High Electrocatalytic Activity of Vertically Aligned Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes towards Sulfide Redox Shuttles.

PubMed

Hao, Feng; Dong, Pei; Zhang, Jing; Zhang, Yongchang; Loya, Phillip E; Hauge, Robert H; Li, Jianbao; Lou, Jun; Lin, Hong

2012-01-01

Vertically aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (VASWCNTs) have been successfully transferred onto transparent conducting oxide glass and implemented as efficient low-cost, platinum-free counter electrode in sulfide -mediated dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs), featuring notably improved electrocatalytic activity toward thiolate/disulfide redox shuttle over conventional Pt counter electrodes. Impressively, device with VASWCNTs counter electrode demonstrates a high fill factor of 0.68 and power conversion efficiency up to 5.25%, which is significantly higher than 0.56 and 3.49% for that with a conventional Pt electrode. Moreover, VASWCNTs counter electrode produces a charge transfer resistance of only 21.22 Ω towards aqueous polysulfide electrolyte commonly applied in quantum dots-sensitized solar cells (QDSCs), which is several orders of magnitude lower than that of a typical Pt electrode. Therefore, VASWCNTs counter electrodes are believed to be a versatile candidate for further improvement of the power conversion efficiency of other iodine-free redox couple based DSCs and polysulfide electrolyte based QDSCs.

Vertical Alignment of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes on Nanostructure Fabricated by Atomic Force Microscope

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-03-30

Langmuir - Blodgett and self-assembly methods, WNTs are patterned selectively onto various substrates [3,4]. hou et al. assembled SWNTs into aligned...dispersion usually decreases with increasing ionic concentration, it is suggested that chloride ions are produced by dissociating from acid chloride groups...patterns can be attributed to the Marangoni effect and diffusion-limited aggregation (DLA) in the liquid film during droplet evaporation t different

Gas adsorption capacity in an all carbon nanomaterial composed of carbon nanohorns and vertically aligned carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Puthusseri, Divya; Babu, Deepu J; Okeil, Sherif; Schneider, Jörg J

2017-10-04

Whereas vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) typically show a promising adsorption behavior at high pressures, carbon nanohorns (CNHs) exhibit superior gas adsorption properties in the low pressure regime due to their inherent microporosity. These adsorption characteristics are further enhanced when both materials are opened at their tips. The so prepared composite material allows one to investigate the effect of physical entrapment of CO 2 molecules within the specific adsorption sites of VACNTs composed of opened double walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and in specific adsorption sites created by spherically aggregated opened single walled carbon nanohorns. Combining 50 wt% of tip opened CNTs with tip opened CNHs increases the CO 2 adsorption capacity of this material by ∼24% at 30 bar and 298 K compared to opened CNHs alone.

Single-walled carbon nanotubes/polymer composite electrodes patterned directly from solution.

PubMed

Chang, Jingbo; Najeeb, Choolakadavil Khalid; Lee, Jae-Hyeok; Kim, Jae-Ho

2011-06-07

This work describes a simple technique for direct patterning of single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT)/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT-PSS) composite electrodes in a large area on a substrate based on the solution transfer process by microcontact printing using poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) stamps. Various shapes of SWNT/PEDOT-PSS composite patterns, such as line, circle, and square, can be easily fabricated with high pattern fidelity and structural integrity. The single parallel line pattern device exhibits high electrical conductivity (0.75 × 10(5) S/m) and electronic stability because of alignment of nanotubes and big-size SWNT bundles (∼5 nm). The electromechanical study reveals that the composite patterns show ∼1% resistance change along SWNT alignment direction and ∼5% resistance change along vertical alignment direction after 200 bend cycles. Our approach provides a facile, low-cost method to pattern transparent conductive SWNT/polymer composite electrodes and demonstrates a novel platform for future integration of conducting SWNT/polymer composite patterns for optoelectronic applications.

A Forest of Sub-1.5-nm-wide Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes over an Engineered Alumina Support

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Ning; Li, Meng; Patscheider, Jörg; Youn, Seul Ki; Park, Hyung Gyu

2017-04-01

A precise control of the dimension of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in their vertical array could enable many promising applications in various fields. Here, we demonstrate the growth of vertically aligned, single-walled CNTs (VA-SWCNTs) with diameters in the sub-1.5-nm range (0.98 ± 0.24 nm), by engineering a catalyst support layer of alumina via thermal annealing followed by ion beam treatment. We find out that the ion beam bombardment on the alumina allows the growth of ultra-narrow nanotubes, whereas the thermal annealing promotes the vertical alignment at the expense of enlarged diameters; in an optimal combination, these two effects can cooperate to produce the ultra-narrow VA-SWCNTs. According to micro- and spectroscopic characterizations, ion beam bombardment amorphizes the alumina surface to increase the porosity, defects, and oxygen-laden functional groups on it to inhibit Ostwald ripening of catalytic Fe nanoparticles effectively, while thermal annealing can densify bulk alumina to prevent subsurface diffusion of the catalyst particles. Our findings contribute to the current efforts of precise diameter control of VA-SWCNTs, essential for applications such as membranes and energy storage devices.

Water-Assisted Highly Efficient Synthesis of Impurity-Free Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hata, Kenji; Futaba, Don N.; Mizuno, Kohei; Namai, Tatsunori; Yumura, Motoo; Iijima, Sumio

2004-11-01

We demonstrate the efficient chemical vapor deposition synthesis of single-walled carbon nanotubes where the activity and lifetime of the catalysts are enhanced by water. Water-stimulated enhanced catalytic activity results in massive growth of superdense and vertically aligned nanotube forests with heights up to 2.5 millimeters that can be easily separated from the catalysts, providing nanotube material with carbon purity above 99.98%. Moreover, patterned, highly organized intrinsic nanotube structures were successfully fabricated. The water-assisted synthesis method addresses many critical problems that currently plague carbon nanotube synthesis.

Nano Enabled Thermo-Mechanical Materials in Adhesive Joints: A New Paradigm to Materials Functionality (Preprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-12-01

interface as well as to minimize the interface contact resistance. There is an on- going effort by numerous researchers of dispersing conductive nano...constituents (single wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT), multi wall carbon nano tube ( MWCNT )) in polymers (adhesive) to enhance its thermal conductivity [1...propose to use vertically aligned MWCNT in joints to enhance through-thickness conductivity [10] because of its known high thermal conductivity

Synthesis of subnanometer-diameter vertically aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes with copper-anchored cobalt catalysts.

PubMed

Cui, Kehang; Kumamoto, Akihito; Xiang, Rong; An, Hua; Wang, Benjamin; Inoue, Taiki; Chiashi, Shohei; Ikuhara, Yuichi; Maruyama, Shigeo

2016-01-21

We synthesize vertically aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (VA-SWNTs) with subnanometer diameters on quartz (and SiO2/Si) substrates by alcohol CVD using Cu-anchored Co catalysts. The uniform VA-SWNTs with a nanotube diameter of 1 nm are synthesized at a CVD temperature of 800 °C and have a thickness of several tens of μm. The diameter of SWNTs was reduced to 0.75 nm at 650 °C with the G/D ratio maintained above 24. Scanning transmission electron microscopy energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS-STEM) and high angle annular dark field (HAADF-STEM) imaging of the Co/Cu bimetallic catalyst system showed that Co catalysts were captured and anchored by adjacent Cu nanoparticles, and thus were prevented from coalescing into a larger size, which contributed to the small diameter of SWNTs. The correlation between the catalyst size and the SWNT diameter was experimentally clarified. The subnanometer-diameter and high-quality SWNTs are expected to pave the way to replace silicon for next-generation optoelectronic and photovoltaic devices.

Multilevel, multicomponent microarchitectures of vertically-aligned carbon nanotubes for diverse applications.

PubMed

Qu, Liangti; Vaia, Rich A; Dai, Liming

2011-02-22

A simple multiple contact transfer technique has been developed for controllable fabrication of multilevel, multicomponent microarchitectures of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VA-CNTs). Three dimensional (3-D) multicomponent micropatterns of aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) have been fabricated, which can be used to develop a newly designed touch sensor with reversible electrical responses for potential applications in electronic devices, as demonstrated in this study. The demonstrated dependence of light diffraction on structural transfiguration of the resultant CNT micropattern also indicates their potential for optical devices. Further introduction of various components with specific properties (e.g., ZnO nanorods) into the CNT micropatterns enabled us to tailor such surface characteristics as wettability and light response. Owing to the highly generic nature of the multiple contact transfer strategy, the methodology developed here could provide a general approach for interposing a large variety of multicomponent elements (e.g., nanotubes, nanorods/wires, photonic crystals, etc.) onto a single chip for multifunctional device applications.

Robust forests of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes chemically assembled on carbon substrates.

PubMed

Garrett, David J; Flavel, Benjamin S; Shapter, Joseph G; Baronian, Keith H R; Downard, Alison J

2010-02-02

Forests of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) have been chemically assembled on carbon surfaces. The structures show excellent stability over a wide potential range and are resistant to degradation from sonication in acid, base, and organic solvent. Acid-treated single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) were assembled on amine-terminated tether layers covalently attached to pyrolyzed photoresist films. Tether layers were electrografted to the carbon substrate by reduction of the p-aminobenzenediazonium cation and oxidation of ethylenediamine. The amine-modified surfaces were incubated with cut SWCNTs in the presence of N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC), giving forests of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs). The SWCNT assemblies were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and electrochemistry. Under conditions where the tether layers slow electron transfer between solution-based redox probes and the underlying electrode, the assembly of VACNTs on the tether layer dramatically increases the electron-transfer rate at the surface. The grafting procedure, and hence the preparation of VACNTs, is applicable to a wide range of materials including metals and semiconductors.

Large-area fluidic assembly of single-walled carbon nanotubes through dip-coating and directional evaporation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Pilnam; Kang, Tae June

2017-12-01

We present a simple and scalable fluidic-assembly approach, in which bundles of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) are selectively aligned and deposited by directionally controlled dip-coating and solvent evaporation processes. The patterned surface with alternating regions of hydrophobic polydimethyl siloxane (PDMS) (height 100 nm) strips and hydrophilic SiO2 substrate was withdrawn vertically at a constant speed ( 3 mm/min) from a solution bath containing SWCNTs ( 0.1 mg/ml), allowing for directional evaporation and subsequent selective deposition of nanotube bundles along the edges of horizontally aligned PDMS strips. In addition, the fluidic assembly was applied to fabricate a field effect transistor (FET) with highly oriented SWCNTs, which demonstrate significantly higher current density as well as high turn-off ratio (T/O ratio 100) as compared to that with randomly distributed carbon nanotube bundles (T/O ratio <10).

Water-Assisted Highly Efficient Synthesis of Impurity-Free Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes-``Super-Growth''

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hata, Kenji

2005-03-01

We demonstrate an extremely efficient chemical vapour deposition synthesis of single-walled carbon nanotubes where the activity and lifetime of the catalysts are enhanced by water [1]. Water-stimulated enhanced catalytic activity results in massive growth of super-dense and vertically-aligned nanotube forests with heights up to 2.5 millimeters that can be easily separated from the catalysts, providing nanotube material with carbon purity above 99.98%. Moreover, patterned highly organized intrinsic nanotube structures were successfully fabricated. The water-assisted synthesis method addresses many critical problems that currently plague carbon nanotube synthesis. [1] K. Hata, et al., Science, 306, 1362 (2004).

Nonhomogeneous morphology and the elastic modulus of aligned carbon nanotube films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Won, Yoonjin; Gao, Yuan; Guzman de Villoria, Roberto; Wardle, Brian L.; Xiang, Rong; Maruyama, Shigeo; Kenny, Thomas W.; Goodson, Kenneth E.

2015-11-01

Carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays offer the potential to develop nanostructured materials that leverage their outstanding physical properties. Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs), also named CNT forests, CNT arrays, or CNT turfs, can provide high heat conductivity and sufficient mechanical compliance to accommodate thermal expansion mismatch for use as thermal interface materials (TIMs). This paper reports measurements of the in-plane moduli of vertically aligned, single-walled CNT (SWCNT) and multi-walled CNT (MWCNT) films. The mechanical response of these films is related to the nonhomogeneous morphology of the grown nanotubes, such as entangled nanotubes of a top crust layer, aligned CNTs in the middle region, and CNTs in the bottom layer. To investigate how the entanglements govern the overall mechanical moduli of CNT films, we remove the crust layer consisting of CNT entanglements by etching the CNT films from the top. A microfabricated cantilever technique shows that crust removal reduces the resulting moduli of the etched SWCNT films by as much as 40%, whereas the moduli of the etched MWCNT films do not change significantly, suggesting a minimal crust effect on the film modulus for thick MWCNT films (>90 μm). This improved understanding will allow us to engineer the mechanical moduli of CNT films for TIMs or packaging applications.

Angular dependent anisotropic terahertz response of vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotube arrays with spatial dispersion.

PubMed

Zhou, Yixuan; E, Yiwen; Xu, Xinlong; Li, Weilong; Wang, Huan; Zhu, Lipeng; Bai, Jintao; Ren, Zhaoyu; Wang, Li

2016-12-14

Spatial dispersion effect of aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in the terahertz (THz) region has significance for both theoretical and applied consideration due to the unique intrinsically anisotropic physical properties of CNTs. Herein, we report the angular dependent reflection of p-polarized THz wave from vertically aligned multi-walled CNT arrays in both experiment and theory. The spectra indicate that the reflection depends on the film thickness of vertically aligned CNTs, the incident angle, and the frequency. The calculation model is based on the spatial dispersion effect of aligned CNTs and performed with effective impedance method and the Maxwell-Garnett approximation. The results fit well with the experiment when the thickness of CNT film is thin, which reveals a coherent superposition mechanism of the CNT surface reflection and CNTs/Si interface reflection. For thick CNT films, the CNTs/Si interface response determines the reflection at small incident angles, while the CNTs surface effect dominates at large incident angles. This work investigates the spatial dispersion effect of vertically aligned CNT arrays in the THz region, and paves a way for potential anisotropic THz applications based on CNTs with oblique incidence requirements.

Angular dependent anisotropic terahertz response of vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotube arrays with spatial dispersion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Yixuan; Yiwen, E.; Xu, Xinlong; Li, Weilong; Wang, Huan; Zhu, Lipeng; Bai, Jintao; Ren, Zhaoyu; Wang, Li

2016-12-01

Spatial dispersion effect of aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in the terahertz (THz) region has significance for both theoretical and applied consideration due to the unique intrinsically anisotropic physical properties of CNTs. Herein, we report the angular dependent reflection of p-polarized THz wave from vertically aligned multi-walled CNT arrays in both experiment and theory. The spectra indicate that the reflection depends on the film thickness of vertically aligned CNTs, the incident angle, and the frequency. The calculation model is based on the spatial dispersion effect of aligned CNTs and performed with effective impedance method and the Maxwell-Garnett approximation. The results fit well with the experiment when the thickness of CNT film is thin, which reveals a coherent superposition mechanism of the CNT surface reflection and CNTs/Si interface reflection. For thick CNT films, the CNTs/Si interface response determines the reflection at small incident angles, while the CNTs surface effect dominates at large incident angles. This work investigates the spatial dispersion effect of vertically aligned CNT arrays in the THz region, and paves a way for potential anisotropic THz applications based on CNTs with oblique incidence requirements.

Helicity-dependent single-walled carbon nanotube alignment on graphite for helical angle and handedness recognition

PubMed Central

Chen, Yabin; Shen, Ziyong; Xu, Ziwei; Hu, Yue; Xu, Haitao; Wang, Sheng; Guo, Xiaolei; Zhang, Yanfeng; Peng, Lianmao; Ding, Feng; Liu, Zhongfan; Zhang, Jin

2013-01-01

Aligned single-walled carbon nanotube arrays provide a great potential for the carbon-based nanodevices and circuit integration. Aligning single-walled carbon nanotubes with selected helicities and identifying their helical structures remain a daunting issue. The widely used gas-directed and surface-directed growth modes generally suffer the drawbacks of mixed and unknown helicities of the aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes. Here we develop a rational approach to anchor the single-walled carbon nanotubes on graphite surfaces, on which the orientation of each single-walled carbon nanotube sensitively depends on its helical angle and handedness. This approach can be exploited to conveniently measure both the helical angle and handedness of the single-walled carbon nanotube simultaneously at a low cost. In addition, by combining with the resonant Raman spectroscopy, the (n,m) index of anchored single-walled carbon nanotube can be further determined from the (d,θ) plot, and the assigned (n,m) values by this approach are validated by both the electronic transition energy Eii measurement and nanodevice application. PMID:23892334

The effect of different temperature profiles upon the length and crystallinity of vertically-aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Yun, Jongju; Lee, Cheesung; Zheng, Qing; Baik, Seunghyun

2012-08-01

We synthesized vertically-aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes with an inner diameter of 1.6-7.5 nm and stack height of 80-28600 microm by chemical vapor deposition. The effects of synthesis conditions such as substrate position in the tube furnace, maximum temperature, temperature increasing rate and synthesis duration on the structure of nanotubes were investigated. It was found that slightly faster temperature increase rate resulted in significantly longer length, larger diameter and more defects of nanotubes. Structural parameters such as inner, outer diameters, wall thickness and defects were investigated using transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy.

Tuning vertical alignment and field emission properties of multi-walled carbon nanotube bundles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sreekanth, M.; Ghosh, S.; Srivastava, P.

2018-01-01

We report the growth of vertically aligned carbon nanotube bundles on Si substrate by thermal chemical vapor deposition technique. Vertical alignment was achieved without any carrier gas or lithography-assisted deposition. Growth has been carried out at 850 °C for different quantities of solution of xylene and ferrocene ranging from 2.25 to 3.00 ml in steps of 0.25 ml at a fixed concentration of 0.02 gm (ferrocene) per ml. To understand the growth mechanism, deposition was carried out for different concentrations of the solution by changing only the ferrocene quantity, ranging from 0.01 to 0.03 gm/ml. A tunable vertical alignment of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) has been achieved by this process and examined by scanning and transmission electron microscopic techniques. Micro-crystalline structural analysis has been done using Raman spectroscopy. A systematic variation in field emission (FE) current density has been observed. The highest FE current density is seen for the film grown with 0.02 gm/ml concentration, which is attributed to the better alignment of CNTs, less structural disorder and less entanglement of CNTs on the surface. The alignment of CNTs has been qualitatively understood on the basis of self-assembled catalytic particles.

CVD Growth of Carbon Nanotubes: Structure, Catalyst, and Growth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Delzeit, Lance

2003-01-01

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) exhibit extraordinary mechanical and unique electronic properties and hence have been receiving much attention in recent years for their potential in nanoelectronics, field emission devices, scanning probes, high strength composites and many more applications. Catalytic decomposition of hydrocarbon feedstock with the aid of supported transition metal catalysts - also known as chemical vapor deposition (CVD) - has become popular to produce single-walled and multi-walled nanotubes (SWNTs, MWNTs) and multiwalled nanofibers (MWNFs). The ability to grow CNTs on patterned substrates and in vertically aligned arrays, and the simplicity of the process, has made CVD growth of CNTs an attractive approach.

Cost-Effective Systems for Atomic Layer Deposition

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lubitz, Michael; Medina, Phillip A., IV; Antic, Aleks; Rosin, Joseph T.; Fahlman, Bradley D.

2014-01-01

Herein, we describe the design and testing of two different home-built atomic layer deposition (ALD) systems for the growth of thin films with sub-monolayer control over film thickness. The first reactor is a horizontally aligned hot-walled reactor with a vacuum purging system. The second reactor is a vertically aligned cold-walled reactor with a…

Dielectric properties of vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes in the terahertz and mid-infrared range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thomson, Mark D.; Zouaghi, Wissem; Meng, Fanqi; Wiecha, Matthias M.; Rabia, Kaneez; Heinlein, Thorsten; Hussein, Laith; Babu, Deepu; Yadav, Sandeep; Engstler, Jörg; Schneider, Jörg J.; Nicoloso, Norbert; Rychetský, Ivan; Kužel, Petr; Roskos, Hartmut G.

2018-01-01

We investigate the broadband dielectric properties of vertically aligned, multi-wall carbon nanotubes (VACNT), over both the terahertz (THz) and mid-infrared spectral ranges. The nominally undoped, metallic VACNT samples are probed at normal incidence, i.e. the response is predominantly due to polarisation perpendicular to the CNT axis. A detailed comparison of various conductivity models and previously reported results is presented for the non-Drude behaviour we observe in the conventional THz range (up to 2.5 THz). Extension to the mid-infrared range reveals an absorption peak at \

Mass transport through vertically aligned large diameter MWCNT embedded in parylene

PubMed Central

Krishnakumar, P; Tiwari, P B; Staples, S; Luo, T; Darici, Y; He, J; Lindsay, SM

2013-01-01

We have fabricated porous membranes using a parylene encapsulated vertically aligned forest of multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT, about 7nm inner diameter). The transport of charged particles in electrolyte through these membranes was studied by applying electric field and pressure. Under an electric field in the range of 4.4×104 V/m, electrophoresis instead of electroomosis is found to be the main mechanism for ion transport. Small molecules and 5 nm gold nanoparticles can be driven through the membranes by an electric field. However, small biomolecules, like DNA oligomers, cannot. Due to the weak electric driving force, the interactions between charged particles and the hydrophobic CNT inner surface play important roles in the transport, leading to enhanced selectivity for small molecules. Simple chemical modification on the CNT ends also induces an obvious effect on the translocation of single strand DNA oligomer and gold nanoparticle under a modest pressure (<294 Pa). PMID:23064678

Vertical Alignment of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes on Nanostructure Fabricated by Atomic Force Microscope

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-12-16

decreased by iron sintering into the Si substrate and forming metal silicide [26, 27]. To avoid the iron sintering into the Si substrate, we deposited... metal catalysts onto the Si substrate selectively by lithographic lift-off, soft lithography, offset printing, or micro-contact printing (µCP). The...Experiment 1. Preparation of Fe-Mo catalyst solution An Fe-Mo bimetallic catalyst solution was prepared by ultrasonication for 30 min using an

Pressure sensor based on pristine multi-walled carbon nanotubes forest

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yasar, M.; Mohamed, N. M.; Hamid, N. H.; Shuaib, M.

2016-11-01

In the course of the most recent decade, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been developed as alternate material for many sensing applications because of their interesting properties. Their outstanding electromechanical properties make them suitable for pressure/strain sensing application. Other than in view of their structure and number of walls (i.e. Single-Walled CNTs and MultiWalled CNTs), carbon nanotubes can likewise be classified based on their orientation and combined arrangement. One such classification is vertically aligned Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (VA-MWCNTs), regularly termed as CNTs arrays, foam or forest which is macro scale form of CNTs. Elastic behavior alongside exceptional electromechanical (high gauge factor) make it suitable for pressure sensing applications. This paper presents pressure sensor based on such carbon nanotubes forest in pristine form which enables it to perform over wider temperature range as compared to pressure sensors based on conventional materials such as Silicon.

Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotubes at Different Temperatures by Spray Pyrolysis Techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Afre, Rakesh A.; Soga, T.; Jimbo, T.; Kumar, Mukul; Ando, Y.; Sharon, M.

Vertically aligned arrays of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) were grown by spray pyrolysis of turpentine oil and ferrocene mixture at temperatures higher than 700°C. Using this simple method, we report the successful growth of vertically aligned nanotubes of ~300μm length and diameter in the range of ?20-80nm on Si(100) substrate. The ferrocene acts as an in situ Fe catalyst precursor, forming the nano-sized metallic iron particles for formation of VACNTs on the Si substrate. The morphological characteristics of VACNTs are confirmed by SEM, TEM and Raman spectroscopy and growth mechanism is discussed in short.

Enclosed, off-axis solar concentrator

DOEpatents

Benitez, Pablo; Grip, Robert E; Minano, Juan C; Narayanan, Authi A; Plesniak, Adam; Schwartz, Joel A

2013-11-26

A solar concentrator including a housing having receiving wall, a reflecting wall and at least two end walls, the receiving, reflecting and end walls defining a three-dimensional volume having an inlet, wherein a vertical axis of the housing is generally perpendicular to the inlet, a receiver mounted on the receiving wall of the housing, the receiver including at least one photovoltaic cell, wherein a vertical axis of the receiver is disposed at a non-zero angle relative to the vertical axis of the housing, at least one clip disposed on the reflecting wall an optical element received within the three-dimensional volume, the optical element including at least one tab, the tab being engaged by the clip to align the optical element with the receiver, and a window received over the inlet to enclose the housing.

Antimicrobial Properties of 2D MnO2 and MoS2 Nanomaterials Vertically Aligned on Graphene Materials and Ti3C2 MXene.

PubMed

Alimohammadi, Farbod; Sharifian Gh, Mohammad; Attanayake, Nuwan H; Thenuwara, Akila C; Gogotsi, Yury; Anasori, Babak; Strongin, Daniel R

2018-06-07

Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials have attracted considerable attention in biomedical and environmental applications due to their antimicrobial activity. In the interest of investigating the primary antimicrobial mode-of-action of 2D nanomaterials, we studied the antimicrobial properties of MnO 2 and MoS 2 , toward Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli bacteria were treated individually with 100 μg/mL of randomly oriented and vertically aligned nanomaterials for ∼3 h in the dark. The vertically aligned 2D MnO 2 and MoS 2 were grown on 2D sheets of graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, and Ti 3 C 2 MXene. Measurements to determine the viability of bacteria in the presence of the 2D nanomaterials performed by using two complementary techniques, flow cytometry, and fluorescence imaging showed that, while MnO 2 and MoS 2 nanosheets show different antibacterial activities, in both cases, Gram-positive bacteria show a higher loss in membrane integrity. Scanning electron microscopy images suggest that the 2D nanomaterials, which have a detrimental effect on bacteria viability, compromise the cell wall, leading to significant morphological changes. We propose that the peptidoglycan mesh (PM) in the bacterial wall is likely the primary target of the 2D nanomaterials. Vertically aligned 2D MnO 2 nanosheets showed the highest antimicrobial activity, suggesting that the edges of the nanosheets were likely compromising the cell walls upon contact.

Compositional-Spread Discovery of Catalysts for the Growth of Long-Length Dense Forests of Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Christen, Hans M.; Puretzky, Alex A.; Cui, Hongtao; Lowndes, Douglas H.; Belay, Kalayu; Geohegan, David B.

2004-03-01

The growth of dense forests of vertically aligned arrays of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (VAA-MWNTs) by chemical vapor deposition [CVD] from a single metallic catalyst layer typically self-terminates after only a few hundred microns of tube length. In order to obtain maximal growth to long lengths, a systematic simultaneous study of catalyst composition and thickness is needed performed here by a compositional-spread approach. Using Pulsed-Laser Deposition (PLD), metallic layers with a wedge-shaped thickness profile are deposited onto Al-coated silicon substrates. High temperature annealing of the metal catalyst films in flowing Ar/H2 gas followed by the one-hour growth of VA-MWNTs by CVD using acetylene gas yields VAA-MWNTs. Tube height (and thus the catalytic activity) is determined as function of position and can be analyzed as a function of catalyst thickness and composition. A dependence of tube height as function of catalyst composition (Mo/Fe ratio) demonstrates that a specific catalyst composition exhibits a local maximum in catalytic activity, permitting the extension of nanotube array growth up to 4 millimeters in height. Other combinations of catalysts and the growth of single-walled tubes will be discussed. This research was sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy under contract DE-AC05-00OR22725 with the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, managed by UT-Battelle, LLC, and the Laboratory-Directed Research and Development Program at ORNL.

Synthesis of subnanometer-diameter vertically aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes with copper-anchored cobalt catalysts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, Kehang; Kumamoto, Akihito; Xiang, Rong; An, Hua; Wang, Benjamin; Inoue, Taiki; Chiashi, Shohei; Ikuhara, Yuichi; Maruyama, Shigeo

2016-01-01

We synthesize vertically aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (VA-SWNTs) with subnanometer diameters on quartz (and SiO2/Si) substrates by alcohol CVD using Cu-anchored Co catalysts. The uniform VA-SWNTs with a nanotube diameter of 1 nm are synthesized at a CVD temperature of 800 °C and have a thickness of several tens of μm. The diameter of SWNTs was reduced to 0.75 nm at 650 °C with the G/D ratio maintained above 24. Scanning transmission electron microscopy energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS-STEM) and high angle annular dark field (HAADF-STEM) imaging of the Co/Cu bimetallic catalyst system showed that Co catalysts were captured and anchored by adjacent Cu nanoparticles, and thus were prevented from coalescing into a larger size, which contributed to the small diameter of SWNTs. The correlation between the catalyst size and the SWNT diameter was experimentally clarified. The subnanometer-diameter and high-quality SWNTs are expected to pave the way to replace silicon for next-generation optoelectronic and photovoltaic devices.We synthesize vertically aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (VA-SWNTs) with subnanometer diameters on quartz (and SiO2/Si) substrates by alcohol CVD using Cu-anchored Co catalysts. The uniform VA-SWNTs with a nanotube diameter of 1 nm are synthesized at a CVD temperature of 800 °C and have a thickness of several tens of μm. The diameter of SWNTs was reduced to 0.75 nm at 650 °C with the G/D ratio maintained above 24. Scanning transmission electron microscopy energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS-STEM) and high angle annular dark field (HAADF-STEM) imaging of the Co/Cu bimetallic catalyst system showed that Co catalysts were captured and anchored by adjacent Cu nanoparticles, and thus were prevented from coalescing into a larger size, which contributed to the small diameter of SWNTs. The correlation between the catalyst size and the SWNT diameter was experimentally clarified. The subnanometer-diameter and high-quality SWNTs are expected to pave the way to replace silicon for next-generation optoelectronic and photovoltaic devices. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Comparison between the Co monometallic catalyst system and the Co/Mo bimetallic catalyst system, the effect of CVD temperature on the G/D ratio, the effect of ethanol partial pressure on the morphology, diameter and quality of SWNT films, and Raman spectra of the Si/SiO2 substrate. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr06007a

Vertical Alignment of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes on Nanostructure Fabricated by Atomic Force Microscope

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-05-01

SWNTs by blending them with liquid crystal,7 assem- bling SWNT films by Langmuir - Blodgett methods,8 and chemical assembly of SWNTs on a large substrate...Ulman, A. An Introduction to Ultrathin Organic Films from Langmuir - Blodgett to Self-Assembly. Academic: New York, (1991). [10] Moon, J.H., Shin, J.W...Fang, J. Langmuir , 16, 2651, (2000). [8] FT-IR data (Bruker IFS48, KBr Pellet): 1720 cm-1 (νC=O, SWNT-COOH) and 1770 cm-1 (νC=O, SWNT- COCl). [9

Effect of porosity variation on the electrochemical behavior of vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Raut, Akshay S; Parker, Charles B; Stoner, Brian R; Glass, Jeffrey T

2012-06-01

Electrochemical charge storage characteristics of vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as a function of varying diameter and spacing are reported. It was observed that the specific capacitance of the MWCNTs increased as both diameter and inter-tube spacing decreased. The MWCNT films with 229 nm inter-MWCNT spacing exhibited specific capacitance of 228 F/g versus 70 F/g for 506 nm spacing, when tested in a non-aqueous electrolyte. Further, a trend in specific capacitance versus pore size is proposed. Coupled with previously reported trends observed in the sub-10 nm pore size regime, this is expected to offer better understanding of electrochemical behavior of porous carbon materials over a wide range of pore sizes.

Diameter and Geometry Control of Vertically Aligned SWNTs through Catalyst Manipulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiang, Rong; Einarsson, Erik; Okawa, Jun; Murakami, Yoichi; Maruyama, Shigeo

2009-03-01

We present our recent progress on manipulating our liquid-based catalyst loading process, which possesses greater potential than conventional deposition in terms of cost and scalability, to control the diameter and morphology of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). We demonstrate that the diameter of aligned SWNTs synthesized by alcohol catalytic CVD can be tailored over a wide range by modifying the catalyst recipe. SWNT arrays with an average diameter as small as 1.2 nm were obtained by this method. Additionally, owing to the alignment of the array, the continuous change of the SWNT diameter during a single CVD process can be clearly observed and quantitatively characterized. We have also developed a versatile wet chemistry method to localize the growth of SWNTs to desired regions via surface modification. By functionalizing the silicon surface using a classic self-assembled monolayer, the catalyst can be selectively dip-coated onto hydrophilic areas of the substrate. This technique was successful in producing both random and aligned SWNTs with various patterns. The precise control of the diameter and morphology of SWNTs, achieved by simple and scalable liquid-based surface chemistry, could greatly facilitate the application of SWNTs as the building blocks of future nano-devices.

Fabrication of Single, Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotubes in 3D Nanoscale Architectures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaul, Anupama B.; Megerian, Krikor G.; Von Allmen, Paul A.; Baron, Richard L.

2010-01-01

Plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) and high-throughput manufacturing techniques for integrating single, aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into novel 3D nanoscale architectures have been developed. First, the PECVD growth technique ensures excellent alignment of the tubes, since the tubes align in the direction of the electric field in the plasma as they are growing. Second, the tubes generated with this technique are all metallic, so their chirality is predetermined, which is important for electronic applications. Third, a wafer-scale manufacturing process was developed that is high-throughput and low-cost, and yet enables the integration of just single, aligned tubes with nanoscale 3D architectures with unprecedented placement accuracy and does not rely on e-beam lithography. Such techniques should lend themselves to the integration of PECVD grown tubes for applications ranging from interconnects, nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS), sensors, bioprobes, or other 3D electronic devices. Chemically amplified polyhydroxystyrene-resin-based deep UV resists were used in conjunction with excimer laser-based (lambda = 248 nm) step-and-repeat lithography to form Ni catalyst dots = 300 nm in diameter that nucleated single, vertically aligned tubes with high yield using dc PECVD growth. This is the first time such chemically amplified resists have been used, resulting in the nucleation of single, vertically aligned tubes. In addition, novel 3D nanoscale architectures have been created using topdown techniques that integrate single, vertically aligned tubes. These were enabled by implementing techniques that use deep-UV chemically amplified resists for small-feature-size resolution; optical lithography units that allow unprecedented control over layer-to-layer registration; and ICP (inductively coupled plasma) etching techniques that result in near-vertical, high-aspect-ratio, 3D nanoscale architectures, in conjunction with the use of materials that are structurally and chemically compatible with the high-temperature synthesis of the PECVD-grown tubes. The techniques offer a wafer-scale process solution for integrating single PECVD-grown nanotubes into novel architectures that should accelerate their integration in 3D electronics in general. NASA can directly benefit from this technology for its extreme-environment planetary missions. Current Si transistors are inherently more susceptible to high radiation, and do not tolerate extremes in temperature. These novel 3D nanoscale architectures can form the basis for NEMS switches that are inherently less susceptible to radiation or to thermal extremes.

Guided growth of large-scale, horizontally aligned arrays of single-walled carbon nanotubes and their use in thin-film transistors.

PubMed

Kocabas, Coskun; Hur, Seung-Hyun; Gaur, Anshu; Meitl, Matthew A; Shim, Moonsub; Rogers, John A

2005-11-01

A convenient process for generating large-scale, horizontally aligned arrays of pristine, single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) is described. The approach uses guided growth, by chemical vapor deposition (CVD), of SWNTs on miscut single-crystal quartz substrates. Studies of the growth reveal important relationships between the density and alignment of the tubes, the CVD conditions, and the morphology of the quartz. Electrodes and dielectrics patterned on top of these arrays yield thin-film transistors that use the SWNTs as effective thin-film semiconductors. The ability to build high-performance devices of this type suggests significant promise for large-scale aligned arrays of SWNTs in electronics, sensors, and other applications.

Superemission in vertically-aligned single-wall carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khmelinskii, Igor; Makarov, Vladimir

2016-09-01

Presently we used two samples of vertically aligned single-wall carbon nanotubes (VA SWCNTs) with parallelepiped geometry, sized 0.02 cm × 0.2 cm × 1.0 cm and 0.2 cm × 0.2 cm × 1.0 cm. We report absorption and emission properties of the VA SWCNTs, including strong anisotropy in both their absorption and emission spectra. We found that the emission spectra extend from the middle-IR range to the near-IR range, with such extended spectra being reported for the first time. Pumping the VA SWCNTs in the direction normal to their axis, superemission (SE) was observed in the direction along their axis. The SE band maximum is located at 7206 ± 0.4 cm-1. The energy and the power density of the superemission were estimated, along with the diffraction-limited divergence. At the pumping energy of 3 mJ/pulse, the SE energy measured by the detector was 0.74 mJ/pulse, corresponding to the total SE energy of 1.48 mJ/pulse, with the energy density of 18.5 mJ cm-2/pulse and the SE power density of 1.2 × 105 W cm-2/pulse. We report that a bundle of VA SWCNTs is an emitter with a relatively small divergence, not exceeding 3.9 × 10-3 rad. We developed a theoretical approach to explain such absorption and emission spectra. The developed theory is based on the earlier proposed SSH theory, which we extended to include the exchange interactions between the closest SWCNT neighbors. The developed theoretical ideas were implemented in a homemade FORTRAN code. This code was successfully used to calculate and reproduce the experimental spectra and to determine the SWCNT species that originate the respective absorption bands, with acceptable agreement between theory and experiment.

Growth of single wall carbon nanotubes using PECVD technique: An efficient chemiresistor gas sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lone, Mohd Yaseen; Kumar, Avshish; Husain, Samina; Zulfequar, M.; Harsh; Husain, Mushahid

2017-03-01

In this work, the uniform and vertically aligned single wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have been grown on Iron (Fe) deposited Silicon (Si) substrate by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) technique at very low temperature of 550 °C. The as-grown samples of SWCNTS were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) and Raman spectrometer. SWCNT based chemiresistor gas sensing device was fabricated by making the proper gold contacts on the as-grown SWCNTs. The electrical conductance and sensor response of grown SWCNTs have been investigated. The fabricated SWCNT sensor was exposed to ammonia (NH3) gas at 200 ppm in a self assembled apparatus. The sensor response was measured at room temperature which was discussed in terms of adsorption of NH3 gas molecules on the surface of SWCNTs. The achieved results are used to develope a miniaturized gas sensor device for monitoring and control of environment pollutants.

Noble Metal Decoration and Alignment of Carbon Nanotubes in Carboxymethyl Cellulose

EPA Science Inventory

A facile microwave (MW) method is described that accomplishes alignment and decoration of noble metals on carbon nanotubes wrapped with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) such as single-wall (SWNT), multi-wall (MWNT) and Buckminsterfullerene (C-60) were well ...

Inkjet printing of aligned single-walled carbon-nanotube thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takagi, Yuki; Nobusa, Yuki; Gocho, Shota; Kudou, Hikaru; Yanagi, Kazuhiro; Kataura, Hiromichi; Takenobu, Taishi

2013-04-01

We report a method for the inkjet printing of aligned single-walled carbon-nanotube (SWCNT) films by combining inkjet technology with the strong wettability contrast between hydrophobic and hydrophilic areas based on the patterning of self-assembled monolayers. Both the drying process control using the strong wettability boundary and the coffee-stain effect strongly promote the aggregation of SWCNTs along the contact line of a SWCNT ink droplet, thereby demonstrating our achievement of inkjet-printed aligned SWCNT films. This method could open routes for developing high-performance and environmentally friendly SWCNT printed electronics.

Ultra-stiff large-area carpets of carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meysami, Seyyed Shayan; Dallas, Panagiotis; Britton, Jude; Lozano, Juan G.; Murdock, Adrian T.; Ferraro, Claudio; Gutierrez, Eduardo Saiz; Rijnveld, Niek; Holdway, Philip; Porfyrakis, Kyriakos; Grobert, Nicole

2016-06-01

Herewith, we report the influence of post-synthesis heat treatment (<=2350 °C and plasma temperatures) on the crystal structure, defect density, purity, alignment and dispersibility of free-standing large-area (several cm2) carpets of ultra-long (several mm) vertically aligned multi-wall carbon nanotubes (VA-MWCNTs). VA-MWCNTs were produced in large quantities (20-30 g per batch) using a semi-scaled-up aerosol-assisted chemical vapour deposition (AACVD) setup. Electron and X-ray diffraction showed that the heat treatment at 2350 °C under inert atmosphere purifies, removes residual catalyst particles, and partially aligns adjacent single crystals (crystallites) in polycrystalline MWCNTs. The purification and improvement in the crystallites alignment within the MWCNTs resulted in reduced dispersibility of the VA-MWCNTs in liquid media. High-resolution microscopy revealed that the crystallinity is improved in scales of few tens of nanometres while the point defects remain largely unaffected. The heat treatment also had a marked benefit on the mechanical properties of the carpets. For the first time, we report compression moduli as high as 120 MPa for VA-MWCNT carpets, i.e. an order of magnitude higher than previously reported figures. The application of higher temperatures (arc-discharge plasma, >=4000 °C) resulted in the formation of a novel graphite-matrix composite reinforced with CVD and arc-discharge-like carbon nanotubes.Herewith, we report the influence of post-synthesis heat treatment (<=2350 °C and plasma temperatures) on the crystal structure, defect density, purity, alignment and dispersibility of free-standing large-area (several cm2) carpets of ultra-long (several mm) vertically aligned multi-wall carbon nanotubes (VA-MWCNTs). VA-MWCNTs were produced in large quantities (20-30 g per batch) using a semi-scaled-up aerosol-assisted chemical vapour deposition (AACVD) setup. Electron and X-ray diffraction showed that the heat treatment at 2350 °C under inert atmosphere purifies, removes residual catalyst particles, and partially aligns adjacent single crystals (crystallites) in polycrystalline MWCNTs. The purification and improvement in the crystallites alignment within the MWCNTs resulted in reduced dispersibility of the VA-MWCNTs in liquid media. High-resolution microscopy revealed that the crystallinity is improved in scales of few tens of nanometres while the point defects remain largely unaffected. The heat treatment also had a marked benefit on the mechanical properties of the carpets. For the first time, we report compression moduli as high as 120 MPa for VA-MWCNT carpets, i.e. an order of magnitude higher than previously reported figures. The application of higher temperatures (arc-discharge plasma, >=4000 °C) resulted in the formation of a novel graphite-matrix composite reinforced with CVD and arc-discharge-like carbon nanotubes. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c6nr01660j

Production of vertical arrays of small diameter single-walled carbon nanotubes

DOEpatents

Hauge, Robert H; Xu, Ya-Qiong

2013-08-13

A hot filament chemical vapor deposition method has been developed to grow at least one vertical single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT). In general, various embodiments of the present invention disclose novel processes for growing and/or producing enhanced nanotube carpets with decreased diameters as compared to the prior art.

Regular and reverse nanoscale stick-slip behavior: Modeling and experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Landolsi, Fakhreddine; Sun, Yuekai; Lu, Hao; Ghorbel, Fathi H.; Lou, Jun

2010-02-01

We recently proposed a new nanoscale friction model based on the bristle interpretation of single asperity contacts. The model is mathematically continuous and dynamic which makes it suitable for implementation in nanomanipulation and nanorobotic modeling. In the present paper, friction force microscope (FFM) scans of muscovite mica samples and vertically aligned multi-wall carbon nanotubes (VAMWCNTs) arrays are conducted. The choice of these materials is motivated by the fact that they exibit different stick-slip behaviors. The corresponding experimental and simulation results are compared. Our nanoscale friction model is shown to represent both the regular and reverse frictional sawtooth characteristics of the muscovite mica and the VAMWCNTs, respectively.

Nanostructured pillars based on vertically aligned carbon nanotubes as the stationary phase in micro-CEC.

PubMed

Wu, Ren-Guei; Yang, Chung-Shi; Wang, Pen-Cheng; Tseng, Fan-Gang

2009-06-01

We present a micro-CEC chip carrying out a highly efficient separation of dsDNA fragments through vertically aligned multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in a microchannel. The vertically aligned MWCNTs were grown directly in the microchannel to form straight nanopillar arrays as ordered and directional chromatographic supports. 1-Pyrenedodecanoic acid was employed for the surface modification of the MWCNTs' stationary phase to adsorb analytes by hydrophobic interactions. This device was used for separating dsDNA fragments of three different lengths (254, 360, and 572 bp), and fluorescence detection was employed to verify the electrokinetic transport in the MWCNT array. The micro-CEC separation of the three compounds was achieved in less than 300 s at a field strength of 66 V/cm due to superior laminar flow patterns and a lower flow resistance resulting from the vertically aligned MWCNTs being used as the stationary phase medium. In addition, a fivefold reduction of band broadening was obtained when the analyte was separated by the chromatographic MWCNT array channel instead of the CE channel. From all of the results, we suggest that an in situ grown and directional MWCNT array can potentially be useful for preparing more diversified forms of stationary phases for vertically efficient chip-based electrochromatography.

Effect of Alignment on Transport Properties of Carbon Nanotube/Metallic Junctions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Buzz; Namkung, Min; Smits, Jan; Williams, Phillip; Harvey, Robert

2003-01-01

Ballistic and spin coherent transport in single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) are predicted to enable high sensitivity single-nanotube devices for strain and magnetic field sensing. Based upon these phenomena, electron beam lithography procedures have been developed to study the transport properties of purified HiPCO single walled carbon nanotubes for development into sensory materials for nondestructive evaluation. Purified nanotubes are dispersed in solvent suspension and then deposited on the device substrate before metallic contacts are defined and deposited through electron beam lithography. This procedure produces randomly dispersed ropes, typically 2 - 20 nm in diameter, of single walled carbon nanotubes. Transport and scanning probe microscopy studies have shown a good correlation between the junction resistance and tube density, alignment, and contact quality. In order to improve transport properties of the junctions a technique has been developed to align and concentrate nanotubes at specific locations on the substrate surface. Lithographic techniques are used to define local areas where high frequency electric fields are to be concentrated. Application of the fields while the substrate is exposed to nanotube-containing solution results in nanotube arrays aligned with the electric field lines. A second electron beam lithography layer is then used to deposit metallic contacts across the aligned tubes. Experimental measurements are presented showing the increased tube alignment and improvement in the transport properties of the junctions.

Fabrication and flow characterization of vertically aligned carbon-nanotube/polymer membranes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Castellano, Richard; Meshot, Eric; Fornasiero, Francesco; Shan, Jerry

2017-11-01

Membranes with well-controlled nanopores are of interest for applications as diverse as chemical separations, water purification, and ``green'' power generation. In particular, membranes incorporating carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as through-pores have been shown to pass fluids at rates orders-of-magnitude faster than predicted by continuum theory. However, cost-effective and scalable solutions for fabricating such membranes are still an area of research. We describe a solution-based fabrication technique for creating polymer composite membranes from bulk nanotubes using electric-field alignment and electrophoretic concentration. We then focus on flow characterization of membranes with single-wall nanotube (SWNT) pores. We demonstrate membrane quality by size-exclusion testing and showing that the flowrate of different gasses scales as the square root of molecular weight. The gas flowrates and moisture-vapor-transmission rates are compared with theoretical predictions and with composite membranes -fabricated from CVD-grown SWNT arrays. Funded by DTRA Grant BA12PHM123.

A new method and device of aligning patient setup lasers in radiation therapy.

PubMed

Hwang, Ui-Jung; Jo, Kwanghyun; Lim, Young Kyung; Kwak, Jung Won; Choi, Sang Hyuon; Jeong, Chiyoung; Kim, Mi Young; Jeong, Jong Hwi; Shin, Dongho; Lee, Se Byeong; Park, Jeong-Hoon; Park, Sung Yong; Kim, Siyong

2016-01-08

The aim of this study is to develop a new method to align the patient setup lasers in a radiation therapy treatment room and examine its validity and efficiency. The new laser alignment method is realized by a device composed of both a metallic base plate and a few acrylic transparent plates. Except one, every plate has either a crosshair line (CHL) or a single vertical line that is used for alignment. Two holders for radiochromic film insertion are prepared in the device to find a radiation isocenter. The right laser positions can be found optically by matching the shadows of all the CHLs in the gantry head and the device. The reproducibility, accuracy, and efficiency of laser alignment and the dependency on the position error of the light source were evaluated by comparing the means and the standard deviations of the measured laser positions. After the optical alignment of the lasers, the radiation isocenter was found by the gantry and collimator star shots, and then the lasers were translated parallel to the isocenter. In the laser position reproducibility test, the mean and standard deviation on the wall of treatment room were 32.3 ± 0.93 mm for the new method whereas they were 33.4 ± 1.49 mm for the conventional method. The mean alignment accuracy was 1.4 mm for the new method, and 2.1 mm for the conventional method on the walls. In the test of the dependency on the light source position error, the mean laser position was shifted just by a similar amount of the shift of the light source in the new method, but it was greatly magnified in the conventional method. In this study, a new laser alignment method was devised and evaluated successfully. The new method provided more accurate, more reproducible, and faster alignment of the lasers than the conventional method.

Thin Film CuInS2 Prepared by Spray Pyrolysis with Single-Source Precursors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jin, Michael H.; Banger, Kulinder K.; Harris, Jerry D.; Cowen, Jonathan E.; Hepp, Aloysius F.; Lyons, Valerie (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

Both horizontal hot-wall and vertical cold-wall atmospheric chemical spray pyrolysis processes deposited near single-phase stoichiometric CuInS2 thin films. Single-source precursors developed for ternary chalcopyrite materials were used for this study, and a new liquid phase single-source precursor was tested with a vertical cold-wall reactor. The depositions were carried out under an argon atmosphere, and the substrate temperature was kept at 400 C. Columnar grain structure was obtained with vapor deposition, and the granular structure was obtained with (liquid) droplet deposition. Conductive films were deposited with planar electrical resistivities ranging from 1 to 30 Omega x cm.

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.

Single-particle studies of band alignment effects on electron transfer dynamics from semiconductor hetero-nanostructures to single-walled carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Yuan, Chi-Tsu; Wang, Yong-Gang; Huang, Kuo-Yen; Chen, Ting-Yu; Yu, Pyng; Tang, Jau; Sitt, Amit; Banin, Uri; Millo, Oded

2012-01-24

We utilize single-molecule spectroscopy combined with time-correlated single-photon counting to probe the electron transfer (ET) rates from various types of semiconductor hetero-nanocrystals, having either type-I or type-II band alignment, to single-walled carbon nanotubes. A significantly larger ET rate was observed for type-II ZnSe/CdS dot-in-rod nanostructures as compared to type-I spherical CdSe/ZnS core/shell quantum dots and to CdSe/CdS dot-in-rod structures. Furthermore, such rapid ET dynamics can compete with both Auger and radiative recombination processes, with significance for effective photovoltaic operation. © 2011 American Chemical Society

Flow-driven alignment of carbon nanotubes during floating evaporative self assembly

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berson, Arganthael; Jinkins, Katherine; Chan, Jason; Brady, Gerald; Gronski, Kjerstin; Gopalan, Padma; Evensen, Harold; Arnold, Michael

2017-11-01

Individual semi-conducting single-wall carbon nanotubes (s-SWCNTs) exhibit exceptional electronic properties, which makes them promising candidates for the next generation of semi-conductor electronics. In practice, field-effect transistors (FETs) are fabricated from arrays of s-SWCNTs deposited onto a substrate. In order to achieve high electronic performance, the s-SWCNTs in these arrays must be densely packed and well aligned. Floating Evaporative Self Assembly (FESA) is a new deposition technique developed at the UW-Madison that can achieve such high-quality s-SWCNT alignment. For example, it was used to fabricate the first s-SWCNT-based FETs to outperform gallium arsenide and silicon FETs. In FESA, a droplet of ink containing the s-SWCNTs is deposited onto a pool of water. The ink spreads on the water surface towards a substrate that is vertically pulled out of the water. A band of aligned s-SWCNTs is deposited with each drop of ink. High-speed imaging is combined with cross-polarized microscopy to elucidate the mechanisms behind the exceptional alignment of s-SWCNTs. Two key mechanisms are 1) the collection of s-SWCNTs at the ink-water interface and 2) the depinning of the air-ink-substrate contact line. Avenues for scaling up FESA will be presented.

High-performance field emission device utilizing vertically aligned carbon nanotubes-based pillar architectures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Bipin Kumar; Kedawat, Garima; Gangwar, Amit Kumar; Nagpal, Kanika; Kashyap, Pradeep Kumar; Srivastava, Shubhda; Singh, Satbir; Kumar, Pawan; Suryawanshi, Sachin R.; Seo, Deok Min; Tripathi, Prashant; More, Mahendra A.; Srivastava, O. N.; Hahm, Myung Gwan; Late, Dattatray J.

2018-01-01

The vertical aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs)-based pillar architectures were created on laminated silicon oxide/silicon (SiO2/Si) wafer substrate at 775 °C by using water-assisted chemical vapor deposition under low pressure process condition. The lamination was carried out by aluminum (Al, 10.0 nm thickness) as a barrier layer and iron (Fe, 1.5 nm thickness) as a catalyst precursor layer sequentially on a silicon wafer substrate. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images show that synthesized CNTs are vertically aligned and uniformly distributed with a high density. The CNTs have approximately 2-30 walls with an inner diameter of 3-8 nm. Raman spectrum analysis shows G-band at 1580 cm-1 and D-band at 1340 cm-1. The G-band is higher than D-band, which indicates that CNTs are highly graphitized. The field emission analysis of the CNTs revealed high field emission current density (4mA/cm2 at 1.2V/μm), low turn-on field (0.6 V/μm) and field enhancement factor (6917) with better stability and longer lifetime. Emitter morphology resulting in improved promising field emission performances, which is a crucial factor for the fabrication of pillared shaped vertical aligned CNTs bundles as practical electron sources.

Shiqaq Hai Musalla Primary Healthcare Center, Kirkuk, Iraq: Sustainment Assessment

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-04-13

show any indicators of failure. The floors appeared even and level, and there were no apparent signs of settlement or displacement. During the...failure. The floors appeared even and level, and there were no apparent signs of settlement or displacement. With the exception of the walls tributary... settlement . The walls above the cantilever beams over the portico to the building had vertical cracks that aligned with the beam supports below

A new method and device of aligning patient setup lasers in radiation therapy

PubMed Central

Hwang, Ui‐Jung; Jo, Kwanghyun; Kwak, Jung Won; Choi, Sang Hyoun; Jeong, Chiyoung; Kim, Mi Young; Jeong, Jong Hwi; Shin, Dongho; Lee, Se Byeong; Park, Jeong‐Hoon; Park, Sung Yong; Kim, Siyong

2016-01-01

The aim of this study is to develop a new method to align the patient setup lasers in a radiation therapy treatment room and examine its validity and efficiency. The new laser alignment method is realized by a device composed of both a metallic base plate and a few acrylic transparent plates. Except one, every plate has either a crosshair line (CHL) or a single vertical line that is used for alignment. Two holders for radiochromic film insertion are prepared in the device to find a radiation isocenter. The right laser positions can be found optically by matching the shadows of all the CHLs in the gantry head and the device. The reproducibility, accuracy, and efficiency of laser alignment and the dependency on the position error of the light source were evaluated by comparing the means and the standard deviations of the measured laser positions. After the optical alignment of the lasers, the radiation isocenter was found by the gantry and collimator star shots, and then the lasers were translated parallel to the isocenter. In the laser position reproducibility test, the mean and standard deviation on the wall of treatment room were 32.3±0.93 mm for the new method whereas they were 33.4±1.49 mm for the conventional method. The mean alignment accuracy was 1.4 mm for the new method, and 2.1 mm for the conventional method on the walls. In the test of the dependency on the light source position error, the mean laser position was shifted just by a similar amount of the shift of the light source in the new method, but it was greatly magnified in the conventional method. In this study, a new laser alignment method was devised and evaluated successfully. The new method provided more accurate, more reproducible, and faster alignment of the lasers than the conventional method. PACS numbers: 87.56.Fc, 87.53.Bn, 87.53.Kn, 87.53.Ly, 87.55.Gh PMID:26894331

Fabrication of aligned porous LaNi0.6Fe0.4O3 perovskite by water based freeze casting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soltani, Niloofar; Martínez-Bautista, Rubén; Bahrami, Amin; Huerta Arcos, Lázaro; Cassir, Michel; Chávez Carvayar, José

2018-05-01

A novel porous cathode of LaNi0.6Fe0.4O3 perovskite with aligned porosities was engineered for solid oxide fuel cells. LaNi0.6Fe0.4O3 was produced through metal nitrate and acid citric combustion method and calcined at different temperatures. The synthesized LNF at 600 °C shows specific surface area (SBET) of 24.4 m2 g-1 and an average pore size of 12.2 nm. The chemical composition and structure of LaNi0.6Fe0.4O3 synthesized at temperature 600-1400 °C, were analyzed by XRD, XPS and HRTEM. SEM observations of freeze cast nano-sized LNF showed the vertically aligned hexagonal walls. These walls contain a great value of fine pores which accelerate the gas transportation.

Vertically aligned gas-insulated transmission line having particle traps at the inner conductor

DOEpatents

Dale, Steinar J.

1984-01-01

Gas insulated electrical apparatus having first and second conductors separated by an insulating support within an insulating gas environment, and particle traps disposed along the surface of the high potential conductor for trapping and inactivating foreign particles which may be present within the insulating gas medium. Several embodiments of the invention were developed which are particularly suited for vertically aligned gas insulated transmission lines. The particle traps are grooves or cavities formed into the walls of the tubular inner conductor, without extending into the hollow portion of the conductor. In other embodiments, the traps are appendages or insert flanges extending from the inner conductor, with the insulator supports contacting the appendages instead of the inner conductor.

Self-aligned gated field emission devices using single carbon nanofiber cathodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guillorn, M. A.; Melechko, A. V.; Merkulov, V. I.; Hensley, D. K.; Simpson, M. L.; Lowndes, D. H.

2002-11-01

We report on the fabrication and operation of integrated gated field emission devices using single vertically aligned carbon nanofiber (VACNF) cathodes where the gate aperture has been formed using a self-aligned technique based on chemical mechanical polishing. We find that this method for producing gated cathode devices easily achieves structures with gate apertures on the order of 2 mum that show good concentric alignment to the VACNF emitter. The operation of these devices was explored and field emission characteristics that fit well to the Fowler-Nordheim model of emission was demonstrated.

Aligned Single Wall Carbon Nanotube Polymer Composites Using an Electric Field

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Park, Cheol; Wiklinson, John; Banda, Sumanth; Ounaies, Zoubeida; Wise, Kristopher E.; Sauti, Godfrey; Lillehei, Peter T.; Harrison, Joycelyn S.

2005-01-01

While high shear alignment has been shown to improve the mechanical properties of single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNT)-polymer composites, it is difficult to control and often results in degradation of the electrical and dielectric properties of the composite. Here, we report a novel method to actively align SWNTs in a polymer matrix, which allows for control over the degree of alignment of SWNTs without the side effects of shear alignment. In this process, SWNTs are aligned via field-induced dipolar interactions among the nanotubes under an AC electric field in a liquid matrix followed by immobilization by photopolymerization while maintaining the electric field. Alignment of SWNTs was controlled as a function of magnitude, frequency, and application time of the applied electric field. The degree of SWNT alignment was assessed using optical microscopy and polarized Raman spectroscopy and the morphology of the aligned nanocomposites was investigated by high resolution scanning electron microscopy. The structure of the field induced aligned SWNTs is intrinsically different from that of shear aligned SWNTs. In the present work, SWNTs are not only aligned along the field, but also migrate laterally to form thick, aligned SWNT percolative columns between the electrodes. The actively aligned SWNTs amplify the electrical and dielectric properties in addition to improving the mechanical properties of the composite. All of these properties of the aligned nanocomposites exhibited anisotropic characteristics, which were controllable by tuning the applied field conditions.

Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes as anode and air-cathode in single chamber microbial fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amade, R.; Moreno, H. A.; Hussain, S.; Vila-Costa, M.; Bertran, E.

2016-10-01

Electrode optimization in microbial fuel cells is a key issue to improve the power output and cell performance. Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) grown on low cost stainless-steel mesh present an attractive approach to increase the cell performance while avoiding the use of expensive Pt-based materials. In comparison with non-aligned carbon nanotubes (NACNTs), VACNTs increase the oxygen reduction reaction taking place at the cathode by a factor of two. In addition, vertical alignment also increases the power density up to 2.5 times with respect to NACNTs. VACNTs grown at the anode can further improve the cell performance by increasing the electrode surface area and thus the electron transfer between bacteria and the electrode. The maximum power density obtained using VACNTs was 14 mW/m2 and 160 mV output voltage.

Freestanding Aligned Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes for Supercapacitor Devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moreira, João Vitor Silva; Corat, Evaldo José; May, Paul William; Cardoso, Lays Dias Ribeiro; Lelis, Pedro Almeida; Zanin, Hudson

2016-11-01

We report on the synthesis and electrochemical properties of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) for supercapacitor devices. Freestanding vertically-aligned MWCNTs and MWCNT powder were grown concomitantly in a one-step chemical vapour deposition process. Samples were characterized by scanning and transmission electron microscopies and Fourier transform infrared and Raman spectroscopies. At similar film thicknesses and surface areas, the freestanding MWCNT electrodes showed higher electrochemical capacitance and gravimetric specific energy and power than the randomly-packed nanoparticle-based electrodes. This suggests that more ordered electrode film architectures facilitate faster electron and ion transport during the charge-discharge processes. Energy storage and supply or supercapacitor devices made from these materials could bridge the gap between rechargeable batteries and conventional high-power electrostatic capacitors.

Feasibility study of an aerial manipulator interacting with a vertical wall

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-01

each blade . Some tests are run with different levels of PWM input and the resultant angular acceleration in each case is measured with the motion...Helicopter Near a Vertical Surface ...................29 Figure 15. Near-Wall Moment for a Single Blade Helicopter. Source: [30]. .............30...with canted propellers is proposed, so that each blade applies thrust with components in the vertical and in the horizontal plane. In Figure 10

Large-area, electronically monodisperse, aligned single-walled carbon nanotube thin films fabricated by evaporation-driven self-assembly.

PubMed

Shastry, Tejas A; Seo, Jung-Woo T; Lopez, Josue J; Arnold, Heather N; Kelter, Jacob Z; Sangwan, Vinod K; Lauhon, Lincoln J; Marks, Tobin J; Hersam, Mark C

2013-01-14

By varying the evaporation conditions and the nanotube and surfactant concentrations, large-area, aligned single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) thin films are fabricated from electronically monodisperse SWCNT solutions by evaporation-driven self-assembly with precise control over the thin film growth geometry. Tunability is possible from 0.5 μm stripes to continuous thin films. The resulting SWCNT thin films possess highly anisotropic electrical and optical properties that are well suited for transparent conductor applications. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Direct current injection and thermocapillary flow for purification of aligned arrays of single-walled carbon nanotubes

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

Xie, Xu; Islam, Ahmad E.; Seabron, Eric

2015-04-07

Aligned arrays of semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes (s-SWNTs) represent ideal configurations for use of this class of material in high performance electronics. Development of means for removing the metallic SWNTs (m-SWNTs) in as-grown arrays represents an essential challenge. Here, we introduce a simple scheme that achieves this type of purification using direct, selective current injection through interdigitated electrodes into the m-SWNTs, to allow their complete removal using processes of thermocapillarity and dry etching. Experiments and numerical simulations establish the fundamental aspects that lead to selectivity in this process, thereby setting design rules for optimization. Single-step purification of arrays that includemore » thousands of SWNTs demonstrates the effectiveness and simplicity of the procedures. The result is a practical route to large-area aligned arrays of purely s-SWNTs with low-cost experimental setups.« less

Miniature modular microwave end-to-end receiver

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sukamto, Lin M. (Inventor); Cooley, Thomas W. (Inventor); Janssen, Michael A. (Inventor); Parks, Gary S. (Inventor)

1993-01-01

An end-to-end microwave receiver system contained in a single miniature hybrid package mounted on a single heatsink is presented. It includes an input end connected to a microwave receiver antenna and an output end which produces a digital count proportional to the amplitude of a signal of a selected microwave frequency band received at the antenna and corresponding to one of the water vapor absorption lines near frequencies of 20 GHz or 30 GHz. The hybrid package is on the order of several centimeters in length and a few centimeters in height and width. The package includes an L-shaped carrier having a base surface, a vertical wall extending up from the base surface and forming a corner therewith, and connection pins extending through the vertical wall. Modular blocks rest on the base surface against the vertical wall and support microwave monolithic integrated circuits on top surfaces thereof connected to the external connection pins. The modular blocks lie end-to-end on the base surface so as to be modularly removable by sliding along the base surface beneath the external connection pins away from the vertical wall.

Filtration-wet transferred transparent conducting films of mm long carbon nanotubes grown using water-assisted chemical vapor deposition.

PubMed

Patole, Shashikant P; Shin, Dong Wook; Fugetsu, Bunshi; Yoo, Ji-Beom

2013-11-01

Transparent conducting films (TCF) made up from carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have a tremendous potential in replacing the indium tin oxide films. Compare to single wall CNTs multiwall CNTs are more metallic and are more suitable candidate for the TCF. In this letter we report the use of selectively grown mm-scale, few-wall, vertically aligned CNTs for the fabrication of TCF. Water-assisted chemical vapor deposition was used to grow the mm-scale CNTs within short growth time. A special post-growth water-vapor treatment allowed us to remove the catalyst-free CNT forest very easily from the substrate and use it for the further process. A filtration-wet transfer process was used to form the TCF. The TCF shows sheet resistance of 228 omega/sq. at 72% transparency (at 550 nm). The ratio of optical conductivity to dc conductivity was observed in between 0.21 to 0.25 for below 80% transmission.

Electrical and Raman spectroscopic studies of vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Mathur, Ashish; Tweedie, Mark; Roy, Susanta Sinha; Maguire, P D; McLaughlin, James A

2009-07-01

Microwave plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition (MPECVD) was used for the production of carbon nanotubes. Vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were grown on silicon substrates coated with cobalt thin films of thickness ranging from 0.5 nm to 3 nm. Prior to the nanotube growth the catalyst were treated with N2 plasma for 5-10 minutes that break the films into small nanoparticles which favour the growth of nanotubes. The CNTs were grown at a substrate temperature of 700 degrees C for 5, 10 and 15 minutes. The height of the CNT films ranging from 10 microm-30 microm indicating that the initial growth rate of the CNTs are very high at a rate of approximately 100 nm/sec. Electrical resistivity of the above samples was evaluated from I-V measurements. The activation energy (E(a)) was also calculated from the temperature dependent studies and it was found that the E(a) lies in the range of 15-35 meV. Raman spectroscopy was used to identify the quality of the nanotubes.

Photocatalysis-assisted water filtration: using TiO2-coated vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotube array for removal of Escherichia coli O157:H7.

PubMed

Oza, Goldie; Pandey, Sunil; Gupta, Arvind; Shinde, Sachin; Mewada, Ashmi; Jagadale, Pravin; Sharon, Maheshwar; Sharon, Madhuri

2013-10-01

A porous ceramic was coated with vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) by spray pyrolysis. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles were then coated onto this densely aligned MWCNT. The presence of TiO2/MWCNT interfacial arrays was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope-energy dispersive analysis of X-ray (SEM-EDAX) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). This is a novel report in which water loaded with a most dreadful enterohemorrhagic pathogenic strain of Escherichia coli O157:H7 was filtered through TiO2/MWCNT coated porous ceramic filter and then analysed. Bacterial removal performance was found to be significantly lower in control i.e. plain porous ceramic (P<0.05) as compared to TiO2/MWCNT coated ceramic. The photocatalytic killing rate constant for TiO2-ceramic and MWCNT/TiO2-ceramic under fluorescent light was found be 1.45×10(-2) min(-1) and 2.23×10(-2) min(-1) respectively. Further, when I-V characteristics were performed for TiO2/MWCNT composite, it was corroborated that the current under light irradiation is comparatively higher than that in dark, thus proving it to be photocatalytically efficient system. The enhanced photocatalysis may be a contribution of increased surface area and charge transfer rate as a consequence of aligned MWCNT network. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of van der Waals forces on thermal conductance at the interface of a single-wall carbon nanotube array and silicon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Ya; Zhu, Jie; Tang, Dawei

2014-12-01

Molecular dynamics simulations are performed to evaluate the effect of van der Waals forces among single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) on the interfacial thermal conductance between a SWNT array and silicon substrate. First, samples of SWNTs vertically aligned on silicon substrate are simulated, where both the number and arrangement of SWNTs are varied. Results reveal that the interfacial thermal conductance of a SWNT array/Si with van der Waals forces present is higher than when they are absent. To better understand how van der Waals forces affect heat transfer through the interface between SWNTs and silicon, further constructs of one SWNT surrounded by different numbers of other ones are studied, and the results show that the interfacial thermal conductance of the central SWNT increases with increasing van der Waals forces. Through analysis of the covalent bonds and vibrational density of states at the interface, we find that heat transfer across the interface is enhanced with a greater number of chemical bonds and that improved vibrational coupling of the two sides of the interface results in higher interfacial thermal conductance. Van der Waals forces stimulate heat transfer at the interface.

Laser-assisted simultaneous transfer and patterning of vertically aligned carbon nanotube arrays on polymer substrates for flexible devices.

PubMed

In, Jung Bin; Lee, Daeho; Fornasiero, Francesco; Noy, Aleksandr; Grigoropoulos, Costas P

2012-09-25

We demonstrate a laser-assisted dry transfer technique for assembling patterns of vertically aligned carbon nanotube arrays on a flexible polymeric substrate. A laser beam is applied to the interface of a nanotube array and a polycarbonate sheet in contact with one another. The absorbed laser heat promotes nanotube adhesion to the polymer in the irradiated regions and enables selective pattern transfer. A combination of the thermal transfer mechanism with rapid direct writing capability of focused laser beam irradiation allows us to achieve simultaneous material transfer and direct micropatterning in a single processing step. Furthermore, we demonstrate that malleability of the nanotube arrays transferred onto a flexible substrate enables post-transfer tailoring of electric conductance by collapsing the aligned nanotubes in different directions. This work suggests that the laser-assisted transfer technique provides an efficient route to using vertically aligned nanotubes as conductive elements in flexible device applications.

Metal-modified and vertically aligned carbon nanotube sensors array for landfill gas monitoring applications.

PubMed

Penza, M; Rossi, R; Alvisi, M; Serra, E

2010-03-12

Vertically aligned carbon nanotube (CNT) layers were synthesized on Fe-coated low-cost alumina substrates using radio-frequency plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition (RF-PECVD) technology. A miniaturized CNT-based gas sensor array was developed for monitoring landfill gas (LFG) at a temperature of 150 degrees C. The sensor array was composed of 4 sensing elements with unmodified CNT, and CNT loaded with 5 nm nominally thick sputtered nanoclusters of platinum (Pt), ruthenium (Ru) and silver (Ag). Chemical analysis of multicomponent gas mixtures constituted of CO(2), CH(4), H(2), NH(3), CO and NO(2) has been performed by the array sensor responses and pattern recognition based on principal component analysis (PCA). The PCA results demonstrate that the metal-decorated and vertically aligned CNT sensor array is able to discriminate the NO(2) presence in the multicomponent mixture LFG. The NO(2) gas detection in the mixture LFG was proved to be very sensitive, e.g.: the CNT:Ru sensor shows a relative change in the resistance of 1.50% and 0.55% for NO(2) concentrations of 3.3 ppm and 330 ppb dispersed in the LFG, respectively, with a wide NO(2) gas concentration range measured from 0.33 to 3.3 ppm, at the sensor temperature of 150 degrees C. The morphology and structure of the CNT networks have been characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Raman spectroscopy. A forest-like nanostructure of vertically aligned CNT bundles in the multi-walled form appeared with a height of about 10 microm and a single-tube diameter varying in the range of 5-35 nm. The intensity ratio of the Raman spectroscopy D-peak and G-peak indicates the presence of disorder and defects in the CNT networks. The size of the metal (Pt, Ru, Ag) nanoclusters decorating the CNT top surface varies in the range of 5-50 nm. Functional characterization based on electrical charge transfer sensing mechanisms in the metal-modified CNT-chemoresistor array demonstrates high sensitivity by providing minimal sub-ppm level detection, e.g., download up to 100 ppb NO(2), at the sensor temperature of 150 degrees C. The gas sensitivity of the CNT sensor array depends on operating temperature, showing a lower optimal temperature of maximum sensitivity for the metal-decorated CNT sensors compared to unmodified CNT sensors. Results indicate that the recovery mechanisms in the CNT chemiresistors can be altered by a rapid heating pulse from room temperature to about 110 degrees C. A comparison of the NO(2) gas sensitivity for the chemiresistors based on disorderly networked CNTs and vertically aligned CNTs is also reported. Cross-sensitivity towards relative humidity of the CNT sensors array is investigated. Finally, the sensing properties of the metal-decorated and vertically aligned CNT sensor arrays are promising to monitor gas events in the LFG for practical applications with low power consumption and moderate sensor temperature.

High-resolution TEM Studies of Carbon Nanotubes and Catalyst Nanoparticles Produced During CVD from Metal Multilayer Films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Howe, Jane Y.; Puretzky, Alex A.; Geohegan, David B.; Cui, Hongtao; Eres, Varela; Maria, Alex A.; Lowndes, Douglas H.

2003-03-01

The structure of single-wall and multiwall carbon nanotubes and associated metal catalyst nanoparticles produced during chemical vapor deposition from multilayered metal films deposited on Si and Mo substrates were studied by high-resolution TEM and EDS. Electron beam-evaporated metal multilayer films (e.g. Al-Fe-Mo, typically 11-50 nm total thickness) roughen upon heat treatment to form a variety of catalyst particle sizes suitable for carbon nanotube growth by chemical vapor deposition using acetylene, hydrogen, and argon flow gases. This study investigates these nanoparticles, the type of nanotubes grown, their wall, tip, and basal structures, as well as the associated amounts of amorphous carbon deposited on their walls in different temperature and pressure ranges. Mixtures of SWNT and MWNT are found even for low growth temperatures (650-700 C), while rapid growth of vertically-aligned multiwall nanotubes (VA-MWNTs) predominate in a narrow temperature range at a given pressure. Arrested growth experiments were performed to determine the time periods for SWNT vs. MWNT growth. The nature of the catalyst nanoparticles, their support structure, and insights on the mechanisms of growth will be discussed.

Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes as cytocompatible material for enhanced adhesion and proliferation of osteoblast-like cells.

PubMed

Giannona, Suna; Firkowska, Izabela; Rojas-Chapana, José; Giersig, Michael

2007-01-01

In this study, we describe the spatial organization of CAL-72 osteoblast-like cells on arrays of vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes (VACNTs). It was observed that, unlike cell growth on non-patterned surfaces, the cell attachment and spreading process on VACNTs was significantly enhanced. Additionally, since carbon nanotubes are known to possess resilient mechanical properties and are chemically stable, the effect of periodic arrays of VACNTs on CAL-72 osteoblast-like cells was also studied. The periodicity and alignment of VACNTs considerably influenced growth, shape and orientation of the cells by steering toward the nanopattern. This situation is of great interest for the potential application of VACNTs in bone bioenginnering. This data provides evidence that CAL-72 osteoblast-like cells can sense physical features at the nanoscale. These results give a fascinating insight into the ways in which cell growth can be influenced by man-made nanostructures and could provide a framework for achieving controlled cell guidance with controlled organization and special physical properties.

Electrical properties of 0.4 cm long single walled nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Zhen

2005-03-01

Centimeter scale aligned carbon nanotube arrays are grown from nanoparticle/metal catalyst pads[1]. We find the nanotubes grow both with and ``against the wind.'' A metal underlayer provides in-situ electrical contact to these long nanotubes with no post growth processing needed. Using the electrically contacted nanotubes, we study electrical transport of 0.4 cm long nanotubes[2]. Using this data, we are able to determine the resistance of a nanotube as a function of length quantitatively, since the contact resistance is negligible in these long nanotubes. The source drain I-V curves are quantitatively described by a classical, diffusive model. Our measurements show that the outstanding transport properties of nanotubes can be extended to the cm scale and open the door to large scale integrated nanotube circuits with macroscopic dimensions. These are the longest electrically contacted single walled nanotubes measured to date. [1] Zhen Yu, Shengdong Li, Peter J. Burke, ``Synthesis of Aligned Arrays of Millimeter Long, Straight Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes,'' Chemistry of Materials, 16(18), 3414-3416 (2004). [2] Shengdong Li, Zhen Yu, Christopher Rutherglen, Peter J. Burke, ``Electrical properties of 0.4 cm long single-walled carbon nanotubes'' Nano Letters, 4(10), 2003-2007 (2004).

Shear induced alignment of short nanofibers in 3D printed polymer composites.

PubMed

Yunus, Doruk Erdem; Shi, Wentao; Sohrabi, Salman; Liu, Yaling

2016-12-09

3D printing of composite materials offers an opportunity to combine the desired properties of composite materials with the flexibility of additive manufacturing in geometric shape and complexity. In this paper, the shear-induced alignment of aluminum oxide nanowires during stereolithography printing was utilized to fabricate a nanowire reinforced polymer composite. To align the fibers, a lateral oscillation mechanism was implemented and combined with wall pattern printing technique to generate shear flow in both vertical and horizontal directions. A series of specimens were fabricated for testing the composite material's tensile strength. The results showed that mechanical properties of the composite were improved by reinforcement of nanofibers through shear induced alignment. The improvement of tensile strength was approximately ∼28% by aligning the nanowires at 5 wt% (∼1.5% volume fraction) loading of aluminum oxide nanowires.

Theoretical studies on lattice-oriented growth of single-walled carbon nanotubes on sapphire

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Zhengwei; Meng, Xianhong; Xiao, Jianliang

2017-09-01

Due to their excellent mechanical and electrical properties, single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) can find broad applications in many areas, such as field-effect transistors, logic circuits, sensors and flexible electronics. High-density, horizontally aligned arrays of SWNTs are essential for high performance electronics. Many experimental studies have demonstrated that chemical vapor deposition growth of nanotubes on crystalline substrates such as sapphire offers a promising route to achieve such dense, perfectly aligned arrays. In this work, a theoretical study is performed to quantitatively understand the van der Waals interactions between SWNTs and sapphire substrates. The energetically preferred alignment directions of SWNTs on A-, R- and M-planes and the random alignment on the C-plane predicted by this study are all in good agreement with experiments. It is also shown that smaller SWNTs have better alignment than larger SWNTs due to their stronger interaction with sapphire substrate. The strong vdW interactions along preferred alignment directions can be intuitively explained by the nanoscale ‘grooves’ formed by atomic lattice structures on the surface of sapphire. This study provides important insights to the controlled growth of nanotubes and potentially other nanomaterials.

Effects of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes on shear performance of laminated nanocomposite bonded joints.

PubMed

Askari, Davood; Ghasemi-Nejhad, Mehrdad N

2012-08-01

The main objective is to improve the most commonly addressed weakness of the laminated composites (i.e. delamination due to poor interlaminar strength) using carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as reinforcement between the laminae and in the transverse direction. In this work, a chemical vapor deposition technique has been used to grow dense vertically aligned arrays of CNTs over the surface of chemically treated two-dimensionally woven cloth and fiber tows. The nanoforest-like fabrics can be used to fabricate three-dimensionally reinforced laminated nanocomposites. The presence of CNTs aligned normal to the layers and in-between the layers of laminated composites is expected to considerably enhance the properties of the laminates. To demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach, composite single lap-joint specimens were fabricated for interlaminar shear strength testing. It was observed that the single lap-joints with through-the-thickness CNT reinforcement can carry considerably higher shear stresses and strains. Close examination of the test specimens showed that the failure of samples with CNT nanoforests was completely cohesive, while the samples without CNT reinforcement failed adhesively. This concludes that the adhesion of adjacent carbon fabric layers can be considerably improved owing to the presence of vertically aligned arrays of CNT nanoforests.

Effects of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes on shear performance of laminated nanocomposite bonded joints

PubMed Central

Askari, Davood; Ghasemi-Nejhad, Mehrdad N

2012-01-01

The main objective is to improve the most commonly addressed weakness of the laminated composites (i.e. delamination due to poor interlaminar strength) using carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as reinforcement between the laminae and in the transverse direction. In this work, a chemical vapor deposition technique has been used to grow dense vertically aligned arrays of CNTs over the surface of chemically treated two-dimensionally woven cloth and fiber tows. The nanoforest-like fabrics can be used to fabricate three-dimensionally reinforced laminated nanocomposites. The presence of CNTs aligned normal to the layers and in-between the layers of laminated composites is expected to considerably enhance the properties of the laminates. To demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach, composite single lap-joint specimens were fabricated for interlaminar shear strength testing. It was observed that the single lap-joints with through-the-thickness CNT reinforcement can carry considerably higher shear stresses and strains. Close examination of the test specimens showed that the failure of samples with CNT nanoforests was completely cohesive, while the samples without CNT reinforcement failed adhesively. This concludes that the adhesion of adjacent carbon fabric layers can be considerably improved owing to the presence of vertically aligned arrays of CNT nanoforests. PMID:27877502

A reliable method to grow vertically-aligned silicon nanowires by a novel ramp-cooling process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ho, Tzuen-Wei; Hong, Franklin Chau-Nan

2012-08-01

We have grown silicon nanowires (SiNWs) on Si (1 1 1) substrates by gold-catalyzed vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) process using tetrachlorosilane (SiCl4) in a hot-wall chemical vapor deposition reactor. Even under the optimized conditions including H2 annealing to reduce the surface native oxide, epitaxial SiNWs of 150-200 nm in diameter often grew along all four <1 1 1> family directions with one direction vertical and three others inclined to the surface. Therefore, the growth of high degree ordered SiNW arrays along [1 1 1] only was attempted on Au-coated Si (1 1 1) by a ramp-cooling process utilizing the liquid phase epitaxy (LPE) mechanism. The Au-coated Si substrate was first annealed in H2 at 650 °C to form Au-Si alloy nanoparticles, and then ramp-cooled at a controlled rate to precipitate epitaxial Si seeds on the substrate based on LPE mechanism. The substrate was further heated in SiCl4/H2 to 850 °C for the VLS growths of SiNWs on the Si seeds. Thus, almost 100% vertically-aligned SiNWs along [1 1 1] only could be reproducibly grown on Si (1 1 1), without using a template or patterning the metal catalyst. The high-density vertically-aligned SiNWs have good potentials for solar cells and nano-devices.

Vertically aligned P(VDF-TrFE) core-shell structures on flexible pillar arrays

PubMed Central

Choi, Yoon-Young; Yun, Tae Gwang; Qaiser, Nadeem; Paik, Haemin; Roh, Hee Seok; Hong, Jongin; Hong, Seungbum; Han, Seung Min; No, Kwangsoo

2015-01-01

PVDF and P(VDF-TrFE) nano- and micro- structures have been widely used due to their potential applications in several fields, including sensors, actuators, vital sign transducers, and energy harvesters. In this study, we developed vertically aligned P(VDF-TrFE) core-shell structures using high modulus polyurethane acrylate (PUA) pillars as the support structure to maintain the structural integrity. In addition, we were able to improve the piezoelectric effect by 1.85 times from 40 ± 2 to 74 ± 2 pm/V when compared to the thin film counterpart, which contributes to the more efficient current generation under a given stress, by making an effective use of the P(VDF-TrFE) thin top layer as well as the side walls. We attribute the enhancement of piezoelectric effects to the contributions from the shell component and the strain confinement effect, which was supported by our modeling results. We envision that these organic-based P(VDF-TrFE) core-shell structures will be used widely as 3D sensors and power generators because they are optimized for current generations by utilizing all surface areas, including the side walls of core-shell structures. PMID:26040539

Vertically aligned P(VDF-TrFE) core-shell structures on flexible pillar arrays

DOE PAGES

Choi, Yoon-Young; Yun, Tae Gwang; Qaiser, Nadeem; ...

2015-06-04

PVDF and P(VDF-TrFE) nano- and micro- structures are widely used due to their potential applications in several fields, including sensors, actuators, vital sign transducers, and energy harvesters. In this study, we developed vertically aligned P(VDF-TrFE) core-shell structures using high modulus polyurethane acrylate (PUA) pillars as the support structure to maintain the structural integrity. In addition, we were able to improve the piezoelectric effect by 1.85 times from 40 ± 2 to 74 ± 2 pm/V when compared to the thin film counterpart, which contributes to the more efficient current generation under a given stress, by making an effective use ofmore » the P(VDF-TrFE) thin top layer as well as the side walls. We attribute the enhancement of piezoelectric effects to the contributions from the shell component and the strain confinement effect, which was supported by our modeling results. We envision that these organic-based P(VDF-TrFE) core-shell structures will be used widely as 3D sensors and power generators because they are optimized for current generations by utilizing all surface areas, including the side walls of core-shell structures.« less

Carbon Nanotube Microarrays Grown on Nanoflake Substrates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schmidt, Howard K.; Hauge, Robert H.; Pint, Cary; Pheasant, Sean

2013-01-01

This innovation consists of a new composition of matter where single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) are grown in aligned arrays from nanostructured flakes that are coated in Fe catalyst. This method of growth of aligned SWNTs, which can yield well over 400 percent SWNT mass per unit substrate mass, exceeds current yields for entangled SWNT growth. In addition, processing can be performed with minimal wet etching treatments, leaving aligned SWNTs with superior properties over those that exist in entangled mats. The alignment of the nanotubes is similar to that achieved in vertically aligned nanotubes, which are called "carpets. " Because these flakes are grown in a state where they are airborne in a reactor, these flakes, after growing SWNTs, are termed "flying carpets. " These flakes are created in a roll-to-roll evaporator system, where three subsequent evaporations are performed on a 100-ft (approx. =30-m) roll of Mylar. The first layer is composed of a water-soluble "release layer, " which can be a material such as NaCl. After depositing NaCl, the second layer involves 40 nm of supporting layer material . either Al2O3 or MgO. The thickness of the layer can be tuned to synthesize flakes that are larger or smaller than those obtained with a 40-nm deposition. Finally, the third layer consists of a thin Fe catalyst layer with a thickness of 0.5 nm. The thickness of this layer ultimately determines the diameter of SWNT growth, and a layer that is too thick will result in the growth of multiwalled carbon nanotubes instead of single-wall nanotubes. However, between a thickness of 0.5 nm to 1 nm, single-walled carbon nanotubes are known to be the primary constituent. After this three-layer deposition process, the Mylar is rolled through a bath of water, which allows catalyst-coated flakes to detach from the Mylar. The flakes are then collected and dried. The method described here for making such flakes is analogous to that which is used to make birefringent ink that is coated on U.S. currency. After deposition, the growth is carried out in a hot-filament chemical vapor deposition apparatus. A tungsten hot filament placed in the flow of H2 at a temperature greater than 1,600 C creates atomic hydrogen, which serves to reduce the Fe catalyst into a metallic state. The catalyst can now precipitate SWNTs in the presence of growth gases. The gases used for the experiments reported are C2H2, H2O, and H2, at rates of 2, 2, and 400 standard cubic centimeters per minute (sccm), respectively. In order to retain the flakes, a cage is constructed by spot welding stainless steel or copper mesh to form an enclosed area, in which the flakes are placed prior to growth. This allows growth gases and atomic hydrogen to reach the flakes, but does not allow the flakes, which rapidly nucleate SWNTs, to escape from the cage.

Vertically aligned carbon nanotube electrodes for lithium-ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Welna, Daniel T.; Qu, Liangti; Taylor, Barney E.; Dai, Liming; Durstock, Michael F.

As portable electronics become more advanced and alternative energy demands become more prevalent, the development of advanced energy storage technologies is becoming ever more critical in today's society. In order to develop higher power and energy density batteries, innovative electrode materials that provide increased storage capacity, greater rate capabilities, and good cyclability must be developed. Nanostructured materials are gaining increased attention because of their potential to mitigate current electrode limitations. Here we report on the use of vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes (VA-MWNTs) as the active electrode material in lithium-ion batteries. At low specific currents, these VA-MWNTs have shown high reversible specific capacities (up to 782 mAh g -1 at 57 mA g -1). This value is twice that of the theoretical maximum for graphite and ten times more than their non-aligned equivalent. Interestingly, at very high discharge rates, the VA-MWNT electrodes retain a moderate specific capacity due to their aligned nature (166 mAh g -1 at 26 A g -1). These results suggest that VA-MWNTs are good candidates for lithium-ion battery electrodes which require high rate capability and capacity.

Enhanced cold wall CVD reactor growth of horizontally aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mu, Wei; Kwak, Eun-Hye; Chen, Bingan; Huang, Shirong; Edwards, Michael; Fu, Yifeng; Jeppson, Kjell; Teo, Kenneth; Jeong, Goo-Hwan; Liu, Johan

2016-05-01

HASynthesis of horizontally-aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (HA-SWCNTs) by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) directly on quartz seems very promising for the fabrication of future nanoelectronic devices. In comparison to hot-wall CVD, synthesis of HA-SWCNTs in a cold-wall CVD chamber not only means shorter heating, cooling and growth periods, but also prevents contamination of the chamber. However, since most synthesis of HA-SWCNTs is performed in hot-wall reactors, adapting this well-established process to a cold-wall chamber becomes extremely crucial. Here, in order to transfer the CVD growth technology from a hot-wall to a cold-wall chamber, a systematic investigation has been conducted to determine the influence of process parameters on the HA-SWCNT's growth. For two reasons, the cold-wall CVD chamber was upgraded with a top heater to complement the bottom substrate heater; the first reason to maintain a more uniform temperature profile during HA-SWCNTs growth, and the second reason to preheat the precursor gas flow before projecting it onto the catalyst. Our results show that the addition of a top heater had a significant effect on the synthesis. Characterization of the CNTs shows that the average density of HA-SWCNTs is around 1 - 2 tubes/ μm with high growth quality as shown by Raman analysis. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Carbon Nanotube-Based Membrane for Light-Driven, Simultaneous Proton and Electron Transport

DOE PAGES

Pilgrim, Gregory A.; Amori, Amanda R.; Hou, Zhentao; ...

2016-12-07

Here we discuss the photon driven transport of protons and electrons over hundreds of microns through a membrane based on vertically aligned single walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). Electrons are photogenerated in colloidal CdSe quantum dots that have been noncovalently attached to the carbon nanotube membrane and can be delivered at potentials capable of reducing earth-abundant molecular catalysts that perform proton reduction. Proton transport is driven by the electron photocurrent and is shown to be faster through the SWNT based membrane than through the commercial polymer Nafion. Furthermore, the potential utility of SWNT membranes for solar water splitting applications is demonstratedmore » through their excellent proton and electron transport properties as well as their ability to interact with other components of water splitting systems, such as small molecule electron acceptors.« less

Vertically aligned carbon nanofiber as nano-neuron interface for monitoring neural function.

PubMed

Yu, Zhe; McKnight, Timothy E; Ericson, M Nance; Melechko, Anatoli V; Simpson, Michael L; Morrison, Barclay

2012-05-01

Neural chips, which are capable of simultaneous multisite neural recording and stimulation, have been used to detect and modulate neural activity for almost thirty years. As neural interfaces, neural chips provide dynamic functional information for neural decoding and neural control. By improving sensitivity and spatial resolution, nano-scale electrodes may revolutionize neural detection and modulation at cellular and molecular levels as nano-neuron interfaces. We developed a carbon-nanofiber neural chip with lithographically defined arrays of vertically aligned carbon nanofiber electrodes and demonstrated its capability of both stimulating and monitoring electrophysiological signals from brain tissues in vitro and monitoring dynamic information of neuroplasticity. This novel nano-neuron interface may potentially serve as a precise, informative, biocompatible, and dual-mode neural interface for monitoring of both neuroelectrical and neurochemical activity at the single-cell level and even inside the cell. The authors demonstrate the utility of a neural chip with lithographically defined arrays of vertically aligned carbon nanofiber electrodes. The new device can be used to stimulate and/or monitor signals from brain tissue in vitro and for monitoring dynamic information of neuroplasticity both intracellularly and at the single cell level including neuroelectrical and neurochemical activities. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Atomic layer deposition of ruthenium on plasma-treated vertically aligned carbon nanotubes for high-performance ultracapacitors.

PubMed

Kim, Jun Woo; Kim, Byungwoo; Park, Suk Won; Kim, Woong; Shim, Joon Hyung

2014-10-31

It is challenging to realize a conformal metal coating by atomic layer deposition (ALD) because of the high surface energy of metals. In this study, ALD of ruthenium (Ru) on vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) was carried out. To activate the surface of CNTs that lack surface functional groups essential for ALD, oxygen plasma was applied ex situ before ALD. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy confirmed surface activation of CNTs by the plasma pretreatment. Transmission electron microscopy analysis with energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy composition mapping showed that ALD Ru grew conformally along CNTs walls. ALD Ru/CNTs were electrochemically oxidized to ruthenium oxide (RuOx) that can be a potentially useful candidate for use in the electrodes of ultracapacitors. Electrode performance of RuOx/CNTs was evaluated using cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge-discharge measurements.

High-yield growth of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes on a continuously moving substrate.

PubMed

Guzmán de Villoria, R; Figueredo, S L; Hart, A J; Steiner, S A; Slocum, A H; Wardle, B L

2009-10-07

Vertically aligned carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays are grown on a moving substrate, demonstrating continuous growth of nanoscale materials with long-range order. A cold-wall chamber with an oscillating moving platform is used to locally heat a silicon growth substrate coated with an Fe/Al2O3 catalyst film for CNT growth via chemical vapor deposition. The reactant gases are introduced over the substrate through a directed nozzle to attain high-yield CNT growth. Aligned multi-wall carbon nanotube arrays (or 'forests') with heights of approximately 1 mm are achieved at substrate speeds up to 2.4 mm s(-1). Arrays grown on moving substrates at different velocities are studied in order to identify potential physical limitations of repeatable and fast growth on a continuous basis. No significant differences are noted between static and moving growth as characterized by scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy, although overall growth height is marginally reduced at the highest substrate velocity. CNT arrays produced on moving substrates are also found to be comparable to those produced through well-characterized batch processes consistent with a base-growth mechanism. Growth parameters required for the moving furnace are found to differ only slightly from those used in a comparable batch process; thermal uniformity appears to be the critical parameter for achieving large-area uniform array growth. If the continuous-growth technology is combined with a reaction zone isolation scheme common in other types of processing (e.g., in the manufacture of carbon fibers), large-scale dense and aligned CNT arrays may be efficiently grown and harvested for numerous applications including providing interlayers for advanced composite reinforcement and improved electrical and thermal transport.

Synthesis of highly aligned carbon nanotubes by one-step liquid-phase process: Effects of carbon sources on morphology of carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamagiwa, Kiyofumi; Kuwano, Jun

2017-06-01

This paper describes a unique and innovative synthesis technique for carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by a one-step liquid-phase process under ambient pressure. Vertically aligned multi-walled CNT arrays with a maximum height of 100 µm are prepared on stainless steel substrates, which are submerged and electrically heated in straight-chain primary alcohols with n C = 1-4 (n C: number of C atoms in the molecule) containing an appropriate amount of cobalt-based organometallic complex as a catalyst precursor. Structural isomers of butanol were also used for the synthesis to examine the effects of structural factors on the morphology of the deposited products. Notably, 2-methyl-2-propanol, which is a tertiary alcohol, produced only a small amount of low-crystallinity carbonaceous deposits, whereas vertically aligned CNTs were grown from the other isomers of butanol. These results suggest that the presence or absence of β-hydrogen in the molecular structure is a key factor for understanding the dissociation behavior of the carbon source molecules on the catalyst.

Laser-driven coating of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes with manganese oxide from metal organic precursors for energy storage.

PubMed

Pérez Del Pino, A; György, E; Alshaikh, I; Pantoja-Suárez, F; Andújar, J L; Pascual, E; Amade, R; Bertran-Serra, E

2017-09-29

Carbon nanotubes-transition metal oxide systems are intensively studied due to their excellent properties for electrochemical applications. In this work, an innovative procedure is developed for the synthesis of vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) coated with transition metal oxide nanostructures. VACNTs are grown by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition and coated with a manganese-based metal organic precursor (MOP) film based on manganese acetate solution. Subsequent UV pulsed laser irradiation induces the effective heating-decomposition of the MOP leading to the crystallization of manganese oxide nanostructures on the VACNT surface. The study of the morphology, structure and composition of the synthesized materials shows the formation of randomly oriented MnO 2 crystals, with few nanometers in size, and to their alignment in hundreds of nm long filament-like structures, parallel to the CNT's long axis. Electrochemical measurements reveal a significant increase of the specific capacitance of the MnO 2 -VACNT system (100 F g -1 ) as compared to the initial VACNT one (21 F g -1 ).

Laser-driven coating of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes with manganese oxide from metal organic precursors for energy storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pérez del Pino, A.; György, E.; Alshaikh, I.; Pantoja-Suárez, F.; Andújar, J. L.; Pascual, E.; Amade, R.; Bertran-Serra, E.

2017-09-01

Carbon nanotubes-transition metal oxide systems are intensively studied due to their excellent properties for electrochemical applications. In this work, an innovative procedure is developed for the synthesis of vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) coated with transition metal oxide nanostructures. VACNTs are grown by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition and coated with a manganese-based metal organic precursor (MOP) film based on manganese acetate solution. Subsequent UV pulsed laser irradiation induces the effective heating-decomposition of the MOP leading to the crystallization of manganese oxide nanostructures on the VACNT surface. The study of the morphology, structure and composition of the synthesized materials shows the formation of randomly oriented MnO2 crystals, with few nanometers in size, and to their alignment in hundreds of nm long filament-like structures, parallel to the CNT’s long axis. Electrochemical measurements reveal a significant increase of the specific capacitance of the MnO2-VACNT system (100 F g-1) as compared to the initial VACNT one (21 F g-1).

Method of lining a vertical mine shaft with concrete

DOEpatents

Eklund, James D.; Halter, Joseph M.; Rasmussen, Donald E.; Sullivan, Robert G.; Moffat, Robert B.

1981-01-01

The apparatus includes a cylindrical retainer form spaced inwardly of the wall of the shaft by the desired thickness of the liner to be poured and having overlapping edges which seal against concrete flow but permit the form to be contracted to a smaller circumference after the liner has hardened and is self-supporting. A curb ring extends downwardly and outwardly toward the shaft wall from the bottom of the retainer form to define the bottom surface of each poured liner section. An inflatable toroid forms a seal between the curb ring and the shaft wall. A form support gripper ring having gripper shoes laterally extendable under hydraulic power to engage the shaft wall supports the retainer form, curb ring and liner until the newly poured liner section becomes self-supporting. Adjusting hydraulic cylinders permit the curb ring and retainer form to be properly aligned relative to the form support gripper ring. After a liner section is self-supporting, an advancing system advances the retainer form, curb ring and form support gripper ring toward a shaft boring machine above which the liner is being formed. The advancing system also provides correct horizontal alignment of the form support gripper ring.

Growth and characterization of AgGa0.5In0.5Se2 single crystals by modified vertical Bridgman method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vijayakumar, P.; Ramasamy, P.

2016-05-01

AgGa0.5In0.5Se2 single crystal was grown using a double wall quartz ampoule with accelerated crucible rotation technique by modified vertical Bridgman method. The structural perfection was measured using HRXRD. The grown single crystal composition was measured using ICP-OES analysis and compositional uniformities were measured using Raman spectroscopy analysis. Photoconductivity measurements confirm the positive photoconducting nature.

Plasma equilibrium control during slow plasma current quench with avoidance of plasma-wall interaction in JT-60U

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoshino, R.; Nakamura, Y.; Neyatani, Y.

1997-08-01

In JT-60U a vertical displacement event (VDE) is observed during slow plasma current quench (Ip quench) for a vertically elongated divertor plasma with a single null. The VDE is generated by an error in the feedback control of the vertical position of the plasma current centre (ZJ). It has been perfectly avoided by improving the accuracy of the ZJ measurement in real time. Furthermore, plasma-wall interaction has been avoided successfully during slow Ip quench owing to the good performance of the plasma equilibrium control system

Preferential growth of short aligned, metallic-rich single-walled carbon nanotubes from perpendicular layered double hydroxide film.

PubMed

Zhao, Meng-Qiang; Tian, Gui-Li; Zhang, Qiang; Huang, Jia-Qi; Nie, Jing-Qi; Wei, Fei

2012-04-07

Direct bulk growth of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with required properties, such as diameter, length, and chirality, is the first step to realize their advanced applications in electrical and optical devices, transparent conductive films, and high-performance field-effect transistors. Preferential growth of short aligned, metallic-rich SWCNTs is a great challenge to the carbon nanotube community. We report the bulk preferential growth of short aligned SWCNTs from perpendicular Mo-containing FeMgAl layered double hydroxide (LDH) film by a facile thermal chemical vapor deposition with CH(4) as carbon source. The growth of the short aligned SWCNTs showed a decreased growth velocity with an initial value of 1.9 nm s(-1). Such a low growth velocity made it possible to get aligned SWCNTs shorter than 1 μm with a growth duration less than 15 min. Raman spectra with different excitation wavelengths indicated that the as-grown short aligned SWCNTs showed high selectivity of metallic SWCNTs. Various kinds of materials, such as mica, quartz, Cu foil, and carbon fiber, can serve as the substrates for the growth of perpendicular FeMoMgAl LDH films and also the growth of the short aligned SWCNTs subsequently. These findings highlight the easy route for bulk preferential growth of aligned metallic-rich SWCNTs with well defined length for further bulk characterization and applications. This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2012

Microwave purification of large-area horizontally aligned arrays of single-walled carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Xie, Xu; Jin, Sung Hun; Wahab, Muhammad A; Islam, Ahmad E; Zhang, Chenxi; Du, Frank; Seabron, Eric; Lu, Tianjian; Dunham, Simon N; Cheong, Hou In; Tu, Yen-Chu; Guo, Zhilin; Chung, Ha Uk; Li, Yuhang; Liu, Yuhao; Lee, Jong-Ho; Song, Jizhou; Huang, Yonggang; Alam, Muhammad A; Wilson, William L; Rogers, John A

2014-11-12

Recent progress in the field of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) significantly enhances the potential for practical use of this remarkable class of material in advanced electronic and sensor devices. One of the most daunting challenges is in creating large-area, perfectly aligned arrays of purely semiconducting SWNTs (s-SWNTs). Here we introduce a simple, scalable, large-area scheme that achieves this goal through microwave irradiation of aligned SWNTs grown on quartz substrates. Microstrip dipole antennas of low work-function metals concentrate the microwaves and selectively couple them into only the metallic SWNTs (m-SWNTs). The result allows for complete removal of all m-SWNTs, as revealed through systematic experimental and computational studies of the process. As one demonstration of the effectiveness, implementing this method on large arrays consisting of ~20,000 SWNTs completely removes all of the m-SWNTs (~7,000) to yield a purity of s-SWNTs that corresponds, quantitatively, to at least to 99.9925% and likely significantly higher.

Single Wall Carbon Nanotube Alignment Mechanisms for Non-Destructive Evaluation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hong, Seunghun

2002-01-01

As proposed in our original proposal, we developed a new innovative method to assemble millions of single wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT)-based circuit components as fast as conventional microfabrication processes. This method is based on surface template assembly strategy. The new method solves one of the major bottlenecks in carbon nanotube based electrical applications and, potentially, may allow us to mass produce a large number of SWCNT-based integrated devices of critical interests to NASA.

Network of vertically c-oriented prismatic InN nanowalls grown on c-GaN/sapphire template by chemical vapor deposition technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barick, B. K.; Saroj, Rajendra Kumar; Prasad, Nivedita; Sutar, D. S.; Dhar, S.

2018-05-01

Networks of vertically c-oriented prism shaped InN nanowalls, are grown on c-GaN/sapphire templates using a CVD technique, where pure indium and ammonia are used as metal and nitrogen precursors. A systematic study of the growth, structural and electronic properties of these samples shows a preferential growth of the islands along [ 1 1 2 bar 0 ] and [0 0 0 1] directions leading to the formation of such a network structure, where the vertically [0 0 0 1] oriented tapered walls are laterally align along one of the three [ 1 1 2 bar 0 ] directions. Inclined facets of these walls are identified as semipolar (1 1 2 bar 2) -planes of wurtzite InN. Onset of absorption for these samples is observed to be higher than the band gap of InN suggesting a high background carrier concentration in this material. Study of the valence band edge through XPS indicates the formation of positive depletion regions below the surface of the side facets [(1 1 2 bar 2) -planes] of the walls. This is in contrast with the observation for c-plane InN epilayers, where electron accumulation is often reported below the top surface.

En route to controlled catalytic CVD synthesis of densely packed and vertically aligned nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube arrays.

PubMed

Boncel, Slawomir; Pattinson, Sebastian W; Geiser, Valérie; Shaffer, Milo S P; Koziol, Krzysztof K K

2014-01-01

The catalytic chemical vapour deposition (c-CVD) technique was applied in the synthesis of vertically aligned arrays of nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes (N-CNTs). A mixture of toluene (main carbon source), pyrazine (1,4-diazine, nitrogen source) and ferrocene (catalyst precursor) was used as the injection feedstock. To optimize conditions for growing the most dense and aligned N-CNT arrays, we investigated the influence of key parameters, i.e., growth temperature (660, 760 and 860 °C), composition of the feedstock and time of growth, on morphology and properties of N-CNTs. The presence of nitrogen species in the hot zone of the quartz reactor decreased the growth rate of N-CNTs down to about one twentieth compared to the growth rate of multi-wall CNTs (MWCNTs). As revealed by electron microscopy studies (SEM, TEM), the individual N-CNTs (half as thick as MWCNTs) grown under the optimal conditions were characterized by a superior straightness of the outer walls, which translated into a high alignment of dense nanotube arrays, i.e., 5 × 10(8) nanotubes per mm(2) (100 times more than for MWCNTs grown in the absence of nitrogen precursor). In turn, the internal crystallographic order of the N-CNTs was found to be of a 'bamboo'-like or 'membrane'-like (multi-compartmental structure) morphology. The nitrogen content in the nanotube products, which ranged from 0.0 to 3.0 wt %, was controlled through the concentration of pyrazine in the feedstock. Moreover, as revealed by Raman/FT-IR spectroscopy, the incorporation of nitrogen atoms into the nanotube walls was found to be proportional to the number of deviations from the sp(2)-hybridisation of graphene C-atoms. As studied by XRD, the temperature and the [pyrazine]/[ferrocene] ratio in the feedstock affected the composition of the catalyst particles, and hence changed the growth mechanism of individual N-CNTs into a 'mixed base-and-tip' (primarily of the base-type) type as compared to the purely 'base'-type for undoped MWCNTs.

Growth behavior of carbon nanotubes on multilayered metal catalyst film in chemical vapor deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, H.; Eres, G.; Howe, J. Y.; Puretkzy, A.; Varela, M.; Geohegan, D. B.; Lowndes, D. H.

2003-06-01

The temperature and time dependences of carbon nanotube (CNT) growth by chemical vapor deposition are studied using a multilayered Al/Fe/Mo catalyst on silicon substrates. Within the 600-1100 °C temperature range of these studies, narrower temperature ranges were determined for the growth of distinct types of aligned multi-walled CNTs and single-walled CNTs by using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. At 900 °C, in contrast to earlier work, double-walled CNTs are found more abundant than single-walled CNTs. Defects also are found to accumulate faster than the ordered graphitic structure if the growth of CNTs is extended to long durations.

Breakdown voltage reduction by field emission in multi-walled carbon nanotubes based ionization gas sensor

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

Saheed, M. Shuaib M.; Muti Mohamed, Norani; Arif Burhanudin, Zainal, E-mail: zainabh@petronas.com.my

2014-03-24

Ionization gas sensors using vertically aligned multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) are demonstrated. The sharp tips of the nanotubes generate large non-uniform electric fields at relatively low applied voltage. The enhancement of the electric field results in field emission of electrons that dominates the breakdown mechanism in gas sensor with gap spacing below 14 μm. More than 90% reduction in breakdown voltage is observed for sensors with MWCNT and 7 μm gap spacing. Transition of breakdown mechanism, dominated by avalanche electrons to field emission electrons, as decreasing gap spacing is also observed and discussed.

Rack for storing spent nuclear fuel elements

DOEpatents

Rubinstein, Herbert J.; Clark, Philip M.; Gilcrest, James D.

1978-06-20

A rack for storing spent nuclear fuel elements in which a plurality of aligned rows of upright enclosures of generally square cross-sectional areas contain vertically disposed fuel elements. The enclosures are fixed at the lower ends thereof to a base. Pockets are formed between confronting walls of adjacent enclosures for receiving high absorption neutron absorbers, such as Boral, cadmium, borated stainless steel and the like for the closer spacing of spent fuel elements.

Nanostructuring on zinc phthalocyanine thin films for single-junction organic solar cells

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

Chaudhary, Dhirendra K.; Kumar, Lokendra, E-mail: lokendrakr@allduniv.ac.in

2016-05-23

Vertically aligned and random oriented crystalline molecular nanorods of organic semiconducting Zinc Phthalocyanine (ZnPc) have been grown on ITO coated glass substrate using solvent volatilization method. Interesting changes in surface morphology were observed under different solvent treatment. Vertically aligned nanorods of ZnPc thin film were observed in the films treated with acetone, where as the random oriented nanorods were observed in the films treated with chloroform. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) have been used for characterization of nanostructures. The optical properties of the nanorods have been investigated by UV-Vis. absorption spectroscopy.

Vertically aligned nanostructure scanning probe microscope tips

DOEpatents

Guillorn, Michael A.; Ilic, Bojan; Melechko, Anatoli V.; Merkulov, Vladimir I.; Lowndes, Douglas H.; Simpson, Michael L.

2006-12-19

Methods and apparatus are described for cantilever structures that include a vertically aligned nanostructure, especially vertically aligned carbon nanofiber scanning probe microscope tips. An apparatus includes a cantilever structure including a substrate including a cantilever body, that optionally includes a doped layer, and a vertically aligned nanostructure coupled to the cantilever body.

Particle Swarm Transport across the Fracture-Matrix Interface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malenda, M. G.; Pyrak-Nolte, L. J.

2016-12-01

A fundamental understanding of particle transport is required for many diverse applications such as effective proppant injection, for deployment of subsurface imaging micro-particles, and for removal of particulate contaminants from subsurface water systems. One method of particulate transport is the use of particle swarms that act as coherent entities. Previous work found that particle swarms travel farther and faster in single fractures than individual particles when compared to dispersions and emulsions. In this study, gravity-driven experiments were performed to characterize swarm transport across the fracture-matrix interface. Synthetic porous media with a horizontal fracture were created from layers of square-packed 3D printed (PMMA) spherical grains (12 mm diameter). The minimum fracture aperture ranged from 0 - 10 mm. Swarms (5 and 25 µL) were composed of 3.2 micron diameter fluorescent polystryene beads (1-2% by mass). Swarms were released into a fractured porous medium that was submerged in water and was illuminated with a green (528 nm) LED array. Descending swarms were imaged with a CCD camera (2 fps). Whether an intact swarm was transported across a fracture depended on the volume of the swarm, the aperture of the fracture, and the alignment of pores on the two fracture walls. Large aperture fractures caused significant deceleration of a swarm because the swarm was free to expand laterally in the fracture. Swarms tended to remain intact when the pores on the two fracture walls were vertically aligned and traveled in the lower porous medium with speeds that were 30%-50% of their original speed in the upper matrix. When the pores on opposing walls were no longer aligned, swarms were observed to bifurcate around the grain into two smaller slower-moving swarms. Understanding the physics of particle swarms in fractured porous media has important implications for enhancing target particulate injection into the subsurface as well as for contaminant particulate transport. Acknowledgment: This material is based upon work supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, Geosciences Research Program under Award Number (DE-FG02-09ER16022) and by National Science Foundation REU program under Award Number (PHY-1460899) at Purdue University.

Failure mechanism of the polymer infiltration of carbon nanotube forests

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buchheim, Jakob; Park, Hyung Gyu

2016-11-01

Polymer melt infiltration is one of the feasible methods for manufacturing filter membranes out of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on large scales. Practically, however, its process suffers from low yields, and the mechanism behind this failure is rather poorly understood. Here, we investigate a failure mechanism of polymer melt infiltration of vertical aligned (VA-) CNTs. In penetrating the VA-CNT interstices, polymer melts exert a capillarity-induced attractive force laterally on CNTs at the moving meniscus, leading to locally agglomerated macroscale bunches. Such a large configurational change can deform and distort individual CNTs so much as to cause buckling or breakdown of the alignment. In view of membrane manufacturing, this irreversible distortion of nanotubes is detrimental, as it could block the transport path of the membranes. The failure mechanism of the polymer melt infiltration is largely attributed to steric hindrance and an energy penalty of confined polymer chains. Euler beam theory and scaling analysis affirm that CNTs with low aspect ratio, thick walls and sparse distribution can maintain their vertical alignment. Our results can enrich a mechanistic understanding of the polymer melt infiltration process and offer guidelines to the facile large-scale manufacturing of the CNT-polymer filter membranes.

Strain Sensitivity in Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes for Multifunctional Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heath, D. M. (Technical Monitor); Smits, Jan M., VI

2005-01-01

Single walled carbon nanotubes represent the future of structural aerospace vehicle systems due to their unparalleled strength characteristics and demonstrated multifunctionality. This multifunctionality rises from the CNT's unique capabilities for both metallic and semiconducting electron transport, electron spin polarizability, and band gap modulation under strain. By incorporating the use of electric field alignment and various lithography techniques, a single wall carbon nanotube (SWNT) test bed for measurement of conductivity/strain relationships has been developed. Nanotubes are deposited at specified locations through dielectrophoresis. The circuit is designed such that the central, current carrying section of the nanotube is exposed to enable atomic force microscopy and manipulation in situ while the transport properties of the junction are monitored. By applying this methodology to sensor development a flexible single wall carbon nanotube (SWNT) based strain sensitive device has been developed. Studies of tensile testing of the flexible SWNT device vs conductivity are also presented, demonstrating the feasibility of using single walled HiPCO (high-pressure carbon monoxide) carbon nanotubes as strain sensing agents in a multi-functional materials system.

Growth kinetics of vertically aligned carbon nanotube arrays in clean oxygen-free conditions.

PubMed

In, Jung Bin; Grigoropoulos, Costas P; Chernov, Alexander A; Noy, Aleksandr

2011-12-27

Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are an important technological system, as well as a fascinating system for studying basic principles of nanomaterials synthesis; yet despite continuing efforts for the past decade many important questions about this process remain largely unexplained. We present a series of parametric ethylene chemical vapor deposition growth studies in a "hot-wall" reactor using ultrapure process gases that reveal the fundamental kinetics of the CNT growth. Our data show that the growth rate is proportional to the concentration of the carbon feedstock and monotonically decreases with the concentration of hydrogen gas and that the most important parameter determining the rate of the CNT growth is the production rate of active carbon precursor in the gas phase reaction. The growth termination times obtained with the purified gas mixtures were strikingly insensitive to variations in both hydrogen and ethylene pressures ruling out the carbon encapsulation of the catalyst as the main process termination cause.

Separation of methane-nitrogen mixtures using synthesis vertically aligned carbon nanotube membranes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gilani, Neda; Daryan, Jafar Towfighi; Rashidi, Alimorad; Omidkhah, Mohammad Reza

2012-03-01

In this paper, capabilities of carbon nanotube (CNT) membranes fabricated in cylindrical pores of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) substrate to separate the binary mixtures of CH4/N2 are studied experimentally. For this purpose, the permeability and selectivity of three CNT/AAO membranes with different growth time as 6 h, 12 h and 18 h are investigated. CNTs are grown vertically through holes of AAO with average pore diameter of 45 nm by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of acetylene gas. CNT/AAO membranes with the same CNTs' outer diameters and different inner diameters are synthesized. The AAO are characterized by SEM analysis. In addition, SEM, TEM, BET N2 adsorption analysis and Raman spectroscopy are employed to characterize aligned CNTs. Study on permeability and selectivity of membranes for three binary mixtures of CH4/N2 showed that when the CNT inner diameters are 34 nm and 24 nm, viscous flow is the governing mechanism and insignificant selectivities of 1.2-1.24 are achieved. However, the membrane with CNT inner diameter and wall thickness of 8 nm and 16 nm respectively is considerably selective for CH4 over N2. It was also found that CH4 mole fraction in the feed and upstream feed pressure have major effect on permeability and selectivity. The membrane with 18 h synthesis time showed the selectivity is in the range of 1.8-3.85. The enhancement factor for N2 single gas diffusivity was also found to be about three times larger than that predicted by Knudsen diffusion model.

NO2 sensing at room temperature using vertically aligned MoS2 flakes network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Rahul; Goel, Neeraj; Kumar, Mahesh

2018-04-01

To exploit the role of alignment of MoS2 flake in chemical sensing, here, we have synthesized the horizontally and vertically aligned MoS2 flake network using conventional chemical vapor deposition technique. The morphology and number of layers were confirmed by SEM and Raman spectroscopy, respectively. The sensing performance of horizontally aligned and vertically aligned flake network was investigated to NO2 at room temperature. Vertically aligned MoS2 based sensor showed higher sensitivity 51.54 % and 63.2 % compared to horizontally aligned MoS2 sensor' sensitivity of 35.32 % and 45.2 % to 50 ppm and 100 ppm NO2, respectively. This high sensitivity attributed to the high aspect ratio and high adsorption energy on the edge site of vertically aligned MoS2.

Evaluation of the shear force of single cancer cells by vertically aligned carbon nanotubes suitable for metastasis diagnosis.

PubMed

Abdolahad, M; Mohajerzadeh, S; Janmaleki, M; Taghinejad, H; Taghinejad, M

2013-03-01

Vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VACNT) arrays have been demonstrated as probes for rapid quantifying of cancer cell deformability with high resolution. Through entrapment of various cancer cells on CNT arrays, the deflections of the nanotubes during cell deformation were used to derive the lateral cell shear force using a large deflection mode method. It is observed that VACNT beams act as sensitive and flexible agents, which transfer the shear force of cells trapped on them by an observable deflection. The metastatic cancer cells have significant deformable structures leading to a further cell traction force (CTF) than primary cancerous one on CNT arrays. The elasticity of different cells could be compared by their CTF measurement on CNT arrays. This study presents a nanotube-based methodology for quantifying the single cell mechanical behavior, which could be useful for understanding the metastatic behavior of cells.

High voltage electrophoretic deposition for electrochemical energy storage and other applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santhanagopalan, Sunand

High voltage electrophoretic deposition (HVEPD) has been developed as a novel technique to obtain vertically aligned forests of one-dimensional nanomaterials for efficient energy storage. The ability to control and manipulate nanomaterials is critical for their effective usage in a variety of applications. Oriented structures of one-dimensional nanomaterials provide a unique opportunity to take full advantage of their excellent mechanical and electrochemical properties. However, it is still a significant challenge to obtain such oriented structures with great process flexibility, ease of processing under mild conditions and the capability to scale up, especially in context of efficient device fabrication and system packaging. This work presents HVEPD as a simple, versatile and generic technique to obtain vertically aligned forests of different one-dimensional nanomaterials on flexible, transparent and scalable substrates. Improvements on material chemistry and reduction of contact resistance have enabled the fabrication of high power supercapacitor electrodes using the HVEPD method. The investigations have also paved the way for further enhancements of performance by employing hybrid material systems and AC/DC pulsed deposition. Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were used as the starting material to demonstrate the HVEPD technique. A comprehensive study of the key parameters was conducted to better understand the working mechanism of the HVEPD process. It has been confirmed that HVEPD was enabled by three key factors: high deposition voltage for alignment, low dispersion concentration to avoid aggregation and simultaneous formation of holding layer by electrodeposition for reinforcement of nanoforests. A set of suitable parameters were found to obtain vertically aligned forests of MWCNTs. Compared with their randomly oriented counterparts, the aligned MWCNT forests showed better electrochemical performance, lower electrical resistance and a capability to achieve superhydrophpbicity, indicating their potential in a broad range of applications. The versatile and generic nature of the HVEPD process has been demonstrated by achieving deposition on flexible and transparent substrates, as well as aligned forests of manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanorods. A continuous roll-printing HVEPD approach was then developed to obtain aligned MWCNT forest with low contact resistance on large, flexible substrates. Such large-scale electrodes showed no deterioration in electrochemical performance and paved the way for practical device fabrication. The effect of a holding layer on the contact resistance between aligned MWCNT forests and the substrate was studied to improve electrochemical performance of such electrodes. It was found that a suitable precursor salt like nickel chloride could be used to achieve a conductive holding layer which helped to significantly reduce the contact resistance. This in turn enhanced the electrochemical performance of the electrodes. High-power scalable redox capacitors were then prepared using HVEPD. Very high power/energy densities and excellent cyclability have been achieved by synergistically combining hydrothermally synthesized, highly crystalline α-MnO 2 nanorods, vertically aligned forests and reduced contact resistance. To further improve the performance, hybrid electrodes have been prepared in the form of vertically aligned forest of MWCNTs with branches of α-MnO 2 nanorods on them. Large- scale electrodes with such hybrid structures were manufactured using continuous HVEPD and characterized, showing further improved power and energy densities. The alignment quality and density of MWCNT forests were also improved by using an AC/DC pulsed deposition technique. In this case, AC voltage was first used to align the MWCNTs, followed by immediate DC voltage to deposit the aligned MWCNTs along with the conductive holding layer. Decoupling of alignment from deposition was proven to result in better alignment quality and higher electrochemical performance.

Air-bridge and Vertical CNT Switches for High Performance Switching Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaul, Anupama B.; Wong, Eric W.; Epp, Larry; Bronikowski, Michael J.; Hunt, BBrian D.

2006-01-01

Carbon nanotubes are attractive for switching applications since electrostatically-actuated CNT switches have low actuation voltages and power requirements, while allowing GHz switching speeds that stem from the inherently high elastic modulus and low mass of the CNT.Our first NEM structure, the air-bridge switch, consists of suspended single-walled nanotubes (SWNTs) that lie above a sputtered Nb base electrode, where contact to the CNTs is made using evaporated Au/Ti. Electrical measurements of these air-bridge devices show well-defined ON and OFF states as a dc bias of a few volts is applied between the CNT and the Nb-base electrode. The CNT air-bridge switches were measured to have switching times down to a few nanoseconds. Our second NEM structure, the vertical CNT switch, consists of nanotubes grown perpendicular to the substrate. Vertical multi-walled nanotubes (MWNTs) are grown directly on a heavily doped Si substrate, from 200 - 300 nm wide, approximately 1 micrometer deep nano-pockets, with Nb metal electrodes to result in the formation of a vertical single-pole-double-throw switch architecture.

Aligned carbon nanotube, graphene and graphite oxide thin films via substrate-directed rapid interfacial deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

D'Arcy, Julio M.; Tran, Henry D.; Stieg, Adam Z.; Gimzewski, James K.; Kaner, Richard B.

2012-05-01

A procedure for depositing thin films of carbon nanostructures is described that overcomes the limitations typically associated with solution based methods. Transparent and conductively continuous carbon coatings can be grown on virtually any type of substrate within seconds. Interfacial surface tension gradients result in directional fluid flow and film spreading at the water/oil interface. Transparent films of carbon nanostructures are produced including aligned ropes of single-walled carbon nanotubes and assemblies of single sheets of chemically converted graphene and graphite oxide. Process scale-up, layer-by-layer deposition, and a simple method for coating non-activated hydrophobic surfaces are demonstrated.A procedure for depositing thin films of carbon nanostructures is described that overcomes the limitations typically associated with solution based methods. Transparent and conductively continuous carbon coatings can be grown on virtually any type of substrate within seconds. Interfacial surface tension gradients result in directional fluid flow and film spreading at the water/oil interface. Transparent films of carbon nanostructures are produced including aligned ropes of single-walled carbon nanotubes and assemblies of single sheets of chemically converted graphene and graphite oxide. Process scale-up, layer-by-layer deposition, and a simple method for coating non-activated hydrophobic surfaces are demonstrated. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Droplet coalescence, catenoid formation, mechanism of film growth, scanning electron micrographs showing carbon nanotube alignment, flexible transparent films of SWCNTs, AFM images of a chemically converted graphene film, and SEM images of SWCNT free-standing thin films. See DOI: 10.1039/c2nr00010e

Highly Enhanced Gas Adsorption Properties in Vertically Aligned MoS2 Layers.

PubMed

Cho, Soo-Yeon; Kim, Seon Joon; Lee, Youhan; Kim, Jong-Seon; Jung, Woo-Bin; Yoo, Hae-Wook; Kim, Jihan; Jung, Hee-Tae

2015-09-22

In this work, we demonstrate that gas adsorption is significantly higher in edge sites of vertically aligned MoS2 compared to that of the conventional basal plane exposed MoS2 films. To compare the effect of the alignment of MoS2 on the gas adsorption properties, we synthesized three distinct MoS2 films with different alignment directions ((1) horizontally aligned MoS2 (basal plane exposed), (2) mixture of horizontally aligned MoS2 and vertically aligned layers (basal and edge exposed), and (3) vertically aligned MoS2 (edge exposed)) by using rapid sulfurization method of CVD process. Vertically aligned MoS2 film shows about 5-fold enhanced sensitivity to NO2 gas molecules compared to horizontally aligned MoS2 film. Vertically aligned MoS2 has superior resistance variation compared to horizontally aligned MoS2 even with same surface area exposed to identical concentration of gas molecules. We found that electrical response to target gas molecules correlates directly with the density of the exposed edge sites of MoS2 due to high adsorption of gas molecules onto edge sites of vertically aligned MoS2. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations corroborate the experimental results as stronger NO2 binding energies are computed for multiple configurations near the edge sites of MoS2, which verifies that electrical response to target gas molecules (NO2) correlates directly with the density of the exposed edge sites of MoS2 due to high adsorption of gas molecules onto edge sites of vertically aligned MoS2. We believe that this observation extends to other 2D TMD materials as well as MoS2 and can be applied to significantly enhance the gas sensor performance in these materials.

Effective permittivity of single-walled carbon nanotube composites: Two-fluid model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moradi, Afshin; Zangeneh, Hamid Reza; Moghadam, Firoozeh Karimi

2015-12-01

We develop an effective medium theory to obtain effective permittivity of a composite of two-dimensional (2D) aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes. Electronic excitations on each nanotube surface are modeled by an infinitesimally thin layer of a 2D electron gas represented by two interacting fluids, which takes into account different nature of the σ and π electrons. Calculations of both real and imaginary parts of the effective dielectric function of the system are presented, for different values of the filling factor and radius of carbon nanotubes.

Accelerated reliability testing of highly aligned single-walled carbon nanotube networks subjected to DC electrical stressing.

PubMed

Strus, Mark C; Chiaramonti, Ann N; Kim, Young Lae; Jung, Yung Joon; Keller, Robert R

2011-07-01

We investigate the electrical reliability of nanoscale lines of highly aligned, networked, metallic/semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) fabricated through a template-based fluidic assembly process. We find that these SWCNT networks can withstand DC current densities larger than 10 MA cm(-2) for several hours and, in some cases, several days. We develop test methods that show that the degradation rate, failure predictability and total device lifetime can be linked to the initial resistance. Scanning electron and transmission electron microscopy suggest that fabrication variability plays a critical role in the rate of degradation, and we offer an empirical method of quickly determining the long-term performance of a network. We find that well-fabricated lines subject to constant electrical stress show a linear accumulation of damage reminiscent of electromigration in metallic interconnects, and we explore the underlying physical mechanisms that could cause such behavior.

Vertical Si nanowire arrays fabricated by magnetically guided metal-assisted chemical etching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chun, Dong Won; Kim, Tae Kyoung; Choi, Duyoung; Caldwell, Elizabeth; Kim, Young Jin; Paik, Jae Cheol; Jin, Sungho; Chen, Renkun

2016-11-01

In this work, vertically aligned Si nanowire arrays were fabricated by magnetically guided metal-assisted directional chemical etching. Using an anodized aluminum oxide template as a shadow mask, nanoscale Ni dot arrays were fabricated on an Si wafer to serve as a mask to protect the Si during the etching. For the magnetically guided chemical etching, we deposited a tri-layer metal catalyst (Au/Fe/Au) in a Swiss-cheese configuration and etched the sample under the magnetic field to improve the directionality of the Si nanowire etching and increase the etching rate along the vertical direction. After the etching, the nanowires were dried with minimal surface-tension-induced aggregation by utilizing a supercritical CO2 drying procedure. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) analysis confirmed the formation of single-crystal Si nanowires. The method developed here for producing vertically aligned Si nanowire arrays could find a wide range of applications in electrochemical and electronic devices.

Three-Dimensional Structure of Thermohaline Staircases in the Tropical North Atlantic and Their Effect on Acoustic Propagation

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-12-01

PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) Naval Postgraduate School Monterey, CA 93943–5000 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER 9...experiment initially designed to test pressure at the base of an ocean, by inserting a narrow heat-conducting pipe vertically to draw water to the...tgα ≈ tgαT (6) Wall thus hypothesized that the interface should align with isotherms but not necessarily isohalines. An observational test was

Study of Charge Transport in Vertically Aligned Nitride Nanowire Based Core Shell P-I-N Junctions

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-07-01

Vertically- Aligned Nitride Nanowire Based Core Shell P-I-N Junctions Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release; distribution is...Study of Charge Transport in Vertically- Aligned Nitride Nanowire Based Core Shell P-I-N Junctions Grant Number: HDTRA1-14-1-0003 Principal...Investigator: Abhishek Motayed University of Maryland DISTRIBUTION A: Public Release Study of Charge Transport in Vertically-Aligned Nitride Nanowire

Patterned growth of individual and multiple vertically aligned carbon nanofibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Merkulov, V. I.; Lowndes, D. H.; Wei, Y. Y.; Eres, G.; Voelkl, E.

2000-06-01

The results of studies of patterned growth of vertically aligned carbon nanofibers (VACNFs) prepared by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition are reported. Nickel (Ni) dots of various diameters and Ni lines with variable widths and shapes were fabricated using electron beam lithography and evaporation, and served for catalytic growth of VACNFs whose structure was determined by high resolution transmission electron microscopy. It is found that upon plasma pre-etching and heating up to 600-700 °C, thin films of Ni break into droplets which initiate the growth of VACNFs. Above a critical dot size multiple droplets are formed, and consequently multiple VACNFs grow from a single evaporated dot. For dot sizes smaller than the critical size only one droplet is formed, resulting in a single VACNF. In the case of a patterned line, the growth mechanism is similar to that from a dot. VACNFs grow along the line, and above a critical linewidth multiple VACNFs are produced across the line. The mechanism of the formation of single and multiple catalyst droplets and subsequently of VACNFs is discussed.

A rapid quantification of binocular misalignment without recording eye movements: Vertical and torsional alignment nulling.

PubMed

Beaton, Kara H; Shelhamer, Mark J; Roberts, Dale C; Schubert, Michael C

2017-05-01

Small, innate asymmetries between the left and right otolith organs can cause ocular misalignment with symptoms that include double vision and motion sickness. Additionally, ocular misalignment affects nearly 5% of the US population. We have developed a portable, non-invasive technology that uses subjective perception of binocular visual signals to estimate relative binocular alignment. The Vertical Alignment Nulling (VAN) and Torsional Alignment Nulling (TAN) tests ask subjects to view one red and one blue line on a tablet computer while looking through color-matched red and blue filters so that each eye sees only one of the lines. Subjects align the red and blue lines, which are initially vertically offset from one another during VAN or rotated relative to one another during TAN, until they perceive a single continuous line. Ocular misalignments are inferred from actual offsets in the final line positions. During testing, all binocular visual cues are eliminated by employing active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) technology and testing in darkness. VAN and TAN can accurately account for visual offsets induced by prisms, and test-retest reliability is excellent, with resolution better than many current standard clinical tests. VAN and TAN tests are similar to the clinical Lancaster red-green test. However, VAN and TAN employ inexpensive, hand-held hardware that can be self-administered with results that are quickly quantifiable. VAN and TAN provide simple, sensitive, and quantitative measures of binocular positioning alignment that may be useful for detecting subtle abnormalities in ocular positioning. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Polyaniline modified graphene and carbon nanotube composite electrode for asymmetric supercapacitors of high energy density

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Qian; Tang, Jie; Shinya, Norio; Qin, Lu-Chang

2013-11-01

Graphene and single-walled carbon nanotube (CNT) composites are explored as the electrodes for supercapacitors by coating polyaniline (PANI) nano-cones onto the graphene/CNT composite to obtain graphene/CNT-PANI composite electrode. The graphene/CNT-PANI electrode is assembled with a graphene/CNT electrode into an asymmetric pseudocapacitor and a highest energy density of 188 Wh kg-1 and maximum power density of 200 kW kg-1 are achieved. The structure and morphology of the graphene/CNT composite and the PANI nano-cone coatings are characterized by both scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The excellent performance of the assembled supercapacitors is also discussed and it is attributed to (i) effective utilization of the large surface area of the three-dimensional network structure of graphene-based composite, (ii) the presence of CNT in the composite preventing graphene from re-stacking, and (ii) uniform and vertically aligned PANI coating on graphene offering increased electrical conductivity.

Novel nanofluidic chemical cells based on self-assembled solid-state SiO2 nanotubes.

PubMed

Zhu, Hao; Li, Haitao; Robertson, Joseph W F; Balijepalli, Arvind; Krylyuk, Sergiy; Davydov, Albert V; Kasianowicz, John J; Suehle, John S; Li, Qiliang

2017-10-27

Novel nanofluidic chemical cells based on self-assembled solid-state SiO 2 nanotubes on silicon-on-insulator (SOI) substrate have been successfully fabricated and characterized. The vertical SiO 2 nanotubes with a smooth cavity are built from Si nanowires which were epitaxially grown on the SOI substrate. The nanotubes have rigid, dry-oxidized SiO 2 walls with precisely controlled nanotube inner diameter, which is very attractive for chemical-/bio-sensing applications. No dispersion/aligning procedures were involved in the nanotube fabrication and integration by using this technology, enabling a clean and smooth chemical cell. Such a robust and well-controlled nanotube is an excellent case of developing functional nanomaterials by leveraging the strength of top-down lithography and the unique advantage of bottom-up growth. These solid, smooth, clean SiO 2 nanotubes and nanofluidic devices are very encouraging and attractive in future bio-medical applications, such as single molecule sensing and DNA sequencing.

Novel nanofluidic chemical cells based on self-assembled solid-state SiO2 nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Hao; Li, Haitao; Robertson, Joseph W. F.; Balijepalli, Arvind; Krylyuk, Sergiy; Davydov, Albert V.; Kasianowicz, John J.; Suehle, John S.; Li, Qiliang

2017-10-01

Novel nanofluidic chemical cells based on self-assembled solid-state SiO2 nanotubes on silicon-on-insulator (SOI) substrate have been successfully fabricated and characterized. The vertical SiO2 nanotubes with a smooth cavity are built from Si nanowires which were epitaxially grown on the SOI substrate. The nanotubes have rigid, dry-oxidized SiO2 walls with precisely controlled nanotube inner diameter, which is very attractive for chemical-/bio-sensing applications. No dispersion/aligning procedures were involved in the nanotube fabrication and integration by using this technology, enabling a clean and smooth chemical cell. Such a robust and well-controlled nanotube is an excellent case of developing functional nanomaterials by leveraging the strength of top-down lithography and the unique advantage of bottom-up growth. These solid, smooth, clean SiO2 nanotubes and nanofluidic devices are very encouraging and attractive in future bio-medical applications, such as single molecule sensing and DNA sequencing.

An electrochemical immunosensor based on chemical assembly of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes on carbon substrates for direct detection of the pesticide endosulfan in environmental water.

PubMed

Liu, Guozhen; Wang, Shuo; Liu, Jingquan; Song, Dandan

2012-05-01

A glassy carbon substrate was covalently modified with a mixed layer of 4-aminophenyl and phenyl via in situ electrografting of their aryldiazonium salts in acidic solutions. Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) were covalently and vertically anchored on the electrode surface via the formation of amide bonds from the reaction between the amines located on the modified substrate and the carboxylic groups at the ends of the nanotubes. Ferrocenedimethylamine (FDMA) was subsequently attached to the ends of SWNTs through amide bonding followed by the attachment of an epitope, i.e., endosulfan hapten to which an antibody would bind. Association or dissociation of the antibody with the sensing interface causes a modulation of the ferrocene electrochemistry. Antibody-complexed electrodes were exposed to samples containing spiked endosulfan (unbound target analyte) in environment water and interrogated using the square wave voltammetry (SWV) technique. The modified sensing surfaces were characterized by atomic force microscopy, XPS, and electrochemistry. The fabricated electrochemical immunosensor can be successfully used for the detection of endosulfan over the range of 0.01-20 ppb by a displacement assay. The lowest detection limit of this immunosensor is 0.01 ppb endosulfan in 50 mM phosphate buffer at pH 7.0.

A Novel Manufacturing Process for Compact, Low-Weight and Flexible Ultra-Wideband Cavity Backed Textile Antennas

PubMed Central

Van Baelen, Dries

2018-01-01

A novel manufacturing procedure for the fabrication of ultra-wideband cavity-backed substrate integrated waveguide antennas on textile substrates is proposed. The antenna cavity is constructed using a single laser-cut electrotextile patch, which is folded around the substrate. Electrotextile slabs protruding from the laser-cut patch are then vertically folded and glued to form the antenna cavity instead of rigid metal tubelets to implement the vertical cavity walls. This approach drastically improves mechanical flexibility, decreases the antenna weight to slightly more than 1 g and significantly reduces alignment errors. As a proof of concept, a cavity-backed substrate integrated waveguide antenna is designed and realized for ultra-wideband operation in the [5.15–5.85] GHz band. Antenna performance is validated in free space as well as in two on body measurement scenarios. Furthermore, the antenna’s figures of merit are characterized when the prototype is bent at different curvature radii, as commonly encountered during deployment on the human body. Also the effect of humidity content on antenna performance is studied. In all scenarios, the realized antenna covers the entire operating frequency band, meanwhile retaining a stable radiation pattern with a broadside gain above 5 dBi, and a radiation efficiency of at least 70%. PMID:29301378

A Novel Manufacturing Process for Compact, Low-Weight and Flexible Ultra-Wideband Cavity Backed Textile Antennas.

PubMed

Van Baelen, Dries; Lemey, Sam; Verhaevert, Jo; Rogier, Hendrik

2018-01-03

A novel manufacturing procedure for the fabrication of ultra-wideband cavity-backed substrate integrated waveguide antennas on textile substrates is proposed. The antenna cavity is constructed using a single laser-cut electrotextile patch, which is folded around the substrate. Electrotextile slabs protruding from the laser-cut patch are then vertically folded and glued to form the antenna cavity instead of rigid metal tubelets to implement the vertical cavity walls. This approach drastically improves mechanical flexibility, decreases the antenna weight to slightly more than 1 g and significantly reduces alignment errors. As a proof of concept, a cavity-backed substrate integrated waveguide antenna is designed and realized for ultra-wideband operation in the [5.15-5.85] GHz band. Antenna performance is validated in free space as well as in two on body measurement scenarios. Furthermore, the antenna's figures of merit are characterized when the prototype is bent at different curvature radii, as commonly encountered during deployment on the human body. Also the effect of humidity content on antenna performance is studied. In all scenarios, the realized antenna covers the entire operating frequency band, meanwhile retaining a stable radiation pattern with a broadside gain above 5 dBi, and a radiation efficiency of at least 70%.

Growth behavior of carbon nanotubes on multilayered metal catalyst film (Al/Fe/Mo) in chemical vapor deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, H.; Eres, G.; Howe, J. Y.; Puretzky, A.; Varela, M.; Geohegan, D. B.; Lowndes, D. H.

2003-03-01

The temperature- and time- dependences of carbon nanotube (CNT) growth by chemical vapor deposition are studied using a multilayered Al/Fe/Mo catalyst on silicon substrates. Within the 600 - 1100 ^oC temperature range in these studies, narrower temperature ranges were determined for the growth of aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Aligned MWCNT growth is favored at lower temperatures ( ˜700 ^oC). At 900 ^oC, in contrast to earlier work, double-walled carbon nanotubes (DWCNTs) are found more abundant than SWCNTs. At further elevated temperature, highly defective carbon structures are produced. Defects also are found to accumulate faster than the ordered graphitic structure if the growth of CNTs is extended to long growth durations. Atomic force microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy are used to characterize the catalyst and various types of CNTs.

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

Leishear, R.; Thaxton, D.; Minichan, R.

A sampling tool was required to evaluate residual activity ({mu}Curies per square foot) on the inner wall surfaces of underground nuclear waste storage tanks. The tool was required to collect a small sample from the 3/8 inch thick tank walls. This paper documents the design, testing, and deployment of the remotely operated sampling device. The sampler provides material from a known surface area to estimate the overall surface contamination in the tank prior to closure. The sampler consisted of a sampler and mast assembly mast assembly, control system, and the sampler, or end effector, which is defined as the operatingmore » component of a robotic arm. The mast assembly consisted of a vertical 30 feet long, 3 inch by 3 inch, vertical steel mast and a cantilevered arm hinged at the bottom of the mast and lowered by cable to align the attached sampler to the wall. The sampler and mast assembly were raised and lowered through an opening in the tank tops, called a riser. The sampler is constructed of a mounting plate, a drill, springs to provide a drive force to the drill, a removable sampler head to collect the sample, a vacuum pump to draw the sample from the drill to a filter, and controls to operate the system. Once the sampler was positioned near the wall, electromagnets attached it to the wall, and the control system was operated to turn on the drill and vacuum to remove and collect a sample from the wall. Samples were collected on filters in removable sampler heads, which were readily transported for further laboratory testing.« less

Dual-mode switching of a liquid crystal panel for viewing angle control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baek, Jong-In; Kwon, Yong-Hoan; Kim, Jae Chang; Yoon, Tae-Hoon

2007-03-01

The authors propose a method to control the viewing angle of a liquid crystal (LC) panel using dual-mode switching. To realize both wide viewing angle (WVA) characteristics and narrow viewing angle (NVA) characteristics with a single LC panel, the authors use two different dark states. The LC layer can be aligned homogeneously parallel to the transmission axis of the bottom polarizer for WVA dark state operation, while it can be aligned vertically for NVA dark state operation. The authors demonstrated that viewing angle control can be achieved with a single panel without any loss of contrast at the front.

Synthesis, transfer printing, electrical and optical properties, and applications of materials composed of self-assembled, aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pint, Cary L.

Super growth of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) has emerged as a unique method for synthesizing self-assembled, pristine, aligned SWNT materials composed of ultra-long (millimeter-long) nanotubes. This thesis focuses on novel routes of synthesizing such self-assembled SWNTs and the challenges that arise in integrating this material into next-generation applications. First of all, this work provides unique insight into growth termination of aligned SWNTs, emphasizing the mechanism that inhibits the growth of infinitely long nanotubes. Exhaustive real-time growth studies, combined with ex-situ and in-situ TEM characterization emphasizes that Ostwald ripening and subsurface diffusion of catalyst particles play a key role in growth termination. As a result, rational steps to solving this problem can enhance growth, and may ultimately lead to the meter or kilometer-long SWNTs that are necessary for a number of applications. In addition, other novel synthesis routes are discussed, such as the ability to form macroscopic fibrils of SWNTs, called "flying carpets" from 40 nm thick substrates, and the ability to achieve supergrowth of SWNTs that are controllably doped with nitrogen. In the latter case, molecular heterojunctions of doped and undoped sections in a single strand of ultralong SWNTs are demonstrated Secondly, as supergrowth is conducted on alumina coated SiO2 substrates, any applications will require that one can transfer the SWNTs to host surfaces with minimal processing. This work demonstrates a unique contact transfer route by which both patterned arrays of SWNTs, or homogenous SWNT carpets, can be transferred to any host surface. In the first case, the SWNTs are grown vertically aligned, and transferred in patterns of horizontally aligned SWNT. This transfer process relies on simple water-vapor etching of amorphous carbons at the catalyst following growth, and strong van der Waals adhesion of the high surface-area SWNT to host surfaces (gecko effect). Next, as the SWNTs produced in supergrowth are notably large in diameter (2-5 nm), this work provides the first characterization of these SWNTs using combined microscopy and infrared polarized absorption studies. Perfectly aligned SWNTs are transferred to infrared optical windows and mounted in a rotatable vacuum cell in which polarization dependent characterization is carried out. By modeling features observed in absorption to expected optical excitonic transition energies, diameter distributions are rapidly extracted. In addition, other concepts of optical characterization in ultra-long aligned SWNTs are explored. For example, the concept of using polarized near-IR characterization for such SWNT samples is inadequate to characterize the bulk alignment due to the mismatch of the excitation wavelength and the SWNT length. Therefore, comparing anisotropy in polarized near-IR Raman or absorption gives substantially different results than anisotropic electrical transport measurements. In addition to optical characterization, this work uniquely finds that the electrical transport properties of SWNTs is ultimately limited by SWNT-SWNT junctions. This is evident in temperature-dependent DC and AC conductivity measurements that emphasize localization-induced transport characteristics. A number of non-classical electrical transport features are observed that can simply be related to the sensitivity of electrical transport to SWNT-SWNT junctions. This means that despite the incredible electrical properties of individual SWNTs, it is necessary to focus on the growth and processing of ultra-long SWNTs in order to realistically make nanotube-based materials comparable in transport characteristics to conventional materials. Finally, this work concludes by demonstrating progress on the fabrication of new SWNT-based applications. First of all, a new type of solid-state supercapacitor material is fabricated where vertically aligned SWNT are coated with metal-oxide dielectric and counterelectrode layers to form efficient supercapacitors. This design benefits from the ultra-high surface area available in SWNT arrays, the intrinsic ultra-high current carrying capacity of ultra-long SWNT (1000 times copper), the high breakdown voltages one can achieve using solid dielectric layers, and the lightweight and temperature insensitive design of this capacitor. As a result, performance comparable to current electric-double layer capacitor devices is reported, and energy densities significant larger are predicted by material optimization. In addition, progress on other applications are discussed, including devices utilizing self-assembled molecular heterojunction arrays, and terahertz polarizers made from perfectly aligned transferred SWNT films. This work demonstrates a bottom-up route toward the synthesis of new materials for novel characterization and applications.

Vertically aligned carbon nanopillars with size and spacing control for a transparent field emission display.

PubMed

Lee, Seok Woo; Lee, Chang Hwa; Lee, Jung A; Lee, Seung S

2013-01-18

A top-down fabrication method is presented for vertically aligned carbon nanopillars (CNPs) using photolithography and pyrolysis. The modified backside exposure method of photolithography fabricates vertically aligned polymer (SU-8) nanopillars. The pyrolysis process, which transforms the polymer to amorphous carbon, reliably produces vertically aligned CNPs with widths ranging from 100 to 400 nm. The CNPs can be used as a transparent field emission cathode for a transparent display and light emission is observed.

High yield growth of patterned vertically aligned carbon nanotubes using inkjet-printed catalyst.

PubMed

Beard, James D; Stringer, Jonathan; Ghita, Oana R; Smith, Patrick J

2013-10-09

This study reports on the fabrication of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes localized at specific sites on a growth substrate by deposition of a nanoparticle suspension using inkjet printing. Carbon nanotubes were grown with high yield as vertically aligned forests to a length of approximately 400 μm. The use of inkjet printing for catalyst fabrication considerably improves the production rate of vertically aligned patterned nanotube forests compared with conventional patterning techniques, for example, electron beam lithography or photolithography.

WC Nanocrystals Grown on Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotubes: An Efficient and Stable Electrocatalyst for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction.

PubMed

Fan, Xiujun; Zhou, Haiqing; Guo, Xia

2015-05-26

Single nanocrystalline tungsten carbide (WC) was first synthesized on the tips of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VA-CNTs) with a hot filament chemical vapor deposition (HF-CVD) method through the directly reaction of tungsten metal with carbon source. The VA-CNTs with preservation of vertical structure integrity and alignment play an important role to support the nanocrystalline WC growth. With the high crystallinity, small size, and uniform distribution of WC particles on the carbon support, the formed WC-CNTs material exhibited an excellent catalytic activity for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), giving a η10 (the overpotential for driving a current of 10 mA cm(-2)) of 145 mV, onset potential of 15 mV, exchange current density@ 300 mV of 117.6 mV and Tafel slope values of 72 mV dec(-1) in acid solution, and η10 of 137 mV, onset potential of 16 mV, exchange current density@ 300 mV of 33.1 mV and Tafel slope values of 106 mV dec(-1) in alkaline media, respectively. Electrochemical stability test further confirms the long-term operation of the catalyst in both acidic and alkaline media.

Transfer and alignment of random single-walled carbon nanotube films by contact printing.

PubMed

Liu, Huaping; Takagi, Daisuke; Chiashi, Shohei; Homma, Yoshikazu

2010-02-23

We present a simple method to transfer large-area random single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) films grown on SiO(2) substrates onto another surface through a simple contact printing process. The transferred random SWCNT films can be assembled into highly ordered, dense regular arrays with high uniformity and reproducibility by sliding the growth substrate during the transfer process. The position of the transferred SWCNT film can be controlled by predefined patterns on the receiver substrates. The process is compatible with a variety of substrates, and even metal meshes for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) can be used as receiver substrates. Thus, suspended web-like SWCNT networks and aligned SWCNT arrays can be formed over the grids of TEM meshes, so that the structures of the transferred SWCNTs can be directly observed by TEM. This simple technique can be used to controllably transfer SWCNTs for property studies, for the fabrication of devices, or even as support films for TEM meshes.

Electrical transport properties of small diameter single-walled carbon nanotubes aligned on ST-cut quartz substrates

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

A method is introduced to isolate and measure the electrical transport properties of individual single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) aligned on an ST-cut quartz, from room temperature down to 2 K. The diameter and chirality of the measured SWNTs are accurately defined from Raman spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM). A significant up-shift in the G-band of the resonance Raman spectra of the SWNTs is observed, which increases with increasing SWNTs diameter, and indicates a strong interaction with the quartz substrate. A semiconducting SWNT, with diameter 0.84 nm, shows Tomonaga-Luttinger liquid and Coulomb blockade behaviors at low temperatures. Another semiconducting SWNT, with a thinner diameter of 0.68 nm, exhibits a transition from the semiconducting state to an insulating state at low temperatures. These results elucidate some of the electrical properties of SWNTs in this unique configuration and help pave the way towards prospective device applications. PMID:25170326

Carbon nanotubes for thermal interface materials in microelectronic packaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Wei

As the integration scale of transistors/devices in a chip/system keeps increasing, effective cooling has become more and more important in microelectronics. To address the thermal dissipation issue, one important solution is to develop thermal interface materials with higher performance. Carbon nanotubes, given their high intrinsic thermal and mechanical properties, and their high thermal and chemical stabilities, have received extensive attention from both academia and industry as a candidate for high-performance thermal interface materials. The thesis is devoted to addressing some challenges related to the potential application of carbon nanotubes as thermal interface materials in microelectronics. These challenges include: 1) controlled synthesis of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes on various bulk substrates via chemical vapor deposition and the fundamental understanding involved; 2) development of a scalable annealing process to improve the intrinsic properties of synthesized carbon nanotubes; 3) development of a state-of-art assembling process to effectively implement high-quality vertically aligned carbon nanotubes into a flip-chip assembly; 4) a reliable thermal measurement of intrinsic thermal transport property of vertically aligned carbon nanotube films; 5) improvement of interfacial thermal transport between carbon nanotubes and other materials. The major achievements are summarized. 1. Based on the fundamental understanding of catalytic chemical vapor deposition processes and the growth mechanism of carbon nanotube, fast synthesis of high-quality vertically aligned carbon nanotubes on various bulk substrates (e.g., copper, quartz, silicon, aluminum oxide, etc.) has been successfully achieved. The synthesis of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes on the bulk copper substrate by the thermal chemical vapor deposition process has set a world record. In order to functionalize the synthesized carbon nanotubes while maintaining their good vertical alignment, an in situ functionalization process has for the first time been demonstrated. The in situ functionalization renders the vertically aligned carbon nanotubes a proper chemical reactivity for forming chemical bonding with other substrate materials such as gold and silicon. 2. An ultrafast microwave annealing process has been developed to reduce the defect density in vertically aligned carbon nanotubes. Raman and thermogravimetric analyses have shown a distinct defect reduction in the CNTs annealed in microwave for 3 min. Fibers spun from the as-annealed CNTs, in comparison with those from the pristine CNTs, show increases of ˜35% and ˜65%, respectively, in tensile strength (˜0.8 GPa) and modulus (˜90 GPa) during tensile testing; an ˜20% improvement in electrical conductivity (˜80000 S m-1) was also reported. The mechanism of the microwave response of CNTs was discussed. Such a microwave annealing process has been extended to the preparation of reduced graphene oxide. 3. Based on the fundamental understanding of interfacial thermal transport and surface chemistry of metals and carbon nanotubes, two major transfer/assembling processes have been developed: molecular bonding and metal bonding. Effective improvement of the interfacial thermal transport has been achieved by the interfacial bonding. 4. The thermal diffusivity of vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VACNT, multi-walled) films was measured by a laser flash technique, and shown to be ˜30 mm2 s-1 along the tube-alignment direction. The calculated thermal conductivities of the VACNT film and the individual CNTs are ˜27 and ˜540 W m-1 K-1, respectively. The technique was verified to be reliable although a proper sampling procedure is critical. A systematic parametric study of the effects of defects, buckling, tip-to-tip contacts, packing density, and tube-tube interaction on the thermal diffusivity was carried out. Defects and buckling decreased the thermal diffusivity dramatically. An increased packing density was beneficial in increasing the collective thermal conductivity of the VACNT film; however, the increased tube-tube interaction in dense VACNT films decreased the thermal conductivity of the individual CNTs. The tip-to-tip contact resistance was shown to be ˜1x10-7 m2 K W -1. The study will shed light on the potential application of VACNTs as thermal interface materials in microelectronic packaging. 5. A combined process of in situ functionalization and microwave curing has been developed to effective enhance the interface between carbon nanotubes and the epoxy matrix. Effective medium theory has been used to analyze the interfacial thermal resistance between carbon nanotubes and polymer matrix, and that between graphite nanoplatlets and polymer matrix.

Fabrication of high thermal conductivity arrays of carbon nanotubes and their composites

DOEpatents

Geohegan, David B [Knoxville, TN; Ivanov, Ilya N [Knoxville, TN; Puretzky, Alexander A [Knoxville, TN

2010-07-27

Methods and apparatus are described for fabrication of high thermal conductivity arrays of carbon nanotubes and their composites. A composition includes a vertically aligned nanotube array including a plurality of nanotubes characterized by a property across substantially all of the vertically aligned nanotube array. A method includes depositing a vertically aligned nanotube array that includes a plurality of nanotubes; and controlling a deposition rate of the vertically aligned nanotubes array as a function of an in situ monitored property of the plurality of nanotubes.

Optical properties of ordered vertical arrays of multi-walled carbon nanotubes from FDTD simulations.

PubMed

Bao, Hua; Ruan, Xiulin; Fisher, Timothy S

2010-03-15

A finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method is used to model thermal radiative properties of vertical arrays of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT). Individual CNTs are treated as solid circular cylinders with an effective dielectric tensor. Consistent with experiments, the results confirm that CNT arrays are highly absorptive. Compared with the commonly used Maxwell-Garnett theory, the FDTD calculations generally predict larger reflectance and absorbance, and smaller transmittance, which are attributed to the diffraction and scattering within the cylinder array structure. The effects of volume fraction, tube length, tube distance, and incident angle on radiative properties are investigated systematically. Low volume fraction and long tubes are more favorable to achieve low reflectance and high absorbance. For a fixed volume fraction and finite tube length, larger periodicity results in larger reflectance and absorbance. The angular dependence studies reveal an optimum incident angle at which the reflectance can be minimized. The results also suggest that an even darker material could be achieved by using CNTs with good alignment on the top surface.

Fast Response and Spontaneous Alignment in Liquid Crystals Doped with 12-Hydroxystearic Acid Gelators.

PubMed

Lin, Hui-Chi; Wang, Chih-Hung; Wang, Jyun-Kai; Tsai, Sheng-Feng

2018-05-07

The spontaneous vertical alignment of liquid crystals (LCs) in gelator (12-hydroxystearic acid)-doped LC cells was studied. Gelator-induced alignment can be used in both positive and negative LC cells. The electro-optical characteristics of the gelator-doped negative LC cell were similar to those of an LC cell that contained a vertically aligned (VA) host. The rise time of the gelator-doped LC cell was two orders of magnitude shorter than that of the VA host LC cell. The experimental results indicate that the gelator-induced vertical alignment of LC molecules occurred not only on the surface of the indium tin oxide (ITO) but also on the homogeneous alignment layer. Various LC alignments (planar, hybrid, multistable hybrid, and vertical alignments) were achieved by modulating the doped gelator concentrations. The multistable characteristic of LCs doped with the gelator is also presented. The alignment by doping with a gelator reduces the manufacturing costs and provides a means of fabricating fast-responding, flexible LC displays using a low-temperature process.

Growth mechanism and optical properties of aligned hexagonal ZnO nanoprisms synthesized by noncatalytic thermal evaporation.

PubMed

Umar, Ahmad; Karunagaran, B; Kim, S H; Suh, E-K; Hahn, Y B

2008-05-19

Vertically aligned perfectly hexagonal-shaped ZnO nanoprisms have been grown on a Si(100) substrate via a noncatalytic thermal evaporation process by using metallic zinc powder in the presence of oxygen gas. The as-grown nanoprisms consist of ultra smooth Zn-terminated (0001) facets bounded with the {0110} surfaces. The as-synthesized products are single-crystalline with the wurtzite hexagonal phase and grown along the [0001] direction, as confirmed from the detailed structural investigations. The presence of a sharp and strong nonpolar optical phonon high-E2 mode at 437 cm(-1) in the Raman scattering spectrum further confirms good crystallinity and wurtzite hexagonal phase for the as-grown products. The as-grown nanoprisms exhibit a strong near-band-edge emission with a very weak deep-level emission in the room-temperature and low-temperature photoluminescence measurements, confirming good optical properties for the deposited products. Moreover, systematic time-dependent experiments were also performed to determine the growth process of the grown vertically aligned nanoprisms.

A Glucose Biosensor Using CMOS Potentiostat and Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanofibers.

PubMed

Al Mamun, Khandaker A; Islam, Syed K; Hensley, Dale K; McFarlane, Nicole

2016-08-01

This paper reports a linear, low power, and compact CMOS based potentiostat for vertically aligned carbon nanofibers (VACNF) based amperometric glucose sensors. The CMOS based potentiostat consists of a single-ended potential control unit, a low noise common gate difference-differential pair transimpedance amplifier and a low power VCO. The potentiostat current measuring unit can detect electrochemical current ranging from 500 nA to 7 [Formula: see text] from the VACNF working electrodes with high degree of linearity. This current corresponds to a range of glucose, which depends on the fiber forest density. The potentiostat consumes 71.7 [Formula: see text] of power from a 1.8 V supply and occupies 0.017 [Formula: see text] of chip area realized in a 0.18 [Formula: see text] standard CMOS process.

Fluid leakage through fractures in an impervious caprock embedded between two geologic aquifers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Selvadurai, A. P. S.

2012-06-01

The paper develops an analytical result for the flow through a single fracture under a hydraulic gradient between the two aquifer regions and takes into account permeability characteristics of all components of the system. Non-dimensional results are presented to illustrate the influence of the permeability mis-match between the two geologic formations and the permeability and geometry of the fracture on the flow rate through the fracture. The analytical result is then used to develop additional results for leakage through a swarm of vertically aligned hydraulically non-interacting fractures and a damaged region containing a densely spaced array of vertically aligned fractures and worm hole type features in the caprock. The work presents a convenient result for the estimation of leakage from storage formations in geoenvironmental applications.

Nonequilibrium Synthesis of Highly Porous Single-Crystalline Oxide Nanostructures

DOE PAGES

Lee, Dongkyu; Gao, Xiang; Fan, Lisha; ...

2017-01-20

A novel synthesis route to the formation of vertically aligned single–crystalline oxide nanostructures is found by precisely controlling the nonequilibrium pulsed laser deposition process. Here, the columnar nanostructures with deep crevices offering a large surface area are generated owing to the diffusion limited geometric shadowing effect.

On the alignment of cellulose microfibrils by cortical microtubules: a review and a model.

PubMed

Baskin, T I

2001-01-01

The hypothesis that microtubules align microfibrils, termed the alignment hypothesis, states that there is a causal link between the orientation of cortical microtubules and the orientation of nascent microfibrils. I have assessed the generality of this hypothesis by reviewing what is known about the relation between microtubules and microfibrils in a wide group of examples: in algae of the family Characeae, Closterium acerosum, Oocystis solitaria, and certain genera of green coenocytes and in land plant tip-growing cells, xylem, diffusely growing cells, and protoplasts. The salient features about microfibril alignment to emerge are as follows. Cellulose microfibrils can be aligned by cortical microtubules, thus supporting the alignment hypothesis. Alignment of microfibrils can occur independently of microtubules, showing that an alternative to the alignment hypothesis must exist. Microfibril organization is often random, suggesting that self-assembly is insufficient. Microfibril organization differs on different faces of the same cell, suggesting that microfibrils are aligned locally, not with respect to the entire cell. Nascent microfibrils appear to associate tightly with the plasma membrane. To account for these observations, I present a model that posits alignment to be mediated through binding the nascent microfibril. The model, termed templated incorporation, postulates that the nascent microfibril is incorporated into the cell wall by binding to a scaffold that is oriented; further, the scaffold is built and oriented around either already incorporated microfibrils or plasma membrane proteins, or both. The role of cortical microtubules is to bind and orient components of the scaffold at the plasma membrane. In this way, spatial information to align the microfibrils may come from either the cell wall or the cell interior, and microfibril alignment with and without microtubules are subsets of a single mechanism.

Differences in pediatric vertical ground reaction force between planovalgus and neutrally aligned feet.

PubMed

Pauk, Jolanta; Szymul, Joanna

2014-01-01

Ground reaction forces (GRF) reflect the force history of human body contact with the ground. The purpose of this study was to explore human gait abnormalities due to planovalgus by comparing vertical GRF data between individuals with planovalgus and those with neutrally aligned feet. Second we estimated associations between various measurements and vertical GRF parameters in a pediatric population. Boys and girls between the ages of 4 and 18 years (72 planovalgus feet and 74 neutrally aligned feet) took part in this study. Ground reaction forces were recorded by two Kistler platforms and normalized to body weight. Comparison of vertical GRF between planovalgus and neutrally aligned feet suggests that the first and the second peaks of vertical force (Fz1, Fz2) are most affected by planovalgus. The results also indicate that neutrally aligned feet display a different ground reaction force pattern than planovalgus, and that differences between boys and girls may be observed. The shape of the vertical GRF curve can help in clinical interpretation of abnormal gait.

Terahertz Science and Technology of Macroscopically Aligned Carbon Nanotube Films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kono, Junichiro

One of the outstanding challenges in nanotechnology is how to assemble individual nano-objects into macroscopic architectures while preserving their extraordinary properties. For example, the one-dimensional character of electrons in individual carbon nanotubes leads to extremely anisotropic transport, optical, and magnetic phenomena, but their macroscopic manifestations have been limited. Here, we describe methods for preparing macroscopic films, sheets, and fibers of highly aligned carbon nanotubes and their applications to basic and applied terahertz studies. Sufficiently thick films act as ideal terahertz polarizers, and appropriately doped films operate as polarization-sensitive, flexible, powerless, and ultra-broadband detectors. Together with recently developed chirality enrichment methods, these developments will ultimately allow us to study dynamic conductivities of interacting one-dimensional electrons in macroscopic single crystals of single-chirality single-wall carbon nanotubes.

Fast Response and Spontaneous Alignment in Liquid Crystals Doped with 12-Hydroxystearic Acid Gelators

PubMed Central

Lin, Hui-Chi; Wang, Chih-Hung; Wang, Jyun-Kai; Tsai, Sheng-Feng

2018-01-01

The spontaneous vertical alignment of liquid crystals (LCs) in gelator (12-hydroxystearic acid)-doped LC cells was studied. Gelator-induced alignment can be used in both positive and negative LC cells. The electro-optical characteristics of the gelator-doped negative LC cell were similar to those of an LC cell that contained a vertically aligned (VA) host. The rise time of the gelator-doped LC cell was two orders of magnitude shorter than that of the VA host LC cell. The experimental results indicate that the gelator-induced vertical alignment of LC molecules occurred not only on the surface of the indium tin oxide (ITO) but also on the homogeneous alignment layer. Various LC alignments (planar, hybrid, multistable hybrid, and vertical alignments) were achieved by modulating the doped gelator concentrations. The multistable characteristic of LCs doped with the gelator is also presented. The alignment by doping with a gelator reduces the manufacturing costs and provides a means of fabricating fast-responding, flexible LC displays using a low-temperature process. PMID:29735937

Realizing one-dimensional quantum and high-frequency transport features in aligned single-walled carbon nanotube ropes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ncube, Siphephile; Chimowa, George; Chiguvare, Zivayi; Bhattacharyya, Somnath

2014-07-01

The superiority of the electronic transport properties of single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) ropes over SWNT mats is verified from low temperature and frequency-dependent transport. The overall change of resistance versus in nanotube mats shows that 3D variable range hopping is the dominant conduction mechanism within the 2-300 K range. The magneto-resistance (MR) is found to be predominantly negative with a parabolic nature, which can also be described by the hopping model. Although the positive upturn of the MR at low temperatures establishes the contribution from quantum interference, the inherent quantum transport in individual tubes is suppressed at elevated temperatures. Therefore, to minimize multi-channel effects from inter-tube interactions and other defects, two-terminal devices were fabricated from aligned SWNT (extracted from a mat) for low temperature transport as well as high-frequency measurements. In contrast to the mat, the aligned ropes exhibit step-like features in the differential conductance within the 80-300 K temperature range. The effects of plasmon propagation, unique to one dimension, were identified in electronic transport as a non-universal power-law dependence of the differential conductance on temperature and source-drain voltage. The complex impedance showed high power transmission capabilities up to 65 GHz as well as oscillations in the frequency range up to 30 GHz. The measurements suggest that aligned SWNT ropes have a realistic potential for high-speed device applications.

Vertically aligned p-type single-crystalline GaN nanorod arrays on n-type Si for heterojunction photovoltaic cells.

PubMed

Tang, Y B; Chen, Z H; Song, H S; Lee, C S; Cong, H T; Cheng, H M; Zhang, W J; Bello, I; Lee, S T

2008-12-01

Vertically aligned Mg-doped GaN nanorods have been epitaxially grown on n-type Si substrate to form a heterostructure for fabricating p-n heterojunction photovoltaic cells. The p-type GaN nanorod/n-Si heterojunction cell shows a well-defined rectifying behavior with a rectification ratio larger than 10(4) in dark. The cell has a high short-circuit photocurrent density of 7.6 mAlcm2 and energy conversion efficiency of 2.73% under AM 1.5G illumination at 100 mW/cm2. Moreover, the nanorod array may be used as an antireflection coating for solar cell applications to effectively reduce light loss due to reflection. This study provides an experimental demonstration for integrating one-dimensional nanostructure arrays with the substrate to directly fabricate heterojunction photovoltaic cells.

Riser Difference Uncertainty Methodology Based on Tank AY-101 Wall Thickness Measurements with Application to Tank AN-107

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

Weier, Dennis R.; Anderson, Kevin K.; Berman, Herbert S.

2005-03-10

The DST Integrity Plan (RPP-7574, 2003, Double-Shell Tank Integrity Program Plan, Rev. 1A, CH2M HILL Hanford Group, Inc., Richland, Washington.) requires the ultrasonic wall thickness measurement of two vertical scans of the tank primary wall while using a single riser location. The resulting measurements are then used in extreme value methodology to predict the minimum wall thickness expected for the entire tank. The representativeness of using a single riser in this manner to draw conclusions about the entire circumference of a tank has been questioned. The only data available with which to address the representativeness question comes from Tank AY-101more » since only for that tank have multiple risers been used for such inspection. The purpose of this report is to (1) further characterize AY-101 riser differences (relative to prior work); (2) propose a methodology for incorporating a ''riser difference'' uncertainty for subsequent tanks for which only a single riser is used, and (3) specifically apply the methodology to measurements made from a single riser in Tank AN-107.« less

Quantifying the Hierarchical Order in Self-Aligned Carbon Nanotubes from Atomic to Micrometer Scale.

PubMed

Meshot, Eric R; Zwissler, Darwin W; Bui, Ngoc; Kuykendall, Tevye R; Wang, Cheng; Hexemer, Alexander; Wu, Kuang Jen J; Fornasiero, Francesco

2017-06-27

Fundamental understanding of structure-property relationships in hierarchically organized nanostructures is crucial for the development of new functionality, yet quantifying structure across multiple length scales is challenging. In this work, we used nondestructive X-ray scattering to quantitatively map the multiscale structure of hierarchically self-organized carbon nanotube (CNT) "forests" across 4 orders of magnitude in length scale, from 2.0 Å to 1.5 μm. Fully resolved structural features include the graphitic honeycomb lattice and interlayer walls (atomic), CNT diameter (nano), as well as the greater CNT ensemble (meso) and large corrugations (micro). Correlating orientational order across hierarchical levels revealed a cascading decrease as we probed finer structural feature sizes with enhanced sensitivity to small-scale disorder. Furthermore, we established qualitative relationships for single-, few-, and multiwall CNT forest characteristics, showing that multiscale orientational order is directly correlated with number density spanning 10 9 -10 12 cm -2 , yet order is inversely proportional to CNT diameter, number of walls, and atomic defects. Lastly, we captured and quantified ultralow-q meridional scattering features and built a phenomenological model of the large-scale CNT forest morphology, which predicted and confirmed that these features arise due to microscale corrugations along the vertical forest direction. Providing detailed structural information at multiple length scales is important for design and synthesis of CNT materials as well as other hierarchically organized nanostructures.

Low temperature and high field regimes of connected kagome artificial spin ice: the role of domain wall topology.

PubMed

Zeissler, Katharina; Chadha, Megha; Lovell, Edmund; Cohen, Lesley F; Branford, Will R

2016-07-22

Artificial spin ices are frustrated magnetic nanostructures where single domain nanobars act as macrosized spins. In connected kagome artificial spin ice arrays, reversal occurs along one-dimensional chains by propagation of ferromagnetic domain walls through Y-shaped vertices. Both the vertices and the walls are complex chiral objects with well-defined topological edge-charges. At room temperature, it is established that the topological edge-charges determine the exact switching reversal path taken. However, magnetic reversal at low temperatures has received much less attention and how these chiral objects interact at reduced temperature is unknown. In this study we use magnetic force microscopy to image the magnetic reversal process at low temperatures revealing the formation of quite remarkable high energy remanence states and a change in the dynamics of the reversal process. The implication is the breakdown of the artificial spin ice regime in these connected structures at low temperatures.

Symmetry breaking and electrical frustration during tip-induced polarization switching in the non-polar cut of lithium niobate single crystals

DOE PAGES

Ievlev, Anton; Alikin, Denis O.; Morozovska, A. N.; ...

2014-12-15

Polarization switching in ferroelectric materials is governed by a delicate interplay between bulk polarization dynamics and screening processes at surfaces and domain walls. Here we explore the mechanism of tip-induced polarization switching in the non-polar cuts of uniaxial ferroelectrics. In this case, in-plane component of polarization vector switches, allowing for detailed observations of resultant domain morphologies. We observe surprising variability of resultant domain morphologies stemming from fundamental instability of formed charged domain wall and associated electric frustration. In particular, we demonstrate that controlling vertical tip position allows the polarity of the switching to be controlled. This represents very unusual formmore » of symmetry breaking where mechanical motion in vertical direction controls the lateral domain growth. The implication of these studies for ferroelectric devices and domain wall electronics are discussed.« less

Guided wave tomography in anisotropic media using recursive extrapolation operators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Volker, Arno

2018-04-01

Guided wave tomography is an advanced technology for quantitative wall thickness mapping to image wall loss due to corrosion or erosion. An inversion approach is used to match the measured phase (time) at a specific frequency to a model. The accuracy of the model determines the sizing accuracy. Particularly for seam welded pipes there is a measurable amount of anisotropy. Moreover, for small defects a ray-tracing based modelling approach is no longer accurate. Both issues are solved by applying a recursive wave field extrapolation operator assuming vertical transverse anisotropy. The inversion scheme is extended by not only estimating the wall loss profile but also the anisotropy, local material changes and transducer ring alignment errors. This makes the approach more robust. The approach will be demonstrated experimentally on different defect sizes, and a comparison will be made between this new approach and an isotropic ray-tracing approach. An example is given in Fig. 1 for a 75 mm wide, 5 mm deep defect. The wave field extrapolation based tomography clearly provides superior results.

Controlled Synthesis and Functionalization of Vertically-Aligned Carbon Nanotubes for Multifunctional Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-05-07

6 1.6 Lithium - Ion Batteries Based on Vertically-Aligned Carbon Nanotube Electrodes and Ionic...Cl, Br, or I) Prepared by Ball-Milling and Used as Anode Materials for Lithium - Ion Batteries ……………....................23 3.4 Well-Defined Two...9 1.6 Lithium - Ion Batteries Based on Vertically-Aligned Carbon Nanotube Electrodes and Ionic Liquid Electrolytes

Effects of vertical wall and tetrapod weights on wave overtopping in rubble mound breakwaters under irregular wave conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Sang Kil; Dodaran, Asgar Ahadpour; Han, Chong Soo; Shahmirzadi, Mohammad Ebrahim Meshkati

2014-12-01

Rubble mound breakwaters protect the coastal line against severe erosion caused by wave action. This study examined the performance of different sizes and properties (i.e. height of vertical wall and tetrapod size) of rubble mound breakwaters on reducing the overtopping discharge. The physical model used in this study was derived based on an actual rubble mound in Busan Yacht Harbor. This research attempts to fill the gap in practical knowledge on the combined effect of the armor roughness and vertical wall on wave overtopping in rubble mound breakwaters. The main governing parameters used in this study were the vertical wall height, variation of the tetrapod weights, initial water level elevation, and the volume of overtopping under constant wave properties. The experimental results showed that the roughness factor differed according to the tetrapod size. Furthermore, the overtopping discharge with no vertical wall was similar to that with relatively short vertical walls ( 1 γv = 1). Therefore, the experimental results highlight the importance of the height of the vertical wall in reducing overtopping discharge. Moreover, a large tetrapod size may allow coastal engineers to choose a shorter vertical wall to save cost, while obtaining better performance.

Inner- and outer-wall sorting of double-walled carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Han; Gordeev, Georgy; Wasserroth, Sören; Chakravadhanula, Venkata Sai Kiran; Neelakandhan, Shyam Kumar Chethala; Hennrich, Frank; Jorio, Ado; Reich, Stephanie; Krupke, Ralph; Flavel, Benjamin Scott

2017-12-01

Double-walled carbon nanotubes (DWCNTs) consist of two coaxially aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), and previous sorting methods only achieved outer-wall electronic-type selectivity. Here, a separation technique capable of sorting DWCNTs by semiconducting (S) or metallic (M) inner- and outer-wall electronic type is presented. Electronic coupling between the inner and outer wall is used to alter the surfactant coating around each of the DWCNT types, and aqueous gel permeation is used to separate them. Aqueous methods are used to remove SWCNT species from the raw material and prepare enriched DWCNT fractions. The enriched DWCNT fractions are then transferred into either chlorobenzene or toluene using the copolymer PFO-BPy to yield the four inner@outer combinations of M@M, M@S, S@M and S@S. The high purity of the resulting fractions is verified by absorption measurements, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, resonance Raman mapping and high-density field-effect transistor devices.

Inner- and outer-wall sorting of double-walled carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Li, Han; Gordeev, Georgy; Wasserroth, Sören; Chakravadhanula, Venkata Sai Kiran; Neelakandhan, Shyam Kumar Chethala; Hennrich, Frank; Jorio, Ado; Reich, Stephanie; Krupke, Ralph; Flavel, Benjamin Scott

2017-12-01

Double-walled carbon nanotubes (DWCNTs) consist of two coaxially aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), and previous sorting methods only achieved outer-wall electronic-type selectivity. Here, a separation technique capable of sorting DWCNTs by semiconducting (S) or metallic (M) inner- and outer-wall electronic type is presented. Electronic coupling between the inner and outer wall is used to alter the surfactant coating around each of the DWCNT types, and aqueous gel permeation is used to separate them. Aqueous methods are used to remove SWCNT species from the raw material and prepare enriched DWCNT fractions. The enriched DWCNT fractions are then transferred into either chlorobenzene or toluene using the copolymer PFO-BPy to yield the four inner@outer combinations of M@M, M@S, S@M and S@S. The high purity of the resulting fractions is verified by absorption measurements, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, resonance Raman mapping and high-density field-effect transistor devices.

Macroscopic Ensembles of Aligned Carbon Nanotubes in Bubble Imprints Studied by Polarized Raman Microscopy

DOE PAGES

Ushiba, Shota; Hoyt, Jordan; Masui, Kyoko; ...

2014-01-01

We study the alignment of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) in bubble imprints through polarized Raman microscopy. A hemispherical bubble containing SWCNTs is pressed against a glass substrate, resulting in an imprint of the bubble membrane with a coffee ring on the substrate. We find that macroscopic ensembles of aligned SWCNTs are obtained in the imprints, in which there are three patterns of orientations: (i) azimuthal alignment on the coffee ring, (ii) radial alignment at the edge of the membrane, and (iii) random orientation at the center of the membrane. We also find that the alignment of SWCNTs in the imprintsmore » can be manipulated by spinning bubbles. The orientation of SWCNTs on the coffee ring is directed radially, which is orthogonal to the case of unspun bubbles. This approach enables one to align SWCNTs in large quantities and in a short time, potentially opening up a wide range of CNT-based electronic and optical applications.« less

Status of the KLOE-2 Inner Tracker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Lucia, Erika

2018-01-01

KLOE-2 at the DAΦNE Φ-factory is the main experiment of the INFN Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati (LNF) and is the first high-energy experiment using the GEM technology with a cylindrical geometry, a novel idea developed at LNF. Four concentric cylindrical triple-GEM detectors compose the Inner Tracker, inserted around the interaction region and before the inner wall of the pre-existing KLOE Drift Chamber to improve the resolution on decay vertices close to the interaction point. State-of-the-art solutions have been expressly developed or tuned for this project: single-mask GEM etching, multi-layer XV patterned readout, PEEK spacer grid, GASTONE front-end board, a custom 64-channel ASIC with digital output, and the Global Interface Board for data collection, with a configurable FPGA architecture and Gigabit Ethernet. Alignment and calibration of a cylindrical GEM detector was never done before and represents one of the challenging activities of the experiment. The Inner Tracker detector construction, operation, calibration and performance obtained with cosmic-ray muons and Bhabha scattering events will be reported.

Optical power of VCSELs stabilized to 35 ppm/°C without a TEC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Downing, John

2015-03-01

This paper reports a method and system comprising a light source, an electronic method, and a calibration procedure for stabilizing the optical power of vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) and laser diodes (LDs) without the use thermoelectric coolers (TECs). The system eliminates the needs for custom interference coatings, polarization adjustments, and the exact alignment required by the optical method reported in 2013 [1]. It can precisely compensate for the effects of temperature and wavelength drift on photodiode responsivity as well as changes in VCSEL beam quality and polarization angle over a 50°C temperature range. Data obtained from light sources built with single-mode polarization-locked VCSELs demonstrate that 30 ppm/°C stability can be readily obtained. The system has advantages over TECstabilized laser modules that include: 1) 90% lower relative RMS optical power and temperature sensitivity, 2) a five-fold enhancement of wall-plug efficiency, 3) less component testing and sorting, 4) lower manufacturing costs, and 5) automated calibration in batches at time of manufacture is practical. The system is ideally suited for battery-powered environmental and in-home medical monitoring applications.

Photodetector based on carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pavlov, A.; Kitsyuk, E.; Ryazanov, R.; Timoshenkov, V.; Adamov, Y.

2015-09-01

Photodetector based on carbon nanotubes (CNT) was investigated. Sensors were done on quartz and silicon susbtrate. Samples of photodetectors sensors were produced by planar technology. This technology included deposition of first metal layer (Al), lithography for pads formation, etching, and formation of local catalyst area by inverse lithography. Vertically-aligned multi-wall carbon nanotubes were directly synthesized on substrate by PECVD method. I-V analysis and spectrum sensitivity of photodetector were investigated for 0.4 μm - 1.2 μm wavelength. Resistivity of CNT layers over temperature was detected in the range of -20°C to 100°C.

Applying Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotubes in Energy Harvesting and Energy Storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oguntoye, Moses

This work has been a scientific inquisition into the potential of carbon nanotubes, fabricated in a vertically aligned configuration, for their application to solving pressing energy problems. This dissertation is introduced by providing a background to energy storage and generation as well as the various major equipment and techniques used throughout the scientific inquisition. The generic method of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNT) growth is then presented. By using a combination of recipes previously described in literature, an easy to replicate method of growing carbon nanotubes is developed with demonstrated success on different substates. The different conditions required to facilitate efficiency in the VACNT growth are highlighted. The properties of the as-grown VACNT forest are also studied and presented. Based on the recipe used, the VACNT are categorized as multiwalled and the number of walls is confirmed to be about 15 walls using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Their graphitic nature is confirmed using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The surface area characterization is done using the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method and weight-gain method. The first part of this dissertation deals with the application of the VACNT electrodes fabricated for the harvesting of mechanical energy using the triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) technology. Here, energy is harvested from mechanical systems using both polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and polyethylene (PET) counter electrodes to confirm the applicability of VACNT electrodes for this purpose. A mechanism for the electron motion is proposed based on the already identified dielectric-metal TENG pairing. Furthermore, the usefulness of this technology is demonstrated further by charging a 0.47microF capacitor to 4.5V in one minute using the VACNT-PTFE TENG. The second part of this dissertation deals with the application of VACNT electrodes in energy storage using supercapacitors. Firstly, the performance of VACNT electrodes by themselves is studied in both 3-electrode and 2-electrode systems as well as in both aqueous and organic electrolytes. Due to the larger electrochemical window possible, better performance is obtained from the system using VACNT electrodes in organic electrolyte than is obtained in aqueous electrolyte. Safety and cost limitations of the organic electrolyte forced further research into the improvement of performance in aqueous electrolyte. The solution found is to incorporate another mechanism of supercapacitive energy storage besides the formation of an electric double layer on the VACNT. This involved the uniform deposition of nickel cobaltite (a well known faradaic capacitive material) on the VACNT surface as well as using freeze-drying to preserve the vertical alignment structure. All the considerations required to achieve these goals are expressed and discussed. Overall, a comparable energy density is obtained from the aqueous electrolyte after faradaic capacitive modification of the VACNT electrode. Chapters 3 and 5 of this dissertation incorporate material in peer-reviewed journal papers published by the author.

Estimation of Effective Directional Strength of Single Walled Wavy CNT Reinforced Nanocomposite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhowmik, Krishnendu; Kumar, Pranav; Khutia, Niloy; Chowdhury, Amit Roy

2018-03-01

In this present work, single walled wavy carbon nanotube reinforced into composite has been studied to predict the effective directional strength of the nanocomposite. The effect of waviness on the overall Young’s modulus of the composite has been analysed using three dimensional finite element model. Waviness pattern of carbon nanotube is considered as periodic cosine function. Both long (continuous) and short (discontinuous) carbon nanotubes are being idealized as solid annular tube. Short carbon nanotube is modelled with hemispherical cap at its both ends. Representative Volume Element models have been developed with different waviness, height fractions, volume fractions and modulus ratios of carbon nanotubes. Consequently a micromechanics based analytical model has been formulated to derive the effective reinforcing modulus of wavy carbon nanotubes. In these models wavy single walled wavy carbon nanotubes are considered to be aligned along the longitudinal axis of the Representative Volume Element model. Results obtained from finite element analyses are compared with analytical model and they are found in good agreement.

A critical look at spatial scale choices in satellite-based aerosol indirect effect studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grandey, B. S.; Stier, P.

2010-06-01

Analysing satellite datasets over large regions may introduce spurious relationships between aerosol and cloud properties due to spatial variations in aerosol type, cloud regime and synoptic regime climatologies. Using MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer data, we calculate relationships between aerosol optical depth τa, derived liquid cloud droplet effective number concentration Ne and liquid cloud droplet effective radius re at different spatial scales. Generally, positive values of dlnNe dlnτa are found for ocean regions, whilst negative values occur for many land regions. The spatial distribution of dlnre dlnτa shows approximately the opposite pattern, with generally postive values for land regions and negative values for ocean regions. We find that for region sizes larger than 4°×4°, spurious spatial variations in retrieved cloud and aerosol properties can introduce widespread significant errors to calculations of dlnNe dlnτa and dlnre dlnτa . For regions on the scale of 60°×60°, these methodological errors may lead to an overestimate in global cloud albedo effect radiative forcing of order 80%.

SWCNT-MoS2 -SWCNT Vertical Point Heterostructures.

PubMed

Zhang, Jin; Wei, Yang; Yao, Fengrui; Li, Dongqi; Ma, He; Lei, Peng; Fang, Hehai; Xiao, Xiaoyang; Lu, Zhixing; Yang, Juehan; Li, Jingbo; Jiao, Liying; Hu, Weida; Liu, Kaihui; Liu, Kai; Liu, Peng; Li, Qunqing; Lu, Wei; Fan, Shoushan; Jiang, Kaili

2017-02-01

A vertical point heterostructure (VPH) is constructed by sandwiching a two-dimensional (2D) MoS 2 flake with two cross-stacked metallic single-walled carbon nanotubes. It can be used as a field-effect transistor with high on/off ratio and a light detector with high spatial resolution. Moreover, the hybrid 1D-2D-1D VPHs open up new possibilities for nanoelectronics and nano-optoelectronics. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Hybrid hydrogels containing vertically aligned carbon nanotubes with anisotropic electrical conductivity for muscle myofiber fabrication.

PubMed

Ahadian, Samad; Ramón-Azcón, Javier; Estili, Mehdi; Liang, Xiaobin; Ostrovidov, Serge; Shiku, Hitoshi; Ramalingam, Murugan; Nakajima, Ken; Sakka, Yoshio; Bae, Hojae; Matsue, Tomokazu; Khademhosseini, Ali

2014-03-19

Biological scaffolds with tunable electrical and mechanical properties are of great interest in many different fields, such as regenerative medicine, biorobotics, and biosensing. In this study, dielectrophoresis (DEP) was used to vertically align carbon nanotubes (CNTs) within methacrylated gelatin (GelMA) hydrogels in a robust, simple, and rapid manner. GelMA-aligned CNT hydrogels showed anisotropic electrical conductivity and superior mechanical properties compared with pristine GelMA hydrogels and GelMA hydrogels containing randomly distributed CNTs. Skeletal muscle cells grown on vertically aligned CNTs in GelMA hydrogels yielded a higher number of functional myofibers than cells that were cultured on hydrogels with randomly distributed CNTs and horizontally aligned CNTs, as confirmed by the expression of myogenic genes and proteins. In addition, the myogenic gene and protein expression increased more profoundly after applying electrical stimulation along the direction of the aligned CNTs due to the anisotropic conductivity of the hybrid GelMA-vertically aligned CNT hydrogels. We believe that platform could attract great attention in other biomedical applications, such as biosensing, bioelectronics, and creating functional biomedical devices.

Hybrid hydrogels containing vertically aligned carbon nanotubes with anisotropic electrical conductivity for muscle myofiber fabrication

PubMed Central

Ahadian, Samad; Ramón-Azcón, Javier; Estili, Mehdi; Liang, Xiaobin; Ostrovidov, Serge; Shiku, Hitoshi; Ramalingam, Murugan; Nakajima, Ken; Sakka, Yoshio; Bae, Hojae; Matsue, Tomokazu; Khademhosseini, Ali

2014-01-01

Biological scaffolds with tunable electrical and mechanical properties are of great interest in many different fields, such as regenerative medicine, biorobotics, and biosensing. In this study, dielectrophoresis (DEP) was used to vertically align carbon nanotubes (CNTs) within methacrylated gelatin (GelMA) hydrogels in a robust, simple, and rapid manner. GelMA-aligned CNT hydrogels showed anisotropic electrical conductivity and superior mechanical properties compared with pristine GelMA hydrogels and GelMA hydrogels containing randomly distributed CNTs. Skeletal muscle cells grown on vertically aligned CNTs in GelMA hydrogels yielded a higher number of functional myofibers than cells that were cultured on hydrogels with randomly distributed CNTs and horizontally aligned CNTs, as confirmed by the expression of myogenic genes and proteins. In addition, the myogenic gene and protein expression increased more profoundly after applying electrical stimulation along the direction of the aligned CNTs due to the anisotropic conductivity of the hybrid GelMA-vertically aligned CNT hydrogels. We believe that platform could attract great attention in other biomedical applications, such as biosensing, bioelectronics, and creating functional biomedical devices. PMID:24642903

Hybrid hydrogels containing vertically aligned carbon nanotubes with anisotropic electrical conductivity for muscle myofiber fabrication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahadian, Samad; Ramón-Azcón, Javier; Estili, Mehdi; Liang, Xiaobin; Ostrovidov, Serge; Shiku, Hitoshi; Ramalingam, Murugan; Nakajima, Ken; Sakka, Yoshio; Bae, Hojae; Matsue, Tomokazu; Khademhosseini, Ali

2014-03-01

Biological scaffolds with tunable electrical and mechanical properties are of great interest in many different fields, such as regenerative medicine, biorobotics, and biosensing. In this study, dielectrophoresis (DEP) was used to vertically align carbon nanotubes (CNTs) within methacrylated gelatin (GelMA) hydrogels in a robust, simple, and rapid manner. GelMA-aligned CNT hydrogels showed anisotropic electrical conductivity and superior mechanical properties compared with pristine GelMA hydrogels and GelMA hydrogels containing randomly distributed CNTs. Skeletal muscle cells grown on vertically aligned CNTs in GelMA hydrogels yielded a higher number of functional myofibers than cells that were cultured on hydrogels with randomly distributed CNTs and horizontally aligned CNTs, as confirmed by the expression of myogenic genes and proteins. In addition, the myogenic gene and protein expression increased more profoundly after applying electrical stimulation along the direction of the aligned CNTs due to the anisotropic conductivity of the hybrid GelMA-vertically aligned CNT hydrogels. We believe that platform could attract great attention in other biomedical applications, such as biosensing, bioelectronics, and creating functional biomedical devices.

A three-dimensional microelectrode array composed of vertically aligned ultra-dense carbon nanotube networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nick, C.; Yadav, S.; Joshi, R.; Schneider, J. J.; Thielemann, C.

2015-07-01

Electrodes based on carbon nanotubes are a promising approach to manufacture highly sensitive sensors with a low limit of signal detection and a high signal-to-noise ratio. This is achieved by dramatically increasing the electrochemical active surface area without increasing the overall geometrical dimensions. Typically, carbon nanotube electrodes are nearly planar and composed of randomly distributed carbon nanotube networks having a limited surface gain for a specific geometrical surface area. To overcome this limitation, we have introduced vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VACNT) networks as electrodes, which are arranged in a microelectrode pattern of 60 single electrodes. Each microelectrode features a very high aspect ratio of more than 300 and thus a dramatically increased surface area. These microelectrodes composed of VACNT networks display dramatically decreased impedance over the entire frequency range compared to planar microelectrodes caused by the enormous capacity increase. This is experimentally verified by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry.

The rapid growth of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes using laser heating.

PubMed

Park, J B; Jeong, S H; Jeong, M S; Lim, S C; Lee, I H; Lee, Y H

2009-05-06

Growth of densely packed vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VA-CNTs) using laser-induced chemical vapor deposition with visible laser (lambda = 532 nm) irradiation at room temperature is reported. Using a multiple-catalyst layer (Fe/Al/Cr) on quartz as the substrate and an acetylene-hydrogen mixture as the precursor gas, VA-CNT pillars with 60 microm height and 4 microm diameter were grown at a high rate of around 1 microm s(-1) with good reproducibility. It is demonstrated that the fabrication of uniform pillar arrays of VA-CNTs can be achieved with a single irradiation for each pillar using LCVD with no annealing or preprocessing of the substrate. Here, laser fast heating is considered the primary mechanism facilitating the growth of VA-CNT pillars. Field emission characteristics of an array of VA-CNT pillars were then examined to investigate their potential application in vacuum electronic devices.

Patterned growth of carbon nanotubes over vertically aligned silicon nanowire bundles for achieving uniform field emission.

PubMed

Hung, Yung-Jr; Huang, Yung-Jui; Chang, Hsuan-Chen; Lee, Kuei-Yi; Lee, San-Liang

2014-01-01

A fabrication strategy is proposed to enable precise coverage of as-grown carbon nanotube (CNT) mats atop vertically aligned silicon nanowire (VA-SiNW) bundles in order to realize a uniform bundle array of CNT-SiNW heterojunctions over a large sample area. No obvious electrical degradation of as-fabricated SiNWs is observed according to the measured current-voltage characteristic of a two-terminal single-nanowire device. Bundle arrangement of CNT-SiNW heterojunctions is optimized to relax the electrostatic screening effect and to maximize the field enhancement factor. As a result, superior field emission performance and relatively stable emission current over 12 h is obtained. A bright and uniform fluorescent radiation is observed from CNT-SiNW-based field emitters regardless of its bundle periodicity, verifying the existence of high-density and efficient field emitters on the proposed CNT-SiNW bundle arrays.

Vertically aligned carbon nanofiber as nano-neuron interface for monitoring neural function

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

Ericson, Milton Nance; McKnight, Timothy E; Melechko, Anatoli Vasilievich

2012-01-01

Neural chips, which are capable of simultaneous, multi-site neural recording and stimulation, have been used to detect and modulate neural activity for almost 30 years. As a neural interface, neural chips provide dynamic functional information for neural decoding and neural control. By improving sensitivity and spatial resolution, nano-scale electrodes may revolutionize neural detection and modulation at cellular and molecular levels as nano-neuron interfaces. We developed a carbon-nanofiber neural chip with lithographically defined arrays of vertically aligned carbon nanofiber electrodes and demonstrated its capability of both stimulating and monitoring electrophysiological signals from brain tissues in vitro and monitoring dynamic information ofmore » neuroplasticity. This novel nano-neuron interface can potentially serve as a precise, informative, biocompatible, and dual-mode neural interface for monitoring of both neuroelectrical and neurochemical activity at the single cell level and even inside the cell.« less

Electric currents and coronal heating in NOAA active region 6952

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Metcalf, T. R.; Canfield, R. C.; Hudson, H. S.; Mickey, D. L.; Wulser, J. -P.; Martens, P. C. H.; Tsuneta, S.

1994-01-01

We examine the spatial and temporal relationship between coronal structures observed with the soft X-ray telescope (SXT) on board the Yohkoh spacecraft and the vertical electric current density derived from photospheric vector magnetograms obtained using the Stokes Polarimeter at the Mees Solar Observatory. We focus on a single active region: AR 6952 which we observed on 7 days during 1991 December. For 11 independent maps of the vertical electric current density co-aligned with non-flaring X-ray images, we search for a morphological relationship between sites of high vertical current density in the photosphere and enhanced X-ray emission in the overlying corona. We find no compelling spatial or temporal correlation between the sites of vertical current and the bright X-ray structures in this active region.

Carbon Nanotube-Based Structural Health Monitoring Sensors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Russell; Jordan, Jeffrey; Oglesby, Donald; Watkins, Anthony; Patry, JoAnne; Smits, Jan; Williams, Phillip

2011-01-01

Carbon nanotube (CNT)-based sensors for structural health monitoring (SHM) can be embedded in structures of all geometries to monitor conditions both inside and at the surface of the structure to continuously sense changes. These CNTs can be manipulated into specific orientations to create small, powerful, and flexible sensors. One of the sensors is a highly flexible sensor for crack growth detection and strain field mapping that features a very dense and highly ordered array of single-walled CNTs. CNT structural health sensors can be mass-produced, are inexpensive, can be packaged in small sizes (0.5 micron(sup 2)), require less power than electronic or piezoelectric transducers, and produce less waste heat per square centimeter than electronic or piezoelectric transducers. Chemically functionalized lithographic patterns are used to deposit and align the CNTs onto metallic electrodes. This method consistently produces aligned CNTs in the defined locations. Using photo- and electron-beam lithography, simple Cr/Au thin-film circuits are patterned onto oxidized silicon substrates. The samples are then re-patterned with a CNT-attracting, self-assembled monolayer of 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) to delineate the desired CNT locations between electrodes. During the deposition of the solution-suspended single- wall CNTs, the application of an electric field to the metallic contacts causes alignment of the CNTs along the field direction. This innovation is a prime candidate for smart skin technologies with applications ranging from military, to aerospace, to private industry.

Probing photoresponse of aligned single-walled carbon nanotube doped ultrathin MoS2.

PubMed

Wang, Rui; Wang, Tianjiao; Hong, Tu; Xu, Ya-Qiong

2018-08-24

We report a facile method to produce ultrathin molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2 ) hybrids with polarized near-infrared (NIR) photoresponses, in which horizontally-aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) are integrated with single- and few-layer MoS 2 through a two-step chemical vapor deposition process. The photocurrent generation mechanisms in SWNT-MoS 2 hybrids are systematically investigated through wavelength- and polarization-dependent scanning photocurrent measurements. When the incident photon energy is above the direct bandgap of MoS 2 , isotropic photocurrent signals are observed, which can be primarily attributed to the direct bandgap transition in MoS 2 . In contrast, if the incident photon energy in the NIR region is below the direct bandgap of MoS 2 , the maximum photocurrent response occurs when the incident light is polarized in the direction along the SWNTs, indicating that photocurrent signals mainly result from the anisotropic absorption of SWNTs. More importantly, these two-dimensional (2D) hybrid structures inherit the electrical transport properties from MoS 2 , displaying n-type characteristics at a zero gate voltage. These fundamental studies provide a new way to produce ultrathin MoS 2 hybrids with inherited electrical properties and polarized NIR photoresponses, opening doors for engineering various 2D hybrid materials for future broadband optoelectronic applications.

A nano-microstructured artificial-hair-cell-type sensor based on topologically graded 3D carbon nanotube bundles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yilmazoglu, O.; Yadav, S.; Cicek, D.; Schneider, J. J.

2016-09-01

A design for a unique artificial-hair-cell-type sensor (AHCTS) based entirely on 3D-structured, vertically aligned carbon nanotube (CNT) bundles is introduced. Standard microfabrication techniques were used for the straightforward micro-nano integration of vertically aligned carbon nanotube arrays composed of low-layer multi-walled CNTs (two to six layers). The mechanical properties of the carbon nanotube bundles were intensively characterized with regard to various substrates and CNT morphology, e.g. bundle height. The CNT bundles display excellent flexibility and mechanical stability for lateral bending, showing high tear resistance. The integrated 3D CNT sensor can detect three-dimensional forces using the deflection or compression of a central CNT bundle which changes the contact resistance to the shorter neighboring bundles. The complete sensor system can be fabricated using a single chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process step. Moreover, sophisticated external contacts to the surroundings are not necessary for signal detection. No additional sensors or external bias for signal detection are required. This simplifies the miniaturization and the integration of these nanostructures for future microsystem set-ups. The new nanostructured sensor system exhibits an average sensitivity of 2100 ppm in the linear regime with the relative resistance change per micron (ppm μm-1) of the individual CNT bundle tip deflection. Furthermore, experiments have shown highly sensitive piezoresistive behavior with an electrical resistance decrease of up to ˜11% at 50 μm mechanical deflection. The detection sensitivity is as low as 1 μm of deflection, and thus highly comparable with the tactile hair sensors of insects, having typical thresholds on the order of 30-50 μm. The AHCTS can easily be adapted and applied as a flow, tactile or acceleration sensor as well as a vibration sensor. Potential applications of the latter might come up in artificial cochlear systems. In particular, the stable mechanical bending of the sensor up to 90° opens up unique application opportunities.

All-Printed, Self-Aligned Carbon Nanotube Thin-Film Transistors on Imprinted Plastic Substrates.

PubMed

Song, Donghoon; Zare Bidoky, Fazel; Hyun, Woo Jin; Walker, S Brett; Lewis, Jennifer A; Frisbie, C Daniel

2018-05-09

We present a self-aligned process for printing thin-film transistors (TFTs) on plastic with single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) networks as the channel material. The SCALE (self-aligned capillarity-assisted lithography for electronics) process combines imprint lithography with inkjet printing. Specifically, inks are jetted into imprinted reservoirs, where they then flow into narrow device cavities due to capillarity. Here, we incorporate a composite high- k gate dielectric and an aligned conducting polymer gate electrode in the SCALE process to enable a smaller areal footprint than prior designs that yields low-voltage SWCNT TFTs with average p-type carrier mobilities of 4 cm 2 /V·s and ON/OFF current ratios of 10 4 . Our work demonstrates the promising potential of the SCALE process to fabricate SWCNT-based TFTs with favorable I- V characteristics on plastic substrates.

Growth of nanotubes and chemical sensor applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hone, James; Kim, Philip; Huang, X. M. H.; Chandra, B.; Caldwell, R.; Small, J.; Hong, B. H.; Someya, T.; Huang, L.; O'Brien, S.; Nuckolls, Colin P.

2004-12-01

We have used a number of methods to grow long aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes. Geometries include individual long tubes, dense parallel arrays, and long freely suspended nanotubes. We have fabricated a variety of devices for applications such as multiprobe resistance measurement and high-current field effect transistors. In addition, we have measured conductance of single-walled semiconducting carbon nanotubes in field-effect transistor geometry and investigated the device response to water and alcoholic vapors. We observe significant changes in FET drain current when the device is exposed to various kinds of different solvent. These responses are reversible and reproducible over many cycles of vapor exposure. Our experiments demonstrate that carbon nanotube FETs are sensitive to a wide range of solvent vapors at concentrations in the ppm range.

One-step direct transfer of pristine single-walled carbon nanotubes for functional nanoelectronics.

PubMed

Wu, Chung Chiang; Liu, Chang Hua; Zhong, Zhaohui

2010-03-10

We report a one-step direct transfer technique for the fabrication of functional nanoelectronic devices using pristine single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). Suspended SWNTs grown by the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method are aligned and directly transferred onto prepatterned device electrodes at ambient temperature. Using this technique, we successfully fabricated SWNT electromechanical resonators with gate-tunable resonance frequencies. A fully suspended SWNT p-n diode has also been demonstrated with the diode ideality factor equal to 1. Our method eliminates the organic residues on SWNTs resulting from conventional lithography and solution processing. The results open up opportunities for the fundamental study of electron transport physics in ultraclean SWNTs and for room temperature fabrication of novel functional devices based on pristine SWNTs.

Wall pressure measurements of flooding in vertical countercurrent annular air–water flow

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

Choutapalli, I., Vierow, K.

2010-01-01

An experimental study of flooding in countercurrent air-water annular flow in a large diameter vertical tube using wall pressure measurements is described in this paper. Axial pressure profiles along the length of the test section were measured up to and after flooding using fast response pressure transducers for three representative liquid flow rates representing a wide range of liquid Reynolds numbers (ReL = 4Γ/μ; Γ is the liquid mass flow rate per unit perimeter; μ is the dynamic viscosity) from 3341 to 19,048. The results show that flooding in large diameter tubes cannot be initiated near the air outlet andmore » is only initiated near the air inlet. Fourier analysis of the wall pressure measurements shows that up to the point of flooding, there is no dominant wave frequency but rather a band of frequencies encompassing both the low frequency and the broad band that are responsible for flooding. The data indicates that flooding in large diameter vertical tubes may be caused by the constructive superposition of a plurality of waves rather than the action of a single large-amplitude wave.« less

Design and synthesis of guest-host nanostructures to enhance ionic conductivity across nanocomposite membranes

DOEpatents

Hu, Michael Z [Knoxville, TN; Kosacki, Igor [Oak Ridge, TN

2010-01-05

An ion conducting membrane has a matrix including an ordered array of hollow channels and a nanocrystalline electrolyte contained within at least some or all of the channels. The channels have opposed open ends, and a channel width of 1000 nanometers or less, preferably 60 nanometers or less, and most preferably 10 nanometers or less. The channels may be aligned perpendicular to the matrix surface, and the length of the channels may be 10 nanometers to 1000 micrometers. The electrolyte has grain sizes of 100 nanometers or less, and preferably grain sizes of 1 to 50 nanometers. The electrolyte may include grains with a part of the grain boundaries aligned with inner walls of the channels to form a straight oriented grain-wall interface or the electrolyte may be a single crystal. In one form, the electrolyte conducts oxygen ions, the matrix is silica, and the electrolyte is yttrium doped zirconia.

Synthesis of an ultradense forest of vertically aligned triple-walled carbon nanotubes of uniform diameter and length using hollow catalytic nanoparticles.

PubMed

Baliyan, Ankur; Nakajima, Yoshikata; Fukuda, Takahiro; Uchida, Takashi; Hanajiri, Tatsuro; Maekawa, Toru

2014-01-22

It still remains a crucial challenge to actively control carbon nanotube (CNT) structure such as the alignment, area density, diameter, length, chirality, and number of walls. Here, we synthesize an ultradense forest of CNTs of a uniform internal diameter by the plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) method using hollow nanoparticles (HNPs) modified with ligand as a catalyst. The diameters of the HNPs and internal cavities in the HNPs are uniform. A monolayer of densely packed HNPs is self-assembled on a silicon substrate by spin coating. HNPs shrink via the collapse of the internal cavities and phase transition from iron oxide to metallic iron in hydrogen plasma during the PECVD process. Agglomeration of catalytic NPs is avoided on account of the shrinkage of the NPs and ligand attached to the NPs. Diffusion of NPs into the substrate, which would inactivate the growth of CNTs, is also avoided on account of the ligand. As a result, an ultradense forest of triple-walled CNTs of a uniform internal diameter is successfully synthesized. The area density of the grown CNTs is as high as 0.6 × 10(12) cm(-2). Finally, the activity of the catalytic NPs and the NP/carbon interactions during the growth process of CNTs are investigated and discussed. We believe that the present approach may make a great contribution to the development of an innovative synthetic method for CNTs with selective properties.

Kinesthetic perceptions of earth- and body-fixed axes.

PubMed

Darling, W G; Hondzinski, J M

1999-06-01

The major purpose of this research was to determine whether kinesthetic/proprioceptive perceptions of the earth-fixed vertical axis are more accurate than perceptions of intrinsic axes. In one experiment, accuracy of alignment of the forearm to earth-fixed vertical and head- and trunk-longitudinal axes by seven blindfolded subjects was compared in four tasks: (1) Earth-Arm--arm (humerus) orientation was manipulated by the experimenter; subjects aligned the forearm parallel to the vertical axis, which was also aligned with the head and trunk longitudinal axis; (2) Head--head, trunk, and upper-limb orientations were manipulated by the experimenter, subjects aligned the forearm parallel to the longitudinal axis of the head using only elbow flexion/extension and shoulder internal/external rotation; (3) Trunk--same as (2), except that subjects aligned the forearm parallel to the trunk-longitudinal axis; (4) Earth--same as (2), except that subjects aligned the forearm parallel to the earth-fixed vertical. Head, trunk, and gravitational axes were never parallel in tasks 2, 3, and 4 so that subjects could not simultaneously match their forearm to all three axes. The results showed that the errors for alignment of the forearm with the earth-fixed vertical were lower than for the trunk- and head-longitudinal axes. Furthermore, errors in the Earth condition were less dependent on alterations of the head and trunk orientation than in the Head and Trunk conditions. These data strongly suggest that the earth-fixed vertical is used as one axis for the kinesthetic sensory coordinate system that specifies upper-limb orientation at the perceptual level. We also examined the effects of varying gravitational torques at the elbow and shoulder on the accuracy of forearm alignment to earth-fixed axes. Adding a 450 g load to the forearm to increase gravitational torques when the forearm is not vertical did not improve the accuracy of forearm alignment with the vertical. Furthermore, adding small, variably sized loads (between which the subjects could not distinguish at the perceptual level) to the forearm just proximal to the wrist produced similar errors in aligning the forearm with the vertical and horizontal. Forearm-positioning errors were not correlated with the size of the load, as would be expected if gravitational torques affected forearm-position sense. We conclude that gravitational torques exerted about the shoulder and elbow do not make significant contributions to sensing forearm-orientation relative to earth-fixed axes when the upper-limb segments are not constrained by external supports.

Proposed technique for vertical alignment of a crane's cable

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gera, J., Jr.

1969-01-01

Proposed vertical alignment technique senses the attitude of a cranes cable and displays any deviation from the vertical. The system consists of a detector assembly fixed to the boom and a display scope located in the cabin. It has potential application with either fixed-boom cranes or gantries.

Controllable growth of vertically aligned graphene on C-face SiC

DOE PAGES

Liu, Yu; Chen, Lianlian; Hilliard, Donovan; ...

2016-10-06

We investigated how to control the growth of vertically aligned graphene on C-face SiC by varying the processing conditions. It is found that, the growth rate scales with the annealing temperature and the graphene height is proportional to the annealing time. Temperature gradient and crystalline quality of the SiC substrates influence their vaporization. The partial vapor pressure is crucial as it can interfere with further vaporization. A growth mechanism is proposed in terms of physical vapor transport. The monolayer character of vertically aligned graphene is verified by Raman and X-ray absorption spectroscopy. With the processed samples, d 0 magnetism ismore » realized and negative magnetoresistance is observed after Cu implantation. We also prove that multiple carriers exist in vertically aligned graphene.« less

Controllable growth of vertically aligned graphene on C-face SiC

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

Liu, Yu; Chen, Lianlian; Hilliard, Donovan

We investigated how to control the growth of vertically aligned graphene on C-face SiC by varying the processing conditions. It is found that, the growth rate scales with the annealing temperature and the graphene height is proportional to the annealing time. Temperature gradient and crystalline quality of the SiC substrates influence their vaporization. The partial vapor pressure is crucial as it can interfere with further vaporization. A growth mechanism is proposed in terms of physical vapor transport. The monolayer character of vertically aligned graphene is verified by Raman and X-ray absorption spectroscopy. With the processed samples, d 0 magnetism ismore » realized and negative magnetoresistance is observed after Cu implantation. We also prove that multiple carriers exist in vertically aligned graphene.« less

Single objective light-sheet microscopy for high-speed whole-cell 3D super-resolution

PubMed Central

Meddens, Marjolein B. M.; Liu, Sheng; Finnegan, Patrick S.; Edwards, Thayne L.; James, Conrad D.; Lidke, Keith A.

2016-01-01

We have developed a method for performing light-sheet microscopy with a single high numerical aperture lens by integrating reflective side walls into a microfluidic chip. These 45° side walls generate light-sheet illumination by reflecting a vertical light-sheet into the focal plane of the objective. Light-sheet illumination of cells loaded in the channels increases image quality in diffraction limited imaging via reduction of out-of-focus background light. Single molecule super-resolution is also improved by the decreased background resulting in better localization precision and decreased photo-bleaching, leading to more accepted localizations overall and higher quality images. Moreover, 2D and 3D single molecule super-resolution data can be acquired faster by taking advantage of the increased illumination intensities as compared to wide field, in the focused light-sheet. PMID:27375939

Adjustable small-incision selective tenotomy and plication for correction of incomitant vertical strabismus and torsion

PubMed Central

Chang, Melinda Y.; Pineles, Stacy L.; Velez, Federico G.

2015-01-01

PURPOSE To evaluate the effectiveness of adjustable small-incision selective tenotomy and plication of vertical rectus muscles in correcting vertical strabismus incomitant in horizontal gaze positions and cyclotorsion. METHODS The medical records of all patients who underwent adjustable small-incision selective tenotomy or plication of a vertical rectus muscle for correction of horizontally incomitant vertical strabismus or cyclotorsion by a single surgeon at a single eye institute from July 2013 to September 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. Selective tenotomy and plication were performed on either the nasal or temporal side of vertical rectus muscles, based on the direction of cyclotorsion and incomitance of vertical strabismus. RESULTS Of 9 patients identified, 8 (89%) had successful correction of horizontally incomitant vertical strabismus, with postoperative vertical alignment within 4Δ of orthotropia in primary position, lateral gazes, and downgaze. Of the 8 patients with preoperative cyclotorsion, 4 (50%) were successfully corrected, with <5° of cyclotorsion postoperatively. Of the 4 patients in whom cyclotorsion did not improve, 3 had undergone prior strabismus surgery, and 2 had restrictive strabismus. Eight of the 9 patients (89%) reported postoperative resolution of diplopia. CONCLUSIONS Adjustable small-incision selective tenotomy and plication effectively treat horizontally incomitant vertical strabismus. These surgeries may be less effective for correcting cyclotorsion in patients with restriction or prior strabismus surgery. Advantages are that they may be performed in an adjustable manner and, in some cases, under topical anesthesia. PMID:26486021

Carbon Nanotube Switches for Communication and Memory Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaul, Anupama B.; Epp, Larry; Wong, Eric W.; Kowalczyk, Robert

2008-01-01

Lateral CNT Switches: a) dc CNT switches were demonstrated to operate at low voltages, low powers and high speeds. b) RF simulations of switch in series configuration with metallized tube yielded good RF performance 1) Isolation simulated to be approx. 20 dB at 100 GHz. 2) Insertion loss simulated to be < 0.5 dB at 100 GHz. Vertical CNT Switches: a) Thermal CVD was used to mechanically constrain tubes in nanopockets; tubes not self-supporting. b) Demonstrated growth of vertically aligned arrays and single-few MWNTs using dc PECVD with Ni catalyst using optical lithography.

Seed/catalyst-free vertical growth of high-density electrodeposited zinc oxide nanostructures on a single-layer graphene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aziz, Nur Suhaili Abd; Mahmood, Mohamad Rusop; Yasui, Kanji; Hashim, Abdul Manaf

2014-02-01

We report the seed/catalyst-free vertical growth of high-density electrodeposited ZnO nanostructures on a single-layer graphene. The absence of hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA) and heat has resulted in the formation of nanoflake-like ZnO structure. The results show that HMTA and heat are needed to promote the formation of hexagonal ZnO nanostructures. The applied current density plays important role in inducing the growth of ZnO on graphene as well as in controlling the shape, size, and density of ZnO nanostructures. High density of vertically aligned ZnO nanorods comparable to other methods was obtained. The quality of the ZnO nanostructures also depended strongly on the applied current density. The growth mechanism was proposed. According to the growth timing chart, the growth seems to involve two stages which are the formation of ZnO nucleation and the enhancement of the vertical growth of nanorods. ZnO/graphene hybrid structure provides several potential applications in electronics and optoelectronics such as photovoltaic devices, sensing devices, optical devices, and photodetectors.

Growth of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes on silicon and quartz substrate by spray pyrolysis of a natural precursor: Turpentine oil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Afre, Rakesh A.; Soga, T.; Jimbo, T.; Kumar, Mukul; Ando, Y.; Sharon, M.

2005-10-01

Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) were grown by spray pyrolysis of turpentine oil and ferrocene mixture at 700 °C. Using this simple method, we report the successful growth of vertically aligned nanotubes of 300 μm length and diameter in the range of 50-100 nm on Si(1 0 0) substrate. The ferrocene act as an in situ Fe catalyst precursor and forming the nanosize iron particles for formation of VACNTs on Si and quartz substrates. Morphological differences between aligned carbon nanotubes grown on different substrates are studied and discussed by SEM, TEM and Raman spectroscopy characterizations.

Underwater Rays

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cepic, Mojca

2008-01-01

Light beams in wavy unclear water, also called underwater rays, and caustic networks of light formed at the bottom of shallow water are two faces of a single phenomenon. Derivation of the caustic using only simple geometry, Snell's law and simple derivatives accounts for observations such as the existence of the caustic network on vertical walls,…

Extremely Black Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotube Arrays for Solar Steam Generation.

PubMed

Yin, Zhe; Wang, Huimin; Jian, Muqiang; Li, Yanshen; Xia, Kailun; Zhang, Mingchao; Wang, Chunya; Wang, Qi; Ma, Ming; Zheng, Quan-Shui; Zhang, Yingying

2017-08-30

The unique structure of a vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VACNT) array makes it behave most similarly to a blackbody. It is reported that the optical absorptivity of an extremely black VACNT array is about 0.98-0.99 over a large spectral range of 200 nm-200 μm, inspiring us to explore the performance of VACNT arrays in solar energy harvesting. In this work, we report the highly efficient steam generation simply by laminating a layer of VACNT array on the surface of water to harvest solar energy. It is found that under solar illumination the temperature of upper water can significantly increase with obvious water steam generated, indicating the efficient solar energy harvesting and local temperature rise by the thin layer of VACNTs. We found that the evaporation rate of water assisted by VACNT arrays is 10 times that of bare water, which is the highest ratio for solar-thermal-steam generation ever reported. Remarkably, the solar thermal conversion efficiency reached 90%. The excellent performance could be ascribed to the strong optical absorption and local temperature rise induced by the VACNT layer, as well as the ultrafast water transport through the VACNT layer due to the frictionless wall of CNTs. Based on the above, we further demonstrated the application of VACNT arrays in solar-driven desalination.

A critical look at spatial scale choices in satellite-based aerosol indirect effect studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grandey, B. S.; Stier, P.

2010-12-01

Analysing satellite datasets over large regions may introduce spurious relationships between aerosol and cloud properties due to spatial variations in aerosol type, cloud regime and synoptic regime climatologies. Using MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer data, we calculate relationships between aerosol optical depth τa derived liquid cloud droplet effective number concentration Ne and liquid cloud droplet effective radius re at different spatial scales. Generally, positive values of dlnNedlnτa are found for ocean regions, whilst negative values occur for many land regions. The spatial distribution of dlnredlnτa shows approximately the opposite pattern, with generally postive values for land regions and negative values for ocean regions. We find that for region sizes larger than 4° × 4°, spurious spatial variations in retrieved cloud and aerosol properties can introduce widespread significant errors to calculations of dlnNedlnτa and dlnredlnτa. For regions on the scale of 60° × 60°, these methodological errors may lead to an overestimate in global cloud albedo effect radiative forcing of order 80% relative to that calculated for regions on the scale of 1° × 1°.

Pressurized water reactor flow skirt apparatus

DOEpatents

Kielb, John F.; Schwirian, Richard E.; Lee, Naugab E.; Forsyth, David R.

2016-04-05

A pressurized water reactor vessel having a flow skirt formed from a perforated cylinder structure supported in the lower reactor vessel head at the outlet of the downcomer annulus, that channels the coolant flow through flow holes in the wall of the cylinder structure. The flow skirt is supported at a plurality of circumferentially spaced locations on the lower reactor vessel head that are not equally spaced or vertically aligned with the core barrel attachment points, and the flow skirt employs a unique arrangement of hole patterns that assure a substantially balanced pressure and flow of the coolant over the entire underside of the lower core support plate.

A three-dimensional architecture of vertically aligned multilayer graphene facilitates heat dissipation across joint solid surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Qizhen; Yao, Xuxia; Wang, Wei; Wong, C. P.

2012-02-01

Low operation temperature and efficient heat dissipation are important for device life and speed in current electronic and photonic technologies. Being ultra-high thermally conductive, graphene is a promising material candidate for heat dissipation improvement in devices. In the application, graphene is expected to be vertically stacked between contact solid surfaces in order to facilitate efficient heat dissipation and reduced interfacial thermal resistance across contact solid surfaces. However, as an ultra-thin membrane-like material, graphene is susceptible to Van der Waals forces and usually tends to be recumbent on substrates. Thereby, direct growth of vertically aligned free-standing graphene on solid substrates in large scale is difficult and rarely available in current studies, bringing significant barriers in graphene's application as thermal conductive media between joint solid surfaces. In this work, a three-dimensional vertically aligned multi-layer graphene architecture is constructed between contacted Silicon/Silicon surfaces with pure Indium as a metallic medium. Significantly higher equivalent thermal conductivity and lower contact thermal resistance of vertically aligned multilayer graphene are obtained, compared with those of their recumbent counterpart. This finding provides knowledge of vertically aligned graphene architectures, which may not only facilitate current demanding thermal management but also promote graphene's widespread applications such as electrodes for energy storage devices, polymeric anisotropic conductive adhesives, etc.

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

Meddens, Marjolein B. M.; Liu, Sheng; Finnegan, Patrick S.

Here, we have developed a method for performing light-sheet microscopy with a single high numerical aperture lens by integrating reflective side walls into a microfluidic chip. These 45° side walls generate light-sheet illumination by reflecting a vertical light-sheet into the focal plane of the objective. Light-sheet illumination of cells loaded in the channels increases image quality in diffraction limited imaging via reduction of out-of-focus background light. Single molecule super-resolution is also improved by the decreased background resulting in better localization precision and decreased photo-bleaching, leading to more accepted localizations overall and higher quality images. Moreover, 2D and 3D single moleculemore » super-resolution data can be acquired faster by taking advantage of the increased illumination intensities as compared to wide field, in the focused light-sheet.« less

[Three-dimensional vertically aligned CNTs coated by Ag nanoparticles for surface-enhanced Raman scattering].

PubMed

Zhang, Xiao-Lei; Zhang, Jie; Fan, Tuo; Ren, Wen-Jie; Lai, Chun-Hong

2014-09-01

In order to make surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates contained more "hot spots" in a three-dimensional (3D) focal volume, and can be adsorbed more probe molecules and metal nanoparticles, to obtain stronger Raman spectral signal, a new structure based on vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) coated by Ag nanoparticles for surface Raman enhancement is presented. The vertically aligned CNTs are synthesized by chemical vapor deposition (CVD). A silver film is first deposited on the vertically aligned CNTs by magnetron sputtering. The samples are then annealed at different temperature to cause the different size silver nanoparticles to coat on the surface and sidewalls of vertically aligned CNTs. The result of scanning electron microscopy(SEM) shows that Ag nanoparticles are attached onto the sidewalls and tips of the vertically aligned CNTs, as the annealing temperature is different , pitch size, morphology and space between the silver nanoparticles is vary. Rhodamine 6G is served as the probe analyte. Raman spectrum measurement indicates that: the higher the concentration of R6G, the stronger the Raman intensity, but R6G concentration increase with the enhanced Raman intensity varies nonlinearly; when annealing temperature is 450 °C, the average size of silver nanoparticles is about 100 to 120 nm, while annealing temperature is 400 °C, the average size is about 70 nm, and the Raman intensity of 450 °C is superior to the annealing temperature that of 400 °C and 350 °C.

Photonic Sorting of Aligned, Crystalline Carbon Nanotube Textiles.

PubMed

Bulmer, John S; Gspann, Thurid S; Orozco, Francisco; Sparkes, Martin; Koerner, Hilmar; Di Bernardo, A; Niemiec, Arkadiusz; Robinson, J W A; Koziol, Krzysztof K; Elliott, James A; O'Neill, William

2017-10-11

Floating catalyst chemical vapor deposition uniquely generates aligned carbon nanotube (CNT) textiles with individual CNT lengths magnitudes longer than competing processes, though hindered by impurities and intrinsic/extrinsic defects. We present a photonic-based post-process, particularly suited for these textiles, that selectively removes defective CNTs and other carbons not forming a threshold thermal pathway. In this method, a large diameter laser beam rasters across the surface of a partly aligned CNT textile in air, suspended from its ends. This results in brilliant, localized oxidation, where remaining material is an optically transparent film comprised of few-walled CNTs with profound and unique improvement in microstructure alignment and crystallinity. Raman spectroscopy shows substantial D peak suppression while preserving radial breathing modes. This increases the undoped, specific electrical conductivity at least an order of magnitude to beyond that of single-crystal graphite. Cryogenic conductivity measurements indicate intrinsic transport enhancement, opposed to simply removing nonconductive carbons/residual catalyst.

Ultra-fast microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis of long vertically aligned ZnO nanowires for dye-sensitized solar cell application.

PubMed

Mahpeykar, S M; Koohsorkhi, J; Ghafoori-Fard, H

2012-04-27

Long vertically aligned ZnO nanowire arrays were synthesized using an ultra-fast microwave-assisted hydrothermal process. Using this method, we were able to grow ZnO nanowire arrays at an average growth rate as high as 200 nm min(-1) for maximum microwave power level. This method does not suffer from the growth stoppage problem at long growth times that, according to our investigations, a normal microwave-assisted hydrothermal method suffers from. Longitudinal growth of the nanowire arrays was investigated as a function of microwave power level and growth time using cross-sectional FESEM images of the grown arrays. Effect of seed layer on the alignment of nanowires was also studied. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed c-axis orientation and single-phase wurtzite structure of the nanowires. J-V curves of the fabricated ZnO nanowire-based mercurochrome-sensitized solar cells indicated that the short-circuit current density is increased with increasing the length of the nanowire array. According to the UV-vis spectra of the dyes detached from the cells, these increments were mainly attributed to the enlarged internal surface area and therefore dye loading enhancement in the lengthened nanowire arrays.

Single Mode Theory for Impedance Eduction in Large-Scale Ducts with Grazing Flow

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Watson, Willie R.; Gerhold, Carl H.; Jones, Michael G.; June, Jason C.

2014-01-01

An impedance eduction theory for a rigid wall duct containing an acoustic liner with an unknown impedance and uniform grazing flow is presented. The unique features of the theory are: 1) non-planar waves propagate in the hard wall sections of the duct, 2) input data consist solely of complex acoustic pressures acquired on a wall adjacent to the liner, and 3) multiple higher-order modes may exist in the direction perpendicular to the liner and the opposite rigid wall. The approach is to first measure the axial propagation constant of a dominant higher-order mode in the liner sample section. This axial propagation constant is then used in conjunction with a closed-form solution to a reduced form of the convected Helmholtz equation and the wall impedance boundary condition to educe the liner impedance. The theory is validated on a conventional liner whose impedance spectrum is educed in two flow ducts with different cross sections. For the frequencies and Mach numbers of interest, no higher-order modes propagate in the hard wall sections of the smaller duct. A benchmark method is used to educe the impedance spectrum in this duct. A dominant higher-order vertical mode propagates in the larger duct for similar test conditions, and the current theory is applied to educe the impedance spectrum. Results show that when the theory is applied to data acquired in the larger duct with a dominant higher-order vertical mode, the same impedance spectra is educed as that obtained in the small duct where only the plane wave mode is present and the benchmark method is used. This result holds for each higher-order vertical mode that is considered.

Pressurizer tank upper support

DOEpatents

Baker, Tod H.; Ott, Howard L.

1994-01-01

A pressurizer tank in a pressurized water nuclear reactor is mounted between structural walls of the reactor on a substructure of the reactor, the tank extending upwardly from the substructure. For bearing lateral loads such as seismic shocks, a girder substantially encircles the pressurizer tank at a space above the substructure and is coupled to the structural walls via opposed sway struts. Each sway strut is attached at one end to the girder and at an opposite end to one of the structural walls, and the sway struts are oriented substantially horizontally in pairs aligned substantially along tangents to the wall of the circular tank. Preferably, eight sway struts attach to the girder at 90.degree. intervals. A compartment encloses the pressurizer tank and forms the structural wall. The sway struts attach to corners of the compartment for maximum stiffness and load bearing capacity. A valve support frame carrying the relief/discharge piping and valves of an automatic depressurization arrangement is fixed to the girder, whereby lateral loads on the relief/discharge piping are coupled directly to the compartment rather than through any portion of the pressurizer tank. Thermal insulation for the valve support frame prevents thermal loading of the piping and valves. The girder is shimmed to define a gap for reducing thermal transfer, and the girder is free to move vertically relative to the compartment walls, for accommodating dimensional variation of the pressurizer tank with changes in temperature and pressure.

Extreme Magneto-transport of Bulk Carbon Nanotubes in Sorted Electronic Concentrations and Aligned High Performance Fiber

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

Bulmer, John S.; Lekawa-Raus, Agnieszka; Rickel, Dwight G.

We explored high-field (60 T) magneto-resistance (MR) with two carbon nanotube (CNT) material classes: (1) unaligned single-wall CNTs (SWCNT) films with controlled metallic SWCNT concentrations and doping degree and (2) CNT fiber with aligned, long-length microstructure. All unaligned SWCNT films showed localized hopping transport where high-field MR saturation definitively supports spin polarization instead of a more prevalent wave function shrinking mechanism. Nitric acid exposure induced an insulator to metal transition and reduced the positive MR component. Aligned CNT fiber, already on the metal side of the insulator to metal transition, had positive MR without saturation and was assigned to classicalmore » MR involving electronic mobility. Subtracting high-field fits from the aligned fiber’s MR yielded an unconfounded negative MR, which was assigned to weak localization. It is concluded that fluctuation induced tunnelling, an extrinsic transport model accounting for most of the aligned fiber’s room temperature resistance, appears to lack MR field dependence.« less

Ultrahigh density alignment of carbon nanotube arrays by dielectrophoresis.

PubMed

Shekhar, Shashank; Stokes, Paul; Khondaker, Saiful I

2011-03-22

We report ultrahigh density assembly of aligned single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) two-dimensional arrays via AC dielectrophoresis using high-quality surfactant-free and stable SWNT solutions. After optimization of frequency and trapping time, we can reproducibly control the linear density of the SWNT between prefabricated electrodes from 0.5 SWNT/μm to more than 30 SWNT/μm by tuning the concentration of the nanotubes in the solution. Our maximum density of 30 SWNT/μm is the highest for aligned arrays via any solution processing technique reported so far. Further increase of SWNT concentration results in a dense array with multiple layers. We discuss how the orientation and density of the nanotubes vary with concentrations and channel lengths. Electrical measurement data show that the densely packed aligned arrays have low sheet resistances. Selective removal of metallic SWNTs via controlled electrical breakdown produced field-effect transistors with high current on-off ratio. Ultrahigh density alignment reported here will have important implications in fabricating high-quality devices for digital and analog electronics.

Extreme Magneto-transport of Bulk Carbon Nanotubes in Sorted Electronic Concentrations and Aligned High Performance Fiber.

PubMed

Bulmer, John S; Lekawa-Raus, Agnieszka; Rickel, Dwight G; Balakirev, Fedor F; Koziol, Krzysztof K

2017-09-22

We explored high-field (60 T) magneto-resistance (MR) with two carbon nanotube (CNT) material classes: (1) unaligned single-wall CNTs (SWCNT) films with controlled metallic SWCNT concentrations and doping degree and (2) CNT fiber with aligned, long-length microstructure. All unaligned SWCNT films showed localized hopping transport where high-field MR saturation definitively supports spin polarization instead of a more prevalent wave function shrinking mechanism. Nitric acid exposure induced an insulator to metal transition and reduced the positive MR component. Aligned CNT fiber, already on the metal side of the insulator to metal transition, had positive MR without saturation and was assigned to classical MR involving electronic mobility. Subtracting high-field fits from the aligned fiber's MR yielded an unconfounded negative MR, which was assigned to weak localization. It is concluded that fluctuation induced tunnelling, an extrinsic transport model accounting for most of the aligned fiber's room temperature resistance, appears to lack MR field dependence.

Extreme Magneto-transport of Bulk Carbon Nanotubes in Sorted Electronic Concentrations and Aligned High Performance Fiber

DOE PAGES

Bulmer, John S.; Lekawa-Raus, Agnieszka; Rickel, Dwight G.; ...

2017-09-22

We explored high-field (60 T) magneto-resistance (MR) with two carbon nanotube (CNT) material classes: (1) unaligned single-wall CNTs (SWCNT) films with controlled metallic SWCNT concentrations and doping degree and (2) CNT fiber with aligned, long-length microstructure. All unaligned SWCNT films showed localized hopping transport where high-field MR saturation definitively supports spin polarization instead of a more prevalent wave function shrinking mechanism. Nitric acid exposure induced an insulator to metal transition and reduced the positive MR component. Aligned CNT fiber, already on the metal side of the insulator to metal transition, had positive MR without saturation and was assigned to classicalmore » MR involving electronic mobility. Subtracting high-field fits from the aligned fiber’s MR yielded an unconfounded negative MR, which was assigned to weak localization. It is concluded that fluctuation induced tunnelling, an extrinsic transport model accounting for most of the aligned fiber’s room temperature resistance, appears to lack MR field dependence.« less

Quantitative study of bundle size effect on thermal conductivity of single-walled carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Ya; Inoue, Taiki; An, Hua; Xiang, Rong; Chiashi, Shohei; Maruyama, Shigeo

2018-05-01

Compared with isolated single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs), thermal conductivity is greatly impeded in SWNT bundles; however, the measurement of the bundle size effect is difficult. In this study, the number of SWNTs in a bundle was determined based on the transferred horizontally aligned SWNTs on a suspended micro-thermometer to quantitatively study the effect of the bundle size on thermal conductivity. Increasing the bundle size significantly degraded the thermal conductivity. For isolated SWNTs, thermal conductivity was approximately 5000 ± 1000 W m-1 K-1 at room temperature, three times larger than that of the four-SWNT bundle. The logarithmical deterioration of thermal conductivity resulting from the increased bundle size can be attributed to the increased scattering rate with neighboring SWNTs based on the kinetic theory.

Plasmonic Properties of Vertically Aligned Nanowire Arrays

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-01

scattering (SERS) applications. In this investigation, two types of vertical NW arrays were studied; those of ZnO NWs grown on nanosphere lithography...plasmonic nanowires to investigate this SERS effect. Here we used two types of vertical NWs, ZnO NWs, and Si NWs, respectively, to investigate SERS...successfully grow vertically aligned ZnO nanowires by the well-known VLS process. In this way, the ZnO NWs can be arranged in a repeatable hexagonal pattern

Satellite-Tracking Millimeter-Wave Reflector Antenna System For Mobile Satellite-Tracking

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Densmore, Arthur C. (Inventor); Jamnejad, Vahraz (Inventor); Woo, Kenneth E. (Inventor)

2001-01-01

A miniature dual-band two-way mobile satellite-tracking antenna system mounted on a movable vehicle includes a miniature parabolic reflector dish having an elliptical aperture with major and minor elliptical axes aligned horizontally and vertically, respectively, to maximize azimuthal directionality and minimize elevational directionality to an extent corresponding to expected pitch excursions of the movable ground vehicle. A feed-horn has a back end and an open front end facing the reflector dish and has vertical side walls opening out from the back end to the front end at a lesser horn angle and horizontal top and bottom walls opening out from the back end to the front end at a greater horn angle. An RF circuit couples two different signal bands between the feed-horn and the user. An antenna attitude controller maintains an antenna azimuth direction relative to the satellite by rotating it in azimuth in response to sensed yaw motions of the movable ground vehicle so as to compensate for the yaw motions to within a pointing error angle. The controller sinusoidally dithers the antenna through a small azimuth dither angle greater than the pointing error angle while sensing a signal from the satellite received at the reflector dish, and deduces the pointing angle error from dither-induced fluctuations in the received signal.

A satellite-tracking millimeter-wave reflector antenna system for mobile satellite-tracking

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Densmore, Arthur C. (Inventor); Jamnejad, Vahraz (Inventor); Woo, Kenneth E. (Inventor)

1995-01-01

A miniature dual-band two-way mobile satellite tracking antenna system mounted on a movable ground vehicle includes a miniature parabolic reflector dish having an elliptical aperture with major and minor elliptical axes aligned horizontally and vertically, respectively, to maximize azimuthal directionality and minimize elevational directionality to an extent corresponding to expected pitch excursions of the movable ground vehicle. A feed-horn has a back end and an open front end facing the reflector dish and has vertical side walls opening out from the back end to the front end at a lesser horn angle and horizontal top and bottom walls opening out from the back end to the front end at a greater horn angle. An RF circuit couples two different signal bands between the feed-horn and the user. An antenna attitude controller maintains an antenna azimuth direction relative to the satellite by rotating it in azimuth in response to sensed yaw motions of the movable ground vehicle so as to compensate for the yaw motions to within a pointing error angle. The controller sinusoidally dithers the antenna through a small azimuth dither angle greater than the pointing error angle while sensing a signal from the satellite received at the reflector dish, and deduces the pointing angle error from dither-induced fluctuations in the received signal.

Single objective light-sheet microscopy for high-speed whole-cell 3D super-resolution

DOE PAGES

Meddens, Marjolein B. M.; Liu, Sheng; Finnegan, Patrick S.; ...

2016-01-01

Here, we have developed a method for performing light-sheet microscopy with a single high numerical aperture lens by integrating reflective side walls into a microfluidic chip. These 45° side walls generate light-sheet illumination by reflecting a vertical light-sheet into the focal plane of the objective. Light-sheet illumination of cells loaded in the channels increases image quality in diffraction limited imaging via reduction of out-of-focus background light. Single molecule super-resolution is also improved by the decreased background resulting in better localization precision and decreased photo-bleaching, leading to more accepted localizations overall and higher quality images. Moreover, 2D and 3D single moleculemore » super-resolution data can be acquired faster by taking advantage of the increased illumination intensities as compared to wide field, in the focused light-sheet.« less

Highly efficient growth of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes on Fe-Ni based metal alloy foils for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amalina Raja Seman, Raja Noor; Asyadi Azam, Mohd; Ambri Mohamed, Mohd

2016-12-01

Supercapacitors are highly promising energy devices with superior charge storage performance and a long lifecycle. Construction of the supercapacitor cell, especially electrode fabrication, is critical to ensure good performance in applications. This work demonstrates direct growth of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on Fe-Ni based metal alloy foils, namely SUS 310S, Inconel 600 and YEF 50, and their use in symmetric vertically aligned CNT supercapacitor electrodes. Alumina and cobalt thin film catalysts were deposited onto the foils, and then CNT growth was performed using alcohol catalytic chemical vapour deposition. By this method, vertically aligned CNTs were successfully grown and used directly as a binder-free supercapacitor electrode to deliver excellent electrochemical performance. The device showed relatively good specific capacitance, a superior rate capability and excellent cycle stability, maintaining about 96% capacitance up to 1000 cycles.

Purification process for vertically aligned carbon nanofibers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nguyen, Cattien V.; Delziet, Lance; Matthews, Kristopher; Chen, Bin; Meyyappan, M.

2003-01-01

Individual, free-standing, vertically aligned multiwall carbon nanotubes or nanofibers are ideal for sensor and electrode applications. Our plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition techniques for producing free-standing and vertically aligned carbon nanofibers use catalyst particles at the tip of the fiber. Here we present a simple purification process for the removal of iron catalyst particles at the tip of vertically aligned carbon nanofibers derived by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The first step involves thermal oxidation in air, at temperatures of 200-400 degrees C, resulting in the physical swelling of the iron particles from the formation of iron oxide. Subsequently, the complete removal of the iron oxide particles is achieved with diluted acid (12% HCl). The purification process appears to be very efficient at removing all of the iron catalyst particles. Electron microscopy images and Raman spectroscopy data indicate that the purification process does not damage the graphitic structure of the nanotubes.

Elastic and Piezoelectric Properties of Boron Nitride Nanotube Composites. Part II; Finite Element Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, H. Alicia; Hardie, Robert; Yamakov, Vesselin; Park, Cheol

2015-01-01

This paper is the second part of a two-part series where the first part presents a molecular dynamics model of a single Boron Nitride Nanotube (BNNT) and this paper scales up to multiple BNNTs in a polymer matrix. This paper presents finite element (FE) models to investigate the effective elastic and piezoelectric properties of (BNNT) nanocomposites. The nanocomposites studied in this paper are thin films of polymer matrix with aligned co-planar BNNTs. The FE modelling approach provides a computationally efficient way to gain an understanding of the material properties. We examine several FE models to identify the most suitable models and investigate the effective properties with respect to the BNNT volume fraction and the number of nanotube walls. The FE models are constructed to represent aligned and randomly distributed BNNTs in a matrix of resin using 2D and 3D hollow and 3D filled cylinders. The homogenisation approach is employed to determine the overall elastic and piezoelectric constants for a range of volume fractions. These models are compared with an analytical model based on Mori-Tanaka formulation suitable for finite length cylindrical inclusions. The model applies to primarily single-wall BNNTs but is also extended to multi-wall BNNTs, for which preliminary results will be presented. Results from the Part 1 of this series can help to establish a constitutive relationship for input into the finite element model to enable the modeling of multiple BNNTs in a polymer matrix.

Growth of vertically aligned nanowires in metal-oxide nanocomposites: kinetic Monte-Carlo modeling versus experiments.

PubMed

Hennes, M; Schuler, V; Weng, X; Buchwald, J; Demaille, D; Zheng, Y; Vidal, F

2018-04-26

We employ kinetic Monte-Carlo simulations to study the growth process of metal-oxide nanocomposites obtained via sequential pulsed laser deposition. Using Ni-SrTiO3 (Ni-STO) as a model system, we reduce the complexity of the computational problem by choosing a coarse-grained approach mapping Sr, Ti and O atoms onto a single effective STO pseudo-atom species. With this ansatz, we scrutinize the kinetics of the sequential synthesis process, governed by alternating deposition and relaxation steps, and analyze the self-organization propensity of Ni atoms into straight vertically aligned nanowires embedded in the surrounding STO matrix. We finally compare the predictions of our binary toy model with experiments and demonstrate that our computational approach captures fundamental aspects of self-assembled nanowire synthesis. Despite its simplicity, our modeling strategy successfully describes the impact of relevant parameters like the concentration or laser frequency on the final nanoarchitecture of metal-oxide thin films grown via pulsed laser deposition.

Room temperature-synthesized vertically aligned InSb nanowires: electrical transport and field emission characteristics

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Vertically aligned single-crystal InSb nanowires were synthesized via the electrochemical method at room temperature. The characteristics of Fourier transform infrared spectrum revealed that in the syntheses of InSb nanowires, energy bandgap shifts towards the short wavelength with the occurrence of an electron accumulation layer. The current–voltage curve, based on the metal–semiconductor–metal model, showed a high electron carrier concentration of 2.0 × 1017 cm−3 and a high electron mobility of 446.42 cm2 V−1 s−1. Additionally, the high carrier concentration of the InSb semiconductor with the surface accumulation layer induced a downward band bending effect that reduces the electron tunneling barrier. Consequently, the InSb nanowires exhibit significant field emission properties with an extremely low turn-on field of 1.84 V μm−1 and an estimative threshold field of 3.36 V μm−1. PMID:23399075

Highly aligned vertical GaN nanowires using submonolayer metal catalysts

DOEpatents

Wang, George T [Albuquerque, NM; Li, Qiming [Albuquerque, NM; Creighton, J Randall [Albuquerque, NM

2010-06-29

A method for forming vertically oriented, crystallographically aligned nanowires (nanocolumns) using monolayer or submonolayer quantities of metal atoms to form uniformly sized metal islands that serve as catalysts for MOCVD growth of Group III nitride nanowires.

Thermal Impacts of Vertical Greenery Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Safikhani, Tabassom; Abdullah, Aminatuzuhariah Megat; Ossen, Dilshan Remaz; Baharvand, Mohammad

2014-12-01

- Using vertical greenery systems to reduce heat transmission is becoming more common in modern architecture. Vertical greenery systems are divided into two main categories; green facades and living walls. This study aims to examine the thermal performance of vertical greenery systems in hot and humid climates. An experimental procedure was used to measure indoor temperature and humidity. These parameters were also measured for the gap between the vertical greenery systems and wall surfaces. Three boxes were used as small-scale rooms. Two boxes were provided with either a living wall or a green facade and one box did not have any greenery (benchmark). Blue Trumpet Vine was used in the vertical greenery systems. The data were recorded over the course of three sunny days in April 2013. An analyses of the results showed that the living wall and green facade reduced indoor temperature up to 4.0 °C and 3.0 °C, respectively. The living wall and green facade also reduced cavity temperatures by 8.0 °C and 6.5 °C, respectively.

Modular off-axis solar concentrator

DOEpatents

Plesniak, Adam P; Hall, John C

2015-01-27

A solar concentrator including a housing defining a vertical axis and including a receiving wall connected to a reflecting wall to define an internal volume and an opening into the internal volume, wherein the reflecting wall defines at least one primary optical element, and wherein at least a portion of the reflecting wall includes a layer of reflective material, the housing further including a cover connected to the receiving wall and the reflecting wall to seal the opening, and at least one receiver mounted on the receiving wall such that a vertical axis of the receiver is disposed at a non-zero angle relative to the vertical axis of the housing, the receiver including at least one photovoltaic cell.

The effects of window shape and reticle presence on performance in a vertical alignment task

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosenberg, Erika L.; Haines, Richard F.; Jordan, Kevin

1989-01-01

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of selected interior work-station orientational cuing upon the ability to align a target image with local vertical in the frontal plane. Angular error from gravitational vertical in an alignment task was measured for 20 observers viewing through two window shapes (square, round), two initial orientations of a computer-generated space shuttle image, and the presence or absence of a stabilized optical alignment reticle. In terms of overall accuracy, it was found that observer error was significantly smaller for the square window and reticle-present conditions than for the round window and reticle-absent conditions. Response bias data reflected an overall tendency to undershoot and greater variability of response in the round window/no reticle condition. These results suggest that environmental cuing information, such as that provided by square window frames and alignment reticles, may aid in subjective orientation and increase accuracy of response in a Space Station proximity operations alignment task.

Large-scale fabrication of vertically aligned ZnO nanowire arrays

DOEpatents

Wang, Zhong Lin; Hu, Youfan; Zhang, Yan; Xu, Chen; Zhu, Guang

2014-09-09

A generator includes a substrate, a first electrode layer, a dense plurality of vertically-aligned piezoelectric elongated nanostructures, an insulating layer and a second electrode layer. The substrate has a top surface and the first electrode layer is disposed on the top surface of the substrate. The dense plurality of vertically-aligned piezoelectric elongated nanostructures extends from the first electrode layer. Each of the nanostructures has a top end. The insulating layer is disposed on the top ends of the nanostructures. The second electrode layer is disposed on the non-conductive layer and is spaced apart from the nanostructures.

Laboratory glassware rack for seismic safety

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cohen, M. M. (Inventor)

1985-01-01

A rack for laboratory bottles and jars for chemicals and medicines has been designed to provide the maximum strength and security to the glassware in the event of a significant earthquake. The rack preferably is rectangular and may be made of a variety of chemically resistant materials including polypropylene, polycarbonate, and stainless steel. It comprises a first plurality of parallel vertical walls, and a second plurality of parallel vertical walls, perpendicular to the first. These intersecting vertical walls comprise a self-supporting structure without a bottom which sits on four legs. The top surface of the rack is formed by the top edges of all the vertical walls, which are not parallel but are skewed in three dimensions. These top edges form a grid matrix having a number of intersections of the vertical walls which define a number of rectangular compartments having varying widths and lengths and varying heights.

Chemical vapour deposition growth and Raman characterization of graphene layers and carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lai, Y.-C.; Rafailov, P. M.; Vlaikova, E.; Marinova, V.; Lin, S. H.; Yu, P.; Yu, S.-C.; Chi, G. C.; Dimitrov, D.; Sveshtarov, P.; Mehandjiev, V.; Gospodinov, M. M.

2016-02-01

Single-layer graphene films were grown by chemical vapour deposition (CVD) on Cu foil. The CVD process was complemented by plasma enhancement to grow also vertically aligned multiwalled carbon nanotubes using Ni nanoparticles as catalyst. The obtained samples were characterized by Raman spectroscopy analysis. Nature of defects in the samples and optimal growth conditions leading to achieve high quality of graphene and carbon nanotubes are discussed.

Carbon Nanotubes Embedded in Oriented Polymer Nanofibers by Electrospinning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cohen, Yachin; Dror, Yael; Khalfin, Rafail L.; Salalha, Wael; Yarin, Alexander L.; Zussman, Eyal

2004-03-01

The electrospinning process was used successfully to fabricate nanofibers of poly(ethylene oxide) [PEO] in which carbon nanotubes, either multi-walled (MWCNT) or single-walled (SWCNT) are embedded. MWCNTs were dispersed in water using SDS or Gum Arabic - a highly branched polyelectrolyte. Aqueous dispersion of SWCNT's was achieved using an alternating copolymer of styrene and maleic anhydride, hydrolyzed with NaOH. The focus of this work is on the development of axial orientations in the multi-component nanofibers. The degree of orientation of polymers, surfactants and nanotubes was studied using X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. Individual nanotubes were successfully embedded in the polymer nanofibers with good axial alignment. A high degree of alignment of PEO crystals and SDS layers was also found in the electrospun nanofibers containing SWCNT's. Oriented ropes of the nanofibers were fabricated in a converging electric field by a rotating disc with a tapered edge. These results can lead to further usage of the nanofibers with embedded carbon nanotubes in applications such as nano-scale energy storage devices.

Inter-allotropic transformations in the heterogeneous carbon nanotube networks.

PubMed

Jung, Hyun Young; Jung, Sung Mi; Kim, Dong Won; Jung, Yung Joon

2017-01-19

The allotropic transformations of carbon provide an immense technological interest for tailoring the desired molecular structures in the scalable nanoelectronic devices. Herein, we explore the effects of morphology and geometric alignment of the nanotubes for the re-engineering of carbon bonds in the heterogeneous carbon nanotube (CNT) networks. By applying alternating voltage pulses and electrical forces, the single-walled CNTs in networks were predominantly transformed into other predetermined sp 2 carbon structures (multi-walled CNTs and multi-layered graphitic nanoribbons), showing a larger intensity in a coalescence-induced mode of Raman spectra with the increasing channel width. Moreover, the transformed networks have a newly discovered sp 2 -sp 3 hybrid nanostructures in accordance with the alignment. The sp 3 carbon structures at the small channel are controlled, such that they contain up to about 29.4% networks. This study provides a controllable method for specific types of inter-allotropic transformations/hybridizations, which opens up the further possibility for the engineering of nanocarbon allotropes in the robust large-scale network-based devices.

Large-scale single-chirality separation of single-wall carbon nanotubes by simple gel chromatography

PubMed Central

Liu, Huaping; Nishide, Daisuke; Tanaka, Takeshi; Kataura, Hiromichi

2011-01-01

Monostructured single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) are important in both scientific research and electronic and biomedical applications; however, the bulk separation of SWCNTs into populations of single-chirality nanotubes remains challenging. Here we report a simple and effective method for the large-scale chirality separation of SWCNTs using a single-surfactant multicolumn gel chromatography method utilizing one surfactant and a series of vertically connected gel columns. This method is based on the structure-dependent interaction strength of SWCNTs with an allyl dextran-based gel. Overloading an SWCNT dispersion on the top column results in the adsorption sites of the column becoming fully occupied by the nanotubes that exhibit the strongest interaction with the gel. The unbound nanotubes flow through to the next column, and the nanotubes with the second strongest interaction with the gel are adsorbed in this stage. In this manner, 13 different (n, m) species were separated. Metallic SWCNTs were finally collected as unbound nanotubes because they exhibited the lowest interaction with the gel. PMID:21556063

Shape of Strained Solid He-4 at Low Temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kojima, Harry

2004-01-01

(1) Interferometer apparatus for measuring surface profile (2) For small strains, the expected linear decrease in height is not seen. (3) For large strains, undulation and irreversible deformations begin to set in, but we cannot yet make clear connection with stress-driven instability theory. Torii and Balibar have observed appearances of deformations beyond threshold stress on He-4 solid surface. The difference of our results from theory real? We are not ready to claim in affirmative. To be able to answer: 1) improve crystal growth techniques; (orientation, annealing, better pressure control) 2) improve homogeneity of stress; (better alignment with vertical, better understanding of interaction between solid He-4 and walls) 4) improve optics.

Visible-Blind UV Photodetector Based on Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Thin Film/ZnO Vertical Heterostructures.

PubMed

Li, Guanghui; Suja, Mohammad; Chen, Mingguang; Bekyarova, Elena; Haddon, Robert C; Liu, Jianlin; Itkis, Mikhail E

2017-10-25

Ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors based on heterojunctions of conventional (Ge, Si, and GaAs) and wide bandgap semiconductors have been recently demonstrated, but achieving high UV sensitivity and visible-blind photodetection still remains a challenge. Here, we utilized a semitransparent film of p-type semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes (SC-SWNTs) with an energy gap of 0.68 ± 0.07 eV in combination with a molecular beam epitaxy grown n-ZnO layer to build a vertical p-SC-SWNT/n-ZnO heterojunction-based UV photodetector. The resulting device shows a current rectification ratio of 10 3 , a current photoresponsivity up to 400 A/W in the UV spectral range from 370 to 230 nm, and a low dark current. The detector is practically visible-blind with the UV-to-visible photoresponsivity ratio of 10 5 due to extremely short photocarrier lifetimes in the one-dimensional SWNTs because of strong electron-phonon interactions leading to exciton formation. In this vertical configuration, UV radiation penetrates the top semitransparent SC-SWNT layer with low losses (10-20%) and excites photocarriers within the n-ZnO layer in close proximity to the p-SC-SWNT/n-ZnO interface, where electron-hole pairs are efficiently separated by a high built-in electric field associated with the heterojunction.

Direction of balance and perception of the upright are perceptually dissociable

PubMed Central

Panic, Alexander Sacha; DiZio, Paul; Lackner, James R.

2015-01-01

We examined whether the direction of balance rather than an otolith reference determines the perceived upright. Participants seated in a device that rotated around the roll axis used a joystick to control its motion. The direction of balance of the device, the location where it would not be accelerated to either side, could be offset from the gravitational vertical, a technique introduced by Riccio, Martin, and Stoffregen (J Exp Psychol Hum Percept Perform 18: 624–644, 1992). Participants used the joystick to align themselves in different trials with the gravitational vertical, the direction of balance, the upright, or the direction that minimized oscillations. They pressed the joystick trigger whenever they thought they were at the instructed orientation. Achieved angles for the “align with gravity” and “align with the upright” conditions were not different from each other and were significantly displaced past the gravitational vertical opposite from the direction of balance. Mean indicated angles for align with gravity and align with the upright coincided with the gravitational vertical. Both mean achieved and indicated angles for the “minimize oscillations” and “align with the direction of balance” conditions were significantly deviated toward the gravitational vertical. Three control experiments requiring self-settings to instructed orientations only, perceptual judgments only, and perceptual judgments during passive exposure to dynamic roll profiles confirmed that perception of the upright is determined by gravity, not by the direction of balance. PMID:25761954

Study of modification methods of probes for critical-dimension atomic-force microscopy by the deposition of carbon nanotubes

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

Ageev, O. A., E-mail: ageev@sfedu.ru; Bykov, Al. V.; Kolomiitsev, A. S.

2015-12-15

The results of an experimental study of the modification of probes for critical-dimension atomicforce microscopy (CD-AFM) by the deposition of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to improve the accuracy with which the surface roughness of vertical walls is determined in submicrometer structures are presented. Methods of the deposition of an individual CNT onto the tip of an AFM probe via mechanical and electrostatic interaction between the probe and an array of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) are studied. It is shown that, when the distance between the AFM tip and a VACNT array is 1 nm and the applied voltage is withinmore » the range 20–30 V, an individual carbon nanotube is deposited onto the tip. On the basis of the results obtained in the study, a probe with a carbon nanotube on its tip (CNT probe) with a radius of 7 nm and an aspect ratio of 1:15 is formed. Analysis of the CNT probe demonstrates that its use improves the resolution and accuracy of AFM measurements, compared with the commercial probe, and also makes it possible to determine the roughness of the vertical walls of high-aspect structures by CD-AFM. The results obtained can be used to develop technological processes for the fabrication and reconditioning of special AFM probes, including those for CD-AFM, and procedures for the interoperational express monitoring of technological process parameters in the manufacturing of elements for micro- and nanoelectronics and micro- and nanosystem engineering.« less

Conducting polymer functionalized single-walled carbon nanotube based chemiresistive biosensor for the detection of human cardiac myoglobin

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

Puri, Nidhi; Department of Physics, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025; Niazi, Asad

2014-10-13

We report the fabrication of a single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) based ultrasensitive label-free chemiresistive biosensor for the detection of human cardiac biomarker, myoglobin (Ag-cMb). Poly(pyrrole-co-pyrrolepropylic acid) with pendant carboxyl groups was electrochemically deposited on electrophoretically aligned SWNT channel, as a conducting linker, for biomolecular immobilization of highly specific cardiac myoglobin antibody. The device was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, source-drain current-voltage (I-V), and charge-transfer characteristic studies. The device exhibited a linear response with a change in conductance in SWNT channel towards the target, Ag-cMb, over the concentration range of 1.0 to 1000 ng ml{sup −1} with a sensitivity of ∼118% per decademore » with high specificity.« less

Dry contact transfer printing of aligned carbon nanotube patterns and characterization of their optical properties for diameter distribution and alignment.

PubMed

Pint, Cary L; Xu, Ya-Qiong; Moghazy, Sharief; Cherukuri, Tonya; Alvarez, Noe T; Haroz, Erik H; Mahzooni, Salma; Doorn, Stephen K; Kono, Junichiro; Pasquali, Matteo; Hauge, Robert H

2010-02-23

A scalable and facile approach is demonstrated where as-grown patterns of well-aligned structures composed of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT) synthesized via water-assisted chemical vapor deposition (CVD) can be transferred, or printed, to any host surface in a single dry, room-temperature step using the growth substrate as a stamp. We demonstrate compatibility of this process with multiple transfers for large-scale device and specifically tailored pattern fabrication. Utilizing this transfer approach, anisotropic optical properties of the SWNT films are probed via polarized absorption, Raman, and photoluminescence spectroscopies. Using a simple model to describe optical transitions in the large SWNT species present in the aligned samples, polarized absorption data are demonstrated as an effective tool for accurate assignment of the diameter distribution from broad absorption features located in the infrared. This can be performed on either well-aligned samples or unaligned doped samples, allowing simple and rapid feedback of the SWNT diameter distribution that can be challenging and time-consuming to obtain in other optical methods. Furthermore, we discuss challenges in accurately characterizing alignment in structures of long versus short carbon nanotubes through optical techniques, where SWNT length makes a difference in the information obtained in such measurements. This work provides new insight to the efficient transfer and optical properties of an emerging class of long, large diameter SWNT species typically produced in the CVD process.

In vitro attenuation of impact shock in equine digits.

PubMed

Lanovaz, J L; Clayton, H M; Watson, L G

1998-09-01

This study was designed to test the impact characteristics of the equine digit in vitro with the objective of providing a better understanding of the role of the digital structures in the attenuation of impact shock. Uni-axial accelerometers were mounted on cadaver digits on the distolateral hoof wall, the proximolateral hoof wall, the dorsal surface of the second phalanx, and the mid-lateral first phalanx. The hoof-mounted accelerometers were aligned with the hoof tubules while the bone-mounted accelerometers were oriented along the longitudinal axis of the bone. Each digit was mounted in a test apparatus designed to simulate impact of the hoof with the ground during locomotion. The digits were subjected to 3 impact trials against a barrier at each of 3 vertical impact velocities that simulated a forward trotting velocity in the range of 2.67 to 4.46 m/s. The impact deceleration tended to increase with impact velocity. Attenuation of the impact shock by the digital tissues resulted in a reduction in impact decleration in the more proximal measuring locations. The interphalangeal joints appeared to play a larger role in amplitude attenuation than the hoof wall or the soft tissue structures within the hoof wall. The signal frequency data showed that the soft tissues within the hoof acted as a 'lowpass' filter, attenuating the higher deceleration frequencies. The hoof wall and the interphalangeal joints showed little frequency attenuation.

An evaluation of chondrocyte morphology and gene expression on superhydrophilic vertically-aligned multi-walled carbon nanotube films.

PubMed

Antonioli, Eliane; Lobo, Anderson O; Ferretti, Mario; Cohen, Moisés; Marciano, Fernanda R; Corat, Evaldo J; Trava-Airoldi, Vladimir J

2013-03-01

Cartilage serves as a low-friction and wear-resistant articulating surface in diarthrodial joints and is also important during early stages of bone remodeling. Recently, regenerative cartilage research has focused on combinations of cells paired with scaffolds. Superhydrophilic vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) are of particular interest in regenerative medicine. The aim of this study is to evaluate cell expansion of human articular chondrocytes on superhydrophilic VACNTs, as well as their morphology and gene expression. VACNT films were produced using a microwave plasma chamber on Ti substrates and submitted to an O2 plasma treatment to make them superhydrophilic. Human chondrocytes were cultivated on superhydrophilic VACNTs up to five days. Quantitative RT-PCR was performed to measure type I and type II Collagen, Sox9, and Aggrecan mRNA expression levels. The morphology was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal microscopy. SEM images demonstrated that superhydrophilic VACNTs permit cell growth and adhesion of human chondrocytes. The chondrocytes had an elongated morphology with some prolongations. Chondrocytes cultivated on superhydrophilic VACNTs maintain the level expression of Aggrecan, Sox9, and Collagen II determined by qPCR. This study was the first to indicate that superhydrophilic VACNTs may be used as an efficient scaffold for cartilage or bone repair. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Systematic periodicity in waviness of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes explained by helical buckling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jahangiri, Mehdi

2017-09-01

A hypothesis is proposed in this work to account for the geometry of individual vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) that not only justifies the directionality of their growth, but also explains the origin of the waviness frequently reported for these nanotube forests. Such waviness has fundamental effects on the transport/conduction properties of VACNTs, either through or along them, regarding phenomena such as mass, stress, heat and electricity. Despite the general opinion about randomness of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) tortuosity, we demonstrate here that rules of helical buckling of tubular strings is applicable to VACNTs, based on which a regular 3D helical geometry is proposed for VACNTs, with a 2D sine wave shape side-profile. In this framework, gradual increase of the total free surface energy by growth of CNTs ensues their partial cohesion, driven by van der Waals interactions, to reduce the excess surface energy. On the other hand, their cohesion is accompanied by their deformation and loss of straightness, which in turn, translates to buildup of an elastic strain energy in the system. The balance of the two energies along with the spatial constraints on each CNT at its contact points with neighboring CNTs, is manifested in its helical buckling, that is systematically influenced by nanostructural characteristics of VACNTs, such as their diameter, wall thickness and inter-CNT spacing.

Systematic periodicity in waviness of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes explained by helical buckling.

PubMed

Jahangiri, Mehdi

2017-09-15

A hypothesis is proposed in this work to account for the geometry of individual vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) that not only justifies the directionality of their growth, but also explains the origin of the waviness frequently reported for these nanotube forests. Such waviness has fundamental effects on the transport/conduction properties of VACNTs, either through or along them, regarding phenomena such as mass, stress, heat and electricity. Despite the general opinion about randomness of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) tortuosity, we demonstrate here that rules of helical buckling of tubular strings is applicable to VACNTs, based on which a regular 3D helical geometry is proposed for VACNTs, with a 2D sine wave shape side-profile. In this framework, gradual increase of the total free surface energy by growth of CNTs ensues their partial cohesion, driven by van der Waals interactions, to reduce the excess surface energy. On the other hand, their cohesion is accompanied by their deformation and loss of straightness, which in turn, translates to buildup of an elastic strain energy in the system. The balance of the two energies along with the spatial constraints on each CNT at its contact points with neighboring CNTs, is manifested in its helical buckling, that is systematically influenced by nanostructural characteristics of VACNTs, such as their diameter, wall thickness and inter-CNT spacing.

An experimental method to determine the resistance of a vertically aligned carbon nanotube forest in contact with a conductive layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vo, T. T.; Poulain, C.; Dijon, J.; Fournier, A.; Chevalier, N.; Mariolle, D.

2012-08-01

High density vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VACNT) forests are considered as a promising conductive material for many applications (interconnects in microelectronics or contact material layer in sliding contact applications). It is thus crucial to characterize the electrical resistance of these forests, especially in contact with the inherent top/bottom conductive substrates. This paper aims to develop an original method to determine the contribution of the different terms in this electrical resistance, which is measured with a tipless atomic force microscope used in high accuracy "force mode." VACNT stacks with different heights on AlCu substrate with or without Au/Pd top coating are studied. The electrical contact area between the probe tip and the forest is considered to be equivalent to the classical electrical contact area between a tip and a rough surface. With this assumption, the scattering resistance of a mono-wall CNT is 14.6 kΩ μm-1, the top/bottom contact resistance is, respectively, 265 kΩ/385 kΩ. The bottom resistance divided in half is obtained by an interface substrate/CNT catalyst treatment. The same assumption leads to an effective compressive modulus of 175 MPa. These results are consistent with the values published by other authors. The proposed method is effective to optimise the CNT interface contact resistance before integration in a more complex functional structure.

Detection of quantum well induced single degenerate-transition-dipoles in ZnO nanorods.

PubMed

Ghosh, Siddharth; Ghosh, Moumita; Seibt, Michael; Rao, G Mohan

2016-02-07

Quantifying and characterising atomic defects in nanocrystals is difficult and low-throughput using the existing methods such as high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). In this article, using a defocused wide-field optical imaging technique, we demonstrate that a single ultrahigh-piezoelectric ZnO nanorod contains a single defect site. We model the observed dipole-emission patterns from optical imaging with a multi-dimensional dipole and find that the experimentally observed dipole pattern and model-calculated patterns are in excellent agreement. This agreement suggests the presence of vertically oriented degenerate-transition-dipoles in vertically aligned ZnO nanorods. The HRTEM of the ZnO nanorod shows the presence of a stacking fault, which generates a localised quantum well induced degenerate-transition-dipole. Finally, we elucidate that defocused wide-field imaging can be widely used to characterise defects in nanomaterials to answer many difficult questions concerning the performance of low-dimensional devices, such as in energy harvesting, advanced metal-oxide-semiconductor storage, and nanoelectromechanical and nanophotonic devices.

Representing k-graphs as Matrix Algebras

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rosjanuardi, R.

2018-05-01

For any commutative unital ring R and finitely aligned k-graph Λ with |Λ| < ∞ without cycles, we can realise Kumjian-Pask algebra KP R (Λ) as a direct sum of of matrix algebra over some vertices v with properties ν = νΛ, i.e: ⊕ νΛ=ν M |Λv|(R). When there is only a single vertex ν ∈ Λ° such that ν = νΛ, we can realise the Kumjian-Pask algebra as the matrix algebra M |ΛV|(R). Hence the matrix algebra M |vΛ|(R) can be regarded as a representation of the k-graph Λ. In this talk we will figure out the relation between finitely aligned k-graph and matrix algebra.

CCD Camera Lens Interface for Real-Time Theodolite Alignment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wake, Shane; Scott, V. Stanley, III

2012-01-01

Theodolites are a common instrument in the testing, alignment, and building of various systems ranging from a single optical component to an entire instrument. They provide a precise way to measure horizontal and vertical angles. They can be used to align multiple objects in a desired way at specific angles. They can also be used to reference a specific location or orientation of an object that has moved. Some systems may require a small margin of error in position of components. A theodolite can assist with accurately measuring and/or minimizing that error. The technology is an adapter for a CCD camera with lens to attach to a Leica Wild T3000 Theodolite eyepiece that enables viewing on a connected monitor, and thus can be utilized with multiple theodolites simultaneously. This technology removes a substantial part of human error by relying on the CCD camera and monitors. It also allows image recording of the alignment, and therefore provides a quantitative means to measure such error.

A vertical wall in the Whittard Canyon with a novel community assemblage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, Mark; White, Martin; Wilson, Annette; Wuerzberg, Laura; Schwabe, Enrico; Folch, Helka; Allcock, Louise

2013-04-01

We describe a hitherto unreported community from a vertical wall in the Whittard Canyon system on the Atlantic Margin. The wall extended vertically for about 100 m from approximately 750 m depth. We explored the wall with an ROV and discovered an assemblage cominated by large limid bivalves Acesta excavata and deep-water oysters Neopycnodonte zibrowii at very high densities, particularly at overhangs. The assemblage also contained deep-water corals (including solitary corals). It had high numbers of flytrap anemones and had many mobile species associated with it including crustaceans such as Paramola cuvieri and Bathynectes longispina, echinoderms and fishes. We took CTD transects in the area of the wall and beam attenuation indicated nepheloid layers present in the water column. The greatest densities of suspended material at the ROV dive site were at the depth of the wall. We hypothesise that internal waves concentrate suspended sediment at the foot of the vertical wall. This may provide the resources to support the high density of large filter feeders at these depths.

Engineering highly organized and aligned single walled carbon nanotube networks for electronic device applications: Interconnects, chemical sensor, and optoelectronics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Young Lae

For 20 years, single walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) have been studied actively due to their unique one-dimensional nanostructure and superior electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties. For these reasons, they offer the potential to serve as building blocks for future electronic devices such as field effect transistors (FETs), electromechanical devices, and various sensors. In order to realize these applications, it is crucial to develop a simple, scalable, and reliable nanomanufacturing process that controllably places aligned SWNTs in desired locations, orientations, and dimensions. Also electronic properties (semiconducting/metallic) of SWNTs and their organized networks must be controlled for the desired performance of devices and systems. These fundamental challenges are significantly limiting the use of SWNTs for future electronic device applications. Here, we demonstrate a strategy to fabricate highly controlled micro/nanoscale SWNT network structures and present the related assembly mechanism to engineer the SWNT network topology and its electrical transport properties. A method designed to evaluate the electrical reliability of such nano- and microscale SWNT networks is also presented. Moreover, we develop and investigate a robust SWNT based multifunctional selective chemical sensor and a range of multifunctional optoelectronic switches, photo-transistors, optoelectronic logic gates and complex optoelectronic digital circuits.

Selective synthesis and device applications of semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes using isopropyl alcohol as feedstock.

PubMed

Che, Yuchi; Wang, Chuan; Liu, Jia; Liu, Bilu; Lin, Xue; Parker, Jason; Beasley, Cara; Wong, H-S Philip; Zhou, Chongwu

2012-08-28

The development of guided chemical vapor deposition (CVD) growth of single-walled carbon nanotubes provides a great platform for wafer-scale integration of aligned nanotubes into circuits and functional electronic systems. However, the coexistence of metallic and semiconducting nanotubes is still a major obstacle for the development of carbon-nanotube-based nanoelectronics. To address this problem, we have developed a method to obtain predominantly semiconducting nanotubes from direct CVD growth. By using isopropyl alcohol (IPA) as the carbon feedstock, a semiconducting nanotube purity of above 90% is achieved, which is unambiguously confirmed by both electrical and micro-Raman measurements. Mass spectrometric study was performed to elucidate the underlying chemical mechanism. Furthermore, high performance thin-film transistors with an on/off ratio above 10(4) and mobility up to 116 cm(2)/(V·s) have been achieved using the IPA-synthesized nanotube networks grown on silicon substrate. The method reported in this contribution is easy to operate and the results are highly reproducible. Therefore, such semiconducting predominated single-walled carbon nanotubes could serve as an important building block for future practical and scalable carbon nanotube electronics.

Nanoscale thermocapillarity enabled purification for horizontally aligned arrays of single walled carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jin, Sung Hun; Dunham, Simon; Xie, Xu; Rogers, John A.

2015-09-01

Among the remarkable variety of semiconducting nanomaterials that have been discovered over the past two decades, single-walled carbon nanotubes remain uniquely well suited for applications in high-performance electronics, sensors and other technologies. The most advanced opportunities demand the ability to form perfectly aligned, horizontal arrays of purely semiconducting, chemically pristine carbon nanotubes. Here, we present strategies that offer this capability. Nanoscale thermos-capillary flows in thin-film organic coatings followed by reactive ion etching serve as highly efficient means for selectively removing metallic carbon nanotubes from electronically heterogeneous aligned arrays grown on quartz substrates. The low temperatures and unusual physics associated with this process enable robust, scalable operation, with clear potential for practical use. Especially for the purpose of selective joule heating over only metallic nanotubes, two representative platforms are proposed and confirmed. One is achieved by selective joule heating associated with thin film transistors with partial gate structure. The other is based on a simple, scalable, large-area scheme through microwave irradiation by using micro-strip dipole antennas of low work-function metals. In this study, based on purified semiconducting SWNTs, we demonstrated field effect transistors with mobility (> 1,000 cm2/Vsec) and on/off switching ratio (~10,000) with current outputs in the milliamp range. Furthermore, as one demonstration of the effectiveness over large area-scalability and simplicity, implementing the micro-wave based purification, on large arrays consisting of ~20,000 SWNTs completely removes all of the m-SWNTs (~7,000) to yield a purity of s-SWNTs that corresponds, quantitatively, to at least to 99.9925% and likely significantly higher.

Pressurizer tank upper support

DOEpatents

Baker, T.H.; Ott, H.L.

1994-01-11

A pressurizer tank in a pressurized water nuclear reactor is mounted between structural walls of the reactor on a substructure of the reactor, the tank extending upwardly from the substructure. For bearing lateral loads such as seismic shocks, a girder substantially encircles the pressurizer tank at a space above the substructure and is coupled to the structural walls via opposed sway struts. Each sway strut is attached at one end to the girder and at an opposite end to one of the structural walls, and the sway struts are oriented substantially horizontally in pairs aligned substantially along tangents to the wall of the circular tank. Preferably, eight sway struts attach to the girder at 90[degree] intervals. A compartment encloses the pressurizer tank and forms the structural wall. The sway struts attach to corners of the compartment for maximum stiffness and load bearing capacity. A valve support frame carrying the relief/discharge piping and valves of an automatic depressurization arrangement is fixed to the girder, whereby lateral loads on the relief/discharge piping are coupled directly to the compartment rather than through any portion of the pressurizer tank. Thermal insulation for the valve support frame prevents thermal loading of the piping and valves. The girder is shimmed to define a gap for reducing thermal transfer, and the girder is free to move vertically relative to the compartment walls, for accommodating dimensional variation of the pressurizer tank with changes in temperature and pressure. 10 figures.

Enhanced photoluminescence and field-emission behavior of vertically well aligned arrays of In-doped ZnO Nanowires.

PubMed

Ahmad, Mashkoor; Sun, Hongyu; Zhu, Jing

2011-04-01

Vertically oriented well-aligned Indium doped ZnO nanowires (NWs) have been successfully synthesized on Au-coated Zn substrate by controlled thermal evaporation. The effect of indium dopant on the optical and field-emission properties of these well-aligned ZnO NWs is investigated. The doped NWs are found to be single crystals grown along the c-axis. The composition of the doped NWs is confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray photospectroscopy (XPS). The photoluminescence (PL) spectra of doped NWs having a blue-shift in the UV region show a prominent tuning in the optical band gap, without any significant peak relating to intrinsic defects. The turn-on field of the field emission is found to be ∼2.4 V μm(-1) and an emission current density of 1.13 mA cm(-2) under the field of 5.9 V μm(-1). The field enhancement factor β is estimated to be 9490 ± 2, which is much higher than that of any previous report. Furthermore, the doped NWs exhibit good emission current stability with a variation of less than 5% during a 200 s under a field of 5.9 V μm(-1). The superior field emission properties are attributed to the good alignment, high aspect ratio, and better crystallinity of In-doped NWs. © 2011 American Chemical Society

Making housing first happen: organizational leadership in VA's expansion of permanent supportive housing.

PubMed

Kertesz, Stefan G; Austin, Erika Laine; Holmes, Sally K; Pollio, David E; Schumacher, Joseph E; White, Bert; Lukas, Carol VanDeusen

2014-12-01

While most organizational literature has focused on initiatives that transpire inside the hospital walls, the redesign of American health care increasingly asks that health care institutions address matters outside their walls, targeting the health of populations. The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)'s national effort to end Veteran homelessness represents an externally focused organizational endeavor. Our aim was to evaluate the role of organizational practices in the implementation of Housing First (HF), an evidence-based homeless intervention for chronically homeless individuals. This was an interview-based comparative case study conducted across eight VA Medical Centers (VAMCs). Front line staff, mid-level managers, and senior leaders at VA Medical Centers were interviewed between February and December 2012. Using a structured narrative and numeric scoring, we assessed the correlation between successful HF implementation and organizational practices devised according to the organizational transformation model (OTM). Scoring results suggested a strong association between HF implementation and OTM practice. Strong impetus to house Veterans came from national leadership, reinforced by Medical Center directors closely tracking results. More effective Medical Center leaders differentiated themselves by joining front-line staff in the work (at public events and in process improvement exercises), by elevating homeless-knowledgeable persons into senior leadership, and by exerting themselves to resolve logistic challenges. Vertical alignment and horizontal integration advanced at sites that fostered work groups cutting across service lines and hierarchical levels. By contrast, weak alignment from top to bottom typically also hindered cooperation across departments. Staff commitment to ending homelessness was high, though sustainability planning was limited in this baseline year of observation. Key organizational practices correlated with more successful implementation of HF for homeless Veterans. Medical Center directors substantively influenced the success of this endeavor through their actions to foster impetus, demonstrate commitment and support alignment and integration.

Integrated single-walled carbon nanotube/microfluidic devices for the study of the sensing mechanism of nanotube sensors.

PubMed

Fu, Qiang; Liu, Jie

2005-07-21

A method to fabricate integrated single-walled carbon nanotube/microfluidic devices was developed. This simple process could be used to directly prepare nanotube thin film transistors within the microfluidic channel and to register SWNT devices with the microfludic channel without the need of an additional alignment step. The microfluidic device was designed to have several inlets that deliver multiple liquid flows to a single main channel. The location and width of each flow in the main channel could be controlled by the relative flow rates. This capability enabled us to study the effect of the location and the coverage area of the liquid flow that contained charged molecules on the conduction of the nanotube devices, providing important information on the sensing mechanism of carbon nanotube sensors. The results showed that in a sensor based on a nanotube thin film field effect transistor, the sensing signal came from target molecules absorbed on or around the nanotubes. The effect from adsorption on metal electrodes was weak.

Use of flexible facing for soil nail walls.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-11-01

Soil nail walls are a widely used technology for retaining vertical and nearly vertical cuts in soil. A : significant portion of the cost of soil nail wall construction is related to the construction of a reinforced : concrete face. The potential for...

Use of Ultrasound to Improve the Effectiveness of a Permeable Treatment Wall

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Quinn, Jacqueline W. (Inventor); Clausen, Christian A. (Inventor); Geiger, Cherie L. (Inventor); Reinhart, Debra R. (Inventor); Ruiz, Nancy (Inventor)

2000-01-01

A method for increasing the effectiveness of a permeable treatment wall is described. The method includes the introduction of ultrasonic radiation in or near the wall. A permeable treatment wall is also described which has an ultrasonic radiation generating transducer in or near the wall. Permeable treatment walls are described as having either a well vertically extending into the wall, or a rod vertically extending into the treatment wall. Additionally, a method for adapting a permeable treatment wall to allow for the introduction of ultrasonic radiation in or near the wall is described.

Reinforcement mechanism of multi-anchor wall with double wall facing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suzuki, Kouta; Kobayashi, Makoto; Miura, Kinya; Konami, Takeharu; Hayashi, Taketo

2017-10-01

The reinforced soil wall has high seismic performance as generally known. However, the seismic behavior has not been clarified accurately yet, especially on multi-anchor wall with double wall facing. Indefinite behavior of reinforced soil wall during earthquake make us complicated in case with adopting to the abutment, because of arrangement of anchor plate as reinforcement often different according to the width of roads. In this study, a series of centrifuge model tests were carried out to investigate the reinforcement mechanism of multi anchor wall with double wall facing from the perspective of the vertical earth pressure. Several types of reinforce arrangement and rigid wall were applied in order to verify the arch function in the reinforced regions. The test results show unique behavior of vertical earth pressure, which was affected by arch action. All the vertical earth pressure placed behind facing panel, are larger than that of middle part between facing panel despite of friction between backfill and facing panel. Similar results were obtained in case using rigid wall. On the other hands, the vertical earth pressure, which were measured at the 3cm high from bottom of model container, shows larger than that of bottom. This results show the existence of arch action between double walls. In addition, it implies that the wall facing of such soil structure confined the backfill as pseudo wall, which is very reason that the multi anchor wall with double wall facing has high seismic performance.

Pathway-engineering for highly-aligned block copolymer arrays.

PubMed

Choo, Youngwoo; Majewski, Paweł W; Fukuto, Masafumi; Osuji, Chinedum O; Yager, Kevin G

2017-12-21

While the ultimate driving force in self-assembly is energy minimization and the corresponding evolution towards equilibrium, kinetic effects can also play a very strong role. These kinetic effects, such as trapping in metastable states, slow coarsening kinetics, and pathway-dependent assembly, are often viewed as complications to be overcome. Here, we instead exploit these effects to engineer a desired final nano-structure in a block copolymer thin film, by selecting a particular ordering pathway through the self-assembly energy landscape. In particular, we combine photothermal shearing with high-temperature annealing to yield hexagonal arrays of block copolymer cylinders that are aligned in a single prescribed direction over macroscopic sample dimensions. Photothermal shearing is first used to generate a highly-aligned horizontal cylinder state, with subsequent thermal processing used to reorient the morphology to the vertical cylinder state in a templated manner. Finally, we demonstrate the successful transfer of engineered morphologies into inorganic replicas.

Turbine blade tip flow discouragers

DOEpatents

Bunker, Ronald Scott

2000-01-01

A turbine assembly comprises a plurality of rotating blade portions in a spaced relation with a stationery shroud. The rotating blade portions comprise a root section, a tip portion and an airfoil. The tip portion has a pressure side wall and a suction side wall. A number of flow discouragers are disposed on the blade tip portion. In one embodiment, the flow discouragers extend circumferentially from the pressure side wall to the suction side wall so as to be aligned generally parallel to the direction of rotation. In an alternative embodiment, the flow discouragers extend circumferentially from the pressure side wall to the suction side wall so as to be aligned at an angle in the range between about 0.degree. to about 60.degree. with respect to a reference axis aligned generally parallel to the direction of rotation. The flow discouragers increase the flow resistance and thus reduce the flow of hot gas flow leakage for a given pressure differential across the blade tip portion so as to improve overall turbine efficiency.

Proton radiation effects on the optical properties of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuhnhenn, J.; Khavrus, V.; Leonhardt, A.; Eversheim, D.; Noll, C.; Hinderlich, S.; Dahl, A.

2017-11-01

This paper discusses proton-induced radiation effects in vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VA-CNT). VACNTs exhibit extremely low optical reflectivity which makes them interesting candidates for use in spacecraft stray light suppression. Investigating their behavior in space environment is a precondition for the implementation on a satellite.

Computational Fluid Dynamics Based Extraction of Heat Transfer Coefficient in Cryogenic Propellant Tanks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yang, H. Q.; West, Jeff

2015-01-01

Current reduced-order thermal model for cryogenic propellant tanks is based on correlations built for flat plates collected in the 1950's. The use of these correlations suffers from: inaccurate geometry representation; inaccurate gravity orientation; ambiguous length scale; and lack of detailed validation. The work presented under this task uses the first-principles based Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) technique to compute heat transfer from tank wall to the cryogenic fluids, and extracts and correlates the equivalent heat transfer coefficient to support reduced-order thermal model. The CFD tool was first validated against available experimental data and commonly used correlations for natural convection along a vertically heated wall. Good agreements between the present prediction and experimental data have been found for flows in laminar as well turbulent regimes. The convective heat transfer between tank wall and cryogenic propellant, and that between tank wall and ullage gas were then simulated. The results showed that commonly used heat transfer correlations for either vertical or horizontal plate over predict heat transfer rate for the cryogenic tank, in some cases by as much as one order of magnitude. A characteristic length scale has been defined that can correlate all heat transfer coefficients for different fill levels into a single curve. This curve can be used for the reduced-order heat transfer model analysis.

CFD Extraction of Heat Transfer Coefficient in Cryogenic Propellant Tanks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yang, H. Q.; West, Jeff

2015-01-01

Current reduced-order thermal model for cryogenic propellant tanks is based on correlations built for flat plates collected in the 1950's. The use of these correlations suffers from inaccurate geometry representation; inaccurate gravity orientation; ambiguous length scale; and lack of detailed validation. This study uses first-principles based CFD methodology to compute heat transfer from the tank wall to the cryogenic fluids and extracts and correlates the equivalent heat transfer coefficient to support reduced-order thermal model. The CFD tool was first validated against available experimental data and commonly used correlations for natural convection along a vertically heated wall. Good agreements between the present prediction and experimental data have been found for flows in laminar as well turbulent regimes. The convective heat transfer between the tank wall and cryogenic propellant, and that between the tank wall and ullage gas were then simulated. The results showed that the commonly used heat transfer correlations for either vertical or horizontal plate over-predict heat transfer rate for the cryogenic tank, in some cases by as much as one order of magnitude. A characteristic length scale has been defined that can correlate all heat transfer coefficients for different fill levels into a single curve. This curve can be used for the reduced-order heat transfer model analysis.

Effects of alignment layer thickness on the pretilt angle of liquid crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Son, Jong-Ho; Zin, Wang-Cheol

2010-12-01

Mixture solutions of vertical- and planar-aligning polyimide precursors were coated on bare glass. The concentrations of the solutions were varied to control the thicknesses of the films. The resulting blend films were baked to induce imidization and then rubbed. The thicknesses (t) of the blend film and of the pure vertical-alignment film affected their surface energies; the pretilt angle can be fully controlled in the range 5.5°≤Θ0≤87° by adjusting t. The surface energy of pure planar-alignment layers was independent of t.

Single Wall Carbon Nanotube-Based Structural Health Sensing Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Watkins, A. Neal; Ingram, JoAnne L.; Jordan, Jeffrey D.; Wincheski, Russell A.; Smits, Jan M.; Williams, Phillip A.

2004-01-01

Single wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT)-based materials represent the future aerospace vehicle construction material of choice based primarily on predicted strength-to-weight advantages and inherent multifunctionality. The multifunctionality of SWCNTs arises from the ability of the nanotubes to be either metallic or semi-conducting based on their chirality. Furthermore, simply changing the environment around a SWCNT can change its conducting behavior. This phenomenon is being exploited to create sensors capable of measuring several parameters related to vehicle structural health (i.e. strain, pressure, temperature, etc.) The structural health monitor is constructed using conventional electron-beam lithographic and photolithographic techniques to place specific electrode patterns on a surface. SWCNTs are then deposited between the electrodes using a dielectrophoretic alignment technique. Prototypes have been constructed on both silicon and polyimide substrates, demonstrating that surface-mountable and multifunctional devices based on SWCNTs can be realized.

Investigation of Aromatic/Aliphatic Polyimides as Dispersants for Single Wall Carbon Nanotubes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Delozier, Donavon M.; Watson, Kent A.; Smith, Joseph G., Jr.; Clancy, Thomas C.; Connell, John W.

2006-01-01

Novel aromatic/aliphatic polyimides were prepared from 2,7-diamino-9,9'- dioctylfluorene (AFDA) and aromatic dianhydrides. Upon investigating the effectiveness of these polyimides for dispersing single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) in solution, three were discovered to disperse SWNTs in N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAc). Two of these polyimides, one from 3,3',4,4'-oxydiphthalic anhydride (ODPA) and one from symmetric 3,3',4,4'-biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride (s-BPDA), were used to prepare nanocomposites. Homogeneous polyimide/SWNT suspensions from both polymers were used in the preparation of films and fibers containing up to 1 wt% SWNTs. The samples were thermally treated to remove residual solvent and the films were characterized for SWNT dispersion by optical and high resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM). Electrical and mechanical properties of the films were also determined. Electrospun fibers were examined by HRSEM to characterize SWNT alignment and orientation.

In-vitro detection of artificial caries on vertical dental cavity walls using infrared photothermal radiometry and modulated luminescence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Jungho; Mandelis, Andreas; Abrams, Stephen H.; Vu, Jaclyn T.; Amaechi, Bennett T.

2012-12-01

The main objective of the study was to investigate the ability of frequency-domain photothermal radiometry (PTR) and modulated luminescence (LUM) to detect secondary caries lesions on the walls of restorations (wall lesions). Changes in experimental PTR-LUM signals due to sequential demineralization on entire vertical walls of sectioned tooth samples were investigated. In addition, transverse micro-radiography (TMR) analysis (used as a gold standard) was conducted to measure the degree of demineralization that occurred in each sample. Statistical correlation between TMR results and PTR-LUM signals was determined using Pearson's correlation coefficient. LUM signals were found to be dominated by the scattered component of the incident laser beam. The more clinically relevant cases of localized demineralization and remineralization on vertical walls were also investigated to examine whether PTR-LUM signals are sensitive to demineralization and remineralization of much smaller areas. The overall results demonstrated that PTR-LUM is sensitive to progressive demineralization and remineralization on vertical walls of sectioned tooth samples.

Anisotropic piezoresistivity characteristics of aligned carbon nanotube-polymer nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sengezer, Engin C.; Seidel, Gary D.; Bodnar, Robert J.

2017-09-01

Dielectrophoresis under the application of AC electric fields is one of the primary fabrication techniques for obtaining aligned carbon nanotube (CNT)-polymer nanocomposites, and is used here to generate long range alignment of CNTs at the structural level. The degree of alignment of CNTs within this long range architecture is observed via polarized Raman spectroscopy so that its influence on the electrical conductivity and piezoresistive response in both the alignment and transverse to alignment directions can be assessed. Nanocomposite samples consisting of randomly oriented, well dispersed single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and of long range electric field aligned SWCNTs in a photopolymerizable monomer blend (urethane dimethacrylate and 1,6-hexanediol dimethacrylate) are quantitatively and qualitatively evaluated. Piezoresistive sensitivities in form of gauge factors were measured for randomly oriented, well dispersed specimens with 0.03, 0.1 and 0.5 wt% SWCNTs and compared with gauge factors in both the axial and transverse to SWCNT alignment directions for electric field aligned 0.03 wt% specimens under both quasi-static monotonic and cyclic tensile loading. Gauge factors in the axial direction were observed to be on the order of 2, while gauge factors in the transverse direction demonstrated a 5 fold increase with values on the order of 10 for aligned specimens. Based on Raman analysis, it is believed the higher sensitivity of the transverse direction is related to architectural evolution of misaligned bridging structures which connect alignment structures under load due to Poisson’s contraction.

Electro-optic characteristics of 4-domain vertical alignment nematic liquid crystal display with interdigital electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hong, S. H.; Jeong, Y. H.; Kim, H. Y.; Cho, H. M.; Lee, W. G.; Lee, S. H.

2000-06-01

We have fabricated a vertically aligned 4-domain nematic liquid crystal display cell with thin film transistor. Unlike the conventional method constructing 4-domain, i.e., protrusion and surrounding electrode which needs additional processes, in this study the pixel design forming 4-domain with interdigital electrodes is suggested. In the device, one pixel is divided into two parts. One part has a horizontal electric field in the vertical direction and the other part has a horizontal one in the horizontal direction. Such fields in the horizontal and vertical direction drive the liquid crystal director to tilt down in four directions. In this article, the electro-optic characteristics of cells with 2 and 4 domain have been studied. The device with 4 domain shows faster response time than normal twisted-nematic and in-plane switching cells, wide viewing angle with optical compensation film, and more stable color characteristics than 2-domain vertical alignment cell with similar structure.

Biodiesel and Integrated STEM: Vertical Alignment of High School Biology/Biochemistry and Chemistry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burrows, Andrea C.; Breiner, Jonathan M.; Keiner, Jennifer; Behm, Chris

2014-01-01

This article explores the vertical alignment of two high school classes, biology and chemistry, around the core concept of biodiesel fuel production. High school teachers and university faculty members investigated biodiesel as it relates to societal impact through a National Science Foundation Research Experience for Teachers. Using an action…

Fast preparation of hydroxyapatite/superhydrophilic vertically aligned multiwalled carbon nanotube composites for bioactive application.

PubMed

Lobo, Anderson O; Corat, Marcus A F; Ramos, Sandra C; Matsushima, Jorge T; Granato, Alessandro E C; Pacheco-Soares, Cristina; Corat, Evaldo J

2010-12-07

A method for the electrodeposition of hydroxyapatite films on superhydrophilic vertically aligned multiwalled carbon nanotubes is presented. The formation of a thin homogeneous film with high crystallinity was observed without any thermal treatment and with bioactivity properties that accelerate the in vitro biomineralization process and osteoblast adhesion.

Transition of vertically aligned liquid crystal driven by fan-shaped electric field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsung, J. W.; Ting, T. L.; Chen, C. Y.; Liang, W. L.; Lai, C. W.; Lin, T. H.; Hsu, W. H.

2017-09-01

Interdigital electrodes are implemented in many commercial and novel liquid crystal devices to align molecules. Although many empirical principles and patents apply to electrode design, only a few numerical simulations of alignment have been conducted. Why and how the molecules align in an ordered manner has never been adequately explained. Hence, this investigation addresses the Fréedericksz transition of vertically aligned liquid crystal that is driven by fishbone electrodes, and thereafter identifies the mechanism of liquid crystal alignment. Theoretical calculations suggest that the periodic deformation that is caused by the fan-shaped fringe field minimizes the free energy in the liquid crystal cell, and the optimal alignment can be obtained when the cell parameters satisfy the relation p /2 d =√{k11/k33 } , where p is the spatial period of the strips of the electrode; d denotes the cell gap; and k11 and k33 are the splay and bend elastic constants of the liquid crystal, respectively. Polymer-stabilized vertical alignment test cells with various p values and spacings between the electrodes were fabricated, and the process of liquid crystal alignment was observed under an optical microscope. The degree of alignment was evaluated by measuring the transmittance of the test cell. The experimental results were consistent with the theoretical predictions. The principle of design, p /2 d =√{k11/k33 } , greatly improves the uniformity and stability of the aligned liquid crystal. The methods that are presented here can be further applied to cholesteric liquid crystal and other self-assembled soft materials.

Installation and assembly device and method of using

DOEpatents

Kolsun, George J.

1997-01-01

An installation and assembly device for aligning a first member such as a pump impeller with a second member such as an inlet nozzle of an impeller pump. The installation and assembly device includes a sleeve slideable within the inlet nozzle and a vertical positioning assembly which has a contact member that is extendable out away from the sleeve so as to vertically position the sleeve on a shoulder of the inlet nozzle and to present an upper contact surface spaced a certain distance from the shoulder to provide the desired vertical spacing with respect to the impeller contacting the upper contact surface. The vertical positioning assembly is retractable so as to allow for removal of the sleeve through the nozzle when installation and assembly are completed. The alignment device also includes a radial alignment assembly supported by the sleeve and adjustable to an expanded state for contacting and spacing the interior surface of the impeller a certain distance from the sleeve and hence a certain distance from the inlet nozzle. The radial alignment device being adjustable from a retracted removal state to an expanded state and also being adjustable to fine tune the spacing of the impeller from the sleeve. The radial alignment device also preferably includes members that can be used to releasably secure the sleeve to the impeller.

Seed crystals and catalyzed epitaxy of single-walled carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yuhuang

This thesis demonstrates the continued growth of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) from seeded SWNTs in a way analogous to epitaxy or cloning; that is, the SWNTs grow as a seamless extension to the existing seeded SWNTs and have the same diameter and chirality as those of the SWNT seeds. The experiments were carried out in three key steps, including: (1) preparing a macroscopic array of open-ended SWNTs; (2) reductively docking transition metals as a catalyst to the nanometer-sized open ends; and then (3) heating the whole up to 700--850°C in the presence of a carbon feedstock such as ethanol or ethylene. The resulting SWNT ropes inherit the diameters and chirality from the seeded SWNTs, as indicated by the closely matched frequencies of Raman radial breathing modes before and after the growth. As a control, only sparse nanotubes grew from closed-ended SWNTs, ruling out spontaneous nucleation as a dominating mechanism in our experiments. This experiment proved for the first time the growth of SWNTs can be separated from the nucleation step. The ability to separate the typically inefficient nucleation step from the growth of SWNTs and to restart the growth opens the possibility of amplifying SWNTs with only the desired (n, m). The success in the continued growth was enabled with the creation of macroscopic arrays of open-ended SWNTs from a neat SWNT fiber. A variety of techniques including cryo-microtoming and surface etching chemistry have been developed to produce a macroscopic (˜1200mum2), aligned, and clean---largely free of amorphous carbon, oxides, and metal residuals---SWNT substrate with open-ended SWNTs aligned along the fiber axis. Alternatively, the fiber was milled perpendicular to the fiber axis with a gallium focused ion beam to produce a planar, free-standing, ultra-thin, "bed-of-nails" SWNT membrane---a single layer of parallel SWNTs densely packed and aligned along the normal of the membrane.

Measuring Earth's radiation imbalance with RAVAN: A CubeSat mission to measure the driver of global climate change

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Swartz, W. H.; Dyrud, L. P.; Wiscombe, W. J.; Lorentz, S. R.; Papadakis, S.; Summers, R. A.; Smith, A. W.; Wu, D. L.; Deglau, D. M.; Arnold, S. P.

2013-12-01

The Earth radiation imbalance (ERI) is the single most important quantity for predicting the course of climate change over the next century. It is also the single most important metric for any geo-engineering scheme. We review the current scientific understanding of ERI and present a recently funded CubeSat mission, the Radiometer Assessment using Vertically Aligned Nanotubes (RAVAN), that will demonstrate an affordable, accurate radiometer that directly measures Earth-leaving fluxes of total and solar-reflected radiation. Coupled with knowledge of the incoming radiation from the Sun, RAVAN directly gives ERI. The objective of RAVAN is to demonstrate that a compact spaceborne radiometer that is absolutely accurate to NIST-traceable standards can be built for low cost. The key technologies that enable a radiometer with all these attributes are: a gallium fixed-point blackbody as a built-in calibration source and a vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VACNT) absorber. VACNTs are the blackest known substance, making them ideal radiometer absorbers with order-of-magnitude improvements in spectral flatness and stability over the existing art. The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory heritage 3U Multi-Mission Nanosat will host RAVAN, providing the reliability, agility, and resources needed. RAVAN will pave the way for a constellation Earth radiation budget mission that can provide the measurements needed to enable vastly superior predictions of future climate change.

Highly uniform and vertically aligned SnO2 nanochannel arrays for photovoltaic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Jae-Yup; Kang, Jin Soo; Shin, Junyoung; Kim, Jin; Han, Seung-Joo; Park, Jongwoo; Min, Yo-Sep; Ko, Min Jae; Sung, Yung-Eun

2015-04-01

Nanostructured electrodes with vertical alignment have been considered ideal structures for electron transport and interfacial contact with redox electrolytes in photovoltaic devices. Here, we report large-scale vertically aligned SnO2 nanochannel arrays with uniform structures, without lateral cracks fabricated by a modified anodic oxidation process. In the modified process, ultrasonication is utilized to avoid formation of partial compact layers and lateral cracks in the SnO2 nanochannel arrays. Building on this breakthrough, we first demonstrate the photovoltaic application of these vertically aligned SnO2 nanochannel arrays. These vertically aligned arrays were directly and successfully applied in quasi-solid state dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) as photoanodes, yielding reasonable conversion efficiency under back-side illumination. In addition, a significantly short process time (330 s) for achieving the optimal thickness (7.0 μm) and direct utilization of the anodized electrodes enable a simple, rapid and low-cost fabrication process. Furthermore, a TiO2 shell layer was coated on the SnO2 nanochannel arrays by the atomic layer deposition (ALD) process for enhancement of dye-loading and prolonging the electron lifetime in the DSSC. Owing to the presence of the ALD TiO2 layer, the short-circuit photocurrent density (Jsc) and conversion efficiency were increased by 20% and 19%, respectively, compared to those of the DSSC without the ALD TiO2 layer. This study provides valuable insight into the development of efficient SnO2-based photoanodes for photovoltaic application by a simple and rapid fabrication process.Nanostructured electrodes with vertical alignment have been considered ideal structures for electron transport and interfacial contact with redox electrolytes in photovoltaic devices. Here, we report large-scale vertically aligned SnO2 nanochannel arrays with uniform structures, without lateral cracks fabricated by a modified anodic oxidation process. In the modified process, ultrasonication is utilized to avoid formation of partial compact layers and lateral cracks in the SnO2 nanochannel arrays. Building on this breakthrough, we first demonstrate the photovoltaic application of these vertically aligned SnO2 nanochannel arrays. These vertically aligned arrays were directly and successfully applied in quasi-solid state dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) as photoanodes, yielding reasonable conversion efficiency under back-side illumination. In addition, a significantly short process time (330 s) for achieving the optimal thickness (7.0 μm) and direct utilization of the anodized electrodes enable a simple, rapid and low-cost fabrication process. Furthermore, a TiO2 shell layer was coated on the SnO2 nanochannel arrays by the atomic layer deposition (ALD) process for enhancement of dye-loading and prolonging the electron lifetime in the DSSC. Owing to the presence of the ALD TiO2 layer, the short-circuit photocurrent density (Jsc) and conversion efficiency were increased by 20% and 19%, respectively, compared to those of the DSSC without the ALD TiO2 layer. This study provides valuable insight into the development of efficient SnO2-based photoanodes for photovoltaic application by a simple and rapid fabrication process. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr00202h

Apparatus for rapid adjustment of the degree of alignment of NMR samples in aqueous media: verification with residual quadrupolar splittings in (23)Na and (133)Cs spectra.

PubMed

Kuchel, Philip W; Chapman, Bogdan E; Müller, Norbert; Bubb, William A; Philp, David J; Torres, Allan M

2006-06-01

NMR spectra of (23)Na(+) and (133)Cs(+) in gelatine in a silicone rubber tube that was stretched to various extents showed remarkably reproducible resonance multiplicity. The relative intensities of the components of the split peaks had ratios, 3:4:3, and 7:12:15:16:15:12:7, respectively, that conformed with those predicted using a Mathematica program. The silicone-rubber tube was sealed at its lower end by a small rubber stopper and placed inside a thick-walled glass tube. Gelatine was injected in solution into the silicone tube and 'set' by cooling below 30 degrees C. A plastic thumb-screw held the silicone tube at various degrees of extension, up to approximately 2-fold. After constituting the gel in buffers containing NaCl and CsCl, both (23)Na and (133)Cs NMR spectroscopy revealed that after stretching the initial single Lorentzian line was split into a well-resolved triplet and a heptet, respectively. This was interpreted as being due to coupling between the electric quadrupoles of the nuclei and the average electric field gradient tensor of the collagen molecules of gelatine; these molecules became progressively more aligned in the direction of the main magnetic field, B(0), of the vertical bore magnet, as the gel was stretched. This apparatus provides a simple way of demonstrating fundamental physical characteristics of quadrupolar cations, some characteristics of gelatine under stretching, and a way to invoke static distortion of red blood cells. It should be useful with these and other cell types, for studies of metabolic and membrane transport characteristics that may change when the cells are distorted, and possibly for structural studies of macromolecules.

Apparatus for rapid adjustment of the degree of alignment of NMR samples in aqueous media: Verification with residual quadrupolar splittings in 23Na and 133Cs spectra

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuchel, Philip W.; Chapman, Bogdan E.; Müller, Norbert; Bubb, William A.; Philp, David J.; Torres, Allan M.

2006-06-01

NMR spectra of 23Na + and 133Cs + in gelatine in a silicone rubber tube that was stretched to various extents showed remarkably reproducible resonance multiplicity. The relative intensities of the components of the split peaks had ratios, 3:4:3, and 7:12:15:16:15:12:7, respectively, that conformed with those predicted using a Mathematica program. The silicone-rubber tube was sealed at its lower end by a small rubber stopper and placed inside a thick-walled glass tube. Gelatine was injected in solution into the silicone tube and 'set' by cooling below 30 °C. A plastic thumb-screw held the silicone tube at various degrees of extension, up to ˜2-fold. After constituting the gel in buffers containing NaCl and CsCl, both 23Na and 133Cs NMR spectroscopy revealed that after stretching the initial single Lorentzian line was split into a well-resolved triplet and a heptet, respectively. This was interpreted as being due to coupling between the electric quadrupoles of the nuclei and the average electric field gradient tensor of the collagen molecules of gelatine; these molecules became progressively more aligned in the direction of the main magnetic field, B0, of the vertical bore magnet, as the gel was stretched. This apparatus provides a simple way of demonstrating fundamental physical characteristics of quadrupolar cations, some characteristics of gelatine under stretching, and a way to invoke static distortion of red blood cells. It should be useful with these and other cell types, for studies of metabolic and membrane transport characteristics that may change when the cells are distorted, and possibly for structural studies of macromolecules.

Investigation of injection molding of orthogonal fluidic connector for microfluidic devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Zheng; Cao, Dong; Zhao, Wei; Song, Man-cang; Liu, Jun-shan

2017-02-01

Orthogonal fluidic connections are essential for developing multilayered microfluidic devices. At present, most orthogonal connectors are realized by a horizontal channel and a vertical channel in different plates. Therefore, some extra alignment and adhesion processes for precise plate assembly are required. In this paper, the method of injection molding is proposed to make a one-body-type orthogonal connector in a single plastic plate. The connector was composed of a cantilevered tube and the other in the substrate. An injection mold was developed in which a side core-pulling mechanism and an ejection mechanism of push-pipes were combined to form the mold for an orthogonal connector. Both the type and the location of gate were optimized for the mold. The results showed that the fan gate in the middle position of the plate was the most suitable in term of both defect control and practicability. The effect of melt temperature was numerically investigated and then verified experimentally. With the optimized parameters, the relative length and the relative wall thickness of a cantilevered tube in the plastic part can reach 98.89% and 99.80%, respectively. Furthermore, using the plastic part as a cover plate, a three-layer plastic microfluidic device was conveniently fabricated for electrochemical detection.

Integrated Vertical Bloch Line (VBL) memory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Katti, R. R.; Wu, J. C.; Stadler, H. L.

1991-01-01

Vertical Bloch Line (VBL) Memory is a recently conceived, integrated, solid state, block access, VLSI memory which offers the potential of 1 Gbit/sq cm areal storage density, data rates of hundreds of megabits/sec, and submillisecond average access time simultaneously at relatively low mass, volume, and power values when compared to alternative technologies. VBLs are micromagnetic structures within magnetic domain walls which can be manipulated using magnetic fields from integrated conductors. The presence or absence of BVL pairs are used to store binary information. At present, efforts are being directed at developing a single chip memory using 25 Mbit/sq cm technology in magnetic garnet material which integrates, at a single operating point, the writing, storage, reading, and amplification functions needed in a memory. The current design architecture, functional elements, and supercomputer simulation results are described which are used to assist the design process.

A niobium oxide-tantalum oxide selector-memristor self-aligned nanostack

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Diaz Leon, Juan J.; Norris, Kate J.; Yang, J. Joshua; Sevic, John F.; Kobayashi, Nobuhiko P.

2017-03-01

The integration of nonlinear current-voltage selectors and bi-stable memristors is a paramount step for reliable operation of crossbar arrays. In this paper, the self-aligned assembly of a single nanometer-scale device that contains both a selector and a memristor is presented. The two components (i.e., selector and memristor) are vertically assembled via a self-aligned fabrication process combined with electroforming. In designing the device, niobium oxide and tantalum oxide are chosen as materials for selector and memristor, respectively. The formation of niobium oxide is visualized by exploiting the self-limiting reaction between niobium and tantalum oxide; crystalline niobium (di)oxide forms at the interface between metallic niobium and tantalum oxide via electrothermal heating, resulting in a niobium oxide selector self-aligned to a tantalum oxide memristor. A steady-state finite element analysis is used to assess the electrothermal heating expected to occur in the device. Current-voltage measurements and structural/chemical analyses conducted for the virgin device, the electroforming process, and the functional selector-memristor device are presented. The demonstration of a self-aligned, monolithically integrated selector-memristor device would pave a practical pathway to various circuits based on memristors attainable at manufacturing scales.

Dynamic mechanical analysis and high strain-rate energy absorption characteristics of vertically aligned carbon nanotube reinforced woven fiber-glass composites

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The dynamic mechanical behavior and energy absorption characteristics of nano-enhanced functionally graded composites, consisting of 3 layers of vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VACNT) forests grown on woven fiber-glass (FG) layer and embedded within 10 layers of woven FG, with polyester (PE) and...

Crystallization Behavior of Poly(ethylene oxide) in Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotube Array.

PubMed

Sheng, Jiadong; Zhou, Shenglin; Yang, Zhaohui; Zhang, Xiaohua

2018-03-27

We investigate the effect of the presence of vertically aligned multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on the orientation of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) lamellae and PEO crystallinity. The high alignment of carbon nanotubes acting as templates probably governs the orientation of PEO lamellae. This templating effect might result in the lamella planes of PEO crystals oriented along a direction parallel to the long axis of the nanotubes. The presence of aligned carbon nanotubes also gives rise to the decreases in PEO crystallinity, crystallization temperature, and melting temperature due to the perturbation of carbon nanotubes to the crystallization of PEO. These effects have significant implications for controlling the orientation of PEO lamellae and decreasing the crystallinity of PEO and thickness of PEO lamellae, which have significant impacts on ion transport in PEO/CNT composite and the capacitive performance of PEO/CNT composite. Both the decreased PEO crystallinity and the orientation of PEO lamellae along the long axes of vertically aligned CNTs give rise to the decrease in the charge transfer resistance, which is associated with the improvements in the ion transport and capacitive performance of PEO/CNT composite.

DNA impedance biosensor for detection of cancer, TP53 gene mutation, based on gold nanoparticles/aligned carbon nanotubes modified electrode.

PubMed

Fayazfar, H; Afshar, A; Dolati, M; Dolati, A

2014-07-11

For the first time, a new platform based on electrochemical growth of Au nanoparticles on aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes (A-MWCNT) was developed for sensitive lable-free DNA detection of the TP53 gene mutation, one of the most popular genes in cancer research. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to monitor the sequence-specific DNA hybridization events related to TP53 gene. Compared to the bare Ta or MWCNT/Ta electrodes, the synergistic interactions of vertically aligned MWCNT array and gold nanoparticles at modified electrode could improve the density of the probe DNA attachment and resulting the sensitivity of the DNA sensor greatly. Using EIS, over the extended DNA concentration range, the change of charge transfer resistance was found to have a linear relationship in respect to the logarithm of the complementary oligonucleotides sequence concentrations in the wide range of 1.0×10(-15)-1.0×10(-7)M, with a detection limit of 1.0×10(-17)M (S/N=3). The prepared sensor also showed good stability (14 days), reproducibility (RSD=2.1%) and could be conveniently regenerated via dehybridization in hot water. The significant improvement in sensitivity illustrates that combining gold nanoparticles with the on-site fabricated aligned MWCNT array represents a promising platform for achieving sensitive biosensor for fast mutation screening related to most human cancer types. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Structural polarity in the Chara rhizoid: a reevaluation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kiss, J. Z.; Staehelin, L. A.

1993-01-01

The Chara rhizoid is a useful model system to study gravitropism since all phases of gravitropism occur in a single cell. Despite years of study, a complete description of the distinctive ultrastructure of Chara rhizoids is not available. Therefore, in this paper, we reevaluate the ultrastructural features of vertically grown rhizoids, which have a structural polarity consisting of seven distinct zones. We also characterize the apical vesicles and the cell wall in these rhizoids by using antibodies against pectic polysaccharides. These studies demonstrate that the cell wall consists of two pectinaceous domains and that a distinct population of apical vesicles contain methyl esterified pectin.

Programmable Aperture with MEMS Microshutter Arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moseley, Samuel; Li, Mary; Kutyrev, Alexander; Kletetschka, Gunther; Fettig, Rainer

2011-01-01

A microshutter array (MSA) has been developed for use as an aperture array for multi-object selections in James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) technology. Light shields, molybdenum nitride (MoN) coating on shutters, and aluminum/aluminum oxide coatings on interior walls are put on each shutter for light leak prevention, and to enhance optical contrast. Individual shutters are patterned with a torsion flexure that permits shutters to open 90 deg. with a minimized mechanical stress concentration. The shutters are actuated magnetically, latched, and addressed electrostatically. Also, micromechanical features are tailored onto individual shutters to prevent stiction. An individual shutter consists of a torsion hinge, a shutter blade, a front electrode that is coated on the shutter blade, a backside electrode that is coated on the interior walls, and a magnetic cobalt-iron coating. The magnetic coating is patterned into stripes on microshutters so that shutters can respond to an external magnetic field for the magnetic actuation. A set of column electrodes is placed on top of shutters, and a set of row electrodes on sidewalls is underneath the shutters so that they can be electrostatically latched open. A linear permanent magnet is aligned with the shutter rows and is positioned above a flipped upside-down array, and sweeps across the array in a direction parallel to shutter columns. As the magnet sweeps across the array, sequential rows of shutters are rotated from their natural horizontal orientation to a vertical open position, where they approach vertical electrodes on the sidewalls. When the electrodes are biased with a sufficient electrostatic force to overcome the mechanical restoring force of torsion bars, shutters remain latched to vertical electrodes in their open state. When the bias is removed, or is insufficient, the shutters return to their horizontal, closed positions. To release a shutter, both the electrode on the shutter and the one on the back wall where the shutter sits are grounded. The shutters with one or both ungrounded electrodes are held open. Sub-micron bumps underneath light shields and silicon ribs on back walls are the two features to prevent stiction. These features ensure that the microshutter array functions properly in mechanical motions. The MSA technology can be used primarily in multi-object imaging and spectroscopy, photomask generation, light switches, and in the stepper equipment used to make integrated circuits and MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) devices.

Brownian dynamics simulations of polyelectrolyte adsorption in shear flow with hydrodynamic interaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoda, Nazish; Kumar, Satish

2007-12-01

The adsorption of single polyelectrolyte molecules in shear flow is studied using Brownian dynamics simulations with hydrodynamic interaction (HI). Simulations are performed with bead-rod and bead-spring chains, and electrostatic interactions are incorporated through a screened Coulombic potential with excluded volume accounted for by the repulsive part of a Lennard-Jones potential. A correction to the Rotne-Prager-Yamakawa tensor is derived that accounts for the presence of a planar wall. The simulations show that migration away from an uncharged wall, which is due to bead-wall HI, is enhanced by increases in the strength of flow and intrachain electrostatic repulsion, consistent with kinetic theory predictions. When the wall and polyelectrolyte are oppositely charged, chain behavior depends on the strength of electrostatic screening. For strong screening, chains get depleted from a region close to the wall and the thickness of this depletion layer scales as N1/3Wi2/3 at high Wi, where N is the chain length and Wi is the Weissenberg number. At intermediate screening, bead-wall electrostatic attraction competes with bead-wall HI, and it is found that there is a critical Weissenberg number for desorption which scales as N-1/2κ-3(lB∣σq∣)3/2, where κ is the inverse screening length, lB is the Bjerrum length, σ is the surface charge density, and q is the bead charge. When the screening is weak, adsorbed chains are observed to align in the vorticity direction at low shear rates due to the effects of repulsive intramolecular interactions. At higher shear rates, the chains align in the flow direction. The simulation method and results of this work are expected to be useful for a number of applications in biophysics and materials science in which polyelectrolyte adsorption plays a key role.

Robust through-the-wall radar image classification using a target-model alignment procedure.

PubMed

Smith, Graeme E; Mobasseri, Bijan G

2012-02-01

A through-the-wall radar image (TWRI) bears little resemblance to the equivalent optical image, making it difficult to interpret. To maximize the intelligence that may be obtained, it is desirable to automate the classification of targets in the image to support human operators. This paper presents a technique for classifying stationary targets based on the high-range resolution profile (HRRP) extracted from 3-D TWRIs. The dependence of the image on the target location is discussed using a system point spread function (PSF) approach. It is shown that the position dependence will cause a classifier to fail, unless the image to be classified is aligned to a classifier-training location. A target image alignment technique based on deconvolution of the image with the system PSF is proposed. Comparison of the aligned target images with measured images shows the alignment process introducing normalized mean squared error (NMSE) ≤ 9%. The HRRP extracted from aligned target images are classified using a naive Bayesian classifier supported by principal component analysis. The classifier is tested using a real TWRI of canonical targets behind a concrete wall and shown to obtain correct classification rates ≥ 97%. © 2011 IEEE

Alignment of SWNTs by protein-ligand interaction of functionalized magnetic particles under low magnetic fields.

PubMed

Park, Tae Jung; Park, Jong Pil; Lee, Seok Jae; Jung, Dae-Hwan; Ko, Young Koan; Jung, Hee-Tae; Lee, Sang Yup

2011-05-01

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have attracted considerable attention for applications using their superior mechanical, thermal and electrical properties. A simple method to controllably align single-walled CNTs (SWNTs) by using magnetic particles embedded with superparamagnetic iron oxide as an accelerator under the magnetic field was developed. The functionalization of SWNTs using biotin, interacted with streptavidin-coupled magnetic particles (micro-to-nano in diameter), and layer-by-layer assembly were performed for the alignment of a particular direction onto the clean silicon and the gold substrate at very low magnetic forces (0.02-0.89 T) at room temperature. The successful alignment of the SWNTs with multi-layer film was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). By changing the orientation and location of the substrates, crossed-networks of SWNTs-magnetic particle complex could easily be fabricated. We suggest that this approach, which consists of a combination of biological interaction among streptavidin-biotin and magnetite particles, should be useful for lateral orientation of individual SWNTs with controllable direction.

Oriented nanofibers embedded in a polymer matrix

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barrera, Enrique V. (Inventor); Lozano, Karen (Inventor); Rodriguez-Macias, Fernando J. (Inventor); Chibante, Luis Paulo Felipe (Inventor); Stewart, David Harris (Inventor)

2011-01-01

A method of forming a composite of embedded nanofibers in a polymer matrix is disclosed. The method includes incorporating nanofibers in a plastic matrix forming agglomerates, and uniformly distributing the nanofibers by exposing the agglomerates to hydrodynamic stresses. The hydrodynamic said stresses force the agglomerates to break apart. In combination or additionally elongational flow is used to achieve small diameters and alignment. A nanofiber reinforced polymer composite system is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of nanofibers that are embedded in polymer matrices in micron size fibers. A method for producing nanotube continuous fibers is disclosed. Nanofibers are fibrils with diameters of 100 nm, multiwall nanotubes, single wall nanotubes and their various functionalized and derivatized forms. The method includes mixing a nanofiber in a polymer; and inducing an orientation of the nanofibers that enables the nanofibers to be used to enhance mechanical, thermal and electrical properties. Orientation is induced by high shear mixing and elongational flow, singly or in combination. The polymer may be removed from said nanofibers, leaving micron size fibers of aligned nanofibers.

Estimation of Solar Energy on Vertical 3D Building Walls on City Quarter Scale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jaugsch, F.; Löwner, M.-O.

2016-10-01

In urban areas, solar energy is one promising source of renewable energy to achieve the EU parliament's goal of reducing CO2 emissions by 20 % compared to 1990. Although annual radiation on vertical walls is lower than that on roof surfaces, they are larger in area and, therefore may contribute to energy production. On the other hand, the modelling of shadowing effects is cost intensive in an complex urban environment. Here we present a method for the calculation of solar potential on vertical walls for simple 2D maps with additional building height information. We introduced observer point columns that enable a fast decision whether a whole vertical set of observer points is illuminated or not. By the introduction of a maximum shade length, we reduce processing time in ArcGIS. 206,291 points of 130 buildings have been analysed in time steps of 15 minutes resulting in 15 769 pairs of solar angles. Results disprove the potential of vertical walls serving to fill the winter gap of roof mounted solar energy plants. Best wall orientation for the deployment of solar panels are west and east in summer, whereas it is southeast in winter.

Coupled Cluster Studies of Ionization Potentials and Electron Affinities of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes

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

Peng, Bo; Govind, Niranjan; Aprà, Edoardo

In this paper we apply equation-of-motion coupled cluster (EOMCC) methods in studies of vertical ionization potentials (IP) and electron affinities (EA) for sin- gled walled carbon nanotubes. EOMCC formulations for ionization potentials and electron affinities employing excitation manifolds spanned by single and double ex- citations (IP/EA-EOMCCSD) are used to study IPs and EAs of nanotubes as a function of nanotube length. Several armchair nanotubes corresponding to C20nH20 models with n = 2 - 6 have been used in benchmark calculations. In agreement with previous studies, we demonstrate that the electronegativity of C20nH20 systems remains, to a large extent, independent ofmore » nanotube length. We also compare IP/EA- EOMCCSD results with those obtained with the coupled cluster models with single and double excitations corrected by perturbative triples, CCSD(T), and density func- tional theory (DFT) using global and range-separated hybrid exchange-correlation functionals.« less

Hiro and Evans currents in Vertical Disruption Event

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zakharov, Leonid; Xujing Li Team; Sergei Galkin Team

2014-10-01

The notion of Tokamak Magneto-Hydrodynamics (TMHD), which explicitly reflects the anisotropy of a high temperature tokamak plasma is introduced. The set of TMHD equations is formulated for simulations of macroscopic plasma dynamics and disruptions in tokamaks. Free from the Courant restriction on the time step, this set of equations is appropriate for high performance plasmas and does not require any extension of the MHD plasma model. At the same time, TMHD requires the use of magnetic field aligned numerical grids. The TMHD model was used for creation of theory of the Wall Touching Kink and Vertical Modes (WTKM and WTVM), prediction of Hiro and Evans currents, design of an innovative diagnostics for Hiro current measurements, installed on EAST device. While Hiro currents have explained the toroidal asymmetry in the plasma current measurements in JET disruptions, the Evans currents explain the tile current measurements in tokamaks. The recently developed Vertical Disruption Code (VDE) have demonstrated 5 regimes of VDE and confirmed the generation of both Hiro and Evans currents. The results challenge the 24 years long misinterpretation of the tile currents in tokamaks as ``halo'' currents, which were a product of misuse of equilibrium reconstruction for VDE. This work is supported by US DoE Contract No. DE-AC02-09-CH1146.

Motor mechanisms of vertical fusion in individuals with superior oblique paresis.

PubMed

Mudgil, Ananth V; Walker, Mark; Steffen, Heimo; Guyton, David L; Zee, David S

2002-06-01

We wanted to determine the mechanisms of motor vertical fusion in patients with superior oblique paresis and to correlate these mechanisms with surgical outcomes. Ten patients with superior oblique paresis underwent 3-axis, bilateral, scleral search coil eye movement recordings. Eye movements associated with fusion were analyzed. Six patients had decompensated congenital superior oblique paresis and 4 had acquired superior oblique paresis. All patients with acquired superior oblique paresis relied predominantly on the vertical rectus muscles for motor fusion. Patients with congenital superior oblique paresis were less uniform in their mechanisms for motor fusion: 2 patients used predominantly the oblique muscles, 2 patients used predominantly the vertical recti, and 2 patients used predominantly the superior oblique in the hyperdeviated eye and the superior rectus in the hypodeviated eye. The last 2 patients developed the largest changes in torsional eye alignment relative to changes in vertical eye alignment and were the only patients to develop symptomatic surgical overcorrections. There are 3 different mechanisms for vertical fusion in individuals with superior oblique paresis, with the predominant mechanism being the vertical recti. A subset of patients with superior oblique paresis uses predominantly the superior oblique muscle in the hyperdeviated paretic eye and the superior rectus muscle in the fellow eye for fusion. This results in intorsion of both eyes, causing a large change in torsional alignment. The consequent cyclodisparity, in addition to the existing vertical deviation, may make fusion difficult. The differing patterns of vertical fusional vergence may have implications for surgical treatment.

Optimization of Nano-Carbon Materials for Hydrogen Sorption

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

Yakobson, Boris I

2013-08-02

Research undertaken has added to the understanding of several critical areas, by providing both negative answers (and therefore eliminating expensive further studies of unfeasible paths) and positive feasible options for storage. Theoretical evaluation of the early hypothesis of storage on pure carbon single wall nanotubes (SWNT) has been scrutinized with the use of comprehensive computational methods (and experimental tests by the Center partners), and demonstrated that the fundamentally weak binding energy of hydrogen is not sufficiently enhanced by the SWNT curvature or even defects, which renders carbon nanotubes not practical media. More promising direction taken was towards 3-dimensional architectures ofmore » high porosity where concurrent attraction of H2 molecule to surrounding walls of nano-scale cavities can double or even triple the binding energy and therefore make hydrogen storage feasible even at ambient or somewhat lower temperatures. An efficient computational tool has been developed for the rapid capacity assessment combining (i) carbon-foam structure generation, (ii) accurate empirical force fields, with quantum corrections for the lightweight H2, and (iii) grand canonical Monte Carlo simulation. This made it possible to suggest optimal designs for carbon nanofoams, obtainable via welding techniques from SWNT or by growth on template-zeolites. As a precursor for 3D-foams, we have investigated experimentally the synthesis of VANTA (Vertically Aligned NanoTube Arrays). This can be used for producing nano-foams. On the other hand, fluorination of VANTA did not show promising increase of hydrogen sorption in several tests and may require further investigation and improvements. Another significant result of this project was in developing a fundamental understanding of the elements of hydrogen spillover mechanisms. The benefit of developed models is the ability to foresee possible directions for further improvement of the spillover mechanism.« less

Large-scale horizontally aligned ZnO microrod arrays with controlled orientation, periodic distribution as building blocks for chip-in piezo-phototronic LEDs.

PubMed

Guo, Zhen; Li, Haiwen; Zhou, Lianqun; Zhao, Dongxu; Wu, Yihui; Zhang, Zhiqiang; Zhang, Wei; Li, Chuanyu; Yao, Jia

2015-01-27

A novel method of fabricating large-scale horizontally aligned ZnO microrod arrays with controlled orientation and periodic distribution via combing technology is introduced. Horizontally aligned ZnO microrod arrays with uniform orientation and periodic distribution can be realized based on the conventional bottom-up method prepared vertically aligned ZnO microrod matrix via the combing method. When the combing parameters are changed, the orientation of horizontally aligned ZnO microrod arrays can be adjusted (θ = 90° or 45°) in a plane and a misalignment angle of the microrods (0.3° to 2.3°) with low-growth density can be obtained. To explore the potential applications based on the vertically and horizontally aligned ZnO microrods on p-GaN layer, piezo-phototronic devices such as heterojunction LEDs are built. Electroluminescence (EL) emission patterns can be adjusted for the vertically and horizontally aligned ZnO microrods/p-GaN heterojunction LEDs by applying forward bias. Moreover, the emission color from UV-blue to yellow-green can be tuned by investigating the piezoelectric properties of the materials. The EL emission mechanisms of the LEDs are discussed in terms of band diagrams of the heterojunctions and carrier recombination processes. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Self-assembled vertically aligned Au nanorod arrays for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection of Cannabinol

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Milliken, Sarah; Fraser, Jeff; Poirier, Shawn; Hulse, John; Tay, Li-Lin

2018-05-01

Self-assembled multi-layered vertically aligned gold nanorod (AuNR) arrays have been fabricated by a simple preparation process that requires a balance between the particle concentration and the ionic strength of the solvent. An experimentally determined critical AuNR concentration of 2.0 nM and 50 mM NaCl produces well-ordered vertically aligned hexagonally close-packed AuNR arrays. We demonstrate surface treatment via UV Ozone cleaning of such samples to allow introduction of analyte molecules (benzenethiol and cannabinol) for effective surface enhanced Raman scattering detection. This is the first demonstration of the SERS analysis of cannabinol. This approach demonstrates a cost-effective, high-yield and simple fabrication route to SERS sensors with application in the screening for the cannabinoids.

Improvement in device performance from a mixture of a liquid crystal and photosensitive acrylic prepolymer with the photoinduced vertical alignment method

PubMed Central

Ho, Czung-Yu; Lin, Fa-Hsin; Tao, Yu-Tai; Lee, Jiunn-Yih

2011-01-01

In a multicomponent nematic liquid crystal (NLC) mixture of a liquid crystal (negative-type NLC) and a photosensitive acrylic prepolymer, photopolymerization upon UV irradiation induces the separation of the LC and photosensitive acrylic prepolymer layers, thereby leading to a vertical arrangement of LC molecules. In this study, we propose a simple vertical alignment method for LC molecules, by adding a chiral smectic A (SmA∗) liquid crystal having homeotropic texture characteristics to an NLC mixture solution. Measurements of electro-optical properties revealed that the addition of the SmA∗ LC not only strengthened the anchoring force of the copolymer alignment film surface, but also significantly enhanced the contrast ratio (∼73%), response time and grayscale switching performance of the device. PMID:27877462

The hierarchical nature of the spin alignment of dark matter haloes in filaments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aragon-Calvo, M. A.; Yang, Lin Forrest

2014-05-01

Dark matter haloes in cosmological filaments and walls have (in average) their spin vector aligned with their host structure. While haloes in walls are aligned with the plane of the wall independently of their mass, haloes in filaments present a mass-dependent two-regime orientation. Here, we show that the transition mass determining the change in the alignment regime (from parallel to perpendicular) depends on the hierarchical level in which the halo is located, reflecting the hierarchical nature of the Cosmic Web. By explicitly exposing the hierarchical structure of the Cosmic Web, we are able to identify the contributions of different components of the filament network to the alignment signal. We propose a unifying picture of angular momentum acquisition that is based on the results presented here and previous results found by other authors. In order to do a hierarchical characterization of the Cosmic Web, we introduce a new implementation of the multiscale morphology filter, the MMF-2, that significantly improves the identification of structures and explicitly describes their hierarchy. L36

Effects of cloud condensate vertical alignment on radiative transfer calculations in deep convective regions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xiaocong

2017-04-01

Effects of cloud condensate vertical alignment on radiative transfer process were investigated using cloud resolving model explicit simulations, which provide a surrogate for subgrid cloud geometry. Diagnostic results showed that the decorrelation length Lcw varies in the vertical dimension, with larger Lcw occurring in convective clouds and smaller Lcw in cirrus clouds. A new parameterization of Lcw is proposed that takes into account such varying features and gives rise to improvements in simulations of cloud radiative forcing (CRF) and radiative heating, i.e., the peak of bias is respectively reduced by 8 W m- 2 for SWCF and 2 W m- 2 for LWCF in comparison with Lcw = 1 km. The role of Lcw in modulating CRFs is twofold. On the one hand, larger Lcw tends to increase the standard deviation of optical depth στ, as dense and tenuous parts of the clouds would be increasingly aligned in the vertical dimension, thereby broadening the probability distribution. On the other hand, larger στ causes a decrease in the solar albedo and thermal emissivity, as implied in their convex functions on τ. As a result, increasing (decreasing) Lcwleads to decreased (increased) CRFs, as revealed by comparisons among Lcw = 0, Lcw = 1 km andLcw = ∞. It also affects the vertical structure of radiative flux and thus influences the radiative heating. A better representation of στ in the vertical dimension yields an improved simulation of radiative heating. Although the importance of vertical alignment of cloud condensate is found to be less than that of cloud cover in regards to their impacts on CRFs, it still has enough of an effect on modulating the cloud radiative transfer process.

Electrophoretic deposition of multi-walled carbon nanotubes on porous anodic aluminum oxide using ionic liquid as a dispersing agent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hekmat, F.; Sohrabi, B.; Rahmanifar, M. S.; Jalali, A.

2015-06-01

Multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MW-CNTs) have been arranged in nanochannels of anodic aluminum oxide template (AAO) by electrophoretic deposition (EPD) to make a vertically-aligned carbon nanotube (VA-CNT) based electrode. Well ordered AAO templates were prepared by a two-step anodizing process by applying a constant voltage of 45 V in oxalic acid solution. The stabilized CNTs in a water-soluble room temperature ionic liquid (1-methyl-3-octadecylimidazolium bromide), were deposited in the pores of AAO templates which were conductive by deposition of Ni nanoparticles in the bottom of pores. In order to obtain ideal results, different EPD parameters, such as concentration of MWCNTs and ionic liquid on stability of MWCNT suspensions, deposition time and voltage which are applied in EPD process and also optimal conditions for anodizing of template were investigated. The capacitive performance of prepared electrodes was analyzed by measuring the specific capacitance from cyclic voltammograms and the charge-discharge curves. A maximum value of 50 Fg-1 at the scan rate of 20 mV s-1was achieved for the specific capacitance.

Effect of Nanotube Film Thickness on the Performance of Nanotube-Silicon Hybrid Solar Cells

PubMed Central

Tune, Daniel D.; Shapter, Joseph G.

2013-01-01

The results of measurements on solar cells made from randomly aligned thin films of single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) on n-type monocrystalline silicon are presented. The films are made by vacuum filtration from aqueous TritonX-100 suspensions of large diameter arc-discharge SWCNTs. The dependence of the solar cell performance on the thickness of the SWCNT film is shown in detail, as is the variation in performance due to doping of the SWCNT film with SOCl2. PMID:28348358

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

Moradi, Afshin, E-mail: a.moradi@kut.ac.ir; Department of Nano Sciences, Institute for Studies in Theoretical Physics and Mathematics; Zangeneh, Hamid Reza

We develop an effective medium theory to obtain effective permittivity of a composite of two-dimensional (2D) aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes. Electronic excitations on each nanotube surface are modeled by an infinitesimally thin layer of a 2D electron gas represented by two interacting fluids, which takes into account different nature of the σ and π electrons. Calculations of both real and imaginary parts of the effective dielectric function of the system are presented, for different values of the filling factor and radius of carbon nanotubes.

Angular dependence of coercivity derived from alignment dependence of coercivity in Nd-Fe-B sintered magnets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsuura, Yutaka; Nakamura, Tetsuya; Sumitani, Kazushi; Kajiwara, Kentaro; Tamura, Ryuji; Osamura, Kozo

2018-01-01

Experimental results of the alignment dependence of the coercivity in Nd-Fe-B sintered magnets showed that the angle of magnetization reversal for anisotropically aligned magnets was bigger than that obtained from the theoretical results calculated using the postulation that every grain independently reverses its magnetization direction following the 1/cos θ law. The angles of reversed magnetization (θ1) for Nd13.48Co0.55B5.76Febal. with alignment α=0.95 and for Nd12.75Dy0.84B5.81Co0.55Febal. with α=0.96 were 30° and 36°, respectively, which were very similar to that of an ideal magnet with a Gaussian distribution (σ=31° and 44°, respectively) of the grain alignment. In this model, we postulated that every grain independently reversed according to the 1/cos θ law. The calculation results for the angular dependence of the coercivity using the values θ1=ω1(0°)=30°, σ=31° and θ1=ω1(0°)=36°, σ=44° could qualitatively and convincingly explain the observed angular dependence of the coercivity of Nd14.2B6.2Co1.0Febal. and Nd14.2Dy0.3B6.2Co1.0Febal.. It is speculated that the magnetic domain wall is pinned at grains tilted away from the easy magnetization direction, and when the magnetic domain wall de-pins from the tilted grains, the magnetic domain wall jumps through several grains. We suggest that the coercive force of the aligned magnet behaves like a low-aligned magnet owing to the magnetization reversal of the crust of the grains induced by the pinning and subsequent jumping of the magnetic domain wall.

Air-bridged Ohmic contact on vertically aligned si nanowire arrays: application to molecule sensors.

PubMed

Han, Hee; Kim, Jungkil; Shin, Ho Sun; Song, Jae Yong; Lee, Woo

2012-05-02

A simple, cost-effective, and highly reliable method for constructing an air-bridged electrical contact on large arrays of vertically aligned nanowires was developed. The present method may open up new opportunities for developing advanced nanowire-based devices for energy harvest and storage, power generation, and sensing applications. Copyright © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Superior Thermal Interface via Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotubes Grown on Graphite Foils

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-01

accepted 12 November 2012) In an attempt to study the thermal transport at the interface between nanotubes and graphene, vertically aligned multiwalled...tually increases the thermal barrier in a significant manner. On the other hand, thermal transport properties of thermal tapes and thermally conductive...aforementioned study achieved superior thermal transport properties, the processing and scale-up of the developed process would be prohibitively

Method of fabricating vertically aligned group III-V nanowires

DOEpatents

Wang, George T; Li, Qiming

2014-11-25

A top-down method of fabricating vertically aligned Group III-V micro- and nanowires uses a two-step etch process that adds a selective anisotropic wet etch after an initial plasma etch to remove the dry etch damage while enabling micro/nanowires with straight and smooth faceted sidewalls and controllable diameters independent of pitch. The method enables the fabrication of nanowire lasers, LEDs, and solar cells.

Beyond Scissors and Glue: Staff Developers Guide Teachers in Piecing Together a Vertically Aligned Curriculum and in Creating a Method to Get This Job Done

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Phelps, Vickie

2005-01-01

Layers and layers of curricula stuffed into vinyl binders were the norm in this Texas district until teachers sat down with scissors and glue to create a vertically aligned curriculum. They then created standards-based lessons to support the curriculum and put them into a database readily accessible by all.

SU-G-JeP3-02: Comparison of Magnitude and Frequency of Patient Positioning Errors in Breast Irradiation Using AlignRT 3D Optical Surface Imaging and Skin Mark Techniques

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

Yao, R; Chisela, W; Dorbu, G

2016-06-15

Purpose: To evaluate clinical usefulness of AlignRT (Vision RT Ltd., London, UK) in reducing patient positioning errors in breast irradiation. Methods: 60 patients undergoing whole breast irradiation were selected for this study. Patients were treated to the left or right breast lying on Qfix Access breast board (Qfix, Avondale, PA) in supine position for 28 fractions using tangential fields. 30 patients were aligned using AlignRT by aligning a breast surface region of interest (ROI) to the same area from a reference surface image extracted from planning CT. When the patient’s surface image deviated from the reference by more than 3mmmore » on one or more translational and rotational directions, a new reference was acquired using AlignRT in-room cameras. The other 30 patients were aligned to the skin marks with room lasers. On-Board MV portal images of medial field were taken daily and matched to the DRRs. The magnitude and frequency of positioning errors were determined from measured translational shifts. Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to evaluate statistical differences of positional accuracy and precision between AlignRT and non-AlignRT patients. Results: The percentage of port images with no shift required was 46.5% and 27.0% in vertical, 49.8% and 25.8% in longitudinal, 47.6% and 28.5% in lateral for AlignRT and non-AlignRT patients, respectively. The percentage of port images requiring more than 3mm shifts was 18.1% and 35.1% in vertical, 28.6% and 50.8% in longitudinal, 11.3% and 24.2% in lateral for AlignRT and non-AlignRT patients, respectively. Kolmogorov-Smirnov test showed that there were significant differences between the frequency distributions of AlignRT and non-AlignRT in vertical, longitudinal, and lateral shifts. Conclusion: As confirmed by port images, AlignRT-assisted patient positioning can significantly reduce the frequency and magnitude of patient setup errors in breast irradiation compared to the use of lasers and skin marks.« less

Utility of Deep Inspiration Breath Hold for Left-Sided Breast Radiation Therapy in Preventing Early Cardiac Perfusion Defects: A Prospective Study

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

Zagar, Timothy M., E-mail: zagar@med.unc.edu; Kaidar-Person, Orit; Tang, Xiaoli

Purpose: To evaluate early cardiac single photon computed tomography (SPECT) findings after left breast/chest wall postoperative radiation therapy (RT) in the setting of deep inspiration breath hold (DIBH). Methods and Materials: We performed a prospective single-institution single-arm study of patients who were planned for tangential RT with DIBH to the left breast/chest wall (± internal mammary nodes). The DIBH was done by use of a controlled surface monitoring technique (AlignRT, Vision RT Ltd, London, UK). The RT was given with tangential fields and a heart block. Radiation-induced cardiac perfusion and wall motion changes were assessed by pre-RT and 6-month post-RTmore » SPECT scans. A cumulative SPECT summed-rest score was used to quantify perfusion in predefined left ventricle segments. The incidence of wall motion abnormalities was assessed in each of these same segments. Results: A total of 20 patients with normal pre-RT scans were studied; their median age was 56 years (range, 39-72 years). Seven (35%) patients also received irradiation to the left internal mammary chain, and 5 (25%) received an additional RT field to supraclavicular nodes. The median heart dose was 94 cGy (range, 56-200 cGy), and the median V25{sub Gy} was zero (range, 0-0.1). None of the patients had post-RT perfusion or wall motion abnormalities. Conclusions: Our results suggest that DIBH and conformal cardiac blocking for patients receiving tangential RT for left-sided breast cancer is an effective means to avoid early RT-associated cardiac perfusion defects.« less

Alignment of x-ray tube focal spots for spectral measurement.

PubMed

Nishizawa, K; Maekoshi, H; Kamiya, Y; Kobayashi, Y; Ohara, K; Sakuma, S

1982-01-01

A general method to align a diagnostic x-ray machine for x-ray spectrum measurement purpose was theoretically and experimentally investigated by means of the optical alignment of focal pinhole images. Focal pinhole images were obtained by using a multi-pinholed lead plate. the vertical plane, including the central axis and tube axis, was decided upon by observing the symmetry of focal images. the central axis was designated as a line through the center of focus parallel to the target surface lying in the vertical plane. A method to determine the manipulation of the central axis in any direction is presented.

Fast-switching chiral nematic liquid-crystal mode with polymer-sustained twisted vertical alignment.

PubMed

Chang, Kai-Han; Joshi, Vinay; Chien, Liang-Chy

2017-04-01

We demonstrate a fast-switching liquid-crystal mode with polymer-sustained twisted vertical alignment. By optimizing the polymerization condition, a polymer microstructure with controlled orientation is produced. The polymer microstructure not only synergistically suppresses the optical bounce during field-induced homeotropic-twist transition but also shortens the response time significantly. Theoretical analyses validate that the ground state free energy density is modified by the aligning field of the polymer microstructure, which affects the driving voltage of the device. The outcomes of this paper will enable the development of fast-switching and achromatic electro-optical and photonic devices.

Fast-switching chiral nematic liquid-crystal mode with polymer-sustained twisted vertical alignment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Kai-Han; Joshi, Vinay; Chien, Liang-Chy

2017-04-01

We demonstrate a fast-switching liquid-crystal mode with polymer-sustained twisted vertical alignment. By optimizing the polymerization condition, a polymer microstructure with controlled orientation is produced. The polymer microstructure not only synergistically suppresses the optical bounce during field-induced homeotropic-twist transition but also shortens the response time significantly. Theoretical analyses validate that the ground state free energy density is modified by the aligning field of the polymer microstructure, which affects the driving voltage of the device. The outcomes of this paper will enable the development of fast-switching and achromatic electro-optical and photonic devices.

Highly Anisotropic Adhesive Film Made from Upside-Down, Flat, and Uniform Vertically Aligned CNTs.

PubMed

Hong, Sanghyun; Lundstrom, Troy; Ghosh, Ranajay; Abdi, Hamed; Hao, Ji; Jeoung, Sun Kyoung; Su, Paul; Suhr, Jonghwan; Vaziri, Ashkan; Jalili, Nader; Jung, Yung Joon

2016-12-14

We have created a multifunctional dry adhesive film with transferred vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VA-CNTs). This unique VA-CNT film was fabricated by a multistep transfer process, converting the flat and uniform bottom of VA-CNTs grown on atomically flat silicon wafer substrates into the top surface of an adhesive layer. Unlike as-grown VA-CNTs, which have a nonuniform surface, randomly entangled CNT arrays, and a weak interface between the CNTs and substrates, this transferred VA-CNT film shows an extremely high coefficient of static friction (COF) of up to 60 and a shear adhesion force 30 times higher (12 N/cm 2 ) than that of the as-grown VA-CNTs under a very small preloading of 0.2 N/cm 2 . Moreover, a near-zero normal adhesion force was observed with 20 mN/cm 2 preloading and a maximum 100-μm displacement in a piezo scanner, demonstrating ideal properties for an artificial gecko foot. Using this unique structural feature and anisotropic adhesion properties, we also demonstrate effective removal and assembly of nanoparticles into organized micrometer-scale circular and line patterns by a single brushing of this flat and uniform VA-CNT film.

Scalar Fluxes Near a Tall Building in an Aligned Array of Rectangular Buildings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fuka, Vladimír; Xie, Zheng-Tong; Castro, Ian P.; Hayden, Paul; Carpentieri, Matteo; Robins, Alan G.

2018-04-01

Scalar dispersion from ground-level sources in arrays of buildings is investigated using wind-tunnel measurements and large-eddy simulation (LES). An array of uniform-height buildings of equal dimensions and an array with an additional single tall building (wind tunnel) or a periodically repeated tall building (LES) are considered. The buildings in the array are aligned and form long streets. The sensitivity of the dispersion pattern to small changes in wind direction is demonstrated. Vertical scalar fluxes are decomposed into the advective and turbulent parts and the influences of wind direction and of the presence of the tall building on the scalar flux components are evaluated. In the uniform-height array turbulent scalar fluxes are dominant, whereas the tall building produces an increase of the magnitude of advective scalar fluxes that yields the largest component. The presence of the tall building causes either an increase or a decrease to the total vertical scalar flux depending on the position of the source with respect to the tall building. The results of the simulations can be used to develop parametrizations for street-canyon dispersion models and enhance their capabilities in areas with tall buildings.

Aligned carbon nanotube based ultrasonic microtransducers for durability monitoring in civil engineering.

PubMed

Lebental, B; Chainais, P; Chenevier, P; Chevalier, N; Delevoye, E; Fabbri, J-M; Nicoletti, S; Renaux, P; Ghis, A

2011-09-30

Structural health monitoring of porous materials such as concrete is becoming a major component in our resource-limited economy, as it conditions durable exploitation of existing facilities. Durability in porous materials depends on nanoscale features which need to be monitored in situ with nanometric resolution. To address this problem, we put forward an approach based on the development of a new nanosensor, namely a capacitive micrometric ultrasonic transducer whose vibrating membrane is made of aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT). Such sensors are meant to be embedded in large numbers within a porous material in order to provide information on its durability by monitoring in situ neighboring individual micropores. In the present paper, we report on the feasibility of the key building block of the proposed sensor: we have fabricated well-aligned, ultra-thin, dense SWNT membranes that show above-nanometer amplitudes of vibration over a large range of frequencies spanning from 100 kHz to 5 MHz.

Vertical nanopillars for highly localized fluorescence imaging

PubMed Central

Xie, Chong; Hanson, Lindsey; Cui, Yi; Cui, Bianxiao

2011-01-01

Observing individual molecules in a complex environment by fluorescence microscopy is becoming increasingly important in biological and medical research, for which critical reduction of observation volume is required. Here, we demonstrate the use of vertically aligned silicon dioxide nanopillars to achieve below-the-diffraction-limit observation volume in vitro and inside live cells. With a diameter much smaller than the wavelength of visible light, a transparent silicon dioxide nanopillar embedded in a nontransparent substrate restricts the propagation of light and affords evanescence wave excitation along its vertical surface. This effect creates highly confined illumination volume that selectively excites fluorescence molecules in the vicinity of the nanopillar. We show that this nanopillar illumination can be used for in vitro single-molecule detection at high fluorophore concentrations. In addition, we demonstrate that vertical nanopillars interface tightly with live cells and function as highly localized light sources inside the cell. Furthermore, specific chemical modification of the nanopillar surface makes it possible to locally recruit proteins of interest and simultaneously observe their behavior within the complex, crowded environment of the cell. PMID:21368157

Anomalous intrinsic viscosity of octadecylamine-functionalised carbon nanotubes in suspension.

PubMed

Donovan, K J; Scott, K

2013-06-28

Single walled carbon nanotubes, SWCNTs, are used as a model cylinder of nanoscopic dimensions for testing rheological theories of how addition of cylindrical particles affects the viscosity of a suspension of such particles. Using the rate of growth of the accompanying induced linear dichroism following application of an applied electric field, the dynamics of carbon nanotube alignment is studied in suspensions of octadecylamine functionalised single walled carbon nanotubes, ODA-SWCNTs, in 1,2 dichloroethane. From such measurements the viscosity of the suspension is measured as the concentration of the suspension is varied. While working within the dilute limit the viscosity is found to increase linearly with concentration and the intrinsic viscosity of the suspension is found to be 8000. This anomalously high intrinsic viscosity is compared with the predictions of various models for a rigid cylinder and found to be incompatible with any of the current models. Some suggestions are made as to the way this ODA-SWCNT result may be eventually accommodated within other models.

Single walled carbon nanotube-based stochastic resonance device with molecular self-noise source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fujii, Hayato; Setiadi, Agung; Kuwahara, Yuji; Akai-Kasaya, Megumi

2017-09-01

Stochastic resonance (SR) is an intrinsic noise usage system for small-signal sensing found in various living creatures. The noise-enhanced signal transmission and detection system, which is probabilistic but consumes low power, has not been used in modern electronics. We demonstrated SR in a summing network based on a single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) device that detects small subthreshold signals with very low current flow. The nonlinear current-voltage characteristics of this SWNT device, which incorporated Cr electrodes, were used as the threshold level of signal detection. The adsorption of redox-active polyoxometalate molecules on SWNTs generated additional noise, which was utilized as a self-noise source. To form a summing network SR device, a large number of SWNTs were aligned parallel to each other between the electrodes, which increased the signal detection ability. The functional capabilities of the present small-size summing network SR device, which rely on dense nanomaterials and exploit intrinsic spontaneous noise at room temperature, offer a glimpse of future bio-inspired electronic devices.

High power 808 nm vertical cavity surface emitting laser with multi-ring-shaped-aperture structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hao, Y. Q.; Shang, C. Y.; Feng, Y.; Yan, C. L.; Zhao, Y. J.; Wang, Y. X.; Wang, X. H.; Liu, G. J.

2011-02-01

The carrier conglomeration effect has been one of the main problems in developing electrically pumped high power vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) with large aperture. We demonstrate a high power 808 nm VCSEL with multi-ring-shaped-aperture (MRSA) to weaken the carrier conglomeration effect. Compared with typical VCSEL with single large aperture (SLA), the 300-μm-diameter VCSEL with MRSA has more uniform near field and far field patterns. Moreover, MRSA laser exhibits maximal CW light output power 0.3 W which is about 3 times that of SLA laser. And the maximal wall-plug efficiency of 17.4% is achieved, higher than that of SLA laser by 10%.

Going Vertical To Improve the Accuracy of Atomic Force Microscopy Based Single-Molecule Force Spectroscopy.

PubMed

Walder, Robert; Van Patten, William J; Adhikari, Ayush; Perkins, Thomas T

2018-01-23

Single-molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS) is a powerful technique to characterize the energy landscape of individual proteins, the mechanical properties of nucleic acids, and the strength of receptor-ligand interactions. Atomic force microscopy (AFM)-based SMFS benefits from ongoing progress in improving the precision and stability of cantilevers and the AFM itself. Underappreciated is that the accuracy of such AFM studies remains hindered by inadvertently stretching molecules at an angle while measuring only the vertical component of the force and extension, degrading both measurements. This inaccuracy is particularly problematic in AFM studies using double-stranded DNA and RNA due to their large persistence length (p ≈ 50 nm), often limiting such studies to other SMFS platforms (e.g., custom-built optical and magnetic tweezers). Here, we developed an automated algorithm that aligns the AFM tip above the DNA's attachment point to a coverslip. Importantly, this algorithm was performed at low force (10-20 pN) and relatively fast (15-25 s), preserving the connection between the tip and the target molecule. Our data revealed large uncorrected lateral offsets for 100 and 650 nm DNA molecules [24 ± 18 nm (mean ± standard deviation) and 180 ± 110 nm, respectively]. Correcting this offset yielded a 3-fold improvement in accuracy and precision when characterizing DNA's overstretching transition. We also demonstrated high throughput by acquiring 88 geometrically corrected force-extension curves of a single individual 100 nm DNA molecule in ∼40 min and versatility by aligning polyprotein- and PEG-based protein-ligand assays. Importantly, our software-based algorithm was implemented on a commercial AFM, so it can be broadly adopted. More generally, this work illustrates how to enhance AFM-based SMFS by developing more sophisticated data-acquisition protocols.

Self-assembled vertically aligned Au nanorod arrays for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection of Cannabinol.

PubMed

Milliken, Sarah; Fraser, Jeff; Poirier, Shawn; Hulse, John; Tay, Li-Lin

2018-05-05

Self-assembled multi-layered vertically aligned gold nanorod (AuNR) arrays have been fabricated by a simple preparation process that requires a balance between the particle concentration and the ionic strength of the solvent. An experimentally determined critical AuNR concentration of 2.0nM and 50mM NaCl produces well-ordered vertically aligned hexagonally close-packed AuNR arrays. We demonstrate surface treatment via UV Ozone cleaning of such samples to allow introduction of analyte molecules (benzenethiol and cannabinol) for effective surface enhanced Raman scattering detection. This is the first demonstration of the SERS analysis of cannabinol. This approach demonstrates a cost-effective, high-yield and simple fabrication route to SERS sensors with application in the screening for the cannabinoids. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Nucleation, Growth Mechanism, and Controlled Coating of ZnO ALD onto Vertically Aligned N-Doped CNTs.

PubMed

Silva, R M; Ferro, M C; Araujo, J R; Achete, C A; Clavel, G; Silva, R F; Pinna, N

2016-07-19

Zinc oxide thin films were deposited on vertically aligned nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes (N-CNTs) by atomic layer deposition (ALD) from diethylzinc and water. The study demonstrates that doping CNTs with nitrogen is an effective approach for the "activation" of the CNTs surface for the ALD of metal oxides. Conformal ZnO coatings are already obtained after 50 ALD cycles, whereas at lower ALD cycles an island growth mode is observed. Moreover, the process allows for a uniform growth from the top to the bottom of the vertically aligned N-CNT arrays. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy demonstrates that ZnO nucleation takes place at the N-containing species on the surface of the CNTs by the formation of the Zn-N bonds at the interface between the CNTs and the ZnO film.

Magnetic Field Strengths and Grain Alignment Variations in the Local Bubble Wall

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Medan, Ilija; Andersson, B.-G.

2018-01-01

Optical and infrared continuum polarization is known to be due to irregular dust grains aligned with the magnetic field. This provides an important tool to probe the geometry and strength of those fields, particularly if the variations in the grain alignment efficiencies can be understood. Here, we examine polarization variations observed throughout the Local Bubble for b>30○, using a large polarization survey of the North Galactic cap from Berdyugin et al. (2014). These data are supported by archival photometric and spectroscopic data along with the mapping of the Local Bubble by Lallement et al. (2003). We can accurately model the observational data assuming that the grain alignment variations are due to the radiation from the OB associations within 1 kpc of the sun. This strongly supports radiatively driven grain alignment. We also probe the relative strength of the magnetic field in the wall of the Local Bubble using the Davis-Chandrasekhar-Fermi method. We find evidence for a bimodal field strength distribution, where the variations in the field are correlated with the variations in grain alignment efficiency, indicating that the higher strength regions might represent a compression of the wall by the interaction of the outflow in the Local Bubble and the opposing flows by the surrounding OB associations.

Hydraulic Performance of Shallow Foundations for the Support of Vertical-Wall Bridge Abutments

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-02-01

This study combined abutment flume experiments with numerical modeling using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to investigate flow fields and scour at vertical-wall abutments with shallow foundations. The focus was situations dominated by flow contr...

Simulations of vertical disruptions with VDE code: Hiro and Evans currents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xujing; Di Hu Team; Leonid Zakharov Team; Galkin Team

2014-10-01

The recently created numerical code VDE for simulations of vertical instability in tokamaks is presented. The numerical scheme uses the Tokamak MHD model, where the plasma inertia is replaced by the friction force, and an adaptive grid numerical scheme. The code reproduces well the surface currents generated at the plasma boundary by the instability. Five regimes of the vertical instability are presented: (1) Vertical instability in a given plasma shaping field without a wall; (2) The same with a wall and magnetic flux ΔΨ|plX< ΔΨ|Xwall(where X corresponds to the X-point of a separatrix); (3) The same with a wall and magnetic flux ΔΨ|plX> ΔΨ|Xwall; (4) Vertical instability without a wall with a tile surface at the plasma path; (5) The same in the presence of a wall and a tile surface. The generation of negative Hiro currents along the tile surface, predicted earlier by the theory and measured on EAST in 2012, is well-reproduced by simulations. In addition, the instability generates the force-free Evans currents at the free plasma surface. The new pattern of reconnection of the plasma with the vacuum magnetic field is discovered. This work is supported by US DoE Contract No. DE-AC02-09-CH11466.

On two-point boundary correlations in the six-vertex model with domain wall boundary conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colomo, F.; Pronko, A. G.

2005-05-01

The six-vertex model with domain wall boundary conditions on an N × N square lattice is considered. The two-point correlation function describing the probability of having two vertices in a given state at opposite (top and bottom) boundaries of the lattice is calculated. It is shown that this two-point boundary correlator is expressible in a very simple way in terms of the one-point boundary correlators of the model on N × N and (N - 1) × (N - 1) lattices. In alternating sign matrix (ASM) language this result implies that the doubly refined x-enumerations of ASMs are just appropriate combinations of the singly refined ones.

Cornering characteristics of the main-gear tire of the space shuttle orbiter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Daugherty, Robert H.; Stubbs, Sandy M.; Robinson, Martha P.

1988-01-01

An experimental investigation was conducted at the NASA Langley Research Center to study the effects of various vertical load and yaw angle conditions on the cornering behavior of the Space Shuttle Orbiter main gear tire. Measured parameters included side and drag force, side and drag force coefficients, aligning torque, and overturning torque. Side force coefficient was found to increase as yaw angle was increased, but decreased as the vertical load was increased. Drag force was found to increase as vertical load was increased at constant yaw angles. Aligning torque measurements indicated that the tire is stable in yaw.

Vertically-aligned carbon nanotubes on aluminum as a light-weight positive electrode for lithium-polysulfide batteries.

PubMed

Liatard, S; Benhamouda, K; Fournier, A; Ramos, R; Barchasz, C; Dijon, J

2015-05-04

A light-weight, high specific surface current collector made of vertically-aligned carbon nanotubes grown on an aluminum substrate was fabricated and studied as a positive electrode in a semi-liquid lithium/polysulfide battery. This simple system delivered stable capacities over 1000 mA h gS(-1) and 2 mA h cm(-2) with almost no capacity loss over 50 cycles.

Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes for microelectrode arrays applications.

PubMed

Castro Smirnov, J R; Jover, Eric; Amade, Roger; Gabriel, Gemma; Villa, Rosa; Bertran, Enric

2012-09-01

In this work a methodology to fabricate carbon nanotube based electrodes using plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition has been explored and defined. The final integrated microelectrode based devices should present specific properties that make them suitable for microelectrode arrays applications. The methodology studied has been focused on the preparation of highly regular and dense vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VACNT) mat compatible with the standard lithography used for microelectrode arrays technology.

High-performance Supercapacitors Based on Electrochemical-induced Vertical-aligned Carbon Nanotubes and Polyaniline Nanocomposite Electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Guan; Tan, Pengfeng; Wang, Dongxing; Li, Zhe; Peng, Lu; Hu, Ying; Wang, Caifeng; Zhu, Wei; Chen, Su; Chen, Wei

2017-03-01

Supercapacitors, which store electrical energy through reversible ion on the surface of conductive electrodes have gained enormous attention for variously portable energy storage devices. Since the capacitive performance is mainly determined by the structural and electrochemical properties of electrodes, the electrodes become more crucial to higher performance. However, due to the disordered microstructure and low electrochemical activity of electrode for ion tortuous migration and accumulation, the supercapacitors present relatively low capacitance and energy density. Here we report a high-performance supercapacitor based on polyaniline/vertical-aligned carbon nanotubes (PANI/VA-CNTs) nanocomposite electrodes where the vertical-aligned-structure is formed by the electrochemical-induction (0.75 V). The supercapacitor displays large specific capacitance of 403.3 F g-1, which is 6 times higher than disordered CNTs in HClO4 electrolyte. Additionally, the supercapacitor can also present high specific capacitance (314.6 F g-1), excellent cycling stability (90.2% retention after 3000 cycles at 4 A g-1) and high energy density (98.1 Wh kg-1) in EMIBF4 organic electrolyte. The key to high-performance lies in the vertical-aligned-structure providing direct path channel for ion faster diffusion and high electrochemical capacitance of polyaniline for ion more accommodation.

High-performance Supercapacitors Based on Electrochemical-induced Vertical-aligned Carbon Nanotubes and Polyaniline Nanocomposite Electrodes.

PubMed

Wu, Guan; Tan, Pengfeng; Wang, Dongxing; Li, Zhe; Peng, Lu; Hu, Ying; Wang, Caifeng; Zhu, Wei; Chen, Su; Chen, Wei

2017-03-08

Supercapacitors, which store electrical energy through reversible ion on the surface of conductive electrodes have gained enormous attention for variously portable energy storage devices. Since the capacitive performance is mainly determined by the structural and electrochemical properties of electrodes, the electrodes become more crucial to higher performance. However, due to the disordered microstructure and low electrochemical activity of electrode for ion tortuous migration and accumulation, the supercapacitors present relatively low capacitance and energy density. Here we report a high-performance supercapacitor based on polyaniline/vertical-aligned carbon nanotubes (PANI/VA-CNTs) nanocomposite electrodes where the vertical-aligned-structure is formed by the electrochemical-induction (0.75 V). The supercapacitor displays large specific capacitance of 403.3 F g -1 , which is 6 times higher than disordered CNTs in HClO 4 electrolyte. Additionally, the supercapacitor can also present high specific capacitance (314.6 F g -1 ), excellent cycling stability (90.2% retention after 3000 cycles at 4 A g -1 ) and high energy density (98.1 Wh kg -1 ) in EMIBF 4 organic electrolyte. The key to high-performance lies in the vertical-aligned-structure providing direct path channel for ion faster diffusion and high electrochemical capacitance of polyaniline for ion more accommodation.

High-performance Supercapacitors Based on Electrochemical-induced Vertical-aligned Carbon Nanotubes and Polyaniline Nanocomposite Electrodes

PubMed Central

Wu, Guan; Tan, Pengfeng; Wang, Dongxing; Li, Zhe; Peng, Lu; Hu, Ying; Wang, Caifeng; Zhu, Wei; Chen, Su; Chen, Wei

2017-01-01

Supercapacitors, which store electrical energy through reversible ion on the surface of conductive electrodes have gained enormous attention for variously portable energy storage devices. Since the capacitive performance is mainly determined by the structural and electrochemical properties of electrodes, the electrodes become more crucial to higher performance. However, due to the disordered microstructure and low electrochemical activity of electrode for ion tortuous migration and accumulation, the supercapacitors present relatively low capacitance and energy density. Here we report a high-performance supercapacitor based on polyaniline/vertical-aligned carbon nanotubes (PANI/VA-CNTs) nanocomposite electrodes where the vertical-aligned-structure is formed by the electrochemical-induction (0.75 V). The supercapacitor displays large specific capacitance of 403.3 F g−1, which is 6 times higher than disordered CNTs in HClO4 electrolyte. Additionally, the supercapacitor can also present high specific capacitance (314.6 F g−1), excellent cycling stability (90.2% retention after 3000 cycles at 4 A g−1) and high energy density (98.1 Wh kg−1) in EMIBF4 organic electrolyte. The key to high-performance lies in the vertical-aligned-structure providing direct path channel for ion faster diffusion and high electrochemical capacitance of polyaniline for ion more accommodation. PMID:28272474

Topographically induced homeotropic alignment of liquid crystals on self-assembled opal crystals.

PubMed

Kumar, Pankaj; Oh, Su Yeon; Baliyan, Vijay K; Kundu, Sudarshan; Lee, Seung Hee; Kang, Shin-Woong

2018-04-02

The surface of multilayered opal crystals resulted in homeotropic alignment of liquid crystal (LC), originated from the surface topography of opal crystals rather than a chemical nature of the nanoparticles. The polar anchoring energy (5.51 × 10 -5 J/m 2 ) of the crystal surface for nematic LC molecules was in a similar range to the conventional polyimide alignment layer (2.11 × 10 -5 J/m 2 ) used for commercial applications. The critical length scale for anchoring transition was approximately Lw = ~1 μm. If a diameter of particle d < 1 μm for opal crystals, LC molecules preferred to anchor vertically to the surface to minimize elastic free energy of bulk LCs. The LC favored a planar anchoring if d > 1 μm. The results provide crucial insights to understand the homeotropic alignment of LCs on solid surfaces and therefore offer opportunities to develop novel materials for a vertical alignment of LCs.

Estimating vertical velocity and radial flow from Doppler radar observations of tropical cyclones

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, J. L.; Lee, W. C.; MacDonald, A. E.

2006-01-01

The mesoscale vorticity method (MVM) is used in conjunction with the ground-based velocity track display (GBVTD) to derive the inner-core vertical velocity from Doppler radar observations of tropical cyclone (TC) Danny (1997). MVM derives the vertical velocity from vorticity variations in space and in time based on the mesoscale vorticity equation. The use of MVM and GBVTD allows us to derive good correlations among the eye-wall maximum wind, bow-shaped updraught and echo east of the eye-wall in Danny. Furthermore, we demonstrate the dynamically consistent radial flow can be derived from the vertical velocity obtained from MVM using the wind decomposition technique that solves the Poisson equations over a limited-area domain. With the wind decomposition, we combine the rotational wind which is obtained from Doppler radar wind observations and the divergent wind which is inferred dynamically from the rotational wind to form the balanced horizontal wind in TC inner cores, where rotational wind dominates the divergent wind. In this study, we show a realistic horizontal and vertical structure of the vertical velocity and the induced radial flow in Danny's inner core. In the horizontal, the main eye-wall updraught draws in significant surrounding air, converging at the strongest echo where the maximum updraught is located. In the vertical, the main updraught tilts vertically outwards, corresponding very well with the outward-tilting eye-wall. The maximum updraught is located at the inner edge of the eye-wall clouds, while downward motions are found at the outer edge. This study demonstrates that the mesoscale vorticity method can use high-temporal-resolution data observed by Doppler radars to derive realistic vertical velocity and the radial flow of TCs. The vorticity temporal variations crucial to the accuracy of the vorticity method have to be derived from a high-temporal-frequency observing system such as state-of-the-art Doppler radars.

Scour around vertical wall abutment in cohesionless sediment bed

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pandey, M.; Sharma, P. K.; Ahmad, Z.

2017-12-01

At the time of floods, failure of bridges is the biggest disaster and mainly sub-structure (bridge abutments and piers) are responsible for this failure of bridges. It is very risky if these sub structures are not constructed after proper designing and analysis. Scour is a natural phenomenon in rivers or streams caused by the erosive action of the flowing water on the bed and banks. The abutment undermines due to river-bed erosion and scouring, which generally recognized as the main cause of abutment failure. Most of the previous studies conducted on scour around abutment have concerned with the prediction of the maximum scour depth (Lim, 1994; Melvill, 1992, 1997 and Dey and Barbhuiya, 2005). Dey and Barbhuiya (2005) proposed a relationship for computing maximum scour depth near an abutment, based on laboratory experiments, for computing maximum scour depth around vertical wall abutment, which was confined to their experimental data only. However, this relationship needs to be also verified by the other researchers data in order to support the reliability to the relationship and its wider applicability. In this study, controlled experimentations have been carried out on the scour near a vertical wall abutment. The collected data in this study along with data of the previous investigators have been carried out on the scour near vertical wall abutment. The collected data in this study along with data of the previous have been used to check the validity of the existing equation (Lim, 1994; Melvill, 1992, 1997 and Dey and Barbhuiya, 2005) of maximum scour depth around the vertical wall abutment. A new relationship is proposed to estimate the maximum scour depth around vertical wall abutment, it gives better results all relationships.

Method and apparatus for tensile testing of metal foil

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wade, O. W. (Inventor)

1976-01-01

A method for obtaining accurate and reproducible results in the tensile testing of metal foils in tensile testing machines is described. Before the test specimen are placed in the machine, foil side edges are worked until they are parallel and flaw free. The specimen are also aligned between and secured to grip end members. An aligning apparatus employed in the method is comprised of an alignment box with a longitudinal bottom wall and two upright side walls, first and second removable grip end members at each end of the box, and a means for securing the grip end members within the box.

Vertically Oriented Growth of GaN Nanorods on Si Using Graphene as an Atomically Thin Buffer Layer.

PubMed

Heilmann, Martin; Munshi, A Mazid; Sarau, George; Göbelt, Manuela; Tessarek, Christian; Fauske, Vidar T; van Helvoort, Antonius T J; Yang, Jianfeng; Latzel, Michael; Hoffmann, Björn; Conibeer, Gavin; Weman, Helge; Christiansen, Silke

2016-06-08

The monolithic integration of wurtzite GaN on Si via metal-organic vapor phase epitaxy is strongly hampered by lattice and thermal mismatch as well as meltback etching. This study presents single-layer graphene as an atomically thin buffer layer for c-axis-oriented growth of vertically aligned GaN nanorods mediated by nanometer-sized AlGaN nucleation islands. Nanostructures of similar morphology are demonstrated on graphene-covered Si(111) as well as Si(100). High crystal and optical quality of the nanorods are evidenced through scanning transmission electron microscopy, micro-Raman, and cathodoluminescence measurements supported by finite-difference time-domain simulations. Current-voltage characteristics revealed high vertical conduction of the as-grown GaN nanorods through the Si substrates. These findings are substantial to advance the integration of GaN-based devices on any substrates of choice that sustains the GaN growth temperatures, thereby permitting novel designs of GaN-based heterojunction device concepts.

Binocular misalignments elicited by altered gravity provide evidence for nonlinear central compensation

PubMed Central

Beaton, Kara H.; Huffman, W. Cary; Schubert, Michael C.

2015-01-01

Increased ocular positioning misalignments upon exposure to altered gravity levels (g-levels) have been strongly correlated with space motion sickness (SMS) severity, possibly due to underlying otolith asymmetries uncompensated in novel gravitational environments. We investigated vertical and torsional ocular positioning misalignments elicited by the 0 and 1.8 g g-levels of parabolic flight and used these data to develop a computational model to describe how such misalignments might arise. Ocular misalignments were inferred through two perceptual nulling tasks: Vertical Alignment Nulling (VAN) and Torsional Alignment Nulling (TAN). All test subjects exhibited significant differences in ocular misalignments in the novel g-levels, which we postulate to be the result of healthy individuals with 1 g-tuned central compensatory mechanisms unadapted to the parabolic flight environment. Furthermore, the magnitude and direction of ocular misalignments in hypo-g and hyper-g, in comparison to 1 g, were nonlinear and nonmonotonic. Previous linear models of central compensation do not predict this. Here we show that a single model of the form a + bgε, where a, b, and ε are the model parameters and g is the current g-level, accounts for both the vertical and torsional ocular misalignment data observed inflight. Furthering our understanding of oculomotor control is critical for the development of interventions that promote adaptation in spaceflight (e.g., countermeasures for novel g-level exposure) and terrestrial (e.g., rehabilitation protocols for vestibular pathology) environments. PMID:26082691

Passive wall cooling panel with phase change material as a cooling agent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Majid, Masni A.; Tajudin, Rasyidah Ahmad; Salleh, Norhafizah; Hamid, Noor Azlina Abd

2017-11-01

The study was carried out to the determine performance of passive wall cooling panels by using Phase Change Materials as a cooling agent. This passive cooling system used cooling agent as natural energy storage without using any HVAC system. Eight full scale passive wall cooling panels were developed with the size 1500 mm (L) × 500 mm (W) × 100 mm (T). The cooling agent such as glycerine were filled in the tube with horizontal and vertical arrangement. The passive wall cooling panels were casting by using foamed concrete with density between 1200 kg/m3 - 1500 kg/m3. The passive wall cooling panels were tested in a small house and the differences of indoor and outdoor temperature was recorded. Passive wall cooling panels with glycerine as cooling agent in vertical arrangement showed the best performance with dropped of indoor air temperature within 3°C compared to outdoor air temperature. The lowest indoor air temperature recorded was 25°C from passive wall cooling panels with glycerine in vertical arrangement. From this study, the passive wall cooling system could be applied as it was environmental friendly and less maintenance.

Operation of a gated field emitter using an individual carbon nanofiber cathode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guillorn, M. A.; Melechko, A. V.; Merkulov, V. I.; Ellis, E. D.; Britton, C. L.; Simpson, M. L.; Lowndes, D. H.; Baylor, L. R.

2001-11-01

We report on the operation of an integrated gated cathode device using a single vertically aligned carbon nanofiber as the field emission element. This device is capable of operation in a moderate vacuum for extended periods of time without experiencing a degradation of performance. Less than 1% of the total emitted current is collected by the gate electrode, indicating that the emitted electron beam is highly collimated. As a consequence, this device is ideal for applications that require well-focused electron emission from a microscale structure.

Fatigue influences lower extremity angular velocities during a single-leg drop vertical jump.

PubMed

Tamura, Akihiro; Akasaka, Kiyokazu; Otsudo, Takahiro; Shiozawa, Junya; Toda, Yuka; Yamada, Kaori

2017-03-01

[Purpose] Fatigue alters lower extremity landing strategies and decreases the ability to attenuate impact during landing. The purpose of this study was to reveal the influence of fatigue on dynamic alignment and joint angular velocities in the lower extremities during a single leg landing. [Subjects and Methods] The 34 female college students were randomly assigned to either the fatigue or control group. The fatigue group performed single-leg drop vertical jumps before, and after, the fatigue protocol, which was performed using a bike ergometer. Lower extremity kinematic data were acquired using a three-dimensional motion analysis system. The ratio of each variable (%), for the pre-fatigue to post-fatigue protocols, were calculated to compare differences between each group. [Results] Peak hip and knee flexion angular velocities increased significantly in the fatigue group compared with the control group. Furthermore, hip flexion angular velocity increased significantly between each group at 40 milliseconds after initial ground contact. [Conclusion] Fatigue reduced the ability to attenuate impact by increasing angular velocities in the direction of hip and knee flexion during landings. These findings indicate a requirement to evaluate movement quality over time by measuring hip and knee flexion angular velocities in landings during fatigue conditions.

Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes black coatings from roll-to-roll deposition process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goislard de Monsabert, Thomas; Papciak, L.; Sangar, A.; Descarpentries, J.; Vignal, T.; de Longiviere, Xavier; Porterat, D.; Mestre, Q.; Hauf, H.

2017-09-01

Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) have recently attracted growing interest as a very efficient light absorbing material over a broad spectral range making them a superior coating in space optics applications such as radiometry, optical calibration, and stray light elimination. However, VACNT coatings available to-date most often result from batch-to-batch deposition processes thus potentially limiting the manufacturing repeatability, substrate size and cost efficiency of this material.

Vertically aligned carbon nanotube emitter on metal foil for medical X-ray imaging.

PubMed

Ryu, Je Hwang; Kim, Wan Sun; Lee, Seung Ho; Eom, Young Ju; Park, Hun Kuk; Park, Kyu Chang

2013-10-01

A simple method is proposed for growing vertically aligned carbon nanotubes on metal foil using the triode direct current plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). The carbon nanotube (CNT) electron emitter was fabricated using fewer process steps with an acid treated metal substrate. The CNT emitter was used for X-ray generation, and the X-ray image of mouse's joint was obtained with an anode current of 0.5 mA at an anode bias of 60 kV. The simple fabrication of a well-aligned CNT with a protection layer on metal foil, and its X-ray application, were studied.

Thin Polymer Films with Continuous Vertically Aligned 1 nm Pores Fabricated by Soft Confinement

DOE PAGES

Feng, Xunda; Nejati, Siamak; Cowan, Matthew G.; ...

2015-12-03

Membrane separations are critically important in areas ranging from health care and analytical chemistry to bioprocessing and water purification. An ideal nanoporous membrane would consist of a thin film with physically continuous and vertically aligned nanopores and would display a narrow distribution of pore sizes. However, the current state of the art departs considerably from this ideal and is beset by intrinsic trade-offs between permeability and selectivity. We demonstrate an effective and scalable method to fabricate polymer films with ideal membrane morphologies consisting of submicron thickness films with physically continuous and vertically aligned 1 nm pores. The approach is basedmore » on soft confinement to control the orientation of a cross-linkable mesophase in which the pores are produced by self-assembly. The scalability, exceptional ease of fabrication, and potential to create a new class of nanofiltration membranes stand out as compelling aspects.« less

Vertically-aligned Mn(OH) 2 nanosheet films for flexible all-solid-state electrochemical supercapacitors

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

Yang, Ziyuan; Gong, Jiangfeng; Tang, Chunmei

We report that the arrangement of the electrode materials is a significant contributor for constructing high performance supercapacitor. Here, vertically-aligned Mn(OH) 2 nanosheet thin films were synthesized by cathodic electrodeposition technique on flexible Au coated polyethylene terephthalate substrates. Morphologies, microstructures, chemical compositions and valence state of the nanosheet films were characterized systematically. It shows that the nanosheets arranged vertically to the substrate, forming a porous nanowall structures and creating large open framework, which greatly facilitate the adsorption or diffusion of electrolyte ions for faradaic redox reaction. Electrochemical tests of the films show the specific capacitance as high as 240.2 Fmore » g -1 at 1.0 A g -1. The films were employed to assemble symmetric all-solid-state supercapacitors with LiCl/PVA gel severed as solid electrolyte. Finally, the solid devices exhibit high volumetric capacitance of 39.3 mF cm -3 at the current density 0.3 mA cm -3 with robust cycling stability. The superior performance is attributed to the vertically-aligned configuration.« less

Vertically-aligned Mn(OH) 2 nanosheet films for flexible all-solid-state electrochemical supercapacitors

DOE PAGES

Yang, Ziyuan; Gong, Jiangfeng; Tang, Chunmei; ...

2017-08-28

We report that the arrangement of the electrode materials is a significant contributor for constructing high performance supercapacitor. Here, vertically-aligned Mn(OH) 2 nanosheet thin films were synthesized by cathodic electrodeposition technique on flexible Au coated polyethylene terephthalate substrates. Morphologies, microstructures, chemical compositions and valence state of the nanosheet films were characterized systematically. It shows that the nanosheets arranged vertically to the substrate, forming a porous nanowall structures and creating large open framework, which greatly facilitate the adsorption or diffusion of electrolyte ions for faradaic redox reaction. Electrochemical tests of the films show the specific capacitance as high as 240.2 Fmore » g -1 at 1.0 A g -1. The films were employed to assemble symmetric all-solid-state supercapacitors with LiCl/PVA gel severed as solid electrolyte. Finally, the solid devices exhibit high volumetric capacitance of 39.3 mF cm -3 at the current density 0.3 mA cm -3 with robust cycling stability. The superior performance is attributed to the vertically-aligned configuration.« less

Effect of wall pattern configurations on Stokes flow through a microchannel with superhydrophobic slip

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mak, H. M.; Ng, C. O.

2010-11-01

The present work aims to study low-Reynolds-number flow through a microchannel with superhydrophobic surfaces, which contain a periodic array of parallel ribs on the upper and lower walls. Mimicking impregnation, the liquid is allowed to penetrate the grooves between the ribs which are filled with an inviscid gas. The array of ribs and grooves gives a heterogeneous wall boundary condition to the channel flow, with partial-slip boundary condition on the solid surface and no-shear boundary condition on the liquid-gas interface. Using the method of eigenfunction expansions and domain decomposition, semi-analytical models are developed for four configurations. Two of them are for longitudinal flow and the others are for transverse flow. For each flow orientation, in-phase and out-phase alignments of ribs between the upper and lower walls are analyzed. The effect of the phase alignments of ribs is appreciable when the channel height is sufficiently small. In-phase alignment gives rise to a larger effective slip length in longitudinal flow. On the contrary, out-phase alignment will yield a larger effective slip length in transverse flow. This work was supported by the Research Grants Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China, through Project HKU 7156/09E.

Modelling of NSTX hot vertical displacement events using M 3 D -C 1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pfefferlé, D.; Ferraro, N.; Jardin, S. C.; Krebs, I.; Bhattacharjee, A.

2018-05-01

The main results of an intense vertical displacement event (VDE) modelling activity using the implicit 3D extended MHD code M3D-C1 are presented. A pair of nonlinear 3D simulations are performed using realistic transport coefficients based on the reconstruction of a so-called NSTX frozen VDE where the feedback control was purposely switched off to trigger a vertical instability. The vertical drift phase is solved assuming axisymmetry until the plasma contacts the first wall, at which point the intricate evolution of the plasma, decaying to large extent in force-balance with induced halo/wall currents, is carefully resolved via 3D nonlinear simulations. The faster 2D nonlinear runs allow to assess the sensitivity of the simulations to parameter changes. In the limit of perfectly conducting wall, the expected linear relation between vertical growth rate and wall resistivity is recovered. For intermediate wall resistivities, the halo region contributes to slowing the plasma down, and the characteristic VDE time depends on the choice of halo temperature. The evolution of the current quench and the onset of 3D halo/eddy currents are diagnosed in detail. The 3D simulations highlight a rich structure of toroidal modes, penetrating inwards from edge to core and cascading from high-n to low-n mode numbers. The break-up of flux-surfaces results in a progressive stochastisation of field-lines precipitating the thermalisation of the plasma with the wall. The plasma current then decays rapidly, inducing large currents in the halo region and the wall. Analysis of normal currents flowing in and out of the divertor plate reveals rich time-varying patterns.

Convection of wall shear stress events in a turbulent boundary layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pabon, Rommel; Mills, David; Ukeiley, Lawrence; Sheplak, Mark

2017-11-01

The fluctuating wall shear stress is measured in a zero pressure gradient turbulent boundary layer of Reτ 1700 simultaneously with velocity measurements using either hot-wire anemometry or particle image velocimetry. These experiments elucidate the patterns of large scale structures in a single point measurement of the wall shear stress, as well as their convection velocity at the wall. The wall shear stress sensor is a CS-A05 one-dimensional capacitice floating element from Interdisciplinary Consulting Corp. It has a nominal bandwidth from DC to 5 kHz and a floating element size of 1 mm in the principal sensing direction (streamwise) and 0.2 mm in the cross direction (spanwise), allowing the large scales to be well resolved in the current experimental conditions. In addition, a two sensor array of CS-A05 aligned in the spanwise direction with streamwise separations O (δ) is utilized to capture the convection velocity of specific scales of the shear stress through a bandpass filter and peaks in the correlation. Thus, an average wall normal position for the corresponding convecting event can be inferred at least as high as the equivalent local streamwise velocity. This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship under Grant No. DGE-1315138.

Thermally stratified squeezed flow between two vertical Riga plates with no slip conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Farooq, M.; Mansoor, Zahira; Ijaz Khan, M.; Hayat, T.; Anjum, A.; Mir, N. A.

2018-04-01

This paper demonstrates the mixed convective squeezing nanomaterials flow between two vertical plates, one of which is a Riga plate embedded in a thermally stratified medium subject to convective boundary conditions. Heat transfer features are elaborated with viscous dissipation. Single-wall and multi-wall carbon nanotubes are taken as nanoparticles to form a homogeneous solution in the water. A non-linear system of differential equations is obtained for the considered flow by using suitable transformations. Convergence analysis for velocity and temperature is computed and discussed explicitly through BVPh 2.0. Residual errors are also computed by BVPh 2.0 for the dimensionless governing equations. We introduce two undetermined convergence control parameters, i.e. \\hslash_{θ} and \\hslashf , to compute the lowest entire error. The average residual error for the k -th-order approximation is given in a table. The effects of different flow variables on temperature and velocity distributions are sketched graphically and discussed comprehensively. Furthermore the coefficient of skin friction and the Nusselt number are also analyzed through graphical data.

Transport and Depositional Model for Large Country Rock Blocks Within the Searchlight Pluton, Southern Nevada

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perrault, D. S.; Furbish, D. J.; Miller, C. F.

2006-05-01

Searchlight pluton, a steeply tilted, 10 km thick Miocene intrusion in the Colorado River Extensional Corridor, exposes a zone with abundant, 5-400 m long blocks of Proterozoic gneiss. Blocks are present within a pair of subparallel horizons that make up a 2 km-thick zone and extend about 6 km laterally away from the pluton's north margin slightly oblique to the initially subhorizontal boundary between the pluton's middle unit (granite) and lower unit (qtz monzonite). Blocks are a variety of Precambrian metasedimentary gneisses, granitic gneisses, and mylonites. Blocks are commonly polylithologic and well foliated, with long and intermediate dimensions parallel to both their own foliation and that of the granitic host. Their average aspect ratio is ~ 4:1. Blocks within these horizons are interpreted as stoped (detached country rock that experience gravity- induced displacement) based on several lines of evidence. First, the distribution and abundances of blocks are not consistent with an isolated panel of wall rock (screen). The zone is laterally discontinuous (local abundances vary from ~ 0-40 %); transects a gradational (cm-m scale) internal contact at a slightly oblique angle; and tapers away from the pluton's margin. Second, while block foliations are homoclinal and show fairly consistent attitudes from block to block, block foliations are discordant with wall rock foliations at the same stratigraphic level (adjacent north wall). Third, mush disturbance features such as schlieren and enhanced feldspar foliation beneath blocks suggest a downward compaction. We interpret the blocks to have been emplaced after wall collapse events. We are using scaled settling experiments to clarify how blocks move within viscous fluids and interact with crystal mushes. The experiments, involving tabular ceramic blocks with density ρ = 1.75-2.20 g cm-3 settling in shampoo (ρ = 1.02 g cm-3) with viscosity μ = 20.35 Pa s, are scaled to order-of-magnitude by the particle Reynolds number (Re ~ 10-2) based on a prototype spherical block of diameter ~ 50 m settling through a crystal free magma with the density (~ 2.25 g cm-3) and viscosity (~ 105 Pa s) of a granitic melt. With low Reynolds number settling, tabular blocks starting from arbitrary orientation tend to become aligned with their long dimension vertical. During alignment fluid shear is focused on the trailing part of the downward facing surface of the block, inducing a torque that tends to upright the block. Settling experiments also provide insights regarding how blocks might interact with mush/melt interfaces. Mushes at sufficiently high crystal content (>50%) stiffen rheologically. Stoped blocks settling on these interfaces may impart stresses that result in localized deformation of the mush (forming schlieren and/or compaction features). We moreover suggest that tabular blocks are deposited with their long axes horizontal at these interfaces; blocks with a geometry controlled by internal structures (e.g. foliation) would on average possess a subparallel alignment of both their geometric shape and internal structure. At sufficiently low Re, this realignment of a tabular block begins as it approaches a semi-rigid surface or interface and the leading fluid boundary layer interacts with the interface; the vertical speed of the block decreases and it begins to deflect and take on a lateral motion.

Vertical decomposition with Genetic Algorithm for Multiple Sequence Alignment

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Many Bioinformatics studies begin with a multiple sequence alignment as the foundation for their research. This is because multiple sequence alignment can be a useful technique for studying molecular evolution and analyzing sequence structure relationships. Results In this paper, we have proposed a Vertical Decomposition with Genetic Algorithm (VDGA) for Multiple Sequence Alignment (MSA). In VDGA, we divide the sequences vertically into two or more subsequences, and then solve them individually using a guide tree approach. Finally, we combine all the subsequences to generate a new multiple sequence alignment. This technique is applied on the solutions of the initial generation and of each child generation within VDGA. We have used two mechanisms to generate an initial population in this research: the first mechanism is to generate guide trees with randomly selected sequences and the second is shuffling the sequences inside such trees. Two different genetic operators have been implemented with VDGA. To test the performance of our algorithm, we have compared it with existing well-known methods, namely PRRP, CLUSTALX, DIALIGN, HMMT, SB_PIMA, ML_PIMA, MULTALIGN, and PILEUP8, and also other methods, based on Genetic Algorithms (GA), such as SAGA, MSA-GA and RBT-GA, by solving a number of benchmark datasets from BAliBase 2.0. Conclusions The experimental results showed that the VDGA with three vertical divisions was the most successful variant for most of the test cases in comparison to other divisions considered with VDGA. The experimental results also confirmed that VDGA outperformed the other methods considered in this research. PMID:21867510

Magnetic field effect on Poiseuille flow and heat transfer of carbon nanotubes along a vertical channel filled with Casson fluid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aman, Sidra; Khan, Ilyas; Ismail, Zulkhibri; Salleh, Mohd Zuki; Alshomrani, Ali Saleh; Alghamdi, Metib Said

2017-01-01

Applications of carbon nanotubes, single walls carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and multiple walls carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in thermal engineering have recently attracted significant attention. However, most of the studies on CNTs are either experimental or numerical and the lack of analytical studies limits further developments in CNTs research particularly in channel flows. In this work, an analytical investigation is performed on heat transfer analysis of SWCNTs and MWCNTs for mixed convection Poiseuille flow of a Casson fluid along a vertical channel. These CNTs are suspended in three different types of base fluids (Water, Kerosene and engine Oil). Xue [Phys. B Condens. Matter 368, 302-307 (2005)] model has been used for effective thermal conductivity of CNTs. A uniform magnetic field is applied in a transverse direction to the flow as magnetic field induces enhancement in the thermal conductivity of nanofluid. The problem is modelled by using the constitutive equations of Casson fluid in order to characterize the non-Newtonian fluid behavior. Using appropriate non-dimensional variables, the governing equations are transformed into the non-dimensional form, and the perturbation method is utilized to solve the governing equations with some physical conditions. Velocity and temperature solutions are obtained and discussed graphically. Expressions for skin friction and Nusselt number are also evaluated in tabular form. Effects of different parameters such as Casson parameter, radiation parameter and volume fraction are observed on the velocity and temperature profiles. It is found that velocity is reduced under influence of the exterior magnetic field. The temperature of single wall CNTs is found greater than MWCNTs for all the three base fluids. Increase in volume fraction leads to a decrease in velocity of the fluid as the nanofluid become more viscous by adding CNTs.

Phosphorylation of the Streptococcus pneumoniae cell wall biosynthesis enzyme MurC by a eukaryotic-like Ser/Thr kinase.

PubMed

Falk, Shaun P; Weisblum, Bernard

2013-03-01

Streptococcus pneumoniae contains a single Ser/Thr kinase-phosphatase pair known as StkP-PhpP. Here, we report the interaction of StkP-PhpP with S. pneumoniae UDP-N-acetylmuramoyl:L-alanine ligase, MurC, an enzyme that synthesizes an essential intermediate of the cell wall peptidoglycan pathway. Combinatorial phage display using StkP as target selected the peptide sequence YEVCGSDTVGC as an interacting partner and subsequently confirmed by ELISA. The phage peptide sequence YEVCGSDTVGC aligns closely with the MurC motif spanning S. pneumoniae amino acid coordinates 31-37. We show that MurC is phosphorylated by StkP and that phosphoMurC is dephosphorylated by PhpP. These data suggest a link between StkP-PhpP with the coordinated regulation of cell wall biosynthesis via MurC. © 2012 Federation of European Microbiological Societies. Published by Blackwell Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.

Origin and timing of Dauphiné twins in quartz cement in fractured sandstones from diagenetic environments: Insight from fluid inclusions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fall, András; Ukar, Estibalitz; Laubach, Stephen E.

2016-09-01

Electron backscattered diffraction techniques (EBSD) show that Dauphiné twins in quartz are widespread in many tectonometamorphic environments. Our study documents that under diagenetic temperatures (< 200 °C) and burial depths < 5 km Dauphiné twins are common in isolated fracture quartz deposits spanning between fracture walls (i.e., quartz bridges) in low-porosity quartz-cemented sandstones. Using examples from East Texas and Colorado cores, we show that twins are associated with crack-seal microstructure and fluid inclusions. Fracture wall-parallel and wall-normal inclusion trails contain coexisting aqueous and hydrocarbon gas inclusions, so homogenization temperatures of aqueous inclusions record true trapping temperatures. Inclusions in alignments normal to fracture walls are large and irregularly shaped compared to those aligned parallel to walls, but both show similar liquid-to-vapor ratios. Stacking transmitted light images with scanning electron microscope cathodoluminescence (SEM-CL) and EBSD images demonstrates that Dauphiné twin boundaries are localized along wall-normal inclusion trails. Trapping temperatures for wall-normal inclusion trails are usually higher than those aligned parallel to the fracture wall. Wall-normal fluid inclusion assemblage temperatures typically match the highest temperatures of wall-parallel assemblages trapped during sequential widening, but not necessarily the most recent. In context of burial histories for these samples, this temperature pattern implies that wall-normal assemblages form at discrete times during or after crack-seal fracture widening. Localization in isolated, potentially high-stress quartz deposits in fractures is compatible with a mechanical origin for these Dauphiné twins. Punctuated temperature values and discrepant sizes and shapes of inclusions in wall-normal trails implies that twinning is a by-product of the formation of the wall-normal inclusion assemblages. The association of Dauphiné twins and fluid inclusion assemblages from which temperature and possibly timing can be inferred provides a way to research timing as well as magnitude of paleostress in some diagenetic settings.

Design optimization and tolerance analysis of a spot-size converter for the taper-assisted vertical integration platform in InP.

PubMed

Tolstikhin, Valery; Saeidi, Shayan; Dolgaleva, Ksenia

2018-05-01

We report on the design optimization and tolerance analysis of a multistep lateral-taper spot-size converter based on indium phosphide (InP), performed using the Monte Carlo method. Being a natural fit to (and a key building block of) the regrowth-free taper-assisted vertical integration platform, such a spot-size converter enables efficient and displacement-tolerant fiber coupling to InP-based photonic integrated circuits at a wavelength of 1.31 μm. An exemplary four-step lateral-taper design featuring 0.35 dB coupling loss at optimal alignment of a standard single-mode fiber; ≥7  μm 1 dB displacement tolerance in any direction in a facet plane; and great stability against manufacturing variances is demonstrated.

Geological evidence of pre-2012 Emilia, Italy, seismic events

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Caputo, Riccardo; Minarelli, Luca; Papathanassiou, Giorgos; Poli, Eliana M.; Rapti-Caputo, Dimitra; Sboras, Sotiris; Stefani, Marco; Zanferrari, Adriano

2013-04-01

In May 2012, two moderate (ML = 5.9 and 5.8) earthquakes, associated with a noticeable aftershock sequence, affected the eastern sector of the Po Plain, Italy. The causative faults are two segments of the Ferrara Arc thrust system representing the most frontal portion of the buried Northern Apennines fold-and-thrust belt. Few weeks after the earthquake, a palaeoseismological trench was excavated south of the San Carlo village (western Ferrara Province), where a system of aligned ground ruptures were observed. In the trench walls we observed several features documenting the occurrence of past liquefaction events affecting the same site. For example, i) 10 cm-thick dikes filled with injected sand and associated with vertical displacements have no correspondence with the fractures mapped at the surface before the excavation; ii) some thick dikes are arrested below the ploughed level or even by older sedimentary layers; iii) along the internal slope of the palaeo-channel exposed by the trench, load structures and slided blocks are observed; iv) in correspondence with the ground fractures characterised by vertical displacement and opening occurred during the 2012 earthquake and thick dikes, observed at the surface and in the trench's walls, respectively, sand and water ejection did not occur. In conclusion, the results of the palaeoseismological investigation document for the first time that shacking (i.e. seismic) events occurred in the past producing a sufficient ground motion capable of triggering liquefaction phenomena prior to, but likely stronger than, the May 2012 earthquake. A likely candidate is the November 17, 1570 Ferrara earthquake.

Theoretical axial wall angulation for rotational resistance form in an experimental-fixed partial denture

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

PURPOSE The aim of this study was to determine the influence of long base lengths of a fixed partial denture (FPD) to rotational resistance with variation of vertical wall angulation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Trigonometric calculations were done to determine the maximum wall angle needed to resist rotational displacement of an experimental-FPD model in 2-dimensional plane. The maximum wall angle calculation determines the greatest taper that resists rotation. Two different axes of rotation were used to test this model with five vertical abutment heights of 3-, 3.5-, 4-, 4.5-, and 5-mm. The two rotational axes were located on the mesial-side of the anterior abutment and the distal-side of the posterior abutment. Rotation of the FPD around the anterior axis was counter-clockwise, Posterior-Anterior (P-A) and clockwise, Anterior-Posterior (A-P) around the distal axis in the sagittal plane. RESULTS Low levels of vertical wall taper, ≤ 10-degrees, were needed to resist rotational displacement in all wall height categories; 2–to–6–degrees is generally considered ideal, with 7–to–10–degrees as favorable to the long axis of the abutment. Rotation around both axes demonstrated that two axial walls of the FPD resisted rotational displacement in each direction. In addition, uneven abutment height combinations required the lowest wall angulations to achieve resistance in this study. CONCLUSION The vertical height and angulation of FPD abutments, two rotational axes, and the long base lengths all play a role in FPD resistance form. PMID:28874995

Geometrical appearance and spatial arrangement of structural blocks of the Malan loess in NW China: implications for the formation of loess columns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yanrong; Zhang, Tao; Zhang, Yongbo; Xu, Qiang

2018-06-01

Loess, as one of the main Quaternary deposits, covers approximately 6% of the land surface of the Earth. Although loess is loose and fragile, loess columns are popular and they can stand stably for hundreds of years, thereby forming a spectacular landform. The formation of such special column-shaped soil structures is puzzling, and the underlying fundamentals remain unclear. The present study focuses on quantifying and examining the geometrical shape and spatial alignment of structural blocks of the Malan loess at different locations in the Loess Plateau of China. The structural blocks under investigation include clay- and silt-sized particles, aggregates, fragments, lumps, and columns, which vary in size from microns to tens of meters. Regardless of their size, the structural blocks of the Malan loess are found to be similar in shape, i.e., elongated with a length-to-width ratio of approximately 2.6. The aggregates, fragments, lumps, columns, and macropores between aggregates exhibit strong concentration in the vertical or subvertical alignment. These phenomena imply that the Malan loess is anisotropic and it is composed of a combination of vertically aligned strong units and vertically aligned weak segments. Based on this, "vertiloess" structure is proposed to denote this combination. The vertiloess structure prevents horizontal erosion, but favors spalling, peeling, toppling, falling and cracking-sliding of vertical loess pieces, thereby forming loess columns.

Octahedral Tin Dioxide Nanocrystals Anchored on Vertically Aligned Carbon Aerogels as High Capacity Anode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries.

PubMed

Liu, Mingkai; Liu, Yuqing; Zhang, Yuting; Li, Yiliao; Zhang, Peng; Yan, Yan; Liu, Tianxi

2016-08-11

A novel binder-free graphene - carbon nanotubes - SnO2 (GCNT-SnO2) aerogel with vertically aligned pores was prepared via a simple and efficient directional freezing method. SnO2 octahedrons exposed of {221} high energy facets were uniformly distributed and tightly anchored on multidimensional graphene/carbon nanotube (GCNT) composites. Vertically aligned pores can effectively prevent the emersion of "closed" pores which cannot load the active SnO2 nanoparticles, further ensure quick immersion of electrolyte throughout the aerogel, and can largely shorten the transport distance between lithium ions and active sites of SnO2. Especially, excellent electrical conductivity of GCNT-SnO2 aerogel was achieved as a result of good interconnected networks of graphene and CNTs. Furthermore, meso- and macroporous structures with large surface area created by the vertically aligned pores can provide great benefit to the favorable transport kinetics for both lithium ion and electrons and afford sufficient space for volume expansion of SnO2. Due to the well-designed architecture of GCNT-SnO2 aerogel, a high specific capacity of 1190 mAh/g with good long-term cycling stability up to 1000 times was achieved. This work provides a promising strategy for preparing free-standing and binder-free active electrode materials with high performance for lithium ion batteries and other energy storage devices.

Octahedral Tin Dioxide Nanocrystals Anchored on Vertically Aligned Carbon Aerogels as High Capacity Anode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Mingkai; Liu, Yuqing; Zhang, Yuting; Li, Yiliao; Zhang, Peng; Yan, Yan; Liu, Tianxi

2016-08-01

A novel binder-free graphene - carbon nanotubes - SnO2 (GCNT-SnO2) aerogel with vertically aligned pores was prepared via a simple and efficient directional freezing method. SnO2 octahedrons exposed of {221} high energy facets were uniformly distributed and tightly anchored on multidimensional graphene/carbon nanotube (GCNT) composites. Vertically aligned pores can effectively prevent the emersion of “closed” pores which cannot load the active SnO2 nanoparticles, further ensure quick immersion of electrolyte throughout the aerogel, and can largely shorten the transport distance between lithium ions and active sites of SnO2. Especially, excellent electrical conductivity of GCNT-SnO2 aerogel was achieved as a result of good interconnected networks of graphene and CNTs. Furthermore, meso- and macroporous structures with large surface area created by the vertically aligned pores can provide great benefit to the favorable transport kinetics for both lithium ion and electrons and afford sufficient space for volume expansion of SnO2. Due to the well-designed architecture of GCNT-SnO2 aerogel, a high specific capacity of 1190 mAh/g with good long-term cycling stability up to 1000 times was achieved. This work provides a promising strategy for preparing free-standing and binder-free active electrode materials with high performance for lithium ion batteries and other energy storage devices.

Synthesis and energy applications of oriented metal oxide nanoporous films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Qingliu

This dissertation mainly addresses the synthesis of well-ordered mesoporous titania thin films by dip coating with PEO-PPO-PEO triblock copolymer surfactant template P123. Because P123 is composed of poly(ethylene oxide) [PEO] and poly(propylene oxide) [PPO] blocks, concentrations of ingredients are adjusted to tune the films' wall thickness, pore size and mesophase. Structural changes are consistent with partitioning of species among PEO blocks, PPO blocks, and the PEO/PPO interface. Titanates localize near PEO and increase wall thickness (by 5 nm to 7 nm). Depending on aging temperature, PPG either swells the PPO cores (when it is hydrophobic) or introduces large (>200 nm) voids (when it is hydrophilic but phase separates during heating). 1-butanol localizes at the PEO/PPO interface to favor a 3D hexagonal mesostructure. In another approach, anodizing Ti foils yields vertically aligned titania nanotubes arrays with exceptional stabilities as anodes in lithium ion batteries; they maintain capacities of 130-230 mAhg-1 over 200 cycles. No microstructural changes are induced by battery cycling and good electrical contact is maintained. A diffusion induced stress model suggests that thin-walled nanotubes arrays should be stable under testing conditions, and that ordered hexagonal columnar pore arrays should have both high charge/discharge rates and low stress development. KEY WORDS: materials synthesis, porous, thin film, alternative energy, self-assembly

Gravity enhanced acoustic levitation method and apparatus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barmatz, M. B.; Allen, J. L.; Granett, D. (Inventor)

1985-01-01

An acoustic levitation system is provided for acoustically levitating an object by applying a single frequency from a transducer into a resonant chamber surrounding the object. The chamber includes a stabilizer location along its height, where the side walls of the chamber are angled so they converge in an upward direction. When an acoustic standing wave pattern is applied between the top and bottom of the chamber, a levitation surface within the stabilizer does not lie on a horizontal plane, but instead is curved with a lowermost portion near the vertical axis of the chamber. As a result, an acoustically levitated object is urged by gravity towards the lowermost location on the levitation surface, so the object is kept away from the side walls of the chamber.

Annealed Au-assisted epitaxial growth of si nanowires: control of alignment and density.

PubMed

Park, Yi-Seul; Jung, Da Hee; Kim, Hyun Ji; Lee, Jin Seok

2015-04-14

The epitaxial growth of 1D nanostructures is of particular interest for future nanoelectronic devices such as vertical field-effect transistors because it directly influences transistor densities and 3D logic or memory architectures. Silicon nanowires (SiNWs) are a particularly important 1D nanomaterial because they possess excellent electronic and optical properties. What is more, the scalable fabrication of vertically aligned SiNW arrays presents an opportunity for improved device applications if suitable properties can be achieved through controlling the alignment and density of SiNWs, yet this is something that has not been reported in the case of SiNWs synthesized from Au films. This work therefore explores the controllable synthesis of vertically aligned SiNWs through the introduction of an annealing process prior to growth via a Au-catalyzed vapor-liquid-solid mechanism. The epitaxial growth of SiNWs was demonstrated to be achievable using SiCl4 as the Si precursor in chemical vapor deposition, whereas the alignment and density of the SiNWs could be controlled by manipulating the annealing time during the formation of Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) from Au films. During the annealing process, gold silicide was observed to form on the interface of the liquid-phase AuNPs, depending on the size of the AuNPs and the annealing time. This work therefore makes a valuable contribution to improving nanowire-based engineering by controlling its alignment and density as well as providing greater insight into the epitaxial growth of 1D nanostructures.

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

Calabrese, Gabriele, E-mail: calabrese@pdi-berlin.de; Corfdir, Pierre; Gao, Guanhui

We demonstrate the self-assembled growth of vertically aligned GaN nanowire ensembles on a flexible Ti foil by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy. The analysis of single nanowires by transmission electron microscopy reveals that they are single crystalline. Low-temperature photoluminescence spectroscopy demonstrates that in comparison to standard GaN nanowires grown on Si, the nanowires prepared on the Ti foil exhibit an equivalent crystalline perfection, a higher density of basal-plane stacking faults, but a reduced density of inversion domain boundaries. The room-temperature photoluminescence spectrum of the nanowire ensemble is not influenced or degraded by the bending of the substrate. The present results pavemore » the way for the fabrication of flexible optoelectronic devices based on GaN nanowires on metal foils.« less

Control of the spontaneous emission from a single quantum dash using a slow-light mode in a two-dimensional photonic crystal on a Bragg reflector

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

Chauvin, N.; Fiore, A.; Nedel, P.

2009-07-15

We demonstrate the coupling of a single InAs/InP quantum, emitting around 1.55 {mu}m, to a slow-light mode in a two-dimensional photonic crystal on Bragg reflector. These surface addressable 2.5D photonic crystal band-edge modes present the advantages of a vertical emission and the mode area and localization may be controlled, leading to a less critical spatial alignment with the emitter. An increase in the spontaneous emission rate by a factor of 1.5-2 is measured at low temperature and is compared to the Purcell factor predicted by three-dimensional time-domain electromagnetic simulations.

Optical interconnection for a polymeric PLC device using simple positional alignment.

PubMed

Ryu, Jin Hwa; Kim, Po Jin; Cho, Cheon Soo; Lee, El-Hang; Kim, Chang-Seok; Jeong, Myung Yung

2011-04-25

This study proposes a simple cost-effective method of optical interconnection between a planar lightwave circuit (PLC) device chip and an optical fiber. It was conducted to minimize and overcome the coupling loss caused by lateral offset which is due to the process tolerance and the dimensional limitation existing between PLC device chips and fiber array blocks with groove structures. A PLC device chip and a fiber array block were simultaneously fabricated in a series of polymer replication processes using the original master. The dimensions (i.e., width and thickness) of the under-clad of the PLC device chip were identical to those of the fiber array block. The PLC device chip and optical fiber were aligned by simple positional control for the vertical direction of the PLC device chip under a particular condition. The insertion loss of the proposed 1 x 2 multimode optical splitter device interconnection was 4.0 dB at 850 nm and the coupling loss was below 0.1 dB compared with single-fiber based active alignment.

A Systematic Approach for Determining Vertical Pile Depth of Embedment in Cohensionless Soils to Withstand Lateral Barge Train Impact Loads

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-01-30

dynamic structural time- history response analysis of flexible approach walls founded on clustered pile groups using Impact_Deck. In Preparation, ERDC...research (Ebeling et al. 2012) has developed simplified analysis procedures for flexible approach wall systems founded on clustered groups of vertical...history response analysis of flexible approach walls founded on clustered pile groups using Impact_Deck. In Preparation, ERDC/ITL TR-16-X. Vicksburg, MS

Vertical regolith shield wall construction for lunar base applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaplicky, Jan; Nixon, David; Wernick, Jane

1992-01-01

Lunar bases located on the lunar surface will require permanent protection from radiation and launch ejecta. This paper outlines a method of providing physical protection using lunar regolith that is constructed in situ as a modular vertical wall using specially devised methods of containment and construction. Deployable compartments, reinforced with corner struts, are elevated and filled by a moving gantry. The compartments interlock to form a stable wall. Different wall heights, thicknesses, and plan configurations are achieved by varying the geometry of the individual compartments, which are made from woven carbon fibers. Conventional terrestrial structural engineering techniques can be modified and used to establish the structural integrity and performance of the wall assembly.

In-service Inspection of Radioactive Waste Tanks at the Savannah River Site – 15410

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

Wiersma, Bruce; Maryak, Matthew; Baxter, Lindsay

2015-01-12

Liquid radioactive wastes from the Savannah River Site (SRS) separation process are stored in large underground carbon steel tanks. The high level wastes are processed in several of the tanks and then transferred by piping to other site facilities for further processing before they are stabilized in a vitrified or grout waste form. Based on waste removal and processing schedules, many of the tanks will be required to be in service for times exceeding the initial intended life. Until the waste is removed from storage, transferred, and processed, the materials and structures of the tanks must maintain a confinement functionmore » by providing a barrier to the environment and by maintaining acceptable structural stability during design basis events, which include loadings from both normal service and abnormal (e.g., earthquake) conditions. A structural integrity program is in place to maintain the structural and leak integrity functions of these waste tanks throughout their intended service life. In-service inspection (ISI) is an essential element of a comprehensive structural integrity program for the waste tanks at the Savannah River Site (SRS). The ISI program was developed to determine the degree of degradation the waste tanks have experienced due to service conditions. As a result of the inspections, an assessment can be made of the effectiveness of corrosion controls for the waste chemistry, which precludes accelerated localized and general corrosion of the waste tanks. Ultrasonic inspections (UT) are performed to detect and quantify the degree of general wall thinning, pitting and cracking as a measure of tank degradation. The results from these inspections through 2013, for the 27 Type III/IIIA tanks, indicate no reportable in-service corrosion degradation in the primary tank (i.e., general, pitting, or cracking). The average wall thickness for all tanks remains above the manufactured nominal thickness minus 0.25 millimeter and the largest pit identified is approximately 1.70 millimeter deep (i.e., less than 10% through-wall). Improvements to the inspection program were recently instituted to provide additional confidence in the degradation rates. Thickness measurements from a single vertical strip along the accessible height of the primary tank have been used as a baseline to compare historical measurements. Changes in wall thickness and pit depths along this vertical strip are utilized to estimate the rate of corrosion degradation. An independent review of the ISI program methodology, results, and path forward was held in August 2009. The review recommended statistical sampling of the tanks to improve the confidence of the single strip inspection program. The statistical sampling plan required that SRS increase the amount of area scanned per tank. Therefore, in addition to the baseline vertical strip that is obtained for historical comparisons, four additional randomly selected vertical strips are inspected. To date, a total of 104 independent vertical strips along the height of the primary tank have been completed. A statistical analysis of the data indicates that at this coverage level there is a 99.5% confidence level that one of the worst 5% of all the vertical strips was inspected. That is, there is a relatively high likelihood that the SRS inspection program has covered one of the most corroded areas of any of the Type III/IIIA waste tanks. These data further support the conclusion that there are no significant indications of wall thinning or pitting. Random sampling will continue to increase the confidence that one of the worst 5% has been inspected. In order to obtain the additional vertical strips, and minimize budget and schedule impacts, data collection speed for the UT system was optimized. Prior to 2009, the system collected data at a rate of 32 square centimeters per minute. The scan rate was increased to 129 - 160 square centimeters per minute by increasing the scanner step and pixel sizes in the data acquisition set-up. Laboratory testing was utilized to optimize the scan index/pixel size such that the requirements for wall thinning and pit detection were still maintained. SRS continues to evaluate improvements to ultrasonic equipment.« less

Numerical analysis of melt-solid interface shapes and growth rates of gallium antimonide in a single-zone vertical Bridgman furnace

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dutta, P. S.; Bhat, H. L.; Kumar, Vikram

1995-09-01

Numerical analysis has been carried out to determine the deviation of the growth rate from the ampoule lowering rate and the shape of the isotherms during the growth of gallium antimonide using the vertical Bridgman technique in a single-zone furnace. Electrical analogues have been used to model the thermal behaviour of the growth system. The standard circuit analysis technique has been used to calculate the temperature distribution in the growing crystal under various growth conditions. The effects of furnace temperature gradient near the melt-solid interface, the ampoule lowering rate, the ampoule geometry, the thermal conductivity of the melt, the mode of heat extraction from the tip of the ampoule and the extent of lateral heat loss from the side walls of the ampoule on the shape of isotherms in the crystal have been evaluated. The theoretical results presented here agree well with our previously obtained experimental results.

Positioning for vertical integration through clinics "without walls".

PubMed

Johnson, B A; Schryver, D L

1994-01-01

Authors Bruce A. Johnson, J.D., M.P.A., and Darrell Schryver, D.P.A., offer the clinic without walls model as a transitory step to full vertical integration. They write that this model "may enable physicians to address the key issues associated with managed care and integration in a more gradual, controlled fashion.

Vertically aligned GaAs nanowires on graphite and few-layer graphene: generic model and epitaxial growth.

PubMed

Munshi, A Mazid; Dheeraj, Dasa L; Fauske, Vidar T; Kim, Dong-Chul; van Helvoort, Antonius T J; Fimland, Bjørn-Ove; Weman, Helge

2012-09-12

By utilizing the reduced contact area of nanowires, we show that epitaxial growth of a broad range of semiconductors on graphene can in principle be achieved. A generic atomic model is presented which describes the epitaxial growth configurations applicable to all conventional semiconductor materials. The model is experimentally verified by demonstrating the growth of vertically aligned GaAs nanowires on graphite and few-layer graphene by the self-catalyzed vapor-liquid-solid technique using molecular beam epitaxy. A two-temperature growth strategy was used to increase the nanowire density. Due to the self-catalyzed growth technique used, the nanowires were found to have a regular hexagonal cross-sectional shape, and are uniform in length and diameter. Electron microscopy studies reveal an epitaxial relationship of the grown nanowires with the underlying graphitic substrates. Two relative orientations of the nanowire side-facets were observed, which is well explained by the proposed atomic model. A prototype of a single GaAs nanowire photodetector demonstrates a high-quality material. With GaAs being a model system, as well as a very useful material for various optoelectronic applications, we anticipate this particular GaAs nanowire/graphene hybrid to be promising for flexible and low-cost solar cells.

Initial growth of vertically aligned carbon nanofibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, Hongtao; Yang, Xiaojing; Simpson, Michael L.; Lowndes, Douglas H.; Varela, Maria

2004-05-01

Samples of vertically aligned carbon nanofibers (VACNFs) were viewed transverse to the growth direction and studied using both scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The VACNFs are composed of graphite layers nearly parallel to the substrate at their bottom end, gradually formed graphite "cups" in the main body, and a catalyst particle on the tip. The formation of such structure is due to the corresponding transformation of the shape of the catalyst particle during initial VACNF growth. A model for their initial growth is proposed.

Four-probe charge transport measurements on individual vertically aligned carbon nanofibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Lan; Austin, Derek; Merkulov, Vladimir I.; Meleshko, Anatoli V.; Klein, Kate L.; Guillorn, Michael A.; Lowndes, Douglas H.; Simpson, Michael L.

2004-05-01

We report four-probe I-V measurements on individual vertically aligned carbon nanofibers (VACNFs). These measurements were enabled by the fabrication of multiple Ti/Au ohmic contacts on individual fibers that exhibited resistance of only a few kilohms. These measurements demonstrate that VACNFs exhibit linear I-V behavior at room temperature, with a resistivity of approximately 4.2×10-3 Ω cm. Our measurements are consistent with a dominant transport mechanism of electrons traveling through intergraphitic planes in the VACNFs.

Vertically aligned carbon nanofibers as sacrificial templates for nanofluidic structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melechko, A. V.; McKnight, T. E.; Guillorn, M. A.; Merkulov, V. I.; Ilic, B.; Doktycz, M. J.; Lowndes, D. H.; Simpson, M. L.

2003-02-01

We report a method to fabricate nanoscale pipes ("nanopipes") suitable for fluidic transport. Vertically aligned carbon nanofibers grown by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition are used as sacrificial templates for nanopipes with internal diameters as small as 30 nm and lengths up to several micrometers that are oriented perpendicular to the substrate. This method provides a high level of control over the nanopipe location, number, length, and diameter, permitting them to be deterministically positioned on a substrate and arranged into arrays.

Growth of Vertically Aligned ZnO Nanowire Arrays Using Bilayered Metal Catalysts

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-01

12] J. P. Liu, C. X. Guo, C. M. Li et al., “Carbon-decorated ZnO nanowire array: a novel platform for direct electrochemistry of enzymes and...cited. Vertically aligned, high-density ZnO nanowires (NWs) were grown for the first time on c-plane sapphire using binary alloys of Ni/Au or Cu/Au as...deleterious to the ZnO NW array growth. Significant improvement of the Au adhesion on the substrate was noted, opening the potential for direct

Does trampoline or hard surface jumping influence lower extremity alignment?

PubMed

Akasaka, Kiyokazu; Tamura, Akihiro; Katsuta, Aoi; Sagawa, Ayako; Otsudo, Takahiro; Okubo, Yu; Sawada, Yutaka; Hall, Toby

2017-12-01

[Purpose] To determine whether repetitive trampoline or hard surface jumping affects lower extremity alignment on jump landing. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty healthy females participated in this study. All subjects performed a drop vertical jump before and after repeated maximum effort trampoline or hard surface jumping. A three-dimensional motion analysis system and two force plates were used to record lower extremity angles, moments, and vertical ground reaction force during drop vertical jumps. [Results] Knee extensor moment after trampoline jumping was greater than that after hard surface jumping. There were no significant differences between trials in vertical ground reaction force and lower extremity joint angles following each form of exercise. Repeated jumping on a trampoline increased peak vertical ground reaction force, hip extensor, knee extensor moments, and hip adduction angle, while decreasing hip flexion angle during drop vertical jumps. In contrast, repeated jumping on a hard surface increased peak vertical ground reaction force, ankle dorsiflexion angle, and hip extensor moment during drop vertical jumps. [Conclusion] Repeated jumping on the trampoline compared to jumping on a hard surface has different effects on lower limb kinetics and kinematics. Knowledge of these effects may be useful in designing exercise programs for different clinical presentations.

Does trampoline or hard surface jumping influence lower extremity alignment?

PubMed Central

Akasaka, Kiyokazu; Tamura, Akihiro; Katsuta, Aoi; Sagawa, Ayako; Otsudo, Takahiro; Okubo, Yu; Sawada, Yutaka; Hall, Toby

2017-01-01

[Purpose] To determine whether repetitive trampoline or hard surface jumping affects lower extremity alignment on jump landing. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty healthy females participated in this study. All subjects performed a drop vertical jump before and after repeated maximum effort trampoline or hard surface jumping. A three-dimensional motion analysis system and two force plates were used to record lower extremity angles, moments, and vertical ground reaction force during drop vertical jumps. [Results] Knee extensor moment after trampoline jumping was greater than that after hard surface jumping. There were no significant differences between trials in vertical ground reaction force and lower extremity joint angles following each form of exercise. Repeated jumping on a trampoline increased peak vertical ground reaction force, hip extensor, knee extensor moments, and hip adduction angle, while decreasing hip flexion angle during drop vertical jumps. In contrast, repeated jumping on a hard surface increased peak vertical ground reaction force, ankle dorsiflexion angle, and hip extensor moment during drop vertical jumps. [Conclusion] Repeated jumping on the trampoline compared to jumping on a hard surface has different effects on lower limb kinetics and kinematics. Knowledge of these effects may be useful in designing exercise programs for different clinical presentations. PMID:29643592

Micro-miniature gas chromatograph column disposed in silicon wafers

DOEpatents

Yu, Conrad M.

2000-01-01

A micro-miniature gas chromatograph column is fabricated by forming matching halves of a circular cross-section spiral microcapillary in two silicon wafers and then bonding the two wafers together using visual or physical alignment methods. Heating wires are deposited on the outside surfaces of each wafer in a spiral or serpentine pattern large enough in area to cover the whole microcapillary area inside the joined wafers. The visual alignment method includes etching through an alignment window in one wafer and a precision-matching alignment target in the other wafer. The two wafers are then bonded together using the window and target. The physical alignment methods include etching through vertical alignment holes in both wafers and then using pins or posts through corresponding vertical alignment holes to force precision alignment during bonding. The pins or posts may be withdrawn after curing of the bond. Once the wafers are bonded together, a solid phase of very pure silicone is injected in a solution of very pure chloroform into one end of the microcapillary. The chloroform lowers the viscosity of the silicone enough that a high pressure hypodermic needle with a thumbscrew plunger can force the solution into the whole length of the spiral microcapillary. The chloroform is then evaporated out slowly to leave the silicone behind in a deposit.

Two opposed lateral jets injected into swirling crossflow

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lilley, D. G.; Mcmurry, C. B.; Ong, L. H.

1987-01-01

Experiments have been conducted to obtain the time-mean and turbulent quantities of opposed lateral jets in a low speed, nonreacting flowfield. A jet-to-crossflow velocity ratio of R = 4 was used throughout the experiments, with swirl vane angles of 0 (swirler removed), 45 and 70 degrees used with the crossflow. Flow visualization techniques used were neutrally-buoyant helium-filled soap bubbles and multispark photography in order to obtain the gross flowfield characteristics. Measurements of time-mean and turbulent quantities were obtained utilizing a six-orientation single hot-wire technique. For the nonswirling case, the jets were found not to penetrate past the test-section centerline, in contrast to the single lateral jet with the same jet-to-crossflow velocity ratio. In the swirling cases, the crossflow remains in a narrow region near the wall of the test section. The opposed jets are swept from their vertical courses into spiral trajectories close to the confining walls. Extensive results are presented in r-x plane plots.

Research status and future trends on surface pre-grouting technology in reforming wall rock of vertical shafts in coal mines in China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Hua

2018-02-01

In the mine construction, the surface pre-grouting technology is an important method to prevent water blast in excavation process of vertical shaft when the shaft must pass through the thick, water-rich and high water-pressure bedrock aquifer. It has been nearly 60 years since the technology was used to reform wall rock of vertical shaft in coal mine in China for the first time, and the existing technology can basically meet the needs of constructing 1000m deep vertical shaft. Firstly, the article introduces that in view of Magg’s spherical seepage theory and Karol’s spherical seepage theory, Chinese scholars found that the diffusion of grout from borehole into the surrounding strata in horizontal direction is irregular through a lot of research and engineering practice of using the surface pre-grouting technology to reform wall rock of vertical shafts, and put forward the selecting principles of grout’s effective diffusion radius in one grouting engineering; Secondly, according to the shape of the grouting boreholes, surface pre-grouting technology of vertical shaft is divided into two stages: vertical borehole stage and S-type borehole stage. Thirdly, the development status of grouting materials and grouting equipment for the technology is introduced. Fourthly, grouting mode, stage height and pressure of the technology are introduced. Finally, it points out that with the increasing depth of coal mining in China, the technology of reforming wall rock of 1000~2000m deep vertical shafts will face many problems, such as grouting theory, grouting equipment, grouting finishing standard, testing and evaluation of grouting effect, and so on. And it put forward a preliminary approach to solving these problems. This paper points out future research directions of the surface pre-grouting technology in China.

Experimental study on bubble dynamics and wall heat transfer arising from a single nucleation site at subcooled flow boiling conditions – Part 2: Data analysis on sliding bubble characteristics and associated wall heat transfer

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

Yooa, Junsoo; Estrada-Perez, Carlos E.; Hassan, Yassin A.

In this second of two companion papers presents an analysis of sliding bubble and wall heat transfer parameters measured during subcooled boiling in a square, vertical, upward flow channel. Bubbles were generated only from a single nucleation site for better observation of both the sliding bubbles’ characteristics and their impact on wall heat transfer through optical measurement techniques. Specific interests include: (i) bubbles departure and subsequent growth while sliding, (ii) bubbles release frequency, (iii) coalescence of sliding bubbles, (iv) sliding bubbles velocity, (v) bubbles size distribution and (vi) wall heat transfer influenced by sliding bubbles. Our results showed that slidingmore » bubbles involve two distinct growth behaviors: (i) at low mass fluxes, sliding bubbles grew fast near the nucleation site, subsequently shrank, and then grew again, (ii) as mass flux increased, however, sliding bubbles grew more steadily. The bubbles originating from the single nucleation site coalesced frequently while sliding, which showed close relation with bubbles release frequency. The sliding bubble velocity near the nucleation site consistently decreased by increasing mass flux, while the observation often became reversed as the bubbles slid downstream due to the effect of interfacial drag. The sliding bubbles moved faster than the local liquid (i.e., ur<0) at low mass flux conditions, but it became reversed as the mass flux increased. The size distribution of sliding bubbles followed Gaussian distribution well both near and far from the nucleation site. The standard deviation of bubble size varied insignificantly through sliding compared to the changes in mean bubble size. Lastly, the sliding bubbles enhanced the wall heat transfer and the effect became more noticeable as inlet subcooling/mass flux decreased or wall heat flux increased. Particularly, the sliding bubble characteristics such as bubble growth behavior observed near the nucleation site played a dominant role in determining the ultimate level of wall heat transfer enhancement within the test channel.« less

Experimental study on bubble dynamics and wall heat transfer arising from a single nucleation site at subcooled flow boiling conditions – Part 2: Data analysis on sliding bubble characteristics and associated wall heat transfer

DOE PAGES

Yooa, Junsoo; Estrada-Perez, Carlos E.; Hassan, Yassin A.

2016-04-28

In this second of two companion papers presents an analysis of sliding bubble and wall heat transfer parameters measured during subcooled boiling in a square, vertical, upward flow channel. Bubbles were generated only from a single nucleation site for better observation of both the sliding bubbles’ characteristics and their impact on wall heat transfer through optical measurement techniques. Specific interests include: (i) bubbles departure and subsequent growth while sliding, (ii) bubbles release frequency, (iii) coalescence of sliding bubbles, (iv) sliding bubbles velocity, (v) bubbles size distribution and (vi) wall heat transfer influenced by sliding bubbles. Our results showed that slidingmore » bubbles involve two distinct growth behaviors: (i) at low mass fluxes, sliding bubbles grew fast near the nucleation site, subsequently shrank, and then grew again, (ii) as mass flux increased, however, sliding bubbles grew more steadily. The bubbles originating from the single nucleation site coalesced frequently while sliding, which showed close relation with bubbles release frequency. The sliding bubble velocity near the nucleation site consistently decreased by increasing mass flux, while the observation often became reversed as the bubbles slid downstream due to the effect of interfacial drag. The sliding bubbles moved faster than the local liquid (i.e., ur<0) at low mass flux conditions, but it became reversed as the mass flux increased. The size distribution of sliding bubbles followed Gaussian distribution well both near and far from the nucleation site. The standard deviation of bubble size varied insignificantly through sliding compared to the changes in mean bubble size. Lastly, the sliding bubbles enhanced the wall heat transfer and the effect became more noticeable as inlet subcooling/mass flux decreased or wall heat flux increased. Particularly, the sliding bubble characteristics such as bubble growth behavior observed near the nucleation site played a dominant role in determining the ultimate level of wall heat transfer enhancement within the test channel.« less

Electronic platform for real-time multi-parametric analysis of cellular behavior post-exposure to single-walled carbon nanotubes

PubMed Central

Eldawud, Reem; Wagner, Alixandra; Dong, Chenbo; Rojansakul, Yon; Dinu, Cerasela Zoica

2016-01-01

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) implementation in a variety of biomedical applications from bioimaging, to controlled drug delivery and cellular-directed alignment for muscle myofiber fabrication, has raised awareness of their potential toxicity. Nanotubes structural aspects which resemble asbestos, as well as their ability to induce cyto and genotoxicity upon interaction with biological systems by generating reactive oxygen species or inducing membrane damage, just to name a few, have led to focused efforts aimed to assess associated risks prior their user implementation. In this study, we employed a non-invasive and real-time electric cell impedance sensing (ECIS) platform to monitor behavior of lung epithelial cells upon exposure to a library of SWCNTs with user-defined physicochemical properties. Using the natural sensitivity of the cells, we evaluated SWCNT-induced cellular changes in relation to cell attachment, cell–cell interactions and cell viability respectively. Our methods have the potential to lead to the development of standardized assays for risk assessment of other nanomaterials as well as risk differentiation based on the nanomaterials surface chemistry, purity and agglomeration state. PMID:25913448

Flow Kills Conductivity of Single Wall Carbon Nanotubes (SWNT) Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhatt, Sanjiv; Macosko, Christopher

2006-03-01

Most composites of polymer and single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNT) reported in the literature are made by solvent casting or simple compression molding. Commercial utility of these composites requires use of precision injection molding. We have observed a unique behavior wherein the SWNT composites made by injection molding or by extrusion are insulators but upon heating become electrically conductive. This behavior appears to be the result of a relaxation phenomenon in the SWNT composite. During flow into an injection mold or through an extrusion die the well-dispersed SWNT in the polymer matrix tend to align such that they are not in contact with each other and are farther than the minimum required distance, 5 nm (1), to achieve electrical percolation through electron hopping. Upon heating the SWNT relax and either touch each other or are at a distance less than or equal to 5 nm from each other to create a percolating. [1] Du, F., Scogna, R, C., Zhou, W., Brand, Stijn, Fischer, J. E., and Winey, K. I., Macromolecules 2004, 37, 9048-9055.

Vertically Aligned and Continuous Nanoscale Ceramic-Polymer Interfaces in Composite Solid Polymer Electrolytes for Enhanced Ionic Conductivity.

PubMed

Zhang, Xiaokun; Xie, Jin; Shi, Feifei; Lin, Dingchang; Liu, Yayuan; Liu, Wei; Pei, Allen; Gong, Yongji; Wang, Hongxia; Liu, Kai; Xiang, Yong; Cui, Yi

2018-06-13

Among all solid electrolytes, composite solid polymer electrolytes, comprised of polymer matrix and ceramic fillers, garner great interest due to the enhancement of ionic conductivity and mechanical properties derived from ceramic-polymer interactions. Here, we report a composite electrolyte with densely packed, vertically aligned, and continuous nanoscale ceramic-polymer interfaces, using surface-modified anodized aluminum oxide as the ceramic scaffold and poly(ethylene oxide) as the polymer matrix. The fast Li + transport along the ceramic-polymer interfaces was proven experimentally for the first time, and an interfacial ionic conductivity higher than 10 -3 S/cm at 0 °C was predicted. The presented composite solid electrolyte achieved an ionic conductivity as high as 5.82 × 10 -4 S/cm at the electrode level. The vertically aligned interfacial structure in the composite electrolytes enables the viable application of the composite solid electrolyte with superior ionic conductivity and high hardness, allowing Li-Li cells to be cycled at a small polarization without Li dendrite penetration.

Fabrication of Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotube or Zinc Oxide Nanorod Arrays for Optical Diffraction Gratings.

PubMed

Kim, Jeong; Kim, Sun Il; Cho, Seong-Ho; Hwang, Sungwoo; Lee, Young Hee; Hur, Jaehyun

2015-11-01

We report on new fabrication methods for a transparent, hierarchical, and patterned electrode comprised of either carbon nanotubes or zinc oxide nanorods. Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes or zinc oxide nanorod arrays were fabricated by either chemical vapor deposition or hydrothermal growth, in combination with photolithography. A transparent conductive graphene layer or zinc oxide seed layer was employed as the transparent electrode. On the patterned surface defined using photoresist, the vertically grown carbon nanotubes or zinc oxides could produce a concentrated electric field under applied DC voltage. This periodic electric field was used to align liquid crystal molecules in localized areas within the optical cell, effectively modulating the refractive index. Depending on the material and morphology of these patterned electrodes, the diffraction efficiency presented different behavior. From this study, we established the relationship between the hierarchical structure of the different electrodes and their efficiency for modulating the refractive index. We believe that this study will pave a new path for future optoelectronic applications.

Vertically aligned N-doped CNTs growth using Taguchi experimental design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Silva, Ricardo M.; Fernandes, António J. S.; Ferro, Marta C.; Pinna, Nicola; Silva, Rui F.

2015-07-01

The Taguchi method with a parameter design L9 orthogonal array was implemented for optimizing the nitrogen incorporation in the structure of vertically aligned N-doped CNTs grown by thermal chemical deposition (TCVD). The maximization of the ID/IG ratio of the Raman spectra was selected as the target value. As a result, the optimal deposition configuration was NH3 = 90 sccm, growth temperature = 825 °C and catalyst pretreatment time of 2 min, the first parameter having the main effect on nitrogen incorporation. A confirmation experiment with these values was performed, ratifying the predicted ID/IG ratio of 1.42. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) characterization revealed a uniform completely vertically aligned array of multiwalled CNTs which individually exhibit a bamboo-like structure, consisting of periodically curved graphitic layers, as depicted by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results indicated a 2.00 at.% of N incorporation in the CNTs in pyridine-like and graphite-like, as the predominant species.

Functionalization of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Van Hooijdonk, Eloise; Bittencourt, Carla; Snyders, Rony; Colomer, Jean-François

2013-01-01

This review focuses and summarizes recent studies on the functionalization of carbon nanotubes oriented perpendicularly to their substrate, so-called vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VA-CNTs). The intrinsic properties of individual nanotubes make the VA-CNTs ideal candidates for integration in a wide range of devices, and many potential applications have been envisaged. These applications can benefit from the unidirectional alignment of the nanotubes, the large surface area, the high carbon purity, the outstanding electrical conductivity, and the uniformly long length. However, practical uses of VA-CNTs are limited by their surface characteristics, which must be often modified in order to meet the specificity of each particular application. The proposed approaches are based on the chemical modifications of the surface by functionalization (grafting of functional chemical groups, decoration with metal particles or wrapping of polymers) to bring new properties or to improve the interactions between the VA-CNTs and their environment while maintaining the alignment of CNTs.

Functionalization of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes

PubMed Central

Snyders, Rony; Colomer, Jean-François

2013-01-01

Summary This review focuses and summarizes recent studies on the functionalization of carbon nanotubes oriented perpendicularly to their substrate, so-called vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VA-CNTs). The intrinsic properties of individual nanotubes make the VA-CNTs ideal candidates for integration in a wide range of devices, and many potential applications have been envisaged. These applications can benefit from the unidirectional alignment of the nanotubes, the large surface area, the high carbon purity, the outstanding electrical conductivity, and the uniformly long length. However, practical uses of VA-CNTs are limited by their surface characteristics, which must be often modified in order to meet the specificity of each particular application. The proposed approaches are based on the chemical modifications of the surface by functionalization (grafting of functional chemical groups, decoration with metal particles or wrapping of polymers) to bring new properties or to improve the interactions between the VA-CNTs and their environment while maintaining the alignment of CNTs. PMID:23504581

Suspended Carbon Nanotubes for Humidity Sensing

PubMed Central

Arunachalam, Shivaram; Gupta, Anubha A.; Izquierdo, Ricardo

2018-01-01

A room temperature microfabrication technique using SU8, an epoxy-based highly functional photoresist as a sacrificial layer, is developed to obtain suspended aligned carbon nanotube beams. The humidity-sensing characteristics of aligned suspended single-walled carbon nanotube films are studied. A comparative study between suspended and non-suspended architectures is done by recording the resistance change in the nanotubes under humidity. For the tests, the humidity was varied from 15% to 98% RH. A comparative study between suspended and non-suspended devices shows that the response and recovery times of the suspended devices was found to be almost 3 times shorter than the non-suspended devices. The suspended devices also showed minimal hysteresis even after 10 humidity cycles, and also exhibit enhanced sensitivity. Repeatability tests were performed by subjecting the sensors to continuous humidification cycles. All tests reported here have been performed using pristine non-functionalized nanotubes. PMID:29786661

Suspended Carbon Nanotubes for Humidity Sensing.

PubMed

Arunachalam, Shivaram; Gupta, Anubha A; Izquierdo, Ricardo; Nabki, Frederic

2018-05-22

A room temperature microfabrication technique using SU8, an epoxy-based highly functional photoresist as a sacrificial layer, is developed to obtain suspended aligned carbon nanotube beams. The humidity-sensing characteristics of aligned suspended single-walled carbon nanotube films are studied. A comparative study between suspended and non-suspended architectures is done by recording the resistance change in the nanotubes under humidity. For the tests, the humidity was varied from 15% to 98% RH. A comparative study between suspended and non-suspended devices shows that the response and recovery times of the suspended devices was found to be almost 3 times shorter than the non-suspended devices. The suspended devices also showed minimal hysteresis even after 10 humidity cycles, and also exhibit enhanced sensitivity. Repeatability tests were performed by subjecting the sensors to continuous humidification cycles. All tests reported here have been performed using pristine non-functionalized nanotubes.

Effects of Nanowire Length and Surface Roughness on the Electrochemical Sensor Properties of Nafion-Free, Vertically Aligned Pt Nanowire Array Electrodes

PubMed Central

Li, Zhiyang; Leung, Calvin; Gao, Fan; Gu, Zhiyong

2015-01-01

In this paper, vertically aligned Pt nanowire arrays (PtNWA) with different lengths and surface roughnesses were fabricated and their electrochemical performance toward hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) detection was studied. The nanowire arrays were synthesized by electroplating Pt in nanopores of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template. Different parameters, such as current density and deposition time, were precisely controlled to synthesize nanowires with different surface roughnesses and various lengths from 3 μm to 12 μm. The PtNWA electrodes showed better performance than the conventional electrodes modified by Pt nanowires randomly dispersed on the electrode surface. The results indicate that both the length and surface roughness can affect the sensing performance of vertically aligned Pt nanowire array electrodes. Generally, longer nanowires with rougher surfaces showed better electrochemical sensing performance. The 12 μm rough surface PtNWA presented the largest sensitivity (654 μA·mM−1·cm−2) among all the nanowires studied, and showed a limit of detection of 2.4 μM. The 12 μm rough surface PtNWA electrode also showed good anti-interference property from chemicals that are typically present in the biological samples such as ascorbic, uric acid, citric acid, and glucose. The sensing performance in real samples (river water) was tested and good recovery was observed. These Nafion-free, vertically aligned Pt nanowires with surface roughness control show great promise as versatile electrochemical sensors and biosensors. PMID:26404303

Enhanced antibacterial activity through the controlled alignment of graphene oxide nanosheets.

PubMed

Lu, Xinglin; Feng, Xunda; Werber, Jay R; Chu, Chiheng; Zucker, Ines; Kim, Jae-Hong; Osuji, Chinedum O; Elimelech, Menachem

2017-11-14

The cytotoxicity of 2D graphene-based nanomaterials (GBNs) is highly important for engineered applications and environmental health. However, the isotropic orientation of GBNs, most notably graphene oxide (GO), in previous experimental studies obscured the interpretation of cytotoxic contributions of nanosheet edges. Here, we investigate the orientation-dependent interaction of GBNs with bacteria using GO composite films. To produce the films, GO nanosheets are aligned in a magnetic field, immobilized by cross-linking of the surrounding matrix, and exposed on the surface through oxidative etching. Characterization by small-angle X-ray scattering and atomic force microscopy confirms that GO nanosheets align progressively well with increasing magnetic field strength and that the alignment is effectively preserved by cross-linking. When contacted with the model bacterium Escherichia coli , GO nanosheets with vertical orientation exhibit enhanced antibacterial activity compared with random and horizontal orientations. Further characterization is performed to explain the enhanced antibacterial activity of the film with vertically aligned GO. Using phospholipid vesicles as a model system, we observe that GO nanosheets induce physical disruption of the lipid bilayer. Additionally, we find substantial GO-induced oxidation of glutathione, a model intracellular antioxidant, paired with limited generation of reactive oxygen species, suggesting that oxidation occurs through a direct electron-transfer mechanism. These physical and chemical mechanisms both require nanosheet penetration of the cell membrane, suggesting that the enhanced antibacterial activity of the film with vertically aligned GO stems from an increased density of edges with a preferential orientation for membrane disruption. The importance of nanosheet penetration for cytotoxicity has direct implications for the design of engineering surfaces using GBNs.

Circumferential fit assessment of CAD/CAM single crowns--a pilot investigation on a new virtual analytical protocol.

PubMed

Matta, Ragai E; Schmitt, Johannes; Wichmann, Manfred; Holst, Stefan

2012-10-01

Techniques currently applied to determine the marginal accuracy of dental crown restorations yield inadequate information. This investigation aimed to test a new virtual approach for determining the precision of fit of single-crown copings. Zirconia single crown copings were manufactured on 10 gypsum, single-tooth master casts with two different established computer-aided design/computer-assisted manufacture (CAD/CAM) systems (groups A and B). After cementation, the circumferential fit was assessed with an industrial noncontact scanner and virtual 3D analysis, following a triple-scan protocol. Marginal fit was determined by virtual sectioning; each abutment-coping complex was digitally sliced in 360 vertical sections (1 degree per section). Standardized measurement distances for analyzing the marginal fit (z, xy, xyz) were selected, and a crosshair alignment was utilized to determine whether crowns were horizontally and/or vertically too large or small. The Mann-Whitney test was applied to test for differences between groups. Significant differences in the xy direction (P = .008) were measured between groups. Group A showed a greater number of horizontally overextended margins and a higher frequency of xy distances greater than 150 Μm, in addition to a tendency for excessive z distances (P = .095). The mean marginal gap values were clinically acceptable in the present investigation; however, a full circumferential analysis revealed significant differences in marginal coping quality.

49 CFR 572.43 - Lumbar spine and pelvis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... vertical plane which is tangent to the back of the dummy's buttocks. (3) Align the test probe so that at... vertical planes perpendicular to the midsagittal plane passing through the designated impact point. (4) Adjust the dummy so that its midsagittal plane is vertical and the rear surfaces of the thorax and...

High Current Emission from Patterned Aligned Carbon Nanotubes Fabricated by Plasma-Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, Linfan; Chen, Jiangtao; Yang, Bingjun; Jiao, Tifeng

2015-12-01

Vertically, carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays were successfully fabricated on hexagon patterned Si substrates through radio frequency plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition using gas mixtures of acetylene (C2H2) and hydrogen (H2) with Fe/Al2O3 catalysts. The CNTs were found to be graphitized with multi-walled structures. Different H2/C2H2 gas flow rate ratio was used to investigate the effect on CNT growth, and the field emission properties were optimized. The CNT emitters exhibited excellent field emission performance (the turn-on and threshold fields were 2.1 and 2.4 V/μm, respectively). The largest emission current could reach 70 mA/cm2. The emission current was stable, and no obvious deterioration was observed during the long-term stability test of 50 h. The results were relevant for practical applications based on CNTs.

Nuclear component horizontal seismic restraint

DOEpatents

Snyder, Glenn J.

1988-01-01

A nuclear component horizontal seismic restraint. Small gaps limit horizontal displacement of components during a seismic occurrence and therefore reduce dynamic loadings on the free lower end. The reactor vessel and reactor guard vessel use thicker section roll-forged rings welded between the vessel straight shell sections and the bottom hemispherical head sections. The inside of the reactor guard vessel ring forging contains local vertical dovetail slots and upper ledge pockets to mount and retain field fitted and installed blocks. As an option, the horizontal displacement of the reactor vessel core support cone can be limited by including shop fitted/installed local blocks in opposing alignment with the reactor vessel forged ring. Beams embedded in the wall of the reactor building protrude into apertures in the thermal insulation shell adjacent the reactor guard vessel ring and have motion limit blocks attached thereto to provide to a predetermined clearance between the blocks and reactor guard vessel ring.

Hierarchical composites of sulfonated graphene-supported vertically aligned polyaniline nanorods for high-performance supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Biao; Zhou, Xiao; Bao, Hua; Li, Xingwei; Wang, Gengchao

2012-10-01

Hierarchical composites of sulfonated graphene-supported vertically aligned polyaniline nanorods (sGNS/PANI) are successfully synthesized via interfacial polymerization of aniline monomers in the presence of sulfonated graphene nanosheets (sGNS). The FE-SEM images indicate that the morphologies of sGNS/PANI composites can be controlled by adjusting the concentration of aniline monomers. FTIR and Raman spectra reveal that aligned PANI nanorod arrays for sGNS/PANI exhibit higher degree of conjugation compared with pristine PANI nanorods. The hierarchical composite based on the two-electrode cell possesses higher specific capacitance (497 F g-1 at 0.2 A g-1), better rate capability and cycling stability (5.7% capacitance loss after 2000 cycles) than those of pristine PANI nanorods.

Effect of using guide walls and piers with different geometries on the flow at entrance of a spillway

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jahani, Matin; Sarkardeh, Hamed; Jabbari, Ebrahim

2018-03-01

In the present paper, the effect of guide wall and pier geometry on the flow pattern of a dam spillway was studied. Different scenarios were numerically simulated to optimize the geometry of the guide walls and piers of the spillway in different hydraulic conditions. The RNG and VOF models were used for turbulence and free surface simulations, respectively. Numerical results were validated with experimental data and good agreement was found with an average relative deviation of less than 10%. Results showed that the vertical inclination of the guide wall and pier was the main affecting factor in the approach flow condition through the spillway. A 44% increase in the vertical inclination of the guide wall resulted in a 43% reduction of the turbulence factor and in a 13% increment of the discharge coefficient of the spillway. By increasing the vertical inclination of the piers of the spillway by 28%, the flow behaviour becomes more uniform and the discharge coefficient increases by as much as 11%. Moreover, the results indicate that increasing the straight length of the guide wall leads to a reduction of the depth-averaged velocity and of the turbulence energy in the approach channel.

Two-dimensional vanadium-doped ZnO nanosheet-based flexible direct current nanogenerator.

PubMed

Gupta, Manoj Kumar; Lee, Ju-Hyuck; Lee, Keun Young; Kim, Sang-Woo

2013-10-22

Here, we report the synthesis of lead-free single-crystalline two-dimensional (2D) vanadium(V)-doped ZnO nanosheets (NSs) and their application for high-performance flexible direct current (DC) power piezoelectric nanogenerators (NGs). The vertically aligned ZnO nanorods (NRs) converted to NS networks by V doping. Piezoresponse force microscopy studies reveal that vertical V-doped ZnO NS exhibit typical ferroelectricity with clear phase loops, butterfly, and well-defined hysteresis loops with a piezoelectric charge coefficient of up to 4 pm/V, even in 2D nanostructures. From pristine ZnO NR-based NGs, alternating current (AC)-type output current was observed, while from V-doped ZnO NS-based NGs, a DC-type output current density of up to 1.0 μAcm(-2) was surprisingly obtained under the same vertical compressive force. The growth mechanism, ferroelectric behavior, charge inverted phenomena, and high piezoelectric output performance observed from the V-doped ZnO NS are discussed in terms of the formation of an ionic layer of [V(OH)4(-)], permanent electric dipole, and the doping-induced resistive behavior of ZnO NS.

Onion epidermis as a new model to study the control of growth anisotropy in higher plants.

PubMed

Suslov, Dmitry; Verbelen, Jean-Pierre; Vissenberg, Kris

2009-01-01

To elucidate the role of cellulose microfibrils in the control of growth anisotropy, a link between their net orientation, in vitro cell wall extensibility, and anisotropic cell expansion was studied during development of the adaxial epidermis of onion (Allium cepa) bulb scales using polarization confocal microscopy, creep tests, and light microscopy. During growth the net cellulose alignment across the whole thickness of the outer epidermal wall changed from transverse through random to longitudinal and back to transverse relative to the bulb axis. Cell wall extension in vitro was always higher transverse than parallel to the net cellulose alignment. The direction of growth anisotropy was perpendicular to the net microfibril orientation and changed during development from longitudinal to transverse to the bulb axis. The correlation between the degree of growth anisotropy and the net cellulose alignment was poor. Thus the net cellulose microfibril orientation across the whole thickness of the outer periclinal epidermis wall defines the direction but not the degree of growth anisotropy. Strips isolated from the epidermis in the directions perpendicular and transverse to a net cellulose orientation can be used as an extensiometric model to prove a protein involvement in the control of growth anisotropy.

Tool post modification allows easy turret lathe cutting-tool alignment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fouts, L.

1966-01-01

Modified tool holder and tool post permit alignment of turret lathe cutting tools on the center of the spindle. The tool is aligned with the spindle by the holder which is kept in position by a hydraulic lock in feature of the tool post. The tool post is used on horizontal and vertical turret lathes and other engine lathes.

Structure of diffusion flames from a vertical burner

Treesearch

Mark A. Finney; Dan Jimenez; Jack D. Cohen; Isaac C. Grenfell; Cyle Wold

2010-01-01

Non-steady and turbulent flames are commonly observed to produce flame contacts with adjacent fuels during fire spread in a wide range of fuel bed depths. A stationary gas-fired burner (flame wall) was developed to begin study of flame edge variability along an analagous vertical fuel source. This flame wall is surrogate for a combustion interface at the edge of a deep...

Modeling, Fabrication, and Analysis of Vertical Conduction Gallium Nitride Fin MOSFET

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tahhan, Maher Bishara

Gallium Nitride has seen much interest in the field of electronics due to its large bandgap and high mobility. In the field of power electronics, this combination leads to a low on-resistance for a given breakdown voltage. To take full advantage of this, vertical conduction transistors in GaN can give high breakdown voltages independent of chip area, leading to transistors with nominally low on resistance with high breakdown at a low cost. Acknowledging this, a vertical transistor design is presented with a small footprint area. This design utilizes a fin structure as a double gated insulated MESFET with electrons flowing from the top of the fin downward. The transistor's characteristics and design is initially explored via simulation and modelling. In this modelling, it is found that the narrow dimension of the fin must be sub-micron to allow for the device to be turned off with no leakage current and have a positive threshold voltage. Several process modules are developed and integrated to fabricate the device. A smooth vertical etch leaving low damage to the surfaces is demonstrated and characterized, preventing micromasking during the GaN dry etch. Methods of removing damage from the dry etch are tested, including regrowth and wet etching. Several hard masks were developed to be used in conjunction with this GaN etch for various requirements of the process, such as material constraints and self-aligning a metal contact. Multiple techniques are tested to deposit and pattern the gate oxide and metal to ensure good contact with the channel without causing unwanted shorts. To achieve small fin dimensions, a self-aligned transistor process flow is presented allowing for smaller critical dimensions at increased fabrication tolerances by avoiding the use of lithographic steps that require alignments to very high accuracy. In the case of the device design presented, the fins are lithographically defined at the limit of i-line stepper system. From this single lithography, the sources are formed, fins are etched, and the gate insulator and metal are deposited. The first functional fabricated devices are presented, but exhibit a few differences from the model. A threshold voltage of -6 V, was measured, with an ID of 5 kA/cm2 at 3 V, and Ron of 0.6 mO/cm 2. The current is limited by the Schottky nature of the top contacts and show a turn-on voltage as a result. These measurements are comparable to recently published GaN fin MOSFET data, whose devices were defined by e-beam lithography. This dissertation work sought to show that a vertical conduction fin MOSFET can be fabricated on GaN. Furthermore, it aimed to provide a self-aligned process that does not require e-beam lithography. With further development, such devices can be designed to hold large voltages while maintaining a small footprint.

Horizontal EDNA miner

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

Justice, J.C.; Delli-Gatti, F.A.

1985-12-03

A mining machine is utilized for making original generally horizontal bores in coal seams, and for enlarging preexisting bores. A single cutting head is mounted for rotation about a first horizontal axis generally perpendicular to the dimension of elongation of the horizontal bore, and is pivotal about a second horizontal axis, parallel to the first axis, to change its cutting, vertical position within the bore. A non-rotatable body member, with side wall supports, is mounted posteriorly of the cutting head, and includes a conveyor mechanism and a power mechanism operatively connected to it. The machine can be sumped into amore » bore and then the cutting head rotated about the second axis to change the vertical position thereof, and then moved rearwardly, any cut material being continuously conveyed to the bore mouth by the conveyor mechanism. The amount of vertical movement during the pivoting action about the second axis is controlled in response to the automatic sensing of the thickness of the coal seam in which the machine operates.« less

Mathematical modelling of anisotropy of illite-rich shale

USGS Publications Warehouse

Chesnokov, E.M.; Tiwary, D.K.; Bayuk, I.O.; Sparkman, M.A.; Brown, R.L.

2009-01-01

The estimation of illite-rich shale anisotropy to account for the alignment of clays and gas- or brine-filled cracks is presented via mathematical modelling. Such estimation requires analysis to interpret the dominance of one effect over another. This knowledge can help to evaluate the permeability in the unconventional reservoir, stress orientation, and the seal capacity for the conventional reservoir. Effective media modelling is used to predict the elastic properties of the illite-rich shale and to identify the dominant contributions to the shale anisotropy. We consider two principal reasons of the shale anisotropy: orientation of clay platelets and orientation of fluid-filled cracks. In reality, both of these two factors affect the shale anisotropy. The goal of this study is, first, to separately analyse the effect of these two factors to reveal the specific features in P- and S-wave velocity behaviour typical of each of the factors, and, then, consider a combined effect of the factors when the cracks are horizontally or vertically aligned. To do this, we construct four models of shale. The behaviour of P- and S-wave velocities is analysed when gas- and water-filled cracks embedded in a host matrix are randomly oriented, or horizontally or vertically aligned. The host matrix can be either isotropic or anisotropic (of VTI symmetry). In such a modelling, we use published data on mineralogy and clay platelet alignment along with other micromechanical measurements. In the model, where the host matrix is isotropic, the presence of a singularity point (when the difference VS1 - VS2 changes its sign) in shear wave velocities is an indicator of brine-filled aligned cracks. In the model with the VTI host matrix and horizontally aligned cracks filled with gas, an increase in their volume concentration leads to that the azimuth at which the singularity is observed moves toward the symmetry axis. In this case, if the clay content is small (around 20 per cent), the singularity point may even vanish. The Thomsen parameters are helpful in fluid type indication in shale. An indicator of gas-filled aligned cracks is ?? > ??. If aligned cracks in illite-rich shale are brine-filled, ?? < ??. Negative value of ?? indicates brine-filled cracks in illite-rich shale. A shale with brine-filled cracks exhibits higher Vp/Vs ratio in the vertical direction as compared to the gas-filled shale. A disorientation of clay platelets and brine-filled cracks may lead to that the singularity point is absent for brine-saturated shale as well. In this case one can also observe ?? > ?? and decreased values of Vp/Vs in the vertical direction as in the case of gas-filled cracks. In the presence of vertically aligned cracks, shales exhibit distinctly revealed features of orthorhombic symmetry. The results have important applications where seismic measurements are applied to predict the maturity state of the shale. ?? 2009 The Authors Journal compilation ?? 2009 RAS.

49 CFR 581.7 - Test procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... is vertical and the impact line is horizontal at the specified height. (3) For impacts at a height... Figure 1 so that Plane A is vertical and the impact line is horizontal at the specified height. (3) For... that Plane A is vertical and the impact line is horizontal at a height within the range. (4) Align the...

Benchmark study of ionization potentials and electron affinities of armchair single-walled carbon nanotubes using density functional theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Bin; Hu, Zhubin; Jiang, Yanrong; He, Xiao; Sun, Zhenrong; Sun, Haitao

2018-05-01

The intrinsic parameters of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) such as ionization potential (IP) and electron affinity (EA) are closely related to their unique properties and associated applications. In this work, we demonstrated the success of optimal tuning method based on range-separated (RS) density functionals for both accurate and efficient prediction of vertical IPs and electron affinities (EAs) of a series of armchair single-walled carbon nanotubes C20n H20 (n  =  2–6) compared to the high-level IP/EA equation-of-motion coupled-cluster method with single and double substitutions (IP/EA-EOM-CCSD). Notably, the resulting frontier orbital energies (–ε HOMO and –ε LUMO) from the tuning method exhibit an excellent approximation to the corresponding IPs and EAs, that significantly outperform other conventional density functionals. In addition, it is suggested that the RS density functionals that possess both a fixed amount of exact exchange in the short-range and a correct long-range asymptotic behavior are suitable for calculating electronic structures of finite-sized CNTs. Next the performance of density functionals for description of various molecular properties such as chemical potential, hardness and electrophilicity are assessed as a function of tube length. Thanks to the efficiency and accuracy of this tuning method, the related behaviors of much longer armchair single-walled CNTs until C200H20 were studied. Lastly, the present work is proved to provide an efficient theoretical tool for future materials design and reliable characterization of other interesting properties of CNT-based systems.

A new Late Devonian genus with seed plant affinities.

PubMed

Wang, Deming; Liu, Le

2015-02-26

Many ovules of Late Devonian (Famennian) seed plants have been well studied. However, because few taxa occur with anatomically preserved stems and/or petioles, the vascular system of these earliest spermatophytes is little understood and available data come mostly from Euramerica. There remains great controversy over the anatomical differentiation of Late Devonian and Carboniferous seed plant groups of Buteoxylonales, Calamopityales and Lyginopteridales. Protostele evolution of these early spermatophytes needs more research. A new taxon Yiduxylon trilobum gen. et sp. nov. with seed plant affinities has been discovered in the Upper Devonian (Famennian) Tizikou Formation of Hubei Province, China. It is represented by stems, helically arranged and bifurcate fronds with two orders of pinnae and planate pinnules. Both secondary pinnae and pinnules are borne alternately. Stems contain a small protostele with three primary xylem ribs possessing a single peripheral protoxylem strand. Thick secondary xylem displays multiseriate bordered pitting on the tangential and radial walls of the tracheids, and has biseriate to multiseriate and high rays. A narrow cortex consists of inner cortex without sclerotic nests and sparganum-type outer cortex with peripheral bands of vertically aligned sclerenchyma cells. Two leaf traces successively arise tangentially from each primary xylem rib and they divide once to produce four circular-oval traces in the stem cortex. Four vascular bundles occur in two C-shaped groups at each petiole base with ground tissue and peripheral bands of sclerenchyma cells. Yiduxylon justifies the assignment to a new genus mainly because of the protostele with protoxylem strands only near the periphery of primary xylem ribs, leaf trace origination and petiolar vascular supply structure. It shares many definitive characters with Calamopityales and Lyginopteridales, further underscoring the anatomical similarities among early seed plants. The primary vascular system, pycnoxylic-manoxylic secondary xylem with bordered pits on both tangential and radial walls of a tracheid and leaf trace divergence of Yiduxylon suggest transitional features between the early spermatophytes and ancestral aneurophyte progymnosperms.

Transmission XMCD-PEEM imaging of an engineered vertical FEBID cobalt nanowire with a domain wall

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wartelle, A.; Pablo-Navarro, J.; Staňo, M.; Bochmann, S.; Pairis, S.; Rioult, M.; Thirion, C.; Belkhou, R.; de Teresa, J. M.; Magén, C.; Fruchart, O.

2018-01-01

Using focused electron-beam-induced deposition, we fabricate a vertical, platinum-coated cobalt nanowire with a controlled three-dimensional structure. The latter is engineered to feature bends along the height: these are used as pinning sites for domain walls, which are obtained at remanence after saturation of the nanostructure in a horizontally applied magnetic field. The presence of domain walls is investigated using x-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) coupled to photoemission electron microscopy (PEEM). The vertical geometry of our sample combined with the low incidence of the x-ray beam produce an extended wire shadow which we use to recover the wire’s magnetic configuration. In this transmission configuration, the whole sample volume is probed, thus circumventing the limitation of PEEM to surfaces. This article reports on the first study of magnetic nanostructures standing perpendicular to the substrate with XMCD-PEEM. The use of this technique in shadow mode enabled us to confirm the presence of a domain wall without direct imaging of the nanowire.

Responses of Rostral Fastigial Nucleus Neurons of Conscious Cats to Rotations in Vertical Planes

PubMed Central

Miller, D. M.; Cotter, L.A.; Gandhi, N. J.; Schor, R. H.; Huff, N. O.; Raj, S. G.; Shulman, J. A.; Yates, B. J.

2008-01-01

The rostral fastigial nucleus (RFN) of the cerebellum is thought to play an important role in postural control, and recent studies in conscious nonhuman primates suggest that this region also participates in the sensory processing required to compute body motion in space. The goal of the present study was to examine the dynamic and spatial responses to sinusoidal rotations in vertical planes of RFN neurons in conscious cats, and determine if they are similar to responses reported for monkeys. Approximately half of the RFN neurons examined were classified as graviceptive, since their firing was synchronized with stimulus position and the gain of their responses was relatively unaffected by the frequency of the tilts. The large majority (80%) of graviceptive RFN neurons were activated by pitch rotations. Most of the remaining RFN units exhibited responses to vertical oscillations that encoded stimulus velocity, and approximately 50% of these velocity units had a response vector orientation aligned near the plane of a single vertical semicircular canal. Unlike in primates, few feline RFN neurons had responses to vertical rotations that suggested integration of graviceptive (otolith) and velocity (vertical semicircular canal) signals. These data indicate that the physiological role of the RFN may differ between primates and lower mammals. The RFN in rats and cats in known to be involved in adjusting blood pressure and breathing during postural alterations in the transverse (pitch) plane. The relatively simple responses of many RFN neurons in cats are appropriate for triggering such compensatory autonomic responses. PMID:18571332

The study of heat flux for disruption on experimental advanced superconducting tokamak

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Zhendong; Fang, Jianan; Gong, Xianzu; Gan, Kaifu; Luo, Jiarong; Zhao, Hailin; Cui, Zhixue; Zhang, Bin; Chen, Meiwen

2016-05-01

Disruption of the plasma is one of the most dangerous instabilities in tokamak. During the disruption, most of the plasma thermal energy is lost, which causes damages to the plasma facing components. Infrared (IR) camera is an effective tool to detect the temperature distribution on the first wall, and the energy deposited on the first wall can be calculated from the surface temperature profile measured by the IR camera. This paper concentrates on the characteristics of heat flux distribution onto the first wall under different disruptions, including the minor disruption and the vertical displacement events (VDE) disruption. Several minor disruptions have been observed before the major disruption under the high plasma density in experimental advanced superconducting tokamak. During the minor disruption, the heat fluxes are mainly deposited on the upper/lower divertors. The magnetic configuration prior to the minor disruption is a lower single null with the radial distance between the two separatrices in the outer midplane dRsep = -2 cm, while it changes to upper single null (dRsep = 1.4 cm) during the minor disruption. As for the VDE disruption, the spatial distribution of heat flux exhibits strong toroidal and radial nonuniformity, and the maximum heat flux received on the dome plate can be up to 11 MW/m2.

Thermally Resilient, Broadband Optical Absorber from UV to IR Derived from Carbon Nanostructures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaul, Anupama B.; Coles, James B.

2012-01-01

Optical absorber coatings have been developed from carbon-based paints, metal blacks, or glassy carbon. However, such materials are not truly black and have poor absorption characteristics at longer wavelengths. The blackness of such coatings is important to increase the accuracy of calibration targets used in radiometric imaging spectrometers since blackbody cavities are prohibitively large in size. Such coatings are also useful potentially for thermal detectors, where a broadband absorber is desired. Au-black has been a commonly used broadband optical absorber, but it is very fragile and can easily be damaged by heat and mechanical vibration. An optically efficient, thermally rugged absorber could also be beneficial for thermal solar cell applications for energy harnessing, particularly in the 350-2,500 nm spectral window. It has been demonstrated that arrays of vertically oriented carbon nanotubes (CNTs), specifically multi-walled-carbon- nanotubes (MWCNTs), are an exceptional optical absorber over a broad range of wavelengths well into the infrared (IR). The reflectance of such arrays is 100x lower compared to conventional black materials, such as Au black in the spectral window of 350-2,500 nm. Total hemispherical measurements revealed a reflectance of approximately equal to 1.7% at lambda approximately equal to 1 micrometer, and at longer wavelengths into the infrared (IR), the specular reflectance was approximately equal to 2.4% at lambda approximately equal to 7 micrometers. The previously synthesized CNTs for optical absorber applications were formed using water-assisted thermal chemical vapor deposition (CVD), which yields CNT lengths in excess of 100's of microns. Vertical alignment, deemed to be a critical feature in enabling the high optical absorption from CNT arrays, occurs primarily via the crowding effect with thermal CVD synthesized CNTs, which is generally not effective in aligning CNTs with lengths less than 10 m. Here it has been shown that the electric field inherent in a plasma yields vertically aligned CNTs at small length scales (less than 10 m), which still exhibit broadband, and high-efficiency optical absorption characteristics from the ultraviolet (UV) to IR. A thin and yet highly absorbing coating is extremely valuable for detector applications for radiometry in order to enhance sensitivity. A plasma-based process also increases the potential of forming the optical absorbers at lower synthesis temperatures in the future, increasing the prospects of integrating the absorbers with flexible substrates for low-cost solar cell applications, for example.

Alignment of nematic liquid crystals by inhomogeneous surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ong, Hiap Liew; Hurd, Alan J.; Meyer, Robert B.

1985-01-01

Variable oblique alignment of nematic liquid crystals has been achieved on microscopically inhomogeneous surfaces. The surfaces consist of small patches favoring vertical (homeotropic) alignment surrounded by a matrix favoring a planar alignment. The construction of these surfaces employs randomly distributed microscopic metal islands formed by certain metals as vapor-deposited films. Larger scale periodic patterns were made as well to verify the techniques. The results are interpreted in terms of a continuum elasticity theory and azimuthal degeneracy is also discussed.

Turbine airfoil with dual wall formed from inner and outer layers separated by a compliant structure

DOEpatents

Campbell,; Christian X. , Morrison; Jay, A [Oviedo, FL

2011-12-20

A turbine airfoil usable in a turbine engine with a cooling system and a compliant dual wall configuration configured to enable thermal expansion between inner and outer layers while eliminating stress formation is disclosed. The compliant dual wall configuration may be formed a dual wall formed from inner and outer layers separated by a compliant structure. The compliant structure may be configured such that the outer layer may thermally expand without limitation by the inner layer. The compliant structure may be formed from a plurality of pedestals positioned generally parallel with each other. The pedestals may include a first foot attached to a first end of the pedestal and extending in a first direction aligned with the outer layer, and may include a second foot attached to a second end of the pedestal and extending in a second direction aligned with the inner layer.

FRICTION-FREE BALANCE

DOEpatents

Carson, N.J. Jr.; Ostrander, H.W.; Munter, C.N.

1964-03-01

A weighing device having a load-supporting vertical shaft buoyed up by mutually repellant magnets is described. The shaft is aligned by an air bearing and has an air gage to sense vertical displacement caused by weights placed on the top end of the shaft. (AEC)

Carbon nanotube mode-locked vertical external-cavity surface-emitting laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seger, K.; Meiser, N.; Choi, S. Y.; Jung, B. H.; Yeom, D.-I.; Rotermund, F.; Okhotnikov, O.; Laurell, F.; Pasiskevicius, V.

2014-03-01

Mode-locking an optically pumped semiconductor disk laser has been demonstrated using low-loss saturable absorption containing a mixture of single-walled carbon nanotubes in PMM polymer. The modulator was fabricated by a simple spin-coating technique on fused silica substrate and was operating in transmission. Stable passive fundamental modelocking was obtained at a repetition rate of 613 MHz with a pulse length of 1.23 ps. The mode-locked semiconductor disk laser in a compact geometry delivered a maximum average output power of 136 mW at 1074 nm.

New concept for in-line OLED manufacturing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoffmann, U.; Landgraf, H.; Campo, M.; Keller, S.; Koening, M.

2011-03-01

A new concept of a vertical In-Line deposition machine for large area white OLED production has been developed. The concept targets manufacturing on large substrates (>= Gen 4, 750 x 920 mm2) using linear deposition source achieving a total material utilization of >= 50 % and tact time down to 80 seconds. The continuously improved linear evaporation sources for the organic material achieve thickness uniformity on Gen 4 substrate of better than +/- 3 % and stable deposition rates down to less than 0.1 nm m/min and up to more than 100 nm m/min. For Lithium-Fluoride but also for other high evaporation temperature materials like Magnesium or Silver a linear source with uniformity better than +/- 3 % has been developed. For Aluminum we integrated a vertical oriented point source using wire feed to achieve high (> 150 nm m/min) and stable deposition rates. The machine concept includes a new vertical vacuum handling and alignment system for Gen 4 shadow masks. A complete alignment cycle for the mask can be done in less than one minute achieving alignment accuracy in the range of several 10 μm.

NASA Tech Briefs, September 2010

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2010-01-01

Topics covered include: Instrument for Measuring Thermal Conductivity of Materials at Low Temperatures; Multi-Axis Accelerometer Calibration System; Pupil Alignment Measuring Technique and Alignment Reference for Instruments or Optical Systems; Autonomous System for Monitoring the Integrity of Composite Fan Housings; A Safe, Self-Calibrating, Wireless System for Measuring Volume of Any Fuel at Non-Horizontal Orientation; Adaptation of the Camera Link Interface for Flight-Instrument Applications; High-Performance CCSDS Encapsulation Service Implementation in FPGA; High-Performance CCSDS AOS Protocol Implementation in FPGA; Advanced Flip Chips in Extreme Temperature Environments; Diffuse-Illumination Systems for Growing Plants; Microwave Plasma Hydrogen Recovery System; Producing Hydrogen by Plasma Pyrolysis of Methane; Self-Deployable Membrane Structures; Reactivation of a Tin-Oxide-Containing Catalys; Functionalization of Single-Wall Carbon Nanotubes by Photo-Oxidation; Miniature Piezoelectric Macro-Mass Balance; Acoustic Liner for Turbomachinery Applications; Metering Gas Strut for Separating Rocket Stages; Large-Flow-Area Flow-Selective Liquid/Gas Separator; Counterflowing Jet Subsystem Design; Water Tank with Capillary Air/Liquid Separation; True Shear Parallel Plate Viscometer; Focusing Diffraction Grating Element with Aberration Control; Universal Millimeter-Wave Radar Front End; Mode Selection for a Single-Frequency Fiber Laser; Qualification and Selection of Flight Diode Lasers for Space Applications; Plenoptic Imager for Automated Surface Navigation; Maglev Facility for Simulating Variable Gravity; Hybrid AlGaN-SiC Avalanche Photodiode for Deep-UV Photon Detection; High-Speed Operation of Interband Cascade Lasers; 3D GeoWall Analysis System for Shuttle External Tank Foreign Object Debris Events; Charge-Spot Model for Electrostatic Forces in Simulation of Fine Particulates; Hidden Statistics Approach to Quantum Simulations; Reconstituted Three-Dimensional Interactive Imaging; Determining Atmospheric-Density Profile of Titan; Digital Microfluidics Sample Analyzer; Radiation Protection Using Carbon Nanotube Derivatives; Process to Selectively Distinguish Viable from Non-Viable Bacterial Cells; and TEAMS Model Analyzer.

Adjustable selective maxillary expansion combined with maxillomandibular surgery: A case report.

PubMed

Leyder, Patrick; Altounian, Gérard; Chardain, Jacques; Quilichini, Julien

2015-09-01

Surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion (SARME) is usually considered the gold standard for maxillary transverse expansion in adults. However, a second surgical procedure is needed in cases of associated sagittal or vertical discrepancies. We describe the use of two new innovative devices for the correction of discrepancies in all dimensions during a single surgical procedure, thus reducing treatment duration. We report the case of a 21-year-old female patient, referred to our department for skeletal Class III malocclusion associated with right-side laterognathism and transverse maxillary deficiency. The patient underwent one-stage surgery, using sliding osteosynthesis plates and an adjustable bone-borne distractor. Pre-surgical orthodontics consisted in leveling and aligning the mandibular arch; maxillary leveling was initiated 3 months before surgery. Postoperative palatal distraction combined with orthodontic finishing enabled complete correction of dental and bony discrepancies after 3 months. In our experience, treatment of transverse, sagittal and vertical discrepancies has been possible in a single surgical procedure, using two innovative techniques: sliding osteosynthesis and an adjustable bone distractor. Two years post-surgery, the correction is stable in all dimensions. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

One stage vertical rectus muscle recession using adjustable sutures under local anaesthesia.

PubMed Central

Rauz, S; Govan, J A

1996-01-01

AIMS: To assess the results of visual axis alignment following one stage adjustable suture surgery to correct vertical diplopia. METHOD: Eight patients with a mean age of 44.9 years (range 16-80 years) complaining of vertical diplopia underwent rectus muscle recession under local anaesthesia with intraoperative adjustment of sutures. Diplopia was secondary to superior oblique paresis in four patients, dysthyroid eye disease in two patients, superior rectus paresis in one patient, and one developed a consecutive deviation after previous squint surgery. The surgery consisted of seven single muscle recessions (six inferior recti and one superior rectus) and one two muscle recession (inferior and lateral recti). The surgery was performed under topical anaesthesia supplemented with a subconjunctival injection of local anaesthetic over the muscle insertions. RESULTS: The patients remained comfortable throughout their surgery. All had a reduction in their vertical deviation. Six were asymptomatic and were eventually discharged. One had residual diplopia which was well tolerated without further intervention. One had persistent troublesome diplopia which was corrected by temporary Fresnel prisms. He became asymptomatic after further surgery of a 1 mm inferior rectus advancement. CONCLUSION: One stage adjustable suture surgery is recommended in all cases of strabismus surgery when postoperative results would otherwise be unpredictable. PMID:8949715

Cold cathode emission studies on topographically modified few layer and single layer MoS2 films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gaur, Anand P. S.; Sahoo, Satyaprakash; Mendoza, Frank; Rivera, Adriana M.; Kumar, Mohit; Dash, Saroj P.; Morell, Gerardo; Katiyar, Ram S.

2016-01-01

Nanostructured materials, such as carbon nanotubes, are excellent cold cathode emitters. Here, we report comparative field emission (FE) studies on topographically tailored few layer MoS2 films consisting of ⟨0001⟩ plane perpendicular (⊥) to c-axis (i.e., edge terminated vertically aligned) along with planar few layer and monolayer (1L) MoS2 films. FE measurements exhibited lower turn-on field Eto (defined as required applied electric field to emit current density of 10 μA/cm2) ˜4.5 V/μm and higher current density ˜1 mA/cm2, for edge terminated vertically aligned (ETVA) MoS2 films. However, Eto magnitude for planar few layer and 1L MoS2 films increased further to 5.7 and 11 V/μm, respectively, with one order decrease in emission current density. The observed differences in emission behavior, particularly for ETVA MoS2 is attributed to the high value of geometrical field enhancement factor (β), found to be ˜1064, resulting from the large confinement of localized electric field at edge exposed nanograins. Emission behavior of planar few layers and 1L MoS2 films are explained under a two step emission mechanism. Our studies suggest that with further tailoring the microstructure of ultra thin ETVA MoS2 films would result in elegant FE properties.

Self-organization of dislocation-free, high-density, vertically aligned GaN nanocolumns involving InGaN quantum wells on graphene/SiO2 covered with a thin AlN buffer layer.

PubMed

Hayashi, Hiroaki; Konno, Yuta; Kishino, Katsumi

2016-02-05

We demonstrated the self-organization of high-density GaN nanocolumns on multilayer graphene (MLG)/SiO2 covered with a thin AlN buffer layer by RF-plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy. MLG/SiO2 substrates were prepared by the transfer of CVD graphene onto thermally oxidized SiO2/Si [100] substrates. Employing the MLG with an AlN buffer layer enabled the self-organization of high-density and vertically aligned nanocolumns. Transmission electron microscopy observation revealed that no threading dislocations, stacking faults, or twinning defects were included in the self-organized nanocolumns. The photoluminescence (PL) peak intensities of the self-organized GaN nanocolumns were 2.0-2.6 times higher than those of a GaN substrate grown by hydride vapor phase epitaxy. Moreover, no yellow luminescence or ZB-phase GaN emission was observed from the nanocolumns. An InGaN/GaN MQW and p-type GaN were integrated into GaN nanocolumns grown on MLG, displaying a single-peak PL emission at a wavelength of 533 nm. Thus, high-density nitride p-i-n nanocolumns were fabricated on SiO2/Si using the transferred MLG interlayer, indicating the possibility of developing visible nanocolumn LEDs on graphene/SiO2.

The effect of substrate distance to evaporation source on morphology of ZnO:In nanorods fabricated by means of a vapor transfer route and the study of their optical and electrical properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghafouri, Vahid; Shariati, Mohsen; Ebrahimzad, Akbar

2014-03-01

High-quality polycrystalline and single crystalline Indium-doped ZnO (ZnO:In) nanorods (NRs) have been synthesized on Si (100) substrates via a vapor transfer route in an oxygen-rich tube furnace. The morphology of the nanostructures and their distribution on the surface is highly related to distance between the substrate and evaporation sources. The morphology can be adjusted from micro-porous film to the vertically aligned hexagonal NRs by this distance. The diameter of the grown NRs varies between 50 and 200 nm, and their length mostly changes from 1 to 3 mm. EDS analysis indicated the presence of zinc, oxygen, and indium in the structures. FTIR measurements confirmed the existence of Zn-O and In-O bands in ZnO:In NRs. X-ray diffractions and SAED patterns showed that the vertically aligned hexagonal NRs have a preferential orientation along the (002) direction. Room-temperature photoluminescence (PL) spectra of NRs are dominated by a green band emission between 420 and 700 nm. The peak of the green emission has shifted in different samples, which is probably due to indium impurity. The results of the electrical transport measurement of the NRs showed that the amount of In impurity is effective in the increase of samples' conductivity.

A design of a high speed dual spectrometer by single line scan camera

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palawong, Kunakorn; Meemon, Panomsak

2018-03-01

A spectrometer that can capture two orthogonal polarization components of s light beam is demanded for polarization sensitive imaging system. Here, we describe the design and implementation of a high speed spectrometer for simultaneous capturing of two orthogonal polarization components, i.e. vertical and horizontal components, of light beam. The design consists of a polarization beam splitter, two polarization-maintain optical fibers, two collimators, a single line-scan camera, a focusing lens, and a reflection blaze grating. The alignment of two beam paths was designed to be symmetrically incident on the blaze side and reverse blaze side of reflection grating, respectively. The two diffracted beams were passed through the same focusing lens and focused on the single line-scan sensors of a CMOS camera. The two spectra of orthogonal polarization were imaged on 1000 pixels per spectrum. With the proposed setup, the amplitude and shape of the two detected spectra can be controlled by rotating the collimators. The technique for optical alignment of spectrometer will be presented and discussed. The two orthogonal polarization spectra can be simultaneously captured at a speed of 70,000 spectra per second. The high speed dual spectrometer can simultaneously detected two orthogonal polarizations, which is an important component for the development of polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography. The performance of the spectrometer have been measured and analyzed.

Continuous high-yield production of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes on 2D and 3D substrates.

PubMed

Guzmán de Villoria, Roberto; Hart, A John; Wardle, Brian L

2011-06-28

Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) have certain advantages over bulk CNT powders and randomly oriented CNT mats for applications in flexible electronic devices, filtration membranes, biosensors and multifunctional aerospace materials. Here, a machine and a process to synthesize VACNTs in a continuous manner are presented showing uniform growth on 2D and 3D substrates, including alumina fibers, silicon wafer pieces, and stainless steel foils. Aligned multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNT) are synthesized at substrate feed rates of up to 6.8 cm/min, and the CNTs reach up to 60 μm in length depending on residence time in the reactor. In addition to the aligned morphology indicative of high yield growth, transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy reveal that the CNTs are of comparable quality to CNTs grown via a similar batch process. A significant reduction in time, reaction products, gases, and energy is demonstrated relative to batch processing, paving the way for industrial production of VACNTs.

Current progress and technical challenges of flexible liquid crystal displays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fujikake, Hideo; Sato, Hiroto

2009-02-01

We focused on several technical approaches to flexible liquid crystal (LC) display in this report. We have been developing flexible displays using plastic film substrates based on polymer-dispersed LC technology with molecular alignment control. In our representative devices, molecular-aligned polymer walls keep plastic-substrate gap constant without LC alignment disorder, and aligned polymer networks create monostable switching of fast-response ferroelectric LC (FLC) for grayscale capability. In the fabrication process, a high-viscosity FLC/monomer solution was printed, sandwiched and pressed between plastic substrates. Then the polymer walls and networks were sequentially formed based on photo-polymerization-induced phase separation in the nematic phase by two exposure processes of patterned and uniform ultraviolet light. The two flexible backlight films of direct illumination and light-guide methods using small three-primary-color light-emitting diodes were fabricated to obtain high-visibility display images. The fabricated flexible FLC panels were driven by external transistor arrays, internal organic thin film transistor (TFT) arrays, and poly-Si TFT arrays. We achieved full-color moving-image displays using the flexible FLC panel and the flexible backlight film based on field-sequential-color driving technique. Otherwise, for backlight-free flexible LC displays, flexible reflective devices of twisted guest-host nematic LC and cholesteric LC were discussed with molecular-aligned polymer walls. Singlesubstrate device structure and fabrication method using self-standing polymer-stabilized nematic LC film and polymer ceiling layer were also proposed for obtaining LC devices with excellent flexibility.

Advanced gecko-foot-mimetic dry adhesives based on carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Hu, Shihao; Xia, Zhenhai; Dai, Liming

2013-01-21

Geckos can run freely on vertical walls and even ceilings. Recent studies have discovered that gecko's extraordinary climbing ability comes from a remarkable design of nature with nanoscale beta-keratin elastic hairs on their feet and toes, which collectively generate sufficiently strong van der Waals force to hold the animal onto an opposing surface while at the same time disengaging at will. Vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VA-CNT) arrays, resembling gecko's adhesive foot hairs with additional superior mechanical, chemical and electrical properties, have been demonstrated to be a promising candidate for advanced fibrillar dry adhesives. The VA-CNT arrays with tailor-made hierarchical structures can be patterned and/or transferred onto various flexible substrates, including responsive polymers. This, together with recent advances in nanofabrication techniques, could offer 'smart' dry adhesives for various potential applications, even where traditional adhesives cannot be used. A detailed understanding of the underlying mechanisms governing the material properties and adhesion performances is critical to the design and fabrication of gecko inspired CNT dry adhesives of practical significance. In this feature article, we present an overview of recent progress in both fundamental and applied frontiers for the development of CNT-based adhesives by summarizing important studies in this exciting field, including our own work.

Advanced gecko-foot-mimetic dry adhesives based on carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Shihao; Xia, Zhenhai; Dai, Liming

2012-12-01

Geckos can run freely on vertical walls and even ceilings. Recent studies have discovered that gecko's extraordinary climbing ability comes from a remarkable design of nature with nanoscale beta-keratin elastic hairs on their feet and toes, which collectively generate sufficiently strong van der Waals force to hold the animal onto an opposing surface while at the same time disengaging at will. Vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VA-CNT) arrays, resembling gecko's adhesive foot hairs with additional superior mechanical, chemical and electrical properties, have been demonstrated to be a promising candidate for advanced fibrillar dry adhesives. The VA-CNT arrays with tailor-made hierarchical structures can be patterned and/or transferred onto various flexible substrates, including responsive polymers. This, together with recent advances in nanofabrication techniques, could offer `smart' dry adhesives for various potential applications, even where traditional adhesives cannot be used. A detailed understanding of the underlying mechanisms governing the material properties and adhesion performances is critical to the design and fabrication of gecko inspired CNT dry adhesives of practical significance. In this feature article, we present an overview of recent progress in both fundamental and applied frontiers for the development of CNT-based adhesives by summarizing important studies in this exciting field, including our own work.

Fabrication of Low Temperature Carbon Nanotube Vertical Interconnects Compatible with Semiconductor Technology

PubMed Central

Vollebregt, Sten; Ishihara, Ryoichi

2015-01-01

We demonstrate a method for the low temperature growth (350 °C) of vertically-aligned carbon nanotubes (CNT) bundles on electrically conductive thin-films. Due to the low growth temperature, the process allows integration with modern low-κ dielectrics and some flexible substrates. The process is compatible with standard semiconductor fabrication, and a method for the fabrication of electrical 4-point probe test structures for vertical interconnect test structures is presented. Using scanning electron microscopy the morphology of the CNT bundles is investigated, which demonstrates vertical alignment of the CNT and can be used to tune the CNT growth time. With Raman spectroscopy the crystallinity of the CNT is investigated. It was found that the CNT have many defects, due to the low growth temperature. The electrical current-voltage measurements of the test vertical interconnects displays a linear response, indicating good ohmic contact was achieved between the CNT bundle and the top and bottom metal electrodes. The obtained resistivities of the CNT bundle are among the average values in the literature, while a record-low CNT growth temperature was used. PMID:26709530

High quality factor whispering gallery modes from self-assembled hexagonal GaN rods grown by metal-organic vapor phase epitaxy.

PubMed

Tessarek, C; Sarau, G; Kiometzis, M; Christiansen, S

2013-02-11

Self-assembled GaN rods were grown on sapphire by metal-organic vapor phase epitaxy using a simple two-step method that relies first on a nitridation step followed by GaN epitaxy. The mask-free rods formed without any additional catalyst. Most of the vertically aligned rods exhibit a regular hexagonal shape with sharp edges and smooth sidewall facets. Cathodo- and microphotoluminescence investigations were carried out on single GaN rods. Whispering gallery modes with quality factors greater than 4000 were measured demonstrating the high morphological and optical quality of the self-assembled GaN rods.

Twin-Mirrored-Galvanometer Laser-Light-Sheet Generator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rhodes, David B.; Franke, John M.; Jones, Stephen B.; Leighty, Bradley D.

1991-01-01

Multiple, rotating laser-light sheets generated to illuminate flows in wind tunnels. Designed and developed to provide flexibility and adaptability to wide range of applications. Design includes capability to control size and location of laser-light sheet in real time, to generate horizontal or vertical sheets, to sweep sheet repeatedly through volume, to generate multiple sheets with controllable separation, and to rotate single or multiple laser-light sheets. Includes electronic equipment and laser mounted on adjustable-height platform. Twin-mirrored galvanometer unit supported by tripod to reduce vibration. Other possible applications include use in construction industry to align beams of building. Artistic or display applications also possible.

The geometry and volume of melt beneath Ethiopia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kendall, J. M.; Hammond, J. O. S.

2016-12-01

A range of seismic measurements can be used to map melt distribution in the crust and uppermost mantle. These include seismic P- and S-wave velocities derived from surface- and body-wave tomography, Vp/Vs ratios obtained from receiver functions, and estimates of seismic anisotropy and attenuation. The most obvious melt parameter that seismic data might be sensitive to is volume fraction. However, such data are more sensitive to the aspect ratio of melt inclusions, which is controlled by the melt wetting angle or in other words the shape of the melt inclusion. To better understand this we perform numerical modelling, varying the shape and amount of melt, to show how various seismic phases are effected by melt. To consider the effects on seismic anisotropy we assume that the melt can be stored in pockets of melt that are either horizontally or vertically aligned (e.g., sills versus dykes). We then consider a range of seismic observations from the rifting environment of Ethiopia. Recent studies of P- and S-wave tomography, Rayleigh and Love waves, and Pn or wide angle P-wave refractions provide provide complimentary constraints on melt volume, orientation and inclusion aspect ratio. Furthermore, receiver functions and shear-wave splitting in body waves show strong anisotropy in this region and can be used to constrain the strike of vertically-aligned partial melt. We show that melt in the mantle beneath Ethiopia is likely stored in low aspect ratio disk-like inclusions, suggesting melt is not in textural equilibrium. We estimate that 2-7% vertically aligned melt is stored beneath the Main Ethiopian Rift, >6% horizontally and vertically aligned melt is stored beneath the Afar-region of the Red Sea Rift and 1-6% horizontally aligned melt is stored beneath the Danakil microplate. This supports ideas of strong shear-derived segregation of melt in narrow parts of the rift and large volumes of melt beneath Afar.

Monolayer formation of human osteoblastic cells on vertically aligned multiwalled carbon nanotube scaffolds.

PubMed

Lobo, Anderson O; Antunes, Erica F; Palma, Mariana Bs; Pacheco-Soares, Cristina; Trava-Airoldi, Vladimir J; Corat, Evaldo J

2010-03-12

Monolayer formation of SaOS-2 (human osteoblast-like cells) was observed on VACNT (vertically aligned multiwalled carbon nanotubes) scaffolds without purification or functionalization. The VACNT were produced by a microwave plasma chemical vapour deposition on titanium surfaces with nickel or iron as catalyst. Cell viability and morphology studies were evaluated by LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) release assay and SEM (scanning electron microscopy), respectively. The non-toxicity and the flat spreading with monolayer formation of the SaOs-2 on VACNT scaffolds surface indicate that they can be used for biomedical applications.

Modeling and experimental study of resistive switching in vertically aligned carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ageev, O. A.; Blinov, Yu F.; Ilina, M. V.; Ilin, O. I.; Smirnov, V. A.

2016-08-01

Model of the resistive switching in vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VA CNT) taking into account the processes of deformation, polarization and piezoelectric charge accumulation have been developed. Origin of hysteresis in VA CNT-based structure is described. Based on modeling results the VACNTs-based structure has been created. The ration resistance of high-resistance to low-resistance states of the VACNTs-based structure amounts 48. The correlation the modeling results with experimental studies is shown. The results can be used in the development nanoelectronics devices based on VA CNTs, including the nonvolatile resistive random-access memory.

Growth rate of plasma-synthesized vertically aligned carbon nanofibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Merkulov, Vladimir I.; Melechko, A. V.; Guillorn, M. A.; Lowndes, D. H.; Simpson, M. L.

2002-08-01

Vertically aligned carbon nanofibers (VACNFs) were synthesized by direct-current plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition using acetylene and ammonia as the gas source. The mechanisms responsible for changing the nanofiber growth rate were studied and phenomenological models are proposed. The feedstock for VACNF growth is suggested to consist mainly of radicals formed in the plasma and not the unexcited acetylene gas molecules. The growth rate is shown to increase dramatically by changing the radical transport mechanism from diffusive to forced flow, which was accomplished by increasing the gas flow in the direction perpendicular to the substrate.

Package for integrated optic circuit and method

DOEpatents

Kravitz, Stanley H.; Hadley, G. Ronald; Warren, Mial E.; Carson, Richard F.; Armendariz, Marcelino G.

1998-01-01

A structure and method for packaging an integrated optic circuit. The package comprises a first wall having a plurality of microlenses formed therein to establish channels of optical communication with an integrated optic circuit within the package. A first registration pattern is provided on an inside surface of one of the walls of the package for alignment and attachment of the integrated optic circuit. The package in one embodiment may further comprise a fiber holder for aligning and attaching a plurality of optical fibers to the package and extending the channels of optical communication to the fibers outside the package. In another embodiment, a fiber holder may be used to hold the fibers and align the fibers to the package. The fiber holder may be detachably connected to the package.

Package for integrated optic circuit and method

DOEpatents

Kravitz, S.H.; Hadley, G.R.; Warren, M.E.; Carson, R.F.; Armendariz, M.G.

1998-08-04

A structure and method are disclosed for packaging an integrated optic circuit. The package comprises a first wall having a plurality of microlenses formed therein to establish channels of optical communication with an integrated optic circuit within the package. A first registration pattern is provided on an inside surface of one of the walls of the package for alignment and attachment of the integrated optic circuit. The package in one embodiment may further comprise a fiber holder for aligning and attaching a plurality of optical fibers to the package and extending the channels of optical communication to the fibers outside the package. In another embodiment, a fiber holder may be used to hold the fibers and align the fibers to the package. The fiber holder may be detachably connected to the package. 6 figs.

Carbon nanotube-incorporated collagen hydrogels improve cell alignment and the performance of cardiac constructs

PubMed Central

Sun, Hongyu; Zhou, Jing; Huang, Zhu; Qu, Linlin; Lin, Ning; Liang, Chengxiao; Dai, Ruiwu; Tang, Lijun; Tian, Fuzhou

2017-01-01

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) provide an essential 2-D microenvironment for cardiomyocyte growth and function. However, it remains to be elucidated whether CNT nanostructures can promote cell–cell integrity and facilitate the formation of functional tissues in 3-D hydrogels. Here, single-walled CNTs were incorporated into collagen hydrogels to fabricate (CNT/Col) hydrogels, which improved mechanical and electrical properties. The incorporation of CNTs (up to 1 wt%) exhibited no toxicity to cardiomyocytes and enhanced cell adhesion and elongation. Through the use of immunohistochemical staining, transmission electron microscopy, and intracellular calcium-transient measurement, the incorporation of CNTs was found to improve cell alignment and assembly remarkably, which led to the formation of engineered cardiac tissues with stronger contraction potential. Importantly, cardiac tissues based on CNT/Col hydrogels were noted to have better functionality. Collectively, the incorporation of CNTs into the Col hydrogels improved cell alignment and the performance of cardiac constructs. Our study suggests that CNT/Col hydrogels offer a promising tissue scaffold for cardiac constructs, and might serve as injectable biomaterials to deliver cell or drug molecules for cardiac regeneration following myocardial infarction in the near future. PMID:28450785

Experimental analysis on viscoelasticity-induced migration of RBCs using digital holographic microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Go, Taesik; Byeon, Hyeokjun; Lee, Sang Joon

2016-11-01

Migration of particles in viscoelastic fluids has recently received large attention, because the generated elastic forces in viscoelastic fluids give rise to a simple focusing pattern over a wide range of flow rates. In this study, the vertical focusing and alignment of rigid spherical particles, normal and hardened RBCs in a viscoelastic fluid were experimentally investigated by employing a digital in-line holographic microscopy (DIHM). By the elastic forces, the three different particles are pushed away from the walls and concentrated in the midplane of the rectangular microchannel. Furthermore, most of both RBCs maintain face-on orientation in the microchannel. The effects of deformability of RBC on the viscoelasticity-induced migration and orientation in the channel were also examined. In contrary to non-deformable particles, normal RBCs are dispersed as flow rate increases. In the region near side wall of the microchannel, normal RBCs have edge-on orientation with a large angle of inclination, compared to hardened RBCs. These findings have a strong potential in the design of microfluidic devices for deformability-based separation of cells in viscoelastic fluid flows and label-free diagnoses of certain hematological diseases. This work was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) Grant funded by the Korea government (MSIP) (No. 2008-0061991).

[Correction of refractive errors in patients with strabismus. Part I. Clinical problems associated with refraction, accommodation and convergence].

PubMed

Tokarz-Sawińska, Ewa

2012-01-01

In Part I the problems associated with refraction, accommodation and convergence and their role in proper eye position/visual alignment of the eyes as well as convergent, divergent and vertical alignment of the eyes have been described.

Discrimination of Mirror-Image shapes by Young Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thompson, G. Brian

1975-01-01

Conducted two experiments which employed discrimination learning methods to test predictions related to the difficulty of discrimination of lateral reversals and of inversions when shapes are presented: (1) successively, (2) simultaneously in lateral alignment, and (3) simultaneously in vertical alignment. Subjects were 6-year-old children. (SDH)

Theoretical prediction of gold vein location in deposits originated by a wall magma intrusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martin, Pablo; Maass-Artigas, Fernando; Cortés-Vega, Luis

2016-05-01

The isotherm time-evolution resulting from the intrusion of a hot dike in a cold rock is analized considering the general case of nonvertical walls. This is applied to the theoretical prediction of the gold veins location due to isothermal evolution. As in previous treatments earth surface effects are considered and the gold veins are determined by the envelope of the isotherms. The locations of the gold veins in the Callao mines of Venezuela are now well predicted. The new treatment is now more elaborated and complex that in the case of vertical walls, performed in previous papers, but it is more adequated to the real cases as the one in El Callao, where the wall is not vertical.

Experiments on opposed lateral jets injected into swirling crossflow. M.S. Thesis Final Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcmurry, C. B.; Lilley, D. G.

1986-01-01

Experiments have been conducted to obtain the time-mean and turbulent quantities of opposed lateral jets in a low speed, nonreacting flowfield. A jet-to-crossflow velocity ratio of R = v sub J/u sub 0 = 4 was used throughout the experiments, with swirl vane angles of d = 0 (swirler removed), 45 and 70 deg used with the crossflow. Flow visualization techniques used were neutrally-buoyant helium-filled soap bubbles and multispark photography in order to obtain the gross flowfield characteristics. Measurements of time-mean and turbulent quantities were obtained utilizing a six-orientation single hot-wire technique. For the nonswirling case, the jets were found not to penetrate past the test-section centerline, in contrast to the single lateral jet with the same jet-to-crossflow velocity ratio. In the swirling cases, the crossflow remains in a narrow region near the wall of the test section. The opposed jets are swept from their vertical courses into spiral trajectories close to the confining walls. Extensive results are presented in r-x plane plots.

Cryogenic rf test of the first SRF cavity etched in an rf Ar/Cl2 plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Upadhyay, J.; Palczewski, A.; Popović, S.; Valente-Feliciano, A.-M.; Im, Do; Phillips, H. L.; Vušković, L.

2017-12-01

An apparatus and a method for etching of the inner surfaces of superconducting radio frequency (SRF) accelerator cavities are described. The apparatus is based on the reactive ion etching performed in an Ar/Cl2 cylindrical capacitive discharge with reversed asymmetry. To test the effect of the plasma etching on the cavity rf performance, a 1497 MHz single cell SRF cavity was used. The single cell cavity was mechanically polished and buffer chemically etched and then rf tested at cryogenic temperatures to provide a baseline characterization. The cavity's inner wall was then exposed to the capacitive discharge in a mixture of Argon and Chlorine. The inner wall acted as the grounded electrode, while kept at elevated temperature. The processing was accomplished by axially moving the dc-biased, corrugated inner electrode and the gas flow inlet in a step-wise manner to establish a sequence of longitudinally segmented discharges. The cavity was then tested in a standard vertical test stand at cryogenic temperatures. The rf tests and surface condition results, including the electron field emission elimination, are presented.

Vertically aligned BCN nanotubes with high capacitance.

PubMed

Iyyamperumal, Eswaramoorthi; Wang, Shuangyin; Dai, Liming

2012-06-26

Using a chemical vapor deposition method, we have synthesized vertically aligned BCN nanotubes (VA-BCNs) on a Ni-Fe-coated SiO(2)/Si substrate from a melamine diborate precursor. The effects of pyrolysis conditions on the morphology and thermal property of grown nanotubes, as well as the nanostructure and composition of an individual BCN nanotube, were systematically studied. It was found that nitrogen atoms are bonded to carbons in both graphitic and pyridinic forms and that the resultant VA-BCNs grown at 1000 °C show the highest specific capacitance (321.0 F/g) with an excellent rate capability and high durability with respect to nonaligned BCN (167.3 F/g) and undoped multiwalled carbon nanotubes (117.3 F/g) due to synergetic effects arising from the combined co-doping of B and N in CNTs and the well-aligned nanotube structure.

Long Range In-Plane Order of Oriented Diblock Copolymer Thin Films by Graphoepitaxy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fontana, Scott; Dadmun, Mark; Lowndes, Douglas

2003-03-01

Previous work by Russell and coworkers has demonstrated that controlling the interfacial energies and wetting behavior of an asymmetric diblock copolymer enables the control of the orientation of its microphases. In particular the cylindrical phase can be readily aligned perpendicular to a substrate when it is placed on a surface that is neutral to both components of the copolymer. The minor phase, PMMA may then be removed using UV radiation leaving a nanoporous template. In this work, we will report long range, in-plane ordering of the hexagonally packed nanopores that is achieved using graphoepitaxy. The long range ordered and vertically aligned diblock copolymer film can be used to produce arrays of catalytic nickel dots, which grow vertically aligned carbon nano-fibers (VACNF), resulting in a well ordered array of VACNFs.

Longitudinal Hierarchy Co3O4 Mesocrystals with High-dense Exposure Facets and Anisotropic Interfaces for Direct-Ethanol Fuel Cells.

PubMed

Hassen, Diab; El-Safty, Sherif A; Tsuchiya, Koichi; Chatterjee, Abhijit; Elmarakbi, Ahmed; Shenashen, Mohamed A; Sakai, Masaru

2016-04-14

Novel electrodes are needed for direct ethanol fuel cells with improved quality. Hierarchical engineering can produce catalysts composed of mesocrystals with many exposed active planes and multi-diffused voids. Here we report a simple, one-pot, hydrothermal method for fabricating Co3O4/carbon/substrate electrodes that provides control over the catalyst mesocrystal morphology (i.e., corn tubercle pellets or banana clusters oriented along nanotube domains, or layered lamina or multiple cantilevered sheets). These morphologies afforded catalysts with a high density of exposed active facets, a diverse range of mesopores in the cage interior, a window architecture, and vertical alignment to the substrate, which improved efficiency in an ethanol electrooxidation reaction compared with a conventional platinum/carbon electrode. On the atomic scale, the longitudinally aligned architecture of the Co3O4 mesocrystals resulted in exposed low- and high-index single and interface surfaces that had improved electron transport and diffusion compared with currently used electrodes.

Longitudinal Hierarchy Co3O4 Mesocrystals with High-dense Exposure Facets and Anisotropic Interfaces for Direct-Ethanol Fuel Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hassen, Diab; El-Safty, Sherif A.; Tsuchiya, Koichi; Chatterjee, Abhijit; Elmarakbi, Ahmed; Shenashen, Mohamed. A.; Sakai, Masaru

2016-04-01

Novel electrodes are needed for direct ethanol fuel cells with improved quality. Hierarchical engineering can produce catalysts composed of mesocrystals with many exposed active planes and multi-diffused voids. Here we report a simple, one-pot, hydrothermal method for fabricating Co3O4/carbon/substrate electrodes that provides control over the catalyst mesocrystal morphology (i.e., corn tubercle pellets or banana clusters oriented along nanotube domains, or layered lamina or multiple cantilevered sheets). These morphologies afforded catalysts with a high density of exposed active facets, a diverse range of mesopores in the cage interior, a window architecture, and vertical alignment to the substrate, which improved efficiency in an ethanol electrooxidation reaction compared with a conventional platinum/carbon electrode. On the atomic scale, the longitudinally aligned architecture of the Co3O4 mesocrystals resulted in exposed low- and high-index single and interface surfaces that had improved electron transport and diffusion compared with currently used electrodes.

Longitudinal Hierarchy Co3O4 Mesocrystals with High-dense Exposure Facets and Anisotropic Interfaces for Direct-Ethanol Fuel Cells

PubMed Central

Hassen, Diab; El-Safty, Sherif A.; Tsuchiya, Koichi; Chatterjee, Abhijit; Elmarakbi, Ahmed; Shenashen, Mohamed. A.; Sakai, Masaru

2016-01-01

Novel electrodes are needed for direct ethanol fuel cells with improved quality. Hierarchical engineering can produce catalysts composed of mesocrystals with many exposed active planes and multi-diffused voids. Here we report a simple, one-pot, hydrothermal method for fabricating Co3O4/carbon/substrate electrodes that provides control over the catalyst mesocrystal morphology (i.e., corn tubercle pellets or banana clusters oriented along nanotube domains, or layered lamina or multiple cantilevered sheets). These morphologies afforded catalysts with a high density of exposed active facets, a diverse range of mesopores in the cage interior, a window architecture, and vertical alignment to the substrate, which improved efficiency in an ethanol electrooxidation reaction compared with a conventional platinum/carbon electrode. On the atomic scale, the longitudinally aligned architecture of the Co3O4 mesocrystals resulted in exposed low- and high-index single and interface surfaces that had improved electron transport and diffusion compared with currently used electrodes. PMID:27075551

Processing and Characterization of Carbon Nanotube Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Can, Roberto J.; Grimsley, Brian W.; Czabaj, Michael W.; Siochi, Emilie J.; Hull, Brandon

2014-01-01

Recent advances in the synthesis of large-scale quantities of carbon nanotubes (CNT) have provided the opportunity to study the mechanical properties of polymer matrix composites using these novel materials as reinforcement. Nanocomp Technologies, Inc. currently supplies large sheets with dimensions up to 122 cm x 244 cm containing both single-wall and few-wall CNTs. The tubes are approximately 1 mm in length with diameters ranging from 8 to 12 nm. In the present study being conducted at NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC), single and multiple layers of CNT sheets were infused or coated with various polymer solutions that included commercial toughened-epoxies and bismaleimides, as well as a LaRC developed polyimide. The resulting CNT composites were tested in tension using a modified version of ASTM D882-12 to determine their strength and modulus values. The effects of solvent treatment and mechanical elongation/alignment of the CNT sheets on the tensile performance of the composite were determined. Thin composites (around 50 wt% CNT) fabricated from acetone condensed and elongated CNT sheets with either a BMI or polyimide resin solution exhibited specific tensile moduli approaching that of toughened epoxy/ IM7 carbon fiber unidirectional composites.

Visualizing ferromagnetic domains in magnetic topological insulators

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

Wang, Wenbo; Gu, G. D.; Yang, Fang

2015-05-13

We report a systematic study of ferromagnetic domains in both single-crystal and thin-film specimens of magnetic topological insulators Cr doped (Bi 0.1Sb 0.9) 2Te 3 using magnetic force microscopy (MFM). The temperature and field dependences of MFM and in situ resistance data are consistent with previous bulk transport and magnetic characterization. Bubble-like ferromagnetic domains were observed in both single crystals and thin films. Significantly, smaller domain size (~500 nm) with narrower domain wall (~150 – 300 nm) was observed in thin films of magnetic topological insulators, likely due to vertical confinement effect. As a result, these results suggest that thinmore » films are more promising for visualization of chiral edge states.« less

Vertical exploration and dimensional modularity in mice

PubMed Central

Benjamini, Yoav; Golani, Ilan

2018-01-01

Exploration is a central component of animal behaviour studied extensively in rodents. Previous tests of free exploration limited vertical movement to rearing and jumping. Here, we attach a wire mesh to the arena wall, allowing vertical exploration. This provides an opportunity to study the morphogenesis of behaviour along the vertical dimension, and examine the context in which it is performed. In the current set-up, the mice first use the doorway as a point reference for establishing a borderline linear path along the circumference of the arena floor, and then use this path as a linear reference for performing horizontal forays towards the centre (incursions) and vertical forays on the wire mesh (ascents). Vertical movement starts with rearing on the wall, and commences with straight vertical ascents that increase in extent and complexity. The mice first reach the top of the wall, then mill about within circumscribed horizontal sections, and then progress horizontally for increasingly longer distances on the upper edge of the wire mesh. Examination of the sequence of borderline segments, incursions and ascents reveals dimensional modularity: an initial series (bout) of borderline segments precedes alternating bouts of incursions and bouts of ascents, thus exhibiting sustained attention to each dimension separately. The exhibited separate growth in extent and in complexity of movement and the sustained attention to each of the three dimensions disclose the mice's modular perception of this environment and validate all three as natural kinds. PMID:29657827

Enhanced solar photoelectrochemical conversion efficiency of the hydrothermally-deposited TiO2 nanorod arrays: Effects of the light trapping and optimum charge transfer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

An, Gil Woo; Mahadik, Mahadeo A.; Chae, Weon-Sik; Kim, Hyun Gyu; Cho, Min; Jang, Jum Suk

2018-05-01

The vertically aligned TiO2 nanorod arrays (NRA) with manipulated aspect ratio were hydrothermally synthesized by changing the amount of the titanium (Ti) precursor in the initial growth solution. FE-SEM images show the optimum morphology, density and aspect ratio of the well-aligned TB-1.2 NRs on the surface of the FTO substrate. The UV-vis-absorption measurements revealed that a sample prepared at TB-1.2 can provide an increased light trapping effect. PEC analyses demonstrated that the TiO2 nanorods deposited at TB-1.2 of Titanium butoxide show a relatively high PEC conversion efficiency (3.5 times) compared with the TB-0.8 prepared TiO2 at a 1.0 V versus RHE. The higher PEC performance is believed to be the result of an enhancement of the optimum aspect ratio, light trapping, an efficient charge separation, and the high carrier transport in the vertically aligned TiO2 NRs. Further, the PEC based organic dye degradation experiments showed 77% and 94% removal of Orange II and methylene blue respectively. Additionally, 109 μmol h-1 cm-2 hydrogen generations were attributed using optimized vertically aligned TiO2 NRA's. Thus, the appropriate morphology manipulated the TiO2 NRAs are useful for solar conversion applications.

Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotubes for Flow-Induced Voltage Generation (Preprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-08-01

flow sensors with a large dynamic range. The present work investigates voltage generation properties of multi-walled carbon nanotubes ( MWCNT ) as a...wall carbon nanotubes, has been generated from our perpendicularly-aligned MWCNT in an aqueous solution of 1 M NaCl at a relatively low flow velocity of...generation properties of multi-walled carbon nanotubes ( MWCNT ) as a function of the relative orientation of the nanotube array with respect to the flow

Laser-fiber coupling by means of a silicon micro-optical bench and a self-aligned soldering process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmidt, Jan P.; Cordes, A.; Mueller, Joerg; Burkhardt, Hans

1995-02-01

The alignment of laser diodes to monomode fibers has to meet extremely close tolerances for a low coupling loss. Typically < 0.5 micrometers in lateral and vertical direction and less than two degrees in angle deviation are allowed for a coupling loss below 2 dB. Presently such close tolerances can only be met by gluing or soldering both components on separate base plates and combining them via piezoactivated alignment monitoring the output of the circuit and then gluing them using UV-hardening epoxies. Such a procedure is not very economical and not useful for mass applications. This paper presents the principle and realization of a silicon micro-optical bench for laser-fiber-coupling, which avoids the above mentioned disadvantages. The micro-optical bench is realized using well controlled plasma etching processes to transfer the guiding patterns for the laser and the fiber into the silicon substrate, keeping geometry tolerances below +/- 0.5 micrometers in lateral and vertical direction. Mounting the laser diode by means of a self-aligned soldering process, an additional contribution to the precise alignment of the laser is further improved.

A facile method to align carbon nanotubes on polymeric membrane substrate

PubMed Central

Zhao, Haiyang; Zhou, Zhijun; Dong, Hang; Zhang, Lin; Chen, Huanlin; Hou, Lian

2013-01-01

The alignment of carbon nanotubes (CNT) is the fundamental requirement to ensure their excellent functions but seems to be desolated in recent years. A facile method, hot-press combined with peel-off (HPPO), is introduced here, through which CNT can be successfully vertically aligned on the polymeric membrane substrate. Shear force and mechanical stretch are proposed to be the main forces to align the tubes perpendicular to the substrate surface during the peel-off process. The alignment of CNT keeps its orientation in a thin hybrid membrane by dip-coating cellulose acetate dope solution. It is expected that the stable alignment of CNT by HPPO would contribute to the realization of its potential applications. PMID:24326297

Characterization of surface roughness effects on pressure drop in single-phase flow in minichannels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kandlikar, Satish G.; Schmitt, Derek; Carrano, Andres L.; Taylor, James B.

2005-10-01

Roughness features on the walls of a channel wall affect the pressure drop of a fluid flowing through that channel. This roughness effect can be described by (i) flow area constriction and (ii) increase in the wall shear stress. Replotting the Moody's friction factor chart with the constricted flow diameter results in a simplified plot and yields a single asymptotic value of friction factor for relative roughness values of ɛ /D>0.03 in the fully developed turbulent region. After reviewing the literature, three new roughness parameters are proposed (maximum profile peak height Rp, mean spacing of profile irregularities RSm, and floor distance to mean line Fp). Three additional parameters are presented to consider the localized hydraulic diameter variation (maximum, minimum, and average) in future work. The roughness ɛ is then defined as Rp+Fp. This definition yields the same value of roughness as obtained from the sand-grain roughness [H. Darcy, Recherches Experimentales Relatives au Mouvement de L'Eau dans les Tuyaux (Mallet-Bachelier, Paris, France, 1857); J. T. Fanning, A Practical Treatise on Hydraulic and Water Supply Engineering (Van Nostrand, New York, 1877, revised ed. 1886); J. Nikuradse, "Laws of flow in rough pipes" ["Stromungsgesetze in Rauen Rohren," VDI-Forschungsheft 361 (1933)]; Beilage zu "Forschung auf dem Gebiete des Ingenieurwesens," Ausgabe B Band 4, English translation NACA Tech. Mem. 1292 (1937)]. Specific experiments are conducted using parallel sawtooth ridge elements, placed normal to the flow direction, in aligned and offset configurations in a 10.03mm wide rectangular channel with variable gap (resulting hydraulic diameters of 325μm-1819μm with Reynolds numbers ranging from 200 to 7200 for air and 200 to 5700 for water). The use of constricted flow diameter extends the applicability of the laminar friction factor equations to relative roughness values (sawtooth height) up to 14%. In the turbulent region, the aligned and offset roughness arrangements yield different results indicating a need to further characterize the surface features. The laminar to turbulent transition is also seen to occur at lower Reynolds numbers with an increase in the relative roughness.

Taxel-addressable matrix of vertical nanowire piezotronic transistors

DOEpatents

Wang, Zhong Lin; Wu, Wenzhuo; Wen, Xiaonan

2015-05-05

A tactile sensing matrix includes a substrate, a first plurality of elongated electrode structures, a plurality of vertically aligned piezoelectric members, an insulating layer infused into the piezoelectric members and a second plurality of elongated electrode structures. The first plurality of elongated electrode structures is disposed on the substrate along a first orientation. The vertically aligned piezoelectric members is disposed on the first plurality of elongated electrode structures and form a matrix having columns of piezoelectric members disposed along the first orientation and rows of piezoelectric members disposed along a second orientation that is transverse to the first orientation. The second plurality of elongated electrode structures is disposed on the insulating layer along the second orientation. The elongated electrode structures form a Schottky contact with the piezoelectric members. When pressure is applied to the piezoelectric members, current flow therethrough is modulated.

The Development of High-Density Vertical Silicon Nanowires and Their Application in a Heterojunction Diode.

PubMed

Chang, Wen-Chung; Su, Sheng-Chien; Wu, Chia-Ching

2016-06-30

Vertically aligned p-type silicon nanowire (SiNW) arrays were fabricated through metal-assisted chemical etching (MACE) of Si wafers. An indium tin oxide/indium zinc oxide/silicon nanowire (ITO/IZO/SiNW) heterojunction diode was formed by depositing ITO and IZO thin films on the vertically aligned SiNW arrays. The structural and electrical properties of the resulting ITO/IZO/SiNW heterojunction diode were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and current-voltage (I-V) measurements. Nonlinear and rectifying I-V properties confirmed that a heterojunction diode was successfully formed in the ITO/IZO/SiNW structure. The diode had a well-defined rectifying behavior, with a rectification ratio of 550.7 at 3 V and a turn-on voltage of 2.53 V under dark conditions.

6. View southwest, culvert inlet with canal bank completely removed. ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

6. View southwest, culvert inlet with canal bank completely removed. Left to right: back of headwall; tops of high inlet barrels; vertical transition wall between high inlet barrels and low, interior, inlet barrels; tops of low interior barrels; vertical heartening planks and low cutoff wall along former edge of canal bank; dewatered canal bed. - Delaware & Raritan Canal, Ten Mile Run Culvert, 1.5 miles South of Blackwells Road, East Millstone, Somerset County, NJ

Thermal control of electroosmotic flow in a microchannel through temperature-dependent properties.

PubMed

Kwak, Ho Sang; Kim, Hyoungsoo; Hyun, Jae Min; Song, Tae-Ho

2009-07-01

A numerical investigation is conducted on the electroosmotic flow and associated heat transfer in a two-dimensional microchannel. The objective of this study is to explore a new conceptual idea that is control of an electroosmotic flow by using a thermal field effect through the temperature-dependent physical properties. Two exemplary problems are examined: a flow in a microchannel with a constant vertical temperature difference between two horizontal walls and a flow in a microchannel with the wall temperatures varying horizontally in a sinusoidal manner. The results of numerical computations showed that a proper control of thermal field may be a viable means to manipulate various non-plug-like flow patterns. A constant vertical temperature difference across the channel produces a shear flow. The horizontally-varying thermal condition results in spatial variation of physical properties to generate fluctuating flow patterns. The temperature variation at the wall with alternating vertical temperature gradient induces a wavy flow.

Pipe support for use in a nuclear system

DOEpatents

Pollono, Louis P.; Mello, Raymond M.

1977-01-01

A pipe support for high temperature, thin-walled vertical piping runs used in a nuclear system. A cylindrical pipe transition member, having the same inside diameter as the thin-walled piping, replaces a portion of the piping where support is desired. The outside diameter of the pipe transition member varies axially along its vertical dimension. For a section of the axial length adjacent the upper and lower terminations of the pipe transition member, the outside diameter is the same as the outside diameter of the thin-walled piping to which it is affixed. Intermediate of the termination sections, the outside diameter increases from the top of the member to the bottom. Adjacent the lower termination section, the diameter abruptly becomes the same as the piping. Thus, the cylindrical transition member is formed to have a generally triangular shaped cross-section along the axial dimension. Load-bearing insulation is installed next to the periphery of the member and is kept in place by an outer ring clamp. The outer ring clamp is connected to pipe hangers, which provide the desired support for the vertical thin-walled piping runs.

Cytochemical localization of calcium in cap cells of primary roots of Zea mays L

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moore, R.

1986-01-01

The distribution of calcium (Ca) in caps of vertically- and horizontally-oriented roots of Zea mays was monitored to determine its possible role in root graviresponsiveness. A modification of the antimonate precipitation procedure was used to localize Ca in situ. In vertically-oriented roots, the presumed graviperceptive (i.e., columella) cells were characterized by minimal and symmetric staining of the plasmalemma and mitochondria. No precipitate was present in plasmodesmata or cell walls. Within 5 min after horizontal reorientation, staining was associated with the portion of the cell wall adjacent to the distal end of the cell. This asymmetric staining persisted throughout the onset of gravicurvature. No staining of lateral cell walls of columella cells was observed at any stage of gravicurvature, suggesting that a lateral flow of Ca through the columella tissue of horizontally-oriented roots does not occur. The outermost peripheral cells of roots oriented horizontally and vertically secrete Ca through plasmodesmata-like structures in their cell walls. These results are discussed relative to proposed roles of root-cap Ca in root gravicurvature.

Fiber optics welder having movable aligning mirror

DOEpatents

Higgins, Robert W.; Robichaud, Roger E.

1981-01-01

A system for welding fiber optic waveguides together. The ends of the two fibers to be joined together are accurately, collinearly aligned in a vertical orientation and subjected to a controlled, diffuse arc to effect welding and thermal conditioning. A front-surfaced mirror mounted at a 45.degree. angle to the optical axis of a stereomicroscope mounted for viewing the junction of the ends provides two orthogonal views of the interface during the alignment operation.

Lateral resistance of piles near vertical MSE abutment walls.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-03-01

Full scale lateral load tests were performed on eight piles located at various distances behind MSE walls. The objective of the testing was to determine the effect of spacing from the wall on the lateral resistance of the piles and on the force induc...

Comparison of JET AVDE disruption data with M3D simulations and implications for ITER

DOE PAGES

Strauss, H.; Joffrin, E.; Riccardo, V.; ...

2017-10-02

Nonlinear 3D MHD asymmetric vertical displacement disruption simulations have been performed using JET equilibrium reconstruction initial data. There were several experimentally measured quantities compared with the simulation. These include vertical displacement, halo current, toroidal current asymmetry, and toroidal rotation. The experimental data and the simulations are in reasonable agreement. Also compared was the correlation of the toroidal current asymmetry and the vertical displacement asymmetry. The Noll relation between asymmetric wall force and vertical current moment is verified in the simulations. Also verified is the toroidal flux asymmetry. Though, JET is a good predictor of ITER disruption behavior, JET and ITERmore » can be in different parameter regimes, and extrapolating from JET data can overestimate the ITER wall force.« less

Comparison of JET AVDE disruption data with M3D simulations and implications for ITER

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

Strauss, H.; Joffrin, E.; Riccardo, V.

Nonlinear 3D MHD asymmetric vertical displacement disruption simulations have been performed using JET equilibrium reconstruction initial data. There were several experimentally measured quantities compared with the simulation. These include vertical displacement, halo current, toroidal current asymmetry, and toroidal rotation. The experimental data and the simulations are in reasonable agreement. Also compared was the correlation of the toroidal current asymmetry and the vertical displacement asymmetry. The Noll relation between asymmetric wall force and vertical current moment is verified in the simulations. Also verified is the toroidal flux asymmetry. Though, JET is a good predictor of ITER disruption behavior, JET and ITERmore » can be in different parameter regimes, and extrapolating from JET data can overestimate the ITER wall force.« less

Homogeneous alignment of liquid crystalline dendrimers confined in a slit-pore. A simulation study.

PubMed

Workineh, Zerihun G; Vanakaras, Alexandros G

2016-03-23

In this work we present results from isobaric-isothermal (NPT) Monte Carlo simulation studies of model liquid crystalline dendrimer (LCDr) systems confined in a slit-pore made of two parallel flat walls. The dendrimers are modelled as a collection of spherical and ellipsoidal particles corresponding to the junction points of the dendritic core and to the mesogenic units respectively. Assuming planar uniform (unidirectional) soft anchoring of the mesogenic units on the substrates we investigate the conformational and alignment properties of the LCDr system at different thermodynamic state points. Tractable coarse grained force fields have been used from our previous work. At low pressures the interior of the pore is almost empty, since almost all LCDrs are anchored to the substrates forming two-dimensional smectic-like structures with the mesogens aligned along the aligning direction of the substrates. As the pressure grows the LCDrs occupy the whole pore. However, even at low temperatures, the smectic organization does not transmit in the interior of the pore and is preserved for distances of 2-3 mesogenic diameters from the walls. For this reason, the global orientational order decreases with increasing pressure (density). In the vicinity (2-3 mesogenic diameters) of the pore walls, mesogenic units preserve the smectic structure whose layers are separated by layers of spherical beads. In this region individual LCDrs possess a rod like shape.

Homogeneous alignment of liquid crystalline dendrimers confined in a slit-pore. A simulation study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Workineh, Zerihun G.; Vanakaras, Alexandros G.

2016-03-01

In this work we present results from isobaric-isothermal (NPT) Monte Carlo simulation studies of model liquid crystalline dendrimer (LCDr) systems confined in a slit-pore made of two parallel flat walls. The dendrimers are modelled as a collection of spherical and ellipsoidal particles corresponding to the junction points of the dendritic core and to the mesogenic units respectively. Assuming planar uniform (unidirectional) soft anchoring of the mesogenic units on the substrates we investigate the conformational and alignment properties of the LCDr system at different thermodynamic state points. Tractable coarse grained force fields have been used from our previous work. At low pressures the interior of the pore is almost empty, since almost all LCDrs are anchored to the substrates forming two-dimensional smectic-like structures with the mesogens aligned along the aligning direction of the substrates. As the pressure grows the LCDrs occupy the whole pore. However, even at low temperatures, the smectic organization does not transmit in the interior of the pore and is preserved for distances of 2-3 mesogenic diameters from the walls. For this reason, the global orientational order decreases with increasing pressure (density). In the vicinity (2-3 mesogenic diameters) of the pore walls, mesogenic units preserve the smectic structure whose layers are separated by layers of spherical beads. In this region individual LCDrs possess a rod like shape.

A molded surface-micromachining and bulk etching release (MOSBE) fabrication platform on (1 1 1) Si for MOEMS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Mingching; Fang, Weileun

2006-02-01

This work attempts to integrate poly-Si thin film and single-crystal-silicon (SCS) structures in a monolithic process. The process integrated multi-depth DRIE (deep reactive ion etching), trench-refilled molding, a two poly-Si MUMPs process and (1 1 1) Si bulk micromachining to accomplish multi-thickness and multi-depth structures for superior micro-optical devices. In application, a SCS scanning mirror driven by self-aligned vertical comb-drive actuators was demonstrated. The stiffness of the mirror was significantly increased by thick SCS structures. The thin poly-Si film served as flexible torsional springs and electrical routings. The depth difference of the vertical comb electrodes was tuned by DRIE to increase the devices' stroke. Finally, a large moving space was available after the bulk Si etching. In summary, the present fabrication process, named (1 1 1) MOSBE (molded surface-micromachining and bulk etching release on (1 1 1) Si substrate), can further integrate with the MUMPs devices to establish a more powerful platform.

Polarization-dependent DANES study on vertically-aligned ZnO nanorods

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

Sun, Chengjun; Park, Chang-In; Jin, Zhenlan

2016-05-01

The local structural and local density of states of vertically-aligned ZnO nanorods were examined by using a polarization-dependent diffraction anomalous near edge structure (DANES) measurements from c-oriented ZnO nanorods at the Zn K edge with the incident x-ray electric field parallel and perpendicular to the x-ray momentum transfer direction. Orientation-dependent local structures determined by DANES were comparable with polarization-dependent EXAFS results. Unlike other techniques, polarization-dependent DANES can uniquely describe the orientation-dependent local structural properties and the local density of states of a selected element in selected-phased crystals of compounds or mixed-phased structures.

Biomineralization of superhydrophilic vertically aligned carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Marsi, Teresa Cristina O; Santos, Tiago G; Pacheco-Soares, Cristina; Corat, Evaldo J; Marciano, Fernanda R; Lobo, Anderson O

2012-03-06

Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNT) promise a great role for the study of tissue regeneration. In this paper, we introduce a new biomimetic mineralization routine employing superhydrophilic VACNT films as highly stable template materials. The biomineralization was obtained after VACNT soaking in simulated body fluid solution. Detailed structural analysis reveals that the polycrystalline biological apatites formed due to the -COOH terminations attached to VACNT tips after oxygen plasma etching. Our approach not only provides a novel route for nanostructured materials, but also suggests that COOH termination sites can play a significant role in biomimetic mineralization. These new nanocomposites are very promising as nanobiomaterials due to the excellent human osteoblast adhesion.

Patterned forests of vertically-aligned multiwalled carbon nanotubes using metal salt catalyst solutions.

PubMed

Garrett, David J; Flavel, Benjamin S; Baronian, Keith H R; Downard, Alison J

2013-01-01

A simple method for producing patterned forests of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) is described. An aqueous metal salt solution is spin-coated onto a substrate patterned with photoresist by standard methods. The photoresist is removed by acetone washing leaving the acetone-insoluble catalyst pattern on the substrate. Dense forests of vertically aligned (VA) MWCNTs are grown on the patterned catalyst layers by chemical vapour deposition. The procedures have been demonstrated by growing MWCNT forests on two substrates: silicon and conducting graphitic carbon films. The forests adhere strongly to the substrates and when grown directly on carbon film, offer a simple method of preparing MWCNT electrodes.

Growth of multiwalled-carbon nanotubes using vertically aligned carbon nanofibers as templates/scaffolds and improved field-emission properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, H.; Yang, X.; Baylor, L. R.; Lowndes, D. H.

2005-01-01

Multiwalled-carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are grown on top of vertically aligned carbon nanofibers (VACNFs) via microwave plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (MPECVD). The VACNFs are first grown in a direct-current plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition reactor using nickel catalyst. A layer of carbon-silicon materials is then deposited on the VACNFs and the nickel catalyst particle is broken down into smaller nanoparticles during an intermediate reactive-ion-plasma deposition step. These nickel nanoparticles nucleate and grow MWCNTs in the following MPECVD process. Movable-probe measurements show that the MWCNTs have greatly improved field-emission properties relative to the VACNFs.

Microplasma illumination enhancement of vertically aligned conducting ultrananocrystalline diamond nanorods

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Vertically aligned conducting ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD) nanorods are fabricated using the reactive ion etching method incorporated with nanodiamond particles as mask. High electrical conductivity of 275 Ω·cm−1 is obtained for UNCD nanorods. The microplasma cavities using UNCD nanorods as cathode show enhanced plasma illumination characteristics of low threshold field of 0.21 V/μm with plasma current density of 7.06 mA/cm2 at an applied field of 0.35 V/μm. Such superior electrical properties of UNCD nanorods with high aspect ratio potentially make a significant impact on the diamond-based microplasma display technology. PMID:23009733

Vertically aligned diamond-graphite hybrid nanorod arrays with superior field electron emission properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramaneti, R.; Sankaran, K. J.; Korneychuk, S.; Yeh, C. J.; Degutis, G.; Leou, K. C.; Verbeeck, J.; Van Bael, M. K.; Lin, I. N.; Haenen, K.

2017-06-01

A "patterned-seeding technique" in combination with a "nanodiamond masked reactive ion etching process" is demonstrated for fabricating vertically aligned diamond-graphite hybrid (DGH) nanorod arrays. The DGH nanorod arrays possess superior field electron emission (FEE) behavior with a low turn-on field, long lifetime stability, and large field enhancement factor. Such an enhanced FEE is attributed to the nanocomposite nature of the DGH nanorods, which contain sp2-graphitic phases in the boundaries of nano-sized diamond grains. The simplicity in the nanorod fabrication process renders the DGH nanorods of greater potential for the applications as cathodes in field emission displays and microplasma display devices.

Vertically-aligned Co(OH)2 Nanosheet Films for Flexible All-solid-state Electrochemical Supercapacitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Yazhou; Gong, Jiangfeng; Zhu, Weihua

2017-11-01

Vertically-aligned Co(OH)2 nanosheets were cathodically electrodeposited on a piece of gold coated polyethylene terephthalate (Au-PET) as an electrode material for supercapacitor. The Co(OH)2 electrode showed a high capacitance of 2695 F g-1 at 8 A g-1 in 1 M KOH aqueous electrolyte. Besides, the films were employed to assemble symmetric all-solid-state supercapacitors with PVA/LiCl gel served as solid electrolyte. The device exhibits an areal capacitance of 50.5 μF cm-2 at the current density of 2 μA cm-2 accompanied by excellent cycle stability.

Functionalized vertically aligned ZnO nanorods for application in electrolyte-insulator-semiconductor based pH sensors and label-free immuno-sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Narendra; Senapati, Sujata; Kumar, Satyendra; Kumar, Jitendra; Panda, Siddhartha

2016-04-01

Vertically aligned ZnO nanorods were grown on a SiO2/Si surface by optimization of the temperature and atmosphere for annealing of the seed. The seed layer annealed at 500 °C in vacuum provided well separated and uniform seeds which also provided the best condition to get densely packed, uniformly distributed, and vertically aligned nanorods. These nanorods grown on the substrates were used to fabricate electrolyte-insulator-semiconductor (EIS) devices for pH sensing. Etching of ZnO at acidic pH prevents the direct use of nanorods for pH sensing. Therefore, the nanorods functionalised with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) were utilized for pH sensing and showed the pH sensitivity of 50.1 mV/pH. APTES is also known to be used as a linker to immobilize biomolecules (such as antibodies). The EIS device with APTES functionalized nanorods was used for the label free detection of prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Finally, voltage shifts of 23 mV and 35 mV were observed with PSA concentrations of 1 ng/ml and 100 ng/ml, respectively.

Evaluation of interaction properties of geosynthetics in cohesive soils : LTRC reinforced-soil test wall.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2004-01-01

This report presents the construction and performance evaluation of the LTRC reinforced-soil test wall. The 20 ft. high, 160 ft. long wall was constructed using low quality backfill. Its vertical front facing was constructed with modular blocks. It c...

Vertically-aligned BCN Nanotube Arrays with Superior Performance in Electrochemical capacitors

PubMed Central

Zhou, Junshuang; Li, Na; Gao, Faming; Zhao, Yufeng; Hou, Li; Xu, Ziming

2014-01-01

Electrochemical capacitors (EC) have received tremendous interest due to their high potential to satisfy the urgent demand in many advanced applications. The development of new electrode materials is considered to be the most promising approach to enhance the EC performance substantially. Herein, we present a high-capacity capacitor material based on vertically-aligned BC2N nanotube arrays (VA-BC2NNTAs) synthesized by low temperature solvothermal route. The obtained VA-BC2NNTAs display the good aligned nonbuckled tubular structure, which could indeed advantageously enhance capacitor performance. VA-BC2NNTAs exhibit an extremely high specific capacitance, 547 Fg−1, which is about 2–6 times larger than that of the presently available carbon-based materials. Meanwhile, VA-BC2NNTAs maintain an excellent rate capability and high durability. All these characteristics endow VA-BC2NNTAs an alternative promising candidate for an efficient electrode material for electrochemical capacitors (EC). PMID:25124300

High-performance supercapacitors based on vertically aligned carbon nanotubes and nonaqueous electrolytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Byungwoo; Chung, Haegeun; Kim, Woong

2012-04-01

We demonstrate the high performance of supercapacitors fabricated with vertically aligned carbon nanotubes and nonaqueous electrolytes such as ionic liquids and conventional organic electrolytes. Specific capacitance, maximum power and energy density of the supercapacitor measured in ionic liquid were ˜75 F g-1, ˜987 kW kg-1 and ˜27 W h kg-1, respectively. The high power performance was consistently indicated by a fast relaxation time constant of 0.2 s. In addition, electrochemical oxidation of the carbon nanotubes improved the specific capacitance (˜158 F g-1) and energy density (˜53 W h kg-1). Both high power and energy density could be attributed to the fast ion transport realized by the alignment of carbon nanotubes and the wide operational voltage defined by the ionic liquid. The demonstrated carbon-nanotube- and nonaqueous-electrolyte-based supercapacitors show great potential for the development of high-performance energy storage devices.

Transferring vertically aligned carbon nanotubes onto a polymeric substrate using a hot embossing technique for microfluidic applications.

PubMed

Mathur, A; Roy, S S; McLaughlin, J A

2010-07-06

We explored the hot embossing method for transferring vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into microfluidic channels, fabricated on poly-methyl-methacrylate (PMMA). Patterned and unpatterned CNTs were synthesized by microwave plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition on silicon to work as a stamp. For hot embossing, 115 degrees C and 1 kN force for 2 min were found to be the most suitable parameters for the complete transfer of aligned CNTs on the PMMA microchannel. Raman and SEM studies were used to analyse the microstructure of CNTs before and after hot embossing. The PMMA microparticles with dimensions (approx. 10 microm in diameter) similar to red blood cells were successfully filtered using laminar flow through these microfluidic channels. Finally, a microfluidic-based point-of-care device for blood filtration and detection of bio-molecules is drawn schematically.

Transferring vertically aligned carbon nanotubes onto a polymeric substrate using a hot embossing technique for microfluidic applications

PubMed Central

Mathur, A.; Roy, S. S.; McLaughlin, J. A.

2010-01-01

We explored the hot embossing method for transferring vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into microfluidic channels, fabricated on poly-methyl-methacrylate (PMMA). Patterned and unpatterned CNTs were synthesized by microwave plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition on silicon to work as a stamp. For hot embossing, 115°C and 1 kN force for 2 min were found to be the most suitable parameters for the complete transfer of aligned CNTs on the PMMA microchannel. Raman and SEM studies were used to analyse the microstructure of CNTs before and after hot embossing. The PMMA microparticles with dimensions (approx. 10 µm in diameter) similar to red blood cells were successfully filtered using laminar flow through these microfluidic channels. Finally, a microfluidic-based point-of-care device for blood filtration and detection of bio-molecules is drawn schematically. PMID:20147316