liu, Pan

2015-01-01

Based on low-cost and rich resources, sodium-ion batteries have been regarded as a promising candidate for next-generation energy storage batteries in the large-scale energy applications of renewable energy and smart grids. However, there are some critical drawbacks limiting its application, such as safety and stability problems. In this work, a stable symmetric sodium-ion battery based on the bipolar, active O3-type material, Na0.8Ni0.4Ti0.6O2, is developed. This bipolar material shows a typical O3-type layered structure, containing two electrochemically active transition metals with redox couples of Ni4+/Ni2+ and Ti4+/Ti3+, respectively. This Na0.8Ni0.4Ti0.6O2-based symmetric cell exhibits a high average voltage of 2.8 V, amore » reversible discharge capacity of 85 mA h g(-1), 75% capacity retention after 150 cycles and good rate capability. This full symmetric cell will greatly contribute to the development of room-temperature sodium-ion batteries with a view towards safety, low cost and long life, and it will stimulate further research on symmetric cells using the same active materials as both cathode and anode.« less

Insights into the distinct lithiation/sodiation of porous cobalt oxide by in operando synchrotron x-ray techniques and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations

DOE PAGES

Xu, Gui -Liang; Sheng, Tian; Chong, Lina; ...

2017-01-10

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have been considered as one of the promising power source candidates for the stationary storage industries owing to the much lower cost of sodium than lithium. It is well-known that the electrode materials largely determine the energy density of the battery systems. However, recent discoveries on the electrode materials showed that most of them present distinct lithium and sodium storage performance, which is not yet well understood. In this work, we performed a comparative understanding on the structural changes of porous cobalt oxide during its electrochemical lithiation and sodiation process by in operando synchrotron small angel X-raymore » scattering, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray absorption spectroscopy. It was found that compared to the lithiation process, the porous cobalt oxide undergoes less pore structure changes, oxidation state, and local structure changes as well as crystal structure evolution during its sodiation process, which is attributed to the intrinsic low sodiation activity of cobalt oxide as evidenced by ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. Moreover, it was indicated that the sodiation activity of metal sulfides is higher than that of metal oxides, indicating a better candidate for SIBs. Furthermore, such understanding is crucial for future design and improvement of high-performance electrode materials for SIBs.« less

Current induced polycrystalline-to-crystalline transformation in vanadium dioxide nanowires

PubMed Central

Jeong, Junho; Yong, Zheng; Joushaghani, Arash; Tsukernik, Alexander; Paradis, Suzanne; Alain, David; Poon, Joyce K. S.

2016-01-01

Vanadium dioxide (VO2) exhibits a reversible insulator-metal phase transition that is of significant interest in energy-efficient nanoelectronic and nanophotonic devices. In these applications, crystalline materials are usually preferred for their superior electrical transport characteristics as well as spatial homogeneity and low surface roughness over the device area for reduced scattering. Here, we show applied electrical currents can induce a permanent reconfiguration of polycrystalline VO2 nanowires into crystalline nanowires, resulting in a dramatically reduced hysteresis across the phase transition and reduced resistivity. Low currents below 3 mA were sufficient to cause the local temperature in the VO2 to reach about 1780 K to activate the irreversible polycrystalline-to-crystalline transformation. The crystallinity was confirmed by electron microscopy and diffraction analyses. This simple yet localized post-processing of insulator-metal phase transition materials may enable new methods of studying and fabricating nanoscale structures and devices formed from these materials. PMID:27892519

The Canadian Space Agency, Space Station, Strategic Technologies for Automation and Robotics Program technology development activity in protection of materials from the low Earth orbit space environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Francoeur, J. R.

1992-01-01

The Strategic Technologies in Automation and Robotics (STEAR) program is managing a number of development contracts to improve the protection of spacecraft materials from the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) space environment. The project is structured in two phases over a 3 to 4 year period with a budget of 3 to 4 million dollars. Phase 1 is designed to demonstrate the technical feasibility and commercial potential of a coating/substrate system and its associated application process. The objective is to demonstrate a prototype fabrication capability using a full scale component of a commercially viable process for the protection of materials and surface finishes from the LEO space environment, and to demonstrate compliance with a set of performance requirements. Only phase 1 will be discussed in this paper.

The Influence of Calcium Carbonate Composition and Activated Carbon in Pack Carburizing Low Carbon Steel Process in The Review of Hardness and Micro Structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hafni; Hadi, Syafrul; Edison

2017-12-01

Carburizing is a way of hardening the surface by heating the metal (steel) above the critical temperature in an environment containing carbon. Steel at a temperature of the critical temperature of affinity to carbon. Carbon is absorbed into the metal form a solid solution of carbon-iron and the outer layer has high carbon content. When the composition of the activator and the activated charcoal is right, it will perfect the carbon atoms to diffuse into the test material to low carbon steels. Thick layer of carbon Depending on the time and temperature are used. Pack carburizing process in this study, using 1 kg of solid carbon derived from coconut shell charcoal with a variation of 20%, 10% and 5% calcium carbonate activator, burner temperature of 950 0C, holding time 4 hours. The test material is low carbon steel has 9 pieces. Each composition has three specimens. Furnace used in this study is a pack carburizing furnace which has a designed burner box with a volume of 1000 x 600 x 400 (mm3) of coal-fired. Equipped with a circulation of oxygen from the blower 2 inches and has a wall of refractory bricks. From the variation of composition CaCO3, microstructure formed on the specimen with 20% CaCO3, better diffusion of carbon into the carbon steel, it is seen by the form marten site structure after quenching, and this indicates that there has been an increase of or adding carbon to in the specimen. This led to the formation of marten site specimen into hard surfaces, where the average value of hardness at one point side (side edge) 31.7 HRC

PEN as self-vetoing structural material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Majorovits, B.; Eck, S.; Fischer, F.; Gooch, C.; Hayward, C.; Kraetzschmar, T.; van der Kolk, N.; Muenstermann, D.; Schulz, O.; Simon, F.

2018-01-01

Polyethylene Naphtalate (PEN) is a mechanically very favorable polymer. Earlier it was found that thin foils made from PEN can have very high radio-purity compared to other commercially available foils. In fact, PEN is already in use for low background signal transmission applications (cables). Recently it has been realized that PEN also has favorable scintillating properties. In combination, this makes PEN a very promising candidate as a self-vetoing structural material in low background experiments. Components instrumented with light detectors could be built from PEN. This includes detector holders, detector containments, signal transmission links, etc. The current R&D towards qualification of PEN as a self-vetoing low background structural material is be presented.

A new fun and robust version of an fMRI localizer for the frontotemporal language system.

PubMed

Scott, Terri L; Gallée, Jeanne; Fedorenko, Evelina

2017-07-01

A set of brain regions in the frontal, temporal, and parietal lobes supports high-level linguistic processing. These regions can be reliably identified in individual subjects using fMRI, by contrasting neural responses to meaningful and structured language stimuli vs. stimuli matched for low-level properties but lacking meaning and/or structure. We here present a novel version of a language 'localizer,' which should be suitable for diverse populations including children and/or clinical populations who may have difficulty with reading or cognitively demanding tasks. In particular, we contrast responses to auditorily presented excerpts from engaging interviews or stories, and acoustically degraded versions of these materials. This language localizer is appealing because it uses (a) naturalistic and engaging linguistic materials, (b) auditory presentation, (c) a passive listening task, and can be easily adapted to new stimulus materials enabling comparisons of language activation in children and speakers of diverse languages.

Synthesis of vertical MnO2 wire arrays on hemp-derived carbon for efficient and robust green catalysts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, MinHo; Kim, Dong Seok; Sim, Jae-Wook; Jeong, Jae-Min; Kim, Do Hyun; Choi, Jae Hyung; Kim, Jinsoo; Kim, Seung-Soo; Choi, Bong Gill

2017-06-01

Three-dimensional (3D) carbon materials derived from waste biomass have been attracted increasing attention in catalysis and materials science because of their great potential of catalyst supports with respect to multi-functionality, unique structures, high surface area, and low cost. Here, we present a facile and efficient way for preparing 3D heterogeneous catalysts based on vertical MnO2 wires deposited on hemp-derived 3D porous carbon. The 3D porous carbon materials are fabricated by carbonization and activation processes using hemp (Cannabis Sttiva L.). These 3D porous carbon materials are employed as catalyst supports for direct deposition of vertical MnO2 wires using a one-step hydrothermal method. The XRD and XPS results reveal the crystalline structure of α-MnO2 wires. The resultant composites are further employed as a catalyst for glycolysis of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) with high conversion yield of 98%, which is expected to be expressly profitable for plastics recycling industry.

Magnetic phase investigations on fluorine (F) doped LiFePO4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Radhamani, A. V.

2018-03-01

LiFePO4 (LFP) is a very promising cathode material for Li-ion batteries due to its high thermal stability, less toxicity and high theoretical capacity (170 mAh g-1). Anion doping, especially fluorine (F) at the oxygen site is one way to improve the low electronic conductivity of the material. In this line, fluorine doped LFP was prepared at different fluorine concentrations (1 to 40 mol%) to study the structural, spectroscopic and magnetic properties in view of the material property optimization for battery applications. The investigation of the magnetic properties was found to be successful for the determination of small amounts of magnetic impurities which were not noticeably observed from structural characterizations. Determination of conducting magnetic impurities has its own relevance in the current scenario of Li-ion based battery applications. Systematic characterization studies along with the implications of magnetic phases on the material activity of fluorine doped LiFePO4 nanoparticles will be discussed in detail.

Ce-Doped NiFe-Layered Double Hydroxide Ultrathin Nanosheets/Nanocarbon Hierarchical Nanocomposite as an Efficient Oxygen Evolution Catalyst.

PubMed

Xu, Huajie; Wang, Bingkai; Shan, Changfu; Xi, Pinxian; Liu, Weisheng; Tang, Yu

2018-02-21

Developing convenient doping to build highly active oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalysts is a practical process for solving the energy crisis. Herein, a facile and low-cost in situ self-assembly strategy for preparing a Ce-doped NiFe-LDH nanosheets/nanocarbon (denoted as NiFeCe-LDH/CNT, LDH = layered double hydroxide and CNT = carbon nanotube) hierarchical nanocomposite is established for enhanced OER, in which the novel material provides its overall advantageous structural features, including high intrinsic catalytic activity, rich redox properties, high, flexible coordination number of Ce 3+ , and strongly coupled interface. Further experimental results indicate that doped Ce into NiFe-LDH/CNT nanoarrays brings about the reinforced specific surface area, electrochemical surface area, lattice defects, and the electron transport between the LDH nanolayered structure and the framework of CNTs. The effective synergy prompts the NiFeCe-LDH/CNT nanocomposite to possess superior OER electrocatalytic activity with a low onset potential (227 mV) and Tafel slope (33 mV dec -1 ), better than the most non-noble metal-based OER electrocatalysts reported. Therefore, the combination of the remarkable catalytic ability and the facile normal temperature synthesis conditions endows the Ce-doped LDH nanocomposite as a promising catalyst to expand the field of lanthanide-doped layered materials for efficient water-splitting electrocatalysis with scale-up potential.

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

Zhang, Wen; Banerjee, Debasis; Liu, Jian

Incorporating, a redox active organometallic molIncorporating, a redox active organometallic molecule within a porous matrix is a useful strategy to form redox active composite materials for emerging applications such as energy storage, electro-catalysis and electro-magnetic separation. Herein we report a new class of stable, redox active metal organic composites for oxygen/air separation with exceptional efficiency. In particular, Ferrocene impregnated in a thermally stable hierarchical porous framework showed a saturation uptake capacity of >51 mg/g for oxygen at a very low relative saturation pressure (P/Po) of 0.06. The material shows excellent O2 selectivity from air as evident from experimental and simulatedmore » breakthrough experiments. In detail structural analysis using 57Fe-Mössbauer, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and pair distribution function (PDF) analysis show that of O2 adsorption affinity and selectivity originates by the formation Fe3+-O oxide due to the highly reactive nature of the organometallics imbedded in the porous matrix.« less

Predictive modeling of composite material degradation using piezoelectric wafer sensors electromechanical impedance spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gresil, Matthieu; Yu, Lingyu; Sutton, Mike; Guo, Siming; Pollock, Patrick

2012-04-01

The advancement of composite materials in aircraft structures has led to on increased need for effective structural health monitoring (SHM) technologies that are able to detect and assess damage present in composites structures. The work presented in this paper is interested in understanding using self-sensing piezoelectric wafer active sensors (PWAS) to conduct electromechanical impedance spectroscopy (EMIS) in glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) to perform structures health monitoring. PWAS are bonded to the composite material and the EMIS method is used to analyze the changes in the structural resonance and anti-resonance. As the damage progresses in the specimen, the impedance spectrum will change. In addition, multi-physics based finite element method (MP-FEM) is used to model the electromechanical behavior of a free PWAS and its interaction with the host structure on which it is bonded. The MPFEM permits the input and the output variables to be expressed directly in electric terms while the two way electromechanical conversion is done internally in the MP_FEM formulation. To reach the goal of using the EMIS approach to detect damage, several damages models are generated on laminated GFRP structures. The effects of the modeling are carefully studied through experimental validation. A good match has been observed for low and very high frequencies.

Low Temperature Propane Oxidation over Co 3O 4 based Nano-array Catalysts. Ni Dopant Effect, Reaction Mechanism and Structural Stability

DOE PAGES

Ren, Zheng; Wu, Zili; Gao, Puxian; ...

2015-06-09

Low temperature propane oxidation has been achieved by Co 3O 4-based nano-array catalysts featuring low catalytic materials loading. The Ni doping into the Co 3O 4 lattice has led to enhanced reaction kinetics at low temperature by promoting the surface lattice oxygen activity. In situ DRIFTS investigation in tandem with isotopic oxygen exchange reveals that the propane oxidation proceeds via Mars-van Krevelen mechanism where surface lattice oxygen acts as the active site whereas O 2 in the reaction feed does not directly participate in CO 2 formation. The Ni doping promotes the formation of less stable carbonates on the surfacemore » to facilitate the CO 2 desorption. The thermal stability of Ni doped Co 3O 4 decreases with increased Ni concentration while catalytic activity increases. A balance between enhanced activity and compromised thermal stability shall be considered in the Ni doped Co 3O 4 nano-array catalysts for low temperature hydrocarbon oxidation. This study provides useful and timely guidance for rational catalyst design toward low temperature catalytic oxidation.« less

Active control of turbulent boundary layer sound transmission into a vehicle interior

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Caiazzo, A.; Alujević, N.; Pluymers, B.; Desmet, W.

2016-09-01

In high speed automotive, aerospace, and railway transportation, the turbulent boundary layer (TBL) is one of the most important sources of interior noise. The stochastic pressure distribution associated with the turbulence is able to excite significantly structural vibration of vehicle exterior panels. They radiate sound into the vehicle through the interior panels. Therefore, the air flow noise becomes very influential when it comes to the noise vibration and harshness assessment of a vehicle, in particular at low frequencies. Normally, passive solutions, such as sound absorbing materials, are used for reducing the TBL-induced noise transmission into a vehicle interior, which generally improve the structure sound isolation performance. These can achieve excellent isolation performance at higher frequencies, but are unable to deal with the low-frequency interior noise components. In this paper, active control of TBL noise transmission through an acoustically coupled double panel system into a rectangular cavity is examined theoretically. The Corcos model of the TBL pressure distribution is used to model the disturbance. The disturbance is rejected by an active vibration isolation unit reacting between the exterior and the interior panels. Significant reductions of the low-frequency vibrations of the interior panel and the sound pressure in the cavity are observed.

Theoretical backgrounds of non-tempered materials production based on new raw materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lesovik, V. S.; Volodchenko, A. A.; Glagolev, E. S.; Chernysheva, N. V.; Lashina, I. V.; Feduk, R. S.

2018-03-01

One of the trends in construction material science is development and implementation of highly effective finish materials which improve architectural exterior of cities. Silicate materials widely-used in the construction today have rather low decorative properties. Different coloring agents are used in order to produce competitive materials, but due to the peculiarities of the production, process very strict specifications are applied to them. The use of industrial wastes or variety of rock materials as coloring agents is of great interest nowadays. The article shows that clay rock can be used as raw material in production of finish materials of non-autoclaved solidification. This raw material due to its material composition actively interacts with cementing component in steam treatment at 90–95 °C with formation of cementing joints that form a firm coagulative-cristalized and crystallization structure of material providing high physic-mechanical properties of silicate goods. It is determined that energy-saving, colored finish materials with compression strength up to 16 MPa can be produced from clay rocks.

Degradation diagnosis of aged Li4Ti5O12/LiFePO4 batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Castaing, Rémi; Reynier, Yvan; Dupré, Nicolas; Schleich, Donald; Jouanneau Si Larbi, Séverine; Guyomard, Dominique; Moreau, Philippe

2014-12-01

Li4Ti5O12/LiFePO4 cells are cycled under 4 different conditions of discharge profile (galvanostatic or driving-based) and cycling rates (C/8 or 1C) during 4-5 months. All the cells exhibit capacity fade whose extent is not correlated with the aging condition. In order to understand aging phenomena, cells are disassembled at the end of cycle life and the recovered electrodes are analyzed using electrochemistry, electron microscopy, XRD and MAS-NMR. Positive and negative electrodes show no loss in active material and no change in electrochemical activity, active material structure and composite electrode structure. This rules out any irreversible electrode degradation. Lithium stoichiometry estimated by both XRD and electrochemistry is unexpectedly low in the positive electrode when the aging is stopped at full discharge. That indicates a loss of cyclable lithium or electrons leading to cell balancing evolution. That loss may have been caused by parasitic reactions occurring at both electrodes, in accordance with their rich surface chemistry as evidenced by MAS-NMR.

High-speed electro-optic switch based on nonlinear polymer-clad waveguide incorporated with quasi-in-plane coplanar waveguide electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Ming-Hui; Wang, Xi-Bin; Xu, Qiang; Li, Ming; Niu, Dong-Hai; Sun, Xiao-Qiang; Wang, Fei; Li, Zhi-Yong; Zhang, Da-Ming

2018-01-01

Nonlinear optical (NLO) polymer is a promising material for active waveguide devices that can provide large bandwidth and high-speed response time. However, the performance of the active devices is not only related to the waveguide materials, but also related to the waveguide and electrode structures. In this paper, a high-speed Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) type of electro-optic (EO) switch based on NLO polymer-clad waveguide was fabricated. The quasi-in-plane coplanar waveguide electrodes were also introduced to enhance the poling and modulating efficiency. The characteristic parameters of the waveguide and electrode were carefully designed and simulated. The switches were fabricated by the conventional micro-fabrication process. Under 1550-nm operating wavelength, a typical fabricated switch showed a low insertion loss of 10.2 dB, and the switching rise time and fall time were 55.58 and 57.98 ns, respectively. The proposed waveguide and electrode structures could be developed into other active EO devices and also used as the component in the polymer-based large-scale photonic integrated circuit.

Introducing Fe 2+ into Nickel-Iron Layered Double Hydroxide: Local Structure Modulated Water Oxidation Activity

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

Cai, Zhao; Zhou, Daojin; Wang, Maoyu

Exploring materials with regulated local structures and understanding how the atomic motifs govern the reactivity and durability of catalysts are a critical challenge for designing advanced catalysts. Here we report the tuning of the local atomic structure of nickel–iron layered double hydroxides (NiFe–LDHs) by partially substituting Ni 2+ with Fe 2+ to introduce Fe–O–Fe moieties. These Fe 2+–containing NiFe–LDHs exhibit enhanced oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity with an ultralow overpotential of 195 mV at the current density of 10 mA/cm 2, which is among the best OER catalytic performance reported to date. In–situ X–ray absorption, Raman, and electrochemical analysis jointlymore » reveal that the Fe–O–Fe motifs could stabilize high–valent metal sites at low overpotentials, thereby enhancing the OER activity. Lastly, these results reveal the importance of tuning the local atomic structure for designing high efficiency electrocatalysts.« less

Introducing Fe2+ into Nickel-Iron Layered Double Hydroxide: Local Structure Modulated Water Oxidation Activity.

PubMed

Cai, Zhao; Zhou, Daojin; Wang, Maoyu; Bak, Seongmin; Wu, Yueshen; Wu, Zishan; Tian, Yang; Xiong, Xuya; Li, Yaping; Liu, Wen; Siahrostami, Samira; Kuang, Yun; Yang, Xiao-Qing; Duan, Haohong; Feng, Zhenxing; Wang, Hailiang; Sun, Xiaoming

2018-06-11

Exploring materials with regulated local structures and understanding how the atomic motifs govern the reactivity and durability of catalysts are a critical challenge for designing advanced catalysts. Here we report the tuning of the local atomic structure of nickel-iron layered double hydroxides (NiFe-LDHs) by partially substituting Ni2+ with Fe2+ to introduce Fe-O-Fe moieties. These Fe2+-containing NiFe-LDHs exhibit enhanced oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity with an ultralow overpotential of 195 mV at the current density of 10 mA/cm2, which is among the best OER catalytic performance reported to date. In-situ X-ray absorption, Raman, and electrochemical analysis jointly reveal that the Fe-O-Fe motifs could stabilize high-valent metal sites at low overpotentials, thereby enhancing the OER activity. These results reveal the importance of tuning the local atomic structure for designing high efficiency electrocatalysts. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Introducing Fe 2+ into Nickel-Iron Layered Double Hydroxide: Local Structure Modulated Water Oxidation Activity

DOE PAGES

Cai, Zhao; Zhou, Daojin; Wang, Maoyu; ...

2018-06-11

Exploring materials with regulated local structures and understanding how the atomic motifs govern the reactivity and durability of catalysts are a critical challenge for designing advanced catalysts. Here we report the tuning of the local atomic structure of nickel–iron layered double hydroxides (NiFe–LDHs) by partially substituting Ni 2+ with Fe 2+ to introduce Fe–O–Fe moieties. These Fe 2+–containing NiFe–LDHs exhibit enhanced oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity with an ultralow overpotential of 195 mV at the current density of 10 mA/cm 2, which is among the best OER catalytic performance reported to date. In–situ X–ray absorption, Raman, and electrochemical analysis jointlymore » reveal that the Fe–O–Fe motifs could stabilize high–valent metal sites at low overpotentials, thereby enhancing the OER activity. Lastly, these results reveal the importance of tuning the local atomic structure for designing high efficiency electrocatalysts.« less

Structural parameter effect of porous material on sound absorption performance of double-resonance material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fan, C.; Tian, Y.; Wang, Z. Q.; Nie, J. K.; Wang, G. K.; Liu, X. S.

2017-06-01

In view of the noise feature and service environment of urban power substations, this paper explores the idea of compound impedance, fills some porous sound-absorption material in the first resonance cavity of the double-resonance sound-absorption material, and designs a new-type of composite acoustic board. We conduct some acoustic characterizations according to the standard test of impedance tube, and research on the influence of assembly order, the thickness and area density of the filling material, and back cavity on material sound-absorption performance. The results show that the new-type of acoustic board consisting of aluminum fibrous material as inner structure, micro-porous board as outer structure, and polyester-filled space between them, has good sound-absorption performance for low frequency and full frequency noise. When the thickness, area density of filling material and thickness of back cavity increase, the sound absorption coefficient curve peak will move toward low frequency.

CoM(M=Fe,Cu,Ni)-embedded nitrogen-enriched porous carbon framework for efficient oxygen and hydrogen evolution reactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Xiaogeng; Bo, Xiangjie; Guo, Liping

2018-06-01

Rational synthesis and development of earth-abundant materials with efficient electrocatalytic activity and stability for water splitting is a critical but challenging step for sustainable energy application. Herein, a family of bimetal (CoFe, CoCu, CoNi) embedded nitrogen-doped carbon frameworks is developed through a facile and simple thermal conversion strategy of metal-doped zeolitic imidazolate frameworks. Thanks to collaborative superiorities of abundant M-N-C species, modulation action of secondary metal, cobalt-based electroactive phases, template effect of MOFs and unique porous structure, bimetal embedded nitrogen-doped carbon frameworks materials manifest good oxygen and hydrogen evolution catalytic activity. Especially, after modulating the species and molar ratio of metal sources, optimal Co0.75Fe0.25 nitrogen-doped carbon framework catalyst just requires a low overpotential of 303 mV to achieve 10 mA cm-2 with a low Tafel slope (39.49 mV dec-1) for oxygen evolution reaction, which even surpasses that of commercial RuO2. In addition, the optimal catalyst can function as an efficient bifunctional electrocatalyst for overall water splitting with satisfying activity and stability. This development offers an attractive direction for the rational design and fabrication of porous carbon materials for electrochemical energy applications.

Induced radioactivity in LDEF components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harmon, B. A.; Fishman, G. J.; Parnell, T. A.; Laird, C. E.

1991-01-01

The systematics of induced radioactivity on the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) were studied in a wide range of materials using low level background facilities for detection of gamma rays. Approx. 400 samples of materials processed from structural parts of the spacecraft, as well as materials from onboard experiments, were analyzed at national facilities. These measurements show the variety of radioisotopes that are produced with half-lives greater than 2 wks, most of which are characteristic of proton induced reactions above 20 MeV. For the higher activity, long lived isotopes, it was possible to map the depth and directional dependences of the activity. Due to the stabilized configuration of the LDEF, the induced radioactivity data clearly show contributions from the anisotropic trapped proton flux in the South Atlantic Anomaly. This effect is discussed, along with evidence for activation by galactic protons and thermal neutrons. The discovery of Be-7 was made on leading side parts of the spacecraft, although this was though not to be related to the in situ production of radioisotopes from external particle fluxes.

Heterogeneous electrochemical CO2 reduction using nonmetallic carbon-based catalysts: current status and future challenges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Tao; Fan, Qun; Tao, Hengcong; Han, Zishan; Jia, Mingwen; Gao, Yunnan; Ma, Wangjing; Sun, Zhenyu

2017-11-01

Electrochemical CO2 reduction (ECR) offers an important pathway for renewable energy storage and fuels production. It still remains a challenge in designing highly selective, energy-efficient, robust, and cost-effective electrocatalysts to facilitate this kinetically slow process. Metal-free carbon-based materials have features of low cost, good electrical conductivity, renewability, diverse structure, and tunability in surface chemistry. In particular, surface functionalization of carbon materials, for example by doping with heteroatoms, enables access to unique active site architectures for CO2 adsorption and activation, leading to interesting catalytic performances in ECR. We aim to provide a comprehensive review of this category of metal-free catalysts for ECR, providing discussions and/or comparisons among different nonmetallic catalysts, and also possible origin of catalytic activity. Fundamentals and some future challenges are also described.

"Building" 3D visualization skills in mineralogy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gaudio, S. J.; Ajoku, C. N.; McCarthy, B. S.; Lambart, S.

2016-12-01

Studying mineralogy is fundamental for understanding the composition and physical behavior of natural materials in terrestrial and extraterrestrial environments. However, some students struggle and ultimately get discouraged with mineralogy course material because they lack well-developed spatial visualization skills that are needed to deal with three-dimensional (3D) objects, such as crystal forms or atomic-scale structures, typically represented in two-dimensional (2D) space. Fortunately, spatial visualization can improve with practice. Our presentation demonstrates a set of experiential learning activities designed to support the development and improvement of spatial visualization skills in mineralogy using commercially available magnetic building tiles, rods, and spheres. These instructional support activities guide students in the creation of 3D models that replicate macroscopic crystal forms and atomic-scale structures in a low-pressure learning environment and at low cost. Students physically manipulate square and triangularly shaped magnetic tiles to build 3D open and closed crystal forms (platonic solids, prisms, pyramids and pinacoids). Prismatic shapes with different closing forms are used to demonstrate the relationship between crystal faces and Miller Indices. Silica tetrahedra and octahedra are constructed out of magnetic rods (bonds) and spheres (oxygen atoms) to illustrate polymerization, connectivity, and the consequences for mineral formulae. In another activity, students practice the identification of symmetry elements and plane lattice types by laying magnetic rods and spheres over wallpaper patterns. The spatial visualization skills developed and improved through our experiential learning activities are critical to the study of mineralogy and many other geology sub-disciplines. We will also present pre- and post- activity assessments that are aligned with explicit learning outcomes.

Effect of Concentration on the Interfacial and Bulk Structure of Ionic Liquids in Aqueous Solution.

PubMed

Cheng, H-W; Weiss, H; Stock, P; Chen, Y-J; Reinecke, C R; Dienemann, J-N; Mezger, M; Valtiner, M

2018-02-27

Bio and aqueous applications of ionic liquids (IL) such as catalysis in micelles formed in aqueous IL solutions or extraction of chemicals from biologic materials rely on surface-active and self-assembly properties of ILs. Here, we discuss qualitative relations of the interfacial and bulk structuring of a water-soluble surface-active IL ([C 8 MIm][Cl]) on chemically controlled surfaces over a wide range of water concentrations using both force probe and X-ray scattering experiments. Our data indicate that IL structuring evolves from surfactant-like surface adsorption at low IL concentrations, to micellar bulk structure adsorption above the critical micelle concentration, to planar bilayer formation in ILs with <1 wt % of water and at high charging of the surface. Interfacial structuring is controlled by mesoscopic bulk structuring at high water concentrations. Surface chemistry and surface charges decisively steer interfacial ordering of ions if the water concentration is low and/or the surface charge is high. We also demonstrate that controlling the interfacial forces by using self-assembled monolayer chemistry allows tuning of interfacial structures. Both the ratio of the head group size to the hydrophobic tail volume as well as the surface charging trigger the bulk structure and offer a tool for predicting interfacial structures. Based on the applied techniques and analyses, a qualitative prediction of molecular layering of ILs in aqueous systems is possible.

Flexural strength of proof-tested and neutron-irradiated silicon carbide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Price, R. J.; Hopkins, G. R.

1982-08-01

Proof testing before service is a valuable method for ensuring the reliability of ceramic structures. Silicon carbide has been proposed as a very low activation first-wall and blanket structural material for fusion devices, where it would experience a high flux of fast neutrons. Strips of three types of silicon carbide were loaded in four-point bending to a stress sufficient to break about a third of the specimens. Groups of 16 survivors were irradiated to 2 × 10 26n/ m2 ( E>0.05 MeV) at 740°C and bend tested to failure. The strength distribution of chemically vapor-deposited silicon carbide (Texas Instruments) was virtually unchanged by irradiation. The mean strength of sintered silicon carbide (Carborundum Alpha) was reduced 34% by irradiation, while the Weibull modulus and the truncated strength distribution characteristic of proof-tested material were retained. Irradiation reduced the mean strength of reaction-bonded silicon carbide (Norton NC-430) by 58%, and the spread in strength values was increased. We conclude that for the chemically vapor-deposited and the sintered silicon carbide the benefits of proof testing to eliminate low strength material are retained after high neutron exposures.

Use of electrochemically activated aqueous solutions in the manufacture of fur materials.

PubMed

Danylkovych, Anatoliy G; Lishchuk, Viktor I; Romaniuk, Oksana O

2016-01-01

The influence of characteristics of electrochemically activated aqueous processing mediums in the treatment of fur skins with different contents of fatty substances was investigated. The use of electroactive water, namely anolytes and catholytes, forgoing antiseptics or surface-active materials, helped to restore the hydration of fur skins and to remove from them soluble proteins, carbohydrates and fatty substances. The activating effect of anolyte and catholyte in solutions of water on the processes of treating raw furs is explained by their special physical and chemical properties, namely the presence of free radicals, ions and molecules of water which easily penetrate cells' membranes and into the structure of non-collagen components and microfiber structure of dermic collagen. The stage of lengthy acid and salt treatment is excluded from the technical treatment as a result of using electroactivated water with high oxidizing power. A low-cost technology of processing different kinds of fur with the use of electroactivated water provides for substantial economy of water and chemical reagents, a two to threefold acceleration of the soaking and tanning processes and creation of highly elastic fur materials with a specified set of physical and chemical properties. At the same time the technology of preparatory processes of fur treatment excludes the use of such toxic antiseptics as formalin and sodium silicofluoride, which gives grounds to regard it as ecologically safe.

Defect induced visible-light-activated near-infrared emissions in Gd3-x-y-zYbxBiyErzGa5O12

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tong, Liping; Saito, Katsuhiko; Guo, Qixin; Zhou, Han; Fan, Tongxiang; Zhang, Di

2017-11-01

Visible-light-activated near-infrared luminescent materials are promising photoluminescent materials due to their convenience and low cost. Crystal defects can seriously affect the performance of luminescent materials, and better understanding of the complexity of the structural disorder and electronic structures of such materials opens up new possibilities in luminescent material development. In this work, we successfully design a novel, effective, visible-light-activated near-infrared luminescent Gd3Ga5O12: 4.2%Yb3+, 8.4%Er3+, and 4.2%Bi3+ system based on first principles. This exhibits strong emission intensity and high luminous efficiency (0.993) and also has a lifetime (7.002 ms) that is at least twice as long as the longest lifetime reported in published papers. We utilize density functional theory with an effective LSDA + U method to study the structural properties of Gd3-x-y-zGa5O12: xYb3+, yBi3+, zEr3+ (GGG: Yb3+, Bi3+, Er3+). The d and f electron orbits of rare-earth ions are considered for an effective Hund exchange. Detailed analysis reveals that GGG: 4.2%Yb3+, 8.4%Er3+, 4.2%Bi3+ has the smallest cell volume because of the strong covalent bonds of Bi-O, Er-O, and Yb-O. Bi 3d is a hybridized state that acts as sensitizing ions during the process of luminescence in GGG: Yb3+, Bi3+, Er3+. Together with experimental and theoretical results, we analyze the influence of defects on emission intensity. The locations of Yb3+, Er3+, and Bi3+ are determined by X-ray absorption fine structure measurements, which are in agreement with the model constructed using first principles. This work may provide innovative guidance for the design of high-performance visible-light-activated near-infrared luminophores based on calculations and a new methodology for application of coherent laser radar and optical communication.

Atoms in Action: Observing Atomic Motion with Dynamic in situ X-ray Diffraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cox, Jordan Michael

Metal-organic framework (MOF) materials are rich in both structural diversity and application. These materials are comprised of metal atoms or clusters which are connected in a three-dimensional polymer-like network by bridging organic linker molecules. One of the major attractive features in MOFs is their permanent pore space which can potentially be used to adsorb or exchange foreign molecules from/with the surrounding environment. While MOFs are an active area of scientific interest, MOF materials are still relatively new, only 20 years old. As such, there is still much that needs to be understood about these materials before they can be effectively applied to widespread chemical problems like CO2 sequestration or low-pressure hydrogen fuel storage. One of the most important facets of MOF chemistry to understand in order to rationally design MOF materials with tailor-made properties is the relationship between the structural features in a MOF and the chemical and physical properties of that material. By examining in detail the atomic structure of a MOF with known properties under a variety of conditions, scientists can begin to unravel the guiding principles which govern these relationships. X-ray diffraction remains one of the most effective tools for determining the structure of a crystalline material with atomic resolution, and has been applied to the determination of MOF structures for years. Typically these experiments have been carried out using powder X-ray diffraction, but this technique lacks the high-resolution structural information found in single-crystal methods. Some studies have been reported which use specialized devices, sometimes called Environmental Control Cells, to study single crystalline MOFs under non-ambient chemical conditions in situ . However, these in situ studies are performed under static conditions. Even in cases where the ECC provides continued access to the local chemical environment during diffraction data collections, the environment is left static or data is not collected until after the material has equilibrated to its new environment. First, a unique ECC has been designed and constructed which allows continuous access to the local chemical environment of a single-crystal sample while maintaining ease of use, minimizing size, and which is easily adaptable to a wide variety of gaseous and liquid chemical stimuli. Novel methods have been developed and are herein described for utilizing this ECC and in situ X-ray diffraction methods in a dynamic manner for monitoring the structural responses of single crystals to changes in their local chemical environment. These methods provide the opportunity for the determination of changes in unit cell parameters and even complete crystal structures during adsorption, desorption, and exchange processes in MOF materials. The application of these methods to the determination of the dehydration process of a previously reported cobalt-based MOF have revealed surprising structural and dynamics data. Several new intermediate structures have been determined in this process, including one metastable species and several actively transitioning species during the dehydration process. Applying these methods to the ethanol solvation process in the same material again yielded results which were richer in structural information than the previously reported ex situ structures. A computational study of rotational potential energy surfaces in a family of photochromic MOF linkers revealed the important role rotational stereoisomers can play in maintaining light-activated functionality when these linkers are incorporated into next-generation functional MOF materials. Finally, the application of novel photocrystallography techniques were used in conjunction with spectroscopic methods to determine the nature of the anomalous behavior of a photochromic diarylethene single-crystal.

Giant thermally-enhanced electrostriction and polar surface phase in L a2M o2O9 oxygen ion conductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Qian; Lu, Teng; Schiemer, Jason; Laanait, Nouamane; Balke, Nina; Zhang, Zhan; Ren, Yang; Carpenter, Michael A.; Wen, Haidan; Li, Jiangyu; Kalinin, Sergei V.; Liu, Yun

2018-04-01

Ferroelectrics possess spontaneous electric polarization at macroscopic scales which nonetheless imposes strict limitations on the material classes. Recent discoveries of untraditional symmetry-breaking phenomena in reduced material dimensions have indicated feasibilities to extend polar properties to broader types of materials, potentially opening up the freedom for designing materials with hybrid functionalities. Here, we report the unusual electromechanical properties of L a2M o2O9 (LAMOX) oxygen ion conductors, systematically investigated at both bulk and surface length levels. We first observed giant electrostriction effects in L a2M o2O9 bulk ceramics that are thermally enhanced in concert with their low-energy oxygen-vacancy hopping dynamics. Moreover, while no clear bulk polarization was detected, the surface phases of LAMOX were found to be manifestly polar, likely originating from the coupling between the intrinsic structural flexibilities with strain gradients (i.e., flexoelectricity) and/or chemical heterogeneities present in the materials. These findings identify L a2M o2O9 as a promising electromechanical material system and suggest that the flexible structural and chemical configurations in ionically active materials could enable fundamentally different venues to accommodate electric polarization.

Performance of lightweight nickel electrodes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Britton, Doris L.

1988-01-01

The NASA Lewis Research Center is currently developing nickel electrodes for nickel-hydrogen (Ni-H2) batteries. These electrodes are lighter in weight and have higher energy densities than the heavier state-of-the-art (SOA) sintered nickel electrodes. In the present approach, lightweight materials or plaques are used as conductive supports for the nickel hydroxide active material. These plaques (fiber and felt, nickel plated plastic and graphite) are commercial products that are fabricated into nickel electrodes by electrochemically impregnating them with active material. Evaluation is performed in half cells structured in the bipolar configuration. Initial performance tests include capacity measurements at five discharge levels, C/2, 1.0C 1.37C, 2.0C and 2.74C. The electrodes that pass the initial tests are life cycle tested in a low Earth orbit regime at 80 percent depth of discharge. Different formulations of nickel fiber materials obtained from several manufacturers are currently being tested as possible candidates for nickel electrodes. One particular lightweight fiber mat electrode has accumulated over 3000 cycles to date, with stable capacity and voltage. Life and performance data of this electrode were investigated and presented. Good dimensional stability and active material adherence have been demonstrated in electrodes made from this lightweight plaque.

Effect of Steam Activation on Development of Light Weight Biomorphic Porous SiC from Pine Wood Precursor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manocha, Satish M.; Patel, Hemang; Manocha, L. M.

2013-02-01

Biomorphic SiC materials with tailor-made microstructure and properties similar to ceramic materials manufactured by conventional method are a new class of materials derived from natural biopolymeric cellulose templates (wood). Porous silicon carbide (SiC) ceramics with wood-like microstructure have been prepared by carbothermal reduction of charcoal/silica composites at 1300-1600 °C in inert Ar atmosphere. The C/SiO2 composites were fabricated by infiltrating silica sol into porous activated biocarbon template. Silica in the charcoal/silica composite, preferentially in the cellular pores, was found to get transformed in forms of fibers and rods due to shrinkage during drying. The changes in the morphology of resulting porous SiC ceramics after heat treatment to 1600 °C, as well as the conversion mechanism of wood to activated carbon and then to porous SiC ceramic have been investigated using scanning electron microscope, x-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry. Activation of carbon prior to silica infiltration has been found to enhance conversion of charcoal to SiC. The pore structure is found to be uniform in these materials than in those made from as-such charcoal/silica composites. This provides a low-cost and eco-friendly route to advanced ceramic materials, with near-net shape potential.

Structure and bioactivity studies of new polysiloxane-derived materials for orthopedic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paluszkiewicz, Czesława; Gumuła, Teresa; Podporska, Joanna; Błażewicz, Marta

2006-07-01

The aim of this work was to examine the structure of new calcium silicate bioactive ceramic implant material for bone surgery applications. The bioceramic material was obtained by thermal treatment of active fillers-containing organosilicon polymer precursor. Different ceramic active fillers, namely Ca(OH) 2, CaCO 3, Na 2HPO 4 and SiO 2 powders were used. The phase composition of ceramic samples obtained by thermal transformation of active fillers containing polysiloxane was investigated. Morphology and structure of ceramic phases were characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with EDS point analysis, FTIR spectroscopy and XRD analysis. It was found that thermal treatment of active fillers-containing organosilicon precursor lead to the formation of wollastonite-containing ceramic material. This ceramic material showed bioactivity in 'in vitro' conditions studied by immersing the samples in simulated body fluid (SBF). The surface of wollastonite-containing ceramic before and after immersion in SBF was analysed. It can be concluded that this kind of ceramic material may be useful as bone substitute. FTIR spectroscopy is an adequate device for the determination of such derived materials structure.

Eliminating Voltage Decay of Lithium-Rich Li 1.14Mn 0.54Ni 0.14Co 0.14O 2 Cathodes by Controlling the Electrochemical Process

DOE PAGES

Wei, Z.; Zhu, Y.; Zhang, W.; ...

2015-03-27

Lithium-rich material owns a particularly high capacity owing to the activation of electrochemical inactive Li 2MnO 3 phase. But at the same time, MnO 2 phase formed after Li 2MnO 3 activation confronts a severe problem of converting to spinel phase, and resulting in voltage decay. To our knowledge, this phenomenon is inherent property of layered manganese oxide materials and can hardly be overcome. Based on this, unlike previous reports, herein we design a method for the first time to accelerate the phase transformation by tuning the charge upper-limit voltage at a high value, so the phase transformation process canmore » be finished in a few cycles. Then material structure remains stable while cycling at a low upper-limit voltage. By this novel method voltage decay is eliminated significantly.« less

Status of the irradiation test vehicle for testing fusion materials in the Advanced Test Reactor

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

Tsai, H.; Gomes, I.C.; Smith, D.L.

1998-09-01

The design of the irradiation test vehicle (ITV) for the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) has been completed. The main application for the ITV is irradiation testing of candidate fusion structural materials, including vanadium-base alloys, silicon carbide composites, and low-activation steels. Construction of the vehicle is underway at the Lockheed Martin Idaho Technology Company (LMITCO). Dummy test trains are being built for system checkout and fine-tuning. Reactor insertion of the ITV with the dummy test trains is scheduled for fall 1998. Barring unexpected difficulties, the ITV will be available for experiments in early 1999.

Field nanoemitter: One-dimension Al4C3 ceramics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Y.; Cui, H.; Gong, L.; Chen, Jian; Shen, P. K.; Wang, C. X.

2011-07-01

As a kind of ionic (or salt-like) carbide, Al4C3 hardly any active functions have been found except for structure material purposes. However, considering the unique characteristic features of its crystal structure, we think Al4C3 in fact might have huge potential for exhibiting active functionality on field-emission application. Herein, we report for the first time the catalyst-free synthesis and excellent field emission properties of Al4C3 one-dimension (1-D) nanostructures. The 1-D nanostructures acting as cold electron emitters display excellent field emission performance with the turn-on field as low as 1.4-2.0 V μm-1 and the threshold field down to 4.2-4.4 V μm-1. Such emitters are technologically useful, because they can be easily fabricated on large substrates, and the synthesis process is simple and broadly applicable. The findings conceptually provide new opportunities for the application of Al4C3 ceramic material in vacuum microelectronic devices.

The influence of zeolites fly ash bead/TiO2 composite material surface morphologies on their adsorption and photocatalytic performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Lu; Wang, Fazhou; Hakki, Amer; Macphee, Donald E.; Liu, Peng; Hu, Shuguang

2017-01-01

A low cost zeolite fly ash bead/TiO2 (ZFABT) composite materials with various surface structure features were prepared for describing those structures importance on TiO2 coating, adsorbability and photocatalytic performances. The results indicated that fly ash bead (FAB) surface was significantly altered by the precipitation/growth of secondary zeolite phases after alkali activation, which generates abundant open pores and stacked petal-liked spherical beads (∼2 μm, Sodalite zeolites). More importantly, this porosity increases as activation time was increased from 2 h to 12 h, through the precipitation of sodalite and then Na-P1 (lamellar crystals) and Na-X (octahedral crystals) zeolite structures. Compared to those of unsupported TiO2 or inactivated support/TiO2 samples, all of ZFABT samples exhibited a higher adsorption capacity and photocatalytic efficiency for RhB removal. However, adsorption is not only one factor to influence TiO2 surface reaction, the intraparticle diffusion rate of rhodamine B (RhB) molecules, and light penetration are also important parameters. Alkali activated 4 h ZFABT sample exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity, indicating its pore structure provided a better balance for those parameters to achieve a synergistic adsorption/photocatalytic process. The kinetics model suggested its high intraparticle diffusion rate allowed for more RhB molecules to easily reach the reaction surface, which is more important for high efficiency photocatalysis.

One-dimensional carbon-sulfur composite fibers for Na-S rechargeable batteries operating at room temperature.

PubMed

Hwang, Tae Hoon; Jung, Dae Soo; Kim, Joo-Seong; Kim, Byung Gon; Choi, Jang Wook

2013-09-11

Na-S batteries are one type of molten salt battery and have been used to support stationary energy storage systems for several decades. Despite their successful applications based on long cycle lives and low cost of raw materials, Na-S cells require high temperatures above 300 °C for their operations, limiting their propagation into a wide range of applications. Herein, we demonstrate that Na-S cells with solid state active materials can perform well even at room temperature when sulfur-containing carbon composites generated from a simple thermal reaction were used as sulfur positive electrodes. Furthermore, this structure turned out to be robust during repeated (de)sodiation for ~500 cycles and enabled extraordinarily high rate performance when one-dimensional morphology is adopted using scalable electrospinning processes. The current study suggests that solid-state Na-S cells with appropriate atomic configurations of sulfur active materials could cover diverse battery applications where cost of raw materials is critical.

Non-activated high surface area expanded graphite oxide for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vermisoglou, E. C.; Giannakopoulou, T.; Romanos, G. E.; Boukos, N.; Giannouri, M.; Lei, C.; Lekakou, C.; Trapalis, C.

2015-12-01

Microwave irradiation of graphite oxide constitutes a facile route toward production of reduced graphene oxide, since during this treatment both exfoliation and reduction of graphite oxide occurs. In this work, the effect of pristine graphite (type, size of flakes), pretreatment and oxidation cycles on the finally produced expanded material was examined. All the types of graphite that were tested afforded materials with high BET surface areas ranging from 940 m2/g to 2490 m2/g, without intervening an activation stage at elevated temperature. SEM and TEM images displayed exfoliated structures, where the flakes were significantly detached and curved. The quality of the reduced graphene oxide sheets was evidenced both by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The electrode material capacitance was determined via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. The materials with PEDOT binder had better performance (∼97 F/g) at low operation rates while those with PVDF binder performed better (∼20 F/g) at higher rates, opening up perspectives for their application in supercapacitors.

Studies of neutron and proton nuclear activation in low-Earth orbit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Laird, C. E.

1982-01-01

The expected induced radioactivity of experimental material in low Earth orbit was studied for characteristics of activating particles such as cosmic rays, high energy Earth albedo neutrons, trapped protons, and secondary protons and neutrons. The activation cross sections for the production of long lived radioisotopes and other existing nuclear data appropriate to the study of these reactions were compiled. Computer codes which are required to calculate the expected activation of orbited materials were developed. The decreased computer code used to predict the activation of trapped protons of materials placed in the expected orbits of LDEF and Spacelab II. Techniques for unfolding the fluxes of activating particles from the measured activation of orbited materials are examined.

Supercritical CO2 impregnation of PLA/PCL films with natural substances for bacterial growth control in food packaging.

PubMed

Milovanovic, Stoja; Hollermann, Gesa; Errenst, Cornelia; Pajnik, Jelena; Frerich, Sulamith; Kroll, Stephen; Rezwan, Kurosch; Ivanovic, Jasna

2018-05-01

Biodegradable polymers with antibacterial properties are highly desirable materials for active food packaging applications. Thymol, a dietary monoterpene phenol with a strong antibacterial activity is abundant in plants belonging to the genus Thymus. This study presents two approaches for supercritical CO 2 impregnation of poly(lactic acid)(PLA)/poly(ε-caprolactone)(PCL) blended films to induce antibacterial properties of the material: (i) a batch impregnation process for loading pure thymol, and (ii) an integrated supercritical extraction-impregnation process for isolation of thyme extract and its incorporation into the films, operated in both batch or semi-continuous modes with supercritical solution circulation. The PCL content in films, impregnation time and CO 2 flow regime were varied to maximize loading of the films with thymol or thyme extract with preserving films' structure and thermal stability. Representative film samples impregnated with thymol and thyme extract were tested against Gram (-) (Escherichia coli) and Gram(+) (Bacillus subtilis) model strains, by measuring their metabolic activity and re-cultivation after exposure to the films. The film containing thymol (35.8 wt%) showed a strong antibacterial activity leading to a total reduction of bacterial cell viability. Proposed processes enable fast, controlled and organic solvent-free fabrication of the PLA/PCL films containing natural antibacterial substances at moderately low temperature, with a compact structure and a good thermal stability, for potential use as active food packaging materials. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Formation of Green compact structure of low-temperature ceramics with taking into account the thermal degradation of the binder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tovpinets, A. O.; Leytsin, V. N.; Dmitrieva, M. A.; Ivonin, I. V.; Ponomarev, S. V.

2017-12-01

The solution of the tasks in the field of creating and processing materials for additive technologies requires the development of a single theory of materials for various applications and processes. A separate class of materials that are promising for use in additive technologies includes materials whose consolidation is ensured by the presence of low-melting components in the initial mixture which form a matrix at a temperature not exceeding the melting point, recrystallization or destruction of any of the responsible refractory components of the initial dispersion. The study of the contribution of the binder thermal destruction to the structure and phase composition of the initial compact of the future composite is essential for the development of modern technologies for the synthesis of low-temperature ceramics. This paper investigates the effect of the thermal destruction of a binder on the formation of a green compact of low-temperature ceramics and the structural-mechanical characteristics of sintered ceramics. The approach proposed in Ref. [1] for evaluating the structure and physical characteristics of sintered low-temperature ceramics is improved to clarify the structure of green compacts obtained after thermal destruction of the polymer binder, with taking into account the pores formed and the infusible residue. The obtained results enable a more accurate prediction of thermal stresses in the matrix of sintered ceramics and serve as a basis for optimization.

Hierarchical porous carbon aerogel derived from bagasse for high performance supercapacitor electrode.

PubMed

Hao, Pin; Zhao, Zhenhuan; Tian, Jian; Li, Haidong; Sang, Yuanhua; Yu, Guangwei; Cai, Huaqiang; Liu, Hong; Wong, C P; Umar, Ahmad

2014-10-21

Renewable, cost-effective and eco-friendly electrode materials have attracted much attention in the energy conversion and storage fields. Bagasse, the waste product from sugarcane that mainly contains cellulose derivatives, can be a promising candidate to manufacture supercapacitor electrode materials. This study demonstrates the fabrication and characterization of highly porous carbon aerogels by using bagasse as a raw material. Macro and mesoporous carbon was first prepared by carbonizing the freeze-dried bagasse aerogel; consequently, microporous structure was created on the walls of the mesoporous carbon by chemical activation. Interestingly, it was observed that the specific surface area, the pore size and distribution of the hierarchical porous carbon were affected by the activation temperature. In order to evaluate the ability of the hierarchical porous carbon towards the supercapacitor electrode performance, solid state symmetric supercapacitors were assembled, and a comparable high specific capacitance of 142.1 F g(-1) at a discharge current density of 0.5 A g(-1) was demonstrated. The fabricated solid state supercapacitor displayed excellent capacitance retention of 93.9% over 5000 cycles. The high energy storage ability of the hierarchical porous carbon was attributed to the specially designed pore structures, i.e., co-existence of the micropores and mesopores. This research has demonstrated that utilization of sustainable biopolymers as the raw materials for high performance supercapacitor electrode materials is an effective way to fabricate low-cost energy storage devices.

Magnetic properties of low-moment ferrimagnetic Heusler Cr2CoGa thin films grown by molecular beam epitaxy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jamer, Michelle E.; Sterbinsky, George E.; Stephen, Gregory M.; DeCapua, Matthew C.; Player, Gabriel; Heiman, Don

2016-10-01

Recently, theorists have predicted many materials with a low magnetic moment and large spin-polarization for spintronic applications. These compounds are predicted to form in the inverse Heusler structure; however, many of these compounds have been found to phase segregate. In this study, ordered Cr2CoGa thin films were synthesized without phase segregation using molecular beam epitaxy. The present as-grown films exhibit a low magnetic moment from antiferromagnetically coupled Cr and Co atoms as measured with superconducting quantum interface device magnetometry and soft X-ray magnetic circular dichroism. Electrical measurements demonstrated a thermally-activated semiconductor-like resistivity component with an activation energy of 87 meV. These results confirm spin gapless semiconducting behavior, which makes these thin films well positioned for future devices.

Magnetic properties of low-moment ferrimagnetic Heusler Cr 2CoGa thin films grown by molecular beam epitaxy

DOE PAGES

Jamer, Michelle E.; Sterbinsky, George E.; Stephen, Gregory M.; ...

2016-10-31

Recently, theorists have predicted many materials with a low magnetic moment and large spin-polarization for spintronic applications. These compounds are predicted to form in the inverse Heusler structure; however, many of these compounds have been found to phase segregate. In this study, ordered Cr 2CoGa thin films were synthesized without phase segregation using molecular beam epitaxy. The present as-grown films exhibit a low magnetic moment from antiferromagnetically coupled Cr and Co atoms as measured with superconducting quantum interface device magnetometry and soft X-ray magnetic circular dichroism. Electrical measurements demonstrated a thermally-activated semiconductor-like resistivity component with an activation energy of 87more » meV. Finally, these results confirm spin gapless semiconducting behavior, which makes these thin films well positioned for future devices.« less

Near single-crystalline, high-carrier-mobility silicon thin film on a polycrystalline/amorphous substrate

DOEpatents

Findikoglu, Alp T [Los Alamos, NM; Jia, Quanxi [Los Alamos, NM; Arendt, Paul N [Los Alamos, NM; Matias, Vladimir [Santa Fe, NM; Choi, Woong [Los Alamos, NM

2009-10-27

A template article including a base substrate including: (i) a base material selected from the group consisting of polycrystalline substrates and amorphous substrates, and (ii) at least one layer of a differing material upon the surface of the base material; and, a buffer material layer upon the base substrate, the buffer material layer characterized by: (a) low chemical reactivity with the base substrate, (b) stability at temperatures up to at least about 800.degree. C. under low vacuum conditions, and (c) a lattice crystal structure adapted for subsequent deposition of a semiconductor material; is provided, together with a semiconductor article including a base substrate including: (i) a base material selected from the group consisting of polycrystalline substrates and amorphous substrates, and (ii) at least one layer of a differing material upon the surface of the base material; and, a buffer material layer upon the base substrate, the buffer material layer characterized by: (a) low chemical reactivity with the base substrate, (b) stability at temperatures up to at least about 800.degree. C. under low vacuum conditions, and (c) a lattice crystal structure adapted for subsequent deposition of a semiconductor material, and, a top-layer of semiconductor material upon the buffer material layer.

Advanced thermoelectric materials with enhanced crystal lattice structure and methods of preparation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fleurial, Jean-Pierre (Inventor); Caillat, Thierry F. (Inventor); Borshchevsky, Alexander (Inventor)

1998-01-01

New skutterudite phases including Ru.sub.0.5 Pd.sub.0.5 Sb.sub.3, RuSb.sub.2 Te, and FeSb.sub.2 Te, have been prepared having desirable thermoelectric properties. In addition, a novel thermoelectric device has been prepared using skutterudite phase Fe.sub.0.5 Ni.sub.0.5 Sb.sub.3. The skutterudite-type crystal lattice structure of these semiconductor compounds and their enhanced thermoelectric properties results in semiconductor materials which may be used in the fabrication of thermoelectric elements to substantially improve the efficiency of the resulting thermoelectric device. Semiconductor materials having the desired skutterudite-type crystal lattice structure may be prepared in accordance with the present invention by using powder metallurgy techniques. Measurements of electrical and thermal transport properties of selected semiconductor materials prepared in accordance with the present invention, demonstrated high Hall mobilities and good Seebeck coefficients. These materials have low thermal conductivity and relatively low electrical resistivity, and are good candidates for low temperature thermoelectric applications.

Converting biomass waste into microporous carbon with simultaneously high surface area and carbon purity as advanced electrochemical energy storage materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Fei; Wang, Lijie; Peng, Yiting; Gao, Jihui; Pi, Xinxin; Qu, Zhibin; Zhao, Guangbo; Qin, Yukun

2018-04-01

Developing carbon materials featuring both high accessible surface area and high structure stability are desirable to boost the performance of constructed electrochemical electrodes and devices. Herein, we report a new type of microporous carbon (MPC) derived from biomass waste based on a simple high-temperature chemical activation procedure. The optimized MPC-900 possesses microporous structure, high surface area, partially graphitic structure, and particularly low impurity content, which are critical features for enhancing carbon-based electrochemical process. The constructed MPC-900 symmetric supercapacitor exhibits high performances in commercial organic electrolyte such as widened voltage window up to 3 V and thereby high energy/power densities (50.95 Wh kg-1 at 0.44 kW kg-1; 25.3 Wh kg-1 at 21.5 kW kg-1). Furthermore, a simple melt infiltration method has been employed to enclose SnO2 nanocrystals onto the carbon matrix of MPC-900 as a high-performance lithium storage material. The obtained SnO2-MPC composite with ultrafine SnO2 nanocrystals delivers high capacities (1115 mAh g-1 at 0.2 A g-1; 402 mAh g-1 at 10 A g-1) and high-rate cycling lifespan of over 2000 cycles. This work not only develops a microporous carbon with high carbon purity and high surface area, but also provides a general platform for combining electrochemically active materials.

Basic materials and structures aspects for hypersonic transport vehicles (HTV)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steinheil, E.; Uhse, W.

A Mach 5 transport design is used to illustrate structural concepts and criteria for materials selections and also key technologies that must be followed in the areas of computational methods, materials and construction methods. Aside from the primary criteria of low weight, low costs, and conceivable risks, a number of additional requirements must be met, including stiffness and strength, corrosion resistance, durability, and a construction adequate for inspection, maintenance and repair. Current aircraft construction requirements are significantly extended for hypersonic vehicles. Additional consideration is given to long-duration temperature resistance of the airframe structure, the integration of large-volume cryogenic fuel tanks, computational tools, structural design, polymer matrix composites, and advanced manufacturing technologies.

Effect of Severe Plastic Deformation on Structure and Properties of Al-Sc-Ta and Al-Sc-Ti Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berezina, Alla; Monastyrska, Tetiana; Davydenko, Olexandr; Molebny, Oleh; Polishchuk, Sergey

2017-03-01

The comparative analysis of the effect of monotonous and non-monotonous severe plastic deformations (SPD) on the structure and properties of aluminum alloys has been carried out. Conventional hydrostatic extrusion (HE) with a constant deformation direction and equal-channel angular hydroextrusion (ECAH) with an abrupt change in the deformation direction were chosen for the cases of monotonous and non-monotonous SPD, respectively. Model cast hypoeutectic Al-0.3%Sc alloys and hypereutectic Al-0.6%Sc alloys with Ta and Ti additives were chosen for studying. It was demonstrated that SPD of the alloys resulted in the segregation of the material into active and inactive zones which formed a banded structure. The active zones were shown to be bands of localized plastic deformation. The distance between zones was found to be independent of the accumulated strain degree and was in the range of 0.6-1 μm. Dynamic recrystallization in the active zones was observed using TEM. The dynamic recrystallization was accompanied by the formation of disclinations, deformation bands, low-angle, and high-angle boundaries, i.e., rotational deformation modes developed. The dynamic recrystallization was more intense during the non-monotonous deformation as compared with the monotonous one, which was confirmed by the reduction of texture degree in the materials after ECAH.

Material characterization of active fiber composites for integral twist-actuated rotor blade application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wickramasinghe, Viresh K.; Hagood, Nesbitt W.

2004-10-01

The primary objective of this work was to perform material characterization of the active fiber composite (AFC) actuator system for the Boeing active material rotor (AMR) blade application. The purpose of the AMR was to demonstrate active vibration control in helicopters through integral twist-actuation of the blade. The AFCs were a new structural actuator system consisting of piezoceramic fibers embedded in an epoxy matrix and sandwiched between interdigitated electrodes to enhance actuation performance. These conformable actuators were integrated directly into the blade spar laminate as active plies within the composite structure to perform structural control. Therefore, extensive electromechanical material characterization was required to evaluate AFCs both as actuators and as structural components of the blade. The characterization tests designed to extract important electromechanical properties under simulated blade operating conditions included nominal actuation tests, stress-strain tests and actuation under tensile load tests. This paper presents the test results as well as the comprehensive testing procedure developed to evaluate the relevant properties of the AFCs for structural application. The material characterization tests provided an invaluable insight into the behavior of the AFCs under various electromechanical conditions. The results from this comprehensive material characterization of the AFC actuator system supported the design and operation of the AMR blades scheduled for wind tunnel tests.

What did Erwin mean? The physics of information from the materials genomics of aperiodic crystals and water to molecular information catalysts and life.

PubMed

Varn, D P; Crutchfield, J P

2016-03-13

Erwin Schrödinger famously and presciently ascribed the vehicle transmitting the hereditary information underlying life to an 'aperiodic crystal'. We compare and contrast this, only later discovered to be stored in the linear biomolecule DNA, with the information-bearing, layered quasi-one-dimensional materials investigated by the emerging field of chaotic crystallography. Despite differences in functionality, the same information measures capture structure and novelty in both, suggesting an intimate coherence between the information character of biotic and abiotic matter-a broadly applicable physics of information. We review layered solids and consider three examples of how information- and computation-theoretic techniques are being applied to understand their structure. In particular, (i) we review recent efforts to apply new kinds of information measures to quantify disordered crystals; (ii) we discuss the structure of ice I in information-theoretic terms; and (iii) we recount recent investigations into the structure of tris(bicyclo[2.1.1]hexeno)benzene, showing how an information-theoretic analysis yields additional insight into its structure. We then illustrate a new Second Law of Thermodynamics that describes information processing in active low-dimensional materials, reviewing Maxwell's Demon and a new class of molecular devices that act as information catalysts. Lastly, we conclude by speculating on how these ideas from informational materials science may impact biology. © 2016 The Author(s).

Fabrication of In(0.75)Zn(1.5)Sn(1.0) (IZTO) Thin-Film Transistors Using Solution-Processable Materials and PZT Inkjet-Printing.

PubMed

Lee, Tai-Kuang; Liuand, Chao-Te; Lee, Wen-Hsi

2017-01-01

Recently, Thin Film Transistors (TFTs) have been studied widely because of potential applications in low cost, low-temperature process and flexible displays. They can be fabricated by easy processes based on solution methods. But the mobility of organic TFTs is lower and the threshold voltage is higher than amorphous Si TFTs. In order to enhance the channel mobility and satisfy with the requirement of low-cost fabrication, we prepare a low-cost, mask-free, reduced material wastage, deposited technology using transparent, directly printable, air-stable semiconductor slurries and dielectric solutions. In our investigations, we attempt to obtain a high performance and low-cost TFT via preparing materials, designing device structure, and using PZT inkjet-printing technology. A stable and non-precipitated metal oxide ink with appropriate doping was prepared for the fabrication of an InxZn1.5Sn1.0 (IZTO) by PZT inkjet-printing. The soluble direct-printing process is a powerful tool for material research and implies that the printable materials and the printing technology enable the use of all-printed low-cost flexible displays and other transparent electronic applications. Transparent materials including dielectric PVP, conductive carbon nanotube (CNT) and active IZTO were employed into the fabrication of our PZT inkjet-printing process. After annealed at 180 °C, The experimental all-printed TFT exhibit the carrier mobility of 0.194 cm2/Vs, sub-threshold slope of 20 V/decade, and the threshold voltage of 5 V, initially. All-inkjet-printed films have great transparency, potentially in transparent electronics and the transmittance pattern in visible part of the spectrum (400–700 nm) is over 80%.

High Temperature Structural Foam

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Weiser, Erik S.; Baillif, Faye F.; Grimsley, Brian W.; Marchello, Joseph M.

1997-01-01

The Aerospace Industry is experiencing growing demand for high performance polymer foam. The X-33 program needs structural foam insulation capable of retaining its strength over a wide range of environmental conditions. The High Speed Research Program has a need for low density core splice and potting materials. This paper reviews the state of the art in foam materials and describes experimental work to fabricate low density, high shear strength foam which can withstand temperatures from -220 C to 220 C. Commercially available polymer foams exhibit a wide range of physical properties. Some with densities as low as 0.066 g/cc are capable of co-curing at temperatures as high as 182 C. Rohacell foams can be resin transfer molded at temperatures up to 180 C. They have moduli of elasticity of 0.19 MPa, tensile strengths of 3.7 Mpa and compressive strengths of 3.6 MPa. The Rohacell foams cannot withstand liquid hydrogen temperatures, however Imi-Tech markets Solimide (trademark) foams which withstand temperatures from -250 C to 200 C, but they do not have the required structural integrity. The research activity at NASA Langley Research Center focuses on using chemical blowing agents to produce polyimide thermoplastic foams capable of meeting the above performance requirements. The combination of blowing agents that decompose at the minimum melt viscosity temperature together with plasticizers to lower the viscosity has been used to produce foams by both extrusion and oven heating. The foams produced exhibit good environmental stability while maintaining structural properties.

Report on the Installation and Preparedness of a Protochips Fusion in-situ Heating Holder for TEM

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

Edmondson, Philip D.

2017-03-01

This brief report documents the procurement and installation of a Protochips Fusion (formerly Aduro) high-temperature, high stability transmission electron microscopy (TEM) specimen holder that allows for the high spatial resolution characterization of material specimens at high temperature in situ of an electron microscope. This specimen holder was specifically procured for use with The FEI Talos F200X Scanning/Transmission Electron Microscope (STEM) in Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s (ORNL’s) Low Activation Materials Development and Analysis (LAMDA) Laboratory. The Protochips Fusion holder will enable high-resolution structural and chemical analysis of irradiated materials at high temperature, becoming a unique capability worldwide, and would encourage high-qualitymore » in situ experiments to be conducted on irradiated materials.« less

A high-throughput exploration of magnetic materials by using structure predicting methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arapan, S.; Nieves, P.; Cuesta-López, S.

2018-02-01

We study the capability of a structure predicting method based on genetic/evolutionary algorithm for a high-throughput exploration of magnetic materials. We use the USPEX and VASP codes to predict stable and generate low-energy meta-stable structures for a set of representative magnetic structures comprising intermetallic alloys, oxides, interstitial compounds, and systems containing rare-earths elements, and for both types of ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic ordering. We have modified the interface between USPEX and VASP codes to improve the performance of structural optimization as well as to perform calculations in a high-throughput manner. We show that exploring the structure phase space with a structure predicting technique reveals large sets of low-energy metastable structures, which not only improve currently exiting databases, but also may provide understanding and solutions to stabilize and synthesize magnetic materials suitable for permanent magnet applications.

Photonic devices based on patterning by two photon induced polymerization techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fortunati, I.; Dainese, T.; Signorini, R.; Bozio, R.; Tagliazucca, V.; Dirè, S.; Lemercier, G.; Mulatier, J.-C.; Andraud, C.; Schiavuta, P.; Rinaldi, A.; Licoccia, S.; Bottazzo, J.; Franco Perez, A.; Guglielmi, M.; Brusatin, G.

2008-04-01

Two and three dimensional structures with micron and submicron resolution have been achieved in commercial resists, polymeric materials and sol-gel materials by several lithographic techniques. In this context, silicon-based sol-gel materials are particularly interesting because of their versatility, chemical and thermal stability, amount of embeddable active compounds. Compared with other micro- and nano-fabrication schemes, the Two Photon Induced Polymerization is unique in its 3D processing capability. The photopolymerization is performed with laser beam in the near-IR region, where samples show less absorption and less scattering, giving rise to a deeper penetration of the light. The use of ultrashort laser pulses allows the starting of nonlinear processes like multiphoton absorption at relatively low average power without thermally damaging the samples. In this work we report results on the photopolymerization process in hybrid organic-inorganic films based photopolymerizable methacrylate-containing Si-nanobuilding blocks. Films, obtained through sol-gel synthesis, are doped with a photo-initiator allowing a radical polymerization of methacrylic groups. The photo-initiator is activated by femtosecond laser source, at different input energies. The development of the unexposed regions is performed with a suitable solvent and the photopolymerized structures are characterized by microscopy techniques.

Co- and defect-rich carbon nanofiber films as a highly efficient electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Il To; Song, Myeong Jun; Shin, Seoyoon; Shin, Moo Whan

2018-03-01

Many efforts are continuously devoted to developing high-efficiency, low-cost, and highly scalable oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts to replace precious metal catalysts. Herein, we successfully synthesize Co- and defect-rich carbon nanofibers (CNFs) using an efficient heat treatment approach involving the pyrolysis of electrospun fibers at 370 °C under air. The heat treatment process produces Co-decorated CNFs with a high Co mass ratio, enriched pyridinic N, Co-pyridinic Nx clusters, and defect-rich carbon structures. The synergistic effects from composition and structural changes in the designed material increase the number of catalytically active sites for the ORR in an alkaline solution. The prepared Co- and defect-rich CNFs exhibit excellent ORR activities with a high ORR onset potential (0.954 V vs. RHE), a large reduction current density (4.426 mA cm-2 at 0.40 V), and a nearly four-electron pathway. The catalyst also exhibits a better long-term durability than commercial Pt/C catalysts. This study provides a novel hybrid material as an efficient ORR catalyst and important insight into the design strategy for CNF-based hybrid materials as electrochemical electrodes.

Exceptional gettering response of epitaxially grown kerfless silicon

DOE PAGES

Powell, D. M.; Markevich, V. P.; Hofstetter, J.; ...

2016-02-08

The bulk minority-carrier lifetime in p- and n-type kerfless epitaxial (epi) crystalline silicon wafers is shown to increase >500 during phosphorus gettering. We employ kinetic defect simulations and microstructural characterization techniques to elucidate the root cause of this exceptional gettering response. Simulations and deep-level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) indicate that a high concentra- tion of point defects (likely Pt) is “locked in” during fast (60 C/min) cooling during epi wafer growth. The fine dispersion of moderately fast-diffusing recombination-active point defects limits as-grown lifetime but can also be removed during gettering, confirmed by DLTS measurements. Synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence microscopy indicates metal agglomeratesmore » at structural defects, yet the structural defect density is sufficiently low to enable high lifetimes. Consequently, after phosphorus diffusion gettering, epi silicon exhibits a higher lifetime than materials with similar bulk impurity contents but higher densities of structural defects, including multicrystalline ingot and ribbon silicon materials. As a result, device simulations suggest a solar-cell efficiency potential of this material >23%.« less

Chemical sensors based on N-substituted polyaniline derivatives: reactivity and adsorption studies via electronic structure calculations.

PubMed

Mandú, Larissa O; Batagin-Neto, Augusto

2018-06-09

Conjugated organic polymers represent an important class of materials for varied technological applications including in active layers of chemical sensors. In this context, polyaniline (PANI) derivatives are promising candidates, mainly due to their high chemical stability, good processability, versatility of synthesis, polymerization, and doping, as well as relative low cost. In this study, electronic structure calculations were carried out for varied N-substituted PANI derivatives in order to investigate the potential sensory properties of these materials. The opto-electronic properties of nine distinct compounds were evaluated and discussed in terms of the employed substituents. Preliminary reactivity studies were performed in order to identify adsorption centers on the oligomer structures via condensed-to-atoms Fukui indexes (CAFI). Finally, adsorption studies were carried out for selected derivatives considering five distinct gaseous analytes. The influence of the analytes on the oligomer properties were investigated via the evaluation of average binding energies and changes on the structural features, optical absorption spectra, frontier orbitals distribution, and total density of states in relation to the isolated oligomers. The obtained results indicate the derivatives PANI-NO 2 and PANI-C 6 H 5 as promising materials for the development of improved chemical sensors.

Volcano-tectonic implications of 3-D velocity structures derived from joint active and passive source tomography of the island of Hawaii

USGS Publications Warehouse

Park, J.; Morgan, J.K.; Zelt, C.A.; Okubo, P.G.

2009-01-01

We present a velocity model of the onshore and offshore regions around the southern part of the island of Hawaii, including southern Mauna Kea, southeastern Hualalai, and the active volcanoes of Mauna Loa, and Kilauea, and Loihi seamount. The velocity model was inverted from about 200,000 first-arrival traveltime picks of earthquakes and air gun shots recorded at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO). Reconstructed volcanic structures of the island provide us with an improved understanding of the volcano-tectonic evolution of Hawaiian volcanoes and their interactions. The summits and upper rift zones of the active volcanoes are characterized by high-velocity materials, correlated with intrusive magma cumulates. These high-velocity materials often do not extend the full lengths of the rift zones, suggesting that rift zone intrusions may be spatially limited. Seismicity tends to be localized seaward of the most active intrusive bodies. Low-velocity materials beneath parts of the active rift zones of Kilauea and Mauna Loa suggest discontinuous rift zone intrusives, possibly due to the presence of a preexisting volcanic edifice, e.g., along Mauna Loa beneath Kilauea's southwest rift zone, or alternatively, removal of high-velocity materials by large-scale landsliding, e.g., along Mauna Loa's western flank. Both locations also show increased seismicity that may result from edifice interactions or reactivation of buried faults. New high-velocity regions are recognized and suggest the presence of buried, and in some cases, previously unknown rift zones, within the northwest flank of Mauna Loa, and the south flanks of Mauna Loa, Hualalai, and Mauna Kea. Copyright 2009 by the American Geophysical Union.

Negative-pressure polymorphs made by heterostructural alloying.

PubMed

Siol, Sebastian; Holder, Aaron; Steffes, James; Schelhas, Laura T; Stone, Kevin H; Garten, Lauren; Perkins, John D; Parilla, Philip A; Toney, Michael F; Huey, Bryan D; Tumas, William; Lany, Stephan; Zakutayev, Andriy

2018-04-01

The ability of a material to adopt multiple structures, known as polymorphism, is a fascinating natural phenomenon. Various polymorphs with unusual properties are routinely synthesized by compression under positive pressure. However, changing a material's structure by applying tension under negative pressure is much more difficult. We show how negative-pressure polymorphs can be synthesized by mixing materials with different crystal structures-a general approach that should be applicable to many materials. Theoretical calculations suggest that it costs less energy to mix low-density structures than high-density structures, due to less competition for space between the atoms. Proof-of-concept experiments confirm that mixing two different high-density forms of MnSe and MnTe stabilizes a Mn(Se,Te) alloy with a low-density wurtzite structure. This Mn(Se,Te) negative-pressure polymorph has 2× to 4× lower electron effective mass compared to MnSe and MnTe parent compounds and has a piezoelectric response that none of the parent compounds have. This example shows how heterostructural alloying can lead to negative-pressure polymorphs with useful properties-materials that are otherwise nearly impossible to make.

Effects of Soil Organic Matter Properties and Microbial Community Composition on Enzyme Activities in Cryoturbated Arctic Soils

PubMed Central

Schnecker, Jörg; Wild, Birgit; Hofhansl, Florian; Eloy Alves, Ricardo J.; Bárta, Jiří; Čapek, Petr; Fuchslueger, Lucia; Gentsch, Norman; Gittel, Antje; Guggenberger, Georg; Hofer, Angelika; Kienzl, Sandra; Knoltsch, Anna; Lashchinskiy, Nikolay; Mikutta, Robert; Šantrůčková, Hana; Shibistova, Olga; Takriti, Mounir; Urich, Tim; Weltin, Georg; Richter, Andreas

2014-01-01

Enzyme-mediated decomposition of soil organic matter (SOM) is controlled, amongst other factors, by organic matter properties and by the microbial decomposer community present. Since microbial community composition and SOM properties are often interrelated and both change with soil depth, the drivers of enzymatic decomposition are hard to dissect. We investigated soils from three regions in the Siberian Arctic, where carbon rich topsoil material has been incorporated into the subsoil (cryoturbation). We took advantage of this subduction to test if SOM properties shape microbial community composition, and to identify controls of both on enzyme activities. We found that microbial community composition (estimated by phospholipid fatty acid analysis), was similar in cryoturbated material and in surrounding subsoil, although carbon and nitrogen contents were similar in cryoturbated material and topsoils. This suggests that the microbial community in cryoturbated material was not well adapted to SOM properties. We also measured three potential enzyme activities (cellobiohydrolase, leucine-amino-peptidase and phenoloxidase) and used structural equation models (SEMs) to identify direct and indirect drivers of the three enzyme activities. The models included microbial community composition, carbon and nitrogen contents, clay content, water content, and pH. Models for regular horizons, excluding cryoturbated material, showed that all enzyme activities were mainly controlled by carbon or nitrogen. Microbial community composition had no effect. In contrast, models for cryoturbated material showed that enzyme activities were also related to microbial community composition. The additional control of microbial community composition could have restrained enzyme activities and furthermore decomposition in general. The functional decoupling of SOM properties and microbial community composition might thus be one of the reasons for low decomposition rates and the persistence of 400 Gt carbon stored in cryoturbated material. PMID:24705618

Fabrication of Nanovoid-Imbedded Bismuth Telluride with Low Dimensional System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chu, Sang-Hyon (Inventor); Choi, Sang H. (Inventor); Kim, Jae-Woo (Inventor); Park, Yeonjoon (Inventor); Elliott, James R. (Inventor); King, Glen C. (Inventor); Stoakley, Diane M. (Inventor)

2013-01-01

A new fabrication method for nanovoids-imbedded bismuth telluride (Bi--Te) material with low dimensional (quantum-dots, quantum-wires, or quantum-wells) structure was conceived during the development of advanced thermoelectric (TE) materials. Bismuth telluride is currently the best-known candidate material for solid-state TE cooling devices because it possesses the highest TE figure of merit at room temperature. The innovative process described here allows nanometer-scale voids to be incorporated in Bi--Te material. The final nanovoid structure such as void size, size distribution, void location, etc. can be also controlled under various process conditions.

Hydrogen production by Tuning the Photonic Band Gap with the Electronic Band Gap of TiO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Waterhouse, G. I. N.; Wahab, A. K.; Al-Oufi, M.; Jovic, V.; Anjum, D. H.; Sun-Waterhouse, D.; Llorca, J.; Idriss, H.

2013-10-01

Tuning the photonic band gap (PBG) to the electronic band gap (EBG) of Au/TiO2 catalysts resulted in considerable enhancement of the photocatalytic water splitting to hydrogen under direct sunlight. Au/TiO2 (PBG-357 nm) photocatalyst exhibited superior photocatalytic performance under both UV and sunlight compared to the Au/TiO2 (PBG-585 nm) photocatalyst and both are higher than Au/TiO2 without the 3 dimensionally ordered macro-porous structure materials. The very high photocatalytic activity is attributed to suppression of a fraction of electron-hole recombination route due to the co-incidence of the PBG with the EBG of TiO2 These materials that maintain their activity with very small amount of sacrificial agents (down to 0.5 vol.% of ethanol) are poised to find direct applications because of their high activity, low cost of the process, simplicity and stability.

Decoration of wide bandgap semiconducting materials for enhancing photoelectrochemical efficiency of PEC systems.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bakranov, N.; Zhabaikhanov, A.; Kudaibergenov, S.; Ibraev, N.

2018-03-01

The production of photoanodes based on wide-band gap materials such as TiO2 is economically viable because of the low cost of synthesis methods. Contrary to economic aspects, wide-band gap semiconductor materials have a significant disadvantage due to low sensitivity to photons of visible light. To increase the photoactive parameters of the material of the electrodes in the visible range, the methods for decorating nanomasses of titanium dioxide by narrow-gap semiconductors are used. One of the most suitable narrow-gap semiconductor materials are CdS and Fe2O3. Controlled deposition of such materials on wide-gap semiconductors allows to regulate both the diffusion time of charge carriers and the band structure of TiO2/Fe2O3 and TiO2/CdS composites. The dimensions of the structure of the photoelectrode material of the cell have a large influence on the characteristics of the photocatalyst created. Thus, in the hematite structures of nanometre dimension, the rate of recombination of charge carriers fades away in comparison with bulk structures. Reducing the size of CdS structures also positively affects the nature of the photocatalytic reaction.

Analytical modeling of structure-soil systems for lunar bases

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Macari-Pasqualino, Jose Emir

1989-01-01

The study of the behavior of granular materials in a reduced gravity environment and under low effective stresses became a subject of great interest in the mid 1960's when NASA's Surveyor missions to the Moon began the first extraterrestrial investigation and it was found that Lunar soils exhibited properties quite unlike those on Earth. This subject gained interest during the years of the Apollo missions and more recently due to NASA's plans for future exploration and colonization of Moon and Mars. It has since been clear that a good understanding of the mechanical properties of granular materials under reduced gravity and at low effective stress levels is of paramount importance for the design and construction of surface and buried structures on these bodies. In order to achieve such an understanding it is desirable to develop a set of constitutive equations that describes the response of such materials as they are subjected to tractions and displacements. This presentation examines issues associated with conducting experiments on highly nonlinear granular materials under high and low effective stresses. The friction and dilatancy properties which affect the behavior of granular soils with low cohesion values are assessed. In order to simulate the highly nonlinear strength and stress-strain behavior of soils at low as well as high effective stresses, a versatile isotropic, pressure sensitive, third stress invariant dependent, cone-cap elasto-plastic constitutive model was proposed. The integration of the constitutive relations is performed via a fully implicit Backward Euler technique known as the Closest Point Projection Method. The model was implemented into a finite element code in order to study nonlinear boundary value problems associated with homogeneous as well as nonhomogeneous deformations at low as well as high effective stresses. The effect of gravity (self-weight) on the stress-strain-strength response of these materials is evaluated. The calibration of the model is performed via three techniques: (1) physical identification, (2) optimized calibration at the constitutive level, and (3) optimized calibration at the finite element level (Inverse Identification). Activities are summarized in graphic and outline form.

Functional Hybrid Materials Based on Manganese Dioxide and Lignin Activated by Ionic Liquids and Their Application in the Production of Lithium Ion Batteries

PubMed Central

Klapiszewski, Łukasz; Szalaty, Tadeusz J.; Kurc, Beata; Stanisz, Małgorzata; Skrzypczak, Andrzej; Jesionowski, Teofil

2017-01-01

Kraft lignin (KL) was activated using selected ionic liquids (ILs). The activated form of the biopolymer, due to the presence of carbonyl groups, can be used in electrochemical tests. To increase the application potential of the system in electrochemistry, activated lignin forms were combined with manganese dioxide, and the most important physicochemical and morphological-microstructural properties of the novel, functional hybrid systems were determined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), elemental analysis (EA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), zeta potential analysis, thermal stability (TGA/DTG) and porous structure analysis. An investigation was also made of the practical application of the hybrid materials in the production of lithium ion batteries. The capacity of the anode (MnO2/activated lignin), working at a low current regime of 50 mA·g−1, was ca. 610 mAh·g−1, while a current of 1000 mA·g−1 resulted in a capacity of 570 mAh·g−1. Superior cyclic stability and rate capability indicate that this may be a promising electrode material for use in high-performance lithium ion batteries. PMID:28704933

Studies on A-TIG welding of Low Activation Ferritic/Martensitic (LAFM) steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vasantharaja, P.; Vasudevan, M.

2012-02-01

Low Activation Ferritic-Martensitic steels (LAFM) are chosen as the candidate material for structural components in fusion reactors. The structural components are generally fabricated by welding processes. Activated Tungsten Inert Gas (A-TIG) welding is an emerging process for welding of thicker components. In the present work, attempt was made to develop A-TIG welding technology for LAFM steel plates of 10 mm thick. Activated flux was developed for LAFM steel by carrying out various bead-on-plate TIG welds without flux and with flux. The optimum flux was identified as one which gave maximum depth of penetration at minimum heat input values. With the optimized flux composition, LAFM steel plate of 10 mm thickness was welded in square butt weld joint configuration using double side welding technique. Optical and Scanning Electron Microscopy was used for characterizing the microstructures. Microhardness measurements were made across the weld cross section for as welded and post weld heat treated samples. Tensile and impact toughness properties were determined. The mechanical properties values obtained in A-TIG weld joint were comparable to that obtained in weld joints of LAFM steel made by Electron beam welding process.

What Is Moving in Hybrid Halide Perovskite Solar Cells?

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Conspectus Organic–inorganic semiconductors, which adopt the perovskite crystal structure, have perturbed the landscape of contemporary photovoltaics research. High-efficiency solar cells can be produced with solution-processed active layers. The materials are earth abundant, and the simple processing required suggests that high-throughput and low-cost manufacture at scale should be possible. While these materials bear considerable similarity to traditional inorganic semiconductors, there are notable differences in their optoelectronic behavior. A key distinction of these materials is that they are physically soft, leading to considerable thermally activated motion. In this Account, we discuss the internal motion of methylammonium lead iodide (CH3NH3PbI3) and formamidinium lead iodide ([CH(NH2)2]PbI3), covering: (i) molecular rotation-libration in the cuboctahedral cavity; (ii) drift and diffusion of large electron and hole polarons; (iii) transport of charged ionic defects. These processes give rise to a range of properties that are unconventional for photovoltaic materials, including frequency-dependent permittivity, low electron–hole recombination rates, and current–voltage hysteresis. Multiscale simulations, drawing from electronic structure, ab initio molecular dynamic and Monte Carlo computational techniques, have been combined with neutron diffraction measurements, quasi-elastic neutron scattering, and ultrafast vibrational spectroscopy to qualify the nature and time scales of the motions. Electron and hole motion occurs on a femtosecond time scale. Molecular libration is a sub-picosecond process. Molecular rotations occur with a time constant of several picoseconds depending on the cation. Recent experimental evidence and theoretical models for simultaneous electron and ion transport in these materials has been presented, suggesting they are mixed-mode conductors with similarities to fast-ion conducting metal oxide perovskites developed for battery and fuel cell applications. We expound on the implications of these effects for the photovoltaic action. The temporal behavior displayed by hybrid perovskites introduces a sensitivity in materials characterization to the time and length scale of the measurement, as well as the history of each sample. It also poses significant challenges for accurate materials modeling and device simulations. There are large differences between the average and local crystal structures, and the nature of charge transport is too complex to be described by common one-dimensional drift-diffusion models. Herein, we critically discuss the atomistic origin of the dynamic processes and the associated chemical disorder intrinsic to crystalline hybrid perovskite semiconductors. PMID:26859250

Method of synthesizing a low density material

DOEpatents

Lorensen, L.E.; Monaco, S.B.

1987-02-27

A novel method of synthesizing a polymeric material of low density of the order of 50mg/cc or less. Such a low density material has applications in many areas including laser target fabrication. The method comprises preparing a polymer blend of two incompatible polymers as a major and a minor phase by mixing them and extruding the mixture, and then selectively extracting the major component, to yield a fine, low density structure.

Composite membrane with integral rim

DOEpatents

Routkevitch, Dmitri; Polyakov, Oleg G

2015-01-27

Composite membranes that are adapted for separation, purification, filtration, analysis, reaction and sensing. The composite membranes can include a porous support structure having elongate pore channels extending through the support structure. The composite membrane also includes an active layer comprising an active layer material, where the active layer material is completely disposed within the pore channels between the surfaces of the support structure. The active layer is intimately integrated within the support structure, thus enabling great robustness, reliability, resistance to mechanical stress and thermal cycling, and high selectivity. Methods for the fabrication of composite membranes are also provided.

Low resistivity and permeability in actively deforming shear zones on the San Andreas Fault at SAFOD

USGS Publications Warehouse

Morrow, Carolyn A.; Lockner, David A.; Hickman, Stephen H.

2015-01-01

The San Andreas Fault Observatory at Depth (SAFOD) scientific drillhole near Parkfield, California crosses the San Andreas Fault at a depth of 2.7 km. Downhole measurements and analysis of core retrieved from Phase 3 drilling reveal two narrow, actively deforming zones of smectite-clay gouge within a roughly 200 m-wide fault damage zone of sandstones, siltstones and mudstones. Here we report electrical resistivity and permeability measurements on core samples from all of these structural units at effective confining pressures up to 120 MPa. Electrical resistivity (~10 ohm-m) and permeability (10-21 to 10-22 m2) in the actively deforming zones were one to two orders of magnitude lower than the surrounding damage zone material, consistent with broader-scale observations from the downhole resistivity and seismic velocity logs. The higher porosity of the clay gouge, 2 to 8 times greater than that in the damage zone rocks, along with surface conduction were the principal factors contributing to the observed low resistivities. The high percentage of fine-grained clay in the deforming zones also greatly reduced permeability to values low enough to create a barrier to fluid flow across the fault. Together, resistivity and permeability data can be used to assess the hydrogeologic characteristics of the fault, key to understanding fault structure and strength. The low resistivities and strength measurements of the SAFOD core are consistent with observations of low resistivity clays that are often found in the principal slip zones of other active faults making resistivity logs a valuable tool for identifying these zones.

Facilitating Behavior Change With Low-literacy Patient Education Materials

PubMed Central

Seligman, Hilary K.; Wallace, Andrea S.; DeWalt, Darren A.; Schillinger, Dean; Arnold, Connie L.; Shilliday, Betsy Bryant; Delgadillo, Adriana; Bengal, Nikki; Davis, Terry C.

2014-01-01

Objective To describe a process for developing low-literacy health education materials that increase knowledge and activate patients toward healthier behaviors. Methods We developed a theoretically informed process for developing educational materials. This process included convening a multidisciplinary creative team, soliciting stakeholder input, identifying key concepts to be communicated, mapping concepts to a behavioral theory, creating a supporting behavioral intervention, designing and refining materials, and assessing efficacy. Results We describe the use of this process to develop a diabetes self-management guide. Conclusions Developing low-literacy health education materials that will activate patients toward healthier behaviors requires attention to factors beyond reading level. PMID:17931139

Printing Fabrication of Bulk Heterojunction Solar Cells and In Situ Morphology Characterization.

PubMed

Liu, Feng; Ferdous, Sunzida; Wan, Xianjian; Zhu, Chenhui; Schaible, Eric; Hexemer, Alexander; Wang, Cheng; Russell, Thomas P

2017-01-29

Polymer-based materials hold promise as low-cost, flexible efficient photovoltaic devices. Most laboratory efforts to achieve high performance devices have used devices prepared by spin coating, a process that is not amenable to large-scale fabrication. This mismatch in device fabrication makes it difficult to translate quantitative results obtained in the laboratory to the commercial level, making optimization difficult. Using a mini-slot die coater, this mismatch can be resolved by translating the commercial process to the laboratory and characterizing the structure formation in the active layer of the device in real time and in situ as films are coated onto a substrate. The evolution of the morphology was characterized under different conditions, allowing us to propose a mechanism by which the structures form and grow. This mini-slot die coater offers a simple, convenient, material efficient route by which the morphology in the active layer can be optimized under industrially relevant conditions. The goal of this protocol is to show experimental details of how a solar cell device is fabricated using a mini-slot die coater and technical details of running in situ structure characterization using the mini-slot die coater.

Low Budget Biology 3: A Collection of Low Cost Labs and Activities.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wartski, Bert; Wartski, Lynn Marie

This document contains biology labs, demonstrations, and activities that use low budget materials. The goal is to get students involved in the learning process by experiencing biology. Each lab has a teacher preparation section which outlines the purpose of the lab, some basic information, a list of materials , and how to prepare the different…

Conference Proceedings of Operational Loads Data Held at Sienna, Italy on 2-6 April 1984

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-08-01

new designs , e.g. highly agile, unconventional lay-outs, largely constructed of composite materials and heavily dependent upon active control ...significance of severe discrete gusts at low level, or the fatigue implications of flight control system design characteristics. For all these reasons, we... control technology is clearly going to have a major impact on military aircraft design . User pressure for greater structural efficiency is going to increase

Low-dislocation-density epitatial layers grown by defect filtering by self-assembled layers of spheres

DOEpatents

Wang, George T.; Li, Qiming

2013-04-23

A method for growing low-dislocation-density material atop a layer of the material with an initially higher dislocation density using a monolayer of spheroidal particles to bend and redirect or directly block vertically propagating threading dislocations, thereby enabling growth and coalescence to form a very-low-dislocation-density surface of the material, and the structures made by this method.

Structural Investigation of Alkali Activated Clay Minerals for Application in Water Treatment Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bumanis, G.; Bajare, D.; Dembovska, L.

2015-11-01

Alkali activation technology can be applied for a wide range of alumo-silicates to produce innovative materials with various areas of application. Most researches focuse on the application of alumo-silicate materials in building industry as cement binder replacement to produce mortar and concrete [1]. However, alkali activation technology offers high potential also in biotechnologies [2]. In the processes where certain pH level, especially alkaline environment, must be ensured, alkali activated materials can be applied. One of such fields is water treatment systems where high level pH (up to pH 10.5) ensures efficient removal of water pollutants such as manganese [3]. Previous investigations had shown that alkali activation technology can be applied to calcined clay powder and aluminium scrap recycling waste as a foam forming agent to create porous alkali activated materials. This investigation focuses on the structural investigation of calcined kaolin and illite clay alkali activation processes. Chemical and mineralogical composition of both clays were determined and structural investigation of alkali activated materials was made by using XRD, DTA, FTIR analysis; the microstructure of hardened specimens was observed by SEM. Physical properties of the obtained material were determined. Investigation indicates the essential role of chemical composition of the clay used in the alkali activation process, and potential use of the obtained material in water treatment systems.

Development of smart wave mitigation structure using array of poles (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asanuma, Hiroshi

2017-05-01

This paper describes reduction of water flow velocity by array of poles as a new wave mitigation structure. This structure is based on tsunami mitigation coastal forest. As natural forests have many problems such as low fraction of trees, low visibility of ocean waves, low strength, long of time to grow, and so on. To cope with these problems, a new wave mitigation structure has been developed, which are intended to add better capability of high wave or tsunami mitigation effect to actual ones by optimizing various parameters such as configuration, distribution density and material properties. In this study, the effect of type of material and its combination were mainly investigated. According to the results, reduction rate of the flow velocity increases with increasing number of rows for each material up to a certain level, and that of poles having lower Young's modulus is generally higher than that of those having higher Young's modulus. The effect of combination of materials was also investigated and drastic increase of mitigation effect was found when soft and hard poles were combined.

Nitrogen-Superdoped 3D Graphene Networks for High-Performance Supercapacitors.

PubMed

Zhang, Weili; Xu, Chuan; Ma, Chaoqun; Li, Guoxian; Wang, Yuzuo; Zhang, Kaiyu; Li, Feng; Liu, Chang; Cheng, Hui-Ming; Du, Youwei; Tang, Nujiang; Ren, Wencai

2017-09-01

An N-superdoped 3D graphene network structure with an N-doping level up to 15.8 at% for high-performance supercapacitor is designed and synthesized, in which the graphene foam with high conductivity acts as skeleton and nested with N-superdoped reduced graphene oxide arogels. This material shows a highly conductive interconnected 3D porous structure (3.33 S cm -1 ), large surface area (583 m 2 g -1 ), low internal resistance (0.4 Ω), good wettability, and a great number of active sites. Because of the multiple synergistic effects of these features, the supercapacitors based on this material show a remarkably excellent electrochemical behavior with a high specific capacitance (of up to 380, 332, and 245 F g -1 in alkaline, acidic, and neutral electrolytes measured in three-electrode configuration, respectively, 297 F g -1 in alkaline electrolytes measured in two-electrode configuration), good rate capability, excellent cycling stability (93.5% retention after 4600 cycles), and low internal resistance (0.4 Ω), resulting in high power density with proper high energy density. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Efficient Gas-Sensing for Formaldehyde with 3D Hierarchical Co3O4 Derived from Co5-Based MOF Microcrystals.

PubMed

Zhou, Wei; Wu, Ya-Pan; Zhao, Jun; Dong, Wen-Wen; Qiao, Xiu-Qing; Hou, Dong-Fang; Bu, Xianhui; Li, Dong-Sheng

2017-11-20

Detecting formaldehyde at low operating temperature and maintaining long-term stability are of great significance. In this work, a hierarchical Co 3 O 4 nanostructure has been fabricated by calcining Co 5 -based metal-organic framework (MOF) microcrystals. Co 3 O 4 -350 particles were used for efficient gas-sensing for the detecting of formaldehyde vapor at lower working temperature (170 °C), low detection limit of 10 ppm, and long-term stability (30 days), which not only is the optimal value among all reported pure Co 3 O 4 sensing materials for the detection of formaldehyde but also is superior to that of majority of Co 3 O 4 -based composites. Such extraordinarily efficient properties might be resulted from hierarchically structures, larger surface area and unique pore structure. This strategy is further confirmed that MOFs, especially Co-clusters MOFs, could be used as precursor to synthesize 3D nanostructure metal oxide materials with high-performance, which possess high porosity and more active sites and shorter ionic diffusion lengths.

Bio-inspired active materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fratzl, Peter

Biological tissues are naturally interactive and adaptive. In general, these features are due to the action of cells that provide sensing, actuation as well as tissue remodelling. There are also examples of materials synthesized by living organisms, such as plant seeds, which fulfil an active function without living cells working as mechanosensors and actuators. Thus the activity of these materials is based on physical principles alone, which provides inspiration for new concepts for artificial active materials. We will describe structural principles leading to movement in seed capsules triggered by ambient humidity and discuss the influence of internal architecture on the overall mechanical behaviour of materials, including actuation and motility. Several conceptual systems for actuating planar structures will be discussed.

Hierarchical Heterogeneity at the CeO x –TiO 2 Interface: Electronic and Geometric Structural Influence on the Photocatalytic Activity of Oxide on Oxide Nanostructures

DOE PAGES

Luo, Si; Nguyen-Phan, Thuy-Duong; Johnston-Peck, Aaron C.; ...

2015-01-13

Mixed oxide interfaces are critical for delivering active components of demanding catalytic processes such as the photo-catalytic splitting of water. We have studied CeO xTiO₂ catalysts with low ceria loadings of 1 wt%, 3 wt% and 6 wt% that were prepared with wet impregnation methods to favor a strong interaction between CeO x and TiO₂. In these materials the interfaces between CeO x-TiO₂ have been sequentially loaded (1%, 3% and 6%), with and without Pt (0.5 wt%). The structure and properties of the catalysts were characterized using several X-ray and electron based techniques including XRD, XPS, UPS, NEXAFS, UV-Vis andmore » HR-STEM/STEM-EELS, to unravel the local morphology, bulk structure, surface states and electronic structure. The combination of all these techniques allow us to analyze in a systematic way the complete structural and electronic properties that prevail at the CeO x-TiO₂ interface. Fluorite structured nano crystallites of ceria on anatase-structured titania were identified by both XRD and NEXAFS. A sequential increasing of the CeO x loading led to the formation of clusters, then plates and finally nano particles in a hierarchical manner on the TiO₂ support. The electronic structures of these catalysts indicate that the interaction between TiO₂ and CeO₂ is closely related to the local morphology of nanostructured CeO₂. Ce³⁺ cations were detected at the surface of CeO₂ and at the interface of the two oxides. In addition, the titania is perturbed by the interaction with ceria and also with Pt. The photocatalytic activity for the splitting of H₂O using UV light was measured for these materials and correlated with our understanding of the electronic and structural properties. Optimal catalytic performance and photo response results were found for the 1 wt% CeO x-TiO₂ catalyst where low dimensional geometry of the ceria provided ideal electronic and geometrical properties. The structural and electronic properties of the interface were critical for the photocatalytic performance of this mixed-oxide nanocatalyst system.« less

Nitrogen-doped porous carbon derived from biomass waste for high-performance supercapacitor.

PubMed

Ma, Guofu; Yang, Qian; Sun, Kanjun; Peng, Hui; Ran, Feitian; Zhao, Xiaolong; Lei, Ziqiang

2015-12-01

High capacitance property and low cost are the pivotal requirements for practical application of supercapacitor. In this paper, a low cost and high capacitance property nitrogen-doped porous carbon with high specific capacitance is prepared. The as-prepared nitrogen-doped porous carbon employing potato waste residue (PWR) as the carbon source, zinc chloride (ZnCl2) as the activating agent and melamine as nitrogen doping agent. The morphology and structure of the carbon materials are studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), N2 adsorption/desorption, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectra. The surface area of the nitrogen-doped carbon which prepared under 700°C is found to be 1052m(2)/g, and the specific capacitance as high as 255Fg(-1) in 2M KOH electrolyte is obtained utilize the carbon as electrode materials. The electrode materials also show excellent cyclability with 93.7% coulombic efficiency at 5Ag(-1) current density of for 5000cycles. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Flat-plate solar array project. Volume 7: Module encapsulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cuddihy, E.; Coulbert, C.; Gupta, A.; Liang, R.

1986-10-01

The objective of the Encapsulation Task was to develop, demonstrate, and qualify photovoltaic (PV) module encapsulation systems that would provide 20 year (later decreased to 30 year) life expectancies in terrestrial environments, and which would be compatible with the cost and performance goals of the Flat-Plate Solar Array (FSA) Project. The scope of the Encapsulation Task included the identification, development, and evaluation of material systems and configurations required to support and protect the optically and electrically active solar cell circuit components in the PV module operating environment. Encapsulation material technologies summarized include the development of low cost ultraviolet protection techniques, stable low cost pottants, soiling resistant coatings, electrical isolation criteria, processes for optimum interface bonding, and analytical and experimental tools for evaluating the long term durability and structural adequacy of encapsulated modules. Field testing, accelerated stress testing, and design studies have demonstrated that encapsulation materials, processes, and configurations are available that meet the FSA cost and performance goals.

Flat-plate solar array project. Volume 7: Module encapsulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cuddihy, E.; Coulbert, C.; Gupta, A.; Liang, R.

1986-01-01

The objective of the Encapsulation Task was to develop, demonstrate, and qualify photovoltaic (PV) module encapsulation systems that would provide 20 year (later decreased to 30 year) life expectancies in terrestrial environments, and which would be compatible with the cost and performance goals of the Flat-Plate Solar Array (FSA) Project. The scope of the Encapsulation Task included the identification, development, and evaluation of material systems and configurations required to support and protect the optically and electrically active solar cell circuit components in the PV module operating environment. Encapsulation material technologies summarized include the development of low cost ultraviolet protection techniques, stable low cost pottants, soiling resistant coatings, electrical isolation criteria, processes for optimum interface bonding, and analytical and experimental tools for evaluating the long term durability and structural adequacy of encapsulated modules. Field testing, accelerated stress testing, and design studies have demonstrated that encapsulation materials, processes, and configurations are available that meet the FSA cost and performance goals.

Structural and mechanical study of concrete made from cementitious materials of low environmental impact

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

González, A. K.; Montaño, A. M.; González, C. P.; Santos, A.

2017-12-01

This work shows the results obtained by replacing Type I Portland®, by cementitious geopolymers materials, derived from minerals, in concrete mixtures. Synthesis of both geopolymers through alkaline activation of two alluminosilicates: Bentonite and Pumice with sodium silicate (Na2SiO3). XRD, SEM and XRDE are used to structural study of new geopolymers. Concrete mixtures with replacement of Portland have 10% and 30% of geopolymer. Finally, concrete mortars formed were mechanically analysed according to ICONTEC 220 at 7, 14, 28, 41, 90 and 120 days of cure. Results shows that compressive strength of concrete from Bentonite and Pumice are almost the same for the standard concrete at 28 days of cure. At 90 days of cure, compression resistance of concrete from Pumice at 10% is even higher than those that standard concrete shows.

Learning structure-property relationship in crystalline materials: A study of lanthanide-transition metal alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pham, Tien-Lam; Nguyen, Nguyen-Duong; Nguyen, Van-Doan; Kino, Hiori; Miyake, Takashi; Dam, Hieu-Chi

2018-05-01

We have developed a descriptor named Orbital Field Matrix (OFM) for representing material structures in datasets of multi-element materials. The descriptor is based on the information regarding atomic valence shell electrons and their coordination. In this work, we develop an extension of OFM called OFM1. We have shown that these descriptors are highly applicable in predicting the physical properties of materials and in providing insights on the materials space by mapping into a low embedded dimensional space. Our experiments with transition metal/lanthanide metal alloys show that the local magnetic moments and formation energies can be accurately reproduced using simple nearest-neighbor regression, thus confirming the relevance of our descriptors. Using kernel ridge regressions, we could accurately reproduce formation energies and local magnetic moments calculated based on first-principles, with mean absolute errors of 0.03 μB and 0.10 eV/atom, respectively. We show that meaningful low-dimensional representations can be extracted from the original descriptor using descriptive learning algorithms. Intuitive prehension on the materials space, qualitative evaluation on the similarities in local structures or crystalline materials, and inference in the designing of new materials by element substitution can be performed effectively based on these low-dimensional representations.

Photoluminescence Mechanism and Photocatalytic Activity of Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Materials Formed by Sequential Vapor Infiltration.

PubMed

Akyildiz, Halil I; Stano, Kelly L; Roberts, Adam T; Everitt, Henry O; Jur, Jesse S

2016-05-03

Organic-inorganic hybrid materials formed by sequential vapor infiltration (SVI) of trimethylaluminum into polyester fibers are demonstrated, and the photoluminescence of the fibers is evaluated using a combined UV-vis and photoluminescence excitation (PLE) spectroscopy approach. The optical activity of the modified fibers depends on infiltration thermal processing conditions and is attributed to the reaction mechanisms taking place at different temperatures. At low temperatures a single excitation band and dual emission bands are observed, while, at high temperatures, two distinct absorption bands and one emission band are observed, suggesting that the physical and chemical structure of the resulting hybrid material depends on the SVI temperature. Along with enhancing the photoluminescence intensity of the PET fibers, the internal quantum efficiency also increased to 5-fold from ∼4-5% to ∼24%. SVI processing also improved the photocatalytic activity of the fibers, as demonstrated by photodeposition of Ag and Au metal particles out of an aqueous metal salt solution onto fiber surfaces via UVA light exposure. Toward applications in flexible electronics, well-defined patterning of the metallic materials is achieved by using light masking and focused laser rastering approaches.

First-principles study of low compressibility osmium borides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gou, Huiyang; Hou, Li; Zhang, Jingwu; Li, Hui; Sun, Guifang; Gao, Faming

2006-05-01

Using first-principles total energy calculations we investigate the structural, elastic, and electronic properties of OsB2 and OsB, respectively. The calculated equilibrium structural parameters of OsB2 are in agreement with the available experimental results. The calculations indicate that OsB in tungsten carbide is more energetically stable under the ambient condition than the metastable cesium chloride phase of OsB. Results of bulk modulus show that they are potential low compressible materials. The hardness of OsB2 is estimated by employing a semiempirical theory. The results indicate that OsB2 is an ultraincompressible material, but not a superhard material. The method designing superhard materials is different from one creating ultraincompressible materials.

Performance through Deformation and Instability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bertoldi, Katia

2015-03-01

Materials capable of undergoing large deformations like elastomers and gels are ubiquitous in daily life and nature. An exciting field of engineering is emerging that uses these compliant materials to design active devices, such as actuators, adaptive optical systems and self-regulating fluidics. Compliant structures may significantly change their architecture in response to diverse stimuli. When excessive deformation is applied, they may eventually become unstable. Traditionally, mechanical instabilities have been viewed as an inconvenience, with research focusing on how to avoid them. Here, I will demonstrate that these instabilities can be exploited to design materials with novel, switchable functionalities. The abrupt changes introduced into the architecture of soft materials by instabilities will be used to change their shape in a sudden, but controlled manner. Possible and exciting applications include materials with unusual properties such negative Poisson's ratio, phononic crystals with tunable low-frequency acoustic band gaps and reversible encapsulation systems.

Design of radial phononic crystal using annular soft material with low-frequency resonant elastic structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Nansha; Wu, Jiu Hui; Yu, Lie; Xin, Hang

2016-10-01

Using FEM, we theoretically study the vibration properties of radial phononic crystal (RPC) with annular soft material. The band structures, transmission spectra, and displacement fields of eigenmode are given to estimate the starting and cut-off frequency of band gaps. Numerical calculation results show that RPC with annular soft material can yield low-frequency band gaps below 350 Hz. Annular soft material decreases equivalent stiffness of the whole structure effectively, and makes corresponding band gaps move to the lower frequency range. Physical mechanism behind band gaps is the coupling effect between long or traveling wave in plate matrix and the vibrations of corrugations. By changing geometrical dimensions of plate thickness e, the length of silicone rubber h2, and the corrugation width b, we can control the location and width of the first band gap. These research conclusions of RPC structure with annular soft material can potentially be applied to optimize band gaps, generate filters, and design acoustic devices.

Low-cost exterior insulation process and structure

DOEpatents

Vohra, A.

1999-03-02

A low-cost exterior insulation process of stacking bags of insulating material against a wall and covering them with wire mesh and stucco provides a durable structure with good insulating value. 2 figs.

Evolution of resistive switching mechanism through H2O2 sensing by using TaOx-based material in W/Al2O3/TaOx/TiN structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chakrabarti, Somsubhra; Panja, Rajeswar; Roy, Sourav; Roy, Anisha; Samanta, Subhranu; Dutta, Mrinmoy; Ginnaram, Sreekanth; Maikap, Siddheswar; Cheng, Hsin-Ming; Tsai, Ling-Na; Chang, Ya-Ling; Mahapatra, Rajat; Jana, Debanjan; Qiu, Jian-Tai; Yang, Jer-Ren

2018-03-01

Understanding of resistive switching mechanism through H2O2 sensing and improvement of switching characteristics by using TaOx-based material in W/Al2O3/TaOx/TiN structure have been reported for the first time. Existence of amorphous Al2O3/TaOx layer in the RRAM devices has been confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. By analyzing the oxidation states of Ta2+/Ta5+ for TaOx switching material and W0/W6+ for WOx layer at the W/TaOx interface through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and H2O2 sensing, the reduction-oxidation mechanism under Set/Reset occurs only in the TaOx layer for the W/Al2O3/TaOx/TiN structures. This leads to higher Schottky barrier height at the W/Al2O3 interface (0.54 eV vs. 0.46 eV), higher resistance ratio, and long program/erase endurance of >108 cycles with 100 ns pulse width at a low operation current of 30 μA. Stable retention of more than 104 s at 85 °C is also obtained. Using conduction mechanism and reduction-oxidation reaction, current-voltage characteristic has been simulated. Both TaOx and WOx membranes have high pH sensitivity values of 47.65 mV/pH and 49.25 mV/pH, respectively. Those membranes can also sense H2O2 with a low concentration of 1 nM in an electrolyte-insulator-semiconductor structure because of catalytic activity, while the Al2O3 membrane does not show sensing. The TaOx material in W/Al2O3/TaOx/TiN structure does not show only a path towards high dense, small size memory application with understanding of switching mechanism but also can be used for H2O2 sensors.

Structural design of graphene for use in electrochemical energy storage devices.

PubMed

Chen, Kunfeng; Song, Shuyan; Liu, Fei; Xue, Dongfeng

2015-10-07

There are many practical challenges in the use of graphene materials as active components in electrochemical energy storage devices. Graphene has a much lower capacitance than the theoretical capacitance of 550 F g(-1) for supercapacitors and 744 mA h g(-1) for lithium ion batteries. The macroporous nature of graphene limits its volumetric energy density and the low packing density of graphene-based electrodes prevents its use in commercial applications. Increases in the capacity, energy density and power density of electroactive graphene materials are strongly dependent on their microstructural properties, such as the number of defects, stacking, the use of composite materials, conductivity, the specific surface area and the packing density. The structural design of graphene electrode materials is achieved via six main strategies: the design of non-stacking and three-dimensional graphene; the synthesis of highly packed graphene; the production of graphene with a high specific surface area and high conductivity; the control of defects; functionalization with O, N, B or P heteroatoms; and the formation of graphene composites. These methodologies of structural design are needed for fast electrical charge storage/transfer and the transport of electrolyte ions (Li(+), H(+), K(+), Na(+)) in graphene electrodes. We critically review state-of-the-art progress in the optimization of the electrochemical performance of graphene-based electrode materials. The structure of graphene needs to be designed to develop novel electrochemical energy storage devices that approach the theoretical charge limit of graphene and to deliver electrical energy rapidly and efficiently.

Survey of the US materials processing and manufacturing in space program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mckannan, E. C.

1981-01-01

To promote potential commercial applications of low-g technology, the materials processing and manufacturing in space program is structured to: (1) analyze the scientific principles of gravitational effects on processes used in producing materials; (2) apply the research toward the technology used to control production process (on Earth or in space, as appropriate); and (3) establish the legal and managerial framework for commercial ventures. Presently federally funded NASA research is described as well as agreements for privately funded commercial activity, and a proposed academic participation process. The future scope of the program and related capabilities using ground based facilities, aircraft, sounding rockets, and space shuttles are discussed. Areas of interest described include crystal growth; solidification of metals and alloys; containerless processing; fluids and chemical processes (including biological separation processes); and processing extraterrestrial materials.

Thermal Response of Cooled Silicon Nitride Plate Due to Thermal Conductivity Effects Analyzed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baaklini, George Y.; Abdul-Aziz, Ali; Bhatt, Ramakrishna

2003-01-01

Lightweight, strong, tough high-temperature materials are required to complement efficiency improvements for next-generation gas turbine engines that can operate with minimum cooling. Because of their low density, high-temperature strength, and high thermal conductivity, ceramics are being investigated as materials to replace the nickelbase superalloys that are currently used for engine hot-section components. Ceramic structures can withstand higher operating temperatures and a harsh combustion environment. In addition, their low densities relative to metals help reduce component mass (ref. 1). To complement the effectiveness of the ceramics and their applicability for turbine engine applications, a parametric study using the finite element method is being carried out. The NASA Glenn Research Center remains very active in conducting and supporting a variety of research activities related to ceramic matrix composites through both experimental and analytical efforts (ref. 1). The objectives of this work are to develop manufacturing technology, develop a thermal and environmental barrier coating (TBC/EBC), develop an analytical modeling capability to predict thermomechanical stresses, and perform a minimal burner rig test on silicon nitride (Si3N4) and SiC/SiC turbine nozzle vanes under simulated engine conditions. Moreover, we intend to generate a detailed database of the material s property characteristics and their effects on structural response. We expect to offer a wide range of data since the modeling will account for other variables, such as cooling channel geometry and spacing. Comprehensive analyses have begun on a plate specimen with Si3N4 cooling holes.

Imaging of 3-D seismic velocity structure of Southern Sumatra region using double difference tomographic method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lestari, Titik; Nugraha, Andri Dian

2015-04-01

Southern Sumatra region has a high level of seismicity due to the influence of the subduction system, Sumatra fault, Mentawai fault and stretching zone activities. The seismic activities of Southern Sumatra region are recorded by Meteorological Climatological and Geophysical Agency (MCGA's) Seismograph network. In this study, we used earthquake data catalog compiled by MCGA for 3013 events from 10 seismic stations around Southern Sumatra region for time periods of April 2009 - April 2014 in order to invert for the 3-D seismic velocities structure (Vp, Vs, and Vp/Vs ratio). We applied double-difference seismic tomography method (tomoDD) to determine Vp, Vs and Vp/Vs ratio with hypocenter adjustment. For the inversion procedure, we started from the initial 1-D seismic velocity model of AK135 and constant Vp/Vs of 1.73. The synthetic travel time from source to receiver was calculated using ray pseudo-bending technique, while the main tomographic inversion was applied using LSQR method. The resolution model was evaluated using checkerboard test and Derivative Weigh Sum (DWS). Our preliminary results show low Vp and Vs anomalies region along Bukit Barisan which is may be associated with weak zone of Sumatran fault and migration of partial melted material. Low velocity anomalies at 30-50 km depth in the fore arc region may indicated the hydrous material circulation because the slab dehydration. We detected low seismic seismicity in the fore arc region that may be indicated as seismic gap. It is coincides contact zone of high and low velocity anomalies. And two large earthquakes (Jambi and Mentawai) also occurred at the contact of contrast velocity.

Imaging of 3-D seismic velocity structure of Southern Sumatra region using double difference tomographic method

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

Lestari, Titik, E-mail: t2klestari@gmail.com; Faculty of Earth Science and Technology, Bandung Institute of Technology, Jalan Ganesa No.10, Bandung 40132; Nugraha, Andri Dian, E-mail: nugraha@gf.itb.ac.id

2015-04-24

Southern Sumatra region has a high level of seismicity due to the influence of the subduction system, Sumatra fault, Mentawai fault and stretching zone activities. The seismic activities of Southern Sumatra region are recorded by Meteorological Climatological and Geophysical Agency (MCGA’s) Seismograph network. In this study, we used earthquake data catalog compiled by MCGA for 3013 events from 10 seismic stations around Southern Sumatra region for time periods of April 2009 – April 2014 in order to invert for the 3-D seismic velocities structure (Vp, Vs, and Vp/Vs ratio). We applied double-difference seismic tomography method (tomoDD) to determine Vp, Vsmore » and Vp/Vs ratio with hypocenter adjustment. For the inversion procedure, we started from the initial 1-D seismic velocity model of AK135 and constant Vp/Vs of 1.73. The synthetic travel time from source to receiver was calculated using ray pseudo-bending technique, while the main tomographic inversion was applied using LSQR method. The resolution model was evaluated using checkerboard test and Derivative Weigh Sum (DWS). Our preliminary results show low Vp and Vs anomalies region along Bukit Barisan which is may be associated with weak zone of Sumatran fault and migration of partial melted material. Low velocity anomalies at 30-50 km depth in the fore arc region may indicated the hydrous material circulation because the slab dehydration. We detected low seismic seismicity in the fore arc region that may be indicated as seismic gap. It is coincides contact zone of high and low velocity anomalies. And two large earthquakes (Jambi and Mentawai) also occurred at the contact of contrast velocity.« less

Electrofabrication of functional materials: Chloramine-based antimicrobial film for infectious wound treatment.

PubMed

Qu, Xue; Liu, Huan; Zhang, Chuchu; Lei, Yu; Lei, Miao; Xu, Miao; Jin, Dawei; Li, Peng; Yin, Meng; Payne, Gregory F; Liu, Changsheng

2018-06-01

Electrical signals can be imposed with exquisite spatiotemporal control and provide exciting opportunities to create structure and confer function. Here, we report the use of electrical signals to program the fabrication of a chloramine wound dressing with high antimicrobial activity. This method involves two electrofabrication steps: (i) a cathodic electrodeposition of an aminopolysaccharide chitosan triggered by a localized region of high pH; and (ii) an anodic chlorination of the deposited film in the presence of chloride. This electrofabrication process is completed within several minutes and the chlorinated chitosan can be peeled from the electrode to yield a free-standing film. The presence of active NCl species in this electrofabricated film was confirmed with chlorination occurring first on the amine groups and then on the amide groups when large anodic charges were used. Electrofabrication is quantitatively controllable as the cathodic input controls film growth during deposition and the anodic input controls film chlorination. In vitro studies demonstrate that the chlorinated chitosan film has antimicrobial activities that depend on the chlorination degree. In vivo studies with a MRSA infected wound healing model indicate that the chlorinated chitosan film inhibited bacterial growth, induced less inflammation, developed reorganized epithelial and dermis structures, and thus promoted wound healing compared to a bare wound or wound treated with unmodified chitosan. These results demonstrate the fabrication of advanced functional materials (i.e., antimicrobial wound dressings) using controllable electrical signals to both organize structure through non-covalent interactions (i.e., induce chitosan's reversible self-assembly) and to initiate function-conferring covalent modifications (i.e., generate chloramine bonds). Potentially, electrofabrication may provide a simple, low cost and sustainable alternative for materials fabrication. We believe this work is novel because this is the first report (to our knowledge) that electronic signals enable the fabrication of advanced antimicrobial dressings with controlled structure and biological performance. We believe this work is significant because electrofabrication enables rapid, controllable and sustainable materials construction with reduced adverse environmental impacts while generating high performance materials for healthcare applications. More specifically, we report an electrofbrication of antimicrobial film that can promote wound healing. Copyright © 2018 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Scaling of strength and lifetime probability distributions of quasibrittle structures based on atomistic fracture mechanics

PubMed Central

Bažant, Zdeněk P.; Le, Jia-Liang; Bazant, Martin Z.

2009-01-01

The failure probability of engineering structures such as aircraft, bridges, dams, nuclear structures, and ships, as well as microelectronic components and medical implants, must be kept extremely low, typically <10−6. The safety factors needed to ensure it have so far been assessed empirically. For perfectly ductile and perfectly brittle structures, the empirical approach is sufficient because the cumulative distribution function (cdf) of random material strength is known and fixed. However, such an approach is insufficient for structures consisting of quasibrittle materials, which are brittle materials with inhomogeneities that are not negligible compared with the structure size. The reason is that the strength cdf of quasibrittle structure varies from Gaussian to Weibullian as the structure size increases. In this article, a recently proposed theory for the strength cdf of quasibrittle structure is refined by deriving it from fracture mechanics of nanocracks propagating by small, activation-energy-controlled, random jumps through the atomic lattice. This refinement also provides a plausible physical justification of the power law for subcritical creep crack growth, hitherto considered empirical. The theory is further extended to predict the cdf of structural lifetime at constant load, which is shown to be size- and geometry-dependent. The size effects on structure strength and lifetime are shown to be related and the latter to be much stronger. The theory fits previously unexplained deviations of experimental strength and lifetime histograms from the Weibull distribution. Finally, a boundary layer method for numerical calculation of the cdf of structural strength and lifetime is outlined. PMID:19561294

Composite membranes and methods for making same

DOEpatents

Routkevitch, Dmitri; Polyakov, Oleg G

2012-07-03

Composite membranes that are adapted for separation, purification, filtration, analysis, reaction and sensing. The composite membranes can include a porous support structure having elongate pore channels extending through the support structure. The composite membrane also includes an active layer comprising an active layer material, where the active layer material is completely disposed within the pore channels between the surfaces of the support structure. The active layer is intimately integrated within the support structure, thus enabling great robustness, reliability, resistance to mechanical stress and thermal cycling, and high selectivity. Methods for the fabrication of composite membranes are also provided.

Development of an Evolutionary Algorithm for the ab Initio Discovery of Two-Dimensional Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Revard, Benjamin Charles

Crystal structure prediction is an important first step on the path toward computational materials design. Increasingly robust methods have become available in recent years for computing many materials properties, but because properties are largely a function of crystal structure, the structure must be known before these methods can be brought to bear. In addition, structure prediction is particularly useful for identifying low-energy structures of subperiodic materials, such as two-dimensional (2D) materials, which may adopt unexpected structures that differ from those of the corresponding bulk phases. Evolutionary algorithms, which are heuristics for global optimization inspired by biological evolution, have proven to be a fruitful approach for tackling the problem of crystal structure prediction. This thesis describes the development of an improved evolutionary algorithm for structure prediction and several applications of the algorithm to predict the structures of novel low-energy 2D materials. The first part of this thesis contains an overview of evolutionary algorithms for crystal structure prediction and presents our implementation, including details of extending the algorithm to search for clusters, wires, and 2D materials, improvements to efficiency when running in parallel, improved composition space sampling, and the ability to search for partial phase diagrams. We then present several applications of the evolutionary algorithm to 2D systems, including InP, the C-Si and Sn-S phase diagrams, and several group-IV dioxides. This thesis makes use of the Cornell graduate school's "papers" option. Chapters 1 and 3 correspond to the first-author publications of Refs. [131] and [132], respectively, and chapter 2 will soon be submitted as a first-author publication. The material in chapter 4 is taken from Ref. [144], in which I share joint first-authorship. In this case I have included only my own contributions.

Superconducting magnet and fabrication method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Israelsson, Ulf E. (Inventor); Strayer, Donald M. (Inventor)

1994-01-01

A method of trapping a field in a block of superconductor material, includes providing (i) a block of material defining a bore, (ii) a high permeability core within the bore that defines a low reluctance path through the bore, (iii) a high permeability external structure on the exterior of the block of material that defines a low reluctance path between opposite ends of the core, and (iv) an electromagnet configured to apply a magnetic field around the high permeability core. The method proceeds by energizing the electromagnet to produce an applied magnetic field around the high permeability core, cooling the block of material sufficiently to render the block of material superconducting, de-energizing the electromagnet to result in a trapped magnetic field, and at least partially removing the low reluctance path defined by the core and the external structure in order to increase the magnetic flux density of the trapped magnetic field.

Overdischarge protection in high-temperature cells and batteries

DOEpatents

Redey, Laszlo

1990-01-01

Overdischarge indication and protection is provided in a lithium alloy - metal sulfide, secondary electrochemical cell and batteries of such cells through use of a low lithium activity phase that ordinarily is not matched with positive electrode material. Low lithium activity phases such as Li.sub.0.1 Al.sub.0.9 and LiAlSi in correspondence with positive electrode material cause a downward gradient in cell voltage as an indication of overdischarge prior to damage to the cell. Moreover, the low lithium activity phase contributes lithium into the electrolyte and provides a lithium shuttling current as overdischarge protection after all of the positive electrode material is discharged.

Overdischarge protection in high-temperature cells and batteries

DOEpatents

Redey, L.

1990-06-19

Overdischarge indication and protection is provided in a lithium alloy metal sulfide, secondary electrochemical cell and batteries of such cells through use of a low lithium activity phase that ordinarily is not matched with positive electrode material. Low lithium activity phases such as Li[sub 0.1]Al[sub 0.9] and LiAlSi in correspondence with positive electrode material cause a downward gradient in cell voltage as an indication of overdischarge prior to damage to the cell. Moreover, the low lithium activity phase contributes lithium into the electrolyte and provides a lithium shuttling current as overdischarge protection after all of the positive electrode material is discharged. 8 figs.

Structuring of material parameters in lithium niobate crystals with low-mass, high-energy ion radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peithmann, K.; Eversheim, P.-D.; Goetze, J.; Haaks, M.; Hattermann, H.; Haubrich, S.; Hinterberger, F.; Jentjens, L.; Mader, W.; Raeth, N. L.; Schmid, H.; Zamani-Meymian, M.-R.; Maier, K.

2011-10-01

Ferroelectric lithium niobate crystals offer a great potential for applications in modern optics. To provide powerful optical components, tailoring of key material parameters, especially of the refractive index n and the ferroelectric domain landscape, is required. Irradiation of lithium niobate crystals with accelerated ions causes strong structured modifications in the material. The effects induced by low-mass, high-energy ions (such as 3He with 41 MeV, which are not implanted, but transmit through the entire crystal volume) are reviewed. Irradiation yields large changes of the refractive index Δn, improved domain engineering capability within the material along the ion track, and waveguiding structures. The periodic modification of Δn as well as the formation of periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN) (supported by radiation damage) is described. Two-step knock-on displacement processes, 3He→Nb and 3He→O causing thermal spikes, are identified as origin for the material modifications.

Zr-doped TiO2 supported on delaminated clay materials for solar photocatalytic treatment of emerging pollutants.

PubMed

Belver, C; Bedia, J; Rodriguez, J J

2017-01-15

Solar light-active Zr-doped TiO 2 nanoparticles were successfully immobilized on delaminated clay materials by a one-step sol-gel route. Fixing the amount of TiO 2 at 65wt.%, this work studies the influence of Zr loading (up to 2%) on the photocatalytic activity of the resulting Zr-doped TiO 2 /clay materials. The structural characterization demonstrates that all samples were formed by a delaminated clay with nanostructured anatase assembled on its surface. The Zr dopant was successfully incorporated into the anatase lattice, resulting in a slight deformation of the anatase crystal and the reduction of the band gap. These materials exhibit high surface area with a disordered mesoporous structure formed by TiO 2 particles (15-20nm) supported on a delaminated clay. They were tested in the solar photodegradation of antipyrine, usually used as an analgesic drug and selected as an example of emerging pollutant. High degradation rates have been obtained at low antipyrine concentrations and high solar irradiation intensities with the Zr-doped TiO 2 /clay catalyst, more effective than the undoped one. This work demonstrates the potential application of the synthesis method for preparing novel and efficient solar-light photocatalysts based on metal-doped anatase and a delaminated clay. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Enhancement of ORR catalytic activity by multiple heteroatom-doped carbon materials.

PubMed

Kim, Dae-wook; Li, Oi Lun; Saito, Nagahiro

2015-01-07

Heteroatom-doped carbon matrices have been attracting significant attention due to their superior electrochemical stability, light weight and low cost. Hence, in this study, various types of heteroatom, including single dopants of N, B and P and multiple dopants of B-N and P-N with a carbon matrix were synthesized by an innovative method named the solution plasma process. The heteroatom was doped into the carbon matrix during the discharge process by continuous dissociation and recombination of precursors. The chemical bonding structure, ORR activity and electrochemical performance were compared in detail for each single dopant and multiple dopants. According to the Raman spectra, the carbon structures were deformed by the doped heteroatoms in the carbon matrix. In comparison with N-doped structures (NCNS), the ORR potential of PN-doped structures (PNCNS) was positively shifted from -0.27 V to -0.24 V. It was observed that doping with N decreased the bonding between P and C in the matrix. The multiple doping induced additional active sites for ORR which further enhanced ORR activity and stability. Therefore, PNCNS is a promising metal-free catalyst for ORR at the cathode in a fuel cell.

Shape-Dependent Skin Penetration of Silver Nanoparticles: Does It Really Matter?

PubMed Central

Tak, Yu Kyung; Pal, Sukdeb; Naoghare, Pravin K.; Rangasamy, Sabarinathan; Song, Joon Myong

2015-01-01

Advancements in nano-structured materials have facilitated several applications of nanoparticles (NPs). Skin penetration of NPs is a crucial factor for designing suitable topical antibacterial agents with low systemic toxicity. Available reports focus on size-dependent skin penetration of NPs, mainly through follicular pathways. Herein, for the first time, we demonstrate a proof-of-concept study that entails variations in skin permeability and diffusion coefficients, penetration rates and depth-of-penetration of differently shaped silver NPs (AgNPs) via intercellular pathways using both in vitro and in vivo models. The antimicrobial activity of AgNPs is known. Different shapes of AgNPs may exhibit diverse antimicrobial activities and skin penetration capabilities depending upon their active metallic facets. Consideration of the shape dependency of AgNPs in antimicrobial formulations could help developing an ideal topical agent with the highest efficacy and low systemic toxicity. PMID:26584777

Multilevel integration of patternable low-κ material into advanced Cu BEOL

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Qinghuang; Chen, S. T.; Nelson, A.; Brock, P.; Cohen, S.; Davis, B.; Fuller, N.; Kaplan, R.; Kwong, R.; Liniger, E.; Neumayer, D.; Patel, J.; Shobha, H.; Sooriyakumaran, R.; Purushothaman, S.; Spooner, T.; Miller, R.; Allen, R.; Wisnieff, R.

2010-04-01

In this paper, we wish to report, for the first time, on a simple, low-cost, novel way to form dual-damascene copper (Cu) on-chip interconnect or Back-End-Of-the-Line (BEOL) structures using a patternable low dielectric constant (low-κ) dielectric material concept. A patternable low-κ dielectric material combines the functions of a traditional resist and a dielectric material into one single material. It acts as a traditional resist during patterning and is subsequently converted to a low-κ dielectric material during a post-patterning curing process. No sacrificial materials (separate resists or hardmasks) and their related deposition, pattern transfer (etch) and removal (strip) are required to form dual-damascene BEOL patterns. We have successfully demonstrated multi-level dual-damascene integration of a novel patternable low-κ dielectric material into advanced Cu BEOL. This κ=2.7 patternable low-κ material is based on the industry standard SiCOH-based (silsesquioxane polymer) material platform and is compatible with 248 nm optical lithography. Multilevel integration of this patternable low-κ material at 45 nm node Cu BEOL fatwire levels has been demonstrated with very high electrical yields using the current manufacturing infrastructure.

Recombination reduction on lead halide perovskite solar cells based on low temperature synthesized hierarchical TiO₂ nanorods.

PubMed

Jaramillo-Quintero, Oscar A; Solís de la Fuente, Mauricio; Sanchez, Rafael S; Recalde, Ileana B; Juarez-Perez, Emilio J; Rincón, Marina E; Mora-Seró, Iván

2016-03-28

Intensive research on the electron transport material (ETM) has been pursued to improve the efficiency of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and decrease their cost. More importantly, the role of the ETM layer is not yet fully understood, and research on new device architectures is still needed. Here, we report the use of three-dimensional (3D) TiO2 with a hierarchical architecture based on rutile nanorods (NR) as photoanode material for PSCs. The proposed hierarchical nanorod (HNR) films were synthesized by a two-step low temperature (180 °C) hydrothermal method, and consist of TiO2 nanorod trunks with optimal lengths of 540 nm and TiO2 nanobranches with lengths of 45 nm. Different device configurations were fabricated with TiO2 structures (compact layer, NR and HNR) and CH3NH3PbI3, using different synthetic routes, as the active material. PSCs based on HNR-CH3NH3PbI3 achieved the highest power conversion efficiency compared to PSCs with other TiO2 structures. This result can be ascribed mainly to lower charge recombination as determined by impedance spectroscopy. Furthermore, we have observed that the CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite deposited by the two-step route shows higher efficiency, surface coverage and infiltration within the structure of 3D HNR than the one-step CH3NH3PbI(3-x)Cl(x) perovskite.

Negative-pressure polymorphs made by heterostructural alloying

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

Siol, Sebastian; Holder, Aaron; Steffes, James

The ability of a material to adopt multiple structures, known as polymorphism, is a fascinating natural phenomenon. Various polymorphs with unusual properties are routinely synthesized by compression under positive pressure. However, changing a material's structure by applying tension under negative pressure is much more difficult. We show how negative-pressure polymorphs can be synthesized by mixing materials with different crystal structures - a general approach that should be applicable to many materials. Theoretical calculations suggest that it costs less energy to mix low-density structures than high-density structures, due to less competition for space between the atoms. Proof-of-concept experiments confirm that mixingmore » two different high-density forms of MnSe and MnTe stabilizes a Mn(Se,Te) alloy with a low-density wurtzite structure. This Mn(Se,Te) negative-pressure polymorph has 2x to 4x lower electron effective mass compared to MnSe and MnTe parent compounds and has a piezoelectric response that none of the parent compounds have. Lastly, this example shows how heterostructural alloying can lead to negative-pressure polymorphs with useful properties - materials that are otherwise nearly impossible to make.« less

Negative-pressure polymorphs made by heterostructural alloying

DOE PAGES

Siol, Sebastian; Holder, Aaron; Steffes, James; ...

2018-04-20

The ability of a material to adopt multiple structures, known as polymorphism, is a fascinating natural phenomenon. Various polymorphs with unusual properties are routinely synthesized by compression under positive pressure. However, changing a material's structure by applying tension under negative pressure is much more difficult. We show how negative-pressure polymorphs can be synthesized by mixing materials with different crystal structures - a general approach that should be applicable to many materials. Theoretical calculations suggest that it costs less energy to mix low-density structures than high-density structures, due to less competition for space between the atoms. Proof-of-concept experiments confirm that mixingmore » two different high-density forms of MnSe and MnTe stabilizes a Mn(Se,Te) alloy with a low-density wurtzite structure. This Mn(Se,Te) negative-pressure polymorph has 2x to 4x lower electron effective mass compared to MnSe and MnTe parent compounds and has a piezoelectric response that none of the parent compounds have. Lastly, this example shows how heterostructural alloying can lead to negative-pressure polymorphs with useful properties - materials that are otherwise nearly impossible to make.« less

Preparation and characterization of a hybrid alkaline binder based on a fly ash with no commercial value

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

Mejia, Johanna M.; Rodriguez, Erich; Mejia de Gutierrez, Ruby

2015-05-18

Alkali-activated Portland fly ash cement (FA/OPC) and alkali activated blast furnace slag-fly ash cement (FA/GBFS) were prepared using 70% of a low quality fly ash (FA). The low quality is associated with a high content of unburned material (loss of ignition of 14.6%). The hybrid cements were activated by the alkaline solution in order to obtain an overall SiO 2/Al 2O 3 molar ratio of 5.0 and 6.0 and unique overall Na 2O/SiO 2 molar ratio of 0.21. The microstructural characterization of the blended pastes generated in the systems showed the coexistence of amorphous gels C-A-S-H and N-A-S-H gels inmore » the hybrid systems. The addition of OPC or GBFS increases the compressive strength (at 28 days of curing) up to 127% compared with the geopolymer systems based only on FA used in this study. The content of silicates soluble also plays an important role in the reaction products and higher SiO 2/Al 2O 3 lead to obtain higher mechanical performance and denser structure. The results obtained show that these hybrid cements are an effective way for valorization the waste used in this study for the production of high strength and low-carbon footprint cement-type material.« less

Foldable and High Sulfur Loading 3D Carbon Electrode for High-performance Li-S Battery Application

PubMed Central

He, Na; Zhong, Lei; Xiao, Min; Wang, Shuanjin; Han, Dongmei; Meng, Yuezhong

2016-01-01

Sulfur is a promising cathode material with a high theoretical capacity of 1672 mAh g−1, however, the practical energy density of Li-S battery is far away from such promising due to its low active material utilization and low sulfur loading. Moreover, the challenges of the low electrical conductivity of sulfur and the high solubility of polysulfide intermediates still hinder its practical application. Here, we report a kind of free-standing and foldable cathodes consisting of 3D activated carbon fiber matrix and sulfur cathode. The 3D activated carbon fiber matrix (ACFC) has continuous conductive framework and sufficient internal space to provide a long-distance and continuous high-speed electron pathway. It also gives a very larger internal space and tortuous cathode region to ACFC accommodate a highly sulfur loading and keeps polysulfide within the cathode. The unique structured 3D foldable sulfur cathode using a foldable ACFC as matrix delivers a reversible capacity of about 979 mAh g−1 at 0.2C, a capacity retention of 98% after 100 cycles, and 0.02% capacity attenuation per cycle. Even at an areal capacity of 6 mAh cm−2, which is 2 times higher than the values of Li-ion battery, it still maintains an excellent rate capability and cycling performance. PMID:27677602

Falling Leaves Inspired ZnO Nanorods-Nanoslices Hierarchical Structure for Implant Surface Modification with Two Stage Releasing Features.

PubMed

Liao, Hang; Miao, Xinxin; Ye, Jing; Wu, Tianlong; Deng, Zhongbo; Li, Chen; Jia, Jingyu; Cheng, Xigao; Wang, Xiaolei

2017-04-19

Inspired from falling leaves, ZnO nanorods-nanoslices hierarchical structure (NHS) was constructed to modify the surfaces of two widely used implant materials: titanium (Ti) and tantalum (Ta), respectively. By which means, two-stage release of antibacterial active substances were realized to address the clinical importance of long-term broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. At early stages (within 48 h), the NHS exhibited a rapid releasing to kill the bacteria around the implant immediately. At a second stage (over 2 weeks), the NHS exhibited a slow releasing to realize long-term inhibition. The excellent antibacterial activity of ZnO NHS was confirmed once again by animal test in vivo. According to the subsequent experiments, the ZnO NHS coating exhibited the great advantage of high efficiency, low toxicity, and long-term durability, which could be a feasible manner to prevent the abuse of antibiotics on implant-related surgery.

Review of Concrete Biodeterioration in Relation to Buried Nuclear Waste

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

Turick, C; Berry, C.

Long-term storage of low level radioactive material in below ground concrete disposal units (DUs) (Saltstone Disposal Facility) is a means of depositing wastes generated from nuclear operations of the U.S. Department of Energy. Based on the currently modeled degradation mechanisms, possible microbial induced effects on the structural integrity of buried low level wastes must be addressed. Previous international efforts related to microbial impacts on concrete structures that house low level radioactive waste showed that microbial activity can play a significant role in the process of concrete degradation and ultimately structural deterioration. This literature review examines the recent research in thismore » field and is focused on specific parameters that are applicable to modeling and prediction of the fate of concrete vaults housing stored wastes and the wastes themselves. Rates of concrete biodegradation vary with the environmental conditions, illustrating a need to understand the bioavailability of key compounds involved in microbial activity. Specific parameters require pH and osmotic pressure to be within a certain range to allow for microbial growth as well as the availability and abundance of energy sources like components involved in sulfur, iron and nitrogen oxidation. Carbon flow and availability are also factors to consider in predicting concrete biodegradation. The results of this review suggest that microbial activity in Saltstone, (grouted low level radioactive waste) is unlikely due to very high pH and osmotic pressure. Biodegradation of the concrete vaults housing the radioactive waste however, is a possibility. The rate and degree of concrete biodegradation is dependent on numerous physical, chemical and biological parameters. Results from this review point to parameters to focus on for modeling activities and also, possible options for mitigation that would minimize concrete biodegradation. In addition, key chemical components that drive microbial activity on concrete surfaces are discussed.« less

NASA-UVa Light Aerospace Alloy and Structures Technology Program: Aluminum-Based Materials for High Speed Aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Starke, E. A., Jr. (Editor)

1996-01-01

This report is concerned with 'Aluminum-Based Materials for High Speed Aircraft' which was initiated to identify the technology needs associated with advanced, low-cost aluminum base materials for use as primary structural materials. Using a reference baseline aircraft, these materials concept will be further developed and evaluated both technically and economically to determine the most attractive combinations of designs, materials, and manufacturing techniques for major structural sections of an HSCT. Once this has been accomplished, the baseline aircraft will be resized, if applicable, and performance objectives and economic evaluations made to determine aircraft operating costs. The two primary objectives of this study are: (1) to identify the most promising aluminum-based materials with respect to major structural use on the HSCT and to further develop those materials, and (2) to assess these materials through detailed trade and evaluation studies with respect to their structural efficiency on the HSCT.

Low Density Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-03-09

materials structures across scales for design of engineered systems ODISSEI: Origami Design for Integration of Self-assembling Systems for...AGENCIES Origami Engineering US-India Tunable Materials Forum US-AFRICA Initiative Reliance 21 Board Materials and Processing COI 29 DISTRIBUTION A

Effect of temperature on composite sandwich structures subjected to low velocity impact. [aircraft construction materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sharma, A. V.

1980-01-01

The effect of low velocity projectile impact on sandwich-type structural components was investigated. The materials used in the fabrication of the impact surface were graphite-, Kevlar-, and boron-fibers with appropriate epoxy matrices. The testing of the specimens was performed at moderately low- and high-temperatures as well as at room temperature to assess the impact-initiated strength degradation of the laminates. Eleven laminates with different stacking sequences, orientations, and thicknesses were tested. The low energy projectile impact is considered to simulate the damage caused by runway debris, the dropping of the hand tools during servicing, etc., on the secondary aircraft structures fabricated with the composite materials. The results show the preload and the impact energy combinations necessary to cause catastrophic failure in the laminates tested. A set of faired curves indicating the failure thresholds is shown separately for the tension-and compression-loaded laminates. The specific-strengths and -modulii for the various laminates tested are also given.

Superalloy Foams for Aeroshell Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gayda, John; Padula, Santo, II

2001-01-01

Current thermal protection systems for reentry from space, such as that employed on the space shuttle, rely on ceramic tiles with ultra-low conductivity. These materials provide excellent thermal protection but are extremely fragile, easily degraded by environmental attack, and carry no structural loads. Future thermal protection systems being proposed in NASAs MITAS Program will attempt to combine thermal protection with improved durability and structural capability without significant increases in vehicle weight. This may be accomplished by combining several materials in a layered structure to obtain the desired function for aeroshell applications. One class of materials being considered for inclusion in this concept are high temperature metal foam. The objective of this paper was to fabricate low density, superalloy foams and conduct limited testing to evaluate their thermal and structural capabilities. Superalloys were chosen for evaluation as they possesses good strength and excellent environmental endurance over a wide range of temperatures. Utilizing superalloys as low density foams, with porosity contents greater than 90%, minimizes weight and thermal conductivity.

Application of advanced technologies to small, short-haul transport aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coussens, T. G.; Tullis, R. H.

1980-01-01

The performance and economic benefits available by incorporation of advanced technologies into the small, short haul air transport were assessed. Low cost structure and advanced composite material, advanced turboprop engines and new propellers, advanced high lift systems and active controls; and alternate aircraft configurations with aft mounted engines were investigated. Improvements in fuel consumed and aircraft economics (acquisition cost and direct operating cost) are available by incorporating selected advanced technologies into the small, short haul aircraft.

Low-Activity Radioactive Wastes

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

In 2003 EPA published an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR) to collect public comment on alternatives for disposal of waste containing low concentrations of radioactive material ('low-activity' waste).

Effect of Severe Plastic Deformation on Structure and Properties of Al-Sc-Ta and Al-Sc-Ti Alloys.

PubMed

Berezina, Alla; Monastyrska, Tetiana; Davydenko, Olexandr; Molebny, Oleh; Polishchuk, Sergey

2017-12-01

The comparative analysis of the effect of monotonous and non-monotonous severe plastic deformations (SPD) on the structure and properties of aluminum alloys has been carried out. Conventional hydrostatic extrusion (HE) with a constant deformation direction and equal-channel angular hydroextrusion (ECAH) with an abrupt change in the deformation direction were chosen for the cases of monotonous and non-monotonous SPD, respectively. Model cast hypoeutectic Al-0.3%Sc alloys and hypereutectic Al-0.6%Sc alloys with Ta and Ti additives were chosen for studying. It was demonstrated that SPD of the alloys resulted in the segregation of the material into active and inactive zones which formed a banded structure. The active zones were shown to be bands of localized plastic deformation. The distance between zones was found to be independent of the accumulated strain degree and was in the range of 0.6-1 μm. Dynamic recrystallization in the active zones was observed using TEM. The dynamic recrystallization was accompanied by the formation of disclinations, deformation bands, low-angle, and high-angle boundaries, i.e., rotational deformation modes developed. The dynamic recrystallization was more intense during the non-monotonous deformation as compared with the monotonous one, which was confirmed by the reduction of texture degree in the materials after ECAH.

Electrodeposition of nickel sulfide on graphene-covered make-up cotton as a flexible electrode material for high-performance supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yiju; Ye, Ke; Cheng, Kui; Yin, Jinling; Cao, Dianxue; Wang, Guiling

2015-01-01

In this report, graphene nanosheets (GNS)/nickel sulfide (NiS) based material for high-performance supercapacitor is prepared by "dip and dry" and electrodeposition methods. Commercial flexible make-up cottons (MCs) are chose as skeletons to construct homogeneous three-dimensional (3D) interconnected graphene-wrapped macro-networks, which can support structures for high loading of active electrode materials and facilitate the access of electrolytes to active electrode materials. The hybrid GNS/NiS based MCs (denoted as MCs@GNS@NiS) electrode yields relatively high specific capacitance of 775 F g-1 at a charge/discharge specific current of 0.5 A g-1 and good capacitance retention of 88.1% after 1000 cycles at 2 A g-1. Furthermore, the MCs@GNS@NiS electrode delivers a high energy density of 11.2 Wh kg-1 at even a high power density of 1008 W kg-1. Therefore, such low-cost and high-performance energy MCs based on GNS/NiS hierarchical nanostructures offer great promise in large-scale energy storage device applications.

Low activation steels welding with PWHT and coating for ITER test blanket modules and DEMO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aubert, P.; Tavassoli, F.; Rieth, M.; Diegele, E.; Poitevin, Y.

2011-02-01

EUROFER weldability is investigated in support of the European material properties database and TBM manufacturing. Electron Beam, Hybrid, laser and narrow gap TIG processes have been carried out on the EUROFER-97 steel (thickness up to 40 mm), a reduced activation ferritic-martensitic steel developed in Europe. These welding processes produce similar welding results with high joint coefficients and are well adapted for minimizing residual distortions. The fusion zones are typically composed of martensite laths, with small grain sizes. In the heat-affected zones, martensite grains contain carbide precipitates. High hardness values are measured in all these zones that if not tempered would degrade toughness and creep resistance. PWHT developments have driven to a one-step PWHT (750 °C/3 h), successfully applied to joints restoring good material performances. It will produce less distortion levels than a full austenitization PWHT process, not really applicable to a complex welded structure such as the TBM. Different tungsten coatings have been successfully processed on EUROFER material. It has shown no really effect on the EUROFER base material microstructure.

Combination of lightweight elements and nanostructured materials for batteries.

PubMed

Chen, Jun; Cheng, Fangyi

2009-06-16

In a society that increasingly relies on mobile electronics, demand is rapidly growing for both primary and rechargeable batteries that power devices from cell phones to vehicles. Existing batteries utilize lightweight active materials that use electrochemical reactions of ions such as H(+), OH(-) and Li(+)/Mg(2+) to facilitate energy storage and conversion. Ideal batteries should be inexpensive, have high energy density, and be made from environmentally friendly materials; batteries based on bulk active materials do not meet these requirements. Because of slow electrode process kinetics and low-rate ionic diffusion/migration, most conventional batteries demonstrate huge gaps between their theoretical and practical performance. Therefore, efforts are underway to improve existing battery technologies and develop new electrode reactions for the next generation of electrochemical devices. Advances in electrochemistry, surface science, and materials chemistry are leading to the use of nanomaterials for efficient energy storage and conversion. Nanostructures offer advantages over comparable bulk materials in improving battery performance. This Account summarizes our progress in battery development using a combination of lightweight elements and nanostructured materials. We highlight the benefits of nanostructured active materials for primary zinc-manganese dioxide (Zn-Mn), lithium-manganese dioxide (Li-Mn), and metal (Mg, Al, Zn)-air batteries, as well as rechargeable lithium ion (Li-ion) and nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries. Through selected examples, we illustrate the effect of structure, shape, and size on the electrochemical properties of electrode materials. Because of their numerous active sites and facile electronic/ionic transfer and diffusion, nanostructures can improve battery efficiency. In particular, we demonstrate the properties of nanostructured active materials including Mg, Al, Si, Zn, MnO(2), CuV(2)O(6), LiNi(0.8)Co(0.2)O(2), LiFePO(4), Fe(2)O(3), Co(3)O(4), TiS(2), and Ni(OH)(2) in battery applications. Electrochemical investigations reveal that we generally attain larger capacities and improved kinetics for electrode materials as their average particle size decreases. Novel nanostructures such as nanowires, nanotubes, nanourchins, and porous nanospheres show lower activation energy, enhanced reactivity, improved high-rate charge/discharge capability, and more controlled structural flexibility than their bulk counterparts. In particular, anode materials such as Si nanospheres and Fe(2)O(3) nanotubes can deliver reversible capacity exceeding 500 mA.h/g. (Graphite used commercially has a theoretical capacity of 372 mA x h/g.) Nanocomposite cathode materials such as NiP-doped LiFePO(4) and metal hydroxide-coated Ni(OH)(2) nanotubes allow us to integrate functional components, which enhance electrical conductivity and suppress volume expansion. Therefore, shifting from bulk to nanostructured electrode materials could offer a revolutionary opportunity to develop advanced green batteries with large capacity, high energy and power density, and long cycle life.

Nanowire-Assembled Hierarchical ZnCo2O4 Microstructure Integrated with a Low-Power Microheater for Highly Sensitive Formaldehyde Detection.

PubMed

Long, Hu; Harley-Trochimczyk, Anna; Cheng, Siyi; Hu, Hao; Chi, Won Seok; Rao, Ameya; Carraro, Carlo; Shi, Tielin; Tang, Zirong; Maboudian, Roya

2016-11-23

Nanowire-assembled 3D hierarchical ZnCo 2 O 4 microstructure is synthesized by a facile hydrothermal route and a subsequent annealing process. In comparison to simple nanowires, the resulting dandelion-like structure yields more open spaces between nanowires, which allow for better gas diffusion and provide more active sites for gas adsorption while maintaining good electrical conductivity. The hierarchical ZnCo 2 O 4 microstructure is integrated on a low-power microheater platform without using binders or conductive additives. The hierarchical structure of the ZnCo 2 O 4 sensing material provides reliable electrical connection across the sensing electrodes. The resulting sensor exhibits an ultralow detection limit of 3 ppb toward formaldehyde with fast response and recovery as well as good selectivity to CO, H 2 , and hydrocarbons such as n-pentane, propane, and CH 4 . The sensor only consumes ∼5.7 mW for continuous operation at 300 °C with good long-term stability. The excellent sensing performance of this hierarchical structure based sensor suggests the advantages of combining such structures with microfabricated heaters for practical low-power sensing applications.

Development and characterization of a rechargeable carbon foam electrode containing nickel oxyhydroxide active mass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chye, Matthew B.

2011-12-01

Batteries and asymmetric electrochemical capacitors using nickel-based positive electrodes can provide high currents due to their defect structure and low internal resistance. Nickel-based positive electrodes, therefore, are ideal for high current applications such as power tools and electric vehicles (EVs). The positive electrodes prepared in this research are monolithic graphitic foams electrochemically impregnated with nickel oxyhydroxide active mass and select additives that enhance electrode performance. Carbon foam is a good current collector due to its light-weight, porous, and graphitic nature, which give its good electrical properties and the ability to be used as a current collector. Replacing sintered nickel current collectors in nickel-based batteries with a low cost, readily available material, carbon foam, can reduce the mass of a rechargeable battery. The goal of this research has been to contribute to fundamental science through better understanding of optimizing the deposition and formation processes of the active mass onto carbon foams as well as investigating the active mass behavior under deposition, formation, and cycling conditions. Flooded cells and a PFA sealed asymmetric capacitor have been used. The effects of carbon foam surface pretreatments and how they affect the active material/carbon foam performance are demonstrated. Also the feasibility of this positive electrode as a component in nickel-based batteries, a Ni-Zn cells and an asymmetric capacitor pouch cell, is demonstrated.

Low Frequency Vibration approach to asess the Performance of wood structural Systems

Treesearch

Xiping Wang; Robert J. Ross; Michael O. Hunt

2004-01-01

The primary means of inspecting buildings and other structures is to evaluate each structure member individually. This is a time consuming process that is expensive, particularly if sheathing or other covering materials must be removed to access the structural members. This paper presents an effort to use a low frequency vibration method for assessing the structural...

Failure of structural elements made of polymer supported composite materials during the multiyear natural aging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blinkov, Pavel; Ogorodov, Leonid; Grabovyy, Peter

2018-03-01

Modern high-rise construction introduces a number of limitations and tasks. In addition to durability, comfort and profitability, projects should take into account energy efficiency and environmental problems. Polymer building materials are used as substitutes for materials such as brick, concrete, metal, wood and glass, and in addition to traditional materials. Plastic materials are light, can be formed into complex shapes, durable and low, and also possess a wide range of properties. Plastic materials are available in various forms, colors and textures and require minimal or no color. They are resistant to heat transfer and diffusion of moisture and do not suffer from metal corrosion or microbial attack. Polymeric materials, including thermoplastics, thermoset materials and wood-polymer composites, have many structural and non-structural applications in the construction industry. They provide unique and innovative solutions at a low cost, and their use is likely to grow in the future. A number of polymer composite materials form complex material compositions, which are applied in the construction in order to analyze the processes of damage accumulation under the conditions of complex nonstationary loading modes, and to determine the life of structural elements considering the material aging. This paper present the results of tests on short-term compression loading with a deformation rate of v = 2 mm/min using composite samples of various shapes and sizes.

Materials Development for All-Solid-State Battery Electrolytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Weimin

Solid electrolytes in all solid-state batteries, provide higher attainable energy density and improved safety. Ideal solid electrolytes require high ionic conductivity, a high elastic modulus to prevent dendrite growth, chemical compatibility with electrodes, and ease of fabrication into thin films. Although various materials types, including polymers, ceramics, and composites, are under intense investigation, unifying design principles have not been identified. In this thesis, we study the key ion transport mechanisms in relation to the structural characteristics of polymers and glassy solids, and apply derived material design strategies to develop polymer-silica hybrid materials with improved electrolyte performance characteristics. Poly(ethylene) oxide-based solid electrolytes containing ceramic nanoparticles are attractive alternatives to liquid electrolytes for high-energy density Li batteries. We compare the effect of Li1.3Al0.3Ti 1.7(PO4)3 active nanoparticles, passive TiO 2 nanoparticles and fumed silica. Up to two orders of magnitude enhancement in ionic conductivity is observed for composites with active nanoparticles, attributed to cation migration through a percolating interphase region that develops around the active nanoparticles, even at low nanoparticle loading. We investigate the structural origin of elastic properties and ionic migration mechanisms in sodium borosilicate and sodium borogermanate glass electrolyte system. A new statistical thermodynamic reaction equilibrium model is used in combination with data from nuclear magnetic resonance and Brillouin light scattering measurements to determine network structural unit fractions. The highly coordinated structural units are found to be predominantly responsible for effective mechanical load transmission, by establishing three-dimensional covalent connectivity. A strong correlation exists between bulk modulus and the activation energy for ion conduction. We describe the activated process in glasses as involving a jump by the migrating cation and transient reversible isotropic displacement of atoms in the immediate vicinity, and express the activation energy as a sum of Coulomb and elastic terms. By fitting our experimental data to this model, we find that the number of affected atoms in the vicinity ranges between 20 and 30. Furthermore, elastic deformations in ion jumping are almost purely hydrostatic and hardly shear. Considering that the energy required for the cation jump is made available by concentrating thermal phonons at the jump site, we establish a relationship between structural stiffness and activation energy. Moreover, the more atoms that partake in the cation jump, the more degrees of freedom for atomic motion can be relied upon to achieve the required net outward expansion to facilitate the passage of the jumping cation, lowering the activation energy. To combine the flexibility of polymers and the good mechanical and electrochemical properties of silica, we use sol-gel methods for fabricating silica-based hybrid organic-inorganic electrolytes. Polyethylene glycol is covalently grafted onto the silica backbone as the organic filler that provides the environment for ion conduction. We developed synthesis methods in which grafting and polycondensation occur concurrently, or the grafting occurs after the silica backbone has formed. Small angle x-ray scattering measurements reveal that different structures are achieved depending on the method used. The two-step procedure allows for a larger amount of conducting polymer to be embedded into network pores than in the one-pot method. This greatly enhances the ionic conductivity without sacrificing mechanical stability afforded by the continuous silica backbone. Here we provide a cumulative account of a systematic materials design efforts, in which we sequentially implement several important design aspects to identify their respective importance and influence on the materials performance characteristics.

Hysteresis modeling and identification of a dielectric electro-active polymer actuator using an APSO-based nonlinear Preisach NARX fuzzy model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Truong, Bui Ngoc Minh; Nam, Doan Ngoc Chi; Ahn, Kyoung Kwan

2013-09-01

Dielectric electro-active polymer (DEAP) materials are attractive since they are low cost, lightweight and have a large deformation capability. They have no operating noise, very low electric power consumption and higher performance and efficiency than competing technologies. However, DEAP materials generally have strong hysteresis as well as uncertain and nonlinear characteristics. These disadvantages can limit the efficiency in the use of DEAP materials. To address these limitations, this research will present the combination of the Preisach model and the dynamic nonlinear autoregressive exogenous (NARX) fuzzy model-based adaptive particle swarm optimization (APSO) identification algorithm for modeling and identification of the nonlinear behavior of one typical type of DEAP actuator. Firstly, open loop input signals are applied to obtain nonlinear features and to investigate the responses of the DEAP actuator system. Then, a Preisach model can be combined with a dynamic NARX fuzzy structure to estimate the tip displacement of a DEAP actuator. To optimize all unknown parameters of the designed combination, an identification scheme based on a least squares method and an APSO algorithm is carried out. Finally, experimental validation research is carefully completed, and the effectiveness of the proposed model is evaluated by employing various input signals.

Fracture Characteristics of Two High-Strength, Low-Alloy and Two Stainless Steels

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-01-01

conditions. The effects of hydrogen. and temper. embrittlement on the materials’ behavior when fractured under tensile and fatigue fonditions were... effects of hydrogen- and tomper-embrittlement have a bet, crystal structure, this plane has the type on the materials’ behavior when fractured under...A. Troiano, "The Role of lydrogen and Other Intersiftials high-strength, low-alloy structural steels generally used in the Mechanical Behavior ot

Fiber optics structural mechanics and nanotechnology based new generation of fiber coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suhir, E.

2006-02-01

This paper consists of two parts - review and extension. The review part deals with typical fiber optics structures (bare, single- and dual-coated fibers; fibers experiencing low temperature micro-bending; fibers soldered into ferrules or adhesively bonded into capillaries; role of the non-linear stress-strain relationship, etc.) subjected to thermally induced and/or mechanical loading in bending, tension, compression, or to various combinations of such loadings. The emphasis is on the state-of-the-art in the area of optical fiber coatings and the functional (optical), mechanical and environmental problems that occur in polymer-coated or metallized fibers. The solutions to the examined problems are obtained using analytical methods (predictive models) of structural mechanics. The review is based primarily on the author's research conducted at Bell Laboratories, Murray Hill, NJ, during his eighteen years tenure with this company. The extension part addresses a new generation of optical fiber coatings and deals with the application of a newly developed (by the ERS/Siloptix Co.) nano-particle material (NPM) that is used as an attractive substitute for the existing optical fiber coatings. This NPM-based coating has all the merits of polymer and metal coatings, but is free of their shortcomings. The developed material is an unconventional inhomogeneous "smart" composite material, which is equivalent to a homogeneous material with the following major properties: low Young's modulus, immunity to corrosion, good-to-excellent adhesion to adjacent material(s), non-volatile, stable properties at temperature extremes (from -220°C to +350°C), very long (practically infinite) lifetime, "active" hydrophobicity - the material provides a moisture barrier (to both water and water vapor), and, if necessary, can even "wick" moisture away from the contact surface; ability for "self-healing" and "healing": the NPM is able to restore its own dimensions, when damaged, and is able to fill existing or developed defects (cracks and other "imperfections") in contacted surfaces; very low (near unity) effective refractive index (if needed). NPM can be designed, depending on the application, to enhance those properties most important. NPM properties have been confirmed through testing. The tests have demonstrated the outstanding mechanical reliability, extraordinary environmental durability and, in particular applications, improved optical performance of the light guide.

Processing bulk natural wood into a high-performance structural material

Treesearch

Jianwei Song; Chaoji Chen; Shuze Zhu; Mingwei Zhu; Jiaqi Dai; Upamanyu Ray; Yiju Li; Yudi Kuang; Yongfeng Li; Nelson Quispe; Yonggang Yao; Amy Gong; Ulrich H. Leiste; Hugh A. Bruck; J. Y. Zhu; Azhar Vellore; Heng Li; Marilyn L. Minus; Zheng Jia; Ashlie Martini; Teng Li; Liangbing Hu

2018-01-01

Synthetic structural materials with exceptional mechanical performance suffer from either large weight and adverse environmental impact (for example, steels and alloys) or complex manufacturing processes and thus high cost (for example, polymer-based and biomimetic composites)1–8. Natural wood is a low-cost and abundant material and has been used...

Patched bimetallic surfaces are active catalysts for ammonia decomposition.

PubMed

Guo, Wei; Vlachos, Dionisios G

2015-10-07

Ammonia decomposition is often used as an archetypical reaction for predicting new catalytic materials and understanding the very reason of why some reactions are sensitive on material's structure. Core-shell or surface-segregated bimetallic nanoparticles expose outstanding activity for many heterogeneously catalysed reactions but the reasons remain elusive owing to the difficulties in experimentally characterizing active sites. Here by performing multiscale simulations in ammonia decomposition on various nickel loadings on platinum (111), we show that the very high activity of core-shell structures requires patches of the guest metal to create and sustain dual active sites: nickel terraces catalyse N-H bond breaking and nickel edge sites drive atomic nitrogen association. The structure sensitivity on these active catalysts depends profoundly on reaction conditions due to kinetically competing relevant elementary reaction steps. We expose a remarkable difference in active sites between transient and steady-state studies and provide insights into optimal material design.

Patched bimetallic surfaces are active catalysts for ammonia decomposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Wei; Vlachos, Dionisios G.

2015-10-01

Ammonia decomposition is often used as an archetypical reaction for predicting new catalytic materials and understanding the very reason of why some reactions are sensitive on material's structure. Core-shell or surface-segregated bimetallic nanoparticles expose outstanding activity for many heterogeneously catalysed reactions but the reasons remain elusive owing to the difficulties in experimentally characterizing active sites. Here by performing multiscale simulations in ammonia decomposition on various nickel loadings on platinum (111), we show that the very high activity of core-shell structures requires patches of the guest metal to create and sustain dual active sites: nickel terraces catalyse N-H bond breaking and nickel edge sites drive atomic nitrogen association. The structure sensitivity on these active catalysts depends profoundly on reaction conditions due to kinetically competing relevant elementary reaction steps. We expose a remarkable difference in active sites between transient and steady-state studies and provide insights into optimal material design.

Casting a Wider Net: Rational Synthesis Design of Low-Dimensional Bulk Materials.

PubMed

Benavides, Katherine A; Oswald, Iain W H; Chan, Julia Y

2018-01-16

The discovery of novel magnetic and electronic properties in low-dimensional materials has led to the pursuit of hierarchical materials with specific substructures. Low-dimensional solids are highly anisotropic by nature and show promise in new quantum materials leading to exotic physical properties not realized in three-dimensional materials. We have the opportunity to extend our synthetic strategy of the flux-growth method to designing single crystalline low-dimensional materials in bulk. The goal of this Account is to highlight the synthesis and physical properties of several low-dimensional intermetallic compounds containing specific structural motifs that are linked to desirable magnetic and electrical properties. We turned our efforts toward intermetallic compounds consisting of antimony nets because they are closely linked to properties such as high carrier mobility (the velocity of an electron moving through a material under a magnetic field) and large magnetoresistance (the change in resistivity with an applied magnetic field), both of which are desirable properties for technological applications. The SmSb 2 structure type is of particular interest because it is comprised of rectangular antimony nets and rare earth ions stacked between the antimony nets in a square antiprismatic environment. LnSb 2 (Ln = La-Nd, Sm) have been shown to be highly anisotropic with SmSb 2 exhibiting magnetoresistance of over 50000% for H∥c axis and ∼2400% for H∥ab. Using this structure type as an initial building block, we envision the insertion of transition metal substructures into the SmSb 2 structure type to produce ternary materials. We describe compounds adopting the HfCuSi 2 structure type as an insertion of a tetrahedral transition metal-antimony subunit into the LnSb 2 host structure. We studied LnNi 1-x Sb 2 (Ln = Y, Gd-Er), where positive magnetoresistance reaching above 100% was found for the Y, Gd, and Ho analogues. We investigated the influence of the transition metal sublattice by substituting Ni into Ce(Cu 1-x Ni x ) y Sb 2 (y < 0.8) and found that the material is highly anisotropic and metamagnetic transitions appear at ∼0.5 and 1 T in compounds with higher Ni concentration. Metamagnetism is characterized by a sharp increase in the magnetic response of a material with increasing applied magnetic field, which was also observed in LnSb 2 (Ln = Ce-Nd). We also endeavored to study materials that possess a transition metal sublattice with the potential for geometric frustration. An example is the La 2 Fe 4 Sb 5 structure type, which consists of antimony square nets and an iron-based network arranged in nearly equilateral triangles, a feature found in magnetically frustrated systems. We discovered spin glass behavior in Ln 2 Fe 4 Sb 5 (Ln = La-Nd, Sm) and evidence that the transition metal sublattice contributes to the magnetic interactions of Ln 2 Fe 4 Sb 5 . We investigated the magnetic properties of Pr 2 Fe 4-x Co x Sb 5 (x < 2.3) and found that as the Co concentration increases, a second magnetic transition leads from a localized to an itinerant system. The La 2 Fe 4 Sb 5 structure type is quite robust and allows for the incorporation of other transition metals, thereby making it an excellent candidate to study competing magnetic interactions in lanthanide-containing intermetallic compounds. In this manuscript, we aim to share our experiences of bulk intermetallic compounds to inspire the development of new low-dimensional materials.

An Aurivillius Oxide Based Cathode with Excellent CO2 Tolerance for Intermediate-Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells.

PubMed

Zhu, Yinlong; Zhou, Wei; Chen, Yubo; Shao, Zongping

2016-07-25

The Aurivillius oxide Bi2 Sr2 Nb2 MnO12-δ (BSNM) was used as a cobalt-free cathode for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs). To the best of our knowledge, the BSNM oxide is the only alkaline-earth-containing cathode material with complete CO2 tolerance that has been reported thus far. BSNM not only shows favorable activity in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) at intermediate temperatures but also exhibits a low thermal expansion coefficient, excellent structural stability, and good chemical compatibility with the electrolyte. These features highlight the potential of the new BSNM material as a highly promising cathode material for IT-SOFCs. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Peculiarities of non-autoclaved lime wall materials production using clays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Volodchenko, A. A.; Lesovik, V. S.; Cherepanova, I. A.; Volodchenko, A. N.; Zagorodnjuk, L. H.; Elistratkin, M. Y.

2018-03-01

At present, the development and implementation of energy saving technologies for building materials production, which correspond to modern trends of «green» technologies, become ever more popular. One of the most widely spread wall materials today is a lime brick and stones. The primary raw goods used in production of such materials are quarziferous rocks. However, they have some disadvantages, including low strength index at the intermediate phase of their production, especially in case with a raw brick, which is an issue in the production of high-hollow goods due to low strength index of raw materials and the nonoptimal matrix structure. The conducted experiments confirmed the possibility to control structurization of building composites due to application of nonconventional argillous raw materials. Besides, the material and mineral composition of nonconventional clay rocks ensures the optimal microstructure thus providing for the production of efficient wall building materials via energy saving technology.

A toxicologic and dermatologic assessment of cinnamyl phenylpropyl materials when used as fragrance ingredients.

PubMed

Belsito, D; Bickers, D; Bruze, M; Calow, P; Dagli, M; Fryer, A D; Greim, H; Miyachi, Y; Saurat, J H; Sipes, I G

2011-12-01

The cinnamyl phenylpropyl fragrance ingredients are a diverse group of chemical structures that have similar metabolic and toxicity profiles. A toxicological and dermatological review of these fragrance ingredients is presented. The common characteristic structural element of cinnamyl phenylpropyl materials is an aryl substituted primary alcohol/aldehyde/ester. For high end users, calculated maximum dermal exposures vary from 0.14% to 0.72%; systemic exposures vary from 0.0002 to 0.0280 mg/kg/day. Human dermatological studies show that these materials are not generally irritants or sensitizers at lower exposures from consumer products. Reactions (0.9%) in fragrance sensitive patients were observed with 3-phenyl-1-propanol at 5% in petrolatum. The cinnamyl phenylpropyl materials had low acute toxicity and no significant toxicity in repeat dose oral or dermal toxicity studies. No mutagenic or genotoxic activity in bacteria and mammalian cell line assays was observed. The cinnamyl phenylpropyl alcohol materials participate in the same beta oxidation pathways as their parent cinnamic acid derivatives, including common routes of absorption, distribution, and metabolic detoxification, and exhibit similar toxicological endpoints. Based on the review of available data, it is concluded that these materials would not present a safety concern at current levels of use as fragrance ingredients. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Auxetic Mechanical Metamaterials to Enhance Sensitivity of Stretchable Strain Sensors.

PubMed

Jiang, Ying; Liu, Zhiyuan; Matsuhisa, Naoji; Qi, Dianpeng; Leow, Wan Ru; Yang, Hui; Yu, Jiancan; Chen, Geng; Liu, Yaqing; Wan, Changjin; Liu, Zhuangjian; Chen, Xiaodong

2018-03-01

Stretchable strain sensors play a pivotal role in wearable devices, soft robotics, and Internet-of-Things, yet these viable applications, which require subtle strain detection under various strain, are often limited by low sensitivity. This inadequate sensitivity stems from the Poisson effect in conventional strain sensors, where stretched elastomer substrates expand in the longitudinal direction but compress transversely. In stretchable strain sensors, expansion separates the active materials and contributes to the sensitivity, while Poisson compression squeezes active materials together, and thus intrinsically limits the sensitivity. Alternatively, auxetic mechanical metamaterials undergo 2D expansion in both directions, due to their negative structural Poisson's ratio. Herein, it is demonstrated that such auxetic metamaterials can be incorporated into stretchable strain sensors to significantly enhance the sensitivity. Compared to conventional sensors, the sensitivity is greatly elevated with a 24-fold improvement. This sensitivity enhancement is due to the synergistic effect of reduced structural Poisson's ratio and strain concentration. Furthermore, microcracks are elongated as an underlying mechanism, verified by both experiments and numerical simulations. This strategy of employing auxetic metamaterials can be further applied to other stretchable strain sensors with different constituent materials. Moreover, it paves the way for utilizing mechanical metamaterials into a broader library of stretchable electronics. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Carbon supercapacitors

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

Delnick, F.M.

1993-11-01

Carbon supercapacitors are represented as distributed RC networks with transmission line equivalent circuits. At low charge/discharge rates and low frequencies these networks approximate a simple series R{sub ESR}C circuit. The energy efficiency of the supercapacitor is limited by the voltage drop across the ESR. The pore structure of the carbon electrode defines the electrochemically active surface area which in turn establishes the volume specific capacitance of the carbon material. To date, the highest volume specific capacitance reported for a supercapacitor electrode is 220F/cm{sup 3} in aqueous H{sub 2}SO{sub 4} (10) and {approximately}60 F/cm{sup 3} in nonaqueous electrolyte (8).

Activated carbon derived from waste coffee grounds for stable methane storage.

PubMed

Kemp, K Christian; Baek, Seung Bin; Lee, Wang-Geun; Meyyappan, M; Kim, Kwang S

2015-09-25

An activated carbon material derived from waste coffee grounds is shown to be an effective and stable medium for methane storage. The sample activated at 900 °C displays a surface area of 1040.3 m(2) g(-1) and a micropore volume of 0.574 cm(3) g(-1) and exhibits a stable CH4 adsorption capacity of ∼4.2 mmol g(-1) at 3.0 MPa and a temperature range of 298 ± 10 K. The same material exhibits an impressive hydrogen storage capacity of 1.75 wt% as well at 77 K and 100 kPa. Here, we also propose a mechanism for the formation of activated carbon from spent coffee grounds. At low temperatures, the material has two distinct types with low and high surface areas; however, activation at elevated temperatures drives off the low surface area carbon, leaving behind the porous high surface area activated carbon.

Activated carbon derived from waste coffee grounds for stable methane storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kemp, K. Christian; Baek, Seung Bin; Lee, Wang-Geun; Meyyappan, M.; Kim, Kwang S.

2015-09-01

An activated carbon material derived from waste coffee grounds is shown to be an effective and stable medium for methane storage. The sample activated at 900 °C displays a surface area of 1040.3 m2 g-1 and a micropore volume of 0.574 cm3 g-1 and exhibits a stable CH4 adsorption capacity of ˜4.2 mmol g-1 at 3.0 MPa and a temperature range of 298 ± 10 K. The same material exhibits an impressive hydrogen storage capacity of 1.75 wt% as well at 77 K and 100 kPa. Here, we also propose a mechanism for the formation of activated carbon from spent coffee grounds. At low temperatures, the material has two distinct types with low and high surface areas; however, activation at elevated temperatures drives off the low surface area carbon, leaving behind the porous high surface area activated carbon.

EDITORIAL: Adaptive and active materials: Selected papers from the ASME 2010 Conference on Smart Materials, Adaptive Structures and Intelligent Systems (SMASIS 10) (Philadelphia, PA, USA, 28 September-1 October 2010) Adaptive and active materials: Selected papers from the ASME 2010 Conference on Smart Materials, Adaptive Structures and Intelligent Systems (SMASIS 10) (Philadelphia, PA, USA, 28 September-1 October 2010)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brei, Diann

2011-09-01

The third annual meeting of the AMSE/AIAA Smart Materials, Adaptive Structures and Intelligent Systems Conference (SMASIS) took place in the heart of historic Philadelphia's cultural district, and included a pioneer banquet in the National Constitutional Center. The applications emphasis of the 2010 conference was reflected in keynote talks by Dr Alan Taub, vice president of General Motors global research and development, 'Smart materials in the automotive industry'; Dr Charles R Farrar, engineering institute leader at Los Alamos National Laboratory, 'Future directions for structural health monitoring of civil engineering infrastructure'; and Professor Christopher S Lynch of the University of California Los Angeles, 'Ferroelectric materials and their applications'. The SMASIS conference was divided into six technical symposia each of which included basic research, applied technological design and development, and industrial and governmental integrated system and application demonstrations. The six symposia were: SYMP 1 Multifunctional Materials; SYMP 2 Active Materials, Mechanics and Behavior; SYMP 3 Modeling, Simulation and Control; SYMP 4 Enabling Technologies and Integrated System Design; SYMP 5 Structural Health Monitoring/NDE; and SYMP 6 Bio-inspired Smart Materials and Structures. In addition, the conference introduced a new student and young professional development symposium. Authors of papers in the materials areas (symposia 1, 2 and 6) were invited to write a full journal article on their presentation topic for publication in this special issue of Smart Materials and Structures. This set of papers demonstrates the exceptional quality and originality of the conference presentations. We are appreciative of their efforts in producing this collection of highly relevant articles on smart materials.

Instrument for Measuring Thermal Conductivity of Materials at Low Temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fesmire, James; Sass, Jared; Johnson, Wesley

2010-01-01

With the advance of polymer and other non-metallic material sciences, whole new series of polymeric materials and composites are being created. These materials are being optimized for many different applications including cryogenic and low-temperature industrial processes. Engineers need these data to perform detailed system designs and enable new design possibilities for improved control, reliability, and efficiency in specific applications. One main area of interest is cryogenic structural elements and fluid handling components and other parts, films, and coatings for low-temperature application. An important thermal property of these new materials is the apparent thermal conductivity (k-value).

Low-cost encapsulation materials for terrestrial solar cell modules

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cuddihy, E. F.; Baum, B.; Willis, P.

1979-01-01

The paper presents the findings of material surveys intended to identify low cost materials which could be functional as encapsulants (by 1986) for terrestrial solar cell modules. Economic analyses have indicated that in order to meet the low cost goal of $2.70 per sq m, some or all of the following material technologies must be developed or advanced: (1) UV screening outer covers; (2) elastomeric acrylics; (3) weatherproofing and waterproofing of structural wood and paper products; (4) transparent UV stabilizers for the UV-sensitive transparent pottants; and (5) cost-effective utilization of silicone and fluorocarbon materials.

Microstructural Properties of Cement Paste and Mortar Modified by Low Cost Nanoplatelets Sourced from Natural Materials.

PubMed

Huang, Piao; Lv, Liming; Liao, Wei; Lu, Chunhua; Xu, Zhongzi

2018-05-11

Nanomaterials have been widely used in cement-based materials. Graphene has excellent properties for improving the durability of cement-based materials. Given its high production budget, it has limited its wide potential for application in the field of engineering. Hence, it is very meaningful to obtain low cost nanoplatelets from natural materials that can replace graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) The purpose of this paper is to improve the resistance to chloride ion penetration by optimizing the pore structure of cement-based materials, and another point is to reduce investment costs. The results illustrated that low cost CaCO₃ nanoplatelets (CCNPs) were successfully obtained under alkali treatment of seashell powder, and the chloride ion permeability of cement-based materials significantly decreased by 15.7% compared to that of the control samples when CCNPs were incorporated. Furthermore, the compressive strength of cement pastes at the age of 28 days increased by 37.9% than that of the plain sample. Improvement of performance of cement-based materials can be partly attributed to the refinement of the pore structure. In addition, AFM was employed to characterize the nanoplatelet thickness of CCNPs and the pore structures of the cement-based composites were analyzed by MIP, respectively. CCNPs composite cement best performance could lay the foundation for further study of the durability of cement-based materials and the application of decontaminated seashells.

Microstructural Properties of Cement Paste and Mortar Modified by Low Cost Nanoplatelets Sourced from Natural Materials

PubMed Central

Lv, Liming; Liao, Wei; Lu, Chunhua; Xu, Zhongzi

2018-01-01

Nanomaterials have been widely used in cement-based materials. Graphene has excellent properties for improving the durability of cement-based materials. Given its high production budget, it has limited its wide potential for application in the field of engineering. Hence, it is very meaningful to obtain low cost nanoplatelets from natural materials that can replace graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) The purpose of this paper is to improve the resistance to chloride ion penetration by optimizing the pore structure of cement-based materials, and another point is to reduce investment costs. The results illustrated that low cost CaCO3 nanoplatelets (CCNPs) were successfully obtained under alkali treatment of seashell powder, and the chloride ion permeability of cement-based materials significantly decreased by 15.7% compared to that of the control samples when CCNPs were incorporated. Furthermore, the compressive strength of cement pastes at the age of 28 days increased by 37.9% than that of the plain sample. Improvement of performance of cement-based materials can be partly attributed to the refinement of the pore structure. In addition, AFM was employed to characterize the nanoplatelet thickness of CCNPs and the pore structures of the cement-based composites were analyzed by MIP, respectively. CCNPs composite cement best performance could lay the foundation for further study of the durability of cement-based materials and the application of decontaminated seashells. PMID:29751666

Particular Film Formation of Phenytoin at Silica Surfaces

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Given the increasing number of poorly soluble and thus poorly bioavailable active pharmaceutical materials, there is a demand for innovative formulation platforms for such molecules. Thus a focus on enhancing dissolution properties of poorly soluble drugs exists. Within this study, the spin coating of acetone solutions containing 5,5-diphenyl-2,4-imidazolidinedione (phenytoin) in various concentrations is evaluated. The results reveal strong variations of the morphology of deposited phenytoin crystals at silica surfaces. Individual separated particles are obtained on low phenytoin concentrations, and closely packed particular films form when the concentration is increased. As the material is isomorphic, these various morphologies have the same crystalline structure. Dissolution experiments reveal that both the apparent maximum solubility and as the dissolution rate are strongly enhanced compared to bulk powder, suggesting that formulation based on this preparative technique will allow overcoming the low solubility problematic for a variety of drugs. PMID:24417472

Disclination mediated dynamic recrystallization in metals at low temperature.

PubMed

Aramfard, Mohammad; Deng, Chuang

2015-09-16

Recrystallization is one of the most important physical phenomena in condensed matter that has been utilized for materials processing for thousands of years in human history. It is generally believed that recrystallization is thermally activated and a minimum temperature must be achieved for the necessary atomic mechanisms to occur. Here, using atomistic simulations, we report a new mechanism of dynamic recrystallization that can operate at temperature as low as T = 10 K in metals during deformation. In contrast to previously proposed dislocation-based models, this mechanism relies on the generation of disclination quadrupoles, which are special defects that form during deformation when the grain boundary migration is restricted by structural defects such as triple junctions, cracks or obstacles. This mechanism offers an alternative explanation for the grain refinement in metals during severe plastic deformation at cryogenic temperature and may suggest a new method to tailor the microstructure in general crystalline materials.

Disclination mediated dynamic recrystallization in metals at low temperature

PubMed Central

Aramfard, Mohammad; Deng, Chuang

2015-01-01

Recrystallization is one of the most important physical phenomena in condensed matter that has been utilized for materials processing for thousands of years in human history. It is generally believed that recrystallization is thermally activated and a minimum temperature must be achieved for the necessary atomic mechanisms to occur. Here, using atomistic simulations, we report a new mechanism of dynamic recrystallization that can operate at temperature as low as T = 10 K in metals during deformation. In contrast to previously proposed dislocation-based models, this mechanism relies on the generation of disclination quadrupoles, which are special defects that form during deformation when the grain boundary migration is restricted by structural defects such as triple junctions, cracks or obstacles. This mechanism offers an alternative explanation for the grain refinement in metals during severe plastic deformation at cryogenic temperature and may suggest a new method to tailor the microstructure in general crystalline materials. PMID:26374603

Characterization of multifunctional skin-material for morphing leading-edge applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geier, Sebastian; Kintscher, Markus; Mahrholz, Thorsten; Wierach, Peter; Monner, Hans-Peter; Wiedemann, Martin

2013-04-01

Former research on morphing droop-nose applications revealed great economical and social ecological advantages in terms of providing gapless surfaces for long areas of laminar flow. Furthermore a droop-nose for laminar flow applications provides a low noise exposing high-lift system at the leading-edge. Various kinematic concepts for the active deployment of such devices are already published but the major challenge is still an open issue: a skin material which meets the compromise of needed stiffness and flexibility. Moreover additional functions have to be added to keep up with standard systems. As a result of several national and European projects the DLR developed a gapless 3D smart droop-nose concept, which was successfully analyzed in a low speed wind tunnel test under relevant loads to prove the functionality and efficiency. The main structure of this concept is made of commercial available glass fiber reinforced plastics (GRFP). This paper presents elementary tests to characterize material lay-ups and their integrity by applying different loads under extreme thermal conditions using aged specimens. On the one hand the presented work is focused on the integrity of material-interfaces and on the other hand the efficiency and feasibility of embedded functions. It can be concluded that different preparations, different adhesives and used materials have their significant influence to the interface stability and mechanical property of the whole lay-up. Especially the laminate design can be optimized due to the e. g. mechanical exploitation of the added systems beyond their main function in order to reduce structural mass.

Reliability Improvement By Adopting Ti-barrier Metal For Porous Low-k ILD Structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakata, A.; Yamashita, S.; Omoto, S.; Hatano, M.; Wada, J.; Higashi, K.; Yamaguchi, H.; Yosho, T.; Imamizu, K.; Yamada, M.; Hasunuma, M.; Takahashi, S.; Yamada, A.; Hasegawa, T.; Motoyama, K.; Tagami, M.; Kitano, T.; Kaneko, H.

2007-10-01

Titanium (Ti) has been proposed as an excellent barrier metal (BM) material for ULSI's Cu metallization from the stand point of two characteristics. One is the oxidation property, especially for the porous low-k ILD materials for 45 nm node device; the other is the interface behavior of Ti with Cu. Both stress induced voiding (SIV) suppression and one order longer electromigration (EM) lifetime were obtained by the adoption of Ti-BM instead of the conventional Tantalum (Ta)-BM. SIV failure is accelerated in porous low-k ILD by the following steps; 1) BM oxidation by the absorbed moisture in porous low-k ILD, 2) Adhesion degradation caused by the BM oxidation results in micro delamination of Cu film (void nucleation), 3) Void growth induced by the stress gradient in the Cu interconnect. It has been considered that the small volume change of Ti oxidation and the existence of metallic Ti-O solid-solution phase would be the reason for control of moisture penetration from the low-k ILD materials. In addition, Ti/Cu intermetallic reaction and the segregation of Ti atoms at Cu grain boundaries suppress Cu migration at BM/Cu interface and Cu grain boundaries, respectively. This is supported by higher EM activation energy of Cu line with Ti-BM than that with Ta-BM. These phenomena contribute to higher interconnect reliability.

Materials research at Stanford University. [composite materials, crystal structure, acoustics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1975-01-01

Research activity related to the science of materials is described. The following areas are included: elastic and thermal properties of composite materials, acoustic waves and devices, amorphous materials, crystal structure, synthesis of metal-metal bonds, interactions of solids with solutions, electrochemistry, fatigue damage, superconductivity and molecular physics and phase transition kinetics.

Active vortex generator deployed on demand by size independent actuation of shape memory alloy wires integrated in fiber reinforced polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hübler, M.; Nissle, S.; Gurka, M.; Wassenaar, J.

2016-04-01

Static vortex generators (VGs) are installed on different aircraft types. They generate vortices and interfuse the slow boundary layer with the fast moving air above. Due to this energizing, a flow separation of the boundary layer can be suppressed at high angles of attack. However the VGs cause a permanently increased drag over the whole flight cycle reducing the cruise efficiency. This drawback is currently limiting the use of VGs. New active VGs, deployed only on demand at low speed, can help to overcome this contradiction. Active hybrid structures, combining the actuation of shape memory alloys (SMA) with fiber reinforced polymers (FRP) on the materials level, provide an actuation principle with high lightweight potential and minimum space requirements. Being one of the first applications of active hybrid structures from SMA and FRP, these active vortex generators help to demonstrate the advantages of this new technology. A new design approach and experimental results of active VGs are presented based on the application of unique design tools and advanced manufacturing approaches for these active hybrid structures. The experimental investigation of the actuation focuses on the deflection potential and the dynamic response. Benchmark performance data such as a weight of 1.5g and a maximum thickness of only 1.8mm per vortex generator finally ensure a simple integration in the wing structure.

Activities report in aerospace research, with data concerning the scientific committee NLR-NIVR, international cooperation concerning AGARD, DNW, GARTEUR and cooperation with Indonesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aerodynamics, flight, structures and materials, space technology and remote sensing, informatics, environment, energy supply, and equipment, were studied. Research for the Fokker-50 and 100 projects and related development of a measuring, recording, and data processing system for aircraft are described. Damage tolerance of aircraft structures and materials such as carbon/epoxy laminates with outer plies of glass, Aramid and carbon fabric, titanium alloys, and carbon fiber composites, were investigated. Fluid physics research, spacecraft attitude control system tests, and thermal vacuum research were carried out. The development of a multispectral CCD scanner, synthetic aperture radar, and side-looking airborne radar, were studied. A program to integrate aerospace informatics disciplines is described. Air traffic noise calculations, and windpower utilization research were executed. A simulation system for the satellite navigation system NAVSAT was developed. A low-speed wind tunnel LST 3x2.25 was commissioned.

Novel Catalysis by Gold: A Modern Alchemy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haruta, Masatake

Gold has long been neglected as a catalyst because of its chemical inertness. However, when gold is deposited as nanoparticles on carbon and polymer materials as well as on base metal oxides and hydroxides, it exhibits unique catalytic properties for many reactions such as CO oxidation at a temperature as low as 200 K, gas phase direct epoxidation of propylene, and aerobic oxidation of glucose to gluconic acid. The structure-catalytic activity correlations are discussed with emphasis on the contact structure, support selection, and the size control of gold particles. Gold clusters with diameters smaller than 2 nm are expected to exhibit novel properties in catalysis, optics, and electronics depending on the size (number of atoms), shape, and the electronic and chemical interaction with the support materials. The above achievements and attempts can be regarded as a modern alchemy that creates valuables by means of the noblest element with little practical use.

Detailed investigation of Na2.24FePO4CO3 as a cathode material for Na-ion batteries

PubMed Central

Huang, Weifeng; Zhou, Jing; Li, Biao; Ma, Jin; Tao, Shi; Xia, Dingguo; Chu, Wangsheng; Wu, Ziyu

2014-01-01

Na-ion batteries are gaining an increased recognition as the next generation low cost energy storage devices. Here, we present a characterization of Na3FePO4CO3 nanoplates as a novel cathode material for sodium ion batteries. First-principles calculations reveal that there are two paths for Na ion migration along b and c axis. In-situ and ex-situ Fe K-edge X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) point out that in Na3FePO4CO3 both Fe2+/Fe3+ and Fe3+/Fe4+ redox couples are electrochemically active, suggesting also the existence of a two-electron intercalation reaction. Ex-situ X-ray powder diffraction data demonstrates that the crystalline structure of Na3FePO4CO3 remains stable during the charging/discharging process within the range 2.0–4.55 V. PMID:24595232

High Radiation Resistance IMM Solar Cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pan, Noren

2015-01-01

Due to high launch costs, weight reduction is a key driver for the development of new solar cell technologies suitable for space applications. This project is developing a unique triple-junction inverted metamorphic multijunction (IMM) technology that enables the manufacture of very lightweight, low-cost InGaAsP-based multijunction solar cells. This IMM technology consists of indium (In) and phosphorous (P) solar cell active materials, which are designed to improve the radiation-resistant properties of the triple-junction solar cell while maintaining high efficiency. The intrinsic radiation hardness of InP materials makes them of great interest for building solar cells suitable for deployment in harsh radiation environments, such as medium Earth orbit and missions to the outer planets. NASA Glenn's recently developed epitaxial lift-off (ELO) process also will be applied to this new structure, which will enable the fabrication of the IMM structure without the substrate.

Nanomesh phononic structures for low thermal conductivity and thermoelectric energy conversion materials

DOEpatents

Yu, Jen-Kan; Mitrovic, Slobodan; Heath, James R.

2016-08-16

A nanomesh phononic structure includes: a sheet including a first material, the sheet having a plurality of phononic-sized features spaced apart at a phononic pitch, the phononic pitch being smaller than or equal to twice a maximum phonon mean free path of the first material and the phononic size being smaller than or equal to the maximum phonon mean free path of the first material.

A review of refractory materials for vapor-anode AMTEC cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

King, Jeffrey C.; El-Genk, M. S.

2000-01-01

Recently, refractory alloys have been considered as structural materials for vapor-anode Alkali Metal Thermal-to-Electric Conversion (AMTEC) cells, for extended (7-15 years) space missions. This paper reviewed the existing database for refractory metals and alloys of potential use as structural materials for vapor-anode sodium AMTEC cells. In addition to requiring that the vapor pressure of the material be below 10-9 torr (133 nPa) at a typical hot side temperature of 1200 K, other screening considerations were: (a) low thermal conductivity, low thermal radiation emissivity, and low linear thermal expansion coefficient; (b) low ductile-to-brittle transition temperature, high yield and rupture strengths and high strength-to-density ratio; and (c) good compatibility with the sodium AMTEC operating environment, including high corrosion resistance to sodium in both the liquid and vapor phases. Nb-1Zr (niobium-1% zirconium) alloy is recommended for the hot end structures of the cell. The niobium alloy C-103, which contains the oxygen gettering elements zirconium and hafnium as well as titanium, is recommended for the colder cell structure. This alloy is stronger and less thermally conductive than Nb-1Zr, and its use in the cell wall reduces parasitic heat losses by conduction to the condenser. The molybdenum alloy Mo-44.5Re (molybdenum-44.5% rhenium) is also recommended as a possible alternative for both structures if known problems with oxygen pick up and embrittlement of the niobium alloys proves to be intractable. .

Recent development of nano-materials used in DNA biosensors.

PubMed

Xu, Kai; Huang, Junran; Ye, Zunzhong; Ying, Yibin; Li, Yanbin

2009-01-01

As knowledge of the structure and function of nucleic acid molecules has increased, sequence-specific DNA detection has gained increased importance. DNA biosensors based on nucleic acid hybridization have been actively developed because of their specificity, speed, portability, and low cost. Recently, there has been considerable interest in using nano-materials for DNA biosensors. Because of their high surface-to-volume ratios and excellent biological compatibilities, nano-materials could be used to increase the amount of DNA immobilization; moreover, DNA bound to nano-materials can maintain its biological activity. Alternatively, signal amplification by labeling a targeted analyte with nano-materials has also been reported for DNA biosensors in many papers. This review summarizes the applications of various nano-materials for DNA biosensors during past five years. We found that nano-materials of small sizes were advantageous as substrates for DNA attachment or as labels for signal amplification; and use of two or more types of nano-materials in the biosensors could improve their overall quality and to overcome the deficiencies of the individual nano-components. Most current DNA biosensors require the use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in their protocols. However, further development of nano-materials with smaller size and/or with improved biological and chemical properties would substantially enhance the accuracy, selectivity and sensitivity of DNA biosensors. Thus, DNA biosensors without PCR amplification may become a reality in the foreseeable future.

Recent Development of Nano-Materials Used in DNA Biosensors

PubMed Central

Xu, Kai; Huang, Junran; Ye, Zunzhong; Ying, Yibin; Li, Yanbin

2009-01-01

As knowledge of the structure and function of nucleic acid molecules has increased, sequence-specific DNA detection has gained increased importance. DNA biosensors based on nucleic acid hybridization have been actively developed because of their specificity, speed, portability, and low cost. Recently, there has been considerable interest in using nano-materials for DNA biosensors. Because of their high surface-to-volume ratios and excellent biological compatibilities, nano-materials could be used to increase the amount of DNA immobilization; moreover, DNA bound to nano-materials can maintain its biological activity. Alternatively, signal amplification by labeling a targeted analyte with nano-materials has also been reported for DNA biosensors in many papers. This review summarizes the applications of various nano-materials for DNA biosensors during past five years. We found that nano-materials of small sizes were advantageous as substrates for DNA attachment or as labels for signal amplification; and use of two or more types of nano-materials in the biosensors could improve their overall quality and to overcome the deficiencies of the individual nano-components. Most current DNA biosensors require the use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in their protocols. However, further development of nano-materials with smaller size and/or with improved biological and chemical properties would substantially enhance the accuracy, selectivity and sensitivity of DNA biosensors. Thus, DNA biosensors without PCR amplification may become a reality in the foreseeable future. PMID:22346713

Systems and Methods for Fabricating Structures Including Metallic Glass-Based Materials Using Low Pressure Casting

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hofmann, Douglas C. (Inventor); Kennett, Andrew (Inventor)

2018-01-01

Systems and methods to fabricate objects including metallic glass-based materials using low-pressure casting techniques are described. In one embodiment, a method of fabricating an object that includes a metallic glass-based material includes: introducing molten alloy into a mold cavity defined by a mold using a low enough pressure such that the molten alloy does not conform to features of the mold cavity that are smaller than 100 microns; and cooling the molten alloy such that it solidifies, the solid including a metallic glass-based material.

Low-dielectric constant insulators for future integrated circuits and packages.

PubMed

Kohl, Paul A

2011-01-01

Future integrated circuits and packages will require extraordinary dielectric materials for interconnects to allow transistor advances to be translated into system-level advances. Exceedingly low-permittivity and low-loss materials are required at every level of the electronic system, from chip-level insulators to packages and printed wiring boards. In this review, the requirements and goals for future insulators are discussed followed by a summary of current state-of-the-art materials and technical approaches. Much work needs to be done for insulating materials and structures to meet future needs.

Intracavity double diode structures with GaInP barrier layers for thermophotonic cooling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tiira, Jonna; Radevici, Ivan; Haggren, Tuomas; Hakkarainen, Teemu; Kivisaari, Pyry; Lyytikäinen, Jari; Aho, Arto; Tukiainen, Antti; Guina, Mircea; Oksanen, Jani

2017-02-01

Optical cooling of semiconductors has recently been demonstrated both for optically pumped CdS nanobelts and for electrically injected GaInAsSb LEDs at very low powers. To enable cooling at larger power and to understand and overcome the main obstacles in optical cooling of conventional semiconductor structures, we study thermophotonic (TPX) heat transport in cavity coupled light emitters. Our structures consist of a double heterojunction (DHJ) LED with a GaAs active layer and a corresponding DHJ or a p-n-homojunction photodiode, enclosed within a single semiconductor cavity to eliminate the light extraction challenges. Our presently studied double diode structures (DDS) use GaInP barriers around the GaAs active layer instead of the AlGaAs barriers used in our previous structures. We characterize our updated double diode structures by four point probe IV- measurements and measure how the material modifications affect the recombination parameters and coupling quantum efficiencies in the structures. The coupling quantum efficiency of the new devices with InGaP barrier layers is found to be approximately 10 % larger than for the structures with AlGaAs barriers at the point of maximum efficiency.

Redox-active triazatruxene-based conjugated microporous polymers for high-performance supercapacitors† †Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Synthetic procedures and characterization data for all new compounds; general experimental method; thermogravimetry curves; PXRD patterns; SEM and TEM images; XPS spectra. See DOI: 10.1039/c6sc05532j Click here for additional data file.

PubMed Central

Li, Xiang-Chun; Zhang, Yizhou; Wang, Chun-Yu; Wan, Yi

2017-01-01

Conjugated polymers (CPs) have been intensively explored for various optoelectronic applications in the last few decades. Nevertheless, CP based electrochemical energy storage devices such as supercapacitors remain largely unexplored. This is mainly owing to the low specific capacitance, poor structural/electrochemical stability, and low energy density of most existing CPs. In this contribution, a novel set of redox-active conjugated microporous polymers, TAT-CMP-1 and TAT-CMP-2, based on nitrogen-rich and highly conductive triazatruxene building blocks, were successfully designed and synthesized to explore their potential application as efficient and stable electrode materials for supercapacitors. Despite a moderate surface area of 88 m2 g–1 for TAT-CMP-1 and 106 m2 g–1 for TAT-CMP-2, exceptional specific capacitances of 141 F g–1 and 183 F g–1 were achieved at a current density of 1 A g–1. The resulting polymers exhibited unusually high areal specific capacitance (>160 μF cm–2), which is attributed to the pseudocapacitance resulting from redox-active structures with high nitrogen content. More importantly, the TAT-CMP-2 electrode exhibits excellent cycling stability: only 5% capacitance fading is observed after 10 000 cycles at a high current density of 10 A g–1, enabling the possible use of these materials as electrodes in electrochemical devices. PMID:28451362

Vacuum arc plasma thrusters with inductive energy storage driver

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schein, Jochen (Inventor); Gerhan, Andrew N. (Inventor); Woo, Robyn L. (Inventor); Au, Michael Y. (Inventor); Krishnan, Mahadevan (Inventor)

2004-01-01

An apparatus for producing a vacuum arc plasma source device using a low mass, compact inductive energy storage circuit powered by a low voltage DC supply acts as a vacuum arc plasma thruster. An inductor is charged through a switch, subsequently the switch is opened and a voltage spike of Ldi/dt is produced initiating plasma across a resistive path separating anode and cathode. The plasma is subsequently maintained by energy stored in the inductor. Plasma is produced from cathode material, which allows for any electrically conductive material to be used. A planar structure, a tubular structure, and a coaxial structure allow for consumption of cathode material feed and thereby long lifetime of the thruster for long durations of time.

Evaluation of subsoil competence for foundation studies at site III of the Delta State University, Nigeria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ofomola, M. O.; Iserhien-Emekeme, R. E.; Okocha, F. O.; Adeoye, T. O.

2018-06-01

An integrated geophysical and geotechnical investigation has been carried out at site III of the Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria. This took place in a bid to generate information on the competence of the soil in withstanding stress and strain emanating from overburden or pore pressure, swelling, cracking and other anthropogenic activity in relation to civil engineering and building structures. An electromagnetic method employing the very low frequency (VLF) technique, and electrical resistivity employing the Wenner and the vertical electrical sounding techniques were used for this study. Soil samples were also collected at depth for geotechnical analysis. Isoresistivity slices generated from the data of 33 VES stations at 1 m showed generally low resistivity values of subsurface earth materials, classified as clayey sand, sandy clay or clay, and ranging from 60-300 Ωm. However, at depths of 3 and 5 m, the result showed a generally high resistivity distribution with values ranging from 500-6000 Ωm, which is an indication of competent Earth materials of fine to coarse grain sand. The results of the liquid limit, plastic limit, plasticity index, cohesion, angle of internal friction and clay content of the soil samples vary from 10%-17%, 18%-29%, 3%-15%, 45-95 KN m-2, 31°-35° and 14%-22% respectively. The low cohesion, low clay content and high angle of internal friction of the soil at the encountered depth makes it competent for engineering foundation. It is concluded that the subsoil in the area, starting at a depth of 3 m, is a competent material for hosting engineering structures.

Cross-linked polyimides for integrated optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singer, Kenneth D.; Kowalczyk, Tony C.; Nguyen, Hung D.; Beuhler, Allyson J.; Wargowski, David A.

1997-01-01

We have investigated a promising class of polyimide materials for both passive and active electro-optic devices, namely crosslinkable polyimides. These fluorinated polyimides are soluble in the imidized form and are both thermally and photo-crosslinkable leading to easy processability into waveguide structures and the possibility of stable electro-optic properties. We have fabricated channel and slab waveguides and investigated the mechanism of optical propagation loss using photothermal deflection spectroscopy and waveguide loss spectroscopy, and found the losses to arise from residual absorption due to the formation of charge transfer states. The absorption is inhibited by fluorination leading to propagation losses as low as 0.3 dB/cm in the near infrared. Because of the ability to photocrosslink, channel waveguides are fabricated using a simple wet-etch process. Channel waveguides so formed are observed to have no excess loss over slab structures. Solubility followed by thermal cross-linking allows the formation of multilayer structures. We have produced electro-optic polymers by doping with the nonlinear optical chromophores, DCM and DADC; and a process of concurrent poling and thermal crosslinking. Multilayer structures have been investigated and poling fields optimized in the active layer by doping the cladding with an anti-static agent. The high glass-transition temperature and cross-linking leads to very stable electro-optic properties. We are currently building electro-optic modulators based on these materials. Progress and results in this area also are reported.

Characterization of low-frequency acoustic wave propagation through a periodic corrugated waveguide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Changyong; Huang, Lixi

2018-03-01

In this paper, a periodic corrugated waveguide structure is proposed, and its unit-cell is analyzed by the wave finite element method. In low-frequency range, the unit-cell is treated as an equivalent fluid through a homogenization process, and the equivalent acoustic parameters are obtained, which are validated by finite structure simulations and experiments. The proposed structure is shown to add tortuosity to the waveguide, hence higher equivalent fluid density is achieved, while the system elastic modulus remains unchanged. As a result, the equivalent speed of sound is smaller than normal air. The application of such change of speed of sound is demonstrated in the classic quarter-wavelength resonator based on the corrugated waveguide, which gives a lower resonance frequency with the same side branch length. When the waveguide is filled with porous materials, the added tortuosity enhances the broadband, low-frequency sound absorption by increasing the equivalent mass without bringing in excess damping, the latter being partly responsible for the poor performance of usual porous materials in the low-frequency region. Therefore, the proposed structure provides another dimension for the design and optimization of porous sound absorption materials.

Topologic connection between 2-D layered structures and 3-D diamond structures for conventional semiconductors

PubMed Central

Wang, Jianwei; Zhang, Yong

2016-01-01

When coming to identify new 2D materials, our intuition would suggest us to look from layered instead of 3D materials. However, since graphite can be hypothetically derived from diamond by stretching it along its [111] axis, many 3D materials can also potentially be explored as new candidates for 2D materials. Using a density functional theory, we perform a systematic study over the common Group IV, III–V, and II–VI semiconductors along different deformation paths to reveal new structures that are topologically connected to but distinctly different from the 3D parent structure. Specifically, we explore two major phase transition paths, originating respectively from wurtzite and NiAs structure, by applying compressive and tensile strain along the symmetry axis, and calculating the total energy changes to search for potential metastable states, as well as phonon spectra to examine the structural stability. Each path is found to further split into two branches under tensile strain–low buckled and high buckled structures, which respectively lead to a low and high buckled monolayer structure. Most promising new layered or planar structures identified include BeO, GaN, and ZnO on the tensile strain side, Ge, Si, and GaP on the compressive strain side. PMID:27090430

Designing optimized ultra-lightweighted mirror structures made of Cesic for space and ground based applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hofbauer, Peter; Krödel, Matthias R.

2010-07-01

Today's space applications increasingly utilize lightweighted construction concepts, motivated by the demands of manufacturing and functionality, and by economics. Particularly for space optics, mirror stability and stiffness need to be maximized, while mass needs to be minimized. Therefore, mirror materials must possess, besides high material strength and manufacturing versatility, high thermal conductivity combined with low heat capacity and long-term stability against varying thermal loads. Additionally, optical surfaces need to be compatible with reflective coating materials. In order to achieve these requirements, the interplay between material properties and mirror design on one hand, and budgetary constraints on the other must be considered. In this paper, we address these issues by presenting an FEM design study of open and closed-back mirror structures with extremely thin reinforcing ribs, with the goal of obtaining optimal physical and optical characteristics. Furthermore, we show that ECM's carbon-fiber reinforced SiC composite, Cesic®, and its newly developed, HB-Cesic® , with their low CTE, low density, and high stiffness, are not only excellent mirror materials, but allow the rapid manufacturing of complex monolithic optical structures at reasonable cost.

Low activated incore instrument

DOEpatents

Ekeroth, Douglas E.

1994-01-01

Instrumentation for nuclear reactor head-mounted incore instrumentation systems fabricated of low nuclear cross section materials (i.e., zirconium or titanium). The instrumentation emits less radiation than that fabricated of conventional materials.

Performance characterization of active fiber-composite actuators for helicopter rotor blade applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wickramasinghe, Viresh K.; Hagood, Nesbitt W.

2002-07-01

The primary objective of this work was to characterize the performance of the Active Fiber Composite (AFC) actuator material system for the Boeing Active Material Rotor (AMR) blade application. The AFCs were a new structural actuator system consisting of piezoceramic fibers embedded in an epoxy matrix and sandwiched between interdigitated electrodes to orient the driving electric field in the fiber direction to use the primary piezoelectric effect. These actuators were integrated directly into the blade spar laminate as active plies within the composite structure to perform structural actuation for vibration control in helicopters. Therefore, it was necessary to conduct extensive electromechanical material characterization to evaluate AFCs both as actuators and as structural components of the rotor blade. The characterization tests designed to extract important electromechanical properties under simulated blade operating conditions included stress-strain tests, free strain tests and actuation under tensile load tests. This paper presents the test results as well as the comprehensive testing process developed to evaluate the relevant AFC material properties. The results from this comprehensive performance characterization of the AFC material system supported the design and operation of the Boeing AMR blade scheduled for hover and forward flight wind tunnel tests.

Facilitating Behavior Change with Low-Literacy Patient Education Materials

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Seligman, Hilary K.; Wallace, Andrea S.; DeWalt, Darren A.; Schillinger, Dean; Arnold, Connie L.; Shilliday, Betsy Bryant; Delgadillo, Adriana; Bengal, Nikki; Davis, Terry C.

2007-01-01

Objective: To describe a process for developing low-literacy health education materials that increase knowledge and activate patients toward healthier behaviors. Methods: We developed a theoretically informed process for developing educational materials. This process included convening a multidisciplinary creative team, soliciting stakeholder…

Carbon nano fibers reinforced composites origami inspired mechanical metamaterials with passive and active properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kshad, Mohamed Ali E.; D'Hondt, Clement; Naguib, Hani E.

2017-10-01

Core panels used for compression or impact damping are designed to dissipate energy and to reduce the transferred force and energy. They are designed to have high strain and deformation with low density. The geometrical configuration of such cores plays a significant role in redistributing the applied forces to dampen the compression and impact energy. Origami structures are renowned for affording large macroscopic deformation which can be employed for force redistribution and energy damping. The material selection for the fabrication of origami structures affects the core capacity to withstand compression and impact loads. Polymers are characterized by their high compression and impact resistance; the drawback of polymers is the low stiffness and elastic moduli compared with metallic materials. This work is focused on the study of the effect of Carbon Nano Fibers (CNF) on the global mechanical properties of the origami panel cores made of polymeric blends. The base matrix materials used were Polylactic Acid (PLA) and Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) blends, and the percentages of the PLA/TPU were 100/0, 20/80, 65/35, 50/50, 20/80, and 0/100 as a percentage of weight. The weight percentages of CNF added to the polymeric blends were 1%, 3%, and 5%. This paper deals with the fabrication process of the polymeric reinforced blends and the origami cores, in order to predict the best fabrication conditions. The dynamic scanning calorimetry and the dynamic mechanical analyzer were used to test the reinforced blended base material for thermomechanical and viscoelastic properties. The origami core samples were fabricated using per-molded geometrical features and then tested for compression and impact properties. The results of the study were compared with previous published results which showed that there is considerable enhancement in the mechanical properties of the origami cores compared with the pure blended polymeric origami cores. The active properties of the origami unit cell made of composite polymers containing a low percentage of CNF were also investigated in this study, in which the shape memory effect test conducted on the origami unit cell.

A Wide Band Absorbing Material Design Using Band-Pass Frequency Selective Surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Yonggang; Xu, Qiang; Liu, Ting; Zheng, Dianliang; Zhou, Li

2018-03-01

Based on the high frequency advantage characteristics of the Fe based absorbing coating, a method for designing the structure of broadband absorbing structure by using frequency selective surface (FSS) is proposed. According to the transmission and reflection characteristic of the different size FSS structure, the frequency variation characteristic was simulated. Secondly, the genetic algorithm was used to optimize the high frequency broadband absorbing materials, including the single and double magnetic layer material. Finally, the absorbing characteristics in iron layer were analyzed as the band pass FSS structure was embedded, the results showed that the band-pass FSS had the influence on widening the absorbing frequency. As the FSS was set as the bottom layer, it was effective to achieve the good absorbing property in low frequency and the high frequency absorbing performance was not weakened, because the band-pass FSS led the low frequency absorption and the high frequency shielding effect. The results of this paper are of guiding significance for designing and manufacturing the broadband absorbing materials.

Apparatus and method for intra-layer modulation of the material deposition and assist beam and the multilayer structure produced therefrom

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wadley, Hadyn N. G. (Inventor); Zhou, Xiaowang (Inventor); Quan, Junjie (Inventor)

2002-01-01

A method of producing a multilayer structure that has reduced interfacial roughness and interlayer mixing by using a physical-vapor deposition apparatus. In general the method includes forming a bottom layer having a first material wherein a first plurality of monolayers of the first material is deposited on an underlayer using a low incident adatom energy. Next, a second plurality of monolayers of the first material is deposited on top of the first plurality of monolayers of the first material using a high incident adatom energy. Thereafter, the method further includes forming a second layer having a second material wherein a first plurality of monolayers of the second material is deposited on the second plurality of monolayers of the first material using a low incident adatom energy. Next, a second plurality of monolayers of the second material is deposited on the first plurality of monolayers of the second material using a high incident adatom energy.

Radiationless Transitions and Excited-State Absorption in Tunable Laser Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-09-01

chromium - doped halide elpasolites K2 NaGaF 6 , K2 NaScF6 and Cs2NaYCl 6 , and on the laser-active TI0 (l) color center in KCI. Luminescence lifetime...Non-radiative transitions, transition metals, chromium , ¶SLWmER o E tunable lasers, high pressure, luminescence, color centers ൙. SECURITY O...quenching and excited-state absorption are major loss mechanisms. Low-crystal-field chromium complexes in ordered perovskites of cubic elpasolite structure

Superplastic forming of Al-Li alloys for lightweight, low-cost structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hales, Stephen J.; Wagner, John A.

1991-01-01

Superplastic forming of advanced aluminum alloys is being evaluated as an approach for fabricating low-cost, light-weight, cryogenic propellant tanks. Built-up structure concepts (with inherent reduced scrap rate) are under investigation to offset the additional raw material expenses incurred by using aluminum lithium alloys. This approach to fabrication offers the potential for significant improvements in both structural efficiency and overall manufacturing costs. Superplasticity is the ability of specially processed material to sustain very large forming strains without failure at elevated temperatures under controlled deformation conditions. It was demonstrated that superplastic forming technology can be used to fabricate complex structural components in a single operation and increase structural efficiency by as much as 60 percent compared to conventional configurations in skin-stiffened structures. Details involved in the application of this technology to commercial grade superplastic aluminum lithium material are presented. Included are identification of optimum forming parameters, development of forming procedures, and assessment of final part quality in terms of cavitation volume and thickness variation.

Study and analysis of filtering characteristics of 1D photonic crystal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Juyal, Rohan; Suthar, Bhuvneshwer; Kumar, Arun

2018-05-01

Propagation of electromagnetic wave have been studied and analyzed through 1D photonic crystal. 1D photonic band gap material with low and high refractive index material has been chosen for this study. Band structure and reflectivity of this 1D structure has been calculated using transmission matrix method (TMM). Study and analysis of the band structure and reflectivity of this structure shows that this structure may work as an optical filter.

Heteroatom (P, B, or S) incorporated NiFe-based nanocubes as efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction

DOE PAGES

Xuan, Cuijuan; Wang, Jie; Xia, Weiwei; ...

2018-03-21

Exploring low-cost and highly efficient electrocatalysts toward the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is of significant importance, although facing great challenges for sustainable energy systems. In this study, amorphous NiFe-based porous nanocubes (Ni–Fe–O–P, Ni–Fe–O–B, and Ni–Fe–O–S) are successfully synthesized via simple and cost-effective one-step calcination of Ni–Fe based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and heteroatom containing molecules. The resulting three materials maintain a well-defined porous nanocube morphology with heteroatoms uniformly distributed in the structure. The unique porous structure can effectively provide more active sites and shorten the mass transport distance. Additionally, the introduction of P, B or S can tune the electronic structure,more » which is favorable for accelerating the charge transfer, and may lead to the formation of the higher average oxidative valence of Ni species during the OER process. Benefiting from the above desirable properties, all three materials exhibit excellent OER electrocatalytic activities and outstanding long-term stability in a home-made zinc air battery. Lastly, this work not only provides a general approach for the synthesis of highly efficient electrocatalysts based on earth-abundant elements but also highlights the potential prospects of MOFs in energy conversion and storage devices.« less

Heteroatom (P, B, or S) incorporated NiFe-based nanocubes as efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction

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

Xuan, Cuijuan; Wang, Jie; Xia, Weiwei

Exploring low-cost and highly efficient electrocatalysts toward the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is of significant importance, although facing great challenges for sustainable energy systems. In this study, amorphous NiFe-based porous nanocubes (Ni–Fe–O–P, Ni–Fe–O–B, and Ni–Fe–O–S) are successfully synthesized via simple and cost-effective one-step calcination of Ni–Fe based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and heteroatom containing molecules. The resulting three materials maintain a well-defined porous nanocube morphology with heteroatoms uniformly distributed in the structure. The unique porous structure can effectively provide more active sites and shorten the mass transport distance. Additionally, the introduction of P, B or S can tune the electronic structure,more » which is favorable for accelerating the charge transfer, and may lead to the formation of the higher average oxidative valence of Ni species during the OER process. Benefiting from the above desirable properties, all three materials exhibit excellent OER electrocatalytic activities and outstanding long-term stability in a home-made zinc air battery. Lastly, this work not only provides a general approach for the synthesis of highly efficient electrocatalysts based on earth-abundant elements but also highlights the potential prospects of MOFs in energy conversion and storage devices.« less

Environment and human friendly colored materials prepared using black and white components.

PubMed

Takeoka, Yukikazu

2018-05-10

Our lives in the present age are full of colorful items. However, when many coloring materials cannot be used due to environmental concerns, this colorful life that has been constructed will be diminished. Maintaining our rich lifestyle necessitates the development of technologies that can make safe and secure color materials from materials with less burden on people and the environment. Herein, the author reveals that structural colored materials with little angle dependence can be prepared using various materials with short-range order in the refractive index, which is comparable to the wavelength of visible light, and with the aid of a black substance. This approach enables the preparation of colorful materials from materials that have a low environmental burden and are non-toxic to living things; examples of such materials include silica, carbon black, and iron oxide. If we can achieve mechanical stabilization and hue stabilization of these coloring materials, we can develop new green pigments with low toxicity, good color development, and high durability. The use of conventional angular-dependent structural colored materials has been limited. However, structural colored materials with no angle dependence, such as those prepared by the author, can be used in fields where pigments have traditionally been used. For example, they could be used in coating materials for automobiles and buildings, and in pigments used by artists. Environmentally friendly green color materials are expected to promote sustainable development. In this review, I will describe how to prepare structural colored materials with less angle dependency using white and black substances previously reported by the author.

Nanofibrous polymeric beads from aramid fibers for efficient bilirubin removal.

PubMed

Peng, Zihang; Yang, Ye; Luo, Jiyue; Nie, Chuanxiong; Ma, Lang; Cheng, Chong; Zhao, Changsheng

2016-08-16

Polymer based hemoperfusion has been developed as an effective therapy to remove the extra bilirubin from patients. However, the currently applied materials suffer from either low removal efficiency or poor blood compatibility. In this study, we report the development of a new class of nanofibrous absorbent that exhibited high bilirubin removal efficiency and good blood compatibility. The Kevlar nanofiber was prepared by dissolving micron-sized Kevlar fiber in proper solvent, and the beads were prepared by dropping Kevlar nanofiber solutions into ethanol. Owing to the nanofiborous structure of the Kevlar nanofiber, the beads displayed porous structures and large specific areas, which would facilitate the adsorption of toxins. In the adsorption test, it was noticed that the beads possessed an adsorption capacity higher than 40 mg g(-1) towards bilirubin. In plasma mimetic solutions, the beads still showed high bilirubin removal efficiency. Furthermore, after incorporating with carbon nanotubes, the beads were found to have increased adsorption capacity for human degradation waste. Moreover, the beads showed excellent blood compatibility in terms of a low hemolysis ratio, prolonged clotting times, suppressed coagulant activation, limited platelet activation, and inhibited blood related inflammatory activation. Additionally, the beads showed good compatibility with endothelial cells. In general, the Kevlar nanofiber beads, which integrated with high adsorption capacity, good blood compatibility and low cytotoxicity, may have great potential for hemoperfusion and some other applications in biomedical fields.

Negative-pressure polymorphs made by heterostructural alloying

PubMed Central

Perkins, John D.

2018-01-01

The ability of a material to adopt multiple structures, known as polymorphism, is a fascinating natural phenomenon. Various polymorphs with unusual properties are routinely synthesized by compression under positive pressure. However, changing a material’s structure by applying tension under negative pressure is much more difficult. We show how negative-pressure polymorphs can be synthesized by mixing materials with different crystal structures—a general approach that should be applicable to many materials. Theoretical calculations suggest that it costs less energy to mix low-density structures than high-density structures, due to less competition for space between the atoms. Proof-of-concept experiments confirm that mixing two different high-density forms of MnSe and MnTe stabilizes a Mn(Se,Te) alloy with a low-density wurtzite structure. This Mn(Se,Te) negative-pressure polymorph has 2× to 4× lower electron effective mass compared to MnSe and MnTe parent compounds and has a piezoelectric response that none of the parent compounds have. This example shows how heterostructural alloying can lead to negative-pressure polymorphs with useful properties—materials that are otherwise nearly impossible to make. PMID:29725620

Local structure and lattice dynamics study of low dimensional materials using atomic pair distribution function and high energy resolution inelastic x-ray scattering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Chenyang

Structure and dynamics lie at the heart of the materials science. A detailed knowledge of both subjects would be foundational in understanding the materials' properties and predicting their potential applications. However, the task becomes increasingly dicult as the particle size is reduced to the nanometer scale. For nanostructured materials their laboratory x-ray scattering patterns are overlapped and broadened, making structure determination impossible. Atomic pair distribution function technique based on either synchrotron x-ray or neutron scattering data is known as the tool of choice for probing local structures. However, to solve the "structure problem" in low-dimensional materials with PDF is still challenging. For example for 2D materials of interest in this thesis the crystallographic modeling approach often yields unphysical thermal factors along stacking direction where new chemical intuitions about their actual structures and new modeling methodology/program are needed. Beyond this, lattice dynamical investigations on nanosized particles are extremely dicult. Laboratory tools such as Raman and infra-red only probe phonons at Brillouin zone center. Although in literature there are a great number of theoretical studies of their vibrational properties based on either empirical force elds or density functional theory, various approximations made in theories make the theoretical predictions less reliable. Also, there lacks the direct experiment result to validate the theory against. In this thesis, we studied the structure and dynamics of a wide variety of technologically relevant low-dimensional materials through synchrotron based x-ray PDF and high energy resolution inelastic x-ray scattering (HERIX) techniques. By collecting PDF data and employing advanced modeling program such as DiPy-CMI, we successfully determined the atomic structures of (i) emerging Ti3C2, Nb4C3 MXenes (transition metal carbides and/or nitrides) that are promising for energy storage applications, and of (ii) zirconium phenylphosphonate ion exchange materials that are proposed to separate lanthanide ions from actinide ions in nuclear waste. Both material systems have two-dimensional layered nanocrystalline structure where we observed that the stacking of layers are not in good registry, also known as turbostratic" disorder. Consequently the signals from a single layer of atoms dominate the experimental PDF{thus building up a single slab model and simulating PDF using Debye function analysis was sucient to capture the main structural features in the measured PDF data. The information on correlation length of layers along the stacking direction, however, is contained in low-Q diraction peaks in either laboratory x-ray or synchrotron x-ray scattering patterns. On the lattice dynamics side, we rst investigated the trend of atomic bonding strength in size dependent platinum nanoparticles based on temperature dependent PDF data and measured Debye temperatures. An anomalous bond softening was observed at a particle size less than 2 nm. Since Debye model gives a simple quadratic phonon density of states (PDOS) curve, which is a simplified version of real lattice dynamics, we are motivated to measure full PDOS curves on three CdSe nanoclusters by using non-resonant inelastic x-ray scattering technique. We observed an overall blue-shift of PDOS curves with decreased sizes. Our current exemplary studies will open the door to a large number of future structural and lattice dynamical studies on a much broader range of low-dimensional material systems.

Textile technology development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shah, Bharat M.

1995-01-01

The objectives of this report were to evaluate and select resin systems for Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) and Powder Towpreg Material, to develop and evaluate advanced textile processes by comparing 2-D and 3-D braiding for fuselage frame applications and develop window belt and side panel structural design concepts, to evaluate textile material properties, and to develop low cost manufacturing and tooling processes for the automated manufacturing of fuselage primary structures. This research was in support of the NASA and Langley Research Center (LaRc) Advanced Composite Structural Concepts and Materials Technologies for Primary Aircraft Structures program.

Hydrogen production by Tuning the Photonic Band Gap with the Electronic Band Gap of TiO2

PubMed Central

Waterhouse, G. I. N.; Wahab, A. K.; Al-Oufi, M.; Jovic, V.; Anjum, D. H.; Sun-Waterhouse, D.; Llorca, J.; Idriss, H.

2013-01-01

Tuning the photonic band gap (PBG) to the electronic band gap (EBG) of Au/TiO2 catalysts resulted in considerable enhancement of the photocatalytic water splitting to hydrogen under direct sunlight. Au/TiO2 (PBG-357 nm) photocatalyst exhibited superior photocatalytic performance under both UV and sunlight compared to the Au/TiO2 (PBG-585 nm) photocatalyst and both are higher than Au/TiO2 without the 3 dimensionally ordered macro-porous structure materials. The very high photocatalytic activity is attributed to suppression of a fraction of electron-hole recombination route due to the co-incidence of the PBG with the EBG of TiO2 These materials that maintain their activity with very small amount of sacrificial agents (down to 0.5 vol.% of ethanol) are poised to find direct applications because of their high activity, low cost of the process, simplicity and stability. PMID:24108361

Functionalization of multiwalled carbon nanotubes by microwave irradiation for lysozyme attachment: comparison of covalent and adsorption methods by kinetics of thermal inactivation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Puentes-Camacho, Daniel; Velázquez, Enrique F.; Rodríguez-Félix, Dora E.; Castillo-Ortega, Mónica; Sotelo-Mundo, Rogerio R.; del Castillo-Castro, Teresa

2017-12-01

Proteins suffer changes in their tertiary structure when they are immobilized, and enzymatic activity is affected due to the low biocompatibility of some supporting materials. In this work immobilization of lysozyme on carbon nanotubes previously functionalized by microwave irradiation was studied. The effectiveness of the microwave-assisted acid treatment of carbon nanotubes was evaluated by XPS, TEM, Raman and FTIR spectroscopy. The carboxylic modification of nanotube surfaces by this fast, simple and feasible method allowed the physical adsorption and covalent linking of active lysozyme onto the carbonaceous material. Thermal inactivation kinetics, thermodynamic parameters and storage stability were studied for adsorbed and covalent enzyme complexes. A major stability was found for lysozyme immobilized by the covalent method, the activation energy for inactivation of the enzyme was higher for the covalent method and it was stable after 50 d of storage at 4 °C. The current study highlights the effect of protein immobilization method on the biotechnological potential of nanostructured biocatalysts.

Improved performance of organic solar cells with solution processed hole transport layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhargav, Ranoo; Gairola, S. P.; Patra, Asit; Naqvi, Samya; Dhawan, S. K.

2018-06-01

This work is based on Cobalt Oxide as solution processed, inexpensive and effective hole transport layer (HTL) for efficient organic photovoltaic applications (OPVs). In Organic solar cell (OSC) devices ITO coated glass substrate used as a transparent anode electrode for light incident, HTL material Co3O4 dissolve in DMF solvent deposited on anode electrode, after that active layer material (donor/acceptor) deposited on to HTL and finally Al were deposited by thermal evaporation used as cathode electrode. These devices were fabricated with PCDTBT well known low band gap donor material in OSCs and blended with PC71BM as an acceptor material using simplest device structure ITO/Co3O4/active layer/Al at ambient conditions. The power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) based on Co3O4 and PEDOT:PSS have been achieved to up to 3.21% and 1.47% with PCDTBT respectively. In this study we reported that the devices fabricated with Co3O4 showed better performance as compare to the devices fabricated with well known and most studied solution processed HTL material PEDOT:PSS under identical environmental conditions. The surface morphology of the HTL film was characterized by (AFM). Lastly, we have provided Co3O4 as an efficient hole transport material HTL for solution processed organic photovoltaic applications.

Low work function materials for microminiature energy conversion and recovery applications

DOEpatents

Zavadil, Kevin R.; Ruffner, Judith A.; King, Donald B.

2003-05-13

Low work function materials are disclosed together with methods for their manufacture and integration with electrodes used in thermionic conversion applications (specifically microminiature thermionic conversion applications). The materials include a mixed oxide system and metal in a compositionally modulated structure comprised of localized discontinuous structures of material that are deposited using techniques suited to IC manufacture, such as rf sputtering or CVD. The structures, which can include layers are then heated to coalescence yielding a thin film that is both durable and capable of electron emission under thermionic conversion conditions used for microminiature thermionic converters. Using the principles of the invention, thin film electrodes (emitters and collectors) required for microconverter technology are manufactured using a single process deposition so as to allow for full fabrication integration consistent with batch processing, and tailoring of emission/collection properties. In the preferred embodiment, the individual layers include mixed BaSrCaO, scandium oxide and tungsten.

Understanding the effect of an in situ generated and integrated spinel phase on a layered Li-rich cathode material using a non-stoichiometric strategy.

PubMed

Zhang, Jicheng; Gao, Rui; Sun, Limei; Li, Zhengyao; Zhang, Heng; Hu, Zhongbo; Liu, Xiangfeng

2016-09-14

Recently, spinel-layered integrated Li-rich cathode materials have attracted great interest due to the large enhancement of their electrochemical performances. However, the modification mechanism and the effect of the integrated spinel phase on Li-rich layered cathode materials are still not very clear. Herein, we have successfully synthesized the spinel-layered integrated Li-rich cathode material using a facile non-stoichiometric strategy (NS-LNCMO). The rate capability (84 mA h g -1 vs. 28 mA h g -1 , 10 C), cycling stability (92.4% vs. 80.5%, 0.2 C), low temperature electrochemical capability (96.5 mA h g -1 vs. 59 mA h g -1 , -20 °C), initial coulomb efficiency (92% vs. 79%) and voltage fading (2.77 V vs. 3.02 V, 200 cycles@1 C) of spinel-layered integrated Li-rich cathode materials have been significantly improved compared with a pure Li-rich phase cathode. Some new insights into the effect of the integrated spinel phase on a layered Li-rich cathode have been proposed through a comparison of the structure evolution of the integrated and Li-rich only materials before and after cycling. The Li-ion diffusion coefficient of NS-LNCMO has been enlarged by about 3 times and almost does not change even after 100 cycles indicating an enhanced structure stability. The integration of the spinel phase not only enhances the structure stability of the layered Li-rich phase during charging-discharging but also expands the interslab spacing of the Li-ion diffusion layer, and elongates TM-O covalent bond lengths, which lowers the activation barrier of Li + -transportation, and alleviates the structure strain during the cycling procedure.

Low losses left-handed materials with optimized electric and magnetic resonance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Xin; Liu, Yahong; Zhao, Xiaopeng

2010-03-01

We propose that the losses in left-handed materials (LHMs) can be significantly affected by changing the coupling relationship between electric and magnetic resonance. A double bowknot shaped structure (DBS) is used to construct the LHMs. And the magnetic resonance of the DBS, which resonated in the case of lower and higher frequencies than the electric resonant dip, is studied in simulation and experiment by tailoring the structural parameters. The case of magnetic resonance located at low electric resonance frequencies band is confirmed to have relatively low losses. Using full wave simulation of prism shaped structure composed of DBS unit cells, we prove the negative refraction behavior in such a frame. This study can serve as a guide for designing other similar metal-dielectric-metal (MDM) in low losses at terahertz or higher frequencies.

Clathrates and beyond: Low-density allotropy in crystalline silicon

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

Beekman, Matt; Wei, Kaya; Nolas, George S., E-mail: gnolas@usf.edu

2016-12-15

In its common, thermodynamically stable state, silicon adopts the same crystal structure as diamond. Although only a few alternative allotropic structures have been discovered and studied over the past six decades, advanced methods for structure prediction have recently suggested a remarkably rich low-density phase space that has only begun to be explored. The electronic properties of these low-density allotropes of silicon, predicted by first-principles calculations, indicate that these materials could offer a pathway to improving performance and reducing cost in a variety of electronic and energy-related applications. In this focus review, we provide an introduction and overview of recent theoreticalmore » and experimental results related to low-density allotropes of silicon, highlighting the significant potential these materials may have for technological applications, provided substantial challenges to their experimental preparation can be overcome.« less

Induced radioactivity in LDEF components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harmon, B. A.; Fishman, G. J.; Parnell, T. A.; Laird, C. E.

1992-01-01

A systematic study of the induced radioactivity of the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) is being carried out in order to gather information about the low earth orbit radiation environment and its effects on materials. The large mass of the LDEF spacecraft, its stabilized configuration, and long mission duration have presented an opportunity to determine space radiation-induced radioactivities with a precision not possible before. Data presented include preliminary activities for steel and aluminum structural samples, and activation subexperiment foils. Effects seen in the data show a clear indication of the trapped proton anisotropy in the South Atlantic Anomaly and suggest contributions from different sources of external radiation fluxes.

Investigation of Activation Cross Sections of the Proton Induced Nuclear Reactions on Natural Iron at Medium Energies

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

Ditroi, F.; Tarkanyi, F.; Csikai, J.

2005-05-24

Iron is one of the most important structural materials in every field of science, technology, industry, etc. Its application in a radiating environment requires the knowledge of accurate excitation functions for the possible reactions in question. By using the Thin Layer Activation technique (TLA) the knowledge of such data is also extremely important even in the case of relative measurements to design the irradiation (irradiation energy, beam intensity, duration) and also for radioactive safety estimations. The cross sections are frequently measured at low energies but there are unsatisfactory and unreliable data in the energy range above 40 MeV.

Investigation of Activation Cross Sections of the Proton Induced Nuclear Reactions on Natural Iron at Medium Energies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ditrói, F.; Tárkányi, F.; Csikai, J.; Uddin, M. S.; Hagiwara, M.; Baba, M.

2005-05-01

Iron is one of the most important structural materials in every field of science, technology, industry, etc. Its application in a radiating environment requires the knowledge of accurate excitation functions for the possible reactions in question. By using the Thin Layer Activation technique (TLA) the knowledge of such data is also extremely important even in the case of relative measurements to design the irradiation (irradiation energy, beam intensity, duration) and also for radioactive safety estimations. The cross sections are frequently measured at low energies but there are unsatisfactory and unreliable data in the energy range above 40 MeV.

Biotemplated Morpho Butterfly Wings for Tunable Structurally Colored Photocatalysts.

PubMed

Rodríguez, Robin E; Agarwal, Sneha P; An, Shun; Kazyak, Eric; Das, Debashree; Shang, Wen; Skye, Rachael; Deng, Tao; Dasgupta, Neil P

2018-02-07

Morpho sulkowskyi butterfly wings contain naturally occurring hierarchical nanostructures that produce structural coloration. The high aspect ratio and surface area of these wings make them attractive nanostructured templates for applications in solar energy and photocatalysis. However, biomimetic approaches to replicate their complex structural features and integrate functional materials into their three-dimensional framework are highly limited in precision and scalability. Herein, a biotemplating approach is presented that precisely replicates Morpho nanostructures by depositing nanocrystalline ZnO coatings onto wings via low-temperature atomic layer deposition (ALD). This study demonstrates the ability to precisely tune the natural structural coloration while also integrating multifunctionality by imparting photocatalytic activity onto fully intact Morpho wings. Optical spectroscopy and finite-difference time-domain numerical modeling demonstrate that ALD ZnO coatings can rationally tune the structural coloration across the visible spectrum. These structurally colored photocatalysts exhibit an optimal coating thickness to maximize photocatalytic activity, which is attributed to trade-offs between light absorption and catalytic quantum yield with increasing coating thickness. These multifunctional photocatalysts present a new approach to integrating solar energy harvesting into visually attractive surfaces that can be integrated into building facades or other macroscopic structures to impart aesthetic appeal.

Encapsulating micro-nano Si/SiO x into conjugated nitrogen-doped carbon as binder-free monolithic anodes for advanced lithium ion batteries

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

Wang, Jing; Zhou, Meijuan; Tan, Guoqiang

2015-01-01

Silicon monoxide, a promising silicon-based anode candidate for lithium-ion batteries, has recently attracted much attention for its high theoretical capacity, good cycle stability, low cost, and environmental benignity. Currently, the most critical challenge is to improve its low initial coulombic efficiency and significant volume changes during the charge–discharge processes. Herein, we report a binder-free monolithic electrode structure based on directly encapsulating micro-nano Si/SiOx particles into conjugated nitrogen-doped carbon frameworks to form monolithic, multi-core, cross-linking composite matrices. We utilize micro-nano Si/SiOx reduced by high-energy ball-milling SiO as active materials, and conjugated nitrogen-doped carbon formed by the pyrolysis of polyacrylonitrile both asmore » binders and conductive agents. Owing to the high electrochemical activity of Si/SiOx and the good mechanical resiliency of conjugated nitrogen-doped carbon backbones, this specific composite structure enhances the utilization efficiency of SiO and accommodates its large volume expansion, as well as its good ionic and electronic conductivity. The annealed Si/SiOx/polyacrylonitrile composite electrode exhibits excellent electrochemical properties, including a high initial reversible capacity (2734 mA h g-1 with 75% coulombic efficiency), stable cycle performance (988 mA h g-1 after 100 cycles), and good rate capability (800 mA h g-1 at 1 A g-1 rate). Because the composite is naturally abundant and shows such excellent electrochemical performance, it is a promising anode candidate material for lithium-ion batteries. The binder-free monolithic architectural design also provides an effective way to prepare other monolithic electrode materials for advanced lithium-ion batteries.« less

Electrode including porous particles with embedded active material for use in a secondary electrochemical cell

DOEpatents

Vissers, Donald R.; Nelson, Paul A.; Kaun, Thomas D.; Tomczuk, Zygmunt

1978-04-25

Particles of carbonaceous matrices containing embedded electrode active material are prepared for vibratory loading within a porous electrically conductive substrate. In preparing the particles, active materials such as metal chalcogenides, solid alloys of alkali or alkaline earth metals along with other metals and their oxides in powdered or particulate form are blended with a thermosetting resin and particles of a volatile to form a paste mixture. The paste is heated to a temperature at which the volatile transforms into vapor to impart porosity at about the same time as the resin begins to cure into a rigid, solid structure. The solid structure is then comminuted into porous, carbonaceous particles with the embedded active material.

Method of preparing porous, active material for use in electrodes of secondary electrochemical cells

DOEpatents

Vissers, Donald R.; Nelson, Paul A.; Kaun, Thomas D.; Tomczuk, Zygmunt

1977-01-01

Particles of carbonaceous matrices containing embedded electrode active material are prepared for vibratory loading within a porous electrically conductive substrate. In preparing the particles, active materials such as metal chalcogenides, solid alloys of alkali or alkaline earth metals along with other metals and their oxides in powdered or particulate form are blended with a thermosetting resin and particles of a volatile to form a paste mixture. The paste is heated to a temperature at which the volatile transforms into vapor to impart porosity at about the same time as the resin begins to cure into a rigid, solid structure.The solid structure is then comminuted into porous, carbonaceous particles with the embedded active material.

Computational identification of promising thermoelectric materials among known quasi-2D binary compounds

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

Gorai, Prashun; Toberer, Eric S.; Stevanović, Vladan

Quasi low-dimensional structures are abundant among known thermoelectric materials, primarily because of their low lattice thermal conductivities. In this work, we have computationally assessed the potential of 427 known binary quasi-2D structures in 272 different chemistries for thermoelectric performance. To assess the thermoelectric performance, we employ an improved version of our previously developed descriptor for thermoelectric performance [Yan et al., Energy Environ. Sci., 2015, 8, 983]. The improvement is in the explicit treatment of van der Waals interactions in quasi-2D materials, which leads to significantly better predictions of their crystal structures and lattice thermal conductivities. The improved methodology correctly identifiesmore » known binary quasi-2D thermoelectric materials such as Sb2Te3, Bi2Te3, SnSe, SnS, InSe, and In2Se3. As a result, we propose candidate quasi-2D binary materials, a number of which have not been previously considered for thermoelectric applications.« less

Characterization and organic electric-double-layer-capacitor application of KOH activated coal-tar-pitch-based carbons: Effect of carbonization temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, Poo Reum; Lee, Eunji; Kwon, Soon Hyung; Jung, Ji Chul; Kim, Myung-Soo

2015-12-01

The present study reports the influence of pre-carbonization on the properties of KOH-activated coal tar pitch (CTP). The change of crystallinity and pore structure of pre-carbonized CTPs as well as their activated carbons (ACs) as function of pre-carbonization temperature are investigated. The crystallinity of pre-carbonized CTPs increases with increasing the carbonization temperature up to 600 °C, but a disorder occurs during the carbonization around 700 °C and an order happens gradually with increasing the carbonization temperatures in range of 800-1000 °C. The CTPs pre-carbonized at high temperatures are more difficult to be activated with KOH than those pre-carbonized at low temperatures due to the increase of micro-crystalline size and the decrease of surface functional groups. The micro-pores and meso-pores are well developed at around 1.0 nm and 2.4 nm, respectively, as the ACs are pre-carbonized at temperatures of 500-600 °C, exhibiting high specific capacitances as electrode materials for electric double layer capacitor (EDLC). Although the specific surface area (SSA) and pore volume of ACs pre-carbonized at temperatures of 900-1000 °C are extraordinary low (non-porous) as compared to those of AC pre-carbonized at 600 °C, their specific capacitances are comparable to each other. The large specific capacitances with low SSA ACs can be attributed to the structural change resulting from the electrochemical activation during the 1st charge above 2.0 V.

Electrical transport and optical band gap of NiFe2Ox thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bougiatioti, Panagiota; Manos, Orestis; Klewe, Christoph; Meier, Daniel; Teichert, Niclas; Schmalhorst, Jan-Michael; Kuschel, Timo; Reiss, Günter

2017-12-01

We fabricated NiFe2Ox thin films on MgAl2O4(001) by reactive dc magnetron co-sputtering varying the oxygen partial pressure. The fabrication of a material with a variable oxygen deficiency leads to controllable electrical and optical properties which are beneficial for the investigations of the transport phenomena and could, therefore, promote the use of such materials in spintronic and spin caloritronic applications. We used several characterization techniques to investigate the film properties, focusing on their structural, magnetic, electrical, and optical properties. From the electrical resistivity, we obtained the conduction mechanisms that govern the systems in the high and low temperature regimes. We further extracted low thermal activation energies which unveil extrinsic transport mechanisms. The thermal activation energy decreases in the less oxidized samples revealing the pronounced contribution of a large amount of electronic states localized in the band gap to the electrical conductivity. The Hall coefficient is negative and decreases with increasing conductivity as expected for n-type conduction, while the Hall- and the drift mobilities show a large difference. The optical band gaps were determined via ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy. They follow a similar trend as the thermal activation energies, with lower band gap values in the less oxidized samples.

Ultrastructural studies of synthetic apatite crystals.

PubMed

Arends, J; Jongebloed, W L

1979-03-01

In this paper a survey is given of some ultrastructural properties of synthetic hydroxyapatite. The preparation method by which single crystals with a length in the range of 0.1-3.0mm and a defined purity and stoïchiometry can be produced is given. Two groups of materials are considered in detail: carbonate-rich (greater than 0.1% CO3) and low-carbonate hydroxyapatites. The experiments on carbonate-rich material, being the most interesting from a biological point of view, show that acids attack at an active site in the hexagonal basal-plane of the crystals. Later on the crystals dissolve in the center of the crystal parallel to the c-axis forming tube-like structures. The active site can be protected from dissolution if the crystals are pretreated by EHDP or MFP. A comparison with lattice defect theory shows that most likely dislocations of the "hollow-core" type are responsible for the preferential dissolution.

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

PubMed

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

2017-10-16

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

ERP Evidence for the Activation of Syntactic Structure During Comprehension of Lexical Idiom.

PubMed

Zhang, Meichao; Lu, Aitao; Song, Pingfang

2017-10-01

The present study used event-related potentials to investigate whether the syntactic structure was activated in the comprehension of lexical idioms, and if so, whether it varied as a function of familiarity and semantic transparency. Participants were asked to passively read the "1+2" structural Chinese lexical idioms with each being presented following 3-5 contextual "1+2" (congruent-structure condition) or "2+1" structural Chinese phrases (incongruent-structure condition). The N400 ERP responses showed more positivity in congruent-structure condition relative to incongruent-structure condition in idioms with high familiarity and high semantic transparency, but less positivity in congruent-structure condition in idioms with high familiarity but low semantic transparency, idioms with low familiarity but high semantic transparency, and idioms with low familiarity and low semantic transparency. Our results suggest that syntactic structure, as the unnecessarity of lexical idiomatic words, was nevertheless activated, independent of familiarity and semantic transparency.

Low resistance thin film organic solar cell electrodes

DOEpatents

Forrest, Stephen [Princeton, NJ; Xue, Jiangeng [Piscataway, NJ

2008-01-01

A method which lower the series resistance of photosensitive devices includes providing a transparent film of a first electrically conductive material arranged on a transparent substrate; depositing and patterning a mask over the first electrically conductive material, such that openings in the mask have sloping sides which narrow approaching the substrate; depositing a second electrically conductive material directly onto the first electrically conductive material exposed in the openings of the mask, at least partially filling the openings; stripping the mask, leaving behind reentrant structures of the second electrically conductive material which were formed by the deposits in the openings of the mask; after stripping the mask, depositing a first organic material onto the first electrically conductive material in between the reentrant structures; and directionally depositing a third electrically conductive material over the first organic material deposited in between the reentrant structures, edges of the reentrant structures aligning deposition so that the third electrically conductive material does not directly contact the first electrically conductive material, and does not directly contact the second electrically conductive material.

Low loss, high and low index contrast waveguides in semiconductors

DOEpatents

Bond, Tiziana [Livermore, CA; Cole, Garrett [Berkeley, CA; Goddard, Lynford [Champaign, IL; Kallman, Jeff [Pleasanton, CA

2011-08-09

A system in one general embodiment includes a waveguide structure comprising a core of an alloy of Group III-V materials surrounded by an oxide (which may include one or more Group III-V metals), wherein an interface of the oxide and core is characterized by oxidation of the alloy for defining the core. A method in one general approach includes oxidizing a waveguide structure comprising an alloy of Group III-V materials for forming a core of the alloy surrounded by an oxide.

Vivid structural colors with low angle dependence from long-range ordered photonic crystal films.

PubMed

Su, Xin; Xia, Hongbo; Zhang, Shufen; Tang, Bingtao; Wu, Suli

2017-03-02

Structural colored materials have attracted increasing attention due to their vivid color effects and non-photobleaching characteristics. However, the angle dependence of these structural colors severely restricts their practical applications, for example, in display and sensing devices. Here, a new strategy for obtaining low angle dependent structural colors is demonstrated by fabricating long-range ordered photonic crystal films. By using spheres with high refractive indices as building blocks, the angle dependence of the obtained colors has been strongly suppressed. Green, golden yellow and red structural colored films with low angle dependence were obtained by using 145 nm, 165 nm and 187 nm Cu 2 O spheres as building blocks, respectively. SEM images confirmed the long-range highly ordered arrays of the Cu 2 O photonic crystal films. Reflectance spectra and digital photographs clearly demonstrate the low angle dependence of these structural colors, which is in sharp comparison with the case of polystyrene (PS) and SiO 2 photonic crystal films. Furthermore, these structural colors are vivid with high color saturation, not only under black background, but also under white background and natural light without adding any light-absorbing agents. These low angle dependent structural colors endow Cu 2 O photonic crystal films with great potential in practical applications. Our findings may broaden the strategies for the design and fabrication of angle independent structural colored materials.

Evaluation available encapsulation materials for low-cost long-life silicon photovoltaic arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carmichael, D. C.; Gaines, G. B.; Noel, G. T.; Sliemers, F. A.; Nance, G. P.; Bunk, A. R.; Brockway, M. C.

1978-01-01

Experimental evaluation of selected encapsulation designs and materials based on an earlier study which have potential for use in low cost, long-life photovoltaic arrays are reported. The performance of candidate materials and encapsulated cells were evaluated principally for three types of encapsulation designs based on their potentially low materials and processing costs: (1) polymeric coatings, transparent conformal coatings over the cell with a structural-support substrate; (2) polymeric film lamination, cells laminated between two films or sheets of polymeric materials; and (3) glass-covered systems, cells adhesively bonded to a glass cover (superstrate) with a polymeric pottant and a glass or other substrate material. Several other design types, including those utilizing polymer sheet and pottant materials, were also included in the investigation.

Three-dimensional Nitrogen-Doped Graphene Supported Molybdenum Disulfide Nanoparticles as an Advanced Catalyst for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

PubMed Central

Dong, Haifeng; Liu, Conghui; Ye, Haitao; Hu, Linping; Fugetsu, Bunshi; Dai, Wenhao; Cao, Yu; Qi, Xueqiang; Lu, Huiting; Zhang, Xueji

2015-01-01

An efficient three-dimensional (3D) hybrid material of nitrogen-doped graphene sheets (N-RGO) supporting molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanoparticles with high-performance electrocatalytic activity for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is fabricated by using a facile hydrothermal route. Comprehensive microscopic and spectroscopic characterizations confirm the resulting hybrid material possesses a 3D crumpled few-layered graphene network structure decorated with MoS2 nanoparticles. Electrochemical characterization analysis reveals that the resulting hybrid material exhibits efficient electrocatalytic activity toward HER under acidic conditions with a low onset potential of 112 mV and a small Tafel slope of 44 mV per decade. The enhanced mechanism of electrocatalytic activity has been investigated in detail by controlling the elemental composition, electrical conductance and surface morphology of the 3D hybrid as well as Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. This demonstrates that the abundance of exposed active sulfur edge sites in the MoS2 and nitrogen active functional moieties in N-RGO are synergistically responsible for the catalytic activity, whilst the distinguished and coherent interface in MoS2/N-RGO facilitates the electron transfer during electrocatalysis. Our study gives insights into the physical/chemical mechanism of enhanced HER performance in MoS2/N-RGO hybrids and illustrates how to design and construct a 3D hybrid to maximize the catalytic efficiency. PMID:26639026

High Pressure Low Temperature X-Ray Diffraction Studies of UO2 and UN single crystals.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Antonio, Daniel; Mast, Daniel; Lavina, Barbara; Gofryk, Krzysztof

Uranium dioxide is the most commonly used nuclear fuel material in commercial reactors, while uranium nitride also has many thermal and physical properties that make it attractive for potential use in reactors. Both have a cubic fcc lattice structure at ambient conditions and transition to antiferromagnetic order at low temperature. UO2 is a Mott insulator that orders in a complex non-collinear 3k magnetic structure at about 30 K, while UN has appreciable conductivity and orders in a simpler 1k magnetic structure below 52 K. Both compounds are characterized by strong magneto-structural interactions, understanding of which is vital for modeling their thermo-physical properties. While UO2 and UN have been extensively studied at and above room temperature, little work has been done to directly study the structure of these materials at low temperatures where magnetic interactions are dominant. In the course of our systematic studies on magneto vibrational behavior of UO2 and UN, here we present our recent results of high pressure X-Ray Diffraction (up to 35 GPa) measured below the Neel temperature using synchrotron radiation. Work supported by the Department of Energy, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, Materials Sciences, and Engineering Division.

A state-of-the-art assessment of active structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1992-01-01

A state-of-the-art assessment of active structures with emphasis towards the applications in aeronautics and space is presented. It is felt that since this technology area is growing at such a rapid pace in many different disciplines, it is not feasible to cover all of the current research but only the relevant work as relates to aeronautics and space. Research in smart actuation materials, smart sensors, and control of smart/intelligent structures is covered. In smart actuation materials, piezoelectric, magnetostrictive, shape memory, electrorheological, and electrostrictive materials are covered. For sensory materials, fiber optics, dielectric loss, and piezoelectric sensors are examined. Applications of embedded sensors and smart sensors are discussed.

High Precision Grids for Neutron, Hard X-Ray, and Gamma-Ray Imaging Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Campbell, Jonathan W. (Inventor)

2002-01-01

Fourier telescopes permit observations over a very broad band of energy. They generally include synthetic spatial filtering structures, known as multilayer grids or grid pairs consisting of alternate layers of absorbing and transparent materials depending on whether neutrons or photons are being imaged. For hard x-rays and gamma rays high (absorbing) and low (transparent) atomic number elements, termed high-Z and low-Z materials may be used. Fabrication of these multilayer grid structures is not without its difficulties. Herein the alternate layers of the higher material and the lower material are inserted in a polyhedron, transparent to photons of interest, through an open face of the polyhedron. The inserted layers are then uniformly compressed to form a multilayer grid.

Development of a composite geodetic structure for space construction, phase 1A

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1980-01-01

The development of a geodetic beam and beam builder for on orbit construction of large truss type space structures is discussed. The geodetic beam is a lightweight, open lattice structure composed of an equilateral gridwork of crisscrossing rods. The beam provides a high degree of stiffness and minimizes structural distortion, due to temperature gradients, through the incorporation of a new graphite and glass reinforced thermoplastic composite material with a low coefficient of thermal expansion. A low power consuming, high production rate, beam builder automatically fabricates the geodetic beams in space using rods preprocessed on Earth. Three areas of the development are focused upon; (1) geodetic beam designs for local attachment of equipment or beam to beam joining in a parallel or crossing configurations, (2) evaluation of long life pultruded rods capable of service temperatures higher than possible with the HMS/P1700 rod material, and (3) evalaution of high temperature joint encapsulant materials.

Crystal and Magnetic Structures in Layered, Transition Metal Dihalides and Trihalides

DOE PAGES

McGuire, Michael A.

2017-04-27

Materials composed of two dimensional layers bonded to one another through weak van der Waals interactions often exhibit strongly anisotropic behaviors and can be cleaved into very thin specimens and sometimes into monolayer crystals. Interest in such materials is driven by the study of low dimensional physics and the design of functional heterostructures. Binary compounds with the compositions MX 2 and MX 3 where M is a metal cation and X is a halogen anion often form such structures. Magnetism can be incorporated by choosing a transition metal with a partially filled d-shell for M, enabling ferroic responses for enhancedmore » functionality. Here we give a brief overview of binary transition metal dihalides and trihalides, summarizing their crystallographic properties and long-range-ordered magnetic structures, focusing on those materials with layered crystal structures and partially filled d-shells required for combining low dimensionality and cleavability with magnetism.« less

Low-Temperature Synthesis of New Ternary Chalcogenide Compounds of Copper, Gold, and Mercury Using Alkali Metal Polychalcogenide Fluxes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Younbong

In last two decades great efforts have been exerted to find new materials with interesting optical, electrical, and catalytic properties. Metal chalcogenides have been studied extensively because of their interesting physical properties and rich structural chemistry, among the potential materials. Prior to this work, most known metal chalcogenides had been synthesized at high temperature (T > 500^circC). Intermediate temperature synthesis in solid state chemistry was seldom pursued because of the extremely slow diffusion rates between reactants. This intermediate temperature regime could be a new synthesis condition if one looks for new materials with unusual structural features and properties. Metastable or kinetically stable compounds can be stabilized in this intermediate temperature regime, in contrast to the thermodynamically stable high temperature compounds. Molten salts, especially alkali metal polychalcogenide fluxes, can provide a route for exploring new chalcogenide materials at intermediate temperatures. These fluxes are very reactive and melt as low as 145^circC (mp of K_2S_4). Using these fluxes as reaction media, we have encountered many novel chalcogenide compounds with unusual structures and interesting electrical properties (semiconductors to metallic conductors). Low-dimensional polychalcogenide compounds of alpha-ACuQ_4 (A = K, Cs; Q = S, Se), beta -KCuS_4, KAuQ_5 (Q = S, Se), K_3AuSe_ {13}, Na_3AuSe _8, and CsAuSe_3 exhibit the beautiful structural diversity and bonding flexibility of the polychalcogenide ligands. In addition, many novel chalcogenide compounds of Cu, Hg, and Au with low-dimensional structures. The preparation of novel mixed -valence Cu compounds, K_2Cu _5Te_5, Cs _3Cu_8Te_ {10}, Na_3Cu _4Se_4, K _3Cu_8S_4 Te_2, and KCu_4 S_2Te, which show interesting metallic properties, especially underscores the enormous potential of the molten salt method for the synthesis of new chalcogenide materials with interesting physical properties. The materials prepared in this study can be classified as a new class of chalcogenide compounds due to their unique structures. In this dissertation the synthesis, characterization with emphasis on structures, charge transport properties, and magnetic susceptibilities of the materials will be illustrated.

The Materials Chemistry of Atomic Oxygen with Applications to Anisotropic Etching of Submicron Structures in Microelectronics and the Surface Chemistry Engineering of Porous Solids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koontz, Steve L.; Leger, Lubert J.; Wu, Corina; Cross, Jon B.; Jurgensen, Charles W.

1994-01-01

Neutral atomic oxygen is the most abundant component of the ionospheric plasma in the low Earth orbit environment (LEO; 200 to 700 kilometers altitude) and can produce significant degradation of some spacecraft materials. In order to produce a more complete understanding of the materials chemistry of atomic oxygen, the chemistry and physics of O-atom interactions with materials were determined in three radically different environments: (1) The Space Shuttle cargo bay in low Earth orbit (the EOIM-3 space flight experiment), (2) a high-velocity neutral atom beam system (HVAB) at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), and (3) a microwave-plasma flowing-discharge system at JSC. The Space Shuttle and the high velocity atom beam systems produce atom-surface collision energies ranging from 0.1 to 7 eV (hyperthermal atoms) under high-vacuum conditions, while the flowing discharge system produces a 0.065 eV surface collision energy at a total pressure of 2 Torr. Data obtained in the three different O-atom environments referred to above show that the rate of O-atom reaction with polymeric materials is strongly dependent on atom kinetic energy, obeying a reactive scattering law which suggests that atom kinetic energy is directly available for overcoming activation barriers in the reaction. General relationships between polymer reactivity with O atoms and polymer composition and molecular structure have been determined. In addition, vacuum ultraviolet photochemical effects have been shown to dominate the reaction of O atoms with fluorocarbon polymers. Finally, studies of the materials chemistry of O atoms have produced results which may be of interest to technologists outside the aerospace industry. Atomic oxygen 'spin-off' or 'dual use' technologies in the areas of anisotropic etching in microelectronic materials and device processing, as well as surface chemistry engineering of porous solid materials are described.

Amending the Structure of Renewable Carbon from Biorefinery Waste-Streams for Energy Storage Applications.

PubMed

Ho, Hoi Chun; Goswami, Monojoy; Chen, Jihua; Keum, Jong K; Naskar, Amit K

2018-05-29

Biorefineries produce impure sugar waste streams that are being underutilized. By converting this waste to a profitable by-product, biorefineries could be safeguarded against low oil prices. We demonstrate controlled production of useful carbon materials from the waste concentrate via hydrothermal synthesis and carbonization. We devise a pathway to producing tunable, porous spherical carbon materials by modeling the gross structure formation and developing an understanding of the pore formation mechanism utilizing simple reaction principles. Compared to a simple hydrothermal synthesis from sugar concentrate, emulsion-based synthesis results in hollow spheres with abundant microporosity. In contrast, conventional hydrothermal synthesis produces solid beads with micro and mesoporosity. All the carbonaceous materials show promise in energy storage application. Using our reaction pathway, perfect hollow activated carbon spheres can be produced from waste sugar in liquid effluence of biomass steam pretreatment units. The renewable carbon product demonstrated a desirable surface area of 872 m 2 /g and capacitance of up to 109 F/g when made into an electric double layer supercapacitor. The capacitor exhibited nearly ideal capacitive behavior with 90.5% capacitance retention after 5000 cycles.

Conformal fabrication of colloidal quantum dot solids for optically enhanced photovoltaics.

PubMed

Labelle, André J; Thon, Susanna M; Kim, Jin Young; Lan, Xinzheng; Zhitomirsky, David; Kemp, Kyle W; Sargent, Edward H

2015-05-26

Colloidal quantum dots (CQD) are an attractive thin-film material for photovoltaic applications due to low material costs, ease of fabrication, and size-tunable band gap. Unfortunately, today they suffer from a compromise between light absorption and photocarrier extraction, a fact that currently prevents the complete harvest of incoming above-band-gap solar photons. We have investigated the use of structured substrates and/or electrodes to increase the effective light path through the active material and found that these designs require highly conformal application of the light-absorbing films to achieve the greatest enhancement. This conformality requirement derives from the need for maximal absorption enhancement combined with shortest-distance charge transport. Here we report on a means of processing highly conformal layer-by-layer deposited CQD absorber films onto microstructured, light-recycling electrodes. Specifically, we engineer surface hydrophilicity to achieve conformal deposition of upper layers atop underlying ones. We show that only with the application of conformal coating can we achieve optimal quantum efficiency and enhanced power conversion efficiency in structured-electrode CQD cells.

Disorder and defects are not intrinsic to boron carbide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mondal, Swastik; Bykova, Elena; Dey, Somnath; Ali, Sk Imran; Dubrovinskaia, Natalia; Dubrovinsky, Leonid; Parakhonskiy, Gleb; van Smaalen, Sander

2016-01-01

A unique combination of useful properties in boron-carbide, such as extreme hardness, excellent fracture toughness, a low density, a high melting point, thermoelectricity, semi-conducting behavior, catalytic activity and a remarkably good chemical stability, makes it an ideal material for a wide range of technological applications. Explaining these properties in terms of chemical bonding has remained a major challenge in boron chemistry. Here we report the synthesis of fully ordered, stoichiometric boron-carbide B13C2 by high-pressure-high-temperature techniques. Our experimental electron-density study using high-resolution single-crystal synchrotron X-ray diffraction data conclusively demonstrates that disorder and defects are not intrinsic to boron carbide, contrary to what was hitherto supposed. A detailed analysis of the electron density distribution reveals charge transfer between structural units in B13C2 and a new type of electron-deficient bond with formally unpaired electrons on the C-B-C group in B13C2. Unprecedented bonding features contribute to the fundamental chemistry and materials science of boron compounds that is of great interest for understanding structure-property relationships and development of novel functional materials.

Preparation and Sound Absorption Properties of a Barium Titanate/Nitrile Butadiene Rubber–Polyurethane Foam Composite with Multilayered Structure

PubMed Central

Jiang, Xueliang; Yang, Zhen; Wang, Zhijie; Zhang, Fuqing; You, Feng

2018-01-01

Barium titanate/nitrile butadiene rubber (BT/NBR) and polyurethane (PU) foam were combined to prepare a sound-absorbing material with an alternating multilayered structure. The effects of the cell size of PU foam and the alternating unit number on the sound absorption property of the material were investigated. The results show that the sound absorption efficiency at a low frequency increased when decreasing the cell size of PU foam layer. With the increasing of the alternating unit number, the material shows the sound absorption effect in a wider bandwidth of frequency. The BT/NBR-PU foam composites with alternating multilayered structure have an excellent sound absorption property at low frequency due to the organic combination of airflow resistivity, resonance absorption, and interface dissipation. PMID:29565321

Preparation and Sound Absorption Properties of a Barium Titanate/Nitrile Butadiene Rubber-Polyurethane Foam Composite with Multilayered Structure.

PubMed

Jiang, Xueliang; Yang, Zhen; Wang, Zhijie; Zhang, Fuqing; You, Feng; Yao, Chu

2018-03-22

Barium titanate/nitrile butadiene rubber (BT/NBR) and polyurethane (PU) foam were combined to prepare a sound-absorbing material with an alternating multilayered structure. The effects of the cell size of PU foam and the alternating unit number on the sound absorption property of the material were investigated. The results show that the sound absorption efficiency at a low frequency increased when decreasing the cell size of PU foam layer. With the increasing of the alternating unit number, the material shows the sound absorption effect in a wider bandwidth of frequency. The BT/NBR-PU foam composites with alternating multilayered structure have an excellent sound absorption property at low frequency due to the organic combination of airflow resistivity, resonance absorption, and interface dissipation.

Facile preparation of porous carbon from coffee bean waste using low temperature solvothermal method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baroroh, L. A. Al; Fitria, D.; Amal, M. I.; Wismogroho, A. S.; Widayatno, W. B.

2018-03-01

In this study, porous carbon made from coffee bean waste (CBW) was carbonized at 500 °C, 600 °C, and 700 °C to find effective temperature. It is verified from the IR spectrum that carbonization process at certain temperature can effectively break cellulose bonding and make aromatics functional group while preserving its carbon structure. The TG-DTA curve shows four stages of decomposition process and confirms most effective carbonization temperature. Activation process of as-carbonized CBW was carried out using solvothermal method in KOH and NH4OH steam environment at 200 °C with variation of 30%, 40%, and 50% solvothermal volume. Scanning electron micrographs reveals significant increase of porosity on the carbon surface and differences of structural pores between the variations. The results show the possible potential of utilizing low temperature-solvothermal method for nanoporous carbon material.

Low activated incore instrument

DOEpatents

Ekeroth, D.E.

1994-04-19

Instrumentation is described for nuclear reactor head-mounted incore instrumentation systems fabricated of low nuclear cross section materials (i.e., zirconium or titanium). The instrumentation emits less radiation than that fabricated of conventional materials. 9 figures.

Microscopic observation of carrier-transport dynamics in quantum-structure solar cells using a time-of-flight technique

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

Toprasertpong, Kasidit; Fujii, Hiromasa; Sugiyama, Masakazu

2015-07-27

In this study, we propose a carrier time-of-flight technique to evaluate the carrier transport time across a quantum structure in an active region of solar cells. By observing the time-resolved photoluminescence signal with a quantum-well probe inserted under the quantum structure at forward bias, the carrier transport time can be efficiently determined at room temperature. The averaged drift velocity shows linear dependence on the internal field, allowing us to estimate the quantum structure as a quasi-bulk material with low effective mobility containing the information of carrier dynamics. We show that this direct and real-time observation is more sensitive to carriermore » transport than other conventional techniques, providing better insights into microscopic carrier transport dynamics to overcome a device design difficulty.« less

Virus based Full Colour Pixels using a Microheater

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Won-Geun; Kim, Kyujung; Ha, Sung-Hun; Song, Hyerin; Yu, Hyun-Woo; Kim, Chuntae; Kim, Jong-Man; Oh, Jin-Woo

2015-09-01

Mimicking natural structures has been received considerable attentions, and there have been a few practical advances. Tremendous efforts based on a self-assembly technique have been contributed to the development of the novel photonic structures which are mimicking nature’s inventions. We emulate the photonic structures from an origin of colour generation of mammalian skins and avian skin/feathers using M13 phage. The structures can be generated a full range of RGB colours that can be sensitively switched by temperature and substrate materials. Consequently, we developed an M13 phage-based temperature-dependent actively controllable colour pixels platform on a microheater chip. Given the simplicity of the fabrication process, the low voltage requirements and cycling stability, the virus colour pixels enable us to substitute for conventional colour pixels for the development of various implantable, wearable and flexible devices in future.

First-principle simulations of electronic structure in semicrystalline polyethylene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moyassari, A.; Unge, M.; Hedenqvist, M. S.; Gedde, U. W.; Nilsson, F.

2017-05-01

In order to increase our fundamental knowledge about high-voltage cable insulation materials, realistic polyethylene (PE) structures, generated with a novel molecular modeling strategy, have been analyzed using first principle electronic structure simulations. The PE structures were constructed by first generating atomistic PE configurations with an off-lattice Monte Carlo method and then equilibrating the structures at the desired temperature and pressure using molecular dynamics simulations. Semicrystalline, fully crystalline and fully amorphous PE, in some cases including crosslinks and short-chain branches, were analyzed. The modeled PE had a structure in agreement with established experimental data. Linear-scaling density functional theory (LS-DFT) was used to examine the electronic structure (e.g., spatial distribution of molecular orbitals, bandgaps and mobility edges) on all the materials, whereas conventional DFT was used to validate the LS-DFT results on small systems. When hybrid functionals were used, the simulated bandgaps were close to the experimental values. The localization of valence and conduction band states was demonstrated. The localized states in the conduction band were primarily found in the free volume (result of gauche conformations) present in the amorphous regions. For branched and crosslinked structures, the localized electronic states closest to the valence band edge were positioned at branches and crosslinks, respectively. At 0 K, the activation energy for transport was lower for holes than for electrons. However, at room temperature, the effective activation energy was very low (˜0.1 eV) for both holes and electrons, which indicates that the mobility will be relatively high even below the mobility edges and suggests that charge carriers can be hot carriers above the mobility edges in the presence of a high electrical field.

Engineering Cu surfaces for the electrocatalytic conversion of CO2: Controlling selectivity toward oxygenates and hydrocarbons

PubMed Central

Hahn, Christopher; Hatsukade, Toru; Kim, Youn-Geun; Vailionis, Arturas; Baricuatro, Jack H.; Higgins, Drew C.; Nitopi, Stephanie A.; Soriaga, Manuel P.; Jaramillo, Thomas F.

2017-01-01

In this study we control the surface structure of Cu thin-film catalysts to probe the relationship between active sites and catalytic activity for the electroreduction of CO2 to fuels and chemicals. Here, we report physical vapor deposition of Cu thin films on large-format (∼6 cm2) single-crystal substrates, and confirm epitaxial growth in the <100>, <111>, and <751> orientations using X-ray pole figures. To understand the relationship between the bulk and surface structures, in situ electrochemical scanning tunneling microscopy was conducted on Cu(100), (111), and (751) thin films. The studies revealed that Cu(100) and (111) have surface adlattices that are identical to the bulk structure, and that Cu(751) has a heterogeneous kinked surface with (110) terraces that is closely related to the bulk structure. Electrochemical CO2 reduction testing showed that whereas both Cu(100) and (751) thin films are more active and selective for C–C coupling than Cu(111), Cu(751) is the most selective for >2e− oxygenate formation at low overpotentials. Our results demonstrate that epitaxy can be used to grow single-crystal analogous materials as large-format electrodes that provide insights on controlling electrocatalytic activity and selectivity for this reaction. PMID:28533377

Construction of Zinc Oxide into Different Morphological Structures to Be Utilized as Antimicrobial Agent against Multidrug Resistant Bacteria

PubMed Central

Elkady, M. F.; Shokry Hassan, H.; Hafez, Elsayed E.; Fouad, Ahmed

2015-01-01

Nano-ZnO has been successfully implemented in particles, rods, and tubes nanostructures via sol-gel and hydrothermal techniques. The variation of the different preparation parameters such as reaction temperature, time, and stabilizer agents was optimized to attain different morphological structures. The influence of the microwave annealing process on ZnO crystallinity, surface area, and morphological structure was monitored using XRD, BET, and SEM techniques, respectively. The antimicrobial activity of zinc oxide produced in nanotubes structure was examined against four different multidrug resistant bacteria: Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) strains. The activity of produced nano-ZnO was determined by disc diffusion technique and the results revealed that ZnO nanotubes recorded high activity against the studied strains due to their high surface area equivalent to 17.8 m2/g. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of ZnO nanotubes showed that the low concentrations of ZnO nanotubes could be a substitution for the commercial antibiotics when approached in suitable formula. Although the annealing process of ZnO improves the degree of material crystallinity, however, it declines its surface area and consequently its antimicrobial activity. PMID:26451136

Impact analysis of automotive structures with distributed smart material systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peelamedu, Saravanan M.; Naganathan, Ganapathy; Buckley, Stephen J.

1999-06-01

New class of automobiles has structural skins that are quite different from their current designs. Particularly, new families of composite skins are developed with new injection molding processes. These skins while support the concept of lighter vehicles of the future, are also susceptible to damage upon impact. It is important that their design should be based on a better understanding on the type of impact loads and the resulting strains and damage. It is possible that these skins can be integrally designed with active materials to counter damages. This paper presents a preliminary analysis of a new class of automotive skins, using piezoceramic as a smart material. The main objective is to consider the complex system with, the skin to be modeled as a layered plate structure involving a lightweight material with foam and active materials imbedded on them. To begin with a cantilever beam structure is subjected to a load through piezoceramic and the resulting strain at the active material site is predicted accounting for the material properties, piezoceramic thickness, adhesive thickness including the effect of adhesives. A finite element analysis is carried out to compare experimental work. Further work in this direction would provide an analytical tool that will provide the basis for algorithms to predict and counter impacts on the future class of automobiles.

Dimensional and Structural Control of Silica Aerogel Membranes for Miniaturized Motionless Gas Pumps.

PubMed

Zhao, Shanyu; Jiang, Bo; Maeder, Thomas; Muralt, Paul; Kim, Nayoung; Matam, Santhosh Kumar; Jeong, Eunho; Han, Yen-Lin; Koebel, Matthias M

2015-08-26

With growing public interest in portable electronics such as micro fuel cells, micro gas total analysis systems, and portable medical devices, the need for miniaturized air pumps with minimal electrical power consumption is on the rise. Thus, the development and downsizing of next-generation thermal transpiration gas pumps has been investigated intensively during the last decades. Such a system relies on a mesoporous membrane that generates a thermomolecular pressure gradient under the action of an applied temperature bias. However, the development of highly miniaturized active membrane materials with tailored porosity and optimized pumping performance remains a major challenge. Here we report a systematic study on the manufacturing of aerogel membranes using an optimized, minimal-shrinkage sol-gel process, leading to low thermal conductivity and high air conductance. This combination of properties results in superior performance for miniaturized thermomolecular air pump applications. The engineering of such aerogel membranes, which implies pore structure control and chemical surface modification, requires both chemical processing know-how and a detailed understanding of the influence of the material properties on the spatial flow rate density. Optimal pumping performance was found for devices with integrated membranes with a density of 0.062 g cm(-3) and an average pore size of 142.0 nm. Benchmarking of such low-density hydrophobic active aerogel membranes gave an air flow rate density of 3.85 sccm·cm(-2) at an operating temperature of 400 °C. Such a silica aerogel membrane based system has shown more than 50% higher pumping performance when compared to conventional transpiration pump membrane materials as well as the ability to withstand higher operating temperatures (up to 440 °C). This study highlights new perspectives for the development of miniaturized thermal transpiration air pumps while offering insights into the fundamentals of molecular pumping in three-dimensional open-mesoporous materials.

Converting Corncob to Activated Porous Carbon for Supercapacitor Application.

PubMed

Yang, Shaoran; Zhang, Kaili

2018-03-21

Carbon materials derived from biomass are promising electrode materials for supercapacitor application due to their specific porosity, low cost and electrochemical stability. Herein, a hierarchical porous carbon derived from corncob was developed for use as electrodes. Benefitting from its hierarchical porosity, inherited from the natural structure of corncob, high BET surface area (1471.4 m²·g -1 ) and excellent electrical conductivity, the novel carbon material exhibited a specific capacitance of 293 F·g -1 at 1 A·g -1 in 6 M KOH electrolyte and maintained at 195 F·g -1 at 5 A·g -1 . In addition, a two-electrode device was assembled and delivered an energy density of 20.15 Wh·kg -1 at a power density of 500 W·kg -1 and an outstanding stability of 99.9% capacitance retention after 4000 cycles.

Development of magnetostrictive active members for control of space structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Bruce G.; Avakian, Kevin M.; Fenn, Ralph C.; Gaffney, Monique S.; Gerver, Michael J.; Hawkey, Timothy J.; Boudreau, Donald J.

1992-01-01

The goal of this Phase 2 Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) project was to determine the technical feasibility of developing magnetostrictive active members for use as truss elements in space structures. Active members control elastic vibrations of truss-based space structures and integrate the functions of truss structure element, actively controlled actuator, and sensor. The active members must control structural motion to the sub-micron level and, for many proposed space applications, work at cryogenic temperatures. Under this program both room temperature and cryogenic temperature magnetostrictive active members were designed, fabricated, and tested. The results of these performance tests indicated that room temperature magnetostrictive actuators feature higher strain, stiffness, and force capability with lower amplifier requirements than similarly sized piezoelectric or electrostrictive active members, at the cost of higher mass. Two different cryogenic temperature magnetostrictive materials were tested at liquid nitrogen temperatures, both with larger strain capability than the room temperature magnetostrictive materials. The cryogenic active member development included the design and fabrication of a cryostat that allows operation of the cryogenic active member in a space structure testbed.

Development of magnetostrictive active members for control of space structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, Bruce G.; Avakian, Kevin M.; Fenn, Ralph C.; Gaffney, Monique S.; Gerver, Michael J.; Hawkey, Timothy J.; Boudreau, Donald J.

1992-08-01

The goal of this Phase 2 Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) project was to determine the technical feasibility of developing magnetostrictive active members for use as truss elements in space structures. Active members control elastic vibrations of truss-based space structures and integrate the functions of truss structure element, actively controlled actuator, and sensor. The active members must control structural motion to the sub-micron level and, for many proposed space applications, work at cryogenic temperatures. Under this program both room temperature and cryogenic temperature magnetostrictive active members were designed, fabricated, and tested. The results of these performance tests indicated that room temperature magnetostrictive actuators feature higher strain, stiffness, and force capability with lower amplifier requirements than similarly sized piezoelectric or electrostrictive active members, at the cost of higher mass. Two different cryogenic temperature magnetostrictive materials were tested at liquid nitrogen temperatures, both with larger strain capability than the room temperature magnetostrictive materials. The cryogenic active member development included the design and fabrication of a cryostat that allows operation of the cryogenic active member in a space structure testbed.

Low-mass materials and vertex detector systems

DOE PAGES

Cooper, William E.

2014-01-01

Physics requirements set the material budget and the precision and stability necessary in low-mass vertex detector systems. Operational considerations, along with physics requirements, set the operating environment to be provided and determine the heat to be removed. Representative materials for fulfilling those requirements are described and properties of the materials are tabulated. A figure of merit is proposed to aid in material selection. Multi-layer structures are examined as a method to allow material to be used effectively, thereby reducing material contributions. Lastly, comments are made on future directions to be considered in using present materials effectively and in developing newmore » materials.« less

Optimizing growth and post treatment of diamond for high capacitance neural interfaces.

PubMed

Tong, Wei; Fox, Kate; Zamani, Akram; Turnley, Ann M; Ganesan, Kumaravelu; Ahnood, Arman; Cicione, Rosemary; Meffin, Hamish; Prawer, Steven; Stacey, Alastair; Garrett, David J

2016-10-01

Electrochemical and biological properties are two crucial criteria in the selection of the materials to be used as electrodes for neural interfaces. For neural stimulation, materials are required to exhibit high capacitance and to form intimate contact with neurons for eliciting effective neural responses at acceptably low voltages. Here we report on a new high capacitance material fabricated using nitrogen included ultrananocrystalline diamond (N-UNCD). After exposure to oxygen plasma for 3 h, the activated N-UNCD exhibited extremely high electrochemical capacitance greater than 1 mF/cm(2), which originates from the special hybrid sp(2)/sp(3) structure of N-UNCD. The in vitro biocompatibility of the activated N-UNCD was then assessed using rat cortical neurons and surface roughness was found to be critical for healthy neuron growth, with best results observed on surfaces with a roughness of approximately 20 nm. Therefore, by using oxygen plasma activated N-UNCD with appropriate surface roughness, and considering the chemical and mechanical stability of diamond, the fabricated neural interfaces are expected to exhibit high efficacy, long-term stability and a healthy neuron/electrode interface. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Local elasticity map and plasticity in a model Lennard-Jones glass.

PubMed

Tsamados, Michel; Tanguy, Anne; Goldenberg, Chay; Barrat, Jean-Louis

2009-08-01

In this work we calculate the local elastic moduli in a weakly polydispersed two-dimensional Lennard-Jones glass undergoing a quasistatic shear deformation at zero temperature. The numerical method uses coarse-grained microscopic expressions for the strain, displacement, and stress fields. This method allows us to calculate the local elasticity tensor and to quantify the deviation from linear elasticity (local Hooke's law) at different coarse-graining scales. From the results a clear picture emerges of an amorphous material with strongly spatially heterogeneous elastic moduli that simultaneously satisfies Hooke's law at scales larger than a characteristic length scale of the order of five interatomic distances. At this scale, the glass appears as a composite material composed of a rigid scaffolding and of soft zones. Only recently calculated in nonhomogeneous materials, the local elastic structure plays a crucial role in the elastoplastic response of the amorphous material. For a small macroscopic shear strain, the structures associated with the nonaffine displacement field appear directly related to the spatial structure of the elastic moduli. Moreover, for a larger macroscopic shear strain we show that zones of low shear modulus concentrate most of the strain in the form of plastic rearrangements. The spatiotemporal evolution of this local elasticity map and its connection with long term dynamical heterogeneity as well as with the plasticity in the material is quantified. The possibility to use this local parameter as a predictor of subsequent local plastic activity is also discussed.

A novel algorithm using an orthotropic material model for topology optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tong, Liyong; Luo, Quantian

2017-09-01

This article presents a novel algorithm for topology optimization using an orthotropic material model. Based on the virtual work principle, mathematical formulations for effective orthotropic material properties of an element containing two materials are derived. An algorithm is developed for structural topology optimization using four orthotropic material properties, instead of one density or area ratio, in each element as design variables. As an illustrative example, minimum compliance problems for linear and nonlinear structures are solved using the present algorithm in conjunction with the moving iso-surface threshold method. The present numerical results reveal that: (1) chequerboards and single-node connections are not present even without filtering; (2) final topologies do not contain large grey areas even using a unity penalty factor; and (3) the well-known numerical issues caused by low-density material when considering geometric nonlinearity are resolved by eliminating low-density elements in finite element analyses.

Active matter at the interface between materials science and cell biology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Needleman, Daniel; Dogic, Zvonimir

2017-09-01

The remarkable processes that characterize living organisms, such as motility, self-healing and reproduction, are fuelled by a continuous injection of energy at the microscale. The field of active matter focuses on understanding how the collective behaviours of internally driven components can give rise to these biological phenomena, while also striving to produce synthetic materials composed of active energy-consuming components. The synergistic approach of studying active matter in both living cells and reconstituted systems assembled from biochemical building blocks has the potential to transform our understanding of both cell biology and materials science. This methodology can provide insight into the fundamental principles that govern the dynamical behaviours of self-organizing subcellular structures, and can lead to the design of artificial materials and machines that operate away from equilibrium and can thus attain life-like properties. In this Review, we focus on active materials made of cytoskeletal components, highlighting the role of active stresses and how they drive self-organization of both cellular structures and macroscale materials, which are machines powered by nanomachines.

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

Harper, M.

A sorbent to be used for air sampling must meet certain performance criteria including sample background, capacity, stability, and recovery. Anasorb{sup R} 747 is a proprietary 20/40 mesh beaded active carbon prepared from raw materials with a very low ash content in a process which creates a regular pore structure. The background is very low for both inorganic and organic species, and the surface is more inert and less hydrophilic than coconut charcoal, while capacity is similar. The low catalytic activity of the surface means samples of many reactive compounds remain stable for longer periods. The sorbent is compatible withmore » most solvent systems in use (e.g. carbon disulfide, methylene chloride, methanol, dimethyformamide). Anasorb 747 can be coated with chemicals for efficient adsorption of inorganic gases, which can be analyzed at very low levels because of low background interference. A large number of validated sampling methods use Anasorb 747, including methods from OSHA and NIOSH, corporate industrial hygiene laboratories, various branches of the EPA, and international agencies. These methods refer to around fifty different gases and vapors. Although this sorbent is not compatible with some compounds (e.g. low molecular weight aldehydes) it is quite close to being of universal application.« less

Embrittlement and Flow Localization in Reactor Structural Materials

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

Xianglin Wu; Xiao Pan; James Stubbins

2006-10-06

Many reactor components and structural members are made from metal alloys due, in large part, to their strength and ability to resist brittle fracture by plastic deformation. However, brittle fracture can occur when structural material cannot undergo extensive, or even limited, plastic deformation due to irradiation exposure. Certain irradiation conditions lead to the development of a damage microstructure where plastic flow is limited to very small volumes or regions of material, as opposed to the general plastic flow in unexposed materials. This process is referred to as flow localization or plastic instability. The true stress at the onset of neckingmore » is a constant regardless of the irradiation level. It is called 'critical stress' and this critical stress has strong temperature dependence. Interrupted tensile testes of 316L SS have been performed to investigate the microstructure evolution and competing mechanism between mechanic twinning and planar slip which are believed to be the controlling mechanism for flow localization. Deformation twinning is the major contribution of strain hardening and good ductility for low temperatures, and the activation of twinning system is determined by the critical twinning stress. Phases transform and texture analyses are also discussed in this study. Finite element analysis is carried out to complement the microstructural analysis and for the prediction of materaials performance with and without stress concentration and irradiation.« less

Enhancing the Thermoelectric Figure of Merit by Low-Dimensional Electrical Transport in Phonon-Glass Crystals.

PubMed

Mi, Xue-Ya; Yu, Xiaoxiang; Yao, Kai-Lun; Huang, Xiaoming; Yang, Nuo; Lü, Jing-Tao

2015-08-12

Low-dimensional electronic and glassy phononic transport are two important ingredients of highly efficient thermoelectric materials, from which two branches of thermoelectric research have emerged. One focuses on controlling electronic transport in the low dimension, while the other focuses on multiscale phonon engineering in the bulk. Recent work has benefited much from combining these two approaches, e.g., phonon engineering in low-dimensional materials. Here we propose to employ the low-dimensional electronic structure in bulk phonon-glass crystals as an alternative way to increase the thermoelectric efficiency. Through first-principles electronic structure calculations and classical molecular dynamics simulations, we show that the π-π-stacking bis(dithienothiophene) molecular crystal is a natural candidate for such an approach. This is determined by the nature of its chemical bonding. Without any optimization of the material parameters, we obtained a maximum room-temperature figure of merit, ZT, of 1.48 at optimal doping, thus validating our idea.

Energy Based Topology Optimization of Morphing Wings a Multidisciplinary Global/Local Design Approach

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-12-01

subsystem that drives the active materials to achieve the desired shape changes. As opposed to fixed wing structures in which the aerodynamic and...structures and aerodynamics occur in conjunction with the active material and electronic subsystem interactions that involve transfer of energy from a source...which the aerodynamic and structure integration for the entire wing is the most important interaction mechanism, in the case of a morphing wing

Photoprecursor Approach Enables Preparation of Well-Performing Bulk-Heterojunction Layers Comprising a Highly Aggregating Molecular Semiconductor.

PubMed

Suzuki, Mitsuharu; Yamaguchi, Yuji; Takahashi, Kohei; Takahira, Katsuya; Koganezawa, Tomoyuki; Masuo, Sadahiro; Nakayama, Ken-ichi; Yamada, Hiroko

2016-04-06

Active-layer morphology critically affects the performance of organic photovoltaic cells, and thus its optimization is a key toward the achievement of high-efficiency devices. However, the optimization of active-layer morphology is sometimes challenging because of the intrinsic properties of materials such as strong self-aggregating nature or low miscibility. This study postulates that the "photoprecursor approach" can serve as an effective means to prepare well-performing bulk-heterojunction (BHJ) layers containing highly aggregating molecular semiconductors. In the photoprecursor approach, a photoreactive precursor compound is solution-deposited and then converted in situ to a semiconducting material. This study employs 2,6-di(2-thienyl)anthracene (DTA) and [6,6]-phenyl-C71-butyric acid methyl ester as p- and n-type materials, respectively, in which DTA is generated by the photoprecursor approach from the corresponding α-diketone-type derivative DTADK. When only chloroform is used as a cast solvent, the photovoltaic performance of the resulting BHJ films is severely limited because of unfavorable film morphology. The addition of a high-boiling-point cosolvent, o-dichlorobenzene (o-DCB), to the cast solution leads to significant improvement such that the resulting active layers afford up to approximately 5 times higher power conversion efficiencies. The film structure is investigated by two-dimensional grazing-incident wide-angle X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and fluorescence microspectroscopy to demonstrate that the use of o-DCB leads to improvement in film crystallinity and increase in charge-carrier generation efficiency. The change in film structure is assumed to originate from dynamic molecular motion enabled by the existence of solvent during the in situ photoreaction. The unique features of the photoprecursor approach will be beneficial in extending the material and processing scopes for the development of organic thin-film devices.

Androgen Receptor Antagonists and Anti-Prostate Cancer Activities of Some Newly Synthesized Substituted Fused Pyrazolo-, Triazolo- and Thiazolo-Pyrimidine Derivatives

PubMed Central

Bahashwan, Saleh A.; Fayed, Ahmed A.; Ramadan, Mohamed A.; Amr, Abd El-Galil E.; Al-Harbi, Naif O.

2014-01-01

A series of substituted pyrazole, triazole and thiazole derivatives (2–13) were synthesized from 1-(naphtho[1,2-d]thiazol-2-yl)hydrazine as starting material and evaluated as androgen receptor antagonists and anti-prostate cancer agents. The newly synthesized compounds showed potent androgen receptor antagonists and anti-prostate cancer activities with low toxicity (lethal dose 50 (LD50)) comparable to Bicalutamide as reference drug. The structures of newly synthesized compounds were confirmed by IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and MS spectral data and elemental analysis. The detailed synthesis, spectroscopic data, LD50 values and pharmacological activities of the synthesized compounds are reported. PMID:25421248

Low-Dimensional Material: Structure-Property Relationship and Applications in Energy and Environmental Engineering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, Hang

In the past several decades, low-dimensional materials (0D materials, 1D materials and 2D materials) have attracted much interest from both the experimental and theoretical points of view. Because of the quantum confinement effect, low-dimensional materials have exhibited a kaleidoscope of fascinating phenomena and unusual physical and chemical properties, shedding light on many novel applications. Despite the enormous success has been achieved in the research of low-dimensional materials, there are three fundamental challenges of research in low-dimensional materials: 1) Develop new computational tools to accurately describe the properties of low-dimensional materials with low computational cost. 2) Predict and synthesize new low-dimensional materials with novel properties. 3) Reveal new phenomenon induced by the interaction between low-dimensional materials and the surrounding environment. In this thesis, atomistic modelling tools have been applied to address these challenges. We first developed ReaxFF parameters for phosphorus and hydrogen to give an accurate description of the chemical and mechanical properties of pristine and defected black phosphorene. ReaxFF for P/H is transferable to a wide range of phosphorus and hydrogen containing systems including bulk black phosphorus, blue phosphorene, edge-hydrogenated phosphorene, phosphorus clusters and phosphorus hydride molecules. The potential parameters were obtained by conducting global optimization with respect to a set of reference data generated by extensive ab initio calculations. We extended ReaxFF by adding a 60° correction term which significantly improved the description of phosphorus clusters. Emphasis was placed on the mechanical response of black phosphorene with different types of defects. Compared to the nonreactive SW potential of phosphorene, ReaxFF for P/H systems provides a significant improvement in describing the mechanical properties of the pristine and defected black phosphorene, as well as the thermal stability of phosphorene nanotubes. A counterintuitive phenomenon was observed that single vacancies weaken the black phosphorene more than double vacancies with higher formation energy. Our results also showed that the mechanical response of black phosphorene is more sensitive to defects in the zigzag direction than that in the armchair direction. Since ReaxFF allows straightforward extensions to the heterogeneous systems, such as oxides, nitrides, the proposed ReaxFF parameters for P/H systems also underpinned the reactive force field description of heterogeneous P systems, including P-containing 2D van der Waals heterostructures, oxides, etc. Based on the evolutionary algorithm driven structural search, we proposed a new stable trisulfur dinitride (S3N2) 2D crystal that is a covalent network composed solely of S-N sigma bonds. S3N 2 crystal is dynamically, thermally and chemically stable as confirmed by the computed phonon spectrum and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. GW calculations showed that the 2D S3N2 crystal is a wide, direct band-gap (3.92 eV) semiconductor with a small hole effective mass. The anisotropic optical response of 2D S3N 2 crystal was revealed by GW-BSE calculations. Our result not only marked the prediction of the first 2D crystal composed of nitrogen and sulfur, but also underpinned potential innovations in 2D electronics, optoelectronics, etc. Inspired by the discovery of S3N2 2D crystal, we proposed a new 2D crystal, diphosphorus trisulfide (P2S3), based on the extensive evolutionary algorithm driven structural search. The 2D P2S3 crystal was confirmed to be dynamically, thermally and chemically stable by the computed phonon spectrum and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. This 2D crystalline phase of P 2S3 corresponds to the global minimum in the Born-Oppenheimer surface of the phosphorus sulfide monolayers with 2:3 stoichiometry. It is a wide band gap (4.55 eV) semiconductor with P-S ? bonds. The electronic properties of P2S3 structure can be tuned by stacking into multilayer P2S3 structures, forming P2S3 nanoribbons or rolling into P2S3 nanotubes, expanding its potential applications for the emerging field of 2D electronics. Then we showed that the hydrolysis reaction is strongly affected by relative humidity. The hydrolysis of CO32- with n = 1-8 water molecules was investigated by ab initio method. For n = 1-5 water molecules, all the reactants follow a stepwise pathway to the transition state. For n = 6-8 water molecules, all the reactants undergo a direct proton transfer to the transition state with overall lower activation free energy. The activation free energy of the reaction is dramatically reduced from 10.4 to 2.4 kcal/mol as the number of water molecules increases from 1 to 6. Meanwhile, the degree of the hydrolysis of CO32- is significantly increased compared to the bulk water solution scenario. The incomplete hydration shells facilitate the hydrolysis of CO3 2- with few water molecules to be not only thermodynamically favorable but also kinetically favorable. We showed that the chemical kinetics is not likely to constrain the speed of CO2 air capture driven by the humidity-swing. (Abstract shortened by ProQuest.).

Improvement Photocatalytic Activity of P25 by Modification with a Rare Earth-Free Upconversion Nanocrystal.

PubMed

Yin, Dongguang; Liu, Yumin; Zhao, Feifei; Zhang, Xinyu; Zhang, Tingting; Wu, Chenglong; Chang, Na; Chen, Zhiwen

2018-05-01

It has been reported that coupling TiO2 with rare earth upconversion nanocrystals (UCNCs) is an efficient strategy to significantly improve photocatalytic activity of TiO2. However, the rare earth materials are scarcity and cost, and the synthesis process of UCNCs using the rare earth materials is complicated. In the present study, we have designed a new approach using a rare earth-free upconversion nanocrystal (REF-UCNCs) as upconversion luminescent material to replace the rare earth UCNCs. A novel nanocomposite photocatalyst of REF-UCNCs@P25: Mo/GN was developed for the first time. Based on the designed structure, the REF-UCNCs, Mo-doping, and GN (graphene) have a synergistic effect that can improve catalytic activity of P25 significantly. The results of photocatalytic experiments using RhB as a model pollutant under simulated solar light irradiation show that the photocatalytic efficiency of the as-prepared catalyst is 3-folds higher than that of benchmark substance P25. This work provides a new strategy for efficiently improving catalytic activity of semiconductor photocatalysts by coupling with REF-UCNCs. This approach is facile and low-cost which can be widely applied for modification of semiconductor photocatalysts and facilitates their applications in environmental protection issues using solar light.

Quasi physisorptive two dimensional tungsten oxide nanosheets with extraordinary sensitivity and selectivity to NO2.

PubMed

Khan, Hareem; Zavabeti, Ali; Wang, Yichao; Harrison, Christopher J; Carey, Benjamin J; Mohiuddin, Md; Chrimes, Adam F; De Castro, Isabela Alves; Zhang, Bao Yue; Sabri, Ylias M; Bhargava, Suresh K; Ou, Jian Zhen; Daeneke, Torben; Russo, Salvy P; Li, Yongxiang; Kalantar-Zadeh, Kourosh

2017-12-14

Attributing to their distinct thickness and surface dependent physicochemical properties, two dimensional (2D) nanostructures have become an area of increasing interest for interfacial interactions. Effectively, properties such as high surface-to-volume ratio, modulated surface activities and increased control of oxygen vacancies make these types of materials particularly suitable for gas-sensing applications. This work reports a facile wet-chemical synthesis of 2D tungsten oxide nanosheets by sonication of tungsten particles in an acidic environment and thermal annealing thereafter. The resultant product of large nanosheets with intrinsic substoichiometric properties is shown to be highly sensitive and selective to nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ) gas, which is a major pollutant. The strong synergy between polar NO 2 molecules and tungsten oxide surface and also abundance of active surface sites on the nanosheets for molecule interactions contribute to the exceptionally sensitive and selective response. An extraordinary response factor of ∼30 is demonstrated to ultralow 40 parts per billion (ppb) NO 2 at a relatively low operating temperature of 150 °C, within the physisorption temperature band for tungsten oxide. Selectivity to NO 2 is demonstrated and the theory behind it is discussed. The structural, morphological and compositional characteristics of the synthesised and annealed materials are extensively characterised and electronic band structures are proposed. The demonstrated 2D tungsten oxide based sensing device holds the greatest promise for producing future commercial low-cost, sensitive and selective NO 2 gas sensors.

Evaluation of Rosin Gum and Eudragit® RS PO as a Functional Film Coating Material.

PubMed

Pomin, Suélen Plaza; de Lima, Isabela Angeli; Pezarini, Rogério Ribeiro; Cavalcanti, Osvaldo Albuquerque

2017-11-01

Polymers are essential tools in the research and development of new therapeutic devices. The diversity and flexibility of these materials have generated high expectations in the composition of new materials with extraordinary abilities, especially in the design of new systems for the modified release of pharmaceutically active ingredients. The natural polymer rosin features moisture protection and pH-dependent behavior (i.e., it is sensitive to pH > 7.0), suggesting its possible use in pharmaceutical systems. The synthetic polymer Eudragit® RS PO is a low-permeability material, the disintegration of which depends on the time of residence in the gastrointestinal tract. The present study developed a polymeric material with desirable physicochemical characteristics and synergistic effects that resulted from the inherent properties of the associated polymers. Isolated films were obtained by solvent evaporation and subjected to a water vapor transmission test, scanning electron microscopy, calorimetry, Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, micro-Raman spectroscopy, and mechanical analysis. The new polymeric material was macroscopically continuous and homogeneous, was appropriately flexible, had low water permeability, was vulnerable in alkaline environments, and was thermally stable, maintaining an unchanged structure up to temperatures of ∼400°C. The new material also presented potentially suitable characteristics for application in film coatings for oral solids, suggesting that it is capable of carrying therapeutic substances to distal regions of the gastrointestinal tract. These findings indicate that this new material may be added to the list of functional excipients.

Low-moment ferrimagnetic phase of the Heusler compound Cr2CoAl

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jamer, Michelle E.; Marshall, Luke G.; Sterbinsky, George E.; Lewis, Laura H.; Heiman, Don

2015-11-01

Synthesizing half-metallic fully compensated ferrimagnets that form in the inverse Heusler phase could lead to superior spintronic devices. These materials would have high spin polarization at room temperature with very little fringing magnetic fields. Previous theoretical studies indicated that Cr2CoAl should form in a stable inverse Heusler lattice due to its low activation energy. Here, stoichiometric Cr2CoAl samples were arc-melted and annealed at varying temperatures, followed by studies of their structural and magnetic properties. High-resolution synchrotron X-ray diffraction revealed a chemically ordered Heusler phase in addition to CoAl and Cr phases. Soft X-ray magnetic circular dichroism revealed that the Cr and Co magnetic moments are antiferromagnetically oriented leading to the observed low magnetic moment in Cr2CoAl.

Low-loss binder for hot pressing boron nitride

DOEpatents

Maya, Leon

1991-01-01

Borazine derivatives used as low-loss binders and precursors for making ceramic boron nitride structures. The derivative forms the same composition as the boron nitride starting material, thereby filling the voids with the same boron nitride material upon forming and hot pressing. The derivatives have a further advantage of being low in carbon thus resulting in less volatile byproduct that can result in bubble formation during pressing.

Cellular-foam polypropylene ferroelectrets with increased film thickness and reduced resonance frequency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sborikas, Martynas; Wegener, Michael

2013-12-01

Ferroelectrets are piezoelectric materials suitable for acoustic applications such as airborne ultrasonic transducers. Typical ferroelectrets exhibit resonance frequencies in the high kHz to low MHz range. In order to decrease the transducer resonance frequencies to the low kHz range, processes such as gas-diffusion expansion and electric charging were adjusted to cellular films which are initially twice as thick as in earlier studies. The demonstrated film expansion and electric charging lead to mechanically soft cellular structures which show high piezoelectric activities with coefficients up to 130 pC/N. Due to the simultaneously increased film thicknesses, the resonance frequencies are lowered down to about 233 kHz.

3D-printing porosity: A new approach to creating elevated porosity materials and structures.

PubMed

Jakus, A E; Geisendorfer, N R; Lewis, P L; Shah, R N

2018-05-01

We introduce a new process that enables the ability to 3D-print high porosity materials and structures by combining the newly introduced 3D-Painting process with traditional salt-leaching. The synthesis and resulting properties of three 3D-printable inks comprised of varying volume ratios (25:75, 50:50, 70:30) of CuSO 4 salt and polylactide-co-glycolide (PLGA), as well as their as-printed and salt-leached counterparts, are discussed. The resulting materials are comprised entirely of PLGA (F-PLGA), but exhibit porosities proportional to the original CuSO 4 content. The three distinct F-PLGA materials exhibit average porosities of 66.6-94.4%, elastic moduli of 112.6-2.7 MPa, and absorbency of 195.7-742.2%. Studies with adult human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) demonstrated that elevated porosity substantially promotes cell adhesion, viability, and proliferation. F-PLGA can also act as carriers for weak, naturally or synthetically-derived hydrogels. Finally, we show that this process can be extended to other materials including graphene, metals, and ceramics. Porosity plays an essential role in the performance and function of biomaterials, tissue engineering, and clinical medicine. For the same material chemistry, the level of porosity can dictate if it is cell, tissue, or organ friendly; with low porosity materials being far less favorable than high porosity materials. Despite its importance, it has been difficult to create three-dimensionally printed structures that are comprised of materials that have extremely high levels of internal porosity yet are surgically friendly (able to handle and utilize during surgical operations). In this work, we extend a new materials-centric approach to 3D-printing, 3D-Painting, to 3D-printing structures made almost entirely out of water-soluble salt. The structures are then washed in a specific way that not only extracts the salt but causes the structures to increase in size. With the salt removed, the resulting medical polymer structures are almost entirely porous and contain very little solid material, but the maintain their 3D-printed form and are highly compatible with adult human stem cells, are mechanically robust enough to use in surgical manipulations, and can be filled with and act as carriers for biologically active liquids and gels. We can also extend this process to three-dimensionally printing other porous materials, such as graphene, metals, and even ceramics. Copyright © 2018 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Formation of zeolites in metakaolin-based geopolymers and their potential application for Cs immobilization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arbel Haddad, M.; Ofer-Rozovsky, E.; Bar-Nes, G.; Borojovich, E. J. C.; Nikolski, A.; Mogiliansky, D.; Katz, A.

2017-09-01

Alkali-activated aluminisilicate materials, also known as geopolymers, have been considered as attractive candidates for nuclear waste immobilization, due to their ability to incorporate cations, combined with high chemical resistance and suitable mechanical and thermal properties. The goal of the present research was to study the incorporation and immobilization of Cs in low-Si geopolymers (SiO2:Al2O3 molar ratio ≤ 2) which are known to have a relatively high crystalline phase content. A series of low-Si geopolymers was prepared from metakaolin using activating solutions containing CsOH and NaOH at different proportions. The structural evolution of the resulting products was followed using X-ray diffraction, the incorporation of Cs in the geopolymer was followed by pore water analysis, and its immobilization efficiency was determined from leaching tests following the ANSI/ANS-16.1 standard procedure. Like low-Si NaOH-based geopolymers, the mixed CsOH-NaOH geopolymers contain a significant amount of crystalline material which is imbedded within an amorphous matrix. Formulations with 1%Cs yielded the crystalline phases zeolite A and zeolite X. At 50%Cs the Cs-bearing zeolite F was formed. All three phases were observed at an intermediate Cs content (7%Cs). Pore water analysis indicated a preference for Cs uptake from the activating solution, while leaching experiments indicated selectivity for Cs immobilization in the mixed CsOH-NaOH geopolymers. Correlation of the apparent diffusion constants for both Na and Cs, as obtained from the leaching experiments, with the structural data lead to the conclusion that Cs is more efficiently bound by zeolite F, whereas Na binding is preferred by zeolites A and X. Nevertheless, the leachability indices for both Cs and Na were well above 6, indicating that such matrices may be considered as waste forms for 137Cs.

Possiblity of substituting 12XH3A steel in the manufacture of gears for a Sova motorcycle gearing box

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abramov, L. M.; Karabanov, V. P.; Abramov, V. L.; Astakhin, A. S.

1996-03-01

The experimental work describes the possibility of substituting the expensive alloying steel 12XH3A for the low-cost material (steel 40X) in manufacturing gears of the motor cycle gearing box. It ban be achieved on the basis of the obtained results and with the help of laser melting treatment of small-alloying steel. We can speak about the dependence of laser melting radiation efficiency on the regimes and procedures. The breakage of the gearing box of the motor cycle 'Sova' may be explained by the low carry ability of its first gearing box gear. This investigation includes the determination of the cause of this problem. One of the most wide spread methods of such decisions is the substitution of the used materials by another. The most important criteria for the new materials are: (1) the increase of mechanical characteristics (solidity, plasticity); (2) the increase of such characteristics as hardness, specific percussive viscosity; (3) the improvement of the technological characteristics; (4) the condencention of the manufacturing expenditures (economical effect). In accordance with these creations some materials (35X, 40X, 20XH, 40XHM steels) were chosen. The best material is 40X steel, because it allows us to treat the gears by laser radiation with the surface melt. Surface melt allows us to produce: (1) martensite structure with high solidity and low percussive viscosity; (2) martensite structure with chrome carbides and high percussive viscosity, but low plasticity; (3) amorphous or monocrystallic structures with the best characteristics. The last structure has the best characteristics because dislocation defects in such material are practically absent. Also, the amorphous surface of the materials is the most interesting. The spirit of the investigation is to define the parameters of production such as radiation power, size of laser spot, and speed of spot.

Porous titanium materials with entangled wire structure for load-bearing biomedical applications.

PubMed

He, Guo; Liu, Ping; Tan, Qingbiao

2012-01-01

A kind of porous metal-entangled titanium wire material has been investigated in terms of the pore structure (size and distribution), the strength, the elastic modulus, and the mechanical behavior under uniaxial tensile loading. Its functions and potentials for surgical application have been explained. In particular, its advantages over competitors (e.g., conventional porous titanium) have been reviewed. In the study, a group of entangled titanium wire materials with non-woven structure were fabricated by using 12-180 MPa forming pressure, which have porosity in a range of 48%-82%. The pores in the materials are irregular in shape, which have a nearly half-normal distribution in size range. The yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and elastic modulus are 75 MPa, 108 MPa, and 1.05 GPa, respectively, when its porosity is 44.7%. The mechanical properties decrease significantly as the porosity increases. When the porosity is 57.9%, these values become 24 MPa, 47.5 MPa, and 0.33 GPa, respectively. The low elastic modulus is due to the structural flexibility of the entangled titanium wire materials. For practical reference, a group of detailed data of the porous structure and the mechanical properties are reported. This kind of material is very promising for implant applications because of their very good toughness, perfect flexibility, high strength, adequate elastic modulus, and low cost. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Controlling Cooperative CO2 Adsorption in Diamine-Appended Mg2(dobpdc) Metal-Organic Frameworks.

PubMed

Siegelman, Rebecca L; McDonald, Thomas M; Gonzalez, Miguel I; Martell, Jeffrey D; Milner, Phillip J; Mason, Jarad A; Berger, Adam H; Bhown, Abhoyjit S; Long, Jeffrey R

2017-08-02

In the transition to a clean-energy future, CO 2 separations will play a critical role in mitigating current greenhouse gas emissions and facilitating conversion to cleaner-burning and renewable fuels. New materials with high selectivities for CO 2 adsorption, large CO 2 removal capacities, and low regeneration energies are needed to achieve these separations efficiently at scale. Here, we present a detailed investigation of nine diamine-appended variants of the metal-organic framework Mg 2 (dobpdc) (dobpdc 4- = 4,4'-dioxidobiphenyl-3,3'-dicarboxylate) that feature step-shaped CO 2 adsorption isotherms resulting from cooperative and reversible insertion of CO 2 into metal-amine bonds to form ammonium carbamate chains. Small modifications to the diamine structure are found to shift the threshold pressure for cooperative CO 2 adsorption by over 4 orders of magnitude at a given temperature, and the observed trends are rationalized on the basis of crystal structures of the isostructural zinc frameworks obtained from in situ single-crystal X-ray diffraction experiments. The structure-activity relationships derived from these results can be leveraged to tailor adsorbents to the conditions of a given CO 2 separation process. The unparalleled versatility of these materials, coupled with their high CO 2 capacities and low projected energy costs, highlights their potential as next-generation adsorbents for a wide array of CO 2 separations.

Low temperature structural transformation in T[Ni(CN){sub 4}].xpyz with x=1,2; T=Mn,Co,Ni,Zn,Cd; pyz=pyrazine

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

Rodriguez-Hernandez, J.; Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnologia de Materiales, Universidad de La Habana; Lemus-Santana, A.A.

2010-01-15

The materials under study are pillared solids T[Ni(CN){sub 4}].xpyz with one and two (x=1,2) pyrazine (pyz) molecules and where T=Mn, Co, Ni, Zn, Cd. Stimulated by their structural features and potential role as prototype of porous solids for hydrogen storage, the structural stability under cryogenic conditions for this series of pillared solids was studied. At low temperature, in the 100-200 K range, the occurrence of a reversible structural transformation was found. For T=Mn, Co, Zn, Cd, with x=2, the structural transformation was observed to occur around 185 K, and the low temperature phase crystallizes with a monoclinic unit cell (spacemore » group Pc). This structure change results from certain charge redistribution on cooling within the involved ligands. For T=Ni with x=1, both the low and high temperature phases crystallize with unit cells of tetragonal symmetry, within the same space group but with a different unit cell volume. In this case the structure change is observed around 120 K. Above that temperature the rotational states for the pyrazine molecule are thermally excited and all the pyrazine molecules in the structure become equivalent. Under this condition the material structure is described using a smaller structural unit. The structural study using X-ray powder diffraction data was complemented with calorimetric and Raman spectroscopy measurements. For the low temperature phases the crystal structures were solved from Patterson methods and then refined using the Rietveld method. - Graphical abstract: Low temperature ordered structure for pyrazine in T[Ni(CN){sub 4}].pyz.« less

CubeSat mechanical design: creating low mass and durable structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fiedler, Gilbert; Straub, Jeremy

2017-05-01

This paper considers the mechanical design of a low-mass, low-cost spacecraft for use in a multi-satellite sensing constellation. For a multi-spacecraft mission, aggregated small mass and cost reductions can have significant impact. One approach to mass reduction is to make cuts into the structure, removing material. Stress analysis is used to determine the level of material reduction possible. Focus areas for this paper include determining areas to make cuts to ensure that a strong shape remains, while considering the comparative cost and skill level of each type of cut. Real-world results for a CubeSat and universally applicable analysis are presented.

Identifying the Atomic-Level Effects of Metal Composition on the Structure and Catalytic Activity of Peptide-Templated Materials

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

Merrill, Nicholas A.; McKee, Erik M.; Merino, Kyle C.

2015-10-12

Bioinspired approaches for the formation of metallic nanomaterials have been extensively employed for a diverse range of applications including diagnostics and catalysis. These materials can often be used under sustainable conditions; however, it is challenging to control the material size, morphology, and composition simultaneously. Here we have employed the R5 peptide, which forms a 3D scaffold to direct the size and linear shape of bimetallic PdAu nanomaterials for catalysis. The materials were prepared at varying Pd:Au ratios to probe optimal compositions to achieve maximal catalytic efficiency. These materials were extensively characterized at the atomic level using transmission electron microscopy, extendedmore » X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, and atomic pair distribution function analysis derived from high-energy X-ray diffraction patterns to provide highly resolved structural information. The results confirmed PdAu alloy formation, but also demonstrated that significant surface structural disorder was present. The catalytic activity of the materials was studied for olefin hydrogenation, which demonstrated enhanced reactivity from the bimetallic structures.These results present a pathway to the bioinspired production of multimetallic materials with enhanced properties, which can be assessed via a suite of characterization methods to fully ascertain structure/function relationships.« less

Tensile overpressure compartments on low-angle thrust faults

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sibson, Richard H.

2017-08-01

Hydrothermal extension veins form by hydraulic fracturing under triaxial stress (principal compressive stresses, σ 1 > σ 2 > σ 3) when the pore-fluid pressure, P f, exceeds the least compressive stress by the rock's tensile strength. Such veins form perpendicular to σ 3, their incremental precipitation from hydrothermal fluid often reflected in `crack-seal' textures, demonstrating that the tensile overpressure state, σ 3' = ( σ 3 - P f) < 0, was repeatedly met. Systematic arrays of extension veins develop locally in both sub-metamorphic and metamorphic assemblages defining tensile overpressure compartments where at some time P f > σ 3. In compressional regimes ( σ v = σ 3), subhorizontal extension veins may develop over vertical intervals <1 km or so below low-permeability sealing horizons with tensile strengths 10 < T o < 20 MPa. This is borne out by natural vein arrays. For a low-angle thrust, the vertical interval where the tensile overpressure state obtains may continue down-dip over distances of several kilometres in some instances. The overpressure condition for hydraulic fracturing is comparable to that needed for frictional reshear of a thrust fault lying close to the maximum compression, σ 1. Under these circumstances, especially where the shear zone material has varying competence (tensile strength), affecting the failure mode, dilatant fault-fracture mesh structures may develop throughout a tabular rock volume. Evidence for the existence of fault-fracture meshes around low-angle thrusts comes from exhumed ancient structures and from active structures. In the case of megathrust ruptures along subduction interfaces, force balance analyses, lack of evidence for shear heating, and evidence of total shear stress release during earthquakes suggest the interfaces are extremely weak ( τ < 40 MPa), consistent with weakening by near-lithostatically overpressured fluids. Portions of the subduction interface, especially towards the down-dip termination of the seismogenic megathrust, are prone to episodes of slow-slip, non-volcanic tremor, low-frequency earthquakes, very-low-frequency earthquakes, etc., attributable to the activation of tabular fault-fracture meshes at low σ 3' around the thrust interface. Containment of near-lithostatic overpressures in such settings is precarious, fluid loss curtailing mesh activity.[Figure not available: see fulltext.

Innovative Approaches to Space-Based Manufacturing and Rapid Prototyping of Composite Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hill, Charles S.

2012-01-01

The ability to deploy large habitable structures, construct, and service exploration vehicles in low earth orbit will be an enabling capability for continued human exploration of the solar system. It is evident that advanced manufacturing methods to fabricate replacement parts and re-utilize launch vehicle structural mass by converting it to different uses will be necessary to minimize costs and allow flexibility to remote crews engaged in space travel. Recent conceptual developments and the combination of inter-related approaches to low-cost manufacturing of composite materials and structures are described in context leading to the possibility of on-orbit and space-based manufacturing.

Performance of high performance concrete (HPC) in low pH and sulfate environment.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-05-01

The goal of this research is to determine the impact of low pH and sulfate environment on high-performance concrete (HPC) and if the current structural and materials specifications provide adequate protections for concrete structures to meet the 75-y...

Low- and high-index sol-gel films for planar and channel-doped waveguides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Canva, Michael; Chaput, Frederic; Lahlil, Khalid; Rachet, Vincent; Goudket, Helene; Boilot, Jean-Pierre; Levy, Yves

2001-11-01

In view of realizing integrated optic components based on effects such as electro-optic, chi(2):chi(2) cascading, stimulated emission,... one has to first synthesize materials with the proper functionality; this may be achieved by doping solid state matrices by the appropriate organic chromophores. Second, and as important, these materials have to be properly structured into the final optical guiding structures. We shall report on issues related to the realization of chromophore-doped planar waveguides as well as channel waveguides. These structures were realized by either photo-transformation such as photo- chromism and photo-bleaching or reactive ion etching technique, starting with chromophore doped sol-gel materials at high loading contents for which optical index may be controlled via the local dopant concentration. With these materials and techniques, waveguides and components characterized by propagation losses of the order of a cm-1, measured off the edge of the absorption band of the doping species, were fabricated. In order to be also able to study and use waveguide functionalized with low concentration of chromophore species, we developed new sol-gel materials of high optical index, yet low temperature processed. These new films are under study to evaluate their potential as host for organic doped waveguides devices.

Ultrathin Organic Solar Cells with a Power Conversion Efficiency of Over ≈13.0%, Based on the Spatial Corrugation of the Metal Electrode-Cathode Fabry-Perot Cavity.

PubMed

In, Sungjun; Park, Namkyoo

2018-04-01

The application of nanophotonic structures for organic solar cells (OSCs) is quite popular and successful, and has led to increased optical absorption, better spectral overlap with solar irradiances, and improved charge collection. Significant improvements in the power conversion efficiency (PCE) have also been reported, exceeding 11%. Nonetheless, with the given material properties of OSCs with low optical absorption, narrow spectrum, short transport length of carriers, and nonuniform photocarrier generations resulting from the nanophotonic structure, the PCE of single-junction OSCs has been stagnant over the past few years, at a barrier of 12%. Here, an ultrathin inverted OSC structure with the highest efficiency of ≈13.0%, while being made from widely used organic materials, is demonstrated. By introducing a smooth spatial corrugation to the vertical plasmonic cavity enclosing the active layer, in-plane propagation modes and hybridized Fabry-Perot cavity modes inside the corrugated cavity are derived to achieve an ultralow Q , uniform coverage of optical absorption, in addition to uniform photocarrier generation and transport. As the first demonstration of ultra-broadband absorption with the introduction of spatial corrugation to the ultrathin metal film electrode-cathode Fabry-Perot cavity, future applications of the same concept in other light-harvesting devices utilizing different materials and structures are expected.

Favorable Influence of Hydrophobic Surfaces on Protein Structure in Porous Organically-modified Silica Glasses

PubMed Central

Menaa, Bouzid; Herrero, Mar; Rives, Vicente; Lavrenko, Mayya; Eggers, Daryl K.

2008-01-01

Organically-modified siloxanes were used as host materials to examine the influence of surface chemistry on protein conformation in a crowded environment. The sol-gel materials were prepared from tetramethoxysilane and a series of monosubstituted alkoxysilanes, RSi(OR′)3, featuring alkyl groups of increasing chain length in the R-position. Using circular dichroism spectroscopy in the far-UV region, apomyoglobin was found to transit from an unfolded state to a native-like helical state as the content of the hydrophobic precursor increased from 0–15%. At a fixed molar content of 5% RSi(OR’)3, the helical structure of apomyoglobin increased with the chain length of the R-group, i.e. methyl < ethyl < n-propyl < n-butyl < n-hexyl. This trend also was observed for the tertiary structure of ribonuclease A, suggesting that protein folding and biological activity are sensitive to the hydrophilic/hydrophobic balance of neighboring surfaces. The observed changes in protein structure did not correlate with total surface area or the average pore size of the modified glasses, but scanning electron microscopy images revealed an interesting relationship between surface morphology and alkyl chain length. The unexpected benefit of incorporating a low content of hydrophobic groups into a hydrophilic surface may lead to materials with improved biocompatibility for use in biosensors and implanted devices. PMID:18359512

Cellularized Cellular Solids via Freeze-Casting.

PubMed

Christoph, Sarah; Kwiatoszynski, Julien; Coradin, Thibaud; Fernandes, Francisco M

2016-02-01

The elaboration of metabolically active cell-containing materials is a decisive step toward the successful application of cell based technologies. The present work unveils a new process allowing to simultaneously encapsulate living cells and shaping cell-containing materials into solid-state macroporous foams with precisely controlled morphology. Our strategy is based on freeze casting, an ice templating materials processing technique that has recently emerged for the structuration of colloids into macroporous materials. Our results indicate that it is possible to combine the precise structuration of the materials with cellular metabolic activity for the model organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Sensitive Nonenzymatic Electrochemical Glucose Detection Based on Hollow Porous NiO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Gege; Tian, Liangliang; Cai, Yanhua; Wu, Shenping; Su, Yongyao; Yan, Hengqing; Pu, Wanrong; Zhang, Jinkun; Li, Lu

2018-01-01

Transition metal oxides (TMOs) have attracted extensive research attentions as promising electrocatalytic materials. Despite low cost and high stability, the electrocatalytic activity of TMOs still cannot satisfy the requirements of applications. Inspired by kinetics, the design of hollow porous structure is considered as a promising strategy to achieve superior electrocatalytic performance. In this work, cubic NiO hollow porous architecture (NiO HPA) was constructed through coordinating etching and precipitating (CEP) principle followed by post calcination. Being employed to detect glucose, NiO HPA electrode exhibits outstanding electrocatalytic activity in terms of high sensitivity (1323 μA mM-1 cm-2) and low detection limit (0.32 μM). The excellent electrocatalytic activity can be ascribed to large specific surface area (SSA), ordered diffusion channels, and accelerated electron transfer rate derived from the unique hollow porous features. The results demonstrate that the NiO HPA could have practical applications in the design of nonenzymatic glucose sensors. The construction of hollow porous architecture provides an effective nanoengineering strategy for high-performance electrocatalysts.

Emulsion Inks for 3D Printing of High Porosity Materials.

PubMed

Sears, Nicholas A; Dhavalikar, Prachi S; Cosgriff-Hernandez, Elizabeth M

2016-08-01

Photocurable emulsion inks for use with solid freeform fabrication (SFF) to generate constructs with hierarchical porosity are presented. A high internal phase emulsion (HIPE) templating technique was utilized to prepare water-in-oil emulsions from a hydrophobic photopolymer, surfactant, and water. These HIPEs displayed strong shear thinning behavior that permitted layer-by-layer deposition into complex shapes and adequately high viscosity at low shear for shape retention after extrusion. Each layer was actively polymerized with an ultraviolet cure-on-dispense (CoD) technique and compositions with sufficient viscosity were able to produce tall, complex scaffolds with an internal lattice structure and microscale porosity. Evaluation of the rheological and cure properties indicated that the viscosity and cure rate both played an important role in print fidelity. These 3D printed polyHIPE constructs benefit from the tunable pore structure of emulsion templated material and the designed architecture of 3D printing. As such, these emulsion inks can be used to create ultra high porosity constructs with complex geometries and internal lattice structures not possible with traditional manufacturing techniques. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Porous graphitic carbon microtubes derived from willow catkins as a substrate of MnO2 for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xiaohua; Zhang, Kang; Li, Hengxiang; Cao, Qing; Jin, Li'e.; Li, Ping

2017-03-01

Biomass is receiving considerable attention because of its significant advantages as a sustainable and renewable material. Willow catkins, which have a single-walled microtubular structure are used as both a template and a precursor for synthesizing porous graphitic carbon microtubes (PGCMT) induced by the simultaneous activation-graphitization of K4Fe(CN)6. In addition to providing low-resistant pathways and short ion diffusion channels, as-obtained PGCMT with tubular structure also serves as an ideal platform for anchoring MnO2. The PGCMT/MnO2 composite electrode obtained by MnO2 electrodeposition expressed excellent electrochemical performance, including a significantly enhanced specific capacitance (550.8 F g-1 for the mass of MnO2 at a current density of 2 A g-1), a high capacitance retention of 61.8% even at a high current density of 50 A g-1, and an excellent cycling stability of 89.6% capability retention after 5000 cycles. These findings offer a simple and environmentally friendly strategy for preparing advanced energy materials by utilizing the unique structure of biomass waste from nature.

Tunable ferroelectric meta-material phase shifter embedded inside low temperature co-fired ceramics (LTCC)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tork, Hossam S.

This dissertation describes electrically tunable microwave devices utilizing low temperature co-fired ceramics (LTCC) and thick film via filled with the ferroelectric materials barium strontium titanate (BST) and barium zirconate titanate (BZT). Tunable ferroelectric capacitors, zero meta-material phase shifters, and tunable meta-material phase shifters are presented. Microwave phase shifters have many applications in microwave devices. They are essential components for active and passive phased array antennas and their most common use is in scanning phased array antennas. They are used in synthetic aperture radars (SAR), low earth orbit (LEO) communication satellites, collision warning radars, and intelligent vehicle highway systems (IVHS), in addition to various other applications. Tunable ferroelectric materials have been investigated, since they offer the possibility of lowering the total cost of phased arrays. Two of the most promising ferroelectric materials in microwave applications are BST and BZT. The proposed design and implementation in this research introduce new types of tunable meta-material phase shifters embedded inside LTCC, which use BST and BZT as capacitive tunable dielectric material controlled by changing the applied voltage. This phase shifter has the advantages of meta-material structures, which produce little phase error and compensation while having the simultaneous advantage of using LTCC technology for embedding passive components that improve signal integrity (several signal lines, power planes, and ground planes) by using different processes like via filling, screen printing, laminating and firing that can be produced in compact sizes at a low cost. The via filling technique was used to build tunable BST, BZT ferroelectric material capacitors to control phase shift. Finally, The use of the proposed ferroelectric meta-material phase shifter improves phase shifter performance by reducing insertion loss in both transmitting and receiving directions for phased array antennas, reducing phase error, improving figure of merit (FOM) and phase shifter tunability around center frequency, and also enables the integration of the phase shifters with the microwave circuits on one substrate, thus substantially reducing the size, mass, and cost of the antennas.

Sealing ceramic material in low melting point glass

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moritoki, M.; Fujikawa, T.; Miyanaga, J.

1984-01-01

A structured device placed in an aerated crucible to pack ceramics molding substance that is to be processed was designed. The structure is wrapped by sealing material made of pyrex glass and graphite foil or sheet with a weight attached on top of it. The crucible is made of carbon; the ceramics material to be treated through heat intervenient press process is molding substance consisting mainly of silicon nitride.

Morphology and band structure regulation of graphitic carbon nitride microspheres by solvothermal temperature to boost photocatalytic activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Shuaijun; Yan, Qingyun; Dong, Pei; Zhao, Chaocheng; Wang, Yongqiang; Liu, Fang; Li, Lin

2018-06-01

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) microspheres (CNMS) were fabricated via a solvothermal method by using supramolecular complexes of dicyandiamide and cyanuric chloride as precursors. The effect of solvothermal temperature on the morphology, band structure, and activity was systematically investigated. Structural characterization results indicate that the samples prepared at 180 °C (CNMS-180) and 200 °C (CNMS-200) possess spherical morphology, while irregular bulk particles were obtained at 160 °C (CN-160). In addition, the band gap increased as the solvothermal temperature decreased from 200 to 160 °C. In comparison with CN-160 and CNMS-200, the valence band of CNMS-180 was more positive and thus gives higher photo-oxidation capability. Accordingly, CNMS-180 exhibits higher photocatalytic degradation efficiency on Rhodamine B, stronger photocurrent response, and lower charge transfer resistance. Additionally, CNMS-180 exhibits excellent stability after four runs. This work might provide a guidance for the regulation of morphology and band structure of g-C3N4-based materials prepared at low temperatures.

Facile Synthesis of Ultrathin Nickel-Cobalt Phosphate 2D Nanosheets with Enhanced Electrocatalytic Activity for Glucose Oxidation.

PubMed

Shu, Yun; Li, Bing; Chen, Jingyuan; Xu, Qin; Pang, Huan; Hu, Xiaoya

2018-01-24

Two-dimensional (2D) ultrathin nickel-cobalt phosphate nanosheets were synthesized using a simple one-step hydrothermal method. The morphology and structure of nanomaterials synthesized under different Ni/Co ratios were investigated by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Moreover, the influence of nanomaterials' structure on the electrochemical performance for glucose oxidation was investigated. It is found that the thinnest nickel-cobalt phosphate nanosheets synthesized with a Ni/Co ratio of 2:5 showed the best electrocatalytic activity for glucose oxidation. Also, the ultrathin nickel-cobalt phosphate nanosheet was used as an electrode material to construct a nonenzymatic electrochemical glucose sensor. The sensor showed a wide linear range (2-4470 μM) and a low detection limit (0.4 μM) with a high sensitivity of 302.99 μA·mM -1 ·cm -2 . Furthermore, the application of the as-prepared sensor in detection of glucose in human serum was successfully demonstrated. These superior performances prove that ultrathin 2D nickel-cobalt phosphate nanosheets are promising materials in the field of electrochemical sensing.

AC Electric Field Activated Shape Memory Polymer Composite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kang, Jin Ho; Siochi, Emilie J.; Penner, Ronald K.; Turner, Travis L.

2011-01-01

Shape memory materials have drawn interest for applications like intelligent medical devices, deployable space structures and morphing structures. Compared to other shape memory materials like shape memory alloys (SMAs) or shape memory ceramics (SMCs), shape memory polymers (SMPs) have high elastic deformation that is amenable to tailored of mechanical properties, have lower density, and are easily processed. However, SMPs have low recovery stress and long response times. A new shape memory thermosetting polymer nanocomposite (LaRC-SMPC) was synthesized with conductive fillers to enhance its thermo-mechanical characteristics. A new composition of shape memory thermosetting polymer nanocomposite (LaRC-SMPC) was synthesized with conductive functionalized graphene sheets (FGS) to enhance its thermo-mechanical characteristics. The elastic modulus of LaRC-SMPC is approximately 2.7 GPa at room temperature and 4.3 MPa above its glass transition temperature. Conductive FGSs-doped LaRC-SMPC exhibited higher conductivity compared to pristine LaRC SMP. Applying an electric field at between 0.1 Hz and 1 kHz induced faster heating to activate the LaRC-SMPC s shape memory effect relative to applying DC electric field or AC electric field at frequencies exceeding1 kHz.

Oligomannuronates from Seaweeds as Renewable Sources for the Development of Green Surfactants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benvegnu, Thierry; Sassi, Jean-François

The development of surfactants based on natural renewable resources is a concept that is gaining recognition in detergents, cosmetics, and green chemistry. This new class of biodegradable and biocompatible products is a response to the increasing consumer demand for products that are both "greener", milder, and more efficient. In order to achieve these objectives, it is necessary to use renewable low-cost biomass that is available in large quantities and to design molecular structures through green processes that show improved performance, favorable ecotoxicological properties and reduced environmental impact. Within this context, marine algae represent a rich source of complex polysaccharides and oligosaccharides with innovative structures and functional properties that may find applications as starting materials for the development of green surfactants or cosmetic actives. Thus, we have developed original surfactants based on mannuronate moieties derived from alginates (cell-wall polyuronic acids from brown seaweeds) and fatty hydrocarbon chains derived from vegetable resources. Controlled chemical and/or enzymatic depolymerizations of the algal polysaccharides give saturated and/or unsaturated functional oligomannuronates. Clean chemical processes allow the efficient transformation of the oligomers into neutral or anionic amphiphilic molecules. These materials represent a new class of surface-active agents with promising foaming/emulsifying properties.

Numerical investigation of sound transmission through double wall cylinders with respect to active noise control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coats, T. J.; Silcox, R. J.; Lester, H. C.

Market pressure for more fuel efficient air travel has led to increased use of turboprop and higher bypass turbofan engines. The low frequency components of propeller, jet and boundary layer noise are difficult to attenuate with conventional passive techniques. Weight and geometric restrictions for sound absorbing meterials limit the amount and type of treatment that may be applied. An active noise control (ANC) method is providing to be an attractive alternative. The approach taken in this paper uses a numerical finite/boundary element method (FEM/BEM) that may be easilty adapted to arbitrary geometries. A double walled cylinder is modeled using commercially available software. The outer shell is modeled as an aluminum cylinder, similar to that of aircraft skins. The inner shell is modeled as a composite material representative of a lightweight, stiff trim panel. Two different inner shell materials are used. The first is representative of current trim structure, the second a much stiffer composite. The primary source is generated by an exterior acoustic monopole. Control fields are generated using normal force inputs to the inner cylindrical shell. A linear least mean square (LMS) algorithm is used to determine amplitudes of control forces that minimize the interior acoustic field. Coupling of acoustic and structural modes and noise reductions are discussed for each of the inner shell materials.

Numerical investigation of sound transmission through double wall cylinders with respect to active noise control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coats, T. J.; Silcox, R. J.; Lester, H. C.

1993-01-01

Market pressure for more fuel efficient air travel has led to increased use of turboprop and higher bypass turbofan engines. The low frequency components of propeller, jet and boundary layer noise are difficult to attenuate with conventional passive techniques. Weight and geometric restrictions for sound absorbing meterials limit the amount and type of treatment that may be applied. An active noise control (ANC) method is providing to be an attractive alternative. The approach taken in this paper uses a numerical finite/boundary element method (FEM/BEM) that may be easilty adapted to arbitrary geometries. A double walled cylinder is modeled using commercially available software. The outer shell is modeled as an aluminum cylinder, similar to that of aircraft skins. The inner shell is modeled as a composite material representative of a lightweight, stiff trim panel. Two different inner shell materials are used. The first is representative of current trim structure, the second a much stiffer composite. The primary source is generated by an exterior acoustic monopole. Control fields are generated using normal force inputs to the inner cylindrical shell. A linear least mean square (LMS) algorithm is used to determine amplitudes of control forces that minimize the interior acoustic field. Coupling of acoustic and structural modes and noise reductions are discussed for each of the inner shell materials.

Composite Structural Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ansell, G. S.; Loewy, R. G.; Wiberly, S. E.

1984-01-01

The development and application of filamentary composite materials, is considered. Such interest is based on the possibility of using relatively brittle materials with high modulus, high strength, but low density in composites with good durability and high tolerance to damage. Fiber reinforced composite materials of this kind offer substantially improved performance and potentially lower costs for aerospace hardware. Much progress has been made since the initial developments in the mid 1960's. There were only limited applied to the primary structure of operational vehicles, mainly as aircrafts.

Low-loss, high-speed, high-T.sub.c superconducting bearings

DOEpatents

Hull, John R.; Mulcahy, Thomas M.; Uherka, Kenneth L.

1997-01-01

A flywheel energy storage device including an iron structure disposed for rotation adjacent a stationary superconductor material structure and a stationary permanent magnet. The stationary permanent magnet levitates the iron structure while the superconductor structure can stabilize the rotating iron structure.

Integrated Design and Simulation of Tunable, Multi-State Structures Fabricated Monolithically with Multi-Material 3D Printing.

PubMed

Chen, Tian; Mueller, Jochen; Shea, Kristina

2017-03-31

Multi-material 3D printing has created new opportunities for fabricating deployable structures. We design reversible, deployable structures that are fabricated flat, have defined load bearing capacity, and multiple, predictable activated geometries. These structures are designed with a hierarchical framework where the proposed bistable actuator serves as the base building block. The actuator is designed to maximise its stroke length, with the expansion ratio approaching one when serially connected. The activation force of the actuator is parameterised through its joint material and joint length. Simulation and experimental results show that the bistability triggering force can be tuned between 0.5 and 5.0 N. Incorporating this bistable actuator, the first group of hierarchical designs demonstrate the deployment of space frame structures with a tetrahedron module consisting of three active edges, each containing four serially connected actuators. The second group shows the design of flat structures that assume either positive or negative Gaussian curvature once activated. By flipping the initial configuration of the unit actuators, structures such as a dome and an enclosure are demonstrated. A modified Dynamic Relaxation method is used to simulate all possible geometries of the hierarchical structures. Measured geometries differ by less than 5% compared to simulation results.

Integrated Design and Simulation of Tunable, Multi-State Structures Fabricated Monolithically with Multi-Material 3D Printing

PubMed Central

Chen, Tian; Mueller, Jochen; Shea, Kristina

2017-01-01

Multi-material 3D printing has created new opportunities for fabricating deployable structures. We design reversible, deployable structures that are fabricated flat, have defined load bearing capacity, and multiple, predictable activated geometries. These structures are designed with a hierarchical framework where the proposed bistable actuator serves as the base building block. The actuator is designed to maximise its stroke length, with the expansion ratio approaching one when serially connected. The activation force of the actuator is parameterised through its joint material and joint length. Simulation and experimental results show that the bistability triggering force can be tuned between 0.5 and 5.0 N. Incorporating this bistable actuator, the first group of hierarchical designs demonstrate the deployment of space frame structures with a tetrahedron module consisting of three active edges, each containing four serially connected actuators. The second group shows the design of flat structures that assume either positive or negative Gaussian curvature once activated. By flipping the initial configuration of the unit actuators, structures such as a dome and an enclosure are demonstrated. A modified Dynamic Relaxation method is used to simulate all possible geometries of the hierarchical structures. Measured geometries differ by less than 5% compared to simulation results. PMID:28361891

Physical and chemical analysis of a Ni/H2 cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vaidyanathan, H.; Earl, M. W.; Kirkendall, T. D.

1991-01-01

A cycled aerospace nickel hydrogen (Ni/H2) cell was subjected to destructive physical analysis to determine the reason for a capacity loss after 5,967 cycles at 60 percent depth of discharge. The positive plates in the cell were analyzed in terms of chemical composition, active material utilization, charge efficiency, and thickness increase. The microstructure of a cross section of the positive plate was determined by backscattered electron image analysis. The results suggest that the capacity loss in the cell is caused by low charge acceptance and low active material utilization at the positive plate. The oxidized nickel species content of the positive plate increased due to corrosion of the nickel sintered skeleton. This appears to circumvent the orderly reaction of the active material. Microstructural analysis has indicated that a new phase of active material is formed with cycling.

Low frequency vibration approach for assessing performance of wood floor systems

Treesearch

Xiping Wang; Robert J. Ross; Michael O. Hunt; John R. Erickson; John W. Forsman

2005-01-01

The primary means of inspecting buildings and other structures is to evaluate each structure member individually. This is a time-consuming and expensive process, particularly if sheathing or other covering materials must be removed to access the structural members. The objective of this study was to determine if a low frequency vibration method could be used to...

NREL Researchers Create New Materials With Unusual Properties | News | NREL

Science.gov Websites

show how such new low-density materials can be made - with unique properties remarkably different from compounds with atomic structures that didn't match, the researchers theorized that mixing two different high manganese telluride (MnTe) that have different crystal structures - the approach known as heterostructural

Imaging Canary Island hotspot material beneath the lithosphere of Morocco and southern Spain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miller, Meghan S.; O'Driscoll, Leland J.; Butcher, Amber J.; Thomas, Christine

2015-12-01

The westernmost Mediterranean has developed into its present day tectonic configuration as a result of complex interactions between late stage subduction of the Neo-Tethys Ocean, continental collision of Africa and Eurasia, and the Canary Island mantle plume. This study utilizes S receiver functions (SRFs) from over 360 broadband seismic stations to seismically image the lithosphere and uppermost mantle from southern Spain through Morocco and the Canary Islands. The lithospheric thickness ranges from ∼65 km beneath the Atlas Mountains and the active volcanic islands to over ∼210 km beneath the cratonic lithosphere in southern Morocco. The common conversion point (CCP) volume of the SRFs indicates that thinned lithosphere extends from beneath the Canary Islands offshore southwestern Morocco, to beneath the continental lithosphere of the Atlas Mountains, and then thickens abruptly at the West African craton. Beneath thin lithosphere between the Canary hot spot and southern Spain, including below the Atlas Mountains and the Alboran Sea, there are distinct pockets of low velocity material, as inferred from high amplitude positive, sub-lithospheric conversions in the SRFs. These regions of low seismic velocity at the base of the lithosphere extend beneath the areas of Pliocene-Quaternary magmatism, which has been linked to a Canary hotspot source via geochemical signatures. However, we find that this volume of low velocity material is discontinuous along strike and occurs only in areas of recent volcanism and where asthenospheric mantle flow is identified with shear wave splitting analyses. We propose that the low velocity structure beneath the lithosphere is material flowing sub-horizontally northeastwards beneath Morocco from the tilted Canary Island plume, and the small, localized volcanoes are the result of small-scale upwellings from this material.

Electromechanically active polymer transducers: research in Europe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carpi, Federico; Graz, Ingrid; Jager, Edwin; Ladegaard Skov, Anne; Vidal, Frédéric

2013-10-01

Smart materials and structures based on electromechanically active polymers (EAPs) represent a fast growing and stimulating field of research and development. EAPs are materials capable of changing dimensions and/or shape in response to suitable electrical stimuli. They are commonly classified in two major families: ionic EAPs (activated by an electrically induced transport of ions and/or solvent) and electronic EAPs (activated by electrostatic forces). These polymers show interesting properties, such as sizable active strains and/or stresses in response to electrical driving, high mechanical flexibility, low density, structural simplicity, ease of processing and scalability, no acoustic noise and, in most cases, low costs. Since many of these characteristics can also describe natural muscle tissues from an engineering standpoint, it is not surprising that EAP transducers are sometimes also referred to as 'muscle-like smart materials' or 'artificial muscles'. They are used not only to generate motion, but also to sense or harvest energy from it. In particular, EAP electromechanical transducers are studied for applications that can benefit from their 'biomimetic' characteristics, with possible usages from the micro- to the macro-scale, spanning several disciplines, such as mechatronics, robotics, automation, biotechnology and biomedical engineering, haptics, fluidics, optics and acoustics. Currently, the EAP field is just undergoing its initial transition from academic research into commercialization, with companies starting to invest in this technology and the first products appearing on the market. This focus issue is intentionally aimed at gathering contributions from the most influential European groups working in the EAP field. In fact, today Europe hosts the broadest EAP community worldwide. The rapid expansion of the EAP field in Europe, where it historically has strong roots, has stimulated the creation of the 'European Scientific Network for Artificial Muscles—ESNAM', entirely focused on EAPs and gathering the most active research institutes, as well as key industrial developers and end users. The ESNAM network has received financial support from the European COST (Cooperation in Science and Technology) programme (COST Action MP1003), leading to fruitful collaboration, of which some results are showcased in this issue. This focus issue deals with a number of relevant topics on ionic and electronic EAPs. The contents, which span highly heterogeneous and cross diverse disciplines, such as physics, chemistry, material science and engineering, embrace size scales from nano to macro, and cover different areas, such as new materials, devices and applications. This collection of papers helps elucidate, on the one hand, how heterogeneous and dynamic the EAP field is in general and, on the other hand, the state of the art of the EAP research in Europe. We hope that this focus issue might help to stimulate future work in this emerging field of research and generate new applications. Acknowledgments We would like to thank all the authors for their contributions, and the Smart Materials and Structures Editor-in-Chief, Professor Garcia, for having accepted our proposal to organize this focus issue. Special thanks also go to Natasha Leeper, from the IOP Publishing team, for her continued support and impeccable professionalism in arranging this focus issue. We also gratefully acknowledge financial support from COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology) in the framework of 'ESNAM—European Scientific Network for Artificial Muscles' (COST Action MP1003), which made possible cooperation that led to contributions to this issue.

Fission Signatures for Nuclear Material Detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gozani, Tsahi

2009-06-01

Detection and interdiction of nuclear materials in all forms of transport is one of the most critical security issues facing the United States and the rest of the civilized world. Naturally emitted gamma rays by these materials, while abundant and detectable when unshielded, are low in energy and readily shielded. X-ray radiography is useful in detecting the possible presence of shielding material. Positive detection of concealed nuclear materials requires methods which unequivocally detect specific attributes of the materials. These methods typically involve active interrogation by penetrating radiation of neutrons, photons or other particles. Fortunately, nuclear materials, probed by various types of radiation, yield very unique and often strong signatures. Paramount among them are the detectable fission signatures, namely prompt neutrons and gamma rays, and delayed neutrons gamma rays. Other useful signatures are the nuclear states excited by neutrons, via inelastic scattering, or photons, via nuclear resonance fluorescence and absorption. The signatures are very different in magnitude, level of specificity, ease of excitation and detection, signal to background ratios, etc. For example, delayed neutrons are very unique to the fission process, but are scarce, have low energy, and hence are easily absorbed. Delayed gamma rays are more abundant but "featureless", and have a higher background from natural sources and more importantly, from activation due to the interrogation sources. The prompt fission signatures need to be measured in the presence of the much higher levels of probing radiation. This requires taking special measures to look for the signatures, sometimes leading to a significant sensitivity loss or a complete inability to detect them. Characteristic gamma rays induced in nuclear materials reflecting their nuclear structure, while rather unique, require very high intensity of interrogation radiation and very high resolution in energy and/or time. The trade off of signatures, their means of stimulation, and methods of detection, will be reviewed.

[Neutralization of anticoagulant activity of heparin by N-[(2-hydroxy-3-trimethylammonium) propyl] chloride derivatives of chitosan].

PubMed

Shagdarova, B Ts; Drozd, N N; Il'ina, A V; Logviniva, Yu S; Varlamov, V P

2016-01-01

Alkylated derivatives of low molecular weight chitosan with different substitution degrees of 98, 40, and 9% (I, II, and III respectively) have been synthesized. The structure of the obtained derivatives was defined by spectral assays (IR-spectroscopy and proton magnetic resonance). Chitosan derivatives were characterized with positive zeta-potential (33–51 mV) and solubility from 2 to 100 mg/mL in pH 7.4 and 25°C. It was shown that, at a concentration of 0.0014–0.0029 mg/mL, derivative I, as well as protamine sulfate, could be used to neutralize the anticoagulant activity of unfractionated or low molecular weight heparin. At a concentration of 0.0029–0.58 mg/mL, derivative I enhanced platelet aggregation, which would be necessary when hemostatic compounds or materials were used. Derivatives II and III enhanced platelet aggregation to a lesser extent.

Electrochemical sensor for rutin detection based on Au nanoparticle-loaded helical carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Haitang; Li, Bingyue; Cui, Rongjing; Xing, Ruimin; Liu, Shanhu

2017-10-01

The key step in the fabrication of highly active electrochemical sensors is seeking multifunctional nanocomposites as electrode modified materials. In this study, the gold nanoparticle-decorated helical carbon nanotube nanocomposites (AuNPs-HCNTs) were fabricated for rutin detection because of its superior sensitivity, the chemical stability of AuNPs, and the superior conductivity and unique 3D-helical structure of helical carbon nanotubes. Results showed the prepared nanocomposites exhibited superior electrocatalytic activity towards rutin due to the synergetic effects of AuNPs and HCNTs. Under the optimized conditions, the developed sensor exhibited a linear response range from 0.1 to 31 μmol/L for rutin with a low detectable limit of 81 nmol/L. The proposed method might offer a possibility for electrochemical analysis of rutin in Chinese medical analysis or serum monitoring owing to its low cost, simplicity, high sensitivity, good stability, and few interferences against common coexisting ions in real samples.

Bandgap engineering of InGaAsP/InP laser structure by photo-absorption-induced point defects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaleem, Mohammad; Nazir, Sajid; Saqib, Nazar Abbas

2016-03-01

Integration of photonic components on the same photonic wafer permits future optical communication systems to be dense and advanced performance. This enables very fast information handling between photonic active components interconnected through passive optical low loss channels. We demonstrate the UV-Laser based Quantum Well Intermixing (QWI) procedure to engineer the band-gap of compressively strained InGaAsP/InP Quantum Well (QW) laser material. We achieved around 135nm of blue-shift by simply applying excimer laser (λ= 248nm). The under observation laser processed material also exhibits higher photoluminescence (PL) intensity. Encouraging experimental results indicate that this simple technique has the potential to produce photonic integrated devices and circuits.

Laser processing of thick Li(NiMnCo)O2 electrodes for lithium-ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rakebrandt, J.-H.; Smyrek, P.; Zheng, Y.; Seifert, H. J.; Pfleging, W.

2017-02-01

Lithium-ion batteries became the most promising types of mobile energy storage devices due to their high gravimetric and volumetric capacity, high cycle life-time, and low self-discharge. Nowadays, the cathode material lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) is one of the most widely used cathode material in commercial lithium-ion batteries due to many advantages such as high energy density (>150 Wh kg-1) on cell level, high power density (650 W kg-1 @ 25 °C and 50 % Depth of Discharge) [1], high specific capacity (163 mAh g-1) [2], high rate capability and good thermal stability in the fully charged state. However, in order to meet the requirements for the increasing demand for rechargeable high energy batteries, nickel-rich NMC electrodes with specific capacities up to 210 mAh g-1 seem to be the next generation cathodes which can reach on cell level desired energy densities higher than 250 Wh kg-1 [3]. Laser-structuring now enables to combine both concepts, high power and high energy lithium-ion batteries. For this purpose, lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide cathodes were produced via tape casting containing 85-90 wt% of active material with a film thickness of 50-260 μm. The specific capacities were measured using galvanostatic measurements for different types of NMC with varying nickel, manganese and cobalt content at different charging/discharging currents ("C-rates"). An improved lithium-ion diffusion kinetics due to an increased active surface area could be achieved by laser-assisted generating of three dimensional architectures. Cells with unstructured and structured cathodes were compared. Ultrafast laser ablation was used in order to avoid a thermal impact to the material. It was shown that laser structuring of electrode materials leads to a significant improvement in electrochemical performance, especially at high charging and discharging C-rates.

Formation of porous networks on polymeric surfaces by femtosecond laser micromachining

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Assaf, Youssef; Kietzig, Anne-Marie

2017-02-01

In this study, porous network structures were successfully created on various polymer surfaces by femtosecond laser micromachining. Six different polymers (poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), high density poly(ethylene) (HDPE), poly(lactic acid) (PLA), poly(carbonate) (PC), and poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET)) were machined at different fluences and pulse numbers, and the resulting structures were identified and compared by lacunarity analysis. At low fluence and pulse numbers, porous networks were confirmed to form on all materials except PLA. Furthermore, all networks except for PMMA were shown to bundle up at high fluence and pulse numbers. In the case of PC, a complete breakdown of the structure at such conditions was observed. Operation slightly above threshold fluence and at low pulse numbers is therefore recommended for porous network formation. Finally, the thickness over which these structures formed was measured and compared to two intrinsic material dependent parameters: the single pulse threshold fluence and the incubation coefficient. Results indicate that a lower threshold fluence at operating conditions favors material removal over structure formation and is hence detrimental to porous network formation. Favorable machining conditions and material-dependent parameters for the formation of porous networks on polymer surfaces have thus been identified.

Phase transition studies in bismuth ferrite thin films synthesized via spray pyrolysis technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goyal, Ankit; Lakhotia, Harish

2013-06-01

Multiferroic are the materials, which combine two or more "ferroic" properties, ferromagnetism, ferroelectricity or ferroelasticity. BiFeO3 is the only single phase multiferroic material which possesses a high Curie temperature (TC ˜ 1103 K), and a high Neel temperature (TN ˜ 643 K) at room temperature. Normally sophisticated methods are being used to deposit thin films but here we have tried a different method Low cost Spray Pyrolysis Method to deposit BiFeO3 thin film of Glass Substrate with rhombohedral crystal structure and R3c space group. Bismuth Ferrite thin films are synthesized using Bismuth Nitrate and Iron Nitrate as precursor solutions. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) were used to study structural analysis of prepared thin films. XRD pattern shows phase formation of BiFeO3 and SEM analysis shows formation of nanocrystals of 200 nm. High Temperature Resistivity measurements were done by using Keithley Electrometer (Two Probe system). Abrupt behavior in temperature range (313 K - 400K) has been observed in resistance studies which more likely suggests that in this transition the structure is tetragonal rather than rhombohedral. BiFeO3 is the potential active material in the next generation of ferroelectric memory devices.

Hierarchical MoS2 tubular structures internally wired by carbon nanotubes as a highly stable anode material for lithium-ion batteries

PubMed Central

Chen, Yu Ming; Yu, Xin Yao; Li, Zhen; Paik, Ungyu; Lou, Xiong Wen (David)

2016-01-01

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), a typical two-dimensional material, is a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries because it has three times the theoretical capacity of graphite. The main challenges associated with MoS2 anodes are the structural degradation and the low rate capability caused by the low intrinsic electric conductivity and large strain upon cycling. Here, we design hierarchical MoS2 tubular structures internally wired by carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to tackle these problems. These porous MoS2 tubular structures are constructed from building blocks of ultrathin nanosheets, which are believed to benefit the electrochemical reactions. Benefiting from the unique structural and compositional characteristics, these CNT-wired MoS2 tubular structures deliver a very high specific capacity of ~1320 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.1 A g−1, exceptional rate capability, and an ultralong cycle life of up to 1000 cycles. This work may inspire new ideas for constructing high-performance electrodes for electrochemical energy storage. PMID:27453938

Advanced ceramic matrix composite materials for current and future propulsion technology applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmidt, S.; Beyer, S.; Knabe, H.; Immich, H.; Meistring, R.; Gessler, A.

2004-08-01

Current rocket engines, due to their method of construction, the materials used and the extreme loads to which they are subjected, feature a limited number of load cycles. Various technology programmes in Europe are concerned, besides developing reliable and rugged, low cost, throwaway equipment, with preparing for future reusable propulsion technologies. One of the key roles for realizing reusable engine components is the use of modern and innovative materials. One of the key technologies which concern various engine manufacturers worldwide is the development of fibre-reinforced ceramics—ceramic matrix composites. The advantages for the developers are obvious—the low specific weight, the high specific strength over a large temperature range, and their great damage tolerance compared to monolithic ceramics make this material class extremely interesting as a construction material. Over the past years, the Astrium company (formerly DASA) has, together with various partners, worked intensively on developing components for hypersonic engines and liquid rocket propulsion systems. In the year 2000, various hot-firing tests with subscale (scale 1:5) and full-scale nozzle extensions were conducted. In this year, a further decisive milestone was achieved in the sector of small thrusters, and long-term tests served to demonstrate the extraordinary stability of the C/SiC material. Besides developing and testing radiation-cooled nozzle components and small-thruster combustion chambers, Astrium worked on the preliminary development of actively cooled structures for future reusable propulsion systems. In order to get one step nearer to this objective, the development of a new fibre composite was commenced within the framework of a regionally sponsored programme. The objective here is to create multidirectional (3D) textile structures combined with a cost-effective infiltration process. Besides material and process development, the project also encompasses the development of special metal/ceramic and ceramic/ceramic joining techniques as well as studying and verifying non destructive investigation processes for the purpose of testing components.

Low Cost Structures, but How Much are we Paying for Them?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gomez Molinero, Vincent

2014-06-01

Based on more than 37 years developing spacecraft structures - both for launchers starting with Ariane-1 up to the most modern ones and for satellites of any type - a critical review of the current trends, aiming specially to low cost solutions, will be presented.Airbus Defence and Space (CASA Espacio previously) has been developing structures for launchers and satellites during more than 4 decades. All types of spacecraft structures - primary and secondary ones, high stability ones and special critical cases like antenna reflectors, high stiffness structures and load carrying ones - have been developed using different types of materials and structural constructions. Although our main expertise is concentrated on composite structures, we have also developed many types of metallic ones, when the best solution was that one, not necessarily only based on pure technical reasons.From that perspective and experience, this paper tries to review the current trend of imposing the low cost as the main requirement for the development of satellites and launchers and its intrinsic characteristic of being a non- ending process: the spacecraft structures are never sufficiently cheaper.The main ways used today to justify low cost spacecraft structures will be reviewed trying to understand their rationale and some prejudices always present when the trade-off studies are performed. Some of the reviewed cost-killing factors will be (non-exhaustive list) Material type (i.e.: metallic vs composite). Low cost materials in general. Manufacturing process (i.e.: autoclave curing vs out-of-autoclave one). Automation in manufacturing. Automation in assembly. Automation in inspection and verification. Lean manufacturing techniques. Standardization. Some insight about how to solve this problem without losing our distinctive nature (we are developing high performance systems many of them unique prototypes and thought to work in environments not perfectly known and highly unknown in some cases) will be provided from the author's point of view.

Areas of activity in biofilms through the biospeckle and the spectral domain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marques, J. K.; Braga, R. A.; Pereira, J.

2010-09-01

The dynamic laser speckle or biospeckle laser has been used to analyze the activity of biological and non-biological material by means of various statistical techniques and image processing. However, a challenge to adopt this technique is the ability to identify, in the same material, an area of low activity immersed in an environment of a higher activity. This work was carried out to evaluate the spectral approach associated to biospeckle laser technique as an alternative to identify distinct activities areas in the same material. Biofilm samples, which present well known protocols to be prepared, and a simpler structure than vegetal and animal tissues, were prepared with potato starch and corn starch with areas of different levels of moisture and were analyzed using the biospeckle laser associated with the wavelets transform in order to evaluate the data in the spectral domain. The effect of a black or white background below the samples was also tested. The image analysis was conducted using Generalized Difference and Fujii techniques before and after the implementation of the wavelets transform producing the filtration of the data. The results allowed the visualization of different activities areas in different frequency bands. The areas of activity were presented clearer than the traditional procedures without filtering. A new way to present the results of the biospeckle and the frequency domain information was proposed to enhance the visualization of a whole picture. It was also noted that the greatest contrast between areas of different activity were promoted by materials of different compositions. In some experimental configurations there were possible to tag the relationship between the frequency and depth of the active or inactive material. The influence of the color, black or white, of the background was also noticed in the results, but with white background better in some configurations and with the black better in others.

Tunable Molecular-Scale Materials for Catalyzing the Low-Overpotential Electrochemical Conversion of CO2.

PubMed

Rosen, Brian A; Hod, Idan

2018-04-25

Electrochemical CO 2 reduction provides a clean and viable alternative for mitigating the environmental aspects of global greenhouse gas emissions. To date, the simultaneous goals of CO 2 reduction at high selectivity and activity have yet to be achieved. Here, the importance of engineering both sides of the electrode-electrolyte interface as a rational strategy for achieving this milestone is highlighted. An emphasis is placed on researchers contributing to the design of solid electrodes based on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and electrolytes based on room-temperature ionic liquids (RTILs). Future research geared toward optimizing the electrode-electrolyte interface for efficient and selective CO 2 reduction can be achieved by understanding the structure of newly designed RTILs at the electrified interface, as well as structure-activity relationships in highly tunable MOF platforms. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Structural and mechanical properties of welded joints of reduced activation martensitic steels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Filacchioni, G.; Montanari, R.; Tata, M. E.; Pilloni, L.

2002-12-01

Gas tungsten arc welding and electron beam welding methods were used to realise welding pools on plates of reduced activation martensitic steels. Structural and mechanical features of these simulated joints have been investigated in as-welded and post-welding heat-treated conditions. The research allowed to assess how each welding technique affects the original mechanical properties of materials and to find suitable post-welding heat treatments. This paper reports results from experimental activities on BATMAN II and F82H mod. steels carried out in the frame of the European Blanket Project - Structural Materials Program.

Multi-Functions of Carbonated Calcium Deficient Hydroxyapatite (CDHA)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Huan

Natural bone is a complex composite mainly constituted of inorganic minerals and organic collagen molecules. Calcium phosphate (CaP) based materials have been proposed as the predominant bone substitute for bone tissue engineering applications due to their chemical similarity to bone mineral. Amorphous carbonated calcium deficient hydroxyapatite (CDHA) is an important compound among CaP materials because of the amorphous crystallite structure. The presence of extra ions in its lattice structure not only influences cell attachment and proliferation of osteoblasts, but also helps in bone metabolism. Biomimetic coating approach is the most widely used approach to produce CDHA coatings to implant. It is a process using simulated body fluid (SBF) to deposit bone-like CDHA coating to various material surfaces. The CDHA formation mechanism, SBF compositions and reacting conditions of biomimetic coating have already been sufficiently studied and compared in the past 20 years. It is an attempt in this thesis to explore new applications of SBF in biomedical research, focusing on different biomaterial applications: 1) based on the low temperature reaction condition of SBF, bisphosphonate incorporated CDHA coatings were deposited onto Ti6Al4V surface for the treatment of osteoporosis; 2) amorphous calcium phosphate nanospheres with extra elements in the lattice structure were prepared by a novel microwave assisted approach, providing a new potential of CaP materials production; 3) CDHA particles formed in SBF can be used as great fillers with biopolymers for preparing biocomposites for biomedical applications; 4) based on the high activity of CDHA amorphous structure and the stabilization ability of ethanol, yttrium and europium doped calcium phosphates were prepared using CDHA as a sacrificing template. In the end, future work based on these observations in the thesis is addressed, including areas of drug delivery, biocomposite fabrication and preparation of functionalized calcium phosphate materials.

Nanohybrids from NiCoAl-LDH coupled with carbon for pseudocapacitors: understanding the role of nano-structured carbon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Chang; Yang, Juan; Zhao, Changtai; Fan, Xiaoming; Wang, Gang; Qiu, Jieshan

2014-02-01

Transition metal layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are one of the great potential electrode materials for pseudocapacitors. However, the aggregation and low conductivity of these metal compounds will constrain electrolyte ion and electron transfer and further affect their electrochemical performances. The nano-structured carbon coupled with the LDH matrix can act as an active component or conducting scaffold to enhance or improve the rate capacity and cycle life. Here, various nano-structured carbon species, including zero-dimensional carbon black (CB), one-dimensional carbon nanotubes (CNTs), two-dimensional reduced graphene oxide (RGO), and CNT/RGO composites were used to couple with the NiCoAl-LDHs to construct LDH-carbon nanohybrid electrodes for pseudocapacitors, and the role of the nanostructured carbon was investigated and discussed in terms of the pore structure of nanohybrids and electrical conductivity. The results show that all of the carbons can be well incorporated into the LDH nanosheets to form homogeneous nanohybrid materials. The pore structure properties and electrical conductivity of nanohybrids have statistically significant effects on the electrochemical performances of the LDH-carbon nanohybrids. Of the electrodes adopted, the nanohybrid electrode consisting of NiCoAl-LDHs, CNTs, and RGO exhibits excellent electrochemical performance with a specific capacitance as high as 1188 F g-1 at a current density of 1 A g-1 due to the synergistic effect of NiCoAl-LDHs, RGO, and CNTs, in which the RGO nanosheets are favorable for high specific surface area while the CNT has a fast electron transport path for enhancing the electrical conductivity of nanohybrids. This will shed a new light on the effect of nano-structured carbon within the electrode matrix on the electrochemical activity and open a new way for the carbon-related electrode configuration/design for supercapacitors, and other energy storage and conversion devices.Transition metal layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are one of the great potential electrode materials for pseudocapacitors. However, the aggregation and low conductivity of these metal compounds will constrain electrolyte ion and electron transfer and further affect their electrochemical performances. The nano-structured carbon coupled with the LDH matrix can act as an active component or conducting scaffold to enhance or improve the rate capacity and cycle life. Here, various nano-structured carbon species, including zero-dimensional carbon black (CB), one-dimensional carbon nanotubes (CNTs), two-dimensional reduced graphene oxide (RGO), and CNT/RGO composites were used to couple with the NiCoAl-LDHs to construct LDH-carbon nanohybrid electrodes for pseudocapacitors, and the role of the nanostructured carbon was investigated and discussed in terms of the pore structure of nanohybrids and electrical conductivity. The results show that all of the carbons can be well incorporated into the LDH nanosheets to form homogeneous nanohybrid materials. The pore structure properties and electrical conductivity of nanohybrids have statistically significant effects on the electrochemical performances of the LDH-carbon nanohybrids. Of the electrodes adopted, the nanohybrid electrode consisting of NiCoAl-LDHs, CNTs, and RGO exhibits excellent electrochemical performance with a specific capacitance as high as 1188 F g-1 at a current density of 1 A g-1 due to the synergistic effect of NiCoAl-LDHs, RGO, and CNTs, in which the RGO nanosheets are favorable for high specific surface area while the CNT has a fast electron transport path for enhancing the electrical conductivity of nanohybrids. This will shed a new light on the effect of nano-structured carbon within the electrode matrix on the electrochemical activity and open a new way for the carbon-related electrode configuration/design for supercapacitors, and other energy storage and conversion devices. Electronic supplementary information available: FE-SEM images, TEM images, TGA curves, nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms, and the corresponding pore size distribution as well as the current-voltage (I-V) curves of LDH-carbon nanohybrids. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr05477b

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

Yang, Ji-Hui; Yuan, Qinghong; Deng, Huixiong

Current thermoelectric (TE) materials often have low performance or contain less abundant and/or toxic elements, thus limiting their large-scale applications. Therefore, new TE materials with high efficiency and low cost are strongly desirable. Here we demonstrate that SiS and SiSe monolayers made from nontoxic and earth-abundant elements intrinsically have low thermal conductivities arising from their low-frequency optical phonon branches with large overlaps with acoustic phonon modes, which is similar to the state-of-the-art experimentally demonstrated material SnSe with a layered structure. Together with high thermal power factors due to their two-dimensional nature, they show promising TE performances with large figure ofmore » merit (ZT) values exceeding 1 or 2 over a wide range of temperatures. We establish some basic understanding of identifying layered materials with low thermal conductivities, which can guide and stimulate the search and study of other layered materials for TE applications.« less

Low fidelity model making activity by students: A novel way of learning concepts of neuroanatomy.

PubMed

Dixit, Shilpi Gupta; Potaliya, Pushpa; Nayeemudin, S M; Ghatak, Surajit

2018-06-01

Teaching and learning anatomy has always been an integral part of medical education. Teaching neuroanatomy has always faced innate and contextual challenges therefore various innovative teaching-learning methods have been devised on the idea of engaging learners in meaningful learning activities through apt guidance, communication among peers and cluster activities. The present study aims at such an innovative method. The study was conducted in practical sessions of first year MBBS at the Institute during second semester. Neuroanatomy topic selected for present study was 'Neural Pathways/tracts'. Participants were divided into 8 groups and each was allotted a specific activity related to a particular cross-sectional level and allowed to build with the material provided by the department. Student feedback was taken through a structured questionnaire. 81 and 82.4% of students stated that the activity was clearly explained and should be offered more frequently in curriculum. The activity also developed a positive attitude and good coordination amongst peers with increase in communication skills (89.1%, 91.8%, 89% respectively). 87.8% of students agreed that small group learning is better than didactic lectures in neuroanatomy. In current medical scenario with reduced anatomy teaching hours and a continuous pressure on undergraduates, a low-cost learning intervention formulated to deliver a complex 3-D model of tracts passing through various parts of nervous system by simple materials would show better access and understanding of the tracts with improvement of 3D visualization skills. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Disordered anodes for Ni-metal rechargeable battery

DOEpatents

Young, Kwo-hsiung; Wang, Lixin; Mays, William C.

2016-11-22

An electrochemical cell is provided that includes a structurally and compositionally disordered electrochemically active alloy material as an anode active material with unexpected capacity against a nickel hydroxide based cathode active material. The disordered metal hydroxide alloy includes three or more transition metal elements and is formed in such a way so as to produce the necessary disorder in the overall system. When an anode active material includes nickel as a predominant, the resulting cells represent the first demonstration of a functional Ni/Ni cell.

Designing Next Generation Rechargeable Battery Materials from First-Principles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Soo

Technology has advanced rapidly, especially in the twenty-first century, influencing our day-to-day life on unprecedented levels. Most such advances in technology are closely linked to, and often driven by, the discovery and design of new materials. It follows that the discovery of new materials can not only improve existing technologies but also lead to revolutionary ones. In particular, there is a growing need to develop new energy materials that are reliable, clean, and affordable for emerging applications such as portable electronics, electric vehicles, and power grid systems. Many researchers have been actively searching for more cost-effective and clean electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) during the last few decades. These new electrode materials are also required to achieve higher electrochemical performance, compared to the already commercialized electrodes. Unfortunately, discovering the next sustainable energy materials based on a traditional 'trial-and-error' method via experiment would be extremely slow and difficult. In the last two decades, computational compilations of battery material properties such as voltage, diffusivity, and phase stability against irreversible phase transformation(s) using first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations have helped researchers to understand the underlying mechanism in many oxide materials that are used as LIB electrodes. Here, we have examined the (001) and (111) surface structures of LiMn2O4 (LMO) spinel cathode materials using DFT calculations within the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) + U approach. Our theoretical results explain the observation of a wide spectrum of polyhedral shapes between (001)- and (111)-dominated LMO particles in experiments, which can be described by the narrow range of surface energies and their sensitivity to synthesis conditions. We further show that single-layer graphene coatings help suppress manganese dissolution in LMO by chemically interacting with Mn3+ at the (001) LMO surface, promoting an oxidation state change to Mn4+. In addition, we find that graphene defects also react with H2O and generated HF, protecting the active cathode materials from the attack of HF generated in the electrolyte during cycling. The carbonyl and epoxy functional groups in graphene oxide (GO) serve as a physical barrier to mitigate Mn ion dissolution into the liquid electrolyte, stabilizing the overall cell cycling performance. Next, we examine the occurrence of low- and high-temperature LiCoO2 structures and their observed voltage profiles in order to understand the complex structural and electrochemical behaviors. Moreover, a structural search is conducted to identify a new over-lithiated spinel oxide composition, i.e., Fd3¯m LiNi0.8125Co0.1875O2, which may have potential for exploitation in structurally-integrated, 'layered-spinel' cathode system. We have further investigated the structural and electrochemical properties of 'layered-layered-spinel' xLi 2MnO3˙yLiNi0.5Co0.2 Mn0.3O2˙zLiNi0.5Mn 1.5O4 cathode materials using both experiment and theory. Lastly, the idea of a multi-faceted high-throughput (HT) screening approach has been performed within the Open Quantum Materials Database (OQMD) framework to discover possible Li-rich Li2MIO3-Li 2MIIO3 pair combinations (MI,II = elements from the periodic table) that can offer better structural stability, favorable metal-mixing behavior, coherent interfaces, and high energy. Our approach involving computational design of novel materials and systems will accelerate the development of new sustainable energy solutions for meeting global demands.

Examining porous bio-active glass as a potential osteo-odonto-keratoprosthetic skirt material.

PubMed

Huhtinen, Reeta; Sandeman, Susan; Rose, Susanna; Fok, Elsie; Howell, Carol; Fröberg, Linda; Moritz, Niko; Hupa, Leena; Lloyd, Andrew

2013-05-01

Bio-active glass has been developed for use as a bone substitute with strong osteo-inductive capacity and the ability to form strong bonds with soft and hard tissue. The ability of this material to enhance tissue in-growth suggests its potential use as a substitute for the dental laminate of an osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis. A preliminary in vitro investigation of porous bio-active glass as an OOKP skirt material was carried out. Porous glass structures were manufactured from bio-active glasses 1-98 and 28-04 containing varying oxide formulation (1-98, 28-04) and particle size range (250-315 μm for 1-98 and 28-04a, 315-500 μm for 28-04b). Dissolution of the porous glass structure and its effect on pH was measured. Structural 2D and 3D analysis of porous structures were performed. Cell culture experiments were carried out to study keratocyte adhesion and the inflammatory response induced by the porous glass materials. The dissolution results suggested that the porous structure made out of 1-98 dissolves faster than the structures made from glass 28-04. pH experiments showed that the dissolution of the porous glass increased the pH of the surrounding solution. The cell culture results showed that keratocytes adhered onto the surface of each of the porous glass structures, but cell adhesion and spreading was greatest for the 98a bio-glass. Cytokine production by all porous glass samples was similar to that of the negative control indicating that the glasses do not induce a cytokine driven inflammatory response. Cell culture results support the potential use of synthetic porous bio-glass as an OOKP skirt material in terms of limited inflammatory potential and capacity to induce and support tissue ingrowth.

Low-loss, high-speed, high-{Tc} superconducting bearings

DOEpatents

Hull, J.R.; Mulcahy, T.M.; Uherka, K.L.

1997-06-24

A flywheel energy storage device is disclosed including an iron structure disposed for rotation adjacent a stationary superconductor material structure and a stationary permanent magnet. The stationary permanent magnet levitates the iron structure while the superconductor structure can stabilize the rotating iron structure. 15 figs.

Low-loss, high-speed, high-T.sub.C superconducting bearings

DOEpatents

Hull, John R.; Mulcahy, Thomas M.; Uherka, Kenneth L.

1996-01-01

A flywheel energy storage device including an iron structure disposed for rotation adjacent a stationary superconductor material structure and a stationary permanent magnet. The stationary permanent magnet levitates the iron structure while the superconductor structure can stabilize and levitate the rotating iron structure.

Toward large-area roll-to-roll printed nanophotonic sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karioja, Pentti; Hiltunen, Jussi; Aikio, Sanna M.; Alajoki, Teemu; Tuominen, Jarkko; Hiltunen, Marianne; Siitonen, Samuli; Kontturi, Ville; Böhlen, Karl; Hauser, Rene; Charlton, Martin; Boersma, Arjen; Lieberzeit, Peter; Felder, Thorsten; Eustace, David; Haskal, Eliav

2014-05-01

Polymers have become an important material group in fabricating discrete photonic components and integrated optical devices. This is due to their good properties: high optical transmittance, versatile processability at relative low temperatures and potential for low-cost production. Recently, nanoimprinting or nanoimprint lithography (NIL) has obtained a plenty of research interest. In NIL, a mould is pressed against a substrate coated with a moldable material. After deformation of the material, the mold is separated and a replica of the mold is formed. Compared with conventional lithographic methods, imprinting is simple to carry out, requires less-complicated equipment and can provide high-resolution with high throughput. Nanoimprint lithography has shown potential to become a method for low-cost and high-throughput fabrication of nanostructures. We show the development process of nano-structured, large-area multi-parameter sensors using Photonic Crystal (PC) and Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) methodologies for environmental and pharmaceutical applications. We address these challenges by developing roll-to-roll (R2R) UV-nanoimprint fabrication methods. Our development steps are the following: Firstly, the proof of concept structures are fabricated by the use of wafer-level processes in Si-based materials. Secondly, the master molds of successful designs are fabricated, and they are used to transfer the nanophotonic structures into polymer materials using sheet-level UV-nanoimprinting. Thirdly, the sheet-level nanoimprinting processes are transferred to roll-to-roll fabrication. In order to enhance roll-to-roll manufacturing capabilities, silicone-based polymer material development was carried out. In the different development phases, Photonic Crystal and SERS sensor structures with increasing complexities were fabricated using polymer materials in order to enhance sheet-level and roll-to-roll manufacturing processes. In addition, chemical and molecular imprint (MIP) functionalization methods were applied in the sensor demonstrators. In this paper, the process flow in fabricating large-area nanophotonic structures by the use of sheet-level and roll-to-roll UV- nanoimprinting is reported.

Intrinsic hierarchical structural imperfections in a natural ceramic of bivalve shell with distinctly graded properties

PubMed Central

Jiao, Da; Liu, Zengqian; Zhang, Zhenjun; Zhang, Zhefeng

2015-01-01

Despite the extensive investigation on the structure of natural biological materials, insufficient attention has been paid to the structural imperfections by which the mechanical properties of synthetic materials are dominated. In this study, the structure of bivalve Saxidomus purpuratus shell has been systematically characterized quantitatively on multiple length scales from millimeter to sub-nanometer. It is revealed that hierarchical imperfections are intrinsically involved in the crossed-lamellar structure of the shell despite its periodically packed platelets. In particular, various favorable characters which are always pursued in synthetic materials, e.g. nanotwins and low-angle misorientations, have been incorporated herein. The possible contributions of these imperfections to mechanical properties are further discussed. It is suggested that the imperfections may serve as structural adaptations, rather than detrimental defects in the real sense, to help improve the mechanical properties of natural biological materials. This study may aid in understanding the optimizing strategies of structure and properties designed by nature, and accordingly, provide inspiration for the design of synthetic materials. PMID:26198844

Intrinsic hierarchical structural imperfections in a natural ceramic of bivalve shell with distinctly graded properties.

PubMed

Jiao, Da; Liu, Zengqian; Zhang, Zhenjun; Zhang, Zhefeng

2015-07-22

Despite the extensive investigation on the structure of natural biological materials, insufficient attention has been paid to the structural imperfections by which the mechanical properties of synthetic materials are dominated. In this study, the structure of bivalve Saxidomus purpuratus shell has been systematically characterized quantitatively on multiple length scales from millimeter to sub-nanometer. It is revealed that hierarchical imperfections are intrinsically involved in the crossed-lamellar structure of the shell despite its periodically packed platelets. In particular, various favorable characters which are always pursued in synthetic materials, e.g. nanotwins and low-angle misorientations, have been incorporated herein. The possible contributions of these imperfections to mechanical properties are further discussed. It is suggested that the imperfections may serve as structural adaptations, rather than detrimental defects in the real sense, to help improve the mechanical properties of natural biological materials. This study may aid in understanding the optimizing strategies of structure and properties designed by nature, and accordingly, provide inspiration for the design of synthetic materials.

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

Liu, Jia

Biorefineries convert biomass into many useful intermediates. For bio-based products to be used for fuel, energy, chemical, and many other applications, water needs to be removed from these aqueous products. Membrane separation technologies can significantly reduce separation energy consumption compared with conventional separation processes such as distillation. Nanoporous inorganic membranes have superior pervaporation performance with excellent organic fouling resistance. However, their commercial applications are limited due to high membrane costs and poor production reproducibility. A novel cost-effective inorganic membrane fabrication technology has been developed with low cost materials and using an advanced membrane fabrication technology. Low cost precursor material formulationmore » was successfully developed with desired material properties for membrane fabrication. An advanced membrane fabrication process was developed using the novel membrane materials to enable the fabrication of separation membranes of various geometries. The structural robustness and separation performance of the low cost inorganic membranes were evaluated. The novel inorganic membranes demonstrated high structural integrity and were effective in pervaporation removal of water.« less

On the electron density localization in elemental cubic ceramic and FCC transition metals by means of a localized electrons detector.

PubMed

Aray, Yosslen; Paredes, Ricardo; Álvarez, Luis Javier; Martiz, Alejandro

2017-06-14

The electron density localization in insulator and semiconductor elemental cubic materials with diamond structure, carbon, silicon, germanium, and tin, and good metallic conductors with face centered cubic structure such as α-Co, Ni, Cu, Rh, Pd, Ag, Ir, Pt, and Au, was studied using a localized electrons detector defined in the local moment representation. Our results clearly show an opposite pattern of the electron density localization for the cubic ceramic and transition metal materials. It was found that, for the elemental ceramic materials, the zone of low electron localization is very small and is mainly localized on the atomic basin edges. On the contrary, for the transition metals, there are low-valued localized electrons detector isocontours defining a zone of highly delocalized electrons that extends throughout the material. We have found that the best conductors are those in which the electron density at this low-value zone is the lowest.

Non-flammable polyimide materials for aircraft and spacecraft applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gagliani, J.; Supkis, D. E.

1979-01-01

Recent developments in polyimide chemistry show promise for producing materials with very low flammability and a wide range of mechanical properties. Polyimide foams can be synthesized to provide fire safety without detectable formation of smoke or toxic byproducts below 204 C (400 F), thus avoiding an environment which is lethal to human habitation. This work has been and is currently being performed under development programs, the objective of which is to provide cost effective processes for producing thermally stable, polyimide flexible resilient foams, thermal-acoustical insulating materials, rigid low density foam panels, and high strength foam structures. The chemical and physical properties demonstrated by these materials represent a technological advancement in the art of thermally stable polyimide polymers which are expected to insure fire protection of structures and components used in air transportation and space exploration. Data compiled to date on thermal, physical and functional properties of these materials are presented.

Surface transmission enhancement of ZnS via continuous-wave laser microstructuring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Major, Kevin J.; Florea, Catalin M.; Poutous, Menelaos K.; Busse, Lynda E.; Sanghera, Jasbinder S.; Aggarwal, Ishwar D.

2014-03-01

Fresnel reflectivity at dielectric boundaries between optical components, lenses, and windows is a major issue for the optics community. The most common method to reduce the index mismatch and subsequent surface reflection is to apply a thin film or films of intermediate indices to the optical materials. More recently, surface texturing or roughening has been shown to approximate a stepwise refractive index thin-film structure, with a gradient index of refraction transition from the bulk material to the surrounding medium. Short-pulse laser ablation is a recently-utilized method to produce such random anti-reflective structured surfaces (rARSS). Typically, high-energy femtosecond pulsed lasers are focused on the surface of the desired optical material to produce periodic or quasi-periodic assemblies of nanostructures which provide reduced surface reflection. This technique is being explored to generate a variety of structures across multiple optical materials. However, femtosecond laser systems are relatively expensive and more difficult to maintain. We present here a low power and low-cost alternative to femtosecond laser ablation, demonstrating random antireflective structures on the surface of Cleartran ZnS windows produced with a continuous-wave laser. In particular, we find that irradiation with a low-powered (<10 mW), defocused, CW 325nm-wavelength laser produces a random surface with significant roughness on ZnS substrates. The transmission through the structured ZnS windows is shown to increase by up to 9% across a broad wavelength range from the visible to the near-infrared.

Stiff, light, strong and ductile: nano-structured High Modulus Steel.

PubMed

Springer, H; Baron, C; Szczepaniak, A; Uhlenwinkel, V; Raabe, D

2017-06-05

Structural material development for lightweight applications aims at improving the key parameters strength, stiffness and ductility at low density, but these properties are typically mutually exclusive. Here we present how we overcome this trade-off with a new class of nano-structured steel - TiB 2 composites synthesised in-situ via bulk metallurgical spray-forming. Owing to the nano-sized dispersion of the TiB 2 particles of extreme stiffness and low density - obtained by the in-situ formation with rapid solidification kinetics - the new material has the mechanical performance of advanced high strength steels, and a 25% higher stiffness/density ratio than any of the currently used high strength steels, aluminium, magnesium and titanium alloys. This renders this High Modulus Steel the first density-reduced, high stiffness, high strength and yet ductile material which can be produced on an industrial scale. Also ideally suited for 3D printing technology, this material addresses all key requirements for high performance and cost effective lightweight design.

Chemical vapor deposition of high T sub c superconductors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Webb, G. W.; Engelhardt, J. J.

1978-01-01

The results are reported of an investigation into the synthesis and properties of high temperature superconducting materials. A chemical vapor deposition apparatus was designed and built which is suitable for the preparation of multicomponent metal films This apparatus was used to prepare a series of high T sub c A-15 structure superconducting films in the binary system Nb-Ge. The effect on T sub c of a variety of substrate materials was investigated. An extensive series of ternary alloys were also prepared. Conditions allowing the brittle high T sub c (approximately 18 K) A-15 structure superconductor Nb3A1 to be prepared in a low T sub c but ductile form were found. Some of the ways that the ductile (bcc) form can be cold worked or machined are described. Measurements of rate of transformation of cold worked bcc material to the high T sub c A-15 structure with low temperature annealing are given. Preliminary measurements indicate that this material has attractive high field critical current densities.

High-efficiency hybrid solar cells based on polymer/PbSx Se1-x nanocrystals benefiting from vertical phase segregation.

PubMed

Liu, Zeke; Sun, Yaxiang; Yuan, Jianyu; Wei, Huaixin; Huang, Xiaodong; Han, Lu; Wang, Weiwei; Wang, Haiqiao; Ma, Wanli

2013-10-25

Solution-processed hybrid solar cells employing a low band-gap polymer and PbSx Se1-x alloy nanocrystals, achieving a record high PCE of 5.50% and an optimal FF of 67% are presented. The remarkable device efficiency can be attributed to the high-performance active materials, the optimal polymer/NCs ratio and, more importantly, the vertical donor/(donor:acceptor)/acceptor structure which benefits charge dissociation and transport. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

EDITORIAL Smart materials, multifunctional composites, and morphing structures: selected papers from the 20th International Conference on Adaptive Structures and Technologies (ICAST 2009) Smart materials, multifunctional composites, and morphing structures: selected papers from the 20th International Conference on Adaptive Structures and Technologies (ICAST 2009)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liao, Wei-Hsin

2010-12-01

The 20th International Conference on Adaptive Structures and Technologies (ICAST) was held on 20-22 October 2009 in Hong Kong. This special section of Smart Materials and Structures is derived from the research papers presented at the conference. Of the 106 papers presented at the conference, 11 papers were reviewed and accepted for this special section, following the regular review procedures of the journal. This special section is focused on smart materials, multifunctional composites, and applications on morphing structures. Smart materials. Smart materials are the foundation of adaptive structures and intelligent systems. The development of new materials will lead to significant improvement in various applications. Three articles are focused on the fabrication of new materials and investigation of their behaviors: Barium strontium zirconate titanate ((Ba1-xSrx)(ZrxTi1-x)O3; BSZT, x = 0.25 and 0.75) ceramics with a highly crystalline structure were fabricated using the combustion technique. The microstructure of BSZT powders exhibited an almost-spherical morphology and had a porous agglomerated form. Polyaniline (PANI)/clay nanoparticles with unique core-shell structure were synthesized via Pickering emulsion polymerization. By dispersing PANI/clay nanoparticles in silicone oil, the ER fluid was made. Magnetic field effects were investigated on the deposition rate and surface morphology of chromium nitride coatings deposited by magnetron sputtering for superior hardness, excellent wear and oxidation resistance. The surface morphology of chromium nitride films was also examined by a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Multifunctional composites. Composites are made from two or more constituent materials so they can combine the best properties of different materials. Five papers deal with fabrication, testing, and modeling of various multifunctional composites: A new active structural fiber (ASF) was fabricated by coating a single carbon fiber with a concentric PZT (PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3) shell using electrolytic deposition. This new ASF is expected to have broader applications due to the higher piezoelectric coupling effect with the use of carbon fiber and PZT. The sol-gel technique was employed to deposit lead zirconium titanium (PZT) and silica composite film onto a copper (Cu)/polyimide (PI) flexible structure. The fabricated PZT-silica composite films were then used for flexible actuator and sensor applications. Interfacial properties and hydrophobicity of multifunctional Ni-nanopowder/epoxy composites were evaluated for self-sensing and actuation. The effects of water content on the actuation performance of ionic polymer-metal composites (IPMCs) were investigated experimentally. Multiscale modelling of a composite electroactive polymer structure was developed, in particular for tubular actuators. The models were validated with experimental data. Morphing structures. Three papers relate to morphing skins and structures. Several issues including stiffness and energy consumption were explored: Composite corrugated structures were used as morphing skin panels (MSPs) in the trailing edge region of a scaled morphing aerofoil section. Wind tunnel testing was carried out to demonstrate the MSP concept. Optimization of a variable-stiffness skin was performed for morphing high-lift devices. The objective is to design the structure to have high enough stiffness to withstand aerodynamic loading and yet low enough stiffness to enable morphing. The aerodynamic and actuation loads were taken into consideration during the optimization. Two adaptive and morphing structures were proposed for low-energy consumption or even energy-harvesting green buildings with the use of an optimization process. Searching for optimal solutions was done by means of an evolutionary technique while the compatibility of the resulting configurations of the adaptive envelope was ensured by the virtual force density method. We would like to thank all of the authors for their significant contributions to this special section for Smart Materials and Structures. We are also grateful to all of the reviewers and associate editors who handled the reviews for their time and effort. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Professor E Garcia, Editor-in-Chief, for his encouragement by providing the opportunity to make this special section. I am indebted to IOP Publishing for their strong support and the staff, in particular publisher Natasha Leeper, for their special attention and excellent service.

Preparation by enzymolysis and bioactivity of iron complex of fish protein hydrolysate (Fe-FPH) from low value fish

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, Shanggui; Huo, Jiancong; Xie, Chao

2008-08-01

Preparation of Fe2+ chelate of fish protein hydrolysate (Fe-FPH) obtained from low value fish proteins was introduced and its bioactivity was studied by compound enzymolysis. The optimum conditions for hydrolysate chelating Fe2+ are DH (degree of hydrolysis) at 5%, pH 7.0, 20°C and 15 min chelating time for FM (material not being defatted). Four types of Fe-FPH including CA (deposit after chelating), CB (deposit in 50% of absolute ethanol solution), CC (suspended deposit in 80% of absolute ethanol solution), and CD (bottom deposit in 80% of absolute ethanol solution) were fractionated with absolute ethanol from FM. Structural analysis through infra-red spectrum revealed that Fe2+ was combined strongly with amino-group and carboxyl-group in each chelate and each Fe2+ could form two five-member ring structures. All of the four chelates were shown more significant antioxidative activity and can be used as natural hydrophobic and hydrophilic antioxidant. Among all the chelates, the CB possesses the most effective antioxidative activity at 92% as high as that of a-tocopherol. Among all Fe-FPHs, only CD showed the most effective antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, and Bacillus subtilis and can be used as natural antibacterial. It provides a more effective way for utilization of low value fish proteins and key information of Fe-FPH as additive in food industry.

Al-doped TiO{sub 2} mesoporous material supported Pd with enhanced catalytic activity for complete oxidation of ethanol

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

Zhu, Jing, E-mail: mlczjsls123@163.com; Mu, Wentao, E-mail: mwt15035687833@163.com; Su, Liqing, E-mail: suliqing0163@163.com

Pd catalysts supported on Al-doped TiO{sub 2} mesoporous materials were evaluated in complete oxidation of ethanol. The catalysts synthesized by wet impregnation based on evaporation-induced self-assembly were characterized by X-ray diffraction, measurement of pore structure, XPS, FT-IR, temperature programmed reduction and TEM. Characteristic results showed that the aluminium was doped into the lattice of mesoporous anatase TiO{sub 2} to form Al-O-Ti defect structure. Catalytic results revealed that Al-doped catalysts were much more active than the pristine one, especially at low temperature (≤200 °C). This should be ascribed to the introduction of aluminium ions that suppressed the strong metal-support interaction andmore » increased the active sites of Pd oxides, enhanced the stabilized anatase TiO{sub 2}, improved well dispersed high valence palladium species with high reducibility and enriched chemisorption oxygen. - Graphical abstract: Al-doped Pd/TiO{sub 2} exhibited optimal catalytic performance for ethanol oxidation and CO{sub 2} yield by the suppression of SMSI. - Highlights: • Palladium catalysts supported on Al-doped TiO{sub 2} mesoporous materials were studied. • The introduction of Al can enhance anatase stabilization and increase defect TiO{sub 2}. • The Pd/Al-TiO{sub 2} catalysts show higher ethanol conversion and CO{sub 2} yield than Pd/TiO{sub 2}. • The influence of Al on SMSI and catalytic performance were evaluated by TPR and XPS.« less

Hybrid mesoporous-silica materials functionalized by Pt(II) complexes: correlation between the spatial distribution of the active center, photoluminescence emission, and photocatalytic activity.

PubMed

Mori, Kohsuke; Watanabe, Kentaro; Terai, Yoshikazu; Fujiwara, Yasufumi; Yamashita, Hiromi

2012-09-03

[Pt(tpy)Cl]Cl (tpy: terpyridine) was successfully anchored to a series of mesoporous-silica materials that were modified with (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane with the aim of developing new inorganic-organic hybrid photocatalysts. Herein, the relationship between the luminescence characteristics and photocatalytic activities of these materials is examined as a function of Pt loading to define the spatial distribution of the Pt complex in the mesoporous channel. At low Pt loading, the Pt complex is located as an isolated species and exhibits strong photoluminescence emission at room temperature owing to metal-to-ligand charge-transfer ((3)MLCT) transitions (at about 530 nm). Energy- and/or electron-transfer from (3)MLCT to O(2) generate potentially active oxygen species, which are capable of promoting the selective photooxidation of styrene derivatives. On the other hand, short Pt···Pt interactions are prominent at high loading and the metal-metal-to-ligand charge-transfer ((3)MMLCT) transition is at about 620 nm. Such Pt complexes, which are situated close to each other, efficiently catalyze H(2)-evolution reactions in aqueous media in the presence of a sacrificial electron donor (EDTA) under visible-light irradiation. This study also investigates the effect of nanoconfinement on anchored guest complexes by considering the differences between the pore dimensions and structures of mesoporous-silica materials. Copyright © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Development of Multifunctional Radiation Shielding Materials for Long Duration Human Exploration Beyond the Low Earth Orbit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sen, S.; Bhattacharya, M.; Schofield, E.; Carranza, S.; O'Dell, S.

2007-01-01

One of the major challenges for long duration human exploration beyond the low Earth orbit and sustained human presence on planetary surfaces would be development of materials that would help minimize the radiation exposure to crew and equipment from the interplanetary radiation environment, This radiation environment consists primarily of a continuous flux of galactic cosmic rays (GCR) and transient but intense fluxes of solar energetic particles (SEP). The potential for biological damage by the relatively low percentage of high-energy heavy-ions in the GCR spectrum far outweigh that due to lighter particles because of their ionizing-power and the quality of the resulting biological damage. Although the SEP spectrum does not contain heavy ions and their energy range is much lower than that for GCRs, they however pose serious risks to astronaut health particularly in the event of a bad solar storm The primary purpose of this paper is to discuss our recent efforts in development and evaluation of materials for minimizing the hazards from the interplanetary radiation environment. Traditionally, addition of shielding materials to spacecrafts has invariably resulted in paying a penalty in terms of additional weight. It would therefore be of great benefit if materials could be developed not only with superior shielding effectiveness but also sufficient structural integrity. Such a multifunctional material could then be considered as an integral part of spacecraft structures. Any proposed radiation shielding material for use in outer space should be composed of nuclei that maximize the likelihood of projectile fragmentation while producing the minimum number of target fragments. A modeling based approach will be presented to show that composite materials using hydrogen-rich epoxy matrices reinforced with polyethylene fibers and/or fabrics could effectively meet this requirement. This paper will discuss the fabrication of such a material for a crewed vehicle. Ln addition, the capability of synthesizing radiation shielding materials for habitat structures primarily from Lunar or Martian in-situ resources will also be presented. Such an approach would significantly _reduce the cost associated with transportation of such materials and structures from earth. Results from radiation exposure measurements will be presented demonstrating the shielding effectiveness of the developed materials. Mechanical testing data will be discussed to illustrate that the specific mechanical properties of the developed composites are comparable to structural aluminum based alloys currently used for the space shuttle and space station.

Characterization and metrology implications of the 1997 NTRS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Class, W.; Wortman, J. J.

1998-11-01

In the Front-end (transistor forming) area of silicon CMOS device processing, several NTRS difficult challenges have been identified including; scaled and alternate gate dielectric materials, new DRAM dielectric materials, alternate gate materials, elevated contact structures, engineered channels, and large-area cost-effective silicon substrates. This paper deals with some of the characterization and metrology challenges facing the industry if it is to meet the projected needs identified in the NTRS. In the areas of gate and DRAM dielectric, scaling requires that existing material layers be thinned to maximize capacitance. For the current gate dielectric, SiO2 and its nitrided derivatives, direct tunneling will limit scaling to approximately 1.5nm for logic applications before power losses become unacceptable. Low power logic and memory applications may limit scaling to the 2.0-2.2nm range. Beyond these limits, dielectric materials having higher dielectric constant, will permit continued capacitance increases while allowing for the use of thicker dielectric layers, where tunneling may be minimized. In the near term silicon nitride is a promising SiO2 substitute material while in the longer term "high-k" materials such as tantalum pentoxide and barium strontium titanate (BST) will be required. For these latter materials, it is likely that a multilayer dielectric stack will be needed, consisting of an ultra-thin (1-2 atom layer) interfacial SiO2 layer and a high-k overlayer. Silicon wafer surface preparation control, as well as the control of composition, crystal structure, and thickness for such stacks pose significant characterization and metrology challenges. In addition to the need for new gate dielectric materials, new gate materials will be required to overcome the limitations of the current doped polysilicon gate materials. Such a change has broad ramifications on device electrical performance and manufacturing process robustness which again implies a broad range of new characterization and metrology requirements. Finally, the doped structure of the MOS transistor must scale to very small lateral and depth dimensions, and thermal budgets must be reduced to permit the retention of very abrupt highly doped drain and channel engineered structures. Eventually, the NTRS forecasts the need for an elevated contact structure. Here, there are significant challenges associated with three-dimensional dopant profiling, measurement of dopant activity in ultra-shallow device regions, as well as point defect metrology and characterization.

Thin film composition with biological substance and method of making

DOEpatents

Campbell, Allison A.; Song, Lin

1999-01-01

The invention provides a thin-film composition comprising an underlying substrate of a first material including a plurality of attachment sites; a plurality of functional groups chemically attached to the attachment sites of the underlying substrate; and a thin film of a second material deposited onto the attachment sites of the underlying substrate, and a biologically active substance deposited with the thin-film. Preferably the functional groups are attached to a self assembling monolayer attached to the underlying substrate. Preferred functional groups attached to the underlying substrate are chosen from the group consisting of carboxylates, sulfonates, phosphates, optionally substituted, linear or cyclo, alkyl, alkene, alkyne, aryl, alkylaryl, amine, hydroxyl, thiol, silyl, phosphoryl, cyano, metallocenyl, carbonyl, and polyphosphate. Preferred materials for the underlying substrate are selected from the group consisting of a metal, a metal alloy, a plastic, a polymer, a proteic film, a membrane, a glass or a ceramic. The second material is selected from the group consisting of inorganic crystalline structures, inorganic amorphus structures, organic crystalline structures, and organic amorphus structures. Preferred second materials are phosphates, especially calcium phosphates and most particularly calcium apatite. The biologically active molecule is a protein, peptide, DNA segment, RNA segment, nucleotide, polynucleotide, nucleoside, antibiotic, antimicrobal, radioisotope, chelated radioisotope, chelated metal, metal salt, anti-inflamatory, steriod, nonsteriod anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antihistamine, receptor binding agent, or chemotherapeutic agent, or other biologically active material. Preferably the biologically active molecule is an osteogenic factor the compositions listed above.

Synthesis and characterization of transition metal oxide/sulfide nanostructures for electrochemical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yilmaz, Gamze

This thesis is essentially oriented to develop low-cost nanostructured transition metal (nickel and vanadium) oxides and sulfides with high energy density, power density and electrochemical stability via strategies of structural design, hybridization, functionalization and surface engineering. Metal oxide and metal oxide/sulfide hybrid nanostructures in several designs, including hierarchical porous nanostructures, hollow polyhedrons, nanocubes, nanoframes, octopod nanoframes, and nanocages, were synthesized to study the contribution of structural design, compositional engineering, functionalization and surface engineering to the electrochemical properties of the materials. Modulated compositional and structural features disclosed the opportunities of large accessible active sites, facile ion transport, robustness and enhanced electrical conductivity. The best electrochemical performance with merits of highest energy density (38.9 Wh kg-1), power density (7.4 kW kg-1) and electrochemical stability (90.9% after 10000 cycles) was obtained for nickel cobalt layered double hydroxide/cobalt sulfide (NiCo-LDH/Co9S8) hybrid hollow polyhedron structure.

First-principles design of nanostructured hybrid photovoltaics based on layered transition metal phosphates

DOE PAGES

Lentz, Levi C.; Kolpak, Alexie M.

2017-04-28

The performance of bulk organic and hybrid organic-inorganic heterojunction photovoltaics is often limited by high carrier recombination arising from strongly bound excitons and low carrier mobility. Structuring materials to minimize the length scales required for exciton separation and carrier collection is therefore a promising approach for improving efficiency. In this work, first-principles computations are employed to design and characterize a new class of photovoltaic materials composed of layered transition metal phosphates (TMPs) covalently bound to organic absorber molecules to form nanostructured superlattices. Using a combination of transition metal substitution and organic functionalization, the electronic structure of these materials is systematicallymore » tuned to design a new hybrid photovoltaic material predicted to exhibit very low recombination due to the presence of a local electric field and spatially isolated, high mobility, two-dimensional electron and hole conducting channels. Furthermore, this material is predicted to have a large open-circuit voltage of 1.7 V. Here, this work suggests that hybrid TMPs constitute an interesting class of materials for further investigation in the search for achieving high efficiency, high power, and low cost photo Zirconium phosphate was chosen, in part, due to previous experiment voltaics.« less

First-principles design of nanostructured hybrid photovoltaics based on layered transition metal phosphates

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

Lentz, Levi C.; Kolpak, Alexie M.

The performance of bulk organic and hybrid organic-inorganic heterojunction photovoltaics is often limited by high carrier recombination arising from strongly bound excitons and low carrier mobility. Structuring materials to minimize the length scales required for exciton separation and carrier collection is therefore a promising approach for improving efficiency. In this work, first-principles computations are employed to design and characterize a new class of photovoltaic materials composed of layered transition metal phosphates (TMPs) covalently bound to organic absorber molecules to form nanostructured superlattices. Using a combination of transition metal substitution and organic functionalization, the electronic structure of these materials is systematicallymore » tuned to design a new hybrid photovoltaic material predicted to exhibit very low recombination due to the presence of a local electric field and spatially isolated, high mobility, two-dimensional electron and hole conducting channels. Furthermore, this material is predicted to have a large open-circuit voltage of 1.7 V. Here, this work suggests that hybrid TMPs constitute an interesting class of materials for further investigation in the search for achieving high efficiency, high power, and low cost photo Zirconium phosphate was chosen, in part, due to previous experiment voltaics.« less

Hydrothermal synthesis of cathode materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Jiajun; Wang, Shijun; Whittingham, M. Stanley

A number of cathodes are being considered for the next generation of lithium ion batteries to replace the expensive LiCoO 2 presently used. Besides the layered oxides, such as LiNi yMn yCo 1-2 yO 2, a leading candidate is lithium iron phosphate with the olivine structure. Although this material is inherently low cost, a manufacturing process that produces electrochemically active LiFePO 4 at a low cost is also required. Hydrothermal reactions are one such possibility. A number of pure phosphates have been prepared using this technique, including LiFePO 4, LiMnPO 4 and LiCoPO 4; this method has also successfully produced mixed metal phosphates, such as LiFe 0.33Mn 0.33Co 0.33PO 4. Ascorbic acid was found to be better than hydrazine or sugar at preventing the formation of ferric ions in aqueous media. When conductive carbons are added to the reaction medium excellent electrochemical behavior is observed.

Vertically aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes as low-cost and high electrocatalytic counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells.

PubMed

Dong, Pei; Pint, Cary L; Hainey, Mel; Mirri, Francesca; Zhan, Yongjie; Zhang, Jing; Pasquali, Matteo; Hauge, Robert H; Verduzco, Rafael; Jiang, Mian; Lin, Hong; Lou, Jun

2011-08-01

A novel dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) structure using vertically aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (VASWCNTs) as the counter electrode has been developed. In this design, the VASWCNTs serve as a stable high surface area and highly active electrocatalytic counter-electrode that could be a promising alternative to the conventional Pt analogue. Utilizing a scalable dry transfer approach to form a VASWCNTs conductive electrode, the DSSCs with various lengths of VASWCNTs were studied. VASWCNTs-DSSC with 34 μm original length was found to be the optimal choice in the present study. The highest conversion efficiencies of VASWCNTs-DSSC achieved 5.5%, which rivals that of the reference Pt DSSC. From the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis, it shows that the new DSSC offers lower interface resistance between the electrolyte and the counter electrode. This reproducible work emphasizes the promise of VASWCNTs as efficient and stable counter electrode materials in DSSC device design, especially taking into account the low-cost merit of this promising material.

Tensile properties of candidate structural materials for high power spallation sources at high helium contents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, P.; Henry, J.; Chen, J.

2005-08-01

Low activation 9%Cr martensitic steels EUROFER97, pure tantalum, and low carbon austenitic stainless steel 316L were homogeneously implanted with helium to concentrations up to 5000 appm at temperatures from 70 °C to 400 °C. The specimens were tensile tested at room temperature and at the respective implantation temperatures. In all materials the helium caused an increased in strength and reduction in ductility, with both changes being generally larger at lower implantation and testing temperatures. After implantation some work hardening was retained in 316L and in tantalum, while it almost completely disappeared in EUROFER97. After tensile testing, fracture surfaces were analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Implantation caused reduction of necking, but up to concentrations of 2500 appm He fracture surface still showed transgranular ductile appearance. Completely brittle intergranular fracture was observed in tantalum at 9000 appm He and is also expected for EUROFER97 at this concentration, according to previous results on similar 9%Cr steels.

OPS laser EPI design for different wavelengths

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moloney, J. V.; Hader, J.; Li, H.; Kaneda, Y.; Wang, T. S.; Yarborough, M.; Koch, S. W.; Stolz, W.; Kunert, B.; Bueckers, C.; Chaterjee, S.; Hardesty, G.

2009-02-01

Design of optimized semiconductor optically-pumped semiconductor lasers (OPSLs) depends on many ingredients starting from the quantum wells, barrier and cladding layers all the way through to the resonant-periodic gain (RPG) and high reflectivity Bragg mirror (DBR) making up the OPSL active mirror. Accurate growth of the individual layers making up the RPG region is critical if performance degradation due to cavity misalignment is to be avoided. Optimization of the RPG+DBR structure requires knowledge of the heat generation and heating sinking of the active mirror. Nonlinear Control Strategies SimuLaseTM software, based on rigorous many-body calculations of the semiconductor optical response, allows for quantum well and barrier optimization by correlating low intensity photoluminescence spectra computed for the design, with direct experimentally measured wafer-level edge and surface PL spectra. Consequently, an OPSL device optimization procedure ideally requires a direct iterative interaction between designer and grower. In this article, we discuss the application of the many-body microscopic approach to OPSL devices lasing at 850nm, 1040nm and 2μm. The latter device involves and application of the many-body approach to mid-IR OPSLs based on antimonide materials. Finally we will present results on based on structural modifications of the epitaxial structure and/or novel material combinations that offer the potential to extend OPSL technology to new wavelength ranges.

Tectono-stratigraphy and low-grade metamorphism of Late Permian and Early Jurassic accretionary complexes within the Kurosegawa belt, Southwest Japan: Implications for mechanisms of crustal displacement within active continental margin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hara, Hidetoshi; Kurihara, Toshiyuki; Mori, Hiroshi

2013-04-01

We characterize the tectono-stratigraphic architecture and low-grade metamorphism of the accretionary complex preserved in the Kurosegawa belt of the Kitagawa district in eastern Shikoku, Southwest Japan, in order to understand its internal structure, tectono-metamorphic evolution, and assessments of displacement of continental fragments within the complex. We report the first ever documented occurrence of an Early Jurassic radiolarian assemblage within the accretionary complex of the Kurosegawa belt that has been previously classified as the Late Permian accretionary complex, thus providing a revised age interpretation for these rocks. The accretionary complex is subdivided into four distinct tectono-stratigraphic units: Late Permian mélange and phyllite units, and Early Jurassic mélange and sandstone units. The stratigraphy of these four units is structurally repeated due to an E-W striking, steeply dipping regional fault. We characterized low-grade metamorphism of the accretionary complex via illite crystallinity and Raman spectroscopy of carbonaceous material. The estimated pattern of low-grade metamorphism showed pronounced variability within the complex and revealed no discernible spatial trends. The primary thermal structure in these rocks was overprinted by later tectonic events. Based on geological and thermal structure, we conclude that continental fragments within the Kurosegawa belt were structurally translated into both the Late Permian and Early Jurassic accretionary complexes, which comprise a highly deformed zone affected by strike-slip tectonics during the Early Cretaceous. Different models have been proposed to explain the initial structural evolution of the Kurosegawa belt (i.e., micro-continent collision and klippe tectonic models). Even if we presuppose either model, the available geological evidence requires a new interpretation, whereby primary geological structures are overprinted and reconfigured by later tectonic events.

Low-Dimensional Organic-Inorganic Halide Perovskite: Structure, Properties, and Applications.

PubMed

Misra, Ravi K; Cohen, Bat-El; Iagher, Lior; Etgar, Lioz

2017-10-09

Three-dimensional (3 D) perovskite has attracted a lot of attention owing to its success in photovoltaic (PV) solar cells. However, one of its major crucial issues lies in its stability, which has limited its commercialization. An important property of organic-inorganic perovskite is the possibility of forming a layered material by using long organic cations that do not fit into the octahedral cage. These long organic cations act as a "barrier" that "caps" 3 D perovskite to form the layered material. Controlling the number of perovskite layers could provide a confined structure with chemical and physical properties that are different from those of 3 D perovskite. This opens up a whole new batch of interesting materials with huge potential for optoelectronic applications. This Minireview presents the synthesis, properties, and structural orientation of low-dimensional perovskite. It also discusses the progress of low-dimensional perovskite in PV solar cells, which, to date, have performance comparable to that of 3 D perovskite but with enhanced stability. Finally, the use of low-dimensional perovskite in light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and photodetectors is discussed. The low-dimensional perovskites are promising candidates for LED devices, mainly because of their high radiative recombination as a result of the confined low-dimensional quantum well. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

10 CFR Appendix I to Part 110 - Illustrative List of Reprocessing Plant Components Under NRC Export Licensing Authority

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... assurance and quality control techniques) out of low carbon stainless steels, titanium, zirconium or other... materials such as low carbon stainless steels, titanium or zirconium, or other high quality materials... features for control of nuclear criticality: (i) Walls or internal structures with a boron equivalent of at...

Advanced tow placement of composite fuselage structure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, Robert L.; Grant, Carroll G.

1992-01-01

The Hercules NASA ACT program was established to demonstrate and validate the low cost potential of the automated tow placement process for fabrication of aircraft primary structures. The program is currently being conducted as a cooperative program in collaboration with the Boeing ATCAS Program. The Hercules advanced tow placement process has been in development since 1982 and was developed specifically for composite aircraft structures. The second generation machine, now in operation at Hercules, is a production-ready machine that uses a low cost prepreg tow material form to produce structures with laminate properties equivalent to prepreg tape layup. Current program activities are focused on demonstration of the automated tow placement process for fabrication of subsonic transport aircraft fuselage crown quadrants. We are working with Boeing Commercial Aircraft and Douglas Aircraft during this phase of the program. The Douglas demonstration panels has co-cured skin/stringers, and the Boeing demonstration panel is an intricately bonded part with co-cured skin/stringers and co-bonded frames. Other aircraft structures that were evaluated for the automated tow placement process include engine nacelle components, fuselage pressure bulkheads, and fuselage tail cones. Because of the cylindrical shape of these structures, multiple parts can be fabricated on one two placement tool, thus reducing the cost per pound of the finished part.

Decentralized semi-active damping of free structural vibrations by means of structural nodes with an on/off ability to transmit moments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poplawski, Blazej; Mikułowski, Grzegorz; Mróz, Arkadiusz; Jankowski, Łukasz

2018-02-01

This paper proposes, tests numerically and verifies experimentally a decentralized control algorithm with local feedback for semi-active mitigation of free vibrations in frame structures. The algorithm aims at transferring the vibration energy of low-order, lightly-damped structural modes into high-frequency modes of vibration, where it is quickly damped by natural mechanisms of material damping. Such an approach to mitigation of vibrations, known as the prestress-accumulation release (PAR) strategy, has been earlier applied only in global control schemes to the fundamental vibration mode of a cantilever beam. In contrast, the decentralization and local feedback allows the approach proposed here to be applied to more complex frame structures and vibration patterns, where the global control ceases to be intuitively obvious. The actuators (truss-frame nodes with controllable ability to transmit moments) are essentially unblockable hinges that become unblocked only for very short time periods in order to trigger local modal transfer of energy. The paper proposes a computationally simple model of the controllable nodes, specifies the control performance measure, yields basic characteristics of the optimum control, proposes the control algorithm and then tests it in numerical and experimental examples.

ZnO@C (core@shell) microspheres derived from spent coffee grounds as applicable non-precious electrode material for DMFCs.

PubMed

Ghouri, Zafar Khan; Al-Meer, Saeed; Barakat, Nasser A M; Kim, Hak Yong

2017-05-11

Although numerous reports have introduced non precious electrocatalysts for methanol oxidation, most of those studies did not consider the corresponding high onset potential which restricts utilization in real fuel cells. In this study, an -90 mV [vs. Ag/AgCl] onset potential non-precious electrocatalyst is introduced as an applicable anode material for the direct methanol fuel cells. Moreover, the proposed material was prepared from a cheap and abundantly existing resource; the spent coffee grounds. Typically, the spent coffee grounds were facilely converted to core@shell (ZnO@C) microspheres through a two-step approach, involving chemical activation and a subsequent calcination at temperature of 700 °C. Activation of the carbon derived from the spent coffee grounds was performed with ZnCl 2 which acts as pore-forming agent as well as a precursor for the ZnO. The structure and morphology were characterized by (XRD), (SEM), and (TEM) analyses while the electrochemical characterizations was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) technique. Besides the comparatively very low onset potential, the introduced microspheres exhibited relatively high current density; 17 mA/cm 2 . Overall, based on the advantages of the green source of carbon and the good electrocatalytic activity, the spent coffee grounds-derived carbon can be considered a promise anode material for the DMFCs.

Covalent cross-linking as a strategy to generate novel materials based on layered (2D) and other low D structures.

PubMed

Rao, C N R; Pramoda, K; Kumar, Ram

2017-09-12

Covalent linking of 2D structures such as graphene, MoS 2 and C 3 N 4 by employing coupling reactions provides a strategy to generate a variety of materials with new or improved properties. These materials in a way provide the counter point based on covalent bonds to the van der Waals heterostructures. In this article, we describe materials obtained by linking graphene, MoS 2 and BN with other layered structures and also with one-dimensional nanotubes and zero-dimensional MOFs and MOPs. Novel properties of the materials relate not only to porosity, surface area and gas adsorption, but also to supercapacitor characterstics, mechanical properties and the hydrogen evolution reaction. It should be possible to discover many more interesting structures and materials by employing the cross-linking strategy described here.

Passive and Active Control of Space Structures (PACOSS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morosow, G.; Harcrow, H.; Rogers, L.

1985-04-01

Passive and Active Control of Space Structures (PACOSS) is a five-year program designed to investigate highly damped structures in conjunction with active control systems, and in particular to develop technology that integrates passive damping and active control to achieve precise pointing control. Major areas of research include metal matrix composites; viscoelastic materials; damping devices; dynamic test article design, fabrication and testing; and active damping.