Sample records for surface properties

  1. Size- and shape-dependent surface thermodynamic properties of nanocrystals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fu, Qingshan; Xue, Yongqiang; Cui, Zixiang

    2018-05-01

    As the fundamental properties, the surface thermodynamic properties of nanocrystals play a key role in the physical and chemical changes. However, it remains ambiguous about the quantitative influence regularities of size and shape on the surface thermodynamic properties of nanocrystals. Thus by introducing interface variables into the Gibbs energy and combining Young-Laplace equation, relations between the surface thermodynamic properties (surface Gibbs energy, surface enthalpy, surface entropy, surface energy and surface heat capacity), respectively, and size of nanocrystals with different shapes were derived. Theoretical estimations of the orders of the surface thermodynamic properties of nanocrystals agree with available experimental values. Calculated results of the surface thermodynamic properties of Au, Bi and Al nanocrystals suggest that when r > 10 nm, the surface thermodynamic properties linearly vary with the reciprocal of particle size, and when r < 10 nm, the effect of particle size on the surface thermodynamic properties becomes greater and deviates from linear variation. For nanocrystals with identical equivalent diameter, the more the shape deviates from sphere, the larger the surface thermodynamic properties (absolute value) are.

  2. Optical polarimetric properties of the Echo 2 and PAGEOS 1 engineering surfaces. M.S. Thesis - Virginia Univ.

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lee, R. B., III

    1972-01-01

    Experimental investigations of the percent polarization of sunlight reflected from the surfaces of each of the Echo 2 Satellite and PAGEOS (Passive Geodetic Earth Orbiting Satellite) were performed to determine the stability of their surfaces in the space environment. The Echo 2 surface material was amorphous phosphate chemically bonded to a rolled aluminum substrate while the PAGEOS 1 surface material is vapor deposited aluminum on a poly (ethylene terephthalate) film. The stability of the satellites' surfaces was analyzed by comparing the light polarizing properties of the satellites, to those of test surfaces representative of the satellites' surfaces. The properties of flat test surfaces were measured experimentally in the laboratory, and the effects of surface strain, surface geometry, and vacuum upon these properties were examined. The laboratory analyses revealed that the polarization properties of the Echo 2 surface were significantly affected by surface geometry and vacuum, and that the properties of the PAGEOS 1 surface were not significantly altered by any of the above mechanisms.

  3. Anisotropic surface chemistry properties and adsorption behavior of silicate mineral crystals.

    PubMed

    Xu, Longhua; Tian, Jia; Wu, Houqin; Fang, Shuai; Lu, Zhongyuan; Ma, Caifeng; Sun, Wei; Hu, Yuehua

    2018-03-07

    Anisotropic surface properties of minerals play an important role in a variety of fields. With a focus on the two most intensively investigated silicate minerals (i.e., phyllosilicate minerals and pegmatite aluminosilicate minerals), this review highlights the research on their anisotropic surface properties based on their crystal structures. Four surface features comprise the anisotropic surface chemistry of minerals: broken bonds, energy, wettability, and charge. Analysis of surface broken bond and energy anisotropy helps to explain the cleavage and growth properties of mineral crystals, and understanding surface wettability and charge anisotropy is critical to the analysis of minerals' solution behavior, such as their flotation performance and rheological properties. In a specific reaction, the anisotropic surface properties of minerals are reflected in the adsorption strengths of reagents on different mineral surfaces. Combined with the knowledge of mineral crushing and grinding, a thorough understanding of the anisotropic surface chemistry properties and the anisotropic adsorption behavior of minerals will lead to the development of effective relational models comprising their crystal structure, surface chemistry properties, and targeted reagent adsorption. Overall, such a comprehensive approach is expected to firmly establish the connection between selective cleavage of mineral crystals for desired surfaces and designing novel reagents selectively adsorbed on the mineral surfaces. As tools to characterize the anisotropic surface chemistry properties of minerals, DLVO theory, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are also reviewed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Influence of surface defects on the tensile strength of carbon fibers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vautard, F.; Dentzer, J.; Nardin, M.; Schultz, J.; Defoort, B.

    2014-12-01

    The mechanical properties of carbon fibers, especially their tensile properties, are affected by internal and surface defects. In order to asses in what extent the generation of surface defects can result in a loss of the mechanical properties, non-surface treated carbon fibers were oxidized with three different surface treatment processes: electro-chemical oxidation, oxidation in nitric acid, and oxidation in oxygen plasma. Different surface topographies and surface chemistries were obtained, as well as different types and densities of surface defects. The density of surface defects was measured with both a physical approach (Raman spectroscopy) and a chemical approach (Active Surface Area). The tensile properties were evaluated by determining the Weibull modulus and the scale parameter of each reference, after measuring the tensile strength for four different gauge lengths. A relationship between the tensile properties and the nature and density of surface defects was noticed, as large defects largely control the value of the tensile strength. When optimized, some oxidation surface treatment processes can generate surface functional groups as well as an increase of the mechanical properties of the fibers, because of the removal of the contamination layer of pyrolytic carbon generated during the carbonization of the polyacrylonitrile precursor. Oxidation in oxygen plasma revealed to be a promising technology for alternative surface treatment processes, as high levels of functionalization were achieved and a slight improvement of the mechanical properties was obtained too.

  5. Validation of a Laboratory Method for Evaluating Dynamic Properties of Reconstructed Equine Racetrack Surfaces

    PubMed Central

    Setterbo, Jacob J.; Chau, Anh; Fyhrie, Patricia B.; Hubbard, Mont; Upadhyaya, Shrini K.; Symons, Jennifer E.; Stover, Susan M.

    2012-01-01

    Background Racetrack surface is a risk factor for racehorse injuries and fatalities. Current research indicates that race surface mechanical properties may be influenced by material composition, moisture content, temperature, and maintenance. Race surface mechanical testing in a controlled laboratory setting would allow for objective evaluation of dynamic properties of surface and factors that affect surface behavior. Objective To develop a method for reconstruction of race surfaces in the laboratory and validate the method by comparison with racetrack measurements of dynamic surface properties. Methods Track-testing device (TTD) impact tests were conducted to simulate equine hoof impact on dirt and synthetic race surfaces; tests were performed both in situ (racetrack) and using laboratory reconstructions of harvested surface materials. Clegg Hammer in situ measurements were used to guide surface reconstruction in the laboratory. Dynamic surface properties were compared between in situ and laboratory settings. Relationships between racetrack TTD and Clegg Hammer measurements were analyzed using stepwise multiple linear regression. Results Most dynamic surface property setting differences (racetrack-laboratory) were small relative to surface material type differences (dirt-synthetic). Clegg Hammer measurements were more strongly correlated with TTD measurements on the synthetic surface than the dirt surface. On the dirt surface, Clegg Hammer decelerations were negatively correlated with TTD forces. Conclusions Laboratory reconstruction of racetrack surfaces guided by Clegg Hammer measurements yielded TTD impact measurements similar to in situ values. The negative correlation between TTD and Clegg Hammer measurements confirms the importance of instrument mass when drawing conclusions from testing results. Lighter impact devices may be less appropriate for assessing dynamic surface properties compared to testing equipment designed to simulate hoof impact (TTD). Potential Relevance Dynamic impact properties of race surfaces can be evaluated in a laboratory setting, allowing for further study of factors affecting surface behavior under controlled conditions. PMID:23227183

  6. Engineered Multifunctional Surfaces for Fluid Handling

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Thomas, Chris; Ma, Yonghui; Weislogel, Mark

    2012-01-01

    Designs incorporating variations in capillary geometry and hydrophilic and/or antibacterial surface properties have been developed that are capable of passive gas/liquid separation and passive water flow. These designs can incorporate capillary grooves and/or surfaces arranged to create linear and circumferential capillary geometry at the micro and macro scale, radial fin configurations, micro holes and patterns, and combinations of the above. The antibacterial property of this design inhibits the growth of bacteria or the development of biofilm. The hydrophilic property reduces the water contact angle with a treated substrate such that water spreads into a thin layer atop the treated surface. These antibacterial and hydrophilic properties applied to a thermally conductive surface, combined with capillary geometry, create a novel heat exchanger capable of condensing water from a humid, two-phase water and gas flow onto the treated heat exchanger surfaces, and passively separating the condensed water from the gas flow in a reduced gravity application. The overall process to generate the antibacterial and hydrophilic properties includes multiple steps to generate the two different surface properties, and can be divided into two major steps. Step 1 uses a magnetron-based sputtering technique to implant the silver atoms into the base material. A layer of silver is built up on top of the base material. Completion of this step provides the antibacterial property. Step 2 uses a cold-plasma technique to generate the hydrophilic surface property on top of the silver layer generated in Step 1. Completion of this step provides the hydrophilic property in addition to the antibacterial property. Thermally conductive materials are fabricated and then treated to create the antibacterial and hydrophilic surface properties. The individual parts are assembled to create a condensing heat exchanger with antibacterial and hydrophilic surface properties and capillary geometry, which is capable of passive phase separation in a reduced gravity application. The plasma processes for creating antibacterial and hydrophilic surface properties are suitable for applications where water is present on an exposed surface for an extended time, such that bacteria or biofilms could form, and where there is a need to manage the water on the surface. The processes are also suitable for applications where only the hydrophilic property is needed. In particular, the processes are applicable to condensing heat exchangers (CHXs), which benefit from the antibacterial properties as well as the hydrophilic properties. Water condensing onto the control surfaces of the CHX will provide the moist conditions necessary for the growth of bacteria and the formation of biofilms. The antibacterial properties of the base layer (silver) will mitigate and prevent the growth of bacteria and formation of biofilms that would otherwise reduce the CHX performance. In addition, the hydrophilic properties reduce the water contact angle and prevent water droplets from bridging between control surfaces. Overall, the hydrophilic properties reduce the pressure drop across the CHX.

  7. Grinding and its influence to ground surface durability

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Holesovsky, F.; Novak, M.

    2011-01-01

    A number of parameters of running process effect on the formed surface at grinding. Above all, the following influences can be mentioned: grinding wheel speed, workpiece speed, tool properties, rigidity of machine tool, etc. The plastic deformation and thermal load of surface layer are evoked at the action of cutting conditions. A new surface keeps the definite properties, which are given by its roughness, surface profile, geometry accuracy, intensity and residual stress distribution, respectively microhardness course in surface layer and changes of microstructure in this layer. The surface properties predict the surface behaviour in the real machinery at the dynamical, respectively static loading. At the load, the changes of surface properties proceed, e.g. roughness, residual stress. Simultaneously, changes of surface properties influence the durability of machine part and can also lead to surface damage and machine part breakdown. The slackness can also evoke the cracks, which leads to the fracture. The behaviour of part differs in the operating environment without and with oil or in the corrosion environment.

  8. Mechanical Properties of Degraded PMR-15 Resin

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Tsuji, Luis C.

    2000-01-01

    Thermo-oxidative aging produces a nonuniform degradation state in PMR-15 resin. A surface layer, usually attributed to oxidative degradation, forms. This surface layer has different properties from the inner material. A set of material tests was designed to separate the properties of the oxidized surface layer from the properties of interior material. Test specimens were aged at 316 C in either air or nitrogen, for durations of up to 800 hr. The thickness of the oxidized surface layer in air aged specimens, and the shrinkage and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of nitrogen aged specimens were measured directly. The nitrogen-aged specimens were assumed to have the same properties as the interior material in the air-aged specimens. Four-point-bend tests were performed to determine modulus of both the oxidized surface layer and the interior material. Bimaterial strip specimens consisting of oxidized surface material and unoxidized interior material were constructed and used to determine surface layer shrinkage and CTE. Results confirm that the surface layer and core materials have substantially different properties.

  9. Hall-effect Thruster Channel Surface Properties Investigation (PREPRINT)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-03-03

    Article 3. DATES COVERED (From - To) 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER Hall-effect Thruster Channel Surface Properties Investigation 5b...13. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES For publication in the AIAA Journal of Propulsion and Power. 14. ABSTRACT Surface properties of Hall-effect thruster...incorporated into thruster simulations, and these models must account for evolution of channel surface properties due to thruster operation. Results from

  10. Surface engineering on CeO2 nanorods by chemical redox etching and their enhanced catalytic activity for CO oxidation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gao, Wei; Zhang, Zhiyun; Li, Jing; Ma, Yuanyuan; Qu, Yongquan

    2015-07-01

    Controllable surface properties of nanocerias are desired for various catalytic processes. There is a lack of efficient approaches to adjust the surface properties of ceria to date. Herein, a redox chemical etching method was developed to controllably engineer the surface properties of ceria nanorods. Ascorbic acid and hydrogen peroxide were used to perform the redox chemical etching process, resulting in a rough surface and/or pores on the surface of ceria nanorods. Increasing the etching cycles induced a steady increase of the specific surface area, oxygen vacancies and surface Ce3+ fractions. As a result, the etched nanorods delivered enhanced catalytic activity for CO oxidation, compared to the non-etched ceria nanorods. Our method provides a novel and facile approach to continuously adjust the surface properties of ceria for practical applications.Controllable surface properties of nanocerias are desired for various catalytic processes. There is a lack of efficient approaches to adjust the surface properties of ceria to date. Herein, a redox chemical etching method was developed to controllably engineer the surface properties of ceria nanorods. Ascorbic acid and hydrogen peroxide were used to perform the redox chemical etching process, resulting in a rough surface and/or pores on the surface of ceria nanorods. Increasing the etching cycles induced a steady increase of the specific surface area, oxygen vacancies and surface Ce3+ fractions. As a result, the etched nanorods delivered enhanced catalytic activity for CO oxidation, compared to the non-etched ceria nanorods. Our method provides a novel and facile approach to continuously adjust the surface properties of ceria for practical applications. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Diameter distributions of as-prepared and etched samples, optical images, specific catalytic data of CO oxidation and comparison of CO oxidation. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr01846c

  11. Surface Characterization of Polymer Blends by XPS and ToF-SIMS

    PubMed Central

    Chan, Chi Ming; Weng, Lu-Tao

    2016-01-01

    The surface properties of polymer blends are important for many industrial applications. The physical and chemical properties at the surface of polymer blends can be drastically different from those in the bulk due to the surface segregation of the low surface energy component. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and time-of-flight secondary mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) have been widely used to characterize surface and bulk properties. This review provides a brief introduction to the principles of XPS and ToF-SIMS and their application to the study of the surface physical and chemical properties of polymer blends. PMID:28773777

  12. Mechanical Properties of Degraded PMR-15 Resin

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Tsuji, Luis C.; McManus, Hugh L.; Bowles, Kenneth J.

    1998-01-01

    Thermo-oxidative aging produces a non-uniform degradation state in PMR-15 resin. A surface layer, usually attributed to oxidative degradation, forms. This surface layer has different properties from the inner material. A set of material tests was designed to separate the properties of the oxidized surface layer from the properties of interior material. Test specimens were aged at 316 C in either air or nitrogen, for durations of up to 800 hours. The thickness of the oxidized surface layer in air aged specimens, and the shrinkage and Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE) of nitrogen aged specimens were measured directly. Four-point-bend tests were performed to determine modulus of both the oxidized surface layer and the interior material. Bimaterial strip specimens consisting of oxidized surface material and unoxidized interior material were constructed and used to determine surface layer shrinkage and CTE. Results confirm that the surface layer and core materials have substantially different properties.

  13. Modeling electrochemical resistance with coal surface properties in a direct carbon fuel cell based on molten carbonate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Eom, Seongyong; Ahn, Seongyool; Kang, Kijoong; Choi, Gyungmin

    2017-12-01

    In this study, a numerical model of activation and ohmic polarization is modified, taking into account the correlation function between surface properties and inner resistance. To investigate the correlation function, the surface properties of coal are changed by acid treatment, and the correlations between the inner resistance measured by half-cell tests and the surface characteristics are analyzed. A comparison between the model and experimental results demonstrates that the absolute average deviations for each fuel are less than 10%. The numerical results show that the sensitivities of the coal surface properties affecting polarization losses change depending on the operating temperature. The surface oxygen concentrations affect the activation polarization and the sensitivity decreased with increasing temperature. The surface ash of coal is an additional index to be considered along with ohmic polarization and it has the greatest effect on the surface properties at 973 K.

  14. Properties that influence the specific surface areas of carbon nanotubes and nanofibers.

    PubMed

    Birch, M Eileen; Ruda-Eberenz, Toni A; Chai, Ming; Andrews, Ronnee; Hatfield, Randal L

    2013-11-01

    Commercially available carbon nanotubes and nanofibers were analyzed to examine possible relationships between their Brunauer-Emmett-Teller specific surface areas (SSAs) and their physical and chemical properties. Properties found to influence surface area were number of walls/diameter, impurities, and surface functionalization with hydroxyl and carboxyl groups. Characterization by electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry, thermogravimetric analysis, and elemental analysis indicates that SSA can provide insight on carbon nanomaterials properties, which can differ vastly depending on synthesis parameters and post-production treatments. In this study, how different properties may influence surface area is discussed. The materials examined have a wide range of surface areas. The measured surface areas differed from product specifications, to varying degrees, and between similar products. Findings emphasize the multiple factors that influence surface area and mark its utility in carbon nanomaterial characterization, a prerequisite to understanding their potential applications and toxicities. Implications for occupational monitoring are discussed.

  15. Fracture surface analysis in composite and titanium bonding

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Devilbiss, T. A.; Wightman, J. P.

    1985-01-01

    To understand the mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced composite materials, it is necessary to understand the mechanical properties of the matrix materials and of the reinforcing fibers. Another factor that can affect the mechanical properties of a composite material is the interaction between the fiber and the matrix. In general, composites with strong fiber matrix bonding will give higher modulus, lower toughness composites. Composites with weak bonding will have a lower modulus and more ductility. The situation becomes a bit more complex when all possibilities are examined. To be considered are the following: the properties of the surface layer on the fiber, the interactive forces between polymer and matrix, the surface roughness and porosity of the fiber, and the morphology of the matrix polymer at the fiber surface. In practice, the surface of the fibers is treated to enhance the mechanical properties of a composite. These treatments include anodization, acid etching, high temperature oxidation, and plasma oxidation, to name a few. The goal is to be able to predict the surface properties of carbon fibers treated in various ways, and then to relate surface properties to fiber matrix bonding.

  16. Modulation of dry tribological property of stainless steel by femtosecond laser surface texturing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Zhuo; Zhao, Quanzhong; Wang, Chengwei; Zhang, Yang

    2015-06-01

    We reported on the modification of tribological properties of stainless steel by femtosecond laser surface microstructuring. Regular arranged micro-grooved textures with different spacing were produced on the AISI 304L steel surfaces by an 800-nm femtosecond laser. The tribological properties of smooth surface and textured surface were investigated by carrying out reciprocating ball-on-flat tests against Al2O3 ceramic balls under dry friction. Results show that the spacing of micro-grooves had a significant impact on friction coefficient of textured surfaces. Furthermore, the wear behaviors of smooth and textured surface were also investigated. Femtosecond laser surface texturing had a marked potential for modulating friction and wear properties if the micro-grooves were distributed in an appropriate manner.

  17. Model of coordination melting of crystals and anisotropy of physical and chemical properties of the surface

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bokarev, Valery P.; Krasnikov, Gennady Ya

    2018-02-01

    Based on the evaluation of the properties of crystals, such as surface energy and its anisotropy, the surface melting temperature, the anisotropy of the work function of the electron, and the anisotropy of adsorption, were shown the advantages of the model of coordination melting (MCM) in calculating the surface properties of crystals. The model of coordination melting makes it possible to calculate with an acceptable accuracy the specific surface energy of the crystals, the anisotropy of the surface energy, the habit of the natural crystals, the temperature of surface melting of the crystal, the anisotropy of the electron work function and the anisotropy of the adhesive properties of single-crystal surfaces. The advantage of our model is the simplicity of evaluating the surface properties of the crystal based on the data given in the reference literature. In this case, there is no need for a complex mathematical tool, which is used in calculations using quantum chemistry or modeling by molecular dynamics.

  18. Contributions of feature shapes and surface cues to the recognition of facial expressions.

    PubMed

    Sormaz, Mladen; Young, Andrew W; Andrews, Timothy J

    2016-10-01

    Theoretical accounts of face processing often emphasise feature shapes as the primary visual cue to the recognition of facial expressions. However, changes in facial expression also affect the surface properties of the face. In this study, we investigated whether this surface information can also be used in the recognition of facial expression. First, participants identified facial expressions (fear, anger, disgust, sadness, happiness) from images that were manipulated such that they varied mainly in shape or mainly in surface properties. We found that the categorization of facial expression is possible in either type of image, but that different expressions are relatively dependent on surface or shape properties. Next, we investigated the relative contributions of shape and surface information to the categorization of facial expressions. This employed a complementary method that involved combining the surface properties of one expression with the shape properties from a different expression. Our results showed that the categorization of facial expressions in these hybrid images was equally dependent on the surface and shape properties of the image. Together, these findings provide a direct demonstration that both feature shape and surface information make significant contributions to the recognition of facial expressions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Relationship between surface property and catalytic application of amorphous NiP/Hβ catalyst for n-hexane isomerization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Jinshe; Duan, Zunbin; Song, Zhaoyang; Zhu, Lijun; Zhou, Yulu; Xiang, Yuzhi; Xia, Daohong

    2017-12-01

    The amorphous NiP nanoparticles were synthesized and a novel amorphous NiP/Hβ catalyst was prepared successfully further. Due to the superior surface property of amorphous NiP/Hβ catalyst, it exhibited good catalytic application for n-hexane isomerization. The catalytic activity of amorphous NiP/Hβ catalyst was close to that of the prepared Pt/Hβ sample, and better than that of commercial catalyst and crystalline Ni2P/Hβ catalyst. What's more, the amorphous NiP/Hβ catalyst shows high resistance to different sulfur compounds and water on account of its unique surface property. The effect of loading amounts on surface property and catalytic performance was investigated, and the structure-function relationship among them was studied ulteriorly. The results demonstrate that loading amounts have effect on textural property and surface acid property, which further affect the catalytic performance. The 10 wt.% NiP/Hβ sample has appropriate pore structure and acid property with uniformly dispersed NiP nanoparticles on surface, which is helpful for providing suitable synergistic effect. The effects of reaction conditions on surface reactions and the mechanism for n-hexane isomerization were investigated further. Based on these results, the amorphous NiP/Hβ catalyst with superior surface property probably pavesa way to overcome the drawbacks of traditional noble metal catalyst, which shows good catalytic application prospects.

  20. [Stimuli sensitive changes in electrical surface properties of soft membranes: from a synthesized polymer to a biological system].

    PubMed

    Makino, K

    1997-01-01

    The electrical surface properties of biological cells have been studied, which provided us with the fundamental knowledge about the cell surface. The change in shape or biological functions of cells may affect the surface properties and can be detected by electrokinetic measurements. Biological cell surfaces are covered with polysaccharide chains, some are charged and some are not. Some polysaccharides produce a hydrogel matrixes under a proper condition. We thus consider it reasonable that cell surface is approximated by a hydrogel surface. Electrophoretic mobility measurements are useful for studying the surface properties of biological cells suspended as colloidal particles in an electrolyte solution. The electro-osmotic velocity measurements on the other hand are advantageous to the study of the surface properties of slab-shaped biological systems such as membranes. This work was started with a hydrogel, as a model material. As a hydrogel, poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) poly(NIPAAm), abbreviated as hereafter, was chosen, because this hydrogel changes its volume depending on temperature. The dependence of the electrophoretic mobility of latex particles covered with poly(NIPAAm) hydrogel layer or of the electro-osmotic mobility on poly(NIPAAm) plate upon temperature and ionic strength of the dispersing medium was well explained with an electrophoretic mobility formula for "soft particles" developed by Ohshima. The electrokinetic measurements and the explanation of data with an electrophoretic mobility formula for "soft particles" give us information about the surface charge density and the "softness" of soft surfaces. On the basis of the findings with hydrogels, we have discussed the relationship between the changes in shape or function of the biological cells and the change in physicochemical surface properties using these measurements. To study the change in physicochemical properties of the cell surface caused by apoptosis, we have measured the electrophoretic mobilities of intact and apoptotic human promyelocytic leukemia cell lines, HL-60RG cells. We have also studied the differences observed in surface properties of malignant lymphosarcoma cell line, RAW117-P, and its variant, RAW117-H10, with a high metastatic property to the liver. In both cases, the cell surfaces became softer by the changes of biological functions. We have applied electrophoresis and electro-osmosis measurements to the study of the electrokinetic surface properties of rat basophilic leukemia cells, RBL cells. It was also found that the surface of Human umbilical vein endothelial cells, HUVEC, is considerably soft as compared with those of other biological cells we have studied before.

  1. Low temperature self-cleaning properties of superhydrophobic surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Fajun; Shen, Taohua; Li, Changquan; Li, Wen; Yan, Guilong

    2014-10-01

    Outdoor surfaces are usually dirty surfaces. Ice accretion on outdoor surfaces could lead to serious accidents. In the present work, the superhydrophobic surface based on 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H-Perfluorodecanethiol (PFDT) modified Ag/PDMS composite was prepared to investigate the anti-icing property and self-cleaning property at temperatures below freezing point. The superhydrophobic surface was deliberately polluted with activated carbon before testing. It was observed that water droplet picked up dusts on the cold superhydrophobic surface and took it away without freezing at a measuring temperature of -10 °C. While on a smooth PFDT surface and a rough surface base on Ag/PDMS composite without PFDT modification, water droplets accumulated and then froze quickly at the same temperature. However, at even lower temperature of -12 °C, the superhydrophobic surface could not prevent the surface water from icing. In addition, it was observed that the frost layer condensed from the moisture pay an important role in determining the low temperature self-cleaning properties of a superhydrophobic surface.

  2. Some fundamental properties and reactions of ice surfaces at low temperatures.

    PubMed

    Park, Seong-Chan; Moon, Eui-Seong; Kang, Heon

    2010-10-14

    Ice surfaces offer a unique chemical environment in which reactions occur quite differently from those in liquid water or gas phases. In this article, we examine the basic properties of ice surfaces below the surface premelting temperature and discuss some of the recent investigations carried out on reactions at the ice surfaces. The static and dynamic properties of an ice surface as a reaction medium, such as its structure, molecule diffusion and proton transfer dynamics, and the surface preference of hydronium and hydroxide ions, are discussed in relation to the reactivity of the surface.

  3. Effect of processing history on the surface interfacial properties of budesonide in carrier-based dry-powder inhalers.

    PubMed

    Shur, Jagdeep; Pitchayajittipong, Chonladda; Rogueda, Philippe; Price, Robert

    2013-08-01

    Influence of air-jet micronization, post-micronization conditioning and storage on the surface properties of budesonide in dry-powder inhaler formulations was investigated. Crystalline budesonide was air jet-micronized and conditioned using organic vapor. Particle engineering was also used to fabricate respirable particles of budesonide. Surface imaging by atomic force microscopy suggested that micronized material possessed process-induced surface disorder, which relaxed upon conditioning with organic vapor. Particle engineered material was devoid of such surface disorder. Surface interfacial properties of all batches were different and correlated to in vitro fine particle delivery. The surface properties and in vitro performance of the conditioned material changed upon storage of the budesonide at 44% relative humidity and 25°C, while the micronized and particle-engineered material remained stable. These data suggest that processing conditions of budesonide affected the surface properties of the material, which was demonstrated to have direct affect on dry-powder inhaler formulation performance.

  4. Interdigitation between Triglycerides and Lipids Modulates Surface Properties of Lipid Droplets.

    PubMed

    Bacle, Amélie; Gautier, Romain; Jackson, Catherine L; Fuchs, Patrick F J; Vanni, Stefano

    2017-04-11

    Intracellular lipid droplets (LDs) are the main cellular site of metabolic energy storage. Their structure is unique inside the cell, with a core of esterified fatty acids and sterols, mainly triglycerides and sterol esters, surrounded by a single monolayer of phospholipids. Numerous peripheral proteins, including several that were previously associated with intracellular compartments surrounded by a lipid bilayer, have been recently shown to target the surface of LDs, but how they are able to selectively target this organelle remains largely unknown. Here, we use atomistic and coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the molecular properties of the LD surface and to characterize how it differs from that of a lipid bilayer. Our data suggest that although several surface properties are remarkably similar between the two structures, key differences originate from the interdigitation between surface phospholipids and core neutral lipids that occurs in LDs. This property is extremely sensitive to membrane undulations, unlike in lipid bilayers, and it strongly affects both lipid-packing defects and the lateral pressure profile. We observed a marked change in overall surface properties for surface tensions >10 mN/m, indicative of a bimodal behavior. Our simulations provide a comprehensive molecular characterization of the unique surface properties of LDs and suggest how the molecular properties of the surface lipid monolayer can be modulated by the underlying neutral lipids. Copyright © 2017 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Exploiting the flexibility and the polarization of ferroelectric perovskite surfaces to achieve efficient photochemistry and enantiospecificity

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

    Rappe, Andrew

    This research project explored the catalytic properties of complex surfaces of functional materials. The PI used first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations to explore a tightly integrated set of properties. The physical properties of complex functional materials that influence surface chemistry were explored, including bulk and surface electric dipoles, and surface conductivity. The energetic, compositional, electronic, and chemical properties of the surfaces of these materials were explored in detail, and connections between material properties and chemical reactivity were established. This project led to 28 publications, including Nat. Comm., JACS, 3 PRL, 7 PRB, 2 ACS Nano, 2 Nano Lett., 4more » JPCL, 2 JCP, Chem. Mater., ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces, Phys. Rev. Appl., and a U.S. Patent on surface catalysts. The key accomplishments in this project involved work in six coordinated areas: pioneering ways to control bulk dipoles in order to dynamically affect catalysis, exploring novel ways of bringing charge to the surface for redox catalysis, nonstoichiometric surfaces offering new sites for heterogeneous catalysis, illustrating how surface catalysis responds to applied pressure, catalytic growth of carbon-based materials, and new computational methods allowing more accurate exploration of molecule-surface interactions« less

  6. Structural and electronic properties of low-index stoichiometric Cu2ZnSnS4 surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jia, Zhan-Ju; Wang, Yu-An; Zhao, Zong-Yan; Liu, Qing-Ju

    2018-05-01

    Over the past few years, quaternary Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) has attracted a great deal of attention as the most promising photovoltaic absorber layer, due to its abundance and non-toxic properties. However, the significant surface structures and properties for photo-catalytic absorption layers have not yet been studied in detail for CZTS. Hence, the surface structure and electronic properties of low-index stoichiometric CZTS surfaces are calculated based on density functional theory. The relaxation is much large for the (001), (100), (101) and (112) surfaces. Moreover, more surface states appear at the bottom of conduction band and the top of valence band. The conduction band is mainly composed of S-3p and Sn-5p orbits. The valence band top is mainly composed of S-3p and Cu-3d orbits. The band gap values of five surfaces do not vary greatly. The dangling bond density for the (112) surfaces is minimal, resulting in minimum surface energy. Finally, the equilibrium morphology of CZTS is constructed by the Wulff rule. It is found that the {101} surface is the dominant surface (72.6%). These results will help us to better understand the surface properties of absorption layer that is related to CZTS surface and provide theoretical support for future experimental studies.

  7. Tailoring surface properties of ArF resists thin films with functionally graded materials (FGM)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Takemoto, Ichiki; Ando, Nobuo; Edamatsu, Kunishige; Fuji, Yusuke; Kuwana, Koji; Hashimoto, Kazuhiko; Funase, Junji; Yokoyama, Hiroyuki

    2007-03-01

    Our recent research effort has been focused on new top coating-free 193nm immersion resists with regard to leaching of the resist components and lithographic performance. We have examined methacrylate-based resins that control the surface properties of ArF resists thin films by surface segregation behavior. For a better understanding of the surface properties of thin films, we prepared the six resins (Resin 1-6) that have three types fluorine containing monomers, a new monomer (Monomer A), Monomer B and Monomer C, respectively. We blended the base polymer (Resin 0) with Resin (1-6), respectively. We evaluated contact angles, surface properties and lithographic performances of the polymer blend resists. The static and receding contact angles of the resist that contains Resin (1-6) are greater than that of the base polymer (Resin 0) resist. The chemical composition of the surface of blend polymers was investigated with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It was shown that there was significant segregation of the fluorine containing resins to the surface of the blend films. We analyzed Quantitative Structure-Property Relationships (QSPR) between the surface properties and the chemical composition of the surface of polymer blend resists. The addition of 10 wt% of the polymer (Resin 1-6) to the base polymer (Resin 0) did not influence the lithographic performance. Consequently, the surface properties of resist thin films can be tailored by the appropriate choice of fluorine containing polymer blends.

  8. Contributions of feature shapes and surface cues to the recognition and neural representation of facial identity.

    PubMed

    Andrews, Timothy J; Baseler, Heidi; Jenkins, Rob; Burton, A Mike; Young, Andrew W

    2016-10-01

    A full understanding of face recognition will involve identifying the visual information that is used to discriminate different identities and how this is represented in the brain. The aim of this study was to explore the importance of shape and surface properties in the recognition and neural representation of familiar faces. We used image morphing techniques to generate hybrid faces that mixed shape properties (more specifically, second order spatial configural information as defined by feature positions in the 2D-image) from one identity and surface properties from a different identity. Behavioural responses showed that recognition and matching of these hybrid faces was primarily based on their surface properties. These behavioural findings contrasted with neural responses recorded using a block design fMRI adaptation paradigm to test the sensitivity of Haxby et al.'s (2000) core face-selective regions in the human brain to the shape or surface properties of the face. The fusiform face area (FFA) and occipital face area (OFA) showed a lower response (adaptation) to repeated images of the same face (same shape, same surface) compared to different faces (different shapes, different surfaces). From the behavioural data indicating the critical contribution of surface properties to the recognition of identity, we predicted that brain regions responsible for familiar face recognition should continue to adapt to faces that vary in shape but not surface properties, but show a release from adaptation to faces that vary in surface properties but not shape. However, we found that the FFA and OFA showed an equivalent release from adaptation to changes in both shape and surface properties. The dissociation between the neural and perceptual responses suggests that, although they may play a role in the process, these core face regions are not solely responsible for the recognition of facial identity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. Surface properties of beached plastics.

    PubMed

    Fotopoulou, Kalliopi N; Karapanagioti, Hrissi K

    2015-07-01

    Studying plastic characteristics in the marine environment is important to better understand interaction between plastics and the environment. In the present study, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyethylene terephalate (PET), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) samples were collected from the coastal environment in order to study their surface properties. Surface properties such as surface functional groups, surface topography, point of zero charge, and color change are important factors that change during degradation. Eroded HDPE demonstrated an altered surface topography and color and new functional groups. Eroded PET surface was uneven, yellow, and occasionally, colonized by microbes. A decrease in Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) peaks was observed for eroded PET suggesting that degradation had occurred. For eroded PVC, its surface became more lamellar and a new FTIR peak was observed. These surface properties were obtained due to degradation and could be used to explain the interaction between plastics, microbes, and pollutants.

  10. Theoretical study on the electronic and optical properties of bulk and surface (001) InxGa1-xAs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, XueFei; Ding, Zhao; Luo, ZiJiang; Zhou, Xun; Wei, JieMin; Wang, Yi; Guo, Xiang; Lang, QiZhi

    2018-05-01

    The optical properties of surface and bulk InxGa1-xAs materials are compared systematically first time in this paper. The band structures, density of states and optical properties including dielectric function, reflectivity, absorption coefficient, loss function and refractive index of bulk and surface InxGa1-xAs materials are investigated by first-principles based on plane-wave pseudo-potentials method within the LDA approximation. The results agree well with the available theoretical and experimental studies and indicate that the electronic and optical properties of bulk and surface InxGa1-xAs materials are much different, and the results show that the considered optical properties of the both materials vary with increasing indium composition in an opposite way. The calculations show that the optical properties of surface In0.75Ga0.25As material are unexpected to be far from the other two indium compositions of surface InxGa1-xAs materials while the optical properties of bulk InxGa1-xAs materials vary with increasing indium composition in an expected regular way.

  11. Adsorption properties of subtropical and tropical variable charge soils: Implications from climate change and biochar amendment

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

    Xu, Ren-Kou; Qafoku, Nikolla; Van Ranst, Eric

    2016-01-25

    This review paper attempts to summarize the progress made in research efforts conducted over the last years to study the surface chemical properties of the tropical and subtropical soils, usually called variable charge soils, and the way they response to different management practices. The paper is composed of an introductory section that provides a brief discussion on the surface chemical properties of these soils, and five other review sections. The focus of these sections is on the evolution of surface chemical properties during the development of the variable charge properties (second section), interactions between oppositely charged particles and the resultingmore » effects on the soil properties and especially on soil acidity (third section), the surface effects of low molecular weight organic acids sorbed to mineral surfaces and the chemical behavior of aluminum (fourth section), and the crop straw derived biochar induced changes of the surface chemical properties of these soils (fifth section). A discussion on the effect of climate change variables on the properties of the variable charge soils is included at the end of this review paper (sixth section).« less

  12. Cicada Wing Surface Topography: An Investigation into the Bactericidal Properties of Nanostructural Features.

    PubMed

    Kelleher, S M; Habimana, O; Lawler, J; O' Reilly, B; Daniels, S; Casey, E; Cowley, A

    2016-06-22

    Recently, the surface of the wings of the Psaltoda claripennis cicada species has been shown to possess bactericidal properties and it has been suggested that the nanostructure present on the wings was responsible for the bacterial death. We have studied the surface-based nanostructure and bactericidal activity of the wings of three different cicadas (Megapomponia intermedia, Ayuthia spectabile and Cryptotympana aguila) in order to correlate the relationship between the observed surface topographical features and their bactericidal properties. Atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy performed in this study revealed that the tested wing species contained a highly uniform, nanopillar structure on the surface. The bactericidal properties of the cicada wings were investigated by assessing the viability of autofluorescent Pseudomonas fluorescens cells following static adhesion assays and targeted dead/live fluorescence staining through direct microscopic counting methods. These experiments revealed a 20-25% bacterial surface coverage on all tested wing species; however, significant bactericidal properties were observed in the M. intermedia and C. aguila species as revealed by the high dead:live cell ratio on their surfaces. The combined results suggest a strong correlation between the bactericidal properties of the wings and the scale of the nanotopography present on the different wing surfaces.

  13. Perfluoropolyether-Impregnated Mesoporous Alumina Composites Overcome the Dewetting-Tribological Properties Trade-Off.

    PubMed

    Rowthu, Sriharitha; Hoffmann, Patrik

    2018-03-28

    Conventional omniphobic surfaces suffer from wear-sensitivity due to soft apolar coatings or substrates and protruding surface features that are eroded even for mild abrasion treatments, leading to the loss of dewetting properties after wear. Evidently, there was a trade-off between dewetting and tribological properties. Here, we show the establishment of self-healing slippery properties post severe abrasion by utilizing perfluoropolyether-impregnated mesoporous Al 2 O 3 (MPA) composites. The hard polar alumina matrix provides the optimal tribological properties, and the liquid lubricant in the porous network contributes to both tribological and self-healing dewetting properties. These composites sustained normal pressures up to 350 MPa during reciprocating sliding contacts. The severely abraded surfaces are capable of self-replenishing in ambient environment, driven by capillarity and surface diffusion processes, and regained their slippery properties toward water and hexadecane after 15 h of self-healing. Eventually, a dewetting-tribology diagram has been introduced to show different regimes, namely-optimal slippery properties, optimal tribological properties, and a mixed regime). We found out that the microstructural expression [Formula: see text] is a robust guiding tool to predict the regime of interest. This dewetting-tribological diagram may be marked as an inception to designing abrasion-resistant slippery liquid impregnated composites for overcoming the dewetting tribological properties trade-off. Such surfaces may potentially find applications in paint industries and as anti-icing surfaces.

  14. Soil chemical and physical properties that differentiate urban land-use and cover types

    Treesearch

    R.V. Pouyat; I.D. Yesilonis; J. Russell-Anelli; N.K. Neerchal

    2007-01-01

    We investigated the effects of land use and cover and surface geology on soil properties in Baltimore, MD, with the objectives to: (i) measure the physical and chemical properties of surface soils (0?10 cm) by land use and cover; and (ii) ascertain whether land use and cover explain differences in these properties relative to surface geology. Mean and median values of...

  15. Surface segregation of additives on SnO 2 based powders and their relationship with macroscopic properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pereira, Gilberto J.; Castro, Ricardo H. R.; Hidalgo, Pilar; Gouvêa, Douglas

    2002-07-01

    Surface properties of ceramic powders frequently play an important role in producing high-quality, high-performance, and reliable ceramic products. These properties are related to the surface bond types and interactions with the surroundings. Oxide surfaces generally contain adsorbed hydroxyl groups and modifications in the chemical composition of the surface may be studied by infrared spectroscopy. In this work, we prepared SnO 2 containing Fe or Mg ions by organic chemical route derived from Pechini's method. The prepared powders were characterized by infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic electrophoretic mobility and surface area determination. Results demonstrated that the studied additives segregate onto the oxide surface and modify the hydroxyl IR bands of the adsorbed hydroxyl groups. These surface modifications change some macroscopic properties of the powder such as the isoelectric point (IEP) in aqueous suspensions and the final specific surface area. The increase of the surface area with additive concentration is supposedly due to the reduction of surface energy of the powders when additives segregate on the powder surface.

  16. Surface insulating properties of titanium implanted alumina ceramics by plasma immersion ion implantation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhu, Mingdong; Song, Falun; Li, Fei; Jin, Xiao; Wang, Xiaofeng; Wang, Langping

    2017-09-01

    The insulating property of the alumina ceramic in vacuum under high voltage is mainly limited by its surface properties. Plasma immersion ion implantation (PIII) is an effective method to modify the surface chemical and physical properties of the alumina ceramic. In order to improve the surface flashover voltage of the alumina ceramic in vacuum, titanium ions with an energy of about 20 keV were implanted into the surface of the alumina ceramic using the PIII method. The surface properties of the as-implanted samples, such as the chemical states of the titanium, morphology and surface resistivity, were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope and electrometer, respectively. The surface flashover voltages of the as-implanted alumina samples were measured by a vacuum surface flashover experimental system. The XPS spectra revealed that a compound of Ti, TiO2 and Al2O3 was formed in the inner surface of the alumina sample. The electrometer results showed that the surface resistivity of the implanted alumina decreased with increased implantation time. In addition, after the titanium ion implantation, the maximum hold-off voltage of alumina was increased to 38.4 kV, which was 21.5% higher than that of the unimplanted alumina ceramic.

  17. Surface properties of semi-synthetic enteric coating films: Opportunities to develop bio-based enteric coating films for colon- targeted delivery

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    This study investigated the surface properties of the semi-synthetic enteric coating materials for potential colon- targeted bioactive delivery. The enteric coating materials were produced by combining nanoscale resistant starch, pectin, and carboxymethylcellulose. The surface properties of the co...

  18. Influence of surface microroughness by plasma deposition and chemical erosion followed by TiO2 coating upon anticoagulation, hydrophilicity, and corrosion resistance of NiTi alloy stent.

    PubMed

    Wang, Gui-Xue; Shen, Yang; Zhang, He; Quan, Xue-Jun; Yu, Qing-Song

    2008-06-15

    Two different surface modification techniques were used to change the surface morphology and roughness of stents at the micrometer level, and eventually improve their surface adhesion properties with respect to endothelial cells. One was chemical erosion followed by sol-gel TiO(2) coating, and the other was low temperature gas plasma deposition. After surface modification, the biocompatibility including the anticoagulation properties, hydrophilicity, and corrosion resistance of these stents was evaluated. It was found that both techniques could change the surface morphology of the stents with microroughness. In comparison with the control, the treated NiTi alloy intravascular stents showed increased surface hydrophilicity and enhanced anticoagulation properties. However, the corrosion properties of the stents were not improved significantly.

  19. Surface properties of HMX crystal

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Yee, R. Y.; Adicoff, A.; Dibble, E. J.

    1980-01-01

    The surface properties of Beta-HMX crystals were studied. The surface energies of three principal crystal faces were obtained by measuring contact angles with several reference liquids. The surface energies and polarity of the three crystal faces are found to be different.

  20. First principle study of structural, electronic and fermi surface properties of aluminum praseodymium

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shugani, Mani; Aynyas, Mahendra; Sanyal, S. P.

    2018-05-01

    We present a structural, Electronic and Fermi surface properties of Aluminum Praseodymium (AlPr) using First-principles density functional calculation by using full potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method within generalized gradient approximation (GGA). The ground state properties along with electronic and Fermi surface properties are studied. It is found that AlPr is metallic and the bonding between Al and Pr is covalent.

  1. Effects of high-temperature gas dealkalization on surface mechanical properties of float glass

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Senturk, Ufuk

    The surface topography, and the near-surface structure and mechanical property changes on float glass, that was treated in atmospheres containing SOsb2, HCl, and 1,1 difluoroethane (DFE) gases, at temperatures in the glass transition region, were studied. Structure was investigated using surface sensitive infrared spectroscopy techniques (attenuated total reflectance (ATR) and diffuse reflectance (DRIFT)) and the topography was evaluated using atomic force microscopy (AFM). The results obtained from the two FTIR methods were in agreement with each other. Mechanical property characteristics of the surface were determined by measuring microhardness using a recording microindentation set-up. A simple analysis performed on the three hardness calculation methods-LVH, LVHsb2, and Lsb2VH-indicated that LVH and LVHsb2 are less effected by measurement errors and are better suited for the calculation of hardness. Contact damage characteristics of the treated glass was also studied by monitoring the crack initiation behavior during indentation, using acoustic emission. The results of the studies, aiming for the understanding of the structure, topography, and hardness property changes indicate that the treatment parameters-temperature, time, and treatment atmosphere conditions-are significant factors influencing these properties. The analysis of these results suggest a relation to exist between the three properties. This relation is used in understanding the surface mechanical properties of the treated float glasses. The difference in the thermal expansion coefficients between the dealkalized surface and bulk, the nature of surface structure changes, structural relaxation, surface water content, and glass transformation temperature are identified as the major factors having an influence on the properties. A model connecting these features is suggested. A difference in the structure, hardness, and topography on the air and tin sides of float glass is also shown to exist. The contact damage behavior of the treated surfaces is shown to differ from those of untreated surfaces, for SOsb2-treated float glass, where the crack initiation characteristics indicate crack formation from the surface and the indenter tip, different than the expected anomalous deformation. This behavior resembles that of a silica glass deformation on the surface, which is in agreement with the other foundations in this study.

  2. Characterization of the surface properties of epoxy-type models used for multiphase flow studies in fractured media and creation of a new model

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bergslien, Elisa; Fountain, John; Giese, Rossman

    2004-05-01

    Epoxy models have been used as analogs for fractured rock surfaces in many laboratory investigations of multiphase flow processes. However, there is no agreement on how well or poorly such an analog replicates the surface chemistry of geologic materials, nor is there a satisfactory analysis of the surface properties of epoxy. This paper addresses the issue of accurately characterizing the surface chemistry of a typical epoxy used in laboratory multiphase flow studies and comparing that surface to a polystyrene surface and a radio frequency glow discharge treated polystyrene surface. Surface properties were determined using direct contact angle measurements of polar and apolar liquids on flat test samples. The epoxy was determined to have surface properties as follows: γ = 62.3, γLW = 39, γAB = 23.3, γ⊕ = 0, and γ? = 23.3 mJ/m2, where γ is the total surface tension of the solid, γLW is the Lifshitz-van der Waals (LW) surface tension component, γAB is the Lewis acid base (AB) surface tension component, γ? is the electron-donor (negative) parameter, and γ⊕ is the electron-acceptor (positive) parameter. Values of γ? < 27.9 mJ/m2 indicate a hydrophobic surface, which means that epoxy is not a good analog for most geologic materials. This study also explores the use of radio frequency glow discharge plasma to add hydroxyl functionality to polymer surfaces producing a material with alterable surface properties and the same optical and casting properties as epoxy. Using this method, the degree of alteration of the surface chemistry of polymer fracture models can be controlled, allowing the creation of models with a variety of different wettabilities. The resultant models were found to be durable, long lasting, and a potentially very useful alternative to the more typical epoxy models.

  3. Surface Preparation Methods to Enhance Dynamic Surface Property Measurements of Shocked Metal Surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zellner, Michael; McNeil, Wendy; Gray, George, III; Huerta, David; King, Nicholas; Neal, George; Payton, Jeremy; Rubin, Jim; Stevens, Gerald; Turley, William; Buttler, William

    2008-03-01

    This effort investigates surface-preparation methods to enhance dynamic surface-property measurements of shocked metal surfaces. To assess the ability of making reliable and consistent dynamic surface-property measurements, the amount of material ejected from the free-surface upon shock release to vacuum (ejecta) was monitored for shocked Al-1100 and Sn targets. Four surface preparation methods were considered: fly-cut machined finish, diamond-turned machine finish, polished finish, and ball-rolled. The samples were shock loaded by in-contact detonation of HE PBX-9501 on the front-side of the metal coupons. Ejecta production at the back-side or free-side of the metal coupons was monitored using piezoelectric pins, optical shadowgraphy, and x-ray attenuation radiography.

  4. Surface preparation methods to enhance dynamic surface property measurements of shocked metal surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zellner, M. B.; Vogan McNeil, W.; Gray, G. T.; Huerta, D. C.; King, N. S. P.; Neal, G. E.; Valentine, S. J.; Payton, J. R.; Rubin, J.; Stevens, G. D.; Turley, W. D.; Buttler, W. T.

    2008-04-01

    This effort investigates surface-preparation methods to enhance dynamic surface-property measurements of shocked metal surfaces. To assess the ability of making reliable and consistent dynamic surface-property measurements, the amount of material ejected from the free surface upon shock release to vacuum (ejecta) was monitored for shocked Al-1100 and Sn targets. Four surface-preparation methods were considered: Fly-cut machine finish, diamond-turned machine finish, polished finish, and ball rolled. The samples were shock loaded by in-contact detonation of HE PBX-9501 on the front side of the metal coupons. Ejecta production at the back side or free side of the metal coupons was monitored using piezoelectric pins, optical shadowgraphy, and x-ray attenuation radiography.

  5. Effects of atmospheric air plasma treatment on interfacial properties of PBO fiber reinforced composites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Chengshuang; Li, Cuiyun; Wang, Baiya; Wang, Bin; Cui, Hong

    2013-07-01

    Poly(p-phenylene benzobisoxazole) (PBO) fiber was modified by atmospheric air plasma treatment. The effects of plasma treatment power and speed on both surface properties of PBO fibers and interfacial properties of PBO/epoxy composites were investigated. Surface chemical composition of PBO fibers were analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Surface morphologies of the fibers and interface structures of the composites were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Interfacial adhesion property of the composites was evaluated by interlaminar shear strength (ILSS). Mechanical properties of PBO multifilament were measured by universal testing machine. The results indicate that atmospheric air plasma treatment introduced some polar or oxygen-containing groups to PBO fiber surfaces, enhanced surface roughness and changed surface morphologies of PBO fibers by plasma etching and oxidative reactions. The plasma treatment also improved interfacial adhesion of PBO/epoxy composites but has little effect on tensile properties of PBO multifilament. The ILSS of PBO/epoxy composites increased to 40.0 MPa after atmospheric air plasma treatment with plasma treatment power of 300 W and treatment speed of 6 m/min.

  6. Effect of Surface Termination on the Electonic Properties of LaNiO₃ Films

    DOE PAGES

    Kumah, Divine P.; Malashevich, Andrei; Disa, Ankit S.; ...

    2014-11-06

    The electronic and structural properties of thin LaNiO₃ films grown by using molecular beam epitaxy are studied as a function of the net ionic charge of the surface terminating layer. We demonstrate that electronic transport in nickelate heterostructures can be manipulated through changes in the surface termination due to a strong coupling of the surface electrostatic properties to the structural properties of the Ni—O bonds that govern electronic conduction. We observe experimentally and from first-principles theory an asymmetric response of the structural properties of the films to the sign of the surface charge, which results from a strong interplay betweenmore » electrostatic and mechanical boundary conditions governing the system. The structural response results in ionic buckling in the near-surface NiO₂ planes for films terminated with negatively charged NiO₂ and bulklike NiO₂ planes for films terminated with positively charged LaO planes. The ability to modify transport properties by the deposition of a single atomic layer can be used as a guiding principle for nanoscale device fabrication.« less

  7. Oleophobic properties of the step-and-terrace sapphire surface

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Muslimov, A. E.; Butashin, A. V.; Kanevsky, V. M.

    2017-03-01

    Sapphire is widely used in production of optical windows for various devices due to its mechanical and optical properties. However, during operation the surface can be affected by fats, oils, and other organic contaminations. Therefore, it is important to improve the oleophobic properties of sapphire windows. In this study, we investigate the interaction of a supersmooth sapphire surface with oleic acid droplets, which imitate human finger printing. It is established that chemical-mechanical polishing with additional annealing in air, which leads to the formation of an atomically smooth sapphire surface, makes it possible to significantly improve the oleophobic properties of the surface. The results are analyzed using the Ventsel-Deryagin homogeneous wetting model.

  8. Oleophobic properties of the step-and-terrace sapphire surface

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

    Muslimov, A. E., E-mail: amuslimov@mail.ru; Butashin, A. V.; Kanevsky, V. M.

    Sapphire is widely used in production of optical windows for various devices due to its mechanical and optical properties. However, during operation the surface can be affected by fats, oils, and other organic contaminations. Therefore, it is important to improve the oleophobic properties of sapphire windows. In this study, we investigate the interaction of a supersmooth sapphire surface with oleic acid droplets, which imitate human finger printing. It is established that chemical–mechanical polishing with additional annealing in air, which leads to the formation of an atomically smooth sapphire surface, makes it possible to significantly improve the oleophobic properties of themore » surface. The results are analyzed using the Ventsel–Deryagin homogeneous wetting model.« less

  9. Electrochemically induced annealing of stainless-steel surfaces.

    PubMed

    Burstein, G T; Hutchings, I M; Sasaki, K

    2000-10-19

    Modification of the surface properties of metals without affecting their bulk properties is of technological interest in demanding applications where surface stability and hardness are important. When austenitic stainless steel is heavily plastically deformed by grinding or rolling, a martensitic phase transformation occurs that causes significant changes in the bulk and surface mechanical properties of the alloy. This martensitic phase can also be generated in stainless-steel surfaces by cathodic charging, as a consequence of lattice strain generated by absorbed hydrogen. Heat treatment of the steel to temperatures of several hundred degrees can result in loss of the martensitic structure, but this alters the bulk properties of the alloy. Here we show that martensitic structures in stainless steel can be removed by appropriate electrochemical treatment in aqueous solutions at much lower temperature than conventional annealing treatments. This electrochemically induced annealing process allows the hardness of cold-worked stainless steels to be maintained, while eliminating the brittle martensitic phase from the surface. Using this approach, we are able to anneal the surface and near-surface regions of specimens that contain rolling-induced martensite throughout their bulk, as well as those containing surface martensite induced by grinding. Although the origin of the electrochemical annealing process still needs further clarification, we expect that this treatment will lead to further development in enhancing the surface properties of metals.

  10. Improvement of adhesion properties of low density polyethylene (LDPE) substrate using atmospheric plasma

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

    Sanchez-Nacher, L.; Garcia-Sanoguera, D.; Fenollar, O.

    2010-06-02

    In this work we have used atmospheric plasma technology on polyethylene surface with different treatment conditions. These modify surface pre-treatments on polyethylene, thus having a positive effect on overall surface activity of polymer surface and, consequently, adhesion properties can be remarkably improved. We have evaluated the influence of the nozzle/substrate distance and atmospheric plasma speed on wettability changes and adhesion properties. Wettability changes have been studied by contact angle measurements and subsequent surface energy calculation. Mechanical characterization of adhesion joints has been carried out in two different ways: peel and shear tensile test. The overall results show a remarkable increasemore » in mechanical properties of adhesion joints for low nozzle/substrate distances and low speed. So plasma atmospheric technology is highly useful to increase adhesion properties of polypropylene.« less

  11. Hemp reinforced composites: surface treatment, manufacturing method and fabric type effects

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

    Cicala, G.; Cristaldi, G.; Recca, G.

    2010-06-02

    Hemp mats and weaved fabrics were used as received and after surface treatment as reinforcement for composites. Mercerization and amino silane surface treatments improved fibre/matrix adhesion and, as results, the mechanical properties of the composites were also improved. However, if surface treatment was too severe degradation of the mechanical properties of the single fibre was observed and this resulted in a reinforcing efficiency loss. Weaved fabrics obtained from twisted fibres in unidirectional and 0/90 deg. architecture were used. The use of weaved fabrics lead to high improvements of composite mechanical properties despite the absence of fibre's surface treatment. The specimensmore » manufactured by LRTM (Light Resin Transfer Moulding) showed enhanced mechanical properties compared to specimens made by hand lay up. Mechanical models were also used to predict the mechanical properties of the composites.« less

  12. Hemp reinforced composites: surface treatment, manufacturing method and fabric type effects

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cicalạ, G.; Cristaldi, G.; Recca, G.

    2010-06-01

    Hemp mats and weaved fabrics were used as received and after surface treatment as reinforcement for composites. Mercerization and amino silane surface treatments improved fibre/matrix adhesion and, as results, the mechanical properties of the composites were also improved. However, if surface treatment was too severe degradation of the mechanical properties of the single fibre was observed and this resulted in a reinforcing efficiency loss. Weaved fabrics obtained from twisted fibres in unidirectional and 0/90° architecture were used. The use of weaved fabrics lead to high improvements of composite mechanical properties despite the absence of fibre's surface treatment. The specimens manufactured by LRTM (Light Resin Transfer Moulding) showed enhanced mechanical properties compared to specimens made by hand lay up. Mechanical models were also used to predict the mechanical properties of the composites.

  13. 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.

  14. A comparative study of fine polished stainless steel, TiN and TiN/Ag surfaces: adhesion and attachment strength of Listeria monocytogenes as well as anti-listerial effect.

    PubMed

    Skovager, Anne; Whitehead, Kathryn; Wickens, David; Verran, Joanna; Ingmer, Hanne; Arneborg, Nils

    2013-09-01

    Magnetron sputtering was used to produce nanocomposite TiN and TiN/Ag coatings on stainless steel surfaces. The surface chemistry (EDX), physicochemical properties (contact angles), topography and roughness parameters (WLP and AFM) of the fine polished stainless steel (FPSS), TiN and TiN/8.6 at.% Ag surfaces were examined. Real-time initial adhesion of two Listeria monocytogenes strains (EGDe and 64) to the three surfaces was determined under flow conditions, and their attachment strength after adhesion was measured using atomic force microscopy (AFM). The anti-listerial properties of the surfaces were determined using LIVE/DEAD staining. Our results demonstrate that FPSS, TiN and TiN/8.6 at.% Ag possessed different surface properties, which may influence both attachment strength and anti-listerial properties. There were no significant (p>0.05) differences in the initial adhesion of the two L. monocytogenes strains to the three different surfaces. Attachment studies showed that the two L. monocytogenes strains did not attach to FPSS under wetted conditions. However, both strains attached to TiN and TiN/8.6 at.% Ag surfaces, although with less strength to TiN/8.6 at.% Ag than to TiN surfaces. The TiN/8.6 at.% Ag surface showed marked anti-listerial properties as compared with FPSS and TiN. Initial adhesion, attachment strength and anti-listerial properties were found to be strain dependent. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Solid-State Division progress report for period ending March 31, 1983

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

    Green, P.H.; Watson, D.M.

    1983-09-01

    Progress and activities are reported on: theoretical solid-state physics (surfaces; electronic, vibrational, and magnetic properties; particle-solid interactions; laser annealing), surface and near-surface properties of solids (surface, plasma-material interactions, ion implantation and ion-beam mixing, pulsed-laser and thermal processing), defects in solids (radiation effects, fracture, impurities and defects, semiconductor physics and photovoltaic conversion), transport properties of solids (fast-ion conductors, superconductivity, mass and charge transport in materials), neutron scattering (small-angle scattering, lattice dynamics, magnetic properties, structure and instrumentation), and preparation and characterization of research materials (growth and preparative methods, nuclear waste forms, special materials). (DLC)

  16. The properties and applications of nanodiamonds.

    PubMed

    Mochalin, Vadym N; Shenderova, Olga; Ho, Dean; Gogotsi, Yury

    2011-12-18

    Nanodiamonds have excellent mechanical and optical properties, high surface areas and tunable surface structures. They are also non-toxic, which makes them well suited to biomedical applications. Here we review the synthesis, structure, properties, surface chemistry and phase transformations of individual nanodiamonds and clusters of nanodiamonds. In particular we discuss the rational control of the mechanical, chemical, electronic and optical properties of nanodiamonds through surface doping, interior doping and the introduction of functional groups. These little gems have a wide range of potential applications in tribology, drug delivery, bioimaging and tissue engineering, and also as protein mimics and a filler material for nanocomposites.

  17. Electronic and Chemical Properties of a Surface-Terminated Screw Dislocation in MgO

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

    Mckenna, Keith P.

    2013-12-18

    Dislocations represent an important and ubiquitous class of topological defect found at the surfaces of metal oxide materials. They are thought to influence processes as diverse as crystal growth, corrosion, charge trapping, luminescence, molecular adsorption and catalytic activity, however, their electronic and chemical properties remain poorly understood. Here, through a detailed first principles investigation into the properties of a surface terminated screw dislocation in MgO we provide atomistic insight into these issues. We show that surface dislocations can exhibit intriguing electron trapping properties which are important for understanding the chemical and electronic characteristics of oxide surfaces. The results presented inmore » this article taken together with recent experimental reports show that surface dislocations can be equally as important as more commonly considered surface defects, such as steps, kinks and vacanies, but are now just beginning to be understood.« less

  18. Electronic and Chemical Properties of a Surface-Terminated Screw Dislocation in MgO

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Dislocations represent an important and ubiquitous class of topological defect found at the surfaces of metal oxide materials. They are thought to influence processes as diverse as crystal growth, corrosion, charge trapping, luminescence, molecular adsorption, and catalytic activity; however, their electronic and chemical properties remain poorly understood. Here, through a detailed first-principles investigation into the properties of a surface-terminated screw dislocation in MgO we provide atomistic insight into these issues. We show that surface dislocations can exhibit intriguing electron trapping properties which are important for understanding the chemical and electronic characteristics of oxide surfaces. The results presented in this article taken together with recent experimental reports show that surface dislocations can be equally as important as more commonly considered surface defects, such as steps, kinks, and vacancies, but are now just beginning to be understood. PMID:24279391

  19. The Influence of As-Built Surface Conditions on Mechanical Properties of Ti-6Al-4V Additively Manufactured by Selective Electron Beam Melting

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sun, Y. Y.; Gulizia, S.; Oh, C. H.; Fraser, D.; Leary, M.; Yang, Y. F.; Qian, M.

    2016-03-01

    Achieving a high surface finish is a major challenge for most current metal additive manufacturing processes. We report the first quantitative study of the influence of as-built surface conditions on the tensile properties of Ti-6Al-4V produced by selective electron beam melting (SEBM) in order to better understand the SEBM process. Tensile ductility was doubled along with noticeable improvements in tensile strengths after surface modification of the SEBM-fabricated Ti-6Al-4V by chemical etching. The fracture surfaces of tensile specimens with different surface conditions were characterised and correlated with the tensile properties obtained. The removal of a 650- μm-thick surface layer by chemical etching was shown to be necessary to eliminate the detrimental influence of surface defects on mechanical properties. The experimental results and analyses underline the necessity to modify the surfaces of SEBM-fabricated components for structural applications, particularly for those components which contain complex internal concave and convex surfaces and channels.

  20. Effect of surface topographic features on the optical properties of skin: a phantom study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Guangli; Chen, Jianfeng; Zhao, Zuhua; Zhao, Gang; Dong, Erbao; Chu, Jiaru; Xu, Ronald X.

    2016-10-01

    Tissue-simulating phantoms are used to validate and calibrate optical imaging systems and to understand light transport in biological tissue. Light propagation in a strongly turbid medium such as skin tissue experiences multiple scattering and diffuse reflection from the surface. Surface roughness introduces phase shifts and optical path length differences for light which is scattered within the skin tissue and reflected from the surface. In this paper, we study the effect of mismatched surface roughness on optical measurement and subsequent determination of optical properties of skin tissue. A series of phantoms with controlled surface features and optical properties corresponding to normal human skin are fabricated. The fabrication of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) phantoms with known surface roughness follows a standard soft lithography process. Surface roughness of skin-simulating phantoms are measured with Bruker stylus profiler. The diffuse reflectance of the phantom is validated by a UV/VIS spectrophotometer. The results show that surface texture and roughness have considerable influence on the optical characteristics of skin. This study suggests that surface roughness should be considered as an important contributing factor for the determination of tissue optical properties.

  1. Chemical and electrical passivation of Si(1 1 1) surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tian, Fangyuan; Yang, Dan; Opila, Robert L.; Teplyakov, Andrew V.

    2012-01-01

    This paper compares the physical and chemical properties of hydrogen-passivated Si(1 1 1) single crystalline surfaces prepared by two main chemical preparation procedures. The modified RCA cleaning is commonly used to prepare atomically flat stable surfaces that are easily identifiable spectroscopically and are the standard for chemical functionalization of silicon. On the other hand electronic properties of these surfaces are sometimes difficult to control. A much simpler silicon surface preparation procedure includes HF dipping for a short period of time. This procedure yields an atomically rough surface, whose chemical identity is not well-defined. However, the surfaces prepared by this approach often exhibit exceptionally attractive electronic properties as determined by long charge carrier lifetimes. This work utilizes infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to investigate chemical modification of the surfaces prepared by these two different procedures with PCl5 (leading to surface chlorination) and with short- and long-alkyl-chain alkenes (1-decene and 1-octodecene, respectively) and follows the electronic properties of the starting surfaces produced by measuring charge-carrier lifetimes.

  2. Surface chemistry and tribology of MEMS.

    PubMed

    Maboudian, Roya; Carraro, Carlo

    2004-01-01

    The microscopic length scale and high surface-to-volume ratio, characteristic of microelectro-mechanical systems (MEMS), dictate that surface properties are of paramount importance. This review deals with the effects of surface chemical treatments on tribological properties (adhesion, friction, and wear) of MEMS devices. After a brief review of materials and processes that are utilized in MEMS technology, the relevant tribological and chemical issues are discussed. Various MEMS microinstruments are discussed, which are commonly employed to perform adhesion, friction, and wear measurements. The effects of different surface treatments on the reported tribological properties are discussed.

  3. Generating Inviscid and Viscous Fluid-Flow Simulations over an Aircraft Surface Using a Fluid-Flow Mesh

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Rodriguez, David L. (Inventor); Sturdza, Peter (Inventor)

    2013-01-01

    Fluid-flow simulation over a computer-generated aircraft surface is generated using inviscid and viscous simulations. A fluid-flow mesh of fluid cells is obtained. At least one inviscid fluid property for the fluid cells is determined using an inviscid fluid simulation that does not simulate fluid viscous effects. A set of intersecting fluid cells that intersects the aircraft surface are identified. One surface mesh polygon of the surface mesh is identified for each intersecting fluid cell. A boundary-layer prediction point for each identified surface mesh polygon is determined. At least one boundary-layer fluid property for each boundary-layer prediction point is determined using the at least one inviscid fluid property of the corresponding intersecting fluid cell and a boundary-layer simulation that simulates fluid viscous effects. At least one updated fluid property for at least one fluid cell is determined using the at least one boundary-layer fluid property and the inviscid fluid simulation.

  4. Plasma assisted surface treatments of biomaterials.

    PubMed

    Minati, L; Migliaresi, C; Lunelli, L; Viero, G; Dalla Serra, M; Speranza, G

    2017-10-01

    The biocompatibility of an implant depends upon the material it is composed of, in addition to the prosthetic device's morphology, mechanical and surface properties. Properties as porosity and pore size should allow, when required, cells penetration and proliferation. Stiffness and strength, that depend on the bulk characteristics of the material, should match the mechanical requirements of the prosthetic applications. Surface properties should allow integration in the surrounding tissues by activating proper communication pathways with the surrounding cells. Bulk and surface properties are not interconnected, and for instance a bone prosthesis could possess the necessary stiffness and strength for the application omitting out prerequisite surface properties essential for the osteointegration. In this case, surface treatment is mandatory and can be accomplished using various techniques such as applying coatings to the prosthesis, ion beams, chemical grafting or modification, low temperature plasma, or a combination of the aforementioned. Low temperature plasma-based techniques have gained increasing consensus for the surface modification of biomaterials for being effective and competitive compared to other ways to introduce surface functionalities. In this paper we review plasma processing techniques and describe potentialities and applications of plasma to tailor the interface of biomaterials. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. The physics and chemistry of graphene-on-surfaces.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Guoke; Li, Xinming; Huang, Meirong; Zhen, Zhen; Zhong, Yujia; Chen, Qiao; Zhao, Xuanliang; He, Yijia; Hu, Ruirui; Yang, Tingting; Zhang, Rujing; Li, Changli; Kong, Jing; Xu, Jian-Bin; Ruoff, Rodney S; Zhu, Hongwei

    2017-07-31

    Graphene has demonstrated great potential in next-generation electronics due to its unique two-dimensional structure and properties including a zero-gap band structure, high electron mobility, and high electrical and thermal conductivity. The integration of atom-thick graphene into a device always involves its interaction with a supporting substrate by van der Waals forces and other intermolecular forces or even covalent bonding, and this is critical to its real applications. Graphene films on different surfaces are expected to exhibit significant differences in their properties, which lead to changes in their morphology, electronic structure, surface chemistry/physics, and surface/interface states. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the surface/interface properties is of great importance. In this review, we describe the major "graphene-on-surface" structures and examine the roles of their properties and related phenomena in governing the overall performance for specific applications including optoelectronics, surface catalysis, anti-friction and superlubricity, and coatings and composites. Finally, perspectives on the opportunities and challenges of graphene-on-surface systems are discussed.

  6. Applications of asymmetric nanotextured parylene surface using its wetting and transport properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sekeroglu, Koray

    In this thesis, basic digital fluidics devices were introduced using polymeric nanorods (nano-PPX) inspired from nature. Natural inspiration ignited this research by observing butterfly wings, water strider legs, rye grass leaves, and their asymmetric functions. Nano-PPX rods, manufactured by an oblique angle polymerization (OAP) method, are asymmetrically aligned structures that have unidirectional wetting properties. Nano-PPX demonstrates similar functions to the directional textured surfaces of animals and plants in terms of wetting, adhesion, and transport. The water pin-release mechanism on the asymmetric nano-PPX surface with adhesion function provides a great transport property. How the asymmetry causes transport is discussed in terms of hysteresis and interface contact of water droplets. In this study, the transport property of nano-PPX rods is used to guide droplets as well as transporting cargo such as microgels. With the addition of tracks on the nano-PPX rods, the surfaces were transformed into basic digital fluidics devices. The track-assisted nano-PPX has been employed to applications (i.e. sorting, mixing, and carrying cargo particles). Thus, digital fluidics devices fabricated on nano-PPX surface is a promising pathway to assemble microgels in the field of bioengineering. The characterization of the nano textured surface was completed using methods such as Scanning Electron Microscopy, Atomic Force Microscopy, Contact Angle Goniometry, and Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy. These methods helped to understand the physical and chemical properties of nano-PPX. Parameters such as advancing and receding contact angles, nanorod tilt angle, and critical drop volumes were utilized to investigate the anisotropic wetting properties of nano-PPX surface. This investigation explained the directional wetting behavior of the surface as well as approaching new design parameters for adjusting surface properties. The nanorod tilt angle was a key parameter, thus changing the angle provided the surface with essential wetting properties. This adjustment on the nano-PPX surface exhibited excellent control on water droplet transport as well as guided the droplets from desired points to targets. The results demonstrated that it is possible to create railroad-like paths to manipulate the droplet movements by deforming the nano-PPX surface. Controlling physical properties of the surface granted the inspiration for fabricating basic fluidic devices to sort and mix droplets. These devices are promising for assembly purposes in terms of using microgels in engineering applications (i.e. building blocks for bioengineering). The surface has potential for further development to achieve the directed assembly of microgels into close proximity.

  7. The surface properties of carbon fibers and their adhesion to organic polymers

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bascom, W. D.; Drzal, L. T.

    1987-01-01

    The state of knowledge of the surface properties of carbon fibers is reviewed, with emphasis on fiber/matrix adhesion in carbon fiber reinforced plastics. Subjects treated include carbon fiber structure and chemistry, techniques for the study of the fiber surface, polymer/fiber bond strength and its measurement, variations in polymer properties in the interphase, and the influence of fiber matrix adhesion on composite mechanical properties. Critical issues are summarized and search recommendations are made.

  8. Modification of surface properties of copper-refractory metal alloys

    DOEpatents

    Verhoeven, John D.; Gibson, Edwin D.

    1993-10-12

    The surface properties of copper-refractory metal (CU-RF) alloy bodies are modified by heat treatments which cause the refractory metal to form a coating on the exterior surfaces of the alloy body. The alloys have a copper matrix with particles or dendrites of the refractory metal dispersed therein, which may be niobium, vanadium, tantalum, chromium, molybdenum, or tungsten. The surface properties of the bodies are changed from those of copper to that of the refractory metal.

  9. Surface acid-base properties and hydration/dehydration mechanisms of aluminum (hydr)oxides.

    PubMed

    Yang, Xiaofang; Sun, Zhongxi; Wang, Dongsheng; Forsling, Willis

    2007-04-15

    In this paper, surface physiochemical properties of three typical aluminas, gamma-Al(OH)3, gamma-Al2O3, and alpha-Al2O3, were investigated by means of XRD, SEM, TEM, BET surface area, TG/DTA, and potentiometric titration techniques. Based on the titration data, surface protonation and deprotonation constants were determined using the constant capacitance model (CCM). The emphasis of this research was laid on the comparison of the crystal structure, surface hydration/dehydration and acid-base properties of these three typical alumina minerals. The calculation results revealed that the surface acidity of the aluminas is in the order of alpha-Al2O3>gamma-Al(OH)3>gamma-Al2O3 after being hydrated for 1 h. The correlation between the hydration/dehydration mechanisms of alumina and its acid/base properties is discussed.

  10. Surface plasmon resonance and polarization change properties in centrosymmetric nanoright-triangle dimer arrays

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ma, Qilin; Liu, Guangqiang; Chen, Yiqing; Zhao, Qian; Guo, Jing; Yang, Shaosong; Cai, Weiping

    2018-03-01

    Dimer nanoparticles in a sandwich structure exhibit a large electric-field intensity enhancement. The dispersion relation between the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and particle size has not been reported yet, owing to the effects of the particle size, shape, materials, etc. A sandwich structure, which contains a nano-right-triangle dimer array, SiO2 spacer, and Au film, is proposed, with a significant electric-field intensity enhancement and polarization-changing properties. The dependence of the peak positions of the two localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) modes as a function of the triangle thicknesses is discussed; different trends are observed for the different LSPR modes. We introduce a concept on the rule for LSPR peak position change, which can contribute to a better understanding of the LSPR modes. In addition, centrosymmetric but not axisymmetric structures, which like in our study exhibit surface plasmon polaritons typically show different responses to a different polarization of the incident light. Here, we showed that our centrosymmetric but not axisymmetric structure can change the linearly polarized light into a circularly or elliptically polarized wave, by surface plasmon-induced polarization properties. Far-field distribution maps are used to study the properties of the surface plasmons-induced circular or elliptic polarization wave. These findings could be employed to better understand the surface plasmon-induced polarization properties showed in previous reports and near-field of surface plasmons. These findings could be employed to better understand the near-field of surface plasmons and polarization properties.

  11. Dielectric properties of Asteroid Vesta's surface as constrained by Dawn VIR observations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Palmer, Elizabeth M.; Heggy, Essam; Capria, Maria T.; Tosi, Federico

    2015-12-01

    Earth and orbital-based radar observations of asteroids provide a unique opportunity to characterize surface roughness and the dielectric properties of their surfaces, as well as potentially explore some of their shallow subsurface physical properties. If the dielectric and topographic properties of asteroid's surfaces are defined, one can constrain their surface textural characteristics as well as potential subsurface volatile enrichment using the observed radar backscatter. To achieve this objective, we establish the first dielectric model of asteroid Vesta for the case of a dry, volatile-poor regolith-employing an analogy to the dielectric properties of lunar soil, and adjusted for the surface densities and temperatures deduced from Dawn's Visible and InfraRed mapping spectrometer (VIR). Our model suggests that the real part of the dielectric constant at the surface of Vesta is relatively constant, ranging from 2.3 to 2.5 from the night- to day-side of Vesta, while the loss tangent shows slight variation as a function of diurnal temperature, ranging from 6 × 10-3 to 8 × 10-3. We estimate the surface porosity to be ∼55% in the upper meter of the regolith, as derived from VIR observations. This is ∼12% higher than previous estimation of porosity derived from previous Earth-based X- and S-band radar observation. We suggest that the radar backscattering properties of asteroid Vesta will be mainly driven by the changes in surface roughness rather than potential dielectric variations in the upper regolith in the X- and S-band.

  12. Extraction of near-surface properties for a lossy layered medium using the propagator matrix

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Mehta, K.; Snieder, R.; Graizer, V.

    2007-01-01

    Near-surface properties play an important role in advancing earthquake hazard assessment. Other areas where near-surface properties are crucial include civil engineering and detection and delineation of potable groundwater. From an exploration point of view, near-surface properties are needed for wavefield separation and correcting for the local near-receiver structure. It has been shown that these properties can be estimated for a lossless homogeneous medium using the propagator matrix. To estimate the near-surface properties, we apply deconvolution to passive borehole recordings of waves excited by an earthquake. Deconvolution of these incoherent waveforms recorded by the sensors at different depths in the borehole with the recording at the surface results in waves that propagate upwards and downwards along the array. These waves, obtained by deconvolution, can be used to estimate the P- and S-wave velocities near the surface. As opposed to waves obtained by cross-correlation that represent filtered version of the sum of causal and acausal Green's function between the two receivers, the waves obtained by deconvolution represent the elements of the propagator matrix. Finally, we show analytically the extension of the propagator matrix analysis to a lossy layered medium for a special case of normal incidence. ?? 2007 The Authors Journal compilation ?? 2007 RAS.

  13. Heterogeneous Ice Nucleation: Interplay of Surface Properties and Their Impact on Water Orientations.

    PubMed

    Glatz, Brittany; Sarupria, Sapna

    2018-01-23

    Ice is ubiquitous in nature, and heterogeneous ice nucleation is the most common pathway of ice formation. How surface properties affect the propensity to observe ice nucleation on that surface remains an open question. We present results of molecular dynamics studies of heterogeneous ice nucleation on model surfaces. The models surfaces considered emulate the chemistry of kaolinite, an abundant component of mineral dust. We investigate the interplay of surface lattice and hydrogen bonding properties in affecting ice nucleation. We find that lattice matching and hydrogen bonding are necessary but not sufficient conditions for observing ice nucleation at these surfaces. We correlate this behavior to the orientations sampled by the metastable supercooled water in contact with the surfaces. We find that ice is observed in cases where water molecules not only sample orientations favorable for bilayer formation but also do not sample unfavorable orientations. This distribution depends on both surface-water and water-water interactions and can change with subtle modifications to the surface properties. Our results provide insights into the diverse behavior of ice nucleation observed at different surfaces and highlight the complexity in elucidating heterogeneous ice nucleation.

  14. Effect of surface topography and bioactive properties on early adhesion and growth behavior of mouse preosteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells.

    PubMed

    Li, Na; Chen, Gang; Liu, Jue; Xia, Yang; Chen, Hanbang; Tang, Hui; Zhang, Feimin; Gu, Ning

    2014-10-08

    The effects of bioactive properties and surface topography of biomaterials on the adhesion and spreading properties of mouse preosteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells was investigated by preparation of different surfaces. Poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) electrospun fibers (ES) were produced as a porous rough surface. In our study, coverslips were used as a substrate for the immobilization of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) and collagen type I (COL I) in the preparation of bioactive surfaces. In addition, COL I was immobilized onto porous electrospun fibers surfaces (E-COL) to investigate the combined effects of bioactive molecules and topography. Untreated coverslips were used as controls. Early adhesion and growth behavior of MC3T3-E1 cells cultured on the different surfaces were studied at 6, 12, and 24 h. Evaluation of cell adhesion and morphological changes showed that the all the surfaces were favorable for promoting the adhesion and spreading of cells. CCK-8 assays and flow cytometry revealed that both topography and bioactive properties were favorable for cell growth. Analysis of β1, α1, α2, α5, α10 and α11 integrin expression levels by immunofluorescence, real-time RT-PCR, and Western blot and indicated that surface topography plays an important role in the early stage of cell adhesion. However, the influence of topography and bioactive properties of surfaces on integrins is variable. Compared with any of the topographic or bioactive properties in isolation, the combined effect of both types of properties provided an advantage for the growth and spreading of MC3T3-E1 cells. This study provides a new insight into the functions and effects of topographic and bioactive modifications of surfaces at the interface between cells and biomaterials for tissue engineering.

  15. Salt-responsive polyzwitterionic materials for surface regeneration between switchable fouling and antifouling properties.

    PubMed

    Chen, Hong; Yang, Jintao; Xiao, Shengwei; Hu, Rundong; Bhaway, Sarang M; Vogt, Bryan D; Zhang, Mingzhen; Chen, Qiang; Ma, Jie; Chang, Yung; Li, Lingyan; Zheng, Jie

    2016-08-01

    Development of smart regenerative surface is a highly challenging but important task for many scientific and industrial applications. Specifically, very limited research efforts were made for surface regeneration between bio-adhesion and antifouling properties, because bioadhesion and antifouling are the two highly desirable but completely opposite properties of materials. Herein, we developed salt-responsive polymer brushes of poly(3-(1-(4-vinylbenzyl)-1H-imidazol-3-ium-3-yl) propane-1-sulfonate) (polyVBIPS), which can be switched reversibly and repeatedly between protein capture/release and surface wettability in a controllable manner. PolyVBIPS brush has demonstrated its switching ability to resist both protein adsorption from 100% blood plasma/serum and bacterial attachment in multiple cycles. PolyVBIPS brush also exhibits reversible surface wettability from ∼40° to 25° between in PBS and in 1M NaCl solutions in multiple cycles. Overall, the salt-responsive behaviors of polyVBIPS brushes can be interpreted by the "anti-polyelectrolyte effect", i.e. polyVBIPS brushes adopt a collapsed chain conformation at low ionic strengths to achieve surface adhesive, but an extended chain conformation at high ionic strength to realize antifouling properties. We expect that polyVBIPS will provide a simple, robust, and promising system for the fabrication of smart surfaces with biocompatible, reliable, and regenerative properties. Unlike many materials with "one-time switching" capability for surface regeneration, we developed a new regenerative surface of zwitterionic polymer brush, which exhibits a reversible salt-induced switching property between a biomolecule-adhesive state and a biomolecule repellent state in complex media for multiple cycles. PolyVBIPS is easily synthesized and can be straightforward coated on the surface, which provides a simple, robust, and promising system for the fabrication of smart surfaces with biocompatible, reliable, regenerative properties. Copyright © 2016 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Structural properties of TiO2 nanomaterials

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kusior, Anna; Banas, Joanna; Trenczek-Zajac, Anita; Zubrzycka, Paulina; Micek-Ilnicka, Anna; Radecka, Marta

    2018-04-01

    The surface of solids is characterized by active, energy-rich sites that determine physicochemical interaction with gaseous and liquid media and possible applications in photocatalysis. The behavior of materials in such processes is related to their form and amount of various species, especially water and forms of oxygen adsorbed on the surface. The preparation of materials with controlled morphology, which includes modifications of the size, geometry, and composition, is currently an important way of optimizing properties, as many of them depend on not only the size and phase composition, but also on shape. Hydroxylated centers on the surface, which can be treated as trapping sites, are particularly significant. Water adsorbed on the surface bridging hydroxyl groups can distinctly modulate the properties of the surface of titania. The saturation of the surface with hydroxyl groups may improve the photocatalytic properties. TiO2 nanomaterials were obtained via different methods. SEM and TEM analysis were performed to study the morphology. The analysis of XRD and Raman data revealed a phase composition of obtained materials. To examine the surface properties, FTIR absorption spectra of TiO2 nanomaterials were recorded. The photocatalytic activity of titanium dioxide nanoparticles was investigated through the decomposition of methylene blue. It was demonstrated that each surface modification affects the amount of adsorbed hydroxyl groups. The different contributions of the two species to the ν(H2O) FTIR bands for different nanostructures result from the preparation conditions. It was noted that pre-adsorbed water (the surface-bridging hydroxyl) might significantly modulate the surface properties of the material. The increase in hydroxyl group density on the titanium dioxide surface enhances the effectiveness of the photocatalytic processes. It was demonstrated that flower-like titania obtained via hydrothermal synthesis exhibits the weakest catalytic activity, in contrast to the typical spherical TiO2.

  17. Surface mechanical properties of pHEMA contact lenses: viscoelastic and adhesive property changes on exposure to controlled humidity.

    PubMed

    Opdahl, Aric; Kim, Seong H; Koffas, Telly S; Marmo, Chris; Somorjai, Gabor A

    2003-10-01

    The surface mechanical properties of poly(hydroxyethyl)methacrylate (pHEMA)-based contact lenses were monitored as a function of humidity by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Surface viscoelastic and adhesion values were extracted from AFM force versus distance interaction curves and were found to be strongly dependent on the bulk water content of the lens and on the relative humidity. At low relative humidity, 40-50%, the dehydration rate from the surface is faster than the hydration rate from the bulk, leading to a rigid surface region that has mechanical properties similar to those measured on totally dehydrated lenses. At relative humidity values > 60%, the dehydration rate from the lens surface rapidly decreases, leading to higher surface water content and a softer surface region. The results indicate that, in an ocular environment, although the bulk of the pHEMA contact lens is hydrated, the surface region may be in a transition between a dehydrated glassy state and a hydrated rubbery state. Copyright 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 67A: 350-356, 2003

  18. Manipulating Ferroelectrics through Changes in Surface and Interface Properties

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

    Balke, Nina; Ramesh, Ramamoorthy; Yu, Pu

    Ferroelectric materials are used in many applications of modern technologies including information storage, transducers, sensors, tunable capacitors, and other novel device concepts. In many of these applications, the ferroelectric properties, such as switching voltages, piezoelectric constants, or stability of nanodomains, are crucial. For any application, even for material characterization, the material itself needs to be interfaced with electrodes. On the basis of the structural, chemical, and electronic properties of the interfaces, the measured material properties can be determined by the interface. This is also true for surfaces. However, the importance of interfaces and surfaces and their effect on experiments aremore » often neglected, which results in many dramatically different experimental results for nominally identical samples. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the role of the interface and surface properties on internal bias fields and the domain switching process. Here, the nanoscale ferroelectric switching process and the stability of nanodomains for Pb(Zr,Ti)O 3 thin films are investigated by using scanning probe microscopy. Interface and surface properties are modulated through the selection/redesign of electrode materials as well as tuning the surface-near oxygen vacancies, which both can result in changes of the electric fields acting across the sample, and consequently this controls the measured ferroelectric and domain retention properties. By understanding the role of surfaces and interfaces, ferroelectric properties can be tuned to eliminate the problem of asymmetric domain stability by combining the effects of different electrode materials. Lastly, this study forms an important step toward integrating ferroelectric materials in electronic devices.« less

  19. Manipulating Ferroelectrics through Changes in Surface and Interface Properties

    DOE PAGES

    Balke, Nina; Ramesh, Ramamoorthy; Yu, Pu

    2017-10-23

    Ferroelectric materials are used in many applications of modern technologies including information storage, transducers, sensors, tunable capacitors, and other novel device concepts. In many of these applications, the ferroelectric properties, such as switching voltages, piezoelectric constants, or stability of nanodomains, are crucial. For any application, even for material characterization, the material itself needs to be interfaced with electrodes. On the basis of the structural, chemical, and electronic properties of the interfaces, the measured material properties can be determined by the interface. This is also true for surfaces. However, the importance of interfaces and surfaces and their effect on experiments aremore » often neglected, which results in many dramatically different experimental results for nominally identical samples. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the role of the interface and surface properties on internal bias fields and the domain switching process. Here, the nanoscale ferroelectric switching process and the stability of nanodomains for Pb(Zr,Ti)O 3 thin films are investigated by using scanning probe microscopy. Interface and surface properties are modulated through the selection/redesign of electrode materials as well as tuning the surface-near oxygen vacancies, which both can result in changes of the electric fields acting across the sample, and consequently this controls the measured ferroelectric and domain retention properties. By understanding the role of surfaces and interfaces, ferroelectric properties can be tuned to eliminate the problem of asymmetric domain stability by combining the effects of different electrode materials. Lastly, this study forms an important step toward integrating ferroelectric materials in electronic devices.« less

  20. Impact of surface coal mining on soil hydraulic properties

    Treesearch

    X. Liu; J. Q. Wu; P. W. Conrad; S. Dun; C. S. Todd; R. L. McNearny; William Elliot; H. Rhee; P. Clark

    2016-01-01

    Soil erosion is strongly related to soil hydraulic properties. Understanding how surface coal mining affects these properties is therefore important in developing effective management practices to control erosion during reclamation. To determine the impact of mining activities on soil hydraulic properties, soils from undisturbed areas, areas of roughly graded mine...

  1. The Properties and Applications of Nanodiamonds.

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

    Mochalin, Vadym N.; Shenderova, Olga; Ho, Dean

    Nanodiamonds have excellent mechanical and optical properties, high surface areas and tunable surface structures. They are also non-toxic, which makes them well suited to biomedical applications. Here we review the synthesis, structure, properties, surface chemistry and phase transformations of individual nanodiamonds and clusters of nanodiamonds. In particular we discuss the rational control of the mechanical, chemical, electronic and optical properties of nanodiamonds through surface doping, interior doping and the introduction of functional groups. These little gems have a wide range of potential applications in tribology, drug delivery, bioimaging and tissue engineering, and also as protein mimics and a filler materialmore » for nanocomposites.« less

  2. The properties and applications of nanodiamonds.

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

    Mochalin, Vadym; Shenderova, Olga; Ho, Dean

    Nanodiamonds have excellent mechanical and optical properties, high surface areas and tunable surface structures. They are also non-toxic, which makes them well suited to biomedical applications. Here we review the synthesis, structure, properties, surface chemistry and phase transformations of individual nanodiamonds and clusters of nanodiamonds. In particular we discuss the rational control of the mechanical, chemical, electronic and optical properties of nanodiamonds through surface doping, interior doping and the introduction of functional groups. These little gems have a wide range of potential applications in tribology, drug delivery, bioimaging and tissue engineering, and also as protein mimics and a filler materialmore » for nanocomposites.« less

  3. 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).

  4. Lunar surface engineering properties experiment definition

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mitchell, J. K.; Goodman, R. E.; Hurlbut, F. C.; Houston, W. N.; Willis, D. R.; Witherspoon, P. A.; Hovland, H. J.

    1971-01-01

    Research on the mechanics of lunar soils and on developing probes to determine the properties of lunar surface materials is summarized. The areas of investigation include the following: soil simulation, soil property determination using an impact penetrometer, soil stabilization using urethane foam or phenolic resin, effects of rolling boulders down lunar slopes, design of borehole jack and its use in determining failure mechanisms and properties of rocks, and development of a permeability probe for measuring fluid flow through porous lunar surface materials.

  5. Manipulation of fluids in three-dimensional porous photonic structures with patterned surface properties

    DOEpatents

    Aizenberg, Joanna; Burgess, Ian B.; Mishchenko, Lidiya; Hatton, Benjamin; Loncar, Marko

    2016-03-08

    A three-dimensional porous photonic structure, whose internal pore surfaces can be provided with desired surface properties in a spatially selective manner with arbitrary patterns, and methods for making the same are described. When exposed to a fluid (e.g., via immersion or wicking), the fluid can selectively penetrate the regions of the structure with compatible surface properties. Broad applications, for example in security, encryption and document authentication, as well as in areas such as simple microfluidics and diagnostics, are anticipated.

  6. Fermi surface properties of NbAs2 studied by de Haas-van Alphen oscillation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Singha, Ratnadwip; Mandal, Prabhat

    2018-04-01

    We have grown high quality single crystal of NbAs2, a member of the transition metal dipnictide family and measured magnetotransport properties. Very large magnetoresistance ˜1.3×105 % has been observed at 2 K with 9 T magnetic field. The Fermi surface properties have been studied by de Haas-van Alphen oscillation technique. The Fermi surface is highly anisotropic and consists of multiple Fermi pockets. From quantum oscillation results, different Fermi surface related parameters have been quantified.

  7. Manipulation of fluids in three-dimensional porous photonic structures with patterned surface properties

    DOEpatents

    Aizenberg, Joanna; Burgess, Ian; Mishchenko, Lidiya; Hatton, Benjamin; Loncar, Marko

    2017-12-26

    A three-dimensional porous photonic structure, whose internal pore surfaces can be provided with desired surface properties in a spatially selective manner with arbitrary patterns, and methods for making the same are described. When exposed to a fluid (e.g., via immersion or wicking), the fluid can selectively penetrate the regions of the structure with compatible surface properties. Broad applications, for example in security, encryption and document authentication, as well as in areas such as simple microfluidics and diagnostics, are anticipated.

  8. The Impact of Cloud Properties on Young Sea Ice during Three Winter Storms at N-ICE2015

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Murphy, S. Y.; Walden, V. P.; Cohen, L.; Hudson, S. R.

    2017-12-01

    The impact of clouds on sea ice varies significantly as cloud properties change. Instruments deployed during the Norwegian Young Sea Ice field campaign (N-ICE2015) are used to study how differing cloud properties influence the cloud radiative forcing at the sea ice surface. N-ICE2015 was the first campaign in the Arctic winter since SHEBA (1997/1998) to study the surface energy budget of sea ice and the associated effects of cloud properties. Cloud characteristics, surface radiative and turbulent fluxes, and meteorological properties were measured throughout the field campaign. Here we explore how cloud macrophysical and microphysical properties affect young, thin sea ice during three winter storms from 31 January to 15 February 2015. This time period is of interest due to the varying surface and atmospheric conditions, which showcase the variety of conditions the newly-formed sea ice can experience during the winter. This period was characterized by large variations in the ice surface and near-surface air temperatures, with highs near 0°C when warm, moist air was advected into the area and lows reaching -40°C during clear, calm periods between storms. The advection of warm, moist air into the area influenced the cloud properties and enhanced the downwelling longwave flux. For most of the period, downwelling longwave flux correlates closely with the air temperature. However, at the end of the first storm, a drop in downwelling longwave flux of about 50 Wm-2 was observed, independent of any change in surface or air temperature or cloud fraction, indicating a change in cloud properties. Lidar data show an increase in cloud height during this period and a potential shift in cloud phase from ice to mixed-phase. This study will describe the cloud properties during the three winter storms and discuss their impacts on surface energy budget.

  9. Asteroid surface processes: Experimental studies of the solar wind on reflectance and optical properties of asteroids

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mcfadden, Lucy-Ann

    1991-01-01

    The effect of the solar wind on the optical properties of meteorites was studied to determine whether the solar wind can alter the properties of ordinary chondrite parent bodies resulting in the spectral properties of S-type asteroids. The existing database of optical properties of asteroids was analyzed to determine the effect of solar wind in altering asteroid surface properties.

  10. Examining the Uppermost Surface of the Moon

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Noble, Sarah K.

    2010-01-01

    Understanding the properties of the uppermost lunar surface is critical as it is the optical surface that is probed by remote-sensing data, like that which is and will be generated by instruments on orbiting missions (e.g. M3, LRO). The uppermost material is also the surface with which future lunar astronauts and their equipment will be in direct contact, and thus understanding its properties will be important for dust mitigation and toxicology issues. Furthermore, exploring the properties of this uppermost surface may provide insight into conditions at this crucial interface, such as grain charging and levitation

  11. Application of modern surface analytical tools in the investigation of surface deterioration processes

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Buckley, D. H.

    1983-01-01

    Surface profilometry and scanning electron microscopy were utilized to study changes in the surface of polymers when eroded. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and depth profile analysis indicate the corrosion of metal and ceramic surfaces and reveal the diffusion of certain species into the surface to produce a change in mechanical properties. Ion implantation, nitriding and plating and their effects on the surface are characterized. Auger spectroscopy analysis identified morphological properties of coatings applied to surfaces by sputter deposition.

  12. Superhydrophobic surfaces

    DOEpatents

    Wang, Evelyn N; McCarthy, Matthew; Enright, Ryan; Culver, James N; Gerasopoulos, Konstantinos; Ghodssi, Reza

    2015-03-24

    Surfaces having a hierarchical structure--having features of both microscale and nanoscale dimensions--can exhibit superhydrophobic properties and advantageous condensation and heat transfer properties. The hierarchical surfaces can be fabricated using biological nanostructures, such as viruses as a self-assembled nanoscale template.

  13. Study on the surface constitute properties of high-speed end milling aluminum alloy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Huang, Xiaoming; Li, Hongwei; Yumeng, Ma

    2017-09-01

    The physical and mechanical properties of the metal surface will change after the metal cutting processing. The comprehensive study of the influence of machining parameters on surface constitute properties are necessary. A high-speed milling experiment by means of orthogonal method with four factors was conducted for aluminum alloy7050-T7451. The surface constitutive properties of the Al-Alloy surface were measured using SSM-B4000TM stress-strain microprobe system. Based on all the load-depth curves obtained, the characteristics parameters such as strain hardening exponent n and yield strength σy of the milling surface are calculated. The effect of cutting speed, feed rate, and width and depth of cut on n and σy was investigated using the ANOVA techniques. The affecting degree of milling parameters on n and σy was v>fz> ap < ae. The influence of milling parameters on n and σ y was described and discussed.

  14. Definition and effect of chemical properties of surfaces in friction, wear, and lubrication

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Buckley, D. H.

    1978-01-01

    Chemical properties relative to their role in adhesion, friction, wear and lubrication discussed in this paper will include: (1) adsorption, both physical and chemical; (2) orientation of the solid as well as the lubricant; (3) surface energy; (4) surface segregation; (5) surface versus bulk metallurgical effects; (6) electronic nature of the surface; and (7) bonding mechanisms.

  15. Microstructure evolution and tribological properties of acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber surface modified by atmospheric plasma treatment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shen, Ming-xue; Zhang, Zhao-xiang; Peng, Xu-dong; Lin, Xiu-zhou

    2017-09-01

    For the purpose of prolonging the service life for rubber sealing elements, the frictional behavior of acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) surface by dielectric barrier discharge plasma treatments was investigated in this paper. Surface microstructure and chemical composition were measured by atomic force microscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, respectively. Water contact angles of the modified rubber surface were also measured to evaluate the correlation between surface wettability and tribological properties. The results show that plasma treatments can improve the properties of the NBR against friction and wear effectively, the surface microstructure and roughness of plasma-modified NBR surface had an important influence on the surface tribological behavior, and the wear depth first decreased and then increased along with the change of plasma treatment time. It was found that the wettability of the modified surface was gradually improved, which was mainly due to the change of the chemical composition after the treatment. This study suggests that the plasma treatment could effectively improve the tribological properties of the NBR surface, and also provides information for developing wear-resistant NBR for industrial applications.

  16. Use of radiation in biomaterials science

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Benson, Roberto S.

    2002-05-01

    Radiation is widely used in the biomaterials science for surface modification, sterilization and to improve bulk properties. Radiation is also used to design of biochips, and in situ photopolymerizable of bioadhesives. The energy sources most commonly used in the irradiation of biomaterials are high-energy electrons, gamma radiation, ultraviolet (UV) and visible light. Surface modification involves placement of selective chemical moieties on the surface of a material by chemical reactions to improve biointeraction for cell adhesion and proliferation, hemocompatibility and water absorption. The exposure of a polymer to radiation, especially ionizing radiation, can lead to chain scission or crosslinking with changes in bulk and surface properties. Sterilization by irradiation is designed to inactivate most pathogens from the surface of biomedical devices. An overview of the use of gamma and UV radiation to improve surface tissue compatibility, bulk properties and surface properties for wear resistance, formation of hydrogels and curing dental sealants and bone adhesives is presented. Gamma and vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) irradiated ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) exhibit improvement in surface modulus and hardness. The surface modulus and hardness of UHMWPE showed a dependence on type of radiation, dosage and processing. VUV surface modified e-PTFE vascular grafts exhibit increases in hydrophilicity and improvement towards adhesion of fibrin glue.

  17. [Influence of surface chemical properties and pore structure characteristics of activated carbon on the adsorption of nitrobenzene from aqueous solution].

    PubMed

    Liu, Shou-Xin; Chen, Xi; Zhang, Xian-Quan

    2008-05-01

    Commercial activated carbon was treated by HNO3 oxidation and then subsequently heat treated under N2 atmosphere. Effect of surface chemical properties and pore structure on the adsorption performance of nitrobenzene was investigated. N2/77K adsorption isotherm and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to characterize the pore structure and surface morphology of carbon. Boehm titration, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), the point of zero charge (pH(PZC)) measurement and elemental analysis were used to characterize the surface properties. The results reveal that HNO3 oxidation can modify the surface chemical properties, increase the number of acidic surface oxygen-containing groups and has trivial effect on the pore structure of carbon. Further heat treatment can cause the decomposition of surface oxygen-containing groups, and increase the external surface area and the number of mesopores. Adsorption capacity of nitrobenzene on AC(NO-T), AC(raw) and AC(NO) was 1011.31, 483.09 and 321.54 mg x g(-1), respectively. Larger external surface area and the number of meso-pores, together with the less acid surface oxygen-containing groups were the main reason for the larger adsorption capacity AC(NO-T).

  18. Modulation of protein stability and aggregation properties by surface charge engineering.

    PubMed

    Raghunathan, Govindan; Sokalingam, Sriram; Soundrarajan, Nagasundarapandian; Madan, Bharat; Munussami, Ganapathiraman; Lee, Sun-Gu

    2013-09-01

    An attempt to alter protein surface charges through traditional protein engineering approaches often affects the native protein structure significantly and induces misfolding. This limitation is a major hindrance in modulating protein properties through surface charge variations. In this study, as a strategy to overcome such a limitation, we attempted to co-introduce stabilizing mutations that can neutralize the destabilizing effect of protein surface charge variation. Two sets of rational mutations were designed; one to increase the number of surface charged amino acids and the other to decrease the number of surface charged amino acids by mutating surface polar uncharged amino acids and charged amino acids, respectively. These two sets of mutations were introduced into Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) together with or without stabilizing mutations. The co-introduction of stabilizing mutations along with mutations for surface charge modification allowed us to obtain functionally active protein variants (s-GFP(+15-17) and s-GFP(+5-6)). When the protein properties such as fluorescent activity, folding rate and kinetic stability were assessed, we found the possibility that the protein stability can be modulated independently of activity and folding by engineering protein surface charges. The aggregation properties of GFP could also be altered through the surface charge engineering.

  19. Influence of packing density and surface roughness of vertically-aligned carbon nanotubes on adhesive properties of gecko-inspired mimetics.

    PubMed

    Chen, Bingan; Zhong, Guofang; Oppenheimer, Pola Goldberg; Zhang, Can; Tornatzky, Hans; Esconjauregui, Santiago; Hofmann, Stephan; Robertson, John

    2015-02-18

    We have systematically studied the macroscopic adhesive properties of vertically aligned nanotube arrays with various packing density and roughness. Using a tensile setup in shear and normal adhesion, we find that there exists a maximum packing density for nanotube arrays to have adhesive properties. Too highly packed tubes do not offer intertube space for tube bending and side-wall contact to surfaces, thus exhibiting no adhesive properties. Likewise, we also show that the surface roughness of the arrays strongly influences the adhesion properties and the reusability of the tubes. Increasing the surface roughness of the array strengthens the adhesion in the normal direction, but weakens it in the shear direction. Altogether, these results allow progress toward mimicking the gecko's vertical mobility.

  20. Surface properties of anatase TiO2 nanowire films grown from a fluoride-containing solution.

    PubMed

    Berger, Thomas; Anta, Juan A; Morales-Flórez, Víctor

    2013-06-03

    Controlling the surface chemistry of nucleating seeds during wet-chemical synthesis allows for the preparation of morphologically well-defined nanostructures. Synthesis conditions play a key role in the surface properties, which directly affect the functional properties of the material. Therefore, it is important to establish post-synthesis treatments to facilitate the optimization of surface properties with respect to a specific application, without losing the morphological peculiarity of the nanostructure. We studied the surface properties of highly crystalline and porous anatase TiO2 nanowire (NW) electrodes, grown by chemical-bath deposition in fluoride-containing solutions, using a combined electrochemical and spectroscopic approach. As-deposited films showed low capacity for catechol adsorption and a poor photoelectrocatalytic activity for water oxidation. Mild thermal annealing at 200 °C resulted in a significant improvement of the electrode photoelectrocatalytic activity, whereas the bulk properties of the NWs (crystal structure, band-gap energy) remained unchanged. Enhancement of the functional properties of the material is discussed on the basis of adsorption capacity and electronic properties. The temperature-induced decrease of recombination centers, along with the concomitant increase of adsorption and reaction sites upon thermal annealing are called to be responsible for such improved performance. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  1. Surface properties for α-cluster nuclear matter

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Castro, J. J.; Soto, J. R.; Yépez, E.

    2013-03-01

    We introduce a new microscopic model for α-cluster matter, which simulates the properties of ordinary nuclear matter and α-clustering in a curved surface of a large but finite nucleus. The model is based on a nested icosahedral fullerene-like multiple-shell structure, where each vertex is occupied by a microscopic α-particle. The novel aspect of this model is that it allows a consistent description of nuclear surface properties from microscopic parameters to be made without using the leptodermous expansion. In particular, we show that the calculated surface energy is in excellent agreement with the corresponding coefficient of the Bethe-Weizäcker semi-empirical mass formula. We discuss the properties of the surface α-cluster state, which resembles an ultra cold bosonic quantum gas trapped in an optical lattice. By comparing the surface and interior states we are able to estimate the α preformation probability. Possible extensions of this model to study nuclear dynamics through surface vibrations and departures from approximate sphericity are mentioned.

  2. Mesoscopic modeling of structural and thermodynamic properties of fluids confined by rough surfaces.

    PubMed

    Terrón-Mejía, Ketzasmin A; López-Rendón, Roberto; Gama Goicochea, Armando

    2015-10-21

    The interfacial and structural properties of fluids confined by surfaces of different geometries are studied at the mesoscopic scale using dissipative particle dynamics simulations in the grand canonical ensemble. The structure of the surfaces is modeled by a simple function, which allows us to simulate readily different types of surfaces through the choice of three parameters only. The fluids we have modeled are confined either by two smooth surfaces or by symmetrically and asymmetrically structured walls. We calculate structural and thermodynamic properties such as the density, temperature and pressure profiles, as well as the interfacial tension profiles for each case and find that a structural order-disorder phase transition occurs as the degree of surface roughness increases. However, the magnitude of the interfacial tension is insensitive to the structuring of the surfaces and depends solely on the magnitude of the solid-fluid interaction. These results are important for modern nanotechnology applications, such as in the enhanced recovery of oil, and in the design of porous materials with specifically tailored properties.

  3. High-Resolution Structural and Electronic Properties of Epitaxial Topological Crystalline Insulator Films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dagdeviren, Omur; Zhou, Chao; Zou, Ke; Simon, Georg; Albright, Stephen; Mandal, Subhasish; Morales-Acosta, Mayra; Zhu, Xiaodong; Ismail-Beigi, Sohrab; Walker, Frederick; Ahn, Charles; Schwarz, Udo; Altman, Eric

    Revealing the local electronic properties of surfaces and their link to structural properties is an important problem for topological crystalline insulators (TCI) in which metallic surface states are protected by crystal symmetry. The microstructure and electronic properties of TCI SnTe film surfaces grown by molecular beam epitaxy were characterized using scanning probe microscopy. These results reveal the influence of various defects on the electronic properties: tilt boundaries leading to dislocation arrays that serve as periodic nucleation sites for pit growth; screw dislocations, and point defects. These features have varying length scale and display variations in the electronic structure of the surface, which are mapped with scanning tunneling microscopy images as standing waves superimposed on atomic scale images of the surface topography that consequently shape the wave patterns. Since the growth process results in symmetry breaking defects that patterns the topological states, we propose that the scanning probe tip can pattern the surface and electronic structure and enable the fabrication of topological devices on the SnTe surface. Financial support from the National Science Foundation through the Yale Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (Grant No. MRSEC DMR-1119826) and FAME.

  4. Recent Progress on Stability and Passivation of Black Phosphorus.

    PubMed

    Abate, Yohannes; Akinwande, Deji; Gamage, Sampath; Wang, Han; Snure, Michael; Poudel, Nirakar; Cronin, Stephen B

    2018-05-11

    From a fundamental science perspective, black phosphorus (BP) is a canonical example of a material that possesses fascinating surface and electronic properties. It has extraordinary in-plane anisotropic electrical, optical, and vibrational states, as well as a tunable band gap. However, instability of the surface due to chemical degradation in ambient conditions remains a major impediment to its prospective applications. Early studies were limited by the degradation of black phosphorous surfaces in air. Recently, several robust strategies have been developed to mitigate these issues, and these novel developments can potentially allow researchers to exploit the extraordinary properties of this material and devices made out of it. Here, the fundamental chemistry of BP degradation and the tremendous progress made to address this issue are extensively reviewed. Device performances of encapsulated BP are also compared with nonencapsulated BP. In addition, BP possesses sensitive anisotropic photophysical surface properties such as excitons, surface plasmons/phonons, and topologically protected and Dirac semi-metallic surface states. Ambient degradation as well as any passivation method used to protect the surface could affect the intrinsic surface properties of BP. These properties and the extent of their modifications by both the degradation and passivation are reviewed. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

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

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

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

    2009-05-01

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

  6. Atmospheric sensitivity to land surface changes: comparing the impact of albedo, roughness, and evaporative resistance on near-surface air temperature using an idealized land model.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lague, M. M.; Swann, A. L. S.; Bonan, G. B.

    2017-12-01

    Past studies have demonstrated how changes in vegetation can impact the atmosphere; however, it is often difficult to identify the exact physical pathway through which vegetation changes drive an atmospheric response. Surface properties (such as vegetation color, or height) control surface energy fluxes, which feed back on the atmosphere on both local and global scales by modifying temperatures, cloud cover, and energy gradients. Understanding how land surface properties influence energy fluxes is crucial for improving our understanding of how vegetation change - past, present, and future - impacts the atmosphere, global climate, and people. We explore the sensitivity of the atmosphere to perturbations of three land surface properties - albedo, roughness, and evaporative resistance - using an idealized land model coupled to an Earth System Model. We derive a relationship telling us how large a change in each surface property is required to drive a local 0.1 K change in 2m air temperature. Using this idealized framework, we are able to separate the influence on the atmosphere of each individual surface property. We demonstrate that the impact of each surface property on the atmosphere is spatially variable - that is, a similar change in vegetation can have different climate impacts if made in different locations. This analysis not only improves our understanding of how the land system can influence climate, but also provides us with a set of theoretical limits on the potential climate impact of arbitrary vegetation change (natural or anthropogenic).

  7. Effects of ice crystal surface roughness and air bubble inclusions on cirrus cloud radiative properties from remote sensing perspective

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tang, Guanglin; Panetta, R. Lee; Yang, Ping; Kattawar, George W.; Zhai, Peng-Wang

    2017-07-01

    We study the combined effects of surface roughness and inhomogeneity on the optical scattering properties of ice crystals and explore the consequent implications to remote sensing of cirrus cloud properties. Specifically, surface roughness and inhomogeneity are added to the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) collection 6 (MC6) cirrus cloud particle habit model. Light scattering properties of the new habit model are simulated using a modified version of the Improved Geometric Optics Method (IGOM). Both inhomogeneity and surface roughness affect the single scattering properties significantly. In visible bands, inhomogeneity and surface roughness both tend to smooth the phase function and eliminate halos and the backscattering peak. The asymmetry parameter varies with the degree of surface roughness following a U shape - decreases and then increases - with a minimum at around 0.15, whereas it decreases monotonically with the air bubble volume fraction. Air bubble inclusions significantly increase phase matrix element -P12 for scattering angles between 20°-120°, whereas surface roughness has a much weaker effect, increasing -P12 slightly from 60°-120°. Radiative transfer simulations and cirrus cloud property retrievals are conducted by including both the factors. In terms of surface roughness and air bubble volume fraction, retrievals of cirrus cloud optical thickness or the asymmetry parameter using solar bands show similar patterns of variation. Polarimetric simulations using the MC6 cirrus cloud particle habit model are shown to be more consistent with observations when both surface roughness and inhomogeneity are simultaneously considered.

  8. ASDIR-II. Volume II. Program Description

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1975-01-01

    in ASDIR. INPUT: Engine description, gas properties and case definition (See ASDIR-II, Volume I, User’s Manual). OIWPUT: Primarily the information...conditions Special surface cooling flow conditions Exhaust system surface properties The predictions provided by the progi un for the combination of a...nonattenuated by the atmosphere Optional exhaust system information which can be requested from the program is: Internal fluid flow properties Surface

  9. The planet Mercury (1971)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1972-01-01

    The physical properties of the planet Mercury, its surface, and atmosphere are presented for space vehicle design criteria. The mass, dimensions, mean density, and orbital and rotational motions are described. The gravity field, magnetic field, electromagnetic radiation, and charged particles in the planet's orbit are discussed. Atmospheric pressure, temperature, and composition data are given along with the surface composition, soil mechanical properties, and topography, and the surface electromagnetic and temperature properties.

  10. Differences in rates of decrease of environmental radiation dose rates by ground surface property in Fukushima City after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident.

    PubMed

    Kakamu, Takeyasu; Kanda, Hideyuki; Tsuji, Masayoshi; Kobayashi, Daisuke; Miyake, Masao; Hayakawa, Takehito; Katsuda, Shin-ichiro; Mori, Yayoi; Okouchi, Toshiyasu; Hazama, Akihiro; Fukushima, Tetsuhito

    2013-01-01

    After the Great East Japan Earthquake on 11 March 2011, the environmental radiation dose in Fukushima City increased. On 11 April, 1 mo after the earthquake, the environmental radiation dose rate at various surfaces in the same area differed greatly by surface property. Environmental radiation measurements continue in order to determine the estimated time to 50% reduction in environmental radiation dose rates by surface property in order to make suggestions for decontamination in Fukushima. The measurements were carried out from 11 April to 11 November 2011. Forty-eight (48) measurement points were selected, including four kinds of ground surface properties: grass (13), soil (5), artificial turf (7), and asphalt (23). Environmental radiation dose rate was measured at heights of 100 cm above the ground surface. Time to 50% reduction of environmental radiation dose rates was estimated for each ground surface property. Radiation dose rates on 11 November had decreased significantly compared with those on 11 April for all surface properties. Artificial turf showed the longest time to 50% reduction (544.32 d, standard error: 96.86), and soil showed the shortest (213.20 d, standard error: 35.88). The authors found the environmental radiation dose rate on artificial materials to have a longer 50% reduction time than that on natural materials. These results contribute to determining an order of priority for decontamination after nuclear disasters.

  11. 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.

  12. Derivation of Mars Surface Scattering Properties from OMEGA Spot Pointing Observations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pinet, P. C.; Daydou, Y.; Cord, A.; Chevrel, S. C.; Poulet, F.; Erard, S.; Bibring, J.-P.; Langevin, Y.; Melchiorri, R.; Bellucci, G.; Altieri, F.; Arvidson, R. E.; OMEGA Co-Investigator Team

    2005-03-01

    OMEGA emission phase function (EPF) observation shows that one may access from orbit to geology-driven surface scattering properties such as surface roughness. It has implications for spectroscopic interpretation and for CRISM observations to come.

  13. Acellular assessments of engineered-manufactured nanoparticle biological surface reactivity

    EPA Science Inventory

    It is critical to assess the surface properties and reactivity of engineered-manufactured nanoparticles (NPs) as these will influence their interactions with biological systems, biokinetics and toxicity. We examined the physicochemical properties and surface reactivity of metal o...

  14. Tailoring the surface properties of polypropylene films through cold atmospheric pressure plasma (CAPP) assisted polymerization and immobilization of biomolecules for enhancement of anti-coagulation activity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Navaneetha Pandiyaraj, K.; Ram Kumar, M. C.; Arun Kumar, A.; Padmanabhan, P. V. A.; Deshmukh, R. R.; Bah, M.; Ismat Shah, S.; Su, Pi-Guey; Halleluyah, M.; Halim, A. S.

    2016-05-01

    Enhancement of anti-thrombogenic properties of polypropylene (PP) to avert the adsorption of plasma proteins (fibrinogen and albumin), adhesion and activation of the platelets are very important for vast biomedical applications. The cold atmospheric pressure plasma (CAPP) assisted polymerization has potential to create the specific functional groups such as Osbnd Cdbnd O, Cdbnd O, Csbnd N and Ssbnd S. on the surface of polymeric films using selective precursor in vapour phase to enhance anti-thrombogenic properties. Such functionalized polymeric surfaces would be suitable for various biomedical applications especially to improve the blood compatibility. The eventual aspiration of the present investigation is to develop the biofunctional coating onto the surface of PP films using acrylic acid (AAc) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a precursor in a vapour phase by incorporating specific functional groups for immobilization of biomolecules such as heparin (HEP), chitosan (CHI) and insulin (INS) on the surface of plasma modified PP films. The surface properties such as hydrophilicity, chemical composition, surface topography of the surface modified PP films were analyzed by contact angle (CA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photo electron spectroscopy (XPS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Furthermore the anti-thrombogenic properties of the surface modified PP films were studied by in vitro tests which include platelet adhesion and protein adsorption analysis. It was found that the anti-thrombogenic properties of the PP films are effectively controlled by the CAPP grafting of AAc and PEG followed by immobilization of biomolecules of heparin, chitosan and insulin. The grafting and immobilization was confirmed by FTIR and XPS through the recognition of specific functional groups such as COOH, Csbnd O, Ssbnd S and Csbnd N. on the surface of PP film. Furthermore, the surface morphology and hydrophilic nature of the PP films also tailored significantly by the successful grafting and immobilization which is confirmed by AFM and CA analysis. Owing to the physico-chemical changes on the surface of PP films induced by CAPP assisted polymerization, the anti-thrombogenic properties of PP films were enhanced as confirmed by in vitro analysis.

  15. Lunar and Planetary Science XXXV: Mars: Surface Coatings, Mineralogy, and Surface Properties

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    2004-01-01

    The session "Mars: Surface Coatings, Mineralogy, and Surface Properties" contained the following reports:High-Silica Rock Coatings: TES Surface-Type 2 and Chemical Weathering on Mars; Old Desert Varnish-like Coatings and Young Breccias at the Mars Pathfinder Landing Site; Analyses of IR-Stealthy and Coated Surface Materials: A Comparison of LIBS and Reflectance Spectra and Their Application to Mars Surface Exploration; Contrasting Interpretations of TES Spectra of the 2003 Rover:Opportunity-Landing Site: Hematite Coatings and Gray Hematite; A New Hematite Formation Mechanism for Mars; Geomorphic and Diagenetic Analogs to Hematite Regions on Mars: Examples from Jurassic Sandstones of Southern Utah, USA; The Geologic Record of Early Mars: A Layered, Cratered, and "Valley-"ed: Volume; A Simple Approach to Estimating Surface Emissivity with THEMIS; A Large Scale Topographic Correction for THEMIS Data; Thermophysical Properties of Meridiani Planum, Mars; Thermophysical and Spectral Properties of Gusev, the MER-Spirit Landing Site on Mars; Determining Water Content of Geologic Materials Using Reflectance Spectroscopy; and Global Mapping of Martian Bound Water at 6.1 Microns Based on TES Data: Seasonal Hydration.

  16. Tribological properties of fish scale inspired underwater superoleophobic hierarchical structure in aqueous environment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lian, Zhongxu; Xu, Jinkai; Wan, Yanling; Li, Yiquan; Yu, Zhanjiang; Liu, Qimeng; Yu, Huadong

    2017-10-01

    Underwater superoleophobic surfaces are becoming increasingly important in regard to self-cleaning, anti-fouling, oil droplet transportation and water/oil separation. Although a great number of underwater superoleophobic surfaces have been demonstrated, their tribological properties remain impractical for the purposes of real-life applications. Herein, a two-step method of high speed wire electrical discharge machining and boiling water treatment was adopted to fabricate fish scale inspired underwater oil repellent hierarchical structure on an aluminum (Al) alloy 5083 surface. The hierarchical roughness and hydroxyl groups were obtained on the surface, and the surface exhibited the ability to prevent contact with organic fluids when submerged in water. Moreover, the tribological properties of underwater superoleophobic Al surfaces in aqueous environments were analyzed. The average friction coefficient of underwater superoleophobic surfaces was decreased compared with the polished Al surface. We believe that this research will contribute to the engineering application of underwater superoleophobic surfaces in the future.

  17. Color heterogeneity of the surface of Phobos - Relationships to geologic features and comparison to meteorite analogs

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Murchie, Scott L.; Britt, Daniel T.; Head, James W.; Pratt, Stephen F.; Fisher, Paul C.

    1991-01-01

    Color ratio images created from multispectral observations of Phobos are analyzed in order to characterize the spectral properties of Phobos' surface, to assess their spatial distributions and relationships with geologic features, and to compare Phobos' surface materials with possible meteorite analogs. Data calibration and processing is briefly discussed, and the observed spectral properties of Phobos and their lateral variations are examined. Attention is then given to the color properties of different types of impact craters, the origin of lateral variations in surface color, the relation between the spatial distribution of color properties and independently identifiable geologic features, and the relevance of color variation spatial distribution to the origin of the grooves.

  18. 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.

  19. Effects of Surface Modification on the Mechanical Properties of Flax/β-Polypropylene Composites

    PubMed Central

    Wu, Chang-Mou; Lai, Wen-You; Wang, Chen-Yu

    2016-01-01

    The effects of surface treatment of flax fibers featuring vinyltrimethoxy silane (VTMO) and maleic anhydride-polypropylene (MAPP) on the mechanical properties of flax/PP composites were investigated. α-polypropylene (α-PP) and β-polypropylene (β-PP) were used as matrices for measuring the mechanical properties of the flax fiber/polypropylene (flax/PP) composites. Flax/PP composites composed of double-covered uncommingled yarn (DCUY) were prepared using a film-stacking technique. The influence of surface treatment on the tensile, flexural, impact, and water uptake properties of Flax/PP composites were investigated. MAPP treatment was suitable for flax/PP composites in terms of superior tensile and impact properties. VTMO treatment showed superior flexural properties and less influence on the impact properties after moisture absorption. PMID:28773439

  20. Volume and Surface Properties of a Bismuth-Containing Separating Nickel Melt

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Filippov, K. S.

    2017-11-01

    The influence of a bismuth impurity on the properties of solid and liquid alloys in the concentration range that obeys Henry's law is considered. The structural and physicochemical properties, specifically, the density and the surface tension, of real melts are studied on relatively pure metals. The changes in the properties of the melts are estimated from changes in the temperature dependences of the density and the surface tension upon heating and cooling and in the concentration dependences of these parameters at a constant temperature. These dependences exhibit a correlation between the volume and surface properties of the melts: the density and the surface tension increase or decrease simultaneously. The introduction of bismuth in the nickel melt is accompanied by the appearance of a relatively strong compression effect (i.e., a decrease in the melt volume). At a certain bismuth content in the melt, the compression effect weakens because of the appearance of an excess phase or its associates and melt separation.

  1. A short review of radiation-induced raft-mediated graft copolymerization: A powerful combination for modifying the surface properties of polymers in a controlled manner

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barsbay, Murat; Güven, Olgun

    2009-12-01

    Surface grafting of polymeric materials is attracting increasing attention as it enables the preparation of new materials from known and commercially available polymers having desirable bulk properties such as thermal stability, elasticity, permeability, etc., in conjunction with advantageous newly tailored surface properties such as biocompatibility, biomimicry, adhesion, etc. Ionizing radiation, particularly γ radiation is one of the most powerful tools for preparing graft copolymers as it generates radicals on most substrates. With the advent of living free-radical polymerization techniques, application of γ radiation has been extended to a new era of grafting; grafting in a controlled manner to achieve surfaces with tailored and well-defined properties. This report presents the current use of γ radiation in living free-radical polymerization and highlights the use of both techniques together as a combination to present an advance in the ability to prepare surfaces with desired, tunable and well-defined properties.

  2. Effect of chitosan and cationic starch on the surface chemistry properties of bagasse paper.

    PubMed

    Ashori, Alireza; Cordeiro, Nereida; Faria, Marisa; Hamzeh, Yahya

    2013-07-01

    The use of non-wood fibers in the paper industry has been an economical and environmental necessity. The application of dry-strength agents has been a successful method to enhance the strength properties of paper. The experimental results evidencing the potential of chitosan and cationic starch utilization in bagasse paper subjected to hot water pre-extraction has been presented in this paper. The research analyzes the surface properties alterations due to these dry-strength agents. Inverse gas chromatography was used to evaluate the properties of surface chemistry of the papers namely the surface energy, active sites, surface area as well as the acidic/basic character. The results of the study revealed that the handsheets process causes surface arrangement and orientation of chemical groups, which induce a more hydrophobic and basic surface. The acid-base surface characteristics after the addition of dry-strength agents were the same as the bagasse handsheets with and without hot water pre-extraction. The results showed that the dry-strength agent acts as a protecting film or glaze on the surfaces of bagasse paper handsheets. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Modifying the anti-wetting property of butterfly wings and water strider legs by atomic layer deposition coating: surface materials versus geometry.

    PubMed

    Ding, Yong; Xu, Sheng; Zhang, Yue; Wang, Aurelia C; Wang, Melissa H; Xiu, Yonghao; Wong, Ching Ping; Wang, Zhong Lin

    2008-09-03

    Although butterfly wings and water strider legs have an anti-wetting property, their working conditions are quite different. Water striders, for example, live in a wet environment and their legs need to support their weight and bear the high pressure during motion. In this work, we have focused on the importance of the surface geometrical structures in determining their performance. We have applied an atomic layer deposition technique to coat the surfaces of both butterfly wings and water strider legs with a uniform 30 nm thick hydrophilic Al(2)O(3) film. By keeping the surface material the same, we have studied the effect of different surface roughness/structure on their hydrophobic property. After the surface coating, the butterfly wings changed to become hydrophilic, while the water strider legs still remained super-hydrophobic. We suggest that the super-hydrophobic property of the water strider is due to the special shape of the long inclining spindly cone-shaped setae at the surface. The roughness in the surface can enhance the natural tendency to be hydrophobic or hydrophilic, while the roughness in the normal direction of the surface is favorable for forming a composite interface.

  4. Effects of surface properties on droplet formation inside a microfluidic device

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Steinhaus, Ben; Shen, Amy

    2004-11-01

    Micro-fluidic devices offer a unique method of creating and controlling droplets on small length scales. A microfluidic device is used to study the effects of surface properties on droplet formation of a 2-phase flow system. Four phase diagrams are generated to compare the dynamics of the 2 immiscible fluid system (silicone oil and water) inside microchannels with different surface properties. Results show that the channel surface plays an important role in determining the flow patterns and the droplet formation of the 2-phase fluid system.

  5. CoBOP: Microbial Biofilms: A Parameter Altering the Apparent Optical Properties of Sediments, Seagrasses and Surfaces

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2002-09-30

    CoBOP: Microbial Biofilms: A Parameter Altering the Apparent Optical Properties of Sediments, Seagrasses and Surfaces Alan W. Decho Department...TITLE AND SUBTITLE CoBOP: Microbial Biofilms: A Parameter Altering the Apparent Optical Properties of Sediments, Seagrasses and Surfaces 5a. CONTRACT...structures produced by bacteria. Their growth appears to depend on biofilm processes and light distributions ( photosynthesis ). Therefore, the data acquired

  6. CoBOP: Microbial Biofilms: A Parameter Altering the Apparent Optical Properties of Sediments, Seagrasses and Surfaces

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2003-09-30

    CoBOP: MICROBIAL BIOFILMS: A PARAMETER ALTERING THE APPARENT OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF SEDIMENTS, SEAGRASSES AND SURFACES. Alan W. Decho Department...AND SUBTITLE CoBOP: Microbial Biofilms: A Parameter Altering The Apparent Optical Properties Of Sediments, Seagrasses And Surfaces 5a. CONTRACT...biofilm processes and light distributions ( photosynthesis ). Therefore, the data acquired from this project will be closely paired with results of

  7. Water at surfaces with tunable surface chemistries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sanders, Stephanie E.; Vanselous, Heather; Petersen, Poul B.

    2018-03-01

    Aqueous interfaces are ubiquitous in natural environments, spanning atmospheric, geological, oceanographic, and biological systems, as well as in technical applications, such as fuel cells and membrane filtration. Where liquid water terminates at a surface, an interfacial region is formed, which exhibits distinct properties from the bulk aqueous phase. The unique properties of water are governed by the hydrogen-bonded network. The chemical and physical properties of the surface dictate the boundary conditions of the bulk hydrogen-bonded network and thus the interfacial properties of the water and any molecules in that region. Understanding the properties of interfacial water requires systematically characterizing the structure and dynamics of interfacial water as a function of the surface chemistry. In this review, we focus on the use of experimental surface-specific spectroscopic methods to understand the properties of interfacial water as a function of surface chemistry. Investigations of the air-water interface, as well as efforts in tuning the properties of the air-water interface by adding solutes or surfactants, are briefly discussed. Buried aqueous interfaces can be accessed with careful selection of spectroscopic technique and sample configuration, further expanding the range of chemical environments that can be probed, including solid inorganic materials, polymers, and water immiscible liquids. Solid substrates can be finely tuned by functionalization with self-assembled monolayers, polymers, or biomolecules. These variables provide a platform for systematically tuning the chemical nature of the interface and examining the resulting water structure. Finally, time-resolved methods to probe the dynamics of interfacial water are briefly summarized before discussing the current status and future directions in studying the structure and dynamics of interfacial water.

  8. Measurement of adhesion properties between topcoat paint and metallized/galvanized steel with surface energy measurement equipment.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2013-09-01

    The objectives of this research project are: (1) Compare the adhesion properties of NEPCOAT-approved topcoat paint over : metallized or galvanized steel. Use surface-energy measuring technique to characterize the wetting properties of the liqui...

  9. Design, development and applications of novel techniques for studying surface mechanical properties

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Miyoshi, Kazuhisa

    1989-01-01

    Research is reviewed for the adhesion, friction, and micromechanical properties of materials and examples of the results presented. The ceramic and metallic materials studied include silicon carbide, aluminum oxide, and iron-base amorphous alloys. The design and operation of a torsion balance adapted for study of adhesion from the Cavendish balance are discussed first. The pull-off force (adhesion) and shear force (friction) required to break the interfacial junctions between contacting surfaces of the materials were examined at various temperatures in a vacuum. The surface chemistry of the materials was analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Properties and environmental conditions of the surface regions which affect adhesion and friction-such as surface segregation, composition, crystal structure, surface chemistry, and temperature were also studied.

  10. Preliminary study of the effect of the turbulent flow field around complex surfaces on their acoustic characteristics

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Olsen, W. A.; Boldman, D.

    1978-01-01

    Fundamental theories for noise generated by flow over surfaces exist for only a few simple configurations. The role of turbulence in noise generation by complex surfaces should be essentially the same as for simple configurations. Examination of simple-surface theories indicates that the spatial distributions of the mean velocity and turbulence properties are sufficient to define the noise emission. Measurements of these flow properties were made for a number of simple and complex surfaces. The configurations were selected because of their acoustic characteristics are quite different. The spatial distribution of the turbulent flow properties around the complex surfaces and approximate theory are used to locate and describe the noise sources, and to qualitatively explain the varied acoustic characteristics.

  11. Surface charge control for zwitterionic polymer brushes: Tailoring surface properties to antifouling applications.

    PubMed

    Guo, Shanshan; Jańczewski, Dominik; Zhu, Xiaoying; Quintana, Robert; He, Tao; Neoh, Koon Gee

    2015-08-15

    Electrostatic interactions play an important role in adhesion phenomena particularly for biomacromolecules and microorganisms. Zero charge valence of zwitterions has been claimed as the key to their antifouling properties. However, due to the differences in the relative strength of their acid and base components, zwitterionic materials may not be charge neutral in aqueous environments. Thus, their charge on surfaces should be further adjusted for a specific pH environment, e.g. physiological pH typical in biomedical applications. Surface zeta potential for thin polymeric films composed of polysulfobetaine methacrylate (pSBMA) brushes is controlled through copolymerizing zwitterionic SBMA and cationic methacryloyloxyethyltrimethyl ammonium chloride (METAC) via surface-initiated atom transfer polymerization. Surface properties including zeta potential, roughness, free energy and thickness are measured and the antifouling performance of these surfaces is assessed. The zeta potential of pSBMA brushes is -40 mV across a broad pH range. By adding 2% METAC, the zeta potential of pSBMA can be tuned to zero at physiological pH while minimally affecting other physicochemical properties including dry brush thickness, surface free energy and surface roughness. Surfaces with zero and negative zeta potential best resist fouling by bovine serum albumin, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Surfaces with zero zeta potential also reduce fouling by lysozyme more effectively than surfaces with negative and positive zeta potential. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. LiNbO3 surfaces from a microscopic perspective

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sanna, Simone; Gero Schmidt, Wolf

    2017-10-01

    A large number of oxides has been investigated in the last twenty years as possible new materials for various applications ranging from opto-electronics to heterogeneous catalysis. In this context, ferroelectric oxides are particularly promising. The electric polarization plays a crucial role at many oxide surfaces, and it largely determines their physical and chemical properties. Ferroelectrics offer in addition the possibility to control/switch the electric polarization and hence the surface chemistry, allowing for the realization of domain-engineered nanoscale devices such as molecular detectors or highly efficient catalysts. Lithium niobate (LiNbO3) is a ferroelectric with a high spontaneous polarization, whose surfaces have a huge and largely unexplored potential. Owing to recent advances in experimental techniques and sample preparation, peculiar and exclusive properties of LiNbO3 surfaces could be demonstrated. For example, water films freeze at different temperatures on differently polarized surfaces, and the chemical etching properties of surfaces with opposite polarization are strongly different. More important, the ferroelectric domain orientation affects temperature dependent surface stabilization mechanisms and molecular adsorption phenomena. Various ab initio theoretical investigations have been performed in order to understand the outcome of these experiments and the origin of the exotic behavior of the lithium niobate surfaces. Thanks to these studies, many aspects of their surface physics and chemistry could be clarified. Yet other puzzling features are still not understood. This review gives a résumé on the present knowledge of lithium niobate surfaces, with a particular view on their microscopic properties, explored in recent years by means of ab initio calculations. Relevant aspects and properties of the surfaces that need further investigation are briefly discussed. The review is concluded with an outlook of challenges and potential payoff for LiNbO3 based applications.

  13. Preparation, anti-biofouling and drag-reduction properties of a biomimetic shark skin surface

    PubMed Central

    Pu, Xia; Li, Guangji; Huang, Hanlu

    2016-01-01

    ABSTRACT Shark skin surfaces show non-smoothness characteristics due to the presence of a riblet structure. In this study, biomimetic shark skin was prepared by using the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-embedded elastomeric stamping (PEES) method. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to examine the surface microstructure and fine structure of shark skin and biomimetic shark skin. To analyse the hydrophobic mechanism of the shark skin surface microstructure, the effect of biomimetic shark skin surface microstructure on surface wettability was evaluated by recording water contact angle. Additionally, protein adhesion experiments and anti-algae adhesion performance testing experiments were used to investigate and evaluate the anti-biofouling properties of the surface microstructure of biomimetic shark skin. The recorded values of the water contact angle of differently microstructured surfaces revealed that specific microstructures have certain effects on surface wettability. The anti-biofouling properties of the biomimetic shark skin surface with microstructures were superior to a smooth surface using the same polymers as substrates. Moreover, the air layer fixed on the surface of the biomimetic shark skin was found to play a key role in their antibiont adhesion property. An experiment into drag reduction was also conducted. Based on the experimental results, the microstructured surface of the prepared biomimetic shark skin played a significant role in reducing drag. The maximum of drag reduction rate is 12.5%, which is higher than the corresponding maximum drag reduction rate of membrane material with a smooth surface. PMID:26941105

  14. Preparation, anti-biofouling and drag-reduction properties of a biomimetic shark skin surface.

    PubMed

    Pu, Xia; Li, Guangji; Huang, Hanlu

    2016-04-15

    Shark skin surfaces show non-smoothness characteristics due to the presence of a riblet structure. In this study, biomimetic shark skin was prepared by using the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-embedded elastomeric stamping (PEES) method. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to examine the surface microstructure and fine structure of shark skin and biomimetic shark skin. To analyse the hydrophobic mechanism of the shark skin surface microstructure, the effect of biomimetic shark skin surface microstructure on surface wettability was evaluated by recording water contact angle. Additionally, protein adhesion experiments and anti-algae adhesion performance testing experiments were used to investigate and evaluate the anti-biofouling properties of the surface microstructure of biomimetic shark skin. The recorded values of the water contact angle of differently microstructured surfaces revealed that specific microstructures have certain effects on surface wettability. The anti-biofouling properties of the biomimetic shark skin surface with microstructures were superior to a smooth surface using the same polymers as substrates. Moreover, the air layer fixed on the surface of the biomimetic shark skin was found to play a key role in their antibiont adhesion property. An experiment into drag reduction was also conducted. Based on the experimental results, the microstructured surface of the prepared biomimetic shark skin played a significant role in reducing drag. The maximum of drag reduction rate is 12.5%, which is higher than the corresponding maximum drag reduction rate of membrane material with a smooth surface. © 2016. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

  15. Spatially selective modification of PLLA surface: From hydrophobic to hydrophilic or to repellent

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bastekova, Kristina; Guselnikova, Olga; Postnikov, Pavel; Elashnikov, Roman; Kunes, Martin; Kolska, Zdenka; Švorčík, Vaclav; Lyutakov, Oleksiy

    2017-03-01

    A universal approach to controlled surface modification of polylactic acid (PLLA) films using diazonium chemistry was proposed. The multistep procedure includes surface activation of PLLA by argon plasma treatment and chemical activation of arenediazonium tosylates by NaBH4. The surface of PLLA film was grafted with different functional organic groups (OFGs), changing the PLLA surface properties (wettability, morphology, zeta potential, chemical composition, and mechanical response). Three approaches of OFG grafting were examined: (i) plasma treatment following by PLLA immersion into diazonium salt aqueous solution; (ii) grafting of PLLA surface through the reaction with chemically created aryl radicals; (iii) mutual combination of both methods The best results were achieved in the last case, where the previous plasma treatment was combined with further reaction of PLLA surface with generated aryl radicals. Using this method PLLA surface was successfully grafted with amino, carboxyl, aliphatic and fluorinated OFGs. Further investigation of surface properties from potential biological and medical points of view was performed using zeta potential, biodegradation and biofouling tests. It was shown that proposed technique allows preparation of biorepellent or bioabsorptive surfaces, tuning of PLLA biodegradation rate and nanomechanical properties, as well as the introduction of inverse properties (such as hydrophilic and hydrophobic) on both sides of PLLA films.

  16. A review of the surface features and properties, surfactant adsorption and floatability of four key minerals of diasporic bauxite resources.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Ningning; Nguyen, Anh V; Zhou, Changchun

    2018-04-01

    Diasporic bauxite represents one of the major aluminum resources. Its upgrading for further processing involves a separation of diaspore (the valuable mineral) from aluminosilicates (the gangue minerals) such as kaolinite, illite, and pyrophyllite. Flotation is one of the most effective ways to realize the upgrading. Since flotation is a physicochemical process based on the difference in the surface hydrophobicity of different components, determining the adsorption characteristics of various flotation surfactants on the mineral surfaces is critical. The surfactant adsorption properties of the minerals, in turn, are controlled by the surface chemistry of the minerals, while the latter is related to the mineral crystal structures. In this paper, we first discuss the crystal structures of the four key minerals of diaspore, kaolinite, illite, and pyrophyllite as well as the broken bonds on their exposed surfaces after grinding. Next, we summarize the surface chemistry properties such as surface wettability and surface electrical properties of the four minerals, and the differences in these properties are explained from the perspective of mineral crystal structures. Then we review the adsorption mechanism and adsorption characteristics of surfactants such as collectors (cationic, anionic, and mixed surfactants), depressants (inorganic and organic), dispersants, and flocculants on these mineral surfaces. The separation of diaspore and aluminosilicates by direct flotation and reverse flotation are reviewed, and the collecting properties of different types of collectors are compared. Furthermore, the abnormal behavior of the cationic flotation of kaolinite is also explained in this section. This review provides a strong theoretical support for the optimization of the upgrading of diaspore bauxite ore by flotation and the early industrialization of the reverse flotation process. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Differential Geometry Applied To Least-Square Error Surface Approximations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bolle, Ruud M.; Sabbah, Daniel

    1987-08-01

    This paper focuses on extraction of the parameters of individual surfaces from noisy depth maps. The basis for this are least-square error polynomial approximations to the range data and the curvature properties that can be computed from these approximations. The curvature properties are derived using the invariants of the Weingarten Map evaluated at the origin of local coordinate systems centered at the range points. The Weingarten Map is a well-known concept in differential geometry; a brief treatment of the differential geometry pertinent to surface curvature is given. We use the curvature properties for extracting certain surface parameters from the curvature properties of the approximations. Then we show that curvature properties alone are not enough to obtain all the parameters of the surfaces; higher order properties (information about change of curvature) are needed to obtain full parametric descriptions. This surface parameter estimation problem arises in the design of a vision system to recognize 3D objects whose surfaces are composed of planar patches and patches of quadrics of revolution. (Quadrics of revolution are quadrics that are surfaces of revolution.) A significant portion of man-made objects can be modeled using these surfaces. The actual process of recognition and parameter extraction is framed as a set of stacked parameter space transforms. The transforms are "stacked" in the sense that any one transform computes only a partial geometric description that forms the input to the next transform. Those who are interested in the organization and control of the recognition and parameter recognition process are referred to [Sabbah86], this paper briefly touches upon the organization, but concentrates mainly on geometrical aspects of the parameter extraction.

  18. Laser modification of macroscopic properties of metal surface layer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kostrubiec, Franciszek

    1995-03-01

    Surface laser treatment of metals comprises a number of diversified technological operations out of which the following can be considered the most common: oxidation and rendering surfaces amorphous, surface hardening of steel, modification of selected physical properties of metal surface layers. In the paper basic results of laser treatment of a group of metals used as base materials for electric contacts have been presented. The aim of the study was to test the usability of laser treatment from the viewpoint of requirements imposed on materials for electric contacts. The results presented in the paper refer to two different surface treatment technologies: (1) modification of infusible metal surface layer: tungsten and molybdenum through laser fusing of their surface layer and its crystallization, and (2) modification of surface layer properties of other metals through laser doping of their surface layer with foreign elements. In the paper a number of results of experimental investigations obtained by the team under the author's supervision are presented.

  19. Influence of Laser Shock Texturing on W9 Steel Surface Friction Property

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fan, Yujie; Cui, Pengfei; Zhou, Jianzhong; Dai, Yibin; Guo, Erbin; Tang, Deye

    2017-09-01

    To improve surface friction property of high speed steel, micro-dent arrays on W9Mo3Cr4V surface were produced by laser shock processing. Friction test was conducted on smooth surface and texturing surface and effect of surface texturing density on friction property was studied. The results show that, under the same condition, friction coefficient of textured surface is lower than smooth surface with dent area density less than 6%, wear mass loss, width and depth of wear scar are smaller; Wear resistance of the surface is the best and the friction coefficient is the smallest when dent area density is 2.2%; Friction coefficient, wear mass loss, width and depth of wear scar increase correspondingly as density of dent area increases when dent area density is more than 2.2%. Abrasive wear and adhesive wear, oxidative wear appear in the wear process. Reasonable control of geometric parameters of surface texturing induced by laser shock processing is helpful to improve friction performance.

  20. Impact of surface porosity and topography on the mechanical behavior of high strength biomedical polymers.

    PubMed

    Evans, Nathan T; Irvin, Cameron W; Safranski, David L; Gall, Ken

    2016-06-01

    The ability to control the surface topography of orthopedic implant materials is desired to improve osseointegration but is often at the expense of mechanical performance in load bearing environments. Here we investigate the effects of surface modifications, roughness and porosity, on the mechanical properties of a set of polymers with diverse chemistry and structure. Both roughness and surface porosity resulted in samples with lower strength, failure strain and fatigue life due to stress concentrations at the surface; however, the decrease in ductility and fatigue strength were greater than the decrease in monotonic strength. The fatigue properties of the injection molded polymers did not correlate with yield strength as would be traditionally observed in metals. Rather, the fatigue properties and the capacity to maintain properties with the introduction of surface porosity correlated with the fracture toughness of the polymers. Polymer structure impacted the materials relative capacity to maintain monotonic and cyclic properties in the face of surface texture and porosity. Generally, amorphous polymers with large ratios of upper to lower yield points demonstrated a more significant drop in ductility and fatigue strength with the introduction of porosity compared to crystalline polymers with smaller ratios in their upper to lower yield strength. The latter materials have more effective dissipation mechanisms to minimize the impact of surface porosity on both monotonic and cyclic damage. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. PREFACE: 13th International Conference on Metrology and Properties of Engineering Surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Leach, Richard

    2011-08-01

    The 13th International Conference on Metrology and Properties of Engineering Surfaces focused on the progress in surface metrology, surface characterisation instrumentation and properties of engineering surfaces. The conference provided an international forum for academics, industrialists and engineers from different disciplines to meet and exchange their ideas, results and latest research. The conference was held at Twickenham Stadium, situated approximately six miles from Heathrow Airport and approximately three miles from the National Physical Laboratory (NPL). This was the thirteenth in the very successful series of conferences, which have firmly established surface topography as a new and exciting interdisciplinary field of scientific and technological studies. Scientific Themes: Surface, Micro and Nano Metrology Measurement and Instrumentation Metrology for MST Devices Freeform Surface Measurement and Characterisation Uncertainty, Traceability and Calibration AFM/SPM Metrology Tribology and Wear Phenomena Functional Applications Stylus and Optical Instruments

  2. Application of atomic force microscopy to microbial surfaces: from reconstituted cell surface layers to living cells.

    PubMed

    Dufrêne, Y F

    2001-02-01

    The application of atomic force microscopy (AFM) to probe the ultrastructure and physical properties of microbial cell surfaces is reviewed. The unique capabilities of AFM can be summarized as follows: imaging surface topography with (sub)nanometer lateral resolution; examining biological specimens under physiological conditions; measuring local properties and interaction forces. AFM is being used increasingly for: (i) visualizing the surface ultrastructure of microbial cell surface layers, including bacterial S-layers, purple membranes, porin OmpF crystals and fungal rodlet layers; (ii) monitoring conformational changes of individual membrane proteins; (iii) examining the morphology of bacterial biofilms, (iv) revealing the nanoscale structure of living microbial cells, including fungi, yeasts and bacteria, (v) mapping interaction forces at microbial surfaces, such as van der Waals and electrostatic forces, solvation forces, and steric/bridging forces; and (vi) probing the local mechanical properties of cell surface layers and of single cells.

  3. Evaluating the Effects of Surface Properties on Methane Detection with the Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer Next Generation (AVIRIS-NG)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ayasse, A.; Thorpe, A. K.; Roberts, D. A.; Aubrey, A. D.; Dennison, P. E.; Thompson, D. R.; Frankenberg, C.

    2016-12-01

    Atmospheric methane has been increasing since the industrial revolution and is thought to be responsible for about 25% of global radiative forcing (Hofman et al., 2006; Montzka et al., 2011). Given the importance of methane to global climate, it is essential that we identify methane sources to better understand the proportion of emissions coming from various sectors. Recently the Airborne Visible-Infrared Imaging Spectrometer Next Generation (AVIRIS-NG) has proven to be a valuable instrument for mapping methane plumes (Frankenberg et al., 2016; Thorpe et al., 2016; Thompson et al., 2015). However, it is important to determine how land cover and albedo affect the ability of AVIRIS-NG to detect methane. This study aims to quantify the effect these surface properties have on detection. To do so we are using a synthetic AVIRIS-NG image that has multiple land cover types, albedos, and methane concentrations and applying the Cluster Tunes Matched Filter (CTMF) algorithm (Funk et al. 2001, Thorpe et al., 2013) to detect methane enhancements within the image. CTMF results are compared to the surface properties to characterize how different surface properties affect detection. We will also evaluate the effect of surface properties with examples of methane plumes observed from oil fields and manure ponds in the San Joaquin Valley of California, two important methane sources (Figure 1). Initial results suggest that darker surfaces, such as water absent sun glint, will make detecting the methane signal challenging, while bright surfaces such as dry soils produce a much clearer signal. Characterizing the effect of surface properties on methane detection is of increasing importance given the application of this technology will likely expand to map methane across a diverse range of emission sources. Figure 1. AVIRIS-NG image acquired Apr. 29, 2015. True color image with a superimposed methane plume from a manure pond. Bright surfaces, such as the dirt road, provide a better surface for retrievals than dark surfaces, such as the vegetation.

  4. Multipulse nanosecond laser irradiation of silicon for the investigation of surface morphology and photoelectric properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sardar, Maryam; Chen, Jun; Ullah, Zaka; Jelani, Mohsan; Tabassum, Aasma; Cheng, Ju; Sun, Yuxiang; Lu, Jian

    2017-12-01

    We irradiate the single crystal boron-doped silicon (Si) with different number of laser pulses at constant fluence (7.5 J cm-2) in ambient air using Nd:YAG laser and examine its surface morphology and photoelectric properties in details. The results obtained from optical micrographs reveal the increase in heat affected zone (HAZ) and melted area of laser irradiated Si with increasing number of laser pulses. The SEM micrographs evidence the formation of various surface morphologies like laser induced periodic surface structures, crater, microcracks, clusters, cavities, pores, trapped bubbles, nucleation sites, micro-bumps, redeposited material and micro- and nano-particles on the surface of irradiated Si. The surface profilometry analysis informs that the depth of crater is increased with increase in number of incident laser pulses. The spectroscopic ellipsometry reveals that the multipulse irradiation of Si changes its optical properties (refractive index and extinction coefficient). The current-voltage (I-V) characteristic curves of laser irradiated Si show that although the multipulse laser irradiation produces considerable number of surface defects and damages, the electrical properties of Si are well sustained after the multipulse irradiation. The current findings suggest that the multipulse irradiation can be an effective way to tune the optical properties of Si for the fabrication of wide range of optoelectronic devices.

  5. Role of gravity in the formation of bacterial colonies with a hydrophobic surface layer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Puzyr, A. P.; Tirranen, L. K.; Krylova, T. Y.; Borodina, E. V.

    A simple technique for determining hydrophobic-hydrophilic properties of bacterial colonies surface, which involves putting a drop of liquid with known properties (e.g. water, oil) on their surface, has been described. This technique allows quick estimate of wettability of bacterial colony surface, i.e. its hydrophobic-hydrophilic properties. The behaviour of water drops on colonies of bacteria Bacillus five strains (of different types) has been studied. It was revealed that 1) orientation in the Earth gravity field during bacterial growth can define the form of colonies with hydrophobic surface; 2) the form and size of the colony are dependent on the extention ability, most probably, of the hydrophobic layer; 3) the Earth gravity field (gravity) serves as a 'pump' providing and keeping water within the colony. We suppose that at growing colonies on agar media the inflow of water-soluble nutrient materials takes place both due to diffusion processes and directed water current produced by the gravity. The revealed effect probably should be taken into consideration while constructing the models of colonies growing on dense nutrient media. The easily determined hydrophobic properties of colonies surface can become a systematic feature after collecting more extensive data on the surface hydrophobic-hydrophilic properties of microorganism colonies of other types and species.

  6. Anti-icing property of bio-inspired micro-structure superhydrophobic surfaces and heat transfer model

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Yan; Li, Xinlin; Jin, Jingfu; Liu, Jiaan; Yan, Yuying; Han, Zhiwu; Ren, Luquan

    2017-04-01

    Ice accumulation is a thorny problem which may inflict serious damage even disasters in many areas, such as aircraft, power line maintenance, offshore oil platform and locators of ships. Recent researches have shed light on some promising bio-inspired anti-icing strategies to solve this problem. Inspired by typical plant surfaces with super-hydrophobic character such as lotus leaves and rose petals, structured superhydrophobic surface are prepared to discuss the anti-icing property. 7075 Al alloy, an extensively used materials in aircrafts and marine vessels, is employed as the substrates. As-prepared surfaces are acquired by laser processing after being modified by stearic acid for 1 h at room temperature. The surface morphology, chemical composition and wettability are characterized by means of SEM, XPS, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and contact angle measurements. The morphologies of structured as-prepared samples include round hump, square protuberance and mountain-range-like structure, and that the as-prepared structured surfaces shows an excellent superhydrophobic property with a WCA as high as 166 ± 2°. Furthermore, the anti-icing property of as-prepared surfaces was tested by a self-established apparatus, and the crystallization process of a cooling water on the sample was recorded. More importantly, we introduced a model to analyze heat transfer process between the droplet and the structured surfaces. This study offers an insight into understanding the heat transfer process of the superhydrophobic surface, so as to further research about its unique property against ice accumulation.

  7. Surface electrical properties experiment study phase, volume 2

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1973-01-01

    The choice of an antenna for a subsurface radio sounding experiment is discussed. The radiation properties of the antennas as placed on the surface of the medium is examined. The objective of the lunar surface electrical properties experiment is described. A numerical analysis of the dielectric permittivity and magnetic permeability of a subsurface domain is developed. The application of electromagnetic field measurements between one or more transmitting antennas and a roving receiving station is explained.

  8. Method for measuring thermal properties using a long-wavelength infrared thermal image

    DOEpatents

    Walker, Charles L [Albuquerque, NM; Costin, Laurence S [Albuquerque, NM; Smith, Jody L [Albuquerque, NM; Moya, Mary M [Albuquerque, NM; Mercier, Jeffrey A [Albuquerque, NM

    2007-01-30

    A method for estimating the thermal properties of surface materials using long-wavelength thermal imagery by exploiting the differential heating histories of ground points in the vicinity of shadows. The use of differential heating histories of different ground points of the same surface material allows the use of a single image acquisition step to provide the necessary variation in measured parameters for calculation of the thermal properties of surface materials.

  9. Atomistic Modeling of Surface and Bulk Properties of Cu, Pd and the Cu-Pd System

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bozzolo, Guillermo; Garces, Jorge E.; Noebe, Ronald D.; Abel, Phillip; Mosca, Hugo O.; Gray, Hugh R. (Technical Monitor)

    2002-01-01

    The BFS (Bozzolo-Ferrante-Smith) method for alloys is applied to the study of the Cu-Pd system. A variety of issues are analyzed and discussed, including the properties of pure Cu or Pd crystals (surface energies, surface relaxations), Pd/Cu and Cu/Pd surface alloys, segregation of Pd (or Cu) in Cu (or Pd), concentration dependence of the lattice parameter of the high temperature fcc CuPd solid solution, the formation and properties of low temperature ordered phases, and order-disorder transition temperatures. Emphasis is made on the ability of the method to describe these properties on the basis of a minimum set of BFS universal parameters that uniquely characterize the Cu-Pd system.

  10. Tuning Optical Properties and Photocatalytic Activities of Carbon-based "Quantum Dots" Through their Surface Groups.

    PubMed

    Hu, Shengliang

    2016-02-01

    We report recent progress in tuning optical properties and photocatalytic activities of carbon-based quantum dots (carbon-based QDs) through their surface groups. It is increasingly clear that the properties of carbon-based QDs are more dependent on their surface groups than on their size. The present challenge remains as to how to control the type, number, and conformation of the heterogeneous groups on the surface of carbon-based QDs when considering their target applications. By reviewing the related achievements, this personal account aims to help us understand the roles different surface groups play in tuning the properties of carbon-based QDs. A number of significant accomplishments have demonstrated that surface groups possess strong power in engineering electronic structure and controlling photogenerated charge behaviors of carbon-based QDs. However, effective strategies for modifying carbon-based QDs with diverse heterogeneous groups are still needed. © 2015 The Chemical Society of Japan & Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  11. Surface Structure and Wetting Characteristics of Collembola Cuticles

    PubMed Central

    Gundersen, Håkon; Leinaas, Hans Petter; Thaulow, Christian

    2014-01-01

    The cuticles of the arthropods Collembola (springtails) are known to be superhydrophobic, displaying such properties as water-repellence and plastron formation; overhanging surface structures have been suggested as the source of these properties. Superhydrophobicity is closely related to surface structuring and other surfaces with overhanging structures have been shown to possess robust superhydrophobic properties. In effort to correlate the wetting performance and surface structuring of the cuticles, from both a technical and evolutionary point of view, we investigated a selection of Collembola species including species from several families and covering habitats ranging from aquatic to very dry. The observed contact angles of wetting was in general larger than those predicted by the conventional models. Not all the studied Collembola were found to have superhydrophobic properties, indicating that superhydrophobicity is common, but not a universal trait in Collembola. Overhanging structures were found in some, but not all Collembola species with superhydrophobic cuticles; which leads to the conclusion that there is no direct link between overhanging surface structures and superhydrophobicity in Collembola. PMID:24498281

  12. Penetrator Coring Apparatus for Cometary Surfaces

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Braun, David F.; Heinrich, Michael; Ai, Huirong Anita; Ahrens, Thomas J.

    2004-01-01

    Touch and go impact coring is an attractive technique for sampling cometary nuclei and asteroidal surface on account of the uncertain strength properties and low surface gravities of these objects. Initial coring experiments in low temperature (approx. 153K polycrystalline ice) and porous rock demonstrate that simultaneous with impact coring, measurements of both the penetration strength and constraints on the frictional properties of surface materials can be obtained upon core penetration and core sample extraction. The method of sampling an asteroid, to be deployed, on the now launched MUSES-C mission, employs a small gun device that fires into the asteroid and the resulted impact ejecta is collected for return to Earth. This technique is well suited for initial sampling in a very low gravity environment and deployment depends little on asteroid surface mechanical properties. Since both asteroids and comets are believed to have altered surface properties a simple sampling apparatus that preserves stratigraphic information, such as impact coring is an attractive alternate to impact ejecta collection.

  13. The influence of concrete mixture’s rheological properties on the quality of formed concrete surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Daukšys, M.; Klovas, A.; Venčkauskas, L.

    2017-09-01

    This study mainly lays emphasis on examining the influence of concrete mixture rheological properties on the quality of formed concrete surfaces. Mixture’s fine aggregate change was taken into the consideration. Over the course of concrete mixture preparation the inner ratio of fine aggregate (sand: fraction of 0/1 and 0/4) was changed. The idea was to increase the quantity of fine particles in the total aggregate’s volume therefore quantity of sand (fraction 0/1) was increased. Six different concrete mixture’s compositions were designed as well as three specimens (concrete piles of 1m2 surface area) were casted. Rheological properties of concrete mixtures were analytically obtained and the quality of formed concrete surfaces was evaluated using image analysis method “BetonGUY 2.0”. As can be obtained from the dependence between concrete mixture rheological properties and its formed surface quality, the increase of concrete mixture’s yield stress and plastic viscosity reduces the quantity of air pores on formed concrete surfaces.

  14. (Bio)hybrid materials based on optically active particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Reitzig, Manuela; Härtling, Thomas; Opitz, Jörg

    2014-03-01

    In this contribution we provide an overview of current investigations on optically active particles (nanodiamonds, upconversion phospors) for biohybrid and sensing applications. Due to their outstanding properties nanodiamonds gain attention in various application elds such as microelectronics, optical monitoring, medicine, and biotechnology. Beyond the typical diamond properties such as high thermal conductivity and extreme hardness, the carbon surface and its various functional groups enable diverse chemical and biological surface functionalization. At Fraunhofer IKTS-MD we develop a customization of material surfaces via integration of chemically modi ed nanodiamonds at variable surfaces, e.g bone implants and pipelines. For the rst purpose, nanodiamonds are covalently modi ed at their surface with amino or phosphate functionalities that are known to increase adhesion to bone or titanium alloys. The second type of surface is approached via mechanical implementation into coatings. Besides nanodiamonds, we also investigate the properties of upconversion phosphors. In our contribution we show how upconversion phosphors are used to verify sterilization processes via a change of optical properties due to sterilizing electron beam exposure.

  15. Quantitative characterization of surface topography using spectral analysis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jacobs, Tevis D. B.; Junge, Till; Pastewka, Lars

    2017-03-01

    Roughness determines many functional properties of surfaces, such as adhesion, friction, and (thermal and electrical) contact conductance. Recent analytical models and simulations enable quantitative prediction of these properties from knowledge of the power spectral density (PSD) of the surface topography. The utility of the PSD is that it contains statistical information that is unbiased by the particular scan size and pixel resolution chosen by the researcher. In this article, we first review the mathematical definition of the PSD, including the one- and two-dimensional cases, and common variations of each. We then discuss strategies for reconstructing an accurate PSD of a surface using topography measurements at different size scales. Finally, we discuss detecting and mitigating artifacts at the smallest scales, and computing upper/lower bounds on functional properties obtained from models. We accompany our discussion with virtual measurements on computer-generated surfaces. This discussion summarizes how to analyze topography measurements to reconstruct a reliable PSD. Analytical models demonstrate the potential for tuning functional properties by rationally tailoring surface topography—however, this potential can only be achieved through the accurate, quantitative reconstruction of the PSDs of real-world surfaces.

  16. Rapid comparison of properties on protein surface

    PubMed Central

    Sael, Lee; La, David; Li, Bin; Rustamov, Raif; Kihara, Daisuke

    2008-01-01

    The mapping of physicochemical characteristics onto the surface of a protein provides crucial insights into its function and evolution. This information can be further used in the characterization and identification of similarities within protein surface regions. We propose a novel method which quantitatively compares global and local properties on the protein surface. We have tested the method on comparison of electrostatic potentials and hydrophobicity. The method is based on 3D Zernike descriptors, which provides a compact representation of a given property defined on a protein surface. Compactness and rotational invariance of this descriptor enable fast comparison suitable for database searches. The usefulness of this method is exemplified by studying several protein families including globins, thermophilic and mesophilic proteins, and active sites of TIM β/α barrel proteins. In all the cases studied, the descriptor is able to cluster proteins into functionally relevant groups. The proposed approach can also be easily extended to other surface properties. This protein surface-based approach will add a new way of viewing and comparing proteins to conventional methods, which compare proteins in terms of their primary sequence or tertiary structure. PMID:18618695

  17. Rapid comparison of properties on protein surface.

    PubMed

    Sael, Lee; La, David; Li, Bin; Rustamov, Raif; Kihara, Daisuke

    2008-10-01

    The mapping of physicochemical characteristics onto the surface of a protein provides crucial insights into its function and evolution. This information can be further used in the characterization and identification of similarities within protein surface regions. We propose a novel method which quantitatively compares global and local properties on the protein surface. We have tested the method on comparison of electrostatic potentials and hydrophobicity. The method is based on 3D Zernike descriptors, which provides a compact representation of a given property defined on a protein surface. Compactness and rotational invariance of this descriptor enable fast comparison suitable for database searches. The usefulness of this method is exemplified by studying several protein families including globins, thermophilic and mesophilic proteins, and active sites of TIM beta/alpha barrel proteins. In all the cases studied, the descriptor is able to cluster proteins into functionally relevant groups. The proposed approach can also be easily extended to other surface properties. This protein surface-based approach will add a new way of viewing and comparing proteins to conventional methods, which compare proteins in terms of their primary sequence or tertiary structure.

  18. The influence of chemical structure on thermal properties and surface morphology of polyurethane materials.

    PubMed

    Brzeska, Joanna; Morawska, Magda; Heimowska, Aleksandra; Sikorska, Wanda; Wałach, Wojciech; Hercog, Anna; Kowalczuk, Marek; Rutkowska, Maria

    2018-01-01

    The surface morphology and thermal properties of polyurethanes can be correlated to their chemical composition. The hydrophilicity, surface morphology, and thermal properties of polyurethanes (differed in soft segments and in linear/cross-linked structure) were investigated. The influence of poly([ R , S ]-3-hydroxybutyrate) presence in soft segments and blending of polyurethane with polylactide on surface topography were also estimated. The linear polyurethanes (partially crystalline) had the granular surface, whereas the surface of cross-linked polyurethanes (almost amorphous) was smooth. Round aggregates of polylactide un-uniformly distributed in matrix of polyurethane were clearly visible. It was concluded that some modification of soft segment (by mixing of poly([ R , S ]-3-hydroxybutyrate) with different polydiols and polytriol) and blending of polyurethanes with small amount of polylactide influence on crystallinity and surface topography of obtained polyurethanes.

  19. 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.

  20. Effect of surface oxide films on the properties of pulse electric-current sintered metal powders

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xie, Guoqiang; Ohashi, Osamu; Yamaguchi, Norio; Wang, Airu

    2003-11-01

    Metallic powders with various thermodynamic stability oxide films (Ag, Cu, and Al powders) were sintered using a pulse electric-current sintering (PECS) process. Behavior of oxide films at powder surfaces and their effect on the sintering properties were investigated. The results showed that the sintering properties of metallic powders in the PECS process were subject to the thermodynamic stability of oxide films at particles surfaces. The oxide films at Ag powder surfaces are decomposed during sintering with the contact region between the particles being metal/metal bond. The oxide films at Cu powder surfaces are mainly broken via loading pressure at a low sintering temperature. At a high sintering temperature, they are mainly dissolved in the parent metal, and the contact regions turn into the direct metal/metal bonding. Excellent sintering properties can be received. The oxide films at Al powder surfaces are very stable, and cannot be decomposed and dissolved, but broken by plastic deformation of particles under loading pressure at experimental temperatures. The interface between particles is partially bonded via the direct metal/metal bonding making it difficult to achieve good sintered properties.

  1. Influence of swimsuit design and fabric surface properties on the butterfly kinematics.

    PubMed

    Rogowski, Isabelle; Monteil, Karine; Legreneur, Pierre; Lanteri, Pierre

    2006-02-01

    This study investigated the influence of the covering swimsuit and the fabric surface properties on the butterfly stroke kinematics. Surface properties were evaluated by wetting measurements of two fabric samples: one for training suits and one for competition suits. The surface of the second one was coated by mechanochemical treatment in order to modify its surface properties. Nine national level swimmers performed a 50-m butterfly at submaximal velocity in three swimsuit conditions: conventional, long, and coated long swimsuits. From video recording, the hip was digitized at the entry and exit of the swimmer's hand in order to calculate the duration, hip displacement, and hip linear velocity during underwater and recovery phases and during stroke. The results for wetting show that competition fabric was more water-repellent than training fabric, but both were isotropic. Moreover, the mechanochemical treatment increased water repellency and anisotropy. The swimming results indicated that, when compared to a conventional swimsuit, wearing a coated long swimsuit increased hip linear velocity during stroke, and particularly during the recovery phase which had a shorter duration. These results suggest that the covering swimsuit should be coupled with the water repellent and anisotropic properties of the fabric surface in order to improve swimming performance.

  2. Angle-dependent lubricated tribological properties of stainless steel by femtosecond laser surface texturing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Zhuo; Li, Yang-Bo; Bai, Feng; Wang, Cheng-Wei; Zhao, Quan-Zhong

    2016-07-01

    Lubricated tribological properties of stainless steel were investigated by femtosecond laser surface texturing. Regular-arranged micro-grooved textures with different spacing and micro-groove inclination angles (between micro-groove path and sliding direction) were produced on AISI 304L steel surfaces by an 800 nm femtosecond laser. The spacing of micro-groove was varied from 25 to 300 μm, and the inclination angles of micro-groove were measured as 90° and 45°. The tribological properties of the smooth and textured surfaces with micro-grooves were investigated by reciprocating ball-on-flat tests against Al2O3 ceramic balls under starved oil lubricated conditions. Results showed that the spacing of micro-grooves significantly affected the tribological property. With the increase of micro-groove spacing, the average friction coefficients and wear rates of textured surfaces initially decreased then increased. The tribological performance also depended on the inclination angles of micro-grooves. Among the investigated patterns, the micro-grooves perpendicular to the sliding direction exhibited the lowest average friction coefficient and wear rate to a certain extent. Femtosecond laser-induced surface texturing may remarkably improve friction and wear properties if the micro-grooves were properly distributed.

  3. Growth and quantum transport properties of vertical Bi2Se3 nanoplate films on Si substrates.

    PubMed

    Li, Mingze; Wang, Zhenhua; Yang, Liang; Pan, Desheng; Li, Da; Gao, Xuan P A; Zhang, Zhidong

    2018-08-03

    Controlling the growth direction (planar versus vertical) and surface-to-bulk ratio can lead to lots of unique properties for two-dimensional layered materials. We report a simple method to fabricate continuous films of vertical Bi 2 Se 3 nanoplates on Si substrate and investigate the quantum transport properties of such films. In contrast to (001) oriented planar Bi 2 Se 3 nanoplate film, vertical Bi 2 Se 3 nanoplate films are enclosed by (015) facets, which possess high surface-to-bulk ratio that can enhance the quantum transport property of topological surface states. And by controlling the compactness of vertical Bi 2 Se 3 nanoplates, we realized an effective tuning of the weak antilocalization effect from topological surface states in Bi 2 Se 3 films. Our work paves a way for exploring the unique transport properties of this unconventional structure topological insulator film.

  4. Surface electrical properties experiment, part 1. [for measuring lunar surface electrical properties

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kupfer, W. S. (Compiler)

    1973-01-01

    The design evolution, hardware development, and production history of the surface electrical properties (SEP) experiment are discussed. The SEP transmitter and receiver were designed to be used on the lunar surface during the Apollo 17 mission. The equipment was used to measure lunar surface electrical properties over traverses totalling more than 8 kilometers, for a duration of more than 100 minutes. A comprehensive outline of the techniques, is given along with a simplified detailed breakdown of equipment description and function to outline the principles of operation. A history of the design evolution with trade-off criteria and emphasis on changes caused by decisions reached in solving problems inherent in a fast-paced development program are presented from the viewpoint of overall design concept and in detail for each item of deliverable hardware. There is a brief account of lunar operations.

  5. Comparative Study of Surface-Active Properties and Antimicrobial Activities of Disaccharide Monoesters

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Xi; Song, Fei; Taxipalati, Maierhaba; Wei, Wei; Feng, Fengqin

    2014-01-01

    The objective of this research was to determine the effect of sugar or fatty acid in sugar ester compounds on the surface-active properties and antimicrobial activities of these compounds. Disaccharides of medium-chain fatty acid monoesters were synthesized through transesterifications by immobilized lipase (Lipozyme TLIM) to yield nine monoesters for subsequent study. Their antimicrobial activities were investigated using three pathogenic microorganisms: Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Candida albicans. Their surface-active properties including air–water surface tension, critical micelle concentration, and foaming and emulsion power and stability were also studied. The results showed that all of the tested monoesters were more effective against Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive bacterium) than against Escherichia coli O157:H7 (Gram-negative bacterium). The results demonstrated that the carbon chain length was the most important factor influencing the surface properties, whereas degree of esterification and hydrophilic groups showed little effect. PMID:25531369

  6. Effects of carbohydrate/protein ratio on the microstructure and the barrier and sorption properties of wheat starch-whey protein blend edible films.

    PubMed

    Basiak, Ewelina; Lenart, Andrzej; Debeaufort, Frédéric

    2017-02-01

    Starch and whey protein isolate and their mixtures were used for making edible films. Moisture sorption isotherms, water vapour permeability, sorption of aroma compounds, microstructure, water contact angle and surface properties were investigated. With increasing protein content, the microstructure changes became more homogeneous. The water vapour permeability increases with both the humidity gradient and the starch content. For all films, the hygroscopicity increases with starch content. Surface properties change according to the starch/whey protein ratio and are mainly related to the polar component of the surface tension. Films composed of 80% starch and 20% whey proteins have more hydrophobic surfaces than the other films due to specific interactions. The effect of carbohydrate/protein ratio significantly influences the microstructure, the surface wettability and the barrier properties of wheat starch-whey protein blend films. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

  7. Electrowetting of Weak Polyelectrolyte-Coated Surfaces.

    PubMed

    Sénéchal, Vincent; Saadaoui, Hassan; Rodriguez-Hernandez, Juan; Drummond, Carlos

    2017-05-23

    Polymer coatings are commonly used to modify interfacial properties like wettability, lubrication, or biocompatibility. These properties are determined by the conformation of polymer molecules at the interface. Polyelectrolytes are convenient elementary bricks to build smart materials, given that polyion chain conformation is very sensitive to different environmental variables. Here we discuss the effect of an applied electric field on the properties of surfaces coated with poly(acrylic acid) brushes. By combining atomic force microscopy, quartz crystal microbalance, and contact angle experiments, we show that it is possible to precisely tune polyion chain conformation, surface adhesion, and surface wettability using very low applied voltages if the polymer grafting density and environmental conditions (pH and ionic strength) are properly formulated. Our results indicate that the effective ionization degree of the grafted weak polyacid can be finely controlled with the externally applied field, with important consequences for the macroscopic surface properties.

  8. Using surfaces, ligands, and dimensionality to obtain desired nanostructure properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nagpal, Prashant; Singh, Vivek; Ding, Yuchen

    2014-03-01

    Nanostructured materials are intensively investigated to obtain material properties different from their bulk counterparts. It has been demonstrated that nanoscaled semiconductor can have interesting size, shape and morphology dependent optoelectronic properties. But the effect of surfaces, ligands and dimensionality (0D quantum dots to 2D nanosheets) has been largely unexplored. Here, we will show how tuning the surface and dimensionality can affect the electronic states of the semiconductor, and how these states can play an important role in their fundamental photophysical properties or thermal transport. Using the specific case for silicon, we will show how ``new'' surface states in small uniform can lead to light absorption/emission without phonon assistance, while hindering the phonon-drag of charge carriers leading to low Seebeck coefficient for thermoelectric applications. These measurements will shed light on designing appropriate surface, size, and dimensionality for desired applications of nanostructured films.

  9. A parametric study of cut-off corrugated surface properties

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mentzer, C. A.; Peters, L., Jr.

    1973-01-01

    Corrugated horns involve a junction between the corrugated surface and a conducting groundplane. Proper horn design requires an understanding of the electromagnetic properties of the corrugated surface and this junction. Therefore, an integral equation solution has been used to study the influence of corrugation density and shape on the power loss. Surface current, and the scattering from a groundplane-corrugated surface junction. Both square and vee shape corrugations have been considered over the range of corrugation depths where the surface acts as a cut-off corrugated surface.

  10. Electromagnetic properties of material coated surfaces

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Beard, L.; Berrie, J.; Burkholder, R.; Dominek, A.; Walton, E.; Wang, N.

    1989-01-01

    The electromagnetic properties of material coated conducting surfaces were investigated. The coating geometries consist of uniform layers over a planar surface, irregularly shaped formations near edges and randomly positioned, electrically small, irregularly shaped formations over a surface. Techniques to measure the scattered field and constitutive parameters from these geometries were studied. The significance of the scattered field from these geometries warrants further study.

  11. Electronic and elemental properties of the Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 surface and grain boundaries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Haight, Richard; Shao, Xiaoyan; Wang, Wei; Mitzi, David B.

    2014-01-01

    X-ray and femtosecond UV photoelectron spectroscopy, secondary ion mass spectrometry and photoluminescence imaging were used to investigate the electronic and elemental properties of the CZTS,Se surface and its oxides. Oxide removal reveals a very Cu poor and Zn rich surface relative to bulk composition. O and Na are observed at the surface and throughout the bulk. Upward bending of the valence bands indicates the presence of negative charge in the surface region and the Fermi level is found near the band gap center. The presence of point defects and the impact of these findings on grain boundary properties will be described.

  12. Plasma assisted surface coating/modification processes - An emerging technology

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Spalvins, T.

    1987-01-01

    A broad understanding of the numerous ion or plasma assisted surface coating/modification processes is sought. An awareness of the principles of these processes is needed before discussing in detail the ion nitriding technology. On the basis of surface modifications arising from ion or plasma energizing and interactions, it can be broadly classified as deposition of distinct overlay coatings (sputtering-dc, radio frequency, magnetron, reactive; ion plating-diode, triode) and surface property modification without forming a discrete coating (ion implantation, ion beam mixing, laser beam irradiation, ion nitriding, ion carburizing, plasma oxidation. These techniques offer a great flexibility and are capable in tailoring desirable chemical and structural surface properties independent of the bulk properties.

  13. Plasma assisted surface coating/modification processes: An emerging technology

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Spalvins, T.

    1986-01-01

    A broad understanding of the numerous ion or plasma assisted surface coating/modification processes is sought. An awareness of the principles of these processes is needed before discussing in detail the ion nitriding technology. On the basis of surface modifications arising from ion or plasma energizing and interactions, it can be broadly classified as deposition of distinct overlay coatings (sputtering-dc, radio frequency, magnetron, reactive; ion plating-diode, triode) and surface property modification without forming a discrete coating (ion implantation, ion beam mixing, laser beam irradiation, ion nitriding, ion carburizing, plasma oxidation). These techniques offer a great flexibility and are capable in tailoring desirable chemical and structural surface properties independent of the bulk properties.

  14. Effects of titanium nanotubes on the osseointegration, cell differentiation, mineralisation and antibacterial properties of orthopaedic implant surfaces.

    PubMed

    Su, E P; Justin, D F; Pratt, C R; Sarin, V K; Nguyen, V S; Oh, S; Jin, S

    2018-01-01

    The development and pre-clinical evaluation of nano-texturised, biomimetic, surfaces of titanium (Ti) implants treated with titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanotube arrays is reviewed. In vitro and in vivo evaluations show that TiO 2 nanotubes on Ti surfaces positively affect the osseointegration, cell differentiation, mineralisation, and anti-microbial properties. This surface treatment can be superimposed onto existing macro and micro porous Ti implants creating a surface texture that also interacts with cells at the nano level. Histology and mechanical pull-out testing of specimens in rabbits indicate that TiO 2 nanotubes improves bone bonding nine-fold (p = 0.008). The rate of mineralisation associated with TiO 2 nanotube surfaces is about three times that of non-treated Ti surfaces. In addition to improved osseointegration properties, TiO 2 nanotubes reduce the initial adhesion and colonisation of Staphylococcus epidermidis Collectively, the properties of Ti implant surfaces enhanced with TiO 2 nanotubes show great promise. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B(1 Supple A):9-16. ©2018 The British Editorial Society of Bone & Joint Surgery.

  15. Impact of humidity on functionality of on-paper printed electronics.

    PubMed

    Bollström, Roger; Pettersson, Fredrik; Dolietis, Peter; Preston, Janet; Osterbacka, Ronald; Toivakka, Martti

    2014-03-07

    A multilayer coated paper substrate, combining barrier and printability properties was manufactured utilizing a pilot-scale slide curtain coating technique. The coating structure consists of a thin mineral pigment layer coated on top of a barrier layer. The surface properties, i.e. smoothness and surface porosity, were adjusted by the choice of calendering parameters. The influence of surface properties on the fine line printability and conductivity of inkjet-printed silver lines was studied. Surface roughness played a significant role when printing narrow lines, increasing the risk of defects and discontinuities, whereas for wider lines the influence of surface roughness was less critical. A smooth, calendered surface resulted in finer line definition, i.e. less edge raggedness. Dimensional stability and its influence on substrate surface properties as well as on the functionality of conductive tracks and transistors were studied by exposure to high/low humidity cycles. The barrier layer of the multilayer coated paper reduced the dimensional changes and surface roughness increase caused by humidity and helped maintain the conductivity of the printed tracks. Functionality of a printed transistor during a short, one hour humidity cycle was maintained, but a longer exposure to humidity destroyed the non-encapsulated transistor.

  16. The influence of surface functionalization on thermal transport and thermoelectric properties of MXene monolayers

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

    Sarikurt, Sevil; Çakır, Deniz; Keçeli, Murat

    The structural model ( i.e. adsorption site of oxygen atom on the surface of MXene) has a paramount impact on the electronic and thermoelectric properties of MXene crystals, which can be exploited to engineer the thermoelectric properties of these materials.

  17. The influence of surface functionalization on thermal transport and thermoelectric properties of MXene monolayers

    DOE PAGES

    Sarikurt, Sevil; Çakır, Deniz; Keçeli, Murat; ...

    2018-01-01

    The structural model ( i.e. adsorption site of oxygen atom on the surface of MXene) has a paramount impact on the electronic and thermoelectric properties of MXene crystals, which can be exploited to engineer the thermoelectric properties of these materials.

  18. Role of molecular properties of ulvans on their ability to elaborate antiadhesive surfaces.

    PubMed

    Gadenne, Virginie; Lebrun, Laurent; Jouenne, Thierry; Thebault, Pascal

    2015-03-01

    Antiadhesive properties of polysaccharides (such ulvans) once immobilized on a surface are described in the literature but the parameters governing their antifouling properties are not yet well identified. In the present study, the relationship between molecular parameters of ulvans and the inhibition of bacterial adhesion was investigated. To this aim, various ulvans were grafted on silicon wafers under two different experimental immobilization conditions. Results showed that the experimental immobilization conditions and the polysaccharides molecular weight led to specific layer conformations which exhibited a key role in the surface antiadhesive properties. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  19. Properties of cutoff corrugated surfaces for corrugated horn design. [corrugation shape and density effects on scattering

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mentzer, C. A.; Peters, L., Jr.

    1974-01-01

    Corrugated horns involve a junction between the corrugated surface and a conducting ground plane. Proper horn design requires an understanding of the electromagnetic properties of the corrugated surface and this junction. An integral equation solution has been used to study the influence of corrugation density and tooth thickness on the power loss, surface current, and the scattering from a ground plane/corrugated surface junction.

  20. Generating Inviscid and Viscous Fluid Flow Simulations over a Surface Using a Quasi-simultaneous Technique

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sturdza, Peter (Inventor); Martins-Rivas, Herve (Inventor); Suzuki, Yoshifumi (Inventor)

    2014-01-01

    A fluid-flow simulation over a computer-generated surface is generated using a quasi-simultaneous technique. The simulation includes a fluid-flow mesh of inviscid and boundary-layer fluid cells. An initial fluid property for an inviscid fluid cell is determined using an inviscid fluid simulation that does not simulate fluid viscous effects. An initial boundary-layer fluid property a boundary-layer fluid cell is determined using the initial fluid property and a viscous fluid simulation that simulates fluid viscous effects. An updated boundary-layer fluid property is determined for the boundary-layer fluid cell using the initial fluid property, initial boundary-layer fluid property, and an interaction law. The interaction law approximates the inviscid fluid simulation using a matrix of aerodynamic influence coefficients computed using a two-dimensional surface panel technique and a fluid-property vector. An updated fluid property is determined for the inviscid fluid cell using the updated boundary-layer fluid property.

  1. Characterization of the surface properties of wheat spikelet components

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    The physicochemical surface properties of wheat spikelet components were determined. The water and water:acetone (1:1, v/v) contact angle for the glumes and lemmas of two wheat cultivars were measured. The results demonstrate that the surface chemistry and ultrastructure of glume and lemma tissues...

  2. Plasma surface modification of polypropylene track-etched membrane to improve its performance properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kravets, L. I.; Elinson, V. M.; Ibragimov, R. G.; Mitu, B.; Dinescu, G.

    2018-02-01

    The surface and electrochemical properties of polypropylene track-etched membrane treated by plasma of nitrogen, air and oxygen are studied. The effect of the plasma-forming gas composition on the surface morphology is considered. It has been found that the micro-relief of the membrane surface formed under the gas-discharge etching, changes. Moreover, the effect of the non-polymerizing gas plasma leads to formation of oxygen-containing functional groups, mostly carbonyl and carboxyl. It is shown that due to the formation of polar groups on the surface and its higher roughness, the wettability of the plasma-modified membranes improves. In addition, the presence of polar groups on the membrane surface layer modifies its electrochemical properties so that conductivity of plasma-treated membranes increase.

  3. Science and engineering of nanodiamond particle surfaces for biological applications (Review).

    PubMed

    Shenderova, Olga A; McGuire, Gary E

    2015-09-05

    Diamond has outstanding bulk properties such as super hardness, chemical inertness, biocompatibility, luminescence, to name just a few. In the nanoworld, in order to exploit these outstanding bulk properties, the surfaces of nanodiamond (ND) particles must be accordingly engineered for specific applications. Modification of functional groups on the ND's surface and the corresponding electrostatic properties determine their colloidal stability in solvents, formation of photonic crystals, controlled adsorption and release of cargo molecules, conjugation with biomolecules and polymers, and cellular uptake. The optical activity of the luminescent color centers in NDs depends on their proximity to the ND's surface and surface termination. In order to engineer the ND surface, a fundamental understanding of the specific structural features and sp(3)-sp(2) phase transformations on the surface of ND particles is required. In the case of ND particles produced by detonation of carbon containing explosives (detonation ND), it should also be taken into account that its structure depends on the synthesis parameters and subsequent processing. Thus, for development of a strategy of surface modification of detonation ND, it is imperative to know details of its production. In this review, the authors discuss ND particles structure, strategies for surface modification, electrokinetic properties of NDs in suspensions, and conclude with a brief overview of the relevant bioapplications.

  4. Simple route for nano-hydroxyapatite properties expansion.

    PubMed

    Rojas, L; Olmedo, H; García-Piñeres, A J; Silveira, C; Tasic, L; Fraga, F; Montero, M L

    2015-10-20

    Simple surface modification of nano-hydroxyapatite, through acid-basic reactions, allows expanding the properties of this material. Introduction of organic groups such as hydrophobic alkyl chains, carboxylic acid, and amide or amine basic groups on the hydroxyapatite surface systematically change the polarity, surface area, and reactivity of hydroxyapatite without modifying its phase. Physical and chemical properties of the new derivative particles were analyzed. The biocompatibility of modified Nano-Hap on Raw 264.7 cells was also assessed.

  5. Effect of Silane Coupling Agent on Tribological Properties of Hemp Fiber-Reinforced Plant-Derived Polyamide 1010 Biomass Composites

    PubMed Central

    Kajiyama, Tetsuto; Yamanaka, Toshiyuki

    2017-01-01

    We have studied the effects of silane coupling agents used for the surface treatment of fiber on the tribological properties of hemp fiber (HF) reinforced plant-derived polyamide 1010 (PA1010) biomass composites. Hemp fibers were surface-treated by two surface treatment methods: (a) alkali treatment by sodium hydroxide solution and (b) surface treatment by silane coupling agents. Three types of silane coupling agents, namely aminosilane, epoxysilane and ureidosilane were used. These HF/PA1010 biomass composites were extruded using a twin extruder, and injection-molded. The mechanical and tribological properties were evaluated by the ring-on-plate type sliding wear test. It was found that tribological properties of HF/PA1010 biomass composites improved with the surface treatment by the silane coupling agent. This may be attributed to the change in the mode of friction and wear mechanism by the interfacial adhesion between fiber and matrix polymer according to the type of silane coupling agent used. In particular, the ureidosilane coupling agent showed the best improvement effect for the tribological properties of these biomass composites in this study. PMID:28872624

  6. Effect of fibre laser marking on surface properties and corrosion resistance of a Fe-Ni-Cr alloy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Astarita, Antonello; Mandolfino, Chiara; Lertora, Enrico; Gambaro, Carla; Squillace, Antonino; Scherillo, Fabio

    2017-10-01

    Fiber laser techniques are increasing their use in many applications, including modification of material surface properties. In particular they are often used for materials' marking as a non-contact processing. In spite of this, the impact of the laser beam on the surface causes metallurgical and morphological changes. The developments during the laser-material interaction can also affect other surface properties, especially corrosion properties which are crucial in the case of Iron-Nickel alloys. Effect of laser marking on a Fe-Cr-Ni alloy using a Tm-fibre laser (IPG Photonics TRL1904; maximum power: 50W, wavelength: 1904 nm), is described in this paper. In order to evaluate the effect of the laser on corrosion properties a specific ageing test in salt spray has been performed. Moreover, superficial morphology analyses have been performed on samples before and after corrosion tests. Possibilities and limitations of laser marking on these alloys have been discussed, in particular from the point of view of the marked surface corrosion resistance preservation.

  7. Cytoskeletal changes in actin and microtubules underlie the developing surface mechanical properties of sensory and supporting cells in the mouse cochlea

    PubMed Central

    Szarama, Katherine B.; Gavara, Núria; Petralia, Ronald S.; Kelley, Matthew W.; Chadwick, Richard S.

    2012-01-01

    Correct patterning of the inner ear sensory epithelium is essential for the conversion of sound waves into auditory stimuli. Although much is known about the impact of the developing cytoskeleton on cellular growth and cell shape, considerably less is known about the role of cytoskeletal structures on cell surface mechanical properties. In this study, atomic force microscopy (AFM) was combined with fluorescence imaging to show that developing inner ear hair cells and supporting cells have different cell surface mechanical properties with different developmental time courses. We also explored the cytoskeletal organization of developing sensory and non-sensory cells, and used pharmacological modulation of cytoskeletal elements to show that the developmental increase of hair cell stiffness is a direct result of actin filaments, whereas the development of supporting cell surface mechanical properties depends on the extent of microtubule acetylation. Finally, this study found that the fibroblast growth factor signaling pathway is necessary for the developmental time course of cell surface mechanical properties, in part owing to the effects on microtubule structure. PMID:22573615

  8. Contour Entropy: A New Determinant of Perceiving Ground or a Hole

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gillam, Barbara J.; Grove, Philip M.

    2011-01-01

    Figure-ground perception is typically described as seeing one surface occluding another. Figure properties, not ground properties, are considered the significant factors. In scenes, however, a near surface will often occlude multiple contours and surfaces, often at different depths, producing alignments that are improbable except under conditions…

  9. 36 CFR 9.4 - Surface disturbance moratorium.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Surface disturbance moratorium. 9.4 Section 9.4 Parks, Forests, and Public Property NATIONAL PARK SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR MINERALS MANAGEMENT Mining and Mining Claims § 9.4 Surface disturbance moratorium. (a) For a...

  10. 36 CFR 9.4 - Surface disturbance moratorium.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Surface disturbance moratorium. 9.4 Section 9.4 Parks, Forests, and Public Property NATIONAL PARK SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR MINERALS MANAGEMENT Mining and Mining Claims § 9.4 Surface disturbance moratorium. (a) For a...

  11. 36 CFR 9.4 - Surface disturbance moratorium.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Surface disturbance moratorium. 9.4 Section 9.4 Parks, Forests, and Public Property NATIONAL PARK SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR MINERALS MANAGEMENT Mining and Mining Claims § 9.4 Surface disturbance moratorium. (a) For a...

  12. 36 CFR 9.4 - Surface disturbance moratorium.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Surface disturbance moratorium. 9.4 Section 9.4 Parks, Forests, and Public Property NATIONAL PARK SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR MINERALS MANAGEMENT Mining and Mining Claims § 9.4 Surface disturbance moratorium. (a) For a...

  13. In situ and ex situ spectroscopic monitoring of biochar's surface functional groups

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    A number of studies described the higher heating temperature (HHT) as the primary pyrolysis parameter dictating the biochar property: surface functional group and fixed carbon contents, O/C, H/C ratios, and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area. In order to produce desirable biochar properties ...

  14. Rigidly rotating zero-angular-momentum observer surfaces in the Kerr spacetime

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Frolov, Andrei V.; Frolov, Valeri P.

    2014-12-01

    A stationary observer in the Kerr spacetime has zero angular momentum if their angular velocity ω has a particular value, which depends on the position of the observer. Worldlines of such zero-angular-momentum observers (ZAMOs) with the same value of the angular velocity ω form a three-dimensional surface, which has the property that the Killing vectors generating time translation and rotation are tangent to it. We call such a surface a rigidly rotating ZAMO surface. This definition allows for a natural generalization to the surfaces inside the black hole, where ZAMO trajectories formally become spacelike. A general property of such a surface is that there exist linear combinations of the Killing vectors with constant coefficients which make them orthogonal on it. In this paper we discuss properties of the rigidly rotating ZAMO surfaces both outside and inside the black hole and the relevance of these objects to a couple of interesting physical problems.

  15. Mechanical Properties Degradation of Teflon(Trademark) FEP Returned from the Hubble Space Telescope

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dever, Joyce A.; deGroh, Kim K.; Townsend, Jacqueline A.; Wang, L. Len

    1998-01-01

    After 6.8 years on orbit, degradation has been observed in the mechanical properties of second-surface metalized Teflon(Reg) FEP (fluorinated ethylene propylene) used on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) on the outer surface of the multi-layer insulation (MLI) blankets and on radiator surfaces. Cracking of FEP surfaces on HST was first observed upon close examination of samples with high solar exposure retrieved during the first servicing mission (SM1) conducted 3.6 years after HST was put into orbit. Astronaut observations and photographs from the second servicing mission (SM2), conducted after 6.8 years on orbit, revealed severe cracks in the FEP surfaces of the MLI on many locations around the telescope. This paper describes results of mechanical properties testing of FEP surfaces exposed for 3.6 years and 6.8 years to the space environment on HST. These tests include tensile testing, surface micro-hardness testing, and bend testing.

  16. A critical examination of the validity of simplified models for radiant heat transfer analysis.

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Toor, J. S.; Viskanta, R.

    1972-01-01

    Examination of the directional effects of the simplified models by comparing the experimental data with the predictions based on simple and more detailed models for the radiation characteristics of surfaces. Analytical results indicate that the constant property diffuse and specular models do not yield the upper and lower bounds on local radiant heat flux. In general, the constant property specular analysis yields higher values of irradiation than the constant property diffuse analysis. A diffuse surface in the enclosure appears to destroy the effect of specularity of the other surfaces. Semigray and gray analyses predict the irradiation reasonably well provided that the directional properties and the specularity of the surfaces are taken into account. The uniform and nonuniform radiosity diffuse models are in satisfactory agreement with each other.

  17. Development of unbonded and bonded areas in relation to Populus species wood characteristics in grinding

    Treesearch

    L.K. Lehtonen; J.H. Lehto; A.W. Rudie

    2004-01-01

    In terms of fibre development in mechanical pulping, most of the energy is spent on the creation of specific surface area. The total surface area created can be divided into two categories: surface area that adds to the unbonded area (optical properties) and surface area that adds to the bonded area (strength properties) of mechanical papers. This paper considers these...

  18. Effects of bio-functionalizing surface treatments on the mechanical behavior of open porous titanium biomaterials.

    PubMed

    Amin Yavari, S; Ahmadi, S M; van der Stok, J; Wauthle, R; Riemslag, A C; Janssen, M; Schrooten, J; Weinans, H; Zadpoor, A A

    2014-08-01

    Bio-functionalizing surface treatments are often applied for improving the bioactivity of biomaterials that are based on otherwise bioinert titanium alloys. When applied on highly porous titanium alloy structures intended for orthopedic bone regeneration purposes, such surface treatments could significantly change the static and fatigue properties of these structures and, thus, affect the application of the biomaterial as bone substitute. Therefore, the interplay between biofunctionalizing surface treatments and mechanical behavior needs to be controlled. In this paper, we studied the effects of two bio-functionalizing surface treatments, namely alkali-acid heat treatment (AlAcH) and acid-alkali (AcAl), on the static and fatigue properties of three different highly porous titanium alloy implants manufactured using selective laser melting. It was found that AlAcH treatment results in minimal mass loss. The static and fatigue properties of AlAcH specimens were therefore not much different from as-manufactured (AsM) specimens. In contrast, AcAl resulted in substantial mass loss and also in significantly less static and fatigue properties particularly for porous structures with the highest porosity. The ratio of the static mechanical properties of AcAl specimens to that of AsM specimen was in the range of 1.5-6. The fatigue lives of AcAl specimens were much more severely affected by the applied surface treatments with fatigue lives up to 23 times smaller than that of AsM specimens particularly for the porous structures with the highest porosity. In conclusion, the fatigue properties of surface treated porous titanium are dependent not only on the type of applied surface treatment but also on the porosity of the biomaterial. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Structure-to-property relationships in fuel cell catalyst supports: Correlation of surface chemistry and morphology with oxidation resistance of carbon blacks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Artyushkova, Kateryna; Pylypenko, Svitlana; Dowlapalli, Madhu; Atanassov, Plamen

    2012-09-01

    Linking durability of carbon blacks, expressed as their oxidation resistance, used in PEMFCs as catalyst supports, with their chemistry and morphology is an important task towards designing carbon blacks with desired properties. Structure-to-property relationship between surface chemistry determined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), morphological structure determined by digital image processing of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, physical properties, and electrochemical corrosion behavior determined in an air-breathing gas-diffusion electrode is studied for several un-altered and several modified carbon blacks. We are showing that surface chemistry, graphitic content and certain physical characteristics such as Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area and pore volume, determined by nitrogen adsorptions are not sufficient to explain high corrosion instability of types of carbon blacks. Inclusion of morphological characteristics, such as roughness, texture and shape parameters provide for more inclusive description and therefore more complete structure-to-property correlations of corrosion behavior of carbon blacks. This paper presents the first direct statistically-derived structure-to-property relationship, developed by multivariate analysis (MVA) that links chemical and physical structural properties of the carbon blacks to their critical properties as supports for PEMFC catalysts. We have found that balance between electrocatalytic activity and high resistance towards oxidation and corrosion is achieved by balance between amount of graphitic content and surface oxide coverage, smaller overall roughness and, finally, larger amount of big elongated and loose, and, hypothetically, more hydrophobic pores.

  20. Hydrophobization of epoxy nanocomposite surface with 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorooctyltrichlorosilane for superhydrophobic properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Psarski, Maciej; Marczak, Jacek; Celichowski, Grzegorz; Sobieraj, Grzegorz B.; Gumowski, Konrad; Zhou, Feng; Liu, Weimin

    2012-10-01

    Nature inspires the design of synthetic materials with superhydrophobic properties, which can be used for applications ranging from self-cleaning surfaces to microfluidic devices. Their water repellent properties are due to hierarchical (micrometer- and nanometre-scale) surface morphological structures, either made of hydrophobic substances or hydrophobized by appropriate surface treatment. In this work, the efficiency of two surface treatment procedures, with a hydrophobic fluoropolymer, synthesized and deposited from 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorooctyltrichlorosilane (PFOTS) is investigated. The procedures involved reactions from the gas and liquid phases of the PFOTS/hexane solutions. The hierarchical structure is created in an epoxy nanocomposite surface, by filling the resin with alumina nanoparticles and micron-sized glass beads and subsequent sandblasting with corundum microparticles. The chemical structure of the deposited fluoropolymer was examined using XPS spectroscopy. The topography of the modified surfaces was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The hydrophobic properties of the modified surfaces were investigated by water contact and sliding angles measurements. The surfaces exhibited water contact angles of above 150° for both modification procedures, however only the gas phase modification provided the non-sticking behaviour of water droplets (sliding angle of 3°). The discrepancy is attributed to extra surface roughness provided by the latter procedure.

  1. Micro- to Macroroughness of Additively Manufactured Titanium Implants in Terms of Coagulation and Contact Activation.

    PubMed

    Klingvall Ek, Rebecca; Hong, Jaan; Thor, Andreas; Bäckström, Mikael; Rännar, Lars-Erik

    This study aimed to evaluate how as-built electron beam melting (EBM) surface properties affect the onset of blood coagulation. The properties of EBM-manufactured implant surfaces for placement have, until now, remained largely unexplored in literature. Implants with conventional designs and custom-made implants have been manufactured using EBM technology and later placed into the human body. Many of the conventional implants used today, such as dental implants, display modified surfaces to optimize bone ingrowth, whereas custom-made implants, by and large, have machined surfaces. However, titanium in itself demonstrates good material properties for the purpose of bone ingrowth. Specimens manufactured using EBM were selected according to their surface roughness and process parameters. EBM-produced specimens, conventional machined titanium surfaces, as well as PVC surfaces for control were evaluated using the slide chamber model. A significant increase in activation was found, in all factors evaluated, between the machined samples and EBM-manufactured samples. The results show that EBM-manufactured implants with as-built surfaces augment the thrombogenic properties. EBM that uses Ti6Al4V powder appears to be a good manufacturing solution for load-bearing implants with bone anchorage. The as-built surfaces can be used "as is" for direct bone contact, although any surface treatment available for conventional implants can be performed on EBM-manufactured implants with a conventional design.

  2. Electronic structure and optical properties of N vacancy and O filling on n-GaN (0001) surface

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lu, Feifei; Liu, Lei; Xia, Sihao; Diao, Yu; Feng, Shu

    2018-06-01

    In the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy experiment, we observed that the valence band spectrum of the n-GaN (0001) surface appeared a bump near 1.9 eV after Ar etching and the N/Ga ratio became smaller, while the bump disappeared upon exposure to air. In order to analyze this phenomenon theoretically, we mainly study the electronic structure and optical properties of n-GaN (0001) surface with N vacancy and filled with O atom based on the first principles of density functional theory. The results suggest that the n-GaN (0001) surface exhibits semi-metallic property. The introduction of N vacancy reduces the n-type conductivity, whereas the filling of O atom enhances conductivity. The density of state near -1.9eV shows a good agreement between the clean n-type surface and the O-atom-filled surface, while the N vacancy surface has a higher density of states, which is similar to the experimentally observed phenomenon. It is also found that the existence of N vacancy reduces the photoemission properties of the n-GaN (0001) surface and the filling of O atom alleviates the defect caused by vacancy. This study shows that N vacancy increases the doping difficulty of n-type GaN films, however, the filling of O atom may compensate for the diminished photoelectric properties induced by N vacancy and be conducive to prepare high-performance optoelectronic devices with the contact of n-GaN and metal.

  3. Jacob's Ladder as Sketched by Escher: Assessing the Performance of Broadly Used Density Functionals on Transition Metal Surface Properties.

    PubMed

    Vega, Lorena; Ruvireta, Judit; Viñes, Francesc; Illas, Francesc

    2018-01-09

    The present work surveys the performance of various widely used density functional theory exchange-correlation (xc) functionals in describing observable surface properties of a total of 27 transition metals with face-centered cubic (fcc), body-centered cubic (bcc), or hexagonal close-packed (hcp) crystallographic structures. A total of 81 low Miller index surfaces were considered employing slab models. Exemplary xc functionals within the three first rungs of Jacob's ladder were considered, including the Vosko-Wilk-Nusair xc functional within the local density approximation, the Perdew-Burke-Ernzerhof (PBE) functional within the generalized gradient approximation (GGA), and the Tao-Perdew-Staroverov-Scuseria functional as a meta-GGA functional. Hybrids were excluded in the survey because they are known to fail in properly describing metallic systems. In addition, two variants of PBE were considered, PBE adapted for solids (PBEsol) and revised PBE (RPBE), aimed at improving adsorption energies. Interlayer atomic distances, surface energies, and surface work functions were chosen as the scrutinized properties. A comparison with available experimental data, including single-crystal and polycrystalline values, shows that no xc functional is best at describing all of the surface properties. However, in statistical mean terms the PBEsol xc functional is advised, while PBE is recommended when considering both bulk and surface properties. On the basis of the present results, a discussion of adapting GGA functionals to the treatment of metallic surfaces in an alternative way to meta-GGA or hybrids is provided.

  4. Microstructures, mechanical, and biological properties of a novel Ti-6V-4V/zinc surface nanocomposite prepared by friction stir processing

    PubMed Central

    Ding, Zihao; Jiao, Ting; Gu, Xiaoyu; Lu, Eryi; Wang, Liqiang; Zhang, Fuqiang

    2018-01-01

    Background The interaction between the material and the organism affects the survival rate of the orthopedic or dental implant in vivo. Friction stir processing (FSP) is considered a new solid-state processing technology for surface modification. Purpose This study aims to strengthen the surface mechanical properties and promote the osteogenic capacity of the biomaterial by constructing a Ti-6Al-4V (TC4)/zinc (Zn) surface nanocomposites through FSP. Methods FSP was used to modify the surface of TC4. The microstructures and mechanical properties were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, nanoindentation and Vickers hardness. The biological properties of the modified surface were evaluated by the in vitro and in vivo study. Results The results showed that nanocrystalline and numerous β regions, grain boundary α phase, coarser acicular α phase and finer acicular martensite α′ appeared because of the severe plastic deformation caused by FSP, resulting in a decreased elastic modulus and an increased surface hardness. With the addition of Zn particles and the enhancement of hydrophilicity, the biocompatibility was greatly improved in terms of cell adhesion and proliferation. The in vitro osteogenic differentiation of rat bone marrow stromal cells and rapid in vivo osseointegration were enhanced on the novel TC4/Zn metal matrix nanocomposite surface. Conclusion These findings suggest that this novel TC4/Zn surface nanocomposite achieved by FSP has significantly improved mechanical properties and biocompatibility, in addition to promoting osseointegration and thus has potential for dental and orthopedic applications. PMID:29636607

  5. THE NEAR SURFACE GEOLOGY AT ENIWETOK AND BIKINI ATOLLS.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    ROCK, *NUCLEAR EXPLOSIONS, BIKINI ATOLL, CRATERING, SURFACE PROPERTIES, PARTICLE SIZE, GEOPHYSICAL PROSPECTING, LIMESTONE, GEOLOGICAL SURVEYS, SAND, GRAVEL, CORAL REEFS, DRILLING, ROCK, MARSHALL ISLANDS , SANDSTONE, FRICTION, COMPRESSIVE PROPERTIES, SOILS.

  6. Solid State Division progress report, September 30, 1981

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

    Not Available

    1982-04-01

    Progress made during the 19 months from March 1, 1980, through September 30, 1981, is reported in the following areas: theoretical solid state physics (surfaces, electronic and magnetic properties, particle-solid interactions, and laser annealing); surface and near-surface properties of solids (plasma materials interactions, ion-solid interactions, pulsed laser annealing, and semiconductor physics and photovoltaic conversion); defects in solids (radiation effects, fracture, and defects and impurities in insulating crystals); transport properties of solids (fast-ion conductors, superconductivity, and physical properties of insulating materials); neutron scattering (small-angle scattering, lattice dynamics, and magnetic properties); crystal growth and characterization (nuclear waste forms, ferroelectric mateirals, high-temperature materials,more » and special materials); and isotope research materials. Publications and papers are listed. (WHK)« less

  7. Physical Properties of the MER and Beagle II Landing Sites on Mars

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jakosky, B. M.; Pelkey, S. M.; Mellon, M. T.; Putzig, N.; Martinez-Alonso, S.; Murphy, N.; Hynek, B.

    2003-12-01

    The ESA Beagle II and the NASA Mars Exploration Rover spacecraft are scheduled to land on the martian surface in December 2003 and January 2004, respectively. Mission operations and success depends on the physical properties of the surfaces on which they land. Surface structural characteristics such as the abundances of loose, unconsolidated fine material, of fine material that has been cemented into a duricrust, and of rocks affect the ability to safely land and to successfully sample and traverse the surface. Also, physical properties affect surface and atmospheric temperatures, which affect lander and rover functionality. We are in the process of analyzing surface temperature information for these sites, derived from MGS TES and Odyssey THEMIS daytime and nighttime measurements. Our approach is to: (i) remap thermal inertia using TES data at ~3-km resolution, to obtain the most complete coverage possible; (ii) interpret physical properties from TES coverage in conjunction with other remote-sensing data sets; (iii) map infrared brightness using daytime and nighttime THEMIS data at 100-m resolution, and do qualitative analysis of physical properties and processes; and (iv) derive thermal inertia from THEMIS nighttime data in conjunction with daytime albedo measurements derived from TES, THEMIS, and MOC observations. In addition, we will use measured temperatures and derived thermal inertia to predict surface temperatures for the periods of the missions.

  8. Spatially resolved resistance of NiO nanostructures under humid environment

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

    Jacobs, Christopher B; Ievlev, Anton; Collins, Liam F

    2016-01-01

    The spatially resolved electrical response of polycrystalline NiO films composed of 40 nm crystallites was investigated under different relative humidity levels (RH). The topological and electrical properties (surface potential and resistance) were characterized with sub 25nm resolution using Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) and conductive scanning probe microscopy under argon atmosphere at 0%, 50%, and 80% relative humidity. The dimensionality of surface features obtained through autocorrelation analysis of topological maps increased linearly with increased relative humidity, as water was adsorbed onto the film surface. Surface potential decreased from about 280mV to about 100 mV and resistance decreased from about 5more » G to about 3 G , in a nonlinear fashion when relative humidity was increased from 0% to 80%. Spatially resolved surface potential and resistance of the NiO films was found to be heterogeneous throughout the film, with distinct domains that grew in size from about 60 nm to 175 nm at 0% and 80% RH levels, respectively. The heterogeneous character of the topological, surface potential, and resistance properties of the polycrystalline NiO film observed under dry conditions decreased with increased relative humidity, yielding nearly homogeneous surface properties at 80% RH, suggesting that the nanoscale potential and resistance properties converge with the mesoscale properties as water is adsorbed onto the NiO film.« less

  9. Superhydrophilic TiO2 thin film by nanometer scale surface roughness and dangling bonds

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bharti, Bandna; Kumar, Santosh; Kumar, Rajesh

    2016-02-01

    A remarkable enhancement in the hydrophilic nature of titanium dioxide (TiO2) films is obtained by surface modification in DC-glow discharge plasma. Thin transparent TiO2 films were coated on glass substrate by sol-gel dip coating method, and exposed in DC-glow discharge plasma. The plasma exposed TiO2 film exhibited a significant change in its wetting property contact angle, which is a representative of wetting property, has reduced to considerable limits 3.02° and 1.85° from its initial value 54.40° and 48.82° for deionized water and ethylene glycol, respectively. It is elucidated that the hydrophilic property of plasma exposed TiO2 films dependent mainly upon nanometer scale surface roughness. Variation, from 4.6 nm to 19.8 nm, in the film surface roughness with exposure time was observed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Analysis of variation in the values of contact angle and surface roughness with increasing plasma exposure time reveal that the surface roughness is the main factor which makes the modified TiO2 film superhydrophilic. However, a contribution of change in the surface states, to the hydrophilic property, is also observed for small values of the plasma exposure time. Based upon nanometer scale surface roughness and dangling bonds, a variation in the surface energy of TiO2 film from 49.38 to 88.92 mJ/m2 is also observed. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results show change in the surface states of titanium and oxygen. The observed antifogging properties are the direct results of the development of the superhydrophilic wetting characteristics to TiO2 films.

  10. The Optical Properties of Particles Deposited on a Surface

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1994-09-01

    AD-A286 258 i -G •- o ) * .1111I1 IV -IC,, The optical properties of particles deposited on a surface. Final Technical Report by F. Borghese September...approximation. 4. List of publications. F. Borghese, P. Denti, R. Saija, E. Fucile and 0. I . Sindoni, "Optical properties of particles on or near a...perfectily reflecting surface," Accepted for publication in J. Opt. Soc. Am. A 5. Partecipants to the research. F. Borghese, P. Denti, R. Saija and 0. I

  11. Effect of surface etching and electrodeposition of copper on nitinol

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ramos-Moore, E.; Rosenkranz, A.; Matamala, L. F.; Videla, A.; Durán, A.; Ramos-Grez, J.

    2017-10-01

    Nitinol-based materials are very promising for medical and dental applications since those materials can combine shape memory, corrosion resistance, biocompatibility and antibacterial properties. In particular, surface modifications and coating deposition can be used to tailor and to unify those properties. We report preliminary results on the study of the effect of surface etching and electrodeposition of Copper on Nitinol using optical, chemical and thermal techniques. The results show that surface etching enhances the surface roughness of Nitinol, induces the formation of Copper-based compounds at the Nitinol-Copper interface, reduces the austenitic-martensitic transformations enthalpies and reduces the Copper coating roughness. Further studies are needed in order to highlight the influence of the electrodeposited Copper on the memory shape properties of NiTi.

  12. Phosphonic acid functionalization of nanostructured Ni-W coatings on steel

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Orrillo, P. A.; Ribotta, S. B.; Gassa, L. M.; Benítez, G.; Salvarezza, R. C.; Vela, M. E.

    2018-03-01

    The functionalization of nanocrystalline Ni-W coatings, formed by galvanostatic pulsed electrodeposition on steel, by thermal treatment of octadecylphosphonic acid self-assembled on the oxidized alloy surface is studied by Raman spectroscopy, contact angle measurements, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, AFM and electrochemical techniques. Results show that this procedure preserves the surface topography and the optimum mechanical properties of the alloy. More importantly, it turns the alloy surface highly hydrophobic and markedly improves its corrosion resistance, in particular to pitting corrosion in aggressive solutions containing chloride anions. The ability of the phosphonate layer to improve surface properties arises from the barrier properties introduced by the hydrocarbon chains and the strong bonds between the phosphonate head and the underlying surface oxides.

  13. Adsorbed Molecules and Surface Treatment Effect on Optical Properties of ZnO Nanowires Grown by MOCVD

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jabri, S.; Souissi, H.; Sallet, V.; Lusson, A.; Meftah, A.; Galtier, P.; Oueslati, M.

    2017-07-01

    We have investigated the optical properties of ZnO nanowires grown by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) with nitrous oxide (N2O) as oxygen precursor. Photoluminescence (PL) and Raman measurements showed the influence of adsorbed molecules on the optical properties. Low-temperature (4 K) PL studies on the surface exciton (SX) at 3.3660 eV elucidated the nature and origin of this emission. In particular, surface treatment by annealing at high temperature under inert gas reduced the emission intensity of SX. Raman vibrational spectra proved that presence of a considerable amount of adsorbed molecules on the surface of ZnO nanowires plays a key role in the occurrence of surface excitons.

  14. Effects of Surface Roughness and Mechanical Properties of Cover-Layer on Near-Field Optical Recording

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Jin-Hong; Lee, Jun-Seok; Lim, Jungshik; Seo, Jung-Kyo

    2009-03-01

    Narrow gap distance in cover-layer incident near-field recording (NFR) configuration causes a collision problem in the interface between a solid immersion lens and a disk surface. A polymer cover-layer with smooth surface results in a stable gap servo while a nanocomposite cover-layer with high refractive index shows a collision problem during the gap servo test. Even though a dielectric cover-layer, in which the surface is rougher than the polymer, supplements the mechanical properties, an unclear eye pattern due to an unstable gap servo can be obtained after a chemical mechanical polishing. Not only smooth surface but also good mechanical properties of cover-layer are required for the stable gap servo in the NFR.

  15. Bioinspired Nanocellulose Based Hybrid Materials With Novel Interfacial Properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Keten, Sinan

    This talk will overview a simulation-based approach to enhancing the mechanical properties of nanocomposites by utilizing cellulose - the most abundant and renewable structural biopolymer found on our planet. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) exhibit outstanding mechanical properties exceeding that of Kevlar, serving as reinforcing domains in nature's toughest hierarchical nanocomposites such as wood. Yet, weak interfaces at the surfaces of CNCs have so far made it impossible to scale these inherent properties to macroscopic systems. In this work, I will discuss how surface functionalization of CNCs influences their properties in their self-assembled films and nanocomposites with engineered polymer matrices . Specifically, the role of ion exchange based surface modifications and polymer conjugation will be discussed, where atomistic and coarse-grained simulations will reveal new insights into how superior mechanical properties can potentially be attained by hybrid constructs.

  16. Wettability and XPS analyses of nickel-phosphorus surfaces after plasma treatment: An efficient approach for surface qualification in mechatronic processes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vivet, L.; Joudrier, A.-L.; Bouttemy, M.; Vigneron, J.; Tan, K. L.; Morelle, J. M.; Etcheberry, A.; Chalumeau, L.

    2013-06-01

    Electroless nickel-high-phosphorus Ni-P plating is known for its physical properties. In case of electronic and mechatronic assembly processes achieved under ambient conditions the wettability of the Ni-P layer under ambient temperature and ambient air stays a point of surface quality investigation. This contribution will be devoted to the study of the surface properties of Ni-P films for which we performed air plasma treatment. We focus our attention on the evolution of the surface wettability, using the classical sessile drop technique. Interpreting the results with the OWRK model we extract the polar and disperse surface tension components from which we deduced typical evolution of the surface properties with the different treatment settings. By controlling the variations of the parameters of the plasma exposure we are able to change the responses of our Ni-P sample from total hydrophobic to total hydrophilic behaviours. All the intermediate states can be reached by adapting the treatment parameters. So it is demonstrated that the apparent Ni-P surface properties can be fully adapted and the surface setting can be well characterized by wettability measurements. To deep our knowledge of the surface modifications induced by plasma we performed parallel SEM and XPS analyses which provide informations on the structure and the chemical composition of the surface for each set of treatment parameters. Using this double approach we were able to propose a correlation between the evolution of surface chemical composition and surface wettability which are completely governed by the plasma treatment conditions. Chemical parameters as the elimination of the carbon contamination, the progressive surface oxidation, and the slight incorporation of nitrogen due to the air plasma interaction are well associated with the evolution of the wettability properties. So a complete engineering for the Ni-P surface preparation has been established. The sessile drop method can be considered as a very efficient method to propose qualification of treatments onto Ni-P surfaces before performing electronic and mechatronic assembly processes that are achieved under ambient conditions.

  17. Individual Magnetic Molecules on Ultrathin Insulating Surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    El Hallak, Fadi; Warner, Ben; Hirjibehedin, Cyrus

    2012-02-01

    Single molecule magnets have attracted ample interest because of their exciting magnetic and quantum properties. Recent studies have demonstrated that some of these molecules can be evaporated on surfaces without losing their magnetic properties [M. Mannini et al., Nature 468, 417, (2010)]. This remarkable progress enhances the chances of real world applications for these molecules. We present STM imaging and spectroscopy data on iron phthalocyanine molecules deposited on Cu(100) and on a Cu2N ultrathin insulating surface. These molecules have been shown to display a large magnetic anisotropy on another thin insulating surface, oxidized Cu(110) [N. Tsukahara et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 102, 167203 (2009)]. By using a combination of elastic and inelastic electron tunnelling spectroscopy, we investigate the binding of the molecules to the surface and the impact that the surface has on their electronic and magnetic properties.

  18. A novel approach to enhancement of surface properties of CdO films by using surfactant: dextrin

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sahin, Bünyamin; Bayansal, Fatih; Yüksel, Mustafa

    2015-12-01

    We studied the effect of an organic surfactant, dextrin, concentration on structural, morphological and optical properties of nanostructured CdO films deposited on glass substrates by using an easy and low-cost SILAR method. Microstructures of the nanostructured CdO films were optimized by adjusting dextrin concentration. XRD, SEM and UV-Vis Spectroscopy were used to study phase structure, surface morphology and optical properties of CdO films. Furthermore, effects of dextrin concentration on the surface roughness characteristics of CdO samples were reported. The results showed that the presence of organic surfactant highly affected the physical properties of CdO nanomaterials.

  19. Effects of various etching protocols on the flexural properties and surface topography of fiber-reinforced composite dental posts.

    PubMed

    Aksornmuang, Juthatip; Chuenarrom, Chanya; Chittithaworn, Natjira

    2017-09-26

    The purpose of this study was to evaluate the flexural properties and surface topography of fiber posts surface-treated with various etching protocols. Seventy each of three types of fiber posts: RelyX Fiber Post, Tenax Fiber Trans, and D.T. Light-Post Illusion X-Ro, were randomly divided into 7 groups: no surface treatment, surface treated with hydrofluoric acid (HF) 4.5% for 60 s, HF 4.5% for 120 s, HF 9.6% for 15 s, HF 9.6% for 60 s, HF 9.6% for 120 s, and treated with H 2 O 2 24% for 10 min. The specimens were then subjected to a three-point bending test. Surface topographies of the posts were observed using a SEM. The results indicate that fiber post surface pretreatments had no adverse effects on the flexural properties. However, the fiber posts treated with high HF concentrations or long etching times seemed to have more surface irregularities.

  20. Deciphering fine molecular details of proteins' structure and function with a Protein Surface Topography (PST) method.

    PubMed

    Koromyslova, Anna D; Chugunov, Anton O; Efremov, Roman G

    2014-04-28

    Molecular surfaces are the key players in biomolecular recognition and interactions. Nowadays, it is trivial to visualize a molecular surface and surface-distributed properties in three-dimensional space. However, such a representation trends to be biased and ambiguous in case of thorough analysis. We present a new method to create 2D spherical projection maps of entire protein surfaces and manipulate with them--protein surface topography (PST). It permits visualization and thoughtful analysis of surface properties. PST helps to easily portray conformational transitions, analyze proteins' properties and their dynamic behavior, improve docking performance, and reveal common patterns and dissimilarities in molecular surfaces of related bioactive peptides. This paper describes basic usage of PST with an example of small G-proteins conformational transitions, mapping of caspase-1 intersubunit interface, and intrinsic "complementarity" in the conotoxin-acetylcholine binding protein complex. We suggest that PST is a beneficial approach for structure-function studies of bioactive peptides and small proteins.

  1. A generalized ligand-exchange strategy enabling sequential surface functionalization of colloidal nanocrystals.

    PubMed

    Dong, Angang; Ye, Xingchen; Chen, Jun; Kang, Yijin; Gordon, Thomas; Kikkawa, James M; Murray, Christopher B

    2011-02-02

    The ability to engineer surface properties of nanocrystals (NCs) is important for various applications, as many of the physical and chemical properties of nanoscale materials are strongly affected by the surface chemistry. Here, we report a facile ligand-exchange approach, which enables sequential surface functionalization and phase transfer of colloidal NCs while preserving the NC size and shape. Nitrosonium tetrafluoroborate (NOBF4) is used to replace the original organic ligands attached to the NC surface, stabilizing the NCs in various polar, hydrophilic media such as N,N-dimethylformamide for years, with no observed aggregation or precipitation. This approach is applicable to various NCs (metal oxides, metals, semiconductors, and dielectrics) of different sizes and shapes. The hydrophilic NCs obtained can subsequently be further functionalized using a variety of capping molecules, imparting different surface functionalization to NCs depending on the molecules employed. Our work provides a versatile ligand-exchange strategy for NC surface functionalization and represents an important step toward controllably engineering the surface properties of NCs.

  2. Correlation of CVD Diamond Electron Emission with Film Properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bozeman, S. P.; Baumann, P. K.; Ward, B. L.; Nemanich, R. J.; Dreifus, D. L.

    1996-03-01

    Electron field emission from metals is affected by surface morphology and the properties of any dielectric coating. Recent results have demonstrated low field electron emission from p-type diamond, and photoemission measurements have identified surface treatments that result in a negative electron affinity (NEA). In this study, the field emission from diamond is correlated with surface treatment, surface roughness, and film properties (doping and defects). Electron emission measurements are reported on diamond films synthesized by plasma CVD. Ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy indicates that the CVD films exhibit a NEA after exposure to hydrogen plasma. Field emission current-voltage measurements indicate "threshold voltages" ranging from approximately 20 to 100 V/micron.

  3. Optical properties of micromachined polysilicon reflective surfaces with etching holes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zou, Jun; Byrne, Colin; Liu, Chang; Brady, David J.

    1998-08-01

    MUMPS (Multi-User MEMS Process) is receiving increasingly wide use in micro optics. We have investigated the optical properties of the polysilicon reflective surface in a typical MUMPS chip within the visible light spectrum. The effect of etching holes on the reflected laser beam is studied. The reflectivity and diffraction patterns at five different wavelengths have been measured. The optical properties of the polysilicon reflective surface are greatly affected by the surface roughness, the etching holes, as well as the material. The etching holes contribute to diffraction and reduction of reflectivity. This study provides a basis for optimal design of micromachined free-space optical systems.

  4. Correlation between surface morphology and electrical properties of VO2 films grown by direct thermal oxidation method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yoon, Joonseok; Park, Changwoo; Park, Sungkyun; Mun, Bongjin Simon; Ju, Honglyoul

    2015-10-01

    We investigate surface morphology and electrical properties of VO2 films fabricated by direct thermal oxidation method. The VO2 film prepared with oxidation temperature at 580 °C exhibits excellent qualities of VO2 characteristics, e.g. a metal-insulator transition (MIT) near 67 °C, a resistivity ratio of ∼2.3 × 104, and a bandgap of 0.7 eV. The analysis of surface morphology with electrical resistivity of VO2 films reveals that the transport properties of VO2 films are closely related to the grain size and surface roughness that vary with oxidation annealing temperatures.

  5. Surface Properties of a Hooked Steel Fiber and their Effects on the Fiber Pullout and Composite Cracking 1. Experimental Study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zesers, A.; Krūmiņš, J.

    2014-09-01

    Concrete as a material is brittle, but adding short steel fibers to the matrix can significantly improve its mechanical properties. The chemical adhesion between concrete and steel is weak, and the fiber pullout properties are based on fiber geometry and frictional forces. Single-fiber pullout tests of steel fibers with toothed and smooth surfaces were performed in order to characterize the effects of fiber surface facture. The influence of fiber form, surface facture, and fiber orientation (relative to the pullout direction) on the fiber withdrawal resistance and the maximum pullout force were studied.

  6. Electronics materials research

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1982-01-01

    The electronic materials and is aimed at the establishment of quantitative relationships underlying crystal growth parameters, materials properties, electronic characteristics and device applications. The overall program evolves about the following main thrust areas: (1) crystal growth novel approaches to engineering of semiconductor materials; (2) investigation of materials properties and electronic characteristics on a macro and microscale; (3) surface properties and surface interactions with the bulk and ambients; (4) electronic properties controlling device applications and device performance.

  7. Evaluation of mechanical properties in metal wire mesh supported selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst structures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rajath, S.; Siddaraju, C.; Nandakishora, Y.; Roy, Sukumar

    2018-04-01

    The objective of this research is to evaluate certain specific mechanical properties of certain stainless steel wire mesh supported Selective catalytic reduction catalysts structures wherein the physical properties of the metal wire mesh and also its surface treatments played vital role thereby influencing the mechanical properties. As the adhesion between the stainless steel wire mesh and the catalyst material determines the bond strength and the erosion resistance of catalyst structures, surface modifications of the metal- wire mesh structure in order to facilitate the interface bonding is therefore very important to realize enhanced level of mechanical properties. One way to enhance such adhesion properties, the stainless steel wire mesh is treated with the various acids, i.e., chromic acid, phosphoric acid including certain mineral acids and combination of all those in various molar ratios that could generate surface active groups on metal surface that promotes good interface structure between the metal- wire mesh and metal oxide-based catalyst material and then the stainless steel wire mesh is dipped in the glass powder slurry containing some amount of organic binder. As a result of which the said catalyst material adheres to the metal-wire mesh surface more effectively that improves the erosion profile of supported catalysts structure including bond strength.

  8. Thermal treatment induced modification of structural, surface and bulk magnetic properties of Fe61.5Co5Ni8Si13.5B9Nb3 metallic glass

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shah, M.; Satalkar, M.; Kane, S. N.; Ghodke, N. L.; Sinha, A. K.; Varga, L. K.; Teixeira, J. M.; Araujo, J. P.

    2018-05-01

    Effect of thermal annealing induced modification of structural, surface and bulk magnetic properties of Fe61.5Co5Ni8Si13.5B9Nb3 alloy is presented. The changes in properties were observed using synchrotron x-ray diffraction technique (SXRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), magneto-optical kerr effect (MOKE) and bulk magnetic measurements. Significant variations on the both side of surface occur for the annealing temperature upto 500 °C promotes the surface crystallization. Surface roughness appears due to presence of nanocrystallization plays an important role in determining magnetic properties. Observed lower value of bulk coercivity Hc of 6.2 A/m annealed temperature at 450 °C/1 h ascribed to reduction of disorder as compared to the surface (both shiny and wheel side observed by MOKE measurement) whereas improvement of bulk saturation magnetization with annealing temperature indicates first near neighbor shell of Fe atoms are surrounded by Fe atoms. Evolution of coercivity of surface and bulk with annealing temperature has been presented in conjunction with the structural observations.

  9. Effect of Processing Steps on the Mechanical Properties and Surface Appearance of 6063 Aluminium Extruded Products

    PubMed Central

    Asensio-Lozano, Juan; Suárez-Peña, Beatriz; Vander Voort, George F.

    2014-01-01

    6063 aluminum anodized extrusions may exhibit a common surface defect known as streaking, characterized by the formation of narrow bands with a surface gloss different from the surrounding material. The origin of this banding lies in the differential surface topography produced after etching during the anodizing stage, shown to be connected to certain microstructural characteristics. The present study has attempted to determine the origin of these defects and measure the mechanical properties in these zones, properties which were either barely acceptable or did not meet the specification’s requirements. Quantitative metallography and mechanical testing, both tensile and microhardness, were used for materials assessment at the different steps of the process of manufacturing 6063 anodized extrusions. The results of this research show that nonequilibrium solidification rates during billet casting could lead to the formation of coarse eutectic Mg2Si particles which have a deleterious effect on both mechanical properties and surface appearance in the anodized condition. However, differences in the size and density of the coarse Mg2Si particles have been found to exist in the streak profile compared to the surrounding zones. The study revealed the importance of these particles in explaining the origin of the marginal or sub-marginal properties and anodizing surface defects found. PMID:28788673

  10. Effect of Processing Steps on the Mechanical Properties and Surface Appearance of 6063 Aluminium Extruded Products.

    PubMed

    Asensio-Lozano, Juan; Suárez-Peña, Beatriz; Vander Voort, George F

    2014-05-30

    6063 aluminum anodized extrusions may exhibit a common surface defect known as streaking, characterized by the formation of narrow bands with a surface gloss different from the surrounding material. The origin of this banding lies in the differential surface topography produced after etching during the anodizing stage, shown to be connected to certain microstructural characteristics. The present study has attempted to determine the origin of these defects and measure the mechanical properties in these zones, properties which were either barely acceptable or did not meet the specification's requirements. Quantitative metallography and mechanical testing, both tensile and microhardness, were used for materials assessment at the different steps of the process of manufacturing 6063 anodized extrusions. The results of this research show that nonequilibrium solidification rates during billet casting could lead to the formation of coarse eutectic Mg₂Si particles which have a deleterious effect on both mechanical properties and surface appearance in the anodized condition. However, differences in the size and density of the coarse Mg₂Si particles have been found to exist in the streak profile compared to the surrounding zones. The study revealed the importance of these particles in explaining the origin of the marginal or sub-marginal properties and anodizing surface defects found.

  11. Quantum Dot Surface Engineering: Toward Inert Fluorophores with Compact Size and Bright, Stable Emission

    PubMed Central

    Lim, Sung Jun; Ma, Liang; Schleife, André; Smith, Andrew M.

    2016-01-01

    The surfaces of colloidal nanocrystals are complex interfaces between solid crystals, coordinating ligands, and liquid solutions. For fluorescent quantum dots, the properties of the surface vastly influence the efficiency of light emission, stability, and physical interactions, and thus determine their sensitivity and specificity when they are used to detect and image biological molecules. But after more than 30 years of study, the surfaces of quantum dots remain poorly understood and continue to be an important subject of both experimental and theoretical research. In this article, we review the physics and chemistry of quantum dot surfaces and describe approaches to engineer optimal fluorescent probes for applications in biomolecular imaging and sensing. We describe the structure and electronic properties of crystalline facets, the chemistry of ligand coordination, and the impact of ligands on optical properties. We further describe recent advances in compact coatings that have significantly improved their properties by providing small hydrodynamic size, high stability and fluorescence efficiency, and minimal nonspecific interactions with cells and biological molecules. While major progress has been made in both basic and applied research, many questions remain in the chemistry and physics of quantum dot surfaces that have hindered key breakthroughs to fully optimize their properties. PMID:28344357

  12. Nanopatterning the electronic properties of gold surfaces with self-organized superlattices of metallic nanostructures.

    PubMed

    Didiot, Clement; Pons, Stephane; Kierren, Bertrand; Fagot-Revurat, Yannick; Malterre, Daniel

    2007-10-01

    The self-organized growth of nanostructures on surfaces could offer many advantages in the development of new catalysts, electronic devices and magnetic data-storage media. The local density of electronic states on the surface at the relevant energy scale strongly influences chemical reactivity, as does the shape of the nanoparticles. The electronic properties of surfaces also influence the growth and decay of nanostructures such as dimers, chains and superlattices of atoms or noble metal islands. Controlling these properties on length scales shorter than the diffusion lengths of the electrons and spins (some tens of nanometres for metals) is a major goal in electronics and spintronics. However, to date, there have been few studies of the electronic properties of self-organized nanostructures. Here we report the self-organized growth of macroscopic superlattices of Ag or Cu nanostructures on Au vicinal surfaces, and demonstrate that the electronic properties of these systems depend on the balance between the confinement and the perturbation of the surface states caused by the steps and the nanostructures' superlattice. We also show that the local density of states can be modified in a controlled way by adjusting simple parameters such as the type of metal deposited and the degree of coverage.

  13. Clay Minerals as Solid Acids and Their Catalytic Properties.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Helsen, J.

    1982-01-01

    Discusses catalytic properties of clays, attributed to acidity of the clay surface. The formation of carbonium ions on montmorillonite is used as a demonstration of the presence of surface acidity, the enhanced dissociation of water molecules when polarized by cations, and the way the surface can interact with organic substances. (Author/JN)

  14. 36 CFR 9.18 - Surface use and patent restrictions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Surface use and patent restrictions. 9.18 Section 9.18 Parks, Forests, and Public Property NATIONAL PARK SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR MINERALS MANAGEMENT Mining and Mining Claims § 9.18 Surface use and patent restrictions. (a) The...

  15. 36 CFR 9.18 - Surface use and patent restrictions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Surface use and patent restrictions. 9.18 Section 9.18 Parks, Forests, and Public Property NATIONAL PARK SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR MINERALS MANAGEMENT Mining and Mining Claims § 9.18 Surface use and patent restrictions. (a) The...

  16. 36 CFR 9.18 - Surface use and patent restrictions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Surface use and patent restrictions. 9.18 Section 9.18 Parks, Forests, and Public Property NATIONAL PARK SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR MINERALS MANAGEMENT Mining and Mining Claims § 9.18 Surface use and patent restrictions. (a) The...

  17. 36 CFR 9.18 - Surface use and patent restrictions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Surface use and patent restrictions. 9.18 Section 9.18 Parks, Forests, and Public Property NATIONAL PARK SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR MINERALS MANAGEMENT Mining and Mining Claims § 9.18 Surface use and patent restrictions. (a) The...

  18. 36 CFR 9.18 - Surface use and patent restrictions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Surface use and patent restrictions. 9.18 Section 9.18 Parks, Forests, and Public Property NATIONAL PARK SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR MINERALS MANAGEMENT Mining and Mining Claims § 9.18 Surface use and patent restrictions. (a) The...

  19. Surface characterization

    Treesearch

    Mandla A. Tshabalala

    2005-01-01

    Surface properties of wood play an important role when wood is used or processed into different commodities such as siding, joinery, textiles, paper, sorption media or wood composites. Thus, for example, the quality and durability of a wood coating are determined by the surface properties of the wood and the coating. The same is true for wood composites, as the...

  20. On the role of spatial position of bridged oxygen atoms as surface passivants on the ground-state gap and photo-absorption spectrum of silicon nano-crystals

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

    Nazemi, Sanaz; Soleimani, Ebrahim Asl; Pourfath, Mahdi, E-mail: pourfath@ut.ac.ir, E-mail: pourfath@iue.tuwien.ac.at

    2015-11-28

    Silicon nano-crystals (NCs) are potential candidates for enhancing and tuning optical properties of silicon for optoelectronic and photo-voltaic applications. Due to the high surface-to-volume ratio, however, optical properties of NC result from the interplay of quantum confinement and surface effects. In this work, we show that both the spatial position of surface terminants and their relative positions have strong effects on NC properties as well. This is accomplished by investigating the ground-state HOMO-LUMO band-gap, the photo-absorption spectra, and the localization and overlap of HOMO and LUMO orbital densities for prototype ∼1.2 nm Si{sub 32–x}H{sub 42–2x}O{sub x} hydrogenated silicon NC with bridgedmore » oxygen atoms as surface terminations. It is demonstrated that the surface passivation geometry significantly alters the localization center and thus the overlap of frontier molecular orbitals, which correspondingly modifies the electronic and optical properties of NC.« less

  1. Effect of SMAT on microstructural and mechanical properties of AA2024

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tadge, Prashant; Sasikumar, C.

    2016-05-01

    In recent days surface mechanical attrition treatment (SMAT) had attracted the attention of researchers as it produces a nano-crystalline surface with improved mechanical properties. In the present study Al-4%Cu alloy used in automobile and aerospace application is subjected to surface mechanical attrition treatment using steel shots. The microstructural changes introduced on the surface of the Al alloy was investigated using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The secondary phases formed during the SMAT process is been investigated using EDX and XRD analysis. The effects of SMAT on the mechanical properties were analyzed using a tensile testing. The SMA treatment had resulted in severe plastic deformation of the surface, thereby yielded a nanocrystalline surface with a grain size of 30 to 50 nm. Further, it is also found that the SMAT produced ultra nanocrystalline particles of Cu2Al dispersed uniformly into α-Al matrix. These microstructural changes had resulted in considerable change in the mechanical properties of these alloys. The tensile strength of these alloys had increased from ˜212 MPa to 303 MPa while the fracture toughness increased up to 28% in 10 minutes of SMAT.

  2. Tribological properties and surface structures of ion implanted 9Cr18Mo stainless steels

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fengbin, Liu; Guohao, Fu; Yan, Cui; Qiguo, Sun; Min, Qu; Yi, Sun

    2013-07-01

    The polished quenched-and-tempered 9Cr18Mo steels were implanted with N ions and Ti ions respectively at a fluence of 2 × 1017 ions/cm2. The mechanical properties of the samples were investigated by using nanoindenter and tribometer. The results showed that the ion implantations would improve the nanohardness and tribological property, especially N ion implantation. The surface analysis of the implanted samples was carried out by using XRD, XPS and AES. It indicated that the surface exhibits graded layers after ion implantation. For N ion implantation, the surface about 20 nm thickness is mainly composed of supersaturated interstitial N solid solution, oxynitrides, CrxCy phase and metal nitrides. In the subsurface region, the metal nitrides dominate and the other phases disappear. For Ti ion implantation, the surface of about 20 nm thickness is mainly composed of titanium oxides and carbon amorphous phase, the interstitial solid solution of Ti in Fe is abundant in the subsurface region. The surface components and structures have significant contributions to the improved mechanical properties.

  3. Solid Lubrication Fundamentals and Applications. Properties of Clean Surfaces: Adhesion, Friction, and Wear

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Miyoshi, Kazuhisa

    1998-01-01

    This chapter presents the adhesion, friction, and wear behaviors of smooth, atomically clean surfaces of solid-solid couples, such as metal-ceramic couples, in a clean environment. Surface and bulk properties, which determine the adhesion, friction, and wear behaviors of solid-solid couples, are described. The primary emphasis is on the nature and character of the metal, especially its surface energy and ductility. Also, the mechanisms of friction and wear for clean, smooth surfaces are stated.

  4. Design of gecko-inspired fibrillar surfaces with strong attachment and easy-removal properties: a numerical analysis of peel-zone

    PubMed Central

    Zhou, Ming; Pesika, Noshir; Zeng, Hongbo; Wan, Jin; Zhang, Xiangjun; Meng, Yonggang; Wen, Shizhu; Tian, Yu

    2012-01-01

    Despite successful fabrication of gecko-inspired fibrillar surfaces with strong adhesion forces, how to achieve an easy-removal property becomes a major concern that may restrict the wide applications of these bio-inspired surfaces. Research on how geckos detach rapidly has inspired the design of novel adhesive surfaces with strong and reversible adhesion capabilities, which relies on further fundamental understanding of the peeling mechanisms. Recent studies showed that the peel-zone plays an important role in the peeling off of adhesive tapes or fibrillar surfaces. In this study, a numerical method was developed to evaluate peel-zone deformation and the resulting mechanical behaviour due to the deformations of fibrillar surfaces detaching from a smooth rigid substrate. The effect of the geometrical parameters of pillars and the stiffness of backing layer on the peel-zone and peel strength, and the strong attachment and easy-removal properties have been analysed to establish a design map for bio-inspired fibrillar surfaces, which shows that the optimized strong attachment and easy-removal properties can vary by over three orders of magnitude. The adhesion and peeling design map established provides new insights into the design and development of novel gecko-inspired fibrillar surfaces. PMID:22572030

  5. Optical properties study of silicone polymer PDMS substrate surfaces modified by plasma treatment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zahid, A.; Dai, B.; Hong, R.; Zhang, D.

    2017-10-01

    In this study, PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) substrates with a half-plain, half-rough surface were prepared on a plain and rough fused silica glass substrate using a molding technique. The molded PDMS surface morphology was changed into a half-smooth and half-rough surface after peeling. The modified PDMS surfaces’ optical properties were inspected with and without treatment. The treatment is exposed by oxygen plasma (15 W) for 3 min in a vacuum, down to a pressure of six torr, using a vacuum pump. An atomic force microscope (AMF) and interferometer (white light) indicated that the plasma O2 treatment increased the formation of the plain surface and decreased the formation of the rough surface. The optical properties via a spectrophotometer (lambda) show the resonance from 300 nm to 1200 nm on the rough surface, which is considered to be a faithful reproduction for transmittance and reflectance. The Raman spectra and FDTD simulation results are in excellent agreement; not to be confused with metal local surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs). The Raman spectra peaks and hotspot are the results of the PDMS Si-O backbone. The PDMS substrate presented the diversity of the optical properties, which makes the substrate complementary to various optical applications.

  6. Predicting Hidden bulk phases in Sr3Ru2O7 from surface phases

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rivero, Pablo; Chen, Chen; Jin, Roying; Meunier, Vincent; Plummer, E. W.; Shelton, William

    Double-layered Sr3Ru2O7 has received phenomenal attention as it exhibits an overabundance of exotic phases when perturbed. Recently it has been shown that the surface of this material displays significantly different properties than in the bulk due to the surface induced tilt of the RuO6 octahedra. Here we report detailed first principles calculations of the surface structure, and the structure property relationship. Tilt of the octahedra drive the surface into a much less conducting state than in the bulk due in part to the different electronic properties of the two Ru atoms in the first RuO2 layer of the bilayer. The broken symmetry at the surface causes a tilt and enhanced rotation of the octahedra only present in the first (surface) bilayer. Theoretically the surface is ferromagnetically ordered but the stability with respect to the antiferromagnetic phase is small ( = 11 meV). We have calculated the bulk properties under uniaxial pressure, which induces a tilt and drives the bulk into an antiferromagnetic-insulating state. Support of this project came from DoE contract No. DE-SCOO12432 and the Louisiana Board of Regents. V. M. acknowledges support from New York State under NYSTAR program C080117.

  7. Surface similarity-based molecular query-retrieval

    PubMed Central

    Singh, Rahul

    2007-01-01

    Background Discerning the similarity between molecules is a challenging problem in drug discovery as well as in molecular biology. The importance of this problem is due to the fact that the biochemical characteristics of a molecule are closely related to its structure. Therefore molecular similarity is a key notion in investigations targeting exploration of molecular structural space, query-retrieval in molecular databases, and structure-activity modelling. Determining molecular similarity is related to the choice of molecular representation. Currently, representations with high descriptive power and physical relevance like 3D surface-based descriptors are available. Information from such representations is both surface-based and volumetric. However, most techniques for determining molecular similarity tend to focus on idealized 2D graph-based descriptors due to the complexity that accompanies reasoning with more elaborate representations. Results This paper addresses the problem of determining similarity when molecules are described using complex surface-based representations. It proposes an intrinsic, spherical representation that systematically maps points on a molecular surface to points on a standard coordinate system (a sphere). Molecular surface properties such as shape, field strengths, and effects due to field super-positioningcan then be captured as distributions on the surface of the sphere. Surface-based molecular similarity is subsequently determined by computing the similarity of the surface-property distributions using a novel formulation of histogram-intersection. The similarity formulation is not only sensitive to the 3D distribution of the surface properties, but is also highly efficient to compute. Conclusion The proposed method obviates the computationally expensive step of molecular pose-optimisation, can incorporate conformational variations, and facilitates highly efficient determination of similarity by directly comparing molecular surfaces and surface-based properties. Retrieval performance, applications in structure-activity modeling of complex biological properties, and comparisons with existing research and commercial methods demonstrate the validity and effectiveness of the approach. PMID:17634096

  8. Cloud vertical distribution from combined surface and space radar-lidar observations at two Arctic atmospheric observatories

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

    Liu, Yinghui; Shupe, Matthew D.; Wang, Zhien

    Detailed and accurate vertical distributions of cloud properties (such as cloud fraction, cloud phase, and cloud water content) and their changes are essential to accurately calculate the surface radiative flux and to depict the mean climate state. Surface and space-based active sensors including radar and lidar are ideal to provide this information because of their superior capability to detect clouds and retrieve cloud microphysical properties. In this study, we compare the annual cycles of cloud property vertical distributions from space-based active sensors and surface-based active sensors at two Arctic atmospheric observatories, Barrow and Eureka. Based on the comparisons, we identifymore » the sensors' respective strengths and limitations, and develop a blended cloud property vertical distribution by combining both sets of observations. Results show that surface-based observations offer a more complete cloud property vertical distribution from the surface up to 11 km above mean sea level (a.m.s.l.) with limitations in the middle and high altitudes; the annual mean total cloud fraction from space-based observations shows 25-40 % fewer clouds below 0.5 km than from surface-based observations, and space-based observations also show much fewer ice clouds and mixed-phase clouds, and slightly more liquid clouds, from the surface to 1 km. In general, space-based observations show comparable cloud fractions between 1 and 2 km a.m.s.l., and larger cloud fractions above 2 km a.m.s.l. than from surface-based observations. A blended product combines the strengths of both products to provide a more reliable annual cycle of cloud property vertical distributions from the surface to 11 km a.m.s.l. This information can be valuable for deriving an accurate surface radiative budget in the Arctic and for cloud parameterization evaluation in weather and climate models. Cloud annual cycles show similar evolutions in total cloud fraction and ice cloud fraction, and lower liquid-containing cloud fraction at Eureka than at Barrow; the differences can be attributed to the generally colder and drier conditions at Eureka relative to Barrow.« less

  9. Cloud vertical distribution from combined surface and space radar-lidar observations at two Arctic atmospheric observatories

    DOE PAGES

    Liu, Yinghui; Shupe, Matthew D.; Wang, Zhien; ...

    2017-05-16

    Detailed and accurate vertical distributions of cloud properties (such as cloud fraction, cloud phase, and cloud water content) and their changes are essential to accurately calculate the surface radiative flux and to depict the mean climate state. Surface and space-based active sensors including radar and lidar are ideal to provide this information because of their superior capability to detect clouds and retrieve cloud microphysical properties. In this study, we compare the annual cycles of cloud property vertical distributions from space-based active sensors and surface-based active sensors at two Arctic atmospheric observatories, Barrow and Eureka. Based on the comparisons, we identifymore » the sensors' respective strengths and limitations, and develop a blended cloud property vertical distribution by combining both sets of observations. Results show that surface-based observations offer a more complete cloud property vertical distribution from the surface up to 11 km above mean sea level (a.m.s.l.) with limitations in the middle and high altitudes; the annual mean total cloud fraction from space-based observations shows 25-40 % fewer clouds below 0.5 km than from surface-based observations, and space-based observations also show much fewer ice clouds and mixed-phase clouds, and slightly more liquid clouds, from the surface to 1 km. In general, space-based observations show comparable cloud fractions between 1 and 2 km a.m.s.l., and larger cloud fractions above 2 km a.m.s.l. than from surface-based observations. A blended product combines the strengths of both products to provide a more reliable annual cycle of cloud property vertical distributions from the surface to 11 km a.m.s.l. This information can be valuable for deriving an accurate surface radiative budget in the Arctic and for cloud parameterization evaluation in weather and climate models. Cloud annual cycles show similar evolutions in total cloud fraction and ice cloud fraction, and lower liquid-containing cloud fraction at Eureka than at Barrow; the differences can be attributed to the generally colder and drier conditions at Eureka relative to Barrow.« less

  10. Effect of bentonite modification on hardness and mechanical properties of natural rubber nanocomposites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Santiago, Denise Ester O.; Pajarito, Bryan B.; Mangaccat, Winna Faye F.; Tigue, Maelyn Rose M.; Tipton, Monica T.

    2016-05-01

    The effect of sodium activation, ion-exchange with tertiary amine salt, surface treatment with non-ionic surfactant, and wet grinding of bentonite on hardness and mechanical properties of natural rubber nanocomposites (NRN) was studied using full factorial design of experiment. Results of X-ray diffraction (XRD) show increase in basal spacing d of bentonite due to modification, while attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) confirm the organic modification of bentonite. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) shows that the main effect of surface treatment increases the hardness and decreases the tensile modulus of the NRN. The surface treatment and wet grinding of bentonite decrease the tensile stresses at 100, 200 and 300% strain of NRN. Sodium activation and ion-exchange negatively affect the compressive properties, while surface treatment significantly improves the compressive properties of NRN.

  11. Temperature sensitive surfaces and methods of making same

    DOEpatents

    Liang, Liang [Richland, WA; Rieke, Peter C [Pasco, WA; Alford, Kentin L [Pasco, WA

    2002-09-10

    Poly-n-isopropylacrylamide surface coatings demonstrate the useful property of being able to switch charateristics depending upon temperature. More specifically, these coatings switch from being hydrophilic at low temperature to hydrophobic at high temperature. Research has been conducted for many years to better characterize and control the properties of temperature sensitive coatings. The present invention provides novel temperature sensitive coatings on articles and novel methods of making temperature sensitive coatings that are disposed on the surfaces of various articles. These novel coatings contain the reaction products of n-isopropylacrylamide and are characterized by their properties such as advancing contact angles. Numerous other characteristics such as coating thickness, surface roughness, and hydrophilic-to-hydrophobic transition temperatures are also described. The present invention includes articles having temperature-sensitve coatings with improved properties as well as improved methods for forming temperature sensitive coatings.

  12. Effect of superficial harrowing on surface properties of sand with rubber and waxed-sand with fibre riding arena surfaces: a preliminary study.

    PubMed

    Tranquille, C A; Walker, V A; Hernlund, E; Egenvall, A; Roepstorff, L; Peterson, M L; Murray, R C

    2015-01-01

    A recent epidemiological study identified various aspects of arena surfaces and arena surface maintenance that were related to risk of injury in horses and that arena maintenance is important in reducing injury risk. However, there has been little research into how properties of arena surfaces change with harrowing. This study aimed to compare the properties of different arena surface types pre- and post-harrowing. The Orono Biomechanical Surface Tester fitted with accelerometers and a single- and a three-axis load cell was used to test 11 arenas with two different surfaces types, sand with rubber (SR) and waxed-sand with fibre (WSF). Three drop tests were carried out at 10 standardised locations on each arena. Mixed models were created to assess the effect of surface type, pre- or post-harrowing, and drop number on the properties of the surface, including maximum horizontal deceleration, maximum vertical deceleration, maximum vertical load and maximum horizontal load. Post-harrowing, none of the parameters were altered significantly on SR. On WSF, maximum vertical deceleration and maximum vertical load significantly decreased post-harrowing. The differences in the effects of superficial harrowing on SR and WSF could be attributed to the different compositions and sizes of the surface material. The results suggest that different maintenance techniques may be more suitable for different surface types and that the effects of superficial harrowing are short-lived due to the rapid re-compaction of the surface with repeated drops on WSF. Further work is required to determine the effects of other maintenance techniques, and on other surface types. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Mechanical and interfacial properties of poly(vinyl chloride) based composites reinforced by cassava stillage residue with different surface treatments

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Yanjuan; Gan, Tao; Li, Qian; Su, Jianmei; Lin, Ye; Wei, Yongzuo; Huang, Zuqiang; Yang, Mei

    2014-09-01

    Cassava stillage residue (CSR), a kind of agro-industrial plant fiber, was modified by coupling agent (CA), mechanical activation (MA), and MA-assisted CA (MACA) surface treatments, respectively. The untreated and different surface treated CSRs were used to prepare plant fibers/polymer composites (PFPC) with poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) as polymer matrix, and the properties of these CSR/PVC composites were compared. Surface treated CSR/PVC composites possessed better mechanical properties, water resistance and dimensional stability compared with the untreated CSR/PVC composite, attributing to the improvement of interfacial properties between CSR and PVC matrix. MACA-treated CSR was the best reinforcement among four types of CSRs (untreated, MA-treated, CA-treated, and MACA-treated CSRs) because MACA treatment led to the significant improvement of dispersion, interfacial adhesion and compatibility between CSR and PVC. MACA treatment could be considered as an effective and green method for enhancing reinforcement efficiency of plant fibers and the properties of PFPC.

  14. CH-π Interaction Driven Macroscopic Property Transition on Smart Polymer Surface

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Minmin; Qing, Guangyan; Xiong, Yuting; Lai, Yuekun; Sun, Taolei

    2015-10-01

    Life systems have evolved to utilize weak noncovalent interactions, particularly CH-π interaction, to achieve various biofunctions, for example cellular communication, immune response, and protein folding. However, for artificial materials, it remains a great challenge to recognize such weak interaction, further transform it into tunable macroscopic properties and realize special functions. Here we integrate monosaccharide-based CH-π receptor capable of recognizing aromatic peptides into a smart polymer with three-component “Recognition-Mediating-Function” design, and report the CH-π interaction driven surface property switching on smart polymer film, including wettability, adhesion, viscoelasticity and stiffness. Detailed studies indicate that, the CH-π interaction induces the complexation between saccharide unit and aromatic peptide, which breaks the initial amphiphilic balance of the polymer network, resulting in contraction-swelling conformational transition for polymer chains and subsequent dramatic switching in surface properties. This work not only presents a new approach to control the surface property of materials, but also points to a broader research prospect on CH-π interaction at a macroscopic level.

  15. CH-π Interaction Driven Macroscopic Property Transition on Smart Polymer Surface.

    PubMed

    Li, Minmin; Qing, Guangyan; Xiong, Yuting; Lai, Yuekun; Sun, Taolei

    2015-10-29

    Life systems have evolved to utilize weak noncovalent interactions, particularly CH-π interaction, to achieve various biofunctions, for example cellular communication, immune response, and protein folding. However, for artificial materials, it remains a great challenge to recognize such weak interaction, further transform it into tunable macroscopic properties and realize special functions. Here we integrate monosaccharide-based CH-π receptor capable of recognizing aromatic peptides into a smart polymer with three-component "Recognition-Mediating-Function" design, and report the CH-π interaction driven surface property switching on smart polymer film, including wettability, adhesion, viscoelasticity and stiffness. Detailed studies indicate that, the CH-π interaction induces the complexation between saccharide unit and aromatic peptide, which breaks the initial amphiphilic balance of the polymer network, resulting in contraction-swelling conformational transition for polymer chains and subsequent dramatic switching in surface properties. This work not only presents a new approach to control the surface property of materials, but also points to a broader research prospect on CH-π interaction at a macroscopic level.

  16. Laser surface texturing of polymers for biomedical applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Riveiro, Antonio; Maçon, Anthony L. B.; del Val, Jesus; Comesaña, Rafael; Pou, Juan

    2018-02-01

    Polymers are materials widely used in biomedical science because of their biocompatibility, and good mechanical properties (which, in some cases, are similar to those of human tissues); however, these materials are, in general, chemically and biologically inert. Surface characteristics, such as topography (at the macro-, micro, and nanoscale), surface chemistry, surface energy, charge or wettability are interrelated properties, and they cooperatively influence the biological performance of materials when used for biomedical applications. They regulate the biological response at the implant/tissue interface (e.g., influencing the cell adhesion, cell orientation, cell motility, etc.). Several surface processing techniques have been explored to modulate these properties for biomedical applications. Despite their potentials, these methods have limitations that prevent their applicability. In this regard, laser-based methods, in particular laser surface texturing (LST), can be an interesting alternative. Different works have showed the potentiality of this technique to control the surface properties of biomedical polymers and enhance their biological performance; however, more research is needed to obtain the desired biological response. This work provides a general overview of the basics and applications of LST for the surface modification of polymers currently used in the clinical practice (e.g. PEEK, UHMWPE, PP, etc.). The modification of roughness, wettability, and their impact on the biological response is addressed to offer new insights on the surface modification of biomedical polymers.

  17. Low-dimensional carbon and MXene-based electrochemical capacitor electrodes.

    PubMed

    Yoon, Yeoheung; Lee, Keunsik; Lee, Hyoyoung

    2016-04-29

    Due to their unique structure and outstanding intrinsic physical properties such as extraordinarily high electrical conductivity, large surface area, and various chemical functionalities, low-dimension-based materials exhibit great potential for application in electrochemical capacitors (ECs). The electrical properties of electrochemical capacitors are determined by the electrode materials. Because energy charge storage is a surface process, the surface properties of the electrode materials greatly influence the electrochemical performance of the cell. Recently, graphene, a single layer of sp(2)-bonded carbon atoms arrayed into two-dimensional carbon nanomaterial, has attracted wide interest as an electrode material for electrochemical capacitor applications due to its unique properties, including a high electrical conductivity and large surface area. Several low-dimensional materials with large surface areas and high conductivity such as onion-like carbons (OLCs), carbide-derived carbons (CDCs), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene, metal hydroxide, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), and most recently MXene, have been developed for electrochemical capacitors. Therefore, it is useful to understand the current issues of low-dimensional materials and their device applications.

  18. Experimental study on surface properties of the PMMA used in high power spark gaps

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Han, Ruoyu; Wu, Jiawei; Ding, Weidong; Liu, Yunfei; Gou, Yang

    2017-10-01

    This paper studies the surface properties of the Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) insulator samples used in high power spark gaps. Experiments on surface morphology, surface profile, surface chemical composition and surface leakage current were performed. Metal particles ejected in tangent direction of discharge spots were researched on the sample surface. Three kinds of distinct bands were found on the surface after 1500 shots: colorless and transparent sinking band, black band, and grey powdered coating band. The thickness of the coating band was tens of microns and the maximum radial erosion rate was about 10 μm/C. Surface content analysis indicated that the powdered coating was a mixture of decomposed insulator material and electrode material oxides. In addition, leakage current significantly depended on water content in the chamber and presented an U-shape curve distribution along the insulator surface, in keeping with the amount of powdered coating due to shock waves. Possible reasons of the surface property changes were discussed. Electroconductive oxides of low valence states of Cu and W produced by the reactions between electrode materials and arc plasmas were considered to be the cause of dielectric performance degradation.

  19. Effect of low doses beta irradiation on micromechanical properties of surface layer of injection molded polypropylene composite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Manas, David; Manas, Miroslav; Gajzlerova, Lenka; Ovsik, Martin; Kratky, Petr; Senkerik, Vojtěch; Skrobak, Adam; Danek, Michal; Manas, Martin

    2015-09-01

    The influence of beta radiation on the changes in the structure and selected properties (mechanical and thermal) was proved. Using low doses of beta radiation for 25% glass fiber filled polypropylene and its influence on the changes of micromechanical properties of surface layer has not been studied in detail so far. The specimens of 25% glass fiber filled PP were made by injection molding technology and irradiated by low doses of beta radiation (0, 15 and 33 kGy). The changes in the microstructure and micromechanical properties of surface layer were evaluated using FTIR, SEM, WAXS and instrumented microhardness test. The results of the measurements showed considerable increase in micromechanical properties (indentation hardness, indentation elastic modulus) when low doses of beta radiation are used.

  20. The Effects of Surface Roughness on the Apparent Thermal and Optical Properties of the Moon

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rubanenko, L.; Hayne, P. O.; Paige, D. A.

    2017-12-01

    The thermal inertia and albedo of airless planetary bodies such as the Moon can be inferred by measuring the surface temperatures and solar reflectance. However, roughness below the instrument resolution can affect these measured parameters. Scattering and IR emission from warm slopes onto colder slopes change the surface cooling rate, while shadowing and directional scattering change the reflectance. The importance of these effects grows with increasing solar incidence and emission angles, and during solar eclipses during which the insolation decreases rapidly. The high-quality data gathered by the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) mission during the last seven years provides us with a unique opportunity to study these effects. Previous works have either adopted a simplified roughness model composed of a single slope, or an illumination model that does not account for subsurface conduction. Our approach incorporates data with simulations conducted using a coupled thermal and illumination model. First, we model the surface temperature distribution below the instrument resolution, considering two realizations: a cratered surface and a Gaussian random surface. Then, we fit the rough surface brightness temperature distribution to that of a flat surface with effective thermal and optical properties to find they differ from the original properties by up to 20% due to the added surface roughness. In the future, this will help to better constrain the intrinsic physical properties of the surface on both the Moon and Mercury and also other airless bodies such as asteroids.

  1. Electroactive Polyurea Bearing Oligoaniline Pendants: Electrochromic and Anticorrosive Properties

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-12-26

    unlimited. Electroactive polyurea bearing oligoaniline pendants: Electrochromic and anticorrosive properties The views, opinions and/or findings contained...Park, NC 27709-2211 oligoaniline, anticorrosive surfaces, conjugated surfaces REPORT DOCUMENTATION PAGE 11. SPONSOR/MONITOR’S REPORT NUMBER(S) 10...Durham, NH 03824 -2585 ABSTRACT Electroactive polyurea bearing oligoaniline pendants: Electrochromic and anticorrosive properties Report Title In this

  2. Impact of surface energy on the shock properties of granular explosives.

    PubMed

    Bidault, X; Pineau, N

    2018-01-21

    This paper presents the first part of a two-fold molecular dynamics study of the impact of the granularity on the shock properties of high explosives. Recent experimental studies show that the granularity can have a substantial impact on the properties of detonation products {i.e., variations in the size distributions of detonation nanodiamonds [V. Pichot et al., Sci. Rep. 3, 2159 (2013)]}. These variations can have two origins: the surface energy, which is a priori enhanced from micro- to nano-scale, and the porosity induced by the granular structure. In this first report, we study the impact of the surface-energy contribution on the inert shock compression of TATB, TNT, α-RDX, and β-HMX nano-grains (triaminotrinitrobenzene, trinitrotoluene, hexogen and octogen, respectively). We compute the radius-dependent surface energy and combine it with an ab initio-based equation of state in order to obtain the resulting shock properties through the Rankine-Hugoniot relations. We find that the enhancement of the surface energy results in a moderate overheating under shock compression. This contribution is minor with respect to porosity, when compared to a simple macroscopic model. This result motivates further atomistic studies on the impact of nanoporosity networks on the shock properties.

  3. Laser irradiation effects on the surface, structural and mechanical properties of Al-Cu alloy 2024

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yousaf, Daniel; Bashir, Shazia; Akram, Mahreen; kalsoom, Umm-i.-; Ali, Nisar

    2014-02-01

    Laser irradiation effects on surface, structural and mechanical properties of Al-Cu-Mg alloy (Al-Cu alloy 2024) have been investigated. The specimens were irradiated for various fluences ranging from 3.8 to 5.5 J/cm2 using an Excimer (KrF) laser (248 nm, 18 ns, 30 Hz) under vacuum environment. The surface and structural modifications of the irradiated targets have been investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD), respectively. SEM analysis reveals the formation of micro-sized craters along the growth of periodic surface structures (ripples) at their peripheries. The size of the craters initially increases and then decreases by increasing the laser fluence. XRD analysis shows an anomalous trend in the peak intensity and crystallite size of the specimen irradiated for various fluences. A universal tensile testing machine and Vickers microhardness tester were employed in order to investigate the mechanical properties of the irradiated targets. The changes in yield strength, ultimate tensile strength and microhardness were found to be anomalous with increasing laser fluences. The changes in the surface and structural properties of Al-Cu alloy 2024 after laser irradiation have been associated with the changes in mechanical properties.

  4. Endothelial glycocalyx: permeability barrier and mechanosensor.

    PubMed

    Curry, F E; Adamson, R H

    2012-04-01

    Endothelial cells are covered with a polysaccharide rich layer more than 400 nm thick, mechanical properties of which limit access of circulating plasma components to endothelial cell membranes. The barrier properties of this endothelial surface layer are deduced from the rate of tracer penetration into the layer and the mechanics of red and white cell movement through capillary microvessels. This review compares the mechanosensor and permeability properties of an inner layer (100-150 nm, close to the endothelial membrane) characterized as a quasi-periodic structure which accounts for key aspects of transvascular exchange and vascular permeability with those of the whole endothelial surface layers. We conclude that many of the barrier properties of the whole surface layer are not representative of the primary fiber matrix forming the molecular filter determining transvascular exchange. The differences between the properties of the whole layer and the inner glycocalyx structures likely reflect dynamic aspects of the endothelial surface layer including tracer binding to specific components, synthesis and degradation of key components, activation of signaling pathways in the endothelial cells when components of the surface layer are lost or degraded, and the spatial distribution of adhesion proteins in microdomains of the endothelial cell membrane.

  5. Mapping spatial variation in rock properties in relationship to scale-dependent structure using spectral curvature

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stewart, S. A.; Wynn, T. J.

    2000-08-01

    Maps of the three-dimensional geometry of geologic surfaces show that structural curvature commonly varies with scale of observation: This fact can be viewed as superposition of structures at different wavelengths. Rock properties such as fracture density and orientation reflect the contribution of superimposed structures. For this reason, characterization of geologic surfaces is fundamentally different from purely geometrical characterization, for which local description of surface properties is sufficient. We show that measured curvature decays according to a power law with increasing size of measurement window, so short-wavelength curvatures do not obscure long-wavelength curvatures in the same data set. This property can be taken advantage of in a simple technique for automatically mapping multiwavelength curvatures. At each point on a surface, curvature is measured at a range of wavelengths. This curvature spectrum can be analyzed in map view or collapsed into a single value at each point in space. The results indicate that complex geologic surfaces can be characterized without any prior knowledge of structural wavelengths and orientation. The method should prove useful in applications requiring knowledge of spatial variation in rock properties from remotely sensed data, such as exploration for hydrocarbon reservoirs or nuclear waste repositories.

  6. Impact of surface energy on the shock properties of granular explosives

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bidault, X.; Pineau, N.

    2018-01-01

    This paper presents the first part of a two-fold molecular dynamics study of the impact of the granularity on the shock properties of high explosives. Recent experimental studies show that the granularity can have a substantial impact on the properties of detonation products {i.e., variations in the size distributions of detonation nanodiamonds [V. Pichot et al., Sci. Rep. 3, 2159 (2013)]}. These variations can have two origins: the surface energy, which is a priori enhanced from micro- to nano-scale, and the porosity induced by the granular structure. In this first report, we study the impact of the surface-energy contribution on the inert shock compression of TATB, TNT, α-RDX, and β-HMX nano-grains (triaminotrinitrobenzene, trinitrotoluene, hexogen and octogen, respectively). We compute the radius-dependent surface energy and combine it with an ab initio-based equation of state in order to obtain the resulting shock properties through the Rankine-Hugoniot relations. We find that the enhancement of the surface energy results in a moderate overheating under shock compression. This contribution is minor with respect to porosity, when compared to a simple macroscopic model. This result motivates further atomistic studies on the impact of nanoporosity networks on the shock properties.

  7. Surface modifications of magnesium alloys for biomedical applications.

    PubMed

    Yang, Jingxin; Cui, Fuzhai; Lee, In Seop

    2011-07-01

    In recent years, research on magnesium (Mg) alloys had increased significantly for hard tissue replacement and stent application due to their outstanding advantages. Firstly, Mg alloys have mechanical properties similar to bone which avoid stress shielding. Secondly, they are biocompatible essential to the human metabolism as a factor for many enzymes. In addition, main degradation product Mg is an essential trace element for human enzymes. The most important reason is they are perfectly biodegradable in the body fluid. However, extremely high degradation rate, resulting in too rapid loss of mechanical strength in chloride containing environments limits their applications. Engineered artificial biomaterials with appropriate mechanical properties, surface chemistry, and surface topography are in a great demand. As the interaction between the cells and tissues with biomaterials at the tissue--implant interface is a surface phenomenon; surface properties play a major role in determining both the biological response to implants and the material response to the physiological condition. Therefore, the ability to modify the surface properties while preserve the bulk properties is important, and surface modification to form a hard, biocompatible and corrosion resistant modified layer have always been an interesting topic in biomaterials field. In this article, attempts are made to give an overview of the current research and development status of surface modification technologies of Mg alloys for biomedical materials research. Further, the advantages/disadvantages of the different methods and with regard to the most promising method for Mg alloys are discussed. Finally, the scientific challenges are proposed based on own research and the work of other scientists.

  8. Regional Detection of Decoupled Explosions, Yield Estimation from Surface Waves, Two-Dimensional Source Effects, Three-Dimensional Earthquake Modeling and Automated Magnitude Measures

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-07-01

    41 3.2 EXPERIMENTAL DETERMINATION OF THE DEPENDENCE OF RAYLEIGH WAVE AMPLITUDE ON PROPERTIES OF THE SOURCE MATERIAL ...Surface Wave Observations ...... ................ 48 3.3.3 Surface Wave Dependence on Source Material Properties ..... ................ .. 51 SYSTEMS...with various aspects of the problem of estimating yield from single station recordings of surface waves. The material in these four summaries has been

  9. Effect of Build Angle on Surface Properties of Nickel Superalloys Processed by Selective Laser Melting

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Covarrubias, Ernesto E.; Eshraghi, Mohsen

    2018-03-01

    Aerospace, automotive, and medical industries use selective laser melting (SLM) to produce complex parts through solidifying successive layers of powder. This additive manufacturing technique has many advantages, but one of the biggest challenges facing this process is the resulting surface quality of the as-built parts. The purpose of this research was to study the surface properties of Inconel 718 alloys fabricated by SLM. The effect of build angle on the surface properties of as-built parts was investigated. Two sets of sample geometries including cube and rectangular artifacts were considered in the study. It was found that, for angles between 15° and 75°, theoretical calculations based on the "stair-step" effect were consistent with the experimental results. Downskin surfaces showed higher average roughness values compared to the upskin surfaces. No significant difference was found between the average roughness values measured from cube and rectangular test artifacts.

  10. The effect of polyether functional polydimethylsiloxane on surface and thermal properties of waterborne polyurethane

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zheng, Guikai; Lu, Ming; Rui, Xiaoping

    2017-03-01

    Waterborne polyurethanes (WPU) modified with polyether functional polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) were synthesized by pre-polymerization method using isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) and 1,4-butanediol (BDO) as hard segments and polybutylene adipate glycol (PBA) and polyether functional PDMS as soft segments. The effect of polyether functional PDMS on phase separation, thermal properties, surface properties including surface composition, morphology and wettability were investigated by FTIR, contact angle measurements, ARXPS, SEM-EDS, AFM, TG and DSC. The results showed that the compatibility between urethane hard segment and PDMS modified with polyether was good, and there was no distinct phase separation in both bulk and surface of WPU films. The degradation temperature and low temperature flexibility increased with increasing amounts of polyether functional PDMS. The enrichment of polyether functional PDMS with low surface energy on the surface imparted excellent hydrophobicity to WPU films.

  11. Ab initio surface properties of Ag-Sn alloys: implications for lead-free soldering.

    PubMed

    Saleh, Gabriele; Xu, Chen; Sanvito, Stefano

    2018-02-07

    Ag and Sn are the major components of solder alloys adopted to assemble printed circuit boards. The qualities that make them the alloys of choice for the modern electronic industry are related to their physical and chemical properties. For corrosion resistance and solderability, surface properties are particularly important. Yet, atomic-level information about the surfaces of these alloys is not known. Here we fill this gap by presenting an extensive ab initio investigation of composition, energetics, structure and reactivity of Ag-Sn alloy surfaces. The structure and stability of various surfaces is evaluated, and the main factors determining the energetics of surface formation are uncovered. Oxygen and sulphur chemisorptions are studied and discussed in the framework of corrosion tendency, an important issue for printed circuit boards. Adsorption energy trends are rationalized based on the analysis of structural and electronic features.

  12. Studies of cellulose surfaces by titration and ESCA

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stenius, Per; Laine, Janne

    1994-01-01

    The surface properties of unbleached kraft pulp fibers of varying lignin content prepared by digestion with different amounts of excess alkali have been investigated using polyelectrolyte titration, potentiometric titration and ESCA. The surfaces contain two different acidic groups that dissociate completely above pH 7.5, one with pK ≈ 3.6 and one with pK ≈ 5.7. The amount of the latter group correlates directly with the amount of lignin in the pulp. The ESCA analysis indicates that the relative amount of carboxylic groups and alkyl carbon in the surface decreases as the lignin content decreases and also that material with high alkyl carbon content is enriched in the outermost surface of the cellulose. Thus, a combination of ESCA analysis and high-precision titrations is able to yield a very detailed picture of the effect of digestion conditions on surface properties of cellulose fibers of direct relevance to paper properties.

  13. Laser re-manufacturing of failure 18Cr2Ni4WA gear in low-speed heavy-load mining machine transmission

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chi, X. F.

    2017-10-01

    This article investigated laser re-manufacturing technology application in mining industry. The research focused on green re-manufacturing of failure spur. Leave the main gear body stay intact after the dirty, rust, fatigue and injured part were removed completely before the green re-manufacturing procedure begin. The optimized laser operating parameters paved the road for excellent mechanical properties and comparatively neat shape which often means less post processing. The laser re-manufactured gear surface was systematically examined, including microstructure observation, and dry wear test at room temperature. The test results were compared with new gear surface and used but not broken gear surface. Finally, it proved that the green re-manufactured gear surface displayed best comprehensive mechanical properties, followed the new gear surface. The resistance of dry wear properties of used but not broken gear surface was the worst.

  14. Bioinspired Functional Surfaces for Technological Applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sharma, Vipul; Kumar, Suneel; Reddy, Kumbam Lingeshwar; Bahuguna, Ashish; Krishnan, Venkata

    2016-08-01

    Biological matters have been in continuous encounter with extreme environmental conditions leading to their evolution over millions of years. The fittest have survived through continuous evolution, an ongoing process. Biological surfaces are the important active interfaces between biological matters and the environment, and have been evolving over time to a higher state of intelligent functionality. Bioinspired surfaces with special functionalities have grabbed attention in materials research in the recent times. The microstructures and mechanisms behind these functional biological surfaces with interesting properties have inspired scientists to create artificial materials and surfaces which possess the properties equivalent to their counterparts. In this review, we have described the interplay between unique multiscale (micro- and nano-scale) structures of biological surfaces with intrinsic material properties which have inspired researchers to achieve the desired wettability and functionalities. Inspired by naturally occurring surfaces, researchers have designed and fabricated novel interfacial materials with versatile functionalities and wettability, such as superantiwetting surfaces (superhydrophobic and superoleophobic), omniphobic, switching wettability and water collecting surfaces. These strategies collectively enable functional surfaces to be utilized in different applications such as fog harvesting, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), catalysis, sensing and biological applications. This paper delivers a critical review of such inspiring biological surfaces and artificial bioinspired surfaces utilized in different applications, where material science and engineering have merged by taking inspiration from the natural systems.

  15. Solid state division progress report, period ending February 29, 1980

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

    Not Available

    1980-09-01

    Research is reported concerning theoretical solid state physics; surface and near-surface properties of solids; defects in solids; transport properties of solids; neutron scattering; crystal growth and characterization; and isotope research materials.

  16. Chapter 8:Surface Characterization

    Treesearch

    Mandla A. Tshabalala; Joseph Jakes; Mark R. VanLandingham; Shaoxia Wang; Jouko Peltonen

    2013-01-01

    Surface properties of wood play an important role when wood is used or processed into different commodities such as siding, joinery, textiles, paper, sorption media, or wood composites. Thus, for example, the quality and durability of a wood coating are determined by the surface properties of the wood and the coating. The same is true for wood composites where the...

  17. Equiangular Surfaces, Self-Similar Surfaces, and the Geometry of Seashells

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Boyadzhiev, Khristo N.

    2007-01-01

    Logarithmic spirals are among the most fascinating curves in the plane, being the only curves that are equiangular, and the only ones that are self-similar. In this article, we show that in three dimensions, these two properties are independent. Although there are surfaces that have both properties, there are some that are equiangular, but not…

  18. Modified Surface Having Low Adhesion Properties to Mitigate Insect Residue Adhesion

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wohl, Christopher J., Jr. (Inventor); Smith, Joseph G., Jr. (Inventor); Siochi, Emilie J. (Inventor); Penner, Ronald K. (Inventor)

    2016-01-01

    A process to modify a surface to provide reduced adhesion surface properties to mitigate insect residue adhesion. The surface may include the surface of an article including an aircraft, an automobile, a marine vessel, all-terrain vehicle, wind turbine, helmet, etc. The process includes topographically and chemically modifying the surface by applying a coating comprising a particulate matter, or by applying a coating and also topographically modifying the surface by various methods, including but not limited to, lithographic patterning, laser ablation and chemical etching, physical vapor phase deposition, chemical vapor phase deposition, crystal growth, electrochemical deposition, spin casting, and film casting.

  19. Facile and rapid synthesis of Pd nanodendrites for electrocatalysis and surface-enhanced Raman scattering applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kannan, Palanisamy; Dolinska, Joanna; Maiyalagan, Thandavarayan; Opallo, Marcin

    2014-09-01

    Numerous properties from metal nanostructures can be tuned by controlling both their size and shape. In particular, the latter is extremely important because the type of crystalline surface affects the surface electronic density. This paper describes a simple approach to the synthesis of highly-structured, anisotropic palladium nanostructured dendrites. They were obtained using an eco-friendly biomolecule 5-hydroxytryptophan, which acts as both a reducing and stabilizing agent. The growth mechanism is proposed for the evolution of dendrites morphology. It was found that the concentration of 5-hydroxytryptophan played a vital role on the morphology of the nanostructured Pd dendrites. This nanomaterial shows enhanced electrocatalytic performance towards the oxidation of formic acid, and it exhibits surface-enhanced Raman scattering properties towards the prostate specific antigen. These properties may be explored in fuel cells and biosensors, respectively.Numerous properties from metal nanostructures can be tuned by controlling both their size and shape. In particular, the latter is extremely important because the type of crystalline surface affects the surface electronic density. This paper describes a simple approach to the synthesis of highly-structured, anisotropic palladium nanostructured dendrites. They were obtained using an eco-friendly biomolecule 5-hydroxytryptophan, which acts as both a reducing and stabilizing agent. The growth mechanism is proposed for the evolution of dendrites morphology. It was found that the concentration of 5-hydroxytryptophan played a vital role on the morphology of the nanostructured Pd dendrites. This nanomaterial shows enhanced electrocatalytic performance towards the oxidation of formic acid, and it exhibits surface-enhanced Raman scattering properties towards the prostate specific antigen. These properties may be explored in fuel cells and biosensors, respectively. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr02896a

  20. Bioinspired surface functionalization of metallic biomaterials.

    PubMed

    Su, Yingchao; Luo, Cheng; Zhang, Zhihui; Hermawan, Hendra; Zhu, Donghui; Huang, Jubin; Liang, Yunhong; Li, Guangyu; Ren, Luquan

    2018-01-01

    Metallic biomaterials are widely used for clinical applications because of their excellent mechanical properties and good durability. In order to provide essential biofunctionalities, surface functionalization is of particular interest and requirement in the development of high-performance metallic implants. Inspired by the functional surface of natural biological systems, many new designs and conceptions have recently emerged to create multifunctional surfaces with great potential for biomedical applications. This review firstly introduces the metallic biomaterials, important surface properties, and then elaborates some strategies on achieving the bioinspired surface functionalization for metallic biomaterials. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Chemical, electronic, and magnetic structure of LaFeCoSi alloy: Surface and bulk properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lollobrigida, V.; Basso, V.; Borgatti, F.; Torelli, P.; Kuepferling, M.; Coïsson, M.; Olivetti, E. S.; Celegato, F.; Tortora, L.; Stefani, G.; Panaccione, G.; Offi, F.

    2014-05-01

    We investigate the chemical, electronic, and magnetic structure of the magnetocaloric LaFeCoSi compound with bulk and surface sensitive techniques. We put in evidence that the surface retains a soft ferromagnetic behavior at temperatures higher than the Curie temperature of the bulk due to the presence of Fe clusters at the surface only. This peculiar magnetic surface effect is attributed to the exchange interaction between the ferromagnetic Fe clusters located at the surface and the bulk magnetocaloric alloy, and it is used here to monitor the magnetic properties of the alloy itself.

  2. Enhancement of the thermo-optical response of silver nanoparticles due to surface plasmon resonance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hashemi Zadeh, Sakineh; Rashidi-Huyeh, Majid; Palpant, Bruno

    2017-10-01

    Owing to their remarkable optical properties, noble metals' nanoparticles are proposed for many applications. Controlling the temperature dependence of these properties may then appear to be of great relevance. In this paper, we investigate the thermo-optical properties of silver nanoparticles. Different silver nanocolloids were prepared with different surface plasmon resonance modes. The thermo-extinction spectra of the colloidal solutions were then evaluated by measuring the extinction spectra at different temperatures. This reveals a typical peak-valley profile around each surface plasmon resonance mode. Mie theory was used to study theoretically the impact of nanoparticle size on the thermo-optical properties. The results allow us to interpret properly the experimental findings.

  3. Martian surface materials

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Moore, H. J.

    1991-01-01

    A semiquantitative appreciation for the physical properties of the Mars surface materials and their global variations can be gained from the Viking Lander and remote sensing observations. Analyses of Lander data yields estimates of the mechanical properties of the soil-like surface materials and best guess estimates can be made for the remote sensing signatures of the soil-like materials at the landing sites. Results show that significant thickness of powderlike surface materials with physical properties similar to drift material are present on Mars and probably pervasive in the Tharsis region. It also appears likely that soil-like materials similar to crusty to cloddy material are typical for Mars, and that soil-like material similar to blocky material are common on Mars.

  4. Preparation of active antibacterial LDPE surface through multistep physicochemical approach II: graft type effect on antibacterial properties.

    PubMed

    Bílek, František; Sulovská, Kateřina; Lehocký, Marián; Sáha, Petr; Humpolíček, Petr; Mozetič, Miran; Junkar, Ita

    2013-02-01

    Three monomers (allylamine, N-allylmethylamine and N,N-dimethylallylamine) were used for grafting onto air plasma activated LDPE surface. Antibacterial agent triclosan was anchored on such substrates. Influence of graft type on the antibacterial properties was determined. Increase of antibacterial activity and amount of deposited antibacterial agent for N-allylmethylamine and N,N-dimethylallylamine monomers were examined. Surface characteristics were measured by means of static contact angle measurement with surface energy evaluation, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, XPS and SEM characterization analysis. Antibacterial properties were tested in vitro by inhibition zone method on agar plates for Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli strains. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Acoustic wave device using plate modes with surface-parallel displacement

    DOEpatents

    Martin, Stephen J.; Ricco, Antonio J.

    1992-01-01

    Solid-state acoustic sensors for monitoring conditions at a surface immersed in a liquid and for monitoring concentrations of species in a liquid and for monitoring electrical properties of a liquid are formed by placing interdigital input and output transducers on a piezoelectric substrate and propagating acoustic plate modes therebetween. The deposition or removal of material on or from, respectively, a thin film in contact with the surface, or changes in the mechanical properties of a thin film in contact with the surface, or changes in the electrical characteristics of the solution, create perturbations in the velocity and attenuation of the acoustic plate modes as a function of these properties or changes in them.

  6. Acoustic wave device using plate modes with surface-parallel displacement

    DOEpatents

    Martin, S.J.; Ricco, A.J.

    1992-05-26

    Solid-state acoustic sensors for monitoring conditions at a surface immersed in a liquid and for monitoring concentrations of species in a liquid and for monitoring electrical properties of a liquid are formed by placing interdigital input and output transducers on a piezoelectric substrate and propagating acoustic plate modes there between. The deposition or removal of material on or from, respectively, a thin film in contact with the surface, or changes in the mechanical properties of a thin film in contact with the surface, or changes in the electrical characteristics of the solution, create perturbations in the velocity and attenuation of the acoustic plate modes as a function of these properties or changes in them. 6 figs.

  7. Acoustic wave device using plate modes with surface-parallel displacement

    DOEpatents

    Martin, S.J.; Ricco, A.J.

    1988-04-29

    Solid-state acoustic sensors for monitoring conditions at a surface immersed in a liquid and for monitoring concentrations of species in a liquid and for monitoring electrical properties of a liquid are formed by placing interdigital input and output transducers on a piezoelectric substrate and propagating acoustic plate modes therebetween. The deposition or removal of material on or from, respectively, a thin film in contact with the surface, or changes in the mechanical properties of a thin film in contact with the surface, or changes in the electrical characteristics of the solution, create perturbations in the velocity and attenuation of the acoustic plate modes as a function of these properties or changes in them. 6 figs.

  8. Atmospheric-Pressure Plasma Jet Surface Treatment for Use in Improving Adhesion

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

    Kuettner, Lindsey Ann

    Atmospheric-pressure plasma jets (APPJs) are a method of plasma treatment that plays an important role in material processing and modifying surface properties of materials, especially polymers. Gas plasmas react with polymer surfaces in numerous ways such as oxidation, radical formation, degradation, and promotion of cross-linking. Because of this, gas and plasma conditions can be explored for chosen processes to maximize desired properties. The purpose of this study is to investigate plasma parameters in order to modify surface properties for improved adhesion between aluminum and epoxy substrates using two types of adhesives. The background, results to date, and future work willmore » be discussed.« less

  9. Interactions of hydroxyapatite surfaces: conditioning films of human whole saliva.

    PubMed

    Cárdenas, Marité; Valle-Delgado, Juan José; Hamit, Jildiz; Rutland, Mark W; Arnebrant, Thomas

    2008-07-15

    Hydroxyapatite is a very interesting material given that it is the main component in tooth enamel and because of its uses in bone implant applications. Therefore, not only the characterization of its surface is of high relevance but also designing reliable methods to study the interfacial properties of films adsorbed onto it. In this paper we apply the colloidal probe atomic force microscopy method to investigate the surface properties of commercially available hydroxyapatite surfaces (both microscopic particles and macroscopic discs) in terms of interfacial and frictional forces. In this way, we find that hydroxyapatite surfaces at physiological relevant conditions are slightly negatively charged. The surfaces were then exposed to human whole saliva, and the surface properties were re-evaluated. A thick film was formed that was very resistant to mechanical stress. The frictional measurements demonstrated that the film was indeed highly lubricating, supporting the argument that this system may prove to be a relevant model for evaluating dental and implant systems.

  10. Structure and wettability property of the growth and nucleation surfaces of thermally treated freestanding CVD diamond films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pei, Xiaoqiang; Cheng, Shaoheng; Ma, Yibo; Wu, Danfeng; Liu, Junsong; Wang, Qiliang; Yang, Yizhou; Li, Hongdong

    2015-08-01

    This paper reports the surface features and wettability properties of the (1 0 0)-textured freestanding chemical vapor deposited (CVD) diamond films after thermal exposure in air at high temperature. Thermal oxidation at proper conditions eliminates selectively nanodiamonds and non-diamond carbons in the films. The growth side of the films contains (1 0 0)-oriented micrometer-sized columns, while its nucleation side is formed of nano-sized tips. The examined wettability properties of the as-treated diamond films reveal a hydrophilicity and superhydrophilicity on the growth surface and nucleation surface, respectively, which is determined by oxygen termination and geometry structure of the surface. When the surface termination is hydrogenated, the wettability of nucleation side converted from superhydrophilicity to high hydrophobicity, while the hydrophilicity of the growth side does not change significantly. The findings open a possibility for realizing freestanding diamond films having not only novel surface structures but also multifunction applications, especially proposed on the selected growth side or nucleation side in one product.

  11. Mechanically durable superoleophobic aluminum surfaces with microstep and nanoreticula hierarchical structure for self-cleaning and anti-smudge properties.

    PubMed

    Peng, Shan; Bhushan, Bharat

    2016-01-01

    Superoleophobic aluminum surfaces are of interest for self-cleaning, anti-smudge (fingerprint resistance), anti-fouling, and corrosion resistance applications. In the published literature on superoleophobic aluminum surfaces, mechanical durability, self-cleaning, and anti-smudge properties data are lacking. Microstep structure has often been used to prepare superhydrophobic aluminum surfaces which produce the microstructure. The nanoreticula structure has also been used, and is reported to be able to trap air-pockets, which are desirable for a high contact angle. In this work, the microstep and nanoreticula structures were produced on aluminum surfaces to form a hierarchical micro/nanostructure by a simple two-step chemical etching process. The hierarchical structure, when modified with fluorosilane, made the surface superoleophobic. The effect of nanostructure, microstructure, and hierarchical structure on wettability and durability were studied and compared. The superoleophobic aluminum surfaces were found to be wear resistant, self-cleaning, and have anti-smudge and corrosion resistance properties. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. Influence of SMAT Parameters on Microstructural and Mechanical Properties of Al-Mg-Si Alloy AA 6061

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Anand Kumar, S.; Satish Kumar, P.; Ganesh Sundara Raman, S.; Sankara Narayanan, T. S. N.

    2017-04-01

    In the present work, the influence of surface mechanical attrition treatment (SMAT) parameters on the microstructural and mechanical properties of an aluminum-magnesium-silicon alloy AA 6061 was studied using design of experiment technique. Balls of three different diameters were used, and SMAT was done for three different durations. The microstructural features of the surface layer fabricated by SMAT were characterized by cross-sectional scanning electron microscopic observations, x-ray diffraction technique and transmission electron microscopy. The microindentation hardness, nanoindentation hardness and surface roughness were determined. Due to SMAT, nanocrystallites formed on the surface and near-surface regions, and hardness and surface roughness increased. The ball diameter was the most influencing SMAT parameter compared to the treatment duration. However, interaction between ball diameter and treatment duration could not be ignored. Regression equations were developed relating the process parameters to the surface properties. The ball diameter and treatment duration could thus be properly selected as per the required values of roughness and/or the hardness.

  13. Molecular recognition on a cavitand-functionalized silicon surface.

    PubMed

    Biavardi, Elisa; Favazza, Maria; Motta, Alessandro; Fragalà, Ignazio L; Massera, Chiara; Prodi, Luca; Montalti, Marco; Melegari, Monica; Condorelli, Guglielmo G; Dalcanale, Enrico

    2009-06-03

    A Si(100) surface featuring molecular recognition properties was obtained by covalent functionalization with a tetraphosphonate cavitand (Tiiii), able to complex positively charged species. Tiiii cavitand was grafted onto the Si by photochemical hydrosilylation together with 1-octene as a spatial spectator. The recognition properties of the Si-Tiiii surface were demonstrated through two independent analytical techniques, namely XPS and fluorescence spectroscopy, during the course of reversible complexation-guest exchange-decomplexation cycles with specifically designed ammonium and pyridinium salts. Control experiments employing a Si(100) surface functionalized with a structurally similar, but complexation inactive, tetrathiophosphonate cavitand (TSiiii) demonstrated no recognition events. This provides evidence for the complexation properties of the Si-Tiiii surface, ruling out the possibility of nonspecific interactions between the substrate and the guests. The residual Si-O(-) terminations on the surface replace the guests' original counterions, thus stabilizing the complex ion pairs. These results represent a further step toward the control of self-assembly of complex supramolecular architectures on surfaces.

  14. Membrane fouling in a submerged membrane bioreactor with focus on surface properties and interactions of cake sludge and bulk sludge.

    PubMed

    Yu, Haiying; Lin, Hongjun; Zhang, Meijia; Hong, Huachang; He, Yiming; Wang, Fangyuan; Zhao, Leihong

    2014-10-01

    In this study, the fouling behaviors and surface properties of cake sludge and bulk sludge in a submerged membrane bioreactor (MBR) were investigated and compared. It was found that the specific filtration resistance (SFR) of cake sludge was about 5 times higher than that of bulk sludge. Two types of sludge possessed similar extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) content, particle size distribution (PSD) and zeta potential. However, their surface properties in terms of surface tensions were significantly different. Further analysis showed that cake sludge was more hydrophilic and had worse aggregation ability. Moreover, cake sludge surface possessed more hydrocarbon, less oxygen and nitrogen moieties than bulk sludge surface. It was suggested that, rather than EPS and PSD differences, the differences in the surface composition were the main cause of the great differences in SFR and adhesion ability between cake sludge and bulk sludge. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Study on inverse estimation of radiative properties from directional radiances by using statistical RPSO algorithm

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Han, Kuk-Il; Kim, Do-Hwi; Choi, Jun-Hyuk; Kim, Tae-Kuk; Shin, Jong-Jin

    2016-09-01

    Infrared signals are widely used to discriminate objects against the background. Prediction of infrared signal from an object surface is essential in evaluating the detectability of the object. Appropriate and easy method of procurement of the radiative properties such as the surface emissivity, bidirectional reflectivity is important in estimating infrared signals. Direct measurement can be a good choice but a costly and time consuming way of obtaining the radiative properties for surfaces coated with many different newly developed paints. Especially measurement of the bidirectional reflectivity usually expressed by the bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) is the most costly job. In this paper we are presenting an inverse estimation method of the radiative properties by using the directional radiances from the surface of concern. The inverse estimation method used in this study is the statistical repulsive particle swarm optimization (RPSO) algorithm which uses the randomly picked directional radiance data emitted and reflected from the surface. In this paper, we test the proposed inverse method by considering the radiation from a steel plate surface coated with different paints at a clear sunny day condition. For convenience, the directional radiance data from the steel plate within a spectral band of concern are obtained from the simulation using the commercial software, RadthermIR, instead of the field measurement. A widely used BRDF model called as the Sandford-Robertson(S-R) model is considered and the RPSO process is then used to find the best fitted model parameters for the S-R model. The results obtained from this study show an excellent agreement with the reference property data used for the simulation for directional radiances. The proposed process can be a useful way of obtaining the radiative properties from field measured directional radiance data for surfaces coated with or without various kinds of paints of unknown radiative properties.

  16. The surface science of nanocrystals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Boles, Michael A.; Ling, Daishun; Hyeon, Taeghwan; Talapin, Dmitri V.

    2016-02-01

    All nanomaterials share a common feature of large surface-to-volume ratio, making their surfaces the dominant player in many physical and chemical processes. Surface ligands -- molecules that bind to the surface -- are an essential component of nanomaterial synthesis, processing and application. Understanding the structure and properties of nanoscale interfaces requires an intricate mix of concepts and techniques borrowed from surface science and coordination chemistry. Our Review elaborates these connections and discusses the bonding, electronic structure and chemical transformations at nanomaterial surfaces. We specifically focus on the role of surface ligands in tuning and rationally designing properties of functional nanomaterials. Given their importance for biomedical (imaging, diagnostics and therapeutics) and optoelectronic (light-emitting devices, transistors, solar cells) applications, we end with an assessment of application-targeted surface engineering.

  17. Wetting characteristics of 3-dimensional nanostructured fractal surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Davis, Ethan; Liu, Ying; Jiang, Lijia; Lu, Yongfeng; Ndao, Sidy

    2017-01-01

    This article reports the fabrication and wetting characteristics of 3-dimensional nanostructured fractal surfaces (3DNFS). Three distinct 3DNFS surfaces, namely cubic, Romanesco broccoli, and sphereflake were fabricated using two-photon direct laser writing. Contact angle measurements were performed on the multiscale fractal surfaces to characterize their wetting properties. Average contact angles ranged from 66.8° for the smooth control surface to 0° for one of the fractal surfaces. The change in wetting behavior was attributed to modification of the interfacial surface properties due to the inclusion of 3-dimensional hierarchical fractal nanostructures. However, this behavior does not exactly obey existing surface wetting models in the literature. Potential applications for these types of surfaces in physical and biological sciences are also discussed.

  18. Designing transition metal surfaces for their adsorption properties and chemical reactivity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Montemore, Matthew M.

    Many technological processes, such as catalysis, electrochemistry, corrosion, and some materials synthesis techniques, involve molecules bonding to and/or reacting on surfaces. For many of these applications, transition metals have proven to have excellent chemical reactivity, and this reactivity is strongly tied to the surface's adsorption properties. This thesis focuses on predicting adsorption properties for use in the design of transition metal surfaces for various applications. First, it is shown that adsorption through a particular atom (e.g, C or O) can be treated in a unified way. This allows predictions of all C-bound adsorbates from a single, simple adsorbate, such as CH3. In particular, consideration of the adsorption site can improve the applicability of previous approaches, and gas-phase bond energies correlate with adsorption energies for similarly bound adsorbates. Next, a general framework is presented for understanding and predicting adsorption through any atom. The energy of the adsorbate's highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) determines the strength of the repulsion between the adsorbate and the surface. Because adsorbates with similar HOMO energies behave similarly, their adsorption energies correlate. This can improve the efficiency of predictions, but more importantly it constrains catalyst design and suggests strategies for circumventing these constraints. Further, the behavior of adsorbates with dissimilar HOMO energies varies in a systematic way, allowing predictions of adsorption energy differences between any two adsorbates. These differences are also useful in surface design. In both of these cases, the dependence of adsorption energies on surface electronic properties is explored. This dependence is used to justify the unified treatments mentioned above, and is used to gain further insight into adsorption. The properties of the surface's d band and p band control variations in adsorption energy, as does the strength of the adsorbate-surface coupling. A single equation, with only a single adsorbate-dependent fitting parameter as well as a few universal fitting parameters, is developed that can predict the adsorption energy of any radical on any close-packed transition metal surface. The surface electronic properties that are input into this equation can be estimated based on the alloy structure of the surface, improving prospects for high-throughput screening and rational catalyst design. The methods discussed in this thesis are used to design a novel catalyst for ethylene epoxidation, which is experimentally synthesized and tested. Initial tests indicate that this catalyst may have improved selectivity over pure Ag.

  19. Electronic, magnetic and structural properties of Co3O4 (100) surface: a DFT+U study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hashim, Ameerul Hazeeq; Zayed, Ala'Omar Hasan; Zain, Sharifuddin Md; Lee, Vannajan Sanghiran; Said, Suhana Mohd

    2018-01-01

    The three most stable (100), (110), and (111) surfaces exposed by Co3O4 are effective catalysts for various oxidation reactions. Among these surfaces, (100) has not yet received ample attention. In this study, we investigated the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of Co3O4 (100) surface using density functional theory calculations. By considering both stoichiometric and nonstoichiometric surface structures of the two possible terminations, A and B. Besides the greater stability of the newly proposed stoichiometric models compared to nonstoichiometric models reported in previous studies, the results show that the B termination is energetically preferred over the entire range of oxygen chemical potentials. Unlike the bulk, Co3+ octahedral ions become magnetic at the surface, which leads to interesting surface magnetic properties. Density of states (DOS) indicate a small band gap of 1.15 eV for the B-stoichiometric model, due to the presence of surface states in the bulk band gap. More polar surface with a very narrow band gap is found in the A-nonstoichiometric model. These surface states may play an important role in the magnetism and metallicity observed experimentally in several Co3O4 systems.

  20. Effect of bentonite modification on hardness and mechanical properties of natural rubber nanocomposites

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

    Santiago, Denise Ester O.; Department of Chemical Engineering, University of the Philippines, Los Baños, College, Laguna 4031 Philippines; Pajarito, Bryan B.

    The effect of sodium activation, ion-exchange with tertiary amine salt, surface treatment with non-ionic surfactant, and wet grinding of bentonite on hardness and mechanical properties of natural rubber nanocomposites (NRN) was studied using full factorial design of experiment. Results of X-ray diffraction (XRD) show increase in basal spacing d of bentonite due to modification, while attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) confirm the organic modification of bentonite. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) shows that the main effect of surface treatment increases the hardness and decreases the tensile modulus of the NRN. The surface treatment and wet grinding of bentonitemore » decrease the tensile stresses at 100, 200 and 300% strain of NRN. Sodium activation and ion-exchange negatively affect the compressive properties, while surface treatment significantly improves the compressive properties of NRN.« less

  1. Spectral properties of thermal fluctuations on simple liquid surfaces below shot-noise levels.

    PubMed

    Aoki, Kenichiro; Mitsui, Takahisa

    2012-07-01

    We study the spectral properties of thermal fluctuations on simple liquid surfaces, sometimes called ripplons. Analytical properties of the spectral function are investigated and are shown to be composed of regions with simple analytic behavior with respect to the frequency or the wave number. The derived expressions are compared to spectral measurements performed orders of magnitude below shot-noise levels, which is achieved using a novel noise reduction method. The agreement between the theory of thermal surface fluctuations and the experiment is found to be excellent, elucidating the spectral properties of the surface fluctuations. The measurement method requires relatively only a small sample both spatially (few μm) and temporally (~20 s). The method also requires relatively weak light power (~0.5 mW) so that it has a broad range of applicability, including local measurements, investigations of time-dependent phenomena, and noninvasive measurements.

  2. A fundamental approach to adhesion: Synthesis, surface analysis, thermodynamics and mechanics. [acid-base properties of titanium 6-4 surfaces

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Siriwardane, R.; Wightman, J. P.

    1980-01-01

    The acid-base properties of titanium 6-4 plates (low surface area) were investigated after three different pretreatments, namely Turco, phosphate-fluoride and Pasa-Jell. A series of indicators was used and color changes were detected using diffuse reflectance visible spectroscopy. Electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis was used to examine the indicator on the Ti 6-4 surface. Specular reflectance infra-red spectroscopy was used to study the adsorption of stearic acid from cyclohexane solutions on the Ti 6-4 surface.

  3. Effect of polymer properties and adherend surfaces on adhesion. [titanium, aluminum

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dwight, D. W.; Counts, M. E.; Wightman, J. P.

    1975-01-01

    The surface properties associated with good adhesive joints were evaluated in terms of application of adhesive bonding in aerospace technology. The physical and chemical nature was determined of Ti and Al adherend surfaces after various surface treatments, and the effects on fracture surfaces of high temperature aging, and variations in amide, anhydride, and solvent during polymer synthesis. The effects were characterized of (1) high temperature during shear strength testing, (2) fiber-reinforced composites as adherends, (3) acid/base nature of adherends, (4) aluminum powder adhesive filler, and (5) bonding pressure.

  4. Density Functional Studies of Stoichiometric Surfaces of Orthorhombic Hybrid Perovskite CH3NH3PbI3

    DOE PAGES

    Wang, Yun; Huang, Jingsong; Sumpter, Bobby G.; ...

    2014-12-19

    Organic/inorganic hybrid perovskite materials are highly attractive for dye-sensitized solar cells as demonstrated by their rapid advances in energy conversion efficiency. In this work, the structures, energetics, and electronic properties for a range of stoichiometric surfaces of the orthorhombic perovskite CH3NH3PbI3 are theoretically studied using density functional theory. Various possible spatially and constitutionally isomeric surfaces are considered by diversifying the spatial orientations and connectivities of surface Pb-I bonds. The comparison of the surface energies for the most stable configurations identified for various surfaces shows that the stabilities of stoichiometric surfaces are mainly dictated by the coordination numbers of surface atoms,more » which are directly correlated with the numbers of broken bonds. Additionally, Coulombic interactions between I anions and organic countercations on the surface also contribute to the stabilization. Electronic properties are compared between the most stable (100) surface and the bulk phase, showing generally similar features except for the lifted band degeneracy and the enhanced bandgap energy for the surface. These studies on the stoichiometric surfaces serve as the first step toward gaining a fundamental understanding of the interfacial properties in the current structural design of perovskite based solar cells, in order to achieve further breakthroughs in solar conversion efficiencies.« less

  5. Tailoring the Electrochemical Properties of Carbon Nanotube Modified Indium Tin Oxide via in Situ Grafting of Aryl Diazonium.

    PubMed

    Hicks, Jacqueline M; Wong, Zhi Yi; Scurr, David J; Silman, Nigel; Jackson, Simon K; Mendes, Paula M; Aylott, Jonathan W; Rawson, Frankie J

    2017-05-23

    Our ability to tailor the electronic properties of surfaces by nanomodification is paramount for various applications, including development of sensing, fuel cell, and solar technologies. Moreover, in order to improve the rational design of conducting surfaces, an improved understanding of structure/function relationships of nanomodifications and effect they have on the underlying electronic properties is required. Herein, we report on the tuning and optimization of the electrochemical properties of indium tin oxide (ITO) functionalized with single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). This was achieved by controlling in situ grafting of aryl amine diazonium films on the nanoscale which were used to covalently tether SWCNTs. The structure/function relationship of these nanomodifications on the electronic properties of ITO was elucidated via time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry and electrochemical and physical characterization techniques which has led to new mechanistic insights into the in situ grafting of diazonium. We discovered that the connecting bond is a nitro group which is covalently linked to a carbon on the aryl amine. The increased understanding of the surface chemistry gained through these studies enabled us to fabricate surfaces with optimized electron transfer kinetics. The knowledge gained from these studies allows for the rational design and tuning of the electronic properties of ITO-based conducting surfaces important for development of various electronic applications.

  6. Creation of hydrophilic nitric oxide releasing polymers via plasma surface modification.

    PubMed

    Pegalajar-Jurado, A; Joslin, J M; Hawker, M J; Reynolds, M M; Fisher, E R

    2014-08-13

    Herein, we describe the surface modification of an S-nitrosated polymer derivative via H2O plasma treatment, resulting in polymer coatings that maintained their nitric oxide (NO) releasing capabilities, but exhibited dramatic changes in surface wettability. The poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-based hydrophobic polymer was nitrosated to achieve a material capable of releasing the therapeutic agent NO. The NO-loaded films were subjected to low-temperature H2O plasma treatments, where the treatment power (20-50 W) and time (1-5 min) were varied. The plasma treated polymer films were superhydrophilic (water droplet spread completely in <100 ms), yet retained 90% of their initial S-nitrosothiol content. Under thermal conditions, NO release profiles were identical to controls. Under buffer soak conditions, the NO release profile was slightly lowered for the plasma-treated materials; however, they still result in physiologically relevant NO fluxes. XPS, SEM-EDS, and ATR-IR characterization suggests the plasma treatment resulted in polymer rearrangement and implantation of hydroxyl and carbonyl functional groups. Plasma treated samples maintained both hydrophilic surface properties and NO release profiles after storage at -18 °C for at least 10 days, demonstrating the surface modification and NO release capabilities are stable over time. The ability to tune polymer surface properties while maintaining bulk properties and NO release properties, and the stability of those properties under refrigerated conditions, represents a unique approach toward creating enhanced therapeutic biopolymers.

  7. Mechanical properties of ceramic structures based on Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS) processed by 3D printing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Restrepo, S.; Ocampo, S.; Ramírez, J. A.; Paucar, C.; García, C.

    2017-12-01

    Repairing tissues and organs has been the main goal of surgical procedures. Since the 1990s, the main goal of tissue engineering has been reparation, using porous scaffolds that serve as a three-dimensional template for the initial fixation of cells and subsequent tissue formation both in vitro and in vivo. A scaffold must have specific characteristics of porosity, interconnectivity, surface area, pore volume, surface tortuosity, permeability and mechanical properties, which makes its design, manufacturing and characterization a complex process. Inspired by nature, triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMS) have emerged as an alternative for the manufacture of porous pieces with design requirements, such as scaffolds for tissue repair. In the present work, we used the technique of 3D printing to obtain ceramic structures with Gyroid, Schwarz Primitive and Schwarz Diamond Surfaces shapes, three TPMS that fulfil the geometric requirements of a bone tissue scaffold. The main objective of this work is to compare the mechanical properties of ceramic pieces of three different forms of TPMS printed in 3D using a commercial ceramic paste. In this way it will be possible to clarify which is the TPMS with appropriate characteristics to construct scaffolds of ceramic materials for bone repair. A dependence of the mechanical properties with the geometry was found being the Primitive Surface which shows the highest mechanical properties.

  8. Dispersion controlled by permeable surfaces: surface properties and scaling

    DOE PAGES

    Ling, Bowen; Tartakovsky, Alexandre M.; Battiato, Ilenia

    2016-08-25

    Permeable and porous surfaces are common in natural and engineered systems. Flow and transport above such surfaces are significantly affected by the surface properties, e.g. matrix porosity and permeability. However, the relationship between such properties and macroscopic solute transport is largely unknown. In this work, we focus on mass transport in a two-dimensional channel with permeable porous walls under fully developed laminar flow conditions. By means of perturbation theory and asymptotic analysis, we derive the set of upscaled equations describing mass transport in the coupled channel–porous-matrix system and an analytical expression relating the dispersion coefficient with the properties of themore » surface, namely porosity and permeability. Our analysis shows that their impact on the dispersion coefficient strongly depends on the magnitude of the Péclet number, i.e. on the interplay between diffusive and advective mass transport. Additionally, we demonstrate different scaling behaviours of the dispersion coefficient for thin or thick porous matrices. Our analysis shows the possibility of controlling the dispersion coefficient, i.e. transverse mixing, by either active (i.e. changing the operating conditions) or passive mechanisms (i.e. controlling matrix effective properties) for a given Péclet number. By elucidating the impact of matrix porosity and permeability on solute transport, our upscaled model lays the foundation for the improved understanding, control and design of microporous coatings with targeted macroscopic transport features.« less

  9. Rapid comparison of protein binding site surfaces with Property Encoded Shape Distributions (PESD)

    PubMed Central

    Das, Sourav; Kokardekar, Arshad

    2009-01-01

    Patterns in shape and property distributions on the surface of binding sites are often conserved across functional proteins without significant conservation of the underlying amino-acid residues. To explore similarities of these sites from the viewpoint of a ligand, a sequence and fold-independent method was created to rapidly and accurately compare binding sites of proteins represented by property-mapped triangulated Gauss-Connolly surfaces. Within this paradigm, signatures for each binding site surface are produced by calculating their property-encoded shape distributions (PESD), a measure of the probability that a particular property will be at a specific distance to another on the molecular surface. Similarity between the signatures can then be treated as a measure of similarity between binding sites. As postulated, the PESD method rapidly detected high levels of similarity in binding site surface characteristics even in cases where there was very low similarity at the sequence level. In a screening experiment involving each member of the PDBBind 2005 dataset as a query against the rest of the set, PESD was able to retrieve a binding site with identical E.C. (Enzyme Commission) numbers as the top match in 79.5% of cases. The ability of the method in detecting similarity in binding sites with low sequence conservations were compared with state-of-the-art binding site comparison methods. PMID:19919089

  10. Determination of bulk and surface superconducting properties of N 2-doped cold worked, heat treated and electro-polished SRF grade niobium

    DOE PAGES

    Chetri, Santosh; Larbalestier, David C.; Lee, Peter J.; ...

    2015-12-01

    In this study, nitrogen-doped cavities show significant performance improvement in the medium accelerating field regime due to a lowered RF surface resistivity. However, the mechanism of enhancement has not been clearly explained. Our experiments explore how N 2-doping influences Nb bulk and surface superconducting properties, and compare the N 2-doped properties with those obtained previously with conventionally treated samples. High purity Nb-rod was mechanically deformed and post treated based on a typical SRF cavity treatment recipe. The onset of flux penetration at H c1, and the upper and the surface critical fields, H c2 and H c3, were characterized bymore » magnetic hysteresis and AC susceptibility techniques. The surface depth profile responsible for superconductivity was examined by changing AC amplitude in AC susceptibility, and the microstructure was directly observed with EBSD-OIM. We are also investigating surface chemistry for detailed composition using XPS. We have found that N 2-doping at 800 °C significantly reduces the H c3/H c2 ratio towards the ideal value of ~1.7, and conclude that AC susceptibility is capable of following changes to the surface properties induced by N 2-doping.« less

  11. Tailoring nanocrystalline diamond coated on titanium for osteoblast adhesion.

    PubMed

    Pareta, Rajesh; Yang, Lei; Kothari, Abhishek; Sirinrath, Sirivisoot; Xiao, Xingcheng; Sheldon, Brian W; Webster, Thomas J

    2010-10-01

    Diamond coatings with superior chemical stability, antiwear, and cytocompatibility properties have been considered for lengthening the lifetime of metallic orthopedic implants for over a decade. In this study, an attempt to tailor the surface properties of diamond films on titanium to promote osteoblast (bone forming cell) adhesion was reported. The surface properties investigated here included the size of diamond surface features, topography, wettability, and surface chemistry, all of which were controlled during microwave plasma enhanced chemical-vapor-deposition (MPCVD) processes using CH4-Ar-H2 gas mixtures. The hardness and elastic modulus of the diamond films were also determined. H2 concentration in the plasma was altered to control the crystallinity, grain size, and topography of the diamond coatings, and specific plasma gases (O2 and NH3) were introduced to change the surface chemistry of the diamond coatings. To understand the impact of the altered surface properties on osteoblast responses, cell adhesion tests were performed on the various diamond-coated titanium. The results revealed that nanocrystalline diamond (grain sizes <100 nm) coated titanium dramatically increased surface hardness, and the introduction of O2 and NH3 during the MPCVD process promoted osteoblast adhesion on diamond and, thus, should be further studied for improving orthopedic applications. Copyright 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2010.

  12. Control of spectral transmission enhancement properties of random anti-reflecting surface structures fabricated using gold masking

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Peltier, Abigail; Sapkota, Gopal; Potter, Matthew; Busse, Lynda E.; Frantz, Jesse A.; Shaw, L. Brandon; Sanghera, Jasbinder S.; Aggarwal, Ishwar D.; Poutous, Menelaos K.

    2017-02-01

    Random anti-reflecting subwavelength surface structures (rARSS) have been shown to suppress Fresnel reflection and scatter from optical surfaces. The structures effectively function as a gradient-refractive-index at the substrate boundary, and the spectral transmission properties of the boundary have been shown to depend on the structure's statistical properties (diameter, height, and density.) We fabricated rARSS on fused silica substrates using gold masking. A thin layer of gold was deposited on the surface of the substrate and then subjected to a rapid thermal annealing (RTA) process at various temperatures. This RTA process resulted in the formation of gold "islands" on the surface of the substrate, which then acted as a mask while the substrate was dry etched in a reactive ion etching (RIE) process. The plasma etch yielded a fused silica surface covered with randomly arranged "rods" that act as the anti-reflective layer. We present data relating the physical characteristics of the gold "island" statistical populations, and the resulting rARSS "rod" population, as well as, optical scattering losses and spectral transmission properties of the final surfaces. We focus on comparing results between samples processed at different RTA temperatures, as well as samples fabricated without undergoing RTA, to relate fabrication process statistics to transmission enhancement values.

  13. The effect of chloride ions on the corroded surface layer of 00Cr22Ni5Mo3N duplex stainless steel under cavitation.

    PubMed

    Wan, Tong; Xiao, Ning; Shen, Hanjie; Yong, Xingyue

    2016-11-01

    The effects of Cl(-) on the corroded surface layer of 00Cr22Ni5Mo3N duplex stainless steel under cavitation in chloride solutions were investigated using nanoindentation in conjunction with XRD and XPS. The results demonstrate that Cl(-) had a strong effect on the nano-mechanical properties of the corroded surface layer under cavitation, and there was a threshold Cl(-) concentration. Furthermore, a close relationship between the nano-mechanical properties and the cavitation corrosion resistance of 00Cr22Ni5Mo3N duplex stainless steel was observed. The degradation of the nano-mechanical properties of the corroded surface layer was accelerated by the synergistic effect between cavitation erosion and corrosion. A key factor was the adsorption of Cl(-), which caused a preferential dissolution of the ferrous oxides in the passive film layer on the corroded surface layer. Cavitation further promoted the preferential dissolution of the ferrous oxides in the passive film layer. Simultaneously, cavitation accelerated the erosion of the ferrite in the corroded surface layer, resulting in the degradation of the nano-mechanical properties of the corroded surface layer on 00Cr22Ni5Mo3N duplex stainless steel under cavitation. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  14. Ion Implantation of Perfluoropolyether-Lubricated Surfaces for Improved Tribological Performance

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Shogrin, Brad

    1998-01-01

    For over 30 years, perfluoropolyethers (PFPE's) have been the liquid lubricants of choice for space applications because of their proven tribological performance and desirable properties, such as low vapor pressure and a wide liquid temperature range. These oils are used in such space mechanisms as gyroscopes, scanning mirrors, actuators, and filter wheels. In the past few years, there have been several incidents during which PFPE-lubricated space mechanisms have shown anomalous behavior. These anomalies are thought to be the result of PFPE degradation. Investigative research focused on understanding and modeling the degradation of PFPE lubricants has shown that PFPE's degrade and lose their desirable properties while under boundary-lubricated, sliding/rolling contacts and at elevated temperatures. These performance deficiencies are strongly dependent on the surface chemistry and reactivity of the lubricated contacts, which dictate the formation of harmful catalytic by-products. One way to inhibit tribo-induced degradation may be to use passivated surfaces that do not promote the formation of harmful by-products. Such a passivated surface would inhibit PFPE degradation and increase the lifetime of the lubricated mechanism. Ion implantation is one such passivation technique. This surface-treatment technique can modify the surface properties of materials without affecting either the properties or dimensions of the bulk material beneath the treated layer. By introducing a foreign species into a submicron surface layer, ion implantation can induce unique surface microstructures.

  15. Surface characterization and protein interaction of a series of model poly[acrylonitrile-co-(N-vinyl pyrrolidone)] nanocarriers for drug targeting.

    PubMed

    Staufenbiel, Sven; Merino, Marian; Li, Wenzhong; Huang, Mao-Dong; Baudis, Stefan; Lendlein, Andreas; Müller, Rainer H; Wischke, Christian

    2015-05-15

    The surface properties of intravenously injected nanoparticles determine the acquired blood protein adsorption pattern and subsequently the organ distribution and cellular recognition. A series of poly[acrylonitrile-co-(N-vinyl pyrrolidone)] (PANcoNVP) model nanoparticles (133-181 nm) was synthesized, in which the surface properties were altered by changing the molar content of NVP (0-33.8 mol%) as the more hydrophilic repeating unit. The extent of achieved surface property variation was comprehensively characterized. The residual sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) content from the synthesis was in the range 0.3-1.6 μgml(-1), potentially contributing to the surface properties. Surface hydrophobicity was determined by Rose Bengal dye adsorption, hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) and aqueous two-phase partitioning (TPP). Particle charge was quantified by zeta potential (ZP) measurements including ZP-pH profiles. The interaction with proteins was analyzed by ZP measurements in serum and by adsorption studies with single proteins. Compared to hydrophobic polystyrene model nanoparticles, all PANcoNVP particles were very hydrophilic. Differences in surface hydrophobicity could be detected, which did not linearly correlate with the systematically altered bulk composition of the PANcoNVP nanoparticles. This proves the high importance of a thorough surface characterization applying a full spectrum of methods, complementing predictions solely based on bulk polymer composition. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  16. Evanescent Field Based Photoacoustics: Optical Property Evaluation at Surfaces

    PubMed Central

    Goldschmidt, Benjamin S.; Rudy, Anna M.; Nowak, Charissa A.; Tsay, Yowting; Whiteside, Paul J. D.; Hunt, Heather K.

    2016-01-01

    Here, we present a protocol to estimate material and surface optical properties using the photoacoustic effect combined with total internal reflection. Optical property evaluation of thin films and the surfaces of bulk materials is an important step in understanding new optical material systems and their applications. The method presented can estimate thickness, refractive index, and use absorptive properties of materials for detection. This metrology system uses evanescent field-based photoacoustics (EFPA), a field of research based upon the interaction of an evanescent field with the photoacoustic effect. This interaction and its resulting family of techniques allow the technique to probe optical properties within a few hundred nanometers of the sample surface. This optical near field allows for the highly accurate estimation of material properties on the same scale as the field itself such as refractive index and film thickness. With the use of EFPA and its sub techniques such as total internal reflection photoacoustic spectroscopy (TIRPAS) and optical tunneling photoacoustic spectroscopy (OTPAS), it is possible to evaluate a material at the nanoscale in a consolidated instrument without the need for many instruments and experiments that may be cost prohibitive. PMID:27500652

  17. Magnetic and interface properties of the core-shell Fe3O4/Au nanocomposites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Baskakov, A. O.; Solov'eva, A. Yu.; Ioni, Yu. V.; Starchikov, S. S.; Lyubutin, I. S.; Khodos, I. I.; Avilov, A. S.; Gubin, S. P.

    2017-11-01

    Core-shell Fe3O4/Au nanostructures were obtained with an advanced method of two step synthesis and several complementary methodics were applied for investigation structural and magnetic properties of the samples. Along with X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy, electron diffraction, optical, Raman and Mössbauer spectroscopy were used for nanoparticle characterization. It was established that the physical and structural properties Fe3O4/Au nanocomposites are specific of intrinsic properties of gold and magnetite. Mössbauer and Raman spectroscopy data indicated that magnetite was in a nonstoichiometric state with an excess of trivalent iron both in the initial Fe3O4 nanoparticles and in the Fe3O4/Au nanocomposites. As follows from the Mössbauer data, magnetic properties of iron ions in the internal area (in core) and in the surface layer of magnetite nanoparticles are different due to the rupture of exchange bonds at the particles surface. This leads to decrease in an effective magnetic moment at the surface. Gold atoms at the interface of the composites interact with dangling bonds of magnetite and stabilize the magnetic properties of the surface layers of magnetite.

  18. Enhancement of surface area and wettability properties of boron doped diamond by femtosecond laser-induced periodic surface structuring

    DOE PAGES

    Granados, Eduardo; Calderon, Miguel Martinez; Krzywinski, Jacek; ...

    2017-08-28

    We demonstrate the formation of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) in boron-doped diamond (BDD) by irradiation with femtosecond near-IR laser pulses. The results show that the obtained LIPSS are perpendicular to the laser polarization, and the ripple periodicity is on the order of half of the irradiation wavelength. The surface structures and their electrochemical properties were characterized using Raman micro-spectroscopy, in combination with scanning electron and atomic force microscopies. The textured BDD surface showed a dense and large surface area with no change in its structural characteristics. The effective surface area of the textured BDD electrode was approximately 50% largermore » than that of a planar substrate, while wetting tests showed that the irradiated area becomes highly hydrophilic. Lastly, our results indicate that LIPSS texturing of BDD is a straightforward and simple technique for enhancing the surface area and wettability properties of the BDD electrodes, which could enable higher current efficiency and lower energy consumption in the electrochemical oxidation of toxic organics.« less

  19. Superhydrophobic surfaces: From nature to biomimetic through VOF simulation.

    PubMed

    Liu, Chunbao; Zhu, Ling; Bu, Weiyang; Liang, Yunhong

    2018-04-01

    The contact angle, surface structure and chemical compositions of Canna leaves were investigated. According to the surface structure of Canna leaves which observed by Scanning Electron Microscopy(SEM), the CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics)model was established and the method of volume of fluid (VOF) was used to simulate the process of droplet impacting on the surface and established a smooth surface for comparison to verify that the surface structure was an important factor of the superhydrophobic properties. Based on the study of Canna leaf and VOF simulation of its surface structure, the superhydrophobic samples were processed successfully and showed a good superhydrophobic property with a contact angle of 156 ± 1 degrees. A high-speed camera (5000 frames per second) was used to assess droplet movement and determine the contact time of the samples. The contact time for the sample was 13.1 ms. The results displayed that the artificial superhydrophobic surface is perfect for the performance of superhydrophobic properties. The VOF simulation method was efficient, accurate and low cost before machining artificial superhydrophobic samples. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. 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.

  1. Enhancement of surface area and wettability properties of boron doped diamond by femtosecond laser-induced periodic surface structuring

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

    Granados, Eduardo; Calderon, Miguel Martinez; Krzywinski, Jacek

    We demonstrate the formation of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) in boron-doped diamond (BDD) by irradiation with femtosecond near-IR laser pulses. The results show that the obtained LIPSS are perpendicular to the laser polarization, and the ripple periodicity is on the order of half of the irradiation wavelength. The surface structures and their electrochemical properties were characterized using Raman micro-spectroscopy, in combination with scanning electron and atomic force microscopies. The textured BDD surface showed a dense and large surface area with no change in its structural characteristics. The effective surface area of the textured BDD electrode was approximately 50% largermore » than that of a planar substrate, while wetting tests showed that the irradiated area becomes highly hydrophilic. Lastly, our results indicate that LIPSS texturing of BDD is a straightforward and simple technique for enhancing the surface area and wettability properties of the BDD electrodes, which could enable higher current efficiency and lower energy consumption in the electrochemical oxidation of toxic organics.« less

  2. Use of Novel Surfaces to Reduce Bioadhesion on Infrastructure

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-06-01

    Research and Development Center Model species selection • Terrestrial gastropod  Danger to crops  Intermediate host to pathogens  Nocturnal...TBT  Non-target species, legacy contamination  Laborious • Bio-inspiration: leverage biological surfaces that have adapted unique properties... Adapted over 1000s of years • Hypothesis: microstructured pattern tessellations, hydrophobicity, surface properties or hybridizations will reduce

  3. Electronic and chemical structure of the H 2O/GaN(0001) interface under ambient conditions

    DOE PAGES

    Zhang, Xueqiang; Ptasinska, Sylwia

    2016-04-25

    We employed ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to investigate the electronic and chemical properties of the H 2O/GaN(0001) interface under elevated pressures and/or temperatures. A pristine GaN(0001) surface exhibited upward band bending, which was partially flattened when exposed to H 2O at room temperature. However, the GaN surface work function was slightly reduced due to the adsorption of molecular H 2O and its dissociation products. At elevated temperatures, a negative charge generated on the surface by a vigorous H 2O/GaN interfacial chemistry induced an increase in both the surface work function and upward band bending. We tracked the dissociative adsorptionmore » of H 2O onto the GaN(0001) surface by recording the core-level photoemission spectra and obtained the electronic and chemical properties at the H 2O/GaN interface under operando conditions. In conclusion, our results suggest a strong correlation between the electronic and chemical properties of the material surface, and we expect that their evolutions lead to significantly different properties at the electrolyte/ electrode interface in a photoelectrochemical solar cell.« less

  4. Effect of SMAT on microstructural and mechanical properties of AA2024

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

    Tadge, Prashant, E-mail: prashant-tadge@rediffmail.com; Sasikumar, C., E-mail: csasimv@gmail.com

    In recent days surface mechanical attrition treatment (SMAT) had attracted the attention of researchers as it produces a nano-crystalline surface with improved mechanical properties. In the present study Al-4%Cu alloy used in automobile and aerospace application is subjected to surface mechanical attrition treatment using steel shots. The microstructural changes introduced on the surface of the Al alloy was investigated using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The secondary phases formed during the SMAT process is been investigated using EDX and XRD analysis. The effects of SMAT on the mechanical properties were analyzed using a tensile testing. The SMA treatment had resulted inmore » severe plastic deformation of the surface, thereby yielded a nanocrystalline surface with a grain size of 30 to 50 nm. Further, it is also found that the SMAT produced ultra nanocrystalline particles of Cu{sub 2}Al dispersed uniformly into α-Al matrix. These microstructural changes had resulted in considerable change in the mechanical properties of these alloys. The tensile strength of these alloys had increased from ∼212 MPa to 303 MPa while the fracture toughness increased up to 28% in 10 minutes of SMAT.« less

  5. Photometric and Spectral Study of the Saturnian Satellites

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Newman, Sarah F.

    2005-01-01

    Photometric and spectra analysis of data from the Cassini Visual and Infrared Mapping Spectrometer (VIMS) has yielded intriguing findings regarding the surface properties of several of the icy Saturnian satellites. Spectral cubes were obtained of these satellites with a wavelength distribution in the IR far more extensive than from any previous observations. Disk-integrated solar phase curves were constructed in several key IR wavelengths that are indicative of key properties of the surface of the body, such as macroscopic roughness, fluffiness (or the porosity of the surface), global albedo and scattering properties of surface particles. Polynomial fits to these phase curves indicate a linear albedo trend of the curvature of the phase functions. Rotational phase functions from Enceladus were found to exhibit a double-peaked sinusoidal curve, which shows larger amplitudes for bands corresponding to water ice and a linear amplitude-albedo trend. These functions indicate regions on the surface of the satellite of more recent geologic activity. In addition, recent images of Enceladus show tectonic features and an absence of impact craters on Southern latitudes which could be indicative of a younger surface. Investigations into the properties of these features using VIMS are underway.

  6. The Impact of Chemical Substitutions on Interfacial Properties of REE Orthophosphates (Monazite, Xenotime)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gamage McEvoy, J.; Thibault, Y.

    2016-12-01

    Mineral surface properties strongly influence liquid-solid interface behaviour in the presence of various ligands, and can significantly affect processes of natural (ex. fluids, melts) and industrial (ex. oil recovery) relevance. Many Rare Earth Element (REE)-bearing minerals display extensive solid solutions resulting in significant chemical variations which influence their crystal and surface properties and, can consequently impact the interfacial features of their interaction with substances such as organic molecules (i.e. reactivity and sorption). For example, the surface charge properties of some REE orthophosphates show an uncharacteristically wide variation in reported values, where large differences in literature are commonly attributed to compositional differences between samples. However the impact of these chemical substitutions remains largely unknown. As such, the aim of this research was to systematically investigate the influence of mineralogical variation within the compositional space of the REE orthophosphates on their surface chemistry and resulting interaction with organic molecules. To better isolate the chemical, structural, and morphological variables, the synthesis of REE orthophosphate crystals along a number of defined substitutions was conducted, and their surface chemistry characteristics benchmarked against well-characterized natural monazite and xenotime from various localities. The interaction of these crystal surfaces with model organic molecules (long chain carboxylic acids and alkyl hydroxamic acids, respectively) was then studied and characterized via surface (X-ray photoelectron) and near-surface (vibrational) spectroscopic techniques. The implications of crystal surface-organic molecule interactions to mineral processing through flotation were also experimentally investigated.

  7. Critical Role of Surface Energy in Guiding Crystallization of Solution-Coated Conjugated Polymer Thin Films

    DOE PAGES

    Zhang, Fengjiao; Mohammadi, Erfan; Luo, Xuyi; ...

    2017-10-02

    It is well-known that substrate surface properties have a profound impact on morphology of thin films solution coated atop and the resulting solid-state properties. However, design rules for guiding the substrate selection have not yet been established. Such design rules are particularly important for solution coated semiconducting polymers, as the substratedirected thin film morphology can impact charge transport properties by orders of magnitude. We hypothesize that substrate surface energies dictate the thin film morphology by modulating the free energy barrier to heterogeneous nucleation. To test this hypothesis, we systematically vary the substrate surface energy via surface functionalization techniques. We performmore » in-depth morphology and device characterizations to establish the relationship between substrate surface energy, thin film morphology and charge transport properties, employing a donor-accepter (D-A) conjugated polymer. Here, we find that decreasing the substrate surface energy progressively increases thin film crystallinity, degree of molecular ordering and extent of domain alignment. Notably, the enhanced morphology on the lowest surface energy substrate lead to a 10-fold increase in the charge carrier mobility. We further develop a free energy model relating the substrate surface energy to the penalty of heterogeneous nucleation from solution in the thin film geometry. The model correctly predicts the experimental trend, thereby validating our hypothesis. This work is a significant step towards establishing design rules and understanding the critical role of substrates in determining morphology of solution coated thin films.« less

  8. Critical Role of Surface Energy in Guiding Crystallization of Solution-Coated Conjugated Polymer Thin Films

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

    Zhang, Fengjiao; Mohammadi, Erfan; Luo, Xuyi

    It is well-known that substrate surface properties have a profound impact on morphology of thin films solution coated atop and the resulting solid-state properties. However, design rules for guiding the substrate selection have not yet been established. Such design rules are particularly important for solution coated semiconducting polymers, as the substratedirected thin film morphology can impact charge transport properties by orders of magnitude. We hypothesize that substrate surface energies dictate the thin film morphology by modulating the free energy barrier to heterogeneous nucleation. To test this hypothesis, we systematically vary the substrate surface energy via surface functionalization techniques. We performmore » in-depth morphology and device characterizations to establish the relationship between substrate surface energy, thin film morphology and charge transport properties, employing a donor-accepter (D-A) conjugated polymer. Here, we find that decreasing the substrate surface energy progressively increases thin film crystallinity, degree of molecular ordering and extent of domain alignment. Notably, the enhanced morphology on the lowest surface energy substrate lead to a 10-fold increase in the charge carrier mobility. We further develop a free energy model relating the substrate surface energy to the penalty of heterogeneous nucleation from solution in the thin film geometry. The model correctly predicts the experimental trend, thereby validating our hypothesis. This work is a significant step towards establishing design rules and understanding the critical role of substrates in determining morphology of solution coated thin films.« less

  9. Using Remote Sensing Platforms to Estimate Near-Surface Soil Properties

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sullivan, D. G.; Shaw, J. N.; Rickman, D.; Mask, P. L.; Wersinger, J. M.; Luvall, J.

    2003-01-01

    Evaluation of near-surface soil properties via remote sensing (RS) could facilitate soil survey mapping, erosion prediction, fertilization regimes, and allocation of agrochemicals. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between soil spectral signature and near surface soil properties in conventionally managed row crop systems. High resolution RS data were acquired over bare fields in the Coastal Plain, Appalachian Plateau, and Ridge and Valley provinces of Alabama using the Airborne Terrestrial Applications Sensor (ATLAS) multispectral scanner. Soils ranged from sandy Kandiudults to fine textured Rhodudults. Surface soil samples (0-1 cm) were collected from 163 sampling points for soil water content, soil organic carbon (SOC), particle size distribution (PSD), and citrate dithionite extractable iron (Fed) content. Surface roughness, soil water content, and crusting were also measured at sampling. Results showed RS data acquired from lands with less than 4 % surface soil water content best approximated near-surface soil properties at the Coastal Plain site where loamy sand textured surfaces were predominant. Utilizing a combination of band ratios in stepwise regression, Fed (r2 = 0.61), SOC (r2 = 0.36), sand (r2 = 0.52), and clay (r2 = 0.76) were related to RS data at the Coastal Plain site. In contrast, the more clayey Ridge and Valley soils had r-squares of 0.50, 0.36, 0.17, and 0.57. for Fed, SOC, sand and clay, respectively. Use of estimated eEmissivity did not generally improve estimates of near-surface soil attributes.

  10. Surface modification and electrochemical properties of activated carbons for supercapacitor electrodes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yang, Dan; Qiu, Wenmei; Xu, Jingcai; Han, Yanbing; Jin, Hongxiao; Jin, Dingfeng; Peng, Xiaoling; Hong, Bo; Li, Ji; Ge, Hongliang; Wang, Xinqing

    2015-12-01

    Modifications with different acids (HNO3, H2SO4, HCl and HF, respectively) were introduced to treat the activated carbons (ACs) surface. The microstructures and surface chemical properties were discussed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), ASAP, Raman spectra and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra. The ACs electrode-based supercapacitors were assembled with 6 mol ṡ L-1 KOH electrolyte. The electrochemical properties were studied by galvanostatic charge-discharge and cyclic voltammetry. The results indicated that although the BET surface area of modified ACs decreased, the functional groups were introduced and the ash contents were reduced on the surface of ACs, receiving larger specific capacitance to initial AC. The specific capacitance of ACs modified with HCl, H2SO4, HF and HNO3 increased by 31.4%, 23%, 21% and 11.6%, respectively.

  11. The Europa Lander Mission Concept and Science Goals — Highlighting Ice Properties and Surface Activity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hand, K. P.; Murray, A. E.; Garvin, J.; Horst, S.; Brinckerhoff, W.; Edgett, K.; Hoehler, T.; Russell, M.; Rhoden, A.; Yingst, R. A.; German, C.; Schmidt, B.; Paranicas, C.; Smith, D.; Willis, P.; Hayes, A.; Ehlmann, B.; Lunine, J.; Templeton, A.; Nealson, K.; Christner, B.; Cable, M.; Craft, K.; Pappalardo, R.; Hofmann, A.; Nordheim, T.; Phillips, C.

    2018-06-01

    The Europa Lander mission concept would address key questions regarding ice properties and surface activity, including characterizing any plume deposits, understanding local topography, searching for evidence of interactions with liquid water.

  12. Comparison of progressive addition lenses by direct measurement of surface shape.

    PubMed

    Huang, Ching-Yao; Raasch, Thomas W; Yi, Allen Y; Bullimore, Mark A

    2013-06-01

    To compare the optical properties of five state-of-the-art progressive addition lenses (PALs) by direct physical measurement of surface shape. Five contemporary freeform PALs (Varilux Comfort Enhanced, Varilux Physio Enhanced, Hoya Lifestyle, Shamir Autograph, and Zeiss Individual) with plano distance power and a +2.00-diopter add were measured with a coordinate measuring machine. The front and back surface heights were physically measured, and the optical properties of each surface, and their combination, were calculated with custom MATLAB routines. Surface shape was described as the sum of Zernike polynomials. Progressive addition lenses were represented as contour plots of spherical equivalent power, cylindrical power, and higher order aberrations (HOAs). Maximum power rate, minimum 1.00-DC corridor width, percentage of lens area with less than 1.00 DC, and root mean square of HOAs were also compared. Comfort Enhanced and Physio Enhanced have freeform front surfaces, Shamir Autograph and Zeiss Individual have freeform back surfaces, and Hoya Lifestyle has freeform properties on both surfaces. However, the overall optical properties are similar, regardless of the lens design. The maximum power rate is between 0.08 and 0.12 diopters per millimeter and the minimum corridor width is between 8 and 11 mm. For a 40-mm lens diameter, the percentage of lens area with less than 1.00 DC is between 64 and 76%. The third-order Zernike terms are the dominant high-order terms in HOAs (78 to 93% of overall shape variance). Higher order aberrations are higher along the corridor area and around the near zone. The maximum root mean square of HOAs based on a 4.5-mm pupil size around the corridor area is between 0.05 and 0.06 µm. This nonoptical method using a coordinate measuring machine can be used to evaluate a PAL by surface height measurements, with the optical properties directly related to its front and back surface designs.

  13. Physical properties of the martian surface from the viking 1 lander: preliminary results.

    PubMed

    Shorthill, R W; Hutton, R E; Moore, H J; Scott, R F; Spitzer, C R

    1976-08-27

    The purpose of the physical properties experiment is to determine the characteristics of the martian "soil" based on the use of the Viking lander imaging system, the surface sampler, and engineering sensors. Viking 1 lander made physical contact with the surface of Mars at 11:53:07.1 hours on 20 July 1976 G.M.T. Twenty-five seconds later a high-resolution image sequence of the area around a footpad was started which contained the first information about surface conditions on Mars. The next image is a survey of the martian landscape in front of the lander, including a view of the top support of two of the landing legs. Each leg has a stroke gauge which extends from the top of the leg support an amount equal to the crushing experienced by the shock absorbers during touchdown. Subsequent images provided views of all three stroke gauges which, together with the knowledge of the impact velocity, allow determination of "soil" properties. In the images there is evidence of surface erosion from the engines. Several laboratory tests were carried out prior to the mission with a descent engine to determine what surface alterations might occur during a Mars landing. On sol 2 the shroud, which protected the surface sampler collector head from biological contamination, was ejected onto the surface. Later a cylindrical pin which dropped from the boom housing of the surface sampler during the modified unlatching sequence produced a crater (the second Mars penetrometer experiment). These two experiments provided further insight into the physical properties of the martian surface.

  14. Physical properties of the martian surface from the Viking 1 lander: preliminary results

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

    Shorthill, R.W.; Hutton, R.E.; Moore, H.J. II

    1976-08-27

    The purpose of the physical properties experiment is to determine the characteristics of the martian ''soil'' based on the use of the Viking lander imaging system, the surface sampler, and engineering sensors. Viking 1 lander made physical contact with the surface of Mars at 11:53:07.1 hours on 20 July 1976 G.M.T. Twenty-five seconds later a high-resolution image sequence of the area around a footpad was started which contained the first information about surface conditions on Mars. The next image is a survey of the martian landscape in front of the lander, including a view of the top support of twomore » of the landing legs. Each leg has a stroke gauge which extends from the top of the leg support an amount equal to the crushing experienced by the shock absorbers during touchdown. Subsequent images provided views of all three stroke gauges which, together with the knowledge of the impact velocity, allow determination of ''soil'' properties. In the images there is evidence of surface erosion from the engines. Several laboratory tests were carried out prior to the mission with a descent engine to determine what surface alterations might occur during a Mars landing. On sol 2 the shroud, which protected the surface sampler collector head from biological contamination, was ejected onto the surface. Later a cylindrical pin which dropped from the boom housing of the surface sampler during the modified unlatching sequence produced a crater (the second Mars penetrometer experiment). These two experiments provided further insight into the physical properties of the martian surface.« less

  15. Bio-mimicking nano and micro-structured surface fabrication for antibacterial properties in medical implants.

    PubMed

    Jaggessar, Alka; Shahali, Hesam; Mathew, Asha; Yarlagadda, Prasad K D V

    2017-10-02

    Orthopaedic and dental implants have become a staple of the medical industry and with an ageing population and growing culture for active lifestyles, this trend is forecast to continue. In accordance with the increased demand for implants, failure rates, particularly those caused by bacterial infection, need to be reduced. The past two decades have led to developments in antibiotics and antibacterial coatings to reduce revision surgery and death rates caused by infection. The limited effectiveness of these approaches has spurred research into nano-textured surfaces, designed to mimic the bactericidal properties of some animal, plant and insect species, and their topographical features. This review discusses the surface structures of cicada, dragonfly and butterfly wings, shark skin, gecko feet, taro and lotus leaves, emphasising the relationship between nano-structures and high surface contact angles on self-cleaning and bactericidal properties. Comparison of these surfaces shows large variations in structure dimension and configuration, indicating that there is no one particular surface structure that exhibits bactericidal behaviour against all types of microorganisms. Recent bio-mimicking fabrication methods are explored, finding hydrothermal synthesis to be the most commonly used technique, due to its environmentally friendly nature and relative simplicity compared to other methods. In addition, current proposed bactericidal mechanisms between bacteria cells and nano-textured surfaces are presented and discussed. These models could be improved by including additional parameters such as biological cell membrane properties, adhesion forces, bacteria dynamics and nano-structure mechanical properties. This paper lastly reviews the mechanical stability and cytotoxicity of micro and nano-structures and materials. While the future of nano-biomaterials is promising, long-term effects of micro and nano-structures in the body must be established before nano-textures can be used on orthopaedic implant surfaces as way of inhibiting bacterial adhesion.

  16. Understanding the surface properties and rheology of a silica suspension mediated by a comb-type poly(acrylic acid)/poly(ethylene oxide) (PAA/PEO) copolymer: effect of salinity.

    PubMed

    Yang, Dingzheng; Yan, Bin; Xiang, Li; Xu, Haolan; Wang, Xiaogang; Zeng, Hongbo

    2018-06-13

    Understanding the surface properties and rheology of colloidal suspensions in the presence of polymer additives with high salinity are of great importance in formulating construction materials and optimizing process conditions in the mining and petroleum industry. In this work, the surface properties and rheology of a model spherical silica aqueous suspension mediated by a comb-type poly(acrylic acid)/poly(ethylene oxide) (PAA/PEO) copolymer at various salt concentrations have been investigated. Adsorption measurements using a Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation monitoring (QCM-D) align well with zeta potential tests and show that polymer adsorption on silica surfaces is enhanced at high salinity (i.e., 3 M NaCl) than at low salinity (i.e., 1 mM NaCl) due to the suppression of the electrical double layer. Surface Forces Apparatus (SFA) measurements reveal that for interactions between two mica surfaces (the basal plane of which has a similar structure as silica) at a high polymer concentration (e.g., 2 wt%), steric repulsion dominates in 1 mM NaCl while bridging attraction is observed in 3 M NaCl. Surface force measurements agree with rheological results on silica suspensions with 0.5 to 2 wt% of PAA/PEO addition, which shows a significant decrease in yield stress in 1 mM NaCl due to steric repulsion but an insignificant variation in yield stress in 3 M NaCl due to attractive bridging interactions. This work provides useful information regarding the surface properties and rheological properties of comb-type polymer-mediated silica suspensions under different salinity conditions, with implications on designing and processing complex colloidal suspensions with polymer additives for various applications.

  17. Surface magnetism in a chiral d -wave superconductor with hexagonal symmetry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Goryo, Jun; Imai, Yoshiki; Rui, W. B.; Sigrist, Manfred; Schnyder, Andreas P.

    2017-10-01

    Surface properties are examined in a chiral d -wave superconductor with hexagonal symmetry, whose one-body Hamiltonian possesses intrinsic spin-orbit coupling identical to the one characterizing the topological nature of the Kane-Mele honeycomb insulator. In the normal state, spin-orbit coupling gives rise to spontaneous surface spin currents, whereas in the superconducting state, besides the spin currents, there exist also charge surface currents, due to chiral pairing symmetry. Interestingly, the combination of these two currents results in a surface spin polarization, whose spatial dependence is markedly different on the zigzag and armchair surfaces. We discuss various potential candidate materials, such as SrPtAs, which may exhibit these surface properties.

  18. Superhydrophobicity of biological and technical surfaces under moisture condensation: stability in relation to surface structure.

    PubMed

    Mockenhaupt, Bernd; Ensikat, Hans-Jürgen; Spaeth, Manuel; Barthlott, Wilhelm

    2008-12-02

    The stability of superhydrophobic properties of eight plants and four technical surfaces in respect to water condensation has been compared. Contact and sliding angles were measured after application of water drops of ambient temperature (20 degrees C) onto cooled surfaces. Water evaporating from the drops condensed, due to the temperature difference between the drops and the surface, on the cooled samples, forming "satellite droplets" in the vicinity of the drops. Surface cooling to 15, 10, and 5 degrees C showed a gradual decrease of superhydrophobicity. The decrease was dependent on the specific surface architecture of the sample. The least decrease was found on hierarchically structured surfaces with a combination of a coarse microstructure and submicrometer-sized structures, similar to that of the Lotus leaf. Control experiments with glycerol droplets, which show no evaporation, and thus no condensation, were carried out to verify that the effects with water were caused by condensation from the drop (secondary condensation). Furthermore, the superhydrophobic properties after condensation on cooled surfaces from a humid environment for 10 min were examined. After this period, the surfaces were covered with spherical water droplets, but most samples retained their superhydrophobicity. Again, the best stability of the water-repellent properties was found on hierarchically structured surfaces similar to that of the Lotus leaf.

  19. Effect of Electropulsing-Assisted Ultrasonic Nanocrystalline Surface Modification on the Surface Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ye, Yongda; Wang, Haibo; Tang, Guoyi; Song, Guolin

    2018-05-01

    The effect of electropulsing-assisted ultrasonic nanocrystalline surface modification (EP-UNSM) on surface mechanical properties and microstructure of Ti-6Al-4V alloy is investigated. Compared to conventional ultrasonic nanocrystalline surface modification (UNSM), EP-UNSM can effectively facilitate surface roughness and morphology, leading to excellent surface roughness (reduced from Ra 0.918 to Ra 0.028 μm by UNSM and Ra 0.019 μm by EP-UNSM) and smoother morphology with less cracks and defects. Surface friction coefficients are enhanced, resulting in lower and smoother friction coefficients. In addition, the surface-strengthened layer and ultra-refined grains are significantly enhanced with more severe plastic deformation and a greater surface hardness (a maximum hardness value of 407 HV and an effective depth of 550 μm, in comparison with the maximum hardness value of 364 HV and effective depth of 300 μm obtained by conventional UNSM). Remarkable enhancement of surface mechanical properties can be attributed to the refined gradient microstructure and the enhanced severe plastic deformation layer induced by coupling the effects of UNSM and electropulsing. The accelerated dislocation mobility and atom diffusion caused by the thermal and athermal effects of electropulsing treatment may be the primary intrinsic reasons for these improvements.

  20. Understanding Surface Adhesion in Nature: A Peeling Model.

    PubMed

    Gu, Zhen; Li, Siheng; Zhang, Feilong; Wang, Shutao

    2016-07-01

    Nature often exhibits various interesting and unique adhesive surfaces. The attempt to understand the natural adhesion phenomena can continuously guide the design of artificial adhesive surfaces by proposing simplified models of surface adhesion. Among those models, a peeling model can often effectively reflect the adhesive property between two surfaces during their attachment and detachment processes. In the context, this review summarizes the recent advances about the peeling model in understanding unique adhesive properties on natural and artificial surfaces. It mainly includes four parts: a brief introduction to natural surface adhesion, the theoretical basis and progress of the peeling model, application of the peeling model, and finally, conclusions. It is believed that this review is helpful to various fields, such as surface engineering, biomedicine, microelectronics, and so on.

  1. Surface characteristics, mechanical properties, and cytocompatibility of oxygen plasma-implanted porous nickel titanium shape memory alloy.

    PubMed

    Wu, S L; Chu, Paul K; Liu, X M; Chung, C Y; Ho, J P Y; Chu, C L; Tjong, S C; Yeung, K W K; Lu, W W; Cheung, K M C; Luk, K D K

    2006-10-01

    Good surface properties and biocompatibility are crucial to porous NiTi shape memory alloys (SMA) used in medical implants, as possible nickel release from porous NiTi may cause deleterious effects in the human body. In this work, oxygen plasma immersion ion implantation (O-PIII) was used to reduce the amount of nickel leached from porous NiTi alloys with a porosity of 42% prepared by capsule-free hot isostatic pressing. The mechanical properties, surface properties, and biocompatibility were studied by compression tests, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and cell culturing. The O-PIII porous NiTi SMAs have good mechanical properties and excellent superelasticity, and the amount of nickel leached from the O-PIII porous NiTi is much less than that from the untreated samples. XPS results indicate that a nickel-depleted surface layer predominantly composed of TiO(2) is produced by O-PIII and acts as a barrier against out-diffusion of nickel. The cell culturing tests reveal that both the O-PIII and untreated porous NiTi alloys have good biocompatibility. (c) 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc

  2. Noncontact Measurement of the Local Mechanical Properties of Living Cells Using Pressure Applied via a Pipette

    PubMed Central

    Sánchez, Daniel; Johnson, Nick; Li, Chao; Novak, Pavel; Rheinlaender, Johannes; Zhang, Yanjun; Anand, Uma; Anand, Praveen; Gorelik, Julia; Frolenkov, Gregory I.; Benham, Christopher; Lab, Max; Ostanin, Victor P.; Schäffer, Tilman E.; Klenerman, David; Korchev, Yuri E.

    2008-01-01

    Mechanosensitivity in living biological tissue is a study area of increasing importance, but investigative tools are often inadequate. We have developed a noncontact nanoscale method to apply quantified positive and negative force at defined positions to the soft responsive surface of living cells. The method uses applied hydrostatic pressure (0.1–150 kPa) through a pipette, while the pipette-sample separation is kept constant above the cell surface using ion conductance based distance feedback. This prevents any surface contact, or contamination of the pipette, allowing repeated measurements. We show that we can probe the local mechanical properties of living cells using increasing pressure, and hence measure the nanomechanical properties of the cell membrane and the underlying cytoskeleton in a variety of cells (erythrocytes, epithelium, cardiomyocytes and neurons). Because the cell surface can first be imaged without pressure, it is possible to relate the mechanical properties to the local cell topography. This method is well suited to probe the nanomechanical properties and mechanosensitivity of living cells. PMID:18515369

  3. Theoretical study on surface plasmon properties of gold nanostars

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shan, Feng; Zhang, Tong

    2018-03-01

    With the rapid development of nanotechnology, the surface plasmon properties of metal nanostructures have become the focus of research. In this paper, a multi-tip gold nanostars (GNSs) structure is designed theoretically, and its surface plasmon properties are simulated by using the finite element method (FEM), which is practical and versatile. Compared with the traditional spherical and triangular plate particles, the results show that the tip structure of the GNSs has a stronger hot spots effect, resulting in greater local field enhancement properties. The relationship between the structure parameters of GNSs and their resonance peaks was also studied. The results indicate that the resonance peaks of GNSs depend strongly on the size, spacing between two GNSs, quantity and refractive index of the GNSs.

  4. Membranes with Surface-Enhanced Antifouling Properties for Water Purification

    PubMed Central

    Shahkaramipour, Nima; Tran, Thien N.; Ramanan, Sankara; Lin, Haiqing

    2017-01-01

    Membrane technology has emerged as an attractive approach for water purification, while mitigation of fouling is key to lower membrane operating costs. This article reviews various materials with antifouling properties that can be coated or grafted onto the membrane surface to improve the antifouling properties of the membranes and thus, retain high water permeance. These materials can be separated into three categories, hydrophilic materials, such as poly(ethylene glycol), polydopamine and zwitterions, hydrophobic materials, such as fluoropolymers, and amphiphilic materials. The states of water in these materials and the mechanisms for the antifouling properties are discussed. The corresponding approaches to coat or graft these materials on the membrane surface are reviewed, and the materials with promising performance are highlighted. PMID:28273869

  5. The Effects of Laser Peening and Shot Peening on Mechanical Properties in Friction Stir Welded 7075-T7351 Aluminum

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hatamleh, Omar

    2006-01-01

    Peening techniques like laser peening and shot peening were used to modify the surface of friction stir welded 7075-T7351 Aluminum Alloy specimens. The tensile coupons were machined such as the loading was applied in a direction perpendicular to the weld direction. The peening effects on the global and local mechanical properties through the different regions of the weld were characterized and assessed. The surface hardness levels resulting from various peening techniques were also investigated for both sides of the welds. Shot peening resulted in an increase to surface hardness levels, but no improvement was noticed on the mechanical properties. In contrast, mechanical properties were improved by laser peening when compared to the unpeened material.

  6. Membranes with Surface-Enhanced Antifouling Properties for Water Purification.

    PubMed

    Shahkaramipour, Nima; Tran, Thien N; Ramanan, Sankara; Lin, Haiqing

    2017-03-05

    Membrane technology has emerged as an attractive approach for water purification, while mitigation of fouling is key to lower membrane operating costs. This article reviews various materials with antifouling properties that can be coated or grafted onto the membrane surface to improve the antifouling properties of the membranes and thus, retain high water permeance. These materials can be separated into three categories, hydrophilic materials, such as poly(ethylene glycol), polydopamine and zwitterions, hydrophobic materials, such as fluoropolymers, and amphiphilic materials. The states of water in these materials and the mechanisms for the antifouling properties are discussed. The corresponding approaches to coat or graft these materials on the membrane surface are reviewed, and the materials with promising performance are highlighted.

  7. Character of the opposition effect and negative polarization

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Pieters, Carle M.; Shkuratov, Yu. G.; Stankevich, D. G.

    1991-01-01

    Photometric and polarimetric properties at small phase angles were measured for silicates with controlled surface properties in order to distinguish properties that are associated with surface reflection from those that are associated with multiple scattering from internal grain boundaries. These data provide insight into the causes and conditions of photometric properties observed at small phase angles for dark bodies of the solar system. Obsidian was chosen to represent a silicate dielectric with no internal scattering boundaries. Because obsidian is free of internal scatterers, light reflected from both the rough and smooth obsidian samples is almost entirely single and multiple Fresnel reflections form surface facets with no body component. Surface structure alone cannot produce an opposition effect. Comparison of the obsidian and basalt results indicates that for an opposition effect to occur, surface texture must be both rough and contain internal scattering interfaces. Although the negative polarization observed for the obsidian samples indicates single and multiple reflections are part of negative polarization, the longer inversion angle of the multigrain inversion samples implies that internal reflections must also contribute a significant negative polarization component.

  8. The Effect of Ag and Ag+N Ion Implantation on Cell Attachment Properties

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

    Urkac, Emel Sokullu; Oztarhan, Ahmet; Gurhan, Ismet Deliloglu

    2009-03-10

    Implanted biomedical prosthetic devices are intended to perform safely, reliably and effectively in the human body thus the materials used for orthopedic devices should have good biocompatibility. Ultra High Molecular Weight Poly Ethylene (UHMWPE) has been commonly used for total hip joint replacement because of its very good properties. In this work, UHMWPE samples were Ag and Ag+N ion implanted by using the Metal-Vapor Vacuum Arc (MEVVA) ion implantation technique. Samples were implanted with a fluency of 1017 ion/cm2 and extraction voltage of 30 kV. Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry (RBS) was used for surface studies. RBS showed the presence of Agmore » and N on the surface. Cell attachment properties investigated with model cell lines (L929 mouse fibroblasts) to demonstrate that the effect of Ag and Ag+N ion implantation can favorably influence the surface of UHMWPE for biomedical applications. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to demonstrate the cell attachment on the surface. Study has shown that Ag+N ion implantation represents more effective cell attachment properties on the UHMWPE surfaces.« less

  9. Cell adhesion pattern created by OSTE polymers.

    PubMed

    Liu, Wenjia; Li, Yiyang; Ding, Xianting

    2017-04-24

    Engineering surfaces with functional polymers is a crucial issue in the field of micro/nanofabrication and cell-material interface studies. For many applications of surface patterning, it does not need cells to attach on the whole surface. Herein, we introduce a novel polymer fabrication protocol of off-stoichiometry thiol-ene (OSTE) polymers to create heterogeneity on the surface by utilizing 3D printing and soft-lithography. By choosing two OSTE polymers with different functional groups, we create a pattern where only parts of the surface can facilitate cell adhesion. We also study the hydrophilic property of OSTE polymers by mixing poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) directly with pre-polymers and plasma treatments afterwards. Moreover, we investigate the effect of functional groups' excess ratio and hydrophilic property on the cell adhesion ability of OSTE polymers. The results show that the cell adhesion ability of OSTE materials can be tuned within a wide range by the coupling effect of functional groups' excess ratio and hydrophilic property. Meanwhile, by mixing PEG with pre-polymers and undergoing oxygen plasma treatment afterward can significantly improve the hydrophilic property of OSTE polymers.

  10. Bactericidal effects of plasma-modified surface chemistry of silicon nanograss

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ostrikov, Kola; Macgregor-Ramiasa, Melanie; Cavallaro, Alex; (Ken Ostrikov, Kostya; Vasilev, Krasimir

    2016-08-01

    The surface chemistry and topography of biomaterials regulate the adhesion and growth of microorganisms in ways that are still poorly understood. Silicon nanograss structures prepared via inductively coupled plasma etching were coated with plasma deposited nanometer-thin polymeric films to produce substrates with controlled topography and defined surface chemistry. The influence of surface properties on Staphylococcus aureus proliferation is demonstrated and explained in terms of nanograss substrate wetting behaviour. With the combination of the nanograss topography; hydrophilic plasma polymer coatings enhanced antimicrobial activity while hydrophobic coatings reduced it. This study advances the understanding of the effects of surface wettability on the bactericidal properties of reactive nano-engineered surfaces.

  11. Cobalt-doped ZnO nanocrystals: quantum confinement and surface effects from ab initio methods.

    PubMed

    Schoenhalz, Aline L; Dalpian, Gustavo M

    2013-10-14

    Cobalt-doped ZnO nanocrystals were studied through ab initio methods based on the Density Functional Theory. Both quantum confinement and surface effects were explicitly taken into account. When only quantum confinement effects are considered, Co atoms interact through a superexchange mechanism, stabilizing an antiferromagnetic ground state. Usually, this is the case for high quality nanoparticles with perfect surface saturation. When the surfaces were considered, a strong hybridization between the Co atoms and surfaces was observed, strongly changing their electronic and magnetic properties. Our results indicated that the surfaces might qualitatively change the properties of impurities in semiconductor nanocrystals.

  12. An incremental double-layer capacitance of a planar nano gap and its application in cardiac-troponin T detection.

    PubMed

    Hsueh, Hsiao-Ting; Lin, Chih-Ting

    2016-05-15

    Surface potential is one of the most important properties at solid-liquid interfaces. It can be modulated by the voltage applied on the electrode or by the surface properties. Hence, surface potential is a good indicator for surface modifications, such as biomolecular bindings. In this work, we proposed a planar nano-gap structure for surface-potential difference monitoring. Based on the proposed architecture, the variance of surface-potential difference can be determined by electrical double layer capacitance (EDLC) between the nano-gap electrodes. Using cyclic voltammetry method, in this work, we demonstrated a relationship between surface potential and EDLC by chemically modifying surface properties. Finally, we also showed the proposed planar nano-gap device provides the capability for cardiac-troponin T (cTnT) measurements with co-existed 10 µg/ml BSA interference. The detection dynamic range is from 100 pg/ml to 1 µg/ml. Based on experimental results and extrapolation, the detection limit is less than 100 pg/ml in diluted PBS buffer (0.01X PBS). These results demonstrated the planar nano-gap architecture having potentials on biomolecular detection through monitoring of surface-potential variation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Ion implantation modified stainless steel as a substrate for hydroxyapatite deposition. Part I. Surface modification and characterization.

    PubMed

    Pramatarova, L; Pecheva, E; Krastev, V; Riesz, F

    2007-03-01

    Material surfaces play critical role in biology and medicine since most biological reactions occur on surfaces and interfaces. There are many examples showing that the surface properties of the materials control and are directly involved in biological reactions and processes in-vitro like blood compatibility, protein absorption, cell development, etc. The rules that govern the diversity of biological surface phenomenon are fundamental physical laws. Stainless steel doped with Cr, Ni and Mo is widely used material in medicine and dentistry due to its excellent corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. The interest in this material has stimulated extensive studies on improving its bone-bonding properties. This paper describes the surface modification of Cr-Ni stainless steel (AISI 316) by a whole surface sequential implantation of Ca and P ions (the basic ions of hydroxyapatite). Three groups of stainless steel samples are prepared: (i) ion-implanted, (ii) ion-implanted and thermally treated at 600( composite function)C in air for 1 h and (iii) initials. The surface chemistry and topography before and after the surface modification are characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy, magic mirror method, atomic force microscopy and contact angle measurements.

  14. Sub-micron elastic property characterization of materials using a near-field scanning optical microscope

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Blodgett, David W.; Spicer, James B.

    2001-12-01

    The ability to characterize the sub-surface mechanical properties of a bulk or thin film material at the sub-micron level has applications in the microelectronics and thin film industries. In the microelectronics industry, with the decrease of line widths and the increase of component densities, sub-surface voids have become increasingly detrimental. Any voids along an integrated circuit (IC) line can lead to improper electrical connections between components and can cause failure of the device. In the thin film industry, the detection of impurities is also important. Any impurities can detract from the film's desired optical, electrical, or mechanical properties. Just as important as the detection of voids and impurities, is the measurement of the elastic properties of a material on the nanometer scale. These elastic measurements provide insight into the microstructural properties of the material. We have been investigating a technique that couples the high-resolution surface imaging capabilities of the apertureless near-field scanning optical microscope (ANSOM) with the sub-surface characterization strengths of high-frequency ultrasound. As an ultrasonic wave propagates, the amplitude decreases due to geometrical spreading, attenuation from absorption, and scattering from discontinuities. Measurement of wave speeds and attenuation provides the information needed to quantify the bulk or surface properties of a material. The arrival of an ultrasonic wave at or along the surface of a material is accompanied with a small surface displacement. Conventional methods for the ultrasound detection rely on either a contact transducer or optical technique (interferometric, beam deflection, etc.). However, each of these methods is limited by the spatial resolution dictated by the detection footprint. As the footprint size increases, variations across the ultrasonic wavefront are effectively averaged, masking the presence of any nanometer-scale sub-surface or surface mechanical property variations. The use of an ANSOM for sensing ultrasonic wave arrivals reduces the detection footprint allowing any nanometer scale variations in the microstructure of a material to be detected. In an ANSOM, the ultrasonic displacement is manifested as perturbations on the near-field signal due to the small variations in the tip-sample caused by the wave arrival. Due to the linear dependence of the near-field signal on tip-sample separation, these perturbations can be interpreted using methods identical to those for conventional ultrasonic techniques. In this paper, we report results using both contact transducer (5 MHz) and laser-generated ultrasound.

  15. Land Surface Properties near Terra Nova Bay, East Antarctica, Analyzed by Time-series Height, Coherence and Amplitude Maps Derived from COSMO-SkyMed One-day Tandem Pairs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ji, Y.; Han, H.; Lee, H.

    2014-12-01

    Analysis of the surface properties of Antarctica is very important to study the change of environment and climate in the polar region. Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) has been widely used to study Antarctic surface properties because it is independent of sun altitude and atmospheric conditions. Interferometric SAR (InSAR) observes surface topography and deformation, by calculating the phase differences between two or more SAR images obtained over same area. InSAR technique can be used for height mapping in stable areas with a few meter accuracy. However, the InSAR-derived height map can have errors if the phase differences due to surface deformation or change of the scattering center by microwave penetration into snow are misinterpreted as the elevation. In this study, we generated the height maps around Terra Nova Bay in East Antarctica from 13 COSMO-SkyMed one-day tandem InSAR pairs obtained from December 2010 to January 2012. By analyzing the height maps averaged over the 13 interferograms and its standard deviation (STD) map, we could classify the surface types into glacier, mountains and basin areas covered with snow. The mountain areas showed very small STD because its surface property is unchanged with time, except for the small STD values caused by the errors from the unwrapping processing, satellite orbit or atmospheric phase distortion. Over the basin areas, however, the STD of the height was much larger than the mountain area due to the variation of scattering center either from the change in surface property such as snowfall and sublimation or by the surface displacement of snow mass that are too slow. A year-long constant motion of such slow-creeping snow body was positively identified by its linear relationship between the misinterpreted elevation and the baseline perpendicular component of InSAR pair. Analysis of time-series coherence maps and amplitude maps have also contributed to clarify the surface properties and its changes due to various environmental factors such as snow fall, wind, sublimation, and the freezing-thawing processes in this Antarctic land surface. Acknowledgement - This research was supported by National Research Foundation of Korea through NRF-2013R1A1A2008062 and NRF-2013M1A3A3A02041853.

  16. Triton's surface properties - A preliminary analysis from ground-based, Voyager photopolarimeter subsystem, and laboratory measurements

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Buratti, B. J.; Lane, A. L.; Gibson, J.; Burrows, H.; Nelson, R. M.; Bliss, D.; Smythe, W.; Garkanian, V.; Wallis, B.

    1991-01-01

    The surface properties of Triton were investigated using data from the ground-based and Voyager photopolarimeter subsystem (PPS) observations of Triton's phase curve. The results indicate that Triton has a high single-scattering albedo (0.96 +/-0.01 at 0.75 micron) and an unusually compacted surface, possibly similar to that of Europa. Results also suggest that Triton's single-particle phase function and the macroscopically rough character of its surface are similar to those of most other icy satellites.

  17. A sapphire loaded TE011 cavity for surface impedance measurements: design, construction, and commissioning status

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

    L. Phillips; G. K. Davis; J. R. Delayen

    2005-07-10

    In order to measure the superconducting surface properties of niobium that are of interest to SRF applications, a facility which utilizes a Nb cavity operating in the TE011 mode at 7.65 GHz which provides a well-defined RF field on a disk shaped sample has been designed and fabricated. The RF losses due to the sample's surface impedance are determined by using a calorimetric technique. The system has the capability to measure such properties as Rs,(T), and penetration depth, which can then be correlated with surface properties and preparation processes. The design, fabrication, and results from initial commissioning operations will bemore » discussed, along with the near term sample evaluation program.« less

  18. Active screen cage pulsed dc discharge for implanting copper in polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zaka-ul-Islam, Mujahid; Naeem, Muhammad; Shafiq, Muhammad; Sitara; Jabbar Al-Rajab, Abdul; Zakaullah, Muhammad

    2017-07-01

    Polymers such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) are widely used in artificial organs where long-term anti-bacterial properties are required to avoid bacterial proliferation. Copper or silver ion implantation on the polymer surface is known as a viable method to generate long-term anti-bacterial properties. Here, we have tested pulsed DC plasma with copper cathodic cage for the PTFE surface treatment. The surface analysis of the treated specimens suggests that the surface, structural properties, crystallinity and chemical structure of the PTFE have been changed, after the plasma treatment. The copper release tests show that copper ions are released from the polymer at a slow rate and quantity of the released copper increases with the plasma treatment time.

  19. Perspectives on surface nanobubbles

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Xuehua; Lohse, Detlef

    2014-01-01

    Materials of nanoscale size exhibit properties that macroscopic materials often do not have. The same holds for bubbles on the nanoscale: nanoscale gaseous domains on a solid-liquid interface have surprising properties. These include the shape, the long life time, and even superstability. Such so-called surface nanobubbles may have wide applications. This prospective article covers the basic properties of surface nanobubbles and gives several examples of potential nanobubble applications in nanomaterials and nanodevices. For example, nanobubbles can be used as templates or nanostructures in surface functionalization. The nanobubbles produced in situ in a microfluidic system can even induce an autonomous motion of the nanoparticles on which they form. Their formation also has implications for the fluid transport in narrow channels in which they form. PMID:25379084

  20. Surface and corrosion characteristics of carbon plasma implanted and deposited nickel-titanium alloy

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

    Poon, R.W.Y.; Liu, X.Y.; Chung, C.Y.

    2005-05-01

    Nickel-titanium shape memory alloys (NiTi) are potentially useful in orthopedic implants on account of their super-elastic and shape memory properties. However, the materials are prone to surface corrosion and the most common problem is out-diffusion of harmful Ni ions from the substrate into body tissues and fluids. In order to improve the corrosion resistance and related surface properties, we used the technique of plasma immersion ion implantation and deposition to deposit an amorphous hydrogenated carbon coating onto NiTi and implant carbon into NiTi. Both the deposited amorphous carbon film and carbon plasma implanted samples exhibit much improved corrosion resistances andmore » surface mechanical properties and possible mechanisms are suggested.« less

  1. Two liquids wetting and low hysteresis electrowetting on dielectric applications.

    PubMed

    Maillard, Mathieu; Legrand, Julien; Berge, Bruno

    2009-06-02

    This study focuses on electrowetting using two immmiscible liquids on a dielectric coating. It is demonstrated that low contact angle of oil on the hydrophobic surfaces is a key parameter to obtain a low hysteresis system, below 2 degrees . On the basis of these results, three aspects of the wetting properties have been studied: the influence of the surface hydrophobic properties, the design of the liquids according to the hydrophobic surface, and a graphical method to solve the Bartell-Osterhof equation and predict the wetting properties of two liquids on a surface. These results define clear design rules to obtain a low hysteresis system, useful for many applications from liquid lenses to displays and laboratory-on-a-chip.

  2. Effects of Material Properties on Bacterial Adhesion and Biofilm Formation.

    PubMed

    Song, F; Koo, H; Ren, D

    2015-08-01

    Adhesion of microbes, such as bacteria and fungi, to surfaces and the subsequent formation of biofilms cause multidrug-tolerant infections in humans and fouling of medical devices. To address these challenges, it is important to understand how material properties affect microbe-surface interactions and engineer better nonfouling materials. Here we review the recent progresses in this field and discuss the main challenges and opportunities. In particular, we focus on bacterial biofilms and review the effects of surface energy, charge, topography, and stiffness of substratum material on bacterial adhesion. We summarize how these surface properties influence oral biofilm formation, and we discuss the important findings from nondental systems that have potential applications in dental medicine. © International & American Associations for Dental Research 2015.

  3. Direct Comparison of Physical Properties of Bacillus subtilis NCIB 3610 and B-1 Biofilms

    PubMed Central

    Kesel, Sara; Grumbein, Stefan; Gümperlein, Ina; Tallawi, Marwa; Marel, Anna-Kristina

    2016-01-01

    Many bacteria form surface-attached communities known as biofilms. Due to the extreme resistance of these bacterial biofilms to antibiotics and mechanical stresses, biofilms are of growing interest not only in microbiology but also in medicine and industry. Previous studies have determined the extracellular polymeric substances present in the matrix of biofilms formed by Bacillus subtilis NCIB 3610. However, studies on the physical properties of biofilms formed by this strain are just emerging. In particular, quantitative data on the contributions of biofilm matrix biopolymers to these physical properties are lacking. Here, we quantitatively investigated three physical properties of B. subtilis NCIB 3610 biofilms: the surface roughness and stiffness and the bulk viscoelasticity of these biofilms. We show how specific biomolecules constituting the biofilm matrix formed by this strain contribute to those biofilm properties. In particular, we demonstrate that the surface roughness and surface elasticity of 1-day-old NCIB 3610 biofilms are strongly affected by the surface layer protein BslA. For a second strain, B. subtilis B-1, which forms biofilms containing mainly γ-polyglutamate, we found significantly different physical biofilm properties that are also differently affected by the commonly used antibacterial agent ethanol. We show that B-1 biofilms are protected from ethanol-induced changes in the biofilm's stiffness and that this protective effect can be transferred to NCIB 3610 biofilms by the sole addition of γ-polyglutamate to growing NCIB 3610 biofilms. Together, our results demonstrate the importance of specific biofilm matrix components for the distinct physical properties of B. subtilis biofilms. PMID:26873313

  4. Ferrocene Containing Copolymers with Improved Electrostatic Dissipation Properties for Advanced Applications

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Smith, T. M.; Nelson, G. L.

    2005-01-01

    Electrostatic dissipative polymers are used for a variety of functions. Typical methods utilized to transform electrically insulating polymers into either charge dissipative or conductive materials involve incorporating a conductive filler, conductive polymer, oxidizing the surface using plasma, or incorporating surfactants that act as surface wetting agents. Another approach is to synthesize a block copolymer that is expected to result in better electrical properties with minimal impacts to physical, fire, and thermal properties. One such block that can be added into the main chain of polymers is a diol terminated ferrocene oligomer, which is expected to impart electrostatic dissipative properties into the host polymer while concurrently improving the overall fire properties. Previous work with polyurethanes incorporating a ferrocene oligomer into the main chain resulted in much improved fire retardancy. In dealing with electrostatic dissipative materials the important questions are: how easily does the material charge and how quickly can the charge move to ground. One normally describes the materials conductivity, but conductivity only measures the fastest path for an electron not the slowest path. The slowest path is the one of interest, since it is left on the surface and thus can cause discharges. In order to assess ease of charging and decay times corona charge dissipation measurements can accurately assess these properties by introducing a charge on the surface of the material then measuring the surface voltage and the amount of charge deposited. The charge decay curve then will give an indication of a materials electrostatic dissipation properties. Normally, triboelectric testing can be performed, but results vary. Corona charge dissipation results are more repeatable.

  5. Biochar from Coffee Residues: A New Promising Sorbent

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fotopoulou, Kalliopi; Karapanagioti, Hrissi; Manariotis, Ioannis

    2014-05-01

    Biochar is a carbon-rich material produced by heating biomass in an oxygen-limited environment. Biochar is mainly used as an additive to soils to sequester carbon and improve soil fertility as well as a sorbent for environmental remediation processes. Surface properties such as point of zero charge, surface area and pore volume, surface topography, surface functional groups and acid-base behavior are important factors, which affect sorption efficiency. Understanding the surface alteration of biochars increases our understanding of the pollutant-sorbent interaction. The objective of the present study was to characterize the surface properties of biochar produced, and to investigate the effect of thermal treatment conditions on key characteristics that affect sorptive properties. The espresso coffee residue was obtained after the coffee was brewed through espresso machines in coffee shops. The coffee residue was dried and kept in an oven at 50oC until its pyrolysis at 850oC. Pyrolysis with different coffee mass and containers were tested in order to find optimum biochar characteristics. Detailed characterization techniques were carried out to determine the properties of the produced biochar. The surface area, the pore volume, and the average pore size of the biochars were determined using gas (N2) adsorption-desorption cycles using the Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller (BET) equation. Open surface area and micropore volume were determined using the t-plot method and the Harkins & Jura equation. Total organic carbon was also determined because it is an important factor that affects sorption. The results were compared with the corresponding properties of activated carbons. The biochar produced exhibited a wide range of surface area from 21 to 770 m2/g and open surface area from 21 to 65 m2/g. It is obvious that the surface area results from the formation of pores. Actually it was calculated that up to 90% of the porosity is due to the micropores. More specifically the average size of the pores for the high surface area biochars was 32 A. Finally, the organic carbon content of the produced biochar ranged from 45 to 75%.

  6. Surface and tribological properties of seed proteins

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Aqueous solutions of oat and lupin proteins were investigated for their surface, interfacial, friction and wear properties. The investigated oat proteins included those that were also chemically modified using a variety of methods (acetylation, succinylation, x-linking) and combinations of methods....

  7. Fractal behavior of soil water storage at multiple depths

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ji, Wenjun; Lin, Mi; Biswas, Asim; Si, Bing C.; Chau, Henry W.; Cresswell, Hamish P.

    2016-08-01

    Spatiotemporal behavior of soil water is essential to understand the science of hydrodynamics. Data intensive measurement of surface soil water using remote sensing has established that the spatial variability of soil water can be described using the principle of self-similarity (scaling properties) or fractal theory. This information can be used in determining land management practices provided the surface scaling properties are kept at deep layers. The current study examined the scaling properties of sub-surface soil water and their relationship to surface soil water, thereby serving as supporting information for plant root and vadose zone models. Soil water storage (SWS) down to 1.4 m depth at seven equal intervals was measured along a transect of 576 m for 5 years in Saskatchewan. The surface SWS showed multifractal nature only during the wet period (from snowmelt until mid- to late June) indicating the need for multiple scaling indices in transferring soil water variability information over multiple scales. However, with increasing depth, the SWS became monofractal in nature indicating the need for a single scaling index to upscale/downscale soil water variability information. In contrast, all soil layers during the dry period (from late June to the end of the growing season in early November) were monofractal in nature, probably resulting from the high evapotranspirative demand of the growing vegetation that surpassed other effects. This strong similarity between the scaling properties at the surface layer and deep layers provides the possibility of inferring about the whole profile soil water dynamics using the scaling properties of the easy-to-measure surface SWS data.

  8. Tuning the surface properties of novel ternary iron(III) fluoride-based catalysts using the template effect of the matrix.

    PubMed

    Guo, Ying; Lippitz, Andreas; Saftien, Paul; Unger, Wolfgang E S; Kemnitz, Erhard

    2015-03-21

    Sol-gel prepared ternary FeF3-MgF2 materials have become promising heterogeneous catalysts due to their porosity and surface Lewis/Brønsted acidity (bi-acidity). Despite the good catalytic performance, nanoscopic characterisations of this type of material are still missing and the key factors controlling the surface properties have not yet been identified, impeding both a better understanding and further development of ternary fluoride catalysts. In this study, we characterised the interaction between the bi-acidic component (FeF3) and the matrix (MgF2) on the nano-scale. For the first time, the formation pathway of FeF3-MgF2 was profiled and the template effect of MgF2 during the synthesis process was discovered. Based on these new insights two novel materials, FeF3-CaF2 and FeF3-SrF2, were established, revealing that with decreasing the atomic numbers (from Sr to Mg), the ternary fluorides exhibited increasing surface acidity and surface area but decreasing pore size. These systematic changes gave rise to a panel of catalysts with tuneable surface and bulk properties either by changing the matrix alkaline earth metal fluoride or by adjusting their ratios to Fe or both. The template effect of the alkaline earth metal fluoride matrix was identified as the most probable key factor determining the surface properties and further influencing the catalytic performance in ternary fluoride based catalysts, and paves the way to targeted design of next-generation catalysts with tunable properties.

  9. The effect of a combined low-pressure gas discharge on metal surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brzhozovskii, B.; Brovkova, M.; Gestrin, S.; Martynov, V.; Zinina, E.

    2018-04-01

    The properties and effects of a combined gas discharge, obtained by superimposing ultrahigh-frequency electromagnetic and electrostatic fields on the surface of metal products, have been studied. Estimates for the main physical properties characterizing the discharge have been obtained. The paper shows that the properties of a combined discharge essentially depend on the sign of the constant electric potential of the workpiece. In the case of a positive potential, there is a substantial hardening of the metal surface layer. Blanket coating formation, which is a nanocomposite two-phase structure, has been recorded.

  10. An electronic system for measuring thermophysical properties of wind tunnel models

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Corwin, R. R.; Kramer, J. S.

    1975-01-01

    An electronic system is described which measures the surface temperature of a small portion of the surface of the model or sample at high speeds using an infrared radiometer. This data is processed along with heating rate data from the reference heat gauge in a small computer and prints out the desired thermophysical properties, time, surface temperature, and reference heat rate. This system allows fast and accurate property measurements over thirty temperature increments. The technique, the details of the apparatus, the procedure for making these measurements, and the results of some preliminary tests are presented.

  11. Preparation, Surface Properties, and Therapeutic Applications of Gold Nanoparticles in Biomedicine.

    PubMed

    Panahi, Yunes; Mohammadhosseini, Majid; Nejati-Koshki, Kazem; Abadi, Azam Jafari Najaf; Moafi, Hadi Fallah; Akbarzadeh, Abolfazl; Farshbaf, Masoud

    2017-02-01

    Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) due to their unique properties and manifold surface functionalities have been applied in bio-nanotechnology. The application of GNPs in recent medical and biological research is very extensive. Especially it involves applications such as detection and photothermalysis of microorganisms and cancer stem cells, biosensors; optical bio-imaging and observing of cells and these nanostructures also serve as practical platforms for therapeutic agents. In this review we studied all therapeutic applications of gold nanoparticles in biomedicine, synthesis methods, and surface properties. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  12. Comparative acid-base properties of the surface of components of the CdTe-ZnS system in series of substitutional solid solutions and their analogs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kirovskaya, I. A.; Kasatova, I. Yu.

    2011-07-01

    The acid-base properties of the surface of solid solutions and binary components of the CdTe-ZnS system are studied by hydrolytic adsorption, nonaqueous conductometric titration, mechanochemistry, IR spectroscopy, and Raman scattering spectroscopy. The strength, nature, and concentration of acid centers on the original surface and that exposed to CO are determined. The changes in acid-base properties in dependence on the composition of the system under investigation in the series of CdB6, ZnB6 analogs are studied.

  13. The Influence of the Surface Neutralization of Active Impurities on the Field-Electron Emission Properties of p-Type Silicon Crystals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yafarov, R. K.

    2017-12-01

    Correlation dependences between variations of the structural-phase composition, morphology characteristics, and field-electron-emission (FEE) properties of surface-structured p-type silicon singlecrystalline (100)-oriented wafers have been studied during their stepwise high-dose carbon-ion-beam irradiation. It is established that the stepwise implantation of carbon decreases the FEE threshold and favors an increase in the maximum FEE-current density by more than two orders of magnitude. Physicochemical mechanisms involved in this modification of the properties of near-surface layers of silicon under carbon-ion implantation are considered.

  14. Surface Catalysis and Characterization of Proposed Candidate TPS for Access-to-Space Vehicles

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Stewart, David A.

    1997-01-01

    Surface properties have been obtained on several classes of thermal protection systems (TPS) using data from both side-arm-reactor and arc-jet facilities. Thermochemical stability, optical properties, and coefficients for atom recombination were determined for candidate TPS proposed for single-stage-to-orbit vehicles. The systems included rigid fibrous insulations, blankets, reinforced carbon carbon, and metals. Test techniques, theories used to define arc-jet and side-arm-reactor flow, and material surface properties are described. Total hemispherical emittance and atom recombination coefficients for each candidate TPS are summarized in the form of polynomial and Arrhenius expressions.

  15. Development of preservative-free nanoparticles-based emulsions: Effects of NP surface properties and sterilization process.

    PubMed

    Rowenczyk, Laura; Picard, Céline; Duclairoir-Poc, Cécile; Hucher, Nicolas; Orange, Nicole; Feuilloley, Marc; Grisel, Michel

    2016-08-20

    Model emulsions were developed with or without commercial titanium dioxide nanoparticles (NP) carrying various surface treatments in order to get close physicochemical properties whatever the NP surface polarity (hydrophilic and hydrophobic). Rheology and texturometry highlighted that the macroscopic properties of the three formulated emulsions were similar. However, characterizations by optical microscopy, static light scattering and zetametry showed that their microstructures reflected the diversity of the incorporated NP surface properties. In order to use these model emulsions as tools for biological evaluations of the NP in use, they had to show the lowest initial microbiological charge and, specifically for the NP-free emulsion, the lowest bactericidal effect. Hence, formulae were developed preservative-free and a thermal sterilization step was conducted. Efficiency of the sterilization and its impact on the emulsion integrity were monitored. Results highlighted the effect of the NP surface properties: only the control emulsion and the emulsion containing hydrophilic NP fulfilled both requirements. To ensure the usability of these model emulsions as tools to evaluate the 'NP effect' on representative bacteria of the skin microflora (S. aureus and P. fluorescens), impact on the bacterial growth was measured on voluntary inoculated formulae. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Surface Properties of Squalene/Meibum Films and NMR Confirmation of Squalene in Tears

    PubMed Central

    Ivanova, Slavyana; Tonchev, Vesselin; Yokoi, Norihiko; Yappert, Marta C.; Borchman, Douglas; Georgiev, Georgi As.

    2015-01-01

    Squalene (SQ) possesses a wide range of pharmacological activities (antioxidant, drug carrier, detoxifier, hydrating, emollient) that can be of benefit to the ocular surface. It can come in contact with human meibum (hMGS; the most abundant component of the tear film lipid layer) as an endogenous tear lipid or from exogenous sources as eyelid sebum or pharmaceuticals. The aims of this study were to determine (i) if SQ is in tear lipids and (ii) its influence on the surface properties of hMGS films. Heteronuclear single quantum correlation NMR confirmed 7 mol % SQ in Schirmer’s strips extracts. The properties of SQ/hMGS pseudo-binary films at the air/water interface were studied with Langmuir surface balance, stress-relaxation dilatational rheology and Brewster angle microscopy. SQ does not possess surfactant properties. When mixed with hMGS squalene (i) localized over the layers’ thinner regions and (ii) did not affect the film pressure at high compression. Therefore, tear SQ is unlikely to instigate dry eye, and SQ can be used as a safe and “inert” ingredient in formulations to protect against dry eye. The layering of SQ over the thinner film regions in addition to its pharmacological properties could contribute to the protection of the ocular surface. PMID:26370992

  17. Influence of autoclave sterilization on the surface parameters and mechanical properties of six orthodontic wires.

    PubMed

    Pernier, C; Grosgogeat, B; Ponsonnet, L; Benay, G; Lissac, M

    2005-02-01

    Orthodontic wires are frequently packaged in individual sealed bags in order to avoid cross-contamination. The instructions on the wrapper generally advise autoclave sterilization of the package and its contents if additional protection is desired. However, sterilization can modify the surface parameters and the mechanical properties of many types of material. The aim of this research was to determine the influence of one of the most widely used sterilization processes, autoclaving (18 minutes at 134 degrees C, as recommended by the French Ministry of Health), on the surface parameters and mechanical properties of six wires currently used in orthodontics (one stainless steel alloy: Tru-Chrome RMO; two nickel-titanium shape memory alloys: Neo Sentalloy and Neo Sentalloy with Ionguard GAC; and three titanium-molybdenum alloys: TMA(R) and Low Friction TMA Ormco and Resolve GAC). The alloys were analysed on receipt and after sterilization, using surface structure observation techniques, including optical, scanning electron and atomic force microscopy and profilometry. The mechanical properties were assessed by three-point bending tests. The results showed that autoclave sterilization had no adverse effects on the surface parameters or on the selected mechanical properties. This supports the possibility for practitioners to systematically sterilize wires before placing them in the oral environment.

  18. Lunar Science Conference, 6th, Houston, Tex., March 17-21, 1975, Proceedings. Volume 3 - Physical studies

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Merrill, R. B.

    1975-01-01

    Recent investigations of the moon are reported. Topics discussed include the Apollo 17 site, selenography, craters, remote sensing, selenophysics, lunar surface fields and particles, magnetic properties of lunar samples, physical property measurements, surface-correlated properties, micrometeoroids, solar-system regoliths, and cosmic rays. Lunar orbital data maps are presented, and the evolution of lunar features is examined.

  19. Constraining the physical properties of compositionally distinctive surfaces on Mars from overlapping THEMIS observations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ahern, A.; Rogers, D.

    2017-12-01

    Better constraints on the physical properties (e.g. grain size, rock abundance, cohesion, porosity and amount of induration) of Martian surface materials can lead to greater understanding of outcrop origin (e.g. via sedimentary, effusive volcanic, pyroclastic processes). Many outcrop surfaces on Mars likely contain near-surface (<3 cm) vertical heterogeneity in physical properties due to thin sediment cover, induration, and physical weathering, that can obscure measurement of the bulk thermal conductivity of the outcrop materials just below. Fortunately, vertical heterogeneity within near-surface materials can result in unique, and possibly predictable, diurnal and seasonal temperature patterns. The KRC thermal model has been utilized in a number of previous studies to predict thermal inertia of surface materials on Mars. Here we use KRC to model surface temperatures from overlapping Mars Odyssey THEMIS surface temperature observations that span multiple seasons and local times, in order to constrain both the nature of vertical heterogeneity and the underlying outcrop thermal inertia for various spectrally distinctive outcrops on Mars. We utilize spectral observations from TES and CRISM to constrain the particle size of the uppermost surface. For this presentation, we will focus specifically on chloride-bearing units in Terra Sirenum and Meridiani Planum, as well as mafic and feldspathic bedrock locations with distinct spectral properties, yet uncertain origins, in Noachis Terra and Nili Fossae. We find that many of these surfaces exhibit variations in apparent thermal inertia with season and local time that are consistent with low thermal inertia materials overlying higher thermal inertia substrates. Work is ongoing to compare surface temperature measurements with modeled two-layer scenarios in order to constrain the top layer thickness and bottom layer thermal inertia. The information will be used to better interpret the origins of these distinctive outcrops.

  20. INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON SEMICONDUCTOR INJECTION LASERS SELCO-87: Dependence of the photoluminescence density on surface preparation and properties of n-type InP

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Knauer, A.; Gramlich, S.; Staske, R.

    1988-11-01

    Comprehensive studies were made of the relationship between the photoluminescence intensity and the effective carrier lifetime, on the one hand, and the quality of the surface treatment of wafers (damage, oxide layer thickness) and the initial properties of a material (surface and bulk defects, inhomogeneity of the dopant concentration), on the other.

  1. Fabrication and surface characterization of composite refractory compounds suitable for thermionic converters

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Davis, P. R.; Swanson, L. W.

    1979-01-01

    The techniques of fabricating and characterizing the surface properties of electrode materials were investigated. The basic surface properties of these materials were studied with respect to their utilization as thermionic energy converter electrodes. Emphasis was placed on those factors (e.g, cesium disorption kinetic and mechanisms of low work function production) which are of primary concern to thermionic converter performance.

  2. Lubricant Foaming and Aeration Study. Part 1

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1983-11-23

    referred the stability of foam lamellae to its influence. This property is the two-dimensional analog of ordinary viscosity and its coefficient is...dimensions •- MT-. Weakly foaming solutions have little surface viscosity , soap solutions a moderate amount, and some solutions of proteins , saponin, etc...changes might occur in the surface properties . All surface viscosities previously reported had been measured while the solutions had been exposed for

  3. Methods for constraining surface properties and volatile migration on Phoebe, Triton, Pluto, and the moon

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Miller, Charles Frederick

    The surface properties and surface volatile content of rocky bodies contain clues as to the formation and subsequent evolution of our Solar System. Many Solar System bodies retain essentially pristine subsurface volatiles, but their surface volatiles have often undergone chemical processing from UV irradiation and heating from impacts over millennia. The result is a wide range of surface properties observed today. We analyze the surfaces of these primitive bodies with the goal of deducing their evolutionary history. To this end, we employed three targeted analysis methods to characterize the surface properties and/or volatile distribution of three Solar System satellites. We derived photometric properties of Saturn's moon Phoebe from observations taken at low solar phase angles and corn-pared these results to those published for other Solar System objects. We conclude that Phoebe's surface has similarities to both Jupiter family comets and Kuiper Belt Objects (KBOs), supporting the conjecture that Phoebe migrated to Saturn the outer Solar System. We converted a General Circulation Model (GCM) to simulate the atmospheric motion of Neptune's moon Triton. We used this model to investigate the effect of N2 surface frosts on Triton's global atmospheric circulation. Our simulations identified specific atmospheric thermal conditions that led to wind speeds and directions consistent with the motion of erupting geysers captured by Voyager 2 images. Finally, we developed an 3-D n-body ballistic plume model to analyze the geometry and dynamics of the ejecta plume created by the impact of the Lunar CRater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) on the Moon. LCROSS was designed to detect water content in lunar regolith, but also served as a test bed for comparing the properties of a large-scale, controlled impact with laboratory impact experiments. By comparing plume simulation results to our observations of the LCROSS impact, we confirmed the predictions that the LCROSS ejecta plume was in fact a multi-component plume and found that the low velocity cutoff for high-angle particles varied with ejection angle.

  4. Wetting properties of molecularly rough surfaces

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

    Svoboda, Martin; Lísal, Martin, E-mail: lisal@icpf.cas.cz; Department of Physics, Institute of Science, J. E. Purkinje University, 400 96 Ústí n. Lab.

    2015-09-14

    We employ molecular dynamics simulations to study the wettability of nanoscale rough surfaces in systems governed by Lennard-Jones (LJ) interactions. We consider both smooth and molecularly rough planar surfaces. Solid substrates are modeled as a static collection of LJ particles arranged in a face-centered cubic lattice with the (100) surface exposed to the LJ fluid. Molecularly rough solid surfaces are prepared by removing several strips of LJ atoms from the external layers of the substrate, i.e., forming parallel nanogrooves on the surface. We vary the solid-fluid interactions to investigate strongly and weakly wettable surfaces. We determine the wetting properties bymore » measuring the equilibrium droplet profiles that are in turn used to evaluate the contact angles. Macroscopic arguments, such as those leading to Wenzel’s law, suggest that surface roughness always amplifies the wetting properties of a lyophilic surface. However, our results indicate the opposite effect from roughness for microscopically corrugated surfaces, i.e., surface roughness deteriorates the substrate wettability. Adding the roughness to a strongly wettable surface shrinks the surface area wet with the liquid, and it either increases or only marginally affects the contact angle, depending on the degree of liquid adsorption into the nanogrooves. For a weakly wettable surface, the roughness changes the surface character from lyophilic to lyophobic due to a weakening of the solid-fluid interactions by the presence of the nanogrooves and the weaker adsorption of the liquid into the nanogrooves.« less

  5. Evaluating the Rheological Properties of Waste Natural Rubber Latex Modified Binder

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khatijah Abu Bakar, Siti; Ezree Abdulah, Mohd; Mustafa Kamal, Mazlina; Rahman, Raha Abd; Arifin Hadithon, Kamarul; Buhari, Rosnawati; Tajudin, Saiful Azhar Ahmad

    2018-03-01

    Road surface is designed to be the durable surface material to sustain the traffic loading. However, due to physical and mechanical stress, pavement deterioration is accelerated. Thus, modifying conventional bitumen by improving its properties is seen as the best method to prolong pavement in-service life. The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of waste natural rubber (NR) latex on rheological properties of bitumen. Conventional bitumen PEN 80/100 was modified with different content of waste NR latex using a high shear mixer at temperature of 150°C. The modified binder properties were characterized by conducting physical test (i.e. softening point, penetration and penetration index) and rheological test (i.e. dynamic shear rheometer, DSR). Results showed that, the addition of waste NR latex improved the rheology properties, which indicates by improving of rutting factor (G*/sin δ). This properties improvement has also shows a potential to resist deformation on road surface despite of high traffic loading.

  6. Effect of surface moisture on dielectric behavior of ultrafine BaTiO3 particulates.

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mountvala, A. J.

    1971-01-01

    The effects of adsorbed H2O on the dielectric properties of ultrafine BaTiO3 particulates of varying particle size and environmental history were determined. The dielectric behavior depends strongly on surface hydration. No particle size dependence of dielectric constant was found for dehydroxylated surfaces in ultrafine particulate (unsintered) BaTiO3 materials. For equivalent particle sizes, the ac conductivity is sensitive to surface morphology. Reactions with H2O vapor appear to account for the variations in dielectric properties. Surface dehydration was effectively accomplished by washing as-received powders in isopropanol.

  7. Tribological properties of surfaces

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Buckley, D. H.

    1978-01-01

    The real area of contact between two solid surfaces is only a small portion of the apparent area. Deformation of these areas can result in solid state contact through surface films. For clean solid to solid contact strong adhesive bonding occurs across the interface. Under these conditions many properties of the solid such as the metallurgical and chemical nature of metals can influence adhesion, friction, and wear behavior. The presence of gases, liquids, and solid films on the surface of solids alter markedly tribological characteristics. These surface films can also considerably change the mechanical effects of solid state contact on bulk material behavior.

  8. Cemented fixation with PMMA or Bis-GMA resin hydroxyapatite cement: effect of implant surface roughness.

    PubMed

    Walsh, W R; Svehla, M J; Russell, J; Saito, M; Nakashima, T; Gillies, R M; Bruce, W; Hori, R

    2004-09-01

    Implant surface roughness is an important parameter governing the overall mechanical properties at the implant-cement interface. This study investigated the influence of surface roughness using polymethylmethcrylate (PMMA) and a Bisphenol-a-glycidylmethacyrlate resin-hydroxyapatite cement (CAP). Mechanical fixation at the implant-cement interface was evaluated in vitro using static shear and fatigue loading with cobalt chrome alloy (CoCr) dowels with different surface roughness preparations. Increasing surface roughness improved the mechanical properties at the implant-cement interface for both types of cement. CAP cement fixation was superior to PMMA under static and dynamic loading.

  9. Modification of titanium surfaces by adding antibiotic-loaded PHB spheres and PEG for biomedical applications.

    PubMed

    Rodríguez-Contreras, Alejandra; Marqués-Calvo, María Soledad; Gil, Francisco Javier; Manero, José María

    2016-08-01

    Novel researches are focused on the prevention and management of post-operative infections. To avoid this common complication of implant surgery, it is preferable to use new biomaterials with antibacterial properties. Therefore, the aim of this work is to develop a method of combining the antibacterial properties of antibiotic-loaded poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) nano- and micro-spheres and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as an antifouling agent, with titanium (Ti), as the base material for implants, in order to obtain surfaces with antibacterial activity. The Ti surfaces were linked to both PHB particles and PEG by a covalent bond. This attachment was carried out by firstly activating the surfaces with either Oxygen plasma or Sodium hydroxide. Further functionalization of the activated surfaces with different alkoxysilanes allows the reaction with PHB particles and PEG. The study confirms that the Ti surfaces achieved the antibacterial properties by combining the antibiotic-loaded PHB spheres, and PEG as an antifouling agent.

  10. Spectroscopic study on variations in illite surface properties after acid-base titration.

    PubMed

    Liu, Wen-xin; Coveney, R M; Tang, Hong-xiao

    2003-07-01

    FT-IR, Raman microscopy, XRD, 29Si and 27Al MAS NMR, were used to investigate changes in surface properties of a natural illite sample after acid-base potentiometric titration. The characteristic XRD lines indicated the presence of surface Al-Si complexes, preferable to Al(OH)3 precipitates. In the microscopic Raman spectra, the vibration peaks of Si-O and Al-O bonds diminished as a result of treatment with acid, then increased after hydroxide back titration. The varied ratio of signal intensity between (IV)Al and (VI)Al species in 27Al MAS NMR spectra, together with the stable BET surface area after acidimetric titration, suggested that edge faces and basal planes in the layer structure of illite participated in dissolution of structural components. The combined spectroscopic evidence demonstrated that the reactions between illite surfaces and acid-leaching silicic acid and aluminum ions should be considered in the model description of surface acid-base properties of the aqueous illite.

  11. Influence of short chain organic acids and bases on the wetting properties and surface energy of submicrometer ceramic powders.

    PubMed

    Neirinck, Bram; Soccol, Dimitri; Fransaer, Jan; Van der Biest, Omer; Vleugels, Jef

    2010-08-15

    The effect of short chained organic acids and bases on the surface energy and wetting properties of submicrometer alumina powder was assessed. The surface chemistry of treated powders was determined by means of Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier Transform spectroscopy and compared to untreated powder. The wetting of powders was measured using a modified Washburn method, based on the use of precompacted powder samples. The geometric factor needed to calculate the contact angle was derived from measurements of the porous properties of the powder compacts. Contact angle measurements with several probe liquids before and after modification allowed a theoretical estimation of the surface energy based on the surface tension component theory. Trends in the surface energy components were linked to observations in infrared spectra. The results showed that the hydrophobic character of the precompacted powder depends on both the chain length and polar group of the modifying agent. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. Influence of viscoelastic property on laser-generated surface acoustic waves in coating-substrate systems

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

    Sun Hongxiang; Faculty of Science, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013; Zhang Shuyi

    2011-04-01

    Taking account of the viscoelasticity of materials, the pulsed laser generation of surface acoustic waves in coating-substrate systems has been investigated quantitatively by using the finite element method. The displacement spectra of the surface acoustic waves have been calculated in frequency domain for different coating-substrate systems, in which the viscoelastic properties of the coatings and substrates are considered separately. Meanwhile, the temporal displacement waveforms have been obtained by applying inverse fast Fourier transforms. The numerical results of the normal surface displacements are presented for different configurations: a single plate, a slow coating on a fast substrate, and a fast coatingmore » on a slow substrate. The influences of the viscoelastic properties of the coating and the substrate on the attenuation of the surface acoustic waves have been studied. In addition, the influence of the coating thickness on the attenuation of the surface acoustic waves has been also investigated in detail.« less

  13. Surface properties of poly(acrylonitrile) (PAN) precipitation polymerized in supercritical CO2 and the influence of the molecular weight.

    PubMed

    Shen, Qing; Gu, Qing-Feng; Hu, Jian-Feng; Teng, Xin-Rong; Zhu, Yun-Feng

    2003-11-15

    In this paper, the surface properties, e.g., the total surface free energy and the related Lifshitz-van der Waals and Lewis acid-base components, of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) precipitation polymerized in supercritical CO(2) have been characterized. Moreover, the influence of molecular weight varying has been also investigated. Results show that the surface properties of PAN resulting from supercritical CO(2) are different from those obtained by the conventional method. Of these data, one important finding is that the supercritical CO(2) PAN seems to decrease the surface free energy with the increased molecular weight. Based on previous recorded NMR spectra of this PAN and especially compared to commercial PAN, such phenomena are discussed and ascribed to an increase of the H-bonds and a reduction of the isotacticity in the supercritical CO(2) condition for PAN.

  14. Laser surface alloying on aluminum and its alloys: A review

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chi, Yiming; Gu, Guochao; Yu, Huijun; Chen, Chuanzhong

    2018-01-01

    Aluminum and its alloys have been widely used in aerospace, automotive and transportation industries owing to their excellent properties such as high specific strength, good ductility and light weight. Surface modification is of crucial importance to the surface properties of aluminum and its alloys since high coefficient of friction, wear characteristics and low hardness have limited their long term performance. Laser surface alloying is one of the most effective methods of producing proper microstructure by means of non-equilibrium solidification which results from rapid heating and cooling. In this paper, the influence of different processing parameters, such as laser power and scanning velocity is discussed. The developments of various material systems including ceramics, metals or alloys, and metal matrix composites (MMCs) are reviewed. The microstructure, hardness, wear properties and other behaviors of laser treated layer are analyzed. Besides, the existing problems during laser surface treatment and the corresponding solutions are elucidated and the future developments are predicted.

  15. The Preparation, Characterization, Mechanical and Antibacterial Properties of GO-ZnO Nanocomposites with a Poly(l-lactide)-Modified Surface

    PubMed Central

    Yuan, Mingwei; Xiong, Chengdong; Jiang, Lin; Li, Hongli

    2018-01-01

    Graphene oxide (GO) was employed for the preparation of GO-zinc oxide (ZnO). The hydroxyl group on the surface was exploited to trigger the l-lactide ring-opening polymerization. A composite material with poly(l-lactide) (PLLA) chains grafted to the GO-ZnO surface, GO-ZnO-PLLA, was prepared. The results demonstrated that the employed method allowed one-step, rapid grafting of PLLA to the GO-ZnO surface. The chemical structure of the GO surface was altered by improved dispersion of GO-ZnO in organic solvents, thus enhancing the GO-ZnO dispersion in the PLLA matrix and the interface bonding with PLLA. Subsequently, composite films, GO-ZnO-PLLA and GO-ZnO-PLLA/PLLA, were prepared. The changes in interface properties and mechanical properties were studied. Furthermore, the antibacterial performance of nano-ZnO was investigated. PMID:29473891

  16. The effect of growth phase on the surface properties of three oleaginous microalgae (Botryococcus sp. FACGB-762, Chlorella sp. XJ-445 and Desmodesmus bijugatus XJ-231)

    PubMed Central

    Xia, Ling; Huang, Rong; Li, Yinta

    2017-01-01

    The effects of growth phase on the lipid content and surface properties of oleaginous microalgae Botryococcus sp. FACGB-762, Chlorella sp. XJ-445 and Desmodesmus bijugatus XJ-231 were investigated in this study. The results showed that throughout the growth phases, the lipid content of microalgae increased. The surface properties like particle size, the degree of hydrophobicity, and the total concentration of functional groups increased while net surface zeta potential decreased. The results suggested that the growth stage had significant influence not only on the lipid content but also on the surface characteristics. Moreover, the lipid content was significantly positively related to the concentration of hydroxyl functional groups in spite of algal strains or growth phases. These results provided a basis for further studies on the refinery process using oleaginous microalgae for biofuel production. PMID:29045481

  17. REVIEWS OF TOPICAL PROBLEMS: Properties of matter in ultrahigh magnetic fields and the structure of the surface of neutron stars

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liberman, Mikhail A.; Johansson, B.

    1995-02-01

    The physical properties of atoms, molecules, and solids in ultrahigh magnetic fields B gg 109 G that are believed to exist on the surface of neutron stars are discussed. In these fields, atoms are strongly deformed and elongated along the magnetic field lines; the binding energy and ionizing energy of the atoms are substantially increased and the interatomic interaction is dramatically changed. This strongly modifies the properties of matter at the surface of magnetic neutron stars which are crucial for modelling the pulsar magnetosphere. A scenario for magnetosphere evolution is proposed which suggests free emission for a young pulsar and strong binding of the matter to the surface at a later stage. This later stage is due to strongly bound chains of alternate heavy atoms and light atoms accreted on the surface of the star.

  18. Surface electrical properties experiment, part 1. [flown on Apollo 17

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Strangway, D. W.; Annan, A. P.; Redman, J. D.; Rossiter, J. R.; Rylaarsdam, J. A.; Watts, R. D.

    1974-01-01

    The work is reported which was performed on the Surface Electrical Properties Experiment Data Acquisition System. Areas discussed include: data handling and processing, installation and external signal application, operation of the equipment, and digital output. Detailed circuit descriptions are included.

  19. Self-Motion Depending on the Physicochemical Properties of Esters as the Driving Force

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nakata, Satoshi; Matsuo, Kyoko; Kirisaka, Junko

    2007-01-01

    The self-motion of an ester boat is investigated depending on the physicochemical properties of the surface-active substance. The results show that the ester boat moves towards the higher surface tension generating as the driving force.

  20. Investigating Reflectance Properties of Mercury's Surface Material: Effect of Swift Heavy Ion Irradiation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Carli, C.; Brunetto, R.; Strazzulla, G.; Serventi, G.; Poulet, F.; Capaccioni, F.; Langevin, Y.; Gardes, E.; Martinez, R.; Boduch, P.; Domaracka, A.; Rothard, H.

    2018-05-01

    Mercury’s surface is affected by space weathering processes, interesting mineral properties. Here, we present a spectral study of swift heavy ion irradiation of two minerals, olivine and nepheline, as a simulation of heavy ion irradiation at Mercury.

  1. Reality of Dental Implant Surface Modification: A Short Literature Review

    PubMed Central

    Yeo, In-Sung

    2014-01-01

    Screw-shaped endosseous implants that have a turned surface of commercially pure titanium have a disadvantage of requiring a long time for osseointegration while those implants have shown long-term clinical success in single and multiple restorations. Titanium implant surfaces have been modified in various ways to improve biocompatibility and accelerate osseointegration, which results in a shorter edentulous period for a patient. This article reviewed some important modified titanium surfaces, exploring the in vitro, in vivo and clinical results that numerous comparison studies reported. Several methods are widely used to modify the topography or chemistry of titanium surface, including blasting, acid etching, anodic oxidation, fluoride treatment, and calcium phosphate coating. Such modified surfaces demonstrate faster and stronger osseointegration than the turned commercially pure titanium surface. However, there have been many studies finding no significant differences in in vivo bone responses among the modified surfaces. Considering those in vivo results, physical properties like roughening by sandblasting and acid etching may be major contributors to favorable bone response in biological environments over chemical properties obtained from various modifications including fluoride treatment and calcium phosphate application. Recently, hydrophilic properties added to the roughened surfaces or some osteogenic peptides coated on the surfaces have shown higher biocompatibility and have induced faster osseointegration, compared to the existing modified surfaces. However, the long-term clinical studies about those innovative surfaces are still lacking. PMID:25400716

  2. Spatially Complete Global Spectral Surface Albedos: Value-Added Datasets Derived from Terra MODIS Land Products

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Moody, Eric G.; King, Michael D.; Platnick, Steven; Schaaf, Crystal B.; Gao, Feng

    2004-01-01

    Land surface albedo is an important parameter in describing the radiative properties of the earth s surface as it represents the amount of incoming solar radiation that is reflected from the surface. The amount and type of vegetation of the surface dramatically alters the amount of radiation that is reflected; for example, croplands that contain leafy vegetation will reflect radiation very differently than blacktop associated with urban areas. In addition, since vegetation goes through a growth, or phenological, cycle, the amount of radiation that is reflected changes over the course of a year. As a result, albedo is both temporally and spatially dependant upon global location as there is a distribution of vegetated surface types and growing conditions. Land surface albedo is critical for a wide variety of earth system research projects including but not restricted to remote sensing of atmospheric aerosol and cloud properties from space, ground-based analysis of aerosol optical properties from surface-based sun/sky radiometers, biophysically-based land surface modeling of the exchange of energy, water, momentum, and carbon for various land use categories, and surface energy balance studies. These projects require proper representation of the surface albedo s spatial, spectral, and temporal variations, however, these representations are often lacking in datasets prior to the latest generation of land surface albedo products.

  3. On the use of SPM to probe the interplay between polymer surface chemistry and polymer surface mechanics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brogly, Maurice; Noel, Olivier; Awada, Houssein; Castelein, Gilles

    2007-03-01

    Adhesive properties of a polymer surface results from the complex contribution of surface chemistry and activation of sliding and dissipating mechanisms within the polymer surface layer. The purpose of this study is to dissociate the different contributions (chemical and mechanical) included in an AFM force-distance curve in order to establish relationships between the surface viscoelastic properties of the polymer, the surface chemistry of functionalized polymer surfaces and the adhesive forces, as determined by C-AFM experiments. Indeed we are interested in the measurements of local attractive or adhesive forces in AFM contact mode, of controlled chemical and mechanical model substrates. In order to investigate the interplay between mechanical or viscoelastic mechanisms and surface chemistry during the tip - polymer contact, we achieved force measurements on model PDMS polymer networks, whose surfaces are chemically controlled with the same functional groups as before (silicon substrates). On the basis of AFM nano-indentation experiments, surface Young moduli have been determined. The results show that the viscoelastic contribution is dominating in the adhesion force measurement. We propose an original model, which express the local adhesion force to the energy dissipated within the contact and the surface properties of the material (thermodynamic work of adhesion). Moreover we show that the dissipation function is related to Mc, the mass between crosslinks of the network.

  4. Influence of Epicuticular Physicochemical Properties on Porcine Rotavirus Adsorption to 24 Leafy Green Vegetables and Tomatoes

    PubMed Central

    Palma-Salgado, Sindy Paola; Storm, Andrew Page; Feng, Hao; Juvik, John A.; Nguyen, Thanh H.

    2015-01-01

    Foodborne diseases are a persistent problem in the United States and worldwide. Fresh produce, especially those used as raw foods like salad vegetables, can be contaminated, causing illness. In this study, we determined the number of rotaviruses adsorbed on produce surfaces using group A porcine rotaviruses and 24 cultivars of leafy vegetables and tomato fruits. We also characterized the physicochemical properties of each produce’s outermost surface layer, known as the epicuticle. The number of rotaviruses found on produce surfaces varied among cultivars. Three-dimensional crystalline wax structures on the epicuticular surfaces were found to significantly contribute to the inhibition of viral adsorption to the produce surfaces (p = 0.01). We found significant negative correlations between the number of rotaviruses adsorbed on the epicuticular surfaces and the concentrations of alkanes, fatty acids, and total waxes on the epicuticular surfaces. Partial least square model fitting results suggest that alkanes, ketones, fatty acids, alcohols, contact angle and surface roughness together can explain 60% of the variation in viral adsorption. The results suggest that various fresh produce surface properties need to be collectively considered for efficient sanitation treatments. Up to 10.8% of the originally applied rotaviruses were found on the produce surfaces after three washing treatments, suggesting a potential public health concern regarding rotavirus contamination. PMID:26181904

  5. Direct Aerosol Forcing Uncertainty

    DOE Data Explorer

    Mccomiskey, Allison

    2008-01-15

    Understanding sources of uncertainty in aerosol direct radiative forcing (DRF), the difference in a given radiative flux component with and without aerosol, is essential to quantifying changes in Earth's radiation budget. We examine the uncertainty in DRF due to measurement uncertainty in the quantities on which it depends: aerosol optical depth, single scattering albedo, asymmetry parameter, solar geometry, and surface albedo. Direct radiative forcing at the top of the atmosphere and at the surface as well as sensitivities, the changes in DRF in response to unit changes in individual aerosol or surface properties, are calculated at three locations representing distinct aerosol types and radiative environments. The uncertainty in DRF associated with a given property is computed as the product of the sensitivity and typical measurement uncertainty in the respective aerosol or surface property. Sensitivity and uncertainty values permit estimation of total uncertainty in calculated DRF and identification of properties that most limit accuracy in estimating forcing. Total uncertainties in modeled local diurnally averaged forcing range from 0.2 to 1.3 W m-2 (42 to 20%) depending on location (from tropical to polar sites), solar zenith angle, surface reflectance, aerosol type, and aerosol optical depth. The largest contributor to total uncertainty in DRF is usually single scattering albedo; however decreasing measurement uncertainties for any property would increase accuracy in DRF. Comparison of two radiative transfer models suggests the contribution of modeling error is small compared to the total uncertainty although comparable to uncertainty arising from some individual properties.

  6. Influence of shot peening on corrosion properties of biocompatible magnesium alloy AZ31 coated by dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (DCPD).

    PubMed

    Mhaede, Mansour; Pastorek, Filip; Hadzima, Branislav

    2014-06-01

    Magnesium alloys are promising materials for biomedical applications because of many outstanding properties like biodegradation, bioactivity and their specific density and Young's modulus are closer to bone than the commonly used metallic implant materials. Unfortunately their fatigue properties and low corrosion resistance negatively influenced their application possibilities in the field of biomedicine. These problems could be diminished through appropriate surface treatments. This study evaluates the influence of a surface pre-treatment by shot peening and shot peening+coating on the corrosion properties of magnesium alloy AZ31. The dicalcium phosphate dihydrate coating (DCPD) was electrochemically deposited in a solution containing 0.1M Ca(NO3)2, 0.06M NH4H2PO4 and 10mL/L of H2O2. The effect of shot peening on the surface properties of magnesium alloy was evaluated by microhardness and surface roughness measurements. The influence of the shot peening and dicalcium phosphate dihydrate layer on the electrochemical characteristics of AZ31 magnesium alloy was evaluated by potentiodynamic measurements and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in 0.9% NaCl solution at a temperature of 22±1°C. The obtained results were analyzed by the Tafel-extrapolation method and equivalent circuit method. The results showed that the application of shot peening process followed by DCPD coating improves the properties of the AZ31 surface from corrosion and mechanical point of view. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Optical and thermal properties in ultrafast laser surface nanostructuring on biodegradable polymer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yada, Shuhei; Terakawa, Mitsuhiro

    2015-03-01

    We investigate the effect of optical and thermal properties in laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) formation on a poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biodegradable polymer. Surface properties of biomaterials are known to be one of the key factors in tissue engineering. Methods to process biomaterial surfaces have been studied widely to enhance cell adhesive and anisotropic properties. LIPSS formation has advantages in a dry processing which is able to process complex-shaped surfaces without using a toxic chemical component. LIPSS, however, was difficult to be formed on PLLA due to its thermal and optical properties compared to other polymers. To obtain new perspectives in effect of these properties above, LIPSS formation dependences on wavelength, pulse duration and repetition rate have been studied. At 800 nm of incident wavelength, high-spatial frequency LIPSS (HSFL) was formed after applying 10000 femtosecond pulses at 1.0 J/cm2 in laser fluence. At 400 nm of the wavelength, HSFL was formed at fluences higher than 0.20 J/cm2 with more than 3000 pulses. Since LIPSS was less formed with lower repetition rate, certain heat accumulation may be required for LIPSS formation. With the pulse duration of 2.0 ps, higher laser fluence as well as number of pulses compared to the case of 120 fs was necessary. This indicates that multiphoton absorption process is essential for LIPSS formation. Study on biodegradation modification was also performed.

  8. Using IKONOS Imagery to Estimate Surface Soil Property Variability in Two Alabama Physiographies

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sullivan, Dana; Shaw, Joey; Rickman, Doug

    2005-01-01

    Knowledge of surface soil properties is used to assess past erosion and predict erodibility, determine nutrient requirements, and assess surface texture for soil survey applications. This study was designed to evaluate high resolution IKONOS multispectral data as a soil- mapping tool. Imagery was acquired over conventionally tilled fields in the Coastal Plain and Tennessee Valley physiographic regions of Alabama. Acquisitions were designed to assess the impact of surface crusting, roughness and tillage on our ability to depict soil property variability. Soils consisted mostly of fine-loamy, kaolinitic, thermic Plinthic Kandiudults at the Coastal Plain site and fine, kaolinitic, thermic Rhodic Paleudults at the Tennessee Valley site. Soils were sampled in 0.20 ha grids to a depth of 15 cm and analyzed for % sand (0.05 - 2 mm), silt (0.002 -0.05 mm), clay (less than 0.002 mm), citrate dithionite extractable iron (Fe(sub d)) and soil organic carbon (SOC). Four methods of evaluating variability in soil attributes were evaluated: 1) kriging of soil attributes, 2) co-kriging with soil attributes and reflectance data, 3) multivariate regression based on the relationship between reflectance and soil properties, and 4) fuzzy c-means clustering of reflectance data. Results indicate that co-kriging with remotely sensed data improved field scale estimates of surface SOC and clay content compared to kriging and regression methods. Fuzzy c-means worked best using RS data acquired over freshly tilled fields, reducing soil property variability within soil zones compared to field scale soil property variability.

  9. Creating gradient wetting surfaces via electroless displacement of zinc-coated carbon steel by nickel ions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xu, Chang; Liu, Huicong; Liang, Weitao; Zhu, Liqun; Li, Weiping; Chen, Haining

    2018-03-01

    Gradient wetting surfaces are getting increasing attention due to their wide application in multiple fields such as droplet movement and biosorption. However, the fabrication processes of full gradient wetting surfaces are still complex and costly. In present work, a facile and low-cost chemical immersion method was used to create a full gradient wetting surface. By controlling the displacement time in Ni2+ solution, the prepared surfaces perform hydrophilic to superhydrophilic. After being modified by stearic acid, the gradient hydrophilic surfaces convert into hydrophobic. The surface morphology, composition, and wetting behaviors of the as-prepared surfaces were systematically studied and discussed. The gradient wetting property could be attributed to the change in microroughness and surface energy. In addition, these surfaces also exhibited excellent self-cleaning and wax prevention properties. Furthermore, high stability and corrosion resistance were also found for these surfaces, which further highlight their promising practical applications in many fields.

  10. Anti-biofouling property studies on carboxyl-modified multi-walled carbon nanotubes filled PDMS nanocomposites.

    PubMed

    Sun, Yuan; Zhang, Zhizhou

    2016-09-01

    Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with exceptional fouling-release properties is extremely susceptible to the microfouling resulted from the colonization of the pioneer microorganisms in the marine environment. In this study, six carboxyl-modified multi-walled carbon nanotubes (cMWNTs) nanoparticles were incorporated into the PDMS matrix, respectively, in order to produce the cMWNTs-filled PDMS nanocomposites (CPs) with improved antifouling (AF) properties. The AF properties of the six CPs were examined via the field assays conducted in Weihai, China. The effects of the anti-biofouling potential of the CPs (i.e. the P3 surface) on the colonization of the pioneer prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbes were investigated using the single-stranded conformation polymorphism technique via the comparison of the diversity indices. Different CPs have displayed differential and better AF properties as compared to that of the unfilled PDMS (P0). The P3 surface has exhibited exceptional anti-biofouling capacity compared with the other CPs surfaces, which can effectively prevent biofouling for more than 14 weeks in the field. The SSCP analysis revealed that the P3 surface may have significant modulating effect on the pioneer microbial communities. The pioneer eukaryotic microbes seemed more susceptible than the pioneer prokaryotic microbes to be subjected to the major perturbations exerted by the P3 surface. The dramatically reduced eukaryotic-microbial diversity may contribute to the impeding and weakening of the development and growth of the biofilm. The P3 surface has the potential to be used for future maritime applications.

  11. Role of Exposed Surfaces on Zinc Oxide Nanostructures in the Catalytic Ethanol Transformation.

    PubMed

    Morales, María V; Asedegbega-Nieto, Esther; Iglesias-Juez, Ana; Rodríguez-Ramos, Inmaculada; Guerrero-Ruiz, Antonio

    2015-07-08

    For a series of nanometric ZnO materials, the relationship between their morphological and surface functionalities and their catalytic properties in the selective decomposition of ethanol to yield acetaldehyde was explored. Six ZnO solids were prepared by a microemulsion-precipitation method and the thermal decomposition of different precursors and compared with a commercial sample. All these materials were characterized intensively by XRD and SEM to obtain their morphological specificities. Additionally, surface area determinations and IR spectroscopy were used to detect differences in the surface properties. The density of acid surface sites was determined quantitatively using an isopropanol dehydration test. Based on these characterization studies and on the results of the catalytic tests, it has been established that ZnO basal surfaces seem to be responsible for the production of ethylene as a minor product as well as for secondary reactions that yield acetyl acetate. Furthermore, one specific type of exposed hydroxyl groups appears to govern the surface catalytic properties. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  12. Electrostatic cloaking of surface structure for dynamic wetting

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shiomi, Junichiro; Nita, Satoshi; Do-Quang, Minh; Wang, Jiayu; Chen, Yu-Chung; Suzuki, Yuji; Amberg, Gustav

    2017-11-01

    Dynamic wetting problems are fundamental to the understanding of the interaction between liquids and solids. Even in a superficially simple experimental situation, such as a droplet spreading over a dry surface, the result may depend not only on the liquid properties but also strongly on the substrate-surface properties; even for macroscopically smooth surfaces, the microscopic geometrical roughness can be important. In addition, as surfaces may often be naturally charged, or electric fields are used to manipulate fluids, electric effects are crucial components that influence wetting phenomena. Here we investigate the interplay between electric forces and surface structures in dynamic wetting. While surface microstructures can significantly hinder the spreading, we find that the electrostatics can ``cloak'' the microstructures, i.e. deactivate the hindering. We identify the physics in terms of reduction in contact-line friction, which makes the dynamic wetting inertial force dominant and insensitive to the substrate properties. This work was financially supported in part by, the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Swedish Governmental Agency for Innovation Systems, and the Japan Science and Technology Agency.

  13. Ceramic microstructure and adhesion

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Buckley, D. H.

    1984-01-01

    When a ceramic is brought into contact with a ceramic, a polymer, or a metal, strong bond forces can develop between the materials. The bonding forces will depend upon the state of the surfaces, cleanliness and the fundamental properties of the two solids, both surface and bulk. Adhesion between a ceramic and another solid are discussed from a theoretical consideration of the nature of the surfaces and experimentally by relating bond forces to interface resulting from solid state contact. Surface properties of ceramics correlated with adhesion include, orientation, reconstruction and diffusion as well as the chemistry of the surface specie. Where a ceramic is in contact with a metal their interactive chemistry and bond strength is considered. Bulk properties examined include elastic and plastic behavior in the surficial regions, cohesive binding energies, crystal structures and crystallographic orientation. Materials examined with respect to interfacial adhesive interactions include silicon carbide, nickel zinc ferrite, manganese zinc ferrite, and aluminum oxide. The surfaces of the contacting solids are studied both in the atomic or molecularly clean state and in the presence of selected surface contaminants.

  14. Ceramic microstructure and adhesion

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Buckley, D. H.

    1985-01-01

    When a ceramic is brought into contact with a ceramic, a polymer, or a metal, strong bond forces can develop between the materials. The bonding forces will depend upon the state of the surfaces, cleanliness and the fundamental properties of the two solids, both surface and bulk. Adhesion between a ceramic and another solid are discussed from a theoretical consideration of the nature of the surfaces and experimentally by relating bond forces to interface resulting from solid state contact. Surface properties of ceramics correlated with adhesion include, orientation, reconstruction and diffusion as well as the chemistry of the surface specie. Where a ceramic is in contact with a metal their interactive chemistry and bond strength is considered. Bulk properties examined include elastic and plastic behavior in the surficial regions, cohesive binding energies, crystal structures and crystallographic orientation. Materials examined with respect to interfacial adhesive interactions include silicon carbide, nickel zinc ferrite, manganese zinc ferrite, and aluminum oxide. The surfaces of the contacting solids are studied both in the atomic or molecularly clean state and in the presence of selected surface contaminants.

  15. Texturing of UHMWPE surface via NIL for low friction and wear properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Suryadi Kustandi, Tanu; Choo, Jian Huei; Low, Hong Yee; Sinha, Sujeet K.

    2010-01-01

    Wear is a major obstacle limiting the useful life of implanted ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) components in total joint arthroplasty. It has been a continuous effort in the implant industry to reduce the frictional wear problem of UHMWPE by improving the structure, morphology and mechanical properties of the polymer. In this paper, a new paradigm that utilizes nanoimprint lithography (NIL) in producing textures on the surface of UHMWPE is proposed to efficiently improve the tribological properties of the polymer. Friction and wear experiments were conducted on patterned and controlled (non-patterned) UHMWPE surfaces using a commercial tribometer, mounted with a silicon nitride ball, under a dry-sliding condition with normal loads ranging from 60 to 200 mN. It has been shown that the patterned UHMWPE surface showed a reduction in the coefficient of friction between 8% and 35% as compared with the controlled (non-patterned) surface, depending on the magnitude of the normal load. Reciprocating wear experiments also showed that the presence of surface textures on the polymer resulted in lower wear depth and width, with minimal material transfer to the sliding surface.

  16. Effects of anisotropic surface texture on the performance of ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    He, Qingsong; Yu, Min; Ding, Haitao; Guo, Dongjie; Dai, Zhendong

    2010-04-01

    Ionic polymer metal composite (IPMC), an electrically activated polymer (EAP), has attracted great attention for the excellent properties such as large deformation, light weight, low noise, flexibility and low driving voltages, which makes the material a possible application as artificial muscle if the output force can be increased. To improve the property, we manufactured the Nafion membrane by casting from liquid solution, modified the surface by sandblasting or polishing, and obtained the isotropic and anisotropic surface texture respectively. The microstructure of the Nafion surface and metal electrode, effects of surface texture on the output force and displacement of IPMC were studied. Results show that the output force of IPMC with the anisotropic surface texture is 2~4 times higher than that with the isotropic surface texture without enormous sacrifice of the displacement. The output force may reach to 6.63gf (Sinusoidal 3.5V and 0.1Hz, length 20mm, width 5mm and thickness 0.66mm), which suggest an effective way to improve the mechanical properties of IPMC.

  17. Regulating the surface of nanoceria and its applications in heterogeneous catalysis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ma, Yuanyuan; Gao, Wei; Zhang, Zhiyun; Zhang, Sai; Tian, Zhimin; Liu, Yuxuan; Ho, Johnny C.; Qu, Yongquan

    2018-03-01

    Ceria (CeO2) as a support, additive, and active component for heterogeneous catalysis has been demonstrated to have great catalytic performance, which includes excellent thermal structural stability, catalytic efficiency, and chemoselectivity. Understanding the surface properties of CeO2 and the chemical reactions occurred on the corresponding interfaces is of great importance in the rational design of heterogeneous catalysts for various reactions. In general, the reversible Ce3+/Ce4+ redox pair and the surface acid-base properties contribute to the superior intrinsic catalytic capability of CeO2, and hence yield enhanced catalytic phenomenon in many reactions. Particularly, nanostructured CeO2 is characterized by a large number of surface-bound defects, which are primarily oxygen vacancies, as the surface active catalytic sites. Many efforts have therefore been made to control the surface defects and properties of CeO2 by various synthetic strategies and post-treatments. The present review provides a comprehensive overview of recent progress in regulating the surface structure and composition of CeO2 and its applications in catalysis.

  18. Atomic structure and dynamics properties of Cu50Zr50 films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Heng; Qu, Bingyan; Li, Dongdong; Zhou, Rulong; Zhang, Bo

    2018-01-01

    In this paper, the structural and dynamic properties of Cu50Zr50 films are investigated by molecular dynamics simulations. Our results show that the dynamics of the surface atoms are much faster than those of the bulk. Especially, the diffusion coefficient of the surface atoms is about forty times larger than that of the bulk at 600 K, which qualitatively agrees with the experimental results. Meanwhile, we find that the population of the icosahedral (-like) clusters in the surface region is obviously higher than that of the bulk, which prevents the surface from crystallization. A new method to determine the string-like collective atomic motion is introduced in the paper, and it suggests a possible connection between the glass formation ability and collective atomic motion. By using the method, the effects of surface on collective motion are illustrated. Our results show that the string-like collective atomic motion of surface atoms is weakened while that of the interior atoms is strengthened. The studies clearly explain the effects of surface on the structural and dynamic properties of Cu50Zr50 films from the atomic scale.

  19. Dynamic properties of a dirt and a synthetic equine racetrack surface measured by a track-testing device.

    PubMed

    Setterbo, J J; Fyhrie, P B; Hubbard, M; Upadhyaya, S K; Stover, S M

    2013-01-01

    Racetrack surface is a risk factor for Thoroughbred racehorse injury and death that can be engineered and managed. To investigate the relationship between surface and injury, the mechanical behaviour of dirt and synthetic track surfaces must be quantified. To compare dynamic properties of a dirt and a synthetic surface in situ using a track-testing device designed to simulate equine hoof impact; and to determine the effects of impact velocity, impact angle and repeated impact on dynamic surface behaviour. A track-testing device measured force and displacement during impact into a dirt and a synthetic surface at 3 impact velocities (1.91, 2.30, 2.63 m/s), 2 impact angles (0°, 20° from vertical), and 2 consecutive impacts (initial, repeat). Surfaces were measured at 3 locations/day for 3 days. The effects of surface type, impact velocity, impact angle and impact number on dynamic surface properties were assessed using analysis of variance. Synthetic surface maximum forces, load rates and stiffnesses were 37-67% of dirt surface values. Surfaces were less stiff with lower impact velocities, angled impacts and initial impacts. The magnitude of differences between dirt and synthetic surfaces increased for repeat impacts and higher impact velocities. The synthetic surface was generally softer than the dirt surface. Greatly increased hardness for repeat impacts corroborates the importance of maintenance. Results at different impact velocities suggest that surface differences will persist at higher impact velocities. For both surfaces it is clearly important to prevent horse exposure to precompacted surfaces, particularly during high-speed training when the surface has already been trampled. These data should be useful in coordinating racetrack surface management with racehorse training to prevent injuries. © 2012 EVJ Ltd.

  20. The effects of heat treatment on physical properties and surface roughness of red-bud maple (Acer trautvetteri Medw.) wood.

    PubMed

    Korkut, Derya Sevim; Guller, Bilgin

    2008-05-01

    Heat treatment is often used to improve the dimensional stability of wood. In this study, the effects of heat treatment on physical properties and surface roughness of red-bud maple (Acer trautvetteri Medw.) wood were examined. Samples obtained from Düzce Forest Enterprises, Turkey, were subjected to heat treatment at varying temperatures and durations. The physical properties of heat-treated samples were compared against controls in order to determine their; oven-dry density, air-dry density, and swelling properties. A stylus method was employed to evaluate the surface characteristics of the samples. Roughness measurements, using the stylus method, were made in the direction perpendicular to the fiber. Three main roughness parameters; mean arithmetic deviation of profile (Ra), mean peak-to-valley height (Rz), and maximum roughness (Rmax) obtained from the surface of wood, were used to evaluate the effect of heat treatment on the surface characteristics of the specimens. Significant differences were determined (p>0.05) between surface roughness parameters (Ra, Rz, Rmax) at three different temperatures and three periods of heat treatment. The results showed that the values of density, swelling and surface roughness decreased with increasing temperature treatment and treatment times. Red-bud maple wood could be utilized successfully by applying proper heat treatment techniques without any losses in investigated parameters. This is vital in areas, such as window frames, where working stability and surface smoothness are important factors.

  1. Tuning Confinement in Colloidal Silicon Nanocrystals with Saturated Surface Ligands.

    PubMed

    Carroll, Gerard M; Limpens, Rens; Neale, Nathan R

    2018-05-09

    The optical properties of silicon nanocrystals (Si NCs) are a subject of intense study and continued debate. In particular, Si NC photoluminescence (PL) properties are known to depend strongly on the surface chemistry, resulting in electron-hole recombination pathways derived from the Si NC band-edge, surface-state defects, or combined NC-conjugated ligand hybrid states. In this Letter, we perform a comparison of three different saturated surface functional groups-alkyls, amides, and alkoxides-on nonthermal plasma-synthesized Si NCs. We find a systematic and size-dependent high-energy (blue) shift in the PL spectrum of Si NCs with amide and alkoxy functionalization relative to alkyl. Time-resolved photoluminescence and transient absorption spectroscopies reveal no change in the excited-state dynamics between Si NCs functionalized with alkyl, amide, or alkoxide ligands, showing for the first time that saturated ligands-not only surface-derived charge-transfer states or hybridization between NC and low-lying ligand orbitals-are responsible for tuning the Si NC optical properties. To explain these PL shifts we propose that the atom bound to the Si NC surface strongly interacts with the Si NC electronic wave function and modulates the Si NC quantum confinement. These results reveal a potentially broadly applicable correlation between the optoelectronic properties of Si NCs and related quantum-confined structures based on the interaction between NC surfaces and the ligand binding group.

  2. Tuning Confinement in Colloidal Silicon Nanocrystals with Saturated Surface Ligands

    DOE PAGES

    Carroll, Gerard M.; Limpens, Rens; Neale, Nathan R.

    2018-04-16

    The optical properties of silicon nanocrystals (Si NCs) are a subject of intense study and continued debate. In particular, Si NC photoluminescence (PL) properties are known to depend strongly on the surface chemistry, resulting in electron-hole recombination pathways derived from the Si NC band-edge, surface-state defects, or combined NC-conjugated ligand hybrid states. In this Letter, we perform a comparison of three different saturated surface functional groups - alkyls, amides, and alkoxides - on nonthermal plasma-synthesized Si NCs. We find a systematic and size-dependent high-energy (blue) shift in the PL spectrum of Si NCs with amide and alkoxy functionalization relative tomore » alkyl. Time-resolved photoluminescence and transient absorption spectroscopies reveal no change in the excited-state dynamics between Si NCs functionalized with alkyl, amide, or alkoxide ligands, showing for the first time that saturated ligands - not only surface-derived charge-transfer states or hybridization between NC and low-lying ligand orbitals - are responsible for tuning the Si NC optical properties. To explain these PL shifts we propose that the atom bound to the Si NC surface strongly interacts with the Si NC electronic wave function and modulates the Si NC quantum confinement. Furthermore, these results reveal a potentially broadly applicable correlation between the optoelectronic properties of Si NCs and related quantum-confined structures based on the interaction between NC surfaces and the ligand binding group.« less

  3. Surface and adsorptive properties of Moringa oleifera bark for removal of V(V) from aqueous solutions.

    PubMed

    Mnisi, Robert Londi; Ndibewu, Peter Papoh

    2017-11-04

    The bark of Moringa oleifera, a cheap and readily available natural biopolymeric resource material, found to significantly reduce coliform load and turbidity in contaminated water is investigated in this paper. Its surface and adsorptive properties are investigated to explore its adsorptive potential in removing V(V) from aqueous solutions. Surface properties were investigated using FTIR, HRSEM/EDS, IC, and BET-N 2 adsorption techniques. Adsorptive properties were investigated by optimizing adsorption parameters such as pH, temperature, initial metal concentration, and adsorbent dosage, using V(V) as an adsorbate. The adsorption-desorption isotherms are typical of type II with a H3 hysteresis loop and is characteristic of a largely macroporous material. Bottle ink pores are observed, which can provide good accessibility of the active sites, even though the internal BET surface area is typically low (1.79 g/m 2 ). Solution pH significantly influences the adsorptive potential of the material. The low surface area negatively impacts on the adsorption capacity, but is compensated for by the exchangeable anions (Cl - , F - , PO 4 3- , NO 3 - , and SO 4 2- ) and cations (Ca 2+ , K + , Mg 2+ , and Al 3+ ) at the surface and the accessibility of the active sites. Adsorption isotherm modeling show that the surface is largely heterogeneous with complex multiple sites and adsorption is not limited to monolayer.

  4. Effect of Atomic Oxygen Exposure on Surface Resistivity Change of Spacecraft Insulator Material

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mundari, Noor Danish Ahrar; Khan, Arifur Rahman; Chiga, Masaru; Okumura, Teppei; Masui, Hirokazu; Iwata, Minoru; Toyoda, Kazuhiro; Cho, Mengu

    Spacecraft surface charging can lead to arcing and a loss of electricity generation capability in solar panels or even loss of a satellite. The charging problem may be further aggravated by atomic oxygen (AO) exposure in Low Earth orbits, which modifies the surface of materials like polyimide, Teflon, anti-reflective coatings, cover glass etc, used on satellite surfaces, affecting materials properties, such as resistivity, secondary electron emissivity and photo emission, which govern the charging behavior. These properties are crucial input parameters for spacecraft charging analysis. To study the AO exposure effect on charging governing properties, an atomic oxygen exposure facility based on laser detonation of oxygen was built. The facility produces AO with a peak velocity value around 10-12km/s and a higher flux than that existing in orbit. After exposing the polyimide test material to the equivalent of 10 years of AO fluence at an altitude of 700-800 km, surface charging properties like surface resistivity and volume resistivity were measured. The measurement was performed in a vacuum using the charge storage decay method at room temperature, which is considered the most appropriate for measuring resistivity for space applications. The results show that the surface resistivity increases and the volume resistivity remains almost the same for the AO exposure fluence of 5.4×1018 atoms cm-2.

  5. Impact of Substratum Surface on Microbial Community Structure and Treatment Performance in Biological Aerated Filters

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Lavane; Pagaling, Eulyn; Zuo, Yi Y.

    2014-01-01

    The impact of substratum surface property change on biofilm community structure was investigated using laboratory biological aerated filter (BAF) reactors and molecular microbial community analysis. Two substratum surfaces that differed in surface properties were created via surface coating and used to develop biofilms in test (modified surface) and control (original surface) BAF reactors. Microbial community analysis by 16S rRNA gene-based PCR-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) showed that the surface property change consistently resulted in distinct profiles of microbial populations during replicate reactor start-ups. Pyrosequencing of the bar-coded 16S rRNA gene amplicons surveyed more than 90% of the microbial diversity in the microbial communities and identified 72 unique bacterial species within 19 bacterial orders. Among the 19 orders of bacteria detected, Burkholderiales and Rhodocyclales of the Betaproteobacteria class were numerically dominant and accounted for 90.5 to 97.4% of the sequence reads, and their relative abundances in the test and control BAF reactors were different in consistent patterns during the two reactor start-ups. Three of the five dominant bacterial species also showed consistent relative abundance changes between the test and control BAF reactors. The different biofilm microbial communities led to different treatment efficiencies, with consistently higher total organic carbon (TOC) removal in the test reactor than in the control reactor. Further understanding of how surface properties affect biofilm microbial communities and functional performance would enable the rational design of new generations of substrata for the improvement of biofilm-based biological treatment processes. PMID:24141134

  6. Bio-functionalisation of polyether ether ketone using plasma immersion ion implantation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wakelin, Edgar; Yeo, Giselle; Kondyurin, Alexey; Davies, Michael; McKenzie, David; Weiss, Anthony; Bilek, Marcela

    2015-12-01

    Plasma immersion ion implantation (PIII) is used here to improve the surface bioactivity of polyether ether ketone (PEEK) by modifying the chemical and mechanical properties and by introducing radicals. Modifications to the chemical and mechanical properties are characterised as a function of ion fluence (proportional to treatment time) to determine the suitability of the treated surfaces for biological applications. Radical generation increases with treatment time, where treatments greater than 400 seconds result in a high concentration of long-lived radicals. Radical reactions are responsible for oxidation of the surface, resulting in a permanent increase in the polar surface energy. The nano-scale reduced modulus was found to increase with treatment time at the surface from 4.4 to 5.2 GPa. The macromolecular Young's modulus was also found to increase, but by an amount corresponding to the volume fraction of the ion implanted region. The treated surface layer exhibited cracking under cyclical loads, associated with an increased modulus due to dehydrogenation and crosslinking, however it did not show any sign of delamination, indicating that the modified layer is well integrated with the substrate - a critical factor for bioactive surface coatings to be used in-vivo. Protein immobilisation on the PIII treated surfaces was found to saturate after 240 seconds of treatment, indicating that there is room to tune surface mechanical properties for specific applications without affecting the protein coverage. Our findings indicate that the modification of the chemical and mechanical properties by PIII treatments as well as the introduction of radicals render PEEK well suited for use in orthopaedic implantable devices.

  7. Thermoelectric Properties of Topological Crystalline Insulator Nanowires

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xu, Enzhi

    Bulk lead telluride (PbTe) and its alloy compounds are well-known thermoelectric materials for electric power generation. Tin telluride (SnTe) which has the same rock-salt crystalline structure as PbTe has recently been demonstrated to host unique topological surface states that may favor improved thermoelectric properties. In this thesis work, we studied the thermoelectric properties of single-crystalline nanowires of the SnTe family compounds, i.e. undoped SnTe, PbTe, (Sn,Pb)Te alloy, and In-doped SnTe, all of which were grown by a vapor transport approach. We measured the thermopower S, electrical conductivity sigma and thermal conductivity kappa on each individual nanowire over a temperature range of 25 - 300 K, from which the thermoelectric figures of merit ZTs were determined. In comparison to PbTe nanowires, SnTe and (Sn,Pb)Te has lower thermopower but significantly higher electrical conductivity. Both SnTe and (Sn,Pb)Te nanowires showed enhanced thermopower and suppressed thermal conductivity, compared to their bulk counterparts. The enhancement of thermopower may result from the existence of topological surface states, while the suppression of thermal conductivity may relate to the increased phonon-surface scattering in nanowires. Moreover, indium doping suppresses both electrical and thermal conductivities but enhances thermopower, yielding an improved figure of merit ZT. Our results highlight nanostructuring in combination with alloying or doping as an important approach to enhancing thermoelectric properties. In spite of excellent thermoelectric properties and robust topological surface states, we found that the nanowire surface is subject to fast oxidation. In particular, we demonstrated that exposure of In-doped SnTe nanowires to air leads to surface oxidation within only one minute. Transmission electron microscopy characterization suggests the amorphous nature of the surface, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies identify the oxide species on nanowire surface. We further developed an effective approach to removing surface oxides by means of argon ion sputtering.

  8. Wettability Switching Techniques on Superhydrophobic Surfaces

    PubMed Central

    2007-01-01

    The wetting properties of superhydrophobic surfaces have generated worldwide research interest. A water drop on these surfaces forms a nearly perfect spherical pearl. Superhydrophobic materials hold considerable promise for potential applications ranging from self cleaning surfaces, completely water impermeable textiles to low cost energy displacement of liquids in lab-on-chip devices. However, the dynamic modification of the liquid droplets behavior and in particular of their wetting properties on these surfaces is still a challenging issue. In this review, after a brief overview on superhydrophobic states definition, the techniques leading to the modification of wettability behavior on superhydrophobic surfaces under specific conditions: optical, magnetic, mechanical, chemical, thermal are discussed. Finally, a focus on electrowetting is made from historical phenomenon pointed out some decades ago on classical planar hydrophobic surfaces to recent breakthrough obtained on superhydrophobic surfaces.

  9. Understanding Surface Adhesion in Nature: A Peeling Model

    PubMed Central

    Gu, Zhen; Li, Siheng; Zhang, Feilong

    2016-01-01

    Nature often exhibits various interesting and unique adhesive surfaces. The attempt to understand the natural adhesion phenomena can continuously guide the design of artificial adhesive surfaces by proposing simplified models of surface adhesion. Among those models, a peeling model can often effectively reflect the adhesive property between two surfaces during their attachment and detachment processes. In the context, this review summarizes the recent advances about the peeling model in understanding unique adhesive properties on natural and artificial surfaces. It mainly includes four parts: a brief introduction to natural surface adhesion, the theoretical basis and progress of the peeling model, application of the peeling model, and finally, conclusions. It is believed that this review is helpful to various fields, such as surface engineering, biomedicine, microelectronics, and so on. PMID:27812476

  10. In vitro biocompatibility of the surface ion modified NiTi alloy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gudimova, Ekaterina Yu.; Meisner, Ludmila L.; Lotkov, Aleksander I.; Matveeva, Vera A.; Meisner, Stanislav N.; Matveev, Andrey L.; Shabalina, Olga I.

    2016-11-01

    This paper presents the results of the chemical, topographic and structural properties of the NiTi alloy surface and their changes after surface treatments by ion implantation techniques with use of ions Ta+ and Si+. The influence of physicochemical properties of the surface ion modified NiTi alloy was studied on in vitro cultured mesenchymal stem cells of the rats' bone marrow. It is shown that the ion surface modification improves histocompatibility of the NiTi alloy and leads to increase of proliferative activity of mesenchymal stem cells on its surface. It was experimentally found that a major contribution to viability improvement mesenchymal stem cells of rat marrow has the chemical composition and the microstructure of the surface area.

  11. Surface engineering of ferroelectric polymer for the enhanced electrical performance of organic transistor memory

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Do-Kyung; Lee, Gyu-Jeong; Lee, Jae-Hyun; Kim, Min-Hoi; Bae, Jin-Hyuk

    2018-05-01

    We suggest a viable surface control method to improve the electrical properties of organic nonvolatile memory transistors. For viable surface control, the surface of the ferroelectric insulator in the memory field-effect transistors was modified using a smooth-contact-curing process. For the modification of the ferroelectric polymer, during the curing of the ferroelectric insulators, the smooth surface of a soft elastomer contacts intimately with the ferroelectric surface. This smooth-contact-curing process reduced the surface roughness of the ferroelectric insulator without degrading its ferroelectric properties. The reduced roughness of the ferroelectric insulator increases the mobility of the organic field-effect transistor by approximately eight times, which results in a high memory on–off ratio and a low-voltage reading operation.

  12. Influence of Surface Properties and Impact Conditions on Adhesion of Insect Residues

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wohl, Christopher J.; Smith, Joseph G.; Connell, John W.; Siochi, Emilie J.; Doss, Jereme R.; Shanahan, Michelle H.; Penner, Ronald K.

    2015-01-01

    Insect residues can cause premature transition to turbulent flow on laminar flow airfoils. Engineered surfaces that mitigate the adhesion of insect residues provide, therefore, a route to more efficient aerodynamics and reduced fuel burn rates. Areal coverage and heights of residues depend not only on surface properties, but also on impact conditions. We report high speed photography of fruit fly impacts at different angles of inclination on a rigid aluminum surface, optical microscopy and profilometry, and contact angle goniometry to support the design of engineered surfaces. For the polyurethane and epoxy coatings studied, some of which exhibited superhydrophobicity, it was determined that impact angle and surface compositions play critical roles in the efficacy of these surfaces to reduce insect residue adhesion.

  13. Surface properties of functional polymer systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wong, Derek

    Polymer surface modification typically involves blending with other polymers or chemical modification of the parent polymer. Such strategies inevitably result in polymer systems that are spatially and chemically heterogeneous, and which exhibit the phenomenon of surface segregation. This work investigates the effects of chain architecture on the surface segregation behavior of such functionally modified polymers using a series of end- and center-fluorinated poly(D,L-lactide). Surface segregation of the fluorinated functional groups was observed in both chain architectures via AMPS and water contact angle. Higher surface segregation was noted for functional groups located at the chain end as opposed to those in the middle of the chain. A self-consistent mean-field lattice theory was used to model the composition depth profiles of functional groups and excellent agreement was found between the model predictions and the experimental AMPS data in both chain architectures. Polymer properties are also in general dependent on both time and temperature, and exhibit a range of relaxation times in response to environmental stimuli. This behavior arises from the characteristic frequencies of molecular motions of the polymer chain and the interrelationship between time and temperature has been widely established for polymer bulk properties. There is evidence that surface properties also respond in a manner that is time and temperature dependent and that this dependence may not be the same as that observed for bulk properties. AMPS and water contact angle experiments were used to investigate the surface reorganization behavior of functional groups using a series of anionically synthesized end-fluorinated and end-carboxylated poly(styrene). It was found that both types of functional end-groups reorganized upon a change in the polarity of the surface environment in order to minimize the surface free energy. ADXPS and contact angle results suggest that the reorganization depth was confined to the top 2--3 nm of the surface. Contact angle results showed also that the reorganization process proceeded as a function of (time) 1/2, indicating that it is likely diffusion controlled. The magnitudes of the activation energies determined from the experimental data according to the Arhenius equation, suggest that the process is possibly correlated with known bulk beta and gamma relaxations in the polymer.

  14. Nanoporous Monolithic Microsphere Arrays Have Anti-Adhesive Properties Independent of Humidity

    PubMed Central

    Eichler-Volf, Anna; Xue, Longjian; Kovalev, Alexander; Gorb, Elena V.; Gorb, Stanislav N.; Steinhart, Martin

    2016-01-01

    Bioinspired artificial surfaces with tailored adhesive properties have attracted significant interest. While fibrillar adhesive pads mimicking gecko feet are optimized for strong reversible adhesion, monolithic microsphere arrays mimicking the slippery zone of the pitchers of carnivorous plants of the genus Nepenthes show anti-adhesive properties even against tacky counterpart surfaces. In contrast to the influence of topography, the influence of relative humidity (RH) on adhesion has been widely neglected. Some previous works deal with the influence of RH on the adhesive performance of fibrillar adhesive pads. Commonly, humidity-induced softening of the fibrils enhances adhesion. However, little is known on the influence of RH on solid anti-adhesive surfaces. We prepared polymeric nanoporous monolithic microsphere arrays (NMMAs) with microsphere diameters of a few 10 µm to test their anti-adhesive properties at RHs of 2% and 90%. Despite the presence of continuous nanopore systems through which the inner nanopore walls were accessible to humid air, the topography-induced anti-adhesive properties of NMMAs on tacky counterpart surfaces were retained even at RH = 90%. This RH-independent robustness of the anti-adhesive properties of NMMAs significantly contrasts the adhesion enhancement by humidity-induced softening on nanoporous fibrillar adhesive pads made of the same material. PMID:28773497

  15. Synergism and foaming properties in binary mixtures of a biosurfactant derived from Camellia oleifera Abel and synthetic surfactants.

    PubMed

    Jian, Hong-lei; Liao, Xiao-xia; Zhu, Li-wei; Zhang, Wei-ming; Jiang, Jian-xin

    2011-07-15

    A biosurfactant, named tea saponin (TS), was isolated and purified from the defatted seed of Camellia oleifera Abel. The characterization of TS including molecular weight, glycosyl composition, and thermal behavior as well as the surface and foaming properties was conducted. The synergistic interactions of binary systems of CTAB-TS, SDS-TS, and Brij35-TS were investigated. The results show that TS had a weight-average molecular weight of 809.12 g mol(-1) and contained four aglycones of L-rhamnose, D-galactose, D-glucose, and D-glucuronic acid. The critical micelle concentration (cmc) of 2.242 mmol L(-1) and the minimum surface tension (γ(cmc)) of 43.5 mN m(-1) were determined for TS. Synergisms in surface tension reduction efficiency, in mixed micelle formation, and in surface tension reduction effectiveness were observed in CTAB-TS and SDS-TS systems, whereas that was not shown in Brij35-TS mixtures. The mixtures of TS with CTAB and SDS showed synergism in foaming efficiency, but this synergism did not exist in Brij35-TS system with respect to the surface properties. Nevertheless, there appears to be no significant correlation between foam stability and the surface properties. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. Surface properties, crystallinity and optical properties of anodised titanium in mixture of β-glycerophosphate (β-GP) and calcium acetate (CA)

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

    Chuan, Lee Te, E-mail: gd130079@siswa.uthm.edu.my; Abdullah, Hasan Zuhudi, E-mail: hasan@uthm.edu.my; Idris, Maizlinda Izwana, E-mail: izwana@uthm.edu.my

    Anodic oxidation is an electrochemical method for the production of ceramic films on a metallic substrate. It had been widely used to deposit the ceramic coatings on the metals surface. This method has been widely used in surface modification of biomaterials especially for dental implants. In this study, the surface morphology, crystallinity and optical properties of titanium foil was modified by anodising in mixture of β-glycerophosphate disodium salt pentahydrate (β-GP) and calcium acetate monohydrate (CA). The experiments were carried out at high voltage (350 V), different anodising time (5 and 10 minutes) and current density (10-70 mA.cm{sup −2}) at room temperature. Anodisedmore » titanium was characterised by using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), and UV-Vis spectrometry. The result of the experiment showed that surface morphology, crystallinity and optical properties depended strongly on the current density and anodising time. More porous surface and large amount of anatase and rutile was produced at higher current density and longer anodising time. Apart from that, it is also revealed that the energy band gap of anodised titanium increases as the increase in current density due to the presence of anatase and rutile TiO{sub 2}.« less

  17. Electrical properties of rat muscle after sciatic nerve injury: Impact on surface impedance measurements assessed via finite element analysis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ahad, M. A.; Rutkove, S. B.

    2010-04-01

    Tetrapolar surface electrical impedance methods are sensitive to changes in muscle status and can therefore provide a means for studying neuromuscular disease noninvasively. In order to better understand the relationship between surface impedance measurements and the actual muscle electrical properties, we performed measurements on 20 adult Wistar rats, 8 of which underwent sciatic nerve crush. Surface impedance measurements were performed on the left hind limb both before injury and out to 2 weeks after injury. In addition, both normal and sciatic crush animals were sacrificed and the dielectric properties of the extracted gastrocnemius muscle measured. We found that 50 kHz conductivities were greater in the animals that underwent crush than in the animals that did not. The permittivities in both directions, however, showed non-significant differences. In order to analyze the effect of these changes as well as the accompanying reduction in muscle volume, a finite element model of the hind limb was developed based on computerized tomographic imaging. The model successfully predicted the surface impedance values in the animals after crush injury and, by its inverse application, may be used to help determine the underlying electrical properties of muscle in various neuromuscular diseases based on surface impedance data.

  18. Effect of various electrokinetic treatment regimes on solids surface properties and thermal behavior of oil sediments.

    PubMed

    Kariminezhad, Esmaeel; Elektorowicz, Maria

    2018-04-10

    The electrokinetic process has shown its ability to separate the different material phases. However, not much is known about the effect of the electric fields on the surface properties of solids in the oil sediments and their behavior under different electrical regimes. In this study, the effect of four different types of electrical current on the surface properties of oil sediments was investigated, namely constant direct current (CDC), pulsed direct current (PDC), incremental direct current (IDC) and decremental direct current (DDC). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses showed a decrease in the concentration of carbon from 99% in centrifuged samples to 63% on the surface of the solids in the PDC-treated oil sediment. Wettability alteration and contact angle studies showed an enhance in hydrophilicity of the solids following electrokinetic treatment. A significant change in carbon and oxygen-containing functionalities at the surface solids of the DDC-treated sediment was also observed. Thermogravimetric analyses (TGA) confirmed the ability of electrokinetic treatment in separating the phases by shifting the thermogram profiles towards lower temperatures. The findings showed that the electrokinetic process exerts its effect by altering the surface properties of the sediment solids and destabilizing water-in-oil emulsions to facilitate phase separation of this complex waste. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. Surface oxidation and thermoelectric properties of indium-doped tin telluride nanowires.

    PubMed

    Li, Zhen; Xu, Enzhi; Losovyj, Yaroslav; Li, Nan; Chen, Aiping; Swartzentruber, Brian; Sinitsyn, Nikolai; Yoo, Jinkyoung; Jia, Quanxi; Zhang, Shixiong

    2017-09-14

    The recent discovery of excellent thermoelectric properties and topological surface states in SnTe-based compounds has attracted extensive attention in various research areas. Indium doped SnTe is of particular interest because, depending on the doping level, it can either generate resonant states in the bulk valence band leading to enhanced thermoelectric properties, or induce superconductivity that coexists with topological states. Here we report on the vapor deposition of In-doped SnTe nanowires and the study of their surface oxidation and thermoelectric properties. The nanowire growth is assisted by Au catalysts, and their morphologies vary as a function of substrate position and temperature. Transmission electron microscopy characterization reveals the formation of an amorphous surface in single crystalline nanowires. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies suggest that the nanowire surface is composed of In 2 O 3 , SnO 2 , Te and TeO 2 which can be readily removed by argon ion sputtering. Exposure of the cleaned nanowires to atmosphere leads to rapid oxidation of the surface within only one minute. Characterization of electrical conductivity σ, thermopower S, and thermal conductivity κ was performed on the same In-doped nanowire which shows suppressed σ and κ but enhanced S yielding an improved thermoelectric figure of merit ZT compared to the undoped SnTe.

  20. Antibacterial and antifouling properties of a polyurethane surface modified with perfluoroalkyl and silver nanoparticles.

    PubMed

    Xu, Deqiu; Su, Yuling; Zhao, Lili; Meng, Fancui; Liu, Chang; Guan, Yayuan; Zhang, Jiya; Luo, Jianbin

    2017-02-01

    Inspired by mussel-adhesion phenomena in nature, a simple, mild surface modification process was elaborated to endow the polyurethane (PU) substrate with antibacterial/antifouling properties. In the present study, polydopamine was coated directly onto polyurethane surfaces. AgNO 3 was then added and absorbed onto the surface by the active catechol and amine groups of the polydopamine coating. Meanwhile, the adsorbed Ag + ions were reduced in situ into metallic silver nanoparticles by the "bridge" of the polydopamine coating which yielded a coating with good antimicrobial properties. Finally, 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H-perfluorodecanethiol (CF 3 (CF 2 ) 7 CH 2 CH 2 SH, F-SH) was attached on the PDA coating via the Michael addition reaction. The hydrophobic F-SH layer above the antibacterial layer yielded a surface with excellent antifouling properties. Preliminary antibacterial assays indicate that the coated surfaces show enhanced antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (Gram-negative bacteria) and Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive bacteria). Platelet adhesion was significantly reduced for the F-SH-coated PU film. These results suggest that the modified PU could be used as an antibacterial material for future biomedical applications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 531-538, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  1. Surface properties of CNTs and their interaction with silica.

    PubMed

    Sobolkina, Anastasia; Mechtcherine, Viktor; Bellmann, Cornelia; Khavrus, Vyacheslav; Oswald, Steffen; Hampel, Silke; Leonhardt, Albrecht

    2014-01-01

    In order to improve the embedding of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in cement-based matrices, silica was deposited on the sidewall of CNTs by a sol-gel method. Knowledge of the conditions of CNTs' surfaces is a key issue in understanding the corresponding interaction mechanisms. In this study various types of CNTs synthesized using acetonitrile, cyclohexane, and methane were investigated with regard to their physicochemical surface properties. Significant differences in surface polarity as well as in the wetting properties of the CNTs, depending on the precursors used, were revealed by combining electro-kinetic potential and contact angle measurements. The hydrophobicity of CNTs decreases by utilising the carbon sources in the following order: cyclohexane, methane, and finally acetonitrile. The XPS analysis, applied to estimate the chemical composition at the CNT surface, showed nitrogen atoms incorporated into the tube structure by using acetonitrile as a carbon source. It was found that the simultaneous presence of nitrogen- and/or oxygen-containing sites with different acid-base properties increased the surface polarity of the CNTs, imparting amphoteric characteristics to them and improving their wetting behaviour. Regarding the silica deposition, strong differences in adsorption capacity of the CNTs were observed. The mechanism of silica adsorption through interfacial bond formation was discussed. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Surface properties, crystallinity and optical properties of anodised titanium in mixture of β-glycerophosphate (β-GP) and calcium acetate (CA)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chuan, Lee Te; Abdullah, Hasan Zuhudi; Idris, Maizlinda Izwana

    2015-07-01

    Anodic oxidation is an electrochemical method for the production of ceramic films on a metallic substrate. It had been widely used to deposit the ceramic coatings on the metals surface. This method has been widely used in surface modification of biomaterials especially for dental implants. In this study, the surface morphology, crystallinity and optical properties of titanium foil was modified by anodising in mixture of β-glycerophosphate disodium salt pentahydrate (β-GP) and calcium acetate monohydrate (CA). The experiments were carried out at high voltage (350 V), different anodising time (5 and 10 minutes) and current density (10-70 mA.cm-2) at room temperature. Anodised titanium was characterised by using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), and UV-Vis spectrometry. The result of the experiment showed that surface morphology, crystallinity and optical properties depended strongly on the current density and anodising time. More porous surface and large amount of anatase and rutile was produced at higher current density and longer anodising time. Apart from that, it is also revealed that the energy band gap of anodised titanium increases as the increase in current density due to the presence of anatase and rutile TiO2.

  3. Towards an in vitro model mimicking the foreign body response: tailoring the surface properties of biomaterials to modulate extracellular matrix.

    PubMed

    Damanik, Febriyani F R; Rothuizen, Tonia C; van Blitterswijk, Clemens; Rotmans, Joris I; Moroni, Lorenzo

    2014-09-19

    Despite various studies to minimize host reaction following a biomaterial implantation, an appealing strategy in regenerative medicine is to actively use such an immune response to trigger and control tissue regeneration. We have developed an in vitro model to modulate the host response by tuning biomaterials' surface properties through surface modifications techniques as a new strategy for tissue regeneration applications. Results showed tunable surface topography, roughness, wettability, and chemistry by varying treatment type and exposure, allowing for the first time to correlate the effect of these surface properties on cell attachment, morphology, strength and proliferation, as well as proinflammatory (IL-1β, IL-6) and antiinflammatory cytokines (TGF-β1, IL-10) secreted in medium, and protein expression of collagen and elastin. Surface microstructuring, derived from chloroform partial etching, increased surface roughness and oxygen content. This resulted in enhanced cell adhesion, strength and proliferation as well as a balance of soluble factors for optimum collagen and elastin synthesis for tissue regeneration. By linking surface parameters to cell activity, we could determine the fate of the regenerated tissue to create successful soft tissue-engineered replacement.

  4. Utility of Thermal Infrared Satellite Data For Urban Landscapes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xian, G.; Crane, M.; Granneman, B.

    2006-12-01

    Urban landscapes are comprised of a variety of surfaces that are characterized by contrasting radiative, thermal, aerodynamic, and moisture properties. These different surfaces possess diverse physical and thermal attributes that directly influence surface energy balance and our ability to determine surface characteristics in urban areas. Reflectance properties obtained from satellite imagery have proven useful for mapping urban land use and land cover change, as well as ecosystem health. Landsat reflectance bands are commonly used in regression tree models to generate linear equations that correspond to distinct land surface materials. However, urban land cover is generally a heterogeneous mix of bare soil, vegetation, rock, and anthropogenic impervious surfaces. Surface temperature obtained from satellite thermal infrared bands provides valuable information about surface biophysical properties and radiant thermal characteristics of land cover elements, especially for urban environments. This study demonstrates the improved characterization of land cover conditions for Seattle, Washington, and Las Vegas, Nevada, that were achieved by using both the reflectance and thermal bands of Landsat Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+) data. Including the thermal band in the image analysis increased the accuracy of discriminating cover types in heterogeneous landscapes with extreme contrasts, especially for mixed pixels at the urban interface.

  5. The surface energy of water: functional implications of hexagonal/cuboidal transformations in the surface arrays.

    PubMed

    Widdas, W F

    2006-10-30

    Hyde's scientific book The Language of Shape has emphasized the importance of minimum surfaces in the structure of biological membranes. Minimum surfaces can be visualized as the property which brings many droplets of liquids to spherical bubbles, since a sphere has the minimum surface to volume ratio. Thus, a sphere with a surface of 4pir2 and volume of 4/3pir3 has a surface to volume ratio of 3/r, that is, the ratio is dependent upon the reciprocal of the radius. The chemistry of water as dihydrides of the electronegative element oxygen is fundamentally dependent upon its polar properties and particularly the delta positive charges on the hydrogen atoms and the double delta negative charge on the larger oxygen atom, which from its mass (16 Da) is regarded as the centre of the water molecules. The cohesion of water as a liquid or as semi-crystal like structures in the surface depends upon electrostatic forces that are comparable in strength to covalent bonds. This review discusses the functional implications of some unexpected properties which have been evinced by model building and illustrated as a Poster in the 4th World Congress of Cellular and Molecular Biology.

  6. Towards an in vitro model mimicking the foreign body response: tailoring the surface properties of biomaterials to modulate extracellular matrix

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Damanik, Febriyani F. R.; Rothuizen, Tonia C.; van Blitterswijk, Clemens; Rotmans, Joris I.; Moroni, Lorenzo

    2014-09-01

    Despite various studies to minimize host reaction following a biomaterial implantation, an appealing strategy in regenerative medicine is to actively use such an immune response to trigger and control tissue regeneration. We have developed an in vitro model to modulate the host response by tuning biomaterials' surface properties through surface modifications techniques as a new strategy for tissue regeneration applications. Results showed tunable surface topography, roughness, wettability, and chemistry by varying treatment type and exposure, allowing for the first time to correlate the effect of these surface properties on cell attachment, morphology, strength and proliferation, as well as proinflammatory (IL-1β, IL-6) and antiflammatory cytokines (TGF-β1, IL-10) secreted in medium, and protein expression of collagen and elastin. Surface microstructuring, derived from chloroform partial etching, increased surface roughness and oxygen content. This resulted in enhanced cell adhesion, strength and proliferation as well as a balance of soluble factors for optimum collagen and elastin synthesis for tissue regeneration. By linking surface parameters to cell activity, we could determine the fate of the regenerated tissue to create successful soft tissue-engineered replacement.

  7. A New Route of Fucoidan Immobilization on Low Density Polyethylene and Its Blood Compatibility and Anticoagulation Activity

    PubMed Central

    Ozaltin, Kadir; Lehocký, Marián; Humpolíček, Petr; Pelková, Jana; Sáha, Petr

    2016-01-01

    Beside biomaterials’ bulk properties, their surface properties are equally important to control interfacial biocompatibility. However, due to the inadequate interaction with tissue, they may cause foreign body reaction. Moreover, surface induced thrombosis can occur when biomaterials are used for blood containing applications. Surface modification of the biomaterials can bring enhanced surface properties in biomedical applications. Sulfated polysaccharide coatings can be used to avoid surface induced thrombosis which may cause vascular occlusion (blocking the blood flow by blood clot), which results in serious health problems. Naturally occurring heparin is one of the sulfated polysaccharides most commonly used as an anticoagulant, but its long term usage causes hemorrhage. Marine sourced sulfated polysaccharide fucoidan is an alternative anticoagulant without the hemorrhage drawback. Heparin and fucoidan immobilization onto a low density polyethylene surface after functionalization by plasma has been studied. Surface energy was demonstrated by water contact angle test and chemical characterizations were carried out by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Surface morphology was monitored by scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope. Finally, their anticoagulation activity was examined for prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and thrombin time (TT). PMID:27294915

  8. Synergistic Effect of Superhydrophobicity and Oxidized Layers on Corrosion Resistance of Aluminum Alloy Surface Textured by Nanosecond Laser Treatment.

    PubMed

    Boinovich, Ludmila B; Emelyanenko, Alexandre M; Modestov, Alexander D; Domantovsky, Alexandr G; Emelyanenko, Kirill A

    2015-09-02

    We report a new efficient method for fabricating a superhydrophobic oxidized surface of aluminum alloys with enhanced resistance to pitting corrosion in sodium chloride solutions. The developed coatings are considered very prospective materials for the automotive industry, shipbuilding, aviation, construction, and medicine. The method is based on nanosecond laser treatment of the surface followed by chemisorption of a hydrophobic agent to achieve the superhydrophobic state of the alloy surface. We have shown that the surface texturing used to fabricate multimodal roughness of the surface may be simultaneously used for modifying the physicochemical properties of the thick surface layer of the substrate itself. Electrochemical and wetting experiments demonstrated that the superhydrophobic state of the metal surface inhibits corrosion processes in chloride solutions for a few days. However, during long-term contact of a superhydrophobic coating with a solution, the wetted area of the coating is subjected to corrosion processes due to the formation of defects. In contrast, the combination of an oxide layer with good barrier properties and the superhydrophobic state of the coating provides remarkable corrosion resistance. The mechanisms for enhancing corrosion protective properties are discussed.

  9. Influence of surface oxides on the adsorption of naphthalene onto multiwalled carbon nanotubes.

    PubMed

    Cho, Hyun-Hee; Smith, Billy A; Wnuk, Joshua D; Fairbrother, D Howard; Ball, William P

    2008-04-15

    As greater quantities of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) enter the environment, they will have an increasingly important effect on the availability and transport of aqueous contaminants. As a consequence of purification, deliberate surface functionalization, and/or exposure to oxidizing agents after release to the environment, CNTs often contain surface oxides (i.e., oxygen containing functional groups). To probe the influence that surface oxides exert on CNT sorption properties, multiwalled CNTs (MWCNTs) with varying oxygen concentrations were studied with respect to their sorption properties toward naphthalene. For pristine (as-received) MWCNTs, the sorption capacity was intermediate between that of a natural char and a granular activated carbon. Sorption data also reveal that a linear relationship exists between the oxygen content of MWCNTs and their maximum adsorption capacity for naphthalene, with 10% surface oxygen concentration resulting in a roughly 70% decrease in maximum adsorption capacity. The relative distribution of sorption energies, as characterized by Freundlich isotherm exponents was, however, unaffected by oxidation. Thus, the data are consistent with the idea that incorporated surface oxides create polar regions that reduce the surface area available for naphthalene sorption. These results highlight the important role of surface chemistry in controlling the environmental properties of CNTs.

  10. On the organization and thermal behavior of functional groups on Ti3C2 MXene surfaces in vacuum

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Persson, Ingemar; Näslund, Lars-Åke; Halim, Joseph; Barsoum, Michel W.; Darakchieva, Vanya; Palisaitis, Justinas; Rosen, Johanna; Persson, Per O. Å.

    2018-03-01

    The two-dimensional (2D) MXene Ti3C2T x is functionalized by surface groups (T x ) that determine its surface properties for, e.g. electrochemical applications. The coordination and thermal properties of these surface groups has, to date, not been investigated at the atomic level, despite strong variations in the MXene properties that are predicted from different coordinations and from the identity of the functional groups. To alleviate this deficiency, and to characterize the functionalized surfaces of single MXene sheets, the present investigation combines atomically resolved in situ heating in a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) and STEM simulations with temperature-programmed x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (TP-XPS) in the room temperature to 750 °C range. Using these techniques, we follow the surface group coordination at the atomic level. It is concluded that the F and O atoms compete for the DFT-predicted thermodynamically preferred site and that at room temperature that site is mostly occupied by F. At higher temperatures, F desorbs and is replaced by O. Depending on the O/F ratio, the surface bare MXene is exposed as F desorbs, which enables a route for tailored surface functionalization.

  11. The Anti-Biofouling Properties of Superhydrophobic Surfaces are Short-Lived.

    PubMed

    Hwang, Gi Byoung; Page, Kristopher; Patir, Adnan; Nair, Sean P; Allan, Elaine; Parkin, Ivan P

    2018-06-12

    Superhydrophobic surfaces are present in nature on the leaves of many plant species. Water rolls on these surfaces, and the rolling motion picks up particles including bacteria and viruses. Man-made superhydrophobic surfaces have been made in an effort to reduce biofouling. We show here that the anti-biofouling property of a superhydrophobic surface is due to an entrapped air-bubble layer that reduces contact between the bacteria and the surface. Further, we showed that prolonged immersion of superhydrophobic surfaces in water led to loss of the bubble-layer and subsequent bacterial adhesion that unexpectedly exceeded that of the control materials. This behavior was not restricted to one particular type of material but was evident on different types of superhydrophobic surfaces. This work is important in that it suggests that superhydrophobic surfaces may actually encourage bacterial adhesion during longer term exposure.

  12. Effect of adjuvant physical properties on spray characteristics

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    The effects of adjuvant physical properties on spray characteristics were studied. Dynamic surface tension was measured with a Sensa Dyne surface tensiometer 6000 using the maximum bubble pressure method. Viscosity was measured with a Brookfield synchro-lectric viscometer model LVT using a UL adap...

  13. Copoly(imide siloxane) Abhesive Materials with Varied Siloxane Oligomer Length

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wohl, Christoper J.; Atkins, Brad M.; Lin, Yi; Belcher, Marcus A.; Connell, John W.

    2010-01-01

    In this work, low surface energy copoly(imide siloxane)s were synthesized with various siloxane segment lengths. Characterization of these materials revealed that domain formation of the low surface energy component within the matrix was more prevalent for longer siloxane segments as indicated by increased opacity, decreased mechanical properties, and variation of the Tg. Incorporation of siloxanes lowered the polymer s surface energy as indicated by water contact angle values. Topographical modification of these materials by laser ablation patterning further reduced the surface energy, even generating superhydrophobic surfaces. Combined, the contact angle data and particle adhesion testing indicated that copoly(imide siloxane) materials may provide greater mitigation to particulate adhesion than polyimide materials alone. These enhanced surface properties for abhesive applications did result in a reduction of the tensile moduli of the copolymers. It is possible that lower siloxane loading levels would result in retention of the mechanical properties of the polyimide while still affording abhesive surface properties. This hypothesis is currently being investigated. Laser ablation patterning offers further reduction in particle retention as the available surface area for particle adhesion is reduced. Pattern variation and size dependencies are currently being evaluated. For the purposes of lunar dust adhesion mitigation, it is likely that this approach, termed passive due to the lack of input from an external energy source, would not be sufficient to mitigate surface contamination or clean contaminated surfaces for some lunar applications. It is feasible to combine these materials with active mitigation strategies - methods that utilize input from external energy sources - would broaden the applicability of such materials for abhesive purposes. Collaborative efforts along these lines have been initiated with researchers at NASA Kennedy Space Center where experiments are being conducted involving a series of embedded electrodes within polymeric matrices.

  14. Microstructure and physical properties of nano-biocomposite films based on cassava starch and laponite.

    PubMed

    Valencia, Germán Ayala; Luciano, Carla Giovana; Lourenço, Rodrigo Vinicius; do Amaral Sobral, Paulo José

    2018-02-01

    The aim of this research was to study the effects of laponite concentrations on some properties of nano-biocomposite films based on cassava starch, focusing mainly the relation between the properties of the surface microstructure and roughness, water contact angle and gloss. Nano-biocomposite films were produced by casting. We analyzed gloss, color, opacity, water contact angle, crystallinity by X-ray diffraction, and microstructure by scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. Texture parameters (energy, entropy and fractal dimension) were extracted from micrographs. We observed a great impact of laponite in the morphology of nano-biocomposite films. Texture parameters correlated with surface heterogeneity and roughness. Finally, surface roughness affected the surface hydrophilicity of nano-biocomposite films. Laponite platelets were exfoliated and/or intercalated with amylose and amylopectin chains. This research reports new information on the effects of laponite concentrations on the morphological, optical and wetting properties of nano-biocomposite films aiming future industrial applications. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. The use of surface enhanced absorption, scattering and catalytic properties of gold nanoparticles in some bio- and biomedical applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Huang, Xiaohua; El-Sayed, Ivan H.; El-Sayed, Mostafa A.

    2005-08-01

    Gold nanoparticles with unique optical properties offer useful applications in biotechnology. In this article two applications that we have developed are summarized, in one they are used in cancer cell diagnostics and in the other they are found to have catalytic property for the NADH oxidation reaction which is important in ATP formations. By conjugation with anti-EGFR antibodies which specifically target EGFR that are usually overexpressed on most cancer cells, gold nanoparticles are used as a molecular contrast agent for cancer cell diagnostics using their both strong surface plasmon absorption and efficient Mie scattering properties. Au nanoparticles are also good catalysts for many reactions due to their high surface to volume ratio. Au nanoparticles are found to be the catalyst for the NADH oxidation reaction. This was studied by monitoring the effect of the nanoparticles on NADH fluorescence intensity and lifetime as well as the change of the surface plasmon absorption band during the reaction.

  16. Surface and protective properties of dispersions of film-formers

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

    Turishcheva, R.A.; Bakaleinikov, M.B.; Minkina, E.N.

    1983-03-01

    This article reports on studies of the surface and protective properties of 20% dispersions of film-formers most typically used in film-forming inhibited petroleum-base compositions (FIPC): solid hydrocarbons, fatty acid soaps, asphalt, polymers, natural resins, modified vegetable oils, and an inorganic thickening agent. Investigates the dispersions of Butosil and lithium stearate at respective concentrations of 10% and 8%, in view of the high thickening power of these film-formers. Classifies all of the studied FIPC film-forming components into 2 groups: those wth little thickening effect, a low level of adhesion-cohesion interaction, and a high level of surface and protective properties (the oxidizedmore » solid hydrocarbons and the polymers); and the film-formers that have a large thickening effect, a high level of adhesion-cohesion interaction, and a low level of surface and protective properties (the fatty acid soaps, the solid hydrocarbons, and Butosil). Recommends combining film-formers of both groups in developing new grades of FIPCs.« less

  17. Diester-containing Zwitterionic Gemini Surfactants with Different Spacer and Its Impact on Micellization Properties and Viscosity of Aqueous Micellar Solution.

    PubMed

    Patil, Sachin Vasant; Patil, Sanyukta Arun; Pratap, Amit Prabhakar

    2016-09-01

    A series of diester containing zwitterionic gemini surfactants, N,N-dimethyl-N-alkyl-2-[[hydroxy (alkoxy) phosphinyl]oxy]-alkylammonium designated as C8(-)-S-Cn(+), S = 2 and 3, n = 12, 14 and 16, were synthesized and characterized by instrumental techniques namely FT-IR, (1)H NMR, (13)C NMR, (31)P NMR and Mass spectral studies. These new gemini surfactants further investigated for their various surfactant properties. The critical micelle concentration (cmc) and the effectiveness of surface tension reduction (Πcmc) were determined as a function of surfactant concentration by means of surface tension measurement. Micellization and viscosity properties were investigated by surface tension, electrical conductivity, dye micellization and rheology techniques. The findings of the aqueous surfactant system obtained were impacted by polarity, size and the nature of zwitterions as the surface. The thermodynamic and viscosity properties of these surfactants found to be based on the structures of gemini surfactants.

  18. Excitation laser energy dependence of surface-enhanced fluorescence showing plasmon-induced ultrafast electronic dynamics in dye molecules

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Itoh, Tamitake; Yamamoto, Yuko S.; Tamaru, Hiroharu; Biju, Vasudevanpillai; Murase, Norio; Ozaki, Yukihiro

    2013-06-01

    We find unique properties accompanying surface-enhanced fluorescence (SEF) from dye molecules adsorbed on Ag nanoparticle aggregates, which generate surface-enhanced Raman scattering. The properties are observed in excitation laser energy dependence of SEF after excluding plasmonic spectral modulation in SEF. The unique properties are large blue shifts of fluorescence spectra, deviation of ratios between anti-Stokes SEF intensity and Stokes from those of normal fluorescence, super-broadening of Stokes spectra, and returning to original fluorescence by lower energy excitation. We elucidate that these properties are induced by electromagnetic enhancement of radiative decay rates exceeding the vibrational relaxation rates within an electronic excited state, which suggests that molecular electronic dynamics in strong plasmonic fields can be largely deviated from that in free space.

  19. Effect of Leaf Surface Chemical Properties on Efficacy of Sanitizer for Rotavirus Inactivation

    PubMed Central

    Fuzawa, Miyu; Ku, Kang-Mo; Palma-Salgado, Sindy Paola; Nagasaka, Kenya; Feng, Hao; Juvik, John A.; Sano, Daisuke; Shisler, Joanna L.

    2016-01-01

    ABSTRACT The use of sanitizers is essential for produce safety. However, little is known about how sanitizer efficacy varies with respect to the chemical surface properties of produce. To answer this question, the disinfection efficacies of an oxidant-based sanitizer and a new surfactant-based sanitizer for porcine rotavirus (PRV) strain OSU were examined. PRV was attached to the leaf surfaces of two kale cultivars with high epicuticular wax contents and one cultivar of endive with a low epicuticular wax content and then treated with each sanitizer. The efficacy of the oxidant-based sanitizer correlated with leaf wax content as evidenced by the 1-log10 PRV disinfection on endive surfaces (low wax content) and 3-log10 disinfection of the cultivars with higher wax contents. In contrast, the surfactant-based sanitizer showed similar PRV disinfection efficacies (up to 3 log10) that were independent of leaf wax content. A statistical difference was observed with the disinfection efficacies of the oxidant-based sanitizer for suspended and attached PRV, while the surfactant-based sanitizer showed similar PRV disinfection efficacies. Significant reductions in the entry and replication of PRV were observed after treatment with either disinfectant. Moreover, the oxidant-based-sanitizer-treated PRV showed sialic acid-specific binding to the host cells, whereas the surfactant-based sanitizer increased the nonspecific binding of PRV to the host cells. These findings suggest that the surface properties of fresh produce may affect the efficacy of virus disinfection, implying that food sanitizers should be carefully selected for the different surface characteristics of fresh produce. IMPORTANCE Food sanitizer efficacies are affected by the surface properties of vegetables. This study evaluated the disinfection efficacies of two food sanitizers, an oxidant-based sanitizer and a surfactant-based sanitizer, on porcine rotavirus strain OSU adhering to the leaf epicuticular surfaces of high- and low-wax-content cultivars. The disinfection efficacy of the oxidant-based sanitizer was affected by the surface properties of the vegetables, while the surfactant-based sanitizer was effective for both high- and low-wax leafy vegetable cultivars. This study suggests that the surface properties of vegetables may be an important factor that interacts with disinfection with food sanitizers of rotaviruses adhering to fresh produce. PMID:27520815

  20. Biochemical and biomechanical characterisation of equine cervical facet joint cartilage.

    PubMed

    O'Leary, S A; White, J L; Hu, J C; Athanasiou, K A

    2018-04-15

    The equine cervical facet joint is a site of significant pathology. Located bilaterally on the dorsal spine, these diarthrodial joints work in conjunction with the intervertebral disc to facilitate appropriate spinal motion. Despite the high prevalence of pathology in this joint, the facet joint is understudied and thus lacking in viable treatment options. The goal of this study was to characterise equine facet joint cartilage and provide a comprehensive database describing the morphological, histological, biochemical and biomechanical properties of this tissue. Descriptive cadaver studies. A total of 132 facet joint surfaces were harvested from the cervical spines of six skeletally mature horses (11 surfaces per animal) for compiling biomechanical and biochemical properties of hyaline cartilage of the equine cervical facet joints. Gross morphometric measurements and histological staining were performed on facet joint cartilage. Creep indentation and uniaxial strain-to-failure testing were used to determine the biomechanical compressive and tensile properties. Biochemical assays included quantification of total collagen, sulfated glycosaminoglycan and DNA content. The facet joint surfaces were ovoid in shape with a flat articular surface. Histological analyses highlighted structures akin to articular cartilage of other synovial joints. In general, biomechanical and biochemical properties did not differ significantly between the inferior and superior joint surfaces as well as among spinal levels. Interestingly, compressive and tensile properties of cervical facet articular cartilage were lower than those of articular cartilage from other previously characterised equine joints. Removal of the superficial zone reduced the tissue's tensile strength, suggesting that this zone is important for the tensile integrity of the tissue. Facet surfaces were sampled at a single, central location and do not capture the potential topographic variation in cartilage properties. This is the first study to report the properties of equine cervical facet joint cartilage and may serve as the foundation for the development of future tissue-engineered replacements as well as other treatment strategies. © 2018 EVJ Ltd.

  1. 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

  2. Gold coatings for cube-corner retro-reflectors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dligatch, Svetlana; Gross, Mark; Netterfield, Roger P.; Pereira, Nathan; Platt, Benjamin C.; Nemati, Bijan

    2005-09-01

    The Space Interferometry Mission (SIM) PlanetQuest is managed by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. SIM requires, among other things, high precision double cube-corner retroreflectors. A test device has recently been fabricated for this project with demanding specifications on the optical surfaces and gold reflective coatings. Several gold deposition techniques were examined to meet the stringent specifications on uniformity, optical properties, micro-roughness and surface quality. We report on a comparative study of optical performance of gold films deposited by resistive and e-beam pvaporation, including measurements of the scattering from the coated surfaces. The effects of oxygen bombardment and titanium under-layer on optical properties and adhesion were evaluated. The influence of surface preparation on the optical properties was examined also.

  3. Understanding the high pressure properties of molecular solids and molecular surfaces deposited on hetrogeneous substrates

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Etters, R. D.

    1985-01-01

    Work directed toward understanding the high pressure properties of molecular solids and molecular surfaces deposited on hetrogeneous substrates is reported. The motivation, apart from expanding our basic knowledge about these systems, was to understand and predict the properties of new materials synthesized at high pressure, including pressure induced metallic and superconducting states. As a consequence, information about the states of matter of the Jovian planets and their satellites, which are natural high pressure laboratories was also provided. The work on molecular surfaces and finite two and three dimensional clusters of atoms and molecules was connected with the composition and behavior of planetary atmospheres and on the processes involved in forming surface layers, which is vital to the development of composite materials and microcircuitry.

  4. Low earth orbit durability evaluation of Haynes 188 solar receiver material

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    De Groh, Kim K.; Rutledge, Sharon K.; Burke, Christopher A.; Dever, Therese M.; Olle, Raymond M.; Terlep, Judith A.

    1992-01-01

    The effects of elevated-temperature vacuum and elevated-temperature atomic oxygen exposure on the mass, surface chemistry, surface morphology, and optical properties of Haynes 188, a possible heat receiver material for space-based solar dynamic power systems, have been studied. Pristine and surface modified Haynes 188 were exposed to vacuum less than or equal to 10 exp -6 torr at 820 C for 5215.5 h, and to atomic oxygen in an air plasma asher at 34 and 827 C for fluences up to 5.6 x 10 exp 21 atoms/sq cm. Results obtained indicate that vacuum heat treatment caused surface morphology and chemistry changes with corresponding optical property changes. Atomic oxygen exposure caused optical property changes which diminished with time. Mass changes are considered to be negligible for both exposures.

  5. Fly ash-TiO2 nanocomposite material for multi-pollutants wastewater treatment.

    PubMed

    Visa, Maria; Andronic, Luminita; Duta, Anca

    2015-03-01

    This paper reports on the synthesis, characterization and adsorption properties of a novel nano-composite obtained using the hydrothermal method applied to a fly ash-TiO2 slurry and hexadecyltrimethyl-ammonium bromide, as surface controlling agent. The new adsorbent was investigated in terms of crystallinity (XRD), surface properties (AFM, SEM, and porosity and BET surface) and surface chemistry (EDX, FTIR). The nanocomposite's properties were sequentially tested in adsorption and photocatalysis processes applied to multi-pollutant synthetic wastewaters loaded with copper cations and two industrial dyes: the acid dye Bemacid Blau and the reactive dye Bemacid Rot; the nano-composite substrate allowed reaching high removal efficiencies, above 90%, both in adsorption and in photodegradation experiments, in optimised conditions. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  6. Effect of Various Material Properties on the Adhesive Stage of Fretting

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Buckley, D. H.

    1974-01-01

    Various properties of metals and alloys were studied with respect to their effect on the initial stage of the fretting process, namely adhesion. Crystallographic orientation, crystal structure, interfacial binding energies of dissimiliar metal, segregation of alloy constituents and the nature and structure of surface films were found to influence adhesion. High atomic density, low surface energy grain orientations exhibited lower adhesion than other orientations. Knowledge of interfacial surface binding energies assists in predicting adhesive transfer and wear. Selective surface segregation of alloy constituents accomplishes both a reduction in adhesion and improved surface oxidation characteristics. Equivalent surface coverages of various adsorbed species indicate that some are markedly more effective in inhibiting adhesion than others.

  7. Quality Control of Laser-Beam-Melted Parts by a Correlation Between Their Mechanical Properties and a Three-Dimensional Surface Analysis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Grimm, T.; Wiora, G.; Witt, G.

    2017-03-01

    Good correlations between three-dimensional surface analyses of laser-beam-melted parts of nickel alloy HX and their mechanical properties were found. The surface analyses were performed with a confocal microscope, which offers a more profound surface data basis than a conventional, two-dimensional tactile profilometry. This new approach results in a wide range of three-dimensional surface parameters, which were each evaluated with respect to their feasibility for quality control in additive manufacturing. As a result of an automated surface analysis process by the confocal microscope and an industrial six-axis robot, the results are an innovative approach for quality control in additive manufacturing.

  8. In vitro cell response to differences in poly-L-lactide crystallinity.

    PubMed

    Park, A; Cima, L G

    1996-05-01

    Many different processing techniques are currently being used to produce tissue regeneration devices from polyesters in the polylactide/polyglycolide family. While it is generally well recognized that processing techniques influence bulk mechanical and degradation properties of these materials, the effects on surface properties are relatively less well studied. We thus investigated the effects of processing conditions that are known to change bulk properties, but not composition, on the surface properties of poly-L-lactide (PLLA). Specifically, we investigated the role of bulk crystallinity of PLLA substrates on several physiochemical aspects of the surface and on the attachment, morphology, and differentiated function of cultured primary hepatocytes and growth of 3T3 fibroblasts. We fabricated smooth, clear PLLA films of 13-37% crystallinity. Glancing angle X-ray diffraction indicated that low crystallinity films lacked order in the first 50 A of the surface while relatively high crystallinity films had detectable order in this range. In other aspects, the surfaces of all PLLA substrates appeared identical with XPS, SEM, and advancing contact angle analysis, but contact angle hysteresis was slightly greater for more crystalline films. Although the physicochemical properties of the surfaces appeared almost identical, we observed differences in cell behavior on less crystalline versus more crystalline films. Hepatocytes formed spheroids on all PLLA substrates, but spheroid formation was faster (24-48 H) on crystalline substrates. quantitative image analysis was used to assess the average cell area as a function of time in culture, and our data confirm previous reports that retention of differentiated function is inversely related to cell spreading where function was assessed by P-450 enzyme activity. In addition, the growth rate of 3T3 fibroblasts was lower on crystalline substrates than on amorphous substrates. An important conclusion from this work is that processing techniques that lead to seemingly inconsequential changes in bulk and surface properties of these polymers may influence biological response.

  9. Tuning Wettability and Adhesion of Structured Surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Badge, Ila

    Structured surfaces with feature size ranging from a few micrometers down to nanometers are of great interest in the applications such as design of anti-wetting surfaces, tissue engineering, microfluidics, filtration, microelectronic devices, anti-reflective coatings and reversible adhesives. A specific surface property demands particular roughness geometry along with suitable surface chemistry. Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) is a technique that offers control over surface chemistry without significantly affecting the roughness and thus, provides a flexibility to alter surface chemistry selectively for a given structured surface. In this study, we have used PECVD to fine tune wetting and adhesion properties. The research presented focuses on material design aspects as well as the fundamental understanding of wetting and adhesion phenomena of structured surfaces. In order to study the effect of surface roughness and surface chemistry on the surface wettability independently, we developed a model surface by combination of colloidal lithography and PECVD. A systematically controlled hierarchical roughness using spherical colloidal particles and surface chemistry allowed for quantitative prediction of contact angles corresponding to metastable and stable wetting states. A well-defined roughness and chemical composition of the surface enabled establishing a correlation between theory predictions and experimental measurements. We developed an extremely robust superhydrophobic surface based on Carbon-Nanotubes (CNT) mats. The surface of CNTs forming a nano-porous mesh was modified using PECVD to deposit a layer of hydrophobic coating (PCNT). The PCNT surface thus formed is superhydrophobic with almost zero contact angle hysteresis. We demonstrated that the PCNT surface is not wetted under steam condensation even after prolonged exposure and also continues to retain its superhydrophobicity after multiple frosting-defrosting cycles. The anti-wetting behavior of PCNT surface is consistent with our model predictions, derived based on thermodynamic theory of wetting. The surface of gecko feet is a very unique natural structured surface. The hierarchical surface structure of a Gecko toe pad is responsible for its reversible adhesive properties and superhydrophobicity. van der Waals interactions is known to be the key mechanism behind Gecko adhesion. However, we found that the wettability, thus the surface chemistry plays a significant role in Gecko adhesion mechanism, especially in the case of underwater adhesion. We used PECVD process to deposit a layer of coating with known chemistry on the surface of sheds of gecko toes to study the effect that wettability of the toe surface has on its adhesion. In summary, we demonstrated that PECVD can be effectively used as means of surface chemistry control for tunable structure-property relationship of three types of structured surfaces; each having unique surface features.

  10. Laser surface structuring of AZ31 Mg alloy for controlled wettability.

    PubMed

    Gökhan Demir, Ali; Furlan, Valentina; Lecis, Nora; Previtali, Barbara

    2014-06-01

    Structured surfaces exhibit functional properties that can enhance the performance of a bioimplant in terms of biocompatibility, adhesion, or corrosion behavior. In order to tailor the surface property, chemical and physical methods can be used in a sequence of many steps. On the other hand, laser surface processing can provide a single step solution to achieve the designated surface function with the use of simpler equipment and high repeatability. This work provides the details on the surface structuring of AZ31, a biocompatible and biodegradable Mg alloy, by a single-step laser surface structuring based on remelting. The surfaces are characterized in terms of topography, chemistry, and physical integrity, as well as the effective change in the surface wetting behavior is demonstrated. The results imply a great potential in local or complete surface structuring of medical implants for functionalization by the flexible positioning of the laser beam.

  11. The effect of polar end of long-chain fluorocarbon oligomers in promoting the superamphiphobic property over multi-scale rough Al alloy surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Saifaldeen, Zubayda S.; Khedir, Khedir R.; Camci, Merve T.; Ucar, Ahmet; Suzer, Sefik; Karabacak, Tansel

    2016-08-01

    Rough structures with re-entrant property and their subsequent surface energy reduction with long-chain fluorocarbon oligomers are both critical in developing superamphiphobic (SAP, i.e. both super hydrophobic and superoleophobic) surfaces. However, morphology of the low-surface energy layer on a rough re-entrant substrate can strongly depend on the fluorocarbon oligomers used. In this study, the effect of polar end of different kinds of long-chain fluorocarbon oligomers in promoting a self-assembled monolayer with close packed molecules and robust adhesion on multi-scale rough Al alloy surfaces was investigated. Hierarchical Al alloy surfaces with microgrooves and nanograss structures were developed by a simple combination of one-directional mechanical sanding and post treatment in boiling de-ionized water (DIW). Three types of long-chain fluorocarbon oligomers of 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H-perfluorodecyltriethoxysilane (PFDTS), 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H-perfluorodecyltrichlorosilane (PFDCS), and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) were chemically vaporized onto these rough Al alloy surfaces. The PFDCS exhibited the lowest surface free energy of less than 10 mN/m. The contact angle and sliding angle measurements for water, ethylene glycol, and peanut oil verified the SAP property of hierarchical rough Al alloy surfaces treated with alkylsilane oligomers (PFDTS, PFDCS). However, the hierarchical surfaces treated with fluorocarbon oligomer with polar acidic tail (PFOA) showed highly amphiphobic properties but could not reach the threshold for SAP. Chemical stability of the hierarchical Al alloy surfaces treated with the fluorocarbon oligomers was tested under the harsh conditions of ultra-sonication in acetone and annealing at high temperature after different treatment times. Contact angle measurements revealed the robustness of the alkylsilane oligomers and deterioration of the PFOA coating particularly for low surface tension liquids. The robust adhesion and close-packing of the alkylsilane molecules as well as their vertical orientation with exposure of more CF3 groups instead of CF2 groups due to the polar silane-based tail are believed to be the main reasons behind their improved chemical stability. The selection of fluorocarbon oligomer with proper polar tail which can promote a self-assembled monolayer with close-packed molecules could make it possible for utilizing shorter fluorocarbon oligomers, which is environmentally favorable, to develop high surface energy materials with SAP properties.

  12. A Study of Physicochemical Properties of Subcutaneous Fat of the Abdomen and its Implication in Abdominal Obesity.

    PubMed

    Pandey, Arvind Kumar; Kumar, Pramod; Kodavoor, Srinivas Aithal; Kotian, Sushma Rama; Yathdaka, Sudhakar Narahari; Nayak, Dayanand; Souza, Anne D; Souza, Antony Sylvan D

    2016-05-01

    The lower abdominal obesity is more resistant to absorption as compared to that of upper abdomen. Differences in the physicochemical properties of the subcutaneous fat of the upper and lower abdomen may be responsible for this variation. There is paucity of the scientific literature on the physicochemical properties of the subcutaneous fat of abdomen. The present study was undertaken to create a database of physicochemical properties of abdominal subcutaneous fat. The samples of subcutaneous fat from upper and lower abdomen were collected from 40 fresh autopsied bodies (males 33, females 7). The samples were prepared for physicochemical analysis using organic and inorganic solvents. Various physicochemical properties of the fat samples analysed were surface tension, viscosity, specific gravity, specific conductivity, iodine value and thermal properties. Data was analysed by paired and independent sample t-tests. There was a statistically significant difference in all the physicochemical parameters between males and females except surface tension (organic) and surface tension (inorganic) of upper abdominal fat, and surface tension (organic) of lower abdominal fat. In males, viscosity of upper abdominal fat was more compared to that of lower abdomen (both organic and inorganic) unlike the specific conductivity that was higher for the lower abdominal fat as compared to that of the upper abdomen. In females there were statistically significant higher values of surface tension (inorganic) and specific gravity (organic) of the upper abdomen fat as compared to that of lower abdomen. The initial and final weight loss of the lower abdominal fat as indicated by Thermo Gravimetric Analysis was significantly more in males than in female. The difference in the physicochemical properties of subcutaneous fat between upper and lower abdomen and between males and females could be responsible for the variant behaviour of subcutaneous abdominal fat towards resorption.

  13. Examination of Regional Trends in Cloud Properties over Surface Sites Derived from MODIS and AVHRR using the CERES Cloud Algorithm

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Smith, W. L., Jr.; Minnis, P.; Bedka, K. M.; Sun-Mack, S.; Chen, Y.; Doelling, D. R.; Kato, S.; Rutan, D. A.

    2017-12-01

    Recent studies analyzing long-term measurements of surface insolation at ground sites suggest that decadal-scale trends of increasing (brightening) and decreasing (dimming) downward solar flux have occurred at various times over the last century. Regional variations have been reported that range from near 0 Wm-2/decade to as large as 9 Wm-2/decade depending on the location and time period analyzed. The more significant trends have been attributed to changes in overhead clouds and aerosols, although quantifying their relative impacts using independent observations has been difficult, owing in part to a lack of consistent long-term measurements of cloud properties. This paper examines new satellite based records of cloud properties derived from MODIS (2000-present) and AVHRR (1981- present) data to infer cloud property trends over a number of surface radiation sites across the globe. The MODIS cloud algorithm was developed for the NASA Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) project to provide a consistent record of cloud properties to help improve broadband radiation measurements and to better understand cloud radiative effects. The CERES-MODIS cloud algorithm has been modified to analyze other satellites including the AVHRR on the NOAA satellites. Compared to MODIS, obtaining consistent cloud properties over a long period from AVHRR is a much more significant challenge owing to the number of different satellites, instrument calibration uncertainties, orbital drift and other factors. Nevertheless, both the MODIS and AVHRR cloud properties will be analyzed to determine trends, and their level of consistency and correspondence with surface radiation trends derived from the ground-based radiometer data. It is anticipated that this initial study will contribute to an improved understanding of surface solar radiation trends and their relationship to clouds.

  14. {112} Polar surfaces of copper(indium,gallium)selenide: Properties and effects on crystal growth

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liao, Dongxiang

    Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (GIGS) are promising materials for thin film photovoltaic applications. This work studies the epitaxial growth of CIGS single crystal films on GaAs substrates of various orientations and characterizes the properties of the thin films. A surprising finding is the strong tendency of film surfaces to facet to {112} planes. The work attempted to establish the connections between the film morphology, the surface energies, the surface chemical compositions, and the reconstruction of polar surfaces. Using angle-resolved photoelectron emission spectroscopy, I found that there is a severe Cu depletion at the first 1-2 layer of the free surface of CuInSe2 and the surface is semiconducting. The results strongly support the model of a reconstructed non-stoichiometric polar surface and exclude the previously believed existence of a bulk second phase on the CIS surface. Unique features of the film morphology suggest that the properties and structure of the polar surfaces have great effects on the growth of the crystals, and probably on the incorporation of the large amount of point defects. Measured chemical composition profiles indicate that the Cu depletion observed on free CIGS surface remains at the CIGS/CdS heterojunction interface and Cd is incorporated into the surface of CIGS. It is proposed that this non-stoichiometric composition leads to charge imbalance at the interface and causes the type-inversion of the CIGS surface, which are favorable for the device performance.

  15. Optimized surface topography of thermoplastics blends modified by graphene

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

    Joshi, Girish M., E-mail: varadgm@gmail.com, E-mail: girish.joshi@vit.ac.in; Sharma, Ajay; Pandey, Mayank

    2016-05-23

    Polyacrilonitrile (PAN)/ Polyvinylfloride (PVDF) blends were modified by loading the graphene (0.5 to 1.5 wt %). The presence of graphene reveals the interesting surface properties. The decrease in surface roughness as function of graphene loading was confirmed by the topographic method of recording (two and three dimensional images) with atomic force microscope (AFM). The blends become smoother in nature due to occupied smaller surface area of graphene. This property may be useful for several applications in the marine, naval, nuclear domain and engineering applications as barrier medium.

  16. Physical Evaluation of Cleaning Performance: We Are Only Fooling Ourselves

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Pratz, Earl; McCool, A. (Technical Monitor)

    2000-01-01

    Surface cleaning processes are normally evaluated using visual physical properties such as discolorations, streaking, staining and water-break-free conditions. There is an assumption that these physical methods will evaluate all surfaces all the time for all subsequent operations. We have found that these physical methods are lacking in sensitivity and selectivity with regard to surface residues and subsequent process performance. We will report several conditions where evaluations using visual physical properties are lacking. We will identify possible alternative methods and future needs for surface evaluations.

  17. Adsorption properties for urokinase on local diatomite surface

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yang, Yuxiang; Zhang, Jianbo; Yang, Weimin; Wu, Jieda; Chen, Rongsan

    2003-02-01

    In this paper, adsorption isotherm of urokinase on two typical local diatomites were determined at 25 °C and their surface electrical potentials (ζ), isoelectrical point values (IEP) were determined. The properties of diatomites, the relationship among diatomite structure, pore-size distribution, surface ζ and adsorption isotherm were discussed. The adsorption equation of urokinase was calculated from the adsorption isotherm. The adsorption mode of urokinase on diatomite surface was judged by the configuration function α. The relationship between the amount of adsorbed urokinase and IEP value was also discussed.

  18. Synthesis of Amphoteric Sulfonic Ionic Liquid Surfactant and Measurement of Its Surface Properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhao, Xiuli; Zhang, Changbao; Liu, Da; Liu, Haiyan

    2018-03-01

    Three kinds of amphoteric sulfonic ionic liquid surfactants were synthesized in this paper. Their functional group structures were characterized by infrared spectrometer. The surface properties of them were studied. The results show that the functional group structures of all three products conform to the structure characteristics of amphoteric sulfonic ionic liquid surfactants. The shorter the long chain alkyl carbon chain is, the closer the arrangement of surfactant on the gas-liquid surface will be, and the higher the efficiency in reducing the surface tension..

  19. Composite patterning devices for soft lithography

    DOEpatents

    Rogers, John A.; Menard, Etienne

    2007-03-27

    The present invention provides methods, devices and device components for fabricating patterns on substrate surfaces, particularly patterns comprising structures having microsized and/or nanosized features of selected lengths in one, two or three dimensions. The present invention provides composite patterning devices comprising a plurality of polymer layers each having selected mechanical properties, such as Young's Modulus and flexural rigidity, selected physical dimensions, such as thickness, surface area and relief pattern dimensions, and selected thermal properties, such as coefficients of thermal expansion, to provide high resolution patterning on a variety of substrate surfaces and surface morphologies.

  20. Influence of liquid lubricant properties on their performance

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wedeven, V.

    1972-01-01

    The influence of lubricant properties on performance is considered in connection with various mechanisms of lubrication. The effects of temperature and pressure on viscosity, which is important in hydrodynamic and elastohydrodynamic lubrication, is presented using a correlation postulated by Roelands. Under elastohydrodynamic conditions it is important to distinguish between the influence of lubricant properties within the inlet region and the Hertz region since each performs different functions. The role of lubricant transport properties such as surface tension is considered in connection with lubricant starvation. Since the lubrication of practical surfaces usually involves boundary as well as hydrodynamic mechanisms, both the chemical and physical properties significantly influence the lubricant's performance.

  1. In Situ Production of Hard Metal Matrix Composite Coating on Engineered Surfaces Using Laser Cladding Technique

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Raza, Mohammad Shahid; Hussain, Manowar; Kumar, Vikash; Das, Alok Kumar

    2017-01-01

    The growing need for high wear-resistant surface with enhanced physical properties has led to extensive researches in the field of surface engineering. Laser cladding emerged to be a promising method to achieve these objectives in a cost-effective way. The present paper studies the viability of cladding of tungsten disulfide (WS2) powder by using 400 W continuous-wave fiber laser. WS2 was used as a coating material, which was decomposed at higher temperature and underwent several chemical reactions. By this process, in situ formation of metal matrix composites and hard face coating on the substrate surface were attained. The characterization of laser cladded surface was done to study its morphological, microstructural, mechanical and tribological properties. It was observed that cladding of WS2 powder on 304 SS resulted in the formation of Cr-W-C-Fe metal matrix composite having improved mechanical and tribological properties. The value of microhardness of the coated surface was found to increase three to four times in comparison with the parent material surface. Wear test results indicated a decrease in wear by 1/9th (maximum) as compared to the parent 304 SS surface. The volume fractions of tungsten particles on the cladded surface were also investigated through EDS analysis.

  2. Assessing the Increase in Specific Surface Area for Electrospun Fibrous Network due to Pore Induction.

    PubMed

    Katsogiannis, Konstantinos Alexandros G; Vladisavljević, Goran T; Georgiadou, Stella; Rahmani, Ramin

    2016-10-26

    The effect of pore induction on increasing electrospun fibrous network specific surface area was investigated in this study. Theoretical models based on the available surface area of the fibrous network and exclusion of the surface area lost due to fiber-to-fiber contacts were developed. The models for calculation of the excluded area are based on Hertzian, Derjaguin-Muller-Toporov (DMT), and Johnson-Kendall-Roberts (JKR) contact models. Overall, the theoretical models correlated the network specific surface area to the material properties including density, surface tension, Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio, as well as network physical properties, such as density and geometrical characteristics including fiber radius, fiber aspect ratio and network thickness. Pore induction proved to increase the network specific surface area up to 52%, compared to the maximum surface area that could be achieved by nonporous fiber network with the same physical properties and geometrical characteristics. The model based on Johnson-Kendall-Roberts contact model describes accurately the fiber-to-fiber contact area under the experimental conditions used for pore generation. The experimental results and the theoretical model based on Johnson-Kendall-Roberts contact model show that the increase in network surface area due to pore induction can reach to up to 58%.

  3. Development of Functional Surfaces on High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) via Gas-Assisted Etching (GAE) Using Focused Ion Beams.

    PubMed

    Sezen, Meltem; Bakan, Feray

    2015-12-01

    Irradiation damage, caused by the use of beams in electron and ion microscopes, leads to undesired physical/chemical material property changes or uncontrollable modification of structures. Particularly, soft matter such as polymers or biological materials is highly susceptible and very much prone to react on electron/ion beam irradiation. Nevertheless, it is possible to turn degradation-dependent physical/chemical changes from negative to positive use when materials are intentionally exposed to beams. Especially, controllable surface modification allows tuning of surface properties for targeted purposes and thus provides the use of ultimate materials and their systems at the micro/nanoscale for creating functional surfaces. In this work, XeF2 and I2 gases were used in the focused ion beam scanning electron microscope instrument in combination with gallium ion etching of high-density polyethylene surfaces with different beam currents and accordingly different gas exposure times resulting at the same ion dose to optimize and develop new polymer surface properties and to create functional polymer surfaces. Alterations in the surface morphologies and surface chemistry due to gas-assisted etching-based nanostructuring with various processing parameters were tracked using high-resolution SEM imaging, complementary energy-dispersive spectroscopic analyses, and atomic force microscopic investigations.

  4. Studies of the 3D surface roughness height

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

    Avisane, Anita; Rudzitis, Janis; Kumermanis, Maris

    2013-12-16

    Nowadays nano-coatings occupy more and more significant place in technology. Innovative, functional coatings acquire new aspects from the point of view of modern technologies, considering the aggregate of physical properties that can be achieved manipulating in the production process with the properties of coatings’ surfaces on micro- and nano-level. Nano-coatings are applied on machine parts, friction surfaces, contacting parts, corrosion surfaces, transparent conducting films (TCF), etc. The equipment available at present for the production of transparent conducting oxide (TCO) coatings with highest quality is based on expensive indium tin oxide (ITO) material; therefore cheaper alternatives are being searched for. Onemore » such offered alternative is zink oxide (ZnO) nano-coatings. Evaluating the TCF physical and mechanical properties and in view of the new ISO standard (EN ISO 25178) on the introduction of surface texture (3D surface roughness) in the engineering calculations, it is necessary to examine the height of 3D surface roughness, which is one of the most significant roughness parameters. The given paper studies the average values of 3D surface roughness height and the most often applied distribution laws are as follows: the normal distribution and Rayleigh distribution. The 3D surface is simulated by a normal random field.« less

  5. Molecular characterization of biochars and their influence on microbiological properties of soil

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    The composition and surface chemistry of carbon rich biochar materials is highly uncertain and believed to change with feedstock and biomass conversion process. The tentative connection between the biochar surface chemical properties and their influence on microbially mediated mineralization of C, N...

  6. Evaluation of the surface free energy of plant surfaces: toward standardizing the procedure

    PubMed Central

    Fernández, Victoria; Khayet, Mohamed

    2015-01-01

    Plant surfaces have been found to have a major chemical and physical heterogeneity and play a key protecting role against multiple stress factors. During the last decade, there is a raising interest in examining plant surface properties for the development of biomimetic materials. Contact angle measurement of different liquids is a common tool for characterizing synthetic materials, which is just beginning to be applied to plant surfaces. However, some studies performed with polymers and other materials showed that for the same surface, different surface free energy values may be obtained depending on the number and nature of the test liquids analyzed, materials' properties, and surface free energy calculation methods employed. For 3 rough and 3 rather smooth plant materials, we calculated their surface free energy using 2 or 3 test liquids and 3 different calculation methods. Regardless of the degree of surface roughness, the methods based on 2 test liquids often led to the under- or over-estimation of surface free energies as compared to the results derived from the 3-Liquids method. Given the major chemical and structural diversity of plant surfaces, it is concluded that 3 different liquids must be considered for characterizing materials of unknown physico-chemical properties, which may significantly differ in terms of polar and dispersive interactions. Since there are just few surface free energy data of plant surfaces with the aim of standardizing the calculation procedure and interpretation of the results among for instance, different species, organs, or phenological states, we suggest the use of 3 liquids and the mean surface tension values provided in this study. PMID:26217362

  7. Superhydrophobic honeycomb-like cobalt stearate thin films on aluminum with excellent anti-corrosion properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xiong, Jiawei; Sarkar, D. K.; Chen, X.-Grant

    2017-06-01

    Superhydrophobic cobalt stearate thin films with excellent anti-corrosion properties were successfully fabricated on aluminum substrates via electrodeposition process. The water-repellent properties were attributed to the honeycomb-like micro-nano structure as well as low surface energy of cobalt stearate. The correlation between the surface morphology, composition as well as wetting properties and the molar ratio of inorganic cobalt salt (Co(NO3)2) and organic stearic acid (SA) abbreviated as Co/SA, in the electrolyte were studied carefully. The optimum superhydrophobic surface obtained on the electrodeposited cathodic aluminum substrate, in the mixed ethanolic solution with Co/SA molar ratio of 0.2, was found to have a maximum contact angle of 161°. The polarization resistance of superhydrophobic aluminum substrates was calculated as high as 1591 kΩ cm2, which is determined to be two orders of magnitude larger than that of the as-received aluminum substrate as 27 kΩ cm2. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was also employed to evaluate the corrosion resistance properties of these samples. Furthermore, electrical equivalent circuits (EEC) have been suggested in order to better understand the corrosion phenomena on these surfaces based on the corresponding EIS data.

  8. Pdf modeling for premixed turbulent combustion based on the properties of iso-concentration surfaces

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Vervisch, L.; Kollmann, W.; Bray, K. N. C.; Mantel, T.

    1994-01-01

    In premixed turbulent flames the presence of intense mixing zones located in front of and behind the flame surface leads to a requirement to study the behavior of iso-concentration surfaces defined for all values of the progress variable (equal to unity in burnt gases and to zero in fresh mixtures). To support this study, some theoretical and mathematical tools devoted to level surfaces are first developed. Then a database of direct numerical simulations of turbulent premixed flames is generated and used to investigate the internal structure of the flame brush, and a new pdf model based on the properties of iso-surfaces is proposed.

  9. Inference of Surface Chemical and Physical Properties Using Mid-Infrared (MIR) Spectral Observations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Roush, Ted L.

    2016-01-01

    Reflected or emitted energy from solid surfaces in the solar system can provide insight into thermo-physical and chemical properties of the surface materials. Measurements have been obtained from instruments located on Earth-based telescopes and carried on several space missions. The characteristic spectral features commonly observed in Mid-Infrared (MIR) spectra of minerals will be reviewed, along with methods used for compositional interpretations of MIR emission spectra. The influence of surface grain size, and space weathering processes on MIR emissivity spectra will also be discussed. Methods used for estimating surface temperature, emissivity, and thermal inertias from MIR spectral observations will be reviewed.

  10. Synthesis and Characterization of Superhydrophobic, Self-cleaning NIR-reflective Silica Nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sriramulu, Deepa; Reed, Ella Louise; Annamalai, Meenakshi; Venkatesan, Thirumalai Venky; Valiyaveettil, Suresh

    2016-11-01

    Multifunctional coatings offer many advantages towards protecting various surfaces. Here we apply aggregation induced segregation of perylene diimide (PDI) to control the surface morphology and properties of silica nanoparticles. Differentially functionalized PDI was incorporated on the surface of silica nanoparticles through Si-O-Si bonds. The absorption and emission spectra of the resultant functionalised nanoparticles showed monomeric or excimeric peaks based on the amounts of perylene molecules present on the surface of silica nanoparticles. Contact angle measurements on thin films prepared from nanoparticles showed that unfunctionalised nanoparticles were superhydrophilic with a contact angle (CA) of 0°, whereas perylene functionalised silica particles were hydrophobic (CA > 130°) and nanoparticles functionalised with PDI and trimethoxy(octadecyl)silane (TMODS) in an equimolar ratio were superhydrophobic with static CA > 150° and sliding angle (SA) < 10°. In addition, the near infrared (NIR) reflectance properties of PDI incorporated silica nanoparticles can be used to protect various heat sensitive substrates. The concept developed in this paper offers a unique combination of super hydrophobicity, interesting optical properties and NIR reflectance in nanosilica, which could be used for interesting applications such as surface coatings with self-cleaning and NIR reflection properties.

  11. Surface electrochemical properties of red mud (bauxite residue): zeta potential and surface charge density.

    PubMed

    Liu, Yanju; Naidu, Ravendra; Ming, Hui

    2013-03-15

    The surface electrochemical properties of red mud (bauxite residue) from different alumina refineries in Australia and China were studied by electrophoresis and measuring surface charge density obtained from acid/base potentiometric titrations. The electrophoretic properties were measured from zeta potentials obtained in the presence of 0.01 and 0.001 M KNO(3) over a wide pH range (3.5-10) by titration. The isoelectric point (IEP) values were found to vary from 6.35 to 8.70 for the red mud samples. Further investigation into the surface charge density of one sample (RRM) by acid/base potentiometric titration showed similar results for pH(PZC) with pH(IEP) obtained from electrokinetic measurements. The pH(IEP) determined from zeta potential measurements can be used as a characteristic property of red mud. The minerals contained in red mud contributed to the different values of pH(IEP) of samples obtained from different refineries. Different relationships of pH(IEP) with Al/Fe and Al/Si ratios (molar basis) were also found for different red mud samples. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. Laser induced surface structuring of Cu for enhancement of field emission properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Akram, Mahreen; Bashir, Shazia; Jalil, Sohail Abdul; Shahid Rafique, Muhammad; Hayat, Asma; Mahmood, Khaliq

    2018-02-01

    The effect of Nd:YAG (1064 nm, 10 ns, 10 Hz) laser induced surface structuring of copper (Cu) for enhancement of field emission (FE) properties has been investigated. X-ray diffraction analysis was employed to investigate the surface structural and compositional modifications. The surface structuring was explored by scanning electron microscope investigation. FE properties were studied under UHV conditions in a parallel plate configuration of planar un-irradiated Cu anode and laser irradiated Cu cathode. The Fowler-Nordheim plots were drawn to confirm the dominance of FE behavior of the measured I-V characteristics. The obtained values of turn-on field ‘E o’, field enhancement factor ‘β’ and maximum current density ‘J max’ come out to be to be in the range of 5.5-8.5 V μm-1, 1380-2730 and 147-375 μA cm-2 respectively for the Cu samples irradiated at laser irradiance ranging from 13 to 50 GW cm-2. The observed enhancement in the FE properties has been correlated with the growth of various surface structures such as ridged protrusions, cones and pores/tiny holes. The porous morphology is found to be responsible for a significant enhancement in the FE parameters.

  13. Effect of log soaking and the temperature of peeling on the properties of rotary-cut birch (Betula pendula Roth) veneer bonded with phenol-formaldehyde adhesive

    Treesearch

    Anti Rohumaa; Akio Yamamoto; Christopher G. Hunt; Charles R. Frihart; Mark Hughes; Jaan Kers

    2016-01-01

    Heating logs prior to peeling positively affects the surface properties of veneer as well as the wood-adhesive bond strength. However, the mechanism behind this increase in strength is not fully understood. The aim of the present study was to separate the influence of soaking temperature and peeling temperature on the physical surface properties and bonding quality....

  14. Surface models of Mars, 1975

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1975-01-01

    Data derived from Mariners 6, 7, and 9, Russian Mars probes, and photographic and radar observations conducted from earth are used to develop engineering models of Martian surface properties. These models are used in mission planning and in the design of landing and exploration vehicles. Optical models needed in the design of camera systems, dielectric properties needed in the design of radar systems, and thermal properties needed in the design of the spacecraft thermal control system are included.

  15. Biological and Mechanical Effects of Micro-Nanostructured Titanium Surface on an Osteoblastic Cell Line In vitro and Osteointegration In vivo.

    PubMed

    Hao, Jingzu; Li, Ying; Li, Baoe; Wang, Xiaolin; Li, Haipeng; Liu, Shimin; Liang, Chunyong; Wang, Hongshui

    2017-09-01

    Hybrid micro-nanostructure implant surface was produced on titanium (Ti) surface by acid etching and anodic oxidation to improve the biological and mechanical properties. The biological properties of the micro-nanostructure were investigated by simulated body fluid (SBF) soaking test and MC3T3-E1 cell co-culture experiment. The cell proliferation, spreading, and bone sialoprotein (BSP) gene expression were examined by MTT, SEM, and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), respectively. In addition, the mechanical properties were evaluated by instrumented nanoindentation test and friction-wear test. Furthermore, the effect of the micro-nanostructure surface on implant osteointegration was examined by in vivo experiment. The results showed that the formation of bone-like apatite was accelerated on the micro-nanostructured Ti surface after immersion in simulated body fluid, and the proliferation, spreading, and BSP gene expression of the MC3T3-E1 cells were also upregulated on the modified surface. The micro-nanostructured Ti surface displayed decreased friction coefficient, stiffness value, and Young's modulus which were much closer to those of the cortical bone, compared to the polished Ti surface. This suggested much better mechanical match to the surrounding bone tissue of the micro-nanostructured Ti surface. Furthermore, the in vivo animal experiment showed that after implantation in the rat femora, the micro-nanostructure surface displayed higher bonding strength between bone tissues and implant; hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining suggested that much compact osteoid tissue was observed at the interface of Micro-nano-Ti-bone than polished Ti-bone interface after implantation. Based on these results mentioned above, it was concluded that the improved biological and mechanical properties of the micro-nanostructure endowed Ti surface with good biocompatibility and better osteointegration, implying the enlarged application of the micro-nanostructure surface Ti implants in future.

  16. 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.

  17. Microstructure, tribological and strength properties of the surface layer in metal-ceramic composite nano-structured by electron irradiation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ovcharenko, V. E.; Ivanov, K. V.; Mokhovikov, A. A.

    2017-12-01

    Exemplified by metal-ceramic composite TiC-(Ni-Cr) with the ratio of components 50:50, the paper presents findings of the study on patterns of nanoscale structural-phase state formation in the surface layer of the composite under pulsed electron irradiation in inert gas plasmas with different ionization energies and atomic weights and their influence on tribological and strength properties of the surface layer.

  18. Cyclic Polymers: From Scientific Curiosity to Advanced Materials for Gene Delivery and Surface Modification.

    PubMed

    Verbraeken, Bart; Hoogenboom, Richard

    2017-06-12

    Cyclic versus linear: The superiority of cyclic polymers over their linear counterparts is highlighted. Cyclic poly(2-oxazoline)s have been shown to provide excellent shielding properties when grafted to TiO 2 surfaces and Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles owing to their ultrahigh grafting densities leading to low friction surfaces, superior antifouling properties, and extreme nanoparticle stabilization. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  19. On the properties of two binary NiTi shape memory alloys. Effects of surface finish on the corrosion behaviour and in vitro biocompatibility.

    PubMed

    Es-Souni, Mohammed; Es-Souni, Martha; Fischer-Brandies, Helge

    2002-07-01

    The present paper compares the transformation behaviour and mechanical properties of two orthodontic wires of close chemical compositions. The effects of surface topography and surface finish residues on the potentiodynamic corrosion behaviour and biocompatibility are also reported. The cytotoxicity tests were performed on both alloys in fibroblast cell cultures from human gingiva using the MTT test. It is shown that the surface finish and the amounts of surface finish residues affect dramatically the corrosion resistance. Bad surface finish results in lower corrosion resistance. The in vitro biocompatibility, though not affected to the extent of corrosion resistance, is also reduced as the surface roughness and the amounts of residues increase. This is thought to be due to surface effects on corrosion and metallic ions release.

  20. Surface Modifications and Their Effects on Titanium Dental Implants

    PubMed Central

    Jemat, A.; Ghazali, M. J.; Razali, M.; Otsuka, Y.

    2015-01-01

    This review covers several basic methodologies of surface treatment and their effects on titanium (Ti) implants. The importance of each treatment and its effects will be discussed in detail in order to compare their effectiveness in promoting osseointegration. Published literature for the last 18 years was selected with the use of keywords like titanium dental implant, surface roughness, coating, and osseointegration. Significant surface roughness played an important role in providing effective surface for bone implant contact, cell proliferation, and removal torque, despite having good mechanical properties. Overall, published studies indicated that an acid etched surface-modified and a coating application on commercial pure titanium implant was most preferable in producing the good surface roughness. Thus, a combination of a good surface roughness and mechanical properties of titanium could lead to successful dental implants. PMID:26436097

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