An intermetallic powder-in-tube approach to increased flux-pinning in Nb 3Sn by internal oxidation of Zr

DOE PAGES

Motowidlo, Leszek R.; Lee, P. J.; Tarantini, C.; ...

2017-11-28

We report on the development of multifilamentary Nb 3Sn superconductors by a versatile powder-in-tube technique (PIT) that demonstrates a simple pathway to a strand with a higher density of flux-pinning sites that has the potential to increase critical current density beyond present levels. The approach uses internal oxidation of Zr-alloyed Nb tubes to produce Zr oxide particles within the Nb 3Sn layer that act as a dispersion of artificial pinning centres (APCs). In this design, SnO 2 powder is mixed with Cu 5Sn 4 powder within the PIT core that supplies the Sn for the A15 reaction with Nb1Zr filamentmore » tubes. Initial results show an average grain size of ~38 nm in the A15 layer, compared to the 90–130 nm of typical APC-free high-J c strands made by conventional PIT or Internal Sn processing. Furthermore, there is a shift in the peak of the pinning force curve from H/H irr of ~0.2 to ~0.3 and the pinning force curves can be deconvoluted into grain boundary and point-pinning components, the point-pinning contribution dominating for the APC Nb-1wt%Zr strands.« less

An intermetallic powder-in-tube approach to increased flux-pinning in Nb3Sn by internal oxidation of Zr

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Motowidlo, L. R.; Lee, P. J.; Tarantini, C.; Balachandran, S.; Ghosh, A. K.; Larbalestier, D. C.

2018-01-01

We report on the development of multifilamentary Nb3Sn superconductors by a versatile powder-in-tube technique (PIT) that demonstrates a simple pathway to a strand with a higher density of flux-pinning sites that has the potential to increase critical current density beyond present levels. The approach uses internal oxidation of Zr-alloyed Nb tubes to produce Zr oxide particles within the Nb3Sn layer that act as a dispersion of artificial pinning centres (APCs). In this design, SnO2 powder is mixed with Cu5Sn4 powder within the PIT core that supplies the Sn for the A15 reaction with Nb1Zr filament tubes. Initial results show an average grain size of ˜38 nm in the A15 layer, compared to the 90-130 nm of typical APC-free high-J c strands made by conventional PIT or Internal Sn processing. There is a shift in the peak of the pinning force curve from H/H irr of ˜0.2 to ˜0.3 and the pinning force curves can be deconvoluted into grain boundary and point-pinning components, the point-pinning contribution dominating for the APC Nb-1wt%Zr strands.

An intermetallic powder-in-tube approach to increased flux-pinning in Nb 3Sn by internal oxidation of Zr

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

Motowidlo, Leszek R.; Lee, P. J.; Tarantini, C.

We report on the development of multifilamentary Nb 3Sn superconductors by a versatile powder-in-tube technique (PIT) that demonstrates a simple pathway to a strand with a higher density of flux-pinning sites that has the potential to increase critical current density beyond present levels. The approach uses internal oxidation of Zr-alloyed Nb tubes to produce Zr oxide particles within the Nb 3Sn layer that act as a dispersion of artificial pinning centres (APCs). In this design, SnO 2 powder is mixed with Cu 5Sn 4 powder within the PIT core that supplies the Sn for the A15 reaction with Nb1Zr filamentmore » tubes. Initial results show an average grain size of ~38 nm in the A15 layer, compared to the 90–130 nm of typical APC-free high-J c strands made by conventional PIT or Internal Sn processing. Furthermore, there is a shift in the peak of the pinning force curve from H/H irr of ~0.2 to ~0.3 and the pinning force curves can be deconvoluted into grain boundary and point-pinning components, the point-pinning contribution dominating for the APC Nb-1wt%Zr strands.« less

Dimensional changes of Nb 3Sn Rutherford cables during heat treatment

DOE PAGES

Rochepault, E.; Ferracin, P.; Ambrosio, G.; ...

2016-06-01

In high field magnet applications, Nb 3Sn coils undergo a heat treatment step after winding. During this stage, coils radially expand and longitudinally contract due to the Nb 3Sn phase change. In order to prevent residual strain from altering superconducting performances, the tooling must provide the adequate space for these dimensional changes. The aim of this paper is to understand the behavior of cable dimensions during heat treatment and to provide estimates of the space to be accommodated in the tooling for coil expansion and contraction. In addition, this paper summarizes measurements of dimensional changes on strands, single Rutherford cables,more » cable stacks, and coils performed between 2013 and 2015. These samples and coils have been performed within a collaboration between CERN and the U.S. LHC Accelerator Research Program to develop Nb 3Sn quadrupole magnets for the HiLumi LHC. The results are also compared with other high field magnet projects.« less

Effect of thermo-mechanical stress during quench on Nb3Sn cable performance

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

Linda Imbasciati et al.

2002-12-09

Several high field magnets using Nb{sub 3}Sn superconductor are under development for future particle accelerators. The high levels of stored energy in these magnets can cause high peak temperatures during a quench. The thermomechanical stress generated in the winding during the fast temperature rise can result in a permanent damage of the brittle Nb{sub 3}Sn. Although there are several studies of the critical current degradation of Nb{sub 3}Sn strands due to strain, little is known about how to apply the strain limitations to define a maximum acceptable temperature in the coils during a quench. Therefore, an experimental program was launched,more » aimed at improving the understanding of the effect of thermo-mechanical stress in coils made from brittle Nb{sub 3}Sn. A first experiment, reported here, was performed on cables. The experimental results were compared to analytical and finite element models. The next step in the experimental program will be to repeat similar measurements in small racetrack coils and later in full size magnets.« less

Synthesis of superconducting Nb 3Sn coatings on Nb substrates

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

Barzi, E.; Franz, S.; Reginato, F.

In the present work the electrochemical and thermal syntheses of superconductive Nb 3Sn films are investigated. The Nb 3Sn phase is obtained by electrodeposition of Sn layers and Cu intermediate layers onto Nb substrates followed by high temperature diffusion in inert atmosphere. Electrodeposition was performed from aqueous solutions at current densities in the 20 to 50 mA/cm 2 range and at temperatures between 40 and 50°C. Subsequent thermal treatments were realized to obtain the Nb 3Sn superconductive phase. Glow discharge optical emission spectrometry (GDOES) demonstrated that after thermal treatment interdiffusion of Nb and Sn occurred across a thickness of aboutmore » 13 μm. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) allowed accurately measuring the thickness of the Nb 3Sn phase, whose average for the various types of film samples was between 5.7 and 8.0 μm. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns confirmed the presence of a cubic Nb 3Sn phase (A15 structure) having (210) preferred orientation. The maximum obtained T c was 17.68 K and the B c20 ranged between 22.5 T and 23.8 T. With the procedure described in the present paper, coating complex shapes cost-effectively becomes possible, which is typical of electrochemical techniques. Furthermore, this approach can be implemented in classical wire processes such as "Jelly Roll" or "Rod in Tube", or directly used for producing superconducting surfaces. In conclusion, the potential of this method for Superconducting Radiofrequency (SRF) structures is also outlined.« less

Synthesis of superconducting Nb 3Sn coatings on Nb substrates

DOE PAGES

Barzi, E.; Franz, S.; Reginato, F.; ...

2015-12-01

In the present work the electrochemical and thermal syntheses of superconductive Nb 3Sn films are investigated. The Nb 3Sn phase is obtained by electrodeposition of Sn layers and Cu intermediate layers onto Nb substrates followed by high temperature diffusion in inert atmosphere. Electrodeposition was performed from aqueous solutions at current densities in the 20 to 50 mA/cm 2 range and at temperatures between 40 and 50°C. Subsequent thermal treatments were realized to obtain the Nb 3Sn superconductive phase. Glow discharge optical emission spectrometry (GDOES) demonstrated that after thermal treatment interdiffusion of Nb and Sn occurred across a thickness of aboutmore » 13 μm. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) allowed accurately measuring the thickness of the Nb 3Sn phase, whose average for the various types of film samples was between 5.7 and 8.0 μm. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns confirmed the presence of a cubic Nb 3Sn phase (A15 structure) having (210) preferred orientation. The maximum obtained T c was 17.68 K and the B c20 ranged between 22.5 T and 23.8 T. With the procedure described in the present paper, coating complex shapes cost-effectively becomes possible, which is typical of electrochemical techniques. Furthermore, this approach can be implemented in classical wire processes such as "Jelly Roll" or "Rod in Tube", or directly used for producing superconducting surfaces. In conclusion, the potential of this method for Superconducting Radiofrequency (SRF) structures is also outlined.« less

Progress in the Long $${\\rm Nb}_{3}{\\rm Sn}$$ Quadrupole R&D by LARP

DOE PAGES

Ambrosio, G.; Andreev, N.; Anerella, M.; ...

2011-11-14

After the successful test of the first long Nb 3Sn quadrupole (LQS01) the US LHC Accelerator Research Program (LARP, a collaboration of BNL, FNAL, LBNL and SLAC) is assessing training memory, reproducibility, and other accelerator quality features of long Nb 3Sn quadrupole magnets. LQS01b (a reassembly of LQS01 with more uniform and higher pre-stress) was subjected to a full thermal cycle and reached the previous plateau of 222 T/m at 4.5 K in two quenches. A new set of four coils, made of the same type of conductor used in LQS01 (RRP 54/61 by Oxford Superconducting Technology), was assembled inmore » the LQS01 structure and tested at 4.5 K and lower temperatures. The new magnet (LQS02) reached the target gradient (200 T/m) only at 2.6 K and lower temperatures, at intermediate ramp rates. The preliminary test analysis, here reported, showed a higher instability in the limiting coil than in the other coils of LQS01 and LQS02.« less

Heat Treatment Optimization of Rutherford Cables for a 15 T Nb 3Sn Dipole Demonstrator

DOE PAGES

Barzi, Emanuela; Bossert, Marianne; Field, Michael; ...

2017-01-09

FNAL has been developing a 15 T Nb 3Sn dipole demonstrator for a future Very High Energy pp Collider based on an optimized 60-mm aperture 4-layer “cos-theta” coil. In order to increase magnet efficiency, we graded the coil by using two cables with same 15 mm width and different thicknesses made of two different Restacked Rod Process (RRP®) wires. Due to the non-uniform field distribution in dipole coils the maximum field in the inner coil will reach 15-16 T, whereas the maximum field in the outer coil is 12-13 T. In preparation for the 15 T dipole coil reaction, heatmore » treatment studies were performed on strands extracted from these cables with the goal of achieving the best coil performance in the corresponding magnetic fields. Particularly, the effect of maximum temperature and time on the cable critical current was studied to take into account actual variations of these parameters during coil reaction. In parallel and in collaboration with OST, development was performed on optimizing Nb 3Sn RRP® wire design and layout. Index Terms— Accelerator magnet, critical current density, Nb 3Sn strand, Rutherford cable.« less

A review and prospects for Nb3Sn superconductor development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Xingchen

2017-09-01

Nb3Sn superconductors have significant applications in constructing high-field (>10 T) magnets. This article briefly reviews development of Nb3Sn superconductor and proposes prospects for further improvement. It is shown that significant improvement of critical current density (J c) is needed for future accelerator magnets. After a brief review of the development of Nb3Sn superconductors, the factors controlling J c are summarized and correlated with their microstructure and chemistry. The non-matrix J c of Nb3Sn conductors is mainly determined by three factors: the fraction of current-carrying Nb3Sn phase in the non-matrix area, the upper critical field B c2, and the flux line pinning capacity. Then prospects to improve the three factors are discussed respectively. An analytic model was developed to show how the ratios of precursors determine the phase fractions after heat treatment, based on which it is predicted that the limit of current-carrying Nb3Sn fraction in subelements is ∼65%. Then, since B c2 is largely determined by the Nb3Sn stoichiometry, a thermodynamic/kinetic theory is presented to show what essentially determines the Sn content of Nb3Sn conductors. This theory explains the influences of Sn sources and Ti addition on stoichiometry and growth rate of Nb3Sn layers. Next, to improve flux pinning, previous efforts in this community to introduce additional pinning centers to Nb3Sn wires are reviewed, and an internal oxidation technique is described. Finally, prospects for further improvement of non-matrix J c of Nb3Sn conductors are discussed, and it is seen that the only opportunity for further significantly improving J c lies in improving flux pinning.

A review and prospects for Nb 3Sn superconductor development

DOE PAGES

Xu, Xingchen

2017-08-03

Nb 3Sn superconductors have significant applications in constructing high-field (> 10 T) magnets. This article briefly reviews development of Nb 3Sn superconductor and proposes prospects for further improvement. It is shown that significant improvement of critical current density (J c) is needed for future accelerator magnets. After a brief review of the development of Nb 3Sn superconductors, the factors controlling J c are summarized and correlated with their microstructure and chemistry. The non-matrix J c of Nb 3Sn conductors is mainly determined by three factors: the fraction of current-carrying Nb 3Sn phase in the non-matrix area, the upper critical fieldmore » B c2, and the flux-line pinning capacity. Then prospects to improve the three factors are discussed respectively. An analytic model was developed to show how the ratios of precursors determine the phase fractions after heat treatment, based on which it is predicted that the limit of current-carrying Nb 3Sn fraction in subelements is ~65%. Then, since B c2 is largely determined by the Nb 3Sn stoichiometry, a thermodynamic/kinetic theory was presented to show what essentially determines the Sn content of Nb 3Sn conductors. This theory explains the influences of Sn sources and Ti addition on stoichiometry and growth rate of Nb 3Sn layers. Next, to improve flux pinning, previous efforts in this community to introduce additional pinning centers (APC) to Nb 3Sn wires are reviewed, and an internal oxidation technique is described. Lastly, prospects for further improvement of non-matrix J c of Nb 3Sn conductors are discussed, and it is seen that the only opportunity for further significantly improving J c lies in improving the flux pinning.« less

Studies of $${\\rm Nb}_{3}{\\rm Sn}$$ Strands Based on the Restacked-Rod Process for High Field Accelerator Magnets

DOE PAGES

Barzi, E.; Bossert, M.; Gallo, G.; ...

2011-12-21

A major thrust in Fermilab's accelerator magnet R&D program is the development of Nb 3Sn wires which meet target requirements for high field magnets, such as high critical current density, low effective filament size, and the capability to withstand the cabling process. The performance of a number of strands with 150/169 restack design produced by Oxford Superconducting Technology was studied for round and deformed wires. To optimize the maximum plastic strain, finite element modeling was also used as an aid in the design. Results of mechanical, transport and metallographic analyses are presented for round and deformed wires.

Test results of a Nb 3Al/Nb 3Sn subscale magnet for accelerator application

DOE PAGES

Iio, Masami; Xu, Qingjin; Nakamoto, Tatsushi; ...

2015-01-28

The High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK) has been developing a Nb 3Al and Nb 3Sn subscale magnet to establish the technology for a high-field accelerator magnet. The development goals are a feasibility demonstration for a Nb 3Al cable and the technology acquisition of magnet fabrication with Nb 3Al superconductors. KEK developed two double-pancake racetrack coils with Rutherford-type cables composed of 28 Nb 3Al wires processed by rapid heating, quenching, and transformation in collaboration with the National Institute for Materials Science and the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory. The magnet was fabricated to efficiently generate a high magnetic field in amore » minimum-gap common-coil configuration with two Nb 3Al coils sandwiched between two Nb 3Sn coils produced by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. A shell-based structure and a “bladder and key” technique have been used for adjusting coil prestress during both the magnet assembly and the cool down. In the first excitation test of the magnet at 4.5 K performed in June 2014, the highest quench current of the Nb 3Sn coil, i.e., 9667 A, was reached at 40 A/s corresponding to 9.0 T in the Nb 3Sn coil and 8.2 T in the Nb 3Al coil. The quench characteristics of the magnet were studied.« less

Thermodynamics of superconducting Nb3Al, Nb3Ge, Nb3Sn, and V3Ga

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mitrović, B.; Schachinger, E.; Carbotte, J. P.

1984-06-01

We have calculated the superconducting thermodynamic properties for several high-transition-temperature A15 compounds: Nb-Al, Nb-Ge, Nb-Sn, and V-Ga. In our calculations we have used the tunneling electron-phonon-coupling spectra α2F for all four systems considered, and in the case of Nb-Al and Nb-Ge we have also used α2F=CG, where G is the measured generalized phonon density of states and C is a constant. We find that all Nb-based A15 compounds display similar thermodynamic properties, which do not depend explicitly on the band density of states: 2Δ0κBTc≅4.6, ΔCγTc≅2.5-2.6,-Tc[dHc(T)dT]TcHc(0)≅2.1, γ[TcHc(0)]2≅0.134, and positive D(t)'s with the maximum value around 0.02. For Nb3Sn we find good agreement between the calculated properties and the old specific-heat experimental results (γ≅52 mJ/mol K2). The same applies to V3Ga, where the theoretical results have been compared with the experiments of Junod et al. However, we do not find good agreement between calculated ΔCγTc, - Tc[dHc(T)dT]TcHc(0), γ[TcHc(0)]2, and experimental values for Nb3Al and Nb3Ge, presumably due to broadened transitions. It is argued that the tunneling experiments underestimate the value of the gap which should be associated with the inverted α2F.

Aluminum-stabilized NB3SN superconductor

DOEpatents

Scanlan, Ronald M.

1988-01-01

An aluminum-stabilized Nb.sub.3 Sn superconductor and process for producing same, utilizing ultrapure aluminum. Ductile components are co-drawn with aluminum to produce a conductor suitable for winding magnets. After winding, the conductor is heated to convert it to the brittle Nb.sub.3 Sn superconductor phase, using a temperature high enough to perform the transformation but still below the melting point of the aluminum. This results in reaction of substantially all of the niobium, while providing stabilization and react-in-place features which are beneficial in the fabrication of magnets utilizing superconducting materials.

Understanding Irreversible Degradation of Nb3Sn Wires with Fundamental Fracture Mechanics

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

Zhai, Yuhu; Calzolaio, Ciro; Senatore, Carmine

2014-08-01

Irreversible performance degradation of advanced Nb3Sn superconducting wires subjected to transverse or axial mechanical loading is a critical issue for the design of large-scale fusion and accelerator magnets such as ITER and LHC. Recent SULTAN tests indicate that most cable-in-conduit conductors for ITER coils made of Nb3Sn wires processed by various fabrication techniques show similar performance degradation under cyclic loading. The irreversible degradation due to filament fracture and local strain accumulation in Nb3Sn wires cannot be described by the existing strand scaling law. Fracture mechanic modeling combined with X-ray diffraction imaging of filament micro-crack formation inside the wires under mechanicalmore » loading may reveal exciting insights to the wire degradation mechanisms. We apply fundamental fracture mechanics with a singularity approach to study influence of wire filament microstructure of initial void size and distribution to local stress concentration and potential crack propagation. We report impact of the scale and density of the void structure on stress concentration in the composite wire materials for crack initiation. These initial defects result in an irreversible degradation of the critical current beyond certain applied stress. We also discuss options to minimize stress concentration in the design of the material microstructure for enhanced wire performance for future applications.« less

Effects of core type, placement, and width on the estimated interstrand coupling properties of QXF-type Nb 3Sn Rutherford cables

DOE PAGES

Collings, E. W.; Sumption, M. D.; Majoros, M.; ...

2015-01-12

The coupling magnetization of a Rutherford cable is inversely proportional to an effective interstrand contact resistance R eff , a function of the crossing-strand resistance R c, and the adjacent strand resistance R a. In cored cables, R eff continuously varies with W, the core width expressed as percent interstrand cover. For a series of un-heat-treated stabrite-coated NbTi LHC-inner cables with stainless-steel (SS, insulating) cores, R eff (W) decreased smoothly as W decreased from 100%, whereas for a set of research-wound SS-cored Nb 3Sn cables, R eff plummeted abruptly and remained low over most of the range. The difference ismore » due to the controlling influence of R c - 2.5 μΩ for the stabrite/NbTi and 0.26 μΩ for Nb 3Sn. The experimental behavior was replicated in the R eff (W)’s calculated by the program CUDI, which (using the basic parameters of the QXF cable) went on to show in terms of decreasing W that: 1) in QXF-type Nb 3Sn cables (R c = 0.26 μΩ), R eff dropped even more suddenly when the SS core, instead of being centered, was offset to one edge of the cable; 2) R eff decreased more gradually in cables with higher R c’s; and 3) a suitable R eff for a Nb 3Sn cable can be achieved by inserting a suitably resistive core rather than an insulating (SS) one.« less

A novel modeling to predict the critical current behavior of Nb3Sn PIT strand under transverse load based on a scaling law and Finite Element Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Tiening; Chiesa, Luisa; Takayasu, Makoto; Bordini, Bernardo

2014-09-01

Superconducting Nb3Sn Powder-In-Tube (PIT) strands could be used for the superconducting magnets of the next generation Large Hadron Collider. The strands are cabled into the typical flat Rutherford cable configuration. During the assembly of a magnet and its operation the strands experience not only longitudinal but also transverse load due to the pre-compression applied during the assembly and the Lorentz load felt when the magnets are energized. To properly design the magnets and guarantee their safe operation, mechanical load effects on the strand superconducting properties are studied extensively; particularly, many scaling laws based on tensile load experiments have been established to predict the critical current dependence on strain. However, the dependence of the superconducting properties on transverse load has not been extensively studied so far. One of the reasons is that transverse loading experiments are difficult to conduct due to the small diameter of the strand (about 1 mm) and the data currently available do not follow a common measurement standard making the comparison between different data sets difficult. Recently at the University of Geneva, a new device has been developed to characterize the critical current of Nb3Sn strands under transverse loads. In this work we present a new 2D Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to predict the electro-mechanical response of a PIT strand that was tested at the University of Geneva when transverse load is applied. The FEA provides the strain map for the superconducting filaments when the load is applied. Those strain maps are then used to evaluate the critical current behavior of a PIT strand using a recently developed scaling law that correlates the superconducting properties of a wire with the strain invariants due to the load applied on the superconductor. The benefits and limitations of this method are discussed based on the comparison between the critical current simulation results obtained with the filament

Persistent-current magnetizations of Nb3Sn Rutherford cables and extracted strands

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Collings, E. W.; Sumption, M. D.; Myers, C. S.; Wang, X.; Dietderich, D. R.; Yagotyntsev, K.; Nijhuis, A.

2017-12-01

The magnetizations of eight high-gradient quadrupole cables designated HQ and QXF and a pair of strands, identical in architecture but with different effective strand diameters extracted from an HQ and a related QXF cable, were measured. In the service of field quality assessment, the cable magnetizations and losses were measured by pickup coil magnetometry at 4.2 K in face-on fields, B m , of ± 400 mT at frequencies, f, of up to 60 mHz. Based on the coupling component of loss, Q coup , the coupling magnetization M coup = Q coup /4B m was derived for a ramp rate of 7.5 mT/s. Persistent current (shielding) magnetization and loss (M sh and Q h,strand ) were measured on short pieces of extracted strand by vibrating sample magnetometry at 4.2 K. Unpenetrated M-B loops to ± 400 mT and fully penetrated loops to ± 14 T were obtained. M coup can be easily controlled and reduced to relatively small values by introducing cores and adjusting the preparation conditions. But in low fields near injection Nb3Sn’s high J c and correspondingly high M sh,cable may call for magnetic compensation to preserve field quality. The suitably adjusted cable and strand fully penetrated M-B loops were in reasonable accord leading to the conclusion that strand magnetization is a useful measure of cable magnetization, and that when suitably manipulated can provide input to magnet field error calculations.

First-principles study on elastic and superconducting properties of Nb3Sn and Nb3Al under hydrostatic pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Rui; Gao, Peifeng; Wang, Xingzhe; Zhou, Youhe

2015-10-01

The low temperature superconducting materials, such as Nb3Sn and Nb3Al, have similar crystal structures and elastic properties. However, their critical-temperature degradations always show the distinct way under mechanical stresses. In this study, first-principles calculations for the low temperature superconductors based on plane-wave pseudo-potential density functional theory within the generalized gradient approximation are implemented, and the elastic moduli of Nb3Sn and Nb3Al and those superconductivities in the presence of hydrostatic pressure are evaluated. The Debye temperatures are obtained by the bulk moduli and shear moduli of superconducting materials. The MacMillan equation is further used to acquire the critical temperatures of Nb3Sn and Nb3Al under different hydrostatic pressures. It is found that the elastic constants and bulk moduli of the low temperature superconductors are enhanced by the applied hydrostatic pressure, while the critical temperatures usually are decreased with the pressure. Additionally, the decrease of critical-temperature for Nb3Sn is more sensitive to the hydrostatic pressure than the one for Nb3Al. The prediction results show good agreement with the experimental results in the literatures qualitatively.

Critical currents of Nb sub 3 Sn wires for the US-DPC coil

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

Takayasu, M.; Gung, C.Y.; Steeves, M.M.

1991-03-01

This paper evaluates the critical current of titanium-alloyed internal-tin, jelly-roll Nb{sub 3}Sn wire for use in the US-DPC coil. It was confirmed from 14 randomly-selected samples that the critical-current values were uniform and consistent: the non-copper critical-current density was approximately 700 A/mm{sup 2} at 10 T and 4.2 K in agreement with expectations. A 27-strand cable-in-conduit conductor (CICC) using the low-thermal-coefficient-of-expansion superalloy Incoloy 905 yielded a critical current 5--7% below the average value of the single-strand data.

Microstructural study of brass matrix internal tin multifilamentary Nb3Sn superconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Banno, Nobuya; Miyamoto, Yasuo; Tachikawa, Kyoji

2018-03-01

Zn addition to the Cu matrix in internal-tin-processed Nb3Sn superconductors is attractive in terms of the growth kinetics of the Nb3Sn layers. Sn activity is enhanced in the Cu-Zn (brass) matrix, which accelerates Nb3Sn layer formation. Here, we prepared multifilamentary wires using a brass matrix with a Nb core diameter of less than 10 μm and investigated the potential for further Jc improvement through microstructural and microchemical studies. Ti was added into the Sn cores in the precursor wire. Microchemical analysis showed that Ti accumulates between subelements consisting of Nb cores, which blocks Sn diffusion through this region when the spacing between the subelements in the precursor wire is a few microns. The average grain size was found to be about 230 nm through image analysis. To date, matrix Jc values of 1470 and 640 A/mm-2 have been obtained at 12 and 16 T, respectively. The area fraction of Nb cores in the filamentary region of the precursor wire was about 36.3%. There was still some unreacted Nb core area after heat treatment. Insufficient Ti diffusion into the Nb3Sn layers was identified in the outer subelements. These findings suggest that there is still room for improvement in Jc.

FEMCAM Analysis of SULTAN Test Results for ITER Nb3SN Cable-conduit Conductors

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

Yuhu Zhai, Pierluigi Bruzzone, Ciro Calzolaio

2013-03-19

Performance degradation due to filament fracture of Nb3 Sn cable-in-conduit conductors (CICCs) is a critical issue in large-scale magnet designs such as ITER which is currently being constructed in the South of France. The critical current observed in most SULTAN TF CICC samples is significantly lower than expected and the voltage-current characteristic is seen to have a much broader transition from a single strand to the CICC. Moreover, most conductors exhibit the irreversible degradation due to filament fracture and strain relaxation under electromagnetic cyclic loading. With recent success in monitoring thermal strain distribution and its evolution under the electromagnetic cyclicmore » loading from in situ measurement of critical temperature, we apply FEMCAM which includes strand filament breakage and local current sharing effects to SULTAN tested CICCs to study Nb3 Sn strain sensitivity and irreversible performance degradation. FEMCAM combines the thermal bending effect during cool down and the EM bending effect due to locally accumulating Lorentz force during magnet operation. It also includes strand filament fracture and related local current sharing for the calculation of cable n value. In this paper, we model continuous performance degradation under EM cyclic loading based on strain relaxation and the transition broadening upon cyclic loading to the extreme cases seen in SULTAN test data to better quantify conductor performance degradation.« less

Validation of Finite-Element Models of Persistent-Current Effects in Nb 3Sn Accelerator Magnets

DOE PAGES

Wang, X.; Ambrosio, G.; Chlachidze, G.; ...

2015-01-06

Persistent magnetization currents are induced in superconducting filaments during the current ramping in magnets. The resulting perturbation to the design magnetic field leads to field quality degradation, in particular at low field where the effect is stronger relative to the main field. The effects observed in NbTi accelerator magnets were reproduced well with the critical-state model. However, this approach becomes less accurate for the calculation of the persistent-current effects observed in Nb 3Sn accelerator magnets. Here a finite-element method based on the measured strand magnetization is validated against three state-of-art Nb3Sn accelerator magnets featuring different subelement diameters, critical currents, magnetmore » designs and measurement temperatures. The temperature dependence of the persistent-current effects is reproduced. Based on the validated model, the impact of conductor design on the persistent current effects is discussed. The performance, limitations and possible improvements of the approach are also discussed.« less

Advantage and Challenges of $$Nb_3Sn$$ Superconducting Undulators

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

Zlobin, A. V.; Barzi, E.; Turrinoni, D.

Utilization of Nb3Sn superconducting wires offers the possibility to increase undulators’ nominal operation field and temperature margin, but requires overcoming chal-lenges that are described in this paper. The achievable field levels for a Nb3Sn version of superconducting undulators being developed at APS-ANL and the conductor choice are also presented and discussed.

Analysis of Nb 3Sn surface layers for superconducting radio frequency cavity applications

DOE PAGES

Becker, Chaoyue; Posen, Sam; Groll, Nickolas; ...

2015-02-23

Here, we present an analysis of Nb 3Sn surface layers grown on a bulk Nb coupon prepared at the same time and by the same vapor diffusion process used to make Nb 3Sn coatings on 1.3 GHz Nb cavities. Tunneling spectroscopy reveal a well developed, homogeneous superconducting density of states at the surface with a gap value distribution centered around 2.7 ± 0.4 meV and superconducting critical temperature's (T c) up to 16.3K. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) performed on cross sections of the sample's surface shows a ~ 2 microns thick Nb 3Sn surface layer. The elemental composition map exhibitsmore » a Nb:Sn ratio of 3:1 with buried substoichiometric regions with a ratio of 5:1. Synchrotron diffraction experiments indicate a polycrystalline Nb 3Sn film and confirm the presence of Nb rich regions that occupies about a third of the coating volume. These low T c regions could play an important role in the dissipation mechanisms occurring during RF tests of Nb 3Sn -coated Nb cavities and open the way for further improving a very promising alternative to pure Nb cavities for particle accelerators.« less

Aluminum-stabilized Nb/sub 3/Sn superconductor

DOEpatents

Scanlan, R.M.

1984-02-10

This patent discloses an aluminum-stabilized Nb/sub 3/Sn superconductor and process for producing same, utilizing ultrapure aluminum. Ductile components are co-drawn with aluminum to produce a conductor suitable for winding magnets. After winding, the conductor is heated to convert it to the brittle Nb/sub 3/Sn superconductor phase, using a temperature high enough to perform the transformation but still below the melting point of the aluminum. This results in reaction of substantially all of the niobium, while providing stabilization and react-in-place features which are beneficial in the fabrication of magnets utilizing superconducting materials.

Aluminum-stabilized Nb[sub 3]Sn superconductor

DOEpatents

Scanlan, R.M.

1988-05-10

Disclosed are an aluminum-stabilized Nb[sub 3]Sn superconductor and process for producing same, utilizing ultrapure aluminum. Ductile components are co-drawn with aluminum to produce a conductor suitable for winding magnets. After winding, the conductor is heated to convert it to the brittle Nb[sub 3]Sn superconductor phase, using a temperature high enough to perform the transformation but still below the melting point of the aluminum. This results in reaction of substantially all of the niobium, while providing stabilization and react-in-place features which are beneficial in the fabrication of magnets utilizing superconducting materials. 4 figs.

Development of Nb{sub 3}Sn Cavity Vapor Diffusion Deposition System

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

Eremeev, Grigory V.; Macha, Kurt M.; Clemens, William A.

2014-02-01

Nb{sub 3}Sn is a BCS superconductors with the superconducting critical temperature higher than that of niobium, so theoretically it surpasses the limitations of niobium in RF fields. The feasibility of technology has been demonstrated at 1.5 GHz with Nb{sub 3}Sn vapor deposition technique at Wuppertal University. The benefit at these frequencies is more pronounced at 4.2 K, where Nb{sub 3}Sn coated cavities show RF resistances an order of magnitude lower than that of niobium. At Jefferson Lab we started the development of Nb{sub 3}Sn vapor diffusion deposition system within an R\\&D development program towards compact light sources. Here we presentmore » the current progress of the system development.« less

Nb3Sn SRF Cavities for Nuclear Physics Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eremeev, Grigory

2017-01-01

Nuclear physics experiments rely increasingly on accelerators, which employ superconducting RF (SRF) technology. CEBAF, SNS, FRIB, ESS, among others exploit the low surface resistance of SRF cavities to efficiently accelerate particle beams towards experimental targets. Niobium is the cavity material of choice for all current or planned SRF accelerators, but it has been long recognized that other superconductors with high superconducting transition temperatures have the potential to surpass niobium for SRF applications. Among the alternatives, Nb3Sn coated cavities are the most advanced on the path to practical applications: Nb3Sn coatings on R&D cavities have Tc consistently close the optimal 18 K, very low RF surface resistances, and very recently were shown to reach above Hc1 without anomalous RF surface resistance increase. In my talk I will discuss the prospects of Nb3Sn SRF cavities, the research efforts to realize Nb3Sn coatings on practical multi-cell accelerating structures, and the path toward possible inclusion in CEBAF. This material is based upon work supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science, Office of Nuclear Physics.

Facile Synthesis of Nb3Sn Via a Hydrogen Reduction Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Jun; Jiao, Shuqiang; Zhang, Long; Li, Yanxiang; Zhu, Hongmin

2017-02-01

A controllable and facile process for the preparation of Nb3Sn intermetallic compound nanopowders using NbCl5 and SnCl2 vapors reduced by hydrogen has been developed. The vaporizing rates of the two chlorides are controlled by measuring their mass loss as a function of carrier gas (argon) flow rate at certain vaporization temperatures, respectively. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns indicate that hydrogenous Nb3Sn products are obtained under the vaporizing rate of 0.155 g min-1 for NbCl5 and 0.036 g min-1 for SnCl2 with the hydrogen flow rate of 2100 ml min-1 at 1273 K (1000 °C). Results of semi-quantitative analysis by X-ray fluorescence (XRF) demonstrate that the atomic ratio of Nb to Sn in the as-synthesized products is 3.48:1, and the content of (Nb + Sn) is taken up to 89.61 wt pct from the total weight of the products. The products can be purified by vacuum heat treatment. Images of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) show that the products are homogenous particles with a mean diameter of 31 nm. In addition, the reaction ratio of the chlorides and the powder yield are controllable by hydrogen flow rate.

Radio frequency magnetic field limits of Nb and Nb 3Sn

DOE PAGES

Posen, S.; Valles, N.; Liepe, M.

2015-07-21

Superconducting radio frequency (srf) cavities, essential components of many large particle accelerators, rely on the metastable flux-free state of superconducting materials. In this Letter, we present results of experiments measuring the magnetic field limits of two srf materials, Nb and Nb 3Sn. Resonators made using these materials were probed using both high power rf pulses and dc magnetic fields. Nb, which is the current standard material for srf cavities in applications, was found to be limited by the superheating field H sh when prepared using methods to avoid excessive rf dissipation at high fields. Nb 3Sn, which is a promisingmore » alternative material that is still in the early stages of development for srf purposes, was found to be limited between the onset field of metastability H c1 and H sh. Furthermore, analysis of the results shows that the limitation is consistent with nucleation of flux penetration at defects in the rf layer.« less

Nb3Sn superconducting radiofrequency cavities: fabrication, results, properties, and prospects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Posen, S.; Hall, D. L.

2017-03-01

A microns-thick film of Nb3Sn on the inner surface of a superconducting radiofrequency (SRF) cavity has been demonstrated to substantially improve cryogenic efficiency compared to the standard niobium material, and its predicted superheating field is approximately twice as high. We review in detail the advantages of Nb3Sn coatings for SRF cavities. We describe the vapor diffusion process used to fabricate this material in the most successful experiments, and we compare the differences in the process used at different labs. We overview results of Nb3Sn SRF coatings, including CW and pulsed measurements of cavities as well as microscopic measurements. We discuss special considerations that must be practised when using Nb3Sn cavities in applications. Finally, we conclude by summarizing the state-of-the-art and describing the outlook for this alternative SRF material.

Analysis of field errors for LARP Nb 3Sn HQ03 quadrupole magnet

DOE PAGES

Wang, Xiaorong; Ambrosio, Giorgio; Chlachidze, Guram; ...

2016-12-01

The U.S. LHC Accelerator Research Program, in close collaboration with CERN, has developed three generations of high-gradient quadrupole (HQ) Nb 3Sn model magnets, to support the development of the 150 mm aperture Nb 3Sn quadrupole magnets for the High-Luminosity LHC. The latest generation, HQ03, featured coils with better uniformity of coil dimensions and properties than the earlier generations. We tested the HQ03 magnet at FNAL, including the field quality study. The profiles of low-order harmonics along the magnet aperture observed at 15 kA, 1.9 K can be traced back to the assembled coil pack before the magnet assembly. Based onmore » the measured harmonics in the magnet center region, the coil block positioning tolerance was analyzed and compared with earlier HQ01 and HQ02 magnets to correlate with coil and magnet fabrication. Our study the capability of correcting the low-order non-allowed field errors, magnetic shims were installed in HQ03. Furthermore, the expected shim contribution agreed well with the calculation. For the persistent-current effect, the measured a4 can be related to 4% higher in the strand magnetization of one coil with respect to the other three coils. Lastly, we compare the field errors due to the inter-strand coupling currents between HQ03 and HQ02.« less

Nb 3Sn superconducting radiofrequency cavities: Fabrication, results, properties, and prospects

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

Posen, S.; Hall, D. L.

A microns-thick film of Nb 3Sn on the inner surface of a superconducting radiofrequency (SRF) cavity has been demonstrated to substantially improve cryogenic efficiency compared to the standard niobium material, and its predicted superheating field is approximately twice as high. We review in detail the advantages of Nb 3Sn coatings for SRF cavities. We describe the vapor diffusion process used to fabricate this material in the most successful experiments, and we compare the differences in the process used at different labs. We overview results of Nb 3Sn SRF coatings, including CW and pulsed measurements of cavities as well as microscopicmore » measurements. We discuss special considerations that must be practised when using Nb 3Sn cavities in applications. Lastly, we conclude by summarizing the state-of-the-art and describing the outlook for this alternative SRF material.« less

Nb 3Sn superconducting radiofrequency cavities: Fabrication, results, properties, and prospects

DOE PAGES

Posen, S.; Hall, D. L.

2017-01-23

A microns-thick film of Nb 3Sn on the inner surface of a superconducting radiofrequency (SRF) cavity has been demonstrated to substantially improve cryogenic efficiency compared to the standard niobium material, and its predicted superheating field is approximately twice as high. We review in detail the advantages of Nb 3Sn coatings for SRF cavities. We describe the vapor diffusion process used to fabricate this material in the most successful experiments, and we compare the differences in the process used at different labs. We overview results of Nb 3Sn SRF coatings, including CW and pulsed measurements of cavities as well as microscopicmore » measurements. We discuss special considerations that must be practised when using Nb 3Sn cavities in applications. Lastly, we conclude by summarizing the state-of-the-art and describing the outlook for this alternative SRF material.« less

Twisted, multifilament Nb3Sn superconductive ribbon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coles, W. D.

1972-01-01

An experimental study of superconductor stabilization has resulted in the successful application of the concepts of filamentary structure and conductor twist to Nb3Sn ribbon. The Nb3Sn is formed in parallel, helical paths, which are continuous around the ribbon. Short lengths (12-18cm) of 1.27 cm wide superconductive ribbon were produced. The filamentary and twist characteristics are incorporated in the ribbon by means of an inert mask formed on the ribbon surface early in the fabrication process. Diffusion reaction of the niobium and tin is prevented at the filament boundaries. Described are the conductor methods of fabrication, and test results obtained. The technology required to adapt the processes for the production of long lengths of ribbon is available.

The Reduction of the Critical Currents in Nb3Sn Cables under Transverse Loads

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

Van Oort, J.M.; Scanlan, R.M.; Weijers, H.W.

1992-08-01

The degradation of the critical current of impregnated Rutherford type Nb{sub 3}Sn cables is investigated as a function of the applied transverse load and magnetic field. The cable is made of TWCA modified jelly-roll type strand material and has a keystone angle of 1.0 degree. The voltage-current characteristics are determined for the magnetic field ranging from 2 to 11 tesla and transverse pressure up to 250 MPa on the cable surface. It is found that the 48-strand cable, made of strands with 6 elements in the matrix, shows a larger critical current degradation than the 26-strand cable with 36 elementsmore » per strand. The global degradation of the 48-strand cable is 63% at 150 MPa, and 40% at 150 MPa for the 26-strand cable. Micro-analysis of the cross-section shows permanent damage to the sharp edge of the cable. The influence of the keystone angle on the critical-current degradation is currently under investigation.« less

Results from the first single cell Nb 3Sn cavity coatings at JLab

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

Eremeev, Grigory

2015-09-01

Nb 3Sn is a promising superconducting material for SRF applications and has the potential to exceed the limitations of niobium. We have used the recently commissioned Nb 3Sn coating system to investigate Nb 3Sn coatings on several single cell cavities by applying the same coating procedure on several different single cells with different history and pre-coating surface preparation. We report on our findings with four 1.5 GHz CEBAF-shape single cell and one 1.3 GHz ILC-shape single cavities that were coated, inspected, and tested.

Effect of Nb on the Growth Behavior of Co3Sn2 Phase in Undercooled Co-Sn Melts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Jilong; Xu, Wanqiang; Wei, Xiuxun; Ferry, Michael; Li, Jinfu

2016-12-01

The growth behavior of the primary β-Co3Sn2 phase in (Co67Sn33)100- x Nb x ( x = 0, 0.5, 0.8, 1.0) hypereutectic alloys at different melt undercoolings was investigated systematically. The growth pattern of the β-Co3Sn2 phase at low undercooling changes with the Nb content from fractal seaweed ( x = 0, 0.5) into dendrite ( x = 0.8) and then returns to fractal seaweed ( x = 1.0) as a response to the changes in interface energy anisotropy and interface kinetic anisotropy. As undercooling increases, the dendritic growth of the β-Co3Sn2 phase in (Co67Sn33)99.2Nb0.8 alloy gives way to fractal seaweed growth at an undercooling of 32 K (-241 °C). At larger undercooling, the fractal seaweed growth is further replaced by compact seaweed growth, which occurred in the other three alloys investigated. The growth velocity of the β-Co3Sn2 phase slightly increases at low and intermediate undercooling but clearly decreases at larger undercooling due to the Nb addition. The growth velocity sharply increases as the growth pattern of the Co3Sn2 phase transits from fractal seaweed into compact seaweed.

IC(B,T,STRAIN) Characterisation of a Nb3Sn Internal Tin Strand with Enhanced Specification for Use in Fusion Conductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pasztor, G.; Bruzzone, P.

2004-06-01

The dc performance of a recently produced internal tin route Nb3Sn strand with enhanced specification is studied extensively and compared with predecessor wires manufactured by the suppliers for the ITER Model Coils in 1996. The wire has been selected for use in a full size, developmental cable-in-conduit conductor sample, which is being tested in the SULTAN Test Facility. The critical current, Ic, and the index of the current/voltage characteristic, n, are measured over a broad range of field and temperature, using ITER standard sample holders, made of TiAlV grooved cylinders. The behavior of Ic versus applied tensile strain is also investigated at 4.2 K and 12 T, on straight specimens. Scaling law parameters are drawn from the fit of the experimental results. The implications of the test results to the design of the fusion conductors are discussed.

Evidence from EXAFS for Different Ta/Ti Site Occupancy in High Critical Current Density Nb3Sn Superconductor Wires.

PubMed

Heald, Steve M; Tarantini, Chiara; Lee, Peter J; Brown, Michael D; Sung, ZuHawn; Ghosh, Arup K; Larbalestier, David C

2018-03-19

To meet critical current density, J c , targets for the Future Circular Collider (FCC), the planned replacement for the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), the high field performance of Nb 3 Sn must be improved, but champion J c values have remained static for the last 10 years. Making the A15 phase stoichiometric and enhancing the upper critical field H c2 by Ti or Ta dopants are the standard strategies for enhancing high field performance but detailed recent studies show that even the best modern wires have broad composition ranges. To assess whether further improvement might be possible, we employed Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS) to determine the lattice site location of dopants in modern high-performance Nb 3 Sn strands with J c values amongst the best so far achieved. Although Ti and Ta primarily occupy the Nb sites in the A15 structure, we also find significant Ta occupancy on the Sn site. These findings indicate that the best performing Ti-doped stand is strongly sub-stoichiometric in Sn and that antisite disorder likely explains its high average H c2 behavior. These new results suggest an important role for dopant and antisite disorder in minimizing superconducting property distributions and maximizing high field J c properties.

Evidence from EXAFS for Different Ta/Ti Site Occupancy in High Critical Current Density Nb 3Sn Superconductor Wires

DOE PAGES

Heald, Steve M.; Tarantini, Chiara; Lee, Peter J.; ...

2018-03-19

To meet critical current density, Jc, targets for the Future Circular Collider (FCC), the planned replacement for the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), the high field performance of Nb 3Sn must be improved, but champion J c values have remained static for the last 10 years. Making the A15 phase stoichiometric and enhancing the upper critical field H c2 by Ti or Ta dopants are the standard strategies for enhancing high field performance but detailed recent studies show that even the best modern wires have broad composition ranges. To assess whether further improvement might be possible, we employed EXAFS to determinemore » the lattice site location of dopants in modern high-performance Nb 3Sn strands with J c values amongst the best so far achieved. Although Ti and Ta primarily occupy the Nb sites in the A15 structure, we also find significant Ta occupancy on the Sn site. These findings indicate that the best performing Ti-doped stand is strongly sub-stoichiometric in Sn and that antisite disorder likely explains its high average H c2 behavior. These new results suggest an important role for dopant and antisite disorder in minimizing superconducting property distributions and maximizing high field J c properties.« less

Evidence from EXAFS for Different Ta/Ti Site Occupancy in High Critical Current Density Nb 3Sn Superconductor Wires

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

Heald, Steve M.; Tarantini, Chiara; Lee, Peter J.

To meet critical current density, Jc, targets for the Future Circular Collider (FCC), the planned replacement for the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), the high field performance of Nb 3Sn must be improved, but champion J c values have remained static for the last 10 years. Making the A15 phase stoichiometric and enhancing the upper critical field H c2 by Ti or Ta dopants are the standard strategies for enhancing high field performance but detailed recent studies show that even the best modern wires have broad composition ranges. To assess whether further improvement might be possible, we employed EXAFS to determinemore » the lattice site location of dopants in modern high-performance Nb 3Sn strands with J c values amongst the best so far achieved. Although Ti and Ta primarily occupy the Nb sites in the A15 structure, we also find significant Ta occupancy on the Sn site. These findings indicate that the best performing Ti-doped stand is strongly sub-stoichiometric in Sn and that antisite disorder likely explains its high average H c2 behavior. These new results suggest an important role for dopant and antisite disorder in minimizing superconducting property distributions and maximizing high field J c properties.« less

Finite Element Analysis of Transverse Compressive Loads on Superconducting Nb3Sn Wires Containing Voids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

D'Hauthuille, Luc; Zhai, Yuhu; Princeton Plasma Physics Lab Collaboration; University of Geneva Collaboration

2015-11-01

High field superconductors play an important role in many large-scale physics experiments, particularly particle colliders and fusion devices such as the LHC and ITER. The two most common superconductors used are NbTi and Nb3Sn. Nb3Sn wires are favored because of their significantly higher Jc, allowing them to produce much higher magnetic fields. The main disadvantage is that the superconducting performance of Nb3Sn is highly strain-sensitive and it is very brittle. The strain-sensitivity is strongly influenced by two factors: plasticity and cracked filaments. Cracks are induced by large stress concentrators due to the presence of voids. We will attempt to understand the correlation between Nb3Sn's irreversible strain limit and the void-induced stress concentrations around the voids. We will develop accurate 2D and 3D finite element models containing detailed filaments and possible distributions of voids in a bronze-route Nb3Sn wire. We will apply a compressive transverse load for the various cases to simulate the stress response of a Nb3Sn wire from the Lorentz force. Doing this will further improve our understanding of the effect voids have on the wire's mechanical properties, and thus, the connection between the shape & distribution of voids and performance degradation.

Summary of the Persistent Current Effect Measurements in Nb 3 Sn and NbTi Accelerator Magnets at Fermilab

DOE PAGES

Velev, G. V.; Chlachidze, G.; DiMarco, J.; ...

2016-01-06

In the past 10 years, Fermilab has been executing an intensive R&D program on accelerator magnets based on Nb 3Sn superconductor technology. This R&D effort includes dipole and quadrupole models for different programs, such as LARP and 11 T dipoles for the LHC high-luminosity upgrade. Before the Nb 3Sn R&D program, Fermilab was involved in the production of the low-beta quadrupole magnets for LHC based on the NbTi superconductor. Additionally, during the 2003-2005 campaign to optimize the operation of the Tevatron, a large number of Tevatron magnets were re-measured. As a result of this field analysis, a systematic study ofmore » the persistent current decay and snapback effect in these magnets was performed. This paper summarizes the result of this study and presents a comparison between Nb 3Sn and NbTi dipoles and quadrupoles.« less

STRUCTURE AND HIGH-FIELD PERFORMANCE OF JELLY ROLL PROCESSED Nb{sub 3}Sn WIRES USING Sn-Ta AND Sn-Ti BASED ALLOY SHEET

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

Tachikawa, K.; Tsuyuki, T.; Hayashi, Y.

Sn-Ta based alloy buttons of different compositions were prepared by the melt diffusion process among constituent metal powders, and then pressed into plates. Meanwhile Sn-Ti based alloy plates were sliced from the melt and cast ingot. Resulting Sn-based alloy plates were rolled into thin sheets. The Sn-based alloy sheet was laminated with a Nb sheet, and wound into a Jelly Roll (JR) composite. The composite was encased in a sheath, and fabricated into a thin wire followed by the heat treatment. The application of hydrostatic extrusion is useful at the initial stage of the fabrication. The JR wires using Sn-Tamore » and Sn-Ti based alloy sheets show a non-Cu J{sub c} of {approx}250 A/mm{sup 2} and {approx}150 A/mm{sup 2} at 20 T and 22 T, respectively, at 4.2 K. It has been found that the Nb impregnates into the Sn-based alloy layers during the reaction, and Nb{sub 3}Sn layers are synthesized by the mutual diffusion between the Nb sheet and the Sn-based alloy sheet without formation of voids. Sn-Ti based alloy sheets are attractive due to their easiness of mass production. Structure and high-field performance of JR processed Nb{sub 3}Sn wires prepared from Sn-based alloy sheets with different compositions are compared in this article.« less

An exponential scaling law for the strain dependence of the Nb3Sn critical current density

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bordini, B.; Alknes, P.; Bottura, L.; Rossi, L.; Valentinis, D.

2013-07-01

The critical current density of the Nb3Sn superconductor is strongly dependent on the strain applied to the material. In order to investigate this dependence, it is a common practice to measure the critical current of Nb3Sn strands for different values of applied axial strain. In the literature, several models have been proposed to describe these experimental data in the reversible strain region. All these models are capable of fitting the measurement results in the strain region where data are collected, but tend to predict unphysical trends outside the range of data, and especially for large strain values. In this paper we present a model of a new strain function, together with the results obtained by applying the new scaling law on relevant datasets. The data analyzed consisted of the critical current measurements at 4.2 K that were carried out under applied axial strain at Durham University and the University of Geneva on different strand types. With respect to the previous models proposed, the new scaling function does not present problems at large strain values, has a lower number of fitting parameters (only two instead of three or four), and is very stable, so that, starting from few experimental points, it can estimate quite accurately the strand behavior in a strain region where there are no data. A relationship is shown between the proposed strain function and the elastic strain energy, and an analogy is drawn with the exponential form of the McMillan equation for the critical temperature.

PROCESSING OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE Nb{sub 3}Sn WIRES THROUGH A NEW DIFFUSION REACTION USING Sn BASED ALLOYS

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

Tachikawa, K.; Sasaki, H.; Yamaguchi, M.

Tightly consolidated Sn-Ta and Sn-B based alloys have been prepared by the reaction among constituent metal powders at 750-775 deg. C. Sn-Ta and Sn-B based alloys exhibit quite similar microstructures. A small amount of Ti addition seems to improve the bonding between Ta or B particles and Sn matrix. Nb{sub 3}Sn wires have been fabricated by the Jelly Roll (JR) and Multi-rod (MR) process using Sn based alloy sheet and rod, respectively. Thick Nb{sub 3}Sn layers with nearly stoichiometric A15 composition are synthesized through a new diffusion mechanism between Nb and Sn based alloy. B{sub c2}(4.2 K)'s of 26.9 Tmore » (mid) and 26.5 T (mid) have been obtained in the JR and MR processed wires, respectively, using Sn-Ta based alloy. These wires exhibit enough non-Cu J{sub c} to be used above 20 T and 4.2 K. T{sub c} of JR wires using Sn-B based sheet is 18.14 K (offset) which is slightly higher than that of wires using Sn-Ta based sheet.« less

High-field specific heats of A15 V3Si and Nb3Sn

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stewart, G. R.; Brandt, B. L.

1984-04-01

In order to further understand the anomalous behavior of the specific heat of Nb3Sn in an 18-T magnetic field discovered by Stewart, Cort, and Webb

Development of a 15 T Nb 3Sn accelerator dipole demonstrator at Fermilab

DOE PAGES

Novitski, I.; Andreev, N.; Barzi, E.; ...

2016-06-01

Here, a 100 TeV scale Hadron Collider (HC) with a nominal operation field of at least 15 T is being considered for the post-LHC era, which requires using the Nb 3Sn technology. Practical demonstration of this field level in an accelerator-quality magnet and substantial reduction of the magnet costs are the key conditions for realization of such a machine. FNAL has started the development of a 15 T Nb 3Sn dipole demonstrator for a 100 TeV scale HC. The magnet design is based on 4-layer shell type coils, graded between the inner and outer layers to maximize the performance andmore » reduce the cost. The experience gained during the Nb 3Sn magnet R&D is applied to different aspects of the magnet design. This paper describes the magnetic and structural designs and parameters of the 15 T Nb 3Sn dipole and the steps towards the demonstration model fabrication.« less

RRP6/EXOSC10 is required for the repair of DNA double-strand breaks by homologous recombination.

PubMed

Marin-Vicente, Consuelo; Domingo-Prim, Judit; Eberle, Andrea B; Visa, Neus

2015-03-15

The exosome acts on different RNA substrates and plays important roles in RNA metabolism. The fact that short non-coding RNAs are involved in the DNA damage response led us to investigate whether the exosome factor RRP6 of Drosophila melanogaster and its human ortholog EXOSC10 play a role in DNA repair. Here, we show that RRP6 and EXOSC10 are recruited to DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) in S2 cells and HeLa cells, respectively. Depletion of RRP6/EXOSC10 does not interfere with the phosphorylation of the histone variant H2Av (Drosophila) or H2AX (humans), but impairs the recruitment of the homologous recombination factor RAD51 to the damaged sites, without affecting RAD51 levels. The recruitment of RAD51 to DSBs in S2 cells is also inhibited by overexpression of RRP6-Y361A-V5, a catalytically inactive RRP6 mutant. Furthermore, cells depleted of RRP6 or EXOSC10 are more sensitive to radiation, which is consistent with RRP6/EXOSC10 playing a role in DNA repair. RRP6/EXOSC10 can be co-immunoprecipitated with RAD51, which links RRP6/EXOSC10 to the homologous recombination pathway. Taken together, our results suggest that the ribonucleolytic activity of RRP6/EXOSC10 is required for the recruitment of RAD51 to DSBs. © 2015. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

Controlling Cu–Sn mixing so as to enable higher critical current densities in RRP® Nb3Sn wires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanabria, Charlie; Field, Michael; Lee, Peter J.; Miao, Hanping; Parrell, Jeff; Larbalestier, David C.

2018-06-01

Dipole magnets for the proposed Future Circular Collider (FCC) demand specifications significantly beyond the limits of all existing Nb3Sn wires, in particular a critical current density (J c) of more than 1500 A mm‑2 at 16 T and 4.2 K with an effective filament diameter (D eff) of less than 20 μm. The restacked-rod-process (RRP®) is the technology closest to meeting these demands, with a J c (16 T) of up to 1400 A mm‑2, residual resistivity ratio > 100, for a sub-element size D s of 58 μm (which in RRP® wires is essentially the same as D eff). An important present limitation of RRP® is that reducing the sub-element size degrades J c to as low as 900 A mm‑2 at 16 T for D s = 35 μm. To gain an understanding of the sources of this J c degradation, we have made a detailed study of the phase evolution during the Cu–Sn ‘mixing’ stages of the wire heat treatment that occur prior to Nb3Sn formation. Using extensive microstructural quantification, we have identified the critical role that the Sn–Nb–Cu ternary phase (Nausite) can play. The Nausite forms as a well-defined ring between the Sn source and the Cu/Nb filament pack, and acts as an osmotic membrane in the 300 °C–400 °C range—greatly inhibiting Sn diffusion into the Cu/Nb filament pack while supporting a strong Cu counter-diffusion from the filament pack into the Sn core. This converts the Sn core into a mixture of the low melting point (408 °C) η phase (Cu6Sn5) and the more desirable ε phase (Cu3Sn), which decomposes at 676 °C. After the mixing stages, when heated above 408 °C towards the Nb3Sn reaction, any residual η liquefies to form additional irregular Nausite on the inside of the membrane. All Nausite decomposes into NbSn2 on further heating, and ultimately transforms into coarse-grain (and often disconnected) Nb3Sn which has little contribution to current transport. Understanding this critical Nausite reaction pathway has allowed us to simplify the mixing heat treatment to

Specific heat of Nb{sub 3}Sn: The case for a single gap

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

Jo, Y. J., E-mail: jophy@knu.ac.kr; Zhou, Jian; Sung, Zu Hawn

2014-10-01

The important influence of multiple gaps in the superconductivity of MgB{sub 2} and Fe-based compounds, especially because of the possibility that manipulation of a second gap can significantly raise the upper critical field H{sub c2}, has refocused attention on Nb{sub 3}Sn because anomalies in both specific heat and point-contact tunneling studies have led to the proposal that Nb{sub 3}Sn is also a two-gap superconductor. Here, we search for evidence of the second gap in a careful study of the influence of the homogenization temperature on the sample uniformity. We show that it is very difficult to fabricate samples that aremore » both homogeneous and stoichiometric. We find so-called “second-gap” anomalies disappear only after high temperature and long-term annealing. Such a well-annealed sample shows only a strong, electron-phonon-coupled, single-gap behavior. In contrast, samples reacted and annealed at lower temperatures, as in the earlier two-gap studies, show small chemical composition variations of the A15 phase. We propose that the second gap sightings are actually due to variation of T{sub c} within very difficult-to-fully homogenize samples. A curiosity of the A15 Nb{sub 3}Sn phase is that almost any mixture of Nb and Sn tries to form a stoichiometric A15 composition, but the residue of course contains off-stoichiometric A15, Nb, and other phases when the Nb:Sn ratio departs from the true 3:1 stoichiometry.« less

Heat treatment influence on the superconducting properties of nanometric-scale Nb3Sn wires with Cu-Sn artificial pinning centers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Da Silva, L. B. S.; Rodrigues, C. A.; Oliveira, N. F., Jr.; Bormio-Nunes, C.; Rodrigues, D., Jr.

2010-11-01

Since the discovery of Nb3Sn superconductors many efforts have been expended to improve the transport properties in these materials. In this work, the heat treatment profiles for Nb3Sn superconductor wires with Cu(Sn) artificial pinning centers (APCs) with nanometric-scale sizes were analyzed in an attempt to improve the critical current densities and upper critical magnetic field. The methodology to optimize the heat treatment profiles in respect to the diffusion, reaction and formation of the superconducting phases is described. Microstructural characterization, transport and magnetic measurements were performed in an attempt to relate the microstructure to the pinning mechanisms acting in the samples. It was concluded that the maximum current densities occur due to normal phases (APCs) that act as the main pinning centers in the global behavior of the Nb3Sn superconducting wire. The APC technique was shown to be very powerful because it permitted mixing of the pinning mechanism. This achievement was not possible in other studies in Nb3Sn wires reported up to now.

Nb3Sn superconducting magnets for electron cyclotron resonance ion sources.

PubMed

Ferracin, P; Caspi, S; Felice, H; Leitner, D; Lyneis, C M; Prestemon, S; Sabbi, G L; Todd, D S

2010-02-01

Electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) ion sources are an essential component of heavy-ion accelerators. Over the past few decades advances in magnet technology and an improved understanding of the ECR ion source plasma physics have led to remarkable performance improvements of ECR ion sources. Currently third generation high field superconducting ECR ion sources operating at frequencies around 28 GHz are the state of the art ion injectors and several devices are either under commissioning or under design around the world. At the same time, the demand for increased intensities of highly charged heavy ions continues to grow, which makes the development of even higher performance ECR ion sources a necessity. To extend ECR ion sources to frequencies well above 28 GHz, new magnet technology will be needed in order to operate at higher field and force levels. The superconducting magnet program at LBNL has been developing high field superconducting magnets for particle accelerators based on Nb(3)Sn superconducting technology for several years. At the moment, Nb(3)Sn is the only practical conductor capable of operating at the 15 T field level in the relevant configurations. Recent design studies have been focused on the possibility of using Nb(3)Sn in the next generation of ECR ion sources. In the past, LBNL has worked on the VENUS ECR, a 28 GHz source with solenoids and a sextupole made with NbTi operating at fields of 6-7 T. VENUS has now been operating since 2004. We present in this paper the design of a Nb(3)Sn ECR ion source optimized to operate at an rf frequency of 56 GHz with conductor peak fields of 13-15 T. Because of the brittleness and strain sensitivity of Nb(3)Sn, particular care is required in the design of the magnet support structure, which must be capable of providing support to the coils without overstressing the conductor. In this paper, we present the main features of the support structure, featuring an external aluminum shell pretensioned with water

Finite-element analysis of transverse compressive and thermal loads on Nb 3Sn wires with voids

DOE PAGES

Zhai, Y.; D'Hauthuille, L.; Barth, C.; ...

2016-02-29

High-field superconducting magnets play a very important role in many large-scale physics experiments, particularly particle colliders and fusion confinement devices such as Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). The two most common superconductors used in these applications are NbTi and Nb 3Sn. Nb 3Sn wires are favored because of their significantly higher J c (critical current density) for higher field applications. The main disadvantage of Nb 3Sn is that the superconducting performance of the wire is highly strain sensitive and it is very brittle. This strain sensitivity is strongly influenced by two factors: plasticity and crackedmore » filaments. Cracks are induced by large stress concentrators that can be traced to the presence of voids in the wire. We develop detailed 2-D and 3-D finite-element models containing wire filaments and different possible distributions of voids in a bronze-route Nb 3Sn wire. We apply compressive transverse loads for various cases of void distributions to simulate the stress and strain response of a Nb 3Sn wire under the Lorentz force. Furthermore, this paper improves our understanding of the effect voids have on the Nb 3Sn wire's mechanical properties, and in so, the connection between the distribution of voids and performance degradation such as the correlation between irreversible strain limit and the void-induced local stress concentrations.« less

Development of a new quaternary alloy Ti-25Ta-25Nb-3Sn for biomedical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rangel Seixas, Mauricio; Bortolini, Celso, Jr.; Pereira, Adelvam, Jr.; Nakazato, Roberto Z.; Popat, Ketul C.; Rosifini Alves Claro, Ana Paula

2018-02-01

Metallic biomaterials have been used for biomedical applications, such as cardiovascular, orthopaedics and orthodontics, due to excellent properties. In this study, the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of new quaternary alloy Ti25Ta25Nb3Sn were evaluated. Alloys were processing in arc melting furnace with argon atmosphere and cold worked by rotary swaging. Alloy microstructure, crystalline phases and mechanical properties such as Young’s modulus, yield strength and tensile strength were evaluated. Corrosion resistance was investigated in fluoride solution by electrochemical polarization and biocompatibility with human dermal fibroblasts were also evaluated. In our study, for quaternary alloy Ti25Ta25Nb3Sn the stabilization of beta phase was maintained. It was observed that the elastic modulus of Ti25Ta25Nb3Sn (65 GPa) was lower than CP Ti (105 GPa) and Ti6Al4V (110 GPa) and slightly higher than Ti25Ta25Nb (55 GPa) alloy. The addition of Sn suppressed the double yielding verified on ternary alloy Ti25Ta25Nb. Electrochemical studies showed that stable passive oxide film was formed on the Ti25Ta25Nb3Sn surface and an increase of HDF adhesion and proliferation on alloy surface, indicating that the alloy is non-cytotoxic may provide a favorable material for biomedical applications. Results obtained showed that Ti25Ta25Nb3Sn alloy is indicated for biomedical applications.

Quench in a conduction-cooled Nb3Sn SMES magnet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Korpela, Aki; Lehtonen, Jorma; Mikkonen, Risto; Perälä, Raine

2003-11-01

Due to the rapid development of cryocoolers, conduction-cooled Nb3Sn devices are nowadays enabled. A 0.2 MJ conduction-cooled Nb3Sn SMES system has been designed and constructed. The nominal current of the coil was 275 A at 10 K. The quench tests have been performed and in this paper the experimental data are compared to the computational one. Due to a slow normal zone propagation, Nb3Sn magnets are not necessarily self-protective. In conduction-cooled coils, a thermal interface provides a protection method known as a quench back. The temperature rise in the coil during a quench was measured with a sensor located on the inner radius of the coil. The current decay was also monitored. The measured temperature increased for approximately 15 s after the current had already decayed. This temperature rise is due to the heat conduction from the hot spot. Thus, the measured temperature does not represent the hot-spot temperature. A computational quench model which takes into account quench back and heat conduction after the current decay was developed in order to understand the measured temperatures. According to the results, a quench back due to the eddy current induced heating of the thermal interface of an LTS coil was an adequate protection method.

PERSISTENT CURRENT EFFECT IN 15-16 T NB3SN ACCELERATOR DIPOLES AND ITS CORRECTION

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

Kashikhin, V. V.; Zlobin, A. V.

2016-11-08

Nb3Sn magnets with operating fields of 15-16 T are considered for the LHC Energy Doubler and a future Very High Energy pp Collider. Due to large coil volume, high critical current density and large superconducting (SC) filament size the persistent current effect is very large in Nb3Sn dipoles al low fields. This paper presents the results of analysis of the persistent current effect in the 15 T Nb3Sn dipole demonstrator being developed at FNAL, and describes different possibilities of its correction including passive SC wires, iron shims and coil geometry.

Improvement of stability of Nb 3 Sn superconductors by introducing high specific heat substances

DOE PAGES

Xu, X.; Li, P.; Zlobin, A. V.; ...

2018-01-24

High-J c Nb 3Sn conductors have low stability against perturbations, which accounts for the slow training rates of high-field Nb 3Sn magnets. While it is known that adding substances with high specific heat (C) into Nb 3Sn wires can increase their overall specific heat and thus improve their stability, there has not been a practical method that is compatible with the fabrication of long-length conductors. In this work, we put forward a scheme to introduce such substances to distributed-barrier Nb 3Sn wires, which adds minimum difficulty to the wire manufacturing process. Multifilamentary wires using a mixture of Cu and high-Cmore » Gd 2O 3 powders have been successfully fabricated along this line. Measurements showed that addition of Gd 2O 3 had no negative effects on residual resitivity ratio or non-Cu J c, and that flux jumps were remarkably reduced, and minimum quench energy values at 4.2 K, 14 T were increased by a factor of three, indicating that stability was significantly improved. We also discussed the influences of the positioning of high-C substances and their thermal diffusivity on their effectiveness in reducing the superconductor temperature rise against perturbations. Based on these results, we proposed an optimized conductor architecture to maximize the effectiveness of this approach.« less

Improvement of stability of Nb 3 Sn superconductors by introducing high specific heat substances

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

Xu, X.; Li, P.; Zlobin, A. V.

High-J c Nb 3Sn conductors have low stability against perturbations, which accounts for the slow training rates of high-field Nb 3Sn magnets. While it is known that adding substances with high specific heat (C) into Nb 3Sn wires can increase their overall specific heat and thus improve their stability, there has not been a practical method that is compatible with the fabrication of long-length conductors. In this work, we put forward a scheme to introduce such substances to distributed-barrier Nb 3Sn wires, which adds minimum difficulty to the wire manufacturing process. Multifilamentary wires using a mixture of Cu and high-Cmore » Gd 2O 3 powders have been successfully fabricated along this line. Measurements showed that addition of Gd 2O 3 had no negative effects on residual resitivity ratio or non-Cu J c, and that flux jumps were remarkably reduced, and minimum quench energy values at 4.2 K, 14 T were increased by a factor of three, indicating that stability was significantly improved. We also discussed the influences of the positioning of high-C substances and their thermal diffusivity on their effectiveness in reducing the superconductor temperature rise against perturbations. Based on these results, we proposed an optimized conductor architecture to maximize the effectiveness of this approach.« less

Larp Nb3Sn Quadrupole Magnets for the Lhc Luminosity Upgrade

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferracin, P.

2010-04-01

The US LHC Accelerator Research Program (LARP) is a collaboration between four US laboratories (BNL, FNAL, LBNL, and SLAC) aimed at contributing to the commissioning and operation of the LHC and conducting R&D on its luminosity upgrade. Within LARP, the Magnet Program's main goal is to demonstrate that Nb3Sn superconducting magnets are a viable option for a future upgrade of the LHC Interaction Regions. Over the past four years, LARP has successfully fabricated and tested several R&D magnets: 1) the subscale quadrupole magnet SQ, to perform technology studies with 300 mm long racetrack coils, 2) the technology quadrupole TQ, to investigate support structure behavior with 1 m long cos 2θ coils, and 3) the long racetrack magnet LR, to test 3.6 m long racetrack coils. The next milestone consists in the fabrication and test of the 3.7 m long quadrupole magnet LQ, with the goal of demonstrating that Nb3Sn technology is mature for use in high energy accelerators. After an overview of design features and test result of the LARP magnets fabricated so far, this paper focuses on the status of the fabrication of LQ: we describe the production of the 3.4 m long cos 2θ coils, and the of the qualification support structure. Finally, the status of the development of the next 1 m long model HQ, conceived to explore stress and field limits of Nb3Sn superconducting, magnets, is presented.

Quench protection studies of the 11-T Nb 3Sn dipole for the LHC upgrade

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

Bermudez, Susana Izquierdo; Auchmann, Bernhard; Bajas, Hugues

The planned upgrade of the LHC collimation system foresees additional collimators to be installed in the dispersion suppressor areas. Fermilab and CERN are developing an 11 T Nb 3Sn dipole to replace some 8.33 T-15-m-long Nb-Ti LHC main dipoles providing longitudinal space for the collimators. In case of a quench, the large stored energy and the low copper stabilizer fraction make the protection of the 11 T Nb 3Sn dipoles challenging. This paper presents the results of quench protection analysis, including quench protection heater design and efficiency, quench propagation and coil heating. The numerical results are compared with the experimentalmore » data from the 2-m-long Nb 3Sn dipole models. Here, the validated model is used to predict the current decay and hot spot temperature under operating conditions in the LHC and the presently foreseen magnet protection scheme is discussed.« less

Quench protection studies of the 11-T Nb 3Sn dipole for the LHC upgrade

DOE PAGES

Bermudez, Susana Izquierdo; Auchmann, Bernhard; Bajas, Hugues; ...

2016-06-01

The planned upgrade of the LHC collimation system foresees additional collimators to be installed in the dispersion suppressor areas. Fermilab and CERN are developing an 11 T Nb 3Sn dipole to replace some 8.33 T-15-m-long Nb-Ti LHC main dipoles providing longitudinal space for the collimators. In case of a quench, the large stored energy and the low copper stabilizer fraction make the protection of the 11 T Nb 3Sn dipoles challenging. This paper presents the results of quench protection analysis, including quench protection heater design and efficiency, quench propagation and coil heating. The numerical results are compared with the experimentalmore » data from the 2-m-long Nb 3Sn dipole models. Here, the validated model is used to predict the current decay and hot spot temperature under operating conditions in the LHC and the presently foreseen magnet protection scheme is discussed.« less

Commissioning results of Nb 3Sn cavity vapor diffusion deposition system at JLab

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

Eremeev, Grigory; Clemens, William A.; Macha, Kurt M.

2015-09-01

Nb 3Sn as a BCS superconductor with a superconducting critical temperature higher than that of niobium offers potential benefit for SRF cavities via a lower-than-niobium surface resistance at the same temperature and frequency. A Nb 3Sn vapor diffusion deposition system designed for coating of 1.5 and 1.3 GHz single-cell cavities was built and commissioned at JLab. As the part of the commissioning, RF performance at 2.0 K of a single-cell 1.5 GHz CEBAF-shaped cavity was measured before and after coating in the system. Before Nb 3Sn coating the cavity had a Q 0 of about 10 10 and was limitedmore » by the high field Q-slope at E acc ≅ 27 MV/m. Coated cavity exhibited the superconducting transition at about 17.9 K. The low-field quality factor was about 5∙10 9 at 4.3 K and 7∙10 9 at 2.0 K decreasing with field to about 1∙10 9 at E acc ≅ 8 MV/m at both temperatures. The highest field was limited by the available RF power.« less

Design, analyses, fabrication and characterization of Nb3Sn coil in 1 W pulse tube cryocooler

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kundu, Ananya; Das, Subrat Kumar; Bano, Anees; Kumar, Nitish; Pradhan, Subrata

2017-02-01

A laboratory scale Nb3Sn coil is designed, analysed, fabricated and characterized in 1 W pulse tube cryocooler in solid nitrogen cooling mode and in conduction cooling mode. The magnetic field profile in axial and radial direction, Lorentz force component across the winding volume in operational condition are estimated in COMSOL. The coil is designed for 1.5 T at 100 A. It is fabricated in wind and react method. Before winding, the insulated Nb3Sn strand is wound on a copper mandrel which is thermally anchored with the 2nd stage of the cold head unit via a 10 mm thick copper ‘Z’ shaped plate The temperature distribution in 2nd cold stage, copper z plate and coil is monitored in both solid nitrogen cooling and conduction cooling mode. In solid nitrogen cooling mode, the quench of the coil occurs at 150 A for 0.01 A/s current ramp rate. The magnetic field at the centre of the coil bore is measured using transverse Hall sensor. The measured magnetic field value is compared with the analytical field value and they are found to be deviating ∼5% in magnitude. Again the coil is tested in conduction cooling mode maintaining the same current ramp rate and it is observed that the coil gets quenched at 70 A at temperature ∼ 10K.

Measurements of Dynamic Effects in FNAL 11 T Nb 3Sn Dipole Models

DOE PAGES

Velev, Gueorgui; Strauss, Thomas; Barzi, Emanuela; ...

2018-01-17

Fermilab, in collaboration with CERN, has developed a twin-aperture 11 T Nb 3Sn dipole suitable for the high-luminosity LHC upgrade. During 2012-2014, a 2-m long single-aperture dipole demonstrator and three 1-m long single-aperture dipole models were fabricated by FNAL and tested at its Vertical Magnet Test Facility. Collared coils from two of the 1-m long models were then used to assemble the first twin-aperture dipole demonstrator. This magnet had extensive testing in 2015-2016, including quench performance, quench protection, and field quality studies. Here, this paper reports the results of measurements of persistent current effects in the single-aperture and twin-aperture 11more » T Nb 3Sn dipoles and compares them with similar measurements in previous NbTi magnets« less

Measurements of Dynamic Effects in FNAL 11 T Nb 3Sn Dipole Models

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

Velev, Gueorgui; Strauss, Thomas; Barzi, Emanuela

Fermilab, in collaboration with CERN, has developed a twin-aperture 11 T Nb 3Sn dipole suitable for the high-luminosity LHC upgrade. During 2012-2014, a 2-m long single-aperture dipole demonstrator and three 1-m long single-aperture dipole models were fabricated by FNAL and tested at its Vertical Magnet Test Facility. Collared coils from two of the 1-m long models were then used to assemble the first twin-aperture dipole demonstrator. This magnet had extensive testing in 2015-2016, including quench performance, quench protection, and field quality studies. Here, this paper reports the results of measurements of persistent current effects in the single-aperture and twin-aperture 11more » T Nb 3Sn dipoles and compares them with similar measurements in previous NbTi magnets« less

Effects of bending on the superconducting critical current density of monofilamentary Nb3Sn wires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaiho, K.; Luhman, T. S.; Suenaga, M.; Sampson, W. B.

1980-02-01

Variations in the superconducting current density Jc of the Nb3Sn wires upon bending were measured for a series of monofilamentary wires in which the ratio Rv of the matrix (Cu+Sn) to the core (Nb3Sn,Nb) was changed from 0 to 58. In most cases Jc was found to increase slightly until the bending strain exceeded a value of ɛirrB , beyond which it severely and irreversibly degraded. For wires with intermediate values of Rv (˜2 to 10), ɛirrB , calculated by geometrical considerations, was substantially lower than the measured value of the tensile strain ɛirrT which was required to irreversibly degrade the critical current. The influence of bending strains on Jc can qualitatively be described by considering residual prestrains in the matrix and the core.

Quench Protection Studies of 11T Nb$$_3$$Sn Dipole Models for LHC Upgrades

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

Zlobin, Alexander; Chlachidze, Guram; Nobrega, Alfred

CERN and FNAL are developing 11 T Nb3Sn dipole magnets for the LHC collimation system upgrade. Due to the large stored energy, protection of these magnets during a quench is a challenging problem. This paper reports the results of experimental studies of key quench protection parameters including longitudinal and radial quench propagation in the coil, coil heating due to a quench, and energy extraction and quench-back effect. The studies were performed using a 1 m long 11 T Nb3Sn dipole coil tested in a magnetic mirror configuration.

Impact of Nb vacancies and p-type doping of the NbCoSn-NbCoSb half-Heusler thermoelectrics.

PubMed

Ferluccio, Daniella A; Smith, Ronald I; Buckman, Jim; Bos, Jan-Willem G

2018-02-07

The half-Heuslers NbCoSn and NbCoSb have promising thermoelectric properties. Here, an investigation of the NbCo 1+y Sn 1-z Sb z (y = 0, 0.05; 0 ≤ z ≤ 1) solid-solution is presented. In addition, the p-type doping of NbCoSn using Ti and Zr substitution is investigated. Rietveld analysis reveals the gradual creation of Nb vacancies to compensate for the n-type doping caused by the substitution of Sb in NbCoSn. This leads to a similar valence electron count (∼18.25) for the NbCo 1+y Sn 1-z Sb z samples (z > 0). Mass fluctuation disorder due to the Nb vacancies strongly decreases the lattice thermal conductivity from 10 W m -1 K -1 (z = 0) to 4.5 W m -1 K -1 (z = 0.5, 1). This is accompanied by a transition to degenerate semiconducting behaviour leading to large power factors, S 2 /ρ = 2.5-3 mW m -1 K -2 and figures of merit, ZT = 0.25-0.33 at 773 K. Ti and Zr can be used to achieve positive Seebeck values, e.g. S = +150 μV K -1 for 20% Zr at 773 K. However, the electrical resistivity, ρ 323K = 27-35 mΩ cm, remains too large for these materials to be considered useful p-type materials.

Effect of diffusion annealing regimes on the structure of Nb3Sn layers in ITER-type bronze-processed wires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valova-Zaharevskaya, E. G.; Popova, E. N.; Deryagina, I. L.; Abdyukhanov, I. M.; Tsapleva, A. S.

2018-03-01

The goal of the present study is to characterize the growth kinetics and structural parameters of the Nb3Sn layers formed under various regimes of the diffusion annealing of bronze-processed Nb/Cu-Sn composites. The structure of the superconducting layers is characterized by their thickness, average size of equiaxed grains and by the ratio of fractions of columnar and equiaxed grains. It was found that at higher diffusion annealing temperatures (above 650°C) thicker superconducting layers are obtained, but the average sizes of equiaxed Nb3Sn grains even under short exposures (10 h) are much larger than after the long low-temperature annealing. At the low-temperature (575 °C) annealing the relative fraction of columnar grains increases with increasing annealing time. Based on the data obtained, optimal regimes of the diffusion annealing can be chosen, which would on the one hand ensure complete transformation of Nb into Nb3Sn of close to the stoichiometric composition, and on the other hand prevent the formation of coarse and columnar grains.

GLAG theory for superconducting property variations with A15 composition in Nb3Sn wires.

PubMed

Li, Yingxu; Gao, Yuanwen

2017-04-25

We present a model for the variation of the upper critical field H c2 with Sn content in A15-type Nb-Sn wires, within the Ginzburg-Landau-Abrikosov-Gor'kov (GLAG) theory frame. H c2 at the vicinity of the critical temperature T c is related quantitatively to the electrical resistivity ρ, specific heat capacity coefficient γ and T c . H c2 versus tin content is theoretically formulated within the GLAG theory, and generally reproduces the experiment results. As Sn content gradually approaches the stoichiometry, A15-type Nb-Sn undergoes a transition from the dirty limit to clean limit, split by the phase transformation boundary. The H-T phase boundary and pinning force show different behaviors in the cubic and tetragonal phase. We dipict the dependence of the composition gradient on the superconducting properties variation in the A15 layer, as well as the curved tail at vicinity of H c2 in the Kramer plot of the Nb 3 Sn wire. This helps understanding of the inhomogeneous-composition inducing discrepancy between the results by the state-of-art scaling laws and experiments.

A scaling law for the critical current of Nb3Sn stands based on strong-coupling theory of superconductivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oh, Sangjun; Kim, Keeman

2006-02-01

We study the transition temperature Tc, the thermodynamic critical field Bc, and the upper critical field Bc2 of Nb3Sn with Eliashberg theory of strongly coupled superconductors using the Einstein spectrum α2(ω)F(ω)=λ<ω2>1/2δ(ω-<ω2>1/2). The strain dependences of λ(ɛ) and <ω2>1/2(V) are introduced from the empirical strain dependence of Tc(V) for three model cases. It is found that the empirical relation Tc(V)/Tc(0)=[Bc2(4.2 K,V)/Bc2(4.2 K,0)]1/w (w~3) is mainly due to the low-energy-phonon mode softening. We derive analytic expressions for the strain and temperature dependences of Bc(T,V) and Bc2(T,V) and the Ginzburg-Landau parameter κ(T,V) from the numerical calculation results. The Summers refinement on the temperature dependence of κ(T) shows deviation from our calculation results. We propose a unified scaling law of flux pinning in Nb3Sn strands in the form of the Kramer model with the analytic expressions of Bc2(T,V) and κ(T,V) derived in this work. It is shown that the proposed scaling law gives a reasonable fit to the reported data with only eight fitting parameters.

Structure of an Rrp6-RNA exosome complex bound to poly(A) RNA

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

Wasmuth, Elizabeth V.; Januszyk, Kurt; Lima, Christopher D.

The eukaryotic RNA exosome processes and degrades RNA by directing substrates to the distributive or processive 3' to 5' exoribonuclease activities of Rrp6 or Rrp44, respectively. The non-catalytic nine-subunit exosome core (Exo9) features a prominent central channel. Although RNA can pass through the channel to engage Rrp44, it is not clear how RNA is directed to Rrp6 or whether Rrp6 uses the central channel. Here we report a 3.3 Å crystal structure of a ten-subunit RNA exosome complex from Saccharomyces cerevisiae composed of the Exo9 core and Rrp6 bound to single-stranded poly(A) RNA. The Rrp6 catalytic domain rests on topmore » of the Exo9 S1/KH ring above the central channel, the RNA 3' end is anchored in the Rrp6 active site, and the remaining RNA traverses the S1/KH ring in an opposite orientation to that observed in a structure of a Rrp44-containing exosome complex. Solution studies with human and yeast RNA exosome complexes suggest that the RNA path to Rrp6 is conserved and dependent on the integrity of the S1/KH ring. Although path selection to Rrp6 or Rrp44 is stochastic in vitro, the fate of a particular RNA may be determined in vivo by the manner in which cofactors present RNA to the RNA exosome.« less

Alloying and Properties of C14–NbCr2 and A15–Nb3X (X = Al, Ge, Si, Sn) in Nb–Silicide-Based Alloys

PubMed Central

Tsakiropoulos, Panos

2018-01-01

The oxidation of Nb–silicide-based alloys is improved with Al, Cr, Ge or Sn addition(s). Depending on addition(s) and its(their) concentration(s), alloyed C14-AB2 Laves and A15-A3X phases can be stable in the microstructures of the alloys. In both phases, A is the transition metal(s), and B and X respectively can be Cr, Al, Ge, Si or Sn, and Al, Ge, Si or Sn. The alloying, creep and hardness of these phases were studied using the composition weighted differences in electronegativity (∆χ), average valence electron concentrations (VEC) and atomic sizes. For the Laves phase (i) the VEC and ∆χ were in the ranges 4.976 < VEC < 5.358 and −0.503 < ∆χ < −0.107; (ii) the concentration of B (=Al + Cr + Ge + Si + Sn) varied from 50.9 to 64.5 at %; and (iii) the Cr concentration was in the range of 35.8 < Cr < 51.6 at %. Maps of ∆χ versus Cr, ∆χ versus VEC, and VEC versus atomic size separated the alloying behaviours of the elements. Compared with unalloyed NbCr2, the VEC decreased and ∆χ increased in Nb(Cr,Si)2, and the changes in both parameters increased when Nb was substituted by Ti, and Cr by Si and Al, or Si and Ge, or Si and Sn. For the A15 phase (i) the VEC and ∆χ were in the ranges 4.38 < VEC < 4.89 and 0.857 < ∆χ < 1.04, with no VEC values between 4.63 and 4.72 and (ii) the concentration of X (=Al + Ge + Si + Sn) varied from 16.3 to 22.7 at %. The VEC versus ∆χ map separated the alloying behaviours of elements. The hardness of A15-Nb3X was correlated with the parameters ∆χ and VEC. The hardness increased with increases in ∆χ and VEC. Compared with Nb3Sn, the ∆χ and hardness of Nb3(Si,Sn) increased. The substitution of Nb by Cr had the same effect on ∆χ and hardness as Hf or Ti. The ∆χ and hardness increased with Ti concentration. The addition of Al in Nb3(Si,Sn,Al) decreased the ∆χ and increased the hardness. When Ti and Hf, or Ti, Hf and Cr, were simultaneously present with Al, the ∆χ was decreased and the

Effects of repeated bending load at room temperature for composite Nb3Sn wires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Awaji, Satoshi; Watanabe, Kazuo; Katagiri, Kazumune

2003-09-01

In order to realize a react and wind (R&W) method for Nb3Sn wires, the influences of a bending load at room temperature are investigated. Usually, the superconducting wires undergo bending loads at room temperature repeatedly during winding and insulation processes. We define these bending loads as 'pre-bending' treatments. We applied the pre-bending strain of 0 and 0.5% to the highly strengthened CuNb/(Nb, Ti)3Sn wires, and measured the stress/strain properties and critical currents. The improvements of stress dependence of normalized critical current and the increase of the maximum critical current by the pre-bending treatments were found. The model based on the distribution of the local tensile strain as a bending strain describes the experimental results well without the increase of the maximum critical current. When the pre-bending strain was applied, the calculated results indicate that the mechanical properties are improved due to the local work hardening, and hence the stress dependence of Ic increases.

Final Report: MATERIALS, STRANDS, AND CABLES FOR SUPERCONDUCTING ACCELERATOR MAGNETS [Grant Number DE-SC0010312

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

Sumption, Mike D.; Collings, Edward W.

2014-10-29

Our program consisted of the two components: Strand Research and Cable Research, with a focus on Nb3Sn, Bi2212, and YBCO for accelerator magnet applications. We demonstrated a method to refine the grains in Nb3Sn by a factor of two, reaching 45 nm grain sizes, and layer Jcs of 6 kA/mm2 at 12 T. W also measured conductor magnetization for field quality. This has been done both with Nb3Sn conductor, as well as Bi:2212 strand. Work in support of quench studies of YBCO coils was also performed. Cable loss studies in Nb3Sn focused on connecting and comparing persistent magnetization and couplingmore » magnetization for considering their relative impact on HEP machines. In the area of HTS cables, we have investigated both the quench in multistrand YBCO CORC cables, as well as the magnetization of these cables for use in high field magnets. In addition, we examined the magnetic and thermal properties of large (50 T) solenoids.« less

Temperature compensation effects of TiO2 on Ca[(Li1/3Nb2/3)0.8Sn0.2]O3-δ microwave dielectric ceramic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Mingzhe; Wei, Huanghe; Xiao, Lihua; Zhang, Kesheng; Hao, Yongde

2017-10-01

The crystal structure and dielectric properties of TiO2-modified Ca[(Li1/3Nb2/3)0.8Sn0.2]O3-δ microwave ceramics are investigated in the present paper. The crystal structure is probed by XRD patterns and their Rietveld refinement, results show that a single perovskite phase is formed in TiO2-modified Ca[(Li1/3Nb2/3)0.8Sn0.2]O3-δ ceramics with the crystal structure belonging to the orthorhombic Pbnm 62 space group. Raman spectra results indicate that the B-site order-disorder structure transition is a key point to the dielectric loss of TiO2-modified Ca[(Li1/3Nb2/3)0.8Sn0.2]O3-δ ceramics at microwave frequencies. After properly modified by TiO2, the large negative temperature coefficient of Ca[(Li1/3Nb2/3)0.8Sn0.2]O3-δ ceramic can be compensated and the optimal microwave dielectric properties can reach 𝜀r = 25.66, Qf = 18,894 GHz and TCF = -6.3 ppm/∘C when sintered at 1170∘C for 2.5 h, which manifests itself for potential use in microwave dielectric devices for modern wireless communication.

Evaluation of critical current density and residual resistance ratio limits in powder in tube Nb 3Sn conductors

DOE PAGES

Segal, Christopher; Tarantini, Chiara; Sung, Zu Hawn; ...

2016-06-10

High critical current density (Jc) Nb 3Sn A15 multifilamentary wires require a large volume fraction of small grain, superconducting A15 phase, as well as Cu stabilizer with high Residual Resistance Ratio (RRR) to provide electromagnetic stabilization and protection. In Powder-in-Tube (PIT) wires the unreacted Nb7.5wt.%Ta outer layer of the tubular filaments acts as a diffusion barrier and protects the interfilamentary Cu stabilizer from Sn contamination. A high RRR requirement generally imposes a restricted A15 reaction heat treatment (HT) to prevent localized full reaction of the filament that could allow Sn to reach the Cu. In this paper we investigate recentmore » high quality PIT wires that achieve a J c(12 T, 4.2 K) up to ~2500 A/mm -2 and find that the minimum diffusion barrier thickness decreases as the filament aspect ratio increases from ~1 in the inner rings of filaments to 1.3 in the outer filament rings. We found that just 2-3 diffusion barrier breaches can degrade RRR from 300 to 150 or less. Using progressive etching of the Cu we also found that the RRR degradation is localized near the external filaments where deformation is highest. Consequently minimizing filament distortion during strand fabrication is important for reducing RRR degradation. The additional challenge of developing the highest possible J c must be addressed by forming the maximum fraction of high J c small-grain (SG) A15 and minimizing low J c large-grain (LG) A15 morphologies. Finally, in one wire we found that 15% of the filaments had a significantly enhanced SG/LG A15 ratio and no residual A15 in the core, a feature that opens a path to substantial J c improvement.« less

Quench performance and field quality of FNAL twin-aperture 11 T Nb 3Sn dipole model for LHC upgrades

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

Stoynev, Stoyan; Andreev, Nikolai; Apollinari, Giorgio

A 2 m long single-aperture dipole demonstrator and two 1 m long single-aperture models based on Nb 3Sn superconductor have been built and tested at FNAL. The two 1 m long collared coils were then assembled in a twin-aperture Nb 3Sn dipole demonstrator compatible with the LHC main dipole and tested in two thermal cycles. This paper summarizes the quench performance of the FNAL twin-aperture Nb 3Sn 11 T dipole in the temperature range of 1.9-4.5 K. The results of magnetic measurements for one of the two apertures are also presented. Test results are compared to the performance of coilsmore » in a single-aperture configuration. Lastly, a summary of quench propagation studies in both apertures is given.« less

Quench performance and field quality of FNAL twin-aperture 11 T Nb 3Sn dipole model for LHC upgrades

DOE PAGES

Stoynev, Stoyan; Andreev, Nikolai; Apollinari, Giorgio; ...

2016-12-07

A 2 m long single-aperture dipole demonstrator and two 1 m long single-aperture models based on Nb 3Sn superconductor have been built and tested at FNAL. The two 1 m long collared coils were then assembled in a twin-aperture Nb 3Sn dipole demonstrator compatible with the LHC main dipole and tested in two thermal cycles. This paper summarizes the quench performance of the FNAL twin-aperture Nb 3Sn 11 T dipole in the temperature range of 1.9-4.5 K. The results of magnetic measurements for one of the two apertures are also presented. Test results are compared to the performance of coilsmore » in a single-aperture configuration. Lastly, a summary of quench propagation studies in both apertures is given.« less

Effect of quasi-hydrostatical radial pressure on Ic of Nb3Sn wires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mondonico, G.; Seeber, B.; Ferreira, A.; Bordini, B.; Oberli, L.; Bottura, L.; Ballarino, A.; Flükiger, R.; Senatore, C.

2012-11-01

High-performance Nb3Sn conductors are intended to be used in large-scale magnets like the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) and in the upgrade of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). Due to the occurrence of high electromagnetic forces, a detailed knowledge of the response of the critical current to the three-dimensional mechanical loads acting on the wires inside the cables is required. A detailed analysis of transverse stress effects on the critical current for powder-in-tube and bronze route Nb3Sn wires is presented. In an earlier publication, we have described the effect of transverse stress exerted on a Nb3Sn wire by means of two parallel plates. In the present paper, we analyse the effect of transverse stress exerted simultaneously by four walls on a wire being confined in a U-shaped groove. In order to get a more realistic picture of the situation of wires embedded in a Rutherford cable, the compression by four walls was also performed after impregnating the wire with epoxy in the same U-shaped groove. The result is very different from the case of pressing by means of two walls: the effect of pressure on Ic is now strongly reduced, which is attributed to the almost hydrostatic pressure in the U-shaped groove. This is further confirmed by the comparison between the effects of axial and transverse loads on the upper critical field and the pinning force. The present data are also compared against the effects of mechanical load on the critical current of cables in large-scale magnets.

An Interaction between RRP6 and SU(VAR)3-9 Targets RRP6 to Heterochromatin and Contributes to Heterochromatin Maintenance in Drosophila melanogaster.

PubMed

Eberle, Andrea B; Jordán-Pla, Antonio; Gañez-Zapater, Antoni; Hessle, Viktoria; Silberberg, Gilad; von Euler, Anne; Silverstein, Rebecca A; Visa, Neus

2015-09-01

RNA surveillance factors are involved in heterochromatin regulation in yeast and plants, but less is known about the possible roles of ribonucleases in the heterochromatin of animal cells. Here we show that RRP6, one of the catalytic subunits of the exosome, is necessary for silencing heterochromatic repeats in the genome of Drosophila melanogaster. We show that a fraction of RRP6 is associated with heterochromatin, and the analysis of the RRP6 interaction network revealed physical links between RRP6 and the heterochromatin factors HP1a, SU(VAR)3-9 and RPD3. Moreover, genome-wide studies of RRP6 occupancy in cells depleted of SU(VAR)3-9 demonstrated that SU(VAR)3-9 contributes to the tethering of RRP6 to a subset of heterochromatic loci. Depletion of the exosome ribonucleases RRP6 and DIS3 stabilizes heterochromatic transcripts derived from transposons and repetitive sequences, and renders the heterochromatin less compact, as shown by micrococcal nuclease and proximity-ligation assays. Such depletion also increases the amount of HP1a bound to heterochromatic transcripts. Taken together, our results suggest that SU(VAR)3-9 targets RRP6 to a subset of heterochromatic loci where RRP6 degrades chromatin-associated non-coding RNAs in a process that is necessary to maintain the packaging of the heterochromatin.

An Interaction between RRP6 and SU(VAR)3-9 Targets RRP6 to Heterochromatin and Contributes to Heterochromatin Maintenance in Drosophila melanogaster

PubMed Central

Eberle, Andrea B.; Jordán-Pla, Antonio; Gañez-Zapater, Antoni; Hessle, Viktoria; Silberberg, Gilad; von Euler, Anne; Silverstein, Rebecca A.; Visa, Neus

2015-01-01

RNA surveillance factors are involved in heterochromatin regulation in yeast and plants, but less is known about the possible roles of ribonucleases in the heterochromatin of animal cells. Here we show that RRP6, one of the catalytic subunits of the exosome, is necessary for silencing heterochromatic repeats in the genome of Drosophila melanogaster. We show that a fraction of RRP6 is associated with heterochromatin, and the analysis of the RRP6 interaction network revealed physical links between RRP6 and the heterochromatin factors HP1a, SU(VAR)3-9 and RPD3. Moreover, genome-wide studies of RRP6 occupancy in cells depleted of SU(VAR)3-9 demonstrated that SU(VAR)3-9 contributes to the tethering of RRP6 to a subset of heterochromatic loci. Depletion of the exosome ribonucleases RRP6 and DIS3 stabilizes heterochromatic transcripts derived from transposons and repetitive sequences, and renders the heterochromatin less compact, as shown by micrococcal nuclease and proximity-ligation assays. Such depletion also increases the amount of HP1a bound to heterochromatic transcripts. Taken together, our results suggest that SU(VAR)3-9 targets RRP6 to a subset of heterochromatic loci where RRP6 degrades chromatin-associated non-coding RNAs in a process that is necessary to maintain the packaging of the heterochromatin. PMID:26389589

Optimization of ITER Nb3Sn CICCs for coupling loss, transverse electromagnetic load and axial thermal contraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nijhuis, A.; van Lanen, E. P. A.; Rolando, G.

2012-01-01

The ITER cable-in-conduit conductors (CICCs) are built up from sub-cable bundles, wound in different stages, which are twisted to counter coupling loss caused by time-changing external magnet fields. The selection of the twist pitch lengths has major implications for the performance of the cable in the case of strain-sensitive superconductors, i.e. Nb3Sn, as the electromagnetic and thermal contraction loads are large but also for the heat load from the AC coupling loss. At present, this is a great challenge for the ITER central solenoid (CS) CICCs and the solution presented here could be a breakthrough for not only the ITER CS but also for CICC applications in general. After proposing longer twist pitches in 2006 and successful confirmation by short sample tests later on, the ITER toroidal field (TF) conductor cable pattern was improved accordingly. As the restrictions for coupling loss are more demanding for the CS conductors than for the TF conductors, it was believed that longer pitches would not be applicable for the conductors in the CS coils. In this paper we explain how, with the use of the TEMLOP model and the newly developed models JackPot-ACDC and CORD, the design of a CICC can be improved appreciably, particularly for the CS conductor layout. For the first time a large improvement is predicted not only providing very low sensitivity to electromagnetic load and thermal axial cable stress variations but at the same time much lower AC coupling loss. Reduction of the transverse load and warm-up-cool-down degradation can be reached by applying longer twist pitches in a particular sequence for the sub-stages, offering a large cable transverse stiffness, adequate axial flexibility and maximum allowed lateral strand support. Analysis of short sample (TF conductor) data reveals that increasing the twist pitch can lead to a gain of the effective axial compressive strain of more than 0.3% with practically no degradation from bending. This is probably explained by

Performance of the first short model 150 mm aperture Nb$$_3$$Sn Quadrupole MQXFS for the High- Luminosity LHC upgrade

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

Chlachidze, G.; et al.

2016-08-30

The US LHC Accelerator Research Program (LARP) and CERN combined their efforts in developing Nb3Sn magnets for the High-Luminosity LHC upgrade. The ultimate goal of this collaboration is to fabricate large aperture Nb3Sn quadrupoles for the LHC interaction regions (IR). These magnets will replace the present 70 mm aperture NbTi quadrupole triplets for expected increase of the LHC peak luminosity by a factor of 5. Over the past decade LARP successfully fabricated and tested short and long models of 90 mm and 120 mm aperture Nb3Sn quadrupoles. Recently the first short model of 150 mm diameter quadrupole MQXFS was builtmore » with coils fabricated both by the LARP and CERN. The magnet performance was tested at Fermilab’s vertical magnet test facility. This paper reports the test results, including the quench training at 1.9 K, ramp rate and temperature dependence studies.« less

Design of a Nb3Sn Magnet for a 4th Generation ECR Ion Source

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

Prestemon, S,; Trillaud, F.; Caspi, S.

2008-08-17

The next generation of Electron Cyclotron Resonant (ECR) ion sources are expected to operate at a heating radio frequency greater than 40 GHz. The existing 3rd generation systems, exemplified by the state of the art system VENUS, operate in the 10-28 GHz range, and use NbTi superconductors for the confinement coils. The magnetic field needed to confine the plasma scales with the rf frequency, resulting in peak fields on the magnets of the 4th generation system in excess of 10 T. High field superconductors such as Nb{sub 3}Sn must therefore be considered. The magnetic design of a 4th. generation ECRmore » ion source operating at an rf frequency of 56 GHz is considered. The analysis considers both internal and external sextupole configurations, assuming commercially available Nb{sub 3}Sn material properties. Preliminary structural design issues are discussed based on the forces and margins associated with the coils in the different configurations, leading to quantitative data for the determination of a final magnet design.« less

Micro-abrasion-corrosion behaviour of a biomedical Ti-25Nb-3Mo-3Zr-2Sn alloy in simulated physiological fluid.

PubMed

Wang, Zhenguo; Li, Yan; Huang, Weijiu; Chen, Xiaoli; He, Haoran

2016-10-01

The micro-abrasion-corrosion behaviour of the biomedical Ti-25Nb-3Mo-3Zr-2Sn alloy in Hank׳s solution with protein has been investigated using electrochemical measurements, tribological tests and scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations. The potentiodynamic polarization tests showed that the corrosion potential (Ecorr) exhibits the maximum value at the abrasive concentration of 0.05gcm(-3) despite of the load level. The tribological results indicated that the total material loss of the Ti-25Nb-3Mo-3Zr-2Sn alloy during micro-abrasion increased with the increasing abrasive concentration at a certain applied load. When the abrasive concentration is no more than 0.15gcm(-3), the total material loss increases with increasing load, while the total material loss exhibits the maximum value at a moderate load in case of higher abrasive concentration levels. This was ascribed to the three-body or two-body micro-abrasion-corrosion at different abrasive concentration levels. The wastage map, abrasion mode map and synergy map associated with the applied load and the abrasive concentration were constructed to evaluate the micro-abrasion-corrosion behaviour of the Ti-25Nb-3Mo-3Zr-2Sn alloy in potential biomedical applications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A New Understanding of the Heat Treatment of Nb-Sn Superconducting Wires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanabria, Charlie

Enhancing the beam energy of particle accelerators like the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), at CERN, can increase our probability of finding new fundamental particles of matter beyond those predicted by the standard model. Such discoveries could improve our understanding of the birth of universe, the universe itself, and/or many other mysteries of matter--that have been unresolved for decades--such as dark matter and dark energy. This is obviously a very exciting field of research, and therefore a worldwide collaboration (of universities, laboratories, and the industry) is attempting to increase the beam energy in the LHC. One of the most challenging requirements for an energy increase is the production of a magnetic field homogeneous enough and strong enough to bend the high energy particle beam to keep it inside the accelerating ring. In the current LHC design, these beam bending magnets are made of Nb Ti superconductors, reaching peak fields of 8 T. However, in order to move to higher fields, future magnets will have to use different and more advanced superconducting materials. Among the most viable superconductor wire technologies for future particle accelerator magnets is Nb3Sn, a technology that has been used in high field magnets for many decades. However, Nb3Sn magnet fabrication has an important challenge: the fact the wire fabrication and the coil assembly itself must be done using ductile metallic components (Nb, Sn, and Cu) before the superconducting compound (Nb3 Sn) is activated inside the wires through a heat treatment. The studies presented in this thesis work have found that the heat treatment schedule used on the most advanced Nb3Sn wire technology (the Restacked Rod Process wires, RRPRTM) can still undergo significant improvements. These improvements have already led to an increase of the figure of merit of these wires (critical current density) by 28%.

Effect of annealing temperature on microstructure and superelastic properties of a Ti-18Zr-4.5Nb-3Sn-2Mo alloy.

PubMed

Fu, Jie; Kim, Hee Young; Miyazaki, Shuichi

2017-01-01

In this study a new superelastic Ti-18Zr-4.5Nb-3Sn-2Mo alloy was prepared by adding 2at% of Mo as a substitute for Nb to the Ti-18Zr-11Nb-3Sn alloy, and heat treatment at different temperatures was conducted. The temperature dependence of superelasticity and annealing texture was investigated. Texture showed a dependence of annealing temperature: the specimen annealed at 923K for 0.3ks exhibited {113} β <47¯1> β type texture which was similar to the deformation texture, while specimens annealed at 973, 1073K, and 1173K showed {001} β <110> β type recrystallization texture which was preferable for recovery strain. The largest recovery strain of 6.2%, which is the same level as that of the Ti-18Zr-11Nb-3Sn alloy, was obtained in the specimen annealed at 1173K for 0.3ks due to the well-developed {001} β <110> β type recrystallization texture. The Ti-18Zr-3Nb-3Sn-2Mo alloy presented a higher tensile strength compared with the Ti-18Zr-11Nb-3Sn alloy when heat treated at 1173K for 0.3ks, which was due to the solid solution strengthening effect of Mo. Annealing at 923K for 0.3ks was effective in obtaining a good combination of a high strength as 865MPa and a large recovery strain as 5.6%. The high recovery strain was due to the high stress at which the maximum recovery stain was obtained which was attributed to the small grain size formed at low annealing temperature. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Manufacture and evaluation of Nb/sub 3/Sn conductors fabricated by the MJR method

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

McDonald, W.K.; Curtis, C.W.; Scanlan, R.M.

1982-11-23

The bronze matrix/niobium filament process has become established as a commercially viable method for producing multifilamentary Nb/sub 3/Sn superconductors. This paper describes a new method, the Modified Jelly-Roll (MJR) approach, which can produce a structure similar to that in a conventionally fabricated multifilamentary Nb/sub 3/Sn conductor. This approach utilizes alternate sheets of niobium expanded metal and bronze, which are rolled into a jelly-roll configuration and then extruded. During extrusion and subsequent drawing, the junctures in the niobium are elongated and the material develops a filamentary structure. This method may offer significant advantages in terms of reduced fabrication time and costmore » over the conventional approach. Results of a manufacturing development program will be presented in which two lengths of conductor were made to High-Field Test Facility conductor specifications. In addition, critical current and transition temperature measurements of the sub-elements used to construct the HFTF-type lengths will be reported.« less

Proof-of-principle demonstration of Nb3Sn superconducting radiofrequency cavities for high Q0 applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Posen, S.; Liepe, M.; Hall, D. L.

2015-02-01

Many future particle accelerators require hundreds of superconducting radiofrequency (SRF) cavities operating with high duty factor. The large dynamic heat load of the cavities causes the cryogenic plant to make up a significant part of the overall cost of the facility. This contribution can be reduced by replacing standard niobium cavities with ones coated with a low-dissipation superconductor such as Nb3Sn. In this paper, we present results for single cell cavities coated with Nb3Sn at Cornell. Five coatings were carried out, showing that at 4.2 K, high Q0 out to medium fields was reproducible, resulting in an average quench field of 14 MV/m and an average 4.2 K Q0 at quench of 8 × 109. In each case, the peak surface magnetic field at quench was well above Hc1, showing that it is not a limiting field in these cavities. The coating with the best performance had a quench field of 17 MV/m, exceeding gradient requirements for state-of-the-art high duty factor SRF accelerators. It is also shown that—taking into account the thermodynamic efficiency of the cryogenic plant—the 4.2 K Q0 values obtained meet the AC power consumption requirements of state-of-the-art high duty factor accelerators, making this a proof-of-principle demonstration for Nb3Sn cavities in future applications.

On the Alloying and Properties of Tetragonal Nb5Si3 in Nb-Silicide Based Alloys

PubMed Central

Tsakiropoulos, Panos

2018-01-01

The alloying of Nb5Si3 modifies its properties. Actual compositions of (Nb,TM)5X3 silicides in developmental alloys, where X = Al + B + Ge + Si + Sn and TM is a transition and/or refractory metal, were used to calculate the composition weighted differences in electronegativity (Δχ) and an average valence electron concentration (VEC) and the solubility range of X to study the alloying and properties of the silicide. The calculations gave 4.11 < VEC < 4.45, 0.103 < Δχ < 0.415 and 33.6 < X < 41.6 at.%. In the silicide in Nb-24Ti-18Si-5Al-5Cr alloys with single addition of 5 at.% B, Ge, Hf, Mo, Sn and Ta, the solubility range of X decreased compared with the unalloyed Nb5Si3 or exceeded 40.5 at.% when B was with Hf or Mo or Sn and the Δχ decreased with increasing X. The Ge concentration increased with increasing Ti and the Hf concentration increased and decreased with increasing Ti or Nb respectively. The B and Sn concentrations respectively decreased and increased with increasing Ti and also depended on other additions in the silicide. The concentration of Sn was related to VEC and the concentrations of B and Ge were related to Δχ. The alloying of Nb5Si3 was demonstrated in Δχ versus VEC maps. Effects of alloying on the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) anisotropy, Young’s modulus, hardness and creep data were discussed. Compared with the hardness of binary Nb5Si3 (1360 HV), the hardness increased in silicides with Ge and dropped below 1360 HV when Al, B and Sn were present without Ge. The Al effect on hardness depended on other elements substituting Si. Sn reduced the hardness. Ti or Hf reduced the hardness more than Cr in Nb5Si3 without Ge. The (Nb,Hf)5(Si,Al)3 had the lowest hardness. VEC differentiated the effects of additions on the hardness of Nb5Si3 alloyed with Ge. Deterioration of the creep of alloyed Nb5Si3 was accompanied by decrease of VEC and increase or decrease of Δχ depending on alloying addition(s). PMID:29300327

The exosome component Rrp6 is required for RNA polymerase II termination at specific targets of the Nrd1-Nab3 pathway.

PubMed

Fox, Melanie J; Gao, Hongyu; Smith-Kinnaman, Whitney R; Liu, Yunlong; Mosley, Amber L

2015-01-01

The exosome and its nuclear specific subunit Rrp6 form a 3'-5' exonuclease complex that regulates diverse aspects of RNA biology including 3' end processing and degradation of a variety of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) and unstable transcripts. Known targets of the nuclear exosome include short (<1000 bp) RNAPII transcripts such as small noncoding RNAs (snRNAs), cryptic unstable transcripts (CUTs), and some stable unannotated transcripts (SUTs) that are terminated by an Nrd1, Nab3, and Sen1 (NNS) dependent mechanism. NNS-dependent termination is coupled to RNA 3' end processing and/or degradation by the Rrp6/exosome in yeast. Recent work suggests Nrd1 is necessary for transcriptome surveillance, regulating promoter directionality and suppressing antisense transcription independently of, or prior to, Rrp6 activity. It remains unclear whether Rrp6 is directly involved in termination; however, Rrp6 has been implicated in the 3' end processing and degradation of ncRNA transcripts including CUTs. To determine the role of Rrp6 in NNS termination globally, we performed RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) on total RNA and perform ChIP-exo analysis of RNA Polymerase II (RNAPII) localization. Deletion of RRP6 promotes hyper-elongation of multiple NNS-dependent transcripts resulting from both improperly processed 3' RNA ends and faulty transcript termination at specific target genes. The defects in RNAPII termination cause transcriptome-wide changes in mRNA expression through transcription interference and/or antisense repression, similar to previously reported effects of depleting Nrd1 from the nucleus. Elongated transcripts were identified within all classes of known NNS targets with the largest changes in transcription termination occurring at CUTs. Interestingly, the extended transcripts that we have detected in our studies show remarkable similarity to Nrd1-unterminated transcripts at many locations, suggesting that Rrp6 acts with the NNS complex globally to promote transcription

Proof-of-principle demonstration of Nb 3Sn superconducting radiofrequency cavities for high Q 0 applications

DOE PAGES

Posen, S.; Liepe, M.; Hall, D. L.

2015-02-23

Many future particle accelerators require hundreds of superconducting radiofrequency (SRF) cavities operating with high duty factor. The large dynamic heat load of the cavities causes the cryogenic plant to make up a significant part of the overall cost of the facility. Our contribution can be reduced by replacing standard niobium cavities with ones coated with a low-dissipation superconductor such as Nb 3Sn. Here, we present results for single cell cavities coated with Nb 3Sn at Cornell. Five coatings were carried out, showing that at 4.2 K, high Q 0 out to medium fields was reproducible, resulting in an average quenchmore » field of 14 MV/m and an average 4.2 K Q 0 at quench of 8 x 10 9 . In each case, the peak surface magnetic field at quench was well above H c1, showing that it is not a limiting field in these cavities. Furthermore, the coating with the best performance had a quench field of 17 MV/m, exceeding gradient requirements for state-of-the-art high duty factor SRF accelerators. It is also shown that—taking into account the thermodynamic efficiency of the cryogenic plant—the 4.2 K Q 0 values obtained meet the AC power consumption requirements of state-of-the-art high duty factor accelerators, making this a proof-of-principle demonstration for Nb 3Sn cavities in future applications.« less

Fabrication and Analysis of 150-mm-Aperture Nb 3Sn MQXF Coils

DOE PAGES

Holik, E. F.; Ambrosio, G.; Anerella, M.; ...

2016-01-12

The U.S. LHC Accelerator Research Program (LARP) and CERN are combining efforts for the HiLumi-LHC upgrade to design and fabricate 150-mm-aperture, interaction region quadrupoles with a nominal gradient of 130 T/m using Nb 3Sn. To successfully produce the necessary long MQXF triplets, the HiLumi-LHC collaboration is systematically reducing risk and design modification by heavily relying upon the experience gained from the successful 120-mm-aperture LARP HQ program. First generation MQXF short (MQXFS) coils were predominately a scaling up of the HQ quadrupole design allowing comparable cable expansion during Nb 3Sn formation heat treatment and increased insulation fraction for electrical robustness. Amore » total of 13 first generation MQXFS coils were fabricated between LARP and CERN. Systematic differences in coil size, coil alignment symmetry, and coil length contraction during heat treatment are observed and likely due to slight variances in tooling and insulation/cable systems. Analysis of coil cross sections indicate that field-shaping wedges and adjacent coil turns are systematically displaced from the nominal location and the cable is expanding less than nominally designed. Lastly, a second generation MQXF coil design seeks to correct the expansion and displacement discrepancies by increasing insulation and adding adjustable shims at the coil pole and midplanes to correct allowed magnetic field harmonics.« less

Design Studies and Optimization of High-Field Nb$$_3$$Sn Dipole Magnets for a Future Very High Energy PP Collider

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

Kashikhin, V. V.; Novitski, I.; Zlobin, A. V.

2017-05-01

High filed accelerator magnets with operating fields of 15-16 T based on themore » $$Nb_3Sn$$ superconductor are being considered for the LHC energy upgrade or a future Very High Energy pp Collider. Magnet design studies are being conducted in the U.S., Europe and Asia to explore the limits of the $$Nb_3Sn$$ accelerator magnet technology while optimizing the magnet design and performance parame-ters, and reducing magnet cost. The first results of these studies performed at Fermilab in the framework of the US-MDP are reported in this paper.« less

Degradation of a Polyadenylated rRNA Maturation By-Product Involves One of the Three RRP6-Like Proteins in Arabidopsis thaliana▿

PubMed Central

Lange, Heike; Holec, Sarah; Cognat, Valérie; Pieuchot, Laurent; Le Ret, Monique; Canaday, Jean; Gagliardi, Dominique

2008-01-01

Yeast Rrp6p and its human counterpart, PM/Scl100, are exosome-associated proteins involved in the degradation of aberrant transcripts and processing of precursors to stable RNAs, such as the 5.8S rRNA, snRNAs, and snoRNAs. The activity of yeast Rrp6p is stimulated by the polyadenylation of its RNA substrates. We identified three RRP6-like proteins in Arabidopsis thaliana: AtRRP6L3 is restricted to the cytoplasm, whereas AtRRP6L1 and -2 have different intranuclear localizations. Both nuclear RRP6L proteins are functional, since AtRRP6L1 complements the temperature-sensitive phenotype of a yeast rrp6Δ strain and mutation of AtRRP6L2 leads to accumulation of an rRNA maturation by-product. This by-product corresponds to the excised 5′ part of the 18S-5.8S-25S rRNA precursor and accumulates as a polyadenylated transcript, suggesting that RRP6L2 is involved in poly(A)-mediated RNA degradation in plant nuclei. Interestingly, the rRNA maturation by-product is a substrate of AtRRP6L2 but not of AtRRP6L1. This result and the distinctive subcellular distribution of AtRRP6L1 to -3 indicate a specialization of RRP6-like proteins in Arabidopsis. PMID:18285452

Transformer-rectifier flux pump using inductive current transfer and thermally controlled Nb(3)Sn cryotrons.

PubMed

Atherton, D L; Davies, R

1979-10-01

Transformer-rectifier flux pumps using thermally switched Nb(3)Sn cryotrons are being investigated as a loss make-up device for the proposed isochorically operated (sealed) superconducting magnets for the Canadian Maglev vehicle. High currents (1000 A) were obtained in an experimental flux pump using inductive current transfer and operating at 2 Hz.

Magnetization measurements on multifilamentary No/sub 3/Sn and NbTi conductors

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

Ghosh, A.K.; Robins, K.E.; Sampson, W.B.

1985-03-01

The effective filament size has been determined for a number of high current Nb/sub 3/Sn multifilamentary composites. In most cases it is much larger than the nominal filament size. For the smallest filaments (..integral.. 1 micron) the effective size can be as much as a factor of forty times the nominal size. Samples made by the ''internal tin'', ''bronze route'', and ''jelly roll'' methods have been examined with filaments in the range one to ten microns. Rate dependent magnetization and ''flux'' jumping'' have been observed in some cases. NbTi composites ranging in filament size from nine to two hundred micronsmore » and with copper to super-conductor ratios between 1.6:1 and 7:1 have been examined in the same apparatus. Low field ''flux jumping'' was only observed in conductors with very large filaments and relatively little stabilizing copper.« less

Quench Modeling in High-field Nb3Sn Accelerator Magnets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bermudez, S. Izquierdo; Bajas, H.; Bottura, L.

The development of high-field magnets is on-going in the framework of the LHC luminosity upgrade. The resulting peak field, in the range of 12 T to 13 T, requires the use Nb3Sn as superconductor. Due to the high stored energy density (compact winding for cost reduction) and the low stabilizer fraction (to achieve the desired margins), quench protection becomes a challenging problem. Accurate simulation of quench transientsin these magnets is hence crucial to the design choices, the definition of priority R&D and to prove that the magnets are fit for operation. In this paper we focus on the modelling of quench initiation and propagation, we describe approaches that are suitable for magnet simulation, and we compare numerical results with available experimental data.

Construction and component testing of TAMU3, a 14 Tesla stress-managed Nb3Sn model dipole

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holik, Eddie Frank, III; Benson, Chris; Blackburn, Raymond; Diaczenko, Nick; Elliott, Timothy; Jaisle, Andrew; McInturff, A.; McIntyre, P.; Sattarov, Akhdiyor

2012-06-01

We report the construction and testing of components of TAMU3, a 14 Tesla Nb3Sn block-coil dipole. A primary goal in developing this model dipole is to test a method of stress management in which Lorentz stress is intercepted within the coil assembly and bypassed so that it cannot accumulate to a level that would cause strain degradation in the superconducting windings. Details of the fabrication, tooling, and results of construction and magnet component testing will be presented.

The upper critical field of filamentary Nb3Sn conductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Godeke, A.; Jewell, M. C.; Fischer, C. M.; Squitieri, A. A.; Lee, P. J.; Larbalestier, D. C.

2005-05-01

We have examined the upper critical field of a large and representative set of present multifilamentary Nb3Sn wires and one bulk sample over a temperature range from 1.4 K up to the zero-field critical temperature. Since all present wires use a solid-state diffusion reaction to form the A15 layers, inhomogeneities with respect to Sn content are inevitable, in contrast to some previously studied homogeneous samples. Our study emphasizes the effects that these inevitable inhomogeneities have on the field-temperature phase boundary. The property inhomogeneities are extracted from field-dependent resistive transitions which we find broaden with increasing inhomogeneity. The upper 90%-99% of the transitions clearly separates alloyed and binary wires but a pure, Cu-free binary bulk sample also exhibits a zero-temperature critical field that is comparable to the ternary wires. The highest μ0Hc2 detected in the ternary wires are remarkably constant: The highest zero-temperature upper critical fields and zero-field critical temperatures fall within 29.5±0.3 and 17.8±0.3K, respectively, independent of the wire layout. The complete field-temperature phase boundary can be described very well with the relatively simple Maki-DeGennes model using a two-parameter fit, independent of composition, strain state, sample layout, or applied critical state criterion.

Conceptual Design Study of Nb(3)Sn Low-beta Quadrupoles for 2nd Generation LHC IRs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zlobin, A. V.; Ambrosio, G.; Andreev, N.; Barzi, E.; Bauer, P.

2002-10-01

Conceptual designs of 90-mm aperture high gradient quadrupoles based on the Nb3Sn superconductor, are being developed at Fermilab for possible 2nd generation IRs with the similar optics as in the current low-beta insertions. Magnet designs and results of magnetic, mechanical, thermal and quench protection analysis for these magnets are presented and discussed.

Field Quality Study of a 1-m-Long Single-Aperture 11-T Nb$$_3$$Sn Dipole Model for LHC Upgrades

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

Chlachidze, G.; DiMarco, J.; Andreev, N.

2014-01-01

FNAL and CERN are carrying out a joint R&D program with the goal of building a 5.5-m-long twin-aperture 11-T Nb_3Sn dipole prototype that is suitable for installation in the LHC. An important part of the program is the development and test of a series of short single-aperture and twin-aperture dipole models with a nominal field of 11 T at the LHC operation current of 11.85 kA and 20% margin. This paper presents the results of magnetic measurements of a 1-m-long single-aperture Nb_3Sn dipole model fabricated and tested recently at FNAL, including geometrical field harmonics and effects of coil magnetization andmore » iron yoke saturation.« less

Nuclear RNA Exosome at 3.1 Å Reveals Substrate Specificities, RNA Paths, and Allosteric Inhibition of Rrp44/Dis3.

PubMed

Zinder, John C; Wasmuth, Elizabeth V; Lima, Christopher D

2016-11-17

The eukaryotic RNA exosome is an essential and conserved 3'-to-5' exoribonuclease complex that degrades or processes nearly every class of cellular RNA. The nuclear RNA exosome includes a 9-subunit non-catalytic core that binds Rrp44 (Dis3) and Rrp6 subunits to modulate their processive and distributive 3'-to-5' exoribonuclease activities, respectively. Here we utilize an engineered RNA with two 3' ends to obtain a crystal structure of an 11-subunit nuclear exosome bound to RNA at 3.1 Å. The structure reveals an extended RNA path to Rrp6 that penetrates into the non-catalytic core; contacts between the non-catalytic core and Rrp44, which inhibit exoribonuclease activity; and features of the Rrp44 exoribonuclease site that support its ability to degrade 3' phosphate RNA substrates. Using reconstituted exosome complexes, we show that 3' phosphate RNA is not a substrate for Rrp6 but is readily degraded by Rrp44 in the nuclear exosome. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Embedded fiber Bragg grating sensors for true temperature monitoring in Nb3Sn superconducting magnets for high energy physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chiuchiolo, A.; Bajas, H.; Bajko, M.; Consales, M.; Giordano, M.; Perez, J. C.; Cusano, A.

2016-05-01

The luminosity upgrade of the Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC) planned at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) requires the development of a new generation of superconducting magnets based on Nb3Sn technology. The instrumentation required for the racetrack coils needs the development of reliable sensing systems able to monitor the magnet thermo-mechanical behavior during its service life, from the coil fabrication to the magnet operation. With this purpose, Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors have been embedded in the coils of the Short Model Coil (SMC) magnet fabricated at CERN. The FBG sensitivity to both temperature and strain required the development of a solution able to separate mechanical and temperature effects. This work presents for the first time a feasibility study devoted to the implementation of an embedded FBG sensor for the measurement of the "true" temperature in the impregnated Nb3Sn coil during the fabrication process.

Generation of 24 T at 4.2 K using a layer-wound GdBCO insert coil with Nb3Sn and Nb-Ti external magnetic field coils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsumoto, S.; Kiyoshi, T.; Otsuka, A.; Hamada, M.; Maeda, H.; Yanagisawa, Y.; Nakagome, H.; Suematsu, H.

2012-02-01

High-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnets are believed to be a practical option in the development of high field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) systems. The development of a 600 MHz NMR system that uses an HTS magnet and a probe with an HTS radio frequency coil is underway. The HTS NMR magnet is expected to reduce the volume occupied by the magnet and to encourage users to install higher field NMR systems. The tolerance to high tensile stress is expected for HTS conductors in order to reduce the magnet in volume. A layer-wound Gd-Ba-Cu-O (GdBCO) insert coil was fabricated in order to investigate its properties under a high electromagnetic force in a high magnetic field. The GdBCO insert coil was successfully operated at a current of up to 321 A and an electromagnetic force BJR of 408 MPa in an external magnetic field generated by Nb3Sn and Nb-Ti low-temperature superconducting coils. The GdBCO insert coil also managed to generate a magnetic field of 6.8 T at the center of the coil in an external magnetic field of 17.2 T. The superconducting magnet consisting of GdBCO, Nb3Sn and Nb-Ti coils successfully generated a magnetic field of 24.0 T at 4.2 K, which represents a new record for a superconducting magnet.

The transverse stress effect on the critical current of jelly-roll multifilamentary Nb sub 3 Al wires

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

Zeritis, D.; Iwasa, Y.; Ando, T.

This paper reports on experiments conducted to determine the effect of transverse compressive stress (TCS) on the critical current of jelly-roll multifilamentary Nb{sub 3}Al wire (0.8-mm dia.) for magnetic flux densities up to 12 T. For comparison, identical experiments were performed for bronze-process Ti-alloyed multifilamentary Nb{sub 3}Sn wire (1.0-mm dia.). Although the unstressed critical current density of Nb{sub 3}Al was inferior to that of (NbTi){sub 3}Sn at high fields, under applied TCS Nb{sub 3}Al exhibited less critical current degradation than (NbTi){sub 3}Sn. For example, at 12 T and 150 MPa, TCS-induced critical current degradation was approximately 20% for Nb{sub 3}Al,more » whereas it was approximately 65% for (NbTi){sub 3}Sn. There is optimism that Nb{sub 3}Al will evolve into a useful superconductor for large-scale, high-field applications.« less

Round Robin Test of Residual Resistance Ratio of Nb$$_3$$Sn Composite Superconductors

DOE PAGES

Matsushita, Teruo; Otabe, Edmund Soji; Kim, Dong Ho; ...

2017-12-07

A round robin test of residual resistance ratio (RRR) was performed for Nb 3Sn composite superconductors prepared by internal tin method by six institutes with the international standard test method described in IEC 61788-4. It was found that uncertainty mainly resulted from determination of the cryogenic resistance from the intersection of two straight lines drawn to fit the voltage vs. temperature curve around the resistive transition. As a result, the measurement clarified that RRR can be measured with expanded uncertainty not larger than 5% with the coverage factor 2 by using this test method.

Round Robin Test of Residual Resistance Ratio of Nb$$_3$$Sn Composite Superconductors

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

Matsushita, Teruo; Otabe, Edmund Soji; Kim, Dong Ho

A round robin test of residual resistance ratio (RRR) was performed for Nb 3Sn composite superconductors prepared by internal tin method by six institutes with the international standard test method described in IEC 61788-4. It was found that uncertainty mainly resulted from determination of the cryogenic resistance from the intersection of two straight lines drawn to fit the voltage vs. temperature curve around the resistive transition. As a result, the measurement clarified that RRR can be measured with expanded uncertainty not larger than 5% with the coverage factor 2 by using this test method.

Materials, Strands, and Cables for Superconducting Accelerator Magnets. Final Report

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

Sumption, Mike D.; Collings, Edward W.

2014-09-19

This report focuses on Materials, Strands and Cables for High Energy Physics Particle accelerators. In the materials area, work has included studies of basic reactions, diffusion, transformations, and phase assemblage of Nb 3Sn. These materials science aspects have been married to results, in the form of flux pinning, B c2, B irr, and transport J c, with an emphasis on obtaining the needed J c for HEP needs. Attention has also been paid to the “intermediate-temperature superconductor”, magnesium diboride emphasis being placed on (i) irreversibility field enhancement, (ii) critical current density and flux pinning, and (iii) connectivity. We also reportmore » on studies of Bi-2212. The second area of the program has been in the area of “Strands” in which, aside from the materials aspect of the conductor, its physical properties and their influence on performance have been studied. Much of this work has been in the area of magnetization estimation and flux jump calculation and control. One of the areas of this work was strand instabilities in high-performance Nb 3Sn conductors due to combined fields and currents. Additionally, we investigated quench and thermal propagation in YBCO coated conductors at low temperatures and high fields. The last section, “Cables”, focussed on interstrand contact resistance, ICR, it origins, control, and implications. Following on from earlier work in NbTi, the present work in Nb 3Sn has aimed to make ICR intermediate between the two extremes of too little contact (no current sharing) and too much (large and unacceptable magnetization and associated beam de-focussing). Interstrand contact and current sharing measurements are being made on YBCO based Roebel cables using transport current methods. Finally, quench was investigated for YBCO cables and the magnets wound from them, presently with a focus on 50 T solenoids for muon collider applications.« less

In vitro corrosion behaviour of Ti-Nb-Sn shape memory alloys in Ringer's physiological solution.

PubMed

Rosalbino, F; Macciò, D; Scavino, G; Saccone, A

2012-04-01

The nearly equiatomic Ni-Ti alloy (Nitinol) has been widely employed in the medical and dental fields owing to its shape memory or superelastic properties. The main concern about the use of this alloy derives form the fact that it contains a large amount of nickel (55% by mass), which is suspected responsible for allergic, toxic and carcinogenic reactions. In this work, the in vitro corrosion behavior of two Ti-Nb-Sn shape memory alloys, Ti-16Nb-5Sn and Ti-18Nb-4Sn (mass%) has been investigated and compared with that of Nitinol. The in vitro corrosion resistance was assessed in naturally aerated Ringer's physiological solution at 37°C by corrosion potential and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements as a function of exposure time, and potentiodynamic polarization curves. Corrosion potential values indicated that both Ni-Ti and Ti-Nb-Sn alloys undergo spontaneous passivation due to spontaneously formed oxide film passivating the metallic surface, in the aggressive environment. It also indicated that the tendency for the formation of a spontaneous oxide is greater for the Ti-18Nb-5Sn alloy. Significantly low anodic current density values were obtained from the polarization curves, indicating a typical passive behaviour for all investigated alloys, but Nitinol exhibited breakdown of passivity at potentials above approximately 450 mV(SCE), suggesting lower corrosion protection characteristics of its oxide film compared to the Ti-Nb-Sn alloys. EIS studies showed high impedance values for all samples, increasing with exposure time, indicating an improvement in corrosion resistance of the spontaneous oxide film. The obtained EIS spectra were analyzed using an equivalent electrical circuit representing a duplex structure oxide film, composed by an outer and porous layer (low resistance), and an inner barrier layer (high resistance) mainly responsible for the alloys corrosion resistance. The resistance of passive film present on the metals' surface

Electrochemical corrosion and bioactivity of Ti-Nb-Sn-hydroxyapatite composites fabricated by pulse current activated sintering.

PubMed

Xiaopeng, Wang; Fantao, Kong; Biqing, Han; Yuyong, Chen

2017-11-01

Ti-Nb-Sn-hydroxyapatite (HA) composites were prepared by mechanical alloying for different times (unmilled, 4, 8 and 12h), followed by pulse current activated sintering. The effects of the milling time on the electrochemical corrosion resistance and bioactivity of the sintered Ti-35Nb-2.5Sn-15HA composites were investigated. Potentiodynamic polarization test results indicated that the sintered Ti-35Nb-2.5Sn-15HA composites exhibited higher corrosion resistance with increasing milling time. The corrosion potential and current of the Ti-35Nb-2.5Sn-15HA composite sintered by 12h milled powders were - 0.261V and 0.18μA/cm 2 , respectively, and this sintered composite showed a stable and wide passivation region. The hemolysis rate of the sintered Ti-35Nb-2.5Sn-15HA composites reduced with increasing milling time and the lowest hemolytic rate of the composites was 0.87%. In addition, the in vitro cell culture results indicated that the composite sintered by 12h milled powders had good biocompatibility. These results indicate the significant potential of Ti-35Nb-2.5Sn/xHA composites for biomedical implant applications. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mechanical behaviors of multi-filament twist superconducting strand under tensile and cyclic loading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xu; Li, Yingxu; Gao, Yuanwen

2016-01-01

The superconducting strand, serving as the basic unit cell of the cable-in-conduit-conductors (CICCs), is a typical multi-filament twist composite which is always subjected to a cyclic loading under the operating condition. Meanwhile, the superconducting material Nb3Sn in the strand is sensitive to strain frequently relating to the performance degradation of the superconductivity. Therefore, a comprehensive study on the mechanical behavior of the strand helps understanding the superconducting performance of the strained Nb3Sn strands. To address this issue, taking the LMI (internal tin) strand as an example, a three-dimensional structural finite element model, named as the Multi-filament twist model, of the strand with the real configuration of the LMI strand is built to study the influences of the plasticity of the component materials, the twist of the filament bundle, the initial thermal residual stress and the breakage and its evolution of the filaments on the mechanical behaviors of the strand. The effective properties of superconducting filament bundle with random filament breakage and its evolution versus strain are obtained based on the damage theory of fiber-reinforced composite materials proposed by Curtin and Zhou. From the calculation results of this model, we find that the occurrence of the hysteresis loop in the cyclic loading curve is determined by the reverse yielding of the elastic-plastic materials in the strand. Both the initial thermal residual stress in the strand and the pitch length of the filaments have significant impacts on the axial and hysteretic behaviors of the strand. The damage of the filaments also affects the axial mechanical behavior of the strand remarkably at large axial strain. The critical current of the strand is calculated by the scaling law with the results of the Multi-filament twist model. The predicted results of the Multi-filament twist model show an acceptable agreement with the experiment.

The characterisation of second phases in the Zr-Nb and Zr-Nb-Sn-Fe alloys: A critical review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harte, Allan; Griffiths, Malcolm; Preuss, Michael

2018-07-01

The nature and evolution of the Fe environment in Zr-Nb and Zr-Nb-Sn-Fe systems is essential to alloy performance during corrosion, hardening and irradiation-induced growth. Unfortunately, there is ambiguity in the literature regarding the characterisation of secondary phases in these systems. The presence, or not, of Fe in β-Nb phase has been a source of disagreement. In ternary ZrNbFe intermetallics, identical compositions have been designated as Zr(Nb,Fe)2 or (Zr,Nb)3Fe. We show that while Zr(Nb,Fe)2 is commonly reported, it is not always justified. The cubic phase (Zr,Nb)2Fe is easily identified, but its composition is more variable after low temperature heat treatments. We demonstrate the need for correlative approaches in the assessment of phase composition, crystallography and local Fe environment under different heat treatment regimes. Irradiation effects allow us to draw clues regarding phase designation, but there is diverse behaviour under irradiation due to initial phase composition, irradiation dose rate and temperature.

Electrochemical oxidation of hydrolyzed poly oxymethylene-dimethyl ether by PtRu catalysts on Nb-doped SnO(2-δ) supports for direct oxidation fuel cells.

PubMed

Kakinuma, Katsuyoshi; Kim, In-Tae; Senoo, Yuichi; Yano, Hiroshi; Watanabe, Masahiro; Uchida, Makoto

2014-12-24

We synthesized Pt and PtRu catalysts supported on Nb-doped SnO(2-δ) (Pt/Sn0.99Nb0.01O(2-δ), PtRu/Sn0.99Nb0.01O(2-δ)) for direct oxidation fuel cells (DOFCs) using poly oxymethylene-dimethyl ether (POMMn, n = 2, 3) as a fuel. The onset potential for the oxidation of simulated fuels of POMMn (methanol-formaldehyde mixtures; n = 2, 3) for Pt/Sn0.99Nb0.01O(2-δ) and PtRu/Sn0.99Nb0.01O(2-δ) was less than 0.3 V vs RHE, which was much lower than those of two commercial catalysts (PtRu black and Pt2Ru3/carbon black). In particular, the onset potential of the oxidation reaction of simulated fuels of POMMn (n = 2, 3) for PtRu/Sn0.99Nb0.01O(2-δ) sintered at 800 °C in nitrogen atmosphere was less than 0.1 V vs RHE and is thus considered to be a promising anode catalyst for DOFCs. The mass activity (MA) of PtRu/Sn0.99Nb0.01O(2-δ) sintered at 800 °C was more than five times larger than those of the commercial catalysts in the measurement temperature range from 25 to 80 °C. Even though the MA for the methanol oxidation reaction was of the same order as those of the commercial catalysts, the MA for the formaldehyde oxidation reaction was more than five times larger than those of the commercial catalysts. Sn from the Sn0.99Nb0.01O(2-δ) support was found to have diffused into the Pt catalyst during the sintering process. The Sn on the top surface of the Pt catalyst accelerated the oxidation of carbon monoxide by a bifunctional mechanism, similar to that for Pt-Ru catalysts.

Alloying and Properties of C14-NbCr₂ and A15-Nb₃X (X = Al, Ge, Si, Sn) in Nb-Silicide-Based Alloys.

PubMed

Tsakiropoulos, Panos

2018-03-07

The oxidation of Nb-silicide-based alloys is improved with Al, Cr, Ge or Sn addition(s). Depending on addition(s) and its(their) concentration(s), alloyed C14-AB₂ Laves and A15-A₃X phases can be stable in the microstructures of the alloys. In both phases, A is the transition metal(s), and B and X respectively can be Cr, Al, Ge, Si or Sn, and Al, Ge, Si or Sn. The alloying, creep and hardness of these phases were studied using the composition weighted differences in electronegativity (∆χ), average valence electron concentrations (VEC) and atomic sizes. For the Laves phase (i) the VEC and ∆χ were in the ranges 4.976 < VEC < 5.358 and -0.503 < ∆χ < -0.107; (ii) the concentration of B (=Al + Cr + Ge + Si + Sn) varied from 50.9 to 64.5 at %; and (iii) the Cr concentration was in the range of 35.8 < Cr < 51.6 at %. Maps of ∆χ versus Cr, ∆χ versus VEC, and VEC versus atomic size separated the alloying behaviours of the elements. Compared with unalloyed NbCr₂, the VEC decreased and ∆χ increased in Nb(Cr,Si)₂, and the changes in both parameters increased when Nb was substituted by Ti, and Cr by Si and Al, or Si and Ge, or Si and Sn. For the A15 phase (i) the VEC and ∆χ were in the ranges 4.38 < VEC < 4.89 and 0.857 < ∆χ < 1.04, with no VEC values between 4.63 and 4.72 and (ii) the concentration of X (=Al + Ge + Si + Sn) varied from 16.3 to 22.7 at %. The VEC versus ∆χ map separated the alloying behaviours of elements. The hardness of A15-Nb₃X was correlated with the parameters ∆χ and VEC. The hardness increased with increases in ∆χ and VEC. Compared with Nb₃Sn, the ∆χ and hardness of Nb₃(Si,Sn) increased. The substitution of Nb by Cr had the same effect on ∆χ and hardness as Hf or Ti. The ∆χ and hardness increased with Ti concentration. The addition of Al in Nb₃(Si,Sn,Al) decreased the ∆χ and increased the hardness. When Ti and Hf, or Ti, Hf and Cr, were simultaneously present with Al, the ∆χ was decreased and

Mechanical Design of HD2, a 15 T Nb3Sn Dipole Magnet with a 35 mm Bore

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

Ferracin, P.; Bartlett, S.E.; Caspi, S.

2006-06-01

After the fabrication and test of HD1, a 16 T Nb{sub 3}Sn dipole magnet based on flat racetrack coil configuration, the Superconducting Magnet Program at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) is developing the Nb{sub 3}Sn dipole HD2. With a dipole field above 15 T, a 35 mm clear bore, and nominal field harmonics within a fraction of one unit, HD2 represents a further step towards the application of block-type coils to high-field accelerator magnets. The design features tilted racetrack-type ends, to avoid obstructing the beam path, and a 4 mm thick stainless steel tube, to support the coil during themore » preloading operation. The mechanical structure, similar to the one used for HD1, is based on an external aluminum shell pretensioned with pressurized bladders. Axial rods and stainless steel plates provide longitudinal support to the coil ends during magnet excitation. A 3D finite element analysis has been performed to evaluate stresses and deformations from assembly to excitation, with particular emphasis on conductor displacements due to Lorentz forces. Numerical results are presented and discussed.« less

Quench protection challenges in long nb3sn accelerator magnets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salmi, Tiina-Mari; Ambrosio, G.; Caspi, S.; Chlachidze, Guram; Dhallé, Marc; Felice, Helene; Ferracin, Paolo; Marchevsky, M.; Sabbi, G. L.; ten Kate, H. H. J.

2012-06-01

The quench protection of the several meter long, large aperture high-field Nb3Sn quadrupoles that the LARP collaboration is developing for the LHC interaction region upgrade, requires efficient protection heaters to quickly generate large resistive segments across the windings. To support the protection design, experiments in the recently tested LARP R&D magnets are aimed to characterize the coil response to different protection schemes. In particular, the delay to quench and the final hotspot temperatures are evaluated after firing the heaters at different powering regimes and coverage. Also, the contribution of external energy extraction is investigated. Based on the performed studies and computer simulations, it seems that if the same protection efficiency per unit length that is measured in a 1 m long model magnet can be scaled to a 3.6 m long magnet, and the heater coverage can be improved, about 1 MJ/m of stored energy can be absorbed in the magnet after a quench. However, significant technology developments are needed to scale the protection heater efficiency to longer magnets and to increase the coverage.

Thermal conductivity measurements of impregnated Nb3Sn coil samples in the temperature range of 3.5 K to 100 K

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koettig, T.; Maciocha, W.; Bermudez, S.; Rysti, J.; Tavares, S.; Cacherat, F.; Bremer, J.

2017-02-01

In the framework of the luminosity upgrade of the LHC, high-field magnets are under development. Magnetic flux densities of up to 13 T require the use of Nb3Sn superconducting coils. Quench protection becomes challenging due to the high stored energy density and the low stabilizer fraction. The thermal conductivity and diffusivity of the combination of insulating layers and Nb3Sn based cables are an important thermodynamic input parameter for quench protection systems and superfluid helium cooling studies. A two-stage cryocooler based test stand is used to measure the thermal conductance of the coil sample in two different heat flow directions with respect to the coil package geometry. Variable base temperatures of the experimental platform at the cryocooler allow for a steady-state heat flux method up to 100 K. The heat is applied at wedges style copper interfaces of the Rutherford cables. The respective temperature difference represents the absolute value of thermal conductance of the sample arrangement. We report about the measurement methodology applied to this kind of non-uniform sample composition and the evaluation of the used resin composite materials.

Test results of the LARP Nb$$_3$$Sn quadrupole HQ03a

DOE PAGES

DiMarco, J.; G. Ambrosio; Chlachidze, G.; ...

2016-03-09

The US LHC Accelerator Research Program (LARP) has been developingmore » $$Nb_3Sn$$ quadrupoles of progressively increasing performance for the high luminosity upgrade of the Large Hadron Collider. The 120 mm aperture High-field Quadrupole (HQ) models are the last step in the R&D phase supporting the development of the new IR Quadrupoles (MQXF). Three series of HQ coils were fabricated and assembled in a shell-based support structure, progressively optimizing the design and fabrication process. The final set of coils consistently applied the optimized design solutions, and was assembled in the HQ03a model. Furthermore, this paper reports a summary of the HQ03a test results, including training, mechanical performance, field quality and quench studies.« less

Biomechanical Evaluation of Ti-Nb-Sn Alloy Implants with a Low Young’s Modulus

PubMed Central

Takahashi, Kenta; Shiraishi, Naru; Ishiko-Uzuka, Risa; Anada, Takahisa; Suzuki, Osamu; Masumoto, Hiroshi; Sasaki, Keiichi

2015-01-01

Dental implants are widely used and are a predictable treatment in various edentulous cases. Occlusal overload may be causally related to implant bone loss and a loss of integration. Stress concentrations may be diminished using a mechanobiologically integrated implant with bone tissue. The purpose of this study was to investigate the biomechanical behavior, biocompatibility and bioactivity of a Ti-Nb-Sn alloy as a dental implant material. It was compared with cpTi. Cell proliferation and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity were quantified. To assess the degree of osseointegration, a push-in test was carried out. Cell proliferation and ALP activity in the cells grown on prepared surfaces were similar for the Ti-Nb-Sn alloy and for cpTi in all the experiments. A comparison between the Ti-Nb-Sn alloy implant and the cpTi implant revealed that no significant difference was apparent for the push-in test values. These results suggest that implants fabricated using Ti-Nb-Sn have a similar biological potential as cpTi and are capable of excellent osseointegration. PMID:25775158

Transverse stress effect on the critical current of jelly-roll multifilamentary Nb sub 3 Al wires

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

Zeritis, D.; Ando, T.; Takahashi, Y.

Experiments were conducted to determine the transverse stress sensitivity of the critical current ({ital I}{sub {ital c}}) of jelly-roll multifilamentary Nb{sub 3}Al wires at 8 and 12 T. For comparison, similar experiments were conducted on bronze-process (NbTi){sub 3}Sn wires. At 12 T and under a transverse compressive stress of 150 MPa{emdash}conditions expected in fusion magnets{emdash}the {ital I}{sub {ital c}} degradation of the Nb{sub 3}Al specimen was {similar to}20% vs {similar to}65% for the (NbTi){sub 3}Sn specimen. The intrinsic superiority of Nb{sub 3}Al over (NbTi){sub 3}Sn with regard to transverse compressive stress is thus clear. There is optimism that Nb{sub 3}Almore » will eventually become a useful superconductor for large-scale, high-field applications.« less

Summary of Test Results of MQXFS1 - The First Short Model 150 mm Aperture $$Nb_3Sn$$ Quadrupole for the High-Luminosity

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

Stoynev, S.; et al.

The development ofmore » $$Nb_3Sn$$ quadrupole magnets for the High-Luminosity LHC upgrade is a joint venture between the US LHC Accelerator Research Program (LARP)* and CERN with the goal of fabricating large aperture quadrupoles for the LHC in-teraction regions (IR). The inner triplet (low-β) NbTi quadrupoles in the IR will be replaced by the stronger Nb3Sn magnets boosting the LHC program of having 10-fold increase in integrated luminos-ity after the foreseen upgrades. Previously LARP conducted suc-cessful tests of short and long models with up to 120 mm aperture. The first short 150 mm aperture quadrupole model MQXFS1 was assembled with coils fabricated by both CERN and LARP. The magnet demonstrated strong performance at the Fermilab’s verti-cal magnet test facility reaching the LHC operating limits. This paper reports the latest results from MQXFS1 tests with changed pre-stress levels. The overall magnet performance, including quench training and memory, ramp rate and temperature depend-ence, is also summarized.« less

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

Yamada, R.; Ambrosio, G.; Barzi, E.

The design study of the block type 15-Tesla RHQT Nb{sub 3}Al dipole magnet, and its merits over Nb{sub 3}Sn magnets are presented. The copper stabilized RHQT Nb{sub 3}Al strand is now becoming commercially available for the application to the accelerator magnets. A 1 mm diameter RHQT Nb{sub 3}Al strand with filament size about 50 {mu}, non-copper Jc about 1000 A/mm{sup 2} at 15 Tesla at 4.2K, copper ratio of 50%, can now be produced over several hundred meters. The stress and strain characteristics of the Nb{sub 3}Al strand are superior to the Nb{sub 3}Sn strand. Another advantage is that itmore » can tolerate a longitudinal strain up to 0.55%. The RHQT Nb{sub 3}Al Rutherford cable will have less chance of contamination of the stabilizer, compared to Nb{sub 3}Sn cable. These characteristics of the RHQT Nb{sub 3}Al will be beneficial for designing and producing 15-Tesla dipole magnets. An example 15-Tesla magnet cross section, utilizing the RHQT Nb{sub 3}Sn strand is presented. A systematic investigation on RHQT Nb{sub 3}Al strands, its Rutherford cables, and building a small racetrack magnet for cable testing are proposed.« less

Improvement of small to large grain A15 ratio in Nb 3 Sn PIT wires by inverted multistage heat treatments

DOE PAGES

Segal, Christopher; Tarantini, Chiara; Lee, Peter J.; ...

2017-12-30

The next generation of superconducting accelerator magnets for the Large Hadron Collider at CERN will require large amounts of Nb 3Sn superconducting wires and the Powder-In-Tube (PIT) process, which utilizes a NbSn 2-rich powder core within tubes of Nb(7.5wt%Ta) contained in a stabilizing Cu matrix, is a potential candidate. But, the critical current density, J c , is limited by the formation of a large grain (LG) A15 layer which does not contribute to transport current, but occupies 25-30% of the total A15 area. Thus it is important to understand how this layer forms, and if it can be minimizedmore » in favor of the beneficial small grain (SG) A15 morphology which carries the supercurrent. The ratio of SG/LG A15 is our metric here, where an increase signals improvement in the wires A15 morphology distribution. We have made a critical new observation that the initiation of the LG A15 formation can be controlled at a wide range of temperatures relative to the formation of the small grain (SG) A15. The LG A15 can be uniquely identified as a decomposition product of the Nb6Sn5(Cu x ), surrounded by a layer of rejected Cu, thus the LG A15 is not only of low pin density, but is not continuous grain to grain. We have found that in single stage reactions limited to 630 °C - 690 °C, the maximum SG A15 layer thickness prior to LG A15 formation is very sensitive to temperature, with a maximum around 670 °C. This result led to the design of four novel heat treatments which all included a short, high temperature stage early in the reaction, followed by a slow cooling to a more typical reaction temperature of 630 °C. We also found that this heat treatment (HT) modification increased the SG A15 layer thickness while simultaneously suppressing LG A15 morphology, with no additional consumption of the diffusion barrier. In the best heat treatment the SG/LG A15 ratio improved by 30%. Unfortunately, J c values suffered slightly, however further exploration of this high

Improvement of small to large grain A15 ratio in Nb3Sn PIT wires by inverted multistage heat treatments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Segal, Christopher; Tarantini, Chiara; Lee, Peter J.; Larbalestier, David C.

2017-12-01

The next generation of superconducting accelerator magnets for the Large Hadron Collider at CERN will require large amounts of Nb3Sn superconducting wires and the Powder-In-Tube (PIT) process, which utilizes a NbSn2-rich powder core within tubes of Nb(7.5wt%Ta) contained in a stabilizing Cu matrix, is a potential candidate. However, the critical current density, J c , is limited by the formation of a large grain (LG) A15 layer which does not contribute to transport current, but occupies 25-30% of the total A15 area. Thus it is important to understand how this layer forms, and if it can be minimized in favor of the beneficial small grain (SG) A15 morphology which carries the supercurrent. The ratio of SG/LG A15 is our metric here, where an increase signals improvement in the wires A15 morphology distribution. We have made a critical new observation that the initiation of the LG A15 formation can be controlled at a wide range of temperatures relative to the formation of the small grain (SG) A15. The LG A15 can be uniquely identified as a decomposition product of the Nb6Sn5(Cu x ), surrounded by a layer of rejected Cu, thus the LG A15 is not only of low pin density, but is not continuous grain to grain. We have found that in single stage reactions limited to 630 °C - 690 °C, the maximum SG A15 layer thickness prior to LG A15 formation is very sensitive to temperature, with a maximum around 670 °C. This result led to the design of four novel heat treatments which all included a short, high temperature stage early in the reaction, followed by a slow cooling to a more typical reaction temperature of 630 °C. We found that this heat treatment (HT) modification increased the SG A15 layer thickness while simultaneously suppressing LG A15 morphology, with no additional consumption of the diffusion barrier. In the best heat treatment the SG/LG A15 ratio improved by 30%. Unfortunately, J c values suffered slightly, however further exploration of this high temperature

Improvement of small to large grain A15 ratio in Nb 3 Sn PIT wires by inverted multistage heat treatments

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

Segal, Christopher; Tarantini, Chiara; Lee, Peter J.

The next generation of superconducting accelerator magnets for the Large Hadron Collider at CERN will require large amounts of Nb 3Sn superconducting wires and the Powder-In-Tube (PIT) process, which utilizes a NbSn 2-rich powder core within tubes of Nb(7.5wt%Ta) contained in a stabilizing Cu matrix, is a potential candidate. But, the critical current density, J c , is limited by the formation of a large grain (LG) A15 layer which does not contribute to transport current, but occupies 25-30% of the total A15 area. Thus it is important to understand how this layer forms, and if it can be minimizedmore » in favor of the beneficial small grain (SG) A15 morphology which carries the supercurrent. The ratio of SG/LG A15 is our metric here, where an increase signals improvement in the wires A15 morphology distribution. We have made a critical new observation that the initiation of the LG A15 formation can be controlled at a wide range of temperatures relative to the formation of the small grain (SG) A15. The LG A15 can be uniquely identified as a decomposition product of the Nb6Sn5(Cu x ), surrounded by a layer of rejected Cu, thus the LG A15 is not only of low pin density, but is not continuous grain to grain. We have found that in single stage reactions limited to 630 °C - 690 °C, the maximum SG A15 layer thickness prior to LG A15 formation is very sensitive to temperature, with a maximum around 670 °C. This result led to the design of four novel heat treatments which all included a short, high temperature stage early in the reaction, followed by a slow cooling to a more typical reaction temperature of 630 °C. We also found that this heat treatment (HT) modification increased the SG A15 layer thickness while simultaneously suppressing LG A15 morphology, with no additional consumption of the diffusion barrier. In the best heat treatment the SG/LG A15 ratio improved by 30%. Unfortunately, J c values suffered slightly, however further exploration of this high

Superconductive coupling in tailored [(SnSe)1+δ ] m (NbSe2)1 multilayers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trahms, Martina; Grosse, Corinna; Alemayehu, Matti B.; Hite, Omar K.; Chiatti, Olivio; Mogilatenko, Anna; Johnson, David C.; Fischer, Saskia F.

2018-06-01

Ferecrystals are a new artificially layered material system, in which the individual layers are stacked with monolayer precision and are turbostratically disordered. Here, the superconducting coupling of the NbSe2 layers in [(SnSe)1+δ ] m [NbSe2]1 ferecrystals with m between 1 and 6 are investigated. The variation of m effectively increases the distance between the superconducting NbSe2 monolayers. We find a systematic decrease of the transition temperature with an increasing number of SnSe layers per repeat unit. For m = 9 a superconducting transition can no longer be observed at temperatures above 250 mK. In order to investigate the superconducting coupling between individual NbSe2 layers, the cross-plane Ginzburg–Landau coherence lengths were determined. Electric transport measurements of the superconducting transition were performed in the presence of a magnetic field, oriented parallel and perpendicular to the layers, at temperatures closely below the transition temperature. A decoupling with increasing distance of the NbSe2 layers is observed. However, ferecrystals with NbSe2 layers separated by up to six layers of SnSe are still considered as three-dimensional superconductors.

Development and Comparison of Mechanical Structures for FNAL 15 T Nb$$_3$$Sn Dipole Demonstrator

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

Novitski, I.; Zlobin, A. V.

2016-11-08

Main design challenges for 15 T accelerator magnets are large Lorentz forces at this field level. The large Lorentz forces generate high stresses in the coil and mechanical structure and, thus, need stress control to maintain them at the acceptable level for brittle Nb3Sn coils and other elements of magnet mechanical structure. To provide these conditions and achieve the design field in the FNAL 15 T dipole demonstrator, several mechanical structures have been developed and analysed. The possibilities and limitations of these designs are discussed in this paper

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

Xu, Xingchen; Peng, Xuan; Sumption, Michael

The internal oxidation technique can generate ZrO2 nano particles in Nb3Sn strands, which markedly refine the Nb3Sn grain size and boost the high-field critical current density (Jc). This article summarizes recent efforts on implementing this technique in practical Nb3Sn wires and adding Ti as a dopant. It is demonstrated that this technique can be readily incorporated into the present Nb3Sn conductor manufacturing technology. Powder-in-tube (PIT) strands with fine subelements (~25 µm) based on this technique were successfully fabricated, and proper heat treatments for oxygen transfer were explored. Future work for producing strands ready for applications is proposed.

Measurement of a Conduction Cooled Nb3Sn Racetrack Coil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, HS; Kovacs, C.; Rochester, J.; Sumption, MD; Tomsic, M.; Peng, X.; Doll, D.

2017-12-01

Use of superconducting coils for wind turbines and electric aircraft is of interest because of the potential for high power density and weight reduction. Here we test a racetrack coil developed as a proof-of-concept for cryogen-free superconducting motors and generators. The coil was wound with 1209 m of 0.7-mm-diameter insulated tube-type Nb3Sn wire. The coil was epoxy-impregnated, instrumented, covered with numerous layers of aluminized mylar insulation, and inserted vertically into a dewar. The system was cooled to 4.2 K, and a few inches of liquid helium was allowed to collect at the bottom of the dewar but below the coil. The coil was cooled by conduction via copper cooling bars were attached to the coil but also were immersed in the liquid helium at their lower ends. Several current tests were performed on the coil, initially in voltage mode, and one run in current mode. The maximum coil Ic at 4.2 K was 480 A, generating 3.06 T at the surface of the coil. The coil met the design targets with a noticeable margin.

Magnetic Measurements of the First Nb 3Sn Model Quadrupole (MQXFS) for the High-Luminosity LHC

DOE PAGES

DiMarco, J.; Ambrosio, G.; Chlachidze, G.; ...

2016-12-12

The US LHC Accelerator Research Program (LARP) and CERN are developing high-gradient Nb 3Sn magnets for the High Luminosity LHC interaction regions. Magnetic measurements of the first 1.5 m long, 150 mm aperture model quadrupole, MQXFS1, were performed during magnet assembly at LBNL, as well as during cryogenic testing at Fermilab’s Vertical Magnet Test Facility. This paper reports on the results of these magnetic characterization measurements, as well as on the performance of new probes developed for the tests.

High temperature superconductor NB3Ga

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vieland, L. J.; Wicklund, A. W.

1973-01-01

The discovery of superconductivity at 20.3 K in the Nb-Ga system by applying chemical vapor deposition (CVD) techniques to the materials preparation problem is reported. Films on ceramic substrates have been grown with superconducting onsets of up to 20.3 K. Critical fields at 4.2 K in excess of 300 kG and alpha's of 1100,000 T-A/sq cm have been obtained. The results confirm that the outstanding properties of Nb-Ga are due to an equilibrium configuration of the system, namely, the stoichiometric A-15 compound Nb3Ga, which is stable at relatively low temperatures. Practical materials preparation problems center on the codeposition of an adjacent Nb5Ga3 phase and the requirement that the deposition temperature be low. Some ternary alloys were also prepared, with part of the Ga replaced by Sn, Sb, Al, or Ge.

Enhanced thermoelectric properties of n-type NbCoSn half-Heusler by improving phase purity

DOE PAGES

He, Ran; Huang, Lihong; Wang, Yumei; ...

2016-06-01

In this paper, we report the thermoelectric properties of NbCoSn-based n-type half-Heuslers (HHs) that were obtained through arc melting, ball milling, and hot pressing process. With 10% Sb substitution at the Sn site, we obtained enhanced n-type properties with a maximum power factor reaching ~35 μW cm -1 K -2 and figure of merit (ZT) value ~0.6 in NbCoSn 0.9Sb 0.1. The ZT is doubled compared to the previous report. In addition, the specific power cost ($ W -1) is decreased by ~68% comparing to HfNiSn-based n-type HH because of the elimination of Hf.

One-step internal-tin Nb/sub 3/Sn superconductor fabrication. Final report, June 1983-August 1984

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

Marancik, W.

1985-03-01

The object of this research is to demonstrate the feasibility of producing a Nb/sub 3/Sn superconductor in a single extrusion process with a large number of filaments with internal tin. The technique chosen uses .010'-diameter Nb and tin-plated Cu wires formed into a solenoid. The solenoid is covered with tin-plated copper foil and isostatically compacted to a pressure of 17,000 psi. The solenoid is slit along its length. This results in a ribbon about 40 inches long by about 5-inches wide, with the Nb wires running across the 5-inch-width. The ribbon is then rolled up (Jelly Roll) around a 0.5more » inch diameter Ta covered copper rod to produce a composite of about 1.5 inches in diameter by 5 inches long. The composite geometry is now a cylindrical bundle of 0.010-inch-diameter Nb wire separated from each other by tin-plated copper. Each Nb wire is aligned with the axis of cylinder. The cylinder is slid into a Ta-lined copper extrusion can which is evacuated and sealed. The can is extruded at a low temperature and drawn to final wire size without intermediate annealing. The advantage of the process is that it is an internal tin process with the tin uniformly distributed through the matrix. The Nb is in a relatively soft state having been fully annealed at 0.020-inch diameter. Only one extrusion is required since the bundling technique allows a large number of wires to be precisely aligned and spaced in the matrix.« less

Core exosome-independent roles for Rrp6 in cell cycle progression.

PubMed

Graham, Amy C; Kiss, Daniel L; Andrulis, Erik D

2009-04-01

Exosome complexes are 3' to 5' exoribonucleases composed of subunits that are critical for numerous distinct RNA metabolic (ribonucleometabolic) pathways. Several studies have implicated the exosome subunits Rrp6 and Dis3 in chromosome segregation and cell division but the functional relevance of these findings remains unclear. Here, we report that, in Drosophila melanogaster S2 tissue culture cells, dRrp6 is required for cell proliferation and error-free mitosis, but the core exosome subunit Rrp40 is not. Micorarray analysis of dRrp6-depleted cell reveals increased levels of cell cycle- and mitosis-related transcripts. Depletion of dRrp6 elicits a decrease in the frequency of mitotic cells and in the mitotic marker phospho-histone H3 (pH3), with a concomitant increase in defects in chromosome congression, separation, and segregation. Endogenous dRrp6 dynamically redistributes during mitosis, accumulating predominantly but not exclusively on the condensed chromosomes. In contrast, core subunits localize predominantly to MTs throughout cell division. Finally, dRrp6-depleted cells treated with microtubule poisons exhibit normal kinetochore recruitment of the spindle assembly checkpoint protein BubR1 without restoring pH3 levels, suggesting that these cells undergo premature chromosome condensation. Collectively, these data support the idea that dRrp6 has a core exosome-independent role in cell cycle and mitotic progression.

High-performance superconductors for Fusion Nuclear Science Facility

DOE PAGES

Zhai, Yuhu; Kessel, Chuck; Barth, Christian; ...

2016-11-09

High-performance superconducting magnets play an important role in the design of the next step large-scale, high-field fusion reactors such as the fusion nuclear science facility (FNSF) and the spherical tokamak (ST) pilot plant beyond ITER. Here, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory is currently leading the design studies of the FNSF and the ST pilot plant study. ITER, which is under construction in the south of France, utilizes the state-of-the-art low temperature superconducting magnet technology based on the cable-in-conduit conductor design, where over a thousand multifilament Nb 3Sn superconducting strands are twisted together to form a high-current-carrying cable inserted into a steelmore » jacket for coil windings. We present design options of the high-performance superconductors in the winding pack for the FNSF toroidal field magnet system based on the toroidal field radial build from the system code. For the low temperature superconductor options, the advanced J cNb 3Sn RRP strands (J c > 1000 A/mm 2 at 16 T, 4 K) from Oxford Superconducting Technology are under consideration. For the high-temperature superconductor options, the rectangular-shaped high-current HTS cable made of stacked YBCO tapes will be considered to validate feasibility of TF coil winding pack design for the ST-FNSF magnets.« less

High-performance superconductors for Fusion Nuclear Science Facility

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

Zhai, Yuhu; Kessel, Chuck; Barth, Christian

High-performance superconducting magnets play an important role in the design of the next step large-scale, high-field fusion reactors such as the fusion nuclear science facility (FNSF) and the spherical tokamak (ST) pilot plant beyond ITER. Here, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory is currently leading the design studies of the FNSF and the ST pilot plant study. ITER, which is under construction in the south of France, utilizes the state-of-the-art low temperature superconducting magnet technology based on the cable-in-conduit conductor design, where over a thousand multifilament Nb 3Sn superconducting strands are twisted together to form a high-current-carrying cable inserted into a steelmore » jacket for coil windings. We present design options of the high-performance superconductors in the winding pack for the FNSF toroidal field magnet system based on the toroidal field radial build from the system code. For the low temperature superconductor options, the advanced J cNb 3Sn RRP strands (J c > 1000 A/mm 2 at 16 T, 4 K) from Oxford Superconducting Technology are under consideration. For the high-temperature superconductor options, the rectangular-shaped high-current HTS cable made of stacked YBCO tapes will be considered to validate feasibility of TF coil winding pack design for the ST-FNSF magnets.« less

Dynamic Recrystallization Behavior of Zr-1Sn-0.3Nb Alloy During Hot Rolling Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Siyu; Liu, Huiqun; Lin, Gaoyong; Jiang, Yilan; Xun, Jian

2017-11-01

Zirconium alloys are advanced materials with properties that are greatly affected by their crystalline structure. To investigate this, sheets of Zr-1Sn-0.3Nb alloy were hot rolled with different reductions (10%, 30%, 50%, and 60%) at 1023 K and 1073 K to investigate the alloy's dynamic recrystallization behavior. Recrystallization kinetics was observed via electron backscattering diffraction and transmission electron microscopy, and the results were compared with estimates based on the Johnson-Mehl-Avrami-Kolmogorov (JMAK) equation. The values of the JMAK exponent n and k increased with the rolling temperature. The estimates and microstructural observations of dynamic recrystallization (DRX) kinetics were in good agreement.

High-mobility field-effect transistor based on crystalline ZnSnO3 thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Minato, Hiroya; Fujiwara, Kohei; Tsukazaki, Atsushi

2018-05-01

We propose crystalline ZnSnO3 as a new channel material for field-effect transistors. By molecular-beam epitaxy on LiNbO3(0001) substrates, we synthesized films of ZnSnO3, which crystallizes in the LiNbO3-type polar structure. Field-effect transistors on ZnSnO3 exhibit n-type operation with field-effect mobility of as high as 45 cm2V-1s-1 at room temperature. Systematic examination of the transistor operation for channels with different Zn/Sn compositional ratios revealed that the observed high-mobility reflects the nature of stoichiometric ZnSnO3 phase. Moreover, we found an indication of coupling of transistor characteristics with intrinsic spontaneous polarization in ZnSnO3, potentially leading to a distinct type of polarization-induced conduction.

Processing and problems in manufacturing a Ti-modified Nb/sub 3/Sn MJR billet. Volume 2

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

McDonald, W.K.; Smathers, D.; Geno, J.D.

1985-06-18

This report is submitted to complete Task II of University of California Order Number 4321405. Task I had Teledyne Wah Chang Albany (TWCA) assemble and process by the Modified Jelly Roll (MJR) method a Ti-modified Nb/sub 3/Sn superconductor billet. This billet was identified as M103 by TWCA. The billet matrix is nominally composed of copper 13.5 wt % tin bronze sheet and niobium 1.2 wt % titanium expanded metal with a volume ratio of three parts bronze to one part niobium alloy. All processing steps and problems encountered in manufacturing billet M103 are described in this report.

Inter-strand current sharing and ac loss measurements in superconducting YBCO Roebel cables

DOE PAGES

Majoros, M.; Sumption, M. D.; Collings, E. W.; ...

2015-04-08

A Roebel cable, one twist pitch long, was modified from its as-received state by soldering copper strips between the strands to provide inter-strand connections enabling current sharing. Various DC transport currents (representing different percentages of its critical current) were applied to a single strand of such a modified cable at 77 K in a liquid nitrogen bath. Simultaneous monitoring of I–V curves in different parts of the strand as well as in its interconnections with other strands was made using a number of sensitive Keithley nanovoltmeters in combination with a multichannel high-speed data acquisition card, all controlled via LabView software.more » Current sharing onset was observed at about 1.02 of strand I c. At a strand current of 1.3I c about 5% of the current was shared through the copper strip interconnections. A finite element method modeling was performed to estimate the inter-strand resistivities required to enable different levels of current sharing. The relative contributions of coupling and hysteretic magnetization (and loss) were compared, and for our cable and tape geometry, and at dB/dt=1 T s -1, and our inter-strand resistance of 0.77 mΩ, (enabling a current sharing of 5% at 1.3I c) the coupling component was 0.32% of the hysteretic component. However, inter-strand contact resistance values of 100–1000 times smaller (close to those of NbTi and Nb 3Sn based accelerator cables) would make the coupling components comparable in size to the hysteretic components.« less

Inter-strand current sharing and ac loss measurements in superconducting YBCO Roebel cables

DOE PAGES

sumption, Mike; Majoros, Milan; Collings, E. W.; ...

2014-11-07

A Roebel cable, one twist pitch long, was modified from its as-received state by soldering copper strips between the strands to provide inter-strand connections enabling current sharing. Various DC transport currents (representing different percentages of its critical current) were applied to a single strand of such a modified cable at 77 K in a liquid nitrogen bath. Simultaneous monitoring of I–V curves in different parts of the strand as well as in its interconnections with other strands was made using a number of sensitive Keithley nanovoltmeters in combination with a multichannel high-speed data acquisition card, all controlled via LabView software.more » Current sharing onset was observed at about 1.02 of strand I c. At a strand current of 1.3I c about 5% of the current was shared through the copper strip interconnections. A finite element method modeling was performed to estimate the inter-strand resistivities required to enable different levels of current sharing. The relative contributions of coupling and hysteretic magnetization (and loss) were compared, and for our cable and tape geometry, and at dB/dt=1 T s -1, and our inter-strand resistance of 0.77 mΩ, (enabling a current sharing of 5% at 1.3I c ) the coupling component was 0.32% of the hysteretic component. However, inter-strand contact resistance values of 100–1000 times smaller (close to those of NbTi and Nb 3Sn based accelerator cables) would make the coupling components comparable in size to the hysteretic components.« less

Inter-strand current sharing and ac loss measurements in superconducting YBCO Roebel cables

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

Majoros, M.; Sumption, M. D.; Collings, E. W.

A Roebel cable, one twist pitch long, was modified from its as-received state by soldering copper strips between the strands to provide inter-strand connections enabling current sharing. Various DC transport currents (representing different percentages of its critical current) were applied to a single strand of such a modified cable at 77 K in a liquid nitrogen bath. Simultaneous monitoring of I–V curves in different parts of the strand as well as in its interconnections with other strands was made using a number of sensitive Keithley nanovoltmeters in combination with a multichannel high-speed data acquisition card, all controlled via LabView software.more » Current sharing onset was observed at about 1.02 of strand I c. At a strand current of 1.3I c about 5% of the current was shared through the copper strip interconnections. A finite element method modeling was performed to estimate the inter-strand resistivities required to enable different levels of current sharing. The relative contributions of coupling and hysteretic magnetization (and loss) were compared, and for our cable and tape geometry, and at dB/dt=1 T s -1, and our inter-strand resistance of 0.77 mΩ, (enabling a current sharing of 5% at 1.3I c) the coupling component was 0.32% of the hysteretic component. However, inter-strand contact resistance values of 100–1000 times smaller (close to those of NbTi and Nb 3Sn based accelerator cables) would make the coupling components comparable in size to the hysteretic components.« less

Inter-strand current sharing and ac loss measurements in superconducting YBCO Roebel cables

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

sumption, Mike; Majoros, Milan; Collings, E. W.

A Roebel cable, one twist pitch long, was modified from its as-received state by soldering copper strips between the strands to provide inter-strand connections enabling current sharing. Various DC transport currents (representing different percentages of its critical current) were applied to a single strand of such a modified cable at 77 K in a liquid nitrogen bath. Simultaneous monitoring of I–V curves in different parts of the strand as well as in its interconnections with other strands was made using a number of sensitive Keithley nanovoltmeters in combination with a multichannel high-speed data acquisition card, all controlled via LabView software.more » Current sharing onset was observed at about 1.02 of strand I c. At a strand current of 1.3I c about 5% of the current was shared through the copper strip interconnections. A finite element method modeling was performed to estimate the inter-strand resistivities required to enable different levels of current sharing. The relative contributions of coupling and hysteretic magnetization (and loss) were compared, and for our cable and tape geometry, and at dB/dt=1 T s -1, and our inter-strand resistance of 0.77 mΩ, (enabling a current sharing of 5% at 1.3I c ) the coupling component was 0.32% of the hysteretic component. However, inter-strand contact resistance values of 100–1000 times smaller (close to those of NbTi and Nb 3Sn based accelerator cables) would make the coupling components comparable in size to the hysteretic components.« less

A model for the compositions of non-stoichiometric intermediate phases formed by diffusion reactions, and its application to Nb 3Sn superconductors

DOE PAGES

Xu, X.; Sumption, M. D.

2016-01-12

In this work we explore the compositions of non-stoichiometric intermediate phases formed by diffusion reactions: a mathematical framework is developed and tested against the specific case of Nb 3Sn superconductors. In the first part, the governing equations for the bulk diffusion and interphase interface reactions during the growth of a compound are derived, numerical solutions to which give both the composition profile and growth rate of the compound layer. The analytic solutions are obtained with certain approximations made. In the second part, we explain an effect that the composition characteristics of compounds can be quite different depending on whether itmore » is the bulk diffusion or grain boundary diffusion that dominates in the compounds, and that “frozen” bulk diffusion leads to unique composition characteristics that the bulk composition of a compound layer remains unchanged after its initial formation instead of varying with the diffusion reaction system; here the model is modified for the case of grain boundary diffusion. Lastly, we apply this model to the Nb 3Sn superconductors and propose approaches to control their compositions.« less

Relationship between architecture, filament breakage and critical current decay in Nb3Sn composite wires repeatedly in-plane bent at room temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Badica, P.; Awaji, S.; Oguro, H.; Nishijima, G.; Watanabe, K.

2006-04-01

Six Nb3Sn composite wires with different architectures ('central and near-the-edge reinforcement') were repeatedly in-plane bent at room temperature (in-plane 'pre-bending'). Breakage behaviour was revealed from scanning electron microscopy observations by semi-quantitative analysis of the filament crack formation and evolution. Cracks are formed in the transversal and longitudinal directions. Transversal cracks show some tolerance to the applied bending strain due to the fact that filaments are composite materials; residual Nb core can arrest development of a partial transversal crack initiated in the Nb3Sn outer part of the filament. Together with the density of cracks C and the evolution of this parameter with pre-bending strain, ɛpb, in different regions of the wire, R-ɛpb curves are important to understand breakage behaviour of the wires. R is the ratio (number of full transversal cracks)/(number of full transversal cracks + number of partial transversal cracks). Parameters C and R allow us to reveal and satisfactorily understand the wire architecture—breakage—critical current decay relationship when pre-bending treatment is applied. As a consequence, breakage criteria necessary to minimize Ic decay were defined and the positive influence of the reinforcement in preventing breakage was observed. It was also found that, in this regard, more Nb in the CuNb reinforcement, for the investigated wires, is better, if the heat treatment for the wire synthesis is performed at 670 °C for 96 h. A different heat treatment, 650 °C for 240 h, is less efficient in preventing filament breakage. Our results suggest the possibility of control and improvement of the breakage susceptibility of the filaments in the wires and, hence, of the bending Ic decay, through the wise design of the wire architecture (i.e. by correlating design with the choice of composing materials and heat treatments).

Significant enhancement of compositional and superconducting homogeneity in Ti rather than Ta-doped Nb 3Sn

DOE PAGES

Tarantini, C.; Sung, Z. -H.; Lee, P. J.; ...

2016-01-25

Nb 3Sn wires are now very close to their final optimization but despite its classical nature, detailed understanding of the role of Ta and Ti doping in the A15 is not fully understood. Long thought to be essentially equivalent in their influence on H c2, they were interchangeably applied. Here we show that Ti produces significantly more homogeneous chemical and superconducting properties. Despite Ta-doped samples having a slightly higher T c onset in zero-field, they always have a wider Tc-distribution. In particular, whereas the Ta-doped A15 has a T c-distribution extending from 18 down to 5-6 K (the lowest expectedmore » Tc for the binary A15 phase), the Ti-doped samples have no A15 phase with T c below ~12 K. The much narrower T c distribution in the Ti-doped samples has a positive effect on their in-field T c-distribution too, leading to an extrapolated μ0H c2(0) 2 Tesla larger than the Ta-doped one. Ti-doping also appears to be very homogeneous even when the Sn content is reduced in order to inhibit breakdown of the diffusion barriers in very high Jc conductors. As a result, the enhanced homogeneity of the Ti-doped samples appears to result from its assistance of rapid diffusion of Sn into the filaments and by its incorporation into the A15 phase interchangeably with Sn on the Sn sites of the A15 phase.« less

The Campylobacter jejuni MarR-like transcriptional regulators RrpA and RrpB both influence bacterial responses to oxidative and aerobic stresses.

PubMed

Gundogdu, Ozan; da Silva, Daiani T; Mohammad, Banaz; Elmi, Abdi; Mills, Dominic C; Wren, Brendan W; Dorrell, Nick

2015-01-01

The ability of the human intestinal pathogen Campylobacter jejuni to respond to oxidative stress is central to bacterial survival both in vivo during infection and in the environment. Re-annotation of the C. jejuni NCTC11168 genome revealed the presence of two MarR-type transcriptional regulators Cj1546 and Cj1556, originally annotated as hypothetical proteins, which we have designated RrpA and RrpB (regulator of response to peroxide) respectively. Previously we demonstrated a role for RrpB in both oxidative and aerobic (O2) stress and that RrpB was a DNA binding protein with auto-regulatory activity, typical of MarR-type transcriptional regulators. In this study, we show that RrpA is also a DNA binding protein and that a rrpA mutant in strain 11168H exhibits increased sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide oxidative stress. Mutation of either rrpA or rrpB reduces catalase (KatA) expression. However, a rrpAB double mutant exhibits higher levels of resistance to hydrogen peroxide oxidative stress, with levels of KatA expression similar to the wild-type strain. Mutation of either rrpA or rrpB also results in a reduction in the level of katA expression, but this reduction was not observed in the rrpAB double mutant. Neither the rrpA nor rrpB mutant exhibits any significant difference in sensitivity to either cumene hydroperoxide or menadione oxidative stresses, but both mutants exhibit a reduced ability to survive aerobic (O2) stress, enhanced biofilm formation and reduced virulence in the Galleria mellonella infection model. The rrpAB double mutant exhibits wild-type levels of biofilm formation and wild-type levels of virulence in the G mellonella infection model. Together these data indicate a role for both RrpA and RrpB in the C. jejuni peroxide oxidative and aerobic (O2) stress responses, enhancing bacterial survival in vivo and in the environment.

Correlation between the oxide impedance and corrosion behavior of Zr-Nb-Sn-Fe-Cu alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Sang-Yoon; Lee, Myung-Ho; Jeong, Yong-Hwan; Jung, Youn-Ho

2004-12-01

The correlation between the oxide impedance and corrosion behavior of two series of Zr-Nb-Sn-Fe-Cu alloys was evaluated. Corrosion tests were performed in a 70 ppm LiOH aqueous solution at 360°C for 300 days. The results of the corrosion tests revealed that the corrosion behavior of the alloys depended on the Nb and Sn content. The impedance characteristics for the pre- and post-transition oxide layers formed on the surface of the alloys were investigated in sulfuric acid at room temperature. From the results, a pertinent equivalent circuit model was preferably established, explaining the properties of double oxide layers. The impedance of the oxide layers correlated with the corrosion behavior; better corrosion resistance always showed higher electric resistance for the inner layers. It is thus concluded that a pertinent equivalent circuit model would be useful for evaluating the long-term corrosion behavior of Zr-Nb-Sn-Fe-Cu alloys.

Bubble template synthesis of Sn2Nb2O7 hollow spheres for enhanced visible-light-driven photocatalytic hydrogen production.

PubMed

Zhou, Chao; Zhao, Yufei; Bian, Tong; Shang, Lu; Yu, Huijun; Wu, Li-Zhu; Tung, Chen-Ho; Zhang, Tierui

2013-10-28

Hierarchical Sn2Nb2O7 hollow spheres were prepared for the first time via a facile hydrothermal route using bubbles generated in situ from the decomposition of urea as soft templates. The as-obtained hollow spheres with a large specific surface area of 58.3 m(2) g(-1) show improved visible-light-driven photocatalytic H2 production activity in lactic acid aqueous solutions, about 4 times higher than that of the bulk Sn2Nb2O7 sample prepared by a conventional high temperature solid state reaction method.

Numerical Stress Analysis during Cooldown and Compressive Loading in an Imperfect Nb 3Sn Wire

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

d’Hauthuille, Luc; Zhai, Yuhu

In this paper, high field superconductors are critical to the success of next step magnetic fusion confinement devices such as ITER and DEMO. The low-temperature superconducting material that is currently favored for these applications, Nb 3Sn, is susceptible to performance due to its brittleness and high strain-sensitivity. Under extreme loads, an irreversible degradation in the maximum critical current density has been shown to occur and believed to be strongly influenced by two factors: plasticity and cracked filaments. Cracks in filaments are induced when sufficiently high stress concentrations occur in the wire. In this paper, we explore using finite element analysismore » the impact that voids have on the stress distributions and peak stresses under two loading conditions: transverse compressive loading in a 2D model, and a full cool down phase in a 3D model.« less

Numerical Stress Analysis during Cooldown and Compressive Loading in an Imperfect Nb 3Sn Wire

DOE PAGES

d’Hauthuille, Luc; Zhai, Yuhu

2017-07-11

In this paper, high field superconductors are critical to the success of next step magnetic fusion confinement devices such as ITER and DEMO. The low-temperature superconducting material that is currently favored for these applications, Nb 3Sn, is susceptible to performance due to its brittleness and high strain-sensitivity. Under extreme loads, an irreversible degradation in the maximum critical current density has been shown to occur and believed to be strongly influenced by two factors: plasticity and cracked filaments. Cracks in filaments are induced when sufficiently high stress concentrations occur in the wire. In this paper, we explore using finite element analysismore » the impact that voids have on the stress distributions and peak stresses under two loading conditions: transverse compressive loading in a 2D model, and a full cool down phase in a 3D model.« less

Theoretical analysis for the mechanical behavior caused by an electromagnetic cycle in ITER Nb3Sn cable-in-conduit conductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yue, Donghua; Zhang, Xingyi; Zhou, You-He

2018-02-01

The central solenoid (CS) is one of the key components of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) tokamak and which is often considered as the heart of this fusion reactor. This solenoid will be built by using Nb3Sn cable-in-conduit conductors (CICC), capable of generating a 13 T magnetic field. In order to assess the performance of the Nb3Sn CICC in nearly the ITER condition, many short samples have been evaluated at the SULTAN test facility (the background magnetic field is of 10.85 T with the uniform length of 400 mm at 1% homogeneity) in Centre de Recherches en Physique des Plasma (CRPP). It is found that the samples with pseudo-long twist pitch (including baseline specimens) show a significant degradation in the current-sharing temperature (Tcs), while the qualification tests of all short twist pitch (STP) samples, which show no degradation versus electromagnetic cycling, even exhibits an increase of Tcs. This behavior was perfectly reproduced in the coil experiments at the central solenoid model coil (CSMC) facility last year. In this paper, the complex structure of the Nb3Sn CICC would be simplified into a wire rope consisting of six petals and a cooling spiral. An analytical formula for the Tcs behavior as a function of the axial strain of the cable is presented. Based on this, the effects of twist pitch, axial and transverse stiffness, thermal mismatch, cycling number, magnetic distribution, etc., on the axial strain are discussed systematically. The calculated Tcs behavior with cycle number show consistency with the previous experimental results qualitatively and quantitatively. Lastly, we focus on the relationship between Tcs and axial strain of the cable, and we conclude that the Tcs behavior caused by electromagnetic cycles is determined by the cable axial strain. Once the cable is in a compression situation, this compression strain and its accumulation would lead to the Tcs degradation. The experimental observation of the Tcs

Investigation of Hydrogen-Like Muonium States in Nb-Doped SnO2 Films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rabis, Annett; Prokscha, Thomas; Fabbri, Emiliana; Salman, Zaher; Schmidt, Thomas; Suter, Andreas

Little is known about the characteristics of hydrogen states in thin films of SnO2 and Nb doped SnO2 (NTO) and its influence on the electrical properties in these materials, which are promising candidates for metal-oxide supports in polymer electrolyte fuel cells. Here, we used low-energy muon spin rotation/relaxation (LE-μSR) to study hydrogen-like muonium (Mu) states between 5 and 300 K in undoped and Nb doped SnO2 films with Nb doping levels of 0.1 and 2%, respectively. The films were prepared by reactive DC magnetron sputtering on undoped Si substrates. Film thicknesses varied between 75 and 200 nm, and muons were implanted close to the surface at a mean depth of 10 nm, in the center of the films, and in some cases close to the NTO/Si interface. Our results of transverse-field and longitudinal-field μSR show striking similarities to recent bulk μSR measurements on various zirconia systems [Vieira et al., Phys. Rev. B 94, 115207 (2016)]. This suggests that in the NTO systems the same Mu configurations exist which are the interstitial site with a deep, isotropic atomic Mu state, and, as the dominant fraction, the oxygen bound configuration with polaronic character.

Experimental results of 40-kA Nb[sub 3]Al cable-in-conduit conductor for fusion machines

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

Takahashi, Y.; Sugimoto, M.; Isono, T.

1994-07-01

A 40-kA Nb[sub 3]Al cable-in-conduit conductor has been developed for the toroidal field coils of fusion reactors, because Nb[sub 3]Al has excellent mechanical performance. This conductor consists of 405 copper-stabilized multifilamentary strands inserted into a CuNi case circular conduit. The Nb[sub 3]Al strands are fabricated by the Jelly-roll process with a diameter of 1.22 mm. This conductor could be operated up to a current of 46 kA at an external field of 11.2 T. Accordingly, Nb[sub 3]Al promises to soon become a useful superconductor for large-scale high-field applications, such as fusion machines.

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

Emanuela Barzi et al.

Fermilab is developing 11 T superconducting dipole magnets for future accelerators based on Nb{sub 3}Sn conductor. Within the High Field Magnet Project, the first prototypes feature 1 meter long two-layer shell-type coils and common coils. For the former, keystoned Rutherford-type cable made of 28 Nb{sub 3}Sn strands 1 mm in diameter are used, whereas for the latter a 60-strand flat cable was chosen. Multifilamentary Nb{sub 3}Sn strands produced with various technologies by industry were used for the development and testing of the prototype cable. An experimental cabling machine with up to 28-strand capacity that has been recently purchased, installed andmore » commissioned at Fermilab, has allowed further advances in strand and cable studies. Cables of 27 and 28 strands of various structures (single strands or assemblies of sub-strands), with aspect ratios from 7 to 17, packing factors from 85 to 95%, with and without a stainless steel core were made out of Copper, NbTi, and Modified Jelly Roll (OST), Powder-in-Tube (SMI) and Internal Tin (Mitsubishi) Nb{sub 3}Sn strands. optimal parameters were determined with respect to mechanical and electrical properties, including critical current degradation, interstrand resistance, etc. Round strands of the same billets used in the cables were deformed by rolling them down to various thicknesses. Their critical current Ic was then measured and compared with that of the strands extracted from cables having different packing factors. This paper summarizes the results of such R and D efforts at Fermilab.« less

Magnetic analysis of the Nb$$_3$$Sn low-beta quadrupole for the high luminosity LHC

DOE PAGES

Bermudez, Susana Izquierdo; Ambrosio, G.; Chlachidze, G.; ...

2017-01-10

As part of the Large Hadron Collider Luminosity upgrade (HiLumi-LHC) program, the US LARP collaboration and CERN are working together to design and build 150 mm aperture Nb 3Sn quadrupoles for the LHC interaction regions. A first series of 1.5 m long coils were fabricated, assembled and tested in the first short model. This paper presents the magnetic analysis, comparing magnetic field measurements with the expectations and the field quality requirements. The analysis is focused on the geometrical harmonics, iron saturation effect and cold-warm correlation. Three dimensional effects such as the variability of the field harmonics along the magnet axismore » and the contribution of the coil ends are also discussed. Furthemore, we present the influence of the conductor magnetization and the dynamic effects.« less

Recent progress and tests of radiation resistant impregnation materials for Nb3Sn coils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bossert, R.; Krave, S.; Ambrosio, G.; Andreev, N.; Chlachidze, G.; Nobrega, A.; Novitski, I.; Yu, M.; Zlobin, A. V.

2014-01-01

Fermilab is collaborating with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) and Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) (US-LARP collaboration) to develop a large-aperture Nb3Sn superconducting quadrupole for the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) luminosity upgrade. An important component of this work is the development of materials that are sufficiently radiation resistant for use in critical areas of the upgrade. This paper describes recent progress in characterization of materials, including the baseline CTD101K epoxy, cyanate ester blends, and Matrimid 5292, a bismaleimide-based system. Structural properties of "ten stacks" of cable impregnated with these materials are tested at room and cryogenic temperatures and compared to the baseline CT-101K. Experience with potting 1 and 2 meter long coils with Matrimid 5292 are described. Test results of a single 1-m coil impregnated with Matrimid 5292 are reported and compared to similar coils impregnated with the traditional epoxy.

Possibility of Flat-Band Ferromagnetism in Hole-Doped Pyrochlore Oxides Sn2 Nb2 O7 and Sn2 Ta2 O7

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hase, I.; Yanagisawa, T.; Aiura, Y.; Kawashima, K.

2018-05-01

Quantum mechanics tells us that the hopping integral between local orbitals makes the energy band dispersive. In a lattice with geometric frustration, however, dispersionless flat bands may appear due to quantum interference. Several models possessing flat bands have been proposed theoretically, and many attracting magnetic and electronic properties are predicted. However, despite many attempts to realize these models experimentally, compounds that are appropriately described by this model have not been found so far. Here we show that pyrochlore oxides Sn2 Nb2 O7 and Sn2Ta2O7 are such examples, by performing first-principles band calculation and several tight-binding analyses. Moreover, spin-polarized band calculation shows that the hole-doped systems Sn2 Nb2 O6 N and Sn2 Ta2 O6 N have complete spin polarization, and their magnetic moments are mostly carried by Sn-s and N-p orbitals, which are usually nonmagnetic. These compounds are not only candidates for ferromagnets without a magnetic element, but also will provide an experimental platform for a flat-band model which shows a wide range of physical properties.

Colossal dielectric permittivity in (Al + Nb) co-doped rutile SnO2 ceramics with low loss at room temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Yongli; Wang, Xianjie; Zhang, Xingquan; Qi, Xudong; Liu, Zhiguo; Zhang, Lingli; Zhang, Yu; Wang, Yang; Sui, Yu; Song, Bo

2016-10-01

The exploration of colossal dielectric permittivity (CP) materials with low dielectric loss in a wide range of frequencies/temperatures continues to attract considerable interest. In this paper, we report CP in (Al + Nb) co-doped rutile SnO2 ceramics with a low dielectric loss at room temperature. Al0.02Nb0.05Sn0.93O2 and Al0.03Nb0.05Sn0.92O2 ceramics exhibit high relative dielectric permittivities (above 103) and low dielectric losses (0.015 < tan δ < 0.1) in a wide range of frequencies and at temperatures from 140 to 400 K. Al doping can effectively modulate the dielectric behavior by increasing the grain and grain boundary resistances. The large differences in the resistance and conductive activation energy of the grains and grain boundaries suggest that the CP in co-doped SnO2 ceramics can be attributed to the internal barrier layer capacitor effect.

Fabrication of fine-grain tantalum diffusion barrier tube for Nb3Sn conductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hartwig, K. T.; Balachandran, S.; Mezyenski, R.; Seymour, N.; Robinson, J.; Barber, R. E.

2014-01-01

Diffusion barriers used in Nb3Sn wire are often fabricated by wrapping Ta sheet into a tube with an overlap seam. A common result of such practice is non-uniform deformation in the Ta sheet as it thins by wire drawing because of non-uniform grain size and texture in the original Ta sheet. Seamless Ta tube with a fine-grain and uniform microstructure would be much better for the diffusion barrier application, but such material is expensive and difficult to manufacture. This report presents results on a new fabrication strategy for Ta tube that shows promise for manufacture of less costly tube with an improved microstructure. The fabrication method begins with seam-welded tube but gives a fine-grain uniform microstructure with little difference between the longitudinal seam weld region and the parent metal after post-weld processing. Severe plastic deformation processing (SPD) applied by area reduction extrusion and tube equal channel angular extrusion (tECAE) are used to refine and homogenize the microstructure. Microstructure and mechanical property results are presented for Ta tubes fabricated by this new processing strategy.

Enhancement of photoelectrochemical activity of SnS thin-film photoelectrodes using TiO2, Nb2O5, and Ta2O5 metal oxide layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vequizo, Junie Jhon M.; Yokoyama, Masanori; Ichimura, Masaya; Yamakata, Akira

2016-06-01

Tin sulfide (SnS) fine photoelectrodes fabricated by three-step pulsed electrodeposition were active for H2 evolution. The incident-photon-conversion-efficiency increases from 900 nm and offers a good fit with the absorption spectrum. The activity was enhanced by 3.4, 3.0, and 1.8 times compared to bare SnS by loading Nb2O5, TiO2, and Ta2O5, respectively. Nb2O5 was most efficient because its conduction band is low enough to facilitate effective electron transfer from SnS; it also has sufficiently high potential for H2 evolution. The overall activity is determined by the competitive interfacial electron transfer between SnS/metal-oxide and metal-oxide/water. Therefore, constructing appropriate heterojunctions is necessary for further improving photoelectrochemical systems.

Apatite Formation and Biocompatibility of a Low Young’s Modulus Ti-Nb-Sn Alloy Treated with Anodic Oxidation and Hot Water

PubMed Central

Tanaka, Hidetatsu; Mori, Yu; Noro, Atsushi; Kogure, Atsushi; Kamimura, Masayuki; Yamada, Norikazu; Hanada, Shuji; Masahashi, Naoya; Itoi, Eiji

2016-01-01

Ti-6Al-4V alloy is widely prevalent as a material for orthopaedic implants because of its good corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. However, the discrepancy in Young’s modulus between metal prosthesis and human cortical bone sometimes induces clinical problems, thigh pain and bone atrophy due to stress shielding. We designed a Ti-Nb-Sn alloy with a low Young’s modulus to address problems of stress disproportion. In this study, we assessed effects of anodic oxidation with or without hot water treatment on the bone-bonding characteristics of a Ti-Nb-Sn alloy. We examined surface analyses and apatite formation by SEM micrographs, XPS and XRD analyses. We also evaluated biocompatibility in experimental animal models by measuring failure loads with a pull-out test and by quantitative histomorphometric analyses. By SEM, abundant apatite formation was observed on the surface of Ti-Nb-Sn alloy discs treated with anodic oxidation and hot water after incubation in Hank’s solution. A strong peak of apatite formation was detected on the surface using XRD analyses. XPS analysis revealed an increase of the H2O fraction in O 1s XPS. Results of the pull-out test showed that the failure loads of Ti-Nb-Sn alloy rods treated with anodic oxidation and hot water was greater than those of untreated rods. Quantitative histomorphometric analyses indicated that anodic oxidation and hot water treatment induced higher new bone formation around the rods. Our findings indicate that Ti-Nb-Sn alloy treated with anodic oxidation and hot water showed greater capacity for apatite formation, stronger bone bonding and higher biocompatibility for osteosynthesis. Ti-Nb-Sn alloy treated with anodic oxidation and hot water treatment is a promising material for orthopaedic implants enabling higher osteosynthesis and lower stress disproportion. PMID:26914329

High field Nb/sub 3/Sn Axicell insert coils for the Mirror Fusion Test Facility-B (MFTF-B) axicell configuration. Final report

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

Baldi, R.W.; Tatro, R.E.; Scanlan, R.M.

1984-03-01

Two 12-tesla superconducting insert coils are being designed by General Dynamics Convair Division for the axicell regions of MFTF-B for Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. A major challenge of this project is to ensure that combined fabrication and operational strains induced in the conductor are within stringent limitations of the relatively brittle Nb/sub 3/Sn superconductor filaments. These coils are located in the axicell region of MFTF-B. They have a clear-bore diameter of 36.195cm (14.25 inches) and consist of 27 double pancakes (i.e., 54 pancakes per coil) would on an electrically insulated 304LN stainless steel/bobbin helium vessel. Each pancake has 57 turnsmore » separated by G-10CR insulation. The complete winding bundle has 4.6 million ampere-turns and uniform current density of 2007 A/cm/sup 2/. In conjunction with the other magnets in the system, they produce a 12-tesla central field and a 12.52-tesla peak field. A multifilamentary Nb/sub 3/Sn conductor was selected to meet these requirements. The conductor consists of a monolithic insert soldered into a copper stabilizer. Sufficient cross-sectional area and work-hardening of the copper stabilizer has been provided for the conductor to self-react the electromagnetic Lorentz force induced hoop stresses with normal operational tensile strains less than 0.07 percent.« less

The Influence of Interfaces on Properties of Thin-Film Inorganic Structural Isomers Containing SnSe-NbSe2 Subunits.

PubMed

Alemayehu, Matti B; Falmbigl, Matthias; Ta, Kim; Johnson, David C

2015-04-28

Inorganic isomers ([SnSe]1+δ)m(NbSe2)n([SnSe]1+δ)p(NbSe2)q([SnSe]1+δ)r(NbSe2)s where m, n, p, q, r, and s are integers and m + p + r = n + q + s = 4 were prepared using the modulated elemental reactant technique. This series of all six possible isomers provides an opportunity to study the influence of interface density on properties while maintaining the same unit cell size and composition. As expected, all six compounds were observed to have the same atomic compositions and an almost constant c-axis lattice parameter of ≈4.90(5) nm, with a slight trend in the c-axis lattice parameter correlated with the different number of interfaces in the isomers: two, four and six. The structures of the constituents in the ab-plane were independent of one another, confirming the nonepitaxial relationship between them. The temperature dependent electrical resistivities revealed metallic behavior for all the six compounds. Surprisingly, the electrical resistivity at room temperature decreases with increasing number of interfaces. Hall measurements suggest this results from changes in carrier concentration, which increases with increasing thickness of the thickest SnSe block in the isomer. Carrier mobility scales with the thickness of the thickest NbSe2 block due to increased interfacial scattering as the NbSe2 blocks become thinner. The observed behavior suggests that the two constituents serve different purposes with respect to electrical transport. SnSe acts as a charge donor and NbSe2 acts as the charge transport layer. This separation of function suggests that such heterostructures can be designed to optimize performance through choice of constituent, layer thickness, and layer sequence. A simplistic model, which predicts the properties of the complex isomers from a weighted sum of the properties of building blocks, was developed. A theoretical model is needed to predict the optimal compound for specific properties among the many potential compounds that can be prepared.

Analysis of the quench propagation along Nb3Sn Rutherford cables with the THELMA code. Part I: Geometric and thermal models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manfreda, G.; Bellina, F.

2016-12-01

The paper describes the new lumped thermal model recently implemented in THELMA code for the coupled electromagnetic-thermal analysis of superconducting cables. A new geometrical model is also presented, which describes the Rutherford cables used for the accelerator magnets. A first validation of these models has been given by the analysis of the quench longitudinal propagation velocity in the Nb3Sn prototype coil SMC3, built and tested in the frame of the EUCARD project for the development of high field magnets for LHC machine. This paper shows in detail the models, while their application to the quench propagation analysis is presented in a companion paper.

Analysis of ITER NbTi and Nb3Sn CICCs experimental minimum quench energy with JackPot, MCM and THEA models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bagni, T.; Duchateau, J. L.; Breschi, M.; Devred, A.; Nijhuis, A.

2017-09-01

Cable-in-conduit conductors (CICCs) for ITER magnets are subjected to fast changing magnetic fields during the plasma-operating scenario. In order to anticipate the limitations of conductors under the foreseen operating conditions, it is essential to have a better understanding of the stability margin of magnets. In the last decade ITER has launched a campaign for characterization of several types of NbTi and Nb3Sn CICCs comprising quench tests with a singular sine wave fast magnetic field pulse and relatively small amplitude. The stability tests, performed in the SULTAN facility, were reproduced and analyzed using two codes: JackPot-AC/DC, an electromagnetic-thermal numerical model for CICCs, developed at the University of Twente (van Lanen and Nijhuis 2010 Cryogenics 50 139-148) and multi-constant-model (MCM) (Turck and Zani 2010 Cryogenics 50 443-9), an analytical model for CICCs coupling losses. The outputs of both codes were combined with thermal, hydraulic and electric analysis of superconducting cables to predict the minimum quench energy (MQE) (Bottura et al 2000 Cryogenics 40 617-26). The experimental AC loss results were used to calibrate the JackPot and MCM models and to reproduce the energy deposited in the cable during an MQE test. The agreement between experiments and models confirm a good comprehension of the various CICCs thermal and electromagnetic phenomena. The differences between the analytical MCM and numerical JackPot approaches are discussed. The results provide a good basis for further investigation of CICC stability under plasma scenario conditions using magnetic field pulses with lower ramp rate and higher amplitude.

Process for production of solution-derived (Pb,La)(Nb,Sn,Zr,Ti)O.sub.3 thin films and powders

DOEpatents

Boyle, Timothy J.

1999-01-01

A simple and rapid process for synthesizing (Pb,La)(Nb,Sn,Zr,Ti)O.sub.3 precursor solutions and subsequent ferroelectric thin films and powders of the perovskite phase of these materials has been developed. This process offers advantages over standard methods, including: rapid solution synthesis (<10 minutes), use of commercially available materials, film production under ambient conditions, ease of lanthanum dissolution at high concentrations, and no heating requirements during solution synthesis. For lanthanum-doped ferroelectric materials, the lanthanum source can be added with total synthesis time less than 10 minutes. Films and powders are crystallized at approximately 650.degree. C. and exhibit ferroelectric properties comparable to films and powders produced by other techniques which require higher crystallization temperatures.

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

Barzi, E.; Limon, P. J.; Yamada, R.

Fermilab is developing 11 T superconducting dipole magnets for future accelerators based on Nb/sub 3/Sn conductors. Multifilamentary Nb/sub 3/Sn strands 1 mm in diameter produced with the modified jelly roll and powder-in-tube technologies were purchased from OST and SMI respectively. They are herein fully characterized by I/sub c/, n-value, residual resistivity ratio, and magnetization. Results of heat treatment optimization studies are also presented for the OST strand.

Electron backscatter diffraction analysis of Nb3Al multifilamentary strands prepared by rapid heating, quenching and transformation annealing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takeuchi, T.; Tsuchiya, K.; Saeda, M.; Banno, N.; Kikuchi, A.; Iijima, Y.

2010-12-01

To enhance the non-Cu critical current density Jc at 15 T and 4.2 K (1000 A mm - 2 at present) we have endeavoured to refine the grain size of rapid heating, quenching and transformation (RHQT)-processed Nb3Al. In the present study, the grain boundary structures of RHQT-processed Nb3Al were examined by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) because transgranular fracture prevents the observation of fractured cross sections of Nb3Al to statistically determine the grain size. The grain size distributions of body-centred-cubic supersaturated-solid-solution Nb(Al)ss and A15 Nb3Al filaments were measured for grains misoriented by more than 2°, 5° and 15°. A mixed grain structure, which consists of a few large grains (>25 µm) and many small grains (<1 µm), was observed for an Nb3Al filament that had been transformed from non-deformed Nb(Al)ss. Plastic deformation that had been made between the rapid heating and quenching steps and the transformation step apparently homogenized the grain size distribution and then reduced the average grain size. The misorientation angle distributions of Nb(Al)ss and Nb3Al were also measured and compared with each other. A clear relationship between the Jc and the inverse grain size was not confirmed for the RHQT Nb3Al conductors examined in the present study, which indicates the importance of making a filament compositionally homogeneous to obtain a high Jc.

Process for production of solution-derived (Pb,La)(Nb,Sn,Zr,Ti)O{sub 3} thin films and powders

DOEpatents

Boyle, T.J.

1999-01-12

A simple and rapid process for synthesizing (Pb,La)(Nb,Sn,Zr,Ti)O{sub 3} precursor solutions and subsequent ferroelectric thin films and powders of the perovskite phase of these materials has been developed. This process offers advantages over standard methods, including: rapid solution synthesis (<10 minutes), use of commercially available materials, film production under ambient conditions, ease of lanthanum dissolution at high concentrations, and no heating requirements during solution synthesis. For lanthanum-doped ferroelectric materials, the lanthanum source can be added with total synthesis time less than 10 minutes. Films and powders are crystallized at approximately 650 C and exhibit ferroelectric properties comparable to films and powders produced by other techniques which require higher crystallization temperatures. 2 figs.

TEM study on a new Zr-(Fe, Cu) phase in furnace-cooled Zr-1.0Sn-0.3Nb-0.3Fe-0.1Cu alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Yushun; Qiu, Risheng; Luan, Baifeng; Hao, Longlong; Tan, Xinu; Tao, Boran; Zhao, Yifan; Li, Feitao; Liu, Qing

2018-06-01

A new Zr-(Fe, Cu) phase was found in furnace-cooled Zr-1.0Sn-0.3Nb-0.3Fe- 0.1Cu alloy and alloys aged at 580 °C for 10min, 2 h and 10 h. Electron diffraction experiment shows the crystal structure of this phase to be body-centered tetragonal with unit cell dimensions determined to be a = b = 6.49 Å, c = 5.37 Å. Its possible space groups have been discussed and the reason accounting for its formation is believed to be the addition of Cu according to the atom-level images. In addition, no crystal structural or chemical composition changes were observed throughout the aging process.

Phase transition temperature in the Zr-rich corner of Zr-Nb-Sn-Fe alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Canay, M.; Danón, C. A.; Arias, D.

2000-08-01

The influence of small composition changes on the phase transformation temperature of Zr-1Nb-1Sn-0.2(0.7)Fe alloys was studied in the present work, by electrical resistivity measurements and metallographic techniques. For the alloy with 0.2 at.% Fe we have determined Tα↔α+β=741°C and Tα+β↔β=973°C, and for the 0.7 at.% Fe the transformation temperatures were T α↔α+β=712°C and T α+β↔β=961°C. We have verified that the addition of Sn stabilized the β phase.

Progressing in cable-in-conduit for fusion magnets: from ITER to low cost, high performance DEMO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uglietti, D.; Sedlak, K.; Wesche, R.; Bruzzone, P.; Muzzi, L.; della Corte, A.

2018-05-01

The performance of ITER toroidal field (TF) conductors still have a significant margin for improvement because the effective strain between ‑0.62% and ‑0.95% limits the strands’ critical current between 15% and 45% of the maximum achievable. Prototype Nb3Sn cable-in-conduit conductors have been designed, manufactured and tested in the frame of the EUROfusion DEMO activities. In these conductors the effective strain has shown a clear improvement with respect to the ITER conductors, reaching values between ‑0.55% and ‑0.28%, resulting in a strand critical current which is two to three times higher than in ITER conductors. In terms of the amount of Nb3Sn strand required for the construction of the DEMO TF magnet system, such improvement may lead to a reduction of at least a factor of two with respect to a similar magnet built with ITER type conductors; a further saving of Nb3Sn is possible if graded conductors/windings are employed. In the best case the DEMO TF magnet could require fewer Nb3Sn strands than the ITER one, despite the larger size of DEMO. Moreover high performance conductors could be operated at higher fields than ITER TF conductors, enabling the construction of low cost, compact, high field tokamaks.

Unique dielectric tunability of Pb0.99[(Zr0.6Sn0.4)0.94Ti0.06]0.98Nb0.02O3 antiferroelectric ceramics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Lei; Spreitzer, Matjaž; Suvorov, Danilo; Chen, Xiang Ming

2016-08-01

The tunable dielectric properties of Pb0.99[(Zr0.6Sn0.4)0.94Ti0.06]0.98Nb0.02O3 antiferroelectric ceramics were investigated, and high relative tunability of 49% was obtained at 25 °C under a low bias electric field of 50 kV/cm. Abrupt changes and a significant hysteresis in dielectric constant and dielectric loss against bias electric field were observed, which are very different from the previously reported antiferroelectric materials. The unique dielectric tunability is attributed to the square-shaped double hysteresis loop and indicates the possible applications in some special tunable devices, such as an electrically-controlled switch. Pb0.99[(Zr0.6Sn0.4)0.94Ti0.06]0.98Nb0.02O3 ceramics also exhibit unique dielectric tunability at -5 °C. Abrupt changes in dielectric constant and dielectric loss were observed when the bias electric field increased to 31 kV/cm for the fresh sample, which is similar to the antiferroelectric-like dielectric tunability at 25 °C. However, the dielectric tunability was ferroelectric-like in the following measurement. This response is consistent with the hysteresis loop and can be explained by the electric field-assisted irreversible antiferroelectric-ferroelectric phase transition.

The Campylobacter jejuni Oxidative Stress Regulator RrpB Is Associated with a Genomic Hypervariable Region and Altered Oxidative Stress Resistance.

PubMed

Gundogdu, Ozan; da Silva, Daiani T; Mohammad, Banaz; Elmi, Abdi; Wren, Brendan W; van Vliet, Arnoud H M; Dorrell, Nick

2016-01-01

Campylobacter jejuni is the leading cause of bacterial foodborne diarrhoeal disease worldwide. Despite the microaerophilic nature of the bacterium, C. jejuni can survive the atmospheric oxygen conditions in the environment. Bacteria that can survive either within a host or in the environment like C. jejuni require variable responses to survive the stresses associated with exposure to different levels of reactive oxygen species. The MarR-type transcriptional regulators RrpA and RrpB have recently been shown to play a role in controlling both the C. jejuni oxidative and aerobic stress responses. Analysis of 3,746 C. jejuni and 486 C. coli genome sequences showed that whilst rrpA is present in over 99% of C. jejuni strains, the presence of rrpB is restricted and appears to correlate with specific MLST clonal complexes (predominantly ST-21 and ST-61). C. coli strains in contrast lack both rrpA and rrpB . In C. jejuni rrpB + strains, the rrpB gene is located within a variable genomic region containing the IF subtype of the type I Restriction-Modification ( hsd ) system, whilst this variable genomic region in C. jejuni rrpB - strains contains the IAB subtype hsd system and not the rrpB gene. C. jejuni rrpB - strains exhibit greater resistance to peroxide and aerobic stress than C. jejuni rrpB + strains. Inactivation of rrpA resulted in increased sensitivity to peroxide stress in rrpB + strains, but not in rrpB - strains. Mutation of rrpA resulted in reduced killing of Galleria mellonella larvae and enhanced biofilm formation independent of rrpB status. The oxidative and aerobic stress responses of rrpB - and rrpB + strains suggest adaptation of C. jejuni within different hosts and niches that can be linked to specific MLST clonal complexes.

Second-generation coil design of the Nb 3Sn low-β quadrupole for the high luminosity LHC

DOE PAGES

Bermudez, S. Izquierdo; Ambrosio, G.; Ballarino, A.; ...

2016-01-18

As part of the Large Hadron Collider Luminosity upgrade (HiLumi-LHC) program, the US LARP collaboration and CERN are working together to design and build a 150 mm aperture Nb 3Sn quadrupole for the LHC interaction regions. A first series of 1.5 m long coils were fabricated and assembled in a first short model. A detailed visual inspection of the coils was carried out to investigate cable dimensional changes during heat treatment and the position of the windings in the coil straight section and in the end region. The analyses allow identifying a set of design changes which, combined with amore » fine tune of the cable geometry and a field quality optimization, were implemented in a new, second-generation, coil design. In this study, we review the main characteristics of the first generation coils, describe the modification in coil lay-out, and discuss their impact on parts design and magnet analysis.« less

The mechanism of the UV band edge photorefractivity suppression in highly doped LiNbO3:Zr crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xin, Fei-fei

2017-11-01

The ultraviolet (UV) band edge photorefractivity of LiNbO3:Zr at 325 nm has been investigated. The experimental results show that the resistance against photorefraction at 325 nm is quite obvious but not as strong as that at 351 nm, when the doping concentration of Zr reaches 2.0 mol%. It is reported that the photorefractivity in other tetravalently doped LiNbO3 crystals, such as LiNbO3:Hf and LiNbO3:Sn, is enhanced dramatically with doping concentration over threshold. Here we give an explicit explanation on such seemly conflicting behaviors of tetravalently doped LiNbO3, which is ascribed to the combined effect of increased photoconductivity and the absorption strength of the band edge photorefractive centers.

High strength Sn-Mo-Nb-Zr alloy tubes and method of making same

DOEpatents

Cheadle, Brian A.

1977-01-01

Tubes for use in nuclear reactors fabricated from a quaternary alloy comprising 2.5-4.0 wt% Sn, 0.5-1.5 wt% Mo, 0.5-1.5 wt% Nb, balance essentially Zr. The tubes are fabricated by a process of hot extrusion, heat treatment, cold working to size and age hardening, so as to produce a microstructure comprising elongated .alpha. grains with an acicular transformed .beta. grain boundary phase.

Rrp6p, the yeast homologue of the human PM-Scl 100-kDa autoantigen, is essential for efficient 5.8 S rRNA 3' end formation.

PubMed

Briggs, M W; Burkard, K T; Butler, J S

1998-05-22

The eukaryotic 25 S, 18 S, and 5.8 S rRNAs are synthesized as a single transcript with two internal transcribed spacers (ITS1 and ITS2), which are removed by endo- and exoribonucleolytic steps to produce mature rRNA. Genetic selection for suppressors of a polyadenylation defect yielded two cold-sensitive alleles of a gene that we named RRP6 (ribosomal RNA processing). Molecular cloning of RRP6 revealed its homology to a 100-kDa human, nucleolar PM-Scl autoantigen and to Escherichia coli RNase D, a 3'-5' exoribonuclease. Recessive mutations in rrp6 result in the accumulation of a novel 5. 8 S rRNA processing intermediate, called 5.8 S*, which has normal 5' ends, but retains approximately 30 nucleotides of ITS2. Pulse-chase analysis of 5.8 S rRNA processing in an rrp6- strain revealed a precursor-product relationship between 5.8 S* and 5.8 S rRNAs, suggesting that Rrp6p plays a role in the removal of the last 30 nucleotides of ITS2 from 5.8 S precursors. A portion of 5.8 S* rRNA assembles into 60 S ribosomes which form polyribosomes, suggesting that they function in protein synthesis. These findings indicate that Rrp6p plays a role in 5.8 S rRNA 3' end formation, and they identify a functional intermediate in the rRNA processing pathway.

Effects of neutron irradiation on pinning force scaling in state-of-the-art Nb3Sn wires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baumgartner, T.; Eisterer, M.; Weber, H. W.; Flükiger, R.; Scheuerlein, C.; Bottura, L.

2014-01-01

We present an extensive irradiation study involving five state-of-the-art Nb3Sn wires which were subjected to sequential neutron irradiation up to a fast neutron fluence of 1.6 × 1022 m-2 (E > 0.1 MeV). The volume pinning force of short wire samples was assessed in the temperature range from 4.2 to 15 K in applied fields of up to 7 T by means of SQUID magnetometry in the unirradiated state and after each irradiation step. Pinning force scaling computations revealed that the exponents in the pinning force function differ significantly from those expected for pure grain boundary pinning, and that fast neutron irradiation causes a substantial change in the functional dependence of the volume pinning force. A model is presented, which describes the pinning force function of irradiated wires using a two-component ansatz involving a point-pinning contribution stemming from radiation induced pinning centers. The dependence of this point-pinning contribution on fast neutron fluence appears to be a universal function for all examined wire types.

Metallographic autopsies of full-scale ITER prototype cable-in-conduit conductors after full cyclic testing in SULTAN: II. Significant reduction of strand movement and strand damage in short twist pitch CICCs

DOE PAGES

Sanabria, Charlos; Lee, Peter J.; Starch, William; ...

2015-10-14

Prototype cable in conduit conductors (CICCs) destined for use in the Toroidal Field (TF) and Central Solenoid (CS) coils of the ITER experimental fusion reactor underwent severe cyclic loading in the SULTAN facility. Their autopsies revealed significant and permanent transverse strand migration due to the large Lorentz forces of the SULTAN test. The movement resulted in a 3 7% void fraction increase on the Low Pressure (LP) side of the longer twist pitch CICCs. However, short twist pitch conductors exhibited less than 1% void fraction increase in the LP side, as well as a complete absence of the Nb 3Snmore » filament fractures observed in the longer twist pitch conductors. We report here a detailed strand to cable analysis of short and longer “baseline” twist pitch CICCs. It was found that the use of Internal Tin strands in the longer “baseline” twist pitch CICCs can be beneficial possibly because of their superior stiffness—which better resist strand movement—while the use of Bronze Process strands showed more movement and poorer cyclic test performance. This was not the case for the short twist pitch CICC. Such conductor design seems to work well with both strand types. But it was found that despite the absence of filament fractures, the short twist pitch CICC made from the Internal Tin strands studied here developed severe strand distortion during cabling which resulted in diffusion barrier breaks and Sn contamination of the Cu stabilizer during the heat treatment. Furthermore, the short twist pitch CICC made from Bronze Process strands preserved diffusion barrier integrity.« less

Metallographic autopsies of full-scale ITER prototype cable-in-conduit conductors after full cyclic testing in SULTAN: II. Significant reduction of strand movement and strand damage in short twist pitch CICCs

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

Sanabria, Charlos; Lee, Peter J.; Starch, William

Prototype cable in conduit conductors (CICCs) destined for use in the Toroidal Field (TF) and Central Solenoid (CS) coils of the ITER experimental fusion reactor underwent severe cyclic loading in the SULTAN facility. Their autopsies revealed significant and permanent transverse strand migration due to the large Lorentz forces of the SULTAN test. The movement resulted in a 3 7% void fraction increase on the Low Pressure (LP) side of the longer twist pitch CICCs. However, short twist pitch conductors exhibited less than 1% void fraction increase in the LP side, as well as a complete absence of the Nb 3Snmore » filament fractures observed in the longer twist pitch conductors. We report here a detailed strand to cable analysis of short and longer “baseline” twist pitch CICCs. It was found that the use of Internal Tin strands in the longer “baseline” twist pitch CICCs can be beneficial possibly because of their superior stiffness—which better resist strand movement—while the use of Bronze Process strands showed more movement and poorer cyclic test performance. This was not the case for the short twist pitch CICC. Such conductor design seems to work well with both strand types. But it was found that despite the absence of filament fractures, the short twist pitch CICC made from the Internal Tin strands studied here developed severe strand distortion during cabling which resulted in diffusion barrier breaks and Sn contamination of the Cu stabilizer during the heat treatment. Furthermore, the short twist pitch CICC made from Bronze Process strands preserved diffusion barrier integrity.« less

Development of 10 kA class Nb sub 3 Al superconducting cable by Jelly-role process

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

Ando, T.; Takahashi, Y.; Nishi, M.

This paper reports on a multifilamentary Cu/Nb{sub 3}Al composite strand developed, with a non-copper critical current density of more than 400 A/mm{sup 2} at 12 T, by Jelly-roll process. A 10 kA cable-in-conduit conductor was fabricated to demonstrate the applicability to fusion magnets. The cable had 324 strands, and a circular CuNi seamless pipe was used as the conduit. The strand diameter was 0.88 mm and the filament diameter was 28 {mu}m. The heat treatment was performed at 820{degrees} C for 2 hr.

Assembly Tests of the First Nb 3 Sn Low-Beta Quadrupole Short Model for the Hi-Lumi LHC

DOE PAGES

Pan, H.; Felice, H.; Cheng, D. W.; ...

2016-01-18

In preparation for the high-luminosity upgrade of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), the LHC Accelerator Research Program (LARP) in collaboration with CERN is pursuing the development of MQXF: a 150-mm-aperture high-field Nb3Sn quadrupole magnet. Moreover, the development phase starts with the fabrication and test of several short models (1.2-m magnetic length) and will continue with the development of several long prototypes. All of them are mechanically supported using a shell-based support structure, which has been extensively demonstrated on several R&D models within LARP. The first short model MQXFS-AT has been assembled at LBNL with coils fabricated by LARP and CERN.more » In our paper, we summarize the assembly process and show how it relies strongly on experience acquired during the LARP 120-mm-aperture HQ magnet series. We also present comparison between strain gauges data and finite-element model analysis. Finally, we present the implication of the MQXFS-AT experience on the design of the long prototype support structure.« less

Rrp1b, a New Candidate Susceptibility Gene for Breast Cancer Progression and Metastasis

PubMed Central

Crawford, Nigel P. S; Qian, Xiaolan; Ziogas, Argyrios; Papageorge, Alex G; Boersma, Brenda J; Walker, Renard C; Lukes, Luanne; Rowe, William L; Zhang, Jinghui; Ambs, Stefan; Lowy, Douglas R; Anton-Culver, Hoda; Hunter, Kent W

2007-01-01

A novel candidate metastasis modifier, ribosomal RNA processing 1 homolog B (Rrp1b), was identified through two independent approaches. First, yeast two-hybrid, immunoprecipitation, and functional assays demonstrated a physical and functional interaction between Rrp1b and the previous identified metastasis modifier Sipa1. In parallel, using mouse and human metastasis gene expression data it was observed that extracellular matrix (ECM) genes are common components of metastasis predictive signatures, suggesting that ECM genes are either important markers or causal factors in metastasis. To investigate the relationship between ECM genes and poor prognosis in breast cancer, expression quantitative trait locus analysis of polyoma middle-T transgene-induced mammary tumor was performed. ECM gene expression was found to be consistently associated with Rrp1b expression. In vitro expression of Rrp1b significantly altered ECM gene expression, tumor growth, and dissemination in metastasis assays. Furthermore, a gene signature induced by ectopic expression of Rrp1b in tumor cells predicted survival in a human breast cancer gene expression dataset. Finally, constitutional polymorphism within RRP1B was found to be significantly associated with tumor progression in two independent breast cancer cohorts. These data suggest that RRP1B may be a novel susceptibility gene for breast cancer progression and metastasis. PMID:18081427

Synthesis of new visible light active photocatalysts of Ba(In(1/3)Pb(1/3)M'(1/3))O3 (M' = Nb, Ta): a band gap engineering strategy based on electronegativity of a metal component.

PubMed

Hur, Su Gil; Kim, Tae Woo; Hwang, Seong-Ju; Park, Hyunwoong; Choi, Wonyong; Kim, Sung Jin; Kim, Sun Jin; Choy, Jin-Ho

2005-08-11

We have synthesized new, efficient, visible light active photocatalysts through the incorporation of highly electronegative non-transition metal Pb or Sn ions into the perovskite lattice of Ba(In(1/3)Pb(1/3)M'(1/3))O3 (M = Sn, Pb; M' = Nb, Ta). X-ray diffraction, X-ray absorption spectroscopic, and energy dispersive spectroscopic microprobe analyses reveal that tetravalent Pb or Sn ions exist in the B-site of the perovskite lattice, along with In and Nb/Ta ions. According to diffuse UV-vis spectroscopic analysis, the Pb-containing quaternary metal oxides Ba(In(1/3)Pb(1/3)M'(1/3))O3 possess a much narrower band gap (E(g) approximately 1.48-1.50 eV) when compared to the ternary oxides Ba(In(1/2)M'(1/2))O3 (E(g) approximately 2.97-3.30 eV) and the Sn-containing Ba(In(1/3)Sn(1/3)M'(1/3))O3 derivatives (E(g) approximately 2.85-3.00 eV). Such a variation of band gap energy upon the substitution is attributable to the broadening of the conduction band caused by the dissimilar electronegativities of the B-site cations. In contrast to the ternary or the Sn-substituted quaternary compounds showing photocatalytic activity under UV-vis irradiation, the Ba(In(1/3)Pb(1/3)M'(1/3))O3 compounds induce an efficient photodegradation of 4-chlorophenol under visible light irradiation (lambda > 420 nm). The present results highlight that the substitution of electronegative non-transition metal cations can provide a very powerful way of developing efficient visible light harvesting photocatalysts through tuning of the band structure of a semiconductive metal oxide.

Rrp6 is recruited to transcribed genes and accompanies the spliced mRNA to the nuclear pore

PubMed Central

Hessle, Viktoria; von Euler, Anne; González de Valdivia, Ernesto; Visa, Neus

2012-01-01

Rrp6 is an exoribonuclease involved in the quality control of mRNA biogenesis. We have analyzed the association of Rrp6 with the Balbiani ring pre-mRNPs of Chironomus tentans to obtain insight into the role of Rrp6 in splicing surveillance. Rrp6 is recruited to transcribed genes and its distribution along the genes does not correlate with the positions of exons and introns. In the nucleoplasm, Rrp6 is bound to both unspliced and spliced transcripts. Rrp6 is released from the mRNPs in the vicinity of the nuclear pore before nucleo-cytoplasmic translocation. We show that Rrp6 is associated with newly synthesized transcripts during all the nuclear steps of gene expression and is associated with the transcripts independently of their splicing status. These observations suggest that the quality control of pre-mRNA splicing is not based on the selective recruitment of the exoribonuclease Rrp6 to unprocessed mRNAs. PMID:22745224

Alloying and Hardness of Eutectics with Nbss and Nb5Si3 in Nb-silicide Based Alloys

PubMed Central

Tsakiropoulos, Panos

2018-01-01

In Nb-silicide based alloys, eutectics can form that contain the Nbss and Nb5Si3 phases. The Nb5Si3 can be rich or poor in Ti, the Nb can be substituted with other transition and refractory metals, and the Si can be substituted with simple metal and metalloid elements. For the production of directionally solidified in situ composites of multi-element Nb-silicide based alloys, data about eutectics with Nbss and Nb5Si3 is essential. In this paper, the alloying behaviour of eutectics observed in Nb-silicide based alloys was studied using the parameters ΔHmix, ΔSmix, VEC (valence electron concentration), δ (related to atomic size), Δχ (related to electronegativity), and Ω (= Tm ΔSmix/|ΔHmix|). The values of these parameters were in the ranges −41.9 < ΔHmix <−25.5 kJ/mol, 4.7 < ΔSmix < 15 J/molK, 4.33 < VEC < 4.89, 6.23 < δ < 9.44, 0.38 < Ω < 1.35, and 0.118 < Δχ < 0.248, with a gap in Δχ values between 0.164 and 0.181. Correlations between ΔSmix, Ω, ΔSmix, and VEC were found for all of the eutectics. The correlation between ΔHmix and δ for the eutectics was the same as that of the Nbss, with more negative ΔHmix for the former. The δ versus Δχ map separated the Ti-rich eutectics from the Ti-poor eutectics, with a gap in Δχ values between 0.164 and 0.181, which is within the Δχ gap of the Nbss. Eutectics were separated according to alloying additions in the Δχ versus VEC, Δχ versus , δ versus , and VEC versus maps, where = Al + Ge + Si + Sn. Convergence of data in maps occurred at δ ≈ 9.25, VEC ≈ 4.35, Δχ in the range ≈ 0.155 to 0.162, and in the range ≈ 21.6 at.% to ≈ 24.3 at.%. The convergence of data also indicated that the minimum concentration of Ti and maximum concentrations of Al and Si in the eutectic were about 8.7 at.% Ti, 6.3 at.% Al, and 21.6 at.% Si, respectively, and that the minimum concentration of Si in the eutectic was in the range 8 < Si < 10 at.%. PMID:29641503

Mechanical performance of short models for MQXF, the Nb3Sn low-β quadrupole for the Hi-Lumi LHC

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

Vallone, Giorgio; Ambrosio, Giorgio; Anderssen, Eric

In the framework of the Hi-Lumi LHC Project, CERN and U.S. LARP are jointly developing MQXF, a 150-mm aperture high-field Nb3Sn quadrupole for the upgrade of the inner triplet of the low-beta interaction regions. The magnet is supported by a shell-based structure, providing the preload by means of bladder-key technology and differential thermal contraction of the various components. Two short models have been produced using the same cross section currently considered for the final magnet. The structures were preliminarily tested replacing the superconducting coils with blocks of aluminum. This procedure allows for model validation and calibration, and also to setmore » performance goals for the real magnet. Strain gauges were used to monitor the behavior of the structure during assembly, cool down and also excitation in the case of the magnets. The various structures differ for the shell partitioning strategies adopted and for the presence of thick or thin laminations. This study presents the results obtained and discusses the mechanical performance of all the short models produced up to now.« less

Mechanical performance of short models for MQXF, the Nb3Sn low-β quadrupole for the Hi-Lumi LHC

DOE PAGES

Vallone, Giorgio; Ambrosio, Giorgio; Anderssen, Eric; ...

2016-12-23

In the framework of the Hi-Lumi LHC Project, CERN and U.S. LARP are jointly developing MQXF, a 150-mm aperture high-field Nb3Sn quadrupole for the upgrade of the inner triplet of the low-beta interaction regions. The magnet is supported by a shell-based structure, providing the preload by means of bladder-key technology and differential thermal contraction of the various components. Two short models have been produced using the same cross section currently considered for the final magnet. The structures were preliminarily tested replacing the superconducting coils with blocks of aluminum. This procedure allows for model validation and calibration, and also to setmore » performance goals for the real magnet. Strain gauges were used to monitor the behavior of the structure during assembly, cool down and also excitation in the case of the magnets. The various structures differ for the shell partitioning strategies adopted and for the presence of thick or thin laminations. This study presents the results obtained and discusses the mechanical performance of all the short models produced up to now.« less

Study of the effects of MeV Ag, Cu, Au, and Sn implantation on the optical properties of LiNbO3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, E. K.; Ila, D.; Sarkisov, S.; Curley, M.; Poker, D. B.; Hensley, D. K.; Borel, C.

1998-01-01

The authors present the results of characterization of linear absorption and nonlinear refractive index of Au, Ag, Cu and Sn ion implantation into LiNbO3. Ag was implanted at 1.5 MeV to fluences of 2 to 17 x 17(exp 16)/sq cm at room temperature. Au and Cu were implanted to fluences of 5 to 20 x 10(exp 16)/sq cm at an energy of 2.0 MeV. Sn was implanted to a fluence of 1.6 x 10(exp 17)/sq cm at 160 kV. Optical absorption spectrometry indicated an absorption peak for the Au implanted samples after heat treatment at 1,000 C at approx. 620 nm. The Ag implanted samples absorption peaks shifted from approx. 450 nm before heat treatment to 550 nm after 500 C for 1h. Heat treatment at 800 C returned the Ag implanted crystals to a clear state. Cu nanocluster absorption peaks disappears at 500 C. No Sn clusters were observed by optical absorption or XRD. The size of the Ag and Au clusters as a function of heat treatment were determined from the absorption peaks. The Ag clusters did not change appreciably in size with heat treatment. The Au clusters increased from 3 to 9 nm diameter upon heat treatment at 1000 C. TEM analysis performed on a Au implanted crystal indicated the formation of Au nanocrystals with facets normal to the c-axis. Measurements of the nonlinear refractive indices were carried out using the Z-scan method with a tunable dye laser pumped by a frequency doubled mode-locked Nd:YAG laser. The dye laser had a 4.5 ps pulse duration time and 76 MHz pulse repetition rate (575 nm).

Fabrication of multifilamentary Nb/sub 3/(Al,Ge) wires through a modified jelly roll process

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

Tachikawa, K.; Kamisada, Y.; Suzuki, E.

Recently, development of Nb/sub 3/Al multifilamentary wires has gained much interests since high-field performance superior to that of Nb/sub 3/Sn can be expected in these wires. In this study, Nb/Al-Ge alloy composites were fabricated into multifilamentary wires through a modified jelly roll (MJR) process. A Nb mesh sheet produced at the Teledyne Wah Chang Co. was used as Nb component. An Al-Ge alloy prepared by a conventional casting process was forged and rolled into a sheet of 0.2 mm in thickness. The Nb/Al-Ge composite was prepared by wrapping the Nb mesh sheet together with the Al-Ge alloy sheet around amore » Nb core into a jelly roll form. The MJR composite was encased in a Cu-Ni alloy tube of which outer diameter was 43 mm. The resulting composite was hydrostatically pressed and extruded into a rod of 18 mm in diameter. A Nb barrier was then inserted between the MJR and the Cu-Ni jacket. The composite rod was swaged and drawn into a wire without any intermediate annealing. The wire was able to be drawn down to a very small diameter of 0.1 mm. The cross-sectional configuration of the MJR composite was not much disturbed by the fabrication. Superconducting transition temperature Tc of the wire, after different heat treatment including a rapid quenching from high temperatures by a continuous electron beam irradiation, was studied, and an onset Tc of 19.3K has been achieved.« less

Molecular Mechanism of Processive 3' to 5' RNA Translocation in the Active Subunit of the RNA Exosome Complex.

PubMed

Vuković, Lela; Chipot, Christophe; Makino, Debora L; Conti, Elena; Schulten, Klaus

2016-03-30

Recent experimental studies revealed structural details of 3' to 5' degradation of RNA molecules, performed by the exosome complex. ssRNA is channeled through its multisubunit ring-like core into the active site tunnel of its key exonuclease subunit Rrp44, which acts both as an enzyme and a motor. Even in isolation, Rrp44 can pull and sequentially cleave RNA nucleotides, one at a time, without any external energy input and release a final 3-5 nucleotide long product. Using molecular dynamics simulations, we identify the main factors that control these processes. Our free energy calculations reveal that RNA transfer from solution into the active site of Rrp44 is highly favorable, but dependent on the length of the RNA strand. While RNA strands formed by 5 nucleotides or more correspond to a decreasing free energy along the translocation coordinate toward the cleavage site, a 4-nucleotide RNA experiences a free energy barrier along the same direction, potentially leading to incomplete cleavage of ssRNA and the release of short (3-5) nucleotide products. We provide new insight into how Rrp44 catalyzes a localized enzymatic reaction and performs an action distributed over several RNA nucleotides, leading eventually to the translocation of whole RNA segments into the position suitable for cleavage.

Testing of TAMU3: a Nb 3Sn Block–Coil Dipole with Stress Management

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

McIntyre, Peter

The Accelerator Research Lab (ARL) at Texas A&M has recently concluded the construction and testing of a superconducting block-coil dipole TAMU3. TAMU3 reached 85% of the resistive-onset short sample critical current (0.1 μV/cm criterion) that was measured on extracted strands at the National High Magnetic Field Lab. Peak magnet current was 6603 amps, and all with quenches originated in the vicinity of the hard-way chicane near the exit lead of the TAMU3c inner winding. Leading up to the testing we discovered that we had made two grievous mistakes in the fabrication (we mistakenly used the wrong superconducting wire for themore » cables of the inner windings) and the heat treatment (we used a heat treatment that was too hot and too long). We extracted strands from the leads of the inner and outer windings, and colleagues at NHMFL performed short-sample measurements upon them. The NHMFL measurements indicated RRR ~ 2-5, which gives very little stability against microquenches. The short-sample tests of the extracted strands exhibited a long resistive transition, in which there was a current I sc(B) beyond which it became resistive, then a higher current In(B) at which it went fully normal. Using the I sc(B) data we predicted a short-sample limit for the revised load line of TAMU3 of 7700 A (9 T) – a disappointing reduction from the 14 T objective. On those unhappy notes we undertook the testing of the dipole. The first quench occurred at 5695 A, and the dipole trained thereafter to a maximum quench current of 6600 A (7.6 T), 85% of the compromised short-sample limit. All quenches occurred at a single location, in the region of the S-bend transition and outer lead of one inner winding. Data was collected from stress transducers on the outer windings to evaluate stress management, and on the coil ends to evaluate capture of axial forces by staticfriction lock. The low field reached prevented us from extending those tests to the stress levels where they would have

Synthesis and Gas Sensing Properties of Single La-Doped SnO2 Nanobelts

PubMed Central

Wu, Yuemei; Zhang, Heng; Liu, Yingkai; Chen, Weiwu; Ma, Jiang; Li, Shuanghui; Qin, Zhaojun

2015-01-01

Single crystal SnO2 nanobelts (SnO2 NBs) and La-SnO2 nanobelts (La-SnO2 NBs) were synthesized by thermal evaporation. Both a single SnO2 NB sensor and a single La-SnO2 NB sensor were developed and their sensing properties were investigated. It is found that the single La-SnO2 NB sensor had a high sensitivity of 8.76 to ethanediol at a concentration of 100 ppm at 230 °C, which is the highest sensitivity of a single SnO2 NB to ethanediol among three kinds of volatile organic (VOC) liquids studied, including ethanediol, ethanol, and acetone. The La-SnO2 NBs sensor also exhibits a high sensitivity, good selectivity and long-term stability with prompt response time to ethanediol. The mechanism behind the enhanced sensing performance of La-doped SnO2 nanobelts is discussed. PMID:26087374

Mechanical qualification of the support structure for MQXF, the Nb 3Sn low-β quadrupole for the high luminosity LHC

DOE PAGES

Juchno, M.; Ambrosio, G.; Anerella, M.; ...

2016-01-26

Within the scope of the High Luminosity LHC project, the collaboration between CERN and U.S. LARP is developing new low-β quadrupoles using the Nb 3Sn superconducting technology for the upgrade of the LHC interaction regions. The magnet support structure of the first short model was designed and two units were fabricated and tested at CERN and at LBNL. The structure provides the preload to the collars-coils subassembly by an arrangement of outer aluminum shells pre-tensioned with water-pressurized bladders. For the mechanical qualification of the structure and the assembly procedure, superconducting coils were replaced with solid aluminum “dummy coils”, the structuremore » was preloaded at room temperature, and then cooled-down to 77 K. Mechanical behavior of the magnet structure was monitored with the use of strain gauges installed on the aluminum shells, the dummy coils and the axial preload system. As a result, this paper reports on the outcome of the assembly and the cool-down tests with dummy coils, which were performed at CERN and at LBNL, and presents the strain gauge measurements compared to the 3D finite element model predictions.« less

Effects of the accumulated annealing parameter on the corrosion characteristics of a Zr-0.5Nb-1.0Sn-0.5Fe-0.25Cr alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baek, Jong Hyuk; Jeong, Yong Hwan; Kim, In Sup

2000-07-01

Corrosion behavior, hydrogen pickup, oxide microstructure, and precipitate characterization have been studied in order to investigate the effect of the accumulated annealing parameter on the corrosion characteristics in a Zr-Nb-Sn-Fe-Cr alloy. An autoclave corrosion test was carried out in 400°C steam for 300 days on the Zr-0.5Nb-1.0Sn-0.5Fe-0.25Cr alloy, which had been given 18 different accumulated annealing parameters. The corrosion rate increased with increasing the accumulated annealing parameter. To investigate the crystal structure of oxide layer, the corroded specimens were prepared to have an equal oxide thickness (˜1.6 μm) by controlling exposure time. The relative fraction of tetragonal ZrO 2 also decreased gradually with increasing accumulated annealing parameter. From the hydrogen analysis of the corroded samples for 300 days, it was observed that, with increasing the size of precipitates, the hydrogen pickup was enhanced. It was revealed from transmission electron microscope (TEM) observation of the oxide that the larger precipitates still remained to be oxidized in the oxide layer and had undergone a reduction of Fe/Cr ratio from 2.1 to 1.5. The oxidation of the precipitates in the oxide gave rise to a volume expansion at the precipitate-oxide interface. This volume change could lead to the transformation in the oxide phase from tetragonal ZrO 2 to monoclinic ZrO 2 and in oxide structure from columnar grain to equiaxed grain. The precipitate in a Zr-0.5Nb-1.0Sn-0.5Fe-0.25Cr alloy is composed of Nb, Fe, and Cr and the Nb content in the precipitate increase with increasing accumulated annealing parameter. Thus, it can be thought that Nb within precipitates plays a key role in the microstructural change of oxide.

The 10-item Remembered Relationship with Parents (RRP10) scale: two-factor model and association with adult depressive symptoms.

PubMed

Denollet, Johan; Smolderen, Kim G E; van den Broek, Krista C; Pedersen, Susanne S

2007-06-01

Dysfunctional parenting styles are associated with poor mental and physical health. The 10-item Remembered Relationship with Parents (RRP(10)) scale retrospectively assesses Alienation (dysfunctional communication and intimacy) and Control (overprotection by parents), with an emphasis on deficiencies in empathic parenting. We examined the 2-factor structure of the RRP(10) and its relationship with adult depression. 664 respondents from the general population (48% men, mean age 54.6+/-14.2 years) completed the RRP(10), Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI), and Beck Depression Inventory. The Alienation and Control dimensions of the RRP(10) displayed a sound factor structure, good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha=0.83-0.86), and convergent validity against the PBI scales. No significant gender differences were found on the RRP(10) scales. Stratifying by RRP(10) dimensions showed that respondents high in Alienation and Control, for both father (33.3% vs. 14.5%, p<0.0001) and mother (42% vs. 12.9%, p<0.0001) items, experienced the highest levels of depressive symptoms compared with respondents low in Alienation and Control. While scoring high on Alienation or Control alone was also significantly and independently associated with depressive symptoms, scoring high on both Alienation and Control was most strongly connected with depressive symptoms for both father (OR=2.48, p<0.004) and mother (OR=5.34, p<0.0001) items. Cross-sectional study design. The RRP(10) is a reliable and valid measure of remembered parental Alienation and Control. High Alienation and Control were independently related to increased risk of depressive symptoms. Given the brevity of the RRP(10), it can easily be used in epidemiological/clinical research on the link between the remembered relationship with parents and mental/physical health.

Development of MQXF: The Nb 3Sn low-β quadrupole for the HiLumi LHC

DOE PAGES

Ferracin, P.; G. Ambrosio; Anerella, M.; ...

2015-12-18

The High Luminosity (HiLumi) Large Hadron Collider (LHC) project has, as the main objective, to increase the LHC peak luminosity by a factor five and the integrated luminosity by a factor ten. This goal will be achieved mainly with a new interaction region layout, which will allow a stronger focusing of the colliding beams. The target will be to reduce the beam size in the interaction points by a factor of two, which requires doubling the aperture of the low-β (or inner triplet) quadrupole magnets. The use of Nb3Sn superconducting material and, as a result, the possibility of operating atmore » magnetic field levels in the windings higher than 11 T will limit the increase in length of these quadrupoles, called MQXF, to acceptable levels. After the initial design phase, where the key parameters were chosen and the magnet's conceptual design finalized, the MQXF project, a joint effort between the U.S. LHC Accelerator Research Program and the Conseil Europeen pour la Recherche Nucleaire (CERN), has now entered the construction and test phase of the short models. Concurrently, the preparation for the development of the full-length prototypes has been initiated. Lastly, this paper will provide an overview of the project status, describing and reporting on the performance of the superconducting material, the lessons learnt during the fabrication of superconducting coils and support structure, and the fine tuning of the magnet design in view of the start of the prototyping phase.« less

Improving tribological properties of Ti-5Zr-3Sn-5Mo-15Nb alloy by double glow plasma surface alloying

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Lili; Qin, Lin; Kong, Fanyou; Yi, Hong; Tang, Bin

2016-12-01

Molybdenum, an alloying element, was deposited and diffused on Ti-5Zr-3Sn-5Mo-15Nb (TLM) substrate by double glow plasma surface alloying technology at 900, 950 and 1000 °C. The microstructure, composition distribution and micro-hardness of the Mo modified layers were analyzed. Contact angles on deionized water and wear behaviors of the samples against corundum balls in simulated human body fluids were investigated. Results show that the surface microhardness is significantly enhanced after alloying and increases with treated temperature rising, and the contact angles are lowered to some extent. More importantly, compared to as-received TLM alloy, the Mo modified samples, especially the one treated at 1000 °C, exhibit the significant improvement of tribological properties in reciprocating wear tests, with lower specific wear rate and friction coefficient. To conclude, Mo alloying treatment is an effective approach to obtain excellent comprehensive properties including optimal wear resistance and improved wettability, which ensure the lasting and safety application for titanium alloys as the biomedical implants.

Effective properties of undoped and Indium3+-doped tin manganese telluride (Sn1 - xMnxTe) nanoparticles via using a chemical bath deposition route

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boon-on, Patsorn; Tubtimtae, Auttasit; Vailikhit, Veeramol; Teesetsopon, Pichanan; Choopun, Supab

2017-06-01

Tin manganese telluride nanoparticles (Sn1-xMnxTe NPs) were first synthesized on a niobium pentoxide (Nb2O5) film using a chemical bath deposition (CBD) route. An individual particle size before and after indium (In3+) doping of ∼70-150 nm was investigated with stoichiometric formation of the SnMnTe phase. Furthermore, a cubic or rocksalt structure of the Sn0.938Mn0.062Te phase was also kept incorporated in the structure. The plotted energy band gaps for undoped and In3+-doped samples were 2.17 and 1.83 eV, respectively. The reduction of photoluminescence (PL) spectra after In3+ doping, while the indium dopant acted as a trap state incorporated in Sn1-xMnxTe NPs, showed enhanced charge separation and reduced charge recombination, which resulted in a higher charge density trapped in the conduction band of Nb2O5 and was also confirmed by the result of anodic peaks in the cyclic voltammetry. These results suggest new possibilities in optoelectronic and electrochemical devices.

The Metastasis Efficiency Modifier Ribosomal RNA Processing 1 Homolog B (RRP1B) Is a Chromatin-associated Factor*

PubMed Central

Crawford, Nigel P. S.; Yang, Hailiu; Mattaini, Katherine R.; Hunter, Kent W.

2009-01-01

There is accumulating evidence for a role of germ line variation in breast cancer metastasis. We have recently identified a novel metastasis susceptibility gene, Rrp1b (ribosomal RNA processing 1 homolog B). Overexpression of Rrp1b in a mouse mammary tumor cell line induces a gene expression signature that predicts survival in breast cancer. Here we extend the analysis of RRP1B function by demonstrating that the Rrp1b activation gene expression signature accurately predicted the outcome in three of four publicly available breast carcinoma gene expression data sets. In addition, we provide insights into the mechanism of RRP1B. Tandem affinity purification demonstrated that RRP1B physically interacts with many nucleosome binding factors, including histone H1X, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1, TRIM28 (tripartite motif-containing 28), and CSDA (cold shock domain protein A). Co-immunofluorescence and co-immunoprecipitation confirmed these interactions and also interactions with heterochromatin protein-1α and acetyl-histone H4 lysine 5. Finally, we investigated the effects of ectopic expression of an RRP1B allelic variant previously associated with improved survival in breast cancer. Gene expression analyses demonstrate that, compared with ectopic expression of wild type RRP1B in HeLa cells, the variant RRP1B differentially modulates various transcription factors controlled by TRIM28 and CSDA. These data suggest that RRP1B, a tumor progression and metastasis susceptibility candidate gene, is potentially a dynamic modulator of transcription and chromatin structure. PMID:19710015

An investigation of the Nb doping effect on structural, morphological, electrical and optical properties of spray deposited F doped SnO2 films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turgut, G.; Keskenler, E. F.; Aydın, S.; Yılmaz, M.; Doǧan, S.; Düzgün, B.

2013-03-01

F and Nb + F co-doped SnO2 thin films were deposited on glass substrates by the spray pyrolysis method. The microstructural, morphological, electrical and optical properties of the 10 wt% F doped SnO2 (FTO) thin films were investigated specifically for niobium (Nb) doping in the range of 0-4 at.% with 1 at.% steps. As shown by the x-ray diffraction patterns, the films exhibited a tetragonal cassiterite structure with (200) preferential orientation. It was observed that grain sizes of the films for (200) and (301) peaks depended on the Nb doping concentration and varied in the range of 25.11-32.19 and 100.6-183.7 nm, respectively. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs showed that the FTO films were made of small pyramidal grains, while doubly doped films were made of small pyramidal grains and big polyhedron grains. From electrical studies, although 1 at.% Nb doped FTO films have the lowest sheet resistance and resistivity values, the highest figure-of-merit and optical band gap values obtained for FTO films were 16.2 × 10-2 Ω-1 and 4.21 eV, respectively. Also, infrared reflectivity values of the films were in the range of 97.39-98.98%. These results strongly suggest that these films are an attractive candidate for various optoelectronic applications and for photothermal conversion of solar energy.

Structure and dielectric properties of (Ba0.7Sr0.3)1- x Na x (Ti0.9Sn0.1)1- x Nb x O3 ceramics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghoudi, Hanen; Chkoundali, Souad; Aydi, Abdelhedi; Khirouni, Kamel

2017-11-01

(Ba0.7Sr0.3)1- x Na x (Ti0.9Sn0.1)1- x Nb x O3 ceramics with compositions x = 0.6, 0.7, 0.8 and 0.9 were synthesized using the solid-state reaction method. These ceramics were examined by X-ray diffraction and dielectric measurements over a broad temperature and frequency ranges. X-ray diffraction patterns revealed a single-perovskite phase crystallized in a cubic structure, for x < 0.8, and in tetragonal, for x ≥ 0.8, with Pm3m and P4mm spaces groups, respectively. Two types of behaviors, classical ferroelectric or relaxor, were observed depending on the x composition. It is noted that temperatures T C (the Curie temperature) or T m (the temperature of maximum permittivity) rise when x increases and the relaxor character grows more significantly when x composition decreases. To analyze the dielectric relaxation degree of relaxor, various models were considered. It was proven that an exponential function could well describe the temperature dependence of the static dielectric constant and relaxation time.

Identification of karyopherins involved in the nuclear import of RNA exosome subunit Rrp6 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

PubMed

Gonzales-Zubiate, Fernando A; Okuda, Ellen K; Da Cunha, Julia P C; Oliveira, Carla Columbano

2017-07-21

The exosome is a conserved multiprotein complex essential for RNA processing and degradation. The nuclear exosome is a key factor for pre-rRNA processing through the activity of its catalytic subunits, Rrp6 and Rrp44. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae , Rrp6 is exclusively nuclear and has been shown to interact with exosome cofactors. With the aim of analyzing proteins associated with the nuclear exosome, in this work, we purified the complex with Rrp6-TAP, identified the co-purified proteins by mass spectrometry, and found karyopherins to be one of the major groups of proteins enriched in the samples. By investigating the biological importance of these protein interactions, we identified Srp1, Kap95, and Sxm1 as the most important karyopherins for Rrp6 nuclear import and the nuclear localization signals recognized by them. Based on the results shown here, we propose a model of multiple pathways for the transport of Rrp6 to the nucleus. © 2017 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Relevance Rank Platform (RRP) for Functional Filtering of High Content Protein-Protein Interaction Data.

PubMed

Pokharel, Yuba Raj; Saarela, Jani; Szwajda, Agnieszka; Rupp, Christian; Rokka, Anne; Lal Kumar Karna, Shibendra; Teittinen, Kaisa; Corthals, Garry; Kallioniemi, Olli; Wennerberg, Krister; Aittokallio, Tero; Westermarck, Jukka

2015-12-01

High content protein interaction screens have revolutionized our understanding of protein complex assembly. However, one of the major challenges in translation of high content protein interaction data is identification of those interactions that are functionally relevant for a particular biological question. To address this challenge, we developed a relevance ranking platform (RRP), which consist of modular functional and bioinformatic filters to provide relevance rank among the interactome proteins. We demonstrate the versatility of RRP to enable a systematic prioritization of the most relevant interaction partners from high content data, highlighted by the analysis of cancer relevant protein interactions for oncoproteins Pin1 and PME-1. We validated the importance of selected interactions by demonstration of PTOV1 and CSKN2B as novel regulators of Pin1 target c-Jun phosphorylation and reveal previously unknown interacting proteins that may mediate PME-1 effects via PP2A-inhibition. The RRP framework is modular and can be modified to answer versatile research problems depending on the nature of the biological question under study. Based on comparison of RRP to other existing filtering tools, the presented data indicate that RRP offers added value especially for the analysis of interacting proteins for which there is no sufficient prior knowledge available. Finally, we encourage the use of RRP in combination with either SAINT or CRAPome computational tools for selecting the candidate interactors that fulfill the both important requirements, functional relevance, and high confidence interaction detection. © 2015 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

RRP42, a Subunit of Exosome, Plays an Important Role in Female Gametophytes Development and Mesophyll Cell Morphogenesis in Arabidopsis.

PubMed

Yan, Xiaoyuan; Yan, Zongyun; Han, Yuzhen

2017-01-01

The exosome complex plays a central and essential role in RNA metabolism. However, current research on functions of exosome subunit in plants is limited. Here, we used an egg cell-specific promoter-controlled CRISPR/Cas9 system to knock out RRP42 which encodes a core subunit of the Arabidopsis exosome and presented evidence that RRP42 is essential for the development of female gametophytes. Next, we designed three different amiRNAs targeting RRP42 . The rrp42 knock-down mutants mainly displayed variegated and serrated leaves, especially in cauline leaves. The internal anatomy of cauline leaves displayed irregularly shaped palisade cells and a reduced density of mesophyll cells. Interestingly, we detected highly accumulated mRNAs that encode xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolases (XTHs) and expansins (EXPAs) during later growth stages in rrp42 knock-down mutants. The mRNA decay kinetics analysis for XTH19 , EXPA10 , and EXPA11 revealed that RRP42 had a role in the decay of these mRNAs in the cytoplasm. RRP42 is localized to both the nucleus and cytoplasm, and RRP42 is preferentially expressed in cauline leaves during later growth stages. Altogether, our results demonstrate that RRP42 is essential for the development of female gametophytes and plays an important role in mesophyll cell morphogenesis.

A new LiNbO{sub 3}-type polar oxide with closed-shell cations: ZnPbO{sub 3}

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

Yu, Runze, E-mail: yu.r.aa@m.titech.ac.jp, E-mail: mazuma@msl.titech.ac.jp; Hojo, Hajime; Azuma, Masaki, E-mail: yu.r.aa@m.titech.ac.jp, E-mail: mazuma@msl.titech.ac.jp

2015-09-07

A new lithium-niobate (LiNbO{sub 3})-type polar compound, namely, ZnPbO{sub 3} (a = 5.41605(7) Å and c = 14.33151(3) Å), with closed-shell ions only was synthesized under high pressure and high temperature (8 GPa and 1273 K). A point-charge-model calculation based on atomic positions refined by Rietveld analysis of synchrotron X-ray diffraction data gave an electrical ionic polarization of 77 μC/cm{sup 2} along the hexagonal c-axis. Detailed structural analysis indicated that the contribution of Pb{sup 4+} in ZnPbO{sub 3} to the polarization was almost twice as large as that of Sn{sup 4+} in ZnSnO{sub 3}. Transport measurement showed metallic behavior of ZnPbO{sub 3} from room temperature to lowmore » temperature despite the fact that both cations are closed-shell ions.« less

Mechanical Properties of β-Ti-35Nb-2.5Sn Alloy Synthesized by Mechanical Alloying and Pulsed Current Activated Sintering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Omran, Abdel-Nasser; Woo, Kee-Do; Lee, Hyun Bom

2012-12-01

A developed Ti-35 pct Nb-2.5 pct Sn (wt pct) alloy was synthesized by mechanical alloying using high-energy ball-milled powders, and the powder consolidation was done by pulsed current activated sintering (PCAS). The starting powder materials were mixed for 24 hours and then milled by high-energy ball milling (HEBM) for 1, 4, and 12 hours. The bulk solid samples were fabricated by PCAS at 1073 K to 1373 K (800 °C to 1100 °C) for a short time, followed by rapid cooling to 773 K (500 °C). The relative density of the sintered samples was about 93 pct. The Ti was completely transformed from α to β-Ti phase after milling for 12 hours in powder state, and the specimen sintered at 1546 K (1273 °C) was almost transformed to β-Ti phase. The homogeneity of the sintered specimen increased with increasing milling time and sintering temperature, as did its hardness, reaching 400 HV after 12 hours of milling. The Young's modulus was almost constant for all sintered Ti-35 pct Nb-2.5 pct Sn specimens at different milling times. The Young's modulus was low (63.55 to 65.3 GPa) compared to that of the standard alloy of Ti-6Al-4V (100 GPa). The wear resistance of the sintered specimen increased with increasing milling time. The 12-hour milled powder exhibited the best wear resistance.

Theoretical study of electronic structures and spectroscopic properties of Ga3Sn, GaSn3, and their ions.

PubMed

Zhu, Xiaolei

2007-01-01

Ground and excited states of mixed gallium stannide tetramers (Ga3Sn, Ga3Sn+, Ga3Sn-, GaSn3, GaSn3+, and GaSn3-) are investigated employing the complete active space self-consistent-field (CASSCF), density function theory (DFT), and the coupled-cluster single and double substitution (including triple excitations) (CCSD(T)) methods. The ground states of Ga3Sn, Ga3Sn+, and Ga3Sn- are found to be the 2A1, 3B1, and 1A1 states in C2v symmetry with a planar quadrilateral geometry, respectively. The ground states of GaSn3 and GaSn3- is predicted to be the 2A1 and 1A1 states in C2v point group with a planar quadrilateral structure, respectively, while the ground state of GaSn3+ is the 1A1 state with ideal triangular pyramid C3v geometry. Equilibrium geometries, vibrational frequencies, binding energies, electron affinities, ionization energies, and other properties of Ga3Sn and GaSn3 are computed and discussed. The anion photoelectron spectra of Ga3Sn- and GaSn3- are also predicted. It is interesting to find that the amount of charge transfer between Ga and Sn2 atoms in the 1A1 state of GaSn3+ greatly increases upon electron ionization from the 2A1 state of GaSn3, which may be caused by large geometry change. On the other hand, the results of the low-lying states of Ga3Sn and GaSn3 are compared with those of Ga3Si and GaSi3.

Theoretical study of electronic structures and spectroscopic properties of Ga 3Sn, GaSn 3, and their ions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Xiaolei

2007-01-01

Ground and excited states of mixed gallium stannide tetramers (Ga 3Sn, Ga 3Sn +, Ga 3Sn -, GaSn 3, GaSn 3+, and GaSn 3-) are investigated employing the complete active space self-consistent-field (CASSCF), density function theory (DFT), and the coupled-cluster single and double substitution (including triple excitations) (CCSD(T)) methods. The ground states of Ga 3Sn, Ga 3Sn +, and Ga 3Sn - are found to be the 2A 1, 3B 1, and 1A 1 states in C2v symmetry with a planar quadrilateral geometry, respectively. The ground states of GaSn 3 and GaSn 3- is predicted to be the 2A 1 and 1A 1 states in C2v point group with a planar quadrilateral structure, respectively, while the ground state of GaSn 3+ is the 1A 1 state with ideal triangular pyramid C3v geometry. Equilibrium geometries, vibrational frequencies, binding energies, electron affinities, ionization energies, and other properties of Ga 3Sn and GaSn 3 are computed and discussed. The anion photoelectron spectra of Ga 3Sn - and GaSn 3- are also predicted. It is interesting to find that the amount of charge transfer between Ga and Sn 2 atoms in the 1A 1 state of GaSn 3+ greatly increases upon electron ionization from the 2A 1 state of GaSn 3, which may be caused by large geometry change. On the other hand, the results of the low-lying states of Ga 3Sn and GaSn 3 are compared with those of Ga 3Si and GaSi 3.

A Novel Plasmid-Based Microarray Screen Identifies Suppressors of rrp6Δ in Saccharomyces cerevisiae▿†

PubMed Central

Abruzzi, Katharine; Denome, Sylvia; Olsen, Jens Raabjerg; Assenholt, Jannie; Haaning, Line Lindegaard; Jensen, Torben Heick; Rosbash, Michael

2007-01-01

Genetic screens in Saccharomyces cerevisiae provide novel information about interacting genes and pathways. We screened for high-copy-number suppressors of a strain with the gene encoding the nuclear exosome component Rrp6p deleted, with either a traditional plate screen for suppressors of rrp6Δ temperature sensitivity or a novel microarray enhancer/suppressor screening (MES) strategy. MES combines DNA microarray technology with high-copy-number plasmid expression in liquid media. The plate screen and MES identified overlapping, but also different, suppressor genes. Only MES identified the novel mRNP protein Nab6p and the tRNA transporter Los1p, which could not have been identified in a traditional plate screen; both genes are toxic when overexpressed in rrp6Δ strains at 37°C. Nab6p binds poly(A)+ RNA, and the functions of Nab6p and Los1p suggest that mRNA metabolism and/or protein synthesis are growth rate limiting in rrp6Δ strains. Microarray analyses of gene expression in rrp6Δ strains and a number of suppressor strains support this hypothesis. PMID:17101774

High-temperature steam oxidation and oxide crack effects of Zr-1Nb-1Sn-0.1Fe fuel cladding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Cheol Min; Mok, Yong-Kyoon; Sohn, Dong-Seong

2017-12-01

In this study, high-temperature steam oxidation experiments were performed at 1012-1207 °C on Zr-1Nb-1Sn-0.1Fe fuel cladding tubes to study their weight gains and microstructural characteristics. Many specimens were tested at each test temperature, and the results were reproducible and reliable. It is often debated whether the Zr-1Nb-1Sn-0.1Fe alloy follows the weight gain correlation developed by Cathcart and Pawel (C-P correlation) at around 1000 °C. According to our results, the C-P correlation overpredicts the weight gain at around 1000 °C, and this observation agrees well with the data reported by Westinghouse. In addition, the microstructures of the specimens were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, and it was found that circumferential cracks are formed at the oxide-metal interface only at around 1000 °C. In previous studies, it has been postulated that cracks in the oxide promote the oxidation process, but it appears that the circumferential cracks at the oxide-metal interface decrease the oxidation rate before the breakaway oxidation occurs by disturbing the diffusion of oxygen. The oxidation rate reduction due to the circumferential cracks appears to be the reason for the overprediction of the C-P correlation at around 1000 °C.

Microprocessor, Setx, Xrn2, and Rrp6 co-operate to induce premature termination of transcription by RNAPII.

PubMed

Wagschal, Alexandre; Rousset, Emilie; Basavarajaiah, Poornima; Contreras, Xavier; Harwig, Alex; Laurent-Chabalier, Sabine; Nakamura, Mirai; Chen, Xin; Zhang, Ke; Meziane, Oussama; Boyer, Frédéric; Parrinello, Hugues; Berkhout, Ben; Terzian, Christophe; Benkirane, Monsef; Kiernan, Rosemary

2012-09-14

Transcription elongation is increasingly recognized as an important mechanism of gene regulation. Here, we show that microprocessor controls gene expression in an RNAi-independent manner. Microprocessor orchestrates the recruitment of termination factors Setx and Xrn2, and the 3'-5' exoribonuclease, Rrp6, to initiate RNAPII pausing and premature termination at the HIV-1 promoter through cleavage of the stem-loop RNA, TAR. Rrp6 further processes the cleavage product, which generates a small RNA that is required to mediate potent transcriptional repression and chromatin remodeling at the HIV-1 promoter. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled to high-throughput sequencing (ChIP-seq), we identified cellular gene targets whose transcription is modulated by microprocessor. Our study reveals RNAPII pausing and premature termination mediated by the co-operative activity of ribonucleases, Drosha/Dgcr8, Xrn2, and Rrp6, as a regulatory mechanism of RNAPII-dependent transcription elongation. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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

Yamada, R.; Ambrosio, G.; Barzi, E.

Feasibility study of 15-Tesla dipole magnets wound with a new copper stabilized RHQT Nb{sub 3}Al Rutherford cable is presented. A new practical long copper stabilized RHQT Nb{sub 3}Al strand is presented, which is being developed and manufactured at the National Institute of Material Science (NIMS) in Japan. It has achieved a non-copper J{sub c} of 1000A/mm{sup 2} at 15 Tesla at 4.2K, with a copper over non-copper ratio of 1.04, and a filament size less than 50 microns. For this design study a short Rutherford cable with 28 Nb{sub 3}Al strands of 1 mm diameter will be fabricated late thismore » year. The cosine theta magnet cross section is designed using ROXIE, and the stress and strain in the coil is estimated and studied with the characteristics of the Nb{sub 3}Al strand. The advantages and disadvantages of the Nb{sub 3}Al cable are compared with the prevailing Nb{sub 3}Sn cable from the point of view of stress-strain, J{sub c}, and possible degradation of stabilizer due to cabling. The Nb{sub 3}Al coil of the magnet, which will be made by wind and react method, has to be heat treated at 800 degree C for 10 hours. As preparation for the 15 Tesla magnet, a series of tests on strand and Rutherford cables are considered.« less

LiNbO3 Cylinder Fiber

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2004-01-01

We have successfully fabricate optical fiber with a thin layer of LiNbO3 at the boundary of the glass core and dear glass cladding. The construction of this fiber is based on our successful Semiconductor Cylinder Fibers (SCF). A schematic representation of a LiNbO3 Cylinder Fiber is shown. These fibers can be used as light modulators, sonar detectors and in other applications. The core diameter of the fiber is sufficiently small compared to the light wavelength and the indices of refraction of the core and cladding glasses are sufficiently close in value so that there is sufficient light at the core cladding boundary to interact with the LiNbO3 layer. This fiber functions best when just a single light mode propagates through the fiber. The idea for a LiNbO3 Cylinder Fiber came from Dr. Tracee Jamison of NASA. The optical properties of LiNbO3 can be changed with strain or the application of an electric field. Thus these fibers can be used as acoustic sensors as for example in a sonar. They can also be used as electric field operated light modulators. However, for this application the fibers would be made with a cross section in the form of a 'D'. The core with its surrounding LiNbO, layer would be close to the flat portion of the 'D' shaped fiber. Two metal contacts would be deposited on the flat portion of the fiber on either side of the core. A voltage applied across these contacts will result in an electric field in the core region that can be used for modulating the optical properties of the LiNbO, layer. To our knowledge this is the first ever LiNbO, Cylinder Fiber made.

Superconducting NbTiN thin films for superconducting radio frequency accelerator cavity applications

DOE PAGES

Burton, Matthew C.; Beebe, Melissa R.; Yang, Kaida; ...

2016-02-12

Current superconducting radio frequency technology, used in various particle accelerator facilities across the world, is reliant upon bulk niobium superconducting cavities. Due to technological advancements in the processing of bulk Nb cavities, the facilities have reached accelerating fields very close to a material-dependent limit, which is close to 50 MV/m for bulk Nb. One possible solution to improve upon this fundamental limitation was proposed a few years ago by Gurevich [Appl. Phys. Lett. 88, 012511 (2006)], consisting of the deposition of alternating thin layers of superconducting and insulating materials on the interior surface of the cavities. The use of type-IImore » superconductors with Tc > Tc Nb and H c > HcNb, (e.g., Nb 3Sn, NbN, or NbTiN) could potentially greatly reduce the surface resistance (Rs) and enhance the accelerating field, if the onset of vortex penetration is increased above Hc Nb, thus enabling higher field gradients. Although Nb 3Sn may prove superior, it is not clear that it can be grown as a suitable thin film for the proposed multilayer approach, since very high temperature is typically required for its growth, hindering achieving smooth interfaces and/or surfaces. On the other hand, since NbTiN has a smaller lower critical field (H c1) and higher critical temperature (T c) than Nb and increased conductivity compared to NbN, it is a promising candidate material for this new scheme. Here, the authors present experimental results correlating filmmicrostructure with superconducting properties on NbTiN thin film coupon samples while also comparing filmsgrown with targets of different stoichiometry. In conclusion, it is worth mentioning that the authors have achieved thin films with bulk-like lattice parameter and transition temperature while also achieving H c1 values larger than bulk for films thinner than their London penetration depths.« less

Interaction of the host protein NbDnaJ with Potato virus X minus-strand stem-loop 1 RNA and capsid protein affects viral replication and movement.

PubMed

Cho, Sang-Yun; Cho, Won Kyong; Sohn, Seong-Han; Kim, Kook-Hyung

2012-01-06

Plant viruses must interact with host cellular components to replicate and move from cell to cell. In the case of Potato virus X (PVX), it carries stem-loop 1 (SL1) RNA essential for viral replication and movement. Using two-dimensional electrophoresis northwestern blot analysis, we previously identified several host proteins that bind to SL1 RNA. Of those, we further characterized a DnaJ-like protein from Nicotiana benthamiana named NbDnaJ. An electrophoretic mobility shift assay confirmed that NbDnaJ binds only to SL1 minus-strand RNA, and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) indicated that NbDnaJ interacts with PVX capsid protein (CP). Using a series of deletion mutants, the C-terminal region of NbDnaJ was found to be essential for the interaction with PVX CP. The expression of NbDnaJ significantly changed upon infection with different plant viruses such as PVX, Tobacco mosaic virus, and Cucumber mosaic virus, but varied depending on the viral species. In transient experiments, both PVX replication and movement were inhibited in plants that over-expressed NbDnaJ but accelerated in plants in which NbDnaJ was silenced. In summary, we suggest that the newly identified NbDnaJ plays a role in PVX replication and movement by interacting with SL1(-) RNA and PVX CP. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

LiNbO3 Cylinder Fiber

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kornreich, Philip

2004-01-01

We have successfully fabricate optical fiber with a thin layer of LiNbO3 at the boundary of the glass core and clear glass cladding. The construction of this fiber is based on our successful Semiconductor Cylinder Fibers (SCF). A schematic representation of a LiN bo, Cylinder Fiber. These fibers can be used as light modulators, sonar detectors and in other applications. The core diameter of the fiber is sufficiently small compared to the light wavelength and the indices of refraction of the core and cladding glasses are sufficiently close in value so that there is sufficient light at the core cladding boundary to interact with the LiNbO3 layer. This fiber functions best when just a single light mode propagates through the fiber. The idea for a LiNbO3 Cylinder Fiber came from Dr. Tracee Jamison of NASA. The optical properties of LiNbO3 can be changed with strain or the application of an electric field. Thus these fibers can be used as acoustic sensors as for example in a sonar. They can also be used as electric field operated light modulators. However, for this application the fibers would be made with a cross section in the form of a "D". The core with its surrounding LiNbO, layer would be close to the flat portion of the "D" shaped fiber. Two metal contacts would be deposited on the flat portion of the fiber on either side of the core. A voltage applied across these contacts will result in an electric field in the core region that can be used for modulating the optical properties of the LiNbO3 layer. To our knowledge this is the first ever LiNbO3 Cylinder Fiber made.

Nonequilibrium synthesis of NbAl3 and Nb-Al-V alloys by laser cladding. II - Oxidation behavior

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haasch, R. T.; Tewari, S. K.; Sircar, S.; Loxton, C. M.; Mazumder, J.

1992-01-01

Isothermal oxidation behaviors of NbAl3 alloy synthesized by laser cladding were investigated at temperatures between 800 and 1400 C, and the effect of vanadium microalloying on the oxidation of the laser-clad alloy was examined. The oxidation kinetics of the two alloys were monitored using thermal gravimetric weight gain data, and the bulk and surface chemistries were analyzed using XRD and XPS, respectively. It was found that NbAl3 did not form an exclusive layer of protective Al2O3. The oxidation products at 800 C were found to be a mixture of Nb2O5 and Al2O3. At 1200 C, a mixture of NbAlO4, Nb2O5, and Al2O3 formed; and at 1400 C, a mixture of NbAlO4, Al2O3, NbO2, NbO(2.432), and Nb2O5 formed. The addition of V led to a dramatic increase of the oxidation rate, which may be related to the formation of (Nb, V)2O5 and VO2, which grows in preference to protective Al2O3.

Synthesis and fundamental properties of stable Ph(3)SnSiH(3) and Ph(3)SnGeH(3) hydrides: model compounds for the design of Si-Ge-Sn photonic alloys.

PubMed

Tice, Jesse B; Chizmeshya, Andrew V G; Groy, Thomas L; Kouvetakis, John

2009-07-06

The compounds Ph(3)SnSiH(3) and Ph(3)SnGeH(3) (Ph = C(6)H(5)) have been synthesized as colorless solids containing Sn-MH(3) (M = Si, Ge) moieties that are stable in air despite the presence of multiple and highly reactive Si-H and Ge-H bonds. These molecules are of interest since they represent potential model compounds for the design of new classes of IR semiconductors in the Si-Ge-Sn system. Their unexpected stability and high solubility also makes them a safe, convenient, and potentially useful delivery source of -SiH(3) and -GeH(3) ligands in molecular synthesis. The structure and composition of both compounds has been determined by chemical analysis and a range of spectroscopic methods including multinuclear NMR. Single crystal X-ray structures were determined and indicated that both compounds condense in a Z = 2 triclinic (P1) space group with lattice parameters (a = 9.7754(4) A, b = 9.8008(4) A, c = 10.4093(5) A, alpha = 73.35(10)(o), beta = 65.39(10)(o), gamma = 73.18(10)(o)) for Ph(3)SnSiH(3) and (a = 9.7927(2) A, b = 9.8005(2) A, c = 10.4224(2) A, alpha = 74.01(3)(o), beta = 65.48(3)(o), gamma = 73.43(3)(o)) for Ph(3)SnGeH(3). First principles density functional theory simulations are used to corroborate the molecular structures of Ph(3)SnSiH(3) and Ph(3)SnGeH(3), gain valuable insight into the relative stability of the two compounds, and provide correlations between the Si-Sn and Ge-Sn bonds in the molecules and those in tetrahedral Si-Ge-Sn solids.

Experimental and numerical analysis of interfilament resistances in NbTi strands

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Breschi, M.; Massimini, M.; Ribani, P. L.; Spina, T.; Corato, V.

2014-05-01

Superconducting strands are composite wires made of fine superconducting filaments embedded in a metallic matrix. The transverse resistivity among superconducting filaments affects the coupling losses during electromagnetic transients and the electro-thermal behavior of the wire in case of a quench. A direct measurement of the transverse interfilament resistance as a function of temperature in NbTi multi-filamentary wires was performed at the ENEA Frascati Superconductivity Division, Italy by means of a four-probe method. The complexity of these measurements is remarkable, due to the current distribution phenomena that occur among superconducting filaments during these tests. A two-dimensional finite element method model of the wire cross section and a three-dimensional electrical circuit model of the wire sample developed at the University of Bologna are applied here to derive qualitative and quantitative information about the transverse electrical resistance matrix. The experiment is aimed at verifying the qualitative behaviors and trends predicted by the numerical calculations, especially concerning the current redistribution length and consequent length effects of the sample under test. A fine tuning of the model parameters at the filament level allowed us to reproduce the experimental results and get quantitative information about the current distribution phenomena between filaments.

What determines the interfacial configuration of Nb/Al2O3 and Nb/MgO interface

PubMed Central

Du, J. L.; Fang, Y.; Fu, E. G.; Ding, X.; Yu, K. Y.; Wang, Y. G.; Wang, Y. Q.; Baldwin, J. K.; Wang, P. P.; Bai, Q.

2016-01-01

Nb films are deposited on single crystal Al2O3 (110) and MgO(111) substrates by e-beam evaporation technique. Structure of Nb films and orientation relationships (ORs) of Nb/Al2O3 and Nb/MgO interface are studied and compared by the combination of experiments and simulations. The experiments show that the Nb films obtain strong (110) texture, and the Nb film on Al2O3(110) substrate shows a higher crystalline quality than that on MgO(111) substrate. First principle calculations show that both the lattice mismatch and the strength of interface bonding play major roles in determining the crystalline perfection of Nb films and ORs between Nb films and single crystal ceramic substrates. The fundamental mechanisms for forming the interfacial configuration in terms of the lattice mismatch and the strength of interface bonding are discussed. PMID:27698458

Nb K-edge x-ray absorption investigation of the pressure induced amorphization in A-site deficient double perovskite La1/3NbO3.

PubMed

Marini, C; Noked, O; Kantor, I; Joseph, B; Mathon, O; Shuker, R; Kennedy, B J; Pascarelli, S; Sterer, E

2016-02-03

Nb K-edge x-ray absorption spectroscopy is utilized to investigate the changes in the local structure of the A-site deficient double perovskite La1/3NbO3 which undergoes a pressure induced irreversible amorphization. EXAFS results show that with increasing pressure up to 7.5 GPa, the average Nb-O bond distance decreases in agreement with the expected compression and tilting of the NbO6 octahedra. On the contrary, above 7.5 GPa, the average Nb-O bond distance show a tendency to increase. Significant changes in the Nb K-edge XANES spectrum with evident low energy shift of the pre-peak and the absorption edge is found to happen in La1/3NbO3 above 6.3 GPa. These changes evidence a gradual reduction of the Nb cations from Nb(5+) towards Nb(4+) above 6.3 GPa. Such a valence change accompanied by the elongation of the average Nb-O bond distances in the octahedra, introduces repulsion forces between non-bonding adjacent oxygen anions in the unoccupied A-sites. Above a critical pressure, the Nb reduction mechanism can no longer be sustained by the changing local structure and amorphization occurs, apparently due to the build-up of local strain. EXAFS and XANES results indicate two distinct pressure regimes having different local and electronic response in the La1/3NbO3 system before the occurence of the pressure induced amorphization at  ∼14.5 GPa.

Rrp6p controls mRNA polyA tail length and its decoration with polyA binding proteins

PubMed Central

Schmid, Manfred; Poulsen, Mathias Bach; Olszewski, Pawel; Pelechano, Vicent; Saguez, Cyril; Gupta, Ishaan; Steinmetz, Lars M.; Moore, Claire; Jensen, Torben Heick

2012-01-01

PolyA (pA) tail binding proteins (PABPs) control mRNA polyadenylation, stability and translation. In a purified system, S. cerevisiae PABPs, Pab1p and Nab2p, are individually sufficient to provide normal pA tail length. However, it is unknown how this occurs in more complex environments. Here we find that the nuclear exosome subunit Rrp6p counteracts the in vitro and in vivo extension of mature pA tails by the non-canonical pA polymerase Trf4p. Moreover, PABP loading onto nascent pA tails is controlled by Rrp6p; while Pab1p is the major PABP, Nab2p only associates in the absence of Rrp6p. This is because Rrp6p can interact with Nab2p and displace it from pA tails, potentially leading to RNA turnover as evidenced for certain pre-mRNAs. We suggest that a nuclear mRNP surveillance step involves targeting of Rrp6p by Nab2p-bound pA-tailed RNPs and that pre-mRNA abundance is regulated at this level. PMID:22683267

Knudsen effusion mass spectrometric studies over (USn3+U3Sn7) two-phase region of U-Sn system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manikandan, P.; Trinadh, V. V.; Bera, Suranjan; Narasimhan, T. S. Lakshmi; Ananthasivan, K.; Joseph, M.; Mudali, U. Kamachi

2017-08-01

Vaporisation studies over (USn3+U3Sn7) ;two-phase; field have been carried out by employing Knudsen effusion mass spectrometry (KEMS) in the temperature range of 1050-1226 K. Sn(g) was the species observed in the mass spectrum of the equilibrium vapour phase over the samples (71.5 at% Sn and 73.0 at% Sn). The partial pressure of Sn(g) was measured as a function of temperature over (USn3+U3Sn7) ;two-phase; field and the p-T relation was derived as log (pSn/Pa) = ((-14580 ± 91)/(T/K)) + (8.82 ± 0.08) (1050-1226 K). The vaporisation reaction 3USn3(s) = U3Sn7(s) + 2Sn(g) was evaluated by second law method. The Gibbs energy of formation of USn3(s) was derived as ΔfGm°(U Sn3 , s , T) (±1.8) = -173.4 + 0.055 T (K) (kJ mol-1) (1050-1226 K). The mass spectrometric studies on this system have been carried out for the first time.

Metallographic autopsies of full-scale ITER prototype cable-in-conduit conductors after full testing in SULTAN: 1. The mechanical role of copper strands in a CICC

DOE PAGES

Sanabria, Carlos; Lee, Peter J.; Starch, William; ...

2015-06-22

Cables made with Nb 3Sn-based superconductor strands will provide the 13 T maximum peak magnetic field of the ITER Central Solenoid (CS) coils and they must survive up to 60,000 electromagnetic cycles. Accordingly, prototype designs of CS cable-in-conduit-conductors (CICC) were electromagnetically tested over multiple magnetic field cycles and warm-up-cool-down scenarios in the SULTAN facility at CRPP. We report here a post mortem metallographic analysis of two CS CICC prototypes which exhibited some rate of irreversible performance degradation during cycling. The standard ITER CS CICC cable design uses a combination of superconducting and Cu strands, and because the Lorentz force onmore » the strand is proportional to the transport current in the strand, removing the copper strands (while increasing the Cu:SC ratio of the superconducting strands) was proposed as one way of reducing the strand load. In this study we compare the two alternative CICCs, with and without Cu strands, keeping in mind that the degradation after SULTAN test was lower for the CICC without Cu strands. The post mortem metallographic evaluation revealed that the overall strand transverse movement was 20% lower in the CICC without Cu strands and that the tensile filament fractures found were less, both indications of an overall reduction in high tensile strain regions. Furthermore, it was interesting to see that the Cu strands in the mixed cable design (with higher degradation) helped reduce the contact stresses on the high pressure side of the CICC, but in either case, the strain reduction mechanisms were not enough to suppress cyclic degradation. Advantages and disadvantages of each conductor design are discussed here aimed to understand the sources of the degradation.« less

Role of alkali carbonate and salt in topochemical synthesis of K1/2Na1/2NbO3 and NaNbO3 templates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Jae-Seok; Jeon, Jae-Ho; Choi, Si-Young

2013-11-01

Since the properties of lead-free piezoelectric materials have thus far failed to meet those of lead-based materials, either chemical doping or morphological texturing should be employed to improve the piezoelectric properties of lead-free piezoelectric ceramics. The goal of this study was to synthesize plate-like K1/2Na1/2NbO3 and NaNbO3 particles, which are the most favorable templates for morphological texturing of K1/2Na1/2NbO3 ceramics. To achieve this goal, Bi2.5Na3.5Nb5O18 precursors in a plate-like shape were first synthesized and subsequently converted into K1/2Na1/2NbO3 or NaNbO3 particles that retain the morphology of Bi2.5Na3.5Nb5O18. In this study, we found that sodium or potassium carbonate does not play a major role in converting the Bi2.5Na3.5Nb5O18 precursor to K1/2Na1/2NbO3 or NaNbO3, on the contrary to previous reports; however, the salt contributes to the conversion reaction. All synthesis processes have been performed via a molten salt method, and scanning electron microscopy, scanning probe microscopy, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy were used to characterize the synthesized K1/2Na1/2NbO3 or NaNbO3 templates.

Challenges and status of ITER conductor production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Devred, A.; Backbier, I.; Bessette, D.; Bevillard, G.; Gardner, M.; Jong, C.; Lillaz, F.; Mitchell, N.; Romano, G.; Vostner, A.

2014-04-01

Taking the relay of the large Hadron collider (LHC) at CERN, ITER has become the largest project in applied superconductivity. In addition to its technical complexity, ITER is also a management challenge as it relies on an unprecedented collaboration of seven partners, representing more than half of the world population, who provide 90% of the components as in-kind contributions. The ITER magnet system is one of the most sophisticated superconducting magnet systems ever designed, with an enormous stored energy of 51 GJ. It involves six of the ITER partners. The coils are wound from cable-in-conduit conductors (CICCs) made up of superconducting and copper strands assembled into a multistage cable, inserted into a conduit of butt-welded austenitic steel tubes. The conductors for the toroidal field (TF) and central solenoid (CS) coils require about 600 t of Nb3Sn strands while the poloidal field (PF) and correction coil (CC) and busbar conductors need around 275 t of Nb-Ti strands. The required amount of Nb3Sn strands far exceeds pre-existing industrial capacity and has called for a significant worldwide production scale up. The TF conductors are the first ITER components to be mass produced and are more than 50% complete. During its life time, the CS coil will have to sustain several tens of thousands of electromagnetic (EM) cycles to high current and field conditions, way beyond anything a large Nb3Sn coil has ever experienced. Following a comprehensive R&D program, a technical solution has been found for the CS conductor, which ensures stable performance versus EM and thermal cycling. Productions of PF, CC and busbar conductors are also underway. After an introduction to the ITER project and magnet system, we describe the ITER conductor procurements and the quality assurance/quality control programs that have been implemented to ensure production uniformity across numerous suppliers. Then, we provide examples of technical challenges that have been encountered and

Effect of [Li]/[Nb] ratio on composition and defect structure of Zr:Yb:Tm:LiNbO3 crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Chunrui; Dai, Li; Wang, Luping; Shao, Yu; Yan, Zhehua; Xu, Yuheng

2018-04-01

Zr:Yb:Tm:LiNbO3 crystals with various [Li]/[Nb] ratios (0.946, 1.05, 1.20 and 1.38) were grown by the Czochralski technique. Distribution coefficients of Zr4+, Yb3+ and Tm3+ ions were analyzed by the inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometer (ICP-AES). The influence of [Li]/[Nb] ratio on the composition and defect structure of Zr:Yb:Tm:LiNbO3 crystals was investigated by X-ray diffraction and IR transmission spectrum. The results show that as the [Li]/[Nb] ratio increases in the melt, the distribution coefficients of Yb3+ and Tm3+ ions both increase while that of Zr4+ ion deceases. When the [Li]/[Nb] ratio increases to 1.20 in the melt, Zr:Yb:Tm:LiNbO3 crystal is nearly stoichiometric. In addition, when the [Li]/[Nb] ratio reaches up to 1.38, NbLi4+ are completely replaced and Li+ starts to impel the Zr4+, Yb3+ and Tm3+ into the normal Li sites.

Interactions at the planar Ag3Sn/liquid Sn interface under ultrasonic irradiation.

PubMed

Shao, Huakai; Wu, Aiping; Bao, Yudian; Zhao, Yue; Liu, Lei; Zou, Guisheng

2017-11-01

The interactions at the interface between planar Ag 3 Sn and liquid Sn under ultrasonic irradiation were investigated. An intensive thermal grooving process occurred at Ag 3 Sn grain boundaries due to ultrasonic effects. Without ultrasonic application, planar shape of Ag 3 Sn layer gradually evolved into scalloped morphology after the solid-state Sn melting, due to a preferential dissolution of the intermetallic compounds from the regions at grain boundaries, which left behind the grooves embedding in the Ag 3 Sn layer. Under the effect of ultrasonic, stable grooves could be rapidly generated within an extremely short time (<10s) that was far less than the traditional soldering process (>10min). In addition, the deepened grooves leaded to the formation of necks at the roots of Ag 3 Sn grains, and further resulted in the strong detachment of intermetallic grains from the substrate. The intensive thermal grooving could promote the growth of Ag 3 Sn grains in the vertical direction but restrain their coarsening in the horizontal direction, consequently, an elongated morphology was presented. All these phenomena could be attributed to the acoustic cavitation and streaming effects of ultrasonic vibration. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Two-Dimensional Nb-Based M 4 C 3 Solid Solutions (MXenes)

DOE PAGES

Yang, Jian; Naguib, Michael; Ghidiu, Michael; ...

2015-10-15

Two new two-dimensional Nb 4C 3-based solid solutions (MXenes), (Nb 0.8,Ti 0.2) 4C 3T x and (Nb 0.8,Zr 0.2) 4C 3T x (where T is a surface termination) were synthesizedas confirmed by X-ray diffractionfrom their corresponding MAX phase precursors (Nb 0.8,Ti 0.2) 4AlC 3 and (Nb 0.8,Zr 0.2) 4AlC 3. In our report we discuss Zr-containing MXene. We also studied intercalation of Li ions into these two compositions, and Nb 4C 3T x in order to determine the potential of those materials for energy storage applications. Lithiation and delithiation peaks at 2.26 and 2.35 V, respectively, appeared in the casemore » of Nb 4C 3T x, but were not present in Nb 2CT x. After 20 cycles at a rate of C/4, the specific capacities of (Nb 0.8,Ti 0.2) 4C 3T xand (Nb 0.8,Ti 0.2) 4C 3T x were 158 and 132 mAh/g, respectively, both slightly lower than the capacity of Nb 4C 3T x.« less

Dopant occupancy and exposure energy in Hf:Nd:LiNbO3 crystal as a function of [Li]/[Nb] ratios

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, Li; Liu, Chunrui; Han, Xianbo; Yan, Zhehua; Tan, Chao; Wang, Luping; Xu, Yuheng

2017-09-01

A series of Hf: Nd: LiNbO3 crystals with various [Li]/[Nb] ratios ([Li]/[Nb] = 0.94, 1.05, 1.20, 1.38) in the melt were grown by conventional Czochralski technique. The distribution coefficients of Hf4+ and Nd3+ ions were recorded by an inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometer (ICP-AES). The effective distribution coefficient of Hf4+ is reduced and that of Nd3+ is increased with the increase of [Li]/[Nb] ratio in the melts. In all cases, the effective distribution coefficients is less than 1. The IR transmission spectroscopy of the Hf: Nd: LiNbO3 crystals were measured, getting the results that Hf: Yb: Ho: LiNbO3 crystals with 1.05 [Li]/[Nb] ratios was the stoichiometric. The optical damage resistance ability of Hf:Nd:LiNbO3 crystals were studied by light-induced scattering exposure energy flux threshold method and it increases with the increasing of [Li]/[Nb] ratios. When the [Li]/[Nb] ratio is 1.38 in the melt (the sample 4#), the exposure energy achieves 687.35 J/cm2, approximately 441 folds than that of the sample 1# ([Li]/[Nb] = 0.94) in magnitude.

RRP1B Targets PP1 to Mammalian Cell Nucleoli and Is Associated with Pre-60S Ribosomal Subunits

PubMed Central

Chamousset, Delphine; De Wever, Veerle; Moorhead, Greg B.; Chen, Yan; Boisvert, Francois-Michel; Lamond, Angus I.

2010-01-01

A pool of protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) accumulates within nucleoli and accounts for a large fraction of the serine/threonine protein phosphatase activity in this subnuclear structure. Using a combination of fluorescence imaging with quantitative proteomics, we mapped the subnuclear localization of the three mammalian PP1 isoforms stably expressed as GFP-fusions in live cells and identified RRP1B as a novel nucleolar targeting subunit that shows a specificity for PP1β and PP1γ. RRP1B, one of two mammalian orthologues of the yeast Rrp1p protein, shows an RNAse-dependent localization to the granular component of the nucleolus and distributes in a similar manner throughout the cell cycle to proteins involved in later steps of rRNA processing. Quantitative proteomic analysis of complexes containing both RRP1B and PP1γ revealed enrichment of an overlapping subset of large (60S) ribosomal subunit proteins and pre-60S nonribosomal proteins involved in mid-late processing. Targeting of PP1 to this complex by RRP1B in mammalian cells is likely to contribute to modulation of ribosome biogenesis by mechanisms involving reversible phosphorylation events, thus playing a role in the rapid transduction of cellular signals that call for regulation of ribosome production in response to cellular stress and/or changes in growth conditions. PMID:20926688

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

Dedic, Emil; Seweryn, Paulina; Jonstrup, Anette Thyssen

Highlights: • We show that S. cerevisiae Rrp6p and Rrp47p stabilise each other in vitro. • We determine molecular envelopes of the Rrp6p–Rrp47p complex by SAXS. • Rrp47p binds at the top of the Rrp6p exonuclease domain. • Rrp47p modulates the activity of Rrp6p on a variety of RNA substrates. • Rrp47p does not affect RNA affinity by Rrp6p. - Abstract: The RNase D-type 3′–5′ exonuclease Rrp6p from Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a nuclear-specific cofactor of the RNA exosome and associates in vivo with Rrp47p (Lrp1p). Here, we show using biochemistry and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) that Rrp6p and Rrp47p associatemore » into a stable, heterodimeric complex with an elongated shape consistent with binding of Rrp47p to the nuclease domain and opposite of the HRDC domain of Rrp6p. Rrp47p reduces the exonucleolytic activity of Rrp6p on both single-stranded and structured RNA substrates without significantly altering the affinity towards RNA or the ability of Rrp6p to degrade RNA secondary structure.« less

Critical current densities of Jelly-Roll and powder metallurgy Nb{sub 3}Al wires as a function of temperature and magnetic field

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

Thieme, C.L.H.; Kim, J.B.; Takayasu, M.

Critical current densities of multi-filamentary Nb{sub 3}Al wire made with the Jelly-Roll process (JR) and mono-core powder metallurgy process (PM) wire were measured as a function of temperature and magnetic field. The temperature dependence of the resistive critical field B{sub c2} was measured in PM wires. There is a significant difference between these resistive B{sub c2} values and the ones determined by Kramer plots. The field dependence of the critical current depends on the manufacturing method. In general, it follows a relationship that falls between pure Kramer and one where the pinning force is inversely proportional with B{sup 2}. Inmore » contrast with Nb{sub 3}Sn no maximum in the bulk pinning force is observed down to 3 T (0.15MxB{sub c2}).« less

Cellular response of osteoblasts to low modulus Ti-24Nb-4Zr-8Sn alloy mesh structure.

PubMed

Nune, K C; Misra, R D K; Li, S J; Hao, Y L; Yang, R

2017-03-01

Titanium alloys (Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-6Al-7Nb) are widely used for implants, which are characterized by high elastic modulus (∼110 GPa) with (α + β) structure and that may induce undesirable stress shielding effect and immune responses associated with the presence of toxic elements. In this regard, we have combined the attributes of a new alloy design and the concept of additive manufacturing to fabricate 3D scaffolds with an interconnected porous structure. The new alloy is a β-type Ti-24Nb-4Zr-8Sn (Ti2448) alloy with significantly reduced modulus. In the present study, we explore the biological response of electron beam melted low modulus Ti2448 alloy porous mesh structure through the elucidation of bioactivity and osteoblast functions. The cellular activity was explored in terms of cell-to-cell communication involving proliferation, spreading, synthesis of extracellular and intracellular proteins, differentiation, and mineralization. The formation of fine apatite-like crystals on the surface during immersion test in simulated body fluid confirmed the bioactivity of the scaffold surface, which provided the favorable osteogenic microenvironment for cell-material interaction. The combination of unique surface chemistry and interconnected porous architecture provided the desired pathway for supply of nutrients and oxygen to cells and a favorable osteogenic micro-environment for incorporation (on-growth and in-growth) of osteoblasts. The proliferation and differentiation of pre-osteoblasts and their ability to form a well mineralized bone-like extracellular matrix (ECM) by secreting bone markers (ALP, calcium, etc.) over the struts of the scaffold point toward the determining role of unique surface chemistry and 3D architecture of the Ti2448 alloy mesh structure in modulating osteoblasts functions. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 859-870, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Noncollinear antiferromagnetic Mn3Sn films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Markou, A.; Taylor, J. M.; Kalache, A.; Werner, P.; Parkin, S. S. P.; Felser, C.

2018-05-01

Noncollinear hexagonal antiferromagnets with almost zero net magnetization were recently shown to demonstrate giant anomalous Hall effect. Here, we present the structural and magnetic properties of noncollinear antiferromagnetic Mn3Sn thin films heteroepitaxially grown on Y:ZrO2 (111) substrates with a Ru underlayer. The Mn3Sn films were crystallized in the hexagonal D 019 structure with c -axis preferred (0001) crystal orientation. The Mn3Sn films are discontinuous, forming large islands of approximately 400 nm in width, but are chemical homogeneous and characterized by near perfect heteroepitaxy. Furthermore, the thin films show weak ferromagnetism with an in-plane uncompensated magnetization of M =34 kA/m and coercivity of μ0Hc=4.0 mT at room temperature. Additionally, the exchange bias effect was studied in Mn3Sn /Py bilayers. Exchange bias fields up to μ0HEB=12.6 mT can be achieved at 5 K. These results show Mn3Sn films to be an attractive material for applications in antiferromagnetic spintronics.

High field superconductors for superconducting machines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rupp, G.; Wilhelm, M.; Wohlleben, K.; Ziegler, G.; Springer, E.

1980-11-01

High current capacity Nb3Sn multifilament conductors were fabricated. A solid state diffusion process was used. The number of conductor filaments approaches 70,000 with filament diameters being approximately 1.5 microns. Effective current densities reach 86,000 A/sq cm at a magnetic flux density of 10 T and operating temperature of 4.2 K. Calibrated flattened cables of twisted strands were fabricated for higher currents (up to 1000 A at 10 T). Generally, quantitative relations can be given for the rise in the critical current of Nb3Sn multifilament conductors, observed under the influence of mechanical stresses. Long lengths (km) of these conductors were used to manufacture superconducting solenoids two different ways. These rise to the short sample current, usually without conditioning, and deliver magnetic flux densities up to 14 T with an 8.5 T NbTi background field.

Micro-scale abrasive wear behavior of medical implant material Ti-25Nb-3Mo-3Zr-2Sn alloy on various friction pairs.

PubMed

Wang, Zhenguo; Huang, Weijiu; Ma, Yanlong

2014-09-01

The micro-scale abrasion behaviors of surgical implant materials have often been reported in the literature. However, little work has been reported on the micro-scale abrasive wear behavior of Ti-25Nb-3Mo-3Zr-2Sn (TLM) titanium alloy in simulated body fluids, especially with respect to friction pairs. Therefore, a TE66 Micro-Scale Abrasion Tester was used to study the micro-scale abrasive wear behavior of the TLM alloy. This study covers the friction coefficient and wear loss of the TLM alloy induced by various friction pairs. Different friction pairs comprised of ZrO2, Si3N4 and Al2O3 ceramic balls with 25.4mm diameters were employed. The micro-scale abrasive wear mechanisms and synergistic effect between corrosion and micro-abrasion of the TLM alloy were investigated under various wear-corrosion conditions employing an abrasive, comprised of SiC (3.5 ± 0.5 μm), in two test solutions, Hanks' solution and distilled water. Before the test, the specimens were heat treated at 760°C/1.0/AC+550°C/6.0/AC. It was discovered that the friction coefficient values of the TLM alloy are larger than those in distilled water regardless of friction pairs used, because of the corrosive Hanks' solution. It was also found that the value of the friction coefficient was volatile at the beginning of wear testing, and it became more stable with further experiments. Because the ceramic balls have different properties, especially with respect to the Vickers hardness (Hv), the wear loss of the TLM alloy increased as the ball hardness increased. In addition, the wear loss of the TLM alloy in Hanks' solution was greater than that in distilled water, and this was due to the synergistic effect of micro-abrasion and corrosion, and this micro-abrasion played a leading role in the wear process. The micro-scale abrasive wear mechanism of the TLM alloy gradually changed from two-body to mixed abrasion and then to three-body abrasion as the Vickers hardness of the balls increased. Copyright �

SAW propagation characteristics of TeO3/3C-SiC/LiNbO3 layered structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soni, Namrata D.

2018-04-01

Surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices based on Lithium Niobate (LiNbO3) single crystal are advantageous because of its high SAW phase velocity, electromechanical coupling coefficient and cost effectiveness. In the present work a new multi-layered TeO3/3C-SiC/128° Y-X LiNbO3 SAW device has been proposed. SAW propagation properties such as phase velocity, coupling coefficient and temperature coefficient of delay (TCD) of the TeO3/SiC/128° Y-X LiNbO3 multi layered structure is examined using theoretical calculations. It is found that the integration of 0.09λ thick 3C-SiC over layer on 128° Y-X LiNbO3 increases its electromechanical coupling coefficient from 5.3% to 9.77% and SAW velocity from 3800 ms‑1 to 4394 ms‑1. The SiC/128° Y-X LiNbO3 bilayer SAW structure exhibits a high positive TCD value. A temperature stable layered SAW device could be obtained with introduction of 0.007λ TeO3 over layer on SiC/128° Y-X LiNbO3 bilayer structure without sacrificing the efficiency of the device. The proposed TeO3/3C-SiC/128° Y-X LiNbO3 multi-layered SAW structure is found to be cost effective, efficient, temperature stable and suitable for high frequency application in harsh environment.

Heterometallic aggregates of copper(I) with metalloligand Sn(edt)2 (edt = ethane-1,2-dithiolate): syntheses and structures of [Sn(edt)2Cl(mu-I)(mu3-I)(CuPPh3)3], [Sn(edt)2(mu-Br)2(mu3-Br)2(CuPPh3)4], and [{Sn(edt)2}3(mu-OH)3Cu5(PPh3)8][PF6]2.

PubMed

Han, Yan-Gong; Xu, Chao; Duan, Taike; Wu, Fang-Hui; Zhang, Qian-Feng; Leung, Wa-Hung

2009-09-21

The treatment of a slurry of an equimolar mixture of [Sn(edt)(2)] (edt = ethane-1,2- dithiolate) and [Et(4)N]Cl.xH(2)O with CuI in the presence of PPh(3) gave a tetranuclear compound, [Sn(edt)(2)Cl(mu-I)(mu(3)-I)(CuPPh(3))(3)] (1), which consists of a rectangular-pyramidal [Sn(edt)(2)Cl](-) moiety ligated by three [Cu(PPh(3))](+) fragments via the sulfur atoms of the edt(2-) ligands. The treatment of a slurry of [Sn(edt)(2)] and excess [Et(4)N]Br with [Cu(MeCN)(4)][PF(6)] in the presence of PPh(3) afforded a pentanuclear compound, [Sn(edt)(2)(mu-Br)(2)(mu(3)-Br)(2)(CuPPh(3))(4)] (2), which comprises two [(CuPPh(3))(2)(mu-Br)](+) fragments symmetrically ligating an octahedral trans-[Sn(edt)(2)Br(2)](2-) moiety via the sulfur and bromide atoms. Reaction of [Sn(edt)(2)] with [Cu(MeCN)(4)][PF(6)] and PPh(3) in a mixed MeCN/CH(2)Cl(2) solution yielded a novel octanuclear compound, [{Sn(edt)(2)}(3)(mu-OH)(3)Cu(5)(PPh(3))(8)][PF(6)](2) (3), which may be described as a triangular [{Sn(edt)(2)}(3)(mu-OH)(3)](3-) core chelated by three [Cu(PPh(3))(2)](+) species and capped by two [Cu(PPh(3))](+) species. The luminescent properties of compounds 1, 2, and 3 were investigated in a CH(2)Cl(2) solution at room temperature. Upon excitation at lambda > 360 nm, these compounds are luminescent in CH(2)Cl(2) solution with emissions having maxima at 422, 515, and 494 nm, respectively.

Thermoelectric properties of Nb3SbxTe7-x compounds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Snyder, J.; Wang, S.; Caillat, T.

2002-01-01

Niobium antimony telluride, Nb3Sbx,Te7-x, was synthesized and tested for thermoelectric properties in the Thermoelectrics group at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The forty atoms per unit cell of Nb3Sb2Te5 and its varied mixture of atoms yield acomplicated structure, suggesting that Nb3Sb2Te5 and related compounds may exhibit low thermal conductivity and hence a higher ZT value. Nb3SbxTe7-x, compounds were synthesized and subsequently analyzed for their Seebeck voltage, heat conduction, and electrical resistivity. Results indicate that Nb3Sb2Te5 is a heavily doped semiconductor whose thermoelectric properties are compromised by compensating n-type and p-type carriers. Attempts to dope in favor of either carrier by varying the Sb:Te ratio yielded samples containing secondary metallic phases that dominated the transport properties of the resulting compounds.

Enhancement of the catalytic activity of Pt nanoparticles toward methanol electro-oxidation using doped-SnO2 supporting materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Merati, Zohreh; Basiri Parsa, Jalal

2018-03-01

Catalyst supports play important role in governing overall catalyst activity and durability. In this study metal oxides (SnO2, Sb and Nb doped SnO2) were electrochemically deposited on titanium substrate (Ti) as a new support material for Pt catalyst in order to electro-oxidation of methanol. Afterward platinum nanoparticles were deposited on metal oxide film via electro reduction of platinum salt in an acidic solution. The surface morphology of modified electrodes were evaluated by field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) techniques. The electro-catalytic activities of prepared electrodes for methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) and oxidation of carbon monoxide (CO) absorbed on Pt was considered with cyclic voltammetry. The results showed high catalytic activity for Pt/Nb-SnO2/Ti electrode. The electrochemical surface area (ECSA) of a platinum electro-catalyst was determined by hydrogen adsorption. Pt/Nb-SnO2/Ti electrode has highest ECSA compared to other electrode resulting in high activity toward methanol electro-oxidation and CO stripping experiments. The doping of SnO2 with Sb and Nb improved ECSA and MOR activity, which act as electronic donors to increase electronic conductivity.

Host-Sensitized and Tunable Luminescence of GdNbO4:Ln3+ (Ln3+ = Eu3+/Tb3+/Tm3+) Nanocrystalline Phosphors with Abundant Color.

PubMed

Liu, Xiaoming; Chen, Chen; Li, Shuailong; Dai, Yuhua; Guo, Huiqin; Tang, Xinghua; Xie, Yu; Yan, Liushui

2016-10-17

Up to now, GdNbO 4 has always been regarded as an essentially inert material in the visible region with excitation of UV light and electron beams. Nevertheless, here we demonstrate a new recreating blue emission of GdNbO 4 nanocrystalline phosphors with a quantum efficiency of 41.6% and host sensitized luminescence in GdNbO 4 :Ln 3+ (Ln 3+ = Eu 3+ /Tb 3+ /Tm 3+ ) nanocrystalline phosphors with abundant color in response to UV light and electron beams. The GdNbO 4 and GdNbO 4 :Ln 3+ (Ln 3+ = Eu 3+ /Tb 3+ /Tm 3+ ) nanocrystalline phosphors were synthesized by a Pechini-type sol-gel process. With excitation of UV light and low-voltage electron beams, the obtained GdNbO 4 nanocrystalline phosphor presents a strong blue luminescence from 280 to 650 nm centered around 440 nm, and the GdNbO 4 :Ln 3+ nanocrystalline phosphors show both host emission and respective emission lines derived from the characterize f-f transitions of the doping Eu 3+ , Tb 3+ , and Tm 3+ ions. The luminescence color of GdNbO 4 :Ln 3+ nanocrystalline phosphors can be tuned from blue to green, red, blue-green, orange, pinkish, white, etc. by varying the doping species, concentration, and relative ratio of the codoping rare earth ions in GdNbO 4 host lattice. A single-phase white-light-emission has been realized in Eu 3+ /Tb 3+ /Tm 3+ triply doped GdNbO 4 nanocrystalline phosphors. The luminescence properties and mechanisms of GdNbO 4 and GdNbO 4 :Ln 3+ (Ln 3+ = Eu 3+ /Tb 3+ /Tm 3+ ) are updated.

Shock wave compression and self-generated electric field repolarization in ferroelectric ceramics Pb0.99[(Zr0.90Sn0.10)0.96Ti0.04]0.98Nb0.02O3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Dongdong; Du, Jinmei; Gu, Yan; Feng, Yujun

2012-03-01

The shock wave induced depoling current of Pb0.99[(Zr0.90Sn0.10)0.96Ti0.04]0.98Nb0.02O3 ceramics was investigated with a system composed of a resistive load and an unpoled ceramic. Disparity in the depoling current was explained by considering the drawing charge effect of unpoled ceramic. The drawing effect for poled ceramics was analysed by developing a model incorporating a time- and electric-field-dependent repolarization. This model predicts that the high-impedance current eventually becomes higher than the short-circuit current, which is consistent with the experimental results in the literature. This work indicates that both the repolarization of uncompressed ceramics caused by the self-generated electric field and depolarization of compressed ceramics caused by the shock wave govern the output current.

Effect of Ar9+ irradiation on Zr-1Nb-1Sn-0.1Fe alloy characterized by Grazing Incidence X-ray diffraction technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dutta, Argha; Das, Kalipada; Gayathri, N.; Menon, Ranjini; Nabhiraj, P. Y.; Mukherjee, Paramita

2018-03-01

The microstructural parameters such as domain size and microstrain have been estimated from Grazing Incidence X-ray Diffraction (GIXRD) data for Ar9+ irradiated Zr-1Nb-1Sn-0.1Fe sample as a function of dpa (dose). Detail studies using X-ray Diffraction Line Profile Analysis (XRDLPA) from GIXRD data has been carried out to characterize the microstructural parameters like domain size and microstrain. The reorientation of the grains due to effect of irradiation at high dpa (dose) has been qualitatively assessed by the texture parameter P(hkl).

Intrinsic high electrical conductivity of stoichiometric SrNb O3 epitaxial thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oka, Daichi; Hirose, Yasushi; Nakao, Shoichiro; Fukumura, Tomoteru; Hasegawa, Tetsuya

2015-11-01

SrV O3 and SrNb O3 are perovskite-type transition-metal oxides with the same d1 electronic configuration. Although SrNb O3 (4 d1 ) has a larger d orbital than SrV O3 (3 d1 ), the reported electrical resistivity of SrNb O3 is much higher than that of SrV O3 , probably owing to nonstoichiometry. In this paper, we grew epitaxial, high-conductivity stoichiometric SrNb O3 using pulsed laser deposition. The growth temperature strongly affected the Sr/Nb ratio and the oxygen content of the films, and we obtained stoichiometric SrNb O3 at a very narrow temperature window around 630 °C. The stoichiometric SrNb O3 epitaxial thin films grew coherently on KTa O3 (001) substrates with high crystallinity. The room-temperature resistivity of the stoichiometric film was 2.82 ×10-5Ω cm , one order of magnitude lower than the lowest reported value of SrNb O3 and comparable with that of SrV O3 . We observed a T -square dependence of resistivity below T*=180 K and non-Drude behavior in near-infrared absorption spectroscopy, attributable to the Fermi-liquid nature caused by electron correlation. Analysis of the T -square coefficient A of resistivity experimentally revealed that the 4 d orbital of Nb that is larger than the 3 d ones certainly contributes to the high electrical conduction of SrNb O3 .

The crystal structures of Ni{sub 3+x}Sn{sub 4}Zn and Ni{sub 6+x}Sn{sub 8}Zn and their structural relations to Ni{sub 3+x}Sn{sub 4}, NiSn and Ni{sub 5−δ}ZnSn{sub 4}

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

Schmetterer, Clemens, E-mail: clemens.schmetterer@univie.ac.at; Effenberger, Herta Silvia; Rajamohan, Divakar

2016-06-15

The crystal structures of two new compounds were determined from single-crystal X-ray diffraction measurements: Ni{sub 3+x}Sn{sub 4}Zn, (x~1.35, a=7.110(2) Å, b=4.123(1) Å, c=10.346(3) Å, β=90.23(2)°, space group I2/m, Z=2. R1=0.025, wR2=0.059 for 748 unique reflections, 35 variable parameters) and Ni{sub 6+x}Sn{sub 8}Zn, x~1.35 (a=12.379(3) Å, b=4.095(1) Å, c=12.155(3) Å, β=116.25(3)°, space group C2/m, Z=2. R1=0.026, wR2=0.052 for 1346 unique reflections, 60 variable parameters). In addition, a structural refinement was performed for Ni{sub 3+x}Sn{sub 4}, x~0.13 (a=12.264(3) Å, b=4.066(1) Å, c=5.223(2) Å, β=104.85(3)°, space group C2/m, Z=2. R1=0.019, wR2=0.046 for 617 unique reflections, 29 variable parameters). The three compounds show pronouncedmore » similarities among each other as well as to the crystal structures of surrounding binary Ni–Sn and ternary Ni–Sn–Zn compounds. In particular, the two new compounds form a homologous series with Ni{sub 3+x}Sn{sub 4}, x~0.13. They contain “Ni{sub 4}Sn{sub 4}” and “Ni{sub 2}Sn{sub 4}” building blocks which by different interconnection build up the distinct structures. Topological relations with NiSn and Ni{sub 5−δ}Sn{sub 4}Zn, δ~0.25 are evident. - Graphical abstract: Projection of the structure of Ni{sub 6+x}ZnSn{sub 8}, x~1.35 and constituent building blocks. Display Omitted - Highlights: • The crystal structures of Ni{sub 6+x}Sn{sub 8}Zn and Ni{sub 3+x}Sn{sub 4}Zn were determined using single crystal XRD. • Topological relations to Ni–Sn and Ni–Sn–Zn compounds were established and discussed. • Common structural units were identified and their interconnection patterns described.« less

Tuning spontaneous polarization to alter water oxidation/reduction activities of LiNbO3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Hongwei; Song, Yan; Wu, Yangqing; Huang, Huiting; Fan, Guozheng; Xu, Jun; Li, Zhaosheng; Zou, Zhigang

2018-02-01

Here, we investigated the effects of spontaneous polarization on photoreactivities by using a ferroelectric material n-type congruent LiNbO3 single crystal as a model. It was found that c+ LiNbO3 was superior to c- LiNbO3 in photocatalytic water reduction, while c- LiNbO3 exhibited better performances for photoelectrochemical water oxidation than c+ LiNbO3. Using Kelvin probe force microscopy and open circuit potential methods, we observed that c- LiNbO3 generated a higher photovoltage and had a slower charge-recombination rate than c+ LiNbO3. The results of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements indicated that c- LiNbO3 may favor the hole transport from the bulk to the surface compared with c+ LiNbO3, leading to the anisotropic performances of c+ and c- LiNbO3 in water oxidation/reduction. Therefore, tuning the direction of the polarization may be a strategy to dramatically prompt the photoreactivities of water oxidation or reduction.

Nanophase-separated Ni3Nb as an automobile exhaust catalyst.

PubMed

Tanabe, Toyokazu; Imai, Tsubasa; Tokunaga, Tomoharu; Arai, Shigeo; Yamamoto, Yuta; Ueda, Shigenori; Ramesh, Gubbala V; Nagao, Satoshi; Hirata, Hirohito; Matsumoto, Shin-Ichi; Fujita, Takeshi; Abe, Hideki

2017-05-01

Catalytic remediation of automobile exhaust has relied on precious metals (PMs) including platinum (Pt). Herein, we report that an intermetallic phase of Ni and niobium (Nb) ( i.e. , Ni 3 Nb) exhibits a significantly higher activity than that of Pt for the remediation of the most toxic gas in exhaust ( i.e. , nitrogen monoxide (NO)) in the presence of carbon monoxide (CO). When subjected to the exhaust-remediation atmosphere, Ni 3 Nb spontaneously evolves into a catalytically active nanophase-separated structure consisting of filamentous Ni networks (thickness < 10 nm) that are incorporated in a niobium oxide matrix ( i.e. , NbO x ( x < 5/2)). The exposure of the filamentous Ni promotes NO dissociation, CO oxidation and N 2 generation, and the NbO x matrix absorbs excessive nitrogen adatoms to retain the active Ni 0 sites at the metal/oxide interface. Furthermore, the NbO x matrix immobilizes the filamentous Ni at elevated temperatures to produce long-term and stable catalytic performance over hundreds of hours.

New design of cable-in-conduit conductor for application in future fusion reactors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qin, Jinggang; Wu, Yu; Li, Jiangang; Liu, Fang; Dai, Chao; Shi, Yi; Liu, Huajun; Mao, Zhehua; Nijhuis, Arend; Zhou, Chao; Yagotintsev, Konstantin A.; Lubkemann, Ruben; Anvar, V. A.; Devred, Arnaud

2017-11-01

The China Fusion Engineering Test Reactor (CFETR) is a new tokamak device whose magnet system includes toroidal field, central solenoid (CS) and poloidal field coils. The main goal is to build a fusion engineering tokamak reactor with about 1 GW fusion power and self-sufficiency by blanket. In order to reach this high performance, the magnet field target is 15 T. However, the huge electromagnetic load caused by high field and current is a threat for conductor degradation under cycling. The conductor with a short-twist-pitch (STP) design has large stiffness, which enables a significant performance improvement in view of load and thermal cycling. But the conductor with STP design has a remarkable disadvantage: it can easily cause severe strand indentation during cabling. The indentation can reduce the strand performance, especially under high load cycling. In order to overcome this disadvantage, a new design is proposed. The main characteristic of this new design is an updated layout in the triplet. The triplet is made of two Nb3Sn strands and one soft copper strand. The twist pitch of the two Nb3Sn strands is large and cabled first. The copper strand is then wound around the two superconducting strands (CWS) with a shorter twist pitch. The following cable stages layout and twist pitches are similar to the ITER CS conductor with STP design. One short conductor sample with a similar scale to the ITER CS was manufactured and tested with the Twente Cable Press to investigate the mechanical properties, AC loss and internal inspection by destructive examination. The results are compared to the STP conductor (ITER CS and CFETR CSMC) tests. The results show that the new conductor design has similar stiffness, but much lower strand indentation than the STP design. The new design shows potential for application in future fusion reactors.

Synthesis and enhanced acetone gas-sensing performance of ZnSnO3/SnO2 hollow urchin nanostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lian, Dandan; Shi, Bing; Dai, Rongrong; Jia, Xiaohua; Wu, Xiangyang

2017-12-01

A kind of novel ZnSnO3/SnO2 hollow urchin nanostructure was synthesized by a facile, eco-friendly two-step liquid-phase process. The structure, morphology, and composition of samples were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and nitrogen adsorption-desorption techniques. The results revealed that many tiny needle-like SnO2 nanowires with the average diameter of 5 nm uniformly grew on the surface of the ZnSnO3 hollow microspheres and the ZnSnO3/SnO2 hollow urchin nanostructures with different SnO2 content also were successfully prepared. In order to comprehend the evolution process of the ZnSnO3/SnO2 hollow urchin nanostructures, the possible growth mechanism of samples was illustrated via several experiments in different reaction conditions. Moreover, the gas-sensing performance of as-prepared samples was investigated. The results showed that ZnSnO3/SnO2 hollow urchin nanostructures with high response to various concentration levels of acetone enhanced selectivity, satisfying repeatability, and good long-term stability for acetone detection. Specially, the 10 wt% ZnSnO3/SnO2 hollow urchin nanostructure exhibited the best gas sensitivity (17.03 for 50 ppm acetone) may be a reliable biomarker for the diabetes patients, which could be ascribed to its large specific surface area, complete pore permeability, and increase of chemisorbed oxygen due to the doping of SnO2.

Optical properties of Mg2+, Yb3+, and Ho3+ tri-doped LiNbO3 crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, Li; Liu, Chun-Rui; Tan, Chao; Yan, Zhe-Hua; Xu, Yu-Heng

2017-04-01

A series of LiNbO3 crystals tri-doped with Mg{}2+, Yb{}3+, and Ho{}3+ are grown by the conventional Czochraski technique. The concentrations of Mg{}2+, Yb{}3+, and Ho{}3+ ions in Mg:Yb:Ho:LiNbO3 crystals are measured by using an inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry. The x-ray diffraction is proposed to determine the lattice constant and analyze the internal structure of the crystal. The light-induced scattering of Mg:Yb:Ho:LiNbO3 crystal is quantitatively described via the threshold effect of incident exposure energy flux. The exposure energy ({E}{{r}}) is calculated to discuss the optical damage resistance ability. The exposure energy of Mg(7 mol):Yb:Ho:LiNbO3 crystal is 709.17 J/cm2, approximately 425 times higher than that of the Mg(1 mol):Yb:Ho:LiNbO3 crystal in magnitude. The blue, red, and very intense green bands of Mg:Yb:Ho:LiNbO3 crystal are observed under the 980-nm laser excitation to evaluate the up-conversion emission properties. The dependence of the emission intensity on pumping power indicates that the up-conversion emission is a two-photon process. The up-conversion emission mechanism is discussed in detail. This study indicates that Mg:Yb:Ho:LiNbO3 crystal can be applied to the fabrication of new multifunctional photoluminescence devices. Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 51301055), the Youth Science Fund of Heilongjiang Province, China (Grant No. QC2015061), the Special Funds of Harbin Innovation Talents in Science and Technology Research, China (Grant No. 2015RQQXJ045 ), and the Science Funds for the Young Innovative Talents of Harbin University of Science and Technology, China (Grant No. 201501).

Al(0.5)Nb(1.5)(PO(4))(3).

PubMed

Zhao, Dan; Liang, Peng; Su, Ling; Chang, Huan; Yan, Shi

2011-02-12

Single crystals of the title compound, aluminium niobium triphosphate, Al(0.5)Nb(1.5)(PO(4))(3), have been synthesized by a high-temperature reaction in a platinium crucible. The Al(III) and Nb(V) atoms occupy the same site on the axis, with disorder in the ratio of 1:3. The fundamental building units of the title structure are isolated Al/NbO(6) octa-hedra and PO(4) tetra-hedra (. 2 symmetry), which are further inter-locked by corner-sharing O atoms, leading to a three-dimensional framework structure with infinite channels along the a axis.

Structure of TeO2 - LiNbO3 glasses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shinde, A. B.; Krishna, P. S. R.; Rao, Rekha

2017-05-01

Tellurite based lithium niobate glasses with composition (100-x)TeO2-xLiNbO3 (x=0.1,0.2 & 0.3) were prepared by conventional melt quenching method. The microscopic structural investigation of these glasses is carried out by means of neutron diffraction and Raman scattering measurements. It is found that the basic structural units in these glasses are TeO4 trigonal bipyramids(TBP), TeO3 trigonal pyramids(TP) and NbO6 Octahedra depending on the composition. It is evident from Raman studies that TBPs decreases, TPs increases and NbO6 Octahedra increases with increasing x. From Neutron diffraction studies it is found that network is comprised of TBPs and TPs along with TeO3+1 structural units. Distorted NbO6 octahedral units are present and also increase with the increase in x.

Fluorescence spectra of Cr3+ dimers in LiNbO3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia, Weiyi; Liu, Huimin; Knutson, R.; Yen, W. M.

1990-06-01

Fine spectral structure has been observed in both fluorescence and excitation spectra of Cr3+:LiNbO3 on the high-energy side of the broadband emission from 4T2 at 10 K. The lifetimes of the structures are found to be much longer than the lifetime of the broadband 4T2 fluorescence. These sharp lines are assigned to the 2E-->4A2 emissions (R lines) from two types of Cr3+ sites arising from charge compensation; Cr3+ ions are found to substitute both for Li+ and for Nb5+ sites and to form dimerlike pairs.

Metallographic autopsies of full-scale ITER prototype cable-in-conduit conductors after full cyclic testing in SULTAN: III. The importance of strand surface roughness in long twist pitch conductors

DOE PAGES

Sanabria, Charlie; Lee, Peter J.; Starch, William; ...

2016-05-31

As part of the ITER conductor qualification process, 3 m long Cable-in-Conduit Conductors (CICCs) were tested at the SULTAN facility under conditions simulating ITER operation so as to establish the current sharing temperature, T cs, as a function of multiple full Lorentz force loading cycles. After a comprehensive evaluation of both the Toroidal Field (TF) and the Central Solenoid (CS) conductors, it was found that T cs degradation was common in long twist pitch TF conductors while short twist pitch CS conductors showed some T cs increase. However, one kind of TF conductors containing superconducting strand fabricated by the Bochvarmore » Institute of Inorganic Materials (VNIINM) avoided T cs degradation despite having long twist pitch. In our earlier metallographic autopsies of long and short twist pitch CS conductors, we observed a substantially greater transverse strand movement under Lorentz force loading for long twist pitch conductors, while short twist pitch conductors had negligible transverse movement. With help from the literature, we concluded that the transverse movement was not the source of T cs degradation but rather an increase of the compressive strain in the Nb 3Sn filaments possibly induced by longitudinal movement of the wires. Like all TF conductors this TF VNIINM conductor showed large transverse motions under Lorentz force loading, but Tcs actually increased, as in all short twist pitch CS conductors. We here propose that the high surface roughness of the VNIINM strand may be responsible for the suppression of the compressive strain enhancement (characteristic of long twist pitch conductors). Furthermore, it appears that increasing strand surface roughness could improve the performance of long twist pitch CICCs.« less

Metallographic autopsies of full-scale ITER prototype cable-in-conduit conductors after full cyclic testing in SULTAN: III. The importance of strand surface roughness in long twist pitch conductors

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

Sanabria, Charlie; Lee, Peter J.; Starch, William

As part of the ITER conductor qualification process, 3 m long Cable-in-Conduit Conductors (CICCs) were tested at the SULTAN facility under conditions simulating ITER operation so as to establish the current sharing temperature, T cs, as a function of multiple full Lorentz force loading cycles. After a comprehensive evaluation of both the Toroidal Field (TF) and the Central Solenoid (CS) conductors, it was found that T cs degradation was common in long twist pitch TF conductors while short twist pitch CS conductors showed some T cs increase. However, one kind of TF conductors containing superconducting strand fabricated by the Bochvarmore » Institute of Inorganic Materials (VNIINM) avoided T cs degradation despite having long twist pitch. In our earlier metallographic autopsies of long and short twist pitch CS conductors, we observed a substantially greater transverse strand movement under Lorentz force loading for long twist pitch conductors, while short twist pitch conductors had negligible transverse movement. With help from the literature, we concluded that the transverse movement was not the source of T cs degradation but rather an increase of the compressive strain in the Nb 3Sn filaments possibly induced by longitudinal movement of the wires. Like all TF conductors this TF VNIINM conductor showed large transverse motions under Lorentz force loading, but Tcs actually increased, as in all short twist pitch CS conductors. We here propose that the high surface roughness of the VNIINM strand may be responsible for the suppression of the compressive strain enhancement (characteristic of long twist pitch conductors). Furthermore, it appears that increasing strand surface roughness could improve the performance of long twist pitch CICCs.« less

Ferromagnetism of Fe 3Sn and alloys

DOE PAGES

Sales, Brian C.; Saparov, Bayrammurad; McGuire, Michael A.; ...

2014-11-12

Hexagonal Fe 3Sn has many of the desirable properties for a new permanent magnet phase with a Curie temperature of 725 K, a saturation moment of 1.18 MA/m. and anisotropy energy, K 1 of 1.8 MJ/m 3. However, contrary to earlier experimental reports, we found both experimentally and theoretically that the easy magnetic axis lies in the hexagonal plane, which is undesirable for a permanent magnet material. One possibility for changing the easy axis direction is through alloying. We used first principles calculations to investigate the effect of elemental substitutions. The calculations showed that substitution on the Sn site hasmore » the potential to switch the easy axis direction. Transition metal substitutions with Co or Mn do not have this effect. We attempted synthesis of a number of these alloys and found results in accord with the theoretical predictions for those that were formed. However, the alloys that could be readily made all showed an in-plane easy axis. The electronic structure of Fe 3Sn is reported, as are some are magnetic and structural properties for the Fe 3Sn 2, and Fe 5Sn 3 compounds, which could be prepared as mm-sized single crystals.« less

On the Alloying and Properties of Tetragonal Nb₅Si₃ in Nb-Silicide Based Alloys.

PubMed

Tsakiropoulos, Panos

2018-01-04

The alloying of Nb₅Si₃ modifies its properties. Actual compositions of (Nb,TM)₅X₃ silicides in developmental alloys, where X = Al + B + Ge + Si + Sn and TM is a transition and/or refractory metal, were used to calculate the composition weighted differences in electronegativity (Δχ) and an average valence electron concentration (VEC) and the solubility range of X to study the alloying and properties of the silicide. The calculations gave 4.11 < VEC < 4.45, 0.103 < Δχ < 0.415 and 33.6 < X < 41.6 at.%. In the silicide in Nb-24Ti-18Si-5Al-5Cr alloys with single addition of 5 at.% B, Ge, Hf, Mo, Sn and Ta, the solubility range of X decreased compared with the unalloyed Nb₅Si₃ or exceeded 40.5 at.% when B was with Hf or Mo or Sn and the Δχ decreased with increasing X. The Ge concentration increased with increasing Ti and the Hf concentration increased and decreased with increasing Ti or Nb respectively. The B and Sn concentrations respectively decreased and increased with increasing Ti and also depended on other additions in the silicide. The concentration of Sn was related to VEC and the concentrations of B and Ge were related to Δχ. The alloying of Nb₅Si₃ was demonstrated in Δχ versus VEC maps. Effects of alloying on the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) anisotropy, Young's modulus, hardness and creep data were discussed. Compared with the hardness of binary Nb₅Si₃ (1360 HV), the hardness increased in silicides with Ge and dropped below 1360 HV when Al, B and Sn were present without Ge. The Al effect on hardness depended on other elements substituting Si. Sn reduced the hardness. Ti or Hf reduced the hardness more than Cr in Nb₅Si₃ without Ge. The (Nb,Hf)₅(Si,Al)₃ had the lowest hardness. VEC differentiated the effects of additions on the hardness of Nb₅Si₃ alloyed with Ge. Deterioration of the creep of alloyed Nb₅Si₃ was accompanied by decrease of VEC and increase or decrease of Δχ depending on alloying addition(s).

Effects of Nb doping level on the electronic transport, photoelectric effect and magnetoresistance across La0.5Ca0.5MnO3/Nb:SrTiO3 junctions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, J. F.; Jiang, Y. C.; Chen, M. G.; Gao, J.

2013-12-01

Heterojunctions composed of La0.5Ca0.5MnO3 and Nb doped SrTiO3 were fabricated, and the effects of the Nb doping level on their electronic transport, photoelectric effect, and magnetoresistance were investigated. A lower doping concentration of Nb led to better rectifying properties and higher open circuit voltages. The I-V curves for La0.5Ca0.5MnO3/0.7 wt. % Nb-SrTiO3 showed a negligible response to magnetic fields for all temperatures, whereas La0.5Ca0.5MnO3/0.05 wt. % Nb-SrTiO3 exhibited distinct magnetoresistance, which depended on both the bias voltage and temperature. These results are discussed with the assistance of conventional semiconductor theories.

Electromigration effect upon the Sn-0.7 wt% Cu/Ni and Sn-3.5 wt% Ag/Ni interfacial reactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Chih-ming; Chen, Sinn-wen

2001-08-01

This study investigates the effect of electromigration upon the interfacial reactions between the promising lead-free solders, Sn-Cu and Sn-Ag, with Ni substrate. Sandwich-type reaction couples, Sn-0.7 wt% Cu/Ni/Sn-0.7 wt% Cu and Sn-3.5 wt% Ag/Ni/Sn-3.5 wt% Ag, were reacted at 160, 180, and 200 °C for various lengths of time with and without the passage of electric currents. Without passage of electric currents through the couples, only one intermetallic compound Ni3Sn4 with ˜7 at. % Cu solubility was found at both interfaces of the Sn-0.7 wt% Cu/Ni couples. With the passage of an electric current of 500 A/cm2 density, the Cu6Sn5 phase was formed at the solder/Ni interface besides the Ni3Sn4 phase. Similar to those without the passage of electric currents, only the Ni3Sn4 phase was found at the Ni/solder interface. Directions of movement of electrons, Sn, and Cu atoms are the same at the solder/Ni interface, and the growth rates of the intermetallic layers were enhanced. At the Ni/solder interface, the electrons flow in the opposite direction of the Sn and Cu movement, and the growth rates of the intermetallic layers were retarded. Only the Ni3Sn4 phase was formed from the Sn-3.5 wt% Ag/Ni interfacial reaction with and without the passage of electric currents. Similar to the Sn-0.7 wt% Cu/Ni system, the movement of electrons enhances or retards the growth rates of the intermetallic layers at the solder/Ni and Ni/solder interfaces, respectively. Calculation results show the apparent effective charge za* decreases in magnitude with raising temperatures, which indicates the electromigration effect becomes insignificant at higher temperatures.

K{sub 2}Mg{sub 5-x}Sn{sub 3} and K{sub 3}Mg{sub 18}Tt{sub 11} (Tt=Sn, pb) with two types of Mg-Sn/Pb frameworks

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

Lei, Xiao-Wu, E-mail: xwlei10@163.co

2011-04-15

K{sub 2}Mg{sub 5-x}Sn{sub 3} (x=0.28) and K{sub 3}Mg{sub 18}Tt{sub 11} (Tt=Sn, Pb) have been synthesized by reacting the mixture of the corresponding pure elements at high temperature, and structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies. K{sub 2}Mg{sub 5-x}Sn{sub 3} (x=0.28) is isostructural with Ni{sub 7-x}SbQ{sub 2} (Q=Se, Te) series and features 2D corrugated [Mg{sub 5-x}Sn{sub 3}] layers that are separated by K{sup +} cations. The structure of K{sub 3}Mg{sub 18}Tt{sub 11} (Tt=Sn, Pb) is closely related to the Ho{sub 2}Rh{sub 12}As{sub 7} structural type and features 3D [Mg{sub 18}Tt{sub 11}] framework composed of 1D [Mg{sub 18}Tt{sub 11}] columns that aremore » interconnected via Mg-Tt bonds, forming 1D hexagonal tunnels occupied by the K+ cations. Electronic structure calculations indicate that Mg atoms can function as either electron donor or as a participator in the network along with Tt atoms. Magnetic property measurements and band structure calculations indicate that these compounds are metallic. -- Graphical abstract: Two new K-Mg-Tt phases, K{sub 2}Mg{sub 5-x}Sn{sub 3} (x=0.28) and K{sub 3}Mg{sub 18}Tt{sub 11} (Tt=Sn, Pb), have been synthesized and structurally characterized. K{sub 2}Mg{sub 5-x}Sn{sub 3} is isostructural with Ni{sub 7-x}SbQ{sub 2} (Q=Se, Te) and features a 2D corrugated [Mg{sub 5}Sn{sub 3}] layer that is separated by K{sup +} cations, and K{sub 3}Mg{sub 18}Tt{sub 11} (Tt=Sn, Pb) is closely related to the Ho{sub 2}Rh{sub 12}As{sub 7} structure type and features a 3D [Mg{sub 18}Tt{sub 11}] network with 1D hexagonal tunnels along the c-axis occupied by K{sup +} cations. Display Omitted Research highlights: Two new polar intermetallics, K{sub 2}Mg{sub 5-x}Sn{sub 3} (x=0.28) and K{sub 3}Mg{sub 18}Tt{sub 11} (Tt=Sn, Pb). Electronic structure calculations were performed by both TB-LMTO and EHTB methods. Mg atom can function as either electron donor or participator in the network.« less

Rrp12 and the Exportin Crm1 participate in late assembly events in the nucleolus during 40S ribosomal subunit biogenesis.

PubMed

Moriggi, Giulia; Nieto, Blanca; Dosil, Mercedes

2014-12-01

During the biogenesis of small ribosomal subunits in eukaryotes, the pre-40S particles formed in the nucleolus are rapidly transported to the cytoplasm. The mechanisms underlying the nuclear export of these particles and its coordination with other biogenesis steps are mostly unknown. Here we show that yeast Rrp12 is required for the exit of pre-40S particles to the cytoplasm and for proper maturation dynamics of upstream 90S pre-ribosomes. Due to this, in vivo elimination of Rrp12 leads to an accumulation of nucleoplasmic 90S to pre-40S transitional particles, abnormal 35S pre-rRNA processing, delayed elimination of processing byproducts, and no export of intermediate pre-40S complexes. The exportin Crm1 is also required for the same pre-ribosome maturation events that involve Rrp12. Thus, in addition to their implication in nuclear export, Rrp12 and Crm1 participate in earlier biosynthetic steps that take place in the nucleolus. Our results indicate that, in the 40S subunit synthesis pathway, the completion of early pre-40S particle assembly, the initiation of byproduct degradation and the priming for nuclear export occur in an integrated manner in late 90S pre-ribosomes.

Method for preparing high transition temperature Nb.sub.3 Ge superconductors

DOEpatents

Newkirk, Lawrence R.; Valencia, Flavio A.

1977-01-01

Bulk coatings of Nb.sub.3 Ge superconductors having transition temperatures in excess of 20 K are readily formed by a chemical vapor deposition technique involving the coreduction of NbCl.sub.5 and GeCl.sub.4 in the presence of hydrogen. The NbCl.sub.5 vapor may advantageously be formed quantitatively in the temperature range of about 250.degree. to 260.degree. C by the chlorination of Nb metal provided the partial pressure of the product NbCl.sub.5 vapor is maintained at or below about 0.1 atm.

Crystal phase analysis of SnO{sub 2}-based varistor ceramic using the Rietveld method

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

Moreira, M.L.; Pianaro, S.A.; Andrade, A.V.C.

2006-09-15

A second addition of l mol% of CoO to a pre calcined SnO{sub 2}-based ceramic doped with 1.0 mol% of CoO, 0.05 mol% of Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} and 0.05 mol% of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} promotes the appearance of a secondary phase, Co{sub 2}SnO{sub 4}, besides the SnO{sub 2} cassiterite phase, when the ceramic was sintered at 1350 deg. C/2 h. This was observed using X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray techniques. Rietveld refinement was carried out to quantify the phases present in the ceramic system. The results of the quantitative analysis were 97 wt.% SnO{sub 2}more » and 3 wt.% Co{sub 2}SnO{sub 4}. The microstructural analysis showed that a certain amount of cobalt ion remains into cassiterite grains.« less

Structural and Magnetic Properties of {Eu}(3+) Eu 3 + -Doped {CdNb}_{2} {O}_{6} CdNb 2 O 6 Powders

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Topkaya, Ramazan; Boyraz, Cihat; Ekmekçi, Mete Kaan

2018-03-01

Europium-doped CdNb2O6 powders with the molar concentration of Eu^{3+} (0.5, 3 and 6 mol%) were successfully prepared at 900°C by using molten salt synthesis method. The effect of europium (Eu) molar concentration on the structural and temperature-dependent magnetic properties of CdNb2O6 powders has been investigated by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) and ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) techniques in the temperature range of 10-300 K. XRD results confirm that all the powders have orthorhombic crystal structure. It has been confirmed from VSM and FMR measurements that Eu^{3+}-doped CdNb2O6 powders have ferromagnetic behaviour for each Eu^{3+} molar concentration between 10 and 300 K. XRD and EDX analyses indicate that there is no magnetic impurity in Eu^{3+}-doped CdNb_2O_6 powders, supporting that the ferromagnetic behaviour of the powders arises from Eu^{3+} ions. The observed ferromagnetism was elucidated with the intrinsic exchange interactions between the magnetic moments associated with the unpaired 4 f electrons in Eu^{3+} ions. The saturation magnetization decreases with increasing Eu^{3+} molar concentration. The temperature-dependent magnetization behaviour was observed not to agree with Curie-Weiss law because europium obeys Van Vleck paramagnetism. Broad FMR spectra and a g-value higher than 2 were observed from FMR measurements, indicating the ferromagnetic behaviour of the powders. It was found that while the resonance field of FMR spectra decreases, the linewidth increases as a function of Eu^{3+} molar concentration.

Effect of thermo-mechanical processing on microstructure and mechanical properties of U - Nb - Zr alloys: Part 2 - U - 3 wt % Nb - 9 wt % Zr and U - 9 wt% Nb - 3 wt% Zr

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morais, Nathanael Wagner Sales; Lopes, Denise Adorno; Schön, Cláudio Geraldo

2018-04-01

The present work is the second and final part of an extended investigation on Usbnd Nb - Zr alloys. It investigates the effect of mechanical processing routes on microstructure of alloys U - 3 wt % Nb - 9 wt % Zr and U - 9 wt% Nb - 3 wt% Zr, through X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, completing the investigation, which started with alloy U - 6 wt% Nb - 6 wt% Zr in part 1. Mechanical properties are determined using microhardness and bending tests and correlated with the developed microstructures. The results show that processing sequence, in particular the inclusion of a 1000 °C heat treatment step, affects significantly the microstructure and mechanical properties of these alloys alloy in different ways. Microstructural characterization shows that both alloys present significant volume fraction of precipitates of a body-centered cubic (BCC) γ-Nb-Zr rich phase in addition the uranium-rich matrix. Bending tests show that sample ductility does not correlate necessarily with hardness and that the key factor appears to be the amount of the γ-Nb-Zr precipitates, which controls the matrix microstructure. Samples with a monoclinic α″ cellular microstructure and/or with the tetragonally-distorted BCC phase (γ0), although not strictly ductile, showed the largest allowed strains-before-break and complete elastic recovery of the broken pieces, pointing out to the macroscopic observation of superelasticity.

[CH(3)(CH(2))(11)NH(3)]SnI(3): a hybrid semiconductor with MoO(3)-type tin(II) iodide layers.

PubMed

Xu, Zhengtao; Mitzi, David B

2003-10-20

The organic-inorganic hybrid [CH(3)(CH(2))(11)NH(3)]SnI(3) presents a lamellar structure with a Sn-I framework isotypic to that of MoO(3). The SnI(3)(-) layer consists of edge and corner-sharing SnI(6) octahedra in which one of the six Sn-I bonds is distinctly elongated (e.g., 3.62 A), indicating lone-pair stereoactivity for the Sn(II) atom. The overall electronic character remains comparable with that of the well-studied SnI(4)(2)(-)-based perovskite semiconductors, such as [CH(3)(CH(2))(11)NH(3)](2)SnI(4), with a red-shifted and broadened exciton peak associated with the band gap, apparently due to the increased dimensionality of the Sn-I framework. The title compound offers, aside from the hybrid perovskites, a new type of solution-processable Sn-I network for potential applications in semiconductive devices.

SSB-1 of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a nucleolar-specific, silver-binding protein that is associated with the snR10 and snR11 small nuclear RNAs

PubMed Central

1990-01-01

SSB-1, the yeast single-strand RNA-binding protein, is demonstrated to be a yeast nucleolar-specific, silver-binding protein. In double-label immunofluorescence microscopy experiments antibodies to two other nucleolar proteins, RNA Pol I 190-kD and fibrillarin, were used to reveal the site of rRNA transcription; i.e., the fibrillar region of the nucleolus. SSB-1 colocalized with fibrillarin in a double-label immunofluorescence mapping experiment to the yeast nucleolus. SSB-1 is located, though, over a wider region of the nucleolus than the transcription site marker. Immunoprecipitations of yeast cell extracts with the SSB-1 antibody reveal that in 150 mM NaCl SSB-1 is bound to two small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs). These yeast snRNAs are snR10 and snR11, with snR10 being predominant. Since snR10 has been implicated in pre-rRNA processing, the association of SSB-1 and snR10 into a nucleolar snRNP particle indicates SSB-1 involvement in rRNA processing as well. Also, another yeast protein, SSB-36-kD, isolated by single- strand DNA chromatography, is shown to bind silver under the conditions used for nucleolar-specific staining. It is, most likely, another yeast nucleolar protein. PMID:2121740

Static and dynamic parasitic magnetizations and their control in superconducting accelerator dipoles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Collings, E. W.; Sumption, M. D.

2001-05-01

Long dipole magnets guide the particle beams in synchrotron-type high energy accelerators. In principal Cu-wound DC-excited dipoles could be designed to deliver a very uniform transverse bore field, i.e. with small or negligible harmonic (multipolar) distortion. But if the Cu is replaced by (a) superconducting strand that is (b) wound into a Rutherford cable carrying a time-varying transport current, extra magnetizations present within the windings cause distortions of the otherwise uniform field. The static (persistent-current) strand magnetization can be reduced by reducing the filament diameter, and the residue compensated or corrected by strategically placed active or passive components. The cable’s interstrand coupling currents can be controlled by increasing the interstrand contact resistance by: adjusting the level of native oxidation of the strand, coating it, or by inserting a ribbon-like core into the cable itself. Methods of locally compensating the magnetization of NbTi and Nb 3Sn strand and cable are discussed, progress in coupling-current suppression through the use of coatings and cores is reviewed, and a method of simultaneously reducing both the static and dynamic magnetizations of a NbTi cable by means of a thin Ni core is suggested.

Splice-Site Mutations Cause Rrp6-Mediated Nuclear Retention of the Unspliced RNAs and Transcriptional Down-Regulation of the Splicing-Defective Genes

PubMed Central

Eberle, Andrea B.; Hessle, Viktoria; Helbig, Roger; Dantoft, Widad; Gimber, Niclas; Visa, Neus

2010-01-01

Background Eukaryotic cells have developed surveillance mechanisms to prevent the expression of aberrant transcripts. An early surveillance checkpoint acts at the transcription site and prevents the release of mRNAs that carry processing defects. The exosome subunit Rrp6 is required for this checkpoint in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, but it is not known whether Rrp6 also plays a role in mRNA surveillance in higher eukaryotes. Methodology/Principal Findings We have developed an in vivo system to study nuclear mRNA surveillance in Drosophila melanogaster. We have produced S2 cells that express a human β-globin gene with mutated splice sites in intron 2 (mut β-globin). The transcripts encoded by the mut β-globin gene are normally spliced at intron 1 but retain intron 2. The levels of the mut β-globin transcripts are much lower than those of wild type (wt) ß-globin mRNAs transcribed from the same promoter. We have compared the expression of the mut and wt β-globin genes to investigate the mechanisms that down-regulate the production of defective mRNAs. Both wt and mut β-globin transcripts are processed at the 3′, but the mut β-globin transcripts are less efficiently cleaved than the wt transcripts. Moreover, the mut β-globin transcripts are less efficiently released from the transcription site, as shown by FISH, and this defect is restored by depletion of Rrp6 by RNAi. Furthermore, transcription of the mut β-globin gene is significantly impaired as revealed by ChIP experiments that measure the association of the RNA polymerase II with the transcribed genes. We have also shown that the mut β-globin gene shows reduced levels of H3K4me3. Conclusions/Significance Our results show that there are at least two surveillance responses that operate cotranscriptionally in insect cells and probably in all metazoans. One response requires Rrp6 and results in the inefficient release of defective mRNAs from the transcription site. The other response acts at the

Bulk critical state and fundamental length scales of superconducting nanocrystalline Nb3Al in Nb-Al matrix

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mondal, Puspen; Manekar, Meghmalhar; Srivastava, A. K.; Roy, S. B.

2009-07-01

We present the results of magnetization measurements on an as-cast nanocrystalline Nb3Al superconductor embedded in Nb-Al matrix. The typical grain size of Nb3Al ranges from about 2-8 nm with the maximum number of grains at around 3.5 nm, as visualized using transmission electron microscopy. The isothermal magnetization hysteresis loops in the superconducting state can be reasonably fitted within the well-known Kim-Anderson critical-state model. By using the same fitting parameters, we calculate the variation in field with respect to distance inside the sample and show the existence of a critical state over length scales much larger than the typical size of the superconducting grains. Our results indicate that a bulk critical current is possible in a system comprising of nanoparticles. The nonsuperconducting Nb-Al matrix thus appears to play a major role in the bulk current flow through the sample. The superconducting coherence length ξ is estimated to be around 3 nm, which is comparable to the typical grain size. The penetration depth λ is estimated to be about 94 nm, which is much larger than the largest of the superconducting grains. Our results could be useful for tuning the current carrying capability of conductors made out of composite materials which involve superconducting nanoparticles.

Legendre polynomial modeling for vibrations of guided Lamb waves modes in [001]c, [011]c and [111]c polarized (1-x)Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-xPbTiO3 (x = 0.29 and 0.33) piezoelectric plates: Physical phenomenon of multiple intertwining of An and Sn modes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Othmani, Cherif; Takali, Farid; Njeh, Anouar

2017-12-01

Guided wave devices have recently become one of the most important applications in the industry because such waves are directly related to applications in sensor technology, chemical sensing, agricultural science, fields of bio-sensing and surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices that are used in electronic filters and signal processing. On that account, this numerical investigation aims to study the propagation behavior of guided Lamb waves in a (1-x)Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3- x PbTiO3 [PMN- x PT] ( x=0.29 or 0.33) piezoelectric single crystal plate. In fact, the PMN- xPT ( x=0.29 or 0.33) piezoelectric crystals are being polarized along [001]c, [011]c and [111]c of the cubic reference directions so that the macroscopic symmetries are tetragonal 4 mm, orthogonal mm2 and rhombohedral 3 m, respectively. Both open- and short-circuit conditions are considered. Here, the Legendre polynomial method is proposed to solve the guided Lamb waves equations. The validity of the proposed method is illustrated by comparison with the ordinary differential equation (ODE). The convergence of this method is discussed. Consequently, the converged results are obtained with very low truncation order M . This constitutes a major advantage of the present method when compared with the other matrix methods. There is cross-crossings among multiple modes for both symmetric ( Sn) and the anti-symmetric ( An) guided Lamb waves propagation. A displacement field has been illustrated to judge whether Sn and An modes cross with each other. Moreover, electric displacement, stress field and electric potential for the open-circuit case were presented for both S0 and A0 Lamb modes.

Growth of LiNbO{sub 3}:Er Crystals and concentration dependences of their properties

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

Palatnikov, M. N., E-mail: palat-mn@chemy.kolasc.net.ru; Biryukova, I. V.; Shcherbina, O. B.

2016-11-15

A series of lithium niobate (LiNbO{sub 3}) crystals of congruent and stoichiometric compositions, doped with erbium, have been grown under non-steady-state thermal conditions. A series of LiNbO{sub 3}:Zn crystals, nominally pure LiNbO{sub 3} crystals of congruent and stoichiometric compositions, and a LiNbO{sub 3}:B crystal have also been grown. Both growth conditions and concentration dependences of physicochemical, ferroelectric, and structural characteristics of LiNbO{sub 3}:Er crystals are investigated. The growth regular domain microstructures and periodic nanostructures in LiNbO{sub 3}:Er crystals are analyzed by optical microscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM). A comparative study of the optical homogeneity and photorefractive properties of LiNbO{submore » 3}:Er crystals of congruent and stoichiometric compositions and the Raman spectra of LiNbO{sub 3} crystals of different compositions is performed.« less

Crystal structures of the new ternary stannides La3Mg4-xSn2+x and LaMg3-xSn2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Solokha, P.; De Negri, S.; Minetti, R.; Proserpio, D. M.; Saccone, A.

2016-01-01

Synthesis and structural characterization of the two new lanthanum-magnesium-stannides La3Mg4-xSn2+x (0.12≤x≤0.40) and LaMg3-xSn2 (0.33≤x≤0.78) are reported. The crystal structures of these intermetallics were determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and confirmed by Rietveld refinement of powder X-ray diffraction patterns of the corresponding samples. The La3Mg4-xSn2+x phase crystallizes in the hexagonal Zr3Cu4Si2 structure type (P6bar2m, hP9, Z=3, x=0.12(1), a=7.7974(7), c=4.8384(4) Å), which represents an ordered derivative of the hP9-ZrNiAl prototype, ubiquitous among equiatomic intermetallics. The LaMg3-xSn2 phase is the second representative of the trigonal LaMg3-xGe2 type, which is a superstructure of the LaLi3Sb2 structure type (P3bar1c, hP34-0.12, Z=6, x=0.35(1), a=8.3222(9), c=14.9546(16) Å). The scheme describing the symmetry reduction/coloring with respect to the parent type is reported here with the purpose to discuss the LaMg3-xSn2 off-stoichiometry from the geometrical point of view. Structural relationships between the La-Mg-Sn ternary phases, including the already known equiatomic LaMgSn compound (oP12-TiNiSi), are presented in the framework of the AlB2-related compounds family and discussed with the aid of group-subgroup relations in the Bärnighausen formalism.

Enhancement of thermoelectric properties in the Nb–Co–Sn half-Heusler/Heusler system through spontaneous inclusion of a coherent second phase

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

Buffon, Malinda L. C., E-mail: mandibuffon@mrl.ucsb.edu; Verma, Nisha; Lamontagne, Leo

Half-Heusler XYZ compounds with an 18 valence electron count are promising thermoelectric materials, being thermally and chemically stable, deriving from relatively earth-abundant components, and possessing appropriate electrical transport properties. The typical drawback with this family of compounds is their high thermal conductivity. A strategy for reducing thermal conductivity is through the inclusion of secondary phases designed to minimize negative impact on other properties. Here, we achieve this through the addition of excess Co to half-Heusler NbCoSn, which introduces precipitates of a semi-coherent NbCo{sub 2}Sn Heusler phase. A series of NbCo{sub 1+x}Sn materials are characterized here using X-ray and neutron diffractionmore » studies and electron microscopy. Electrical and thermal transport measurements and electronic structure calculations are used to understand property evolution. We find that annealing has an important role to play in determining antisite ordering and properties. Antisite disorder in the as-prepared samples improves thermoelectric performance through the reduction of thermal conductivity, but annealing during the measurement degrades properties to resemble those of the annealed samples. Similar to the more widely studied TiNi{sub 1+x}Sn system, Co addition to the NbCoSn phase results in improved thermoelectric performance through a decrease in thermal conductivity which results in a 20% improvement in the thermoelectric figure of merit, zT.« less

Average and local structure of the Pb-free ferroelectric perovskites ( Sr , Sn ) TiO 3 and ( Ba , Ca , Sn ) TiO 3

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

Laurita, Geneva; Page, Katharine; Suzuki, Shoichiro

2015-12-16

The characteristic structural off -centering of Pb 2+ in oxides, associated with its 6s 2 lone pair, allows it to play a dominant role in polar materials, and makes it a somewhat ubiquitous component of ferroelectrics. In this work, we examine the compounds Sr 0.9Sn 0.1TiO 3 and Ba 0.79Ca 0.16Sn 0.05TiO 3 using neutron total scattering techniques with data acquired at di erent temperatures. In these compounds, previously reported as ferroelectrics, Sn 2+ appears to display some of the characteristics of Pb 2+. We compare the local and long-range structures of the Sn2+-substituted compositions to the unsubstituted parent compoundsmore » SrTiO 3 and BaTiO 3. Lastly, we find that even at these small substitution levels, the Sn 2+ lone pairs drive the local ordering behavior, with the local structure of both compounds more similar to the structure of PbTiO 3 rather than the parent compounds.« less

Intermetallic Compound Growth between Electroless Nickel/Electroless Palladium/Immersion Gold Surface Finish and Sn-3.5Ag or Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu Solder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oda, Yukinori; Fukumuro, Naoki; Yae, Shinji

2018-04-01

Using an electroless nickel/electroless palladium/immersion gold (ENEPIG) surface finish with a thick palladium-phosphorus (Pd-P) layer of 1 μm, the intermetallic compound (IMC) growth between the ENEPIG surface finish and lead-free solders Sn-3.5Ag (SA) or Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu (SAC) after reflow soldering and during solid-state aging at 150°C was investigated. After reflow soldering, in the SA/ENEPIG and SAC/ENEPIG interfaces, thick PdSn4 layers of about 2 μm to 3 μm formed on the residual Pd-P layers ( 0.5 μm thick). On the SA/ENEPIG interface, Sn was detected on the upper side of the residual Pd-P layer. On the SAC/ENEPIG interface, no Sn was detected in the residual Pd-P layer, and Cu was detected in the interface between the Pd-P and PdSn4 layers. After 300 h of aging at 150°C, the residual Pd-P layers had diffused completely into the solders. In the SA/ENEPIG interface, an IMC layer consisting of Ni3Sn4 and Ni3SnP formed between the PdSn4 layer and the nickel-phosphorus (Ni-P) layer, and a (Pd,Ni)Sn4 layer formed on the lower side of the PdSn4 layer. On the SAC/ENEPIG interface, a much thinner (Pd,Ni)Sn4 layer was observed, and a (Cu,Ni)6Sn5 layer was observed between the PdSn4 and Ni-P layers. These results indicate that Ni diffusion from the Ni-P layer to the PdSn4 layer produced a thick (Pd,Ni)Sn4 layer in the SA solder case, but was prevented by formation of (Cu,Ni)6Sn5 in the SAC solder case. This causes the difference in solder joint reliability between SA/ENEPIG and SAC/ENEPIG interfaces in common, thin Pd-P layer cases.

Photoluminescence of rare-earth ion (Eu3+, Tm3+, and Er3+)-doped and co-doped ZnNb2O6 for solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Sen-Pei; Qian, Yan-Nan; Wang, Biao

2015-08-01

Visible converted emissions produced at an excitation of 286 nm in ZnNb2O6 ceramics doped with rare-earth ions (RE = Eu3+, Tm3+, Er3+ or a combination of these ions) were investigated with the aim of increasing the photovoltaic efficiency of solar cells. The structure of RE:ZnNb2O6 ceramics was confirmed by x-ray diffraction patterns. The undoped ZnNb2O6 could emit a blue emission under 286-nm excitation, which is attributed to the self-trapped excitons’ recombination of the efficient luminescence centers of edge-shared NbO6 groups. Upon 286-nm excitation, Eu:ZnNb2O6, Tm:ZnNb2O6, and Er:ZnNb2O6 ceramics showed blue, green, and red emissions, which correspond to the transitions of 5D0 → 7FJ (J = 1-4) (Eu3+), 1G4 → 3H6 (Tm3+), and 2H11/2/4S3/2 → 4I15/2 (Er3+), respectively. The calculated CIE chromaticity coordinates of Eu:ZnNb2O6, Tm:ZnNb2O6, and Er:ZnNb2O6 are (0.50, 0.31), (0.14, 0.19), and (0.29, 0.56), respectively. RE ion-co-doped ZnNb2O6 showed a combination of characteristic emissions. The chromaticity coordinates of Eu/Tm:ZnNb2O6, Eu/Er:ZnNb2O6, and Tm/Er:ZnNb2O6 were calculated to be (0.29, 0.24), (0.45, 0.37), and (0.17, 0.25). Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 10572155 and 10732100) and the Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Ministry of Education, China (Grant No. 20130171130003).

Influence of alloying elements on the oxidation behavior of NbAl3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hebsur, M. G.; Stephens, J. R.; Smialek, J. L.; Barrett, C. A.; Fox, D. S.

1988-01-01

NbAL3 is one candidate material for advanced aeropropulsion systems because of its high melting point, low density, and good oxidation resistance. Although NbAl3 has the lowest oxidation rate among the binary Nb-Al alloys, it does not form exclusive layers of protective Al2O3 scales. Recently Perkin et al., have shown the feasibility of forming alumina scales on Nb-Al alloys at greatly reduced Al contents. However, the objective was to maintain the high Al content, and hence low density, while achieving the capability of growing protective alumina scales. Alloy development followed approaches similar to those used successfully for superalloys and oxidation resistant MCrAlY coatings. Among the three elements examined (Ti, Si, and Cr) as ternary additions to Nb-Al3, Cr was the most effective in favoring the selective oxidation of Al. Nb-41Al-8Cr formed exclusive layers of alumina and had a k sub p value of 0.22 mg squared/cm (sup 4)/hr at 1200 C. The addition of 1 wt percent Y to this alloy was also beneficial, resulting in nearly an order of magnitude decrease in K sub p at 1200 C. Further improvements were achieved by adding about 1 wt percent Si to the quaternary alloy. The k sub p value of 0.012 mg squared/cm (sup 4)/hr for Nb-40Al-8Cr-1Y-1Si at 1200 C was identical to the best NiAl + Zr alloys. These NbAl3 alloys also exhibited excellent cyclic oxidation resistance for 100 hr at 1200 C, being nearly equivalent to NiAl + Zr.

Evolution of magnetic properties of CaMn1-x Nb x O3 with Nb-doping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Markovich, V.; Fita, I.; Wisniewski, A.; Puzniak, R.; Martin, C.; Mogilyansky, D.; Jung, G.; Gorodetsky, G.

2015-08-01

Magnetic and structural properties of Nb-doped CaMnO3 have been studied and the effect of doping with 0.02  ⩽  x  ⩽  0.1 has been investigated. Substitution of Nb5+ ion for the Mn4+ site of the parent matrix causes one-electron doping with the chemical formula \\text{CaMn}1-2x4+\\text{Mn}x3+\\text{Nb}x5+{{\\text{O}}3} , accompanied by a monotonous increase of the lattice parameters, unit-cell volume, average Mn-O bond distance and a decrease in Mn-O-Mn bond angle, with increasing x. Low temperature magnetic ground state of CaMn1-x Nb x O3 has been found to be dependent on niobium doping level. The ground magnetic state evolves from mostly antiferromagnetic, with a weak ferromagnetic component for x = 0.02-0.08, to charge ordered C-type antiferromagnetic state at x = 0.1. Spontaneous magnetization increases sharply with increasing doping level, approaches a maximal value of 4.1 emu g-1 at T = 10 K for x = 0.08, and then decreases rapidly to reach a very small value of 0.2 emu g-1 for x = 0.1. Anomalous negative magnetization behavior below the magnetic transition temperature has been observed for the compound with x = 0.04 in the field cooled magnetization and remanent dc magnetization measurements. Vertical and horizontal shifts of the hysteresis loop of the field cooled sample have been observed for CaMn0.9Nb0.1O3 as possible signatures of the exchange bias effect. The effect of hydrostatic pressure on dc magnetization for the sample with x  >  0.02 revealed a significant increase of the ferromagnetic phase volume under pressure, linked to progressive suppression of a negative magnetization in x = 0.04 sample.

Cable testing for Fermilab's high field magnets using small racetrack coils

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

Feher, S.; Ambrosio, G.; Andreev, N.

As part of the High Field Magnet program at Fermilab simple magnets have been designed utilizing small racetrack coils based on a sound mechanical structure and bladder technique developed by LBNL. Two of these magnets have been built in order to test Nb{sub 3}Sn cables used in cos-theta dipole models. The powder-in-tube strand based cable exhibited excellent performance. It reached its critical current limit within 14 quenches. Modified jelly roll strand based cable performance was limited by magnetic instabilities at low fields as previously tested dipole models which used similar cable.

A novel strategy for discriminating marine oils by using the positional distribution (sn-1, sn-2, sn-3) of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in triacylglycerols.

PubMed

Araujo, Pedro; Tilahun, Ephrem; Zeng, Yingxu

2018-05-15

A novel strategy for discriminating genuine and adulterated marine oils is proposed. The strategy consists of i) determining the stereospecific distribution (sn-1, sn-2 and sn-3) of omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFA) on the backbone of triacylglycerols by using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry; ii) transforming the qualitative stereospecific information into quantitative data by means of a novel strategy; iii) analyzing the transformed data by principal component analysis. The proposed strategy was tested on pure oils (seal, salmon, cod liver, sandeel, blue whiting, herring), a mixture of blue whiting, herring, sandeel and Norway pout and some intentionally adulterated oils. In addition, some published krill oil data were analyzed to confirm the reliability of the new approach. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The adenovirus L4-22K protein regulates transcription and RNA splicing via a sequence-specific single-stranded RNA binding.

PubMed

Lan, Susan; Kamel, Wael; Punga, Tanel; Akusjärvi, Göran

2017-02-28

The adenovirus L4-22K protein both activates and suppresses transcription from the adenovirus major late promoter (MLP) by binding to DNA elements located downstream of the MLP transcriptional start site: the so-called DE element (positive) and the R1 region (negative). Here we show that L4-22K preferentially binds to the RNA form of the R1 region, both to the double-stranded RNA and the single-stranded RNA of the same polarity as the nascent MLP transcript. Further, L4-22K binds to a 5΄-CAAA-3΄ motif in the single-stranded RNA, which is identical to the sequence motif characterized for L4-22K DNA binding. L4-22K binding to single-stranded RNA results in an enhancement of U1 snRNA recruitment to the major late first leader 5΄ splice site. This increase in U1 snRNA binding results in a suppression of MLP transcription and a concurrent stimulation of major late first intron splicing. © The Author(s) 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Nucleic Acids Research.

Support Structure Design of the $$\\hbox{Nb}_{3}\\hbox{Sn}$$ Quadrupole for the High Luminosity LHC

DOE PAGES

Juchno, M.; Ambrosio, G.; Anerella, M.; ...

2014-10-31

New low-β quadrupole magnets are being developed within the scope of the High Luminosity LHC (HL-LHC) project in collaboration with the US LARP program. The aim of the HLLHC project is to study and implement machine upgrades necessary for increasing the luminosity of the LHC. The new quadrupoles, which are based on the Nb₃Sn superconducting technology, will be installed in the LHC Interaction Regions and will have to generate a gradient of 140 T/m in a coil aperture of 150 mm. In this paper, we describe the design of the short model magnet support structure and discuss results of themore » detailed 3D numerical analysis performed in preparation for the first short model test.« less

Electro-optical detection of THz radiation in Fe implanted LiNbO3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yuhua; Ni, Hongwei; Zhan, Weiting; Yuan, Jie; Wang, Ruwu

2013-01-01

In this letter, the authors present first observation of terahertz generation from Fe implantation of LiNbO3 crystal substrate. LiNbO3 single crystal is grown by Czochralski method. Metal nanoparticles synthesized by Fe ion implantation were implanted into LiNbO3 single crystal using metal vapor vacuum arc (MEVVA) ion source. 1 kHz, 35 fs laser pulsed centered at 800 nm were focused onto the samples. Terahertz was generated via optical rectification. The findings suggest that under the investigated implantation parameter, a spectral component in excess of 0.44 THz emission were found from Fe ion implantation of LiNbO3.

Extraordinary-mode refractive-index change produced by the linear electro-optic effect in LiNbO3 and reverse-poled LiNbO3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boyd, Joseph T.; Servizzi, Anthony J.; Sriram, S.; Kingsley, Stuart A.

1995-07-01

To examine aspects of an integrated photonic electric-field sensor, we calculate electro-optically induced refractive-index change in regular and reverse-poled LiNbO3. Specifically, for y-propagating extraordinary modes, we determine how index change depends on electric-field magnitude and direction. To accomplish this, changes in index-ellipsoid shape and orientation are found by the use of a numerical eigenvalue procedure to diagonalize the impermeability tensor; then, refractive index is calculated by the use of a vector reference-frame transformation and a small perturbation approximation. A general formula is inferred from calculations for specific field directions. Electro-optic coefficients for reverse-poled LiNbO3 are obtained by application of a tensor reference-frame transformation to those of LiNbO3. The index-calculation procedure has utility beyond the problem that is considered.

Photocathode quantum efficiency of ultrathin Cs2Te layers on Nb substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yusof, Zikri; Denchfield, Adam; Warren, Mark; Cardenas, Javier; Samuelson, Noah; Spentzouris, Linda; Power, John; Zasadzinski, John

2017-12-01

The quantum efficiencies (QE) of photocathodes consisting of bulk Nb substrates coated with thin films of Cs2Te are reported. Using the standard recipe for Cs2Te deposition developed for Mo substrates (220 Å Te thickness), a QE ˜11 % - 13 % at light wavelength of 248 nm is achieved for the Nb substrates, consistent with that found on Mo. Systematic reduction of the Te thickness for both Mo and Nb substrates reveals a surprisingly high residual QE ˜6 % for a Te layer as thin as 15 Å. A phenomenological model based on the Spicer three-step model along with a solution of the Fresnel equations for reflectance, R , leads to a reasonable fit of the thickness dependence of QE and suggests that layers thinner than 15 Å may still have a relatively high QE. Preliminary investigation suggests an increased operational lifetime as well. Such an ultrathin, semiconducting Cs2Te layer may be expected to produce minimal Ohmic losses for rf frequencies ˜1 GHz . The result thus opens the door to the potential development of a Nb (or Nb3Sn ) superconducting photocathode with relatively high QE and minimal rf impedance to be used in a superconducting radiofrequency (SRF) photoinjector.

α-Eleostearic acid-containing triglycerides for a continuous assay to determine lipase sn-1 and sn-3 regio-preference.

PubMed

El Alaoui, Meddy; Soulère, Laurent; Noiriel, Alexandre; Queneau, Yves; Abousalham, Abdelkarim

2017-08-01

Lipases are essentially described as sn-1 and sn-3 regio-selective. Actually few methods are available to measure this lipase regio-selectivity, moreover they require chiral chromatography analysis or specific derivations which are discontinuous and time consuming. In this study we describe a new, convenient, sensitive and continuous spectrophotometric method to screen lipases regio-selectivity using synthetic triglycerides (TG) containing α-eleostearic acid (9Z, 11E, 13E-octadecatrienoic acid) either at the sn-1 position [1-α-eleostearoyl-2,3-octadecyl-sn-glycerol (sn-EOO)] or at the sn-3 position [1,2-octadecyl-3-α-eleostearoyl-sn-glycerol (sn-OOE)] and coated onto the wells of microtiter plates. A non-hydrolysable ether bond, with a non UV-absorbing alkyl chain, was introduced at the other sn positions to prevent acyl chain migration during TG synthesis or lipolysis. The synthesis of TG containing α-eleostearic acid was performed from S-glycidol in six steps to obtain sn-EOO and in five steps to sn-OOE. The α-eleostearic acid conjugated triene constitutes an intrinsic chromophore and, consequently, confers the strong UV absorption properties of this free fatty acid as well as of the TG harboring it. The lipase activity on coated sn-EOO or sn-OOE was measured by the increase in the absorbance at 272nm due to the transition of α-eleostearic acid from the adsorbed to the soluble state. Human and porcine pancreatic lipases, guinea pig pancreatic lipase related protein 2, Thermomyces lanuginosus lipase, Candida antarctica lipase A and Candida antarctica lipase B were all used to validate the assay. This continuous high-throughput screening method could determine directly without any processes after lipolysis the regio-selectivity of various lipases. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Influence of alloying elements on the oxidation behavior of NbAl3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hebsur, M. G.; Stephens, J. R.; Smialek, J. L.; Barrett, C. A.; Fox, D. S.

1989-01-01

NbAl3 is one candidate material for advanced aeropropulsion systems because of its high melting point, low density, and good oxidation resistance. Although NbAl3 has the lowest oxidation rate among the binary Nb-Al alloys, it does not form exclusive layers of protective Al203 scales. Recently Perkin et al., have shown the feasibility of forming alumina scales on Nb-Al alloys at greatly reduced Al contents. However, the objective was to maintain the high Al content, and hence low density, while achieving the capability of growing protective alumina scales. Alloy development followed approaches similar to those used successfully for superalloys and oxidation resistant MCrAly coatings. Among the three elements examined (Ti, Si, and Cr) as ternary additions to Nb-Al3, Cr was the most effective in favoring the selective oxidation of Al. Nb-41Al-8Cr formed exclusive layers of alumina and had a k sub p value of 0.22 mg squared/cm (sup 4)/hr at 1200 C. The addition of 1 wt percent Y to this alloy was also beneficial, resulting in nearly an order of magnitude decrease in K sub p at 1200 C. Further improvements were achieved by adding about 1 wt percent Si to the quaternary alloy. The k sub p value of 0.012 mg squared/cm (sup 4)/hr for Nb-40Al-8Cr-1Y-1Si at 1200 C was identical to the best NiAl + Zr alloys. These NbAl3 alloys also exhibited excellent cyclic oxidation resistance for 100 hr at 1200 C, being nearly equivalent to NiAl + Zr.

Strain tolerance in technical Nb3Al superconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Banno, N.; Takeuchi, T.; Kitaguchi, H.; Tagawa, K.

2006-10-01

We observed crack formation in transformation-processed Nb3Al wires at room temperature, the wire being bent with a small clamp fixture with a curvature. The polished cross-section parallel to the longitudinal axis was observed, using a high power optical microscope or a field-emission scanning electron microscope. The bend strain limit for microcrack formation is found, changing the radius of the curvature of the clamp. The bend strain limit was found to be around 0.3% for standard Nb3Al wires. This corresponds to the irreversible tensile strain limit of the Ic characteristics determined with a 0.1 µV cm-1 criterion. Reduction of the barrier thickness should be avoided to keep to the bend strain limit. A new configuration of the Nb3Al wire is demonstrated to improve the bend strain limit. The filament is divided into segments in the transverse cross-section. The wire is fabricated by a double-stacking method. The bend strain limit is enhanced to about 0.85% for the wire surface; the equivalent strain of the outermost filament location is about 0.66%. A simple react and wind test for this wire was performed, where the wire experienced 0.86% bend strain. The degradation of Jc was found to be very small.

Semiconducting Ba 3Sn 3Sb 4 and Metallic Ba 7–xSn 11Sb 15–y ( x = 0.4, y = 0.6) Zintl Phases

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

Chen, Haijie; Narayan, Awadhesh; Stoumpos, Constantinos C.

In this paper, we report the discovery of two ternary Zintl phases Ba 3Sn 3Sb 4 and Ba 7-xSn 11Sb 15-y, (x = 0.4, y = 0.6). Ba 3Sn 3Sb 4 adopts the monoclinic space group P2 1/c with a = 14.669(3) Å, b = 6.9649(14) Å, c = 13.629(3) Å, and β = 104.98(3)°. It features a unique corrugated two-dimensional (2D) structure consisting of [Sn 3Sb 4] 6- layers extending along the ab plane with Ba 2+ atoms sandwiched between them. The non-stoichiometric Ba 6.6Sn 11Sb 14.4 has a complex one-dimensional (1D) structure adopting the orthorhombic space group Pnma,more » with unit cell parameters a = 37.964(8) Å, b = 4.4090(9) Å and c = 24.682(5) Å. It consists of large double Sn-Sb ribbons separated by Ba 2+ atoms. Ba3Sn3Sb4 is an n-type semiconductor which has a narrow energy gap of ~0.18 eV and a room temperature carrier concentration of ~4.2 × 10 18 cm -3. Lastly, Ba 6.6Sn 11Sb 14.4 is determined to be a metal with electrons being the dominant carriers.« less