Surface recombination velocity and diffusion length of minority carriers in heavily doped silicon layers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gatos, H. C.; Watanabe, M.; Actor, G.

1977-01-01

Quantitative analysis of the electron beam-induced current and the dependence of the effective diffusion length of the minority carriers on the penetration depth of the electron beam were employed for the analysis of the carrier recombination characteristics in heavily doped silicon layers. The analysis is based on the concept of the effective excitation strength of the carriers which takes into consideration all possible recombination sources. Two dimensional mapping of the surface recombination velocity of P-diffused Si layers will be presented together with a three dimensional mapping of minority carrier lifetime in ion implanted Si. Layers heavily doped with As exhibit improved recombination characteristics as compared to those of the layers doped with P.

Rough SERS substrate based on gold coated porous silicon layer prepared on the silicon backside surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dridi, H.; Haji, L.; Moadhen, A.

2017-04-01

We report in this paper a novel method to elaborate rough Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) substrate. A single layer of porous silicon was formed on the silicon backside surface. Morphological characteristics of the porous silicon layer before and after gold deposition were influenced by the rough character (gold size). The reflectance measurements showed a dependence of the gold nano-grains size on the surface nature, through the Localized Surface Plasmon (LSP) band properties. SERS signal of Rhodamine 6G used as a model analyte, adsorbed on the rough porous silicon layer revealed a marked enhancement of its vibrational modes intensities.

Calculation of the flow field including boundary layer effects for supersonic mixed compression inlets at angles of attack

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vadyak, J.; Hoffman, J. D.

1982-01-01

The flow field in supersonic mixed compression aircraft inlets at angle of attack is calculated. A zonal modeling technique is employed to obtain the solution which divides the flow field into different computational regions. The computational regions consist of a supersonic core flow, boundary layer flows adjacent to both the forebody/centerbody and cowl contours, and flow in the shock wave boundary layer interaction regions. The zonal modeling analysis is described and some computational results are presented. The governing equations for the supersonic core flow form a hyperbolic system of partial differential equations. The equations for the characteristic surfaces and the compatibility equations applicable along these surfaces are derived. The characteristic surfaces are the stream surfaces, which are surfaces composed of streamlines, and the wave surfaces, which are surfaces tangent to a Mach conoid. The compatibility equations are expressed as directional derivatives along streamlines and bicharacteristics, which are the lines of tangency between a wave surface and a Mach conoid.

Influence of head size on the development of metallic wear and on the characteristics of carbon layers in metal-on-metal hip joints

PubMed Central

Sprecher, Christoph M; Wimmer, Markus A; Milz, Stefan; Taeger, Georg

2009-01-01

Background and purpose Particles originating from the articulating surfaces of hip endoprostheses often induce an inflammatory response, which can be related to implant failure. We therefore analyzed the metal content in capsular tissue from 44 McKee-Farrar metal-on-metal hip prostheses (with 3 different head sizes) and we also analyzed the morphological structure of layers located on articulating surfaces. Methods Atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) was used to analyze the metal content in capsular tissue. Visually detectable carbon layers located on the articulating surfaces were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive Xray spectroscopy (EDX), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Results Metallic debris was detected in all capsular tissue samples but no statistically significant differences in metal content were found in relation to implant head size. The morphological characteristics of the different layer zones allowed an exact analysis of contact and non-contact areas. Furthermore, surface layers appear to have a protective function because they can prevent sharp-edged particles from damaging the prostheses surface. Interpretation The implant head size does not appear to influence the amount of metallic debris. The layers obviously act like a lubricating agent because the protection function does not occur in regions without layers where the metal surface often shows numerous scratches. As layers are not generated immediately after the implantation of hip prostheses, these findings may at least partially explain the high amount of wear early after implantation. PMID:19421914

Effect of the Parameters of Gas-Powder Laser Surfacing on the Structural Characteristics of Reconditioned Surface Layer of Corrosion-Resistant Steels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krylova, S. E.; Oplesnin, S. P.; Manakov, N. A.; Yasakov, A. S.; Strizhov, A. O.

2018-01-01

Results of the developed commercial process for reconditioning the surface of corrosion-resistant steels by the method of laser surfacing are presented. A comparative analysis of the microstructures of the deposited wear-resistant layer, of the zone of fusion with the matrix material and of the diffusion zone after different variants of surfacing is performed. The hardness of the deposited layer is measured and a nondestructive inspection of the latter for the presence of flaws is performed.

The surface properties of Shewanella putrefaciens 200 and S. oneidensis MR-1: the effect of pH and terminal electron acceptors.

PubMed

Furukawa, Yoko; Dale, Jason R

2013-04-08

We investigated the surface characteristics of two strains of Shewanella sp., S. oneidensis MR-1 and S. putrefaciens 200, that were grown under aerobic conditions as well as under anaerobic conditions with trimethylamine oxide (TMAO) as the electron acceptor. The investigation focused on the experimental determination of electrophoretic mobility (EPM) under a range of pH and ionic strength, as well as by subsequent modeling in which Shewanella cells were considered to be soft particles with water- and ion-permeable outermost layers. The soft layer of p200 is significantly more highly charged (i.e., more negative) than that of MR-1. The effect of electron acceptor on the soft particle characteristics of Shewanella sp. is complex. The fixed charge density, which is a measure of the deionized and deprotonated functional groups in the soft layer polymers, is slightly greater (i.e., more negative) for aerobically grown p200 than for p200 grown with TMAO. On the other hand, the fixed charge density of aerobically grown MR1 is slightly less than that of p200 grown with TMAO. The effect of pH on the soft particle characteristics is also complex, and does not exhibit a clear pH-dependent trend. The Shewanella surface characteristics were attributed to the nature of the outermost soft layer, the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in case of p200 and lypopolysaccharides (LPS) in case of MR1 which generally lacks EPS. The growth conditions (i.e., aerobic vs. anaerobic TMAO) have an influence on the soft layer characteristics of Shewanella sp. cells. Meanwhile, the clear pH dependency of the mechanical and morphological characteristics of EPS and LPS layers, observed in previous studies through atomic force microscopy, adhesion tests and spectroscopies, cannot be corroborated by the electrohydrodynamics-based soft particle characteristics which does not exhibited a clear pH dependency in this study. While the electrohydrodynamics-based soft-particle model is a useful tool in understanding bacteria's surface properties, it needs to be supplemented with other characterization methods and models (e.g., chemical and micromechanical) in order to comprehensively address all of the surface-related characteristics important in environmental and other aqueous processes.

On the Existence of the Logarithmic Surface Layer in the Inner Core of Hurricanes

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-01

characteristics of eyewall boundary layer of Hurricane Hugo (1989). Mon. Wea. Rev., 139, 1447-1462. Zhang, JA, Montgomery MT. 2012 Observational...the inner core of hurricanes Roger K. Smitha ∗and Michael T. Montgomeryb a Meteorological Institute, University of Munich, Munich, Germany b Dept. of...logarithmic surface layer”, or log layer, in the boundary layer of the rapidly-rotating core of a hurricane . One such study argues that boundary-layer

Atomic and molecular layer deposition for surface modification

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

Vähä-Nissi, Mika, E-mail: mika.vaha-nissi@vtt.fi; Sievänen, Jenni; Salo, Erkki

2014-06-01

Atomic and molecular layer deposition (ALD and MLD, respectively) techniques are based on repeated cycles of gas–solid surface reactions. A partial monolayer of atoms or molecules is deposited to the surface during a single deposition cycle, enabling tailored film composition in principle down to molecular resolution on ideal surfaces. Typically ALD/MLD has been used for applications where uniform and pinhole free thin film is a necessity even on 3D surfaces. However, thin – even non-uniform – atomic and molecular deposited layers can also be used to tailor the surface characteristics of different non-ideal substrates. For example, print quality of inkjetmore » printing on polymer films and penetration of water into porous nonwovens can be adjusted with low-temperature deposited metal oxide. In addition, adhesion of extrusion coated biopolymer to inorganic oxides can be improved with a hybrid layer based on lactic acid. - Graphical abstract: Print quality of a polylactide film surface modified with atomic layer deposition prior to inkjet printing (360 dpi) with an aqueous ink. Number of printed dots illustrated as a function of 0, 5, 15 and 25 deposition cycles of trimethylaluminum and water. - Highlights: • ALD/MLD can be used to adjust surface characteristics of films and fiber materials. • Hydrophobicity after few deposition cycles of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} due to e.g. complex formation. • Same effect on cellulosic fabrics observed with low temperature deposited TiO{sub 2}. • Different film growth and oxidation potential with different precursors. • Hybrid layer on inorganic layer can be used to improve adhesion of polymer melt.« less

In-Flight Boundary-Layer Transition on a Large Flat Plate at Supersonic Speeds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Banks, Daniel W.; Fredericks, Michael Alan; Tracy, Richard R.; Matisheck, Jason R.; Vanecek, Neal D.

2012-01-01

A flight experiment was conducted to investigate the pressure distribution, local flow conditions, and boundary-layer transition characteristics on a large flat plate in flight at supersonic speeds up to Mach 2.0. The primary objective of the test was to characterize the local flow field in preparation for future tests of a high Reynolds number natural laminar flow test article. The tests used a F-15B testbed aircraft with a bottom centerline mounted test fixture. A second objective was to determine the boundary-layer transition characteristics on the flat plate and the effectiveness of using a simplified surface coating for future laminar flow flight tests employing infrared thermography. Boundary-layer transition was captured using an onboard infrared imaging system. The infrared imagery was captured in both analog and digital formats. Surface pressures were measured with electronically scanned pressure modules connected to 60 surface-mounted pressure orifices. The local flow field was measured with five 5-hole conical probes mounted near the leading edge of the test fixture. Flow field measurements revealed the local flow characteristics including downwash, sidewash, and local Mach number. Results also indicated that the simplified surface coating did not provide sufficient insulation from the metallic structure, which likely had a substantial effect on boundary-layer transition compared with that of an adiabatic surface. Cold wall conditions were predominant during the acceleration to maximum Mach number, and warm wall conditions were evident during the subsequent deceleration. The infrared imaging system was able to capture shock wave impingement on the surface of the flat plate in addition to indicating laminar-to-turbulent boundary-layer transition.

Frequency dependent steering with backward leaky waves via photonic crystal interface layer.

PubMed

Colak, Evrim; Caglayan, Humeyra; Cakmak, Atilla O; Villa, Alessandro D; Capolino, Filippo; Ozbay, Ekmel

2009-06-08

A Photonic Crystal (PC) with a surface defect layer (made of dimers) is studied in the microwave regime. The dispersion diagram is obtained with the Plane Wave Expansion Method. The dispersion diagram reveals that the dimer-layer supports a surface mode with negative slope. Two facts are noted: First, a guided (bounded) wave is present, propagating along the surface of the dimer-layer. Second, above the light line, the fast traveling mode couple to the propagating spectra and as a result a directive (narrow beam) radiation with backward characteristics is observed and measured. In this leaky mode regime, symmetrical radiation patterns with respect to the normal to the PC surface are attained. Beam steering is observed and measured in a 70 degrees angular range when frequency ranges in the 11.88-13.69 GHz interval. Thus, a PC based surface wave structure that acts as a frequency dependent leaky wave antenna is presented. Angular radiation pattern measurements are in agreement with those obtained via numerical simulations that employ the Finite Difference Time Domain Method (FDTD). Finally, the backward radiation characteristics that in turn suggest the existence of a backward leaky mode in the dimer-layer are experimentally verified using a halved dimer-layer structure.

Different characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells isolated from different layers of full term placenta

PubMed Central

Ha, Chul-Won; Kim, Jin A; Heo, Jin-Chul; Han, Woo-Jung; Oh, Soo-Young; Choi, Suk-Joo

2017-01-01

Background The placenta is a very attractive source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for regenerative medicine due to readily availability, non-invasive acquisition, and avoidance of ethical issues. Isolating MSCs from parts of placenta tissue has obtained growing interest because they are assumed to exhibit different proliferation and differentiation potentials due to complex structures and functions of the placenta. The objective of this study was to isolate MSCs from different parts of the placenta and compare their characteristics. Methods Placenta was divided into amniotic epithelium (AE), amniotic membrane (AM), chorionic membrane (CM), chorionic villi (CV), chorionic trophoblast without villi (CT-V), decidua (DC), and whole placenta (Pla). Cells isolated from each layer were subjected to analyses for their morphology, proliferation ability, surface markers, and multi-lineage differentiation potential. MSCs were isolated from all placental layers and their characteristics were compared. Findings Surface antigen phenotype, morphology, and differentiation characteristics of cells from all layers indicated that they exhibited properties of MSCs. MSCs from different placental layers had different proliferation rates and differentiation potentials. MSCs from CM, CT-V, CV, and DC had better population doubling time and multi-lineage differentiation potentials compared to those from other layers. Conclusions Our results indicate that MSCs with different characteristics can be isolated from all layers of term placenta. These finding suggest that it is necessary to appropriately select MSCs from different placental layers for successful and consistent outcomes in clinical applications. PMID:28225815

Characteristics of the nocturnal boundary layer inferred from ozone measurements onboard a Zeppelin airship

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rohrer, Franz; Li, Xin; Hofzumahaus, Andreas; Ehlers, Christian; Holland, Frank; Klemp, Dieter; Lu, Keding; Mentel, Thomas F.; Kiendler-Scharr, Astrid; Wahner, Andreas

2014-05-01

The nocturnal boundary layer (NBL) is a sublayer within the planetary boundary layer (PBL) which evolves above solid land each day in the late afternoon due to radiation cooling of the surface. It is a region of several hundred meters thickness which inhibits vertical mixing. A residual and a surface layer remain above and below the NBL. Inside the surface layer, almost all direct emissions of atmospheric constituents take place during this time. This stratification lasts until the next morning after sunrise. Then, the heating of the surface generates a new convectionally mixed layer which successively eats up the NBL from below. This process lasts until shortly before noon when the NBL disappears completely and the PBL is mixed convectionally. Ozone measurements onboard a Zeppelin airship in The Netherlands, in Italy, and in Finland are used to analyse this behaviour with respect to atmospheric constituents and consequences for the diurnal cycles observed in the surface layer, the nocturnal boundary layer, and the residual layer are discussed.

Manufacturing polymer light emitting diode with high luminance efficiency by solution process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Miyoung; Jo, SongJin; Yang, Ho Chang; Yoon, Dang Mo; Kwon, Jae-Taek; Lee, Seung-Hyun; Choi, Ju Hwan; Lee, Bum-Joo; Shin, Jin-Koog

2012-06-01

While investigating polymer light emitting diodes (polymer-LEDs) fabricated by solution process, surface roughness influences electro-optical (E-O) characteristics. We expect that E-O characteristics such as luminance and power efficiency related to surface roughness and layer thickness of emitting layer with poly-9-Vinylcarbazole. In this study, we fabricated polymer organic light emitting diodes by solution process which guarantees easy, eco-friendly and low cost manufacturing for flexible display applications. In order to obtain high luminescence efficiency, E-O characteristics of these devices by varying parameters for printing process have been investigated. Therefore, we optimized process condition for polymer-LEDs by adjusting annealing temperatures of emission, thickness of emission layer showing efficiency (10.8 cd/A) at 10 mA/cm2. We also checked wavelength dependent electroluminescence spectrum in order to find the correlation between the variation of efficiency and the thickness of the layer.

Wind-Tunnel Simulation of Weakly and Moderately Stable Atmospheric Boundary Layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hancock, Philip E.; Hayden, Paul

2018-07-01

The simulation of horizontally homogeneous boundary layers that have characteristics of weakly and moderately stable atmospheric flow is investigated, where the well-established wind engineering practice of using `flow generators' to provide a deep boundary layer is employed. Primary attention is given to the flow above the surface layer, in the absence of an overlying inversion, as assessed from first- and second-order moments of velocity and temperature. A uniform inlet temperature profile ahead of a deep layer, allowing initially neutral flow, results in the upper part of the boundary layer remaining neutral. A non-uniform inlet temperature profile is required but needs careful specification if odd characteristics are to be avoided, attributed to long-lasting effects inherent of stability, and to a reduced level of turbulent mixing. The first part of the wind-tunnel floor must not be cooled if turbulence quantities are to vary smoothly with height. Closely horizontally homogeneous flow is demonstrated, where profiles are comparable or closely comparable with atmospheric data in terms of local similarity and functions of normalized height. The ratio of boundary-layer height to surface Obukhov length, and the surface heat flux, are functions of the bulk Richardson number, independent of horizontal homogeneity. Surface heat flux rises to a maximum and then decreases.

Wind-Tunnel Simulation of Weakly and Moderately Stable Atmospheric Boundary Layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hancock, Philip E.; Hayden, Paul

2018-02-01

The simulation of horizontally homogeneous boundary layers that have characteristics of weakly and moderately stable atmospheric flow is investigated, where the well-established wind engineering practice of using `flow generators' to provide a deep boundary layer is employed. Primary attention is given to the flow above the surface layer, in the absence of an overlying inversion, as assessed from first- and second-order moments of velocity and temperature. A uniform inlet temperature profile ahead of a deep layer, allowing initially neutral flow, results in the upper part of the boundary layer remaining neutral. A non-uniform inlet temperature profile is required but needs careful specification if odd characteristics are to be avoided, attributed to long-lasting effects inherent of stability, and to a reduced level of turbulent mixing. The first part of the wind-tunnel floor must not be cooled if turbulence quantities are to vary smoothly with height. Closely horizontally homogeneous flow is demonstrated, where profiles are comparable or closely comparable with atmospheric data in terms of local similarity and functions of normalized height. The ratio of boundary-layer height to surface Obukhov length, and the surface heat flux, are functions of the bulk Richardson number, independent of horizontal homogeneity. Surface heat flux rises to a maximum and then decreases.

Effect of inversion layer at iron pyrite surface on photovoltaic device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uchiyama, Shunsuke; Ishikawa, Yasuaki; Uraoka, Yukiharu

2018-03-01

Iron pyrite has great potential as a thin-film solar cell material because it has high optical absorption, low cost, and is earth-abundant. However, previously reported iron pyrite solar cells showed poor photovoltaic characteristics. Here, we have numerically simulated its photovoltaic characteristics and band structures by utilizing a two-dimensional (2D) device simulator, ATLAS, to evaluate the effects of an inversion layer at the surface and a high density of deep donor defect states in the bulk. We found that previous device structures did not consider the inversion layer at the surface region of iron pyrite, which made it difficult to obtain the conversion efficiency. Therefore, we remodeled the device structure and suggested that removing the inversion layer and reducing the density of deep donor defect states would lead to a high conversion efficiency of iron pyrite solar cells.

Numerical Investigation of Physicochemical Processes Occurring During Water Evaporation in the Surface Layer Pores of a Forest Combustible Material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhdanova, A. O.; Kuznetsov, G. V.; Strizhak, P. A.

2014-07-01

A numerical investigation of the physicochemical processes occurring during water evaporation from the pores of the surface layer of a forest combustible material has been carried out. The characteristic features of the suppression of the thermal decomposition reaction of a combustible material with water filling fullyits pores and formation of a water fi lm over its surface have been determined. The characteristic times of suppression of thermal decomposition reactions under various environmental conditions and the thickness and kinds of forest combustible material (birch leaves, pine and spruce needles, etc.) have been established.

Antisoiling technology: Theories of surface soiling and performance of antisoiling surface coatings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

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

1984-01-01

Physical examination of surfaces undergoing natural outdoor soiling suggests that soil matter accumulates in up to three distinct layers. The first layer involves strong chemical attachment or strong chemisorption of soil matter on the primary surface. The second layer is physical, consisting of a highly organized arrangement of soil creating a gradation in surface energy from a high associated with the energetic first layer to the lowest possible state on the outer surfce of the second layer. The lowest possible energy state is dictated by the physical nature of the regional atmospheric soiling materials. These first two layers are resistant to removal by rain. The third layer constitutes a settling of loose soil matter, accumulating in dry periods and being removed during rainy periods. Theories and evidence suggest that surfaces that should be naturally resistant to the formation of the first two-resistant layers should be hard, smooth, hydrophobic, free of first-period elements, and have the lowest possible surface energy. These characteristics, evolving as requirements for low-soiling surfaces, suggest that surfaces or surface coatings should be of fluorocarbon chemistry. Evidence for the three-soil-layer concept, and data on the positive performance of candidate fluorocarbon coatings on glass and transparent plastic films after 28 months of outdoor exposure, are presented.

Physical fundamentals of criterial estimation of nitriding technology for parts of friction units

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuksenova, L. I.; Gerasimov, S. A.; Lapteva, V. G.; Alekseeva, M. S.

2013-03-01

Characteristics of the structure and properties of surface layers of nitrided structural steels and alloys, which affect the level of surface fracture under friction, are studied. A generalized structural parameter for optimizing the nitriding process and a rapid method for estimating the quality of the surface layer of nitrided parts of friction units are developed.

Microporous structure with layered interstitial surface treatment, and method and apparatus for preparation thereof

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koontz, Steven L. (Inventor)

1994-01-01

A microporous structure with layered interstitial surface treatments, and method and apparatus for preparation thereof is presented. The structure is prepared by sequentially subjecting a uniformly surface-treated structure to atomic oxygen treatment to remove an outer layer of surface treatment to a generally uniform depth, and then surface treating the so exposed layer with another surface treating agent. The atomic oxygen/surface treatment steps may optionally be repeated, each successive time to a lesser depth, to produce a microporous structure having multilayered surface treatments. The apparatus employs at least one side arm from a main atomic oxygen-containing chamber. The side arm has characteristic relaxation times such that a uniform atomic oxygen dose rate is delivered to a specimen positioned transversely in the side arm spaced from the main gas chamber.

Microporous structure with layered interstitial surface treatment, and method and apparatus for preparation thereof

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koontz, Steven L. (Inventor)

1992-01-01

A microporous structure with layered interstitial surface treatments, and the method and apparatus for its preparation are disclosed. The structure is prepared by sequentially subjecting a uniformly surface treated structure to atomic oxygen treatment to remove an outer layer of surface treatment to a generally uniform depth, and then surface treating the so exposed layer with another surface treating agent. The atomic oxygen/surface treatment steps may optionally be repeated, each successive time to a lesser depth, to produce a microporous structure having multilayered surface treatments. The apparatus employs at least one side arm from a main oxygen-containing chamber. The side arm has characteristic relaxation times such that a uniform atomic oxygen dose rate is delivered to a specimen positioned transversely in the side arm spaced from the main gas chamber.

The ocean mixed layer under Southern Ocean sea-ice: seasonal cycle and forcing.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Violaine, P.; Sallee, J. B.; Schmidtko, S.; Roquet, F.; Charrassin, J. B.

2016-02-01

The mixed-layer at the surface of the ocean is the gateway for all exchanges between air and sea. A vast area of the Southern Ocean is however seasonally capped by sea-ice, which alters this gateway and the characteristic the ocean mixed-layer. The interaction between the ocean mixed-layer and sea-ice plays a key role for water-mass formation and circulation, carbon cycle, sea-ice dynamics, and ultimately for the climate as a whole. However, the structure and characteristics of the mixed layer, as well as the processes responsible for its evolution, are poorly understood due to the lack of in-situ observations and measurements. We urgently need to better understand the forcing and the characteristics of the ocean mixed-layer under sea-ice if we are to understand and predict the world's climate. In this study, we combine a range of distinct sources of observation to overcome this lack in our understanding of the Polar Regions. Working on Elephant Seal-derived data as well as ship-based observations and Argo float data, we describe the seasonal cycle of the characteristics and stability of the ocean mixed layer over the entire Southern Ocean (South of 40°S), and specifically under sea-ice. Mixed-layer budgets of heat and freshwater are used to investigate the main forcings of the mixed-layer seasonal cycle. The seasonal variability of sea surface salinity and temperature are primarily driven by surface processes, dominated by sea-ice freshwater flux for the salt budget, and by air-sea flux for the heat budget. Ekman advection, vertical diffusivity and vertical entrainment play only secondary role.Our results suggest that changes in regional sea-ice distribution or sea-ice seasonal cycle duration, as currently observed, would widely affect the buoyancy budget of the underlying mixed-layer, and impacts large-scale water-mass formation and transformation.

Modulation of the operational characteristics of amorphous In-Ga-Zn-O thin-film transistors by In2O3 nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Min-Jung; Lee, Tae Il; Park, Jee Ho; Kim, Jung Han; Chae, Gee Sung; Jun, Myung Chul; Hwang, Yong Kee; Baik, Hong Koo; Lee, Woong; Myoung, Jae-Min

2012-05-01

The structure of thin-film transistors (TFTs) based on amorphous In-Ga-Zn-O (a-IGZO) was modified by spin coating a suspension of In2O3 nanoparticles on a SiO2/p++ Si layered wafer surface prior to the deposition of IGZO layer by room-temperature sputtering. The number of particles per unit area (surface density) of the In2O3 nanoparticles could be controlled by applying multiple spin coatings of the nanoparticle suspension. During the deposition of IGZO, the In2O3 nanoparticles initially located on the substrate surface migrated to the top of the IGZO layer indicating that they were not embedded within the IGZO layer, but they supplied In to the IGZO layer to increase the In concentration in the channel layer. As a result, the channel characteristics of the a-IGZO TFT were modulated so that the device showed an enhanced performance as compared with the reference device prepared without the nanoparticle treatment. Such an improved device performance is attributed to the nano-scale changes in the structure of (InO)n ordering assisted by increased In concentration in the amorphous channel layer.

Results and interpretation of measurements of the light flux in the near-surface layer of the Venusian atmosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Golovin, Y. M.; Moshkin, B. Y.; Ekonomov, A. P. E.

1979-01-01

The characteristics of the field of radiation in the near surface layer of the atmosphere and on the surface of Venus are reported. Optical measurements made during the landing of the descent vehicles are described. The relief of the surface and the amount of dust on it are examined. The spectral relationship of the albedo of the soil and the light flux incident on the surface is discussed.

Thickness Measurement of Surface Attachment on Plate with Lamb Wave

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Xianglong; Zhang, Yinghong; Wen, Lichao; He, Yehu

2017-12-01

Aiming at the thickness detection of the plate surface attachment, a nondestructive testing method based on the Lamb wave is presented. This method utilizes Lamb wave propagation characteristics of signals in a bi-layer medium to measure the surface attachment plate thickness. Propagation of Lamb wave in bi-layer elastic is modeled and analyzed. The two-dimensional simulation model of electromagnetic ultrasonic plate - scale is established. The simulation is conducted by software COMSOL for simulation analysis under different boiler scale thickness wave form curve. Through this study, the thickness of the attached material can be judged by analyzing the characteristics of the received signal when the thickness of the surface of the plate is measured.

High-Sensitive Two-Layer Photoresistors Based on p-Cd x Hg1- x Te with a Converted Near-Surface Layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ismailov, N. D.; Talipov, N. Kh.; Voitsekhovskii, A. V.

2018-04-01

The results of an experimental study of photoelectric characteristics of two-layer photoresistors based on p-Cd x Hg1- x Te (x = 0.24-0.28) with a thin near-surface layer of n-type obtained by treatment in atmospheric gas plasma are presented. It is shown that the presence of a potential barrier between the p- and n-regions causes high photosensitivity and speed of operation of such photoresistors at T = 77 K

High-Sensitive Two-Layer Photoresistors Based on p-Cd x Hg1-x Te with a Converted Near-Surface Layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ismailov, N. D.; Talipov, N. Kh.; Voitsekhovskii, A. V.

2018-04-01

The results of an experimental study of photoelectric characteristics of two-layer photoresistors based on p-Cd x Hg1-x Te (x = 0.24-0.28) with a thin near-surface layer of n-type obtained by treatment in atmospheric gas plasma are presented. It is shown that the presence of a potential barrier between the p- and n-regions causes high photosensitivity and speed of operation of such photoresistors at T = 77 K

Influence of the Compositional Grading on Concentration of Majority Charge Carriers in Near-Surface Layers of n(p)-HgCdTe Grown by Molecular Beam Epitaxy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Voitsekhovskii, A. V.; Nesmelov, S. N.; Dzyadukh, S. M.

2018-02-01

The capacitive characteristics of metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS) structures based on the compositionally graded Hg1-xCdxTe created by molecular beam epitaxy have been experimentally investigated in a wide temperature range (8-77 K). A program has been developed for numerical simulation of ideal capacitance-voltage (C-V) characteristics in the low-frequency and high-frequency approximations. The concentrations of the majority carriers in the near-surface semiconductor layer are determined from the values of the capacitances in the minima of low-frequency C-V curves. For MIS structures based on p-Hg1-xCdxTe, the effect of the presence of the compositionally graded layer on the hole concentration in the near-surface semiconductor layer, determined from capacitive measurements, has not been established. Perhaps this is due to the fact that the concentration of holes in the near-surface layer largely depends on the type of dielectric coating and the regimes of its application. For MIS structures based on n-Hg1-x Cd x Te (x = 0.22-0.23) without a graded-gap layer, the electron concentration determined by the proposed method is close to the average concentration determined by the Hall measurements. The electron concentration in the near-surface semiconductor layer of the compositionally graded n-Hg1-x Cd x Te (x = 0.22-0.23) found from the minimum capacitance value is much higher than the average electron concentration determined by the Hall measurements. The results are qualitatively explained by the creation of additional intrinsic donor-type defects in the near-surface compositionally graded layer of n-Hg1-x Cd x Te.

Structure-phase state and mechanical properties of surface layers in titanium nikelide single crystals after shock mechanical treatment

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

Surikova, N., E-mail: surikova@ispms.tsc.ru; Panin, V., E-mail: paninve@ispms.tsc.ru; Vlasov, I.

2015-10-27

The influence of ultrasonic shock surface treatment (USST) on refine structure and mechanical characteristics of surface layers and deformation behaviour of volume samples of TiNi(Fe, Mo) shape memory effect alloy single crystals is studied using optical and transmission electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, nanoindentation, mechanical attrition testing and experiments on uniaxial tension.

Structure-phase state and mechanical properties of surface layers in titanium nikelide single crystals after shock mechanical treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Surikova, N.; Panin, V.; Vlasov, I.; Narkevich, N.; Surikov, N.; Tolmachev, A.

2015-10-01

The influence of ultrasonic shock surface treatment (USST) on refine structure and mechanical characteristics of surface layers and deformation behaviour of volume samples of TiNi(Fe, Mo) shape memory effect alloy single crystals is studied using optical and transmission electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, nanoindentation, mechanical attrition testing and experiments on uniaxial tension.

Anti-adhesive characteristics of CHF{sub 3}/O{sub 2} and C{sub 4}F{sub 8}/O{sub 2} plasma-modified silicon molds for nanoimprint lithography

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

Lee, Jaemin; Lee, Junmyung; Lee, Hyun Woo

The anti-adhesive characteristics of a plasma-modified silicon mold surface for nanoimprint lithography are presented. Both CHF{sub 3}/O{sub 2} and C{sub 4}F{sub 8}/O{sub 2} plasma were used to form an anti-adhesive layer on silicon mold surfaces. The gas mixing ratios of CHF{sub 3}/O{sub 2} and C{sub 4}F{sub 8}/O{sub 2} were experimentally changed between 0% and 80% to optimize the plasma conditions to obtain a low surface energy of the silicon mold. The plasma characteristics were examined by optical emission spectroscopy (OES). In order to investigate the changes in surface energy and surface chemistry of the anti-adhesive layer during repeated demolding cycles,more » contact angle measurements and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were performed on the plasma-modified silicon mold surface. Simultaneously, the surface morphology of the demolded resists was evaluated by field-emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) in order to examine the effect of the anti-adhesive layers on the duplicated patterns of the resists. It was observed that the anti-adhesive layer formed by CHF{sub 3}/O{sub 2} plasma treatment was worn out more easily during repeated demolding cycles than the film formed by C{sub 4}F{sub 8}/O{sub 2} plasma treatment, because CHF{sub 3}/O{sub 2} gas plasma formed a thinner plasma-polymerized film over the same plasma treatment time.« less

Analytical model of surface potential profiles and transfer characteristics for hetero stacked tunnel field-effect transistors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Hui Fang; Sun, Wen; Han, Xin Feng

2018-06-01

An analytical model of surface potential profiles and transfer characteristics for hetero stacked tunnel field-effect transistors (HS-TFETs) is presented for the first time, where hetero stacked materials are composed of two different bandgaps. The bandgap of the underlying layer is smaller than that of the upper layer. Under different device parameters (upper layer thickness, underlying layer thickness, and hetero stacked materials) and temperature, the validity of the model is demonstrated by the agreement of its results with the simulation results. Moreover, the results show that the HS-TFETs can obtain predominant performance with relatively slow changes of subthreshold swing (SS) over a wide drain current range, steep average subthreshold swing, high on-state current, and large on–off state current ratio.

Assessment of Surface Area Characteristics of Dental Implants with Gradual Bioactive Surface Treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Czan, Andrej; Babík, Ondrej; Miklos, Matej; Záušková, Lucia; Mezencevová, Viktória

2017-10-01

Since most of the implant surface is in direct contact with bone tissue, shape and integrity of said surface has great influence on successful osseointegration. Among other characteristics that predetermine titanium of different grades of pureness as ideal biomaterial, titanium shows high mechanical strength making precise miniature machining increasingly difficult. Current titanium-based implants are often anodized due to colour coding. This anodized layer has important functional properties for right usage and also bio-compatibility of dental implants. Physical method of anodizing and usage of anodizing mediums has a significant influence on the surface quality and itself functionality. However, basic requirement of the dental implant with satisfactory properties is quality of machined surface before anodizing. Roughness, for example, is factor affecting of time length of anodizing operation and so whole productivity. The paper is focused on monitoring of surface and area characteristics, such as roughness or surface integrity after different cutting conditions of miniature machining of dental implants and their impact on suitability for creation of satisfactory anodized layer with the correct biocompatible functional properties.

Durable anti-fogging effect and adhesion improvement on polymer surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moser, E. M.; Gilliéron, D.; Henrion, G.

2010-01-01

The hydrophobic properties of polymeric surfaces may cause fogging in transparent packaging and poor adhesion to printing colours and coatings. Novel plasma processes for durable functionalization of polypropylene and polyethylene terephthalate substrates were developed and analysed using optical emission spectroscopy. A worm-like nano pattern was created on the polypropylene surface prior to the deposition of thin polar plasma polymerised layers. For both substrates, highly polar surfaces exhibiting a surface tension of up to 69 mN/m and a water contact angle of about 10° were produced - providing the anti-fogging effect. The deposition of thin plasma polymerised layers protects the increased surface areas and enables to tailoring the surface energy of the substrate in a wide range. Wetting characteristics were determined by dynamic contact angle measurements. Investigations of the chemical composition of several layers using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and FT-infrared spectroscopy were correlated with functional testing. The surface topography was investigated using atomic force microscopy. The weldability and peeling-off characteristics of the plasma treated polymer films could be adjusted by varying the process parameters. Global and specific migration analyses were undertaken in order to ensure the manufacturing of plasma treated polymer surfaces for direct food contact purposes.

Laser shock peening studies on SS316LN plate with various sacrificial layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yella, Pardhu; Venkateswarlu, P.; Buddu, Ramesh K.; Vidyasagar, D. V.; Sankara Rao, K. Bhanu; Kiran, P. Prem; Rajulapati, Koteswararao V.

2018-03-01

Laser shock peening (LSP) has been utilized to modify the surface characteristics of SS316LN plates of 6 mm thickness. Laser pulse widths employed are 30 ps and 7 ns and the laser energy was varied in the range 5-90 mJ. Peening was performed in direct ablation mode as well as with various sacrificial layers such as black paint, transparent adhesive tape and absorbing adhesive tape. The surface characteristics were greatly influenced by the type of sacrificial layer employed. The average surface roughness values are about 0.4 μm when the black paint and transparent adhesive tape were used as sacrificial layers. In contrast to this, using absorbent adhesive tape as a sacrificial layer has resulted in an average surface roughness of about 0.04 μm. Irrespective of pulse durations (30 ps or 7 ns), absorbent adhesive tape has always resulted in compressive residual stresses whereas other layers appear to be not that effective. In case of 30 ps pulse, as the laser energy was increased from 5 mJ to 25 mJ, there was a texture observed in (111) reflection of X-ray diffractograms and the center of the peak has also gradually shifted to left. X-ray line profile analysis suggests that with the increase in laser energy, lattice microstrain also has increased. This lattice microstrain appears to be resulting from the increased dislocation density in the peened sample as evidenced during transmission electron microscopic investigations. Cross-sectional scanning electron microscopy performed on peened samples suggests that absorbing adhesive tape brings no surface damage to the samples whereas other sacrificial layers have resulted in some surface damage. Based on all these structural and microstructural details, it is recommended that absorbent tape could be used as a sacrificial layer during LSP process which induces surface residual stresses with no damage to the sample surface.

Development of advanced second-generation micromirror devices fabricated in a four-level planarized surface-micromachined polycrystalline silicon process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Michalicek, M. Adrian; Comtois, John H.; Schriner, Heather K.

1998-04-01

This paper describes the design and characterization of several types of micromirror devices to include process capabilities, device modeling, and test data resulting in deflection versus applied potential curves and surface contour measurements. These devices are the first to be fabricated in the state-of-the-art four-level planarized polysilicon process available at Sandia National Laboratories known as the Sandia Ultra-planar Multi-level MEMS Technology. This enabling process permits the development of micromirror devices with near-ideal characteristics which have previously been unrealizable in standard three-layer polysilicon processes. This paper describes such characteristics which have previously been unrealizable in standard three-layer polysilicon processes. This paper describes such characteristics as elevated address electrodes, various address wiring techniques, planarized mirror surfaces suing Chemical Mechanical Polishing, unique post-process metallization, and the best active surface area to date.

Macro-carriers of plastic deformation of steel surface layers detected by digital image correlation

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

Kopanitsa, D. G., E-mail: kopanitsa@mail.ru; Ustinov, A. M., E-mail: artemustinov@mail.ru; Potekaev, A. I., E-mail: potekaev@spti.tsu.ru

2016-01-15

This paper presents a study of characteristics of an evolution of deformation fields in surface layers of medium-carbon low-alloy specimens under compression. The experiments were performed on the “Universal Testing Machine 4500” using a digital stereoscopic image processing system Vic-3D. A transition between stages is reflected as deformation redistribution on the near-surface layers. Electronic microscopy shows that the structure of the steel is a mixture of pearlite and ferrite grains. A proportion of pearlite is 40% and ferrite is 60%.

Experimental investigations on characteristics of boundary layer and control of transition on an airfoil by AC-DBD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geng, Xi; Shi, Zhiwei; Cheng, Keming; Dong, Hao; Zhao, Qun; Chen, Sinuo

2018-03-01

Plasma-based flow control is one of the most promising techniques for aerodynamic problems, such as delaying the boundary layer transition. The boundary layer’s characteristics induced by AC-DBD plasma actuators and applied by the actuators to delay the boundary layer transition on airfoil at Ma = 0.3 were experimentally investigated. The PIV measurement was used to study the boundary layer’s characteristics induced by the plasma actuators. The measurement plane, which was parallel to the surface of the actuators and 1 mm above the surface, was involved in the test, including the perpendicular plane. The instantaneous results showed that the induced flow field consisted of many small size unsteady vortices which were eliminated by the time average. The subsequent oil-film interferometry skin friction measurement was conducted on a NASA SC(2)-0712 airfoil at Ma = 0.3. The coefficient of skin friction demonstrates that the plasma actuators successfully delay the boundary layer transition and the efficiency is better at higher driven voltage.

Effect of modification of oxide layer on NiTi stent corrosion resistance.

PubMed

Trépanier, C; Tabrizian, M; Yahia, L H; Bilodeau, L; Piron, D L

1998-01-01

Because of its good radiopacity, superelasticity, and shape memory properties, nickel-titanium (NiTi) is a potential material for fabrication of stents because these properties can facilitate their implantation and precise positioning. However, in vitro studies of NiTi alloys report the dependence of alloy biocompatibility and corrosion behavior on surface conditions. Surface oxidation seems to be very promising for improving the corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of NiTi. In this work, we studied the effect on corrosion resistance and surface characteristics of electropolishing, heat treatment, and nitric acid passivation of NiTi stents. Characterization techniques such as potentiodynamic polarization tests, scanning electron microscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to relate corrosion behavior to surface characteristics and surface treatments. Results show that all of these surface treatments improve the corrosion resistance of the alloy. This improvement is attributed to the plastically deformed native oxide layer removal and replacement by a newly grown, more uniform one. The uniformity of the oxide layer, rather than its thickness and composition, seems to be the predominant factor to explain the corrosion resistance improvement.

Electrografted diazonium salt layers for antifouling on the surface of surface plasmon resonance biosensors.

PubMed

Zou, Qiongjing; Kegel, Laurel L; Booksh, Karl S

2015-02-17

Electrografted diazonium salt layers on the surface of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensors present potential for a significant improvement in antifouling coatings. A pulsed potential deposition profile was used in order to circumvent mass-transport limitations for layer deposition rate. The influence of number of pulses with respect to antifouling efficacy was evaluated by nonspecific adsorption surface coverage of crude bovine serum proteins. Instead of using empirical and rough estimated values, the penetration depth and sensitivity of the SPR instrument were experimentally determined for the calculation of nonspecific adsorption surface coverage. This provides a method to better examine antifouling surface coatings and compare crossing different coatings and experimental systems. Direct comparison of antifouling performance of different diazonium salts was facilitated by a tripad SPR sensor design. The electrografted 4-phenylalanine diazonium chloride (4-APhe) layers with zwitterionic characteristic demonstrate ultralow fouling.

Influence of the Surface Layer on the Electrochemical Deposition of Metals and Semiconductors into Mesoporous Silicon

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

Chubenko, E. B., E-mail: eugene.chubenko@gmail.com; Redko, S. V.; Sherstnyov, A. I.

2016-03-15

The influence of the surface layer on the process of the electrochemical deposition of metals and semiconductors into porous silicon is studied. It is shown that the surface layer differs in structure and electrical characteristics from the host porous silicon bulk. It is established that a decrease in the conductivity of silicon crystallites that form the surface layer of porous silicon has a positive effect on the process of the filling of porous silicon with metals and semiconductors. This is demonstrated by the example of nickel and zinc oxide. The effect can be used for the formation of nanocomposite materialsmore » on the basis of porous silicon and nanostructures with a high aspect ratio.« less

The salinity effect in a mixed layer ocean model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, J. R.

1976-01-01

A model of the thermally mixed layer in the upper ocean as developed by Kraus and Turner and extended by Denman is further extended to investigate the effects of salinity. In the tropical and subtropical Atlantic Ocean rapid increases in salinity occur at the bottom of a uniformly mixed surface layer. The most significant effects produced by the inclusion of salinity are the reduction of the deepening rate and the corresponding change in the heating characteristics of the mixed layer. If the net surface heating is positive, but small, salinity effects must be included to determine whether the mixed layer temperature will increase or decrease. Precipitation over tropical oceans leads to the development of a shallow stable layer accompanied by a decrease in the temperature and salinity at the sea surface.

Surface structure and electrochemical characteristics of Ti-V-Cr bcc-type solid solution alloys sintered with Ni

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

Tsuji, Yoichiro; Yamamoto, Osamu; Matsuda, Hiromu

2000-07-01

Ti-V-Cr bcc-type solid solution alloys can absorb a large amount of hydrogen and be applied to active materials of the negative electrode in Ni-MH batteries. However, because of the insolubility of Ni into these alloys, the electrochemical characteristics like discharge capacity and cycle life were poor. In order to increase the discharge capacity of hydrogen absorbing alloy electrodes, Ti-V-Cr bcc-type alloy powders were sintered with Ni in order to form Ni contained surface layer on the alloy surface. As sintering temperature rose up, the surface composition changed from TiNi to Ti{sub 2}Ni. TiNi surface layer showed better electrochemical characteristics. Formore » the Ni adding method, Ni electroless plating was preferred because of good adhesion. As a result of optimized conditions, a discharge capacity of 570 mAh/g and an improvement of cycle life were achieved.« less

Influence law of structural characteristics on the surface roughness of a magnetorheological-finished KDP crystal.

PubMed

Chen, Shaoshan; Li, Shengyi; Hu, Hao; Li, Qi; Tie, Guipeng

2014-11-01

A new nonaqueous and abrasive-free magnetorheological finishing (MRF) method is adopted for processing potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP) crystal due to its low hardness, high brittleness, temperature sensitivity, and water solubility. This paper researches the influence of structural characteristics on the surface roughness of MRF-finished KDP crystal. The material removal by dissolution is uniform layer by layer when the polishing parameters are stable. The angle between the direction of the polishing wheel's linear velocity and the initial turning lines will affect the surface roughness. If the direction is perpendicular to the initial turning lines, the polishing can remove the lines. If the direction is parallel to the initial turning lines, the polishing can achieve better surface roughness. The structural characteristic of KDP crystal is related to its internal chemical bonds due to its anisotropy. During the MRF finishing process, surface roughness will be improved if the structural characteristics of the KDP crystal are the same on both sides of the wheel. The processing results of (001) plane crystal show we can get the best surface roughness (RMS of 0.809 nm) if the directions of cutting and MRF polishing are along the (110) direction.

Theoretical aspects of studies of oxide and semiconductor surfaces using low energy positrons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fazleev, N. G.; Maddox, W. B.; Weiss, A. H.

2011-01-01

This paper presents the results of a theoretical study of positron surface and bulk states and annihilation characteristics of surface trapped positrons at the oxidized Cu(100) single crystal and at both As- and Ga-rich reconstructed GaAs(100) surfaces. The variations in atomic structure and chemical composition of the topmost layers of the surfaces associated with oxidation and reconstructions and the charge redistribution at the surfaces are found to affect localization and spatial extent of the positron surface-state wave functions. The computed positron binding energy, work function, and annihilation characteristics reveal their sensitivity to charge transfer effects, atomic structure and chemical composition of the topmost layers of the surfaces. Theoretical positron annihilation probabilities with relevant core electrons computed for the oxidized Cu(100) surface and the As- and Ga-rich reconstructed GaAs(100) surfaces are compared with experimental ones estimated from the positron annihilation induced Auger peak intensities measured from these surfaces.

A theoretical analysis of the current-voltage characteristics of solar cells. [and their energy conversion efficiency

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dunbar, P. M.; Hauser, J. R.

1976-01-01

Various mechanisms which limit the conversion efficiency of silicon solar cells were studied. The effects of changes in solar cell geometry such as layer thickness on performance were examined. The effects of various antireflecting layers were also examined. It was found that any single film antireflecting layer results in a significant surface loss of photons. The use of surface texturing techniques or low loss antireflecting layers can enhance by several percentage points the conversion efficiency of silicon cells. The basic differences between n(+)-p-p(+) and p(+)-n-n(+) cells are treated. A significant part of the study was devoted to the importance of surface region lifetime and heavy doping effects on efficiency. Heavy doping bandgap reduction effects are enhanced by low surface layer lifetimes, and conversely, the reduction in solar cell efficiency due to low surface layer lifetime is further enhanced by heavy doping effects. A series of computer studies is reported which seeks to determine the best cell structure and doping levels for maximum efficiency.

Deformation characteristics of the near-surface layers of zirconia ceramics implanted with aluminum ions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghyngazov, S. A.; Vasiliev, I. P.; Frangulyan, T. S.; Chernyavski, A. V.

2015-10-01

The effect of ion treatment on the phase composition and mechanical properties of the near-surface layers of zirconium ceramic composition 97 ZrO2-3Y2O3 (mol%) was studied. Irradiation of the samples was carried out by accelerated ions of aluminum with using vacuum-arc source Mevva 5-Ru. Ion beam had the following parameters: the energy of the accelerated ions E = 78 keV, the pulse current density Ji = 4mA / cm2, current pulse duration equal τ = 250 mcs, pulse repetition frequency f = 5 Hz. Exposure doses (fluence) were 1016 и 1017 ion/cm2. The depth distribution implanted ions was studied by SIMS method. It is shown that the maximum projected range of the implanted ions is equal to 250 nm. Near-surface layers were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) at fixed glancing incidence angle. It is shown that implantation of aluminum ions into the ceramics does not lead to a change in the phase composition of the near-surface layer. The influence of implanted ions on mechanical properties of ceramic near-surface layers was studied by the method of dynamic nanoindentation using small loads on the indenter P=300 mN. It is shown that in ion- implanted ceramic layer the processes of material recovery in the deformed region in the unloading mode proceeds with higher efficiency as compared with the initial material state. The deformation characteristics of samples before and after ion treatment have been determined from interpretation of the resulting P-h curves within the loading and unloading sections by the technique proposed by Oliver and Pharr. It was found that implantation of aluminum ions in the near-surface layer of zirconia ceramics increases nanohardness and reduces the Young's modulus.

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

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

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

2018-03-01

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

Oscillation Characteristics of Thermocapillary Convection in An Open Annular Pool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duan, Li; Kang, Qi; Zhang, Di

2016-07-01

Temperature oscillation characteristics and free surface deformation are essential phenomena in fluids with free surface. We report experimental oscillatory behaviors for hydrothermal wave instability in thermocapillary-driven flow in an open annular pool of silicone oil. The annular pool is heated from the inner cylindrical wall with the radius 4mm and cooled at the outer wall with radius 20mm, and the depth of the silicone oil layer is in the range of 0.8mm-3mm.Temperature difference between the two sidewalls was increased gradually, and the flow will become unstable via a super critical temperature difference. In the present paper we used T-type thermocouple measuring the single-point temperature inside the liquid layer and captured the tiny micrometer wave signal through a high-precision laser displacement sensor. The critical temperature difference and critical Ma number of onset of oscillation have been obtained. We discussed the critical temperature difference and critical Marangoni number varies with the change of the depth of liquid layer, and the relationship between the temperature oscillation and surface oscillation has been discussed. Experimental results show that temperature oscillation and surface oscillation start almost at the same time with similar spectrum characteristic.

Boundary-layer cumulus over land: Some observations and conceptual models

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

Stull, R.B.

1993-09-01

Starting in 1980, the Boundary Layer Research Team at the University of Wisconsin has been systematically studying the formation and evolution of nonprecipitating boundary-layer cumulus clouds (BLCu) in regions of fair weather (anticyclones) over land (Stull, 1980). Our approach is to quantify the average statistical characteristics of the surface, thermals, boundary layer, and clouds over horizontal regions of roughly 20 km in diameter. Within such a region over land, there is typically quite a variation in land use, and associated variations in surface albedo and moisture.

Comparison of predicted and measured low-speed performance of two 51 centimeter-diameter inlets at incidence angle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Albers, J. A.

1973-01-01

Theoretical and experimental internal flow characteristics of two 51-cm-diameter inlets are compared. Theoretical flow characteristics along the inlet surface were obtained from an axisymmetric potential flow and boundary layer analysis. The experimental data were obtained from low-speed tests of a high-bypass-ratio turbofan engine simulator. Comparisons between calculated internal surface pressure distributions and experimental data are presented for a free-system velocity of 45 m/sec and for incidence angles from 0 deg to 50 deg. Analysis of boundary layer separation on the inlet lip at incidence angle is the major emphasis of this report. Theoretical boundary layer shape factors, skin friction coefficients, and velocity profiles in the boundary layer are presented, along with the location of the transition region. Theoretical and experimental separation locations are also discussed.

Effects of anodic oxidation parameters on a modified titanium surface.

PubMed

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

2008-02-01

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

Observations of a two-layer soil moisture influence on surface energy dynamics and planetary boundary layer characteristics in a semiarid shrubland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanchez-Mejia, Zulia Mayari; Papuga, Shirley A.

2014-01-01

We present an observational analysis examining soil moisture control on surface energy dynamics and planetary boundary layer characteristics. Understanding soil moisture control on land-atmosphere interactions will become increasingly important as climate change continues to alter water availability. In this study, we analyzed 4 years of data from the Santa Rita Creosote Ameriflux site. We categorized our data independently in two ways: (1) wet or dry seasons and (2) one of the four cases within a two-layer soil moisture framework for the root zone based on the presence or absence of moisture in shallow (0-20 cm) and deep (20-60 cm) soil layers. Using these categorizations, we quantified the soil moisture control on surface energy dynamics and planetary boundary layer characteristics using both average responses and linear regression. Our results highlight the importance of deep soil moisture in land-atmosphere interactions. The presence of deep soil moisture decreased albedo by about 10%, and significant differences were observed in evaporative fraction even in the absence of shallow moisture. The planetary boundary layer height (PBLh) was largest when the whole soil profile was dry, decreasing by about 1 km when the whole profile was wet. Even when shallow moisture was absent but deep moisture was present the PBLh was significantly lower than when the entire profile was dry. The importance of deep moisture is likely site-specific and modulated through vegetation. Therefore, understanding these relationships also provides important insights into feedbacks between vegetation and the hydrologic cycle and their consequent influence on the climate system.

Charge heterogeneity of surfaces: mapping and effects on surface forces.

PubMed

Drelich, Jaroslaw; Wang, Yu U

2011-07-11

The DLVO theory treats the total interaction force between two surfaces in a liquid medium as an arithmetic sum of two components: Lifshitz-van der Waals and electric double layer forces. Despite the success of the DLVO model developed for homogeneous surfaces, a vast majority of surfaces of particles and materials in technological systems are of a heterogeneous nature with a mosaic structure composed of microscopic and sub-microscopic domains of different surface characteristics. In such systems, the heterogeneity of the surface can be more important than the average surface character. Attractions can be stronger, by orders of magnitude, than would be expected from the classical mean-field DLVO model when area-averaged surface charge or potential is employed. Heterogeneity also introduces anisotropy of interactions into colloidal systems, vastly ignored in the past. To detect surface heterogeneities, analytical tools which provide accurate and spatially resolved information about material surface chemistry and potential - particularly at microscopic and sub-microscopic resolutions - are needed. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) offers the opportunity to locally probe not only changes in material surface characteristic but also charges of heterogeneous surfaces through measurements of force-distance curves in electrolyte solutions. Both diffuse-layer charge densities and potentials can be calculated by fitting the experimental data with a DLVO theoretical model. The surface charge characteristics of the heterogeneous substrate as recorded by AFM allow the charge variation to be mapped. Based on the obtained information, computer modeling and simulation can be performed to study the interactions among an ensemble of heterogeneous particles and their collective motions. In this paper, the diffuse-layer charge mapping by the AFM technique is briefly reviewed, and a new Diffuse Interface Field Approach to colloid modeling and simulation is briefly discussed. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Method of making silicon on insalator material using oxygen implantation

DOEpatents

Hite, Larry R.; Houston, Ted; Matloubian, Mishel

1989-01-01

The described embodiments of the present invention provide a semiconductor on insulator structure providing a semiconductor layer less susceptible to single event upset errors (SEU) due to radiation. The semiconductor layer is formed by implanting ions which form an insulating layer beneath the surface of a crystalline semiconductor substrate. The remaining crystalline semiconductor layer above the insulating layer provides nucleation sites for forming a crystalline semiconductor layer above the insulating layer. The damage caused by implantation of the ions for forming an insulating layer is left unannealed before formation of the semiconductor layer by epitaxial growth. The epitaxial layer, thus formed, provides superior characteristics for prevention of SEU errors, in that the carrier lifetime within the epitaxial layer, thus formed, is less than the carrier lifetime in epitaxial layers formed on annealed material while providing adequate semiconductor characteristics.

S-Layer Protein-Based Biosensors.

PubMed

Schuster, Bernhard

2018-04-11

The present paper highlights the application of bacterial surface (S-) layer proteins as versatile components for the fabrication of biosensors. One technologically relevant feature of S-layer proteins is their ability to self-assemble on many surfaces and interfaces to form a crystalline two-dimensional (2D) protein lattice. The S-layer lattice on the surface of a biosensor becomes part of the interface architecture linking the bioreceptor to the transducer interface, which may cause signal amplification. The S-layer lattice as ultrathin, highly porous structure with functional groups in a well-defined special distribution and orientation and an overall anti-fouling characteristics can significantly raise the limit in terms of variety and the ease of bioreceptor immobilization, compactness of bioreceptor molecule arrangement, sensitivity, specificity, and detection limit for many types of biosensors. The present paper discusses and summarizes examples for the successful implementation of S-layer lattices on biosensor surfaces in order to give a comprehensive overview on the application potential of these bioinspired S-layer protein-based biosensors.

Impact of the Diurnal Cycle of the Atmospheric Boundary Layer on Wind-Turbine Wakes: A Numerical Modelling Study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Englberger, Antonia; Dörnbrack, Andreas

2018-03-01

The wake characteristics of a wind turbine for different regimes occurring throughout the diurnal cycle are investigated systematically by means of large-eddy simulation. Idealized diurnal cycle simulations of the atmospheric boundary layer are performed with the geophysical flow solver EULAG over both homogeneous and heterogeneous terrain. Under homogeneous conditions, the diurnal cycle significantly affects the low-level wind shear and atmospheric turbulence. A strong vertical wind shear and veering with height occur in the nocturnal stable boundary layer and in the morning boundary layer, whereas atmospheric turbulence is much larger in the convective boundary layer and in the evening boundary layer. The increased shear under heterogeneous conditions changes these wind characteristics, counteracting the formation of the night-time Ekman spiral. The convective, stable, evening, and morning regimes of the atmospheric boundary layer over a homogeneous surface as well as the convective and stable regimes over a heterogeneous surface are used to study the flow in a wind-turbine wake. Synchronized turbulent inflow data from the idealized atmospheric boundary-layer simulations with periodic horizontal boundary conditions are applied to the wind-turbine simulations with open streamwise boundary conditions. The resulting wake is strongly influenced by the stability of the atmosphere. In both cases, the flow in the wake recovers more rapidly under convective conditions during the day than under stable conditions at night. The simulated wakes produced for the night-time situation completely differ between heterogeneous and homogeneous surface conditions. The wake characteristics of the transitional periods are influenced by the flow regime prior to the transition. Furthermore, there are different wake deflections over the height of the rotor, which reflect the incoming wind direction.

Three-Dimensional Porous Particles Composed of Curved, Two-Dimensional, Nano-Sized Layers for Li-Ion Batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yushin, Gleb; Evanoff, Kara; Magasinski, Alexander

2012-01-01

Thin Si films coated on porous 3D particles composed of curved 2D graphene sheets have been synthesized utilizing techniques that allow for tunable properties. Since graphene exhibits specific surface area up to 100 times higher than carbon black or graphite, the deposition of the same mass of Si on graphene is much faster in comparison -- a factor which is important for practical applications. In addition, the distance between graphene layers is tunable and variation in the thickness of the deposited Si film is feasible. Both of these characteristics allow for optimization of the energy and power characteristics. Thicker films will allow higher capacity, but slower rate capabilities. Thinner films will allow more rapid charging, or higher power performance. In this innovation, uniform deposition of Si and C layers on high-surface area graphene produced granules with specific surface area (SSA) of 5 sq. m/g.

Measurements of surface layer of the articular cartilage using microscopic techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryniewicz, A. M.; Ryniewicz, A.; Ryniewicz, W.; Gaska, A.

2010-07-01

The articular cartilage is the structure that directly cooperates tribologically in biobearing. It belongs to the connective tissues and in the joints it assumes two basic forms: hyaline cartilage that builds joint surfaces and fibrocartilage which may create joint surfaces. From this fibrocartilage are built semilunar cartilage and joint disc are built as well. The research of articular cartilage have been done in macro, micro and nano scale. In all these measurement areas characteristic features occur which can identify biobearing tribology. The aim of the research was the identification of surface layer of articular cartilage by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atom force microscopy (AFM) and the analysis of topography of these layers. The material used in the research of surface layer was the animal articular cartilage: hyaline cartilage and fibrocartilage.

High-temperature adsorption layers based on fluoridated polyimide and diatomite carrier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yakovleva, E. Yu.; Shundrina, I. K.; Gerasimov, E. Yu.

2017-09-01

A way of preparing separation layers by the pyrolysis of fluorinated polyimide obtained from 2,4,6-trimethyl- m-phenylenediamine (2,4,6-TM mPDA) and 2,2-bis(3',4'-dicarboxyphenyl)hexafluoropropane (6FDA) applied onto a diatomite carrier is described. Thermogravimetry, elemental analysis, low-temperature nitrogen adsorption, high-resolution electron microscopy, and gas chromatography are used to study changes in the texture and chromatographic characteristics of these layers. It is found that changes in the structure and the effectivity of separation characteristic of the layers depend on the temperature of pyrolysis, which ranges from 250 to 1100°C. It is established that a layer of separation is formed at 250-350°C, and the order of elution of hydrocarbons is similar to their chromatographic behavior on such stationary phases as OV-101. Layers of amorphous carbon formed on the surfaces of individual particles on a diatomite surface at 500-700°C. These layers ensure highly stable and selective separation of permanent gases and hydrocarbons when they are present together.

Space charge characteristics of fluorinated polyethylene: Different effects of fluorine and oxygen

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Ni; Nie, Yongjie; Li, Shengtao

2018-04-01

Direct fluorination are proved having obvious effect on space charge characteristics of polyethylene. It is believed that fluorine has a positive effect on suppressing space charge injection while oxygen impurity has a negative effect. However, the mechanism for the opposite effect of fluorine and oxygen is still not clear. In this paper, the different effects of fluorine and oxygen on space charge characteristics of fluorinated low density polyethylene (LDPE) are investigated on the basis of dielectric property, chemical constitutes and trap performance of surface fluorinated layers. The results show that direct fluorination has obvious effect on chemical constitutes and dielectric properties of surface fluorinated layer. Introduced fluorine is the main factor for suppressing charge injection from the electrodes, because it seriously changes the chemical constitutes and further the trap properties of the surface fluorinated layer. While introduction of oxygen results in heterocharges and makes space charge distribution complex, due to the ionization of generated small groups like C=O containing groups. Moreover, direct fluorination will result in cleavage of some LDPE molecules whatever there is oxygen impurity or not.

Phase transition detection by surface photo charge effect in liquid crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivanov, O.; Petrov, M.; Naradikian, H.; Perez-Diaz, J. L.

2018-05-01

The surface photo charge effect (SPCE) was applied for the first time at structure and phase transitions study of hydrogen bonded in dimer liquid crystals (HBDLCs). Due to the high sensitivity of this method, besides first-order phase transitions, characteristic for the p,n-octyloxibenzoic acids (8OBA), an order transition was definitely detected within the nematic range. We state that the SPCE, arising at the solid-HBDLCs interface due to the double electrical layer, is invariably concomitant with solid surface-liquid interfaces, and indicates that the changes of the characteristics of this layer, under incident optical irradiation, induce surface charge rearrangement and alternating potential difference. A mechanism of induction of the SPCE at the interface of solid surface-anisotropic liquids is proposed. We also indicate that this mechanism can be adapted for solid surface-isotropic liquid interface, including colloids (milk) and fog (aerosols)-condensed medium.

Molecular dynamics simulation aiming at interfacial characteristics of polymer chains on nanotubes with different layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Kun; Gu, Boqin; Zhu, Wanfu

2017-03-01

A molecular dynamics (MD) simulations study is performed on multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs)/acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) composites. The physisorption and interfacial characteristics between the various MWNTs and polymer macromolecular chains are identified. The effects of nanotube layers on the nanotubes/polymer interactions are examined. Each of the situation result and surface features is characterized by binding energy (Eb). It is shown that the binding energy (Eb) increase with the number of layers.

Ceramic fabrication process before firing-surface treatment of ceramic powder

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tsunoda, T.

1984-01-01

The surface treatment of powders is discussed. Stability of ceramic powders and surfaces and the improvement of moldability are addressed. Characteristics of surface treatment technology are given, including formation of inorganic surface-treated layers, liquid phase reactions, gas treatment, surface treatment by coupling agents, and the formation of results of surface treatment.

Seasonal variability of atmospheric surface layer characteristics and weather pattern in Qatar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Samanta, Dhrubajyoti; Cheng, Way Lee; Sadr, Reza

2016-11-01

Qatar's economy is based on oil and gas industry, which are mostly located in coastal regions. Therefore, better understanding of coastal weather, characteristics of surface layer and turbulence exchange processes is much needed. However, the turbulent atmospheric layer study in this region is severely limited. To support the broader aim and study long term precise wind information, a micro-meteorological field campaign has been carried out in a coastal location of north Qatar. The site is based on a 9 m tower, installed at Al Ghariya in the northern coast of Qatar, equipped with three sonic anemometers, temperature-humidity sensor, radiometer and a weather station. This study shows results based on the period August 2015 to July 2016. Various surface layer characteristics and modellings coefficients based on Monin Obukhov similarity theory is studied for the year and seasonal change is noted. Along with the seasonal variabilities of different weather parameters also observed. We hope this long term field observational study will be very much helpful for research community especially for modelers. In addition, two beach and shoreline monitoring cameras installed at the site could give first time information on waves and shoreline changes, and wind-wave interaction in Qatar. An Preliminary Analysis of Wind-Wave Interaction in Qatar in the Context of Changing Climate.

Ni-base superalloy powder-processed porous layer for gas cooling in extreme environments

DOE PAGES

White, Emma M. H.; Heidloff, Andrew J.; Byrd, David J.; ...

2016-05-26

Extreme high temperature conditions demand novel solutions for hot gas filters and coolant access architectures, i.e., porous layers on exposed components. These high temperatures, for example in current turbine engines, are at or exceeding current material limits for high temperature oxidation/corrosion, creep resistance, and, even, melting temperature. Thus novel blade designs allowing greater heat removal are required to maintain airfoil temperatures below melting and/ or rapid creep deformation limits. Gas atomized Ni-base superalloy powders were partially sintered into porous layers to allow full-surface, transpirational cooling of the surface of airfoils. Furthermore, these powder-processed porous layers were fully characterized for surface,more » morphology, cross-sectional microstructure, and mechanical strength characteristics. A sintering model based on pure Ni surface diffusion correlated well with the experimental results and allowed reasonable control over the partial sintering process to obtain a specified level of porosity within the porous layer.« less

Ni-base superalloy powder-processed porous layer for gas cooling in extreme environments

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

White, Emma M. H.; Heidloff, Andrew J.; Byrd, David J.

Extreme high temperature conditions demand novel solutions for hot gas filters and coolant access architectures, i.e., porous layers on exposed components. These high temperatures, for example in current turbine engines, are at or exceeding current material limits for high temperature oxidation/corrosion, creep resistance, and, even, melting temperature. Thus novel blade designs allowing greater heat removal are required to maintain airfoil temperatures below melting and/ or rapid creep deformation limits. Gas atomized Ni-base superalloy powders were partially sintered into porous layers to allow full-surface, transpirational cooling of the surface of airfoils. Furthermore, these powder-processed porous layers were fully characterized for surface,more » morphology, cross-sectional microstructure, and mechanical strength characteristics. A sintering model based on pure Ni surface diffusion correlated well with the experimental results and allowed reasonable control over the partial sintering process to obtain a specified level of porosity within the porous layer.« less

Suppression of carbon desorption from 4H-SiC by irradiating a remote nitrogen plasma at a low temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimabayashi, Masaharu; Kurihara, Kazuaki; Sasaki, Koichi

2018-05-01

We remotely irradiated a nitrogen plasma onto the carbon-side surface of 4H-SiC at a low temperature, and examined the effect of sample cooling on the characteristics of the nitride layer. An improved nitride layer, which had higher concentrations of carbon and silicon and a lower concentration of oxygen, was formed in the region at depths of more than 0.6–0.9 nm from the top surface. The depth of the fragile nitride layer in the top region, where no improved characteristics of the nitride layer were observed, became smaller with sample cooling. In addition, on the basis of the experimental results, we discussed the difference in the activation energy of the nitriding reaction of 4H-SiC supported by atomic nitrogen and molecular nitrogen in the metastable \\text{A}3Σ \\text{u} + state.

Effects of resolved boundary layer turbulence on near-ground rotation in simulated quasi-linear convective systems (QLCSs)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nowotarski, C. J.

2017-12-01

Though most strong to violent tornadoes are associated with supercell thunderstorms, quasi-linear convective systems (QLCSs) pose a risk of tornadoes, often at times and locations where supercell tornadoes are less common. Because QLCS low-level mesocyclones and tornado signatures tend to be less coherent, forecasting such tornadoes remains particularly difficult. The majority of simulations of such storms rely on horizontally homogeneous base states lacking resolved boundary layer turbulence and surface fluxes. Previous work has suggested that heterogeneities associated with boundary layer turbulence in the form of horizontal convective rolls can influence the evolution and characteristics of low-level mesocyclones in supercell thunderstorms. This study extends methods for generating boundary layer convection to idealized simulations of QLCSs. QLCS simulations with resolved boundary layer turbulence will be compared against a control simulation with a laminar boundary layer. Effects of turbulence, the resultant heterogeneity in the near-storm environment, and surface friction on bulk storm characteristics and the intensity, morphology, and evolution of low-level rotation will be presented. Although maximum surface vertical vorticity values are similar, when boundary layer turbulence is included, a greater number of miso- and meso-scale vortices develop along the QLCS gust front. The source of this vorticity is analyzed using Eulerian decomposition of vorticity tendency terms and trajectory analysis to delineate the relative importance of surface friction and baroclinicity in generating QLCS vortices. The role of anvil shading in suppressing boundary layer turbulence in the near-storm environment and subsequent effects on QLCS vortices will also be presented. Finally, implications of the results regarding inclusion of more realistic boundary layers in future idealized simulations of deep convection will be discussed.

Effect of nanocomposite gate-dielectric properties on pentacene microstructure and field-effect transistor characteristics.

PubMed

Lee, Wen-Hsi; Wang, Chun-Chieh

2010-02-01

In this study, the effect of surface energy and roughness of the nanocomposite gate dielectric on pentacene morphology and electrical properties of pentacene OTFT are reported. Nanoparticles TiO2 were added in the polyimide matrix to form a nanocomposite which has a significantly different surface characteristic from polyimide, leading to a discrepancy in the structural properties of pentacene growth. A growth mode of pentacene deposited on the nanocomposite is proposed to explain successfully the effect of surface properties of nanocomposite gate dielectric such as surface energy and roughness on the pentacene morphology and electrical properties of OTFT. To obtain the lower surface energy and smoother surface of nanocomposite gate dielectric that is responsible for the desired crystalline, microstructure of pentacene and electrical properties of device, a bottom contact OTFT-pentacene deposited on the double-layer nanocomposite gate dielectric consisting of top smoothing layer of the neat polyimide and bottom layer of (PI+ nano-TiO2 particles) nanocomposite has been successfully demonstrated to exhibit very promising performance including high current on to off ratio of about 6 x 10(5), threshold voltage of -10 V and moderately high filed mobility of 0.15 cm2V(-1)s(-1).

Finite-difference modeling and dispersion analysis of high-frequency love waves for near-surface applications

USGS Publications Warehouse

Luo, Y.; Xia, J.; Xu, Y.; Zeng, C.; Liu, J.

2010-01-01

Love-wave propagation has been a topic of interest to crustal, earthquake, and engineering seismologists for many years because it is independent of Poisson's ratio and more sensitive to shear (S)-wave velocity changes and layer thickness changes than are Rayleigh waves. It is well known that Love-wave generation requires the existence of a low S-wave velocity layer in a multilayered earth model. In order to study numerically the propagation of Love waves in a layered earth model and dispersion characteristics for near-surface applications, we simulate high-frequency (>5 Hz) Love waves by the staggered-grid finite-difference (FD) method. The air-earth boundary (the shear stress above the free surface) is treated using the stress-imaging technique. We use a two-layer model to demonstrate the accuracy of the staggered-grid modeling scheme. We also simulate four-layer models including a low-velocity layer (LVL) or a high-velocity layer (HVL) to analyze dispersive energy characteristics for near-surface applications. Results demonstrate that: (1) the staggered-grid FD code and stress-imaging technique are suitable for treating the free-surface boundary conditions for Love-wave modeling, (2) Love-wave inversion should be treated with extra care when a LVL exists because of a lack of LVL information in dispersions aggravating uncertainties in the inversion procedure, and (3) energy of high modes in a low-frequency range is very weak, so that it is difficult to estimate the cutoff frequency accurately, and "mode-crossing" occurs between the second higher and third higher modes when a HVL exists. ?? 2010 Birkh??user / Springer Basel AG.

The hydration structure at yttria-stabilized cubic zirconia (110)-water interface with sub-Ångström resolution

DOE PAGES

Hou, Binyang; Kim, Seunghyun; Kim, Taeho; ...

2016-06-15

The interfacial hydration structure of yttria-stabilized cubic zirconia (110) surface in contact with water was determined with ~0.5 Å resolution by high-resolution X-ray reflectivity measurement. The terminal layer shows a reduced electron density compared to the following substrate lattice layers, which indicates there are additional defects generated by metal depletion as well as intrinsic oxygen vacancies, both of which are apparently filled by water species. Above this top surface layer, two additional adsorbed layers are observed forming a characteristic interfacial hydration structure. The first adsorbed layer shows abnormally high density as pure water and likely includes metal species, whereas themore » second layer consists of pure water. The observed interfacial hydration structure seems responsible for local equilibration of the defective surface in water and eventually regulating the long-term degradation processes. As a result, the multitude of water interactions with the zirconia surface results in the complex but highly ordered interfacial structure constituting the reaction front.« less

Structural features of the adsorption layer of pentacene on the graphite surface and the PMMA/graphite hybrid surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fadeeva, A. I.; Gorbunov, V. A.; Litunenko, T. A.

2017-08-01

Using the molecular dynamics and the Monte Carlo methods, we have studied the structural features and growth mechanism of the pentacene film on graphite and polymethylmethacrylate /graphite surfaces. Monolayer capacity and molecular area, optimal angles between the pentacene molecules and graphite and PMMA/graphite surfaces as well as the characteristic angles between the neighboring pentacene molecules in the adsorption layer were estimated. It is shown that the orientation of the pentacene molecules in the film is determined by a number of factors, including the surface concentration of the molecules, relief of the surface, presence or absence of the polymer layer and its thickness. The pentacene molecules adsorbed on the graphite surface keep a horizontal position relative to the long axis at any surface coverage/thickness of the film. In the presence of the PMMA layer on the graphite, the increase of the number of pentacene molecules as well as the thickness of the PMMA layer induce the change of molecular orientation from predominantly horizontal to vertical one. The reason for such behavior is supposed to be the roughness of the PMMA surface.

Smectic order induced at homeotropically aligned nematic surfaces: A neutron reflection study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lau, Y. G. J.; Richardson, Robert M.; Cubitt, R.

2006-06-01

Neutron reflection was used to measure the buildup of layers at a solid surface as the smectic phase is approached from higher temperatures in a nematic liquid crystal. The liquid crystal was 4-octyl-4'-cyanobiphenyl (8CB), and the solid was silicon with one of five different surface treatments that induce homeotropic alignment: (i) silicon oxide; (ii) a cetyltrimethylammonium bromide coating; (iii) an octadecyltrichlorosilane monolayer; (iv) an n-n-dimethyl-n-octadecyl-3- aminopropyltrimethyloxysilyl chloride monolayer; and (v) a lecithin coating. The development of surface smectic layers in the nematic phase of 8CB was followed by measuring specular reflectivity and monitoring the pseudo-Bragg peak from the layers. The scattering data were processed to remove the scattering from short-ranged smecticlike fluctuations in the bulk nematic phase from the specular reflection. The pseudo-Bragg peak at scattering vector Q ˜0.2Å-1 therefore corresponded to the formation of long-range smectic layers at the surface. The amplitude of the smectic density wave decayed with increasing distance from the surface, and the characteristic thickness of this smectic region diverged as the transition temperature was approached. It was found that the characteristic thickness for some of the surface treatments was greater than the correlation length in the bulk nematic. The different surfaces gave different values of the smectic order parameter at the surface. This suggests that the interaction with the surface is significantly different from a "hard wall" which would give the same values of the smectic order parameter and penetration depths similar to the bulk correlation length. Comparison of the different surfaces also suggested that the strength and range of the surface smectic ordering may be varied independently.

Structure and nano-mechanical characteristics of surface oxide layers on a metallic glass.

PubMed

Caron, A; Qin, C L; Gu, L; González, S; Shluger, A; Fecht, H-J; Louzguine-Luzgin, D V; Inoue, A

2011-03-04

Owing to their low elastic moduli, high specific strength and excellent processing characteristics in the undercooled liquid state, metallic glasses are promising materials for applications in micromechanical systems. With miniaturization of metallic mechanical components down to the micrometer scale, the importance of a native oxide layer on a glass surface is increasing. In this work we use TEM and XPS to characterize the structure and properties of the native oxide layer grown on Ni(62)Nb(38) metallic glass and their evolution after annealing in air. The thickness of the oxide layer almost doubled after annealing. In both cases the oxide layer is amorphous and consists predominantly of Nb oxide. We investigate the friction behavior at low loads and in ambient conditions (i.e. at T = 295 K and 60% air humidity) of both as-cast and annealed samples by friction force microscopy. After annealing the friction coefficient is found to have significantly increased. We attribute this effect to the increase of the mechanical stability of the oxide layer upon annealing.

Combined effect of smear layer characteristics and hydrostatic pulpal pressure on dentine bond strength of HEMA-free and HEMA-containing adhesives.

PubMed

Mahdan, Mohd Haidil Akmal; Nakajima, Masatoshi; Foxton, Richard M; Tagami, Junji

2013-10-01

This study evaluated the combined effect of smear layer characteristics with hydrostatic pulpal pressure (PP) on bond strength and nanoleakage expression of HEMA-free and -containing self-etch adhesives. Flat dentine surfaces were obtained from extracted human molars. Smear layers were created by grinding with #180- or #600-SiC paper. Three HEMA-free adhesives (Xeno V, G Bond Plus, Beautibond Multi) and two HEMA-containing adhesives (Bond Force, Tri-S Bond) were applied to the dentine surfaces under hydrostatic PP or none. Dentine bond strengths were determined using the microtensile bond test (μTBS). Data were statistically analyzed using three- and two-way ANOVA with Tukey post hoc comparison test. Nanoleakage evaluation was carried out under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Coarse smear layer preparation and hydrostatic PP negatively affected the μTBS of HEMA-free and -containing adhesives, but there were no significant differences. The combined experimental condition significantly reduced μTBS of the HEMA-free adhesives, while the HEMA-containing adhesives exhibited no significant differences. Two-way ANOVA indicated that for HEMA-free adhesives, there were significant interactions in μTBS between smear layer characteristics and pulpal pressure, while for HEMA-containing adhesives, there were no significant interactions between them. Nanoleakage formation within the adhesive layers of both adhesive systems distinctly increased in the combined experimental group. The combined effect of coarse smear layer preparation with hydrostatic PP significantly reduced the μTBS of HEMA-free adhesives, while in HEMA-containing adhesives, these effects were not obvious. Smear layer characteristics and hydrostatic PP would additively compromise dentine bonding of self-etch adhesives, especially HEMA-free adhesives. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Formation mechanism of photo-induced nested wrinkles on siloxane-photomonomer hybrid film

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

Suzuki, Kazumasa; International Laboratory of Materials Science and Nanotechnology; Laboratorio di Scienz

Nested wrinkle structures, hierarchical surface wrinkles of different periodicities of sub-μm and tens-μm, have been fabricated on a siloxane-photomonomer hybrid film via a photo-induced surface polymerization of acrylamide. The formation mechanism of the nested wrinkle structures is examined based on a time-dependent structure observation and chemical composition analyses. In-situ observation of the evolving surface structure showed that sub-μm scale wrinkles first formed, subsequently the tens-μm scale ones did. In-situ FT-IR analysis indicated that the nested wrinkles formation took place along with the development of siloxane network of under layer. A cross sectional observation of the film revealed that the filmmore » was composed of three layers. FT-IR spectra of the film revealed that the surface and interior layers were polyacrylamide rich layer and siloxane-polymer rich layer, respectively. The intermediate layer formed as a diffusion layer by migration of acrylamide from interior to the surface. These three layers have different chemical compositions and therefore different mechanical characteristics, which allows the wrinkle formation. Shrinkage of siloxane-polymer interior layers, as a result of polycondensation of siloxane network, induced mechanical instabilities at interlayers, to form the nested wrinkle structures.« less

The Influence of Heat Treatment on the Electrical Characteristics of Semi-Insulating SiC Layers Obtained by Irradiating n-SiC with High-Energy Argon Ions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivanov, P. A.; Potapov, A. S.; Kudoyarov, M. F.; Kozlovskii, M. A.; Samsonova, T. P.

2018-03-01

Irradiation of crystalline n-type silicon carbide ( n-SiC) with high-energy (53-MeV) argon ions was used to create near-surface semi-insulating ( i-SiC) layers. The influence of subsequent heat treatment on the electrical characteristics of i-SiC layers has been studied. The most high-ohmic ion-irradiated i-SiC layers with room-temperature resistivity of no less than 1.6 × 1013 Ω cm were obtained upon the heat treatment at 600°C, whereas the resistivity of such layers heat-treated at 230°C was about 5 × 107 Ω cm.

MSL DAN Science Investigation: Physical Simulation of DAN

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jun, Insoo

2012-01-01

The main objective of the proposed investigation is to study the characteristics (i.e., hydrogen content, soil composition, layer-structure, etc.) of sub-surface and the surface radiation (neutron in particular) environment.

Effects of boundary-layer separation controllers on a desktop fume hood.

PubMed

Huang, Rong Fung; Chen, Jia-Kun; Hsu, Ching Min; Hung, Shuo-Fu

2016-10-02

A desktop fume hood installed with an innovative design of flow boundary-layer separation controllers on the leading edges of the side plates, work surface, and corners was developed and characterized for its flow and containment leakage characteristics. The geometric features of the developed desktop fume hood included a rearward offset suction slot, two side plates, two side-plate boundary-layer separation controllers on the leading edges of the side plates, a slanted surface on the leading edge of the work surface, and two small triangular plates on the upper left and right corners of the hood face. The flow characteristics were examined using the laser-assisted smoke flow visualization technique. The containment leakages were measured by the tracer gas (sulphur hexafluoride) detection method on the hood face plane with a mannequin installed in front of the hood. The results of flow visualization showed that the smoke dispersions induced by the boundary-layer separations on the leading edges of the side plates and work surface, as well as the three-dimensional complex flows on the upper-left and -right corners of the hood face, were effectively alleviated by the boundary-layer separation controllers. The results of the tracer gas detection method with a mannequin standing in front of the hood showed that the leakage levels were negligibly small (≤0.003 ppm) at low face velocities (≥0.19 m/s).

An experimental investigation of turbulent boundary layers along curved surfaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

So, R. M. C.; Mellor, G. L.

1972-01-01

A curved wall tunnel was designed, and an equilibrium turbulent boundary layer was set up on the straight section preceding the curved test section. Turbulent boundary layer flows with uniform and adverse pressure distributions along convex and concave walls were investigated. Hot-wire measurements along the convex surface indicated that turbulent mixing between fluid layers was very much reduced. However, the law of the wall held and the skin friction, thus determined, correlated well with other measurements. Hot-wire measurements along the concave test wall revealed a system of longitudinal vortices inside the boundary layer and confirmed that concave curvature enhances mixing. A self-consistent set of turbulent boundary layer equations for flows along curved surfaces was derived together with a modified eddy viscosity. Solution of these equations together with the modified eddy viscosity gave results that correlated well with the present data on flows along the convex surface with arbitrary pressure distribution. However, it could only be used to predict the mean characteristics of the flow along concave walls because of the existence of the system of longitudinal vortices inside the boundary layer.

A study of the possible characteristics of a low-altitude electron layer in the Martian atmosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wallio, H. A.

1974-01-01

The apparent diurnal Martian surface pressure variations, as deduced from radio occultation experiments, is discussed and explained as possibly arising from the effect of a low-altitude electron layer. Possible source and loss mechanisms for the low altitude electron layer are presented and discussed. Time dependent differential equations describing the electron layer are derived, and then integrated to investigate the electron distribution resulting from several processes that might occur in the atmosphere. It is concluded that the source mechanism is the sublimation of alkali atoms from a permanent dust layer, and that the dominant loss process must involve CO2 clustering about the alkali atoms. An electron layer is developed which explains the apparent diurnal surface pressure variation.

Suppression of surface segregation of the phosphorous δ-doping layer by insertion of an ultra-thin silicon layer for ultra-shallow Ohmic contacts on n-type germanium

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

Yamada, Michihiro; Uematsu, Masashi; Itoh, Kohei M., E-mail: kitoh@appi.keio.ac.jp

2015-09-28

We demonstrate the formation of abrupt phosphorus (P) δ-doping profiles in germanium (Ge) by the insertion of ultra-thin silicon (Si) layers. The Si layers at the δ-doping region significantly suppress the surface segregation of P during the molecular beam epitaxial growth of Ge and high-concentration active P donors are confined within a few nm of the initial doping position. The current-voltage characteristics of the P δ-doped layers with Si insertion show excellent Ohmic behaviors with low enough resistivity for ultra-shallow Ohmic contacts on n-type Ge.

The ocean mixed layer under Southern Ocean sea-ice: Seasonal cycle and forcing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pellichero, Violaine; Sallée, Jean-Baptiste; Schmidtko, Sunke; Roquet, Fabien; Charrassin, Jean-Benoît

2017-02-01

The oceanic mixed layer is the gateway for the exchanges between the atmosphere and the ocean; in this layer, all hydrographic ocean properties are set for months to millennia. A vast area of the Southern Ocean is seasonally capped by sea-ice, which alters the characteristics of the ocean mixed layer. The interaction between the ocean mixed layer and sea-ice plays a key role for water mass transformation, the carbon cycle, sea-ice dynamics, and ultimately for the climate as a whole. However, the structure and characteristics of the under-ice mixed layer are poorly understood due to the sparseness of in situ observations and measurements. In this study, we combine distinct sources of observations to overcome this lack in our understanding of the polar regions. Working with elephant seal-derived, ship-based, and Argo float observations, we describe the seasonal cycle of the ocean mixed-layer characteristics and stability of the ocean mixed layer over the Southern Ocean and specifically under sea-ice. Mixed-layer heat and freshwater budgets are used to investigate the main forcing mechanisms of the mixed-layer seasonal cycle. The seasonal variability of sea surface salinity and temperature are primarily driven by surface processes, dominated by sea-ice freshwater flux for the salt budget and by air-sea flux for the heat budget. Ekman advection, vertical diffusivity, and vertical entrainment play only secondary roles. Our results suggest that changes in regional sea-ice distribution and annual duration, as currently observed, widely affect the buoyancy budget of the underlying mixed layer, and impact large-scale water mass formation and transformation with far reaching consequences for ocean ventilation.

Surface effect on compensation and critical behaviors of a ferrimagnetic mixed-spin (1, 3/2) Ising system with two alternating layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Wei; Lv, Dan; Liu, Ying; Yang, Yi; Gao, Zhong-yue; Zhao, Xue-ru

2017-12-01

A Monte Carlo simulation has been used to study the magnetic properties and the critical behaviors of a ferrimagnetic mixed spin-1 and spin-3/2 Ising system with two alternating layers on a honeycomb lattice. Particular emphasis is given to the effects of the surface exchange coupling R1 = J1S/J1, R2 = J2S/J1, R3 = J3S/J1, the surface single-ion anisotropy DS/J1 and the layer thickness L on the magnetizations, phase diagrams and hysteresis loops of the system. Some characteristic phenomena have been found, depending on the competition among the surface parameters R1, R2, R3 and DS. In particular, we have also found that, for appropriate values of surface parameters, there exist three critical surface parameters R1C, R3C and DSC/J1, where the phase transition temperature Tc is independent of the layer thickness L.

Effects of friction layer characteristics on the tribological properties of Ni3Al solid-lubricating composites at different load conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Guanchen; Shi, Xiaoliang; Huang, Yuchun; Liu, Xiyao; Yang, Meijun

2018-05-01

This paper investigates the effects of friction layer characteristics of Ni3Al matrix self-lubricating composites (NMCs) on the tribological properties sliding against ceramic ball Si3N4 at dry friction process at the different load conditions. The characteristics of friction layer are performed in terms of hardness of wear scars, thickness and elemental distributions of friction layer. The results show that the microhardness of wear scars of NMCs increases with the increase of the sliding time and applied load, which results in friction coefficient reduced and wear rate decreased, indicating that the tribological performance of NMCs is obviously affected by microhardness of wear scar. However, under excessive applied load, the performance of friction layer of NMCs is deteriorated for the spalling of wear debris and deformation of contact surface. Therefore, selecting appropriate load conditions during the sliding contact, at the transition to the optimal properties of friction layer maybe occur. NMCs exhibits excellent tribological properties at 15N, which leads to the lowest friction coefficient (0.386) and wear rate (2.48 × 10‑5 mm3 N‑1 m‑1), as well as the smoothest surface of wear track compared with the other load conditions. Meanwhile, the elemental distributions analysis of cross-section of friction layer of NMCs shows that the frictional structures can be divided into three main layers. The thickness of the friction-affected layer varies with the changing of applied load. These results could provide a reference for preparing the solid-lubrication materials with better tribological properties.

Analysis of Ground Effects on Aerodynamic Characteristics of Aerofoils Using Boundary Layer Approximation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takahashi, Yuji; Kikuchi, Masanori; Hirano, Kimitaka

A study of a new high-speed zero-emission transportation “Aerotrain” is being carried out in Tohoku University and the University of Miyazaki. Because the aerotrain utilizes the ground effect, research on the aerofoil section, which can harness the ground effect effectively, is important. The aerotrain moves along a U-shaped guideway, which has a ground and sidewalls, so it has many viscous interference elements. In an analysis of the ground effects on the aerodynamic characteristics of aerofoils, the boundary layers on the aerofoil surface must be considered. At first, velocity distributions on the surfaces of aerofoils in potential flows are computed using the vortex method, then the momentum integration equations of the boundary layer are solved with experimental formulas. This procedure has the following advantages: modifications of the aerofoil section are easy because it is not necessary to make complicated computational grids, boundary layer transition and separation can be predicted using empirical procedures. The aerodynamic characteristics of four types of aerofoil sections are investigated to clarify the relationship between aerofoil sections and ground effects. Computational results are compared with experimental results obtained using a towing wind tunnel to verify computational precisions. In addition, aerofoil characteristics at an actual cruise speed are analyzed.

Development of barrier coatings for cellulosic-based materials by cold plasma methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Denes, Agnes Reka

Cellulose-based materials are ideal candidates for future industries that need to be based on environmentally safe technologies and renewable resources. Wood represents an important raw material and its application as construction material is well established. Cellophane is one of the most important cellulosic material and it is widely used as packaging material in the food industry. Outdoor exposure of wood causes a combination of physical and chemical degradation processes due to the combined effects of sunlight, moisture, fungi, and bacteria. Cold-plasma-induced surface modifications are an attractive way for tailoring the characteristics of lignocellulosic substrates to prevent weathering degradation. Plasma-polymerized hexamethyldisiloxane (PPHMDSO) was deposited onto wood surfaces to create water repellent characteristics. The presence of a crosslinked macromolecular structure was detected. The plasma coated samples exhibited very high water contact angle values indicating the existence of hydrophobic surfaces. Reflective and electromagnetic radiation-absorbent substances were incorporated with a high-molecular-weight polydimethylsiloxane polymer in liquid phase and deposited as thin layers on wood surfaces. The macromolecular films, containing the dispersed materials, were then converted into a three dimensional solid state network by exposure to a oxygen-plasma. It was demonstrated that both UV-absorbent and reflectant components incorporated into the plasma-generated PDMSO matrix protected the wood from weathering degradation. Reduced oxidation and less degradation was observed after simulated weathering. High water contact angle values indicated a strong hydrophobic character of the oxygen plasma-treated PDMSO-coated samples. Plasma-enhanced surface modifications and coatings were employed to create water-vapor barrier layers on cellophane substrate surfaces. HMDSO was selected as a plasma gas and oxygen was used to ablate amorphous regions. Oxygen plasma treated cellophane and oxygen plasma treated and PPHMDSO coated cellophane surfaces were comparatively analyzed and the corresponding surface wettability characteristics were evaluated. The plasma generated surface topographies controlled the morphology of the PPHMDSO layers. Higher temperature HMDSO plasma-state environments lead to insoluble, crosslinked layers. Continuous and pulsed Csb2Fsb6 plasmas were also used for surface modification and excellent surface fluorination was achieved under the pulsed plasma conditions.

[INVITED] Laser gas assisted treatment of Ti-alloy: Analysis of surface characteristics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yilbas, B. S.; Ali, H.; Karatas, C.

2016-04-01

Laser gas assisted treatment of Ti6Al4V alloy surface is carried out and nitrogen/oxygen mixture with partial pressure of PO2/PN2=1/3 is introduced during the surface treatment process. Analytical tools are used to characterize the laser treated surfaces. The fracture toughness at the surface and the residual stress in the surface region of the laser treated layer are measured. Scratch tests are carried out to determine the friction coefficient of the treated surface. It is found that closely spaced regular laser scanning tracks generates a self-annealing effect in the laser treated layer while lowering the stress levels in the treated region. Introducing high pressure gas mixture impingement at the surface results in formation of oxide and nitride species including, TiO, TiO2, TiN and TiOxNy in the surface region. A dense layer consisting of fine size grains are formed in the surface region of the laser treated layer, which enhances the microhardness at the surface. The fracture toughness reduces after the laser treatment process because of the microhardness enhancement at the surface. The residual stress formed is comprehensive, which is in the order of -350 MPa.

Effects of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS as a hole-conducting layer on the performance characteristics of polymer photovoltaic cells.

PubMed

Kim, Hyunsoo; Lee, Jungrae; Ok, Sunseong; Choe, Youngson

2012-01-05

We have investigated the effect of pentacene-doped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene:poly(4-styrenesulfonate) [PEDOT:PSS] films as a hole-conducting layer on the performance of polymer photovoltaic cells. By increasing the amount of pentacene and the annealing temperature of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS layer, the changes of performance characteristics were evaluated. Pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS thin films were prepared by dissolving pentacene in 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone solvent and mixing with PEDOT:PSS. As the amount of pentacene in the PEDOT:PSS solution was increased, UV-visible transmittance also increased dramatically. By increasing the amount of pentacene in PEDOT:PSS films, dramatic decreases in both the work function and surface resistance were observed. However, the work function and surface resistance began to sharply increase above the doping amount of pentacene at 7.7 and 9.9 mg, respectively. As the annealing temperature was increased, the surface roughness of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS films also increased, leading to the formation of PEDOT:PSS aggregates. The films of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS were characterized by AFM, SEM, UV-visible transmittance, surface analyzer, surface resistance, and photovoltaic response analysis.

Effects of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS as a hole-conducting layer on the performance characteristics of polymer photovoltaic cells

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

We have investigated the effect of pentacene-doped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene:poly(4-styrenesulfonate) [PEDOT:PSS] films as a hole-conducting layer on the performance of polymer photovoltaic cells. By increasing the amount of pentacene and the annealing temperature of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS layer, the changes of performance characteristics were evaluated. Pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS thin films were prepared by dissolving pentacene in 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone solvent and mixing with PEDOT:PSS. As the amount of pentacene in the PEDOT:PSS solution was increased, UV-visible transmittance also increased dramatically. By increasing the amount of pentacene in PEDOT:PSS films, dramatic decreases in both the work function and surface resistance were observed. However, the work function and surface resistance began to sharply increase above the doping amount of pentacene at 7.7 and 9.9 mg, respectively. As the annealing temperature was increased, the surface roughness of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS films also increased, leading to the formation of PEDOT:PSS aggregates. The films of pentacene-doped PEDOT:PSS were characterized by AFM, SEM, UV-visible transmittance, surface analyzer, surface resistance, and photovoltaic response analysis. PMID:22221320

Evaluation of parameterization for turbulent fluxes of momentum and heat in stably stratified surface layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sodemann, H.; Foken, Th.

2003-04-01

General Circulation Models calculate the energy exchange between surface and atmosphere by means of parameterisations for turbulent fluxes of momentum and heat in the surface layer. However, currently implemented parameterisations after Louis (1979) create large discrepancies between predictions and observational data, especially in stably stratified surface layers. This work evaluates a new surface layer parameterisation proposed by Zilitinkevich et al. (2002), which was specifically developed to improve energy flux predictions in stable stratification. The evaluation comprises a detailed study of important surface layer characteristics, a sensitivity study of the parameterisation, and a direct comparison to observational data from Antarctica and predictions by the Louis (1979) parameterisation. The stability structure of the stable surface layer was found to be very complex, and strongly influenced fluxes in the surface layer. The sensitivity study revealed that the new parameterisation depends strongly on the ratio between roughness length and roughness temperature, which were both observed to be very variable parameters. The comparison between predictions and measurements showed good agreement for momentum fluxes, but large discrepancies for heat fluxes. A stability dependent evaluation of selected data showed better agreement for the new parameterisation of Zilitinkevich et al. (2002) than for the Louis (1979) scheme. Nevertheless, this comparison underlines the need for more detailed and physically sound concepts for parameterisations of heat fluxes in stably stratified surface layers. Zilitinkevich, S. S., V. Perov and J. C. King (2002). "Near-surface turbulent fluxes in stable stratification: Calculation techniques for use in General Circulation Models." Q. J. R. Meteorol. Soc. 128(583): 1571--1587. Louis, J. F. (1979). "A Parametric Model of Vertical Eddy Fluxes in the Atmosphere." Bound.-Layer Meteor. 17(2): 187--202.

Surface treatment using metal foil liner

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Garvey, Ray

1989-01-01

A metal foil liner can be used to seal large area surfaces. Characteristics of the two-layer foil liner are discussed. Micrographs for foil-to-foil, foil-to-composite, visible seams, and hidden seams are examined.

Surface nanoporosity has a greater influence on osteogenic and bacterial cell adhesion than crystallinity and wettability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodriguez-Contreras, Alejandra; Guadarrama Bello, Dainelys; Nanci, Antonio

2018-07-01

There has been much emphasis on the influence of crystallinity and wettability for modulating cell activity, particularly for bone biomaterials. In this context, we have generated titanium oxide layers with similar mesoporous topography and surface roughness but with amorphous or crystalline oxide layers and differential wettability. We then investigated their influence on the behavior of MC3T3 osteoblastic and bacterial cells. There was no difference in cell adhesion, spreading and growth on amorphous and crystalline surfaces. The number of focal adhesions was similar, however, cells on the amorphous surface exhibited a higher frequency of mature adhesions. The crystallinity of the surface layers also had no bearing on bacterial adhesion. While it cannot be excluded that surface crystallinity, roughness and wettability contribute to some degree to determining cell behavior, our data suggest that physical characteristics of surfaces represent the major determinant.

Growth behavior and growth rate dependency in LEDs performance for Mg-doped a-plane GaN

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Keun-Man; Kim, Jong-Min; Lee, Dong-Hun; Shin, Chan-Soo; Ko, Chul-Gi; Kong, Bo-Hyun; Cho, Hyung-Koun; Yoon, Dae-Ho

2011-07-01

We investigated the influence of growth rate of Mg-doped a-plane GaN on the surface morphological and electrical properties, and the characteristics of InGaN-based nonpolar LEDs. Mg-doped a-plane GaN layers were grown on r-plane sapphire substrate by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and cathode luminescence (CL) analysis exhibited that the surface morphology changed from stripe features with large triangular pits to rough and rugged surface with small asymmetric V-shape pits, as the growth rate increased. The Mg incorporation into a-plane GaN layers increased with increasing growth rate of Mg-doped a-plane GaN, while the activation efficiency of Mg dopants decreased in a-plane GaN. Additionally, it was found that operation voltage at 20 mA decreased in characteristics of LEDs, as the growth rate of Mg-doped a-plane GaN decreased. Meanwhile, the EL intensity of LEDs with p-GaN layers grown at higher growth rate was improved compared to that of LEDs with p-GaN layers grown at lower growth rate. Such an increase of EL intensity is attributed to the rougher surface morphology with increasing growth rate of Mg-doped a-plane GaN.

Inversion of Surface-wave Dispersion Curves due to Low-velocity-layer Models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, C.; Xia, J.; Mi, B.

2016-12-01

A successful inversion relies on exact forward modeling methods. It is a key step to accurately calculate multi-mode dispersion curves of a given model in high-frequency surface-wave (Rayleigh wave and Love wave) methods. For normal models (shear (S)-wave velocity increasing with depth), their theoretical dispersion curves completely match the dispersion spectrum that is generated based on wave equation. For models containing a low-velocity-layer, however, phase velocities calculated by existing forward-modeling algorithms (e.g. Thomson-Haskell algorithm, Knopoff algorithm, fast vector-transfer algorithm and so on) fail to be consistent with the dispersion spectrum at a high frequency range. They will approach a value that close to the surface-wave velocity of the low-velocity-layer under the surface layer, rather than that of the surface layer when their corresponding wavelengths are short enough. This phenomenon conflicts with the characteristics of surface waves, which results in an erroneous inverted model. By comparing the theoretical dispersion curves with simulated dispersion energy, we proposed a direct and essential solution to accurately compute surface-wave phase velocities due to low-velocity-layer models. Based on the proposed forward modeling technique, we can achieve correct inversion for these types of models. Several synthetic data proved the effectiveness of our method.

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

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

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

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

Predicting aerodynamic characteristics of vortical flows on three-dimensional configurations using a surface-singularity panel method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Maskew, B.

1983-01-01

A general low-order surface-singularity panel method is used to predict the aerodynamic characteristics of a problem where a wing-tip vortex from one wing closely interacts with an aft mounted wing in a low Reynolds Number flow; i.e., 125,000. Nonlinear effects due to wake roll-up and the influence of the wings on the vortex path are included in the calculation by using a coupled iterative wake relaxation scheme. The interaction also affects the wing pressures and boundary layer characteristics: these effects are also considered using coupled integral boundary layer codes and preliminary calculations using free vortex sheet separation modelling are included. Calculated results are compared with water tunnel experimental data with generally remarkably good agreement.

Impact of Conifer Forest Litter on Microwave Emission at L-Band

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kurum, Mehmet; O'Neill, Peggy E.; Lang, Roger H.; Cosh, Michael H.; Joseph, Alicia T.; Jackson, Thomas J.

2011-01-01

This study reports on the utilization of microwave modeling, together with ground truth, and L-band (1.4-GHz) brightness temperatures to investigate the passive microwave characteristics of a conifer forest floor. The microwave data were acquired over a natural Virginia Pine forest in Maryland by a ground-based microwave active/passive instrument system in 2008/2009. Ground measurements of the tree biophysical parameters and forest floor characteristics were obtained during the field campaign. The test site consisted of medium-sized evergreen conifers with an average height of 12 m and average diameters at breast height of 12.6 cm. The site is a typical pine forest site in that there is a surface layer of loose debris/needles and an organic transition layer above the mineral soil. In an effort to characterize and model the impact of the surface litter layer, an experiment was conducted on a day with wet soil conditions, which involved removal of the surface litter layer from one half of the test site while keeping the other half undisturbed. The observations showed detectable decrease in emissivity for both polarizations after the surface litter layer was removed. A first-order radiative transfer model of the forest stands including the multilayer nature of the forest floor in conjunction with the ground truth data are used to compute forest emission. The model calculations reproduced the major features of the experimental data over the entire duration, which included the effects of surface litter and ground moisture content on overall emission. Both theory and experimental results confirm that the litter layer increases the observed canopy brightness temperature and obscure the soil emission.

Intermittent Behavior of the Separated Boundary Layer along the Suction Surface of a Low Pressure Turbine Blade under Periodic Unsteady Flow Conditions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oeztuerk, B; Schobeiri, M. T.; Ashpis, David E.

2005-01-01

The paper experimentally and theoretically studies the effects of periodic unsteady wake flow and aerodynamic characteristics on boundary layer development, separation and re-attachment along the suction surface of a low pressure turbine blade. The experiments were carried out at Reynolds number of 110,000 (based on suction surface length and exit velocity). For one steady and two different unsteady inlet flow conditions with the corresponding passing frequencies, intermittency behaviors were experimentally and theoretically investigated. The current investigation attempts to extend the intermittency unsteady boundary layer transition model developed in previously to the LPT cases, where separation occurs on the suction surface at a low Reynolds number. The results of the unsteady boundary layer measurements and the intermittency analysis were presented in the ensemble-averaged and contour plot forms. The analysis of the boundary layer experimental data with the flow separation, confirms the universal character of the relative intermittency function which is described by a Gausssian function.

Investigating the Impact of Surface Heterogeneity on the Convective Boundary Layer Over Urban Areas Through Coupled Large-Eddy Simulation and Remote Sensing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dominguez, Anthony; Kleissl, Jan P.; Luvall, Jeffrey C.

2011-01-01

Large-eddy Simulation (LES) was used to study convective boundary layer (CBL) flow through suburban regions with both large and small scale heterogeneities in surface temperature. Constant remotely sensed surface temperatures were applied at the surface boundary at resolutions of 10 m, 90 m, 200 m, and 1 km. Increasing the surface resolution from 1 km to 200 m had the most significant impact on the mean and turbulent flow characteristics as the larger scale heterogeneities became resolved. While previous studies concluded that scales of heterogeneity much smaller than the CBL inversion height have little impact on the CBL characteristics, we found that further increasing the surface resolution (resolving smaller scale heterogeneities) results in an increase in mean surface heat flux, thermal blending height, and potential temperature profile. The results of this study will help to better inform sub-grid parameterization for meso-scale meteorological models. The simulation tool developed through this study (combining LES and high resolution remotely sensed surface conditions) is a significant step towards future studies on the micro-scale meteorology in urban areas.

A preliminary assessment of the Titan planetary boundary layer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allison, Michael

1992-01-01

Results of a preliminary assessment of the characteristic features of the Titan planetary boundary are addressed. These were derived from the combined application of a patched Ekman surface layer model and Rossby number similarity theory. Both these models together with Obukhov scaling, surface speed limits and saltation are discussed. A characteristic Akman depth of approximately 0.7 km is anticipated, with an eddy viscosity approximately equal to 1000 sq cm/s, an associated friction velocity approximately 0.01 m/s, and a surface wind typically smaller than 0.6 m/s. Actual values of these parameters probably vary by as much as a factor of two or three, in response to local temporal variations in surface roughness and stability. The saltation threshold for the windblown injection of approximately 50 micrometer particulates into the atmosphere is less than twice the nominal friction velocity, suggesting that dusty breezes might be an occassional feature of the Titan meteorology.

Characteristics of ozone vertical profile observed in the boundary layer around Beijing in autumn.

PubMed

Ma, Zhiqiang; Zhang, Xiaoling; Xu, Jing; Zhao, Xiujuan; Meng, Wei

2011-01-01

In the autumn of 2008, the vertical profiles of ozone and meteorological parameters in the low troposphere (0-1000 m) were observed at two sites around Beijing, specifically urban Nanjiao and rural Shangdianzi. At night and early morning, the lower troposphere divided into two stratified layers due to temperature inversion. Ozone in the lower layer showed a large gradient due to the titration of NO. Air flow from the southwest brought ozone-rich air to Beijing, and the ozone profiles were marked by a continuous increase in the residual layer at night. The accumulated ozone in the upper layer played an important role in the next day's surface peak ozone concentration, and caused a rapid increase in surface ozone in the morning. Wind direction shear and wind speed shear exhibited different influences on ozone profiles and resulted in different surface ozone concentrations in Beijing.

NiTi shape-memory alloy oxidized in low-temperature plasma with carbon coating: Characteristic and a potential for cardiovascular applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Witkowska, Justyna; Sowińska, Agnieszka; Czarnowska, Elżbieta; Płociński, Tomasz; Borowski, Tomasz; Wierzchoń, Tadeusz

2017-11-01

Surface layers currently produced on NiTi alloys do not meet all the requirements for materials intended for use in cardiology. Plasma surface treatments of titanium and its alloys under glow discharge conditions make it possible to produce surface layers, such as TiN or TiO2, which increases corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. The production of layers on NiTi alloys with the same properties, and maintaining their shape memory and superelasticity features, requires the use of low-temperature processes. At the same time, since it is known that the carbon-based layers could prevent excessive adhesion and aggregation of platelets, we examined the composite a-CNH + TiO2 type surface layer produced by means of a hybrid method combining oxidation in low-temperature plasma and Radio Frequency Chemical Vapor Deposition (RFCVD) processes. Investigations have shown that this composite layer increases the corrosion resistance of the material, and both the low degree of roughness and the chemical composition of the surface produced lead to decreased platelet adhesion and aggregation and proper endothelialization, which could extend the range of applications of NiTi shape memory alloys.

Morphological characterization of the anuran integument of the Proceratophrys and Odontophrynus genera (Amphibia, Anuran, Leptodactylidae).

PubMed

Felsemburgh, F A; Carvalho-e-Silva, S P; de Brito-Gitirana, L

2007-01-01

The morphological characteristics of the leptodactylid integument of Proceratophrys and Odontophrynus genera were investigated by means of stereoscopic, low vacuum scanning electron and light microscopy. The integument surface of Proceratophrys boiei, Proceratophrys laticeps and Proceratophrys appendiculata exhibited several projections, while the integument of Odontophrynus americanus had rounded elevations with smooth profile. Light microscopic observations showed the basic integument morphology for all anurans, i.e., an epidermis and a dermis, which is subdivided into a spongious layer and a compact layer. The epidermis is formed by basal, intermediary and cornified layers. However, in Proceratophrys genus the cornified layer had an irregular outline, while in O. americanus the external surface was smooth. In the spongious dermis, mucous and venom exocrine glands were observed, but in O. americanus an exclusive glandular type with apocrine secretory pattern was identified. The integument morphology showed peculiar characteristics that may be helpful for genus distinction. Thus, morphological methods may be considered as an efficient means to characterize and to differentiate anuran genera.

Electron microscopy characterization of AlGaN/GaN heterostructures grown on Si (111) substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gkanatsiou, A.; Lioutas, Ch. B.; Frangis, N.; Polychroniadis, E. K.; Prystawko, P.; Leszczynski, M.

2017-03-01

AlGaN/GaN buffer heterostructures were grown on "on axis" and 4 deg off Si (111) substrates by MOVPE. The electron microscopy study reveals the very good epitaxial growth of the layers. Almost c-plane orientated nucleation grains are achieved after full AlN layer growth. Step-graded AlGaN layers were introduced, in order to prevent the stress relaxation and to work as a dislocation filter. Thus, a crack-free smooth surface of the final GaN epitaxial layer is achieved in both cases, making the buffer structure ideal for the forthcoming growth of the heterostructure (used for HEMT device applications). Finally, the growth of the AlGaN/GaN heterostructure on top presents characteristic and periodic undulations (V-pits) on the surface, due to strain relaxation reasons. The AlN interlayer grown in between the heterostructure demonstrates an almost homogeneous thickness, probably reinforcing the 2DEG electrical characteristics.

Vacuum deposition and curing of liquid monomers

DOEpatents

Affinito, J.D.

1993-11-09

The present invention is the formation of solid polymer layers under vacuum. More specifically, the present invention is the use of standard polymer layer-making equipment that is generally used in an atmospheric environment in a vacuum, and degassing the monomer material prior to injection into the vacuum. Additional layers of polymer or metal may be vacuum deposited onto solid polymer layers. Formation of polymer layers under a vacuum improves material and surface characteristics, and subsequent quality of bonding to additional layers. Further advantages include use of less to no photoinitiator for curing, faster curing, fewer impurities in the polymer electrolyte, as well as improvement in material properties including no trapped gas resulting in greater density, and reduced monomer wetting angle that facilitates spreading of the monomer and provides a smoother finished surface.

Vacuum deposition and curing of liquid monomers

DOEpatents

Affinito, J.D.

1995-03-07

The present invention is the formation of solid polymer layers under vacuum. More specifically, the present invention is the use of ``standard`` polymer layer-making equipment that is generally used in an atmospheric environment in a vacuum, and degassing the monomer material prior to injection into the vacuum. Additional layers of polymer or metal or oxide may be vacuum deposited onto solid polymer layers. Formation of polymer layers under a vacuum improves material and surface characteristics, and subsequent quality of bonding to additional layers. Further advantages include use of less to no photoinitiator for curing, faster curing, fewer impurities in the polymer electrolyte, as well as improvement in material properties including no trapped gas resulting in greater density, and reduced monomer wetting angle that facilitates spreading of the monomer and provides a smoother finished surface.

Vacuum deposition and curing of liquid monomers

DOEpatents

Affinito, John D.

1993-01-01

The present invention is the formation of solid polymer layers under vacuum. More specifically, the present invention is the use of "standard" polymer layer-making equipment that is generally used in an atmospheric environment in a vacuum, and degassing the monomer material prior to injection into the vacuum. Additional layers of polymer or metal may be vacuum deposited onto solid polymer layers. Formation of polymer layers under a vacuum improves material and surface characteristics, and subsequent quality of bonding to additional layers. Further advantages include use of less to no photoinitiator for curing, faster curing, fewer impurities in the polymer electrolyte, as well as improvement in material properties including no trapped gas resulting in greater density, and reduced monomer wetting angle that facilitates spreading of the monomer and provides a smoother finished surface.

Vacuum deposition and curing of liquid monomers apparatus

DOEpatents

Affinito, John D.

1996-01-01

The present invention is the formation of solid polymer layers under vacuum. More specifically, the present invention is the use of "standard" polymer layer-making equipment that is generally used in an atmospheric environment in a vacuum, and degassing the monomer material prior to injection into the vacuum. Additional layers of polymer or metal or oxide may be vacuum deposited onto solid polymer layers. Formation of polymer layers under a vacuum improves material and surface characteristics, and subsequent quality of bonding to additional layers. Further advantages include use of less to no photoinitiator for curing, faster curing, fewer impurities in the polymer electrolyte, as well as improvement in material properties including no trapped gas resulting in greater density, and reduced monomer wetting angle that facilitates spreading of the monomer and provides a smoother finished surface.

Vacuum deposition and curing of liquid monomers

DOEpatents

Affinito, John D.

1995-01-01

The present invention is the formation of solid polymer layers under vacuum. More specifically, the present invention is the use of "standard" polymer layer-making equipment that is generally used in an atmospheric environment in a vacuum, and degassing the monomer material prior to injection into the vacuum. Additional layers of polymer or metal or oxide may be vacuum deposited onto solid polymer layers. Formation of polymer layers under a vacuum improves material and surface characteristics, and subsequent quality of bonding to additional layers. Further advantages include use of less to no photoinitiator for curing, faster curing, fewer impurities in the polymer electrolyte, as well as improvement in material properties including no trapped gas resulting in greater density, and reduced monomer wetting angle that facilitates spreading of the monomer and provides a smoother finished surface.

Study on dynamic deformation synchronized measurement technology of double-layer liquid surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Huiying; Dong, Huimin; Liu, Zhanwei

2017-11-01

Accurate measurement of the dynamic deformation of double-layer liquid surfaces plays an important role in many fields, such as fluid mechanics, biomechanics, petrochemical industry and aerospace engineering. It is difficult to measure dynamic deformation of double-layer liquid surfaces synchronously for traditional methods. In this paper, a novel and effective method for full-field static and dynamic deformation measurement of double-layer liquid surfaces has been developed, that is wavefront distortion of double-wavelength transmission light with geometric phase analysis (GPA) method. Double wavelength lattice patterns used here are produced by two techniques, one is by double wavelength laser, and the other is by liquid crystal display (LCD). The techniques combine the characteristics such as high transparency, low reflectivity and fluidity of liquid. Two color lattice patterns produced by laser and LCD were adjusted at a certain angle through the tested double-layer liquid surfaces simultaneously. On the basis of the refractive indexes difference of two transmitted lights, the double-layer liquid surfaces were decoupled with GPA method. Combined with the derived relationship between phase variation of transmission-lattice patterns and out-of plane heights of two surfaces, as well as considering the height curves of the liquid level, the double-layer liquid surfaces can be reconstructed successfully. Compared with the traditional measurement method, the developed method not only has the common advantages of the optical measurement methods, such as high-precision, full-field and non-contact, but also simple, low cost and easy to set up.

Water mass characteristic in the outflow region of the Indonesian throughflow during and post 2016 negative Indian ocean dipole event

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bayhaqi, A.; Iskandar, I.; Surinati, D.; Budiman, A. S.; Wardhana, A. K.; Dirhamsyah; Yuan, D.; Lestari, D. O.

2018-05-01

Strong El Niño and positive Indian Ocean Dipole (pIOD) events in 2015/2016 followed by relatively strong negative Indian Ocean Dipole (nIOD) and weak La Niña in 2016 events have affected hydrography conditions in the Indonesian Throughflow (ITF) region. Two research cruises were conducted using RV Baruna Jaya VIII in August and November 2016. These cruises aim to evaluate possible impact of those two climate mode events on the water mass characteristic in the outflow region of the ITF. Hydrographic data from those two cruises were combined with the sea surface temperature (SST) from the Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) and surface wind data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). The results showed that in the 2016 anomaly year, the cooler sea surface temperature was observed during the negative IOD (nIOD) event while the warmer temperature was found in the post of nIOD event. The observed water mass characteristics in the outflow region of the ITF revealed that the upper layer was dominated by the Indian Ocean water mass, while the Pacific Ocean water mass was observed in the deeper layer. The observed current data across the Sumba Strait showed that the South Java Coastal Current (SJCC) was observed in the upper layer, propagating eastward toward the Savu Sea. A few days later, the observed currents in the upper layer of the Ombai Strait revealed the ITF flow towards the Indian Ocean. Meanwhile, the lower layer showed an eastward flow towards the Ombai Strait.

Plastic deformation and wear process at a surface during unlubricated sliding

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yamamoto, T.; Buckley, D. H.

1982-01-01

The plastic deformation and wear of a 304 stainless steel surface sliding against an aluminum oxide rider with a spherical surface (the radius of curvature: 1.3 cm) were observed by using scanning electron and optical microscopes. Experiments were conducted in a vacuum of one million Pa and in an environment of fifty thousandth Pa of chlorine gas at 25 C. The load was 500 grams and the sliding velocity was 0.5 centimeter per second. The deformed surface layer which accumulates and develops successively is left behind the rider, and step shaped proturbances are developed even after single pass sliding under both environmental conditions. A fully developed surface layer is gradually torn off leaving a characteristic pattern. The mechanism for tearing away of the surface layer from the contact area and sliding track contour is explained assuming the simplified process of material removal based on the adhesion theory for the wear of materials.

A novel carbohydrate-binding surface layer protein from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus horikoshii.

PubMed

Goda, Shuichiro; Koga, Tomoyuki; Yamashita, Kenichiro; Kuriura, Ryo; Ueda, Toshifumi

2018-04-08

In Archaea and Bacteria, surface layer (S-layer) proteins form the cell envelope and are involved in cell protection. In the present study, a putative S-layer protein was purified from the crude extract of Pyrococcus horikoshii using affinity chromatography. The S-layer gene was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. Isothermal titration calorimetry analyses showed that the S-layer protein bound N-acetylglucosamine and induced agglutination of the gram-positive bacterium Micrococcus lysodeikticus. The protein comprised a 21-mer structure, with a molecular mass of 1,340 kDa, as determined using small-angle X-ray scattering. This protein showed high thermal stability, with a midpoint of thermal denaturation of 79 °C in dynamic light scattering experiments. This is the first description of the carbohydrate-binding archaeal S-layer protein and its characteristics.

High power RF window deposition apparatus, method, and device

DOEpatents

Ives, Lawrence R.; Lucovsky, Gerald; Zeller, Daniel

2017-07-04

A process for forming a coating for an RF window which has improved secondary electron emission and reduced multipactor for high power RF waveguides is formed from a substrate with low loss tangent and desirable mechanical characteristics. The substrate has an RPAO deposition layer applied which oxygenates the surface of the substrate to remove carbon impurities, thereafter has an RPAN deposition layer applied to nitrogen activate the surface of the substrate, after which a TiN deposition layer is applied using Titanium tert-butoxide. The TiN deposition layer is capped with a final RPAN deposition layer of nitridation to reduce the bound oxygen in the TiN deposition layer. The resulting RF window has greatly improved titanium layer adhesion, reduced multipactor, and is able to withstand greater RF power levels than provided by the prior art.

Electronic properties of Al xGa 1- xAs surface passivated by ultrathin silicon interface control layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adamowicz, B.; Miczek, M.; Ikeya, K.; Mutoh, M.; Saitoh, T.; Fujikura, H.; Hasegawa, H.

1999-03-01

The photoluminescence surface state spectroscopy (PLS 3) method was applied to a study of the surface state distribution ( NSS), effective surface recombination velocity ( Seff), electron ( EFn) and hole ( EFp) quasi-Fermi levels and band bending ( VS) on the Al 0.33Ga 0.67As surface air-exposed and passivated by the Si interface control layer (ICL) technique. Using the detailed measurements of the PL quantum efficiency for different excitation intensities, combined with the rigorous computer simulations of the bulk and surface recombination processes, the behavior and correlation among the surface characteristics under photo-excitation was determined. The present analysis indicated that forming of a Si 3N 4/Si ICL double layer (with a monolayer level control) on AlGaAs surface reduces the minimum interface state density down to 10 10 cm -2 eV -1 and surface recombination velocity to the range of 10 4 cm/s under low excitations.

New insights into comparison between synthetic and practical municipal wastewater in cake layer characteristic analysis of membrane bioreactor.

PubMed

Zhou, Lijie; Zhuang, Wei-Qin; Wang, Xin; Yu, Ke; Yang, Shufang; Xia, Siqing

2017-11-01

In previous studies, cake layer analysis in membrane bioreactor (MBR) was both carried out with synthetic and practical municipal wastewater (SMW and PMW), leading to different results. This study aimed to identify the comparison between SMW and PMW in cake layer characteristic analysis of MBR. Two laboratory-scale anoxic/oxic MBRs were operated for over 90days with SMW and PMW, respectively. Results showed that PMW led to rough cake layer surface with particles, and the aggravation of cake layer formation with thinner and denser cake layer. Additionally, inorganic components, especially Si and Al, in PMW accumulated into cake layer and strengthened the cake layer structure, inducing severer biofouling. However, SMW promoted bacterial metabolism during cake layer formation, thus aggravated the accumulation of organic components into cake layer. Therefore, SMW highlighted the organic components in cake layer, but weakened the inorganic functions in practical MBR operation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Surface Brillouin scattering study of the surface excitations in amorphous silicon layers produced by ion bombardment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, X.; Comins, J. D.; Every, A. G.; Stoddart, P. R.; Pang, W.; Derry, T. E.

1998-11-01

Thin amorphous silicon layers on crystalline silicon substrates have been produced by argon-ion bombardment of (001) silicon surfaces. Thermally induced surface excitations characteristic of this example of a soft-on-hard system have been investigated by surface Brillouin scattering (SBS) as a function of scattering-angle and amorphous-layer thickness. At large scattering angles or for sufficiently large layer thickness, a second peak is present in the SBS spectrum near the low-energy threshold for the continuum of bulk excitations of the system. The measured spectra are analyzed on the basis of surface elastodynamic Green's functions, which successfully simulate their detailed appearance and identify the second peak as either a Sezawa wave (true surface wave) or a pseudo-Sezawa wave (attenuated surface wave) depending on the scattering parameters. The attributes of the pseudo-Sezawa wave are described; these include its asymmetrical line shape and variation in intensity with k∥d (the product of the surface excitation wave vector and the layer thickness), and its emergence as the Sezawa wave from the low-energy side of the Lamb shoulder at a critical value of k∥d. Furthermore, the behavior of a pronounced minimum in the Lamb shoulder near the longitudinal wave threshold observed in the experiments is reported and is found to be in good agreement with the calculated spectra. The elastic constants of the amorphous silicon layer are determined from the velocity dispersion of the Rayleigh surface acoustic wave and the minimum in the Lamb shoulder.

Study the formation of porous surface layer for a new biomedical titanium alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Talib Mohammed, Mohsin; Diwan, Abass Ali; Ali, Osamah Ihsan

2018-03-01

In the present work, chemical treatment using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) oxidation and subsequent thermal treatment was applied to create a uniform porous layer over the surface of a new metastable β-Ti alloy. The results revealed that this oxidation treatment can create a stable ultrafine porous film over the oxidized surface. This promoted the electrochemical characteristics of H2O2-treated Ti-Zr-Nb (TZN) alloy system, presenting nobler corrosion behavior in simulated body fluid (SBF) comparing with untreated sample.

Apparatus and method for transient thermal infrared emission spectrometry

DOEpatents

McClelland, John F.; Jones, Roger W.

1991-12-24

A method and apparatus for enabling analysis of a solid material (16, 42) by applying energy from an energy source (20, 70) top a surface region of the solid material sufficient to cause transient heating in a thin surface layer portion of the solid material (16, 42) so as to enable transient thermal emission of infrared radiation from the thin surface layer portion, and by detecting with a spectrometer/detector (28, 58) substantially only the transient thermal emission of infrared radiation from the thin surface layer portion of the solid material. The detected transient thermal emission of infrared radiation is sufficiently free of self-absorption by the solid material of emitted infrared radiation, so as to be indicative of characteristics relating to molecular composition of the solid material.

Reconfigurable modified surface layers using plasma capillaries around the neutral inclusion regime

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

Varault, S.; Universite Paul Sabatier—CNRS-Laplace 118, Route de Narbonne, F-31062 Toulouse Cedex 9; Gabard, B.

We show both theoretically and experimentally reconfigurable properties achieved by plasma inclusions placed in modified surface layers generally used to tailor the transmission and beaming properties of electromagnetic bandgap based waveguiding structures. A proper parametrization of the plasma capillaries allows to reach the neutral inclusion regime, where the inclusions appear to be electromagnetically transparent, letting the surface mode characteristics unaltered. Varying the electron density of the plasma inclusions provoques small perturbations around this peculiar regime, and we observe significant modifications of the transmission/beaming properties. This offers a way to dynamically select the enhanced transmission frequency or to modify the radiationmore » pattern of the structure, depending on whether the modified surface layer is placed at the entrance/exit of the waveguide.« less

Modeling Fire Severity in Black Spruce Stands in the Alaskan Boreal Forest Using Spectral and Non-Spectral Geospatial Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barrett, K.; Kasischke, E. S.; McGuire, A. D.; Turetsky, M. R.; Kane, E. S.

2010-01-01

Biomass burning in the Alaskan interior is already a major disturbance and source of carbon emissions, and is likely to increase in response to the warming and drying predicted for the future climate. In addition to quantifying changes to the spatial and temporal patterns of burned areas, observing variations in severity is the key to studying the impact of changes to the fire regime on carbon cycling, energy budgets, and post-fire succession. Remote sensing indices of fire severity have not consistently been well-correlated with in situ observations of important severity characteristics in Alaskan black spruce stands, including depth of burning of the surface organic layer. The incorporation of ancillary data such as in situ observations and GIS layers with spectral data from Landsat TM/ETM+ greatly improved efforts to map the reduction of the organic layer in burned black spruce stands. Using a regression tree approach, the R2 of the organic layer depth reduction models was 0.60 and 0.55 (pb0.01) for relative and absolute depth reduction, respectively. All of the independent variables used by the regression tree to estimate burn depth can be obtained independently of field observations. Implementation of a gradient boosting algorithm improved the R2 to 0.80 and 0.79 (pb0.01) for absolute and relative organic layer depth reduction, respectively. Independent variables used in the regression tree model of burn depth included topographic position, remote sensing indices related to soil and vegetation characteristics, timing of the fire event, and meteorological data. Post-fire organic layer depth characteristics are determined for a large (N200,000 ha) fire to identify areas that are potentially vulnerable to a shift in post-fire succession. This application showed that 12% of this fire event experienced fire severe enough to support a change in post-fire succession. We conclude that non-parametric models and ancillary data are useful in the modeling of the surface organic layer fire depth. Because quantitative differences in post-fire surface characteristics do not directly influence spectral properties, these modeling techniques provide better information than the use of remote sensing data alone.

Modeling fire severity in black spruce stands in the Alaskan boreal forest using spectral and non-spectral geospatial data

USGS Publications Warehouse

Barrett, Kirsten M.; Kasischke, E.S.; McGuire, A.D.; Turetsky, M.R.; Kane, E.S.

2010-01-01

Biomass burning in the Alaskan interior is already a major disturbance and source of carbon emissions, and is likely to increase in response to the warming and drying predicted for the future climate. In addition to quantifying changes to the spatial and temporal patterns of burned areas, observing variations in severity is the key to studying the impact of changes to the fire regime on carbon cycling, energy budgets, and post-fire succession. Remote sensing indices of fire severity have not consistently been well-correlated with in situ observations of important severity characteristics in Alaskan black spruce stands, including depth of burning of the surface organic layer. The incorporation of ancillary data such as in situ observations and GIS layers with spectral data from Landsat TM/ETM+ greatly improved efforts to map the reduction of the organic layer in burned black spruce stands. Using a regression tree approach, the R2 of the organic layer depth reduction models was 0.60 and 0.55 (pb0.01) for relative and absolute depth reduction, respectively. All of the independent variables used by the regression tree to estimate burn depth can be obtained independently of field observations. Implementation of a gradient boosting algorithm improved the R2 to 0.80 and 0.79 (pb0.01) for absolute and relative organic layer depth reduction, respectively. Independent variables used in the regression tree model of burn depth included topographic position, remote sensing indices related to soil and vegetation characteristics, timing of the fire event, and meteorological data. Post-fire organic layer depth characteristics are determined for a large (N200,000 ha) fire to identify areas that are potentially vulnerable to a shift in post-fire succession. This application showed that 12% of this fire event experienced fire severe enough to support a change in post-fire succession. We conclude that non-parametric models and ancillary data are useful in the modeling of the surface organic layer fire depth. Because quantitative differences in post-fire surface characteristics do not directly influence spectral properties, these modeling techniques provide better information than the use of remote sensing data alone.

Upper wing surface boundary layer measurements and static aerodynamic data obtained on a 0.015-scale model (42-0) or the SSV orbiter configuration 140A/B in the LTV HSWT at a Mach number of 4.6 (LA58)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ball, J. W.; Lindahl, R. H.

1976-01-01

The purpose of the test was to investigate the nature of the Orbiter boundary layer characteristics at angles of attack from -4 to 32 degrees at a Mach number of 4.6. The effect of large grit, employed as transition strips, on both the nature of the boundary layer and the force and moment characteristics were investigated along with the effects of large negative elevon deflection on lee side separation. In addition, laminar and turbulent boundary layer separation phenomena which could cause asymmetric flow separation were investigated.

Physical Characteristics of Soil Collected in Iraq and Afghanistan Related to Remote Sensing

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

shallow subsurface in both Iraq and Afghanistan were layered. Generally, there was a crust ( duricrust ) on the surface from a few millimeters to...centimeters in thickness (Fig. 5). When disturbed, the crust broke apart into blocky pieces. Lichen was sometimes present in the duricrust layer. An...unconsolidated layer of silty sand usually was present below the duricrust . This layer was not more than 50 cm in thickness and lacked evaporite

Refinement of current WisDOT HMA mixture application guidelines related to NMAS and aggregate characteristics.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-01-01

Current Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Specifications limit nominal maximum aggregate : size (NMAS) of hot-mix asphalt (HMA) to 12.5 mm in the surface layer and 19.0 mm in lower layers. This : potentially places unnecessary limits on...

Ultrahigh sensitivity refractive index sensor of a D-shaped PCF based on surface plasmon resonance.

PubMed

Wu, JunJun; Li, Shuguang; Wang, Xinyu; Shi, Min; Feng, Xinxing; Liu, Yundong

2018-05-20

We propose a D-shaped photonic crystal fiber (PCF) refractive index sensor with ultrahigh sensitivity and a wide detection range. The gold layer is deposited on the polished surface, avoiding filling or coating inside the air holes of the PCF. The influences of the gold layer thickness and the diameter of the larger air holes are investigated. The sensing characteristics of the proposed sensor are analyzed by the finite element method. The maximum sensitivity can reach 31,000  nm/RIU, and the refractive index detection range is from 1.32 to 1.40. Our proposed PCF has excellent sensing characteristics and is competitive in sensing devices.

Structural-phase states and wear resistance of surface formed on steel by surfacing

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

Kapralov, Evgenie V.; Raykov, Sergey V.; Vaschuk, Ekaterina S.

2014-11-14

Investigations of elementary and phase structure, state of defect structure and tribological characteristics of a surfacing, formed on a low carbon low-alloy steel by a welding method were carried out. It was revealed that a surfacing, formed on a steel surface is accompanied by the multilayer formation, and increases the wear resistance of the layer surfacing as determined.

Growth and characterization of organic layers deposited on porous-patterned Si surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gorbach, Tamara Ya.; Smertenko, Petro S.; Olkhovik, G. P.; Wisz, Grzegorz

2017-01-01

The organic layers with the thickness from a few nanometers up to few micrometers have been deposited from the chemical solution at room temperature on porous patterned Si surfaces using two medical solutions: thiamine diphosphide (pH=1÷2) and metamizole sodium (pH=6÷7). Based on evolution of morphology, structural and compositional features obtained by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray analysis, reflectance high energy electron diffraction the grown mechanisms in thin organic layers are discussed in the terms of terrace-step-kink model whereas self-organized assemblies evaluated more thick layers. Transport mechanism features and possible photovoltaic properties are discussed on the base of differential current-voltage characteristics.

Characteristics of the near-bottom suspended sediment field over the continental shelf off northern California based on optical attenuation measurements during STRESS and SMILE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trowbridge, J. H.; Butman, B.; Limeburner, R.

1994-08-01

Time-series measurements of current velocity, optical attenuation and surface wave intensity obtained during the Sediment Transport Events on Shelves and Slopes (STRESS) experiments, combined with shipboard measurements of conductivity, temperature and optical attenuation obtained during the Shelf Mixed Layer Experiment (SMILE), provide a description of the sediment concentration field over the central and outer shelf off northern California. The questions addressed are: (1) existence and characteristics of bottom nepheloid layers and their relationship to bottom mixed layers; (2) characteristics of temporal fluctuations in sediment concentration and their relationship to waves and currents; (3) spatial scales over which suspended sediment concentrations vary horizontally; and (4) vertical distribution of suspended sediment.

Observational study of atmospheric surface layer and coastal weather in northern Qatar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Samanta, Dhrubajyoti; Sadr, Reza

2016-04-01

Atmospheric surface layer is the interaction medium between atmosphere and Earth's surface. Better understanding of its turbulence nature is essential in characterizing the local weather, climate variability and modeling of turbulent exchange processes. The importance of Middle East region, with its unique geographical, economical and weather condition is well recognized. However, high quality micrometeorological observational studies are rare in this region. Here we show experimental results from micrometeorological observations from an experimental site in the coastal region of Qatar during August-December 2015. Measurements of winds are obtained from three sonic anemometers installed on a 9 m tower placed at Al Ghariyah beach in northern Qatar (26.08 °N, 51.36 °E). Different surface layer characteristics is analyzed and compared with earlier studies in equivalent weather conditions. Monthly statistics of wind speed, wind direction, temperature, humidity and heat index are made from concurrent observations from sonic anemometer and weather station to explore variations with surface layer characteristics. The results also highlights potential impact of sea breeze circulation on local weather and atmospheric turbulence. The observed daily maximum temperature and heat index during morning period may be related to sea breeze circulations. Along with the operational micrometeorological observation system, a camera system and ultrasonic wave measurement system are installed recently in the site to study coastline development and nearshore wave dynamics. Overall, the complete observational set up is going to provide new insights about nearshore wind dynamics and wind-wave interaction in Qatar.

Strata-based forest fuel classification for wild fire hazard assessment using terrestrial LiDAR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yang; Zhu, Xuan; Yebra, Marta; Harris, Sarah; Tapper, Nigel

2016-10-01

Fuel structural characteristics affect fire behavior including fire intensity, spread rate, flame structure, and duration, therefore, quantifying forest fuel structure has significance in understanding fire behavior as well as providing information for fire management activities (e.g., planned burns, suppression, fuel hazard assessment, and fuel treatment). This paper presents a method of forest fuel strata classification with an integration between terrestrial light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data and geographic information system for automatically assessing forest fuel structural characteristics (e.g., fuel horizontal continuity and vertical arrangement). The accuracy of fuel description derived from terrestrial LiDAR scanning (TLS) data was assessed by field measured surface fuel depth and fuel percentage covers at distinct vertical layers. The comparison of TLS-derived depth and percentage cover at surface fuel layer with the field measurements produced root mean square error values of 1.1 cm and 5.4%, respectively. TLS-derived percentage cover explained 92% of the variation in percentage cover at all fuel layers of the entire dataset. The outcome indicated TLS-derived fuel characteristics are strongly consistent with field measured values. TLS can be used to efficiently and consistently classify forest vertical layers to provide more precise information for forest fuel hazard assessment and surface fuel load estimation in order to assist forest fuels management and fire-related operational activities. It can also be beneficial for mapping forest habitat, wildlife conservation, and ecosystem management.

Junction characteristics of indium tin oxide/indium phosphide solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sheldon, P.; Ahrenkiel, R. K.; Hayes, R. E.; Russell, P. E.; Nottenburg, R. N.; Kazmerski, L. L.

Efficient indium tin oxide (ITO)/p-InP solar cells have been fabricated. Typical uncorrected efficiencies range from 9-12 percent at AM1 intensities. It is shown that deposition of ITO causes a semi-insulating layer at the InP surface as determined by C-V measurements. The thickness of this layer is approximately 750 A. We believe that this high resistivity region is due to surface accumulation of Fe at the ITO/InP interface.

Flexible Thin Metal Film Thermal Sensing System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thomsen, Donald Laurence (Inventor)

2012-01-01

A flexible thin metal film thermal sensing system is provided. A thermally-conductive film made from a thermally-insulating material is doped with thermally-conductive material. At least one layer of electrically-conductive metal is deposited directly onto a surface of the thermally-conductive film. One or more devices are coupled to the layer(s) to measure an electrical characteristic associated therewith as an indication of temperature.

Influence of duration of phosphoric acid pre-etching on bond durability of universal adhesives and surface free-energy characteristics of enamel.

PubMed

Tsujimoto, Akimasa; Barkmeier, Wayne W; Takamizawa, Toshiki; Watanabe, Hidehiko; Johnson, William W; Latta, Mark A; Miyazaki, Masashi

2016-08-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of duration of phosphoric acid pre-etching on the bond durability of universal adhesives and the surface free-energy characteristics of enamel. Three universal adhesives and extracted human molars were used. Two no-pre-etching groups were prepared: ground enamel; and enamel after ultrasonic cleaning with distilled water for 30 s to remove the smear layer. Four pre-etching groups were prepared: enamel pre-etched with phosphoric acid for 3, 5, 10, and 15 s. Shear bond strength (SBS) values of universal adhesive after no thermal cycling and after 30,000 or 60,000 thermal cycles, and surface free-energy values of enamel surfaces, calculated from contact angle measurements, were determined. The specimens that had been pre-etched showed significantly higher SBS and surface free-energy values than the specimens that had not been pre-etched, regardless of the aging condition and adhesive type. The SBS and surface free-energy values did not increase for pre-etching times of longer than 3 s. There were no significant differences in SBS values and surface free-energy characteristics between the specimens with and without a smear layer. The results of this study suggest that phosphoric acid pre-etching of enamel improves the bond durability of universal adhesives and the surface free-energy characteristics of enamel, but these bonding properties do not increase for phosphoric acid pre-etching times of longer than 3 s. © 2016 Eur J Oral Sci.

Vacuum deposition and curing of liquid monomers apparatus

DOEpatents

Affinito, J.D.

1996-08-20

The present invention is the formation of solid polymer layers under vacuum. More specifically, the present invention is the use of ``standard`` polymer layer-making equipment that is generally used in an atmospheric environment in a vacuum, and degassing the monomer material prior to injection into the vacuum. Additional layers of polymer or metal or oxide may be vacuum deposited onto solid polymer layers. Formation of polymer layers under a vacuum improves material and surface characteristics, and subsequent quality of bonding to additional layers. Further advantages include use of less to no photoinitiator for curing, faster curing, fewer impurities in the polymer electrolyte, as well as improvement in material properties including no trapped gas resulting in greater density, and reduced monomer wetting angle that facilitates spreading of the monomer and provides a smoother finished surface. 3 figs.

Growth and characterization of molecular beam epitaxial GaAs layers on porous silicon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lin, T. L.; Liu, J. K.; Sadwick, L.; Wang, K. L.; Kao, Y. C.

1987-01-01

GaAs layers have been grown on porous silicon (PS) substrates with good crystallinity by molecular beam epitaxy. In spite of the surface irregularity of PS substrates, no surface morphology deterioration was observed on epitaxial GaAs overlayers. A 10-percent Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy minimum channeling yield for GaAs-on-PS layers as compared to 16 percent for GaAs-on-Si layers grown under the same condition indicates a possible improvement of crystallinity when GaAs is grown on PS. Transmission electron microscopy reveals that the dominant defects in the GaAs-on-PS layers are microtwins and stacking faults, which originate from the GaAs/PS interface. GaAs is found to penetrate into the PS layers. n-type GaAs/p-type PS heterojunction diodes were fabricated with good rectifying characteristics.

The characteristics of a possible low altitude electron layer in the Martian atmosphere. M.S. Thesis - George Washington Univ.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wallio, H. A.

1973-01-01

The apparent diurnal Martian surface pressure variation, as deduced from radio occultation experiments, is discussed and explained as possibly arising from the effect of a low altitude electron layer. Possible source and loss mechanisms for the low altitude electron layer are presented and discussed. Time-dependent differential equations describing the electron layer are derived and then integrated to investigate the electron distribution resulting from the several processes that might occur in the atmosphere. It is concluded that the source mechanism is the sublimation of alkali atoms from a permanent dust layer (a dust layer of 0.2 micron particles of density 9/cu cm is sufficient), and that the dominant loss process must involve CO2 clustering to the alkali atoms. Using these processes, an electron layer is developed which would explain the apparent diurnal surface pressure.

A high-resolution model of the planetary boundary layer - Sensitivity tests and comparisons with SESAME-79 data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zhang, D.; Anthes, R. A.

1982-01-01

A one-dimensional, planetary boundary layer (PBL) model is presented and verified using April 10, 1979 SESAME data. The model contains two modules to account for two different regimes of turbulent mixing. Separate parameterizations are made for stable and unstable conditions, with a predictive slab model for surface temperature. Atmospheric variables in the surface layer are calculated with a prognostic model, with moisture included in the coupled surface/PBL modeling. Sensitivity tests are performed for factors such as moisture availability, albedo, surface roughness, and thermal capacity, and a 24 hr simulation is summarized for day and night conditions. The comparison with the SESAME data comprises three hour intervals, using a time-dependent geostrophic wind. Close correlations were found with daytime conditions, but not in nighttime thermal structure, while the turbulence was faithfully predicted. Both geostrophic flow and surface characteristics were shown to have significant effects on the model predictions

APOLLO 17 - INFLIGHT Experiment Equipment

NASA Image and Video Library

1972-11-28

S72-53950 (November 1972) --- The transmitter of the Surface Electrical Properties Experiment (S-204) in a deployed configuration. This experiment will be deployed at the Taurus-Littrow landing site by the Apollo 17 crewmen. The purpose of the SEP experiment is to obtain data about the electromagnetic energy transmission, absorption and reflection characteristics of the lunar surface and subsurface for use in the development of a geological model of the upper layers of the moon. The experiment is designed to determine layering in the lunar surface, to search for the presence of water below the surface, and to measure electrical properties of the lunar material in situ.

Multilayered disease-mimicking bladder phantom with realistic surface topology for optical coherence tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, Gennifer T.; Lurie, Kristen L.; Khan, Saara A.; Liao, Joseph C.; Ellerbee, Audrey K.

2014-03-01

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has shown potential as a complementary modality to white light cystoscopy (WLC), the gold standard for imaging bladder cancer. OCT can visualize sub-surface details of the bladder wall, which enables it to stage cancers and detect tumors that are otherwise invisible to WLC. Currently, OCT systems have too slow a speed and too small a field of view for comprehensive bladder imaging, which limits its clinical utility. Validation and feasibility testing of technological refinements aimed to provide faster imaging and wider fields of view necessitates a realistic bladder phantom. We present a novel process to fabricate the first such phantom that mimics both the optical and morphological properties of layers of the healthy and pathologic bladder wall as they characteristically appear with OCT. The healthy regions of the silicone-based phantom comprises three layers: the urothelium, lamina propria and muscularis propria, each containing an appropriate concentration of titanium dioxide to mimic its distinct scattering properties. As well, the layers each possess a unique surface appearance imposed by a textured mold. Within this phantom, pathologic tissue-mimicking regions are created by thickening specific layers or creating inclusions that disrupt the layered appearance of the bladder wall, as is characteristic of bladder carcinomas. This phantom can help to evaluate the efficacy of new OCT systems and software for tumor localization. Moreover, the procedure we have developed is highly generalizable for the creation of OCT-relevant, multi-layer phantoms for tissues that incorporate diseased states characterized by the loss of layered structures.

Fabricating solid carbon porous electrodes from powders

DOEpatents

Kaschmitter, James L.; Tran, Tri D.; Feikert, John H.; Mayer, Steven T.

1997-01-01

Fabrication of conductive solid porous carbon electrodes for use in batteries, double layer capacitors, fuel cells, capacitive dionization, and waste treatment. Electrodes fabricated from low surface area (<50 m.sup.2 /gm) graphite and cokes exhibit excellent reversible lithium intercalation characteristics, making them ideal for use as anodes in high voltage lithium insertion (lithium-ion) batteries. Electrodes having a higher surface area, fabricated from powdered carbon blacks, such as carbon aerogel powder, carbon aerogel microspheres, activated carbons, etc. yield high conductivity carbon compositives with excellent double layer capacity, and can be used in double layer capacitors, or for capacitive deionization and/or waste treatment of liquid streams. By adding metallic catalysts to be high surface area carbons, fuel cell electrodes can be produced.

Fabricating solid carbon porous electrodes from powders

DOEpatents

Kaschmitter, J.L.; Tran, T.D.; Feikert, J.H.; Mayer, S.T.

1997-06-10

Fabrication is described for conductive solid porous carbon electrodes for use in batteries, double layer capacitors, fuel cells, capacitive deionization, and waste treatment. Electrodes fabricated from low surface area (<50 m{sup 2}/gm) graphite and cokes exhibit excellent reversible lithium intercalation characteristics, making them ideal for use as anodes in high voltage lithium insertion (lithium-ion) batteries. Electrodes having a higher surface area, fabricated from powdered carbon blacks, such as carbon aerogel powder, carbon aerogel microspheres, activated carbons, etc. yield high conductivity carbon composites with excellent double layer capacity, and can be used in double layer capacitors, or for capacitive deionization and/or waste treatment of liquid streams. By adding metallic catalysts to high surface area carbons, fuel cell electrodes can be produced. 1 fig.

Wear Characteristic of Stellite 6 Alloy Hardfacing Layer by Plasma Arc Surfacing Processes

PubMed Central

Zhou, Xiaowei

2017-01-01

The microstructure and wear resistance of Stellite 6 alloy hardfacing layer at two different temperatures (room temperature and 300°C) were investigated by plasma arc surfacing processes on Q235 Steel. Tribological test was conducted to characterize the wear property. The microstructure of Stellite 6 alloy coating mainly consists of α-Co and (Cr, Fe)7C3 phases. The friction coefficient of Stellite 6 alloys fluctuates slightly under different loads at 300°C. The oxide layer is formed on the coating surface and serves as a special lubricant during the wear test. Abrasive wear is the dominant mechanism at room temperature, and microploughing and plasticity are the key wear mechanisms at 300°C. PMID:29359005

Aerosol characteristics in the entrainment interface layer in relation to the marine boundary layer and free troposphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dadashazar, Hossein; Braun, Rachel A.; Crosbie, Ewan; Chuang, Patrick Y.; Woods, Roy K.; Jonsson, Haflidi H.; Sorooshian, Armin

2018-02-01

This study uses airborne data from two field campaigns off the California coast to characterize aerosol size distribution characteristics in the entrainment interface layer (EIL), a thin and turbulent layer above marine stratocumulus cloud tops, which separates the stratocumulus-topped boundary layer (STBL) from the free troposphere (FT). The vertical bounds of the EIL are defined in this work based on considerations of buoyancy and turbulence using thermodynamic and dynamic data. Aerosol number concentrations are examined from three different probes with varying particle diameter (Dp) ranges: > 3 nm, > 10 nm, and 0.11-3.4 µm. Relative to the EIL and FT layers, the sub-cloud (SUB) layer exhibited lower aerosol number concentrations and higher surface area concentrations. High particle number concentrations between 3 and 10 nm in the EIL are indicative of enhanced nucleation, assisted by high actinic fluxes, cool and moist air, and much lower surface area concentrations than the STBL. Slopes of number concentration versus altitude in the EIL were correlated with the particle number concentration difference between the SUB and lower FT layers. The EIL aerosol size distribution was influenced by varying degrees from STBL aerosol versus subsiding FT aerosol depending on the case examined. These results emphasize the important role of the EIL in influencing nucleation and aerosol-cloud-climate interactions.

Abnormal Multiple Charge Memory States in Exfoliated Few-Layer WSe2 Transistors.

PubMed

Chen, Mikai; Wang, Yifan; Shepherd, Nathan; Huard, Chad; Zhou, Jiantao; Guo, L J; Lu, Wei; Liang, Xiaogan

2017-01-24

To construct reliable nanoelectronic devices based on emerging 2D layered semiconductors, we need to understand the charge-trapping processes in such devices. Additionally, the identified charge-trapping schemes in such layered materials could be further exploited to make multibit (or highly desirable analog-tunable) memory devices. Here, we present a study on the abnormal charge-trapping or memory characteristics of few-layer WSe 2 transistors. This work shows that multiple charge-trapping states with large extrema spacing, long retention time, and analog tunability can be excited in the transistors made from mechanically exfoliated few-layer WSe 2 flakes, whereas they cannot be generated in widely studied few-layer MoS 2 transistors. Such charge-trapping characteristics of WSe 2 transistors are attributed to the exfoliation-induced interlayer deformation on the cleaved surfaces of few-layer WSe 2 flakes, which can spontaneously form ambipolar charge-trapping sites. Our additional results from surface characterization, charge-retention characterization at different temperatures, and density functional theory computation strongly support this explanation. Furthermore, our research also demonstrates that the charge-trapping states excited in multiple transistors can be calibrated into consistent multibit data storage levels. This work advances the understanding of the charge memory mechanisms in layered semiconductors, and the observed charge-trapping states could be further studied for enabling ultralow-cost multibit analog memory devices.

P-type surface effects for thickness variation of 2um and 4um of n-type layer in GaN LED

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Halim, N. S. A. Abdul; Wahid, M. H. A.; Hambali, N. A. M. Ahmad; Rashid, S.; Ramli, M. M.; Shahimin, M. M.

2017-09-01

The internal quantum efficiency of III-Nitrides group, GaN light-emitting diode (LED) has been considerably limited due to the insufficient hole injection and this is caused by the lack of performance p-type doping and low hole mobility. The low hole mobility makes the hole less energetic, thus reduced the performance operation of GaN LED itself. The internal quantum efficiency of GaN-based LED with surface roughness (texture) can be changed by texture size, density, and thickness of GaN film or by the combined effects of surface shape and thickness of GaN film. Besides, due to lack of p-type GaN, attempts to look forward the potential of GaN LED relied on the thickness of n-type layer and surface shape of p-type GaN layer. This work investigates the characteristics of GaN LED with undoped n-GaN layer of different thickness and the surface shape of p-type layer. The LEDs performance is significantly altered by modifying the thickness and shape. Enhancement of n-GaN layer has led to the annihilation of electrical conductivity of the chip. Different surface geometry governs the emission rate extensively. Internal quantum efficiency is also predominantly affected by the geometry of n-GaN layer which subjected to the current spreading. It is recorded that the IQE droop can be minimized by varying the thickness of the active layer without amplifying the forward voltage. Optimum forward voltage (I-V), total emission rate relationship with the injected current and internal quantum efficiency (IQE) for 2,4 µm on four different surfaces of p-type layer are also reported in this paper.

Characteristics of the Martian atmosphere surface layer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clow, G. D.; Haberle, R. M.

1990-01-01

Elements of various terrestrial boundary layer models are extended to Mars in order to estimate sensible heat, latent heat, and momentum fluxes within the Martian atmospheric surface ('constant flux') layer. The atmospheric surface layer consists of an interfacial sublayer immediately adjacent to the ground and an overlying fully turbulent surface sublayer where wind-shear production of turbulence dominates buoyancy production. Within the interfacial sublayer, sensible and latent heat are transported by non-steady molecular diffusion into small-scale eddies which intermittently burst through this zone. Both the thickness of the interfacial sublayer and the characteristics of the turbulent eddies penetrating through it depend on whether airflow is aerodynamically smooth or aerodynamically rough, as determined by the Roughness Reynold's number. Within the overlying surface sublayer, similarity theory can be used to express the mean vertical windspeed, temperature, and water vapor profiles in terms of a single parameter, the Monin-Obukhov stability parameter. To estimate the molecular viscosity and thermal conductivity of a CO2-H2O gas mixture under Martian conditions, parameterizations were developed using data from the TPRC Data Series and the first-order Chapman-Cowling expressions; the required collision integrals were approximated using the Lenard-Jones potential. Parameterizations for specific heat and binary diffusivity were also determined. The Brutsart model for sensible and latent heat transport within the interfacial sublayer for both aerodynamically smooth and rough airflow was experimentally tested under similar conditions, validating its application to Martian conditions. For the surface sublayer, the definition of the Monin-Obukhov length was modified to properly account for the buoyancy forces arising from water vapor gradients in the Martian atmospheric boundary layer. It was found that under most Martian conditions, the interfacial and surface sublayers offer roughly comparable resistance to sensible heat and water vapor transport and are thus both important in determining the associated fluxes.

Analysis of flexible layered shallow shells on elastic foundation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stupishin, L.; Kolesnikov, A.; Tolmacheva, T.

2017-05-01

This paper contains numerical analysis of a layered geometric nonlinear flexible shallow shell based on an elastic foundation. Rise of arch in the center of the shell, width, length and type of support are given. The design variable is taken to be the thickness of the shallow shell, the form of the middle surface forming and the characteristic of elastic foundations. Critical force coefficient and stress of shells are calculated by Bubnov-Galerkin. Stress, characteristic of elastic foundations - thickness dependence are presented.

Natural laminar flow and airplane stability and control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vandam, Cornelis P.

1986-01-01

Location and mode of transition from laminar to turbulent boundary layer flow have a dominant effect on the aerodynamic characteristics of an airfoil section. The influences of these parameters on the sectional lift and drag characteristics of three airfoils are examined. Both analytical and experimental results demonstrate that when the boundary layer transitions near the leading edge as a result of surface roughness, extensive trailing-edge separation of the turbulent boundary layer may occur. If the airfoil has a relatively sharp leading-edge, leading-edge stall due to laminar separation can occur after the leading-edge suction peak is formed. These two-dimensional results are used to examine the effects of boundary layer transition behavior on airplane longitudinal and lateral-directional stability and control.

Effects of Hybrid Flow Control on a Normal Shock Boundary-Layer Interaction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hirt, Stefanie M.; Vyas, Manan A.

2013-01-01

Hybrid flow control, a combination of micro-ramps and steady micro-jets, was experimentally investigated in the 15x15 cm Supersonic Wind Tunnel at the NASA Glenn Research Center. A central composite design of experiments method, was used to develop response surfaces for boundary-layer thickness and reversed-flow thickness, with factor variables of inter-ramp spacing, ramp height and chord length, and flow injection ratio. Boundary-layer measurements and wall static pressure data were used to understand flow separation characteristics. A limited number of profiles were measured in the corners of the tunnel to aid in understanding the three-dimensional characteristics of the flowfield.

Surface texturing of superconductors by controlled oxygen pressure

DOEpatents

Chen, N.; Goretta, K.C.; Dorris, S.E.

1999-01-05

A method of manufacture of a textured layer of a high temperature superconductor on a substrate is disclosed. The method involves providing an untextured high temperature superconductor material having a characteristic ambient pressure peritectic melting point, heating the superconductor to a temperature below the peritectic temperature, establishing a reduced pO{sub 2} atmosphere below ambient pressure causing reduction of the peritectic melting point to a reduced temperature which causes melting from an exposed surface of the superconductor and raising pressure of the reduced pO{sub 2} atmosphere to cause solidification of the molten superconductor in a textured surface layer. 8 figs.

Surface texturing of superconductors by controlled oxygen pressure

DOEpatents

Chen, Nan; Goretta, Kenneth C.; Dorris, Stephen E.

1999-01-01

A method of manufacture of a textured layer of a high temperature superconductor on a substrate. The method involves providing an untextured high temperature superconductor material having a characteristic ambient pressure peritectic melting point, heating the superconductor to a temperature below the peritectic temperature, establishing a reduced pO.sub.2 atmosphere below ambient pressure causing reduction of the peritectic melting point to a reduced temperature which causes melting from an exposed surface of the superconductor and raising pressure of the reduced pO.sub.2 atmosphere to cause solidification of the molten superconductor in a textured surface layer.

Characteristics of Boundary Layer Transition in a Multi-Stage Low-Pressure Turbine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wisler, Dave; Halstead, David E.; Okiishi, Ted

2007-01-01

An experimental investigation of boundary layer transition in a multi-stage turbine has been completed using surface-mounted hot-film sensors. Tests were carried out using the two-stage Low Speed Research Turbine of the Aerodynamics Research Laboratory of GE Aircraft Engines. Blading in this facility models current, state-of-the-art low pressure turbine configurations. The instrumentation technique involved arrays of densely-packed hot-film sensors on the surfaces of second stage rotor and nozzle blades. The arrays were located at mid-span on both the suction and pressure surfaces. Boundary layer measurements were acquired over a complete range of relevant Reynolds numbers. Data acquisition capabilities provided means for detailed data interrogation in both time and frequency domains. Data indicate that significant regions of laminar and transitional boundary layer flow exist on the rotor and nozzle suction surfaces. Evidence of relaminarization both near the leading edge of the suction surface and along much of the pressure surface was observed. Measurements also reveal the nature of the turbulent bursts occuring within and between the wake segments convecting through the blade row. The complex character of boundary layer transition resulting from flow unsteadiness due to nozzle/nozzle, rotor/nozzle, and nozzle/rotor wake interactions are elucidated using these data. These measurements underscore the need to provide turbomachinery designers with models of boundary layer transition to facilitate accurate prediction of aerodynamic loss and heat transfer.

Study on preferred crystal orientations of Mg-Zr-O composite protective layer in AC-PDP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bingang, G.; Chunliang, L.; Zhongxiao, S.; Liu, L.; Yufeng, F.; Xing, X.; Duowang, F.

2006-11-01

In order to study the preferred crystal orientations of Mg-Zr-O composite protective layers in PDP, Mg-Zr-O composite protective layers were deposited by Electron-beam Evaporator using (MgO+ZrO{2}) powder mixture as evaporation source material. X-ray diffractometer (XRD) was used to determine preferred crystal orientations of Mg-Zr-O composite protective layers, surface morphologies of films were analyzed by FESEM and voltage characteristics were examined in a testing macroscopic discharge cell of AC-PDP. On the basis of experimental analysis, the influence of oxide addition and deposition conditions on preferred orientations of Mg-Zr-O composite protective layers were investigated. The results showed that the preferred orientations of Mg-Zr-O films were determined by lattice distortion of MgO crystal. The deposition conditions have great effects on the preferred orientations of Mg-Zr-O films. The preferred orientations affect voltage characteristics through affecting surface morphology of Mg-Zr-O films. A small amount of Zr solution in MgO can decrease firing voltage compared with using pure MgO film. Firing voltage is closely related with the [ ZrO{2}/(MgO+ZrO{2})] ratio of evaporation source materials.

Influences and interactions of inundation, peat, and snow on active layer thickness

DOE PAGES

Atchley, Adam L.; Coon, Ethan T.; Painter, Scott L.; ...

2016-05-18

Active layer thickness (ALT), the uppermost layer of soil that thaws on an annual basis, is a direct control on the amount of organic carbon potentially available for decomposition and release to the atmosphere as carbon-rich Arctic permafrost soils thaw in a warming climate. Here, we investigate how key site characteristics affect ALT using an integrated surface/subsurface permafrost thermal hydrology model. ALT is most sensitive to organic layer thickness followed by snow depth but is relatively insensitive to the amount of water on the landscape with other conditions held fixed. Furthermore, the weak ALT sensitivity to subsurface saturation suggests thatmore » changes in Arctic landscape hydrology may only have a minor effect on future ALT. But, surface inundation amplifies the sensitivities to the other parameters and under large snowpacks can trigger the formation of near-surface taliks.« less

Spatial variability of concentrations of chlorophyll a, dissolved organic matter and suspended particles in the surface layer of the Kara Sea in September 2011 from lidar data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pelevin, V. V.; Zavjalov, P. O.; Belyaev, N. A.; Konovalov, B. V.; Kravchishina, M. D.; Mosharov, S. A.

2017-01-01

The article presents results of underway remote laser sensing of the surface water layer in continuous automatic mode using the UFL-9 fluorescent lidar onboard the R/V Akademik Mstislav Keldysh during cruise 59 in the Kara Sea in 2011. The description of the lidar, the approach to interpreting seawater fluorescence data, and certain methodical aspects of instrument calibration and measurement are presented. Calibration of the lidar is based on laboratory analysis of water samples taken from the sea surface during the cruise. Spatial distribution of chlorophyll a, total organic carbon and suspended matter concentrations in the upper quasi-homogeneous layer are mapped and the characteristic scales of the variability are estimated. Some dependencies between the patchiness of the upper water layer and the atmospheric forcing and freshwater runoff are shown.

Study of the blue-green laser scattering from the rough sea surface with foams by the improved two-scale method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xiangzhen; Qi, Xiao; Han, Xiang'e.

2015-10-01

The characteristics of laser scattering from sea surface have a great influence on application performance, from submarine communication, laser detection to laser diffusion communication. Foams will appear when the wind speed exceeds a certain value, so the foam can be seen everywhere in the upper layer of the ocean. Aiming at the volume-surface composite model of rough sea surface with foam layer driven by wind, and the similarities and differences of scattering characteristics between blue-green laser and microwave, an improved two-scale method for blue-green laser to calculate the scattering coefficient is presented in this paper. Based on the improved two-scale rough surface scattering theory, MIE theory and VRT( vector radiative transfer ) theory, the relations between the foam coverage of the sea surface and wind speed and air-sea temperature difference are analyzed. Aiming at the Gauss sea surface in blue-green laser, the dependence of back- and bistatie-scattering coefficient on the incident and azimuth angle, the coverage of foams, as well as the wind speed are discussed in detail. The results of numerical simulations are compared and analyzed in this paper. It can be concluded that the foam layer has a considerable effect on the laser scattering with the increase of wind speed, especially for a large incident angle. Theoretical analysis and numerical simulations show that the improved two-scale method is reasonable and efficient.

Durable thin film coatings for reflectors used in low earth orbit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcclure, Donald J.

1989-01-01

This paper discusses the properties of thin film coatings used to provide a durable reflective surface for solar concentrators used in the solar dynamic system designed for the Space Station. The material system to be used consists of an adhesion promotion layer, a silver reflective layer, and a protective layer of aluminum oxide and silicon dioxide. The performance characteristics of this system are described and compared to those of several alternative systems which use aluminum as the reflective layer.

Plastic deformation and wear process at a surface during unlubricated sliding

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yamamoto, T.; Buckley, D. H.

1983-01-01

The plastic deformation and wear of a 304 stainless steel surface sliding against an aluminum oxide rider with a spherical surface (the radius of curvature: 1.3 cm) were observed by using scanning electron and optical microscopes. Experiments were conducted in a vacuum of one million Pa and in an environment of fifty thousandth Pa of chlorine gas at 25 C. The load was 500 grams and the sliding velocity was 0.5 centimeter per second. The deformed surface layer which accumulates and develops successively is left behind the rider, and step shaped proturbances are developed even after single pass sliding under both environmental conditions. A fully developed surface layer is gradually torn off leaving a characteristic pattern. The mechanism for tearing away of the surface layer from the contact area and sliding track contour is explained assuming the simplified process of material removal based on the adhesion theory for the wear of materials. Previously announced in STAR as N82-32735

Impedance of Barrier-Type Oxide Layer on Aluminum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oh, Han-Jun; Kim, Jung-Gu; Jeong, Yong-Soo; Chi, Choong-Soo

2000-12-01

The impedance characteristics of barrier-type oxide layers on aluminum was studied using impedance spectroscopy. Since anodic films on Al have a variable stoichiometry with a gradual reduction of oxygen deficiency towards the oxide-electrolyte interface, the interpretation of impedance spectra for oxide layers is complex and the impedance of surface layers differs from those of ideal capacitors. This frequency response of the layer with conductance gradients cannot be described by a single resistance-capacitance (RC) element. The oxide layers of Al are properly described by the Young model of dielectric constant with a vertical decay of conductivity.

Heterogeneous nucleation of a semicrystalline polymer on fiber surfaces

Treesearch

Sangyeob Lee; Todd f. Shupe; Leslie h. Groom; Chung Y. Hse

2006-01-01

Nucleation phenomenon as affected by the surface conditions of six identical wood/non-wood fibers with three levels of fiber treatments were investigated by a combination of complementary techniques. This study was based on results of a preliminary study on the influence of surface characteristics of thermomechanical pulp (TMP) fibers on the transcrystalline layer (TLC...

S-layer proteins from Lactobacillus sp. inhibit bacterial infection by blockage of DC-SIGN cell receptor.

PubMed

Prado Acosta, Mariano; Ruzal, Sandra M; Cordo, Sandra M

2016-11-01

Many species of Lactobacillus sp. possess Surface(s) layer proteins in their envelope. Among other important characteristics S-layer from Lactobacillus acidophilus binds to the cellular receptor DC-SIGN (Dendritic Cell-Specific Intercellular adhesion molecule-3-Grabbing Non-integrin; CD209), which is involved in adhesion and infection of several families of bacteria. In this report we investigate the activity of new S-layer proteins from the Lactobacillus family (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus helveticus and Lactobacillus kefiri) over the infection of representative microorganisms important to human health. After the treatment of DC-SIGN expressing cells with these proteins, we were able to diminish bacterial infection by up to 79% in both gram negative and mycobacterial models. We discovered that pre-treatment of the bacteria with S-layers from Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus brevis reduced bacteria viability but also prevent infection by the pathogenic bacteria. We also proved the importance of the glycosylation of the S-layer from Lactobacillus kefiri in the binding to the receptor and thus inhibition of infection. This novel characteristic of the S-layers proteins may contribute to the already reported pathogen exclusion activity for these Lactobacillus probiotic strains; and might be also considered as a novel enzymatic antimicrobial agents to inhibit bacterial infection and entry to host cells. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Thermodynamic and Turbulence Characteristics of the Southern Great Plains Nocturnal Boundary Layer Under Differing Turbulent Regimes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonin, Timothy A.; Blumberg, William G.; Klein, Petra M.; Chilson, Phillip B.

2015-12-01

The nocturnal stable boundary layer (SBL) can generally be classified into the weakly stable boundary layer (wSBL) and very stable boundary layer (vSBL). Within the wSBL, turbulence is relatively continuous, whereas in the vSBL, turbulence is intermittent and not well characterized. Differentiating characteristics of each type of SBL are still unknown. Herein, thermodynamic and kinematic data collected by a suite of instruments in north central Oklahoma in autumn 2012 are analyzed to better understand both SBL regimes and their differentiating characteristics. Many low-level jets were observed during the experiment, as it took place near a climatological maximum. A threshold wind speed, above which bulk shear-generated turbulence develops, is found to exist up to 300 m. The threshold wind speed must also be exceeded at lower heights (down to the surface) in order for strong turbulence to develop. Composite profiles, which are normalized using low-level jet scaling, of potential temperature, wind speed, vertical velocity variance, and the third-order moment of vertical velocity (overline{w'^3}) are produced for weak and moderate/strong turbulence regimes, which exhibit features of the vSBL and wSBL, respectively. Within the wSBL, turbulence is generated at the surface and transported upward. In the vSBL, values of vertical velocity variance are small throughout the entire boundary layer, likely due to the fact that a strong surface inversion typically forms after sunset. The temperature profile tends to be approximately isothermal in the lowest portions of the wSBL, and it did not substantially change over the night. Within both types of SBL, stability in the residual layer tends to increase as the night progresses. It is thought that this stability increase is due to differential warm air advection, which frequently occurs in the southern Great Plains when southerly low-level jets and a typical north-south temperature gradient are present. Differential radiative flux divergence also contributes to this increase in stability.

Differential partition of virulent Aeromonas salmonicida and attenuated derivatives possessing specific cell surface alterations in polymer aqueous-phase systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Van Alstine, J. M.; Trust, T. J.; Brooks, D. E.

1986-01-01

Two-polymer aqueous-phase systems in which partitioning of biological matter between the phases occurs according to surface properties such as hydrophobicity, charge, and lipid composition are used to compare the surface properties of strains of the fish pathogen Aeromonas salmonicida. The differential ability of strains to produce a surface protein array crucial to their virulence, the A layer, and to produce smooth lipopolysaccharide is found to be important in the partitioning behavior of Aeromonas salmonicida. The presence of the A layer is shown to decrease the surface hydrophilicity of the pathogen, and to increase specifically its surface affinity for fatty acid esters of polyethylene glycol. The method has application to the analysis of surface properties crucial to bacterial virulence, and to the selection of strains and mutants with specific surface characteristics.

Mechanically durable, superoleophobic coatings prepared by layer-by-layer technique for anti-smudge and oil-water separation

PubMed Central

Brown, Philip S.; Bhushan, Bharat

2015-01-01

Superoleophobic surfaces are of interest for anti-fouling, self-cleaning, anti-smudge, low-drag, anti-fog, and oil-water separation applications. Current bioinspired surfaces are of limited use due to a lack of mechanical durability. A so-called layer-by-layer approach, involving charged species with electrostatic interactions between layers, can provide the flexibility needed to improve adhesion to the substrate while providing a low surface tension coating at the air interface. In this work, a polyelectrolyte binder, SiO2 nanoparticles, and a fluorosurfactant are spray deposited separately to create a durable, superoleophobic coating. Polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride (PDDA) polyelectrolyte was complexed with a fluorosurfactant layer (FL), which provides oil repellency while being hydrophilic. This oleophobic/superhydrophilic behavior was enhanced through the use of roughening with SiO2 particles resulting in a superoleophobic coating with hexadecane contact angles exceeding 155° and tilt angles of less than 4°. The coating is also superhydrophilic, which is desirable for oil-water separation applications. The durability of these coatings was examined through the use of micro- and macrowear experiments. These coatings currently display characteristics of transparency. Fabrication of these coatings via the layer-by-layer technique results in superoleophobic surfaces displaying improved durability compared to existing work where either the durability or the oil-repellency is compromised. PMID:25731716

Dual-polarization characteristics of the radar ocean return in the presence of rain

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meneghini, R.; Kumagai, H.; Kozu, T.

1992-01-01

Experimental data are presented on the polarimetric and dual-wavelength characteristics of the ocean surface in the presence of rain. To explain a portion of the variability observed in scatter plots under rain conditions, a storm model is used that incorporates measured drop size distributions. The fairly large variability indicates that effects of drop size distribution and the presence of partially melted particles can introduce a significant error in the estimate of attenuation. This effect is especially significant in the case of a 10-GHz radar under high rain rates. A surface reference method at this frequency will tend to overestimate the rain attenuation unless melting layer attenuation is properly taken into account. Observations of the cross-polarization return in stratiform rain over an ocean surface show three distinct components. Two of these correspond to aspherical, nonaligned particles in the melting layer seen in the direct and mirror-image returns. The remaining part depends both on the off-nadir depolarization by the surface and on the rain medium. A possible mechanism for this latter effect is the bistatic scattering from the rain to the surface.

The role of surface vorticity during unsteady separation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melius, Matthew S.; Mulleners, Karen; Cal, Raúl Bayoán

2018-04-01

Unsteady flow separation in rotationally augmented flow fields plays a significant role in a variety of fundamental flows. Through the use of time-resolved particle image velocimetry, vorticity accumulation and vortex shedding during unsteady separation over a three-dimensional airfoil are examined. The results of the study describe the critical role of surface vorticity accumulation during unsteady separation and reattachment. Through evaluation of the unsteady characteristics of the shear layer, it is demonstrated that the buildup and shedding of surface vorticity directly influence the dynamic changes of the separation point location. The quantitative characterization of surface vorticity and shear layer stability enables improved aerodynamic designs and has a broad impact within the field of unsteady fluid dynamics.

Plastic deformation at surface during unlubricated sliding

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yamamoto, T.; Buckley, D. H.

1982-01-01

The plastic deformation and wear of 304 stainless-steel surface slid against an aluminum oxide rider were observed by using a scanning electron microscope and an optical microscope. Experiments were conducted in a vacuum of 0.000001 Pa and in an environment of 0.0005 Pa chlorine gas at 25 C. The load was 500 grams and the sliding velocity was 0.5 centimeter per second. The deformed surface layer which accumulates and develops successively is left behind the rider, and step-shaped protuberances are developed even after single pass sliding under both environmental conditions. A fully developed surface layer is gradually torn off leaving a characteristic pattern. These observations result from both adhesion and an adhesive wear mechanism.

Oxygen-implanted induced formation of oxide layer enhances blood compatibility on titanium for biomedical applications.

PubMed

Hung, Wei-Chiang; Chang, Fang-Mo; Yang, Tzu-Sen; Ou, Keng-Liang; Lin, Che-Tong; Peng, Pei-Wen

2016-11-01

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) layers were prepared on a Ti substrate by using oxygen plasma immersion ion implantation (oxygen PIII). The surface chemical states, structure, and morphology of the layers were studied using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman microscopy, atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscope. The mechanical properties, such as the Young's modulus and hardness, of the layers were investigated using nanoindentation testing. The Ti(4+) chemical state was determined to be present on oxygen-PIII-treated surfaces, which consisted of nanocrystalline TiO2 with a rutile structure. Compared with Ti substrates, the oxygen-PIII-treated surfaces exhibited decreased Young's moduli and hardness. Parameters indicating the blood compatibility of the oxygen-PIII-treated surfaces, including the clotting time and platelet adhesion and activation, were studied in vitro. Clotting time assays indicated that the clotting time of oxygen-PIII-treated surfaces was longer than that of the Ti substrate, which was associated with decreased fibrinogen adsorption. In conclusion, the surface characteristics and the blood compatibility of Ti implants can be modified and improved using oxygen PIII. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A comparative study of the influence of nickel oxide layer on the FTO surface of organic light emitting diode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saikia, Dhrubajyoti; Sarma, Ranjit

2018-03-01

The influence of thin layer of nickel oxide (NiO) over the fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) surface on the performance of Organic light-emitting diode (OLED) is reported. With an optimal thickness of NiO (10 nm), the luminance efficiency is found to be increased as compared to the single FTO OLED. The performance of OLED is studied by depositing NiO films at different thicknesses on the FTO surface and analyzed their J-V and L-V characteristics. Further analysis is carried out by measuring sheet resistance and optical transmittance. The surface morphology is studied with the help of FE-SEM images. Our results indicate that NiO (10 nm) buffer layer is an excellent choice to increase the efficiency of FTO based OLED devices within the charge tunneling region. The maximum value of current efficiency is found to be 7.32 Cd/A.

Diffusion and surface alloying of gradient nanostructured metals

PubMed Central

Lu, Ke

2017-01-01

Gradient nanostructures (GNSs) have been optimized in recent years for desired performance. The diffusion behavior in GNS metals is crucial for understanding the diffusion mechanism and relative characteristics of different interfaces that provide fundamental understanding for advancing the traditional surface alloying processes. In this paper, atomic diffusion, reactive diffusion, and surface alloying processes are reviewed for various metals with a preformed GNS surface layer. We emphasize the promoted atomic diffusion and reactive diffusion in the GNS surface layer that are related to a higher interfacial energy state with respect to those in relaxed coarse-grained samples. Accordingly, different surface alloying processes, such as nitriding and chromizing, have been modified significantly, and some diffusion-related properties have been enhanced. Finally, the perspectives on current research in this field are discussed. PMID:28382244

The influence of spray-drying parameters on phase behavior, drug distribution, and in vitro release of injectable microspheres for sustained release.

PubMed

Meeus, Joke; Lenaerts, Maité; Scurr, David J; Amssoms, Katie; Davies, Martyn C; Roberts, Clive J; Van Den Mooter, Guy

2015-04-01

For ternary solid dispersions, it is indispensable to characterize their structure, phase behavior, and the spatial distribution of the dispersed drug as this might influence the release profile and/or stability of these formulations. This study shows how formulation (feed concentration) and process (feed rate, inlet air temperature, and atomizing air pressure) parameters can influence the characteristics of ternary spray-dried solid dispersions. The microspheres considered here consist of a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) surface layer and an underlying polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) phase. A poorly soluble active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) was molecularly dispersed in this matrix. Differences were observed in component miscibility, phase heterogeneity, particle size, morphology, as well as API surface coverage for selected spray-drying parameters. Observed differences are likely because of changes in the droplet generation, evaporation, and thus particle formation processes. However, varying particle characteristics did not influence the drug release of the formulations studied, indicating the robustness of this approach to produce particles of consistent drug release characteristics. This is likely because of the fact that the release is dominated by diffusion from the PVP layer through pores in the PLGA surface layer and that observed differences in the latter have no influence on the release. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.

Highly air stable passivation of graphene based field effect devices.

PubMed

Sagade, Abhay A; Neumaier, Daniel; Schall, Daniel; Otto, Martin; Pesquera, Amaia; Centeno, Alba; Elorza, Amaia Zurutuza; Kurz, Heinrich

2015-02-28

The sensitivity of graphene based devices to surface adsorbates and charge traps at the graphene/dielectric interface requires proper device passivation in order to operate them reproducibly under ambient conditions. Here we report on the use of atomic layer deposited aluminum oxide as passivation layer on graphene field effect devices (GFETs). We show that successful passivation produce hysteresis free DC characteristics, low doping level GFETs stable over weeks though operated and stored in ambient atmosphere. This is achieved by selecting proper seed layer prior to deposition of encapsulation layer. The passivated devices are also demonstrated to be robust towards the exposure to chemicals and heat treatments, typically used during device fabrication. Additionally, the passivation of high stability and reproducible characteristics is also shown for functional devices like integrated graphene based inverters.

Investigations into the structure of PEO-layers for understanding of layer formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Friedemann, A. E. R.; Thiel, K.; Haßlinger, U.; Ritter, M.; Gesing, Th. M.; Plagemann, P.

2018-06-01

Plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) is a type of high-voltage anodic oxidation process capable of producing a thick oxide layer with a wide variety of structural and chemical properties influenced by the electrolytic system. This process enables the combined adjustment of various characteristics, i.e. the morphology and chemical composition. The procedure facilitates the possibility of generating an individual structure as well as forming a crystalline surface in a single step. A highly porous surface with a high crystalline content consisting of titanium dioxide phases is ensured through the process of plasma electrolytic oxidizing pure titanium. In the present study plasma electrolytic oxidized TiO2-layers were investigated regarding their crystallinity through the layer thickness. The layers were prepared with a high applied voltage of 280 V to obtain a PEO-layer with highly crystalline anatase and rutile amounts. Raman spectroscopy and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) were selected to clarify the structure of the oxide layer with regard to its crystallinity and phase composition. The composition of the TiO2-phases is more or less irregularly distributed as a result of the higher energy input on the uppermost side of the layer. Scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) provided a deeper understanding of the structure and the effects of plasma discharges on the layer. It was observed that the plasma discharges have a strong influence on crystallite formation on top of the oxide layer and also at the boundary layer to the titanium substrate. Therefore, small crystallites of TiO2 could be detected in these regions. In addition, it was shown that amorphous TiO2 phases are formed around the characteristic pore structures, which allows the conclusion to be drawn that a rapid cooling from the gas phase had to take place in these areas.

Boundary-Layer Characteristics Over a Coastal Megacity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melecio-Vazquez, D.; Ramamurthy, P.; Arend, M.; Moshary, F.; Gonzalez, J.

2017-12-01

Boundary-layer characteristics over New York City are analyzed for various local and synoptic conditions over several seasons. An array of vertical profilers, including a Doppler LiDAR, a micro-pulse LiDAR and a microwave radiometer are used to observe the structure and evolution of the boundary-layer. Additionally, an urbanized Weather Research and Forecasting (uWRF) model coupled to a high resolution landcover/land-use database is used to study the spatial variability in boundary layer characteristics. The summer daytime averaged potential temperature profile from the microwave radiometer shows the presence of a thermal internal boundary layer wherein a superadiabatic layer lies underneath a stable layer instead of a mixed-layer. Both the winter daytime and nighttime seasonal averages show that the atmosphere remains unstable near the surface and does not reach stable conditions during the nighttime. The mixing ratio seasonal averages show peaks in humidity near 200-m and 1100-m, above instrument level, which could result from sea breeze and anthropogenic sources. Ceilometer measurements show a high degree of variability in boundary layer height depending on wind direction. Comparison with uWRF results show that the model tends to overestimate convective efficiency for selected summer and winter cases and therefore shows a much deeper thermal boundary layer than the observed profiles. The model estimates a less humid atmosphere than seen in observations.

Conductive, magnetic and structural properties of multilayer films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kotov, L. N.; Turkov, V. K.; Vlasov, V. S.; Lasek, M. P.; Kalinin, Yu E.; Sitnikov, A. V.

2013-12-01

Composite-semiconductor and composite-dielectric multilayer films were obtained by the ion beam sputtering method in the argon and hydrogen atmospheres with compositions: {[(Co45-Fe45-Zr10)x(Al2O3)y]-[α-Si]}120, {[(Co45-Ta45-Nb10)x(SiO2)y]-[SiO2]}56, {[(Co45-Fe45-Zr10)x(Al2O3)y]-[α-Si:H]}120. The images of surface relief and distribution of the dc current on composite layer surface were obtained with using of atomic force microscopy (AFM). The dependencies of specific electric resistance, ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) fields and width of line on metal (magnetic) phase concentration x and nanolayers thickness of multilayer films were obtained. The characteristics of FMR depend on magnetic interaction among magnetic granules in the composite layers and between the layers. These characteristics depend on the thickness of composite and dielectric or semiconductor nanolayers. The dependences of electric microwave losses on the x and alternating field frequency were investigated.

Martian Buried Basins and Implications for Characteristics of the Burial Layer and Underlying Surface

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sarid, A. R.; Frey, H. V.; Roark, J. H.

2003-01-01

Deciphering the cratering record on Mars has been challenging because it may reflect the changes in both the population of impactors and in the resurfacing processes on Mars. However, it is possible to determine the breadth of impactors captured in the cratering record. Extensive areas of resurfacing are of particular interest because they likely contain material from various ages in Martian history. By deducing the impact populations in both surface and underlying layers of terrain, it is possible to determine the age of the layers and constrain theories on the development of the Martian surface. However, to do so requires a method of seeing impact features which are no longer visible. Topographic data of Mars, taken by the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA), has revealed impact features buried by resurfacing processes. These features are often indistinguishable on Viking images of the Martian surface. In this study, gridded MOLA data was analyzed in order to locate buried impact features, also called buried basins, in Syria, Solis, and Sinai Planum just south of Valles Marineris. The population statistics of buried features can be compared to those of visible features in order to determine the age of the underlying material and characteristics of the surface cover. Specifically, if the buried population in the Hesperian terrain is similar to the population of visible features in the Noachian, it would suggest that the underlying terrain is Noachian in age. The buried craters can then be compared to visible Noachian craters to reveal the amount of deterioration of the buried features. These comparisons allow us to explore the morphology of the terrain in the Hesperian region to determine if topographic variations are due to differences in the thickness of the overlying material or are a characteristic of the underlying terrain.

Hierarchy of adhesion forces in patterns of photoreactive surface layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hlawacek, Gregor; Shen, Quan; Teichert, Christian; Lex, Alexandra; Trimmel, Gregor; Kern, Wolfgang

2009-01-01

Precise control of surface properties including electrical characteristics, wettability, and friction is a prerequisite for manufacturing modern organic electronic devices. The successful combination of bottom up approaches for aligning and orienting the molecules and top down techniques to structure the substrate on the nano- and micrometer scale allows the cost efficient fabrication and integration of future organic light emitting diodes and organic thin film transistors. One possibility for the top down patterning of a surface is to utilize different surface free energies or wetting properties of a functional group. Here, we used friction force microscopy (FFM) to reveal chemical patterns inscribed by a photolithographic process into a photosensitive surface layer. FFM allowed the simultaneous visualization of at least three different chemical surface terminations. The underlying mechanism is related to changes in the chemical interaction between probe and film surface.

In situ fabrication of silver nanoparticle-filled hydrogen titanate nanotube layer on metallic titanium surface for bacteriostatic and biocompatible implantation

PubMed Central

Wang, Zheng; Sun, Yan; Wang, Dongzhou; Liu, Hong; Boughton, Robert I

2013-01-01

A silver nanoparticle (AgNP)-filled hydrogen titanate nanotube layer was synthesized in situ on a metallic titanium substrate. In the synthesis approach, a layer of sodium titanate nanotubes is first prepared on the titanium surface by using a hydrothermal method. Silver nitrate solution is absorbed into the nanotube channels by immersing a dried nanotube layer in silver nitrate solution. Finally, silver ions are reduced by glucose, leading to the in situ growth of AgNPs in the hydrogen titanate nanotube channels. Long-term silver release and bactericidal experiments demonstrated that the effective silver release and effective antibacterial period of the titanium foil with a AgNP-filled hydrogen titanate nanotube layer on the surface can extend to more than 15 days. This steady and prolonged release characteristic is helpful to promote a long-lasting antibacterial capability for the prevention of severe infection after surgery. A series of antimicrobial and biocompatible tests have shown that the sandwich nanostructure with a low level of silver loading exhibits a bacteriostatic rate as high as 99.99%, while retaining low toxicity for cells and possessing high osteogenic potential. Titanium foil with a AgNP-filled hydrogen titanate nanotube layer on the surface that is fabricated with low-cost surface modification methods is a promising implantable material that will find applications in artificial bones, joints, and dental implants. PMID:23966780

Laser Brazing Characteristics of Al to Brass with Zn-Based Filler

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Caiwang; Liu, Fuyun; Sun, Yiming; Chen, Bo; Song, Xiaoguo; Li, Liqun; Zhao, Hongyun; Feng, Jicai

2018-05-01

Laser brazing of Al to brass in lap configuration with Zn-based filler was performed in this work. The process parameters including laser power, defocused distance were found to have a significant influence on appearance, microstructure and mechanical properties. The process parameters were optimized to be laser power of 2700 W and defocusing distance of + 40 mm from brass surface. In addition, preheating exerted great influence on wetting and spreading ability of Zn filler on brass surface. The microstructure observation showed the thickness of reaction layer (CuZn phase) at the interface of the brass side would grow with the increase in laser power and the decrease in the laser defocusing distance. Moreover, preheating could increase the spreading area of the filler metal and induced the growth of the reaction layer. The highest tensile-shear load of the joint could reach 2100 N, which was 80% of that of Al alloy base metal. All the joints fractured along the CuZn reaction layer and brass interface. The fracture morphology displayed the characteristics of the cleavage fracture when without preheating before welding, while it displayed the characteristics of the quasi-cleavage fracture with preheating before welding.

Determination of secondary electron emission characteristics of lunar soil samples

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gold, T.; Baron, R. L.; Bilson, E.

1979-01-01

A procedure is described for the determination of the 'apparent crossover voltage', i.e. the value of the primary (bombarding) electron energy at which an insulating sample surface changes the average sign of its charge. This apparent crossover point is characteristic of the secondary emission properties of insulating powders such as the lunar soil samples. Lunar core samples from well-defined, distinct soil layers are found to differ significantly in their secondary emission properties. This observation supports the suggestion that soil layers were deposited by an electrostatic transport process.

Surface Microwave and Surface Transversal Pulsed-Periodic Discharges in Supersonic Flow

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-03-01

plasmas of different types of gas discharges near the surface of Aerodynamic models and in the boundary layers. Also, the contractor will develop modes...regions near the surface. The following experimental work will be done in supersonic air flow (Mɚ) at pressures between 1 and 200 Torr: a...198 CHAPTER IX NUMERICAL CALCULATION OF CHARACTERISTICS OF SUPERSONIC FLOW NEAR A FLAT PLATE WITH MICROWAVE DISCHARGE ON ITS SURFACE

Sensitivity of high-frequency Rayleigh-wave data revisited

USGS Publications Warehouse

Xia, J.; Miller, R.D.; Ivanov, J.

2007-01-01

Rayleigh-wave phase velocity of a layered earth model is a function of frequency and four groups of earth properties: P-wave velocity, S-wave velocity (Vs), density, and thickness of layers. Analysis of the Jacobian matrix (or the difference method) provides a measure of dispersion curve sensitivity to earth properties. Vs is the dominant influence for the fundamental mode (Xia et al., 1999) and higher modes (Xia et al., 2003) of dispersion curves in a high frequency range (>2 Hz) followed by layer thickness. These characteristics are the foundation of determining S-wave velocities by inversion of Rayleigh-wave data. More applications of surface-wave techniques show an anomalous velocity layer such as a high-velocity layer (HVL) or a low-velocity layer (LVL) commonly exists in near-surface materials. Spatial location (depth) of an anomalous layer is usually the most important information that surface-wave techniques are asked to provide. Understanding and correctly defining the sensitivity of high-frequency Rayleigh-wave data due to depth of an anomalous velocity layer are crucial in applying surface-wave techniques to obtain a Vs profile and/or determine the depth of an anomalous layer. Because depth is not a direct earth property of a layered model, changes in depth will result in changes in other properties. Modeling results show that sensitivity at a given depth calculated by the difference method is dependent on the Vs difference (contrast) between an anomalous layer and surrounding layers. The larger the contrast is, the higher the sensitivity due to depth of the layer. Therefore, the Vs contrast is a dominant contributor to sensitivity of Rayleigh-wave data due to depth of an anomalous layer. Modeling results also suggest that the most sensitive depth for an HVL is at about the middle of the depth to the half-space, but for an LVL it is near the ground surface. ?? 2007 Society of Exploration Geophysicists.

Wind Characteristics of Coastal and Inland Surface Flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Subramanian, Chelakara; Lazarus, Steven; Jin, Tetsuya

2015-11-01

Lidar measurements of the winds in the surface layer (up to 80 m) inland and near the beach are studied to better characterize the velocity profile and the effect of roughness. Mean and root-mean-squared profiles of horizontal and vertical wind components are analyzed. The effects of variable time (18, 60 and 600 seconds) averaging on the above profiles are discussed. The validity of common surface layer wind profile models to estimate skin friction drag is assessed in light of these measurements. Other turbulence statistics such as auto- and cross- correlations in spatial and temporal domains are also presented. The help of FIT DMES field measurement crew is acknowledged.

Canopy-wake dynamics: the failure of the constant flux layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stefan, H. G.; Markfort, C. D.; Porte-Agel, F.

2013-12-01

The atmospheric boundary layer adjustment at the abrupt transition from a canopy (forest) to a flat surface (land or water) was investigated in a wind tunnel experiment. Detailed measurements examining the effect of canopy turbulence on flow separation, reduced surface shear stress and wake recovery are compared to data for the classical case of a solid backward-facing step. Results provide new insights into the data interpretation for flux estimation by eddy-covariance and flux gradient methods and for the assessment of surface boundary conditions in turbulence models of the atmospheric boundary layer in complex landscapes and over water bodies affected by canopy wakes. The wind tunnel results indicate that the wake of a forest canopy strongly affects surface momentum flux within a distance of 35 - 100 times the step or canopy height, and mean turbulence quantities require distances of at least 100 times the canopy height to adjust to the new surface. The near-surface mixing length in the wake exhibits characteristic length scales of canopy flows at the canopy edge, of the flow separation in the near wake and adjusts to surface layer scaling in the far wake. Components of the momentum budget are examined individually to determine the impact of the wake. The results demonstrate why a constant flux layer does not form until far downwind in the wake. An empirical model for surface shear stress distribution from a forest to a clearing or lake is proposed.

A method for determining average damage depth of sawn crystalline silicon wafers

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

Sopori, B.; Devayajanam, S.; Basnyat, P.

2016-04-01

The depth of surface damage (or simply, damage) in crystalline silicon wafers, caused by wire sawing of ingots, is determined by performing a series of minority carrier lifetime (MCLT) measurements. Samples are sequentially etched to remove thin layers from each surface and MCLT is measured after each etch step. The thickness-removed (..delta..t) at which the lifetime reaches a peak value corresponds to the damage depth. This technique also allows the damage to be quantified in terms of effective surface recombination velocity (Seff). To accomplish this, the MCLT data are converted into an Seff vs ..delta..t plot, which represents a quantitativemore » distribution of the degree of damage within the surface layer. We describe a wafer preparation procedure to attain reproducible etching and MCLT measurement results. We also describe important characteristics of an etchant used for controllably removing thin layers from the wafer surfaces. Some typical results showing changes in the MCLT vs ..delta..t plots for different cutting parameters are given.« less

Characteristics of secondary flows in rough-wall turbulent boundary layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vanderwel, Christina; Ganapathisubramani, Bharathram

2015-11-01

Large-scale secondary motions consisting of counter-rotating vortices and low- and high-momentum pathways can form in boundary layers that develop over rough surfaces. We experimentally investigated the sensitivity of these secondary motions to spanwise arrangement of the roughness by studying the flow over streamwise-aligned rows of elevated roughness with systematically-varied spacing. The roughness is created with LEGO blocks mounted along the floor of the wind tunnel and Stereo-PIV is used to measure the velocity field in a cross-plane. Results show that the secondary flows are strongest when the spanwise spacing of the surface topology is comparable with the boundary layer thickness. We discuss how these results are relevant to flows over arbitrary topologies and how these secondary motions influence the Reynolds stress distribution in the boundary layer.

Mantle updrafts and mechanisms of oceanic volcanism.

PubMed

Anderson, Don L; Natland, James H

2014-10-14

Convection in an isolated planet is characterized by narrow downwellings and broad updrafts--consequences of Archimedes' principle, the cooling required by the second law of thermodynamics, and the effect of compression on material properties. A mature cooling planet with a conductive low-viscosity core develops a thick insulating surface boundary layer with a thermal maximum, a subadiabatic interior, and a cooling highly conductive but thin boundary layer above the core. Parts of the surface layer sink into the interior, displacing older, colder material, which is entrained by spreading ridges. Magma characteristics of intraplate volcanoes are derived from within the upper boundary layer. Upper mantle features revealed by seismic tomography and that are apparently related to surface volcanoes are intrinsically broad and are not due to unresolved narrow jets. Their morphology, aspect ratio, inferred ascent rate, and temperature show that they are passively responding to downward fluxes, as appropriate for a cooling planet that is losing more heat through its surface than is being provided from its core or from radioactive heating. Response to doward flux is the inverse of the heat-pipe/mantle-plume mode of planetary cooling. Shear-driven melt extraction from the surface boundary layer explains volcanic provinces such as Yellowstone, Hawaii, and Samoa. Passive upwellings from deeper in the upper mantle feed ridges and near-ridge hotspots, and others interact with the sheared and metasomatized surface layer. Normal plate tectonic processes are responsible both for plate boundary and intraplate swells and volcanism.

Mantle updrafts and mechanisms of oceanic volcanism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anderson, Don L.; Natland, James H.

2014-10-01

Convection in an isolated planet is characterized by narrow downwellings and broad updrafts-consequences of Archimedes' principle, the cooling required by the second law of thermodynamics, and the effect of compression on material properties. A mature cooling planet with a conductive low-viscosity core develops a thick insulating surface boundary layer with a thermal maximum, a subadiabatic interior, and a cooling highly conductive but thin boundary layer above the core. Parts of the surface layer sink into the interior, displacing older, colder material, which is entrained by spreading ridges. Magma characteristics of intraplate volcanoes are derived from within the upper boundary layer. Upper mantle features revealed by seismic tomography and that are apparently related to surface volcanoes are intrinsically broad and are not due to unresolved narrow jets. Their morphology, aspect ratio, inferred ascent rate, and temperature show that they are passively responding to downward fluxes, as appropriate for a cooling planet that is losing more heat through its surface than is being provided from its core or from radioactive heating. Response to doward flux is the inverse of the heat-pipe/mantle-plume mode of planetary cooling. Shear-driven melt extraction from the surface boundary layer explains volcanic provinces such as Yellowstone, Hawaii, and Samoa. Passive upwellings from deeper in the upper mantle feed ridges and near-ridge hotspots, and others interact with the sheared and metasomatized surface layer. Normal plate tectonic processes are responsible both for plate boundary and intraplate swells and volcanism.

Mantle updrafts and mechanisms of oceanic volcanism

PubMed Central

Anderson, Don L.; Natland, James H.

2014-01-01

Convection in an isolated planet is characterized by narrow downwellings and broad updrafts—consequences of Archimedes’ principle, the cooling required by the second law of thermodynamics, and the effect of compression on material properties. A mature cooling planet with a conductive low-viscosity core develops a thick insulating surface boundary layer with a thermal maximum, a subadiabatic interior, and a cooling highly conductive but thin boundary layer above the core. Parts of the surface layer sink into the interior, displacing older, colder material, which is entrained by spreading ridges. Magma characteristics of intraplate volcanoes are derived from within the upper boundary layer. Upper mantle features revealed by seismic tomography and that are apparently related to surface volcanoes are intrinsically broad and are not due to unresolved narrow jets. Their morphology, aspect ratio, inferred ascent rate, and temperature show that they are passively responding to downward fluxes, as appropriate for a cooling planet that is losing more heat through its surface than is being provided from its core or from radioactive heating. Response to doward flux is the inverse of the heat-pipe/mantle-plume mode of planetary cooling. Shear-driven melt extraction from the surface boundary layer explains volcanic provinces such as Yellowstone, Hawaii, and Samoa. Passive upwellings from deeper in the upper mantle feed ridges and near-ridge hotspots, and others interact with the sheared and metasomatized surface layer. Normal plate tectonic processes are responsible both for plate boundary and intraplate swells and volcanism. PMID:25201992

Wind-tunnel experiments of turbulent flow over a surface-mounted 2-D block in a thermally-stratified boundary layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Wei; Markfort, Corey; Porté-Agel, Fernando

2014-11-01

Turbulent flows over complex surface topography have been of great interest in the atmospheric science and wind engineering communities. The geometry of the topography, surface roughness and temperature characteristics as well as the atmospheric thermal stability play important roles in determining momentum and scalar flux distribution. Studies of turbulent flow over simplified topography models, under neutrally stratified boundary-layer conditions, have provided insights into fluid dynamics. However, atmospheric thermal stability has rarely been considered in laboratory experiments, e.g., wind-tunnel experiments. Series of wind-tunnel experiments of thermally-stratified boundary-layer flow over a surface-mounted 2-D block, in a well-controlled boundary-layer wind tunnel, will be presented. Measurements using high-resolution PIV, x-wire/cold-wire anemometry and surface heat flux sensors were conducted to quantify the turbulent flow properties, including the size of the recirculation zone, coherent vortex structures and the subsequent boundary layer recovery. Results will be shown to address thermal stability effects on momentum and scalar flux distribution in the wake, as well as dominant mechanism of turbulent kinetic energy generation and consumption. The authors gratefully acknowledge funding from the Swiss National Foundation (Grant 200021-132122), the National Science Foundation (Grant ATM-0854766) and NASA (Grant NNG06GE256).

Modification of the sample's surface of hypereutectic silumin by pulsed electron beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rygina, M. E.; Ivanov, Yu F.; Lasconev, A. P.; Teresov, A. D.; Cherenda, N. N.; Uglov, V. V.; Petricova, E. A.; Astashinskay, M. V.

2016-04-01

The article presents the results of the analysis of the elemental and phase composition, defect substructures. It demonstrates strength and tribological characteristics of the aluminium-silicon alloy of the hypereutectic composition in the cast state and after irradiation with a high-intensity pulsed electron beam of a submillisecond exposure duration (a Solo installation, Institute of High Current Electrons of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences). The research has been conducted using optical and scanning electron microscopy, and the X-ray phase analysis. Mechanical properties have been characterized by microhardness, tribological properties - by wear resistance and the friction coefficient value. Irradiation of silumin with the high-intensity pulsed electron beam has led to the modification of the surface layer up to 1000 microns thick. The surface layer with the thickness of up to 100 microns is characterized by melting of all phases present in the alloy; subsequent highspeed crystallization leads to the formation of a submicro- and nanocrystalline structure in this layer. The hardness of the modified layer decreases with the increasing distance from the surface exposure. The hardness of the surface layer is more than twice the hardness of cast silumin. Durability of silumin treated with a high intensity electron beam is ≈ 1, 2 times as much as the wear resistance of the cast material.

Chembio extraction on a chip by nanoliter droplet ejection.

PubMed

Yu, Hongyu; Kwon, Jae Wan; Kim, Eun Sok

2005-03-01

This paper describes a novel liquid separation technique for chembio extraction by an ultrasonic nanoliter-liquid-droplet ejector built on a PZT sheet. This technique extracts material from an aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) in a precise amount through digital control of the number of nanoliter droplets, without any mixing between the two liquids in the ATPS. The ultrasonic droplet ejector uses an acoustic streaming effect produced by an acoustic beam focused on the liquid surface, and ejects liquid droplets only from the liquid surface without disturbing most of the liquid below the surface. This unique characteristic of the focused acoustic beam is perfect (1) for separating a top-layer liquid (from the bulk of liquid) that contains particles of interest or (2) for recovering a top-layer liquid that has different phase from a bottom-layer liquid. Three kinds of liquid extraction are demonstrated with the ultrasonic droplet ejector: (1) 16 microl of top layer in Dextran-polyethylene glycol-water ATPS (aqueous two-phase system) is recovered within 20 s; (2) micron sized particles that float on water surface are ejected out with water droplets; and (3) oil layer on top of water is separated out.

Novel procedure to enhance PLA surface properties by chitosan irreversible immobilization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stoleru, Elena; Dumitriu, Raluca Petronela; Munteanu, Bogdanel Silvestru; Zaharescu, Traian; Tănase, Elisabeta Elena; Mitelut, Amalia; Ailiesei, Gabriela-Liliana; Vasile, Cornelia

2016-03-01

A novel two step procedure was applied for poly(lactic acid) (PLA) functionalization consisting in the exposure to cold radiofrequency plasma in nitrogen atmosphere or to gamma irradiation followed by ;grafting to; of a chitosan layer using carbodiimide chemistry. The adhesion and stability of the deposited surface layer was assured by plasma/gamma irradiation treatment while the chitosan layer offers antifungal/antibacterial/antioxidant activities. Chitosan with different viscosities/deacetylation degree was deposited by electrospinning or immersion methods. Correlations between rheological behavior of chitosan solutions and chitosan layer deposition conditions are made. The PLA surface properties were investigated by water contact angle measurements, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, AFM, chemiluminiscence, etc. It has been established that the surface roughness increases direct proportional with cold plasma duration and gamma irradiation dose and further increases by chitosan coating which at its turn depends on chitosan characteristics (viscosity and deacetylation degree) and method of deposition. Nano-fibers with relatively homogeneous and reproducible features are obtained by electrospinning of highly viscous chitosan while with the other two types of chitosan both microparticles and nano-fibers are formed. The chitosan coating obtained by immersion is more homogenous and compact and has a better antibacterial activity than the electrospun layer as fiber meshes.

Investigation on surface layer characteristics of shot peened graphene reinforced Al composite by X-ray diffraction method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhan, Ke; Wu, Yihao; Li, Jiongli; Zhao, Bin; Yan, Ya; Xie, Lechun; Wang, Lianbo; Ji, V.

2018-03-01

Graphene reinforced Al composite with high mechanical property was successfully reported. However, there are quite limited studies about shot peening effect on this new type material. Here, 1.0 wt% graphene reinforced Al composite was produced by powder metallurgy and treated by shot peening. The surface layer characteristics of shot peened composite was investigated by X-ray diffraction line profile analysis. The microstructure including domain size, micro-strain, dislocation density and crystalline texture were analyzed. The results showed that after surface shot-peening, the domain size were refined, the dislocation density of the composite was increased sharply to 9.0 × 1011/cm2 at the top surface. The original strong texture was diminished after shot peening. Based on the calculated results, the microstructure variation of composite was more severe than that of Al without graphene reinforcement after shot peening. Besides, the micro-hardness of composite at the top surface increased up to 75HV one time higher than that of matrix. It is concluded that shot peening can be considered as an essential process of improving the surface properties of graphene reinforced Al composite.

Harnessing of radio frequency discharge for production of biologically compatible coatings for ophthalmology

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

Abdullin, I.Sh.; Bragin, V.E.; Bykanov, A.N.

Gas discharge plasma modification of polymer materials and metals is one of the known physical approaches for improving of materials biocompatibility in ophthalmology and surgery. The surface treatment in RF discharges can be effectively realized in the discharge afterglow and in the discharge region itself too. This modification method is more convenient and produces more uniform surfaces in comparison with other discharge types. The carried out experiments and published up to now results show that interaction of UV radiation, fluxes of ions, electrons and metastable particles with material`s surface changes chemical composition and surface structure. The exerting of these agentsmore » on the sample surface produces the following effects. There are processes of physical and plasma-chemical surface etching producing effective surface cleaning of different types of contaminations. It may be surface contaminations by hydrocarbons because of preliminary surface contacts with biological or physical bodies. It may be surface contaminations caused by characteristic properties of chemical technology too. There is a surface layer with thickness from some angstroms up to few hundreds of angstroms. The chemical content and structure of this layer is distinguished from the bulk polymer properties. The presence of such {open_quotes}technological{close_quotes} contaminations produces the layer of material substantially differing from the base polymer. The basic layer physical and chemical properties for example, gas permeation rate may substantially differ from the base polymer. Attempts to clean the surface from these contaminations by chemical methods (solutions) have not been successful and produced contaminations of more deep polymer layers. So the plasma cleaning is the most profitable method of polymer treatment for removing the surface contaminations. The improving of wettability occurs during this stage of treatment.« less

Surface plasmons and Bloch surface waves: Towards optimized ultra-sensitive optical sensors

DOE PAGES

Lereu, Aude L.; Zerrad, M.; Passian, Ali; ...

2017-07-07

In photonics, the field concentration and enhancement have been major objectives for achieving size reduction and device integration. Plasmonics offers resonant field confinement and enhancement, but ultra-sharp optical resonances in all-dielectric multi-layer thin films are emerging as a powerful contestant. Thus, applications capitalizing upon stronger and sharper optical resonances and larger field enhancements could be faced with a choice for the superior platform. Here in this paper, we present a comparison between plasmonic and dielectric multi-layer thin films for their resonance merits. We show that the remarkable characteristics of the resonance behavior of optimized dielectric multi-layers can outweigh those ofmore » their metallic counterpart.« less

Material optimization of multi-layered enhanced nanostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Strobbia, Pietro

The employment of surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)-based sensing in real-world scenarios will offer numerous advantages over current optical sensors. Examples of these advantages are the intrinsic and simultaneous detection of multiple analytes, among many others. To achieve such a goal, SERS substrates with throughput and reproducibility comparable to commonly used fluorescence sensors have to be developed. To this end, our lab has discovered a multi-layer geometry, based on alternating films of a metal and a dielectric, that amplifies the SERS signal (multi-layer enhancement). The advantage of these multi-layered structures is to amplify the SERS signal exploiting layer-to-layer interactions in the volume of the structures, rather than on its surface. This strategy permits an amplification of the signal without modifying the surface characteristics of a substrate, and therefore conserving its reproducibility. Multi-layered structures can therefore be used to amplify the sensitivity and throughput of potentially any previously developed SERS sensor. In this thesis, these multi-layered structures were optimized and applied to different SERS substrates. The role of the dielectric spacer layer in the multi-layer enhancement was elucidated by fabricating spacers with different characteristics and studying their effect on the overall enhancement. Thickness, surface coverage and physical properties of the spacer were studied. Additionally, the multi-layered structures were applied to commercial SERS substrates and to isolated SERS probes. Studies on the dependence of the multi-layer enhancement on the thickness of the spacer demonstrated that the enhancement increases as a function of surface coverage at sub-monolayer thicknesses, due to the increasing multi-layer nature of the substrates. For fully coalescent spacers the enhancement decreases as a function of thickness, due to the loss of interaction between proximal metallic films. The influence of the physical properties of the spacer on the multi-layer enhancement were also studied. The trends in Schottky barrier height, interfacial potential and dielectric constant were isolated by using different materials as spacers (i.e., TiO2, HfO2, Ag 2O and Al2O3). The results show that the bulk dielectric constant of the material can be used to predict the relative magnitude of the multi-layer enhancement, with low dielectric constant materials performing more efficiently as spacers. Optimal spacer layers were found to be ultrathin coalescent films (ideally a monolayer) of low dielectric constant materials. Finally, multi-layered structures were observed to be employable to amplify SERS in drastically different substrate geometries. The multi-layered structures were applied to disposable commercial SERS substrates (i.e., Klarite). This project involved the regeneration of the used substrates, by stripping and redepositing the gold coating layer, and their amplification, by using the multi-layer geometry. The latter was observed to amplify the sensitivity of the substrates. Additionally, the multi-layered structures were applied to probes dispersed in solution. Such probes were observed to yield stronger SERS signal when optically trapped and to reduce the background signal. The application of the multi-layered structures on trapped probes, not only further amplified the SERS signal, but also increased the maximum number of applicable layers for the structures.

[Correlation of substrate structure and hydraulic characteristics in subsurface flow constructed wetlands].

PubMed

Bai, Shao-Yuan; Song, Zhi-Xin; Ding, Yan-Li; You, Shao-Hong; He, Shan

2014-02-01

The correlation of substrate structure and hydraulic characteristics was studied by numerical simulation combined with experimental method. The numerical simulation results showed that the permeability coefficient of matrix had a great influence on hydraulic efficiency in subsurface flow constructed wetlands. The filler with a high permeability coefficient had a worse flow field distribution in the constructed wetland with single layer structure. The layered substrate structure with the filler permeability coefficient increased from surface to bottom could avoid the short-circuited flow and dead-zones, and thus, increased the hydraulic efficiency. Two parallel pilot-scale constructed wetlands were built according to the numerical simulation results, and tracer experiments were conducted to validate the simulation results. The tracer experiment result showed that hydraulic characteristics in the layered constructed wetland were obviously better than that in the single layer system, and the substrate effective utilization rates were 0.87 and 0.49, respectively. It was appeared that numerical simulation would be favorable for substrate structure optimization in subsurface flow constructed wetlands.

Alkali metal for ultraviolet band-pass filter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mardesich, Nick (Inventor); Fraschetti, George A. (Inventor); Mccann, Timothy A. (Inventor); Mayall, Sherwood D. (Inventor); Dunn, Donald E. (Inventor); Trauger, John T. (Inventor)

1993-01-01

An alkali metal filter having a layer of metallic bismuth deposited onto the alkali metal is provided. The metallic bismuth acts to stabilize the surface of the alkali metal to prevent substantial surface migration from occurring on the alkali metal, which may degrade optical characteristics of the filter. To this end, a layer of metallic bismuth is deposited by vapor deposition over the alkali metal to a depth of approximately 5 to 10 A. A complete alkali metal filter is described along with a method for fabricating the alkali metal filter.

Influence of shot peening on surface quality of austenitic and duplex stainless steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vinoth Jebaraj, A.; Sampath Kumar, T.; Ajay Kumar, L.; Deepak, C. R.

2017-11-01

In the present investigation, an attempt has been made to enhance the surface quality of austenitic stainless steel 316L and duplex stainless steel 2205 through shot peening process. The study mainly focuses the surface morphology, microstructural changes, surface roughness and microhardness of the peened layers. Metallography analysis was carried out and compared with the unpeened surface characteristics. As result of peening process, surface recrystallization was achieved on the layers of the peened samples. It was found that shot peening plays significant role in enhancing the surface properties of 316L and 2205. Particularly it has greater influence on the work hardening of austenitic stainless steel than the duplex stainless steel due to its more ductility nature under the investigated shot peening parameters. The findings of the present study will be useful with regard to the enhancement of surface texture achieved through peening.

Advanced Layered Composite Polylaminate Electroactive Actuator and Sensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fox, Robert L. (Inventor); Hellbaum, Richard F. (Inventor); Copeland, Benjamin M., Jr. (Inventor); Bryant, Robert G. (Inventor)

2000-01-01

The present invention relates to the mounting of pre-stressed electroactive material in such a manner that large displacement actuators or sensors result. The invention comprises mounting the pre-stressed electroactive material to a support layer. This combination of a pre-stressed electroactive material and support layer may in turn be attached to a mounting surface. The pre-stressed electroactive material may be a ferroelectric, pyroelectric, piezoelectric, or magnetostrictive material. The size, stiffness, mass, and material of the support layer is selected to result in the electroactive device having dynamic response properties, environmental capability characteristics, and the required resilience optimized for a given application. The capacity to connect the support layer to a surface expands the arenas in which the prestressed electroactive device may be used. Application for which the invention may be used include actuators, sensors, or as a component in a pumps, switches, relays, pressure transducers and acoustic devices.

Generation of long subharmonic internal waves by surface waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tahvildari, Navid; Kaihatu, James M.; Saric, William S.

2016-10-01

A new set of Boussinesq equations is derived to study the nonlinear interactions between long waves in a two-layer fluid. The fluid layers are assumed to be homogeneous, inviscid, incompressible, and immiscible. Based on the Boussinesq equations, an analytical model is developed using a second-order perturbation theory and applied to examine the transient evolution of a resonant triad composed of a surface wave and two oblique subharmonic internal waves. Wave damping due to weak viscosity in both layers is considered. The Boussinesq equations and the analytical model are verified. In contrast to previous studies which focus on short internal waves, we examine long waves and investigate some previously unexplored characteristics of this class of triad interaction. In viscous fluids, surface wave amplitudes must be larger than a threshold to overcome viscous damping and trigger internal waves. The dependency of this critical amplitude as well as the growth and damping rates of internal waves on important parameters in a two-fluid system, namely the directional angle of the internal waves, depth, density, and viscosity ratio of the fluid layers, and surface wave amplitude and frequency is investigated.

Crystal Orientation Effect on the Subsurface Deformation of Monocrystalline Germanium in Nanometric Cutting.

PubMed

Lai, Min; Zhang, Xiaodong; Fang, Fengzhou

2017-12-01

Molecular dynamics simulations of nanometric cutting on monocrystalline germanium are conducted to investigate the subsurface deformation during and after nanometric cutting. The continuous random network model of amorphous germanium is established by molecular dynamics simulation, and its characteristic parameters are extracted to compare with those of the machined deformed layer. The coordination number distribution and radial distribution function (RDF) show that the machined surface presents the similar amorphous state. The anisotropic subsurface deformation is studied by nanometric cutting on the (010), (101), and (111) crystal planes of germanium, respectively. The deformed structures are prone to extend along the 110 slip system, which leads to the difference in the shape and thickness of the deformed layer on various directions and crystal planes. On machined surface, the greater thickness of subsurface deformed layer induces the greater surface recovery height. In order to get the critical thickness limit of deformed layer on machined surface of germanium, the optimized cutting direction on each crystal plane is suggested according to the relevance of the nanometric cutting to the nanoindentation.

Determination of boundary layer top on the basis of the characteristics of atmospheric particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Boming; Ma, Yingying; Gong, Wei; Zhang, Ming; Yang, Jian

2018-04-01

The planetary boundary layer (PBL) is the lowest layer of the atmosphere that can be directly influenced with the Earth's surface. This layer can also respond to surface forcing. The determination of the PBL is significant to environmental and climate research. PBL can also serve as an input parameter for further data processing with atmospheric models. Traditional detection algorithms are susceptible to errors associated with the vertical distribution of aerosol concentrations. To overcome this limitation, a maximum difference search (MDS) algorithm was proposed to calculate the top of the boundary layer based on differences in particle characteristics. The top positions of the PBL from MDS algorithm under different convection states were compared with those from conventional methods. Experimental results demonstrated that the MDS method can determine the top of the boundary layer precisely. The proposed algorithm can also be used to calculate the top of the PBL accurately under weak convection conditions where the traditional methods cannot be applied. Finally, experimental data from June 2015 to December 2015 were analysed to verify the reliability of the MDS algorithm. The correlation coefficients R2 (RMSE) between the results of MDS algorithm and radiosonde measurements were 0.53 (115 m), 0.79 (141 m) and 0.96 (43 m) under weak, moderate and strong convections, respectively. These findings indicated that the proposed method possessed a good feasibility and stability.

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

Polemi, A.; Shuford, K. L.

We investigate the use of a Fabry-Perot dielectric structure combined with differently shaped nanoparticles for Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering. In particular, we show how an ideal two-layer Fabry-Perot configuration enhances the local surface field of silver nanoparticles positioned on the surface of the structure. We develop the concept using disc dimers and then extend the discussion to bowtie nanoparticles. The structure is excited by a single emitter, which couples to the nanoparticles through the dielectric layers, producing a wide aperture field that can be used to excite multiple dimers. We show how an array of nanoparticles can be properly arrangedmore » in order to increase the total scattering signal generated from the structure. The layered geometry produces robust field properties in between nanoparticles, making the overall sensing characteristics less sensitive to the interparticle seperation distance and incident polarization.« less

An experimental study of the effects of bodyside compression on forward swept sidewall compression inlets ingesting a turbulent boundary layer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rodi, Patrick E.

1993-01-01

Forward swept sidewall compression inlets have been tested in the Mach 4 Blowdown Facility at the NASA Langley Research Center to study the effects of bodyside compression surfaces on inlet performance in the presence of an incoming turbulent boundary layer. The measurements include mass flow capture and mean surface pressure distributions obtained during simulated combustion pressure increases downstream of the inlet. The kerosene-lampblack surface tracer technique has been used to obtain patterns of the local wall shear stress direction. Inlet performance is evaluated using starting and unstarting characteristics, mass capture, mean surface pressure distributions and permissible back pressure limits. The results indicate that inlet performance can be improved with selected bodyside compression surfaces placed between the inlet sidewalls.

Mucosal wrinkling in animal antra induced by volumetric growth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Bo; Cao, Yan-Ping; Feng, Xi-Qiao; Yu, Shou-Wen

2011-04-01

Surface wrinkling of animal mucosas is crucial for the biological functions of some tissues, and the change in their surface patterns is a phenotypic characteristic of certain diseases. Here we develop a biomechanical model to study the relationship between morphogenesis and volumetric growth, either physiological or pathological, of mucosas. Theoretical analysis and numerical simulations are performed to unravel the critical characteristics of mucosal wrinkling in a spherical antrum. It is shown that the thicknesses and elastic moduli of mucosal and submucosal layers dictate the surface buckling morphology. The results hold clinical relevance for such diseases as inflammation and gastritis.

A Method for Measuring the Hardness of the Surface Layer on Hot Forging Dies Using a Nanoindenter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mencin, P.; van Tyne, C. J.; Levy, B. S.

2009-11-01

The properties and characteristics of the surface layer of forging dies are critical for understanding and controlling wear. However, the surface layer is very thin, and appropriate property measurements are difficult to obtain. The objective of the present study is to determine if nanoindenter testing provides a reliable method, which could be used to measure the surface hardness in forging die steels. To test the reliability of nanoindenter testing, nanoindenter values for two quenched and tempered steels (FX and H13) are compared to microhardness and macrohardness values. These steels were heat treated for various times to produce specimens with different values of hardness. The heat-treated specimens were tested using three different instruments—a Rockwell hardness tester for macrohardness, a Vickers hardness tester for microhardness, and a nanoindenter tester for fine scale evaluation of hardness. The results of this study indicate that nanoindenter values obtained using a Nanoindenter XP Machine with a Berkovich indenter reliably correlate with Rockwell C macrohardness values, and with Vickers HV microhardness values. Consequently, nanoindenter testing can provide reliable results for analyzing the surface layer of hot forging dies.

Electrochemical synthesis of a surface-porous Mg70.5Al29.5 eutectic alloy in a neutral aqueous NaCl solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Feng; Li, Yong-gang; Wei, Ying-hui; Wei, Huan; Yan, Ze-ying; Hou, Li-feng

2018-03-01

A surface-porous Mg-Al eutectic alloy was fabricated at room temperature via electrochemical dealloying in a neutral, aqueous 0.6 M NaCl solution by controlling the applied potential and processing duration. Selective dissolution occurred on the alloy surface. The surface-porous formation mechanism is governed by the selective dissolution of the α-Mg phase, which leaves the Mg17Al12 phase as the porous layer framework. The pore characteristics (morphology, size, and distribution) of the dealloyed samples are inherited from the α-Mg phases of the precursor Mg70.5Al29.5 (at.%) alloy. Size control in the porous layer can be achieved by regulating the synthesis parameters.

Performance of WRF in simulating terrain induced flows and atmospheric boundary layer characteristics over the tropical station Gadanki

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hari Prasad, K. B. R. R.; Srinivas, C. V.; Rao, T. Narayana; Naidu, C. V.; Baskaran, R.

2017-03-01

In this study the evolution of the topographic flows and boundary layer features over a tropical hilly station Gadanki in southern India were simulated using Advanced Research WRF (ARW) mesoscale model for fair weather days during southwest monsoon (20-22 July 2011) and winter (18-20 Jan. 2011). Turbulence measurements from an Ultra High Frequency (UHF) Wind Profiler, Ultra Sonic Anemometer, GPS Sonde and meteorological tower were used for comparison. Simulations revealed development of small-scale slope winds in the lower boundary layer (below 800 m) at Gadanki which are more prevalent during nighttime. Stronger slope winds during winter and weaker flows in the monsoon season are simulated indicating the sensitivity of slope winds to the background synoptic flows and radiative heating/cooling. Higher upward surface fluxes (sensible, latent heat) and development of very deep convective boundary layer ( 2500 m) is simulated during summer monsoon relative to the winter season in good agreement with observations. Four PBL parameterizations (YSU, MYJ, MYNN and ACM) were evaluated to simulate the above characteristics. Large differences were noticed in the simulated boundary layer features using different PBL schemes in both the seasons. It is found that the TKE-closures (MYJ, MYNN) produced extremities in daytime PBL depth, surface fluxes, temperature, humidity and winds. The differences in the simulations are attributed to the eddy diffusivities, buoyancy and entrainment fluxes which were simulated differently in the respective schemes. The K-based YSU followed by MYNN best produced the slope winds as well as daytime boundary layer characteristics realistically in both the summer and winter synoptic conditions at Gadanki hilly site though with slight overestimation of nocturnal PBL height.

Naturally weathered feldspar surfaces in the Navajo Sandstone aquifer, Black Mesa, Arizona: Electron microscopic characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Chen; Veblen, David R.; Blum, Alex E.; Chipera, Stephen J.

2006-09-01

Naturally weathered feldspar surfaces in the Jurassic Navajo Sandstone at Black Mesa, Arizona, was characterized with high-resolution transmission and analytical electron microscope (HRTEM-AEM) and field emission gun scanning electron microscope (FEG-SEM). Here, we report the first HRTEM observation of a 10-nm thick amorphous layer on naturally weathered K-feldspar in currently slightly alkaline groundwater. The amorphous layer is probably deficient in K and enriched in Si. In addition to the amorphous layer, the feldspar surfaces are also partially coated with tightly adhered kaolin platelets. Outside of the kaolin coatings, feldspar grains are covered with a continuous 3-5 μm thick layer of authigenic smectite, which also coats quartz and other sediment grains. Authigenic K-feldspar overgrowth and etch pits were also found on feldspar grains. These characteristics of the aged feldspar surfaces accentuate the differences in reactivity between the freshly ground feldspar powders used in laboratory experiments and feldspar grains in natural systems, and may partially contribute to the commonly observed apparent laboratory-field dissolution rate discrepancy. At Black Mesa, feldspars in the Navajo Sandstone are dissolving at ˜10 5 times slower than laboratory rate at comparable temperature and pH under far from equilibrium condition. The tightly adhered kaolin platelets reduce the feldspar reactive surface area, and the authigenic K-feldspar overgrowth reduces the feldspar reactivity. However, the continuous smectite coating layer does not appear to constitute a diffusion barrier. The exact role of the amorphous layer on feldspar dissolution kinetics depends on the origin of the layer (leached layer versus re-precipitated silica), which is uncertain at present. However, the nanometer thin layer can be detected only with HRTEM, and thus our study raises the possibility of its wide occurrence in geological systems. Rate laws and proposed mechanisms should consider the possibility of this amorphous layer on feldspar surface.

Naturally weathered feldspar surfaces in the Navajo Sandstone aquifer, Black Mesa, Arizona: Electron microscopic characterization

USGS Publications Warehouse

Zhu, Chen; Veblen, D.R.; Blum, A.E.; Chipera, S.J.

2006-01-01

Naturally weathered feldspar surfaces in the Jurassic Navajo Sandstone at Black Mesa, Arizona, was characterized with high-resolution transmission and analytical electron microscope (HRTEM-AEM) and field emission gun scanning electron microscope (FEG-SEM). Here, we report the first HRTEM observation of a 10-nm thick amorphous layer on naturally weathered K-feldspar in currently slightly alkaline groundwater. The amorphous layer is probably deficient in K and enriched in Si. In addition to the amorphous layer, the feldspar surfaces are also partially coated with tightly adhered kaolin platelets. Outside of the kaolin coatings, feldspar grains are covered with a continuous 3-5 ??m thick layer of authigenic smectite, which also coats quartz and other sediment grains. Authigenic K-feldspar overgrowth and etch pits were also found on feldspar grains. These characteristics of the aged feldspar surfaces accentuate the differences in reactivity between the freshly ground feldspar powders used in laboratory experiments and feldspar grains in natural systems, and may partially contribute to the commonly observed apparent laboratory-field dissolution rate discrepancy. At Black Mesa, feldspars in the Navajo Sandstone are dissolving at ???105 times slower than laboratory rate at comparable temperature and pH under far from equilibrium condition. The tightly adhered kaolin platelets reduce the feldspar reactive surface area, and the authigenic K-feldspar overgrowth reduces the feldspar reactivity. However, the continuous smectite coating layer does not appear to constitute a diffusion barrier. The exact role of the amorphous layer on feldspar dissolution kinetics depends on the origin of the layer (leached layer versus re-precipitated silica), which is uncertain at present. However, the nanometer thin layer can be detected only with HRTEM, and thus our study raises the possibility of its wide occurrence in geological systems. Rate laws and proposed mechanisms should consider the possibility of this amorphous layer on feldspar surface. ?? 2006 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Surface plasmons based terahertz modulator consisting of silicon-air-metal-dielectric-metal layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Wei; Yang, Dongxiao; Qian, Zhenhai

2018-05-01

An optically controlled modulator of the terahertz wave, which is composed of a metal-dielectric-metal structure etched with circular loop arrays on both the metal layers and a photoexcited silicon wafer separated by an air layer, is proposed. Simulation results based on experimentally measured complex permittivities predict that modification of complex permittivity of the silicon wafer through excitation laser leads to a significant tuning of transmission characteristics of the modulator, forming the modulation depths of 59.62% and 96.64% based on localized surface plasmon peak and propagating surface plasmon peak, respectively. The influences of the complex permittivity of the silicon wafer and the thicknesses of both the air layer and the silicon wafer are numerically studied for better understanding the modulation mechanism. This study proposes a feasible methodology to design an optically controlled terahertz modulator with large modulation depth, high speed and suitable insertion loss, which is useful for terahertz applications in the future.

Alloying effect of copper on the corrosion properties of low-alloy steel for flue gas desulfurization system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Seon-Hong; Park, Sun-Ah; Kim, Jung-Gu; Shin, Kee-Sam; He, Yinsheng

2015-03-01

The alloying effect of Cu for a flue gas desulfurization materials was investigated using the electrochemical methods in the modified green death solution and the surface analyses. The test results demonstrated that the densely formed rust layer with high metallic Cu content improves the corrosion resistance of Cu-containing steel in the flue gas desulfurization (FGD) environment. The rust layer on the surface of the 0.02 wt% Cu steel, which has an insufficient Cu content, was less protective than others. The 0.05 wt% Cu steel represented the highest corrosion resistance due to the formation of the densely formed rust layer with optimum Cu content. Because the free standing Cu2S precipitates had the insoluble characteristic in highly acidic solution, it produced the relatively porous Cu-enriched layer on the 0.08 wt% Cu steel surface. From these phenomena, the corrosion resistance of specimen decreased as the Cu content of specimen increased from 0.05 wt% to 0.08 wt%.

Improved switching reliability achieved in HfOx based RRAM with mountain-like surface-graphited carbon layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tao, Ye; Ding, Wentao; Wang, Zhongqiang; Xu, Haiyang; Zhao, Xiaoning; Li, Xuhong; Liu, Weizhen; Ma, Jiangang; Liu, Yichun

2018-05-01

In this work, we demonstrated an effective method to improve the switching reliability of HfOx based RRAM device by inserting mountain-like surface-graphited carbon (MSGC) layer. The MSGC layer was fabricated through thermal annealing of amorphous carbon (a-C) film with high sp2 proportion (49.7%) under 500 °C on Pt substrate, whose characteristics were validated by XPS and Raman spectrums. The local electric-field (LEF) was enhanced around the nanoscale tips of MSGC layer due to large surface curvature, which leads to simplified CFs and localization of resistive switching region. It takes responsibility to the reduction of high/low resistance states (HRS/LRS) fluctuation from 173.8%/64.9% to 23.6%/6.5%, respectively. In addition, the resulting RRAM devices exhibited fast switching speed (<65 ns), good retention (>104 s at 85 °C) and low cycling degradation. This method could be promising to develop reliable and repeatable high-performance RRAM for practical applications.

Ground-Water Levels and Soil Characteristics in a Forested Typic Glossaqualf

Treesearch

Peter L. Lorio

1977-01-01

The presence of impermeable layers can affect the development of a soil and its water regime. In a forested Typic Glossaqualf in southwest Louisiana, moisture, density, and piezometer measurements revealed an impermeable layer of soil between about 1.8 and 2.8 m below the surface. A high proportion of very fine sand and development of platy structure appeared related...

Ultrasonic absorption characteristics of porous carbon-carbon ceramics with random microstructure for passive hypersonic boundary layer transition control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wagner, Alexander; Hannemann, Klaus; Kuhn, Markus

2014-06-01

Preceding studies in the high enthalpy shock tunnel Göttingen of the German Aerospace Center (DLR) revealed that carbon fibre reinforced carbon ceramic (C/C) surfaces can be utilized to damp hypersonic boundary layer instabilities leading to a delay of boundary layer transition onset. To assess the ultrasonic absorption properties of the material, a test rig was set up to measure the reflection coefficient at ambient pressures ranging from 0.1 × 105 to 1 × 105 Pa. For the first time, broadband ultrasonic sound transducers with resonance frequencies of up to 370 kHz were applied to directly cover the frequency range of interest with respect to the second-mode instabilities observed in previous experiments. The reflection of ultrasonic waves from three flat plate test samples with a porous layer thickness between 5 and 30 mm was investigated and compared to an ideally reflecting surface. C/C was found to absorb up to 19 % of the acoustic power transmitted towards the material. The absorption characteristics were investigated theoretically by means of the quasi-homogeneous absorber theory. The experimental results were found to be in good agreement with the theory.

Propagation characteristics of longitudinal-type leaky surface acoustic wave on layered structure consisting of Sc x Al1‑ x N film/LiNbO3 substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suzuki, Masashi; Gomi, Masashi; Kakio, Shoji

2018-07-01

A longitudinal-type leaky surface acoustic wave (LLSAW) has a high phase velocity. Therefore, LLSAW devices are suitable for applications to high-frequency filters. However, the attenuation of LLSAWs is higher than that of other SAW modes. This higher attenuation of LLSAWs, which causes a low Q factor, can be reduced by growing a higher-velocity film on a piezoelectric substrate. On the other hand, K 2 in the layered structure decreases because of the small piezoelectricity in high-velocity films. In this study, LLSAW propagation characteristics on a layered structure consisting of high-piezoelectric ScAlN film/X-cut 36°Y-propagation LiNbO3 were investigated. When a (0^\\circ ,0^\\circ ,0^\\circ ) or (0^\\circ ,90^\\circ ,0^\\circ ) ScAlN film was loaded, the reduction of the attenuation was observed, but K 2 for this layered structure is lower than that of LiNbO3. On the other hand, K 2 for (0^\\circ ,90^\\circ ,90^\\circ ) Sc0.4Al0.6N film/LN is higher than that of LiNbO3.

Three-dimensional hydration layer mapping on the (10.4) surface of calcite using amplitude modulation atomic force microscopy.

PubMed

Marutschke, Christoph; Walters, Deron; Walters, Deron; Hermes, Ilka; Bechstein, Ralf; Kühnle, Angelika

2014-08-22

Calcite, the most stable modification of calcium carbonate, is a major mineral in nature. It is, therefore, highly relevant in a broad range of fields such as biomineralization, sea water desalination and oil production. Knowledge of the surface structure and reactivity of the most stable cleavage plane, calcite (10.4), is pivotal for understanding the role of calcite in these diverse areas. Given the fact that most biological processes and technical applications take place in an aqueous environment, perhaps the most basic - yet decisive - question addresses the interaction of water molecules with the calcite (10.4) surface. In this work, amplitude modulation atomic force microscopy is used for three-dimensional (3D) mapping of the surface structure and the hydration layers above the surface. An easy-to-use scanning protocol is implemented for collecting reliable 3D data. We carefully discuss a comprehensible criterion for identifying the solid-liquid interface within our data. In our data three hydration layers form a characteristic pattern that is commensurate with the underlying calcite surface.

High Performance 50 nm InAlAs/In0.75GaAs Metamorphic High Electron Mobility Transistors with Si3N4 Passivation on Thin InGaAs Layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yeon, Seongjin; Seo, Kwangseok

2008-04-01

We fabricated 50 nm InAlAs/InGaAs metamorphic high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) with a very thin barrier. Through the reduction of the gate-channel distance (dGC) in the epitaxial structure, a channel aspect ratio (ARC) of over three was achieved when Lg was 50 nm. We inserted a thin InGaAs layer as a protective layer, and tested various gate structures to reduce surface problems induced by barrier shrinkage and to optimize the device characteristics. Through the optimization of the gate structure with the thin InGaAs layer, the fabricated 50 nm metamorphic HEMT exhibited high DC and RF characteristics, Gm of 1.5 S/mm, and fT of 490 GHz.

Variation of turbulence in a coastal thermal internal boundary layer

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

SethuRaman, S.; Raynor, G.S.; Brown, R.M.

1981-01-01

Internal boundary layers (IBL) form when an air mass encounters a change in surface characteristics. There are essentially two types of internal boundary layers - one caused by the change in surface roughness and the other by the variation in surface heating. The former is known as the aerodynamic internal boundary layer (AIBL) and the latter the thermal internal boundary layer (TIBL). Change in shear stress generally characterizes the AIBL and change in turbulence the TIBL. Results of some observations of the vertical component of turbulence made in a coastal TIBL over Long Island, New York from 1974 to 1978more » are reported. Vertical turbulence measured by a simple sail plane variometer in a thermal internal boundary layer over Long Island with onshore flows indicates the structure to depend significantly on the land-water temperature difference. The position of the vertical velocity fluctuation maximum seems to vary from one test to another but its variation could not be correlated to other parameters due to lack of a sufficient number of tests. The structure of vertical turbulence was found to be different for sea breeze flows as compared to gradient winds.« less

Organic Light-Emitting Diodes with a Perylene Interlayer Between the Electrode-Organic Interface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saikia, Dhrubajyoti; Sarma, Ranjit

2018-01-01

The performance of an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) with a vacuum-deposited perylene layer over a fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) surface is reported. To investigate the effect of the perylene layer on OLED performance, different thicknesses of perylene are deposited on the FTO surface and their current density-voltages (J-V), luminance-voltages (L-V) and device efficiency characteristics at their respective thickness are studied. Further analysis is carried out with an UV-visible light double-beam spectrophotometer unit, a four-probe resistivity unit and a field emission scanning electron microscope set up to study the optical transmittance, sheet resistance and surface morphology of the bilayer anode film. We used N,N'-bis(3-methyl phenyl)- N,N'(phenyl)-benzidine (TPD) as the hole transport layer, Tris(8-hydroxyquinolinato)aluminum (Alq3) as a light-emitting layer and lithium fluoride as an electron injection layer. The luminance efficiency of an OLED structure with a 9-nm-thick perylene interlayer is increased by 2.08 times that of the single-layer FTO anode OLED. The maximum value of current efficiency is found to be 5.25 cd/A.

Tunable surface plasmon instability leading to emission of radiation

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

Gumbs, Godfrey; Donostia International Physics Center; Iurov, Andrii, E-mail: aiurov@chtm.unm.edu

2015-08-07

We propose a new approach for energy conversion from a dc electric field to tunable terahertz emission based on hybrid semiconductors by combining two-dimensional (2D) crystalline layers and a thick conducting material with possible applications for chemical analysis, security scanning, medical (single-molecule) imaging, and telecommunications. The hybrid nano-structure may consist of a single or pair of sheets of graphene, silicene, or a 2D electron gas. When an electric current is passed through a 2D layer, we discover that two low-energy plasmon branches exhibit a characteristic loop in their dispersion before they merge into an unstable region beyond a critical wavemore » vector q{sub c}. This finite q{sub c} gives rise to a wavenumber cutoff in the emission dispersion of the surface plasmon induced instability and emission of radiation (spiler). However, there is no instability for a single driven layer far from the conductor, and the instability of an isolated pair of 2D layers occurs without a wavenumber cutoff. The wavenumber cutoff is found to depend on the conductor electron density, layer separation, distances of layers from the conductor surface, and the driving-current strength.« less

The influence of Span-20 surfactant and micro-/nano-Chromium (Cr) Powder Mixed Electrical Discharge Machining (PMEDM) on the surface characteristics of AISI D2 hardened steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hosni, N. A. J.; Lajis, M. A.

2018-04-01

The application of powder mixed dielectric to improve the efficiency of electrical discharge machining (EDM) has been extensively studied. Therefore, PMEDM have attracted the attention of many researchers since last few decades. Improvement in EDM process has resulted in the use of span-20 surfactant and Cr powder mixed in dielectric fluid, which results in increasing machiniability, better surface quality and faster machining time. However, the study of powder suspension size of surface charateristics in EDM field is still limited. This paper presents the improvement of micro-/nano- Cr powder size on the surface characteristics of the AISI D2 hardened steels in PMEDM. It has found that the reacst layer in PMEDM improved by as high as 41-53 % compared to conventional EDM. Also notably, the combination of added Cr powder and span-20 surfactant reduced the recast layer thickness significantly especially in nano-Cr size. This improvement was great potential adding nano-size Cr powder to dielectric for machining performance.

[Summer Greenhouse Gases Exchange Flux Across Water-air Interface in Three Water Reservoirs Located in Different Geologic Setting in Guangxi, China].

PubMed

Li, Jian-hong; Pu, Jun-bing; Sun, Ping-an; Yuan, Dao-xian; Liu, Wen; Zhang, Tao; Mo, Xue

2015-11-01

Due to special hydrogeochemical characteristics of calcium-rich, alkaline and DIC-rich ( dissolved inorganic carbon) environment controlled by the weathering products from carbonate rock, the exchange characteristics, processes and controlling factors of greenhouse gas (CO2 and CH4) across water-air interface in karst water reservoir show obvious differences from those of non-karst water reservoir. Three water reservoirs (Dalongdong reservoir-karst reservoir, Wulixia reservoir--semi karst reservoir, Si'anjiang reservoir-non-karst reservoir) located in different geologic setting in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China were chosen to reveal characteristics and controlling factors of greenhouse gas exchange flux across water-air interface. Two common approaches, floating chamber (FC) and thin boundary layer models (TBL), were employed to research and contrast greenhouse gas exchange flux across water-air interface from three reservoirs. The results showed that: (1) surface-layer water in reservoir area and discharging water under dam in Dalongdong water reservoir were the source of atmospheric CO2 and CH4. Surface-layer water in reservoir area in Wulixia water reservoir was the sink of atmospheric CO2 and the source of atmospheric CH4, while discharging water under dam was the source of atmospheric CO2 and CH4. Surface-layer water in Si'anjiang water reservoir was the sink of atmospheric CO2 and source of atmospheric CH4. (2) CO2 and CH4 effluxes in discharging water under dam were much more than those in surface-layer water in reservoir area regardless of karst reservoir or non karst reservoir. Accordingly, more attention should be paid to the CO2 and CH4 emission from discharging water under dam. (3) In the absence of submerged soil organic matters and plants, the difference of CH4 effluxes between karst groundwater-fed reservoir ( Dalongdong water reservoir) and non-karst area ( Wulixia water reservoir and Si'anjiang water reservoir) was less. However, CO2 efflux in karst groundwater-fed reservoir was much higher than that of reservoir in non-karst area due to groundwater of DIC-rich input from karst aquifer and thermal stratification.

Surface-Streamline Flow Visualization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Langston, L.; Boyle, M.

1985-01-01

Matrix of ink dots covers matte surface of polyester drafting film. Film placed against wind-tunnel wall. Layer of methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen) sprayed over dotted area. Ink dot streaklines show several characteristics of flow, including primary saddle point of separations, primary horseshoe vortex and smaller vortex at cylinder/ endwall junction. Surface streamline flow visualization technique suitable for use in low-speed windtunnels or other low-speed gas flows.

Refractive Index and Scattering Effects on Radiative Behavior of a Semitransparent Layer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spuckler, C. M.; Siegel, R.

1993-01-01

Heat transfer characteristics are analyzed for a plane layer of semitransparent material with refractive index not less than 1. Energy transfer in the material is by conduction, emission, absorption, and isotropic scattering. Each side of the layer is heated by radiation and convection. For a refractive index larger than unity, there is internal reflection of some of the energy within the layer. This, coupled with scattering, has a substantial effect on distributing energy across the layer and altering the temperature distribution from when the refractive index is unity. The effect of scattering is examined by comparisons with results from an earlier paper for an absorbing layer. Results are given for a gray medium with a scattering albedo up to 0.999, and for a two-band spectral variation of the albedo with one band having low absorption. Radiant energy leaving the surface as a result of emission and scattering was examined to determine if it could be used to accurately indicate the surface temperature.

Pressing effect in polymer solar cells with bulk heterojunction nanolayers.

PubMed

Park, Jiho; Nam, Sungho; Kim, Hwajeong; Kim, Youngkyoo

2011-01-01

We report the effect of pressing light-absorbing layers on the performance of polymer solar cells. The light-absorbing active layer was prepared on the transparent conducting oxide coated substrates from solutions that contain a mixture of regioregular poly(3-hexylthiophene) and soluble fullerene molecules. The active layers were pressed using a home-built micro-press system by controlling temperature and pressure, followed by the top electrode deposition. The surface of the active layers pressed was examined using atomic force microscope, while the photovoltaic characteristics of devices were measured under simulated solar light illumination (air mass 1.5 G, 100 mW/cm2). Results showed that the dark current of devices was noticeably increased by pressing the active layer without respect to the pressing temperature. The highest power conversion efficiency was achieved for the device with the active layer pressed under 10 kgf at 70 degrees C. The result was explained in terms of surface morphology and thermophysical effect.

A facile approach for reducing the working voltage of Au/TiO2/Au nanostructured memristors by enhancing the local electric field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arab Bafrani, Hamidreza; Ebrahimi, Mahdi; Bagheri Shouraki, Saeed; Moshfegh, Alireza Z.

2018-01-01

Memristor devices have attracted tremendous interest due to different applications ranging from nonvolatile data storage to neuromorphic computing units. Exploring the role of surface roughness of the bottom electrode (BE)/active layer interface provides useful guidelines for the optimization of the memristor switching performance. This study focuses on the effect of surface roughness of the BE electrode on the switching characteristics of Au/TiO2/Au three-layer memristor devices. An optimized wet-etching treatment condition was found to modify the surface roughness of the Au BE where the measurement results indicate that the roughness of the Au BE is affected by both duration time and solution concentrations of the wet-etching process. Then we fabricated arrays of TiO2-based nanostructured memristors sandwiched between two sets of cross-bar Au electrode lines (junction area 900 μm2). The results revealed a reduction in the working voltages in current-voltage characteristic of the device performance when increasing the surface roughness at the Au(BE)/TiO2 active layer interface. The set voltage of the device (Vset) significantly decreased from 2.26-1.93 V when we increased the interface roughness from 4.2-13.1 nm. The present work provides information for better understanding the switching mechanism of titanium-dioxide-based devices, and it can be inferred that enhancing the roughness of the Au BE/TiO2 active layer interface leads to a localized non-uniform electric field distribution that plays a vital role in reducing the energy consumption of the device.

Providing the Efficiency and Dispersion Characteristics of Aerosols in Ultrasonic Atomization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khmelev, V. N.; Shalunov, A. V.; Golykh, R. N.; Nesterov, V. A.; Dorovskikh, R. S.; Shalunova, A. V.

2017-07-01

This article is devoted to the investigation of the process of atomization of liquids under the action of ultrasonic vibrations. It has been shown that the ultrasonic atomization parameters are determined by the regimes of action (vibration frequency and amplitude of the atomization surface), the liquid properties (viscosity, surface tension), and the thickness of the liquid layer covering the atomization surface. To reveal the dependences of the efficiency of the process at various dispersion characteristics of produced liquid droplets, we propose a model based on the cavitation-wave theory of droplet formation. The obtained results can be used in designing and using ultrasonic atomizers producing an aerosol with characteristics complying with the requirements on efficiency and dispersivity for the process being realized.

Surface protection in bio-shields via a functional soft skin layer: Lessons from the turtle shell.

PubMed

Shelef, Yaniv; Bar-On, Benny

2017-09-01

The turtle shell is a functional bio-shielding element, which has evolved naturally to provide protection against predator attacks that involve biting and clawing. The near-surface architecture of the turtle shell includes a soft bi-layer skin coating - rather than a hard exterior - which functions as a first line of defense against surface damage. This architecture represents a novel type of bio-shielding configuration, namely, an inverse structural-mechanical design, rather than the hard-coated bio-shielding elements identified so far. In the current study, we used experimentally based structural modeling and FE simulations to analyze the mechanical significance of this unconventional protection architecture in terms of resistance to surface damage upon extensive indentations. We found that the functional bi-layer skin of the turtle shell, which provides graded (soft-softer-hard) mechanical characteristics to the bio-shield exterior, serves as a bumper-buffer mechanism. This material-level adaptation protects the inner core from the highly localized indentation loads via stress delocalization and extensive near-surface plasticity. The newly revealed functional bi-layer coating architecture can potentially be adapted, using synthetic materials, to considerably enhance the surface load-bearing capabilities of various engineering configurations. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Microscale X-ray tomographic investigation of the interfacial morphology between the catalyst and micro porous layers in proton exchange membrane fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prass, Sebastian; Hasanpour, Sadegh; Sow, Pradeep Kumar; Phillion, André B.; Mérida, Walter

2016-07-01

The interfacial morphology between the catalyst layer (CL) and micro porous layer (MPL) influences the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Here we report a direct method to investigate the CL-MPL interfacial morphology of stacked and compressed gas diffusion layer (GDL with MPL)-catalyst coated membrane (CCM) assemblies. The area, origin and dimensions of interfacial gaps are studied with high-resolution X-ray micro computed tomography (X-μCT). The projected gap area (fraction of the CL-MPL interface separated by gaps) is higher for GDL-CCM assemblies with large differences in the surface roughness between CL and MPL but reduces with increasing compression and similarity in roughness. Relatively large continuous gaps are found in proximity to cracks in the MPL. These are hypothesized to form due to the presence of large pores on the surface of the GDL. Smaller gaps are induced by the surface roughness features throughout the CL-MPL interface. By modification of the pore sizes on the GDL surface serving as substrate for the MPL, the number and dimension of MPL crack induced gaps can be manipulated. Moreover, adjusting the CL and MPL surface roughness parameters to achieve similar orders of roughness can improve the surface mating characteristics of these two components.

Emission characteristics of dispenser cathodes with a fine-grained tungsten top layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kimura, S.; Higuchi, T.; Ouchi, Y.; Uda, E.; Nakamura, O.; Sudo, T.; Koyama, K.

1997-02-01

In order to improve the emission stability of the Ir-coated dispenser cathode under ion bombardment, a fine-grained tungsten top layer was applied on the substrate porous tungsten plug before Ir coating. The emission characteristics were studied after being assembled in a CRT gun. Cathode current was measured under pulse operation in a range of 0.1-9% duty. Remarkable anti-ion bombardment characteristics were observed over the range of 1-6% duty. The improved cathode showed 1.5 times higher emission current than that of a conventional Ir-coated dispenser cathode at 4% duty. AES analysis showed that the recovering rates of surface Ba and O atoms after ion bombardment were 2.5 times higher. From these results it is confirmed that the Ir coated cathode with a fine-grained tungsten top layer is provided with a good tolerance against the ion bombardment.

Characteristics of absorption and frequency filtration of ULF electromagnetic waves in the ionosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prikner, K.

A statistical method for interpreting data from experimental investigations of vertically-propagating electromagnetic ULF waves in the inhomogeneous magnetoactive ionosphere is considered theoretically. Values are obtained for the transmission, reflection and absorption characteristics of ULF waves in a limited ionospheric layer, in order to describe the relation between the frequency of a wave generated at the earth surface and that of a total wave propagating above the ionospheric layer. This relation is used to express the frequency-selective amplitude filtration of ULF waves in the layer. The method is applied to a model of the night ionosphere of mid-geomagnetic latitudes in the form of a plate 1000 km thick. It is found that the relative characteristics of transmission and amplitude loss in the wave adequately describe the frequency selectiveness and wave filtration capacity of the ionosphere. The method is recommended for studies of the structural changes of wave parameters in ionospheric models.

Characterization and corrosion study of NiTi laser surface alloyed with Nb or Co

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ng, K. W.; Man, H. C.; Yue, T. M.

2011-02-01

The interest in NiTi alloys for medical applications has been steadily growing in recent years because of its biocompatibility, superelasticity and shape memory characteristics. However, the high Ni content in NiTi alloys is still a concern for its long-term applications in the human body. The release of Ni ion into the human body might cause serious problems, as Ni is capable of eliciting toxic and allergic responses. In view of this, surface modification to reduce the surface content of Ni and to improve the corrosion resistance, both of which would reduce Ni release, is an important step in the development of NiTi implants. In the present study, NiTi was surface alloyed with Nb or Co by laser processing. The fine dendritic structure characteristic of laser processing has been described in terms of rapid solidification. The amount of surface elemental Ni was reduced to 10% and 35% for the Nb-alloyed and Co-alloyed layer, respectively. The corrosion resistance in Hanks' solution (a simulated body fluid) was increased as evidenced by a reduced passive current density and a higher pitting potential for both the Nb- and Co-alloyed specimens. The composition and hardness profiles along the depth of the modified layer were correlated with the distribution of the dendrites. The microhardness of the alloyed layers was around 700-800 Hv, which was about four times that of the untreated NiTi specimens.

Surface Characteristics of Silicon Nanowires/Nanowalls Subjected to Octadecyltrichlorosilane Deposition and n-octadecane Coating

PubMed Central

Yilbas, Bekir Sami; Salhi, Billel; Yousaf, Muhammad Rizwan; Al-Sulaiman, Fahad; Ali, Haider; Al-Aqeeli, Nasser

2016-01-01

In this study, nanowires/nanowalls were generated on a silicon wafer through a chemical etching method. Octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS) was deposited onto the nanowire/nanowall surfaces to alter their hydrophobicity. The hydrophobic characteristics of the surfaces were further modified via a 1.5-μm-thick layer of n-octadecane coating on the OTS-deposited surface. The hydrophobic characteristics of the resulting surfaces were assessed using the sessile water droplet method. Scratch and ultraviolet (UV)-visible reflectivity tests were conducted to measure the friction coefficient and reflectivity of the surfaces. The nanowires formed were normal to the surface and uniformly extended 10.5 μm to the wafer surface. The OTS coating enhanced the hydrophobic state of the surface, and the water contact angle increased from 27° to 165°. The n-octadecane coating formed on the OTS-deposited nanowires/nanowalls altered the hydrophobic state of the surface. This study provides the first demonstration that the surface wetting characteristics change from hydrophobic to hydrophilic after melting of the n-octadecane coating. In addition, this change is reversible; i.e., the hydrophilic surface becomes hydrophobic after the n-octadecane coating solidifies at the surface, and the process again occurs in the opposite direction after the n-octadecane coating melts. PMID:27934970

Investigation of 3D Shock-Boundary Layer Interaction: A Combined Approach using Experiments, Numerical Simulations and Stability Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-02

layer , the non-reflecting boundary condition suggested by Poinsot and Lele is adopted.38 On the flat – plate surface, the no-penetration (v = 0) and the no...generator plate is emulated to create an oblique shock that impinges on the boundary layer causing separation. This is similar to the experimental...without SBLI and with SBLI. To calculate the steady flat – plate solution with no shock, a characteristic boundary condition according to Harris is used.39

The Electric Honeycomb; an investigation of the Rose window instability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niazi, Muhammad Shaheer

2017-10-01

The Rose window instability is a little-explored electrohydrodynamic instability that manifests when a layer of low-conducting oil is placed in an electric field generated by corona discharge in a point-to-plane configuration. Above a critical voltage, the instability starts as a single dimple in the oil layer right below the point electrode and subsequently evolves into a characteristic pattern of polygonal cells. In this study, we experimentally explore governing parameters that guide the instability and document geometric attributes of the characteristic cellular pattern. The driving force for the instability has been attributed to the buildup of charged ions which in turn apply an electric pressure on the oil surface. We confirm the charged surface distribution using thermal imaging and demonstrate that the instability can be locally inhibited by preventing charge buildup under an ion shadow.

The Electric Honeycomb; an investigation of the Rose window instability

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

The Rose window instability is a little-explored electrohydrodynamic instability that manifests when a layer of low-conducting oil is placed in an electric field generated by corona discharge in a point-to-plane configuration. Above a critical voltage, the instability starts as a single dimple in the oil layer right below the point electrode and subsequently evolves into a characteristic pattern of polygonal cells. In this study, we experimentally explore governing parameters that guide the instability and document geometric attributes of the characteristic cellular pattern. The driving force for the instability has been attributed to the buildup of charged ions which in turn apply an electric pressure on the oil surface. We confirm the charged surface distribution using thermal imaging and demonstrate that the instability can be locally inhibited by preventing charge buildup under an ion shadow. PMID:29134066

Noise characteristics of upper surface blown configurations: Summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reddy, N. N.; Gibson, J. S.

1978-01-01

A systematic experimental program was conducted to develop a data base for the noise and related flow characteristics of upper surface blown configurations. The effect of various geometric and flow parameters was investigated experimentally. The dominant noise was identified from the measured flow and noise characteristics to be generated downstream of the trailing edge. The possibilities of noise reduction techniques were explored. An upper surface blown (USB) noise prediction program was developed to calculate noise levels at any point and noise contours (footprints). Using this noise prediction program and a cruise performance data base, aircraft design studies were conducted to integrate low noise and good performance characteristics. A theory was developed for the noise from the highly sheared layer of a trailing edge wake. Theoretical results compare favorably with the measured noise of the USB model.

Computational and Experimental Study of the Transient Transport Phenomena in a Full-Scale Twin-Roll Continuous Casting Machine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Mianguang; Li, Zhongyang; Wang, Zhaohui; Zhu, Miaoyong

2017-02-01

To gain a fundamental understanding of the transient fluid flow in twin-roll continuous casting, the current paper applies both large eddy simulation (LES) and full-scale water modeling experiments to investigate the characteristics of the top free surface, stirring effect of the roll rotation, boundary layer fluctuations, and backflow stability. The results show that, the characteristics of the top free surface and the flow field in the wedge-shaped pool region are quite different with/without the consideration of the roll rotation. The roll rotation decreases the instantaneous fluctuation range of the top free surface, but increases its horizontal velocity. The stirring effect of the roll rotating makes the flow field more homogenous and there exists clear shear flow on the rotating roll surface. The vortex shedding induced by the Kármán Vortex Street from the submerged entry nozzle (SEN) causes the "velocity magnitude wave" and strongly influences the boundary layer stability and the backflow stability. The boundary layer fluctuations or the "velocity magnitude wave" induced by the vortex shedding could give rise to the internal porosity. In strip continuous casting process, the vortex shedding phenomenon indicates that the laminar flow can give rise to instability and that it should be made important in the design of the feeding system and the setting of the operating parameters.

Mathematical Investigation of Fluid Flow, Mass Transfer, and Slag-steel Interfacial Behavior in Gas-stirred Ladles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Qing; Nastac, Laurentiu

2018-06-01

In this study, the Euler-Euler and Euler-Lagrange modeling approaches were applied to simulate the multiphase flow in the water model and gas-stirred ladle systems. Detailed comparisons of the computational and experimental results were performed to establish which approach is more accurate for predicting the gas-liquid multiphase flow phenomena. It was demonstrated that the Euler-Lagrange approach is more accurate than the Euler-Euler approach. The Euler-Lagrange approach was applied to study the effects of the free surface setup, injected bubble size, gas flow rate, and slag layer thickness on the slag-steel interaction and mass transfer behavior. Detailed discussions on the flat/non-flat free surface assumption were provided. Significant inaccuracies in the prediction of the surface fluid flow characteristics were found when the flat free surface was assumed. The variations in the main controlling parameters (bubble size, gas flow rate, and slag layer thickness) and their potential impact on the multiphase fluid flow and mass transfer characteristics (turbulent intensity, mass transfer rate, slag-steel interfacial area, flow patterns, etc.,) in gas-stirred ladles were quantitatively determined to ensure the proper increase in the ladle refining efficiency. It was revealed that by injecting finer bubbles as well as by properly increasing the gas flow rate and the slag layer thickness, the ladle refining efficiency can be enhanced significantly.

Method and apparatus for detecting the presence and thickness of carbon and oxide layers on EUV reflective surfaces

DOEpatents

Malinowski, Michael E.

2005-01-25

The characteristics of radiation that is reflected from carbon deposits and oxidation formations on highly reflective surfaces such as Mo/Si mirrors can be quantified and employed to detect and measure the presence of such impurities on optics. Specifically, it has been shown that carbon deposits on a Mo/Si multilayer mirror decreases the intensity of reflected HeNe laser (632.8 nm) light. In contrast, oxide layers formed on the mirror should cause an increase in HeNe power reflection. Both static measurements and real-time monitoring of carbon and oxide surface impurities on optical elements in lithography tools should be achievable.

A New Scheme for Considering Soil Water-Heat Transport Coupling Based on Community Land Model: Model Description and Preliminary Validation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Chenghai; Yang, Kai

2018-04-01

Land surface models (LSMs) have developed significantly over the past few decades, with the result that most LSMs can generally reproduce the characteristics of the land surface. However, LSMs fail to reproduce some details of soil water and heat transport during seasonal transition periods because they neglect the effects of interactions between water movement and heat transfer in the soil. Such effects are critical for a complete understanding of water-heat transport within a soil thermohydraulic regime. In this study, a fully coupled water-heat transport scheme (FCS) is incorporated into the Community Land Model (version 4.5) to replaces its original isothermal scheme, which is more complete in theory. Observational data from five sites are used to validate the performance of the FCS. The simulation results at both single-point and global scale show that the FCS improved the simulation of soil moisture and temperature. FCS better reproduced the characteristics of drier and colder surface layers in arid regions by considering the diffusion of soil water vapor, which is a nonnegligible process in soil, especially for soil surface layers, while its effects in cold regions are generally inverse. It also accounted for the sensible heat fluxes caused by liquid water flow, which can contribute to heat transfer in both surface and deep layers. The FCS affects the estimation of surface sensible heat (SH) and latent heat (LH) and provides the details of soil heat and water transportation, which benefits to understand the inner physical process of soil water-heat migration.

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

PubMed

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

2009-07-01

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

Studying the influence of substrate conductivity on the optoelectronic properties of quantum dots langmuir monolayer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Al-Alwani, Ammar J.; Chumakov, A. S.; Begletsova, N. N.; Shinkarenko, O. A.; Markin, A. V.; Gorbachev, I. A.; Bratashov, D. N.; Gavrikov, M. V.; Venig, S. B.; Glukhovskoy, E. G.

2018-04-01

The formation of CdSe quantum dots (QDs) monolayers was studied by Langmuir Blodgett method. The fluorescence (PL) spectra of QD monolayers were investigated at different substrate type (glass, silicon and ITO glass) and the influence of graphene sheets layer (as a conductive surface) on the QDs properties has also been studied. The optoelectronic properties of QDs can be tuned by deposition of insulating nano-size layers of the liquid crystal between QDs and conductive substrate. The monolayer of QDs transferred on conductive surface (glass with ITO) has lowest intensity of PL spectra due to quenching effect. The PL intensity of QDs could be tuned by using various type of substrates or/and by transformed high conductive layer. Also the photooxidation processes of CdSe QDs monolayer on the solid surface can be controlled by selection of suitable substrate. The current-voltage (I–V) characteristics of QDs thin film on ITO surface was studied using scanning tunneling microscope (STM).

Navier-Stokes structure of merged layer flow on the spherical nose of a space vehicle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jain, A. C.; Woods, G. H.

1988-01-01

Hypersonic merged layer flow on the forepart of a spherical surface of a space vehicle has been investigated on the basis of the full steady-state Navier-Stokes equations using slip and temperature jump boundary conditions at the surface and free-stream conditions far from the surface. The shockwave-like structure was determined as part of the computations. Using an equivalent body concept, computations were carried out under conditions that the Aeroassist Flight Experiment (AFE) Vehicle would encounter at 15 and 20 seconds in its flight path. Emphasis was placed on understanding the basic nature of the flow structure under low density conditions. Particular attention was paid to the understanding of the structure of the outer shockwave-like region as the fluid expands around the sphere. Plots were drawn for flow profiles and surface characteristics to understand the role of dissipation processes in the merged layer of the spherical nose of the vehicle.

Functionally graded alumina-based thin film systems

DOEpatents

Moore, John J.; Zhong, Dalong

2006-08-29

The present invention provides coating systems that minimize thermal and residual stresses to create a fatigue- and soldering-resistant coating for aluminum die casting dies. The coating systems include at least three layers. The outer layer is an alumina- or boro-carbide-based outer layer that has superior non-wettability characteristics with molten aluminum coupled with oxidation and wear resistance. A functionally-graded intermediate layer or "interlayer" enhances the erosive wear, toughness, and corrosion resistance of the die. A thin adhesion layer of reactive metal is used between the die substrate and the interlayer to increase adhesion of the coating system to the die surface.

Sensing Properties of a Fabry-Perot Dielectric Structure and Dimer Nanoparticles

DOE PAGES

Polemi, A.; Shuford, K. L.

2012-01-01

We investigate the use of a Fabry-Perot dielectric structure combined with differently shaped nanoparticles for Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering. In particular, we show how an ideal two-layer Fabry-Perot configuration enhances the local surface field of silver nanoparticles positioned on the surface of the structure. We develop the concept using disc dimers and then extend the discussion to bowtie nanoparticles. The structure is excited by a single emitter, which couples to the nanoparticles through the dielectric layers, producing a wide aperture field that can be used to excite multiple dimers. We show how an array of nanoparticles can be properly arrangedmore » in order to increase the total scattering signal generated from the structure. The layered geometry produces robust field properties in between nanoparticles, making the overall sensing characteristics less sensitive to the interparticle seperation distance and incident polarization.« less

Inlet Performance Characteristics from Wind-Tunnel Tests of a 0.10-Scale Air-Induction System Model of the YF-108A Airplane at Mach Numbers of 2.50, 2.76, and 3.00

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blackaby, James R.; Lyman, E. Gene; Altermann, John A., III

1959-01-01

Inlet-performance and external-drag-coefficient characteristics are presented without analysis. Effects are shown of variations of fuselage boundary-layer diverter profile, bleed-surface porosity, bleed-exit area, and inlet ramp, and lip angle.

Meltwater Evolution during Defrosting on Superhydrophobic Surfaces.

PubMed

Chu, Fuqiang; Wu, Xiaomin; Wang, Lingli

2018-01-10

Defrosting is essential for removing frost from engineering surfaces, but some fundamental issues are still unclear, especially for defrosting on superhydrophobic surfaces. Here, defrosting experiments on prepared superhydrophobic surfaces were conducted along with the investigation on meltwater evolution characteristics. According to the experiments, the typical meltwater evolution process on superhydrophobic surfaces can be divided into two stages: dewetting by edge curling and dewetting by shrinkage. The edge curling of a meltwater film is a distinct phenomenon and has been first reported in this work. Profiting from the ultralow adhesion of the superhydrophobic surface, edge curling is mainly attributed to two unbalanced forces (one at the interface between the ice slurry layer and pure water layer and the other in the triple phase line area) acting on the layered meltwater film. During the multi-meltwater evolution process, the nonbreaking of chained droplets on superhydrophobic surfaces is also an interesting phenomenon, which is controlled by the interaction between the surface tension and the retentive force because of contact angle hysteresis. An approximate criterion was then developed to explain and determine the status of chained droplets, and experimental data from various surfaces have validated the effectiveness of this criterion. This work may deepen the understanding of defrosting on superhydrophobic surfaces and promote antifrosting/icing applications in engineering.

Stability and rheology of dispersions of silicon nitride and silicon carbide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Feke, Donald L.

1987-01-01

The relationship between the surface and colloid chemistry of commercial ultra-fine silicon carbide and silicon nitride powders was examined by a variety of standard characterization techniques and by methodologies especially developed for ceramic dispersions. These include electrokinetic measurement, surface titration, and surface spectroscopies. The effects of powder pretreatment and modification strategies, which can be utilized to augment control of processing characteristics, were monitored with these technologies. Both silicon carbide and nitride were found to exhibit silica-like surface chemistries, but silicon nitride powders possess an additional amine surface functionality. Colloidal characteristics of the various nitride powders in aqueous suspension is believed to be highly dependent on the relative amounts of the two types of surface groups, which in turn is determined by the powder synthesis route. The differences in the apparent colloidal characteristics for silicon nitride powders cannot be attributed to the specific absorption of ammonium ions. Development of a model for the prediction of double-layer characteristics of materials with a hybrid site interface facilitated understanding and prediction of the behavior of both surface charge and surface potential for these materials. The utility of the model in application to silicon nitride powders was demonstrated.

Electrokinetic flow in a capillary with a charge-regulating surface polymer layer.

PubMed

Keh, Huan J; Ding, Jau M

2003-07-15

An analytical study of the steady electrokinetic flow in a long uniform capillary tube or slit is presented. The inside wall of the capillary is covered by a layer of adsorbed or covalently bound charge-regulating polymer in equilibrium with the ambient electrolyte solution. In this solvent-permeable and ion-penetrable surface polyelectrolyte layer, ionogenic functional groups and frictional segments are assumed to distribute at uniform densities. The electrical potential and space charge density distributions in the cross section of the capillary are obtained by solving the linearized Poisson-Boltzmann equation. The fluid velocity profile due to the application of an electric field and a pressure gradient through the capillary is obtained from the analytical solution of a modified Navier-Stokes/Brinkman equation. Explicit formulas for the electroosmotic velocity, the average fluid velocity and electric current density on the cross section, and the streaming potential in the capillary are also derived. The results demonstrate that the direction of the electroosmotic flow and the magnitudes of the fluid velocity and electric current density are dominated by the fixed charge density inside the surface polymer layer, which is determined by the regulation characteristics such as the dissociation equilibrium constants of the ionogenic functional groups in the surface layer and the concentration of the potential-determining ions in the bulk solution.

Investigation of the surface composition of electrodeposited black chromium by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Survilienė, S.; Češūnienė, A.; Jasulaitienė, V.; Jurevičiūtė, I.

2015-01-01

The paper reviews black chromium electrodeposited from a trivalent chromium bath containing ZnO as a second main component. The chemical compositions of the top layers of the black chromium coatings were studied by the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy method. The surface of black chromium was found to be almost entirely covered with organic substances. To gain information on the state of each element in the deposit bulk, the layer-by-layer etching of the black chromium surface with argon gas was used. Analysis of XPS spectra has shown that the top layers of black chromium without zinc are composed of various Cr(III) components, organic substances and metallic Cr, whereas metallic Cr is almost absent in black chromium containing some amount of Zn(II) compounds. The ratios of metal/oxide phases were found to be 10/27 and 2/28 for black chromium without and with zinc, respectively. It has been determined that owing to the presence of ZnO in the Cr(III) bath, the percentage of metallic chromium is substantially reduced in black chromium which is quite important for good solar selective characteristics of the coating. The results confirm some of earlier observations and provide new information on the composition of the near-surface layers.

Outer brain barriers in rat and human development

PubMed Central

Brøchner, Christian B.; Holst, Camilla B.; Møllgård, Kjeld

2015-01-01

Complex barriers at the brain's surface, particularly in development, are poorly defined. In the adult, arachnoid blood-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier separates the fenestrated dural vessels from the CSF by means of a cell layer joined by tight junctions. Outer CSF-brain barrier provides diffusion restriction between brain and subarachnoid CSF through an initial radial glial end feet layer covered with a pial surface layer. To further characterize these interfaces we examined embryonic rat brains from E10 to P0 and forebrains from human embryos and fetuses (6–21st weeks post-conception) and adults using immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy. Antibodies against claudin-11, BLBP, collagen 1, SSEA-4, MAP2, YKL-40, and its receptor IL-13Rα2 and EAAT1 were used to describe morphological characteristics and functional aspects of the outer brain barriers. Claudin-11 was a reliable marker of the arachnoid blood-CSF barrier. Collagen 1 delineated the subarachnoid space and stained pial surface layer. BLBP defined radial glial end feet layer and SSEA-4 and YKL-40 were present in both leptomeningeal cells and end feet layer, which transformed into glial limitans. IL-13Rα2 and EAAT1 were present in the end feet layer illustrating transporter/receptor presence in the outer CSF-brain barrier. MAP2 immunostaining in adult brain outlined the lower border of glia limitans; remnants of end feet were YKL-40 positive in some areas. We propose that outer brain barriers are composed of at least 3 interfaces: blood-CSF barrier across arachnoid barrier cell layer, blood-CSF barrier across pial microvessels, and outer CSF-brain barrier comprising glial end feet layer/pial surface layer. PMID:25852456

Outer brain barriers in rat and human development.

PubMed

Brøchner, Christian B; Holst, Camilla B; Møllgård, Kjeld

2015-01-01

Complex barriers at the brain's surface, particularly in development, are poorly defined. In the adult, arachnoid blood-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier separates the fenestrated dural vessels from the CSF by means of a cell layer joined by tight junctions. Outer CSF-brain barrier provides diffusion restriction between brain and subarachnoid CSF through an initial radial glial end feet layer covered with a pial surface layer. To further characterize these interfaces we examined embryonic rat brains from E10 to P0 and forebrains from human embryos and fetuses (6-21st weeks post-conception) and adults using immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy. Antibodies against claudin-11, BLBP, collagen 1, SSEA-4, MAP2, YKL-40, and its receptor IL-13Rα2 and EAAT1 were used to describe morphological characteristics and functional aspects of the outer brain barriers. Claudin-11 was a reliable marker of the arachnoid blood-CSF barrier. Collagen 1 delineated the subarachnoid space and stained pial surface layer. BLBP defined radial glial end feet layer and SSEA-4 and YKL-40 were present in both leptomeningeal cells and end feet layer, which transformed into glial limitans. IL-13Rα2 and EAAT1 were present in the end feet layer illustrating transporter/receptor presence in the outer CSF-brain barrier. MAP2 immunostaining in adult brain outlined the lower border of glia limitans; remnants of end feet were YKL-40 positive in some areas. We propose that outer brain barriers are composed of at least 3 interfaces: blood-CSF barrier across arachnoid barrier cell layer, blood-CSF barrier across pial microvessels, and outer CSF-brain barrier comprising glial end feet layer/pial surface layer.

S-layer fusion protein as a tool functionalizing emulsomes and CurcuEmulsomes for antibody binding and targeting

PubMed Central

Ucisik, Mehmet H.; Küpcü, Seta; Breitwieser, Andreas; Gelbmann, Nicola; Schuster, Bernhard; Sleytr, Uwe B.

2015-01-01

Selective targeting of tumor cells by nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems is highly desirable because it maximizes the drug concentration at the desired target while simultaneously protecting the surrounding healthy tissues. Here, we show a design for smart nanocarriers based on a biomimetic approach that utilizes the building principle of virus envelope structures. Emulsomes and CurcuEmulsomes comprising a tripalmitin solid core surrounded by phospholipid layers are modified by S-layer proteins that self-assemble into a two-dimensional array to form a surface layer. One significant advantage of this nanoformulation is that it increases the solubility of the lipophilic anti-cancer agent curcumin in the CurcuEmulsomes by a factor of 2700. In order to make the emulsomes specific for IgG, the S-layer protein is fused with two protein G domains. This S-layer fusion protein preserves its recrystallization characteristics, forming an ordered surface layer (square lattice with 13 nm unit-by-unit distance). The GG domains are presented in a predicted orientation and exhibit a selective binding affinity for IgG. PMID:25734967

An Investigation into the Mechanics of Windblown Dust Entrainment from Nickel Slag Surfaces Resembling Armoured Desert Pavements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanderson, Robert Steven

The purpose of this thesis is to investigate the dynamics of PM 10 emission from a nickel slag stockpile that closely resembles a desert pavement in physical characteristics. In the field, it was observed that slag surfaces develop by natural processes into a well-armoured surface over some period of time. The surface then consists of two distinct layers; a surficial armour layer containing only non-erodible gravel and cobble-sized clasts, and an underlying dust-laden layer, which contains a wide size range of slag particles, from clay-sized to cobble-sized. This surficial armour layer protects the underlying fines from wind entrainment, at least under typical wind conditions; however, particle emissions still do occur under high wind speeds. The dynamics of particle entrainment from within these surfaces are investigated herein. It is shown that the dynamics of the boundary layer flow over these lag surfaces are influenced by the inherent roughness and permeability of the surficial armour layer, such that the flow resembles those observed over and within vegetation canopies, and those associated with permeable gravel-bed river channels. Restriction of air flow within the permeable surface produces a high-pressure zone within the pore spaces, resulting in a Kelvin-Helmholtz shear instability, which triggers coherent motions in the form of repeating burst-sweep cycles. Using Laser Doppler Anemometry (LDA), it is demonstrated that the lower boundary layer is characterized by both Q4 sweeping motions and Q2 bursting motions, while the upper boundary layer is dominated by Q2 bursts. Pore air motions within the slag material were measured using buried pressure ports. It is shown that the mean pressure gradient which forms within the slag material results in net upward displacement of air, or wind pumping. However, this net upward motion is a result of rapid oscillatory motions which are directly driven by coherent boundary layer motions. It is also demonstrated that these coherent motions are able to penetrate at least 4 cm through the surficial armour layer, thereby transporting turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) downward to the dust-laden sub-surface layer. This represents a mechanism of momentum transfer that is able to reach the erodible material, while the wind pumping effect represents a mechanism for particle exhaustion.

Computer program for design of two-dimensional supersonic turbine rotor blades with boundary-layer correction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldman, L. J.; Scullin, V. J.

1971-01-01

A FORTRAN 4 computer program for the design of two-dimensional supersonic rotor blade sections corrected for boundary-layer displacement thickness is presented. The ideal rotor is designed by the method of characteristics to produce vortex flow within the blade passage. The boundary-layer parameters are calculated by Cohen and Reshotoko's method for laminar flow and Sasman and Cresci's method for turbulent flow. The program input consists essentially of the blade surface Mach number distribution and total flow conditions. The primary output is the corrected blade profile and the boundary-layer parameters.

Features of clouds and convection during the pre- and post-onset periods of the Asian summer monsoon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yi; Wang, Chenghai

2016-02-01

The statistical characteristics of the vertical structure of clouds in the Asian summer monsoon region are investigated using two CloudSat standard products (Geometrical Profiling Product (GEOPROF) and GEOPROF-lidar) during the pre- and post-onset periods of the Asian summer monsoon, from April to August in 2007-2010. The characteristics of the vertical structure of clouds are analyzed and compared for different underlying surfaces in four subregions during this period. Also analyzed are the evolution of precipitation and hydrometeors with the northward advance of the Asian summer monsoon, and different hydrometeor characteristics attributed to the underlying surface features. The results indicate that the vertical cloud amounts increase significantly after the summer monsoon onset; this increase occurs first in the upper troposphere and then at lower altitudes over tropical regions (South Asian and tropical Northwest Pacific regions). The heights of the cloud top ascend, and the vertical height between the top and the base of the whole cloud increases. Single-layer (SL) and double-layer (DL) hydrometeors contribute over half and one third of the cloudiness in these 5 months (April to August), respectively. The multilayer frequencies increase in four different regions, and cloud layer depths (CLD) increase after the summer monsoon onset. These changes are stronger in tropical regions than in subtropical regions, while the vertical distance between cloud layers (VDCL) deceases in tropical regions and increases in subtropical regions.

Studies of Positrons Trapped at Quantum-Dot Like Particles Embedded in Metal Surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fazleev, N. G.; Nadesalingam, M. P.; Weiss, A. H.

2009-03-01

Experimental studies of the positron annihilation induced Auger electron (PAES) spectra from the Fe-Cu alloy surfaces with quantum-dot like Cu nanoparticles embedded in Fe show that the PAES signal from Cu increase rapidly as the concentration of Cu is enhanced by vacuum annealing. These measurements indicate that almost 75% of positrons that annihilate with core electrons due so with Cu even though the surface concentration of Cu as measured by EAES is only 6%. This result suggests that positrons become localized at sites at the surface containing high concentration of Cu atoms before annihilation. These experimental results are investigated theoretically by performing calculations of the "image-potential" positron surface states and annihilation characteristics of the surface trapped positrons with relevant Fe and Cu core-level electrons for the clean Fe(100) and Cu(100) surfaces and for the Fe(100) surface with quantum-dot like Cu nanoparticles embedded in the top atomic layers of the host substrate. Estimates of the positron binding energy and positron annihilation characteristics reveal their strong sensitivity to the nanoparticle coverage. Computed core annihilation probabilities are compared with experimental ones estimated from the measured Auger peak intensities. The observed behavior of the Fe and Cu PAES signal intensities is explained by theoretical calculations as being due to trapping of positrons in the regions of Cu nanoparticles embedded in the top atomic layers of Fe.

A Brief Survey of Media Access Control, Data Link Layer, and Protocol Technologies for Lunar Surface Communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wallett, Thomas M.

2009-01-01

This paper surveys and describes some of the existing media access control and data link layer technologies for possible application in lunar surface communications and the advanced wideband Direct Sequence Code Division Multiple Access (DSCDMA) conceptual systems utilizing phased-array technology that will evolve in the next decade. Time Domain Multiple Access (TDMA) and Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) are standard Media Access Control (MAC) techniques that can be incorporated into lunar surface communications architectures. Another novel hybrid technique that is recently being developed for use with smart antenna technology combines the advantages of CDMA with those of TDMA. The relatively new and sundry wireless LAN data link layer protocols that are continually under development offer distinct advantages for lunar surface applications over the legacy protocols which are not wireless. Also several communication transport and routing protocols can be chosen with characteristics commensurate with smart antenna systems to provide spacecraft communications for links exhibiting high capacity on the surface of the Moon. The proper choices depend on the specific communication requirements.

Unzipping of multi-wall carbon nanotubes with different diameter distributions: Effect on few-layer graphene oxide obtention

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Torres, D.; Pinilla, J. L.; Suelves, I.

2017-12-01

Few-layer graphene oxide (FLGO) was obtained by chemical unzipping of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) of different diameter distributions. MWCNT were synthesized by catalytic decomposition of methane using Fe-Mo/MgO catalysts. The variation in the Fe/Mo ratio (1, 2 and 5) was very influential in MWCNT diameter distribution and type of MWCNT obtained, including textural, chemical, structural and morphological characteristics. MWCNT diameter distribution and surface defects content had a profound impact on the characteristics of the resulting FLGO. Thus, MWCNT obtained with the catalyst with a Fe/Mo: 5 and presenting a narrow diameter distribution centered at 8.6 ± 3.3 nm led to FLGO maintaining non-oxidized graphite stacking (according to XRD analysis), lower specific surface area and higher thermostability as compared to FLGO obtained from MWCNT showing wider diameter distributions. The presence of more oxygen-containing functionalities and structural defects in large diameter nanotubes promotes the intercalation of species towards the inner layers of the nanotube, resulting in an enhanced MWCNT oxidation and opening into FLGO, what improves both micro- and mesoporosity.

Electrical transport and low-frequency noise in chemical vapor deposited single-layer MoS2 devices.

PubMed

Sharma, Deepak; Amani, Matin; Motayed, Abhishek; Shah, Pankaj B; Birdwell, A Glen; Najmaei, Sina; Ajayan, Pulickel M; Lou, Jun; Dubey, Madan; Li, Qiliang; Davydov, Albert V

2014-04-18

We have studied temperature-dependent (77-300 K) electrical characteristics and low-frequency noise (LFN) in chemical vapor deposited (CVD) single-layer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) based back-gated field-effect transistors (FETs). Electrical characterization and LFN measurements were conducted on MoS2 FETs with Al2O3 top-surface passivation. We also studied the effect of top-surface passivation etching on the electrical characteristics of the device. Significant decrease in channel current and transconductance was observed in these devices after the Al2O3 passivation etching. For passivated devices, the two-terminal resistance variation with temperature showed a good fit to the activation energy model, whereas for the etched devices the trend indicated a hopping transport mechanism. A significant increase in the normalized drain current noise power spectral density (PSD) was observed after the etching of the top passivation layer. The observed channel current noise was explained using a standard unified model incorporating carrier number fluctuation and correlated surface mobility fluctuation mechanisms. Detailed analysis of the gate-referred noise voltage PSD indicated the presence of different trapping states in passivated devices when compared to the etched devices. Etched devices showed weak temperature dependence of the channel current noise, whereas passivated devices exhibited near-linear temperature dependence.

Effect of Carbon in the Dielectric Fluid and Workpieces on the Characteristics of Recast Layers Machined by Electrical Discharge Machining

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muttamara, Apiwat; Kanchanomai, Chaosuan

2016-06-01

Electrical discharge machining (EDM) is a popular non-traditional machining technique that is usually performed in kerosene. Carbon from the kerosene is mixed into the recast layer during EDM, increasing its hardness. EDM can be performed in deionized water, which causes decarburization. We studied the effects of carbon in the dielectric fluid and workpiece on the characteristics of recast layers. Experiments were conducted using gray cast iron and mild steel workpieces in deionized water or kerosene under identical operating conditions. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the recast layer formed on gray iron was rougher than that produced on mild steel. Moreover, the dispersion of graphite flakes in the gray iron seemed to cause subsurface cracks, even when EDM was performed in deionized water. Dendritic structures and iron carbides were found in the recast layer of gray iron treated in deionized water. Kerosene caused more microcracks to form and increased surface roughness compared with deionized water. The microcrack length per unit area of mild steel treated in deionized water was greater than that treated in kerosene, but the cracks formed in kerosene were wider. The effect of the diffusion of carbon during cooling on the characteristics of the recast layer was discussed.

Topography and geologic characteristics of aeolian grooves in the south polar layered deposits of Mars

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bridges, N.T.; Herkenhoff, K. E.

2002-01-01

The topographic and geologic characteristics of grooves and groove-like features in the south polar layered deposits near the Mars Polar Lander/Deep Space 2 landing sites are evaluated using Mariner 9 images and their derived photoclinometry, normalized using Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter data. Although both Mariner 9 and Viking images of the south polar layered deposits were available at the time of this study, Mariner 9 images of the grooves were selected because they were generally of higher resolution than Viking images. The dimensions and slopes of the grooves, together with orientations that nearly match the strongest winds predicted in the Martian Global Circulation Model and directions inferred from other wind indicators, suggest that they formed by aeolian scour of an easily erodible surface. Most grooves are symmetric and V-shaped in transverse profile, inconsistent with an origin involving extensional brittle deformation. Although the grooves strike along slopes and terraces of the south polar layered deposits, the variable depths and lack of terracing within the grooves themselves indicate that any stratigraphy in the uppermost 100 m of the polar layered deposits is composed of layers of similar, and relatively low, resistance. The grooves do not represent landing hazards at the scale of the Mariner 9 images (72-86 m/pixel) and therefore probably would not have affected Mars Polar Lander and Deep Space 2, had they successfully reached the surface. ?? 2002 Elsevier Science (USA).

Surface Heat Budgets and Sea Surface Temperature in the Pacific Warm Pool During TOGA COARE

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chou, Shu-Hsien; Zhao, Wenzhong; Chou, Ming-Dah

1998-01-01

The daily mean heat and momentum fluxes at the surface derived from the SSM/I and Japan's GMS radiance measurements are used to study the temporal and spatial variability of the surface energy budgets and their relationship to the sea surface temperature during the COARE intensive observing period (IOP). For the three time legs observed during the IOP, the retrieved surface fluxes compare reasonably well with those from the IMET buoy, RV Moana Wave, and RV Wecoma. The characteristics of surface heat and momentum fluxes are very different between the southern and northern warm pool. In the southern warm pool, the net surface heat flux is dominated by solar radiation which is, in turn, modulated by the two Madden-Julian oscillations. The surface winds are generally weak, leading to a shallow ocean mixed layer. The solar radiation penetrating through the bottom of the mixed layer is significant, and the change in the sea surface temperature during the IOP does not follow the net surface heat flux. In the northern warm pool, the northeasterly trade wind is strong and undergoes strong seasonal variation. The variation of the net surface heat flux is dominated by evaporation. The two westerly wind bursts associated with the Madden-Julian oscillations seem to have little effect on the net surface heat flux. The ocean mixed layer is deep, and the solar radiation penetrating through the bottom of the mixed layer is small. As opposed to the southern warm pool, the trend of the sea surface temperature in the northern warm pool during the IOP is in agreement with the variation of the net heat flux at the surface.

A New Strategy for Humidity Independent Oxide Chemiresistors: Dynamic Self-Refreshing of In2 O3 Sensing Surface Assisted by Layer-by-Layer Coated CeO2 Nanoclusters.

PubMed

Yoon, Ji-Wook; Kim, Jun-Sik; Kim, Tae-Hyung; Hong, Young Jun; Kang, Yun Chan; Lee, Jong-Heun

2016-08-01

The humidity dependence of the gas sensing characteristics of metal oxide semiconductors has been one of the greatest obstacles for gas sensor applications during the last five decades because ambient humidity dynamically changes with the environmental conditions. Herein, a new and novel strategy is reported to eliminate the humidity dependence of the gas sensing characteristics of oxide chemiresistors via dynamic self-refreshing of the sensing surface affected by water vapor chemisorption. The sensor resistance and gas response of pure In2 O3 hollow spheres significantly change and deteriorate in humid atmospheres. In contrast, the humidity dependence becomes negligible when an optimal concentration of CeO2 nanoclusters is uniformly loaded onto In2 O3 hollow spheres via layer-by-layer (LBL) assembly. Moreover, In2 O3 sensors LBL-coated with CeO2 nanoclusters show fast response/recovery, low detection limit (500 ppb), and high selectivity to acetone even in highly humid conditions (relative humidity 80%). The mechanism underlying the dynamic refreshing of the In2 O3 sensing surfaces regardless of humidity variation is investigated in relation to the role of CeO2 and the chemical interaction among CeO2 , In2 O3 , and water vapor. This strategy can be widely used to design high performance gas sensors including disease diagnosis via breath analysis and pollutant monitoring. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Device performance and lifetime of polymer:fullerene solar cells with UV-ozone-irradiated hole-collecting buffer layers.

PubMed

Lee, Seungsoo; Nam, Sungho; Lee, Hyena; Kim, Hwajeong; Kim, Youngkyoo

2011-11-18

We report the influence of UV-ozone irradiation of the hole-collecting buffer layers on the performance and lifetime of polymer:fullerene solar cells. UV-ozone irradiation was targeted at the surface of the poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) layers by varying the irradiation time up to 600 s. The change of the surface characteristics in the PEDOT:PSS after UV-ozone irradiation was measured by employing optical absorption spectroscopy, photoelectron yield spectroscopy, and contact angle measurements, while Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy techniques were introduced for more microscopic analysis. Results showed that the UV-ozone irradiation changed the chemical structure/composition of the surface of the PEDOT:PSS layers leading to the gradual increase of ionization potential with irradiation time in the presence of up-and-down variations in the contact angle (polarity). This surface property change was attributed to the formation of oxidative components, as evidenced by XPS and Auger electron images, which affected the sheet resistance of the PEDOT:PSS layers. Interestingly, device performance was slightly improved by short irradiation (up to 10 s), whereas it was gradually decreased by further irradiation. The short-duration illumination test showed that the lifetime of solar cells with the UV-ozone irradiated PEDOT:PSS layer was improved due to the protective role of the oxidative components formed upon UV-ozone irradiation against the attack of sulfonic acid groups in the PEDOT:PSS layer to the active layer. Copyright © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

LDV measurement of boundary layer on rotating blade surface in wind tunnel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maeda, Takao; Kamada, Yasunari; Murata, Junsuke; Suzuki, Daiki; Kaga, Norimitsu; Kagisaki, Yosuke

2014-12-01

Wind turbines generate electricity due to extracting energy from the wind. The rotor aerodynamics strongly depends on the flow around blade. The surface flow on the rotating blade affects the sectional performance. The wind turbine surface flow has span-wise component due to span-wise change of airfoil section, chord length, twisted angle of blade and centrifugal force on the flow. These span-wise flow changes the boundary layer on the rotating blade and the sectional performance. Hence, the thorough understanding of blade surface flow is important to improve the rotor performance. For the purpose of clarification of the flow behaviour around the rotor blade, the velocity in the boundary layer on rotating blade surface of an experimental HAWT was measured in a wind tunnel. The velocity measurement on the blade surface was carried out by a laser Doppler velocimeter (LDV). As the results of the measurement, characteristics of surface flow are clarified. In optimum tip speed operation, the surface flow on leading edge and r/R=0.3 have large span-wise velocity which reaches 20% of sectional inflow velocity. The surface flow inboard have three dimensional flow patterns. On the other hand, the flow outboard is almost two dimensional in cross sectional plane.

Nanoscale Roughness and Morphology Affect the IsoElectric Point of Titania Surfaces

PubMed Central

Borghi, Francesca; Vyas, Varun; Podestà, Alessandro; Milani, Paolo

2013-01-01

We report on the systematic investigation of the role of surface nanoscale roughness and morphology on the charging behaviour of nanostructured titania (TiO2) surfaces in aqueous solutions. IsoElectric Points (IEPs) of surfaces have been characterized by direct measurement of the electrostatic double layer interactions between titania surfaces and the micrometer-sized spherical silica probe of an atomic force microscope in NaCl aqueous electrolyte. The use of a colloidal probe provides well-defined interaction geometry and allows effectively probing the overall effect of nanoscale morphology. By using supersonic cluster beam deposition to fabricate nanostructured titania films, we achieved a quantitative control over the surface morphological parameters. We performed a systematical exploration of the electrical double layer properties in different interaction regimes characterized by different ratios of characteristic nanometric lengths of the system: the surface rms roughness Rq, the correlation length ξ and the Debye length λD. We observed a remarkable reduction by several pH units of IEP on rough nanostructured surfaces, with respect to flat crystalline rutile TiO2. In order to explain the observed behavior of IEP, we consider the roughness-induced self-overlap of the electrical double layers as a potential source of deviation from the trend expected for flat surfaces. PMID:23874708

Effects of gas flow rate on the etch characteristics of a low- k sicoh film with an amorphous carbon mask in dual-frequency CF4/C4F8/Ar capacitively-coupled plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kwon, Bong-Soo; Lee, Hea-Lim; Lee, Nae-Eung; Kim, Chang-Young; Choi, Chi Kyu

2013-01-01

Highly selective nanoscale etching of a low-dielectric constant (low- k) organosilicate (SiCOH) layer using a mask pattern of chemical-vapor-deposited (CVD) amorphous carbon layer (ACL) was carried out in CF4/C4F8/Ar dual-frequency superimposed capacitively-coupled plasmas. The etching characteristics of the SiCOH layers, such as the etch rate, etch selectivity, critical dimension (CD), and line edge roughness (LER) during the plasma etching, were investigated by varying the C4F8 flow rate. The C4F8 gas flow rate primarily was found to control the degree of polymerization and to cause variations in the selectivity, CD and LER of the patterned SiCOH layer. Process windows for ultra-high etch selectivity of the SiCOH layer to the CVD ACL are formed due to the disproportionate degrees of polymerization on the SiCOH and the ACL surfaces.

Resistance Switching Memory Characteristics of Si/CaF2/CdF2 Quantum-Well Structures Grown on Metal (CoSi2) Layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Denda, Junya; Uryu, Kazuya; Watanabe, Masahiro

2013-04-01

A novel scheme of resistance switching random access memory (ReRAM) devices fabricated using Si/CaF2/CdF2/CaF2/Si quantum-well structures grown on metal CoSi2 layer formed on a Si substrate has been proposed, and embryonic write/erase memory operation has been demonstrated at room temperature. It has been found that the oxide-mediated epitaxy (OME) technique for forming the CoSi2 layer on Si dramatically improves the stability and reproducibility of the current-voltage (I-V) curve. This technology involves 10-nm-thick Co layer deposition on a protective oxide prepared by boiling in a peroxide-based solution followed by annealing at 550 °C for 30 min for silicidation in ultrahigh vacuum. A switching voltage of lower than 1 V, a peak current density of 32 kA/cm2, and an ON/OFF ratio of 10 have been observed for the sample with the thickness sequence of 0.9/0.9/2.5/0.9/5.0 nm for the respective layers in the Si/CaF2/CdF2/CaF2/Si structure. Results of surface morphology analysis suggest that the grain size of crystal islands with flat surfaces strongly affects the quality of device characteristics.

Propagation of SH waves in an infinite/semi-infinite piezoelectric/piezomagnetic periodically layered structure.

PubMed

Pang, Yu; Liu, Yu-Shan; Liu, Jin-Xi; Feng, Wen-Jie

2016-04-01

In this paper, SH bulk/surface waves propagating in the corresponding infinite/semi-infinite piezoelectric (PE)/piezomagnetic (PM) and PM/PE periodically layered composites are investigated by two methods, the stiffness matrix method and the transfer matrix method. For a semi-infinite PE/PM or PM/PE medium, the free surface is parallel to the layer interface. Both PE and PM materials are assumed to be transversely isotropic solids. Dispersion equations are derived by the stiffness/transfer matrix methods, respectively. The effects of electric-magnetic (ME) boundary conditions at the free surface and the layer thickness ratios on dispersion curves are considered in detail. Numerical examples show that the results calculated by the two methods are the same. The dispersion curves of SH surface waves are below the bulk bands or inside the frequency gaps. The ratio of the layer thickness has an important effect not only on the bulk bands but also on the dispersion curves of SH surface waves. Electric and magnetic boundary conditions, respectively, determine the dispersion curves of SH surface waves for the PE/PM and PM/PE semi-infinite structures. The band structures of SH bulk waves are consistent for the PE/PM and PM/PE structures, however, the dispersive behaviors of SH surface waves are indeed different for the two composites. The realization of the above-mentioned characteristics of SH waves will make it possible to design PE/PM acoustic wave devices with periodical structures and achieve the better performance. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Surface pressure and elasticity of hydrophobin HFBII layers on the air-water interface: rheology versus structure detected by AFM imaging.

PubMed

Stanimirova, Rumyana D; Gurkov, Theodor D; Kralchevsky, Peter A; Balashev, Konstantin T; Stoyanov, Simeon D; Pelan, Eddie G

2013-05-21

Here, we combine experiments with Langmuir trough and atomic force microscopy (AFM) to investigate the reasons for the special properties of layers from the protein HFBII hydrophobin spread on the air-water interface. The hydrophobin interfacial layers possess the highest surface dilatational and shear elastic moduli among all investigated proteins. The AFM images show that the spread HFBII layers are rather inhomogeneous, (i.e., they contain voids, monolayer and multilayer domains). A continuous compression of the layer leads to filling the voids and transformation of a part of the monolayer into a trilayer. The trilayer appears in the form of large surface domains, which can be formed by folding and subduction of parts from the initial monolayer. The trilayer appears also in the form of numerous submicrometer spots, which can be obtained by forcing protein molecules out of the monolayer and their self-assembly into adjacent pimples. Such structures are formed because not only the hydrophobic parts, but also the hydrophilic parts of the HFBII molecules can adhere to each other in the water medium. If a hydrophobin layer is subjected to oscillations, its elasticity considerably increases, up to 500 mN/m, which can be explained with compaction. The relaxation of the layer's tension after expansion or compression follows the same relatively simple law, which refers to two-dimensional diffusion of protein aggregates within the layer. The characteristic diffusion time after compression is longer than after expansion, which can be explained with the impedence of diffusion in the more compact interfacial layer. The results shed light on the relation between the mesoscopic structure of hydrophobin interfacial layers and their unique mechanical properties that find applications for the production of foams and emulsions of extraordinary stability; for the immobilization of functional molecules at surfaces, and as coating agents for surface modification.

The influence of coating technologies on stress-strain characteristics of the sample at periodic loading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zakharchenko, K. V.; Zubkov, V. P.; Kapustin, V. I.; Maksimovski, E. A.; Talanin, A. V.

2017-10-01

The article is devoted to the research on influence of coating technologies on stress-strain characteristics of a heterogeneous sample (the substrate-coating system) at periodic stress-controlled loading. The comparison of stress-strain characteristics of samples with three types of surface layer showed that the coatings lead to the change in stress at which inelastic phenomena appear in the material. Apart stress-strain characteristics of samples, microrelief on the samples’ surface and formation of a slipband in the grain structure of the coatings were studied in the experiment. It is stated that cold dynamic spraying, which is performed by centrifugal acceleration of particles in vacuum, makes it possible to obtain a coating with better strength and stress-strain characteristics in comparison with cladding.

Effect of SiO2 coating layer morphology on TiH2 gas release characteristic.

PubMed

Yang, Zhimao; Fang, Jixiang; Ding, Bingjun

2005-10-15

In this study, a uniform and compact SiO2 film-coating layer was prepared on the surface of TiH2 particles by sol-gel method using inexpensive raw materials. The preparation process of SiO2-coated TiH2 particles and the effect of the coating layer morphology on the gas release characteristic were investigated in detail. When the pH value of TiH2 suspending solution is about 4.0 and the concentration of silicic acid is more than 0.5 mol/L, the coating layer shows a SiO2 particle-coating morphology. While a homogeneous and dense film-coating layer can be obtained when the solution pH value and concentration of silicic acid are about 4.0 and 0.5 mol/L. The results of gas release at 700 degrees C show that TiH2 particles coated with silicon dioxide layers can efficiently delay the starting time of gas release of TiH2 powders to 60-100 s. Comparing the particle-coating layer, the SiO2 film-coating layer has a better delaying effect on gas release of TiH2 particles.

Mean flow field and surface heating produced by unequal shock interactions at hypersonic speeds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Birch, S. F.; Rudy, D. H.

1975-01-01

Mean velocity profiles were measured in a free shear layer produced by the interaction of two unequal strength shock waves at hypersonic free-stream Mach numbers. Measurements were made over a unit Reynolds number range of 3,770,000 per meter to 17,400,000 per meter based on the flow on the high velocity side of the shear layer. The variation in measured spreading parameters with Mach number for the fully developed flows is consistent with the trend of the available zero velocity ratio data when the Mach numbers for the data given in this study are taken to be characteristic Mach numbers based on the velocity difference across the mixing layer. Surface measurements in the shear-layer attachment region of the blunt-body model indicate peak local heating and static pressure consistent with other published data. Transition Reynolds numbers were found to be significantly lower than those found in previous data.

Boundary-layer cumulus over heterogeneous landscapes: A subgrid GCM parameterization. Final report, December 1991--November 1995

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

Stull, R.B.; Tripoli, G.

1996-01-08

The authors developed single-column parameterizations for subgrid boundary-layer cumulus clouds. These give cloud onset time, cloud coverage, and ensemble distributions of cloud-base altitudes, cloud-top altitudes, cloud thickness, and the characteristics of cloudy and clear updrafts. They tested and refined the parameterizations against archived data from Spring and Summer 1994 and 1995 intensive operation periods (IOPs) at the Southern Great Plains (SGP) ARM CART site near Lamont, Oklahoma. The authors also found that: cloud-base altitudes are not uniform over a heterogeneous surface; tops of some cumulus clouds can be below the base-altitudes of other cumulus clouds; there is an overlap regionmore » near cloud base where clear and cloudy updrafts exist simultaneously; and the lognormal distribution of cloud sizes scales to the JFD of surface layer air and to the shape of the temperature profile above the boundary layer.« less

Directionally Aligned Amorphous Polymer Chains via Electrohydrodynamic-Jet Printing: Analysis of Morphology and Polymer Field-Effect Transistor Characteristics.

PubMed

Kim, Yebyeol; Bae, Jaehyun; Song, Hyun Woo; An, Tae Kyu; Kim, Se Hyun; Kim, Yun-Hi; Park, Chan Eon

2017-11-15

Electrohydrodynamic-jet (EHD-jet) printing provides an opportunity to directly assembled amorphous polymer chains in the printed pattern. Herein, an EHD-jet printed amorphous polymer was employed as the active layer for fabrication of organic field-effect transistors (OFETs). Under optimized conditions, the field-effect mobility (μ FET ) of the EHD-jet printed OFETs was 5 times higher than the highest μ FET observed in the spin-coated OFETs, and this improvement was achieved without the use of complex surface templating or additional pre- or post-deposition processing. As the chain alignment can be affected by the surface energy of the dielectric layer in EHD-jet printed OFETs, dielectric layers with varying wettability were examined. Near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure measurements were performed to compare the amorphous chain alignment in OFET active layers prepared by EHD-jet printing and spin coating.

Nanofilms of hyaluronan/chitosan assembled layer-by-layer: An antibacterial surface for Xylella fastidiosa.

PubMed

Hernández-Montelongo, Jacobo; Nascimento, Vicente F; Murillo, Duber; Taketa, Thiago B; Sahoo, Prasana; de Souza, Alessandra A; Beppu, Marisa M; Cotta, Monica A

2016-01-20

In this work, nanofilms of hyaluronan/chitosan (HA/CHI) assembled layer by layer were synthesized; their application as a potential antimicrobial material was demonstrated for the phytopathogen Xylella fastidiosa, a gram-negative bacterium, here used as a model. For the synthesis, the influence of pH and ionic strength of these natural polymer stem-solutions on final characteristics of the HA/CHI nanofilms was studied in detail. The antibacterial effect was evaluated using widefield fluorescence microscopy. These results were correlated with the chemical properties of the nanofilms, studied by FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, as well as with their morphology and surface properties characterized using SEM and AFM. The present findings can be extended to design and optimize HA/CHI nanofilms with enhanced antimicrobial behavior for other type of phytopathogenic gram-negative bacteria species, such as Xanthomonas citri, Xanthomas campestri and Ralstonia solanacearum. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Two-dimensional electronic transport and surface electron accumulation in MoS2.

PubMed

Siao, M D; Shen, W C; Chen, R S; Chang, Z W; Shih, M C; Chiu, Y P; Cheng, C-M

2018-04-12

Because the surface-to-volume ratio of quasi-two-dimensional materials is extremely high, understanding their surface characteristics is crucial for practically controlling their intrinsic properties and fabricating p-type and n-type layered semiconductors. Van der Waals crystals are expected to have an inert surface because of the absence of dangling bonds. However, here we show that the surface of high-quality synthesized molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2 ) is a major n-doping source. The surface electron concentration of MoS 2 is nearly four orders of magnitude higher than that of its inner bulk. Substantial thickness-dependent conductivity in MoS 2 nanoflakes was observed. The transfer length method suggested the current transport in MoS 2 following a two-dimensional behavior rather than the conventional three-dimensional mode. Scanning tunneling microscopy and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy measurements confirmed the presence of surface electron accumulation in this layered material. Notably, the in situ-cleaved surface exhibited a nearly intrinsic state without electron accumulation.

Viscous/potential flow about multi-element two-dimensional and infinite-span swept wings: Theory and experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Olson, L. E.; Dvorak, F. A.

1975-01-01

The viscous subsonic flow past two-dimensional and infinite-span swept multi-component airfoils is studied theoretically and experimentally. The computerized analysis is based on iteratively coupled boundary layer and potential flow analysis. The method, which is restricted to flows with only slight separation, gives surface pressure distribution, chordwise and spanwise boundary layer characteristics, lift, drag, and pitching moment for airfoil configurations with up to four elements. Merging confluent boundary layers are treated. Theoretical predictions are compared with an exact theoretical potential flow solution and with experimental measures made in the Ames 40- by 80-Foot Wind Tunnel for both two-dimensional and infinite-span swept wing configurations. Section lift characteristics are accurately predicted for zero and moderate sweep angles where flow separation effects are negligible.

Transparent conductive oxide films embedded with plasmonic nanostructure for light-emitting diode applications.

PubMed

Chuang, Shih-Hao; Tsung, Cheng-Sheng; Chen, Ching-Ho; Ou, Sin-Liang; Horng, Ray-Hua; Lin, Cheng-Yi; Wuu, Dong-Sing

2015-02-04

In this study, a spin coating process in which the grating structure comprises an Ag nanoparticle layer coated on a p-GaN top layer of InGaN/GaN light-emitting diode (LED) was developed. Various sizes of plasmonic nanoparticles embedded in a transparent conductive layer were clearly observed after the deposition of indium tin oxide (ITO). The plasmonic nanostructure enhanced the light extraction efficiency of blue LED. Output power was 1.8 times the magnitude of that of conventional LEDs operating at 350 mA, but retained nearly the same current-voltage characteristic. Unlike in previous research on surface-plasmon-enhanced LEDs, the metallic nanoparticles were consistently deposited over the surface area. However, according to microstructural observation, ITO layer mixed with Ag-based nanoparticles was distributed at a distance of approximately 150 nm from the interface of ITO/p-GaN. Device performance can be improved substantially by using the three-dimensional distribution of Ag-based nanoparticles in the transparent conductive layer, which scatters the propagating light randomly and is coupled between the localized surface plasmon and incident light internally trapped in the LED structure through total internal reflection.

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy investigation on the clinical lifetime of ProTaper rotary file system.

PubMed

Penta, Virgil; Pirvu, Cristian; Demetrescu, Ioana

2014-01-01

The main objective of the current paper is to show that electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) could be a method for evaluating and predicting of ProTaper rotary file system clinical lifespan. This particular aspect of everyday use of the endodontic files is of great importance in each dental practice and has profound clinical implications. The method used for quantification resides in the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy theory and has in its main focus the characteristics of the surface titanium oxide layer. This electrochemical technique has been adapted successfully to identify the quality of the Ni-Ti files oxide layer. The modification of this protective layer induces changes in corrosion behavior of the alloy modifying the impedance value of the file. In order to assess the method, 14 ProTaper sets utilized on different patients in a dental clinic have been submitted for testing using EIS. The information obtained in regard to the surface oxide layer has offered an indication of use and proves that the said layer evolves with each clinical application. The novelty of this research is related to an electrochemical technique successfully adapted for Ni-Ti file investigation and correlation with surface and clinical aspects.

Novel Dry-Type Glucose Sensor Based on a Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Capacitor Structure with Horseradish Peroxidase + Glucose Oxidase Catalyzing Layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Jing-Jenn; Wu, You-Lin; Hsu, Po-Yen

2007-10-01

In this paper, we present a novel dry-type glucose sensor based on a metal-oxide-semiconductor capacitor (MOSC) structure using SiO2 as a gate dielectric in conjunction with a horseradish peroxidase (HRP) + glucose oxidase (GOD) catalyzing layer. The tested glucose solution was dropped directly onto the window opened on the SiO2 layer, with a coating of HRP + GOD catalyzing layer on top of the gate dielectric. From the capacitance-voltage (C-V) characteristics of the sensor, we found that the glucose solution can induce an inversion layer on the silicon surface causing a gate leakage current flowing along the SiO2 surface. The gate current changes Δ I before and after the drop of glucose solution exhibits a near-linear relationship with increasing glucose concentration. The Δ I sensitivity is about 1.76 nA cm-2 M-1, and the current is quite stable 20 min after the drop of the glucose solution is tested.

[Distribution and enrichment characteristics of organic carbon and total nitrogen in mollisols under long-term fertilization].

PubMed

Xu, Xiang-ru; Luo, Kun; Zhou, Bao-ku; Wang, Jing-kuan; Zhang, Wen-ju; Xu, Ming-gang

2015-07-01

The characteristics and changes of soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN) in different size particles of soil under different agricultural practices are the basis for better understanding soil carbon sequestration of mollisols. Based on a 31-year long-term field experiment located at the Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences (Harbin) , soil samples under six treatments were separated by size-fractionation method to explore changes and distribution of SOC and TN in coarse sand, fine sand, silt and clay from the top layer (0-20 cm) and subsurface layer (20-40 cm). Results showed that long-term application of manure (M) increased the percentages of SOC and TN in coarse sand and clay size fractions. In the top layer, application of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers combined with manure (NPKM) increased the percentages of SOC and TN in coarse sand by 191.3% and 179.3% compared with the control (CK), whereas M application increased the percentages of SOC and TN in clay by 45% and 47% respectively. For subsurface layers, the increase rates of SOC and TN in corresponding parts were lower than that in top layer. In the surface and subsurface layers, the percentages of SOC storage in silt size fraction accounted for 42%-63% and 48%-54%, TN storage accounted for 34%-59% and 41%-47%, respectively. The enrichment factors of SOC and TN in coarse sand and clay fractions of surface layers increased significantly under the treatments with manure. The SOC and TN enrichment factors were highest in the NPKM, being 2.30 and 1.88, respectively, while that in the clay fraction changed little in the subsurface layer.

Acousto-optical and SAW propagation characteristics of temperature stable multilayered structures based on LiNbO3 and diamond

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shandilya, Swati; Sreenivas, K.; Gupta, Vinay

2008-01-01

Theoretical studies on the surface acoustic wave (SAW) properties of c-axis oriented LiNbO3/IDT/diamond and diamond/IDT/128° rotated Y-X cut LiNbO3 multilayered structures have been considered. Both layered structures exhibit a positive temperature coefficient of delay (TCD) characteristic, and a zero TCD device is obtained after integrating with an over-layer of either tellurium dioxide (TeO2) or silicon dioxide (SiO2). The presence of a TeO2 over-layer enhanced the electromechanical coupling coefficients of both multilayered structures, which acts as a better temperature compensation layer than SiO2. The temperature stable TeO2/LiNbO3/IDT/diamond layered structure exhibits good electromechanical coefficient and higher phase velocity for SAW device applications. On the other hand, a high acousto-optical (AO) figure of merit (30-37) × 10-15 s3 kg-1 has been obtained for the temperature stable SiO2/diamond/IDT/LiNbO3 layered structure indicating a promising device structure for AO applications.

Effects of Alternating Hydrogenated and Protonated Segments in polymers on their Wettability.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, Dennis; Traiphol, Rakchart; Cheng, Gang; Perahia, Dvora

2003-03-01

Polymers consisting of alternating hydrogenated and fluorinated segments exhibit unique interfacial characteristics governed by the components that dominate the interface. Presence of fluorine reduces the interfacial energy and is expected to decrease the adhesion to the polymer surface. Thin liquid crystalline (LC) layers of 4,4?-octyl-cyanobiphenyl, cast on top of a polymeric layer consisting of alternating methylstylbine protonated segments bridged by a fluorinated group was used as a mechanistic tool to study of interfacial effects on three parameters: wetting, interfacial alignment and surface induces structures. The liquid crystal cast on a low interfacial energy fluorinated polymeric film exhibits bulk homeotropic alignment as expected. However it fully wetted the polymer surface despite the incompatibility of the protonated LC and mainly fluorinated polymer interface. Further more, it was found to stabilize the interfacial Semitic layers to a higher temperature and induce different surface ordering that was not observed at the same temperature neither in the bulk nor at the interfaces with silicon or glass surface. These results indicate that the interfacial interactions of polymers with liquid crystals are a complex function of both surface energies and the interfacial structure of the polymer.

Effect of the Barrier Layer on the Upper Ocean Response to MJO Forcing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bulusu, S.

2014-12-01

Recently, attention has been given to an upper ocean feature known as the Barrier Layer, which has been shown to impact meteorological phenomena from ENSO to tropical cyclones by suppressing vertical mixing, which reduces sea surface cooling and enhances surface heat fluxes. The calculation defines the Barrier Layer as the difference between the Isothermal Layer Depth (ILD) and Mixed Layer Depth (MLD). Proper representation of these features relies on precise observations of SSS to attain accurate measurements of the MLD and subsequently, the BLT. Compared to the many available in situ SSS measurements, the NASA Aquarius salinity mission currently obtains the closest observations to the true SSS. The role of subsurface features will be better understood through increased accuracy of SSS measurements. In this study BLT estimates are derived from satellite measurements using a multilinear regression model (MRM) in the Indian Ocean. The MRM relates BLT to satellite derived SSS, sea surface temperature (SST) and sea surface height anomalies (SSHA). Besides being a variable that responds passively to atmospheric conditions, SSS significantly controls upper ocean density and therefore the MLD. The formation of a Barrier Layer can lead to possible feedbacks that impact the atmospheric component of the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO), as stated as one of the three major hypotheses of the DYNAMO field campaign. This layer produces a stable stratification, reducing vertical mixing, which influences surface heat fluxes and thus could possibly impact atmospheric conditions during the MJO. Establishing the magnitude and extent of SSS variations during the MJO will be a useful tool for data assimilation into models to correctly represent both oceanic thermodynamic characteristics and atmospheric processes during intraseasonal variations.

Ultra-fine structural characterization and bioactivity evaluation of TiO2 nanotube layers.

PubMed

Jang, JaeMyung; Kwon, TaeYub; Kim, KyoHan

2008-10-01

For an application as biomedical materials of high performance with a good biocompatibility, the TiO2 nanotube-type oxide film on Ti substrate has been fabricated by electrochemical method, and the effects of surface characteristics of TiO2 naotube layer have been investigated. The surface morphology of TiO2 nanotube layer depends on factors such as anodizing time, current density, and electrolyte temperature. Moreover, the cell and pore size gradually were increased with the passage of anodizing time. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results indicated that the TiO2 nanotube layer formed in acidic electrolytes was mainly composed of anatase structure containing rutile. From the analysis of chemical states of TiO2 nanotube layer using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Ti2p, P2p and O1s were observed in the nanotubes layer, which were penetrated from the electrolyte into the oxide layer during anodic process. The incorporated phosphate species were found mostly in the forms of HPO4-, PO4-, and PO3-. From the result of biological evaluation in simulated body fluid (SBF) the TiO2 nanotube layer was effective for bioactive property.

Ocean Mixed Layer Response to Gap Wind Scenarios

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-12-01

Kostas Rados for helpful discussions and MATLAB codes. • LT. Robin Corey Cherrett USN for advice and discussions. Professor Qing Wang, thank you...and the flow can extent for hundreds of miles (Clarke 1988, Cherrett 2006). The magnitude of these winds usually depends on the pressure gradient...was studied by Cherrett (2006) with the emphases on the atmospheric boundary layer and surface characteristics of the gap outflow region. Since our

Inorganic Substrates and Encapsulation Layers for Transient Electronics

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-07-01

surface oxidation of the nitrides, the measurements were conducted shortly after oxide removal in buffered oxide etchant (BOE) 6:1 (Transene Company Inc...values for the time-dependent dissolution of thermally grown SiO2 (dry oxidation) in buffer solutions (black, pH 7.4; red, pH 8; blue, pH 10...22 5.1.3 Contractor will Identify and Measure Key Performance Characteristics of Candidate Metal Conductive Layers for

Time dependency of temperature of a laser-irradiated infrared target pixel as a low-pass filter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Scholl, Marija S.; Scholl, James W.

1990-01-01

The thermal response of a surface layer of a pixel on an infrared target simulator is discussed. This pixel is maintained at a constant temperature by a rapidly scanning laser beam. An analytical model has been developed to describe the exact temperature dependence of a pixel as a function of time for different pixel refresh rates. The top layer of the pixel surface that generates the gray-body radiation shows the temperature dependence on time that is characteristic of a low-pass filter. The experimental results agree with the analytical predictions. The application of a pulsed laser beam to a noncontact, nondestructive diagnostic technique of surface characterization for the presence of microdefects is discussed.

Multiple relaxations of the cluster surface diffusion in a homoepitaxial SrTiO3 layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Woo, Chang-Su; Chu, Kanghyun; Song, Jong-Hyun; Yang, Chan-Ho

2018-03-01

We examine the surface diffusion process of adatomic clusters on a (001)-oriented SrTiO3 single crystal using reflection high energy electron diffraction (RHEED). We find that the recovery curve of the RHEED intensity acquired after a homoepitaxial half-layer growth can be accurately fit into a double exponential function, indicating the existence of two dominant relaxation mechanisms. The characteristic relaxation times at selected growth temperatures are investigated to determine the diffusion activation barriers of 0.67 eV and 0.91 eV, respectively. The Monte Carlo simulation of the cluster hopping model suggests that the decrease in the number of dimeric and trimeric clusters during surface diffusion is the origin of the observed relaxation phenomena.

Liquid filtration properties in gravel foundation of railroad tracks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Strelkov, A.; Teplykh, S.; Bukhman, N.

2016-08-01

Railway bed gravel foundation has a constant permanent impact on urban ecology and ground surface. It is only natural that larger objects, such as railway stations, make broader impact. Surface run-off waters polluted by harmful substances existing in railroad track body (ballast section) flow along railroad tracks and within macadam, go down into subterranean ground flow and then enter neighbouring rivers and water basins. This paper presents analytic calculations and characteristics of surface run-off liquid filtration which flows through gravel multiple layers (railroad track ballast section). The authors analyse liquids with various density and viscosity flowing in multi-layer porous medium. The paper also describes liquid stationary and non-stationary weepage into gravel foundation of railroad tracks.

Delay in the Freezing of Supercooled Water Drops on Superhydrophobic Surfaces of Silicone Rubber at Negative Temperatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bezdomnikov, A. A.; Emel'yanenko, A. M.; Emel'yanenko, K. A.; Boinovich, L. B.

2018-01-01

A method is proposed for fabricating textured superhydrophobic surfaces of silicone rubber with mechanical resistance toward liquid or freezing aqueous solutions. The anti-icing characteristics of silicone rubber samples that differ in the wetting characteristics and mechanical stability of their micro- and nanotextures are derived by analyzing the delays in the freezing of supercooled sessile water drops deposited on the sample surface. The longest delay in freezings are observed for sessile water drops on superhydrophobic surfaces prepared by laser texturing with subsequent application of a layer of a hydrophobic agent to consolidate the textural elements. Delay in freezings can be as long as tens of hours on such surfaces at T = -18°C. The prepared superhydrophobic surfaces exhibit greater anti-icing ability with respect to aqueous salt solutions than to deionized water.

Dry intrusions: Lagrangian climatology and impact on the boundary layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raveh-Rubin, Shira; Wernli, Heini

2017-04-01

Dry air intrusions (DIs) are large-scale descending airstreams. A DI is typically referred to as a coherent airstream in the cold sector of an extratropical cyclone. Emerging evidence suggests that DIs are linked to severe surface wind gusts. However, there is yet no strict Lagrangian definition of DIs, and so their climatological frequency, dynamical characteristics as well as their seasonal and spatial distributions are unknown. Furthermore, the dynamical interaction between DIs and the planetary boundary layer is not fully understood. Here, we suggest a Lagrangian definition for DI air parcels, namely a minimum pressure increase along a trajectory of 400 hPa in 48 hours. Based on this criterion, the open questions are addressed by: (i) a novel global Lagrangian climatology for the ECMWF ERA-Interim reanalysis dataset for the years 1979-2014; (ii) a case study illustrating the interaction between DIs and the boundary layer. We find that DIs occur predominantly in winter. DIs coherently descend from the upper troposphere (their stratospheric origin is small), to the mid- and low levels, where they mix with their environment and diverge. Different physical characteristics typify DIs in the different regions and seasons. Finally, we demonstrate the different mechanisms by which DIs can destabilize the boundary layer and facilitate the formation of strong surface winds.

Improving Hydrophobicity of Glass Surface Using Dielectric Barrier Discharge Treatment in Atmospheric Air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fang, Zhi; Qiu, Yuchang; Wang, Hui; E, Kuffel

2007-10-01

Non-thermal plasmas under atmospheric pressure are of great interest in industrial applications, especially in material surface treatment. In this paper, the treatment of a glass surface for improving hydrophobicity using the non-thermal plasma generated by dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) at atmospheric pressure in ambient air is conducted, and the surface properties of the glass before and after the DBD treatment are studied by using contact angle measurement, surface resistance measurement and wet flashover voltage tests. The effects of the applied voltage and time duration of DBD on the surface modification are studied, and the optimal conditions for the treatment are obtained. It is found that a layer of hydrophobic coating is formed on the glass surface after spraying a thin layer of silicone oil and undergoing the DBD treatment, and the improvement of hydrophobicity depends on DBD voltage and treating time. It seems that there exists an optimum treating time for a certain applied voltage of DBD during the surface treatment. The test results of thermal aging and chemical aging show that the hydrophobic layer has quite stable characteristics. The interaction mechanism between the DBD plasma and the glass surface is discussed. It is concluded that CH3 and large molecule radicals can react with the radicals in the glass surface to replace OH, and the hydrophobicity of the glass surface is improved accordingly.

Energy and structure of bonds in the interaction of organic anions with layered double hydroxide nanosheets: A molecular dynamics study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsukanov, A. A.; Psakhie, S. G.

2016-01-01

The application of hybrid and hierarchical nanomaterials based on layered hydroxides and oxyhydroxides of metals is a swiftly progressing field in biomedicine. Layered double hydroxides (LDH) possess a large specific surface area, significant surface electric charge and biocompatibility. Their physical and structural properties enable them to adsorb various kinds of anionic species and to transport them into cells. However, possible side effects resulting from the interaction of LDH with anions of the intercellular and intracellular medium need to be considered, since such interaction can potentially disrupt ion transport, signaling processes, apoptosis, nutrition and proliferation of living cells. In the present paper molecular dynamics is used to determine the energies of interaction of organic anions (aspartic acid, glutamic acid and bicarbonate) with a fragment of layered double hydroxide Mg/Al-LDH. The average number of hydrogen bonds between the anions and the hydroxide surface and characteristic binding configurations are determined. Possible effects of LDH on the cell resulting from binding of protein fragments and replacement of native intracellular anions with delivered anions are considered.

Structural changes of oviduct of freshwater shrimp, Macrobrachium nipponense (Decapoda, Palaemonidae), during spawning*

PubMed Central

Lu, Jian-ping; Zhang, Xiao-hui; Yu, Xiao-yun

2006-01-01

The structural change of the oviduct of freshwater shrimp (Macrobrachium nipponense) during spawning was examined by electron microscopy. The oviduct wall structural characteristics seem to be influenced significantly by the spawning process. Before the parturition and ovulation, two types of epithelial cells (types I and II) are found in the epithelium. The free surfaces of type I and type II cells have very dense long microvilli. Under the type I and type II cells, are a relatively thick layer of secreting material and a layer of mostly dead cells. After ovulation, two other types of epithelial cells (types III and IV) are found in the oviduct wall epithelium. The free surface of type III cells only has short microvilli scattered on the surface. The thick layer with secreting material and the dead cell layer disappeared at this stage. In some type III cells, the leaking out of cytoplasm from broken cell membrane led to the death of these type III cells. The transformation of all four types of epithelial cells was in the order: IV→I→II→III. PMID:16365928

Vertical ozone characteristics in urban boundary layer in Beijing.

PubMed

Ma, Zhiqiang; Xu, Honghui; Meng, Wei; Zhang, Xiaoling; Xu, Jing; Liu, Quan; Wang, Yuesi

2013-07-01

Vertical ozone and meteorological parameters were measured by tethered balloon in the boundary layer in the summer of 2009 in Beijing, China. A total of 77 tethersonde soundings were taken during the 27-day campaign. The surface ozone concentrations measured by ozonesondes and TEI 49C showed good agreement, albeit with temporal difference between the two instruments. Two case studies of nocturnal secondary ozone maxima are discussed in detail. The development of the low-level jet played a critical role leading to the observed ozone peak concentrations in nocturnal boundary layer (NBL). The maximum of surface ozone was 161.7 ppbv during the campaign, which could be attributed to abundant precursors storage near surface layer at nighttime. Vertical distribution of ozone was also measured utilizing conventional continuous analyzers on 325-m meteorological observation tower. The results showed the NBL height was between 47 and 280 m, which were consistent with the balloon data. Southerly air flow could bring ozone-rich air to Beijing, and the ozone concentrations exceeded the China's hourly ozone standard (approximately 100 ppb) above 600 m for more than 12 h.

Hydrothermal growth of ZnO nanowires on flexible fabric substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hong, Gwang-Wook; Yun, Sang-Ho; Kim, Joo-Hyung

2016-04-01

ZnO nanowires (NWs) would provide significant enhancement in sensitivity due to high surface to volume ratio. We investigated the first methodical study on the quantitative relationship between the process parameters of solution concentration ratio, structure, and physical and properties of ZnO NWs grown on different flexible fabric surfaces. To develop a fundamental following concerning various substrates, we controlled the growth speed of ZnO NWs and nanowires on cotton surface with easy and moderate cost fabrication method. Using ammonium hydroxide as the reactant with zinc nitrate hexahydrate, ZnO NWs layer have been grown on metal layers, instead of seed layer. ZnO NWs fabrication was done on different fabric substrates such as wool, nylon and polypropylene (PP). After the ZnO NWs grown to each substrates, we coated insulating layer with polyurethane (PU) and ethyl cellulose for prevent external intervention. Detailed electrical characterization was subsequently performed to reveal the working characteristics of the hybrid fabric. For electrical verification of fabricated ZnO NWs, we implemented measurement impact test and material properties with FFT analyzer and LCR meter.

Turbulent flow and scalar transport in a large wind farm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Porte-Agel, F.; Markfort, C. D.; Zhang, W.

2012-12-01

Wind energy is one of the fastest growing sources of renewable energy world-wide, and it is expected that many more large-scale wind farms will be built and cover a significant portion of land and ocean surfaces. By extracting kinetic energy from the atmospheric boundary layer and converting it to electricity, wind farms may affect the transport of momentum, heat, moisture and trace gases (e.g. CO_2) between the atmosphere and the land surface locally and globally. Understanding wind farm-atmosphere interaction is complicated by the effects of turbine array configuration, wind farm size, land-surface characteristics, and atmospheric thermal stability. A wind farm of finite length may be modeled as an added roughness or as a canopy in large-scale weather and climate models. However, it is not clear which analogy is physically more appropriate. Also, surface scalar flux is affected by wind farms and needs to be properly parameterized in meso-scale and/or high-resolution numerical models. Experiments involving model wind farms, with perfectly aligned and staggered configurations, having the same turbine distribution density, were conducted in a thermally-controlled boundary-layer wind tunnel. A neutrally stratified turbulent boundary layer was developed with a surface heat source. Measurements of the turbulent flow and fluxes over and through the wind farm were made using a custom x-wire/cold-wire anemometer; and surface scalar flux was measured with an array of surface-mounted heat flux sensors far within the quasi-developed region of the wind-farm. The turbulence statistics exhibit similar properties to those of canopy-type flows, but retain some characteristics of surface-layer flows in a limited region above the wind farms as well. The flow equilibrates faster and the overall momentum absorption is higher for the staggered compared to the aligned farm, which is consistent with canopy scaling and leads to a larger effective roughness. Although the overall surface heat flux change produced by the wind farms is found to be small, with a net reduction of 4% for the staggered wind farm and nearly zero change for the aligned wind farm, the highly heterogeneous spatial distribution of the surface heat flux, dependent on wind farm layout, is significant. This comprehensive first wind-tunnel dataset on turbulent flow and scalar transport in wind farms will be further used to develop and validate new parameterizations of surface fluxes in numerical models.

Simulation of dynamic processes when machining transition surfaces of stepped shafts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maksarov, V. V.; Krasnyy, V. A.; Viushin, R. V.

2018-03-01

The paper addresses the characteristics of stepped surfaces of parts categorized as "solids of revolution". It is noted that in the conditions of transition modes during the switch to end surface machining, there is cutting with varied load intensity in the section of the cut layer, which leads to change in cutting force, onset of vibrations, an increase in surface layer roughness, a decrease of size precision, and increased wear of a tool's cutting edge. This work proposes a method that consists in developing a CNC program output code that allows one to process complex forms of stepped shafts with only one machine setup. The authors developed and justified a mathematical model of a technological system for mechanical processing with consideration for the resolution of tool movement at the stages of transition processes to assess the dynamical stability of a system in the process of manufacturing stepped surfaces of parts of “solid of revolution” type.

Message-passing-interface-based parallel FDTD investigation on the EM scattering from a 1-D rough sea surface using uniaxial perfectly matched layer absorbing boundary.

PubMed

Li, J; Guo, L-X; Zeng, H; Han, X-B

2009-06-01

A message-passing-interface (MPI)-based parallel finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) algorithm for the electromagnetic scattering from a 1-D randomly rough sea surface is presented. The uniaxial perfectly matched layer (UPML) medium is adopted for truncation of FDTD lattices, in which the finite-difference equations can be used for the total computation domain by properly choosing the uniaxial parameters. This makes the parallel FDTD algorithm easier to implement. The parallel performance with different processors is illustrated for one sea surface realization, and the computation time of the parallel FDTD algorithm is dramatically reduced compared to a single-process implementation. Finally, some numerical results are shown, including the backscattering characteristics of sea surface for different polarization and the bistatic scattering from a sea surface with large incident angle and large wind speed.

Effect of the structure and mechanical properties of the near-surface layer of lithium niobate single crystals on the manufacture of integrated optic circuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sosunov, A. V.; Ponomarev, R. S.; Yur'ev, V. A.; Volyntsev, A. B.

2017-01-01

This paper shows that the near-surface layer of a lithium niobate single layer 15 μm in depth is essentially different from the rest of the volume of the material from the standpoint of composition, structure, and mechanical properties. The pointed out differences are due to the effect of cutting, polishing, and smoothing of the lithium niobate plates, which increase the density of point defects and dislocations. The increasing density of the structural defects leads to uncontrollable changes in the conditions of the formations of waveguides and the drifting of characteristics of integrated optical circuits. The results obtained are very important for the manufacture of lithium niobate based integrated optical circuits.

A DFT study on NEA GaN photocathode with an ultrathin n-type Si-doped GaN cap layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xia, Sihao; Liu, Lei; Kong, Yike; Diao, Yu

2016-10-01

Due to the drawbacks of conventional negative electron affinity (NEA) GaN photocathodes activated by Cs or Cs/O, a new-type NEA GaN photocathodes with heterojunction surface dispense with Cs activation are proposed. This structure can be obtained through the coverage of an ultrathin n-type Si-doped GaN cap layer on the p-type Mg-doped GaN emission layer. The influences of the cap layer on the photocathode are calculated using DFT. This study indicates that the n-type cap layer can promote the photoemission characteristics of GaN photocathode and demonstrates the probability of the preparation of a NEA GaN photocathode with an n-type cap layer.

Interfacial layers from the protein HFBII hydrophobin: dynamic surface tension, dilatational elasticity and relaxation times.

PubMed

Alexandrov, Nikola A; Marinova, Krastanka G; Gurkov, Theodor D; Danov, Krassimir D; Kralchevsky, Peter A; Stoyanov, Simeon D; Blijdenstein, Theodorus B J; Arnaudov, Luben N; Pelan, Eddie G; Lips, Alex

2012-06-15

The pendant-drop method (with drop-shape analysis) and Langmuir trough are applied to investigate the characteristic relaxation times and elasticity of interfacial layers from the protein HFBII hydrophobin. Such layers undergo a transition from fluid to elastic solid films. The transition is detected as an increase in the error of the fit of the pendant-drop profile by means of the Laplace equation of capillarity. The relaxation of surface tension after interfacial expansion follows an exponential-decay law, which indicates adsorption kinetics under barrier control. The experimental data for the relaxation time suggest that the adsorption rate is determined by the balance of two opposing factors: (i) the barrier to detachment of protein molecules from bulk aggregates and (ii) the attraction of the detached molecules by the adsorption layer due to the hydrophobic surface force. The hydrophobic attraction can explain why a greater surface coverage leads to a faster adsorption. The relaxation of surface tension after interfacial compression follows a different, square-root law. Such behavior can be attributed to surface diffusion of adsorbed protein molecules that are condensing at the periphery of interfacial protein aggregates. The surface dilatational elasticity, E, is determined in experiments on quick expansion or compression of the interfacial protein layers. At lower surface pressures (<11 mN/m) the experiments on expansion, compression and oscillations give close values of E that are increasing with the rise of surface pressure. At higher surface pressures, E exhibits the opposite tendency and the data are scattered. The latter behavior can be explained with a two-dimensional condensation of adsorbed protein molecules at the higher surface pressures. The results could be important for the understanding and control of dynamic processes in foams and emulsions stabilized by hydrophobins, as well as for the modification of solid surfaces by adsorption of such proteins. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Atomic layer deposition of insulating nitride interfacial layers for germanium metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistors with high-κ oxide/tungsten nitride gate stacks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Kyoung H.; Gordon, Roy G.; Ritenour, Andrew; Antoniadis, Dimitri A.

2007-05-01

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) was used to deposit passivating interfacial nitride layers between Ge and high-κ oxides. High-κ oxides on Ge surfaces passivated by ultrathin (1-2nm) ALD Hf3N4 or AlN layers exhibited well-behaved C-V characteristics with an equivalent oxide thickness as low as 0.8nm, no significant flatband voltage shifts, and midgap density of interface states values of 2×1012cm-1eV-1. Functional n-channel and p-channel Ge field effect transistors with nitride interlayer/high-κ oxide/metal gate stacks are demonstrated.

Multi-instrument data analysis for interpretation of the Martian North polar layered deposits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mirino, Melissa; Sefton-Nash, Elliot; Witasse, Olivier; Frigeri, Alessandro

2017-04-01

The Martian polar caps have engendered substantial study due to their spiral morphology, layered structure and the seasonal variability in thickness of the uppermost H2O and CO2 ice layers. We demonstrate a multi-instrument study of exposed and buried north polar layers using data from ESA's Mars Express (MEx) and NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) missions. We perform analysis of high resolution images from MRO's HiRISE, which provide textural and morphological information about surface features larger than 0.3m, with NIR hyperspectral data from MRO CRISM, which allows study of surface mineralogy at a maximum resolution of 18 m/pixel. Stereo-derived topography is provided by MEx's HRSC. Together with these surficial observations we interpret radargrams from MRO SHARAD to obtain information about layered structures at a horizontal resolution between 0.3 and 3 kilometers and a free-space vertical resolution of 15 meters (vertical resolution depends on the dielectric properties of the medium). This combination of datasets allows us to attempt to correlate polar layering, made visible by dielectric interfaces between beds, with surface mineralogies and structures outcropping at specific stratigraphic levels. We analyse two opposite areas of the north polar cap with the intention to characterise in multiple datasets each geologic unit identified in the north polar cap's stratigraphy (mapped by e.g. [1]). We selected deposits observed in Chasma Boreale and Olympia Cavi because these areas allow us to observe and map strata at opposing sides of the north polar cap. Using the CRISM Analysis Tool and spectral summary parameters [2] we map the spectral characteristics of the two areas that show H2O and CO2 ice layering exposed on polar scarps. Through spatial-registration in a GIS with HRSC topography and HiRISE imagery we assess the mineralogical and morphological characteristics of exposed layers. In order to constrain the cross section between the two selected localities we choose SHARAD radargrams that most closely align with the transect between the sites. We interpret sub-horizontal features to be due to dielectric interfaces involving the deposits analysed. Our interpretation of radargrams in the context of compositional and structural constraints, from areas where pertinent beds outcrop, illustrates how joint analysis of surface and sub-surface data can benefit geological interpretation of planetary surfaces and subsurfaces. This technique applied to Mars' north polar layered deposits may offer additional constraint on morphology of internal layering resulting from seasonal deposition/sublimation cycles over varying obliquity [3]. References: [1] Tanaka et al. (2008), Icarus, 196, p. 318-358, doi:10.1016/j.icarus.2008.01.021. [2] Viviano-Beck et al. (2014), J. Geophys. Res. Planets, 119, p. 1403-1431, doi:10.1002/2014JE004627..[3] Putzig et al. (2009), Icarus, 204, p. 443-457, doi:10.1016/j.icarus.2009.07.034.

Hypersonic aerodynamic characteristics of a family of power-law, wing body configurations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Townsend, J. C.

1973-01-01

The configurations analyzed are half-axisymmetric, power-law bodies surmounted by thin, flat wings. The wing planform matches the body shock-wave shape. Analytic solutions of the hypersonic small disturbance equations form a basis for calculating the longitudinal aerodynamic characteristics. Boundary-layer displacement effects on the body and the wing upper surface are approximated. Skin friction is estimated by using compressible, laminar boundary-layer solutions. Good agreement was obtained with available experimental data for which the basic theoretical assumptions were satisfied. The method is used to estimate the effects of power-law, fineness ratio, and Mach number variations at full-scale conditions. The computer program is included.

Instability of confined water films between elastic surfaces.

PubMed

de Beer, Sissi; 't Mannetje, Dieter; Zantema, Sietske; Mugele, Frieder

2010-03-02

We investigated the dynamics of nanometer thin water films at controlled ambient humidity adsorbed onto two atomically smooth mica sheets upon rapidly bringing the surfaces into contact. Using a surface forces apparatus (SFA) in imaging mode, we found that the water films break up into a distribution of drops with a typical thickness of a few nanometers and a characteristic lateral size and spacing of several micrometers. Whereas the characteristic length is found to be independent of the ambient humidity, the characteristic time of the breakup decreases from approximately 1 to 0.01 s with increasing humidity. The existence of characteristic length and time scales shows that this breakup is controlled by an instability rather than a conventional nucleation and growth mechanism for SFA experiments. These findings cannot be explained by a dispersion-driven instability mechanism. In contrast, a model involving the elastic energies for the deformation of both the mica sheets and the underlying glue layer correctly reproduces the scaling of the characteristic length and time with humidity.

Measurements of the Flowfield Interaction Between Tandem Cylinders

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Neuhart, Dan H.; Jenkins, Luther N.; Choudhari, Meelan M.; Khorrami, Mehdi R.

2009-01-01

This paper presents the most recent measurements from an ongoing investigation of the unsteady wake interference between a pair of circular cylinders in tandem. The purpose of this investigation is to help build an in-depth experimental database for this canonical flow configuration that embodies the effects of component interaction in landing gear noise. This new set of measurements augments the previous database at the primary Reynolds number (based on tunnel speed and cylinder diameter) of 1.66 105 in four important respects. First, better circumferential resolution of surface pressure fluctuations is obtained via cylinder "clocking". Second, higher resolution particle image velocimetry measurements of the shear layer separating from the cylinders are achieved. Third, the effects of simultaneous boundary layer trips along both the front and rear cylinders, versus front cylinder alone in the previous measurements, are studied. Lastly, on-surface and off-surface characteristics of unsteady flow near the "critical" cylinder spacing, wherein the flow switches intermittently between two states that are characteristic of lower and higher spacings, are examined. This critical spacing occurs in the middle of a relatively sudden change in the drag of either cylinder and is characterized by a loud intermittent noise and a flow behavior that randomly transitions between shear layer attachment to the rear cylinder and constant shedding and rollup in front of it. Analysis of this bistable flow state reveals much larger spanwise correlation lengths of surface pressure fluctuations than those at larger and smaller values of the cylinder spacing.

Multi-technique characterization of gold electroplating on silver substrates for cultural heritage applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ortega-Feliu, I.; Ager, F. J.; Roldán, C.; Ferretti, M.; Juanes, D.; Scrivano, S.; Respaldiza, M. A.; Ferrazza, L.; Traver, I.; Grilli, M. L.

2017-09-01

This work presents a detailed study of a series of silver plates gilded via electroplating techniques in which the characteristics of the coating gold layers are investigated as a function of the electroplating variables (voltage, time, anode surface and temperature). Some reference samples were coated by radio frequency sputtering in order to compare gold layer homogeneity and effective density. Surface analysis was performed by means of atomic and nuclear techniques (SEM-EDX, EDXRF, PIXE and RBS) to obtain information about thickness, homogeneity, effective density, profile concentration of the gold layers and Au-Ag diffusion profiles. The gold layer thickness obtained by PIXE and EDXRF is consistent with the thickness obtained by means of RBS depth profiling. Electroplated gold mass thickness increases with electroplating time, anode area and voltage. However, electrodeposited samples present rough interfaces and gold layer effective densities lower than the nominal density of Au (19.3 g/cm3), whereas sputtering produces uniform layers with nominal density. These analyses provide valuable information to historians and curators and can help the restoration process of gold-plated silver objects.

Materials based on carbon-filled porous layers of PVC cyclam derivatives cross-linked with the surfaces of asbestos fabric fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tzivadze, A. Yu.; Fridman, A. Ya.; Morozova, E. M.; Sokolova, N. P.; Voloshchuk, A. M.; Petukhova, G. A.; Bardishev, I. I.; Gorbunov, A. M.; Novikov, A. K.; Polyakova, I. Ya.; Titova, V. N.; Yavich, A. A.; Petrova, N. V.

2016-08-01

The synthesis of bilayer materials with porous upper layers composed of PVC hydroxyethylcyclam derivatives filled with carbon and a layer consisting of hydroxyethylcyclam, cross-linked via Si-O-C groups with the silica chains of a developed surface of asbestos fabric, is described. The aza-crown groups in these materials are bound with aqua complexes of H2SO4 or NaOH. The structure of the materials is examined, their adsorption characteristics are determined, and the rate of motion of H+ or OH- ions in electrochemical bridges is measured, while the formation of H2 and O2 in their cathodic and anodic polarization is determined as a function of voltage. It is shown that the upper layer of these materials is adsorption-active and electronand H+- or OH-- conductive, while the bottom layer is only H+- or OH-- conductive; through it, the upper layer is supplied with the H+ or OH- ions needed for the regeneration of the aqua complexes broken down to H2 and O2 on carbon particles.

Wind Tunnel Experiments to Study Chaparral Crown Fires.

PubMed

Cobian-Iñiguez, Jeanette; Aminfar, AmirHessam; Chong, Joey; Burke, Gloria; Zuniga, Albertina; Weise, David R; Princevac, Marko

2017-11-14

The present protocol presents a laboratory technique designed to study chaparral crown fire ignition and spread. Experiments were conducted in a low velocity fire wind tunnel where two distinct layers of fuel were constructed to represent surface and crown fuels in chaparral. Chamise, a common chaparral shrub, comprised the live crown layer. The dead fuel surface layer was constructed with excelsior (shredded wood). We developed a methodology to measure mass loss, temperature, and flame height for both fuel layers. Thermocouples placed in each layer estimated temperature. A video camera captured the visible flame. Post-processing of digital imagery yielded flame characteristics including height and flame tilt. A custom crown mass loss instrument developed in-house measured the evolution of the mass of the crown layer during the burn. Mass loss and temperature trends obtained using the technique matched theory and other empirical studies. In this study, we present detailed experimental procedures and information about the instrumentation used. The representative results for the fuel mass loss rate and temperature filed within the fuel bed are also included and discussed.

Prediction of Sea Surface Temperature Using Long Short-Term Memory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Qin; Wang, Hui; Dong, Junyu; Zhong, Guoqiang; Sun, Xin

2017-10-01

This letter adopts long short-term memory(LSTM) to predict sea surface temperature(SST), which is the first attempt, to our knowledge, to use recurrent neural network to solve the problem of SST prediction, and to make one week and one month daily prediction. We formulate the SST prediction problem as a time series regression problem. LSTM is a special kind of recurrent neural network, which introduces gate mechanism into vanilla RNN to prevent the vanished or exploding gradient problem. It has strong ability to model the temporal relationship of time series data and can handle the long-term dependency problem well. The proposed network architecture is composed of two kinds of layers: LSTM layer and full-connected dense layer. LSTM layer is utilized to model the time series relationship. Full-connected layer is utilized to map the output of LSTM layer to a final prediction. We explore the optimal setting of this architecture by experiments and report the accuracy of coastal seas of China to confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method. In addition, we also show its online updated characteristics.

Surface states and annihilation characteristics of positrons trapped at the oxidized Cu(100) surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fazleev, N. G.; Weiss, A. H.

2013-06-01

In this work we present the results of theoretical studies of positron surface and bulk states and annihilation probabilities of surface-trapped positrons with relevant core electrons at the oxidized Cu(100) surface under conditions of high oxygen coverage. Oxidation of the Cu(100) surface has been studied by performing an ab-initio investigation of the stability and electronic structure of the Cu(100) missing row reconstructed surface at various on-surface and subsurface oxygen coverages ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 monolayers using density functional theory (DFT). All studied structures have been found to be energetically more favorable as compared to structures formed by purely on-surface oxygen adsorption. The observed decrease in the positron work function when oxygen atoms occupy on-surface and subsurface sites has been attributed to a significant charge redistribution within the first two layers, buckling effects within each layer and an interlayer expansion. The computed positron binding energy, positron surface state wave function, and annihilation probabilities of the surface trapped positrons with relevant core electrons demonstrate their sensitivity to oxygen coverage, atomic structure of the topmost layers of surfaces, and charge transfer effects. Theoretical results are compared with experimental data obtained from studies of oxidation of the Cu(100) surface using positron annihilation induced Auger electron spectroscopy (PAES). The results presented provide an explanation for the changes observed in the probability of annihilation of surface trapped positrons with Cu 3p core-level electrons as a function of annealing temperature.

Detection of Anomalous Machining Damages in Inconel 718 and TI 6-4 by Eddy Current Techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lo, C. C. H.; Shimon, M.; Nakagawa, N.

2010-02-01

This paper reports on an eddy current (EC) study aimed at detecting anomalous machining damages in Inconel 718 and Ti 6-4 samples, including (i) surface discontinuities such as re-depositing of chips onto the machined surface, and (ii) microstructural damages manifested as a white surface layer and a subsurface layer of distorted grains, typically tens of microns thick. A series of pristine and machine-damaged coupons were studied by EC scans using a differential probe operated at 2 MHz to detect discontinuous surface anomalies, and by swept high frequency EC (SHFEC) measurements from 0.5 MHz to 65.5 MHz using proprietary detection coils to detect surface microstructural damages. In general, the EC c-scan data from machine-damaged surfaces show spatial variations with larger standard deviations than those from the undamaged surfaces. In some cases, the c-scan images exhibit characteristic bipolar indications in good spatial correlation with surface anomalies revealed by optical microscopy and laser profilometry. Results of the SHFEC measurements indicate a reduced near-surface conductivity of the damaged surfaces compared to the undamaged surfaces.

Investigation on single walled carbon nanotube thin films deposited by Langmuir Blodgett method

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

Vishalli,, E-mail: vishalli-2008@yahoo.com; Dharamvir, Keya; Kaur, Ramneek

2015-05-15

Langmuir Blodgett is a technique to deposit a homogeneous film with a fine control over thickness and molecular organization. Thin films of functionalized SWCNTs have been prepared by Langmuir Blodgett method. The good surface spreading properties of SWCNTs at air/water interface are indicated by surface pressure-area isotherm and the monolayer formed on water surface is transferred onto the quartz substrate by vertical dipping. A multilayer film is thus obtained in a layer by layer manner. The film is characterized by Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy and FTIR.AFM shows the surface morphology of the deposited film. UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy shows themore » characteristic peaks of semiconducting SWCNTs. The uniformity of LB film can be used further in understanding the optical and electrical behavior of these materials.« less

Impact of the exopolysaccharide layer on biofilms, adhesion and resistance to stress in Lactobacillus johnsonii FI9785.

PubMed

Dertli, Enes; Mayer, Melinda J; Narbad, Arjan

2015-02-04

The bacterial cell surface is a crucial factor in cell-cell and cell-host interactions. Lactobacillus johnsonii FI9785 produces an exopolysaccharide (EPS) layer whose quantity and composition is altered in mutants that harbour genetic changes in their eps gene clusters. We have assessed the effect of changes in EPS production on cell surface characteristics that may affect the ability of L. johnsonii to colonise the poultry host and exclude pathogens. Analysis of physicochemical cell surface characteristics reflected by Zeta potential and adhesion to hexadecane showed that an increase in EPS gave a less negative, more hydrophilic surface and reduced autoaggregation. Autoaggregation was significantly higher in mutants that have reduced EPS, indicating that EPS can mask surface structures responsible for cell-cell interactions. EPS also affected biofilm formation, but here the quantity of EPS produced was not the only determinant. A reduction in EPS production increased bacterial adhesion to chicken gut explants, but made the bacteria less able to survive some stresses. This study showed that manipulation of EPS production in L. johnsonii FI9785 can affect properties which may improve its performance as a competitive exclusion agent, but that positive changes in adhesion may be compromised by a reduction in the ability to survive stress.

An experimental study of airfoil-spoiler aerodynamics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mclachlan, B. G.; Karamcheti, K.

1985-01-01

The steady/unsteady flow field generated by a typical two dimensional airfoil with a statically deflected flap type spoiler was investigated. Subsonic wind tunnel tests were made over a range of parameters: spoiler deflection, angle of attack, and two Reynolds numbers; and comprehensive measurements of the mean and fluctuating surface pressures, velocities in the boundary layer, and velocities in the wake. Schlieren flow visualization of the near wake structure was performed. The mean lift, moment, and surface pressure characteristics are in agreement with previous investigations of spoiler aerodynamics. At large spoiler deflections, boundary layer character affects the static pressure distribution in the spoiler hingeline region; and, the wake mean velocity fields reveals a closed region of reversed flow aft of the spoiler. It is shown that the unsteady flow field characteristics are as follows: (1) the unsteady nature of the wake is characterized by vortex shedding; (2) the character of the vortex shedding changes with spoiler deflection; (3) the vortex shedding characteristics are in agreement with other bluff body investigations; and (4) the vortex shedding frequency component of the fluctuating surface pressure field is of appreciable magnitude at large spoiler deflections. The flow past an airfoil with deflected spoiler is a particular problem in bluff body aerodynamics is considered.

Microstructure, microtexture and precipitation in the ultrafine-grained surface layer of an Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy processed by sliding friction treatment

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

Chen, Yanxia

2017-01-15

Precipitate redistribution and texture evolution are usually two concurrent aspects accompanying grain refinement induced by various surface treatment. However, the detailed precipitate redistribution characteristics and process, as well as crystallographic texture in the surface refined grain layer, are still far from full understanding. In this study, we focused on the microstructural and crystallographic features of the sliding friction treatment (SFT) induced surface deformation layer in a 7050 aluminum alloy. With the combination of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and high angle angular dark field scanning TEM (HAADF-STEM) observations, a surface ultrafine grain (UFG) layer composed of both equiaxed and lamellar ultrafinemore » grains and decorated by high density of coarse grain boundary precipitates (GBPs) were revealed. Further precession electron diffraction (PED) assisted orientation mapping unraveled that high angle grain boundaries rather than low angle grain boundaries are the most favorable nucleation sites for GBPs. The prominent precipitate redistribution can be divided into three successive and interrelated stages, i.e. the mechanically induced precipitate dissolution, solute diffusion and reprecipitation. The quantitative prediction based on pipe diffusion along dislocations and grain boundary diffusion proved the distribution feasibility of GBPs around UFGs. Based on PED and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analyses, the crystallographic texture of the surface UFG layer was identified as a shear texture composed of major rotated cube texture (001) 〈110〉 and minor (111) 〈112〉, while that of the adjoining lamellar coarse grained matrix was pure brass. The SFT induced surface severe shear deformation is responsible for texture evolution. - Highlights: •The surface ultrafine grain layer in a 7050 aluminum alloy was focused. •Precipitate redistribution and texture evolution were discussed. •The quantitative prediction proved the distribution feasibility of GBPs. •Precession electron diffraction orientation mapping showed a shear texture.« less

Method of depositing multi-layer carbon-based coatings for field emission

DOEpatents

Sullivan, John P.; Friedmann, Thomas A.

1999-01-01

A novel field emitter device for cold cathode field emission applications, comprising a multi-layer resistive carbon film. The multi-layered film of the present invention is comprised of at least two layers of a resistive carbon material, preferably amorphous-tetrahedrally coordinated carbon, such that the resistivities of adjacent layers differ. For electron emission from the surface, the preferred structure comprises a top layer having a lower resistivity than the bottom layer. For edge emitting structures, the preferred structure of the film comprises a plurality of carbon layers, wherein adjacent layers have different resistivities. Through selection of deposition conditions, including the energy of the depositing carbon species, the presence or absence of certain elements such as H, N, inert gases or boron, carbon layers having desired resistivities can be produced. Field emitters made according the present invention display improved electron emission characteristics in comparison to conventional field emitter materials.

Method of depositing multi-layer carbon-based coatings for field emission

DOEpatents

Sullivan, J.P.; Friedmann, T.A.

1999-08-10

A novel field emitter device is disclosed for cold cathode field emission applications, comprising a multi-layer resistive carbon film. The multi-layered film of the present invention is comprised of at least two layers of a resistive carbon material, preferably amorphous-tetrahedrally coordinated carbon, such that the resistivities of adjacent layers differ. For electron emission from the surface, the preferred structure comprises a top layer having a lower resistivity than the bottom layer. For edge emitting structures, the preferred structure of the film comprises a plurality of carbon layers, wherein adjacent layers have different resistivities. Through selection of deposition conditions, including the energy of the depositing carbon species, the presence or absence of certain elements such as H, N, inert gases or boron, carbon layers having desired resistivities can be produced. Field emitters made according the present invention display improved electron emission characteristics in comparison to conventional field emitter materials. 8 figs.

Atomic composition and electrical characteristics of epitaxial CVD diamond layers doped with boron

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

Surovegina, E. A., E-mail: suroveginaka@ipmras.ru; Demidov, E. V.; Drozdov, M. N.

2016-12-15

The results of analysis of the atomic composition, doping level, and hole mobility in epitaxial diamond layers when doped with boron are reported. The layers are produced by chemical-vapor deposition. The possibilities of uniform doping with boron to a level in the range 5 × 10{sup 17} to ~10{sup 20} at cm{sup –3} and of δ doping to the surface concentration (0.3–5) × 10{sup 13} at cm{sup –3} are shown. The conditions for precision ion etching of the structures are determined, and barrier and ohmic contacts to the layers are formed.

Two Dimensional (2D) P-Aramid Dry Multi-Layered Woven Fabrics Deformational Behaviour for Technical Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abtew, M. A.; Loghin, C.; Cristian, I.; Boussu, F.; Bruniaux, P.; Chen, Y.; Wang, L.

2018-06-01

In today’s scenario for the various technical applications, from composites to body armour, the material mouldability along with its mechanical property become very important. In the present study, two dimensional (2D) woven fabrics made of para-aramid high performance fibres in multi-layer dry structure were used for investigating different forming characteristics. The different layers were arranged with 0°/90° orientation for deep drawing formability test to analyse the effect of number of layers and blank-holder pressure (BHP) during the test. Specific preforming device with low speed forming process and predefined hemispherical shape of punch has been applied. Using fine photographic analysis, some important 2D multi-layer fabrics forming characteristics i.e., material drawing-in, surface shear angle etc. from the imposed deformation have been observed, measured and analysed for better understanding and co MPa rison. The result revealed that the mouldability behaviour of the multi-layered dry textile fabric preforms is directional, and closely dependent on blank-holding pressure and number of layers. This indicates both parameters should be carefully considered while material deformation to avoid the formation of wrinkling and maintain other mechanical properties on final application.

Machining-induced surface transformations of magnesium alloys to enhance corrosion resistance in human-like environment

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

Bruschi, Stefania; Bertolini, Rachele; Ghiotti, Andrea

We report that magnesium alloys are becoming increasingly attractive for producing temporary prosthetic devices thanks to their bioresorbable characteristics in human body. However, their poor corrosion resistance to body fluids seriously limits their applicability. In this work, machining-induced surface transformations are explored as means to enhance corrosion resistance of AZ31 magnesium alloy. Surface characteristics including topography, residual stresses, wettability, microstructures and depth of transformed layer, were analysed and correlated to in-vitro corrosion resistance. Results showed that cryogenic machining at low feed provided the most promising corrosion reduction. Finally, thorough physical characterizations gave fundamental insights into possible drivers for this enhancedmore » resistance.« less

Method and apparatus for altering material

DOEpatents

Stinnett, Regan W.; Greenly, John B.

2002-01-01

Methods and apparatus for thermally altering the near surface characteristics of a material are described. In particular, a repetitively pulsed ion beam system comprising a high energy pulsed power source and an ion beam generator are described which are capable of producing single species high voltage ion beams (0.25-2.5 MeV) at 1-1000 kW average power and over extended operating cycles (10.sup.8). Irradiating materials with such high energy, repetitively pulsed ion beams can yield surface treatments including localized high temperature anneals to melting, both followed by rapid thermal quenching to ambient temperatures to achieve both novel and heretofore commercially unachievable physical characteristics in a near surface layer of material.

Method and apparatus for altering material

DOEpatents

Stinnett, Regan W.; Greenly, John B.

1995-01-01

Methods and apparatus for thermally altering the near surface characteristics of a material are described. In particular, a repetitively pulsed ion beam system comprising a high energy pulsed power source and an ion beam generator are described which are capable of producing single species high voltage ion beams (0.25-2.5 MeV) at 1-1000 kW average power and over extended operating cycles (10.sup.8). Irradiating materials with such high energy, repetitively pulsed ion beams can yield surface treatments including localized high temperature anneals to melting, both followed by rapid thermal quenching to ambient temperatures to achieve both novel and heretofore commercially unachievable physical characteristics in a near surface layer of material.

Method and apparatus for altering material

DOEpatents

Stinnett, Regan W.; Greenly, John B.

2002-02-05

Methods and apparatus for thermally altering the near surface characteristics of a material are described. In particular, a repetitively pulsed ion beam system comprising a high energy pulsed power source and an ion beam generator are described which are capable of producing single species high voltage ion beams (0.25-2.5 MeV) at 1-1000 kW average power and over extended operating cycles (10.sup.8). Irradiating materials with such high energy, repetitively pulsed ion beams can yield surface treatments including localized high temperature anneals to melting, both followed by rapid thermal quenching to ambient temperatures to achieve both novel and heretofore commercially unachievable physical characteristics in a near surface layer of material.

Machining-induced surface transformations of magnesium alloys to enhance corrosion resistance in human-like environment

DOE PAGES

Bruschi, Stefania; Bertolini, Rachele; Ghiotti, Andrea; ...

2018-04-22

We report that magnesium alloys are becoming increasingly attractive for producing temporary prosthetic devices thanks to their bioresorbable characteristics in human body. However, their poor corrosion resistance to body fluids seriously limits their applicability. In this work, machining-induced surface transformations are explored as means to enhance corrosion resistance of AZ31 magnesium alloy. Surface characteristics including topography, residual stresses, wettability, microstructures and depth of transformed layer, were analysed and correlated to in-vitro corrosion resistance. Results showed that cryogenic machining at low feed provided the most promising corrosion reduction. Finally, thorough physical characterizations gave fundamental insights into possible drivers for this enhancedmore » resistance.« less

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

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Insup

2017-11-01

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

Optical property measurement from layered biological media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muller, Matthew R.

1998-12-01

Near infrared (NIR) photon reflectance spectroscopy is applied to measurement of blood concentration and its oxygen saturation within biological tissue. The measurement relies upon the changes in photon absorption of hemoglobin in the tissue as changes occur in the hemoglobin concentration and oxygen content. In the present study, NIR light is introduced at the skin surface and the optical properties (absorption and scattering) within the underlying tissue are determined from the resulting surface reflectance. Typically the tissue is modeled as a homogeneous mixture of bloodless tissue and blood, and the model incorporates the physical relationship between the surface reflectance and the optical properties of the tissue. The skin and underlying tissue, although heterogeneous, have a characteristic layered structure. These layers can be differentiated optically. The modeling and the inverse problem of measuring the optical properties in each of the tissue layers from the surface reflectance have been the subject of much attention by a number of investigators. Nonetheless, quantification of the relationship between surface reflectance and the optical properties of layered tissue has not been well understood nor well described. In the forward problem, tissue optical properties yield surface reflectance profiles (SRPs). Surface reflectance profiles, or SRPs, from diffusive media consisting of two layers are calculated using numerical solutions to the Boltzmann equation. Experimental SRPs are also measured in vitro from a test medium and in vivo from the calf of human subjects. This study provides a new approach to solving the inverse problem of determining optical properties from SRPs. To solve the inverse problem, an effective diffusion constant (Ke) is determined for the layered media. The Ke is the diffusion constant of an equivalent homogeneous medium which best fits the SRP of the layered medium. The departure from Ke of the SRP for a layered media is captured concisely, and Ke becomes a tool in describing the layered optical properties. This approach is applied clinically to measure changes in the blood concentration and oxygenation measured in vivo from normals and patients with peripheral vascular disease. A significant finding from the modeling was to identify the functional relationship of Ke to the top and lower layer diffusion constants, and the top layer thickness. When applied to in vitro measurements from media containing homogeneous layers with known optical properties, this functional relationship predicted Ke within the 95% confidence interval of the measured Ke. For the in vivo measurements, changes in K e with exercise are consistent with expected exercise physiology. With the incorporation of the known optical absorbance of hemoglobin in the presence of oxygen, the SRPs provide a means to measure the oxygen saturation of a deep tissue layer from the surface light reflectance.

Abrasion Testing of Candidate Outer Layer Fabrics for Lunar EVA Space Suits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mitchell, Kathryn

2009-01-01

During the Apollo program, the space suit outer layer fabrics were severely abraded after just a few Extravehicular Activities (EVAs). For example, the Apollo 12 commander reported abrasive wear on the boots, which penetrated the outer layer fabric into the thermal protection layers after less than eight hours of surface operations. Current plans for the Constellation Space Suit Element require the space suits to support hundreds of hours of EVA on the Lunar surface, creating a challenge for space suit designers to utilize materials advances made over the last forty years and improve upon the space suit fabrics used in the Apollo program. A test methodology has been developed by the NASA Johnson Space Center Crew and Thermal Systems Division for establishing comparative abrasion wear characteristics between various candidate space suit outer layer fabrics. The abrasion test method incorporates a large rotary drum tumbler with rocks and loose lunar simulant material to induce abrasion in fabric test cylinder elements, representative of what might occur during long term planetary surface EVAs. Preliminary materials screening activities were conducted to determine the degree of wear on representative space suit outer layer materials and the corresponding dust permeation encountered between subsequent sub-layers of thermal protective materials when exposed to a simulated worst case eight hour EVA. The test method was used to provide a preliminary evaluation of four candidate outer layer fabrics for future planetary surface space suit applications. This paper provides a review of previous abrasion studies on space suit fabrics, details the methodologies used for abrasion testing in this particular study, shares the results of the testing, and provides recommendations for future work.

Abrasion Testing of Candidate Outer Layer Fabrics for Lunar EVA Space Suits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mitchell, Kathryn C.

2010-01-01

During the Apollo program, the space suit outer layer fabrics were badly abraded after just a few Extravehicular Activities (EVAs). For example, the Apollo 12 commander reported abrasive wear on the boots, which penetrated the outer layer fabric into the thermal protection layers after less than eight hours of surface operations. Current plans for the Constellation Space Suit Element require the space suits to support hundreds of hours of EVA on the Lunar surface, creating a challenge for space suit designers to utilize materials advances made over the last forty years and improve upon the space suit fabrics used in the Apollo program. A test methodology has been developed by the NASA Johnson Space Center Crew and Thermal Systems Division for establishing comparative abrasion wear characteristics between various candidate space suit outer layer fabrics. The abrasion test method incorporates a large rotary drum tumbler with rocks and loose lunar simulant material to induce abrasion in fabric test cylinder elements, representative of what might occur during long term planetary surface EVAs. Preliminary materials screening activities were conducted to determine the degree of wear on representative space suit outer layer materials and the corresponding dust permeation encountered between subsequent sub -layers of thermal protective materials when exposed to a simulated worst case eight hour EVA. The test method was used to provide a preliminary evaluation of four candidate outer layer fabrics for future planetary surface space suit applications. This Paper provides a review of previous abrasion studies on space suit fabrics, details the methodologies used for abrasion testing in this particular study, and shares the results and conclusions of the testing.

Comparative Study of Solution Phase and Vapor Phase Deposition of Aminosilanes on Silicon Dioxide Surfaces

PubMed Central

Yadav, Amrita R.; Sriram, Rashmi; Carter, Jared A.; Miller, Benjamin L.

2014-01-01

The uniformity of aminosilane layers typically used for the modification of hydroxyl bearing surfaces such as silicon dioxide is critical for a wide variety of applications, including biosensors. However, in spite of many studies that have been undertaken on surface silanization, there remains a paucity of easy-to-implement deposition methods reproducibly yielding smooth aminosilane monolayers. In this study, solution- and vapor-phase deposition methods for three aminoalkoxysilanes differing in the number of reactive groups (3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APTES), 3-aminopropyl methyl diethoxysilane (APMDES) and 3-aminopropyl dimethyl ethoxysilane (APDMES)) were assessed with the aim of identifying methods that yield highly uniform and reproducible silane layers that are resistant to minor procedural variations. Silane film quality was characterized based on measured thickness, hydrophilicity and surface roughness. Additionally, hydrolytic stability of the films was assessed via these thickness and contact angle values following desorption in water. We found that two simple solution-phase methods, an aqueous deposition of APTES and a toluene based deposition of APDMES, yielded high quality silane layers that exhibit comparable characteristics to those deposited via vapor-phase methods. PMID:24411379

Flight test results of riblets at supersonic speeds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zuniga, Fanny A.; Anderson, Bianca T.; Bertelrud, Arild

1992-01-01

A flight experiment to test and evaluate the skin friction drag characteristics of a riblet surface in turbulent flow at supersonic speeds was conducted at NASA Dryden. Riblets of groove sizes 0.0030 and 0.0013 in. were mounted on the F-104G flight test fixture. The test surfaces were surveyed with boundary layer rakes and pressure orifices to examine the boundary layer profiles and pressure distributions of the flow. Skin friction reductions caused by the riblet surface were reported based on measured differences of momentum thickness between the smooth and riblet surfaces obtained from the boundary layer data. Flight test results for the 0.0030 in. riblet show skin friction reductions of 4 to 8 % for Mach numbers ranging from 1.2 to 1.6 and Reynolds numbers ranging from 2 to 3.4 million per unit foot. The results from the 0.0013 in. riblets show skin friction reductions of 4 to 15 % for Mach 1.2 to 1.4 and Reynolds numbers ranging from 3.6 to 6 million per unit foot.

Process analysis of characteristics of the boundary layer during a heavy haze pollution episode in an inland megacity, China.

PubMed

Wang, Shan; Liao, Tingting; Wang, Lili; Sun, Yang

2016-02-01

Ground observation data from 8 meteorological stations in Xi'an, air mass concentration data from 13 environmental quality monitoring sites in Xi'an, as well as radiosonde observation and wind profile radar data, were used in this study. Thereby, the process, causes and boundary layer meteorological characteristics of a heavy haze episode occurring from 16 to 25 December 2013 in Xi'an were analyzed. Principal component analysis showed that this haze pollution was mainly caused by the high-intensity emission and formation of gaseous pollutants (NO2, CO and SO2) and atmospheric particles (PM2.5 (fine particles) and PM10 (respirable suspended particle). The second cause was the relative humidity and continuous low temperature. The third cause was the allocation of the surface pressure field. The presence of a near-surface temperature inversion at the boundary layer formed favorable stratification conditions for the formation and maintenance of heavy haze pollution. The persistent thick haze layer weakened the solar radiation. Meanwhile, a warming effect in the urban canopy layer and in the transition zone from the urban friction sublayer to the urban canopy was indicated. All these conditions facilitated the maintenance and reinforcement of temperature inversion. The stable atmospheric stratification finally acted on the wind field in the boundary layer, and further weakened the exchange capacity of vertical turbulence. The superposition of a wind field with the horizontal gentle wind induced the typical air stagnation and finally caused the deterioration of air quality during this haze event. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Pluto's atmosphere - Models based on refraction, inversion, and vapor-pressure equilibrium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eshleman, Von R.

1989-01-01

Viking spacecraft radio-occultation measurements indicate that, irrespective of substantial differences, the polar ice cap regions on Mars have inversions similar to those of Pluto, and may also share vapor pressure equilibrium characteristics at the surface. This temperature-inversion phenomenon occurs in a near-surface boundary layer; surface pressure-temperature may correspond to the vapor-pressure equilibrium with CH4 ice, or the temperature may be slightly higher to match the value derived from IRAS data.

Surface plasmon resonance application for herbicide detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chegel, Vladimir I.; Shirshov, Yuri M.; Piletskaya, Elena V.; Piletsky, Sergey A.

1998-01-01

The optoelectronic biosensor, based on Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) for detection of photosynthesis-inhibiting herbicides in aqueous solutions is presented. The pesticide capability to replace plastoquinone from its complex with D1 protein is used for the detection. This replacement reaction results in the changes of the optical characteristics of protein layer, immobilized on the gold surface. Monitoring of these changes with SPR-technique permit to determine 0.1 - 5.0 mkg/ml herbicide in solution within one hour.

Surface plasmon resonance application for herbicide detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chegel, Vladimir I.; Shirshov, Yuri M.; Piletskaya, Elena V.; Piletsky, Sergey A.

1997-12-01

The optoelectronic biosensor, based on Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) for detection of photosynthesis-inhibiting herbicides in aqueous solutions is presented. The pesticide capability to replace plastoquinone from its complex with D1 protein is used for the detection. This replacement reaction results in the changes of the optical characteristics of protein layer, immobilized on the gold surface. Monitoring of these changes with SPR-technique permit to determine 0.1 - 5.0 mkg/ml herbicide in solution within one hour.

Radiometric Measurements of the Thermal Conductivity of Complex Planetary-like Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piqueux, S.; Christensen, P. R.

2012-12-01

Planetary surface temperatures and thermal inertias are controlled by the physical and compositional characteristics of the surface layer material, which result from current and past geological activity. For this reason, temperature measurements are often acquired because they provide fundamental constraints on the geological history and habitability. Examples of regolith properties affecting surface temperatures and inertias are: grain sizes and mixture ratios, solid composition in the case of ices, presence of cement between grains, regolith porosity, grain roughness, material layering etc.. Other important factors include volatile phase changes, and endogenic or exogenic heat sources (i.e. geothermal heat flow, impact-related heat, biological activity etc.). In the case of Mars, the multitude of instruments observing the surface temperature at different spatial and temporal resolutions (i.e. IRTM, Thermoskan, TES, MiniTES, THEMIS, MCS, REMS, etc.) in conjunction with other instruments allows us to probe and characterize the thermal properties of the surface layer with an unprecedented resolution. While the derivation of thermal inertia values from temperature measurements is routinely performed by well-established planetary regolith numerical models, constraining the physical properties of the surface layer from thermal inertia values requires the additional step of laboratory measurements. The density and specific heat are usually constant and sufficiently well known for common geological materials, but the bulk thermal conductivity is highly variable as a function of the physical characteristics of the regolith. Most laboratory designs do not allow an investigation of the thermal conductivity of complex regolith configurations similar to those observed on planetary surfaces (i.e. cemented material, large grains, layered material, and temperature effects) because the samples are too small and need to be soft to insert heating or measuring devices. For this reason, we have built a new type of apparatus to measure the thermal conductivity of sample significantly larger than previous apparatus under planetary conditions of atmosphere and gas composition. Samples' edges are cooled down from room to LN2 temperature and the surface material temperature is recorded by an infrared camera without inserting thermocouples or heat sources. Sample surface cooling trends are fit with finite element models of heat transfer to retrieve the material thermal conductivity. Preliminary results confirm independent numerical modeling results predicting the thermal conductivity of complex materials: the thermal inertia of particulate material under Mars conditions is temperature-dependent, small amounts of cements significantly increase the bulk conductivity and inertia of particulate material, and one-grain-thick armors similar to those observed by the Mars Exploration Rovers behave like a thin highly conductive layer that does not significantly influence apparent thermal inertias. These results are used to further our interpretation of Martian temperature observations. For example local amounts of subsurface water ice or the fraction of cementing phase in the global Martian duricrust can be constrained; the search for subtle changes in near-surface heat flow can be performed more accurately, and surface thermal inertias under various atmospheric conditions of pressure and gas composition can be predicted.

An Optimal Estimation Method to Obtain Surface Layer Turbulent Fluxes from Profile Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, D.

2015-12-01

In the absence of direct turbulence measurements, the turbulence characteristics of the atmospheric surface layer are often derived from measurements of the surface layer mean properties based on Monin-Obukhov Similarity Theory (MOST). This approach requires two levels of the ensemble mean wind, temperature, and water vapor, from which the fluxes of momentum, sensible heat, and water vapor can be obtained. When only one measurement level is available, the roughness heights and the assumed properties of the corresponding variables at the respective roughness heights are used. In practice, the temporal mean with large number of samples are used in place of the ensemble mean. However, in many situations the samples of data are taken from multiple levels. It is thus desirable to derive the boundary layer flux properties using all measurements. In this study, we used an optimal estimation approach to derive surface layer properties based on all available measurements. This approach assumes that the samples are taken from a population whose ensemble mean profile follows the MOST. An optimized estimate is obtained when the results yield a minimum cost function defined as a weighted summation of all error variance at each sample altitude. The weights are based one sample data variance and the altitude of the measurements. This method was applied to measurements in the marine atmospheric surface layer from a small boat using radiosonde on a tethered balloon where temperature and relative humidity profiles in the lowest 50 m were made repeatedly in about 30 minutes. We will present the resultant fluxes and the derived MOST mean profiles using different sets of measurements. The advantage of this method over the 'traditional' methods will be illustrated. Some limitations of this optimization method will also be discussed. Its application to quantify the effects of marine surface layer environment on radar and communication signal propagation will be shown as well.

Separation techniques: Chromatography

PubMed Central

Coskun, Ozlem

2016-01-01

Chromatography is an important biophysical technique that enables the separation, identification, and purification of the components of a mixture for qualitative and quantitative analysis. Proteins can be purified based on characteristics such as size and shape, total charge, hydrophobic groups present on the surface, and binding capacity with the stationary phase. Four separation techniques based on molecular characteristics and interaction type use mechanisms of ion exchange, surface adsorption, partition, and size exclusion. Other chromatography techniques are based on the stationary bed, including column, thin layer, and paper chromatography. Column chromatography is one of the most common methods of protein purification. PMID:28058406

The Effects of Surface Reconstruction and Electron-Positron Correlation on the Annihilation Characteristics of Positrons Trapped at Semiconductor Surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fazleev, N. G.; Jung, E.; Weiss, A. H.

2009-03-01

Experimental positron annihilation induced Auger electron spectroscopy (PAES) data from Ge(100) and Ge(111) surfaces display several strong Auger peaks corresponding to M4,5N1N2,3, M2,3M4,5M4,5, M2,3M4,5V, and M1M4,5M4,5 Auger transitions. The integrated peak intensities of Auger transitions have been used to obtain experimental annihilation probabilities for the Ge 3d and 3p core electrons. The experimental data were analyzed by performing theoretical studies of the effects of surface reconstructions and electron-positron correlations on image potential induced surface states and annihilation characteristics of positrons trapped at the reconstructed Ge(100) and Ge(111) surfaces. Calculations of positron surface states and annihilation characteristics have been performed for Ge(100) surface with (2×1), (2×2), and (4×2) reconstructions, and for Ge(111) surface with c(2×8) reconstruction. Estimates of the positron binding energy and annihilation characteristics reveal their sensitivity to the specific atomic structure of the topmost layers of the semiconductor and to the approximations used to describe electron-positron correlations. The results of these theoretical studies are compared with the ones obtained for the reconstructed Si(100)-(2×1) and Si(111)-(7×7) surfaces.

Indium-free organic thin-film solar cells using a plasmonic electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takatori, Kentaro; Nishino, Takayuki; Okamoto, Takayuki; Takei, Hiroyuki; Ishibashi, Koji; Micheletto, Ruggero

2016-05-01

We propose a new kind of organic solar cell (OSC) that substitutes the standard indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode with a silver layer with randomly arranged circular nanoholes (plasmonic electrode). The quasi-random structure in the silver layer efficiently converts wideband incident light into surface plasmon polaritons propagating along the surface of the silver film. In this way, the converted surface plasmon polaritons enhance light absorption in the active layer. We describe in detail the fabrication process we used and we give a thorough report of the resulting optical characteristics and performances. Although the transmittance of the plasmonic electrode is approximately one-third of that of the ITO electrodes, the power conversion efficiency of the OSCs with our plasmonic electrode is comparable to that of conventional inverted solar cells using ITO electrodes. Moreover, the obtained incident photon to current efficiency was better than that of the inverted solar cells in the wavelength regions around 400 nm and over 620 nm.

Effect of Water Vapor and Surface Morphology on the Low Temperature Response of Metal Oxide Semiconductor Gas Sensors

PubMed Central

Maier, Konrad; Helwig, Andreas; Müller, Gerhard; Hille, Pascal; Eickhoff, Martin

2015-01-01

In this work the low temperature response of metal oxide semiconductor gas sensors is analyzed. Important characteristics of this low-temperature response are a pronounced selectivity to acid- and base-forming gases and a large disparity of response and recovery time constants which often leads to an integrator-type of gas response. We show that this kind of sensor performance is related to the trend of semiconductor gas sensors to adsorb water vapor in multi-layer form and that this ability is sensitively influenced by the surface morphology. In particular we show that surface roughness in the nanometer range enhances desorption of water from multi-layer adsorbates, enabling them to respond more swiftly to changes in the ambient humidity. Further experiments reveal that reactive gases, such as NO2 and NH3, which are easily absorbed in the water adsorbate layers, are more easily exchanged across the liquid/air interface when the humidity in the ambient air is high. PMID:28793583

Effect of radiation and magnetohydrodynamic free convection boundary layer flow on a solid sphere with Newtonian heating in a micropolar fluid

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

Alkasasbeh, Hamzeh Taha, E-mail: zukikuj@yahoo.com; Sarif, Norhafizah Md, E-mail: zukikuj@yahoo.com; Salleh, Mohd Zuki, E-mail: zukikuj@yahoo.com

2015-02-03

In this paper, the effect of radiation on magnetohydrodynamic free convection boundary layer flow on a solid sphere with Newtonian heating in a micropolar fluid, in which the heat transfer from the surface is proportional to the local surface temperature, is considered. The transformed boundary layer equations in the form of nonlinear partial differential equations are solved numerically using an implicit finite difference scheme known as the Keller-box method. Numerical solutions are obtained for the local wall temperature and the local skin friction coefficient, as well as the velocity, angular velocity and temperature profiles. The features of the flow andmore » heat transfer characteristics for various values of the Prandtl number Pr, micropolar parameter K, magnetic parameter M, radiation parameter N{sub R}, the conjugate parameter γ and the coordinate running along the surface of the sphere, x are analyzed and discussed.« less

Simulation of the Dynamics of Isothermal Growth of Single-Layer Graphene on a Copper Catalyst in the Process of Chemical Vapor Deposition of Hydrocarbons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Futko, S. I.; Shulitskii, B. G.; Labunov, V. A.; Ermolaeva, E. M.

2018-01-01

A new kinetic model of isothermal growth of single-layer graphene on a copper catalyst as a result of the chemical vapor deposition of hydrocarbons on it at a low pressure has been developed on the basis of in situ measurements of the growth of graphene in the process of its synthesis. This model defines the synthesis of graphene with regard for the chemisorption and catalytic decomposition of ethylene on the surface of a copper catalyst, the diffusion of carbon atoms in the radial direction to the nucleation centers within the thin melted near-surface copper layer, and the nucleation and autocatalytic growth of graphene domains. It is shown that the time dependence of the rate of growth of a graphene domain has a characteristic asymmetrical bell-like shape. The dependences of the surface area and size of a graphene domain and the rate of its growth on the time at different synthesis temperatures and ethylene concentrations have been obtained. Time characteristics of the growth of graphene domains depending on the parameters of their synthesis were calculated. The results obtained can be used for determining optimum regimes of synthesis of graphene in the process of chemical vapor deposition of hydrocarbons on different catalysts with a low solubility of carbon.

Modeling micromechanical measurements of depth-varying properties with scanning acoustic microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marangos, Orestes; Misra, Anil

2018-02-01

Scanning acoustic microscopy (SAM) has been applied to measure the near-surface elastic properties of materials. For many substrates, the near-surface property is not constant but varies with depth. In this paper, we aim to interpret the SAM data from such substrates by modeling the interaction of the focused ultrasonic field with a substrate having a near-surface graded layer. The focused ultrasonic field solutions were represented as spherical harmonic expansions while the substrate solutions were represented as plane wave expansions. The bridging of the two solutions was achieved through the decomposition of the ultrasonic pressure fields in their angular spectra. Parametric studies were performed, which showed that near-surface graded layers exhibit distinctive frequency dependence of their reflectance functions. This behavior is characteristic to the material property gradation profile as well as the extent of the property gradation. The developed model was used to explain the frequency-dependent reflection coefficients measured from an acid-etched dentin substrate. Based on the model calculations, the elastic property variations of the acid-etched dentin near-surface indicate that the topmost part of the etched layer is very soft (3-6 GPa) and transitions to the native dentin through a depth of 27 and 36 microns.

Characteristics of surface modified Ti-6Al-4V alloy by a series of YAG laser irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeng, Xian; Wang, Wenqin; Yamaguchi, Tomiko; Nishio, Kazumasa

2018-01-01

In this study, a double-layer Ti (C, N) film was successfully prepared on Ti-6Al-4V alloy by a series of YAG laser irradiation in nitrogen atmosphere, aiming at improving the wear resistance. The effects of laser irradiation pass upon surface chemical composition, microstructures and hardness were investigated. The results showed that the surface chemicals were independent from laser irradiation pass, which the up layer of film was a mixture of TiN and TiC0.3N0.7, and the down layer was nitrogen-rich α-Ti. Both the surface roughness and hardness increased as raising the irradiation passes. However, surface deformation and cracks happened in the case above 3 passes' irradiation. The wear resistance of laser modified sample by 3 passes was improved approximately by 37 times compared to the as received substrate. Moreover, the cytotoxic V ion released from laser modified sample was less than that of as received Ti-6Al-4V alloy in SBF, suggesting the potentiality of a new try to modify the sliding part of Ti-based hard tissue implants in future biomedical application.

Observed Seasonal Variations of the Upper Ocean Structure and Air-Sea Interactions in the Andaman Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Yanliang; Li, Kuiping; Ning, Chunlin; Yang, Yang; Wang, Haiyuan; Liu, Jianjun; Skhokiattiwong, Somkiat; Yu, Weidong

2018-02-01

The Andaman Sea (AS) is a poorly observed basin, where even the fundamental physical characteristics have not been fully documented. Here the seasonal variations of the upper ocean structure and the air-sea interactions in the central AS were studied using a moored surface buoy. The seasonal double-peak pattern of the sea surface temperature (SST) was identified with the corresponding mixed layer variations. Compared with the buoys in the Bay of Bengal (BOB), the thermal stratification in the central AS was much stronger in the winter to spring, when a shallower isothermal layer and a thinner barrier layer were sustained. The temperature inversion was strongest from June to July because of substantial surface heat loss and subsurface prewarming. The heat budget analysis of the mixed layer showed that the net surface heat fluxes dominated the seasonal SST cycle. Vertical entrainment was significant from April to July. It had a strong cooling effect from April to May and a striking warming effect from June to July. A sensitivity experiment highlighted the importance of salinity. The AS warmer surface water in the winter was associated with weak heat loss caused by weaker longwave radiation and latent heat losses. However, the AS latent heat loss was larger than the BOB in summer due to its lower relative humidity.

Numerical study on refractive index sensor based on hybrid-plasmonic mode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yun, Jeong-Geun; Kim, Joonsoo; Lee, Kyookeun; Lee, Yohan; Lee, Byoungho

2017-04-01

We propose a highly sensitive hybrid-plasmonic sensor based on thin-gold nanoslit arrays. The transmission characteristics of gold nanoslit arrays are analyzed as changing the thickness of gold layer. The surface plasmon polariton mode excited on the sensing medium, which is sensitive to refractive index change of the sensing medium, is strengthened by reducing the thickness of the gold layer. A design rule is suggested that steeper dispersion curve of the surface plasmon polariton mode leads to higher sensitivity. For the dispersion engineering, hybrid-plasmonic structure, which consists of thin-gold nanoslit arrays, sensing region and high refractive index dielectric space is introduced. The proposed sensor structure with period of 700 nm shows the improved sensitivity up to 1080 nm/RIU (refractive index unit), and the surface sensitivity is extremely enhanced.

Characteristic of the carbon-tungsten co-deposition layers prepared by RF magnetron sputtering in a D2/Ar plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, X. H.; Zhang, W. Z.; Shi, L. Q.; Qi, Q.; Zhang, B.; Zhang, W. Y.; Wang, K.; Hu, J. S.

2013-06-01

A C-W co-deposition layer, formed by radio frequency magnetron sputtering, was investigated to identify the characteristics of C-W mixed layers in fusion experimental reactors. The layers were characterized by ion beam analysis, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. It was found that D atoms in C-W layers were mainly trapped by the C atoms. The ratio of C/W and D concentrations in the C-W layers deposited at a pressure of 5.0 Pa and a fixed flow rate ratio were 54/31 and 5%, respectively. They all increased significantly with increased flow rate of D2 but decreased with temperature at a relatively low level. The pressure dependence of the D concentration showed a maximum value around 5 Pa and it decreased with rising or decreasing pressure. Both Raman and X-ray analysis revealed that the structure of the C-W layers became more graphite-like with increasing temperature. Moreover, deuterium introduction made the tungsten carbide phase disappear in the deuterated C-W layers. Only erosion caves on the surface of the sample prepared at 300 K were observed by SEM. When the temperature increased, they disappeared, and convex bodies appeared.

Characteristics of the Martian atmosphere surface layer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clow, G. D.; Haberle, R. M.

1991-01-01

Researchers extend elements of various terrestrial boundary layer models to Mars in order to estimate sensible heat, latent heat, and momentum fluxes within the Martian atmospheric surface layer. To estimate the molecular viscosity and thermal conductivity of a CO2-H2O gas mixture under Martian conditions, parameterizations were developed. Parameterizations for specific heat and and binary diffusivity were also determined. The Prandtl and Schmidt numbers derived from these thermophysical properties were found to range from 0.78 - 1.0 and 0.47 - 0.70, respectively, for Mars. Brutsaert's model for sensible and latent heat transport within the interfacial sublayer for both aerodynamically smooth and rough airflow was experimentally tested under similar conditions, validating its application to Martian conditions. For the surface sublayer, the researchers modified the definition of the Monin-Obukhov length to properly account for the buoyancy forces arising from water vapor gradients in the Martian atmospheric boundary layer. This length scale was then utilized with similarity theory turbulent flux profiles with the same form as those used by Businger et al. and others. It was found that under most Martian conditions, the interfacial and surface sublayers offer roughly comparable resistance to sensible heat and water vapor transport and are thus both important in determining the associated fluxes.

Surface characteristic of chemically converted graphene coated low carbon steel by electro spray coating method for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell bipolar plate.

PubMed

Kim, Jungsoo; Kim, Yang Do; Nam, Dae Geun

2013-05-01

Graphene was coated on low carbon steel (SS400) by electro spray coating method to improve its properties of corrosion resistance and contact resistance. Exfoliated graphite was made of the graphite by chemical treatment (Chemically Converted Graphene, CCG). CCG is distributed using dispersing agent, and low carbon steel was coated with diffuse graphene solution by electro spray coating method. The structure of the CCG was analyzed using XRD and the coating layer of surface was analyzed using SEM. Analysis showed that multi-layered graphite structure was destroyed and it was transformed in to fine layers graphene structure. And the result of SEM analysis on the surface and the cross section, graphene layer was uniformly formed with 3-5 microm thickness on the surface of substrate. Corrosion resistance test was applied in the corrosive solution which is similar to the polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) stack inside. And interfacial contact resistance (ICR) test was measured to simulate the internal operating conditions of PEMFC stack. As a result of measuring corrosion resistance and contact resistance, it could be confirmed that low carbon steel coated with CCG was revealed to be more effective in terms of its applicability as PEMFC bipolar plate.

Cone penetration test for facies study: a review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Satriyo, N. A.; Soebowo, E.

2018-02-01

Engineering geology investigation through Cone Penetration Test (with pore-pressure measurements) approach is one of the most effective methods to find out sub surface layer. This method is generally used in Late Quaternary and typical deposit and can also be used for sedimentological purposes. CPTu and drilling core for high-resolution stratigraphy sub surface have been done in many research. These combined data can also be used to detail correlations of sub surface stratigraphy, to identify facies change and to determine the interpretation of sequence stratigraphy. The determination facies distribution research based on CPTu profile, which was included in quantitative data, is rarely done especially in Indonesia which has a different climate. Whereas drilling core description using grain size analysis will provide information on validation about physical lithology characteristics which are developed in research area. The interpretation is given using CPTu curve pattern and cone resistance parameter of CPTu’s data correlated with physical characteristics of drilling core. The cone resistance will provide the strength of the sediment layer which also gives the range of data between clay and sand. Finally, the review will show that each of developing facies characteristic provides a specific curve pattern and every sediment deposit facies can be determined by the transformation of CPTu curve profile. Despite the fact that the research using those methods are quite comprehensive, a review is presented on each of these methods related with the chronologic factor seen by the geological time and different characteristics sediment of different location.

Damping of surface waves due to oil emulsions in application to ocean remote sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sergievskaya, I.; Ermakov, S.; Lazareva, T.; Lavrova, O.

2017-10-01

Applications of different radar and optical methods for detection of oil pollutions based on the effect of damping of short wind waves by surface films have been extensively studied last decades. The main problem here is poor knowledge of physical characteristics of oil films, in particular, emulsified oil layers (EOL). The latter are ranged up to 70% of all pollutants. Physical characteristics of EOL which are responsible for wave damping and respectively for possibilities of their remote sensing depend on conditions of emulsification processes, e.g., mixing due to wave breaking, on percentage of water in the oil, etc. and are not well studied by now. In this paper results of laboratory studies of damping of gravity-capillary waves due to EOL on water are presented and compared to oil layers (OL). A laboratory method used previously for monomolecular films and OL, and based on measuring the damping coefficient and wavelength of parametrically generated standing waves has been applied for determination of EOL characteristics. Investigations of characteristics of crude oil, oil emulsions and crude OL and EOL have been carried out in a wide range of surface wave frequencies (from 10 to 25 Hz) and OL and EOL film thickness (from hundredths of millimeter to a few millimeters. The selected frequency range corresponds to Bragg waves for microwave, X- to Ka-band radars typically used for ocean remote sensing. An effect of enhanced wave damping due to EOL compared to non emulsified crude OL is revealed.

Double-Layered Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, Jaegu; Matsuo, Keita; Yoshida, Hidekazu; Namihira, Takao; Katsuki, Sunao; Akiyama, Hidenori

2009-08-01

In this paper, we present a double-layered atmospheric pressure plasma jet (DLAPPJ) that is expected to improve conventional single-layered atmospheric pressure plasma jets. With the additional introduction of nitrogen gas into the outer nozzle between the inner and outer tubes, the plasma plume is boosted, resulting in a brighter and longer plasma torch, which may have more radicals and which may broaden the application range of atmospheric pressure plasma jets. The characteristics of the proposed device were investigated with the measurement of the visible torch length, wettability tests and optical emission spectroscopy. The results obtained imply that the DLAPPJ can be used for target-based plasma treatments, that is, (a) oxidation-related applications, such as surface treatment, biological decontamination and apoptosis induction, and (b) nitrification-related applications such as NO generation for wound healing and surface modification, by controlling radicals in plasmas.

Statistical evaluation of potential damage to the Al(OH)3 layer on nTiO2 particles in the presence of swimming pool and seawater

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Virkutyte, Jurate; Al-Abed, Souhail R.

2012-03-01

Nanosized TiO2 particles (nTiO2) are usually coated with an Al(OH)3 layer when used in sunscreen to shield against the harmful effects of free radicals that are generated when these particles are exposed to UV radiation. Therefore, it is vital to insure the structural stability of these particles in the environment where the protective layer may be damaged and adverse health and environmental effects can occur. This study utilized X-ray analysis (SEM-EDS) to provide a qualitative and semi-quantitative assessment of the chemical and physical characteristics of Al(OH)3-coated original and damaged nTiO2 particles (used in sunscreen lotion formulations) in the presence of both swimming pool and seawater. Also, by utilizing statistical tools, a distribution of Al/Ti (%) on the particle surface was determined and evaluated. It was found that 45 min of treatment with swimming pool and seawater significantly induced the redistribution of Al/Ti (%), which changed the surface characteristics of particles and, therefore, may have induced undesired photo-activity and the consequent formation of free radicals.

Impact of thermal annealing on wettability and antifouling characteristics of alginate poly-l-lysine polyelectrolyte multilayer films.

PubMed

Diamanti, Eleftheria; Muzzio, Nicolas; Gregurec, Danijela; Irigoyen, Joseba; Pasquale, Miguel; Azzaroni, Omar; Brinkmann, Martin; Moya, Sergio Enrique

2016-09-01

Polyelectrolyte multilayers (PEMs) of poly-l-lysine (PLL) and alginic acid sodium salt (Alg) are fabricated applying the layer by layer technique and annealed at a constant temperature; 37, 50 and 80°C, for 72h. Atomic force microscopy reveals changes in the topography of the PEM, which is changing from a fibrillar to a smooth surface. Advancing contact angle in water varies from 36° before annealing to 93°, 77° and 95° after annealing at 37, 50 and 80°C, respectively. Surface energy changes after annealing were calculated from contact angle measurements performed with organic solvents. Quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation, contact angle and fluorescence spectroscopy measurements show a significant decrease in the adsorption of the bovine serum albumin protein to the PEMs after annealing. Changes in the physical properties of the PEMs are interpreted as a result of the reorganization of the polyelectrolytes in the PEMs from a layered structure into complexes where the interaction of polycations and polyanions is enhanced. This work proposes a simple method to endow bio-PEMs with antifouling characteristics and tune their wettability. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Application of a quasi-3D inviscid flow and boundary layer analysis to the hub-shroud contouring of a radial turbine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Civinskas, K.; Povinelli, L. A.

1984-01-01

Application of a quasi-3D approach to the aerodynamic analysis of several radial turbine configurations is described. The objective was to improve the rotor aerodynamic characteristics by hub-shroud contouring. The approach relies on available 2D inviscid methods coupled with boundary layer analysis to calculate profile, mixing, and endwall losses. Windage, tip clearance, incidence, and secondary flow losses are estimated from correlations. To eliminate separation along the hub and blade suction surfaces of a baseline rotor, the analysis was also applied to three alternate hub-shroud geometries. Emphasis was on elimination of an inducer velocity overshoot as well as increasing hub velocities. While separation was never eliminated, the extent of the separated area was progressively reduced. Results are presented in terms of mid-channel and blade surface velocities; kinetic energy loss coefficients; and efficiency. The calculation demonstrates a first step for a systematic approach to radial turbine design that can be used to identify and control aerodynamic characteristics that ultimately determine heat transfer and component life. Experimentation will be required to assess the extent to which flow and boundary layer behavior were predicted correctly.

Application of a quasi-3D inviscid flow and boundary layer analysis to the hub-shroud contouring of a radial turbine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Civinskas, K. C.; Povinelli, L. A.

1984-01-01

Application of a quasi-3D approach to the aerodynamic analysis of several radial turbine configurations is described. The objective was to improve the rotor aerodynamic characteristics by hub-shroud contouring. The approach relies on available 2D inviscid methods coupled with boundary layer analysis to calculate profile, mixing, and endwall losses. Windage, tip clearance, incidence, and secondary flow losses are estimated from correlations. To eliminate separation along the hub and blade suction surfaces of a baseline rotor, the analysis was also applied to three alternate hub-shroud geometries. Emphasis was on elimination an inducer velocity overshoot as well as increasing hub velocities. While separation was never eliminated, the extent of the separated area was progressively reduced. Results are presented in terms of mid-channel and blade surface velocities; kinetic energy loss coefficients; and efficiency. The calculation demonstrates a first step for a systematic approach to radial turbine design that can be used to identify and control aerodynamic characteristics that ultimately determine heat transfer and component life. Experimentation will be required to assess the extent to which flow and boundary layer behavior were predicted correctly.

Corrosion resistance of titanium ion implanted AZ91 magnesium alloy

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

Liu Chenglong; Xin Yunchang; Tian Xiubo

2007-03-15

Degradable metal alloys constitute a new class of materials for load-bearing biomedical implants. Owing to their good mechanical properties and biocompatibility, magnesium alloys are promising in degradable prosthetic implants. The objective of this study is to improve the corrosion behavior of surgical AZ91 magnesium alloy by titanium ion implantation. The surface characteristics of the ion implanted layer in the magnesium alloys are examined. The authors' results disclose that an intermixed layer is produced and the surface oxidized films are mainly composed of titanium oxide with a lesser amount of magnesium oxide. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy reveals that the oxide has threemore » layers. The outer layer which is 10 nm thick is mainly composed of MgO and TiO{sub 2} with some Mg(OH){sub 2}. The middle layer that is 50 nm thick comprises predominantly TiO{sub 2} and MgO with minor contributions from MgAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} and TiO. The third layer from the surface is rich in metallic Mg, Ti, Al, and Ti{sub 3}Al. The effects of Ti ion implantation on the corrosion resistance and electrochemical behavior of the magnesium alloys are investigated in simulated body fluids at 37{+-}1 deg. C using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and open circuit potential techniques. Compared to the unimplanted AZ91 alloy, titanium ion implantation significantly shifts the open circuit potential (OCP) to a more positive potential and improves the corrosion resistance at OCP. This phenomenon can be ascribed to the more compact surface oxide film, enhanced reoxidation on the implanted surface, as well as the increased {beta}-Mg{sub 12}Al{sub 17} phase.« less

pH-sensitive ion-selective field-effect transistor with zirconium dioxide film

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

Vlasov, Yu.G.; Bratov, A.V.; Tarantov, Yu.A.

1988-09-20

Miniature semiconductor pH sensors for liquid media, i.e., ion-selective field-effect transistors (ISFETs), are silicon field-effect transistors with a two-layer dielectric consisting of a passivating SiO/sub 2/ layer adjoining the silicon and a layer of pH-sensitive material in contact with the electrolyte solution to be tested. This study was devoted to the characteristics of pH-sensitive ISFETs with ZrO/sub 2/ films. The base was p-type silicon (KDB-10) with a (100) surface orientation. A ZrO/sub 2/ layer 10-50 nm thick was applied over the SiO/sub 2/ layer by electron-beam deposition. The measurements were made in aqueous KNO/sub 3/ or KCl solutions.

Phase constitution characteristics of the Fe-Al alloy layer in the HAZ of calorized steel pipe

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

Li Yajiang; Zou Zengda; Wei Xing

1997-09-01

Mechanical properties of the welding region and phase constitution characteristics in the iron-aluminum (Fe-Al) alloy layer of calorized steel pipes were researched by means of metallography, which included the use of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) and an X-ray diffractometer. Experimental results indicated that the Fe-Al alloy layer of calorized steel pipe was mainly composed of an FeAl phase, an Fe{sub 3}Al phase and an {alpha}-Fe(Al) solid solution, and the microhardness in the Fe-Al coating was 600--310 HM from the surface layer to the inside. There were no higher aluminum content phases, suchmore » as brittle FeAl{sub 2}, Fe{sub 2}Al{sub 5} and FeAl{sub 3}. By controlling the aluminizing process parameters, the ability to bear deformation and weld-ability of the calorized steel pipe were remarkably improved.« less

Super-hydrophobic multilayer coatings with layer number tuned swapping in surface wettability and redox catalytic anti-corrosion application.

PubMed

Syed, Junaid Ali; Tang, Shaochun; Meng, Xiangkang

2017-06-30

The wetting characteristic of a metal surface can be controlled by employing different coating materials and external stimuli, however, layer number (n) modulated surface swapping between hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity in a multilayer structure to achieve prolonged anti-corrosion ability was not taken into consideration. In this study, we proposed a layer-by-layer (LbL) spin assembled polyaniline-silica composite/tetramethylsilane functionalized silica nanoparticles (PSC/TMS-SiO 2 ) coating with the combined effect of super-hydrophobicity and enhanced anti-corrosion ability. Interestingly, the hierarchical integration of two coating materials with inherently different surface roughness and energy in a multilayer structure allows the wetting feature to swap from hydrophobic to hydrophilic state by modulating n with decreasing hydrophilicity. The samples with odd n (TMS-SiO 2 surface) are hydrophobic while the samples with even n (PSC surface) exhibits the hydrophilic character. The TMS-SiO 2 content was optimized to achieve super-hydrophobic coating with significantly high water contact angle (CA) 153° ± 2° and small sliding angle (SA) 6° ± 2°. Beside its self-cleaning behavior, the electro-active PSC/TMS-SiO 2 coating also exhibits remarkably enhanced corrosion resistance against aggressive media. The corrosion resistance of the coating was remained stable even after 240 h of exposure, this enhancement is attributed to super-hydrophobicity and anodic shift in corrosion potential.

Geometry characteristics modeling and process optimization in coaxial laser inside wire cladding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Jianjun; Zhu, Ping; Fu, Geyan; Shi, Shihong

2018-05-01

Coaxial laser inside wire cladding method is very promising as it has a very high efficiency and a consistent interaction between the laser and wire. In this paper, the energy and mass conservation law, and the regression algorithm are used together for establishing the mathematical models to study the relationship between the layer geometry characteristics (width, height and cross section area) and process parameters (laser power, scanning velocity and wire feeding speed). At the selected parameter ranges, the predicted values from the models are compared with the experimental measured results, and there is minor error existing, but they reflect the same regularity. From the models, it is seen the width of the cladding layer is proportional to both the laser power and wire feeding speed, while it firstly increases and then decreases with the increasing of the scanning velocity. The height of the cladding layer is proportional to the scanning velocity and feeding speed and inversely proportional to the laser power. The cross section area increases with the increasing of feeding speed and decreasing of scanning velocity. By using the mathematical models, the geometry characteristics of the cladding layer can be predicted by the known process parameters. Conversely, the process parameters can be calculated by the targeted geometry characteristics. The models are also suitable for multi-layer forming process. By using the optimized process parameters calculated from the models, a 45 mm-high thin-wall part is formed with smooth side surfaces.

Nonlinear Excitation of Inviscid Stationary Vortex in a Boundary-Layer Flow

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Choudhari, Meelan; Duck, Peter W.

1996-01-01

We examine the excitation of inviscid stationary crossflow instabilities near an isolated surface hump (or indentation) underneath a three-dimensional boundary layer. As the hump height (or indentation depth) is increased from zero, the receptivity process becomes nonlinear even before the stability characteristics of the boundary layer are modified to a significant extent. This behavior contrasts sharply with earlier findings on the excitation of the lower branch Tollmien-Schlichting modes and is attributed to the inviscid nature of the crossflow modes, which leads to a decoupling between the regions of receptivity and stability. As a result of this decoupling, similarity transformations exist that allow the nonlinear receptivity of a general three-dimensional boundary layer to be studied with a set of canonical solutions to the viscous sublayer equations. The parametric study suggests that the receptivity is likely to become nonlinear even before the hump height becomes large enough for flow reversal to occur in the canonical solution. We also find that the receptivity to surface humps increases more rapidly as the hump height increases than is predicted by linear theory. On the other hand, receptivity near surface indentations is generally smaller in comparison with the linear approximation. Extension of the work to crossflow receptivity in compressible boundary layers and to Gortler vortex excitation is also discussed.

Control of optical properties of metal-dielectric planar plasmonic nanostructures by adjusting their architecture in the case of TiAlN/Ag system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wainstein, D. L.; Vakhrushev, V. O.; Kovalev, A. I.

2017-05-01

The multilayer Ag/(Ti34Al66)N metal-insulator-metal (MIM) heterostructures with different thicknesses of individual layers varied from several to several hundred nanometers were fabricated by DC-magnetron sputtering on the surfaces of Si single crystal wafers. The coatings structure was determined by STEM. The phase composition and crystallography of individual layers were studied by X-ray diffraction. The reflection indexes were measured in the photons energies range from 1 to 5 eV, or from 1240 to 248 nm. The spectroscopy of plasmon losses and plasmon microscopy allowed us to measure the plasmons losses characteristic energies and their surface distribution. The energies of plasmons peaks and their locations are strongly depending on Ag layers thickness in the MIM nanocomposite. The surface plasmon with energy about 4 eV was observed in the middle of 20 nm Ag layer. The plasmons were localized at the metal/dielectric interface for Ag layers 5 nm and less. The reflectance spectral profiles edges positions at long and short waves are correlated with plasmons energies and features of their spatial distribution. The MIMs based on the TiAlN/Ag can find applications as optical filters, photovoltaic energy conversion devices, etc.

Dispersion Energy Analysis of Rayleigh and Love Waves in the Presence of Low-Velocity Layers in Near-Surface Seismic Surveys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mi, Binbin; Xia, Jianghai; Shen, Chao; Wang, Limin

2018-03-01

High-frequency surface-wave analysis methods have been effectively and widely used to determine near-surface shear (S) wave velocity. To image the dispersion energy and identify different dispersive modes of surface waves accurately is one of key steps of using surface-wave methods. We analyzed the dispersion energy characteristics of Rayleigh and Love waves in near-surface layered models based on numerical simulations. It has been found that if there is a low-velocity layer (LVL) in the half-space, the dispersion energy of Rayleigh or Love waves is discontinuous and ``jumping'' appears from the fundamental mode to higher modes on dispersive images. We introduce the guided waves generated in an LVL (LVL-guided waves, a trapped wave mode) to clarify the complexity of the dispersion energy. We confirm the LVL-guided waves by analyzing the snapshots of SH and P-SV wavefield and comparing the dispersive energy with theoretical values of phase velocities. Results demonstrate that LVL-guided waves possess energy on dispersive images, which can interfere with the normal dispersion energy of Rayleigh or Love waves. Each mode of LVL-guided waves having lack of energy at the free surface in some high frequency range causes the discontinuity of dispersive energy on dispersive images, which is because shorter wavelengths (generally with lower phase velocities and higher frequencies) of LVL-guided waves cannot penetrate to the free surface. If the S wave velocity of the LVL is higher than that of the surface layer, the energy of LVL-guided waves only contaminates higher mode energy of surface waves and there is no interlacement with the fundamental mode of surface waves, while if the S wave velocity of the LVL is lower than that of the surface layer, the energy of LVL-guided waves may interlace with the fundamental mode of surface waves. Both of the interlacements with the fundamental mode or higher mode energy may cause misidentification for the dispersion curves of surface waves.

The effect of mechano-chemical treatment on structural properties of the drawn TiNi-based alloy wire

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anikeev, Sergey; Hodorenko, Valentina; Gunther, Victor; Chekalkin, Timofey; Kang, Ji-hoon; Kang, Seung-baik

2018-01-01

The rapid development of biomedical materials with the advanced functional characteristics is a challenging task because of the growing demands for better material properties in-clinically employed. Modern medical devices that can be implanted into humans have evolved steadily by replacing TiNi-based alloys for titanium and stainless steel. In this study, the effect of the mechano-chemical treatment on structural properties of the matrix and surface layer of the drawn TiNi-based alloy wire was assessed. A range of samples have been prepared using different drawing and etching procedures. It is clear from the results obtained that the fabricated samples show a composite structure comprising the complex matrix and textured oxycarbonitride spitted surface layer. The suggested method of surface treatment is a concept to increase the surface roughness for the enhanced bio-performance and better in vivo integration.

Double-diffusive boundary layers along vertical free surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Napolitano, L. G.; Viviani, A.; Savino, R.

1992-05-01

This paper deals with double-diffusive (or thermosolutal) combined free convection, i.e., free convection due to buoyant forces (natural convection) and surface tension gradients (Marangoni convection), which are generated by volume differences and surface gradients of temperature and solute concentration. Attention is focused on boundary layers that form along a vertical liquid-gas interface, when the appropriately defined nondimensional characteristic transport numbers are large enough, in problems of thermosolutal natural and Marangoni convection, such as buoyancy and surface tension driven flows in differentially heated open cavities and liquid bridges. Classes of similar solutions are derived for each class of convection on the basis of a rigorous order of magnitude analysis. Velocity, temperature and concentration profiles are reported in the similarity plane; flow and transport properties at the liquid-gas interface (interfacial velocity, heat and mass transfer bulk coefficients) are obtained for a wide range of Prandtl and Schmidt numbers and different values of the similarity parameter.

Identification of Characteristic Macromolecules of Escherichia coli Genotypes by Atomic Force Microscope Nanoscale Mechanical Mapping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Alice Chinghsuan; Liu, Bernard Haochih

2018-02-01

The categorization of microbial strains is conventionally based on the molecular method, and seldom are the morphological characteristics in the bacterial strains studied. In this research, we revealed the macromolecular structures of the bacterial surface via AFM mechanical mapping, whose resolution was not only determined by the nanoscale tip size but also the mechanical properties of the specimen. This technique enabled the nanoscale study of membranous structures of microbial strains with simple specimen preparation and flexible working environments, which overcame the multiple restrictions in electron microscopy and label-enable biochemical analytical methods. The characteristic macromolecules located among cellular surface were considered as surface layer proteins and were found to be specific to the Escherichia coli genotypes, from which the averaged molecular sizes were characterized with diameters ranging from 38 to 66 nm, and the molecular shapes were kidney-like or round. In conclusion, the surface macromolecular structures have unique characteristics that link to the E. coli genotype, which suggests that the genomic effects on cellular morphologies can be rapidly identified using AFM mechanical mapping. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

The Organic Aerosols of Titan's Atmosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sotin, Christophe; Lawrence, Kenneth; Beauchamp, Patricia M.; Zimmerman, Wayne

2012-01-01

One of Titan's many characteristics is the presence of a haze that veils its surface. This haze is composed of heavy organic particles and determining the chemical composition of these particles is a primary objective for future probes that would conduct in situ analysis. Meanwhile, solar occultations provide constraints on the optical characteristics of the haze layer. This paper describes solar occultation observations obtained by the Visual and Infrared Mapping Spectrometer (VIMS) onboard the Cassini spacecraft. These observations strongly constrain the optical characteristics of the haze layer. We detail the different steps involved in the processing of these data and apply them to two occultations that were observed at the South Pole and at the equator in order to investigate the latitudinal dependence of optical properties. The light curves obtained in seven atmospheric windows between 0.933-microns to 5-microns allow us to characterize atmospheric layers from 300 km to the surface. Very good fits of the light curves are obtained using a simple profile of number density of aerosols that is characterized by a scale height. The main difference between the South Pole and the equator is that the value of the scale height increases with altitude at the South Pole whereas it decreases at the equator. The vertically integrated amount of aerosols is similar at the two locations. The curve describing the cross-section versus wavelength is identical at the two locations suggesting that the aerosols have similar characteristics. Finally, we find that the two-way vertical transmission at 5-microns is as large as 80% at both locations.

Formation of surface reaction products on bioactive glass and their effects on the expression of the osteoblastic phenotype and the deposition of mineralized extracellular matrix.

PubMed

el-Ghannam, A; Ducheyne, P; Shapiro, I M

1997-02-01

The objective of the study was to examine the effect of alkali ion release, pH control and buffer capacity on the expression of the osteoblastic phenotype. In addition we determined the importance of modifications of the surface of porous bioactive glass (BG) on the activity of rat calvaria osteoblasts in vitro. We found that at a low tissue culture medium (TCM) volume to BG surface area (Vol/SA) ratio, the products of glass corrosion elevated the pH of the TCM to a value that adversely affected cellular activity; thus, the matrix synthesized by the cells was non-mineralized. On the other hand, when the Vol/SA was high and the buffer capacity of the medium was not exceeded, the cells generated a mineralized extracellular matrix. Addressing the second issue, we observed that modification of the composition of the BG surface markedly influenced osteoblast activity. BG that was coated with either a calcium phosphate-rich layer only or a serum protein layer changed the phenotypic characteristics of the osteoblasts. The presence of either of these surfaces lowered the alkaline phosphatase activity of the attached cells; this finding indicated that the osteoblast phenotype was not conserved. However, when the BG was coated with a bilayer of calcium phosphate and serum proteins, the alkaline phosphatase (AP) activity was elevated and the extracellular matrix contained characteristic bone markers. Our findings indicate that the calcium phosphate-rich layer promotes adsorption and concentration of proteins from the TCM, and it is utilized by the osteoblasts to form the mineralized extracellular matrix.

Path Planning Based on Ply Orientation Information for Automatic Fiber Placement on Mesh Surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pei, Jiazhi; Wang, Xiaoping; Pei, Jingyu; Yang, Yang

2018-03-01

This article introduces an investigation of path planning with ply orientation information for automatic fiber placement (AFP) on open-contoured mesh surface. The new method makes use of the ply orientation information generated by loading characteristics on surface, divides the surface into several zones according to the ply orientation information and then designs different fiber paths in different zones. This article also gives new idea of up-layer design in order to make up for defects between parts and improve product's strength.

Study on Plastic Deformation Characteristics of Shot Peening of Ni-Based Superalloy GH4079

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, L. Q.; Liang, Y. L.; Hu, H.

2017-09-01

In this paper, the X-ray stress diffractometer, surface roughness tester, field emission scanning electron microscope(SEM), dynamic ultra-small microhardness tester were used to measure the surface residual stress and roughness, topography and surface hardness changes of GH4079 superalloy, which was processed by metallographic grinding, turning, metallographic grinding +shot peening and turning + shot peening. Analysized the effects of shot peening parameters on shot peening plastic deformation features; and the effects of the surface state before shot peening on shot peening plastic deformation characteristics. Results show that: the surface residual compressive stress, surface roughness and surface hardness of GH4079 superalloy were increased by shot peening, in addition, the increment of the surface residual compressive stress, surface roughness and surface hardness induced by shot peening increased with increasing shot peening intensity, shot peening time, shot peening pressure and shot hardness, but harden layer depth was not affected considerably. The more plastic deformation degree of before shot peening surface state, the less increment of the surface residual compressive stress, surface roughness and surface hardness induced by shot peening.

Alternative design of pipe sleeve for liquid removal mechanism in mortar slab layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nazri, W. M. H. Wan; Anting, N.; Lim, A. J. M. S.; Prasetijo, J.; Shahidan, S.; Din, M. F. Md; Anuar, M. A. Mohd

2017-11-01

Porosity is one of the mortar’s characteristics that can cause problems, especially in the room space that used high amount of water, such as bathrooms. Waterproofing is one of the technology that normally used to minimize this problem which is preventing deep penetration of liquid water or moisture into underlying concrete layers. However, without the proper mechanism to remove liquid water and moisture from mortar system, waterproofing layer tends to be damaged after a long period of time by the static formation of liquid water and moisture at mortar layer. Thus, a solution has been proposed to drain out water that penetrated into the mortar layer. This paper introduces a new solution using a Modified Pipe Sleeve (MPS) that installed at the mortar layer. The MPS has been designed considering the percentage surface area of the pipe sleeve that having contact with mortar layer (2%, 4%, 6%, 8% and 10%) with angle of holes of 60°. Infiltration test and flow rate test have been conducted to identify the effectiveness of the MPS in order to drain out liquid water or moisture from the mortar layer. In this study shows that, MPS surface area 10%, angled 60°, function effectively as a water removal compared to other design.

Structure analysis of aqueous ferrofluids at interface with silicon: neutron reflectometry data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gapon, I. V.; Petrenko, V. I.; Bulavin, L. A.; Balasoiu, M.; Kubovcikova, M.; Zavisova, V.; Koneracka, M.; Kopcansky, P.; Chiriac, H.; Avdeev, M. V.

2017-05-01

Adsorption of nanoparticles from aqueous ferrofluids (FFs) on solid surface (crystalline silicon) was studied by neutron reflectometry (NR). Two kinds of FFs were considered. First kind was heavy water-based ferrofluids with magnetite nanoparticles coated by double layer of sodium oleate. Second one FF was cobalt ferrite nanoparticles stabilized by lauric acid/sodium n-dodecylsulphate layer and dispersed in water. It was obtained only a single adsorption layer for two types of ferrofluids. The impact of the magnetic nanoparticles concentration and geometry was considered in frame of the adsorption characteristic of FFs.

A simultaneous deep micromachining and surface passivation method suitable for silicon-based devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Babaei, E.; Gharooni, M.; Mohajerzadeh, S.; Soleimani, E. A.

2018-07-01

Three novel methods for simultaneous micromachining and surface passivation of silicon are reported. A thin passivation layer is achieved using continuous and sequential plasma processes based on SF6, H2 and O2 gases. Reducing the recombination by surface passivation is crucial for the realization of high-performance nanosized optoelectronic devices. The passivation of the surface as an important step, is feasible by plasma processing based on hydrogen pulses in proper time-slots or using a mixture of H2 and O2, and SF6 gases. The passivation layer which is formed in situ during the micromachining process obviates a separate passivation step needed in conventional methods. By adjusting the plasma parameters such as power, duration, and flows of gases, the process can be controlled for the best results and acceptable under-etching at the same time. Moreover, the pseudo-oxide layer which is formed during the micromachining processes will also improve the electrical characteristics of the surface, which can be used as an add-on for micro and nanowire applications. To quantify the effect of surface passivation in our method, ellipsometry, lifetime measurements, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, current–voltage and capacitance–voltage measurements and solar cell testing have been employed.

Surface analytical characterization of Streptavidin/poly(3-hexylthiophene) bilayers for bio-electronic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sportelli, M. C.; Picca, R. A.; Manoli, K.; Re, M.; Pesce, E.; Tapfer, L.; Di Franco, C.; Cioffi, N.; Torsi, L.

2017-10-01

The analytical performance of bioelectronic devices is highly influenced by their fabrication methods. In particular, the final architecture of field-effect transistor biosensors combining spin-cast poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) film and a biomolecule interlayer deposited on a SiO2/Si substrate can lead to the development of highly performing sensing systems, such as for the case of streptavidin (SA) used for biotin sensing. To gain a better understanding of the quality of the interfacial area, critical is the assessment of the morphological features characteristic of the adopted biolayer deposition protocol, namely: the layer-by-layer (LbL) approach and the spin coating technique. The present study relies on a combined surface spectroscopic and morphological characterization. Specifically, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy operated in the parallel angle-resolved mode allowed the non-destructive investigation of the in-depth chemical composition of the SA film, alone or in the presence of the P3HT overlayer. Spectroscopic data were supported and corroborated by the results obtained with a Scanning Electron and a Helium Ion microscope investigation performed on the SA layer that provided relevant information on the protein structural arrangement or on its surface morphology. Clear differences emerged between the SA layers prepared by the two approaches, with the layer-by-layer deposition resulting in a smoother and better defined bio-electronic interface. Such findings support the superior analytical performance shown by bioelectronic devices based on LbL-deposited protein layers over spin coated ones.

Hydrophobic and optical characteristics of graphene and graphene oxide films transferred onto functionalized silica particles deposited glass surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yilbas, B. S.; Ibrahim, A.; Ali, H.; Khaled, M.; Laoui, T.

2018-06-01

Hydrophobic and optical transmittance characteristics of the functionalized silica particles on the glass surface prior and after transfer of graphene and graphene oxide films on the surface are examined. Nano-size silica particles are synthesized and functionalized via chemical grafting and deposited onto a glass surface. Graphene film, grown on copper substrate, was transferred onto the functionalized silica particles surface through direct fishing method. Graphene oxide layer was deposited onto the functionalized silica particles surface via spin coating technique. Morphological, hydrophobic, and optical characteristics of the functionalized silica particles deposited surface prior and after graphene and graphene oxide films transfer are examined using the analytical tools. It is found that the functionalized silica particles are agglomerated at the surface forming packed structures with few micro/nano size pores. This arrangement gives rise to water droplet contact angle and contact angle hysteresis in the order of 163° and 2°, respectively, and remains almost uniform over the entire surface. Transferring graphene and depositing graphene oxide films over the functionalized silica particles surface lowers the water droplet contact angle slightly (157-160°) and increases the contact angle hysteresis (4°). The addition of the graphene and graphene oxide films onto the surface of the deposited functionalized silica particles improves the optical transmittance.

Polarization characteristics of inhomogeneous models of nonstationary light-scattering media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smolinskii, E. S.; Petruk, V. G.; Lavreniuk, V. I.

1990-09-01

The optical parameters of monodisperse layers of MgO and turpentine black with different surface particle densities are investigated using a polarization spectrum extinction meter. A method for determining the volume density of a real nonstationary scattering and absorbing medium is proposed which is based on the transfer equations. Graphical and spectroanalytical data are presented which allow for various optical and physical factors. Polarization measurements of the layers are carried out, and scattering matrices are obtained.

Organic Field Effect Transistors for Large Format Electronics

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-06-19

calculated output characteristics for a p-channel substrate insulator Organic layer Source Drain Gate 6 pentacene OFET with 2µm source to drain spacing...conventional transistors. Figure 3. Calculated output characteristics of a pentacene OFET with image charge induced contact barrier...Cross section view of a part of an OFET in the vicinity of a source or drain contact. local ordering due to surface energy effects. The development of

Advanced Si solid phase crystallization for vertical channel in vertical NANDs

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

Lee, Sangsoo; Son, Yong-Hoon; Semiconductor R and D Center, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Hwasung 445-701

The advanced solid phase crystallization (SPC) method using the SiGe/Si bi-layer structure is proposed to obtain high-mobility poly-Si thin-film transistors in next generation vertical NAND (VNAND) devices. During the SPC process, the top SiGe thin film acts as a selective nucleation layer to induce surface nucleation and equiaxial microstructure. Subsequently, this SiGe thin film microstructure is propagated to the underlying Si thin film by epitaxy-like growth. The initial nucleation at the SiGe surface was clearly observed by in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) when heating up to 600 °C. The equiaxial microstructures of both SiGe nucleation and Si channel layers weremore » shown in the crystallized bi-layer plan-view TEM measurements. Based on these experimental results, the large-grained and less-defective Si microstructure is expected to form near the channel region of each VNAND cell transistor, which may improve the electrical characteristics.« less

Improved performance of organic light-emitting diode with vanadium pentoxide layer on the FTO surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saikia, D.; Sarma, R.

2017-06-01

Vanadium pentoxide layer deposited on the fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) anode by vacuum deposition has been investigated in organic light-emitting diode (OLED). With 12 nm optimal thickness of V2O5, the luminance efficiency is increased by 1.66 times compared to the single FTO-based OLED. The improvement of current efficiency implies that there is a better charge injection and better controlling of hole current. To investigate the performance of OLED by the buffer layer, V2O5 films of different thicknesses were deposited on the FTO anode and their J- V and L- V characteristics were studied. Further analysis was carried out by measuring sheet resistance, optical transmittance and surface morphology with the FE-SEM images. This result indicates that the V2O5 (12 nm) buffer layer is a good choice for increasing the efficiency of FTO-based OLED devices within the tunnelling region. Here the maximum value of current efficiency is found to be 2.83 cd / A.

Behavior of sphingomyelin and ceramide in a tear film lipid layer model.

PubMed

Olżyńska, Agnieszka; Cwiklik, Lukasz

2017-03-01

Tear film lipid layer is a complex lipid mixture forming the outermost interface between eye and environment. Its key characteristics, such as surface tension and structural stability, are governed by the presence of polar lipids. The origin of these lipids and exact composition of the mixture are still elusive. We focus on two minor polar lipid components of the tear film lipid later: sphingomyelin and ceramide. By employing coarse grain molecular dynamics in silico simulations accompanied by Langmuir balance experiments we provide molecular-level insight into behavior of these two lipids in a tear film lipid layer model. Sphingomyelin headgroups are significantly exposed at the water-lipids boundary while ceramide molecules are incorporated between other lipids frequently interacting with nonpolar lipids. Even though these two lipids increase surface tension of the film, their molecular-level behavior suggests that they have a stabilizing effect on the tear film lipid layer. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Scattering characteristics of relativistically moving concentrically layered spheres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garner, Timothy J.; Lakhtakia, Akhlesh; Breakall, James K.; Bohren, Craig F.

2018-02-01

The energy extinction cross section of a concentrically layered sphere varies with velocity as the Doppler shift moves the spectral content of the incident signal in the sphere's co-moving inertial reference frame toward or away from resonances of the sphere. Computations for hollow gold nanospheres show that the energy extinction cross section is high when the Doppler shift moves the incident signal's spectral content in the co-moving frame near the wavelength of the sphere's localized surface plasmon resonance. The energy extinction cross section of a three-layer sphere consisting of an olivine-silicate core surrounded by a porous and a magnetite layer, which is used to explain extinction caused by interstellar dust, also depends strongly on velocity. For this sphere, computations show that the energy extinction cross section is high when the Doppler shift moves the spectral content of the incident signal near either of olivine-silicate's two localized surface phonon resonances at 9.7 μm and 18 μm.

Flow prediction over a transport multi-element high-lift system and comparison with flight measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vijgen, P. M. H. W.; Hardin, J. D.; Yip, L. P.

1992-01-01

Accurate prediction of surface-pressure distributions, merging boundary-layers, and separated-flow regions over multi-element high-lift airfoils is required to design advanced high-lift systems for efficient subsonic transport aircraft. The availability of detailed measurements of pressure distributions and both averaged and time-dependent boundary-layer flow parameters at flight Reynolds numbers is critical to evaluate computational methods and to model the turbulence structure for closure of the flow equations. Several detailed wind-tunnel measurements at subscale Reynolds numbers were conducted to obtain detailed flow information including the Reynolds-stress component. As part of a subsonic-transport high-lift research program, flight experiments are conducted using the NASA-Langley B737-100 research aircraft to obtain detailed flow characteristics for support of computational and wind-tunnel efforts. Planned flight measurements include pressure distributions at several spanwise locations, boundary-layer transition and separation locations, surface skin friction, as well as boundary-layer profiles and Reynolds stresses in adverse pressure-gradient flow.

Sources, behaviors and degradation of dissolved organic matter in the East China Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yan; Yang, Gui-Peng; Liu, Li; Zhang, Peng-Yan; Leng, Wei-Song

2016-03-01

Concentrations of dissolved organic carbon (DOC), dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN), dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) and its major compound classes-total hydrolysable amino acids (THAA) were measured at 4 cross-shelf transects of the East China Sea in July 2011. Surface concentrations of DOC, DIN, DON and THAA at the nearshore stations were mostly in excess of those found at the offshore sites, indicating either substantial autochthonous production or allochthonous inputs from the Changjiang River. The vertical distributions of DOC, DON and THAA showed similar trends with higher values in the surface layer, whereas the elevated concentrations of DIN were observed in the bottom layer. Major constituents of THAA presented in the study area were glycine, serine, alanine, glutamic acid, aspartic acid and valine. The mole percentages of neutral amino acids increased from surface water to bottom water, whereas acidic and hydroxy amino acids decreased with the water depth. Concentrations of DOC and THAA were negatively correlated to the ΔDIN values (the difference between the real concentration and theoretical concentration), respectively, indicating the coupling relation between dissolved organic matter (DOM) remineralization and nutrient regeneration in the water column. The C/N ratios in the water column exhibited different characteristics with elevated values appearing in the surface and bottom layers. Box and whisker plots showed that both degradation index (DI) values and THAA yields displayed a decreasing trend from the surface layer to the bottom layer, implying increasing degradation with the water depth. Our data revealed that glycine and alanine increased in relative abundance with decreasing DI, while tyrosine, valine, phenylalanine and isoleucine increased with increasing DI.

A study of surface and subsurface ground motions at Calico Hills, Nevada Test Site

USGS Publications Warehouse

King, Kenneth W.

1982-01-01

A study of earthquake ground motions recorded at depth in a drill hole and at the ground surface has derived the surface to subsurface transfer functions such as might be expected at a potential nuclear waste repository in a similar setting. The site under investigation has small seismic velocity contrasts in the layers of rock between the surface and the subsurface seismometer location. The subsurface seismic motions were similar in spectral characteristics to the surface motions and were lower in amplitude across the recorded band-width by a factor of 1.5.

Investigation of Al/CuO multilayered thermite ignition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nicollet, Andréa; Lahiner, Guillaume; Belisario, Andres; Souleille, Sandrine; Djafari-Rouhani, Mehdi; Estève, Alain; Rossi, Carole

2017-01-01

The ignition of the Al/CuO multilayered material is studied experimentally to explore the effects of the heating surface area, layering, and film thickness on the ignition characteristics and reaction performances. After the description of the micro-initiator devices and ignition conditions, we show that the heating surface area must be properly calibrated to optimize the nanothermite ignition performances. We demonstrated experimentally that a heating surface area of 0.25 mm2 is sufficient to ignite a multilayered thermite film of 1.6 mm wide by a few cm long, with a success rate of 100%. A new analytical and phenomenological ignition model based on atomic diffusion across layers and thermal exchange is also proposed. This model considers that CuO first decomposes into Cu2O, and then the oxygen diffuses across the Cu2O and Al2O3 layers before reaching the Al layer, where it reacts to form Al2O3. The theoretical results in terms of ignition response times confirm the experimental observation. The increase of the heating surface area leads to an increase of the ignition response time and ignition power threshold (go/no go condition). We also provide evidence that, for any heating surface area, the ignition time rapidly decreases when the electrical power density increases until an asymptotic value. This time point is referred to as the minimum response ignition time, which is a characteristic of the multilayered thermite itself. At the stoichiometric ratio (Al thickness is half of the CuO thickness), the minimum ignition response time can be easily tuned from 59 μs to 418 ms by tuning the heating surface area. The minimum ignition response time increases when the bilayer thickness increases. This work not only provides a set of micro-initiator design rules to obtain the best ignition conditions and reaction performances but also details a reliable and robust MicroElectroMechanical Systems process to fabricate igniters and brings new understanding of phenomena governing the ignition process of Al/CuO multilayers.

Inversion Build-Up and Cold-Air Outflow in a Small Alpine Sinkhole

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lehner, Manuela; Whiteman, C. David; Dorninger, Manfred

2017-06-01

Semi-idealized model simulations are made of the nocturnal cold-air pool development in the approximately 1-km wide and 100-200-m deep Grünloch basin, Austria. The simulations show qualitatively good agreement with vertical temperature and wind profiles and surface measurements collected during a meteorological field expedition. A two-layer stable atmosphere forms in the basin, with a very strong inversion in the lowest part, below the approximate height of the lowest gap in the surrounding orography. The upper part of the stable layer is less strongly stratified and extends to the approximate height of the second-lowest gap. The basin atmosphere cools most strongly during the first few hours of the night, after which temperatures decrease only slowly. An outflow of air forms through the lowest gap in the surrounding orography. The outflow connects with a weak inflow of air through a gap on the opposite sidewall, forming a vertically and horizontally confined jet over the basin. Basin cooling shows strong sensitivity to surface-layer characteristics, highlighting the large impact of variations in vegetation and soil cover on cold-air pool development, as well as the importance of surface-layer parametrization in numerical simulations of cold-air-pool development.

Mini-RF and LROC observations of mare crater layering relationships

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stickle, A. M.; Patterson, G. W.; Cahill, J. T. S.; Bussey, D. B. J.

2016-07-01

The lunar maria cover approximately 17% of the Moon's surface. Discerning discrete subsurface layers in the mare provides some constraints on thickness and volume estimates of mare volcanism. Multiple types of data and measurement techniques allow probing the subsurface and provide insights into these layers, including detailed examination of impact craters, mare pits and sinuous rilles, and radar sounders. Unfortunately, radar sounding includes many uncertainties about the material properties of the lunar surface that may influence estimates of layer depth and thickness. Because they distribute material from depth onto the surface, detailed examination of impact ejecta blankets provides a reliable way to examine deeper material using orbital instruments such as cameras, spectrometers, or imaging radars. Here, we utilize Miniature Radio Frequency (Mini-RF) data to investigate the scattering characteristics of ejecta blankets of young lunar craters. We use Circular Polarization Ratio (CPR) information from twenty-two young, fresh lunar craters to examine how the scattering behavior changes as a function of radius from the crater rim. Observations across a range of crater size and relative ages exhibit significant diversity within mare regions. Five of the examined craters exhibit profiles with no shelf of constant CPR near the crater rim. Comparing these CPR profiles with LROC imagery shows that the magnitude of the CPR may be an indication of crater degradation state; this may manifest differently at radar compared to optical wavelengths. Comparisons of radar and optical data also suggest relationships between subsurface stratigraphy and structure in the mare and the block size of the material found within the ejecta blanket. Of the examined craters, twelve have shelves of approximately constant CPR as well as discrete layers outcropping in the subsurface, and nine fall along a trend line when comparing shelf-width with thickness of subsurface layers. These observations suggest that surface CPR measurements may be used to identify near-surface layering. Here, we use ejected material to probe the subsurface, allowing observations of near-surface stratigraphy that may be otherwise hidden by layers higher from remote observations.

Histological and morphological observations on tongue of Scincella tsinlingensis (Reptilia, Squamata, Scincidae).

PubMed

Yang, Chun; Wang, Limin

2016-01-01

The histology and morphology characteristics of the tongue in Scincella tsinlingensis were studied by light and electronic microscopy. Under light microscopy, the tongue consists of tip, lingual body and radix in sequence. Numerous lingual papillae widely distribute on the surface of the dorsal and ventral flanks in the tongue, in addition to some regions of the tip. The papillae's surface is covered with the epithelial layer. The lamina propria and dense connective tissue are distinct existing under the epithelial layer. There are many lingual glands spread over the lamina propria. Tongue muscle is developed and composed of distinct intrinsic muscle, hyoglossus and genioglossus. By scanning electron microscopy, at higher magnification, the epithelial cells of the dorsal surface in the divaricate tongue tips show numerous microvilli, micro-ridges and micro-pores. The surface of dorsal side of the papillae in lingual body is covered with abundant of micro-ridges and taste bud lacuna. On the surface of the papillae in radix, micro-facets and micro-ridges are compactly distributed, as well as scattered mucilage-pores. The lingual epithelium is divided into four layers observed by the transmission electron microscope. Cells of basal layer are irregularly elliptical in shape, with sparse organelles in the cytoplasm. The deep intermediate layer is not always distinct. Small numbers of organelles are scattered into the cytoplasm. The cells of the superficial intermediate layer gradually flatten, as do their nuclei. The cytoplasm contains many keratohyalin granules. Cell membranes are formed processes around cells and joined by abundant desmosomes to the cell membranes of adjacent cells. The cells located on the extreme free-surface side of the keratinized layer have fallen off. The basal lamina is intercalated between the basal layer and the lamina propria. The lamina propria of lingual body contains lingual gland. A large part of the cytoplasm is occupied by mucus granules which located in the distal part of the cell. The connective tissue contains myelinated nerve fibers, vessel and muscle cells. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Triaxial X-Ray Diffraction Method and its Application to Monitor Residual Stress in Surface Layers after High-Feed Milling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaušková, Lucia; Czán, Andrej; Šajgalík, Michal; Pobijak, Jozef; Mikloš, Matej

2017-10-01

High-feed milling is a milling method characteristic with shallow depth of cut and high feed rate to maximize the amount of removed metal from a part, generating residual stresses in the surface and subsurface layers of the machined parts. The residual stress has a large influence on the functional properties of the components. The article is focused on the application of triaxial x-ray diffraction method to monitor residual stresses after high feed milling. Significance of triaxial measuring method is the capability of measuring in different angles so it is possible to acquire stress tensor containing normal and shear stress components.

Bi-directional, buried-wire skin-friction gage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Higuchi, H.; Peake, D. J.

1978-01-01

A compact, nonobtrusive, bi-directional, skin-friction gage was developed to measure the mean shear stress beneath a three-dimensional boundary layer. The gage works by measuring the heat flux from two orthogonal wires embedded in the surface. Such a gage was constructed and its characteristics were determined for different angles of yaw in a calibration experiment in subsonic flow with a Preston tube used as a standard. Sample gages were then used in a fully three-dimensional turbulent boundary layer on a circular cone at high relative incidence, where there were regimes of favorable and adverse pressure gradients and three-dimensional separation. Both the direction and magnitude of skin friction were then obtained on the cone surface.

Enhanced characteristics of blue InGaN /GaN light-emitting diodes by using selective activation to modulate the lateral current spreading length

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Ray-Ming; Lu, Yuan-Chieh; Chou, Yi-Lun; Chen, Guo-Hsing; Lin, Yung-Hsiang; Wu, Meng-Chyi

2008-06-01

We have studied the characteristics of blue InGaN /GaN multiquantum-well light-emitting diodes (LEDs) after reducing the length of the lateral current path through the transparent layer through formation of a peripheral high-resistance current-blocking region in the Mg-doped GaN layer. To study the mechanism of selective activation in the Mg-doped GaN layer, we deposited titanium (Ti), gold (Au), Ti /Au, silver, and copper individually onto the Mg-doped GaN layer and investigated their effects on the hole concentration in the p-GaN layer. The Mg-doped GaN layer capped with Ti effectively depressed the hole concentration in the p-GaN layer by over one order of magnitude relative to that of the as-grown layer. This may suggest that high resistive regions are formed by diffusion of Ti and depth of high resistive region from the p-GaN surface depends on the capped Ti film thickness. Selective activation of the Mg-doped GaN layer could be used to modulate the length of the lateral current path. Furthermore, the external quantum efficiency of the LEDs was improved significantly after reducing the lateral current spreading length. In our best result, the external quantum efficiency was 52.3% higher (at 100mA) than that of the as-grown blue LEDs.

Investigation of heave response of the deepwater octagonal FDPSO using various heave plate configurations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Chenfang; Hu, Zhiqiang; Wang, Shisheng

2017-12-01

Heave plates can be employed to control undesirable heave motion amplitudes of the deepwater octagonal Floating, Drilling, Production, Storage, and Offloading (FDPSO) platform. Numerical simulations and model tests were applied to analyze and investigate the hydrodynamic response and the feasibility of the heave plate configurations. The diameter and the depth below the free surface of a single-layer heave plate, as well as the spacing of two-layer heave plates, were considered as the primary variables when studying the effect of heave plates on FDPSO hydrodynamics. The analysis results indicate that the heave plate diameter significantly affects the heave hydrodynamics, and heave performance could be improved with an increased diameter. In addition, increasing the depth below the free surface of a single-layer heave plate does not effectively suppress the heave motion within the range of draft depths tested. The target FDPSO obtained better heave characteristics with increased spacing between the two-layer heave plates. Furthermore, the global performances of the octagonal FDPSO with these typical heave plate configurations were comparatively analyzed. The results indicate that from a hydrodynamic point of view, the single-layer heave plate configuration has an advantage over the two-layer heave plate configuration.

Characteristics of organic soil in black spruce forests: implications for the application of land surface and ecosystem models in cold regions

Treesearch

Shuhua Yi; Kristen Manies; Jennifer Harden; David McGuire

2009-01-01

Soil organic layers (OL) play an important role in land-atmosphere exchanges of water, energy and carbon in cold environments. The proper implementation of OL in land surface and ecosystem models is important for predicting dynamic responses to climate warming. Based on the analysis of OL samples of black spruce (Picea mariana), we recommend that...

The Interaction of Mantle Plumes with Surface Thermal and Chemical Boundary Layers: Applications to Hotspots on Venus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smrekar, S.; Parmentier, E.

1994-01-01

Describes the characteristics of possible hotspots on Venus, the approach used to simulate mantle upwelling, model results, and presents the implications for the properties of plumes and the lithosphere, hotspot evolution, and resurfacing on Venus.

Synthesis of Graphene Based Membranes: Effect of Substrate Surface Properties on Monolayer Graphene Transfer.

PubMed

Kafiah, Feras; Khan, Zafarullah; Ibrahim, Ahmed; Atieh, Muataz; Laoui, Tahar

2017-01-21

In this work, we report the transfer of graphene onto eight commercial microfiltration substrates having different pore sizes and surface characteristics. Monolayer graphene grown on copper by the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process was transferred by the pressing method over the target substrates, followed by wet etching of copper to obtain monolayer graphene/polymer membranes. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and contact angle (CA) measurements were carried out to explore the graphene layer transferability. Three factors, namely, the substrate roughness, its pore size, and its surface wetting (degree of hydrophobicity) are found to affect the conformality and coverage of the transferred graphene monolayer on the substrate surface. A good quality graphene transfer is achieved on the substrate with the following characteristics; being hydrophobic (CA > 90°), having small pore size, and low surface roughness, with a CA to RMS (root mean square) ratio higher than 2.7°/nm.

Local oxidation using scanning probe microscope for fabricating magnetic nanostructures.

PubMed

Takemura, Yasushi

2010-07-01

Local oxidation technique using atomic force microscope (AFM) was studied. The local oxidation of ferromagnetic metal thin films was successfully performed by AFM under both contact and dynamic force modes. Modification of magnetic and electrical properties of magnetic devices fabricated by the AFM oxidation was achieved. Capped oxide layers deposited on the ferromagnetic metal films are advantageous for stable oxidation due to hydrophilic surface of oxide. The oxide layer is also expected to prevent magnetic devices from degradation by oxidation of ferromagnetic metal. As for modification of magnetic property, the isolated region of CoFe layer formed by nanowires of CoFe-oxide exhibited peculiar characteristic attributed to the isolated magnetization property and pinning of domain wall during magnetization reversal. Temperature dependence of current-voltage characteristic of the planar-type tunnel junction consisting of NiFe/NiFe-oxide/NiFe indicated that the observed current was dominated by intrinsic tunneling current at the oxide barrier.

Oceanic response to Typhoon Nari (2007) in the East China Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oh, Kyung-Hee; Lee, Seok; Kang, Sok-Kuh; Song, Kyu-Min

2017-06-01

The oceanic response to a typhoon in the East China Sea (ECS) was examined using thermal and current structures obtained from ocean surface drifters and a bottom-moored current profiler installed on the right side of the typhoon's track. Typhoon Nari (2007) had strong winds as it passed the central region of the ECS. The thermal structure in the ECS responded to Typhoon Nari (2007) very quickly: the seasonal thermocline abruptly collapsed and the sea surface temperature dropped immediately by about 4°C after the typhoon passed. The strong vertical mixing and surface cooling caused by the typhoon resulted in a change in the thermal structure. Strong near-inertial oscillation occurred immediately after the typhoon passed and lasted for at least 4-5 days, during which a strong vertical current existed in the lower layer. Characteristics of the near-inertial internal oscillation were observed in the middle layer. The clockwise component of the inertial frequency was enhanced in the surface layer and at 63 m depth after the typhoon passed, with these layers almost perfectly out of phase. The vertical shear current was intensified by the interaction of the wind-driven current in the upper layer and the background semi-diurnal tidal current during the arrival of the typhoon, and also by the near-inertial internal oscillation after the typhoon passage. The strong near-inertial internal oscillation persisted without significant interfacial structure after the mixing of the thermocline, which could enhance the vertical mixing over several days.

Monsoon dependent ecosystems: Implications of the vertical distribution of soil moisture on land surface-atmosphere interactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanchez-Mejia, Zulia M.

Uncertainty of predicted change in precipitation frequency and intensity motivates the scientific community to better understand, quantify, and model the possible outcome of dryland ecosystems. In pulse dependent ecosystems (i.e. monsoon driven) soil moisture is tightly linked to atmospheric processes. Here, I analyze three overarching questions; Q1) How does soil moisture presence or absence in a shallow or deep layer influence the surface energy budget and planetary boundary layer characteristics?, Q2) What is the role of vegetation on ecosystem albedo in the presence or absence of deep soil moisture?, Q3) Can we develop empirical relationships between soil moisture and the planetary boundary layer height to help evaluate the role of future precipitation changes in land surface atmosphere interactions? . To address these questions I use a conceptual framework based on the presence or absence of soil moisture in a shallow or deep layer. I define these layers by using root profiles and establish soil moisture thresholds for each layer using four years of observations from the Santa Rita Creosote Ameriflux site. Soil moisture drydown curves were used to establish the shallow layer threshold in the shallow layer, while NEE (Net Ecosystem Exchange of carbon dioxide) was used to define the deep soil moisture threshold. Four cases were generated using these thresholds: Case 1, dry shallow layer and dry deep layer; Case 2, wet shallow layer and dry deep layer; Case 3, wet shallow layer and wet deep layer, and Case 4 dry shallow and wet deep layer. Using this framework, I related data from the Ameriflux site SRC (Santa Rita Creosote) from 2008 to 2012 and from atmospheric soundings from the nearby Tucson Airport; conducted field campaigns during 2011 and 2012 to measure albedo from individual bare and canopy patches that were then evaluated in a grid to estimate the influence of deep moisture on albedo via vegetation cover change; and evaluated the potential of using a two-layer bucket model and empirical relationships to evaluate the link between deep soil moisture and the planetary boundary layer height under changing precipitation regime. My results indicate that (1) the presence or absence of water in two layers plays a role in surface energy dynamics, (2) soil moisture presence in the deep layer is linked with decreased ecosystem albedo and planetary boundary layer height, (3) deep moisture sustains vegetation greenness and decreases albedo, and (4) empirical relationships are useful in modeling planetary boundary layer height from dryland ecosystems. Based on these results we argue that deep soil moisture plays an important role in land surface-atmosphere interactions.

Characterizations of Ca- and Mg-incorporating micro/nano-structured surfaces on titanium fabricated by microarc oxidation and hydrothermal treatments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ko, Sang-Hoon; Hwang, Moon-Jin; Moon, Won-Jin; Park, Yeong-Joon; Song, Ho-Jun

2015-12-01

The micro/nano-surface characteristics of magnesium- and calcium-incorporating titanium oxide layers fabricated on titanium metal using microarc oxidation (MAO) and hydrothermal (HT) treatments were investigated. Calcium acetate monohydrate (CA), magnesium acetate monohydrate (MA), and β-glycerophosphoric acid disodium salt pentahydrate were used as electrolytes for MAO treatment of titanium disks. CA/MA electrolyte concentrations (all in M) were 0.2/0.0 (CA20-MAO), 0.15/0.05 (CA15MA5-MAO), 0.1/0.1 (CA10MA10-MAO), 0.05/0.15 (CA5MA15-MAO), and 0.0/0.2 (MA20-MAO). MAO-HT groups were prepared by hydrothermal treatment of MAO groups. The porous surface morphology was consistent even after HT treatment. The incorporation of Mg ions in the oxide layer during MAO treatment was more favorable than incorporation of Ca ions. However, Mg ions were released more rapidly than Ca ions after HT treatment. The anatase TiO2 structure was dominant for all the groups and an increase in the rutile TiO2 structure was observed with an increase in MA concentration. Nano-sized crystallites were observed on the porous surface for all MAO-HT groups. Nano-needle-like crystallites were observed on the surface of CA20-MAO-HT. The crystallites exhibited shorter and thicker characteristics with an increase in Mg concentration.

Nanometer-resolved chemical analyses of femtosecond laser-induced periodic surface structures on titanium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirner, Sabrina V.; Wirth, Thomas; Sturm, Heinz; Krüger, Jörg; Bonse, Jörn

2017-09-01

The chemical characteristics of two different types of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS), so-called high and low spatial frequency LIPSS (HSFL and LSFL), formed upon irradiation of titanium surfaces by multiple femtosecond laser pulses in air (30 fs, 790 nm, 1 kHz), are analyzed by various optical and electron beam based surface analytical techniques, including micro-Raman spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Auger electron spectroscopy. The latter method was employed in a high-resolution mode being capable of spatially resolving even the smallest HSFL structures featuring spatial periods below 100 nm. In combination with an ion sputtering technique, depths-resolved chemical information of superficial oxidation processes was obtained, revealing characteristic differences between the two different types of LIPSS. Our results indicate that a few tens of nanometer shallow HSFL are formed on top of a ˜150 nm thick graded superficial oxide layer without sharp interfaces, consisting of amorphous TiO2 and partially crystallized Ti2O3. The larger LSFL structures with periods close to the irradiation wavelength originate from the laser-interaction with metallic titanium. They are covered by a ˜200 nm thick amorphous oxide layer, which consists mainly of TiO2 (at the surface) and other titanium oxide species of lower oxidation states underneath.

Thermal characteristics of the lunar surface layer.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cremers, C. J.; Birkebak, R. C.; White, J. E.

1972-01-01

The thermophysical properties of the fines from the Apollo 12 landing site have been determined as a function of their relevant parameters. These properties include the thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, directional reflectance and emittance. The density used was the same as that observed from the returned core-tube samples and so should be close to the true density of the surface layer at the Apollo 12 site. The measured properties are used to calculate the diurnal temperature variation of the moon's surface as well as for several depths below the surface. The maximum surface of 389 K is obtained at lunar noon while the minimum temperature of 86.1 K is obtained at sunrise. It is shown that the most significant effects on temperature, as compared with previous calculations, are caused by using the directional reflectance which controls the amount of solar energy absorption during the day in place of a constant hemispherical reflectance. The results are compared with previous analyses and remote measurements.

[INVITED] Laser treatment of Inconel 718 alloy and surface characteristics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yilbas, B. S.; Ali, H.; Al-Aqeeli, N.; Karatas, C.

2016-04-01

Laser surface texturing of Inconel 718 alloy is carried out under the high pressure nitrogen assisting gas. The combination of evaporation and melting at the irradiated surface is achieved by controlling the laser scanning speed and the laser output power. Morphological and metallurgical changes in the treated surface are analyzed using the analytical tools including optical, electron scanning, and atomic force microscopes, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Microhardnes and friction coefficient of the laser treated surface are measured. Residual stress formed in the surface region is determined from the X-ray diffraction data. Surface hydrophobicity of the laser treated layer is assessed incorporating the sessile drop method. It is found that laser treated surface is free from large size asperities including cracks and the voids. Surface microhardness increases significantly after the laser treatment process, which is attributed to the dense layer formation at the surface under the high cooling rates, dissolution of Laves phase in the surface region, and formation of nitride species at the surface. Residual stress formed is compressive in the laser treated surface and friction coefficient reduces at the surface after the laser treatment process. The combination of evaporation and melting at the irradiated surface results in surface texture composes of micro/nano-poles and pillars, which enhance the surface hydrophobicity.

Recovery of nonwetting characteristics by surface modification of gallium-based liquid metal droplets using hydrochloric acid vapor.

PubMed

Kim, Daeyoung; Thissen, Peter; Viner, Gloria; Lee, Dong-Weon; Choi, Wonjae; Chabal, Yves J; Lee, Jeong-Bong J B

2013-01-01

The applicability of gallium-based liquid metal alloy has been limited by the oxidation problem. In this paper, we report a simple method to remove the oxide layer on the surface of such alloy to recover its nonwetting characteristics, using hydrochloric acid (HCl) vapor. Through the HCl vapor treatment, we successfully restored the nonwetting characteristics of the alloy and suppressed its viscoelasticity. We analyzed the change of surface chemistry before and after the HCl vapor treatment using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and low-energy ion-scattering spectroscopy (LEIS). Results showed that the oxidized surface of the commercial gallium-based alloy Galinstan (Ga(2)O(3) and Ga(2)O) was replaced with InCl(3) and GaCl(3) after the treatment. Surface tension and static contact angle on a Teflon-coated glass of the HCl-vapor-treated Galinstan were measured to be 523.8 mN/m and 152.5°. A droplet bouncing test was successfully carried out to demonstrate the nonwetting characteristics of the HCl-vapor-treated Galinstan. Finally, the stability of the transformed surface of the HCl-vapor-treated Galinstan was investigated by measuring the contact angle and LEIS spectra after reoxidation in an ambient environment.

The influence of the carbonate species on LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 surfaces for all-solid-state lithium ion battery performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Visbal, Heidy; Fujiki, Satoshi; Aihara, Yuichi; Watanabe, Taku; Park, Youngsin; Doo, Seokgwang

2014-12-01

The influence of selected carbonate species on LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 (NCA) surface for all-solid-state lithium-ion battery (ASSB) with a sulfide based solid electrolyte was studied for its electrochemical properties, structural stabilities, and surface characteristics. The rated discharge performance improved with the reduction of the carbonate concentration on the NCA surface due to the decrease of the interface resistance. The species and coordination of the adsorbed carbonates on the NCA surface were analyzed by diffuse reflectance Fourier transformed infrared (DRIFT) spectroscopy. The coordination of the adsorbed carbonate anion was determined based on the degree of splitting of the ν3(CO) stretching vibrations. It is found that the surface carbonate species exists in an unidentate coordination on the surface. They react with the sulfide electrolyte to form an irreversible passivation layer. This layer obstructs the charge transfer process at the cathode/electrolyte interface, and results in the rise of the interface resistance and drop of the rated discharge capability.

Interfacial engineering of microstructured materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poda, Aimee

The tribological behavior of octadecyltrichlorosilane self assembled monolayers (OTS-SAMs) has been successfully exploited to reduce energy losses and to produce adequate adhesion barrier properties on many MEMS surfaces. Unfortunately, performance discrepancies are reported in the literature between films produced on smooth surfaces as compared to typical MEMS surfaces maintaining topographical roughness. Rational explanations in terms of reproducibility issues, production considerations, and the scale of measurement technique have been introduced to account for some of the variation. The tribological phenomena at the micro-scale are complicated by the fact that rather than inertial effects, the forces associated with the surface become dominant factors influencing the mechanical behavior of contacting components. In MEMS, real mechanical contacts typically consist of a few nanometer scale asperities. Furthermore, various surface topographies exist for MEMS device fabrication and their corresponding asperity profiles can vary drastically based on the production process. This dissertation presents research focusing on the influence of topographical asperities on OTS film properties of relevance for efficient tribological improvement. A fundamental approach has been taken to carefully examine the factors that contribute to high quality film formation, specifically formation temperature and the role of interfacial water layer associated with the sample surface. As evidenced on smooth surfaces, the characteristics for successful tribological performance of OTS films are strongly dependent on the lateral packing density and molecular orientation of the monolayer. Limited information is available on how monolayers associate on topographical asperities and whether these topographical asperities influence the interfacial reactivity of MEMS surfaces. A silica film produced from a low temperature, vapor-phase hydrolysis of tetrachlorosilane with a tunable topography is introduced and leveraged as a novel investigative platform for advanced analytical investigations often restricted to use on smooth surfaces. This tunable surface allows intellectual insight into the nature of surface properties associated with silica surfaces, the uptake of interfacial water and the subsequent influence of surface morphology on OTS film formation. FTIR analysis was utilized for an examination of interfacial properties on both smooth Si(100) surfaces and on the tunable MVD topography in combination with an investigation of OTS film formation mechanism. A dilute etchant technique is developed to provide topographic contrast for AFM imaging to allow direct examination of film packing characteristics in relation to surface asperities. A relationship between monolayer adsorption characteristics and topographical asperities with observed variations in monolayer order resultant from surface roughness has been elucidated. Results show that the packing structure of OTS monolayers is dependent on the local asperity curvature which is qualitatively different from that observed on flat surfaces. In addition, a difference in surface reactivity is observed as a result of different surface topographies with thicker silica layers maintaining a thicker interfacial water layer resulting in a higher coverage of OTS monolayers at similar reaction times and conditions. This work shows changes in surface reactivity as a consequence of different morphological surface characteristics and preparation procedures. Additional research is presented on a new class of SAM, namely octadecylphoshonic acid and its monolayer formation mechanism and properties are compared to conventional OTS monolayers. This monolayer is translated to investigative probes based on Aluminum oxide specifically tailored for a tribological comparison across multi-scale friction regimes.

Studies of SERS efficiency of gold coated porous silicon formed on rough silicon backside

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dridi, H.; Haji, L.; Moadhen, A.

2017-12-01

Starting from a rough backside of silicon wafer, we have formed a porous layer by electrochemical anodization and then coated by a thin film of gold. The morphological characteristics of the porous silicon and in turn the metal film are governed by the anodization process and also by the starting surface. So, in order to investigate the Plasmonic aspect of such rough surface which combines roughness inherent to the porous nature and that due to rough starting surface, we have used a dye target molecule to study its SERS signal using a porous silicon layer obtained on the rough backside surface. The use of unusual backside of silicon wafer could be, beside the others, an interesting way to made SERS effective substrate thanks to reproducible rough porous gold on porous layer from this starting face. The morphological results correspond to the silicon rough surface as a function of the crystallographic orientation showed the presence of two different substrate structure. The optical reflectivity results obtained of gold deposited on oxidized porous silicon showed a dependence of its Localized Surface Plasmon band frequency of the deposit time. SERS results, obtained for a dye target molecule (Rhodamine 6G), show a higher intensities in the case of the 〈110〉 orientation, which characterized by the higher roughness surface. Voici "the most relevant and important aspects of our work".

Evaluation of urban surface parameterizations in the WRF model using measurements during the Texas Air Quality Study 2006 field campaign

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, S.-H.; Kim, S.-W.; Angevine, W. M.; Bianco, L.; McKeen, S. A.; Senff, C. J.; Trainer, M.; Tucker, S. C.; Zamora, R. J.

2010-10-01

The impact of urban surface parameterizations in the WRF (Weather Research and Forecasting) model on the simulation of local meteorological fields is investigated. The Noah land surface model (LSM), a modified LSM, and a single-layer urban canopy model (UCM) have been compared, focusing on urban patches. The model simulations were performed for 6 days from 12 August to 17 August during the Texas Air Quality Study 2006 field campaign. Analysis was focused on the Houston-Galveston metropolitan area. The model simulated temperature, wind, and atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) height were compared with observations from surface meteorological stations (Continuous Ambient Monitoring Stations, CAMS), wind profilers, the NOAA Twin Otter aircraft, and the NOAA Research Vessel Ronald H. Brown. The UCM simulation showed better results in the comparison of ABL height and surface temperature than the LSM simulations, whereas the original LSM overestimated both the surface temperature and ABL height significantly in urban areas. The modified LSM, which activates hydrological processes associated with urban vegetation mainly through transpiration, slightly reduced warm and high biases in surface temperature and ABL height. A comparison of surface energy balance fluxes in an urban area indicated the UCM reproduces a realistic partitioning of sensible heat and latent heat fluxes, consequently improving the simulation of urban boundary layer. However, the LSMs have a higher Bowen ratio than the observation due to significant suppression of latent heat flux. The comparison results suggest that the subgrid heterogeneity by urban vegetation and urban morphological characteristics should be taken into account along with the associated physical parameterizations for accurate simulation of urban boundary layer if the region of interest has a large fraction of vegetation within the urban patch. Model showed significant discrepancies in the specific meteorological conditions when nocturnal low-level jets exist and a thermal internal boundary layer over water forms.

Temporal structure of thermal inversions in Łeba (Poland)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Czarnecka, Małgorzata; Nidzgorska-Lencewicz, Jadwiga; Rawicki, Kacper

2018-03-01

This study presents the detailed characteristics of thermal inversions based on a 10-year aerological measurement series (2005-2014) conducted in Łeba (Poland). The analyses included surface-based inversions (SBIs) and elevated inversions (ELIs) in the atmospheric layer up to 3000 m. In the case of SBIs, this layer extended directly from the ground level to an altitude above which the air temperature decreases with altitude, whereas for ELIs, which have a base above ground level, only the lowermost inversion layer was taken into consideration. The results of the monthly and seasonal variations in the selected parameters for air temperature inversions (thickness—ΔZ, strength—ΔT, base—ZB) were analysed separately at night-time (00 UTC) and daytime (12 UTC). The thermal structure of the boundary layer up to 3000 m was primarily determined by ELIs, which occurred at a frequency of approximately 70% at both times during the 24-h period. The SBIs showed a pronounced temporal structure that occurred every second night throughout the year and from April to September, with a frequency similar to that of the ELI (approximately 60%). The worst vertical air exchange conditions, which resulted from the simultaneous occurrence of SBIs and ELIs, were found in 30% of nights from April to October. Elevated inversions generally formed in a layer from approximately 820 to 1200 m, which was the lowermost ELI in winter and the highest ELI in summer; however, in all seasons, the lowest base height was characteristic of daytime inversions. Both surface-based and elevated inversion layers were distinguished by comparable thicknesses, particularly for those occurring at night-time (generally within the range of 150-200 m). From November to March, greater thicknesses were identified in ELIs with lower occurrences, whereas SBIs were identified in the remaining months of the year.

Lifetime Improvement of Organic Light Emitting Diodes using LiF Thin Film and UV Glue Encapsulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Jian-Ji; Su, Yan-Kuin; Chang, Ming-Hua; Hsieh, Tsung-Eong; Huang, Bohr-Ran; Wang, Shun-Hsi; Chen, Wen-Ray; Tsai, Yu-Sheng; Hsieh, Huai-En; Liu, Mark O.; Juang, Fuh-Shyang

2008-07-01

This work demonstrates the use of lithium fluoride (LiF) as a passivation layer and a newly developed UV glue for encapsulation on the LiF passivation layer to enhance the stability of organic light-emitting devices (OLEDs). Devices with double protective layers showed a 25-fold increase in operational lifetime compared to those without any packaging layers. LiF has a low melting point and insulating characteristics and it can be adapted as both a protective layer and pre-encapsulation film. The newly developed UV glue has a fast curing time of only 6 s and can be directly spin-coated onto the surface of the LiF passivation layer. The LiF thin film plus spin-coated UV glue is a simple packaging method that reduces the fabrication costs of OLEDs.

Bristled shark skin: a microgeometry for boundary layer control?

PubMed

Lang, A W; Motta, P; Hidalgo, P; Westcott, M

2008-12-01

There exists evidence that some fast-swimming shark species may have the ability to bristle their scales during fast swimming. Experimental work using a water tunnel facility has been performed to investigate the flow field over and within a bristled shark skin model submerged within a boundary layer to deduce the possible boundary layer control mechanisms being used by these fast-swimming sharks. Fluorescent dye flow visualization provides evidence of the formation of embedded cavity vortices within the scales. Digital particle image velocimetry (DPIV) data, used to evaluate the cavity vortex formation and boundary layer characteristics close to the surface, indicate increased momentum in the slip layer forming above the scales. This increase in flow velocity close to the shark's skin is indicative of boundary layer control mechanisms leading to separation control and possibly transition delay for the bristled shark skin microgeometry.

Apparent thermal inertia and the surface heterogeneity of Mars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Putzig, Nathaniel E.; Mellon, Michael T.

2007-11-01

Thermal inertia derivation techniques generally assume that surface properties are uniform at horizontal scales below the footprint of the observing instrument and to depths of several decimeters. Consequently, surfaces with horizontal or vertical heterogeneity may yield apparent thermal inertia which varies with time of day and season. To investigate these temporal variations, we processed three Mars years of Mars Global Surveyor Thermal Emission Spectrometer observations and produced global nightside and dayside seasonal maps of apparent thermal inertia. These maps show broad regions with diurnal and seasonal differences up to 200 J m -2 K -1s -1/2 at mid-latitudes (60° S to 60° N) and 600 J m -2 K -1s -1/2 or greater in the polar regions. We compared the seasonal mapping results with modeled apparent thermal inertia and created new maps of surface heterogeneity at 5° resolution, delineating regions that have thermal characteristics consistent with horizontal mixtures or layers of two materials. The thermal behavior of most regions on Mars appears to be dominated by layering, with upper layers of higher thermal inertia (e.g., duricrusts or desert pavements over fines) prevailing in mid-latitudes and upper layers of lower thermal inertia (e.g., dust-covered rock, soils with an ice table at shallow depths) prevailing in polar regions. Less common are regions dominated by horizontal mixtures, such as those containing differing proportions of rocks, sand, dust, and duricrust or surfaces with divergent local slopes. Other regions show thermal behavior that is more complex and not well-represented by two-component surface models. These results have important implications for Mars surface geology, climate modeling, landing-site selection, and other endeavors that employ thermal inertia as a tool for characterizing surface properties.

Selective UV–O3 treatment for indium zinc oxide thin film transistors with solution-based multiple active layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Yu-Jung; Jeong, Jun-Kyo; Park, Jung-Hyun; Jeong, Byung-Jun; Lee, Hi-Deok; Lee, Ga-Won

2018-06-01

In this study, a method to control the electrical performance of solution-based indium zinc oxide (IZO) thin film transistors (TFTs) is proposed by ultraviolet–ozone (UV–O3) treatment on the selective layer during multiple IZO active layer depositions. The IZO film is composed of triple layers formed by spin coating and UV–O3 treatment only on the first layer or last layer. The IZO films are compared by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and the results show that the atomic ratio of oxygen vacancy (VO) increases in the UV–O3 treatment on the first layer, while it decreases on last layer. The device characteristics of the bottom gated structure are also improved in the UV–O3 treatment on the first layer. This indicates that the selective UV–O3 treatment in a multi-stacking active layer is an effective method to optimize TFT properties by controlling the amount of VO in the IZO interface and surface independently.

[ACTIVITY OF ANTIMICROBIAL NANOSTRUCTURED BARRIER LAYERS BASED ON POLYETHYLENETEREPHTHALATE IN RELATION TO CLINICAL STRAINES OF MICROORGANISMS FOR SICK PERSONS OF GASTROENTEROLOGICAL PROFILE].

PubMed

Elinson, V M; Rusanova, E V; Vasilenko, I A; Lyamin, A N; Kostyuchenko, L N

2015-01-01

Homeostasis transgressions of enteral medium including disbiotic ones are often accompanying deseases of digestive tract. Espessially it touches upon sick persons connected with probe nourishing. One of the way for solving this problem is normalization of digestion microflore by means of wares with nanotechnological modifications of walls (probes, stomic tubes) which provide them antimicrobial properties and assist to normalization of digestive microbiotis and enteral homeostasis completely. The aim to study is research of antimicrobial activity of of nanostructured barrier layers based on polyethyleneterephthalate (PET) in relation to clinical straines of microorganisms. For barrier layer creation the approach on the base of methods of ion-plasma technology was used including ion-plasma treatment (nanostructuring) of the surface by ions noble and chemically active gases and following formation nanodimensional carbon films on the surface/ For the study of antimicrobial activity in relation to clinical straines of microorganisms we used the technique which allowed to establish the influence of parting degree of microorganisms suspension and time for samples exposing and microorganisms adsorbed on the surface. In experiment clinical straines obtained from different materials were used: Staphylococcus Hly+ and Calbicans--from pharyngeal mucosa, E. coli--from feces, K.pneumoniae--from urine. Sharing out and species identification of microorganisms were fulfilled according with legasy documents. In results of the study itwas obtained not only the presence of staticticaly confirmed antimicrobial activity of PET samples with nanostructured barrier layers in relation to different stimulators of nosocomical infections but also the influence of different factors connected with formation of nanostructured layers and consequently based with them physicochemical characteristics such as, in particular, surface energy, surface relief parameters, surface charg and others, as well as influence of microorganisms nature onto the interaction of between barrier layers and microorganisms.

The BLLAST field experiment: Boundary-Layer Late Afternoon and Sunset Turbulence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lothon, M.; Lohou, F.; Pino, D.; Couvreux, F.; Pardyjak, E. R.; Reuder, J.; Vilà-Guerau de Arellano, J.; Durand, P.; Hartogensis, O.; Legain, D.; Augustin, P.; Gioli, B.; Lenschow, D. H.; Faloona, I.; Yagüe, C.; Alexander, D. C.; Angevine, W. M.; Bargain, E.; Barrié, J.; Bazile, E.; Bezombes, Y.; Blay-Carreras, E.; van de Boer, A.; Boichard, J. L.; Bourdon, A.; Butet, A.; Campistron, B.; de Coster, O.; Cuxart, J.; Dabas, A.; Darbieu, C.; Deboudt, K.; Delbarre, H.; Derrien, S.; Flament, P.; Fourmentin, M.; Garai, A.; Gibert, F.; Graf, A.; Groebner, J.; Guichard, F.; Jiménez, M. A.; Jonassen, M.; van den Kroonenberg, A.; Magliulo, V.; Martin, S.; Martinez, D.; Mastrorillo, L.; Moene, A. F.; Molinos, F.; Moulin, E.; Pietersen, H. P.; Piguet, B.; Pique, E.; Román-Cascón, C.; Rufin-Soler, C.; Saïd, F.; Sastre-Marugán, M.; Seity, Y.; Steeneveld, G. J.; Toscano, P.; Traullé, O.; Tzanos, D.; Wacker, S.; Wildmann, N.; Zaldei, A.

2014-10-01

Due to the major role of the sun in heating the earth's surface, the atmospheric planetary boundary layer over land is inherently marked by a diurnal cycle. The afternoon transition, the period of the day that connects the daytime dry convective boundary layer to the night-time stable boundary layer, still has a number of unanswered scientific questions. This phase of the diurnal cycle is challenging from both modelling and observational perspectives: it is transitory, most of the forcings are small or null and the turbulence regime changes from fully convective, close to homogeneous and isotropic, toward a more heterogeneous and intermittent state. These issues motivated the BLLAST (Boundary-Layer Late Afternoon and Sunset Turbulence) field campaign that was conducted from 14 June to 8 July 2011 in southern France, in an area of complex and heterogeneous terrain. A wide range of instrumented platforms including full-size aircraft, remotely piloted aircraft systems, remote-sensing instruments, radiosoundings, tethered balloons, surface flux stations and various meteorological towers were deployed over different surface types. The boundary layer, from the earth's surface to the free troposphere, was probed during the entire day, with a focus and intense observation periods that were conducted from midday until sunset. The BLLAST field campaign also provided an opportunity to test innovative measurement systems, such as new miniaturized sensors, and a new technique for frequent radiosoundings of the low troposphere. Twelve fair weather days displaying various meteorological conditions were extensively documented during the field experiment. The boundary-layer growth varied from one day to another depending on many contributions including stability, advection, subsidence, the state of the previous day's residual layer, as well as local, meso- or synoptic scale conditions. Ground-based measurements combined with tethered-balloon and airborne observations captured the turbulence decay from the surface throughout the whole boundary layer and documented the evolution of the turbulence characteristic length scales during the transition period. Closely integrated with the field experiment, numerical studies are now underway with a complete hierarchy of models to support the data interpretation and improve the model representations.

Development of the benethic nepheloid layer on the south Texas continental shelf, western Gulf of Mexico

USGS Publications Warehouse

Shideler, G.L.

1981-01-01

A monitoring study of suspended sediment on the South Texas Continental Shelf indicates that a turbid benthic nepheloid layer is regionally persistent. A sequence of quasi-synoptic measurements of the water column obtained during six cruises in an 18-month period indicates substantial spatial and temporal variability in nepheloidlayer characteristics. Regionally, the thickness of the shelf nepheloid layer increases both seaward and in a convergent alongshelf direction. Greatest thicknesses occur over a muddy substrate, indicating a causal relationship; maximum observed local thickness is 35 m which occurs along the southern shelf break. Analyses of suspended particulate matter in shelf bottom waters indicate mean concentrations ranging from 49 ?? 104 to 111 ?? 104 particle counts/cc; concentrations persistently increase shoreward throughout the region. Bottom particulate matter is predominantly composed of inorganic detritus. Admixtures of organic skeletal particles, primarily diatoms, are generally present but average less than 10% of the total particulate composition. Texturally, the particulate matter in bottom waters is predominantly poorly sorted sediment composed of very fine silt (3.9-7.8 ??m). The variability in nepheloid-layer characteristics indicates a highly dynamic shelf feature. The relationship of nepheloid-layer characteristics to hydrographic and substrate conditions suggests a conceptual model whereby nepheloid-layer development and maintenance are the results of the resuspension of sea-floor sediment. Bottom turbulence is attributed primarily to vertical shear and shoaling progressive internal waves generated by migrating shelf-water masses, especially oceanic frontal systems, and secondarily to shoaling surface gravity waves. ?? 1981.

Origin of the outer layer of martian low-aspect ratio layered ejecta craters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boyce, Joseph M.; Wilson, Lionel; Barlow, Nadine G.

2015-01-01

Low-aspect ratio layered ejecta (LARLE) craters are one of the most enigmatic types of martian layered ejecta craters. We propose that the extensive outer layer of these craters is produced through the same base surge mechanism as that which produced the base surge deposits generated by near-surface, buried nuclear and high-explosive detonations. However, the LARLE layers have higher aspect ratios compared with base surge deposits from explosion craters, a result of differences in thicknesses of these layers. This characteristics is probably caused by the addition of large amounts of small particles of dust and ice derived from climate-related mantles of snow, ice and dust in the areas where LARLE craters form. These deposits are likely to be quickly stabilized (order of a few days to a few years) from eolian erosion by formation of duricrust produced by diffusion of water vapor out of the deposits.

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

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jingjing; Wei, Jun

2016-09-01

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

The Effects of Surface Reconstruction and Electron-Positron Correlation on the Annihilation Characteristics of Positrons Trapped at Semiconductor Surfaces

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

Fazleev, N. G.; Department of Physics, Kazan State University, Kazan 420008; Jung, E.

2009-03-10

Experimental positron annihilation induced Auger electron spectroscopy (PAES) data from Ge(100) and Ge(111) surfaces display several strong Auger peaks corresponding to M{sub 4,5}N{sub 1}N{sub 2,3}, M{sub 2,3}M{sub 4,5}M{sub 4,5}, M{sub 2,3}M{sub 4,5}V, and M{sub 1}M{sub 4,5}M{sub 4,5} Auger transitions. The integrated peak intensities of Auger transitions have been used to obtain experimental annihilation probabilities for the Ge 3d and 3p core electrons. The experimental data were analyzed by performing theoretical studies of the effects of surface reconstructions and electron-positron correlations on image potential induced surface states and annihilation characteristics of positrons trapped at the reconstructed Ge(100) and Ge(111) surfaces. Calculationsmore » of positron surface states and annihilation characteristics have been performed for Ge(100) surface with (2x1), (2x2), and (4x2) reconstructions, and for Ge(111) surface with c(2x8) reconstruction. Estimates of the positron binding energy and annihilation characteristics reveal their sensitivity to the specific atomic structure of the topmost layers of the semiconductor and to the approximations used to describe electron-positron correlations. The results of these theoretical studies are compared with the ones obtained for the reconstructed Si(100)-(2x1) and Si(111)-(7x7) surfaces.« less

Improved electrical properties of atomic layer deposited tin disulfide at low temperatures using ZrO2 layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Juhyun; Lee, Jeongsu; Ham, Giyul; Shin, Seokyoon; Park, Joohyun; Choi, Hyeongsu; Lee, Seungjin; Kim, Juyoung; Sul, Onejae; Lee, Seungbeck; Jeon, Hyeongtag

2017-02-01

We report the effect of zirconium oxide (ZrO2) layers on the electrical characteristics of multilayered tin disulfide (SnS2) formed by atomic layer deposition (ALD) at low temperatures. SnS2 is a two-dimensional (2D) layered material which exhibits a promising electrical characteristics as a channel material for field-effect transistors (FETs) because of its high mobility, good on/off ratio and low temperature processability. In order to apply these 2D materials to large-scale and flexible electronics, it is essential to develop processes that are compatible with current electronic device manufacturing technology which should be conducted at low temperatures. Here, we deposited a crystalline SnS2 at 150 °C using ALD, and we then annealed at 300 °C. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy measurements before and after the annealing showed that SnS2 had a hexagonal (001) peak at 14.9° and A1g mode at 313 cm-1. The annealed SnS2 exhibited clearly a layered structure confirmed by the high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) images. Back-gate FETs with SnS2 channel sandwiched by top and bottom ZrO2 on p++Si/SiO2 substrate were suggested to improve electrical characteristics. We used a bottom ZrO2 layer to increase adhesion between the channel and the substrate and a top ZrO2 layer to improve contact property, passivate surface, and protect from process-induced damages to the channel. ZTZ (ZrO2/SnS2/ZrO2) FETs showed improved electrical characteristics with an on/off ratio of from 0.39×103 to 6.39×103 and a mobility of from 0.0076 cm2/Vs to 0.06 cm2/Vs.

Emission rate and internal quantum efficiency enhancement in different geometrical shapes of GaN LED

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rashid, S.; Wahid, M. H. A.; Hambali, N. A. M. Ahmad; Halim, N. S. A. Abdul; Ramli, M. M.; Shahimin, M. M.

2017-09-01

This work is based on the development of light emitting diode (LED) using different geometry of top surface on GaN p-n junction structure. Three types of LED chips are designed with different top surface to differ whether p-type layer or p contact plays an important role in improving its efficiency. The voltage applied ranges from 0V to 4V. Current-voltage characteristic for all three samples are obtained and analyzed. The results show that dome shaped of p-type layer operating at 4V increases the emission rate and internal quantum efficiency up to 70%, which is two times higher than basic cylindrically LED chip. Moreover, this new design effectively solved the higher forward voltage problem of the usual curve surface of p-contact GaN LED.

Effects of surface passivation dielectrics on carrier transport in AlGaN/GaN heterostructure field-effect transistors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oh, Sejoon; Jang, Han-Soo; Choi, Chel-Jong; Cho, Jaehee

2018-04-01

Dielectric layers prepared by different deposition methods were used for the surface passivation of AlGaN/GaN heterostructure field-effect transistors (HFETs) and the corresponding electrical characteristics were examined. Increases in the sheet charge density and the maximum drain current by approximately 45% and 28%, respectively, were observed after the deposition of a 100 nm-thick SiO2 layer by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) on the top of the AlGaN/GaN HFETs. However, SiO2 deposited by a radio frequency (rf) sputter system had the opposite effect. As the strain applied to AlGaN was influenced by the deposition methods used for the dielectric layers, the carrier transport in the two-dimensional electron gas formed at the interface between AlGaN and GaN was affected accordingly.

Design optimization of GaAs betavoltaic batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Haiyanag; Jiang, Lan; Chen, Xuyuan

2011-06-01

GaAs junctions are designed and fabricated for betavoltaic batteries. The design is optimized according to the characteristics of GaAs interface states and the diffusion length in the depletion region of GaAs carriers. Under an illumination of 10 mCi cm-2 63Ni, the open circuit voltage of the optimized batteries is about ~0.3 V. It is found that the GaAs interface states induce depletion layers on P-type GaAs surfaces. The depletion layer along the P+PN+ junction edge isolates the perimeter surface from the bulk junction, which tends to significantly reduce the battery dark current and leads to a high open circuit voltage. The short circuit current density of the optimized junction is about 28 nA cm-2, which indicates a carrier diffusion length of less than 1 µm. The overall results show that multi-layer P+PN+ junctions are the preferred structures for GaAs betavoltaic battery design.

Forced Boundary-Layer Transition on X-43 (Hyper-X) in NASA LaRC 20-Inch Mach 6 Air Tunnel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Berry, Scott A.; DiFulvio, Michael; Kowalkowski, Matthew K.

2000-01-01

Aeroheating and boundary layer transition characteristics for the X-43 (Hyper-X) configuration have been experimentally examined in the Langley 20-Inch Mach 6 Air Tunnel. Global surface heat transfer distributions, and surface streamline patterns were measured on a 0.333-scale model of the Hyper-X forebody. Parametric variations include angles-of-attack of 0-deg, 2-deg, and 4-deg; Reynolds numbers based on model length of 1.2 to 15.4 million; and inlet cowl door both open and closed. The effects of discrete roughness elements on the forebody boundary layer, which included variations in trip configuration and height, were investigated. This document is intended to serve as a release of preliminary data to the Hyper-X program; analysis is limited to observations of the experimental trends in order to expedite dissemination.

Forced Boundary-Layer Transition on X-43 (Hyper-X) in NASA LaRC 31-Inch Mach 10 Air Tunnel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Berry, Scott A.; DiFulvio, Michael; Kowalkowski, Matthew K.

2000-01-01

Aeroheating and boundary layer transition characteristics for the X-43 (Hyper-X) configuration have been experimentally examined in the Langley 31-Inch Mach 10 Air Tunnel. Global surface heat transfer distributions, and surface streamline patterns were measured on a 0.333-scale model of the Hyper-X forebody. Parametric variations include angles-of-attack of 0-deg, 2-deg, 3-deg, and 4-deg; Reynolds numbers based on model length of 1.2 to 5.1 million; and inlet cowl door both open and closed. The effects of discrete roughness elements on the forebody boundary layer, which included variations in trip configuration and height, were investigated. This document is intended to serve as a release of preliminary data to the Hyper-X program; analysis is limited to observations of the experimental trends in order to expedite dissemination.

Sound radiation due to boundary layer transition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Meng

1993-01-01

This report describes progress made to date towards calculations of noise produced by the laminar-turbulence transition process in a low Mach number boundary layer formed on a rigid wall. The primary objectives of the study are to elucidate the physical mechanisms by which acoustic waves are generated, to clarify the roles of the fluctuating Reynolds stress and the viscous stress in the presence of a solid surface, and to determine the relative efficiency as a noise source of the various transition stages. In particular, we will examine the acoustic characteristics and directivity associated with three-dimensional instability waves, the detached high-shear layer, and turbulent spots following a laminar breakdown. Additionally, attention will be paid to the unsteady surface pressures during the transition, which provide a source of flow noise as well as a forcing function for wall vibration in both aeronautical and marine applications.

A Visualization Study of Secondary Flows in Cascades

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herzig, Howard Z; Hansen, Arthur G; Costello, George R

1954-01-01

Flow-visualization techniques are employed to ascertain the streamline patterns of the nonpotential secondary flows in the boundary layers of cascades, and thereby to provide a basis for more extended analyses in turbomachines. The three-dimensional deflection of the end-wall boundary layer results in the formation of a vortex within each cascade passage. The size and tightness of the vortex generated depend upon the main-flow turning in the cascade passage. Once formed, a vortex resists turning in subsequent blade rows, with consequent unfavorable angles of attack and possible flow disturbances on the pressure surfaces of subsequent blade rows when the vortices impinge on these surfaces. Two major tip-clearance effects are observed, the formation of a tip-clearance vortex and the scraping effect of a blade with relative motion past the wall boundary layer. The flow patterns indicate methods for improving the blade tip-loading characteristics of compressors and of low- and high-speed turbulence.

The role of turbulent fluxes in the atmospheric boundary layer above a debris-covered glacier in the Himalayas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steiner, J. F.; Stigter, E.; Litt, M.; Shea, J.; Bierkens, M. F.; Immerzeel, W. W.

2017-12-01

Debris-covered glaciers play an important role in the water cycle in high altitude catchments in the Himalaya. The melt dynamics of these glaciers are complex as a result of the debris. A thin debris layer (up to a few cm) may act as a facilitator of melt, whereas a thick layer serves primarily as an insulator. The debris cover itself shows a strong diurnal variation in temperature and humidity resulting in a complex interaction with the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL). Energy balance models are a common way to quantify sub-debris melt, but the importance of turbulent fluxes in this energy balance have so far been poorly investigated. We hypothesize that they may play a substantial role during phases of wetting and drying. In this study, ABL characteristics and surface turbulent fluxes are measured using an automatic weather station including an eddy-correlation (EC) system on the debris-covered Lirung glacier in Nepal over a 10 day period in late 2016, during the transition period from monsoon to the drier post-monsoon. The measurements are combined with surface temperature measurements and thermal UAV flights covering the footprint area of the EC tower to quantify the surface fluxes over a larger area. Our results show that turbulent fluxes do play a substantial role in the energy balance of debris-covered glaciers, and need to be accounted for to accurately simulate glacier melt. The EC tower results are subsequently evaluated against a number of different bulk approaches to quantify sensible and latent heat fluxes and are evaluated against turbulence characteristics. If found accurate enough, these approaches require less advanced measurement set-ups and can be applied on a wider scale.

On the Size Dependence of Molar and Specific Properties of Independent Nano-phases and Those in Contact with Other Phases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaptay, George

2018-05-01

Nano-materials are materials with at least one nano-phase. A nano-phase is a phase with at least one of its dimensions below 100 nm. It is shown here that nano-phases have at least 1% of their atoms along their surface layer. The ratio of surface atoms is proportional to the specific surface area of the phase, defined as the ratio of its surface area to its volume. Each specific/molar property has its bulk value and its surface value for the given phase, being always different, as the energetic states of the atoms in the bulk and in the surface layer of a phase are different. The average specific/molar property of a nano-phase is modeled here as a linear combination of the bulk and surface values of the same property, scaled with the ratio of the surface atoms. That makes the performance of all nano-phases proportional to their specific surface area. As the characteristic size of the nano-phase is inversely proportional to its specific surface area, all specific/molar properties of nano-phases are inversely proportional to the characteristic size of the phase. This is applied to the size dependence of the molar Gibbs energy of the nano-phase, which appears to be in agreement with the thermodynamics of Gibbs. This agreement proves the general validity of the present model on the size dependence of the specific/molar properties of independent nano-phases. It is shown that the properties of nano-phases are different for independent nano-phases (surrounded only by their equilibrium vapor phase) and for nano-phases in multi-phase situations, such as a liquid nano-droplet in the sessile drop configuration.

Black sea surface temperature anomaly on 5th August 1998 and the ozone layer thickness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manev, A.; Palazov, K.; Raykov, St.; Ivanov, V.

2003-04-01

BLACK SEA SURFACE TEMPERATURE ANOMALY ON 5th AUGUST 1998 AND THE OZONE LAYER THICKNESS A. Manev , K. Palazov , St. Raykov, V. Ivanov Solar Terrestrial Influences Laboratory, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences amanev@abv.bg This paper focuses on the peculiarities of the Black Sea surface temperature anomaly on 05.08.1998. Researching the daily temperature changes in a number of control fields in the course of 8-10 years, we have found hidden correlations and anomalous deviations in the sea surface temperatures on a global scale. Research proves the statistical reliability of the temperature anomaly on the entire Black Sea surface registered on 04.-05.08.1998. In the course of six days around these dates the temperatures are up to 2°C higher than the maximum temperatures in this period in the other seven years. A more detailed analysis of the dynamics of the anomaly required the investigation of five Black Sea surface characteristic zones of 75x75 km. The analysis covers the period 20 days - 10 days before and 10 days after the anomaly. Investigations aimed at interpreting the reasons for the anomalous heating of the surface waters. We have tried to analyze the correlation between sea surface temperature and the global ozone above the Black Sea by using simultaneously data from the two satellite systems NOAA and TOMS. Methods of processing and comparing the data from the two satellite systems are described. The correlation coefficients values for the five characteristic zones are very high and close, which proves that the character of the correlation ozone - sea surface temperature is the same for the entire Black Sea surface. Despite the high correlation coefficient, we have proved that causality between the two phenomena at the time of the anomaly does not exit.

Sensitivity of Tropical Cyclone Models to the Surface Drag Coefficient in Different Boundary-Layer Schemes

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-10-20

altitude of about 500 m in Hurricanes Allen (1980) and Hugo (1989) by Zhang et al. (2010). In Hugo these were about 110 m2 s−1 beneath the eyewall...Marks FD Montgomery MT Lorsolo S. 2010 Estimation of turbulence characteristics of eyewall boundary layer of Hurricane Hugo (1989) Mon. Wea. Rev., in...University of Munich, Munich, Germany b Dept. of Meteorology, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA & NOAA’s Hurricane Research Division ∗Correspondence

The Interaction of Water and Aerosols in the Marine Boundary Layer: A Study of Selected Processes Impacting Radiative Transfer and Cloudiness

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-01-01

formate and oxalate , both breakdown products of fatty acid oxidation. We hypothesize that surfactants from the marine surface layer coat much of the...characteristics as CCN activity and light scattering k mg be form oxal Species Figurei. Comparison of the mean chemical concentration of the dominant...Figure 1. The insert shows more clearly the changes in formate and oxalate efficiency has been a main objective of this study. To address this, we

[Study on the ingredients of reserpine by TLC-FT-SERS].

PubMed

Wang, Y; Zi, F; Wang, Y; Zhao, Y; Zhang, X; Weng, S

1999-12-01

A new method for analysing the ingredients of reserpine by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is reported in this paper. The results show that the characteristic spectral bands of reserpine satuated at the thin layer with the amount of sample about 2 microg were obtained. The difference between SERS and solid spectra was found. An absorption model of reserpine and silver sol was proposed. This method can be used to analyse the chemical ingredients with high sensitivity.

Abstracts of Presentations at Workshop on Unsteady and Two-Phase-Flows, Held in London, England on June 28-29, 1990

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-06-29

has been found to be a modification of the STAN’ program from Crawford and Kays2. An important characteristic of any boundary layer prediction program...function of freestream turbulence intensity, helped in predicting heat transfer rates between the hot gases and the b’arie surface. a Professor...be a modulator of transition to turbulence and the boundary layer prediction programs currently available have a poor performance in such flows

A coupled physical-biological pelagic model of a shallow sill fjord

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aksnes, Dag L.; Lie, Ulf

1990-10-01

A vertically resolved model for the land-locked fjord Lindåspollene, western Norway is presented. Salinity, temperature, oxygen, nitrogen-nutrients, silicate, and two groups of phytoplankton and herbivores are represented as dynamic variables. From 'below' the model is driven by solar radiation, precipitation, wind and tidal exchange and from 'above' by herbivore mortality. Simulation results are presented and discussed together with actual observations from Lindåspollene. The main seasonal and vertical characteristics of the phytoplankton and herbivore dynamics seem to be well reflected by the model, and realistic seasonal patterns may be produced for several successive years. The most characteristic vertical features are the formation of a summer surface production maximum and a deep chlorophyll maximum. Furthermore, a herbivore biomass which develops in the surface layer divides into a shallow and a deep component during summer and becomes concentrated in the surface layer again in the autumn. The nutricline and the pycnocline develop independently of one another, with consequences for the supply of nutrients to the upper euphotic zone. The bottom-up control exerted by the meteorological forcing, especially the freshwater runoff, seems to be of paramount significance for the observed vertical structure and seasonality of the present fjord system.

Erosion and Retention Properties of Beyllium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doerner, R.; Grossman, A.; Luckhardt, S.; Serayderian, R.; Sze, F. C.; Whyte, D. G.

1997-11-01

Experiments in PISCES-B have investigated the erosion and hydrogen retention characteristics of beryllium. The sputtering yield is strongly influenced by trace amounts (≈1 percent) of intrinsic plasma impurities. At low sample exposure temperatures (below 250^oC), the beryllium surface remains free of contaminants and a sputtering yield similar to that of beryllium-oxide is measured. At higher exposure temperatures, impurities deposited on the surface can diffuse into the bulk and reduce their chance of subsequent erosion. These impurities form a surface layer mixed with beryllium which exhibits a reduced sputtering yield. Depth profile analysis has determined the composition and chemical bonding of the impurity layer. The hydrogen isotope retention of beryllium under ITER first wall (temperature = 200^oC, ion flux = 1 x 10^21 m-2 s-1) and baffle (temperature = 500^oC, ion flux = 1 x 10^22 m-2 s-1) conditions has been investigated. The retained deuterium saturates above a fluence of 10^23 m-2 at about 4 x 10^20 m-2 for the 200^oC exposure and at 2 x 10^20 m-2 for the 500^oC case. The TMAP code is used to model the deuterium release characteristics.

Studies of the Ge(100) Surface Using a Low Energy Positron Beam: The Effects of Surface Reconstructions on Positron Trapping and Annihilation Characteristics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fazleev, N. G.; Weiss, A. H.

2008-03-01

Positron annihilation induced Auger electron spectroscopy (PAES) has been applied to study the Ge(100) surface. The PAES spectrum from the Ge(100) surface displays several strong Auger peaks corresponding to M4,5N1N2,3 , M2,3M4,5M4,5 , M2,3M4,5V, and M1M4,5M4,5 Auger transitions. The integrated peak intensities of Auger transitions are used to obtain experimental annihilation probabilities for the Ge 3d and 3p core level electrons. The experimental results are analyzed by performing calculations of positron surface states and annihilation characteristics of surface trapped positrons with relevant Ge core-level electrons for the reconstructed Ge(100)-p(2x1), Ge(100)-p(2x2), and Ge(100)-c(4x2) surfaces. Estimates of positron binding energy, work function, and annihilation characteristics reveal their sensitivity to surface reconstruction of the topmost layers of clean Ge(100). These results are compared to the ones obtained for the reconstructed Si(100)-(2x1) and Si(100)-p(2x2) surfaces. A comparison with PAES data reveals an agreement with theoretical core annihilation probabilities for the Auger transitions considered.

Investigations of Novel Surface Modification Techniques for Wear Resistant Al and Mg Based Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-01-01

microhardness to resist the abrasive wear. Moreover it is required to form dense or fine-porous uniform layers to provide the antifriction characteristics...technological regimes for production of OCC having maximum of thickness, microhardness and uniformity is expediently to carry on using the silicate-alkali...includes at the same time both the index of the process effectiveness and the strength and geometrical characteristics of the product . In connection

Low-temperature, solution-processed ZrO2:B thin film: a bifunctional inorganic/organic interfacial glue for flexible thin-film transistors.

PubMed

Park, Jee Ho; Oh, Jin Young; Han, Sun Woong; Lee, Tae Il; Baik, Hong Koo

2015-03-04

A solution-processed boron-doped peroxo-zirconium oxide (ZrO2:B) thin film has been found to have multifunctional characteristics, providing both hydrophobic surface modification and a chemical glue layer. Specifically, a ZrO2:B thin film deposited on a hydrophobic layer becomes superhydrophilic following ultraviolet-ozone (UVO) treatment, whereas the same treatment has no effect on the hydrophobicity of the hydrophobic layer alone. Investigation of the ZrO2:B/hydrophobic interface layer using angle-resolved X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (AR XPS) confirmed it to be chemically bonded like glue. Using the multifunctional nature of the ZrO2:B thin film, flexible amorphous indium oxide (In2O3) thin-film transistors (TFTs) were subsequently fabricated on a polyimide substrate along with a ZrO2:B/poly-4-vinylphenol (PVP) dielectric. An aqueous In2O3 solution was successfully coated onto the ZrO2:B/PVP dielectric, and the surface and chemical properties of the PVP and ZrO2:B thin films were analyzed by contact angle measurement, atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The surface-engineered PVP dielectric was found to have a lower leakage current density (Jleak) of 4.38 × 10(-8) A/cm(2) at 1 MV/cm, with no breakdown behavior observed up to a bending radius of 5 mm. In contrast, the electrical characteristics of the flexible amorphous In2O3 TFT such as on/off current ratio (Ion/off) and electron mobility remained similar up to 10 mm of bending without degradation, with the device being nonactivated at a bending radius of 5 mm. These results suggest that ZrO2:B thin films could be used for low-temperature, solution-processed surface-modified flexible devices.

Surface layer characteristics derived from fast-response micrometeorological observations over a mountain peak in the central Himalayas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Solanki, Raman; Dhaka, Surendra; Rajeev, Kunjukrishnapillai; Singh, Narendra; Nadimpally, Kirankumar

Diurnal evolution of atmospheric boundary layer over hilly terrains is highly complex and least understood. Fast-response micrometeorological observations carried out at Manora Peak, Nainital (29.2°N, 79.3°E, 1960 m ASL), a hill station located in the Central Himalayas during March-2013 to February-2014 has been used to investigate diurnal variations in the surface layer characteristics, energy budget and atmospheric circulation over complex terrains. This study mainly employs tower-based sonic anemometer observations (25 Hz) carried out at two levels (12 m and 27 m above the ground level) which are used to derive the variations of zonal, meridional and vertical winds, virtual temperature, momentum flux, turbulent kinetic energy, and Monin-Obukhov stability parameter during fair-weather conditions. In general, this station is manifested by warm and dry conditions as well as relatively high wind speed during pre-monsoon season (March-May); while highly moist conditions prevail during the summer monsoon season (June-September). The sensible heat flux (SHF) undergoes a prominent diurnal variation during winter and pre-monsoon seasons with peak values (200 to 400 Wm-2) occurring between 11-15 Local Time (LT) and weakly negative values (typically -20 Wm-2) during night, the latter indicating a downward transfer of heat from atmosphere to surface. The noon-time peak values systematically increases from winter to pre-monsoon season. Remarkably, the large noon-time values of SHF observed during the pre-monsoon season over this station (peak SHF of more than 400 Wm-2 during May) arise from the forced lifting of air masses, caused by the prevailing horizontal winds that blow perpendicular to the mountain. The intricate details of the surface layer parameters and fluxes over this site will assist in investigating how such a complex topography influences the flux generation process.

Modified silicas with different structure of grafted methylphenylsiloxane layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bolbukh, Yuliia; Terpiłowski, Konrad; Kozakevych, Roman; Sternik, Dariusz; Deryło-Marczewska, Anna; Tertykh, Valentin

2016-06-01

The method of a chemical assembly of the surface polymeric layer with high contents of the modifying agent was developed. Powders of nanodispersed silica with chemisorbed polymethylphenylsiloxane (PMPS) were synthesized by solvent-free chemical assembly technique with a dimethyl carbonate (DMC) as scission agent. Samples were characterized using FTIR spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and elemental analysis (CHN analysis). Coating microstructure, morphology, and hydrophilic-hydrophobic properties of nanoparticles were estimated. The results indicate a significant effect of the PMPS/DMC ratio at each modification stage on hydrophobic properties of modified silicas. Modification with a similar composition of the PMPS/DMC mixture, even with different polymer amount at each stage, provides the worst hydrophobicity. Results suggest that the highest hydrophobicity (contact angle θ = 135°-140°) is achieved in the case when silica modified with the PMPS/DMC mixture using multistage approach that providing a formation of the monomolecular layer of polysiloxane at the first modification step. The characteristics of surface structure were interpreted in terms of density of polymer-silica bonds at the interfaces that, usually, are reduced for modified surfaces, in a coupling with conformation model that accented the shape of chains (arch- and console-like) adsorbed on solid surfaces.

Corrosion resistance and biological activity of TiO2 implant coatings produced in oxygen-rich environments.

PubMed

Zhang, Rui; Wan, Yi; Ai, Xing; Liu, Zhanqiang; Zhang, Dong

2017-01-01

The physical and chemical properties of bio-titanium alloy implant surfaces play an important role in their corrosion resistance and biological activity. New turning and turning-rolling processes are presented, employing an oxygen-rich environment in order to obtain titanium dioxide layers that can both protect implants from corrosion and also promote cell adhesion. The surface topographies, surface roughnesses and chemical compositions of the sample surfaces were obtained using scanning electron microscopy, a white light interferometer, and the Auger electron spectroscopy, respectively. The corrosion resistance of the samples in a simulated body fluid was determined using electrochemical testing. Biological activity on the samples was also analyzed, using a vitro cell culture system. The results show that compared with titanium oxide layers formed using a turning process in air, the thickness of the titanium oxide layers formed using turning and turning-rolling processes in an oxygen-rich environment increased by 4.6 and 7.3 times, respectively. Using an oxygen-rich atmosphere in the rolling process greatly improves the corrosion resistance of the resulting samples in a simulated body fluid. On samples produced using the turning-rolling process, cells spread quickly and exhibited the best adhesion characteristics.

A MEMS-enabled 3D zinc-air microbattery with improved discharge characteristics based on a multilayer metallic substructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Armutlulu, A.; Fang, Y.; Kim, S. H.; Ji, C. H.; Bidstrup Allen, S. A.; Allen, M. G.

2011-10-01

This paper reports the design, fabrication and testing of a three-dimensional zinc-air microbattery with improved areal energy density and areal capacity, particularly at high discharge rates. The device is based on a multilayer, micron-scale, low-resistance metallic skeleton with an improved surface area. This skeleton consists of alternating Cu and Ni layers supporting Zn as electrodeposited anode electrode, and provides a high surface area, low-resistance path for electron transfer. A proof-of-concept zinc-air microbattery based on this technology was developed, characterized and compared with its two-dimensional thin-film counterparts fabricated on the same footprint area with equal amount of the Zn anode electrode. Using this approach, we were able to improve a single-layer initial structure with a surface area of 1.3 mm2 to a scaffold structure with ten layers having a surface area of 15 mm2. Discharging through load resistances ranging from 100 to 3000 Ω, the areal energy density and areal capacity of the microbattery were measured as 2.5-3 mWh cm-2 and ~2.5 mAh cm-2, respectively.

Assessing sea wave and spray effects on Marine Boundary Layer structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stathopoulos, Christos; Galanis, George; Patlakas, Platon; Kallos, George

2017-04-01

Air sea interface is characterized by several mechanical and thermodynamical processes. Heat, moisture and momentum exchanges increase the complexity in modeling the atmospheric-ocean system. Near surface atmospheric levels are subject to sea surface roughness and sea spray. Sea spray fluxes can affect atmospheric stability and induce microphysical processes such as sea salt particle formation and condensation/evaporation of water in the boundary layer. Moreover, presence of sea spray can alter stratification over the ocean surface with further insertion of water vapor. This can lead to modified stability conditions and to wind profiles that deviate significantly from the logarithmic approximation. To model these effects, we introduce a fully coupled system consisting of the mesoscale atmospheric model RAMS/ICLAMS and the wave model WAM. The system encompasses schemes for ocean surface roughness, sea salt aerosols and droplet thermodynamic processes and handles sea salt as predictive quantity. Numerical experiments using the developed atmospheric-ocean system are performed over the Atlantic and Mediterranean shoreline. Emphasis is given to the quantification of the improvement obtained in the description of the marine boundary layer, particularly in its lower part as well as in wave characteristics.

Comparative study of solution-phase and vapor-phase deposition of aminosilanes on silicon dioxide surfaces.

PubMed

Yadav, Amrita R; Sriram, Rashmi; Carter, Jared A; Miller, Benjamin L

2014-02-01

The uniformity of aminosilane layers typically used for the modification of hydroxyl bearing surfaces such as silicon dioxide is critical for a wide variety of applications, including biosensors. However, in spite of many studies that have been undertaken on surface silanization, there remains a paucity of easy-to-implement deposition methods reproducibly yielding smooth aminosilane monolayers. In this study, solution- and vapor-phase deposition methods for three aminoalkoxysilanes differing in the number of reactive groups (3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APTES), 3-aminopropyl methyl diethoxysilane (APMDES) and 3-aminopropyl dimethyl ethoxysilane (APDMES)) were assessed with the aim of identifying methods that yield highly uniform and reproducible silane layers that are resistant to minor procedural variations. Silane film quality was characterized based on measured thickness, hydrophilicity and surface roughness. Additionally, hydrolytic stability of the films was assessed via these thickness and contact angle values following desorption in water. We found that two simple solution-phase methods, an aqueous deposition of APTES and a toluene based deposition of APDMES, yielded high quality silane layers that exhibit comparable characteristics to those deposited via vapor-phase methods. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Electronic characteristics of Tl 2Ba 2CuO 6. Fermi surface, positron wavefunction, electric field gradients, and transport parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, David J.; Pickett, Warren E.

1992-12-01

A number of properties identifiable from the electronic bands and one-electron wavefunctions have been obtained from a well converged self-consistent calculation of the electronic structure of Tl 2Ba 2CuO 6. The Fermi surface is found to consist of two sheets: a two-dimensional barrel surface arising from the CuO 2 layer, and a three-dimensional spheroid arising from states with strong TlO character but actually extending throughout all layers of the structure. This feature has important implications for the transport properties, and especially for the degree of anisotropy. We compare with transport data on single crystals of Tl 2Ba 2CuO 6. The calculated Fermi surface of the spheroid is found to be in substantial agreement with the measured period of magnetization oscillations in the de Haas-van Alphen effect by Kido et al. The positron wavefunction engulfs the CuO 2 layers, making this material a promising case for mapping out with positron 2D-ACAR the layer-derived Fermi surface that is believed to be central to high-temperature superconductivity. The electric field gradients are predicted and compared with calculations for other cuprates. The Hall coefficient RHxyz (carrier motion on the a-b plane) is found to be positive and within a factor of 1.5 of that measured on ceramic samples, while the other non-vanishing component of the Hall tensor is predicted to be negative.

Characterization of triple layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Otero, Toribio F.; Cortes, M. Teresa

2001-07-01

We reported the characterization of a macroscopic electrochemomechanical actuator like triple layer (3x1 cm) formed by polypyrrole)/double- sided, non-conducting and flexible tape/ polypyrrole that works in liquid electrolytes under electrochemical control. This triple layer has characteristics of artificial muscle. The influence of variables that control the volume change in the polymer as electrolyte concentration, or temperature has been studied. Variations of time, energy and charge under different conditions are described. We have found that the triple layer acts, at the same time, as sensor and actuator. Therefore, physical magnitudes like the electrolyte concentration or the temperature in the cell can be obtained from electrical energy consumed by a muscle. We have evaluated the influence of variables as area of the triple layer or the trailing weight, which don't participate in the electrochemical reaction. We propose an explication to the results, which show a correlation between the trailed mass and the consumed charge required to move a constant angle those masses by the triple layer. When different surface areas of the triple layer has been evaluated we found that the consumed electrical charge is proportional to area (the mass) of the triple layer. The triple layer can make macroscopical movements in short times, their position is absolutely controlled with the electrical charge, and it has capacity to lift masses. These characteristics allow their use in the design of tools. So, we present a macroscopic tool constituted by two triple layers, which allows catch and translate objects in liquid medium (nipper).

A Lagrangian stochastic model to demonstrate multi-scale interactions between convection and land surface heterogeneity in the atmospheric boundary layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parsakhoo, Zahra; Shao, Yaping

2017-04-01

Near-surface turbulent mixing has considerable effect on surface fluxes, cloud formation and convection in the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL). Its quantifications is however a modeling and computational challenge since the small eddies are not fully resolved in Eulerian models directly. We have developed a Lagrangian stochastic model to demonstrate multi-scale interactions between convection and land surface heterogeneity in the atmospheric boundary layer based on the Ito Stochastic Differential Equation (SDE) for air parcels (particles). Due to the complexity of the mixing in the ABL, we find that linear Ito SDE cannot represent convections properly. Three strategies have been tested to solve the problem: 1) to make the deterministic term in the Ito equation non-linear; 2) to change the random term in the Ito equation fractional, and 3) to modify the Ito equation by including Levy flights. We focus on the third strategy and interpret mixing as interaction between at least two stochastic processes with different Lagrangian time scales. The model is in progress to include the collisions among the particles with different characteristic and to apply the 3D model for real cases. One application of the model is emphasized: some land surface patterns are generated and then coupled with the Large Eddy Simulation (LES).

An investigation of the degradation of Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene (FEP) copolymer thermal blanketing materials aboard LDEF in the laboratory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stiegman, A. E.; Brinza, David E.; Anderson, Mark S.; Minton, Timothy K.; Laue, Eric G.; Liang, Ranty H.

1991-01-01

Samples of fluorinated ethylene propylene copolymer thermal blanketing material, recovered from the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF), were investigated to determine the nature and the extent of degradation due to exposure to the low-Earth-orbit environment. Samples recovered from the ram-facing direction of LDEF, which received vacuum-ultraviolet (VUV) radiation and atomic-oxygen impingement, and samples from the trailing edge, which received almost exclusively VUV exposure, were investigated by scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. The most significant result of this investigation was found on samples that received only VUV exposure. These samples possessed a hard, embrittled surface layer that was absent from the atomic-oxygen exposed sample and from unexposed control samples. This surface layer is believed to be responsible for the 'synergistic' effect between VUV and atomic oxygen. Overall, the investigation revealed dramatically different morphologies for the two samples. The sample receiving both atomic-oxygen and VUV exposure was deeply eroded and had a characteristic 'rolling' surface morphology, while the sample that received only VUV exposure showed mild erosion and a surface morphology characterized by sharp high-frequency peaks. The morphologies observed in the LDEF samples, including the embrittled surface layer, were successfully duplicated in the laboratory.

Formation of hydrophobic coating on glass surface using atmospheric pressure non-thermal plasma in ambient air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fang, Z.; Qiu, Y.; Kuffel, E.

2004-08-01

Non-thermal plasmas under atmospheric pressure are of great interest in material surface processing because of their convenience, effectiveness and low cost. In this paper, the treatment of a glass surface for improving hydrophobicity using a non-thermal plasma generated by a dielectric barrier corona discharge (DBCD) with a needle array-to-plane electrode arrangement in atmospheric air is conducted, and the surface properties of the glass before and after the DBCD treatment are studied using contact angle measurement, surface resistance measurement and the wet flashover voltage test. The effects of the plasma dose (the product of average discharge power and treatment time) of DBCD on the surface modification are studied, and the mechanism of interaction between the plasma and glass surface is discussed. It is found that a layer of hydrophobic coating is formed on the glass surface through DBCD treatment, and the improvement of hydrophobicity depends on the plasma dose of the DBCD. It seems that there is an optimum plasma dose for the surface treatment. The test results of thermal ageing and chemical ageing show that the hydrophobic layer has quite stable characteristics.

Effect of Surface Treatments on Electron Beam Freeform Fabricated Aluminum Structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taminger, Karen M. B.; Hafley, Robert A.; Fahringer, David T.; Martin, Richard E.

2004-01-01

Electron beam freeform fabrication (EBF3) parts exhibit a ridged surface finish typical of many layer-additive processes. This, post-processing is required to produce a net shape with a smooth surface finish. High speed milling wire electrical discharge machining (EDM), electron beam glazing, and glass bead blasting were performed on EBF3-build 2219 aluminum alloy parts to reduce or eliminate the ridged surface features. Surface roughness, surface residual stress state, and microstructural characteristics were examined for each of the different surface treatment to assess the quality and effect of the surface treatments on the underlying material. The analysis evaluated the effectivenes of the different surface finishing techniques for achieving a smooth surface finish on an electron beam freeform fabricated part.

Fabrication of hierarchical hybrid structures using bio-enabled layer-by-layer self-assembly.

PubMed

Hnilova, Marketa; Karaca, Banu Taktak; Park, James; Jia, Carol; Wilson, Brandon R; Sarikaya, Mehmet; Tamerler, Candan

2012-05-01

Development of versatile and flexible assembly systems for fabrication of functional hybrid nanomaterials with well-defined hierarchical and spatial organization is of a significant importance in practical nanobiotechnology applications. Here we demonstrate a bio-enabled self-assembly technique for fabrication of multi-layered protein and nanometallic assemblies utilizing a modular gold-binding (AuBP1) fusion tag. To accomplish the bottom-up assembly we first genetically fused the AuBP1 peptide sequence to the C'-terminus of maltose-binding protein (MBP) using two different linkers to produce MBP-AuBP1 hetero-functional constructs. Using various spectroscopic techniques, surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), we verified the exceptional binding and self-assembly characteristics of AuBP1 peptide. The AuBP1 peptide tag can direct the organization of recombinant MBP protein on various gold surfaces through an efficient control of the organic-inorganic interface at the molecular level. Furthermore using a combination of soft-lithography, self-assembly techniques and advanced AuBP1 peptide tag technology, we produced spatially and hierarchically controlled protein multi-layered assemblies on gold nanoparticle arrays with high molecular packing density and pattering efficiency in simple, reproducible steps. This model system offers layer-by-layer assembly capability based on specific AuBP1 peptide tag and constitutes novel biological routes for biofabrication of various protein arrays, plasmon-active nanometallic assemblies and devices with controlled organization, packing density and architecture. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Synthesis and Characterization of Hydrophobic Silica Thin Layer Derived from Methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Darmawan, Adi; Utari, Riyadini; Eka Saputra, Riza; Suhartana; Astuti, Yayuk

2018-01-01

This study investigated the synthesis and characterization of MTMS hydrophobic silica prepared by sol-gel method. In principle, silica xerogels and silica thin layer were obtained by reacting MTMS in ethanol solvent in some pH variations. The MTMS solution was used to modify the surface of the ceramic plate by dipcoating method to further be calcined at two different temperatures of 350°C and 500°C. The silica xerogels were analysed by FTIR, TGA-DSC and GSA to determine functional group characteristics, thermal properties and pore morphology respectively. Meanwhile, the silica thin layers were analysed their hydrophobic properties using water contact angle measurement and surface roughness determination using SEM. The results showed that the higher the pH used in the MTMS solution, the higher the resulting contact angle. The highest contact angle was obtained at pH 8.12 which reached 94.7° and 79.5° for silica thin layer calcined at 350°C and 500°C, respectively. The TGA results indicated that the methyl group survived up to 400°C and disappeared at 500°C which had implications on silica thin layer hydrophobic nature. GSA result exhibited that the silica xerogel had a close structure with a very low pore volume. While the SEM-EDX results displayed that the silica thin layer prepared at acidic pH had smoother surface morphology and became rough when prepared at an alkaline pH.

Cross-flow vortex structure and transition measurements using multi-element hot films

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Agarwal, Naval K.; Mangalam, Siva M.; Maddalon, Dal V.; Collier, Fayette S., Jr.

1991-01-01

An experiment on a 45-degree swept wing was conducted to study three-dimensional boundary-layer characteristics using surface-mounted, micro-thin, multi-element hot-film sensors. Cross-flow vortex structure and boundary-layer transition were measured from the simultaneously acquired signals of the hot films. Spanwise variation of the root-mean-square (RMS) hot-film signal show a local minima and maxima. The distance between two minima corresponds to the stationary cross-flow vortex wavelength and agrees with naphthalene flow-visualization results. The chordwise and spanwise variation of amplified traveling (nonstationary) cross-flow disturbance characteristics were measured as Reynolds number was varied. The frequency of the most amplified cross-flow disturbances agrees with linear stability theory.

Effect of Index of Refraction on Radiation Characteristics in a Heated Absorbing, Emitting, and Scattering Layer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Siegel, R.; Spuckler, C. M.

1992-01-01

The effect of the index of refraction on the temperature distribution and radiative heat flux in semitransparent materials, such as some ceramics, is investigated analytically. In the case considered here, a plane layer of a ceramic material is subjected to external radiative heating incident on each of its surfaces; the material emits, absorbs, and isotropically scatters radiation. It is shown that, for radiative equilibrium in a gray layer with diffuse interfaces, the temperature distribution and radiative heat flux for any index of refraction can be obtained in a simple manner from the results for an index of refraction of unity.

GUARD RING SEMICONDUCTOR JUNCTION

DOEpatents

Goulding, F.S.; Hansen, W.L.

1963-12-01

A semiconductor diode having a very low noise characteristic when used under reverse bias is described. Surface leakage currents, which in conventional diodes greatly contribute to noise, are prevented from mixing with the desired signal currents. A p-n junction is formed with a thin layer of heavily doped semiconductor material disposed on a lightly doped, physically thick base material. An annular groove cuts through the thin layer and into the base for a short distance, dividing the thin layer into a peripheral guard ring that encircles the central region. Noise signal currents are shunted through the guard ring, leaving the central region free from such currents. (AEC)

Mechanisms of Current Transfer in Electrodeposited Layers of Submicron Semiconductor Particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhukov, N. D.; Mosiyash, D. S.; Sinev, I. V.; Khazanov, A. A.; Smirnov, A. V.; Lapshin, I. V.

2017-12-01

Current-voltage ( I- V) characteristics of conductance in multigrain layers of submicron particles of silicon, gallium arsenide, indium arsenide, and indium antimonide have been studied. Nanoparticles of all semiconductors were obtained by processing initial single crystals in a ball mill and applied after sedimentation onto substrates by means of electrodeposition. Detailed analysis of the I- V curves of electrodeposited layers shows that their behavior is determined by the mechanism of intergranular tunneling emission from near-surface electron states of submicron particles. Parameters of this emission process have been determined. The proposed multigrain semiconductor structures can be used in gas sensors, optical detectors, IR imagers, etc.

Synthesis of antireflective silica coatings through the synergy of polypeptide layer-by-layer assemblies and biomineralization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Yung-Lun; Lin, Ting-Xuan; Hsu, Feng-Ming; Jan, Jeng-Shiung

2016-01-01

We report a versatile approach to synthesize silica coatings with antireflective (AR) characteristics through the combination of a layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly technique and biomineralization. LbL assembled decanoyl-modified poly(l-lysine)/poly(l-glutamic acid) (PLL-g-Dec/PLGA) multilayer films were used as templates for silica mineralization, followed by calcination. The specific deposition of silica onto the LbL polypeptide assemblies through amine-catalyzed polycondensation resulted in silica coatings that exhibited the transcription of the nano-/microstructured polypeptide films and their film thickness and porosity can be tuned by varying the number of bilayers, degree of substitution, and PLL molecular weight. AR silica coatings exhibiting more than 6% increase in transmittance in the near UV/visible spectral range can be obtained at an optimized refractive index, thickness, and surface roughness. The abrasion test showed that the silica coatings exhibited sufficient structural durability due to continuous silica nanostructures and low surface roughness. This study demonstrated that nanostructured thin films can be synthesized for AR coatings using the synergy between the LbL assembly technique and biomineralization.We report a versatile approach to synthesize silica coatings with antireflective (AR) characteristics through the combination of a layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly technique and biomineralization. LbL assembled decanoyl-modified poly(l-lysine)/poly(l-glutamic acid) (PLL-g-Dec/PLGA) multilayer films were used as templates for silica mineralization, followed by calcination. The specific deposition of silica onto the LbL polypeptide assemblies through amine-catalyzed polycondensation resulted in silica coatings that exhibited the transcription of the nano-/microstructured polypeptide films and their film thickness and porosity can be tuned by varying the number of bilayers, degree of substitution, and PLL molecular weight. AR silica coatings exhibiting more than 6% increase in transmittance in the near UV/visible spectral range can be obtained at an optimized refractive index, thickness, and surface roughness. The abrasion test showed that the silica coatings exhibited sufficient structural durability due to continuous silica nanostructures and low surface roughness. This study demonstrated that nanostructured thin films can be synthesized for AR coatings using the synergy between the LbL assembly technique and biomineralization. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr06948c

Sorbents based on asbestos with a layer of an hydroxyethylcyclam derivative of PVC containing aquacomplexes of sulfuric acid or sodium hydroxide with aza-crown groups

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsivadze, A. Yu.; Fridman, A. Ya.; Morozova, E. M.; Sokolova, N. P.; Voloshchuk, A. M.; Petukhova, G. A.; Bardyshev, I. I.; Gorbunov, A. M.; Polyakova, I. Ya.; Titova, V. N.; Yavich, A. A.; Novikov, A. K.; Petrova, N. V.

2016-07-01

Aquacomplexes of sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide with aza-crown groups are synthesized in cavities of a sorbent from the porous layer of a PVC cyclam-derivative grafted onto fibers of asbestos fabric. The structure of sorbents with complexes is studied and their adsorption characteristics are determined. It is shown that the affinity of the developed surface toward ethanol, benzene, and hexane depends on the nature of complexes in the pore walls, and the volume of cavities formed as a result of the pores on the developed asbestos surface being coated with networks of aza-crown groups is larger than that of cavities with walls of aza-crown groups in the layers of a PVC cyclam derivative. Indicators of H+- and OH--conductivity of sorbents with complexes as electrochemical bridges are determined. It is shown that the major part of H+- and OH--ions moves through complexes with aza-crown groups in the region of cavities formed of pores on the surface of asbestos.

Sequential cryogen spraying for heat flux control at the skin surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Majaron, Boris; Aguilar, Guillermo; Basinger, Brooke; Randeberg, Lise L.; Svaasand, Lars O.; Lavernia, Enrique J.; Nelson, J. Stuart

2001-05-01

Heat transfer rate at the skin-air interface is of critical importance for the benefits of cryogen spray cooling in combination with laser therapy of shallow subsurface skin lesions, such as port-wine stain birthmarks. With some cryogen spray devices, a layer of liquid cryogen builds up on the skin surface during the spurt, which may impair heat transfer across the skin surface due to relatively low thermal conductivity and potentially higher temperature of the liquid cryogen layer as compared to the spray droplets. While the mass flux of cryogen delivery can be adjusted by varying the atomizing nozzle geometry, this may strongly affect other spray properties, such as lateral spread (cone), droplet size, velocity, and temperature distribution. We present here first experiments with sequential cryogen spraying, which may enable accurate mass flux control through variation of spray duty cycle, while minimally affecting other spray characteristics. The observed increase of cooling rate and efficiency at moderate duty cycle levels supports the above described hypothesis of isolating liquid layer, and demonstrates a novel approach to optimization of cryogen spray devices for individual laser dermatological applications.

Numerical Study of the Response of an Atmospheric Surface Layer to a Spatially Nonuniform Plant Canopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiu, J.; Gu, Z. L.; Wang, Z. S.

2008-05-01

High-accuracy large-eddy simulations of neutral atmospheric surface-layer flow over a gapped plant canopy strip have been performed. Subgrid-scale (SGS) motions are parameterized by the Sagaut mixed length SGS model, with a modification to compute the SGS characteristic length self-adaptively. Shaw’s plant canopy model, taking the vertical variation of leaf area density into account, is applied to study the response of the atmospheric surface layer to the gapped dense forest strip. Differences in the region far away from the gap and in the middle of the gap are investigated, according to the instantaneous velocity magnitude, the zero-plane displacement, the potential temperature and the streamlines. The large-scale vortex structure, in the form of a roll vortex, is revealed in the region far away from the gap. The nonuniform spatial distribution of plants appears to cause the formation of the coherent structure. The roll vortex starts in the wake of the canopy, and results in strong fluctuations throughout the entire canopy region. Wind sweeps and ejections in the plant canopy are also attributed to the large vortex structure.

Flow Measurements over a Biomimetic Surface Roughness Microgeometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lang, Amy; Hidalgo, Pablo; Westcott, Matthew

2007-11-01

Certain species of sharks (e.g. shortfin mako) have a skin structure that results in a bristling of their denticles (scales) during increased swimming speeds. This unique surface geometry results in the formation of a 3D array of cavities* (d-type roughness geometry) within the shark skin, thus causing it to potentially act as a means of boundary layer control. Initial work is confined to scaling up the geometry from 0.2 mm on the shark skin to 2 cm, with a scaling down in characteristic velocity from 10 - 20 m/s to 10 - 20 cm/s for laminar flow boundary layer water tunnel studies over a shark skin model. The hypothesized formation of cavity vortices within the shark skin replica has been measured using DPIV. We have also shown that with the sufficient growth of a boundary layer upstream of the model (local Re = 200,000), transition is not tripped by the surface and the flow skips over the cavities. Support for this research by a NSF SGER grant (CTS-0630489), Lindbergh Foundation Grant and a University of Alabama RAC grant is gratefully acknowledged. * Patent pending.

Analysis of in-flight boundary-layer state measurements on a subsonic transport wing in high-lift configuration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

vanDam, C. P.; Los, S. M.; Miley, S. J.; Yip, L. P.; Banks, D. W.; Roback, V. E.; Bertelrud, A.

1995-01-01

Flight experiments on NASA Langley's B737-100 (TSRV) airplane have been conducted to document flow characteristics in order to further the understanding of high-lift flow physics, and to correlate and validate computational predictions and wind-tunnel measurements. The project is a cooperative effort involving NASA, industry, and universities. In addition to focusing on in-flight measurements, the project includes extensive application of various computational techniques, and correlation of flight data with computational results and wind-tunnel measurements. Results obtained in the most recent phase of flight experiments are analyzed and presented in this paper. In-flight measurements include surface pressure distributions, measured using flush pressure taps and pressure belts on the slats, main element, and flap elements; surface shear stresses, measured using Preston tubes; off-surface velocity distributions, measured using shear-layer rakes; aeroelastic deformations of the flap elements, measured using an optical positioning system; and boundary-layer transition phenomena, measured using hot-film anemometers and an infrared imaging system. The analysis in this paper primarily focuses on changes in the boundary-layer state that occurred on the slats, main element, and fore flap as a result of changes in flap setting and/or flight condition. Following a detailed description of the experiment, the boundary-layer state phenomenon will be discussed based on data measured during these recent flight experiments.

Toward a Self-Consistent Dynamical Model of the NSSL

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matilsky, Loren

2018-01-01

The advent of helioseismology has revealed in detail the internal differential rotation profile of the Sun. In particular, the presence of two boundary layers, the tachocline at the bottom of the convection zone (CZ) and the Near Surface Shear Layer (NSSL) at the top of the CZ, has remained a mystery. These two boundary layers may have significant consequences for the internal dynamo that operates the Sun's magnetic field, and so understanding their dynamics is an important step in solar physics and in the theory of solar-like stellar structure in general. In this talk, we analyze three numerical models of hydrodynamic convection in rotating spherical shells with varying degrees of stratification in order to understand the dynamical balance of the solar near-surface shear layer (NSSL). We find that with sufficient stratification, a boundary layer with some characteristics of the NSSL develops at high latitudes, and it is maintained purely an inertial balance of torques in which the viscosity is negligible. An inward radial flux of angular momentum from the Reynold's stress (as has been predicted by theory) is balanced by the poleward latitudinal flux of angular momentum due to the meridional circulation. We analyze the similarities of the near surface shear in our models to that of the Sun, and find that the solar NSSL is most likely maintained by the inertial balance our simulations display at high latitudes, but with a modified upper boundary condition.

Surface-sensitive Raman spectroscopy of collagen I fibrils.

PubMed

Gullekson, Corinne; Lucas, Leanne; Hewitt, Kevin; Kreplak, Laurent

2011-04-06

Collagen fibrils are the main constituent of the extracellular matrix surrounding eukaryotic cells. Although the assembly and structure of collagen fibrils is well characterized, very little appears to be known about one of the key determinants of their biological function-namely, the physico-chemical properties of their surface. One way to obtain surface-sensitive structural and chemical data is to take advantage of the near-field nature of surface- and tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy. Using Ag and Au nanoparticles bound to Collagen type-I fibrils, as well as tips coated with a thin layer of Ag, we obtained Raman spectra characteristic to the first layer of collagen molecules at the surface of the fibrils. The most frequent Raman peaks were attributed to aromatic residues such as phenylalanine and tyrosine. In several instances, we also observed Amide I bands with a full width at half-maximum of 10-30 cm(-1). The assignment of these Amide I band positions suggests the presence of 3(10)-helices as well as α- and β-sheets at the fibril's surface. Copyright © 2011 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Determination of elastic mechanical characteristics of surface coatings from analysis of signals obtained by impulse excitation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nyaguly, E.; Craştiu, I.; Deac, S.; Gozman-Pop, C.; Drăgănescu, G.; Bereteu, L.

2018-01-01

Most of the surface coatings are based on the synthetic polymers, which are substances composed from very large molecules that form tough, flexible, adhesive films when applied to surfaces. The other components of surface coverings materials are pigments that provide colour, opacity, gloss and other properties. Surface coatings are two-phase composite materials: constitute a polymer matrix on the one side, and on the other side of the pigments and additives dispersed in the matrix. Their role is not only aesthetically but also to ensure anticorrosive protection or even improve some mechanical properties of coated surfaces. In this paper it will follow, starting from the mechanical properties of the substrate, the metallic sheet in general, to determine the new properties of the assembly of substrate and the two coating layers, also the determination of mechanical properties of the layers. From the analysis of vibroacoustic signals obtained by the impulse excitation of the sample, one can determine the elasticity modulus. These results come to validate the results based on finite element analysis (FEA) of the same samples.

Impacts of papain and neuraminidase enzyme treatment on electrohydrodynamics and IgG-mediated agglutination of type A red blood cells.

PubMed

Hyono, Atsushi; Gaboriaud, Fabien; Mazda, Toshio; Takata, Youichi; Ohshima, Hiroyuki; Duval, Jérôme F L

2009-09-15

The stability of native and enzyme-treated human red blood cells of type A (Rh D positive) against agglutination is investigated under conditions where it is mediated by immunoglobuline G (IgG) anti-D antibody binding. The propensity of cells to agglutinate is related to their interphasic (electrokinetic) properties. These properties significantly depend on the concentration of proteolytic papain enzyme and protease-free neuraminidase enzyme that the cells are exposed to. The analysis is based on the interpretation of electrophoretic data of cells by means of the numerical theory for the electrokinetics of soft (bio)particles. A significant reduction of the hydrodynamic permeability of the external soft glycoprotein layer of the cells is reported under the action of papain. This reflects a significant decrease in soft surface layer thickness and a loss in cell surface integrity/rigidity, as confirmed by nanomechanical AFM analysis. Neuraminidase action leads to an important decrease in the interphase charge density by removing sialic acids from the cell soft surface layer. This is accompanied by hydrodynamic softness modulations less significant than those observed for papain-treated cells. On the basis of these electrohydrodynamic characteristics, the overall interaction potential profiles between two native cells and two enzyme-treated cells are derived as a function of the soft surface layer thickness in the Debye-Hückel limit that is valid for cell suspensions under physiological conditions (approximately 0.16 M). The thermodynamic computation of cell suspension stability against IgG-mediated agglutination then reveals that a decrease in the cell surface layer thickness is more favorable than a decrease in interphase charge density for inducing agglutination. This is experimentally confirmed by agglutination data collected for papain- and neuraminidase-treated cells.

The potential application of red mud and soil mixture as additive to the surface layer of a landfill cover system.

PubMed

Ujaczki, Éva; Feigl, Viktória; Molnár, Mónika; Vaszita, Emese; Uzinger, Nikolett; Erdélyi, Attila; Gruiz, Katalin

2016-06-01

Red mud, the by-product of aluminum production, has been regarded as a problematic residue all over the world. Its storage involves risks as evidenced by the Ajka red mud spill, an accident in Hungary where the slurry broke free, flooding the surrounding areas. As an immediate remediation measure more than 5cm thick red mud layer was removed from the flooded soil surface. The removed red mud and soil mixture (RMSM) was transferred into the reservoirs for storage. In this paper the application of RMSM is evaluated in a field study aiming at re-utilizing waste, decreasing cost of waste disposal and providing a value-added product. The purpose was to investigate the applicability of RMSM as surface layer component of landfill cover systems. The field study was carried out in two steps: in lysimeters and in field plots. The RMSM was mixed at ratios ranging between 0 and 50% w/w with low quality subsoil (LQS) originally used as surface layer of an interim landfill cover. The characteristics of the LQS+RMSM mixtures compared to the subsoil (LQS) and the RMSM were determined by physical-chemical, biological and ecotoxicological methods. The addition of RMSM to the subsoil (LQS) at up to 20% did not result any ecotoxic effect, but it increased the water holding capacity. In addition, the microbial substrate utilization became about triple of subsoil (LQS) after 10months. According to our results the RMSM mixed into subsoil (LQS) at 20% w/w dose may be applied as surface layer of landfill cover systems. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.