Dependence of alpha particle track diameter on the free volume holes size using positron annihilation lifetime technique

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

El-Gamal, S. [Physics Department, Faculty of Education, Ain Shams University, Roxy, 11711 Cairo (Egypt); Abdalla, Ayman M., E-mail: aymanabdalla62@hotmail.com [Physics Department, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Najran University, Najran (Saudi Arabia); Centre for Advanced Materials and Nano-Engineering, Najran University, Najran 11001 (Saudi Arabia); Abdel-Hady, E.E. [Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Minia University, BO 61519, Minia (Egypt)

2015-09-15

The alpha particle track diameter dependence of the free volume holes size (V{sub f}) in DAM–ADC and CR-39 nuclear track detectors was investigated using positron annihilation lifetime technique. The effect of temperature on the alpha particle track diameter and free volume were also investigated in the T-range (RT-130 °C). The obtained results revealed that the values of ortho-positronium lifetime τ{sub 3} and V{sub f} increases while I{sub 3} slightly increases as T increases for the two detectors. The values of τ{sub 3}, V{sub f} and I{sub 3} are higher in CR-39 than DAM–ADC. The interpretation of obtained results is based on the fact that increasing T leads to significant enhancement of thermal expansion of the polymer matrix and consequently V{sub f} increases. The track diameter increases as T increases. This can be explained by the fact that the increase in T increases the crystal size and V{sub f} in the polymer. A relationship between V{sub f} and the alpha particle track diameter was obtained. Moreover results of detector irradiation, along with free volume evaluation are addressed and thoroughly discussed.

Positron annihilation lifetime study of low temperature irradiated metals

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kuramoto, Eiichi [Kyushu Univ., Kasuga, Fukuoka (Japan). Research Inst. for Applied Mechanics

1997-11-01

Positron annihilation lifetime measurements have been made for electron and neutron irradiated Fe, Fe-Cr, Fe-Cu, Fe-Si, Fe-16Cr-17Ni specimens, and isochronal annealing behaviors were obtained for these metals and alloys. It was found that vacancies start to migrate at about 200 K in Fe and form microvoids, but by the addition of small amount of alloying elements this behavior was changed depending on the alloying elements. Positron lifetime calculations were made to explain the experimental results using EAM (embedded atom method) type potential for the lattice relaxation and the atomic superposition method for the lifetime calculation. Fairly good agreements were obtained for the positron lifetime in a vacancy in Fe and other alloys. (author)

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy study of Kapton thin foils

Science.gov (United States)

Kanda, G. S.; Ravelli, L.; Löwe, B.; Egger, W.; Keeble, D. J.

2016-01-01

Variable energy positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (VE-PALS) experiments on polyimide material Kapton are reported. Thin Kapton foils are widely used in a variety of mechanical, electronic applications. PALS provides a sensitive probe of vacancy-related defects in a wide range of materials, including open volume in polymers. Varying the positron implantation energy enables direct measurement of thin foils. Thin Kapton foils are also commonly used to enclose the positron source material in conventional PALS measurements performed with unmoderated radionuclide sources. The results of depth-profiled positron lifetime measurements on 7.6 μm and 25 μm Kapton foils are reported and determine a dominant 385(1) ps lifetime component. The absence of significant nanosecond lifetime component due to positronium formation is confirmed.

Positron annihilation lifetime measurements of austenitic stainless and ferritic/martensitic steels irradiated in the SINQ target irradiation program

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sato, K., E-mail: ksato@rri.kyoto-u.ac.jp [Research Reactor Institute, Kyoto University, Kumatori-cho, Sennan-gun, Osaka 590-0494 (Japan); Xu, Q.; Yoshiie, T. [Research Reactor Institute, Kyoto University, Kumatori-cho, Sennan-gun, Osaka 590-0494 (Japan); Dai, Y. [Spallation Neutron Source Division, Paul Scherrer Institute, CH-5232 Villigen PSI (Switzerland); Kikuchi, K. [Frontier Research Center for Applied Atomic Sciences, Ibaraki University, Tokai-mura, Naka-gun, Ibaraki 319-1106 (Japan)

2012-12-15

Titanium-doped austenitic stainless steel (JPCA) and reduced activated ferritic/martensitic steel (F82H) irradiated with high-energy protons and spallation neutrons were investigated by positron annihilation lifetime measurements. Subnanometer-sized (<{approx}0.8 nm) helium bubbles, which cannot be observed by transmission electron microscopy, were detected by positron annihilation lifetime measurements for the first time. For the F82H steel, the positron annihilation lifetime of the bubbles decreased with increasing irradiation dose and annealing temperature because the bubbles absorb additional He atoms. In the case of JPCA steel, the positron annihilation lifetime increased with increasing annealing temperature above 773 K, in which case the dissociation of complexes of vacancy clusters with He atoms and the growth of He bubbles was detected. He bubble size and density were also discussed.

Positron annihilation lifetime measurements of austenitic stainless and ferritic/martensitic steels irradiated in the SINQ target irradiation program

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sato, K.; Xu, Q.; Yoshiie, T.; Dai, Y.; Kikuchi, K.

2012-01-01

Titanium-doped austenitic stainless steel (JPCA) and reduced activated ferritic/martensitic steel (F82H) irradiated with high-energy protons and spallation neutrons were investigated by positron annihilation lifetime measurements. Subnanometer-sized (<∼0.8 nm) helium bubbles, which cannot be observed by transmission electron microscopy, were detected by positron annihilation lifetime measurements for the first time. For the F82H steel, the positron annihilation lifetime of the bubbles decreased with increasing irradiation dose and annealing temperature because the bubbles absorb additional He atoms. In the case of JPCA steel, the positron annihilation lifetime increased with increasing annealing temperature above 773 K, in which case the dissociation of complexes of vacancy clusters with He atoms and the growth of He bubbles was detected. He bubble size and density were also discussed.

New positron annihilation spectroscopy techniques for thick materials

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Selim, F.A.; Wells, D.P.; Harmon, J.F.; Kwofie, J.; Erikson, G.; Roney, T.

2003-01-01

The Idaho Accelerator Center (IAC) has developed new techniques for positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) by using highly penetrating γ-rays to create positrons inside the material via pair production. Two sources of γ-rays have been employed. Bremsstrahlung beams from small-electron linacs (6 MeV) were used to generate positrons inside the material to perform Doppler-broadening spectroscopy. A 2 MeV proton beam was used to obtain coincident γ-rays from 27 Al target and enable lifetime and Doppler-broadening spectroscopy. This technique successfully measured stress/strain in thick samples, and showed promise to extend PAS into a variety of applications

Positron lifetime technique with applications in materials science

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vries, J. de.

1987-01-01

This thesis deals with the positron lifetime technique as a method to measure extremely low concentrations of extremely small cavities in materials. The method is based upon the fact that the positron lieftime decreases as the electron density increases and upon the fact that a positron preferably annihilates in cavity-like defects in lattices. The theory of positron behaviour in materials and technical aspects of measuring positron liefetimes are described in ch.'s 2 and 3 respectively. Three methods for increasing the time resolution are discussed and some positron sources are described (ch.4). Some applications of the positron lifetime technique and experimental results are shown in chapter 5. 125 refs.; 61 figs.; 18 tabs

A positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy study of porous silicon using a continuous lifetime fitting algorithm

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Derlet, P.M.; Choy, T.C.

1996-01-01

In the present work we report on a positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) investigation of porous silicon using a continuous lifetime fitting algorithm. Our motivation lies in the underlying disadvantage in discrete lifetime fitting algorithms where the number of components must initially be assumed since in general a realistic spectrum does not uniquely determine this number. This becomes particularly apparent when looking at highly disordered systems where the notion of a discrete spectrum may be invalid and indeed crucial to an understanding of the optical absorption and photo-luminescence properties. Using the PALS data collected from different porous silicon samples in conjunction with other methods of characterisation, we have extended the findings of previous work. In particular we resolve three rather than two ortho-positronium components, suggesting that there may be an additional intermediary scale of porosity in which ortho-positronium annihilates. We also establish the existence of a very weak ortho-positronium component in the pre-anodised wafers at a time scale approximately equal to the longest time ortho-positronium component seen in porous silicon, suggesting that irregularities of a particular magnitude exist before anodisation and that these may, in part, be the catalyst for the initial pore formation process

Positron annihilation lifetime measurements of austenitic stainless and ferritic/martensitic steels irradiated in the SINQ target irradiation program

Science.gov (United States)

Sato, K.; Xu, Q.; Yoshiie, T.; Dai, Y.; Kikuchi, K.

2012-12-01

Titanium-doped austenitic stainless steel (JPCA) and reduced activated ferritic/martensitic steel (F82H) irradiated with high-energy protons and spallation neutrons were investigated by positron annihilation lifetime measurements. Subnanometer-sized (steel, the positron annihilation lifetime of the bubbles decreased with increasing irradiation dose and annealing temperature because the bubbles absorb additional He atoms. In the case of JPCA steel, the positron annihilation lifetime increased with increasing annealing temperature above 773 K, in which case the dissociation of complexes of vacancy clusters with He atoms and the growth of He bubbles was detected. He bubble size and density were also discussed.

Positron Annihilation Lifetime Study of Pure and Doped Polyvinyl Chloride with Al2O3

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Abdel-Hady, E.E.; Hamdy, F. M. M.; Alaa, H.B.

2005-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime of pure and doped polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with Al 2 O 3 reflect the effect of concentration as well as temperature on free volume. Therefore, variations of the ortho-positronium (o-Ps) lifetime and its intensity have been correlated with changes in the dielectric properties of the pure and doped PVC. The o-Ps lifetime and its intensity show a linear dependence with a discontinuity at 20 % concentration of Al 2 O 3 . The size and the fractional of the o-Ps hole volume were estimated from the positron annihilation parameters. Therefore, the temperature dependence of the electrical conductivity and the positron annihilation parameters on pure and doped PVC with 20 % Al 2 O 3 were studied in the range from 20 to 140 degree C. The shift of the glass transition temperature to lower temperature for the 20 % Al 2 O 3 doped PVC might explain the increase in the electrical conductivity with the concentration of the additive

Studies on micro-domain structure in segmented polyether polyurethane-ureas by positron annihilation lifetime and small-angle X-ray scattering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yin Chuanyuan; Gu Qingchao

1997-01-01

The micro-domain structure of segmented polyether polyurethane-ureas is investigated by means of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy, small-angle X-ray scattering and differential scanning calorimetry. The experimental results show that the decrease in the domain volume and free volume results from the increase in the hard segment (polyurethane-urea segment) contents as the number-average molecular weight M n -bar of the soft segments (polyethylene glycol segments) is the same, and that the increase in domain volume and free volume result from the increase in the M n -bar of the soft segments when the hard segment content is the same or nearly the same. These results demonstrate that positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy is a sensitive technique to probe the micro-domain structure in polymers

Development of accelerator-based γ-ray-induced positron annihilation spectroscopy technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Selim, F.A.; Wells, D.P.; Harmon, J. F.; Williams, J.

2005-01-01

Accelerator-based γ-ray-induced positron annihilation spectroscopy performs positron annihilation spectroscopy by utilizing MeV bremsstrahlung radiation generated from an accelerator (We have named the technique 'accelerator-based γ-ray-induced PAS', even though 'bremsstrahlung' is more correct here than 'γ rays'. The reason for that is to make the name of the technique more general, since PAS may be performed by utilizing MeV γ rays emitted from nuclei through the use of accelerators as described later in this article and as in the case of positron lifetime spectroscopy [F.A. Selim, D.P. Wells, and J.F. Harmon, Rev. Sci. Instrum. 76, 033905 (2005)].) instead of using positrons from radioactive sources or positron beams. MeV γ rays create positrons inside the materials by pair production. The induced positrons annihilate with the material electrons emitting a 511-keV annihilation radiation. Doppler broadening spectroscopy of the 511-keV radiation provides information about open-volume defects and plastic deformation in solids. The high penetration of MeV γ rays allows probing of defects at high depths in thick materials up to several centimeters, which is not possible with most of the current nondestructive techniques. In this article, a detailed description of the technique will be presented, including its benefits and limitations relative to the other nondestructive methods. Its application on the investigation of plastic deformation in thick steel alloys will be shown

Positron annihilation lifetime and photoluminescence studies on single crystalline ZnO

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sarkar, A [Department of Physics, Bangabasi Morning College, 19 Rajkumar Chakraborty Sarani, Kolkata 700 009 (India); Chakrabarti, Mahuya [Department of Physics, University of Calcutta, 92 Acharya Prafulla Chandra Road, Kolkata 700009 (India); Ray, S K [Department of Physics and Meteorology, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur (India); Bhowmick, D; Sanyal, D, E-mail: dirtha@vecc.gov.in [Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre, 1/AF, Bidhannagar, Kolkata 700064 (India)

2011-04-20

The room temperature positron annihilation lifetime for single crystalline ZnO has been measured as 164 {+-} 1 ps. The single component lifetime value is very close to but higher than the theoretically predicted value of {approx} 154 ps. Photoluminescence study (at 10 K) indicates the presence of hydrogen and other defects, mainly acceptor related, in the crystal. Defects related to a lower open volume than zinc vacancies, presumably a complex with two hydrogen atoms, are the major trapping sites in the sample. The bulk positron lifetime in ZnO is expected to be a little less than 164 ps.

Positron annihilation lifetime and photoluminescence studies on single crystalline ZnO

Science.gov (United States)

Sarkar, A.; Chakrabarti, Mahuya; Ray, S. K.; Bhowmick, D.; Sanyal, D.

2011-04-01

The room temperature positron annihilation lifetime for single crystalline ZnO has been measured as 164 ± 1 ps. The single component lifetime value is very close to but higher than the theoretically predicted value of ~ 154 ps. Photoluminescence study (at 10 K) indicates the presence of hydrogen and other defects, mainly acceptor related, in the crystal. Defects related to a lower open volume than zinc vacancies, presumably a complex with two hydrogen atoms, are the major trapping sites in the sample. The bulk positron lifetime in ZnO is expected to be a little less than 164 ps.

Positron annihilation lifetime and photoluminescence studies on single crystalline ZnO

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sarkar, A; Chakrabarti, Mahuya; Ray, S K; Bhowmick, D; Sanyal, D

2011-01-01

The room temperature positron annihilation lifetime for single crystalline ZnO has been measured as 164 ± 1 ps. The single component lifetime value is very close to but higher than the theoretically predicted value of ∼ 154 ps. Photoluminescence study (at 10 K) indicates the presence of hydrogen and other defects, mainly acceptor related, in the crystal. Defects related to a lower open volume than zinc vacancies, presumably a complex with two hydrogen atoms, are the major trapping sites in the sample. The bulk positron lifetime in ZnO is expected to be a little less than 164 ps.

Quantitative application of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy to chemical systems in liquid solutions: typical examples

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Duplatre, G.

2007-01-01

The published works refer only to a few, although large, classes of applications. Nevertheless, the potential applications of Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy technique (PALS) are essentially limited by imagination. In the present contribution, the bases of physical particle, positronium (Ps) applications will be illustrated in two cases: first, it will be explained how equilibrium constants can be derived through PALS experiments; next, some more elaborate approaches will be shown to characterize various properties of direct micellar systems as have been developed in recent years in Strasbourg

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy of macromolecules

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Simon, G.

1996-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) is a technique which makes use of the anti- particle of the electron, the positron (e + ), first predicted by Dirac in 1931. This talk will concentrate on the use of PALS as a technique in characterising macromolecules. PALS has been used by various groups to evaluate many properties that one associates with free volume such as physical ageing, gas permeability, the glass transition, uptake of a solvent, crystallinity, crosslinking, molecular mobility. One area of much interest has been the use of this technique in looking at miscibility of polymer blends. In miscible blends, the interactions of the different polymers may be expected to lead to a negative free volume of mixing because of the strong attraction between the different chains. This may influence the free volume properties. Conversely, if a material is partially miscible or totally immiscible, this should influence both the size and total content of free volume. This should be related to other properties such as mechanical properties and molecular mobility, such as measured by dielectric relaxation spectroscopy. Variations on this involve copolymerization of crosslinked materials or linear thermoplastics (the ultimate 'molecular' miscibility) and this will also be discussed. Multiphase systems such as water uptake in polymers can vary polymer properties by filling molecular voids, as well as disturbing chain conformations and, in the case of polar polymers, associating with the polymer chains. The effect of polymer molecular structure on free volume - particularly in rigid polymer chains such as substituted poly(phenylenes) and liquid crystalline polymers will also be presented. Indeed, the unusual packing which arises from such anisotropic molecules leads to unusual behaviours both of the homolpolymers and subsequent liquid crystal polymer - liquid crystal polymer blends

Preliminary studies on a variable energy positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy system

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kwan, P.Y.; Cheung, C.K.; Beling, C.D.; Fung, S.

2006-01-01

There are many advantages in being able to perform positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) using a variable energy positron beam, the most obvious being the easy identification of different defect types at different depths. The difficulty in conducting variable energy (VE) PALS studies lies in the fact that a 'start' signal is required to signal the entry of the positron into the target. Two methods have been used to overcome this problem, namely the bunching technique, which employs radio frequency (RF) cavities and choppers, and secondly the use of secondary electrons emitted from the target. The latter technique is in terms of experimental complexity much simpler, but has in the past suffered from poor time resolution (typically ∼500 ps). In this work, we present a series of computer simulations of a design based on the secondary electron emission from thin C-foils in transmission mode which shows that significant improvements in time resolution can be made with resolutions ∼200 ps being in principle possible

Study of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy in carbon black-filled HDPE composite

CERN Document Server

Zhang Xian Feng; Zhou Xian Yi; Weng Hu Imin; Ye Bang Jiao; Han Rong Dian; Jia Shao Jin; Zhang Zhi Cheng

2002-01-01

The variation of the electrical conductivity of high density polyethylene (HDPE) with the carbon black (CB) content was studied using positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) and free-volume model, the crystallinity of HDPE/CB composite and 'percolation' effect were discussed with measurements of conductivity and DSC test

Development of an Electron-Positron Source for Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy

Science.gov (United States)

2009-12-19

REPORT Development of an electron- positron source for positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy : FINAL REPORT 14. ABSTRACT 16. SECURITY...to generate radiation, to accelerate particles, and to produce electrons and positrons from vacuum. From applications using existing high-repetition...theoretical directions. This report reviews work directed toward the application of positron generation from laser interaction with matter 1. REPORT DATE

The study of synthetic food dyes by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy.

Science.gov (United States)

Pivtsaev, A. A.; Razov, V. I.

2015-06-01

By method of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS), substances are food dyes were studied: E-102 (Tartrazine), E-124 (Ponso 4R), E 132 (Indigo carmine), E-133 (Brilliant Blue), E-151 (Black Shiny). They are examined for the presence of carcinogenic properties. The difference between dyes having explicit carcinogenic properties and mutagenic properties (non-explicit carcinogens) is established.

Positron annihilation lifetime study of Nafion/titanium dioxide nano-composite membranes

Science.gov (United States)

Lei, M.; Wang, Y. J.; Liang, C.; Huang, K.; Ye, C. X.; Wang, W. J.; Jin, S. F.; Zhang, R.; Fan, D. Y.; Yang, H. J.; Wang, Y. G.

2014-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) technique is applied for investigation of size and number density of free volumes in Nafion/TiO2-nanoparticles composite membrane. The proton transporting ability is correlated with the properties of free volume inside the membrane. It is revealed that composite membrane with 5 wt% of TiO2 nano-fillers exhibits good electrochemical performance under reduced humidity and it can be saturated with water at relative humidity of 50%, under which ionic clusters and proton transporting channels are formed, indicating that composite membranes with 5 wt% of TiO2 nano-fillers are effective electrolyte for fuel cells operated at reduced humidification levels. The results suggest that PAL can be a powerful tool for elucidating the relationship between microstructure and ion transport in polymer electrolyte membranes.

Single-shot positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy with LYSO scintillators

OpenAIRE

Alonso, A. M.; Cooper, B. S.; Deller, A.; Cassidy, D. B.

2016-01-01

We have evaluated the application of a lutetium yttrium oxyorthosilicate (LYSO) based detector to single-shot positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. We compare this detector directly with a similarly configured PbWO4 scintillator, which is the usual choice for such measurements. We find that the signal to noise ratio obtained using LYSO is around three times higher than that obtained using PbWO4 for measurements of Ps excited to longer-lived (Rydberg) levels, or when they are ionized so...

Radiation damage analysis by positron annihilation spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Siegel, R.W.

1979-01-01

The application of positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) to the characterization and study of defects in metals produced by radiation damage is discussed. The physical basis for the positron annihilation techniques (lifetime, Doppler broadening, angular correlation) is introduced and the techniques briefly described. Some examples of the application of PAS to radiation damage analysis are presented with a view toward elucidating the particular advantages of PAS over more traditional defect characterization techniques

The study of synthetic food dyes by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pivtsaev, A A; Razov, V I

2015-01-01

By method of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS), substances are food dyes were studied: E-102 (Tartrazine), E-124 (Ponso 4R), E 132 (Indigo carmine), E-133 (Brilliant Blue), E-151 (Black Shiny). They are examined for the presence of carcinogenic properties. The difference between dyes having explicit carcinogenic properties and mutagenic properties (non-explicit carcinogens) is established. (paper)

A simple shape-free model for pore-size estimation with positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wada, Ken; Hyodo, Toshio

2013-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy is one of the methods for estimating pore size in insulating materials. We present a shape-free model to be used conveniently for such analysis. A basic model in classical picture is modified by introducing a parameter corresponding to an effective size of the positronium (Ps). This parameter is adjusted so that its Ps-lifetime to pore-size relation merges smoothly with that of the well-established Tao-Eldrup model (with modification involving the intrinsic Ps annihilation rate) applicable to very small pores. The combined model, i.e., modified Tao-Eldrup model for smaller pores and the modified classical model for larger pores, agrees surprisingly well with the quantum-mechanics based extended Tao-Eldrup model, which deals with Ps trapped in and thermally equilibrium with a rectangular pore.

A simple shape-free model for pore-size estimation with positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

Science.gov (United States)

Wada, Ken; Hyodo, Toshio

2013-06-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy is one of the methods for estimating pore size in insulating materials. We present a shape-free model to be used conveniently for such analysis. A basic model in classical picture is modified by introducing a parameter corresponding to an effective size of the positronium (Ps). This parameter is adjusted so that its Ps-lifetime to pore-size relation merges smoothly with that of the well-established Tao-Eldrup model (with modification involving the intrinsic Ps annihilation rate) applicable to very small pores. The combined model, i.e., modified Tao-Eldrup model for smaller pores and the modified classical model for larger pores, agrees surprisingly well with the quantum-mechanics based extended Tao-Eldrup model, which deals with Ps trapped in and thermally equilibrium with a rectangular pore.

Nanoscopic properties of silica filled polydimethylsiloxane by means of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Wiinberg, P.; Eldrup, Morten Mostgaard; Maurer, F.H.J.

2004-01-01

and the positron annihilation characteristics. The glass transition behavior of the PDMS/SiO2 composites was determined with differential scanning calorimetry. A clear influence on the o-Ps lifetime (73) in the polymer upon addition of nano-sized fumed SiO2 was observed at all temperatures. The observed o......Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) was performed on a series of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)/fumed silicon dioxide (SiO2) composites at temperatures between -185 and 100degreesC to study the effect of filler content and filler particle size on the free volume properties...... to the behavior of ordinary molecular liquids was observed in this temperature region. The o-Ps yield was strongly reduced in the crystallization region and by addition Of SiO2. The reduction due to filler addition did, however, in the case of nano-sized SiO2 not follow a linear relationship with filler weight...

Vacancy profile in reverse osmosis membranes studied by positron annihilation lifetime measurements and molecular dynamics simulations

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shimazu, A; Shintani, T; Hirose, M; Goto, H; Suzuki, R; Kobayashi, Y

2013-01-01

The positron annihilation technique using a slow positron beam can be used for the study of the vacancy profiles in typical reverse osmosis (RO) membranes. In this study, the vacancy profile in the polyamide membrane that exhibits a high permselectivity between ions and water was studied using the positron annihilation technique and molecular dynamics simulations. Ortho-positronium (o-Ps) lifetimes in the surface region of the membranes were evaluated by using a slow positron beam. The diffusion behavior of Na + and water in the polyamides was simulated by molecular dynamics (MD) methods using the TSUBAME2 supercomputer at the Tokyo Institute of Technology and discussed with the vacancy profile probed by the o-Ps. The results suggested that the large hydration size of Na + compared to the vacancy size in the polyamides contributes to the increased diffusivity selectivity of water/Na + that is related to the NaCl desalination performance of the membrane. Both the hydration size of the ions and the vacancy size appeared to be significant parameters to discuss the diffusivity selectivity of water/ions in typical polyamide membranes.

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy of ZnO bulk samples

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zubiaga, A.; Plazaola, F.; Garcia, J. A.; Tuomisto, F.; Munoz-Sanjose, V.; Tena-Zaera, R.

2007-01-01

In order to gain a further insight into the knowledge of point defects of ZnO, positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy was performed on bulk samples annealed under different atmospheres. The samples were characterized at temperatures ranging from 10 to 500 K. Due to difficulties in the conventional fitting of the lifetime spectra caused by the low intensity of the defect signals, we have used an alternative method as a solution to overcome these difficulties and resolve all the lifetime components present in the spectra. Two different vacancy-type defects are identified in the samples: Zn vacancy complexes (V Zn -X) and vacancy clusters consisting of up to five missing Zn-O pairs. In addition to the vacancies, we observe negative-ion-type defects, which are tentatively attributed to intrinsic defects in the Zn sublattice. The effect of the annealing on the observed defects is discussed. The concentrations of the V Zn -X complexes and negative-ion-type defects are in the 0.2-2 ppm range, while the cluster concentrations are 1-2 orders of magnitude lower

Positronium formation in NaY-zeolites studied by lifetime, positron beam Doppler broadening and 3-gamma detection techniques

CERN Document Server

Schut, H; Kolar, Z I; Veen, A V; Clet, G

2000-01-01

Results of positron annihilation measurements on NaY pressed powders and deposited thin films using slow positron beam and conventional fast positron techniques are presented. In lifetime experiments using an external sup sup 2 sup sup 2 Na source an averaged long lifetime of 1.8 ns with a sum intensity of 27% was observed in pressed powders in the presence of air at room temperature (RT). In literature this lifetime is ascribed to positrons annihilating in water filled alpha or beta cages Habrowska, A.M., Popiel, E.S., 1987. Positron annihilation in zeolite 13X. J. Appl. Phys. 62, 2419. By means of isotopic exchange some of the Na was replaced by sup sup 2 sup sup 2 Na. These powders showed a long lifetime component of 7-8 ns with an intensity increasing from 1 to 12% when heated under normal atmosphere from RT to 200 deg. C. No significant increase of the shorter (1.5 ns) lifetime was observed, while its intensity dropped from 13.4 to 6.6%. Both effects are ascribed to the loss of water from alpha cages onl...

Porous silicon investigated by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cruz, R.M. de la; Pareja, R.

1989-01-01

The effect of the anodic conversion in silicon single crystals is investigated by positron lifetime measurements. Anodization at constant current induces changes in the positron lifetime spectrum of monocrystalline silicon samples. It is found that theses changes are primarily dependent on the silicon resistivity. The annihilation parameter behaviour of anodized samples, treated at high temperature under reducing conditions, is also investigated. The results reveal that positron annihilation can be a useful technique to characterize porous silicon formed by anodizing as well as to investigate its thermal behaviour. (author)

Thermal equilibrium defects in anthracene probed by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Uedono, Akira; Tanigawa, Shoichiro; Tachibana, Masaru; Shimizu, Mikio; Satoh, Masaaki; Kojima, Kenichi; Ishibashi, Shoji; Kawano, Takao.

1996-01-01

Defects in anthracene were investigated by the positron annihilation technique. Doppler broadening profiles of the annihilation radiation and lifetime spectra of positrons were measured in the temperature range between 305 K and 516 K. The lifetime of positrons annihilated from the delocalized state was determined to be 0.306 ns around room temperature. Below the melting point, the observed temperature dependence of the line shape parameter S was explained assuming the formation energy of thermal equilibrium defects was 1 eV. Above the melting point, the pick-off annihilation of ortho-positronium in open spaces was observed, where the size of these spaces was estimated to be 0.2 nm 3 . The annihilation of positrons from the self-trapped state was also discussed. (author)

Thermal equilibrium defects in anthracene probed by positron annihilation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Uedono, Akira; Tanigawa, Shoichiro [Tsukuba Univ., Ibaraki (Japan). Inst. of Materials Science; Tachibana, Masaru; Shimizu, Mikio; Satoh, Masaaki; Kojima, Kenichi; Ishibashi, Shoji; Kawano, Takao

1996-06-01

Defects in anthracene were investigated by the positron annihilation technique. Doppler broadening profiles of the annihilation radiation and lifetime spectra of positrons were measured in the temperature range between 305 K and 516 K. The lifetime of positrons annihilated from the delocalized state was determined to be 0.306 ns around room temperature. Below the melting point, the observed temperature dependence of the line shape parameter S was explained assuming the formation energy of thermal equilibrium defects was 1 eV. Above the melting point, the pick-off annihilation of ortho-positronium in open spaces was observed, where the size of these spaces was estimated to be 0.2 nm{sup 3}. The annihilation of positrons from the self-trapped state was also discussed. (author)

Estimation of free volumes of polystyrene by positron annihilation life-time technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Li, Hong-Ling; Ujihira, Yusuke; Nanasawa, Atsushi.

1996-01-01

Differences of size, content, and size distribution of free volumes in linear and three-armed polystyrenes, synthesized by radical, and anionic processes, were observed by positron annihilation lifetime measurements. For the polystyrene samples of different architectures and molecular weight distributions, the temperature dependence of an average free volume radius was quite similar to each other. The radius increased with increasing temperature (T), from 0.27 nm (60 K) to 0.30 nm (glass transition temperature: T g = 363 K), then to 0.35 nm (423 K), showing αβ transition temperature about 300 K. With increasing T, the free volume content decreased from 35% (60 K) to 25% (260 K) for radically polymerized linear polystyrene and to 22% (320 K) for anionically polymerized three-armed polystyrene, and then turned to increase to 35% at 350 K and 400 K, respectively. In contrast, the content for anionically polymerized linear polystyrene decreased from 45% (60 K) to 33% (300 K) and turned to increase to 35% at 350-400 K. The free volume content decreased reciprocally with an increase in the molecular weight at 333 K, suggesting differences in molecular motion between the edge and middle portions of the chain molecule. (author)

Evaluation of vacancy-type defects in ZnO by the positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ono, R.; Togimitsu, T.; Sato, W.

2015-01-01

Thermal behavior of vacancy-type defects in polycrystalline ZnO was studied by the positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. Two-component analysis of the PALS spectra revealed that the defect-related longer-lifetime component decreases as the annealing temperature is raised, and almost disappears within 15 min when annealed at 1,273 K. We also found that the intensity of this component decreases with increasing density of the annealed ZnO pellets; however, little density dependence was seen in its lifetime. These observations evidently suggest that this component having long lifetime of about 400 ps corresponds to the positrons trapped in grain boundaries in the polycrystalline ZnO. (author)

Determination of phase transitions in a lyotropic liquid crystal by Positron Annihilation technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Castillo V, V.M.

1994-01-01

Positron annihilation technique was used to determine the phase transitions in a lyotropic liquid crystal, as a function of temperature. Seven different concentrations of the surfactant cetyldimethylethylammonium bromide, were studied. The liquid crystal studied consisted of a binary system, formed by the surfactant and water. Positron annihilation technique has a very high sensitivity toward changes in the microestructure, in condensed matter, this is useful in order to detect the temperatures at which phase transitions occur and the number of these, in a liquid crystalline system. Thus, phase transitions are related with changes occurred in the ortho-positronium parameters: lifetime (τ 3 ) and intensity of formation (I 3 ). Six different kinds of phases were detected in the system studied in a temperature range of 35 to 140 Centigrade degrees, those phases were: hexagonal, hexagonal-lamellae, lamellae, lamellae-cubic, nematic and anisotropic. Using optical microscopic the textures of these phases were assigned. (Author)

Probing the amphiphile micellar to hexagonal phase transition using Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy.

Science.gov (United States)

Dong, Aurelia W; Fong, Celesta; Hill, Anita J; Boyd, Ben J; Drummond, Calum J

2013-07-15

Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS) has been utilised only sparingly for structural characterisation in self assembled materials. Inconsistencies in approaches to experimental configuration and data analysis between studies has complicated comparisons between studies, meaning that the technique has not provided a cohesive data set across the study of different self assembled systems that advance the technique towards an important tool in soft matter research. In the current work a systematic study was conducted using ionic and non-ionic micellar systems with increasing surfactant concentration to probe positron behaviour on changes between micellar phase structures, and data analysed using contemporary approaches to fit four component spectra. A characteristic orthopositronium lifetime (in the organic regions) of 3.5±0.2 ns was obtained for the hexagonal phase for surfactants with C12 alkyl chains. Chemical quenching of the positron species was also observed for systems with ionic amphiphiles. The application of PALS has also highlighted an inconsistency in the published phase diagram for the octa(ethylene oxide) monododecyl ether (C12EO8) system. These results provide new insight into how the physical properties of micellar systems can be related to PALS parameters and means that the PALS technique can be applied to other more complex self-assembled amphiphile systems. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Positron annihilation in vitreous silica glasses

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Uedono, Akira; Tanigawa, Shoichiro

1993-01-01

The annihilation characteristics of positrons in vitreous silica glasses (v-SiO 2 ) were studied by measurements of two-dimensional angular correlation of positron annihilation radiations and positron lifetime spectra. From the measurements, it was found that positrons and positronium (Ps) atoms mainly annihilate from trapped states by vacancy-type defects in v-SiO 2 . For v-SiO 2 specimens with cylindrical porous structures, annihilations of Ps with anisotropic momentum distributions were observed. This fact was attributed to the momentum uncertainty due to localization of Ps in a finite dimension of pores. This investigation showed possibilities for the detection of microstructures in v-SiO 2 by the positron annihilation technique. (author)

Semi-empirical formula for large pore-size estimation from o-Ps annihilation lifetime

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nguyen Duc Thanh; Tran Quoc Dung; Luu Anh Tuyen; Khuong Thanh Tuan

2007-01-01

The o-Ps annihilation rate in large pore was investigated by the semi-classical approach. The semi-empirical formula that simply correlates between the pore size and the o-Ps lifetime was proposed. The calculated results agree well with experiment in the range from some angstroms to several ten nanometers size of pore. (author)

Application of positron annihilation to the characterization of zeolites

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nakanishi, H.; Ujihira, Y.

1982-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime and Doppler-broadening measurements were carried out for synthetic zeolite 13X, SK-40, NH 4 -X, and NH 4 -Y by varying the evacuation temperature in order to study the character of the zeolite cages. Four components of the positron annihilation, derived from the lifetime spectra, were interpreted from the results of the authors' measurements and other studies on zeolites. The o-Ps lifetimes in the cages became longer as the desorption of water molecules proceeded. It was found that some active groups in zeolites interacted with o-Ps and reduced the o-Ps lifetime after all the water molecules had detected. Bronsted acid in the zeolite acted not only as an oxidizer but also as an inhibitor of Ps formation. An attempt was made to estimate the amount of Bronsted acids by the positron lifetime technique. The longest lifetime of 50 ns indicates o-Ps annihilation in a pore with 60 A free diameter, which seems to exist irregularly in the faujasite zeolites. It was found that o-Ps was oxidized in this large cavity

Application of positron annihilation techniques in non-destructive testing

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zeng Hui; Chen Zhiqiang; Jiang Jing; Xue Xudong; Wu Yichu; Liang Jianping; Liu Xiangbing; Wang Rongshan

2014-01-01

Background: The investigation of the material damage state is very important for industrial application. Most mechanical damage starts with a change in the microstructure of the material. Positron annihilation techniques are very sensitive probes for detecting defects and damage on an atomic scale in materials, which are of great concern in the engineering applications. Additionally they are apparatus of non-destruction, high-sensitivity and easy-use. Purpose: Our goal is to develop a system to exploit new non-destructive testing (NDT) methods using positron annihilation spectroscopy, a powerful tool to detect vacancy-type defects and their chemical environment. Methods: A positron NDT system was designed and constructed by modifying the 'sandwich structure' of sample-source-sample in conventional Doppler broadening and positron lifetime spectrometers. Doppler broadening and positron lifetime spectra of a single sample can be measured and analyzed by subtracting the contribution of a reference sample. Results: The feasibility and reliability of positron NDT system have been tested by analyzing nondestructively deformation and damage caused by mechanical treatment or by irradiation of metal alloys. This system can be used for detecting defects and damage in thick or large-size samples, as well as for measuring the two-dimension distribution of defects in portable, sensitive, fast way. Conclusion: Positron NDT measurement shows changes in real atomic-scale defects prior to changes in the mechanical properties, which are detectable by other methods of NDT, such as ultrasonic testing and eddy current testing. This system can be developed for use in both the laboratory and field in the future. (authors)

Positron annihilation lifetime study of positive temperature coefficient BaTiO3 samples

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ling Chen; Mingkang Teng; Guanghou Wang; Xiaoyun Li; Tianchang Lu

1989-01-01

In order to investigate the doped vacancies in BaTiO 3 samples as well as their influence on the positive temperature coefficient (PTC) the positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy was applied. Two groups of BaTiO 3 samples with BaO excess were prepared by doping different concentrations of La 2 O 3 and Nb 2 O 5 , respectively in the range from 0.1 to 3 at%. A third group of samples of two Sb-doped PTC BaTiO 3 semiconductors with excess BaO or TiO 2 were studied by the aid of positron technique before and after being reduced. It is shown that the positron lifetime parameters are sensitive to changes in the vacancy concentration in BaTiO 3 ceramics near the 0.1 mol% region. But they are almost unchanged during reduction processing; the resistivity of samples changed by one to two orders of magnitude through the reduction. It can be concluded that the PTC effect is due to oxygen on the grain boundary rather than vacancies, and that the Heywang-Jonker model is more reasonable

COLOUR CENTRES IN OXIDESEffect of the V- ↔ V= transformation on positron annihilation lifetime spectra in MgO

OpenAIRE

Mallard , W.; Hsu , F.; Vance , E.

1980-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectra have been measured in MgO : OD- containing ~ 20 ppm of isolated cation vacancies produced by electron irradiation. For the V- ↔ V= transformation, the intensities of the longer-lived lifetime components were enhanced slightly when the vacancies trapped holes and reduced when holes were released.

Analysis of positron annihilation lifetime data by numerical Laplace inversion: Corrections for source terms and zero-time shift errors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gregory, R.B.

1991-01-01

We have recently described modifications to the program CONTIN for the solution of Fredholm integral equations with convoluted kernels of the type that occur in the analysis of positron annihilation lifetime data. In this article, modifications to the program to correct for source terms in the sample and reference decay curves and for shifts in the position of the zero-time channel of the sample and reference data are described. Unwanted source components, expressed as a discrete sum of exponentials, may be removed from both the sample and reference data by modification of the sample data alone, without the need for direct knowledge of the instrument resolution function. Shifts in the position of the zero-time channel of up to half the channel width of the multichannel analyzer can be corrected. Analyses of computer-simulated test data indicate that the quality of the reconstructed annihilation rate probability density functions is improved by employing a refernce material with a short lifetime and indicate that reference materials which generate free positrons by quenching positronium formation (i.e. strong oxidizing agents) have lifetimes that are too long (400-450 ps) to provide reliable estimates of the lifetime parameters for the shortlived components with the methods described here. Well-annealed single crystals of metals with lifetimes less than 200 ps, such as molybdenum (123 ps) and aluminium (166 ps) do not introduce significant errors in estimates of the lifetime parameters and are to be preferred as reference materials. The performance of our modified version of CONTIN is illustrated by application to positron annihilation in polytetrafluoroethylene. (orig.)

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy in application to nanostructured glasses and ceramics

OpenAIRE

Klym, Halyna; Kostiv, Yuriy

2017-01-01

Modified nanostructured Ge-Ga-Se chalcogenide glasses and oxide MgO-Al2O3 ceramics were investigated using positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. It was shown that crystallization process in 80GeSe2-20Ga2Se3 glasses annealed at 380°C for 25 and 50 h indicates specific free-volume transformation. It is established that water vapor modifies defects located near grain boundaries in MgO-Al2O3 ceramics sintered at 1300 °C, the process being accompanied by void fragmen...

The application of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy to the study of glassy and partially crystalline materials

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zipper, M.D.; Hill, A.J.

1994-01-01

The use of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) as a materials characterisation technique is discussed and is illustrated by examples from the authors' laboratory. A brief guide to interpretation of PALS results for metals, semiconductors, ionic solids and molecular solids is presented; however, the paper focuses on recent results for glassy and partially crystalline ionic and molecular solids. Case studies are presented in which the phenomena studied by PALS include miscibility of polymer blends, plasticization of solid polymer electrolytes, crystallinity in molecular and ionic solids, nanostructure of glass-ceramics, and refractivity of fluoride glasses. Future directions for PALS research of the electronic and defect structures of materials are discussed. 140 refs., 1 tab., 19 figs

Porous glasses as a matrix for incorporation of photonic materials. Pore determination by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

Science.gov (United States)

Reisfeld, Pore determination by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy R.; Saraidarov, T.; Jasinska, B.

2004-07-01

Porous glasses prepared by the sol-gel technique have a variety of applications when incorporated by photonic materials: tunable lasers, sensors, luminescence solar concentrators, semiconductor quantum dots, biological markers. The known methods of pore size determinations, the nitrogen adsorption and mercury porosimetry allow to determine the sizes of open pores. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) allows to determine pore sizes also of closed pores. As an example we have performed measurements of non-doped zirconia-silica-polyurethane (ZSUR) ormocer glasses and the same glasses doped with lead sulfide quantum dots. The pore radii range between 0.25-0.38 nm, total surface area 15.5-23.8 m 2/g.

Glass transition and relaxation processes of polymers studied by positron annihilation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Uedono, Akira; Tanigawa, Shoichiro [Tsukuba Univ., Ibaraki (Japan). Inst. of Materials Science

1996-10-01

The glass transition and relaxation processes of polymers were studied by the positron annihilation technique. A positron implanted into polymers might annihilate from positronium (Ps) states in open spaces. Ps is a bound state between a positron and an electron, and its nonrelativistic quantum mechanics is practically identical to that of a hydrogen atom. The lifetime of Ps can be associated with the size of the open spaces, and the formation probability of Ps provides information of motions of molecules. Since the glass transition or relaxation processes affect behavior of open spaces, one can study these phenomena through the detection of the open spaces using the positron annihilation technique. In the present paper, we report studies of the glass transition and relaxation processes in polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene by measurements of lifetime spectra of positrons and those of Doppler broadening profiles of the annihilation radiation. For these specimens, by measurements of the lifetime of Ps, {tau}{sub 3}, as a function of temperature, the glass transition temperature, T{sub g}, was determined as an onset temperature of the increase in the temperature coefficient of {tau}{sub 3}. Below T{sub g}, local motions of molecules were detected by measurements of the formation probability of Ps. The positron annihilation as a tool for the characterization of polymers was discussed. (author). 51 refs.

Positron annihilation studies of China's and Japan's magnesite refractory in different degree

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zou Lin-Juan; Zhang Cai-Guo; Zhu Xiu-Ying; Sun Quin-Ying

1989-01-01

Studying the magnesite refractories by positron annihilation technique, the obtained results show that China's and Japan's magnesite refractories in different degree form positron lifetime results have no obvious differences in microscopical properties. According to the positron annihilation lifetime results it was found that 1650 0 C is the best sintering temperature for this material. At this temperature positive ions in MgO are replaced by impurities, the solid solubility is higher. The positron average lifetime is more even and smooth with crystallization grain size changing. When grains increase, the positron average lifetime trends towards decreasing, which is in agreement with the crystal boundary theory of ceramic material. (author)

Free volume changes in mechanically milled PS and PC studied by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS)

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Günther-Schade, K.; Castricum, H.L.; Ziegler, H.J.; Bakker, H.; Faupel, F.

2004-01-01

The effect of mechanical milling on free volume was studied by means of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) in polystyrene (PS) as a typical brittle polymer and in polycarbonate (PC) as a tough representative. Long-time milling increases the free volume, while a decrease is observed

Positron annihilation lifetime studies of sol-gel transition of carrageenan gels

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wakabayashi, Y.; Ito, K.; Li, H.L.; Ujihara, Y.

1996-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime measurement was applied to study the sol-gel transition of anionic polysaccharide aqueous solutions in terms of free-volume parameters the size, intensity, and size distribution of free volumes of the gelation of K-form κ-carrageenan solutions as a function of temperature. Slight variations of free volume size and intensity against temperature were observed near 295 K. The correlation of free-volume data with other physical properties vibrational spectra (IR and Raman), conductivity, SAXS, elastic measurement, differential scanning calorimetry were investigated to understand the mechanism of sol-gel transition of carrageenan. (author)

Single-shot positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy with LYSO scintillators

Science.gov (United States)

Alonso, A. M.; Cooper, B. S.; Deller, A.; Cassidy, D. B.

2016-08-01

We have evaluated the application of a lutetium yttrium oxyorthosilicate (LYSO) based detector to single-shot positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. We compare this detector directly with a similarly configured PbWO4 scintillator, which is the usual choice for such measurements. We find that the signal to noise ratio obtained using LYSO is around three times higher than that obtained using PbWO4 for measurements of Ps excited to longer-lived (Rydberg) levels, or when they are ionized soon after production. This is due to the much higher light output for LYSO (75% and 1% of NaI for LYSO and PbWO4 respectively). We conclude that LYSO is an ideal scintillator for single-shot measurements of positronium production and excitation performed using a low-intensity pulsed positron beam.

Single-shot positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy with LYSO scintillators

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Alonso, A.M., E-mail: a.alonso@ucl.ac.uk; Cooper, B.S.; Deller, A.; Cassidy, D.B.

2016-08-21

We have evaluated the application of a lutetium yttrium oxyorthosilicate (LYSO) based detector to single-shot positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. We compare this detector directly with a similarly configured PbWO{sub 4} scintillator, which is the usual choice for such measurements. We find that the signal to noise ratio obtained using LYSO is around three times higher than that obtained using PbWO{sub 4} for measurements of Ps excited to longer-lived (Rydberg) levels, or when they are ionized soon after production. This is due to the much higher light output for LYSO (75% and 1% of NaI for LYSO and PbWO{sub 4} respectively). We conclude that LYSO is an ideal scintillator for single-shot measurements of positronium production and excitation performed using a low-intensity pulsed positron beam.

Probing vacancy-type free-volume defects in Li2B4O7 single crystal by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

Science.gov (United States)

Shpotyuk, O.; Adamiv, V.; Teslyuk, I.; Ingram, A.; Demchenko, P.

2018-01-01

Vacancy-type free-volume defects in lithium tetraborate Li2B4O7 single crystal, grown by the Czochralski technique, are probed with positron annihilation spectroscopy in the lifetime measuring mode. The experimental positron lifetime spectrum is reconstructed within the three-component fitting, involving channels of positron and positronium Ps trapping, as well as within the two-component fitting with a positronium-compensating source input. Structural configurations of the most efficient positron traps are considered using the crystallographic specificity of lithium tetraborate with the main accent on cation-type vacancies. Possible channels of positron trapping are visualized using the electronic structure calculations with density functional theory at the basis of structural parameters proper to Li2B4O7. Spatially-extended positron-trapping complexes involving singly-ionized lithium vacancies, with character lifetime close to 0.32 ns, are responsible for positron trapping in the nominally undoped lithium tetraborate Li2B4O7 crystal.

Characterizing microstructural changes in ferritic steels by positron annihilation spectroscopy: Studies on modified 9Cr-1Mo steel

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hari Babu, S., E-mail: shb@igcar.gov.in [Materials Science Group, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam 603 102, TN (India); Rajkumar, K.V. [Metallurgy and Materials Group, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam 603 102, TN (India); Hussain, S. [UGC-DAE CSR, Kokilamedu 603 104, TN (India); Amarendra, G.; Sundar, C.S. [Materials Science Group, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam 603 102, TN (India); Jayakumar, T. [Metallurgy and Materials Group, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam 603 102, TN (India)

2013-01-15

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Positron lifetime technique probing microstructure of ferritic/martensitic steels. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Correlation between positron lifetime, ultrasonic and hardness. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Complementary nature of positron annihilation spectroscopy in probing defects. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Distinguishing precipitation stages by positron annihilation spectroscopy. - Abstract: Applicability of positron annihilation spectroscopy in probing the microstructural changes in ferritic steels has been investigated with thermal treatment studies on modified 9Cr-1Mo steel, during 300-1273 K. Positron lifetime results are compared with those of ultrasonic velocity and hardness techniques with two initial microstructural conditions i.e., normalized and tempered condition as well as only normalized condition. In first case, positron lifetime is found to be sensitive to small changes in metal carbide precipitation which could not be probed by other two techniques. In later case, positron lifetime is found to be sensitive to defect annealing until 673 K and in distinguishing the growth and coarsening of metal carbide precipitation stages during 773-1073 K. The present study suggests that by combining positron lifetime, ultrasonic velocity and hardness measurements, it is possible to distinguish distinct microstructures occurring at different stages.

Studies of unicellular microorganisms Saccharomyces cerevisiae by means of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Kubicz Ewelina

2015-12-01

Full Text Available Results of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS and microscopic studies on simple microorganisms, brewing yeasts, are presented. Lifetime of ortho-positronium (o-Ps were found to change from 2.4 to 2.9 ns (longer-lived component for lyophilized and aqueous yeasts, respectively. Also hygroscopicity of yeasts in time was examined, allowing to check how water – the main component of the cell – affects PALS parameters, thus lifetime of o-Ps were found to change from 1.2 to 1.4 ns (shorter-lived component for the dried yeasts. The time sufficient to hydrate the cells was found below 10 hours. In the presence of liquid water, an indication of reorganization of yeast in the molecular scale was observed. Microscopic images of the lyophilized, dried, and wet yeasts with best possible resolution were obtained using inverted microscopy (IM and environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM methods. As a result, visible changes to the surface of the cell me mbrane were observed in ESEM images.

Study of radiation damage in metals by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gauster, W.B.

1977-01-01

Positron annihilation is a sensitive technique for probing defects in metals and it has recently been shown to be a valuable tool for the study of radiation damage. After an introduction to the three basic experimental methods (angular correlation, Doppler broadening, and lifetime measurements), the interaction of positrons with lattice defects is reviewed. Results for the annealing of damage after low temperature irradiation are used to show that positron annihilation has provided new information on annealing kinetics. The role of positron techniques in characterizing complex defect structures resulting from high-temperature neutron irradiation is reviewed and the possible utility of positron annihilation as a nondestructive monitor of property changes is pointed out

Structural studies of spinel manganite ceramics with positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Klym, H; Shpotyuk, O; Hadzaman, I [Institute of Materials of SRC ' Carat' , 202 Stryjska str., Lviv, 79031 (Ukraine); Ingram, A [Opole University of Technology, 75 Ozimska str., Opole, 45370 (Poland); Filipecki, J, E-mail: shpotyuk@novas.lviv.ua, E-mail: klymha@yahoo.com [Institute of Physics of Jan Dlugosz University, 13/15 Armii Krajowei, 42201, Czestochowa (Poland)

2011-04-01

The new transition-metal manganite Cu{sub 0.1}Ni{sub 0.8}Co{sub 0.2}Mn{sub 1.9}O{sub 4} ceramics for temperature sensors with improved functional reliability are first proposed. It is established that the amount of additional NiO phase in these ceramics extracted during sintering play a decisive role. This effect is well revealed only in ceramics having a character fine-grain microstructure, while the monolithization of ceramics caused by great amount of transferred thermal energy reveals an opposite influence. The process of monolitization from the position of evolution of grain-pore structure was studied in these ceramics using positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy.

Structural studies of spinel manganite ceramics with positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Klym, H; Shpotyuk, O; Hadzaman, I; Ingram, A; Filipecki, J

2011-01-01

The new transition-metal manganite Cu 0.1 Ni 0.8 Co 0.2 Mn 1.9 O 4 ceramics for temperature sensors with improved functional reliability are first proposed. It is established that the amount of additional NiO phase in these ceramics extracted during sintering play a decisive role. This effect is well revealed only in ceramics having a character fine-grain microstructure, while the monolithization of ceramics caused by great amount of transferred thermal energy reveals an opposite influence. The process of monolitization from the position of evolution of grain-pore structure was studied in these ceramics using positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy.

Nanometer cavities studied by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mogensen, O.E.

1992-01-01

Positronium (Ps) is trapped in cavities in insulating solids, and the lifetime of ortho Ps is determined by the size of the cavity. The information on the properties of the cavities obtained by use of the standard slow positron beam and the 'normal' positron annihilation techniques is compared for several selected cases. (author)

Evolution of porosity in a Portland cement paste studied through positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Consolati, G.; Quasso, F.

2003-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy experiments were carried out in an ordinary Portland cement paste characterized by a water-to-cement ratio w/c=0.8, in order to monitor the porosity of the paste. It was found that ortho-positronium intensity is a suitable quantity to this purpose, being sensitive to the amount of water contained in the pores. The experimental data show good agreement with the porosity calculated according to the Powers' thin filmsodel

Positron annihilation lifetime in float-zone n-type silicon irradiated by fast electrons: a thermally stable vacancy defect

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Arutyunov, Nikolay; Emtsev, Vadim; Oganesyan, Gagik; Krause-Rehberg, Reinhard; Elsayed, Mohamed; Kozlovskii, Vitalii

2016-01-01

Temperature dependency of the average positron lifetime has been investigated for n-type float-zone silicon, n-FZ-Si(P), subjected to irradiation with 0.9 MeV electrons at RT. In the course of the isochronal annealing a new defect-related temperature-dependent pattern of the positron lifetime spectra has been revealed. Beyond the well known intervals of isochronal annealing of acceptor-like defects such as E-centers, divacancies and A-centers, the positron annihilation at the vacancy defects has been observed in the course of the isochronal annealing from ∝ 320 C up to the limit of reliable detecting of the defect-related positron annihilation lifetime at ≥ 500 C. These data correlate with the ones of recovery of the concentration of the charge carriers and their mobility which is found to continue in the course of annealing to ∝ 570 C; the annealing is accomplished at ∝650 C. A thermally stable complex consisting of the open vacancy volume and the phosphorus impurity atom, V_o_p-P, is suggested as a possible candidate for interpreting the data obtained by the positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. An extended couple of semi-vacancies, 2V_s_-_e_x_t, as well as a relaxed inwards a couple of vacancies, 2V_i_n_w, are suggested as the open vacancy volume V_o_p to be probed with the positron. It is argued that a high thermal stability of the V_s_-_e_x_t PV_s_-_e_x_t (or V_i_n_wPV_i_n_w_.) configuration is contributed by the efficiency of PSi_5 bonding. (copyright 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

Multi-wall carbon nanotubes investigated by positron annihilation techniques and microscopies for further production handling

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Luu, A.T.; Thanh, N.D.; Dung, T.Q.; Son, L.T.; Phuc, P.T. [Center for Nuclear Techniques, Vietnam Atomic Energy Commission, Ho Chi Minh City (Viet Nam); Kajcsos, Zs. [KFKI Research Institute for Particle and Nuclear Physics, Budapest (Hungary); Nhon, M.V.; Tap, T.D. [Department of Nuclear Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Natural Sciences, Ho Chi Minh City (Viet Nam); Lazar, K. [Institute of Isotopes HAS, Budapest (Hungary); Havancsak, K.; Huhn, G. [Department of Materials Physics, Budapest Univ. (Hungary); Horvath, Z.E. [Research Institute for Technical Physics and Materials Sciences, Budapest (Hungary)

2009-11-15

Multi-wall carbon nanotube samples with various tube diameters produced by Thermal Chemical Vapor Deposition technique using various catalysts were studied by various microscopic methods and positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) with the aim of assessing the applicability of these methods for structural studies in these novel materials. Specifically, positron lifetime (LT) and Doppler broadening (DB) techniques, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were employed, on iron-containing samples Moessbauer spectroscopy was also utilized. The PAS measurements were carried out on densely packed powder samples and on samples pressed into pills in atmospheric pressure and in vacuum as well. The lifetime values could be interpreted by assuming trapping of positrons, the low contribution from longer-living trapped positronium can be probably related to defects on walls of the tubes. Possibility of correlation of LT and DB data with the nanotube sizes and sample composition was also considered. (copyright 2009 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Temperature dependence study of positronium formation in high density polyethylene by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nahid, F.; Beling, C.D.; Fung, S.

2007-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy has been used to study the formation of positronium in high density polyethylene as a function of temperature over the range 30 K-350 K. It is observed that the thermal history of the sample, while having no influence on the positronium lifetime, has a strong effect on the formation of positronium. A hysteresis is seen in the positronium formation probability in cooling and heating cycles. This is explained on a two channel formation model, the first channel being through ''blob'' formation and the second through the pick-up of shallow trapped electrons. (copyright 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Studies of defects and defect agglomerates by positron annihilation spectroscopy

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Eldrup, Morten Mostgaard; Singh, B.N.

1997-01-01

A brief introduction to positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS), and in particular lo its use for defect studies in metals is given. Positrons injected into a metal may become trapped in defects such as vacancies, vacancy clusters, voids, bubbles and dislocations and subsequently annihilate from...... the trapped state iri the defect. The annihilation characteristics (e.g., the lifetime of the positron) can be measured and provide information about the nature of the defect (e.g., size, density, morphology). The technique is sensitive to both defect size (in the range from monovacancies up to cavities...

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS): a probe for molecular organisation in self-assembled biomimetic systems.

Science.gov (United States)

Fong, Celesta; Dong, Aurelia W; Hill, Anita J; Boyd, Ben J; Drummond, Calum J

2015-07-21

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) has been shown to be highly sensitive to conformational, structural and microenvironmental transformations arising from subtle geometric changes in molecular geometry in self-assembling biomimetic systems. The ortho-positronium (oPs) may be considered an active probe that can provide information on intrinsic packing and mobility within low molecular weight solids, viscous liquids, and soft matter systems. In this perspective we provide a critical overview of the literature in this field, including the evolution of analysis software and experimental protocols with commentary upon the practical utility of PALS. In particular, we discuss how PALS can provide unique insight into the macroscopic transport properties of several porous biomembrane-like nanostructures and suggest how this insight may provide information on the release of drugs from these matrices to aid in developing therapeutic interventions. We discuss the potentially exciting and fruitful application of this technique to membrane dynamics, diffusion and permeability. We propose that PALS can provide novel molecular level information that is complementary to conventional characterisation techniques.

Positron annihilation lifetime characterization of oxygen ion irradiated rutile TiO2

Science.gov (United States)

Luitel, Homnath; Sarkar, A.; Chakrabarti, Mahuya; Chattopadhyay, S.; Asokan, K.; Sanyal, D.

2016-07-01

Ferromagnetic ordering at room temperature has been induced in rutile phase of TiO2 polycrystalline sample by O ion irradiation. 96 MeV O ion induced defects in rutile TiO2 sample has been characterized by positron annihilation spectroscopic techniques. Positron annihilation results indicate the formation of cation vacancy (VTi, Ti vacancy) in these irradiated TiO2 samples. Ab initio density functional theoretical calculations indicate that in TiO2 magnetic moment can be induced either by creating Ti or O vacancies.

Positron annihilation lifetime studies of changes in free volume on some biorelevant nitrogen heterocyclic compounds and their S-glycosylation.

Science.gov (United States)

Mahmoud, K R; Khodair, A I; Shaban, S Y

2015-11-01

A series of N-heterocyclic compounds was investigated by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy as well as Doppler broadening of annihilation radiation (DBAR) at room temperature. The results showed that the formation probability and life time of ortho-positronium in this series are structure and electron-donation character dependent, and can give more information about the structure. The DBAR provides direct information about the change of core and valance electrons as well as the number of defect types present in these compounds. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Positron and positronium annihilation in silica-based thin films studied by a pulsed positron beam

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Suzuki, R.; Ohdaira, T.; Kobayashi, Y.; Ito, K.; Shioya, Y.; Ishimaru, T.

2003-01-01

Positron and positronium annihilation in silica-based thin films has been investigated by means of measurement techniques with a monoenergetic pulsed positron beam. The age-momentum correlation study revealed that positron annihilation in thermally grown SiO 2 is basically the same as that in bulk amorphous SiO 2 while o-Ps in the PECVD grown SiCOH film predominantly annihilate with electrons of C and H at the microvoid surfaces. We also discuss time-dependent three-gamma annihilation in porous low-k films by two-dimensional positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

Applications of positron annihilation spectroscopy in materials research

Science.gov (United States)

Singh, Jag J.

1988-01-01

Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy (PAS) has emerged as a powerful technique for research in condensed matter. It has been used extensively in the study of metals, ionic crystals, glasses and polymers. The present review concentrates on applications of positron lifetime measurements for elucidation of the physicochemical structure of polymers.

Study on defect properties of nanocrystalline TiO2 during phase transition by positron annihilation lifetime

Science.gov (United States)

Zheng, F.; Liu, Y.; Liu, Z.; Dai, Y.-Q.; Fang, P.-F.; Wang, S.-J.

2012-08-01

The defect properties of nanocrystalline TiO2 were investigated by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) as a function of annealed temperature that ranged from 300 to 850 °C. Below 500 °C, the measured positron lifetimes of τ1 (200-206 ps) and τ2 (378-402 ps) revealed the existence of mono-vacancy and vacancy-clusters at grain surface and in the micro-void of intergranular region. Between 500 and 750 °C, the phase transition from anatase to rutile was probed by the variations of positron lifetime and XRD pattern. With the increasing temperature from 500 to 850 °C, the positron lifetime τ1, τ2 and its intensity I2 sharply decreased from 200 ps, 378 ps, and 60% to 135 ps, 274 ps, and 33%, respectively. The results clearly indicate that the mono-vacancy or vacancy-clusters at grain surface and micro-voids between the grains were annealed out during the phase transition.

The scavenging of the precursors of the solvated electrons fom the positron lifetime spectroscopy and the Doppler broadening of annihilation line shape technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Abbe, J.C.; Duplatre, G.; Maddock, A.G.; Haessler, A.

1979-01-01

The electron scavenging properties in water of two series of solutes are investigated, using the positron as a probe. For a better interpretation of the data, both the lifetime specroscopy and the Doppler broadening of annihilation line shape technique are used. All solutes inhibit the positronium (Ps) formation, by the scavenging of electron. The first series consists of the halate ions, that should follow the Hunt linear relation between the rate constant for reaction with the solvated electrons, ksub(e - sub(aq)+S) and that for its precursors(s), 1/C 37 . The Ps inhibition constants, k, are 0.14, 1.44 and 3.45M -1 for ClO 3 - , BrO 3 - and IO 3 - respectively. This sequence is quantitatively consistent with that of the respective ksub(e - sub(aq)+S). The second series includes the SeO 4 -- , Te(OH) 6 and BrO 4 - species, and the Ps inhibition constants are 5.62, 10.5 and 14.3 respectively. Theses values are much higher than expected from the ksub(e - sub(aq)+S) constants, on basis of the Hunt relation, in agreement with previous results from pulse radiolysis experiments

Applications of positron annihilation spectroscopy in materials research

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Singh, J.J.

1988-01-01

Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy (PAS) has emerged as a powerful technique for research in condensed matter. It has been used extensively in the study of metals, ionic crystals, glasses and polymers. The present review concentrates on applications of positron lifetime measurements for elucidation of the physicochemical structure of polymers. 10 references

Free-volume characterization of nanostructurized substances by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

Science.gov (United States)

Shpotyuk, O.; Ingram, A.; Shpotyuk, Ya.

2018-02-01

Methodological possibilities of positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) spectroscopy are examined to parameterize free-volume structural evolution processes in some nanostructurized substances obeying conversion from positronium (Ps) decaying to positron trapping. Unlike conventional x3-term fitting analysis based on admixed positron trapping and Ps decaying, the effect of nanostructurization is considered as occurring due to conversion from preferential Ps decaying in initial host matrix to positron trapping in modified (nanostructurized) host-guest matrix. The developed approach referred to as x3-x2-CDA (coupling decomposition algorithm) allows estimation defect-free bulk and defect-specific positron lifetimes of free-volume elements responsible for nanostructurization. The applicability of this approach is proved for some nanostructurized materials allowing free-volume changes through Ps-to-positron trapping conversion, such as (i) metallic Ag nanoparticles embedded in polymer matrix, (ii) structure-modification processes caused by swift heavy ions irradiation in polystyrene, and (iii) host-guest chemistry problems like water immersion in alumomagnesium spinel ceramics. This approach is considered to be used as test-indicator, separating processes of host-matrix nanostructurization due to embedded nanoparticles from uncorrelated changes in positron-trapping and Ps-decaying channels.

Application of positron annihilation to the characterization of polymer structure

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Suzuki, T.; Yu, R.S.; Ito, Y.; Kondo, K.; Shantarovich, V.

2005-01-01

Positron annihilation has been applied to study characteristics of polymers last many years. Positron behaves as a nano-meter probe and brings out information of chemical structures, geometric structures, and momentum of electrons through the annihilation gamma-rays. Positrons injected in polymers tends to form positronium, which is similar structure to hydrogen atom and consists of electron and positron. Positronium diffuses through polymer structures and preferentially trapped by intermolecular spaces, if there is not any strong polar group in the chemical structure. Inside the spaces positronium annihilates through pick-off annihilation with electrons constituting walls of the spaces. Thus the pick-off annihilation brings out information about the interaction with electrons on the walls forming the spaces. These information can be measured by the positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) and Doppler broadening spectroscopy: from the former lifetimes and intensities of positronium can be measured and from the latter energy spectrum of the positron annihilation gamma-rays. The lifetimes are connected with the nano-meter size of the spaces and, using an empirical formula, the pore size can be estimated quantitatively. However the intensities bring out many kinds of information. Knowing the sample chemical structures, the values can be simply connected with the amount of spaces and often reflect the polar effect and temperature effect. In the positron annihilation technique, the energy distribution of-positron annihilation gamma-rays plays important role in the investigation of positron interaction with atoms constituting polymer chemical structures. The energy distribution can be measured using a high pure Ge detector. Although the spectrum obtained by one Ge detector has a large peak to back-ground ratio, using a coincidence technique of two Ge detectors, the coincidence Doppler broadening spectrum (CDBS) can improve the ratio from the order of 10-2 to 10

Miscibility and Crystallization Behavior of Poly (3- Hydroxybutyrate) and Poly (Ethylene Glycol) Blends Studied by Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Abdel-Hady, E.E.; Hammam, A.M.

2010-01-01

Poly (3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) is linear stereo regular aliphatic polyester synthesized by some bacteria as a store of carbon and energy. Because of its high biocompatibility and the ability to be fully biodegraded, PHB is of special interest in medicine. To improve the physiochemical properties of PHB, Polyethylene glycol (PEG) was used for modifications of PHB. By using the chloroform as co-solvent a series of (PHB/PEG) blend with different ratio ranging from 100:0.0 (wt %) to 50:50 (wt %) was prepared by solution casting-technique. Positron Annihilation Lifetime (PAL) technique has been applied to study the effect of addition PEG on the structure of PHB. The positron annihilation lifetime measurements were performed with a conventional fast-fast coincidence system. The lifetime parameter, ι3 which represents the ortho-positronium atom (o-Ps) lifetime and I 3 which reflects the (o-Ps) intensity, give indication of the free-volume size and concentration respectively. Positron annihilation lifetime measurements showed that, ι3 increases by increasing PEG ratio until the concentration (80:20 wt %) then start to decrease by increasing PEG ratio. The obtained results are in agreement with the results of X-ray diffraction.

Positron annihilation study of the CoFe2O4 ferrofluid

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhao Baogang; Ma Zhongping; Liu Cunye; Li Jian; Lin Yueqiang

2000-01-01

The CoFe 2 O 4 ferro fluid was studied by positron annihilation technique. The experimental results showed that there were three kinds of life-time state τ 1 = 151.0 ps, τ 2 = 457.9 ps and τ 3 = 2325.6 ps in the positron annihilation spectrum. It indicated that there were a large number of vacancy and vacancy cluster in the surface layer of the CoFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles

Gamma Irradiation Effect on Biodegradable Poly (Hydroxybutyrate) Studied by Positron Annihilation Technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Abdel-Hady, E.E.; Mohamed, S.S.

2010-01-01

-Bacterial polyesters have attracted much attention as biodegradable polymers. An ecofriendly alternative to this biodegradable material is poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) which has attracted industrial attention as an environmentally degradable plastic for a wide range of medical applications. Free volume holes in polymers play a crucial role in determining its physical properties. The Positron Annihilation Lifetime (PAL) technique has been established as a powerful probe for microstructures of polymers, in particular, angstrom-sized free volume holes. The PHB samples were irradiated using 60 Co source at room temperature with doss ranging from 5 to 300 kGy. The PAL spectra for all the samples have been measured at room temperature as a function of gamma-irradiation dose. The free volume hole size decreases with increasing the irradiation dose up to 25 kGy followed by slowly increases up to 200 kGy, then decreases at higher doses. On the other hand, the free volume content decreases with increasing the gamma-irradiation dose which is due to the increase of the degree of crystallinity. The variations in the free volume with the irradiation dose will be discussed in the frame of free volume model. A correlation between the macroscopic mechanical properties Hv and positron annihilation parameters has been done

Positron annihilation in SiO 2-Si studied by a pulsed slow positron beam

Science.gov (United States)

Suzuki, R.; Ohdaira, T.; Uedono, A.; Kobayashi, Y.

2002-06-01

Positron and positronium (Ps) behavior in SiO 2-Si have been studied by means of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) and age-momentum correlation (AMOC) spectroscopy with a pulsed slow positron beam. The PALS study of SiO 2-Si samples, which were prepared by a dry-oxygen thermal process, revealed that the positrons implanted in the Si substrate and diffused back to the interface do not contribute to the ortho-Ps long-lived component, and the lifetime spectrum of the interface has at least two components. From the AMOC study, the momentum distribution of the ortho-Ps pick-off annihilation in SiO 2, which shows broader momentum distribution than that of crystalline Si, was found to be almost the same as that of free positron annihilation in SiO 2. A varied interface model was proposed to interpret the results of the metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) experiments. The narrow momentum distribution found in the n-type MOS with a negative gate bias voltage could be attributed to Ps formation and rapid spin exchange in the SiO 2-Si interface. We have developed a two-dimensional positron lifetime technique, which measures annihilation time and pulse height of the scintillation gamma-ray detector for each event. Using this technique, the positronium behavior in a porous SiO 2 film, grown by a sputtering method, has been studied.

Supramolecular interactions between triphenylphosphine oxide and benzamide evaluated by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

Science.gov (United States)

Oliveira, F. C.; Denadai, A. M. L.; Fulgêncio, F.; Oliveira, A. M.; Andrade, A. C. A.; Melo, A. C. A.; Yoshida, M. I.; Windmöller, D.; Magalhães, W. F.

2017-04-01

In the present work, intermolecular interactions between triphenylphosphine oxide (TPPO) and benzamide (BZM) has been studied in solid state by Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS) and supported by several analytical techniques (in solid state and in solution) and by computational modeling (in gaseous phase). Isothermal Titration Calorimetry (ITC) in ethyl acetate solvent showed that complexation is a stepwise process, with 2:1 and 1:1 TPPO/BZM stoichiometries, both driven by entropy. HPLC analysis of isolated single crystal confirmed the existence of a 2:1 TPPO/BZM crystalline complex in solid state. The results of thermal analysis (TGA, DTA and DSC) and FTIR spectroscopy showed that the interactions in the complexes are relatively weaker than those found in pure precursors. Finally, PALS showed higher positronium formation probability (I3) at [TPPO0.62·BZM0.38] and [TPPO0.25·BZM0.75] molar fractions, corroborating the existence of two stoichiometries for the TPPO/BZM system and suggesting greater electronic availability of n- and π-electrons in heterosynton complexes, as resulting of interactions, bring forward new evidences of the participation of electronic excited states on the positronium formation mechanism.

Study of high-k gate dielectrics by means of positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Uedono, A.; Naito, T.; Otsuka, T.; Ito, K.; Shiraishi, K.; Yamabe, K.; Miyazaki, S.; Watanabe, H.; Umezawa, N.; Hamid, A.; Chikyow, T.; Ohdaira, T.; Suzuki, R.; Ishibashi, S.; Inumiya, S.; Kamiyama, S.; Akasaka, Y.; Nara, Y.; Yamada, K.

2007-01-01

High-dielectric constant (high-k) gate materials, such as HfSiO x and HfAlO x , fabricated by atomic-layer-deposition techniques were characterized using monoenergetic positron beams. Measurements of the Doppler broadening spectra of annihilation radiation and the lifetime spectra of positrons indicated that positrons annihilated from the trapped state by open volumes that exist intrinsically in amorphous structures of the films. The size distributions of the open volumes and the local atomic configurations around such volumes can be discussed using positron annihilation parameters, and they were found to correlate with the electrical properties of the films. We confirmed that the positron annihilation is useful technique to characterize the matrix structure of amorphous high-k materials, and can be used to determine process parameters for the fabrication of high-k gate dielectrics. (copyright 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Structural study of some divalent aluminoborate glasses using ultrasonic and positron annihilation techniques

Science.gov (United States)

Saddeek, Yasser B.; Mohamed, Hamdy F. M.; Azooz, Moenis A.

2004-07-01

Positron annihilation lifetime (PAL), ultrasonic techniques, and differential thermal analysis (DTA) were performed to study the structure of some aluminoborate glasses. The basic compositions of these glasses are 50 B2O3 + 10 Al2O3 + 40 RO (wt%), where RO is the divalent oxide (MgO, CaO, SrO, and CdO). The ultrasonic data show that the rigidity increases from MgO to CaO then decrease at SrO and again increases at CdO. The glass transition temperature (determined from DTA) decreases from MgO to SrO then increases at CdO. The trend of the thermal properties was attributed to thermal stability. The experimental data are correlated with the internal glass structure and its connectivity. The PAL data show that an inversely correlation between the relative fractional of the open hole volume and the density of the samples. Also, there is a good correlation between the ortho-positronium (o-Ps) lifetime (open hole volume size) and the bulk modulus of the samples (determined from ultrasonic technique). The open volume hole size distribution for the samples shows that the open volume holes expand in size for CaO, SrO, MgO, and CdO, respectively with their distribution function moving to higher volume size.

Detection of atomic scale changes in the free volume void size of three-dimensional colorectal cancer cell culture using positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy.

Science.gov (United States)

Axpe, Eneko; Lopez-Euba, Tamara; Castellanos-Rubio, Ainara; Merida, David; Garcia, Jose Angel; Plaza-Izurieta, Leticia; Fernandez-Jimenez, Nora; Plazaola, Fernando; Bilbao, Jose Ramon

2014-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) provides a direct measurement of the free volume void sizes in polymers and biological systems. This free volume is critical in explaining and understanding physical and mechanical properties of polymers. Moreover, PALS has been recently proposed as a potential tool in detecting cancer at early stages, probing the differences in the subnanometer scale free volume voids between cancerous/healthy skin samples of the same patient. Despite several investigations on free volume in complex cancerous tissues, no positron annihilation studies of living cancer cell cultures have been reported. We demonstrate that PALS can be applied to the study in human living 3D cell cultures. The technique is also capable to detect atomic scale changes in the size of the free volume voids due to the biological responses to TGF-β. PALS may be developed to characterize the effect of different culture conditions in the free volume voids of cells grown in vitro.

New techniques of positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1983-02-01

Studies on new techniques of positron annihilation and its application to various fields are presented. First, production of slow positron and its characteristic features are described. The slow positron can be obtained from radioisotopes by using a positron moderator, proton beam bombardment on a boron target, and pair production by using an electron linear accelerator. Bright enhancement of the slow positron beam is studied. Polarized positron beam can be used for the study of the momentum distribution of an electron in ferromagnetic substances. Production of polarized positrons and measurements of polarization are discussed. Various phases of interaction between slow positrons and atoms (or molecules) are described. A comparative study of electron scavenging effects on luminescence and on positronium formation in cyclohexane is presented. The positron annihilation phenomena are applicable for the surface study. The microscopic information on the surface of porous material may be obtained. The slow positrons are also useful for the surface study. Production and application of slow muon (positive and negative) are presented in this report. (Kato, T.)

Microemulsion systems studied by positron annihilation techniques. II

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lopez, R.; Olea, O.; Fucugauchi, L.A.

1982-01-01

The positron annihilation technique was applied to assess the effect of the double bond of the surfactant molecule on the microemulsion formation mechanism by replacing sodium stearate by sodium oleate in surfactant-cosurfactant-solvent-water systems. Diameters of microemulsions were measured by dynamic laser light scattering, and the obtained values concur with the present positron annihilation data. Structures of these microemulsions have been assessed by considering the available conformation and shapes of the surfactant-cosurfactant-solvent-assemblies. Volumes of the same aggregates have been calculated by taking into consideration the packing constraint imposed upon kink formation. (Auth.)

Characterization of lacunar defects by positrons annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Barthe, M.F.; Corbel, C.; Blondiaux, G.

2003-01-01

Among the nondestructive methods for the study of matter, the positrons annihilation method allows to sound the electronic structure of materials by measuring the annihilation characteristics. These characteristics depend on the electronic density as seen by the positon, and on the electron momentums distribution which annihilate with the positon. The positon is sensible to the coulombian potential variations inside a material and sounds preferentially the regions away from nuclei which represent potential wells. The lacunar-type defects (lack of nuclei) represent deep potential wells which can trap the positon up to temperatures close to the melting. This article describes the principles of this method and its application to the characterization of lacunar defects: 1 - positrons: matter probes (annihilation of electron-positon pairs, annihilation characteristics, positrons sources); 2 - positrons interactions in solids (implantation profiles, annihilation states, diffusion and trapping, positon lifetime spectrum: evolution with the concentration of defects); 3 - measurement of annihilation characteristics with two gamma photons (lifetime spectroscopy with the β + 22 Na isotope, spectroscopy of Doppler enlargement of the annihilation line); 4 - determination of the free volume of defects inside or at the surface of materials (annihilation signature in lacunar defects, lacuna, lacunar clusters and cavities, acceptors nature in semiconductors: ionic or lacunar, interface defects, precipitates in alloys); 5 - conclusions. (J.S.)

Positron lifetime study of the devitrification process in a cordierite glass

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pedrosa, M.A.; Pareja, R.

1985-01-01

The devitrification of the 13.3% MgO-32.0% Al 2 O 3 -52.7% SiO 2 -2.0% BaO ceramic-glass via isochronal heating up to a stable crystalline structure has been studied by the positron annihilation technique. The lifetime spectra showed two components. This devitrification results as a two-stage process. The long-lifetime tau 2 , attributed to the pick-off annihilation of ortho-Ps states, decreased on crystallization, but it was insensitive to the hexagonal-orthorhombic transformation of the crystalline cordierite. On the contrary, the effective lifetime of positrons annihilating in states that are not Ps, increased. This increase has been attributed to the Al/Si order process inherent to the hexagonal-orthorhombic transformation. Moreover, the Ps fraction in the crystalline phases was higher than in the glassy phase. However the free volume model might qualitatively explain the relationship observed between I 2 and tau 2 . (author)

Moessbauer and positron annihilation studies of microstructural peculiarities of iron-dextran complexes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Oshtrakh, M.I.; Kopelyan, E.A.; Semionkin, V.A.; Livshits, A.B.; Kozlov, A.A.

1995-01-01

The microstructural peculiarities of pharmaceutically important iron-dextran complexes were studied by Moessbauer and positron annihilation techniques. The results of Moessbauer spectroscopy showed variations of the iron cores in iron-dextran complexes containing different forms of FeOOH and different electronic and magnetic states of iron. The results of angular correlations of annihilation radiation and positron life-time spectroscopies showed microstructural variations of the dextran shell of the iron-dextran complexes. (author) 19 refs.; 4 tabs

Positron annihilation studies in ZnO nanoparticles

Science.gov (United States)

Sharma, S. K.; Pujari, P. K.; Sudarshan, K.; Dutta, D.; Mahapatra, M.; Godbole, S. V.; Jayakumar, O. D.; Tyagi, A. K.

2009-04-01

We report results on positron annihilation spectroscopic (PAS) studies using lifetime and coincidence Doppler broadening techniques in zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (4 to 40 nm) synthesized by solid state pyrolytic reaction followed by annealing in the temperature range of 200 ∘C to 800 ∘C. Positron lifetime in the nanoparticles are observed to be higher than bulk lifetime in all the cases. Theoretical calculation of lifetime indicates the presence of either Zn or (Zn, O) vacancy clusters which migrate and anneal out at high temperature. Comparison of ratio spectra from coincidence Doppler broadening measurement and calculated electron momentum distribution indicates the presence of either Zn or (Zn, O) vacancies. In addition, photoluminescence (PL) measurements have been carried out to examine the role of defects on the intensity of emission in the visible region.

The study of defects in metallic alloys by positron annihilation spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Romero, R.; Salgueiro, W.; Somoza, A.

1990-01-01

Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) has become in a very useful non destructive testing to the study of condensed matter. Specially, in the last two decades, with the advent of solid state detectors and high-resolution time spectrometers. The basic information obtained with PAS in solid-state physics is on electronic structure in free defect materials. However, positron annihilation techniques (lifetime, angular correlation and Doppler broadening) have been succesfully applied to study crystal lattice defects with lower-than-average electron density, such as vacancies, small vacancy clusters, etc.. In this sense, information about: vacancy formation and migration energies, dislocations, grain boundaries, solid-solid phase transformation and radiation damage was obtained. In this work the application of the positron lifetime technique to study the thermal effects on a fine-grained superplastic Al-Ca-Zn alloy and the quenched-in defects in monocrystals of β Cu-Zn-Al alloy for several quenching temperatures is shown. (Author) [es

Cation vacancies in ferroelectric PbTiO3 and Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 : A positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy study

Science.gov (United States)

Keeble, D. J.; Singh, S.; Mackie, R. A.; Morozov, M.; McGuire, S.; Damjanovic, D.

2007-10-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy measurements identify A - and B -site cation vacancies in ferroelectric perovskite oxides (ABO3) . Crystal PbTiO3 and ceramic lead zirconium titanate (PZT) were studied and gave consistent values for the lifetime resulting from positron localization at lead vacancies VPb . Positron trapping to B -site vacancies was inferred in PZT. Temperature dependent studies showed that the defect specific trapping rate was higher for VB compared to VPb , consistent with the larger negative charge. Doping PZT with Fe increased the fraction positron trapping to VB compared to VPb -type defects.

Structural study of some divalent aluminoborate glasses using ultrasonic and positron annihilation techniques

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Saddeek, Yasser B. [Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assiut (Egypt); Mohamed, Hamdy F.M. [Physics Department, Faculty of Science, El-Minia University, B.O. 61519 El-Minia (Egypt); Azooz, Moenis A. [Glass Research Department, National Research Center, Dokki, Cairo (Egypt)

2004-07-01

Positron annihilation lifetime (PAL), ultrasonic techniques, and differential thermal analysis (DTA) were performed to study the structure of some aluminoborate glasses. The basic compositions of these glasses are 50 B{sub 2}O{sub 3}+ 10 Al {sub 2}O {sub 3}+40RO (wt%), where RO is the divalent oxide (MgO, CaO, SrO, and CdO). The ultrasonic data show that the rigidity increases from MgO to CaO then decrease at SrO and again increases at CdO. The glass transition temperature (determined from DTA) decreases from MgO to SrO then increases at CdO. The trend of the thermal properties was attributed to thermal stability. The experimental data are correlated with the internal glass structure and its connectivity. The PAL data show that an inversely correlation between the relative fractional of the open hole volume and the density of the samples. Also, there is a good correlation between the ortho-positronium (o-Ps) lifetime (open hole volume size) and the bulk modulus of the samples (determined from ultrasonic technique). The open volume hole size distribution for the samples shows that the open volume holes expand in size for CaO, SrO, MgO, and CdO, respectively with their distribution function moving to higher volume size. (copyright 2004 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Structural study of some divalent aluminoborate glasses using ultrasonic and positron annihilation techniques

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Saddeek, Yasser B.; Mohamed, Hamdy F.M.; Azooz, Moenis A.

2004-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime (PAL), ultrasonic techniques, and differential thermal analysis (DTA) were performed to study the structure of some aluminoborate glasses. The basic compositions of these glasses are 50 B 2 O 3 + 10 Al 2 O 3 +40RO (wt%), where RO is the divalent oxide (MgO, CaO, SrO, and CdO). The ultrasonic data show that the rigidity increases from MgO to CaO then decrease at SrO and again increases at CdO. The glass transition temperature (determined from DTA) decreases from MgO to SrO then increases at CdO. The trend of the thermal properties was attributed to thermal stability. The experimental data are correlated with the internal glass structure and its connectivity. The PAL data show that an inversely correlation between the relative fractional of the open hole volume and the density of the samples. Also, there is a good correlation between the ortho-positronium (o-Ps) lifetime (open hole volume size) and the bulk modulus of the samples (determined from ultrasonic technique). The open volume hole size distribution for the samples shows that the open volume holes expand in size for CaO, SrO, MgO, and CdO, respectively with their distribution function moving to higher volume size. (copyright 2004 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Determination of the solubility of neodymium in iron by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yu, W.Y.; Qing, L.N.; Zhuo, T.Z.; Rong, C.X.

1985-01-01

The authors have measured the lineshape parameters and lifetimes of positron annihilation in eleven samples of iron containing various concentration of Nd between 0 and 0.87 wt. %, which have been heat-treated at two different temperatures successively. According to the abrupt increase, for the two conditions of heat-treatment the solubility of Nd in iron is interpreted to be 0.082 wt. % and 0.088 wt. % respectively. Using positron annihilation technique for determining the solubility of Nd in iron appears to be more sensitive and accurate than metallography method and X-ray diffraction analysis

Free volume of cyanate resins studied by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Suzuki, T.; Oki, Y.; Numajiri, M.; Miura, T.; Kondo, K.; Oshima, N.; Hayashi, T.; Nakamura, H.; Ito, Y.

1996-01-01

The polymerization process of bisphenol-A dicyanate (BADCy) has been studied using a positron-annihilation lifetime technique (PAL). The polymerization was conducted at 150 deg C, and the process was followed by PAL. Seven kinds of samples with different curing times were also formed at 150 deg C, and the relation between the period of the curing time and the degree of polymerization was studied. It has been shown that the ο-Ps lifetime increases in samples with a higher polymerization than 85%, which is consistent with measurements of the specific volume of BADCy. (author)

A positron annihilation study of compensation defects responsible for conduction-type conversions in LEC-grown InP

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shan, Y.Y.; Ling, C.C.; Fung, S.; Beling, C.D.; Zhao, Y.W.

2001-01-01

Positron annihilation techniques have been employed to investigate the formation of vacancy type of compensation defects in undoped LEC-grown InP. N-type InP becomes p-type semiconducting by short time annealing at 700 C, and then turns to be n-type again after further annealing but with a much higher resistivity. Positron lifetime measurements show that the positron average lifetime τ av increases to a high value of 247ps for the first n-type to p-type conversion and decreases to 240ps for the following p-type to n-type conversion. τ av increases slightly and saturates at 242ps upon further annealing. The results of positron annihilation Doppler-broadening measurements are consistent with the positron lifetime measurements. The correlation between the characteristics of positron annihilation and the conversions of conduction type indicates that the formation of vacancy type defects and the progressive variation of their concentrations during annealing are critical to the electrical properties of the bulk InP material. (orig.)

Application of the Positron Annihilation Technique to the study of vapors absorption process in polyethylene (LDPE) and in imide polymer (6FDA-TMPD PI)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sanchez Mendieta, V.

1992-01-01

It is well recognized that positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) spectra in polymers have a long-lived component that can be ascribed to ortho-positronium (o-Ps). The lifetime, τ 3 , is considered to be a measure of the size of the micro-vacancies in which o-Ps is trapped and is annihilated through pick-off annihilation with the rate which depends on the size of the vacancy. Positron lifetime measurements were performed for two different kinds of polymers (low density polyethylene and a polyimide (6FDA-TMPD) during sorption of various vapors (hexane, cyclohexane, benzene, acrylic acid, methyl acrylate, water and oxygen). The vapor sorption affected the long-lived component (ortho-positronium component) in a systematic way regardless of the kind of the vapor molecules, i.e. for the polyethylene both the lifetime and the intensity of the long-lived component were enhanced, while for the polyimide they were decreased significantly. These different effects are interpreted in terms of different states of sorbed molecules in rubbery (the polyethylene) and in glassy (the polyimide) polymers. (Author)

A Positron Annihilation Study of Copper Containing a High Concentration of Krypton

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Eldrup, Morten Mostgaard; Evans, John H.

1982-01-01

Bulk Cu samples containing up to 4 at.% Kr have been produced by the Harwell combined ion implantation and sputtering method at temperatures near ambient, and then examined by the positron annihilation technique. Both angular correlation and lifetime measurements were made and, in addition, the s...

Applications of positron annihilation spectroscopy to polymeric and biological systems

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jean, Y.C.; Chen, Hongmin; Liu, Guang; Chakka, Lakshmi; Gadzia, Joseph E.

2007-01-01

Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) is a novel radio-analytical technique which uses the positron (anti-electron) and is capable of probing the atomic and molecular scale (0.2-2 nm) free-volume and hole properties in polymeric and biological materials. Recently, we developed positron annihilation lifetime and Doppler broadening of energy spectroscopies coupled with a variable mono-energetic positron beam to measure the free-volume depth profile from the surface, interfaces, and to the bulk. This paper presents applications of PAS to determine multi-layer structures, glass transition temperatures in nano-scale polymeric films and to detect cancer in the human skin. (author)

Variable-energy positron annihilation study of subnanopores in SiOCH-based PECVD films

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ito, Kenji; Oka, Toshitaka; Kobayashi, Yoshinori; Suzuki, Ryoichi; Ohdaira, Toshiyuki

2007-01-01

Subnanoporosity was introduced into SiOCH-based thin films by mixing tetraethyl orthosilicate with hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) in the plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition process, and was evaluated by the variable-energy positron annihilation lifetime technique. It was found that with increasing the HMDSO fraction both porosity and pore size were enhanced, as evidenced by the decreased refractive index and increased ortho-positronium lifetime. The lifetimes from 2.0 to 6.8 ns suggested the tunable pore volumes within a range of 0.1-0.7 nm 3

Micellar effects on positronium lifetime in aqueous SDS solutions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vass, Sz.; Kajcsos, Zs.; Molnar, B.; Stergiopoulos, Ch.

1981-09-01

Positron lifetime measurements have been performed in aqueous SDS (Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate) solutions. The lifetime distributions measured by fast-slow coincidence technique have been found to be influenced by surfactant concentration, which varied in the range of 1.25x10 -3 - 3.2x10 -1 mol/dm 3 (i.e. 2.27x10 -5 - 5.82x10 -3 mole fractions). The lifetime of the long living component connected to positronium formation and decay increases with increasing surfactant concentration. Lifetime data suggest that a direct positronium-micelle electron-exchange reaction leading to pick-off annihilation is contraindicated. (author)

Bremsstrahlung Based Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy for Material Defect Analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Selim, F.A.; Wells, D.P.; Harmon, F.; Kwofie, J.; Lancaster, G.; Jones, J.L.

2003-01-01

The Idaho Accelerator Center (IAC) has developed new techniques for Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy (PAS) using highly penetrating γ-rays to create positrons inside the material via pair production. γ-Ray induced positron annihilation spectroscopy can provide highly penetrating probes for material characterization and defect analysis. Bremsstrahlung beams from small, pulsed electron Linacs (6 MeV) have been used to bombard the materials to generate positrons, which annihilate with the material electrons emitting 511 keV radiation. We have also synchronized bremsstrahlung pulses with laser irradiation pulses to study dynamic structural changes in material. In addition, we have developed another method using (p,γ) reactions from a 2 MeV proton beam, which induce coincident γ-rays to perform positron life-time spectroscopy. We have showed the feasibility of extending PAS into thick samples and a wide variety of materials and industrial applications

Characterization of defects in metals by positron-annihilation spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Siegel, R.W.

1981-10-01

The application of positron-annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) to the characterization and study of defects in metals has grown rapidly and increasingly useful in recent years. Owing to the ability of the positron to annihilate from a variety of defect-trapped states in metals, PAS can yield defect-specific information which, by itself or in conjunction with more traditional experimental techniques, has already made a significant impact upon our knowledge regarding lattice defect properties in metals. This has been especially true for vacancy defets, as a result of the positron's affinity for lower-than-average electron-density regions in the metal. The physical basis for the positron annihilation techniques is presented in this paper; and the experimental techniques, lifetime, Doppler broadening, and angular correlation, are briefly described and compared with respect to the information that can be obtained from each of them. A number of examples of the application of PAS to the characterization of atomic defects and their agglomerates are presented. The particular examples, chosen from the areas of equilibrium vacancy formation and atomic-defect recovery, were selected with a view toward elucidating the particular advantages of PAS over more traditional defect-characterization techniques. Limitations of PAS are also pointed out. 98 references

Direct comparison of photoluminescence lifetime and defect densities in ZnO epilayers studied by time-resolved photoluminescence and slow positron annihilation techniques

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Koida, T. [Institute of Applied Physics and Graduate School of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8573 (Japan); NICP, ERATO, Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), Chiyoda 102-0071 (Japan); Uedono, A. [Institute of Applied Physics and Graduate School of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8573 (Japan); Tsukazaki, A. [Institute for Materials Research, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8755 (Japan); Sota, T. [Department of Electrical, Engineering and Bioscience, Waseda University, Shinjuku 169-8555 (Japan); Kawasaki, M. [Institute for Materials Research, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8755 (Japan); Combinatorial Materials Exploration and Technology (COMET), Tsukuba 305-0044 (Japan); Chichibu, S.F. [NICP, ERATO, Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), Chiyoda 102-0071 (Japan); Photodynamics Research Center, RIKEN, Sendai 980-0868 (Japan)

2004-09-01

The roles of point defects and defect complexes governing nonradiative processes in ZnO epilayers were studied using time-resolved photoluminescence (PL) and slow positron annihilation measurements. The density or size of Zn vacancies (V{sub Zn}) decreased and the nonradiative PL lifetime ({tau}{sub nr}) increased with higher growth temperature for epilayers grown on a ScAlMgO{sub 4} substrate. Accordingly, the steady-state free excitonic PL intensity increased with increase in {tau}{sub nr} at room temperature. The use of a homoepitaxial substrate further decreased the V{sub Zn} concentration. However, no perfect relation between {tau}{sub nr} and the density or size of V{sub Zn} or other positron scattering centers was found. The results indicated that nonradiative recombination processes are governed not solely by single point defects, but by certain defect species introduced by the presence of V{sub Zn} such as vacancy complexes. (copyright 2004 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Analysis of sub-nano spaces by positron annihilation spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jean, Y.C.; Liu, J.; Huang, C.M.; Dai, G.H.; Yuan, J.P.

1994-01-01

Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) has been realized to be a novel and potentially powerful tool to evolve the open spaces in the range 1-20 angstrom in molecular systems. Due to the repulsive force between the positron (the anti-particle of the electron) and the cores, annihilation signals are solely contributed from the open spaces, such as vacancies, holes, and voids in the molecular subtracts under study. By further developing two PAS techniques, positron lifetime (PAL), and angular correlation (ACAR), the authors are able to obtain useful and important information of: hole sizes, distributions, hole fractions, and anisotropic structures at sub-nano scales. Applications of PAS to chemical analysis, surface chemistry of inner pores, and polymer sciences are discussed

Positron annihilation lifetime studies of changes in free volume on some biorelevant nitrogen heterocyclic compounds and their S-glycosylation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mahmoud, K.R.; Khodair, A.I.; Shaban, S.Y.

2015-01-01

A series of N-heterocyclic compounds was investigated by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy as well as Doppler broadening of annihilation radiation (DBAR) at room temperature. The results showed that the formation probability and life time of ortho-positronium in this series are structure and electron-donation character dependent, and can give more information about the structure. The DBAR provides direct information about the change of core and valance electrons as well as the number of defect types present in these compounds. - Highlights: • N-heterocyclic compounds were studied by PALS and DBAR at room temperature. • These compounds contain thiohydantoins which have wide applications as anticarcinogenic, antiviral, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and antimicrobial activity. • The DBAR provides direct information about the change of core and valance electrons as well as the number of defect types present in these compounds.

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy of mechanically milled protein fibre powders and their free volume aspects

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Patil, K; Rajkhowa, R; Tsuzuki, T; Lin, T; Wang, X; Sellaiyan, S; Smith, S V; Uedono, A

2013-01-01

The present study reports the fabrication of ultra-fine powders from animal protein fibres such as cashmere guard hair, merino wool and eri silk along with their free volume aspects. The respectively mechanically cleaned, scoured and degummed cashmere guard hair, wool and silk fibres were converted into dry powders by a process sequence: Chopping, Attritor Milling, and Spray Drying. The fabricated protein fibre powders were characterised by scanning electron microscope, particle size distribution and positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS). The PALS results indicated that the average free volume size in protein fibres increased on their wet mechanical milling with a decrease in the corresponding intensities leading to a resultant decrease in their fractional free volumes.

Applications of positron annihilation to dermatology and skin cancer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Liu, Guang; Chen, Hongmin; Chakka, Lakshmi; Gadzia, Joseph E.; Jean, Y.C.

2007-01-01

Positronium annihilation lifetime experiments have been performed to investigate the interaction between skin cancer and positronium for human skin samples. Positronium annihilation lifetime is found to be shorter and intensity is found to be less for the samples with basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma than the normal skin samples. These results indicate a reduction of free volume in the molecular level for the skin with cancer with respect to the skin without cancer. Positron annihilation spectroscopy may be potentially developed as a new noninvasive and external method for dermatology clinics, early detection of cancer, and nano-PET technology in the future. (copyright 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Applications of positron annihilation to dermatology and skin cancer

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Liu, Guang; Chen, Hongmin; Chakka, Lakshmi [Department of Chemistry, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64110 (United States); Gadzia, Joseph E. [Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66103 and Kansas Medical Clinic, Topeka, KS 66614 (United States); Jean, Y.C. [Department of Chemistry, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64110 (United States); R and D Center for Membrane Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li (China)

2007-07-01

Positronium annihilation lifetime experiments have been performed to investigate the interaction between skin cancer and positronium for human skin samples. Positronium annihilation lifetime is found to be shorter and intensity is found to be less for the samples with basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma than the normal skin samples. These results indicate a reduction of free volume in the molecular level for the skin with cancer with respect to the skin without cancer. Positron annihilation spectroscopy may be potentially developed as a new noninvasive and external method for dermatology clinics, early detection of cancer, and nano-PET technology in the future. (copyright 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Positron Annihilation Ratio Spectroscopy Study of Electric Fields Applied to Positronium at Material Interfaces

Science.gov (United States)

2011-03-01

from 142 ns to a few ns [3:3]. Through the application of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) on a material, the o-Ps lifetime can be...Force Base, Ohio APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE; DISTRIBUTION UNLIMITED. POSITRON ANNIHILATION RATIO SPECTROSCOPY STUDY OF ELECTRIC FIELDS APPLIED TO...protection in the United States. AFIT/GNE/ENP/11-M19 POSITRON ANNIHILATION RATIO SPECTROSCOPY STUDY OF ELECTRIC FIELDS APPLIED TO POSITRONIUM AT

Structural defects in electrodeposited Ni studied by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vertes, A.; Szeles, C.; Czako-Nagy, I.; Lakatos-Varsanyi, M.

1982-01-01

Structural investigation of electrodeposited Ni was carried out by positron annihilation (PA) technique. Additional Moessbauer effect and X-ray diffraction measurements were also performed. The samples were produced under different plating conditions resulting in stress in the range -100 to +600 N/mm 2 . From the positron lifetime measurements it seems that the defect pattern of electrodeposited Ni samples might be substantially different from sample to sample with different deposition and plating conditions. (Auth.)

Characterizing free volumes and layer structures in polymeric membranes using slow positron annihilation spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jean, Y C; Chen Hongmin; Awad, Somia; Zhang Sui; Chen Hangzheng; Lau, Cher Hon; Wang Huan; Li Fuyun; Chung, Tai-Shung; Lee, L James; Huang, James

2011-01-01

Positron annihilation spectroscopy coupled with a newly built slow positron beam at National University of Singapore has been used to study the free volume, pore, and depth profile (0 - 10 μm) in cellulose acetate polymeric membrane at the bottom and top sides of membranes for ionic separation in water purification applications. The S and R parameters from Doppler broadening energy of annihilation radiation representing free volumes (0.1-1 nm size) and pores (>1 nm-μm) as a function of depth have been analyzed into multilayers, i.e. skin dense, transition, and porous layers, respectively. The top side of membrane has large free volumes and pores and the bottom side has a skin dense layer, which plays a key role in membrane performance. Positron annihilation lifetime results provide additional information about free-volume size and distribution at the atomic and molecular scale in polymeric membrane systems. Doppler broadening energy and lifetime spectroscopies coupled with a variable mono-energy slow positron beam are sensitive and novel techniques for characterization of polymeric membrane in separation applications.

Positron annihilation lifetime measurements of vanadium alloy and F82H irradiated with fission and fusion neutrons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sato, K.; Inoue, K.; Yoshiie, T.; Xu, Q.; Wakai, E.; Kutsukake, C.; Ochiai, K.

2009-01-01

V-4Cr-4Ti, F82H, Ni and Cu were irradiated with fission and fusion neutrons at room temperature and 473 K. Defect structures were analyzed and compared using positron annihilation lifetime measurement, and microstructural evolution was discussed. The mean lifetime of positrons (the total amount of residual defects) increased with the irradiation dose. The effect of cascade impact was detected in Ni at room temperature. The size and the number of vacancy clusters were not affected by the displacement rate in the fission neutron irradiation at 473 K for the metals studied. The vacancy clusters were not formed in V-4Cr-4Ti irradiated at 473 K in the range of 10 -6 -10 -3 dpa. In F82H irradiated at 473 K, the defect evolution was prevented by pre-existing defects. The mean lifetime of positrons in fission neutron irradiation was longer than that in fusion neutron irradiation in V-4Cr-4Ti at 473 K. It was interpreted that more closely situated subcascades were formed in the fusion neutron irradiation and subcascades interacted with each other, and consequently the vacancy clusters did not grow larger.

Positron annihilation spectroscopy in materials structure studies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Grafutin, Viktor I; Prokop'ev, Evgenii P

2002-01-01

A relatively new method of materials structure analysis - positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) - is reviewed. Measurements of positron lifetimes, the determination of positron 3γ- and 2γ-annihilation probabilities, and an investigation of the effects of different external factors on the fundamental characteristics of annihilation constitute the basis for this promising method. The ways in which the positron annihilation process operates in ionic crystals, semiconductors, metals and some condensed matter systems are analyzed. The scope of PAS is described and its prospects for the study of the electronic and defect structures are discussed. The applications of positron annihilation spectroscopy in radiation physics and chemistry of various substances as well as in physics and chemistry of solutions are exemplified. (instruments and methods of investigation)

Characterization of lacunar defects by positrons annihilation

CERN Document Server

Barthe, M F; Blondiaux, G

2003-01-01

Among the nondestructive methods for the study of matter, the positrons annihilation method allows to sound the electronic structure of materials by measuring the annihilation characteristics. These characteristics depend on the electronic density as seen by the positon, and on the electron momentums distribution which annihilate with the positon. The positon is sensible to the coulombian potential variations inside a material and sounds preferentially the regions away from nuclei which represent potential wells. The lacunar-type defects (lack of nuclei) represent deep potential wells which can trap the positon up to temperatures close to the melting. This article describes the principles of this method and its application to the characterization of lacunar defects: 1 - positrons: matter probes (annihilation of electron-positon pairs, annihilation characteristics, positrons sources); 2 - positrons interactions in solids (implantation profiles, annihilation states, diffusion and trapping, positon lifetime spec...

Nano sulfide and oxide semiconductors as promising materials for studies by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nambissan, P M G

2013-01-01

A number of wide band gap sulfide and oxide semiconducting nanomaterial systems were investigated using the experimental techniques of positron lifetime and coincidence Doppler broadening measurements. The results indicated several features of the nanomaterial systems, which were found strongly related to the presence of vacancy-type defects and their clusters. Quantum confinement effects were displayed in these studies as remarkable changes in the positron lifetimes and the lineshape parameters around the same grain sizes below which characteristic blue shifts were observed in the optical absorption spectra. Considerable enhancement in the band gap and significant rise of the positron lifetimes were found occurring when the particle sizes were reduced to very low sizes. The results of doping or substitutions by other cations in semiconductor nanosystems were also interesting. Variously heat-treated TiO 2 nanoparticles were studied recently and change of positron annihilation parameters across the anatase to rutile structural transition are carefully analyzed. Preliminary results of positron annihilation studies on Eu-doped CeO nanoparticles are also presented.

Nano sulfide and oxide semiconductors as promising materials for studies by positron annihilation

Science.gov (United States)

Nambissan, P. M. G.

2013-06-01

A number of wide band gap sulfide and oxide semiconducting nanomaterial systems were investigated using the experimental techniques of positron lifetime and coincidence Doppler broadening measurements. The results indicated several features of the nanomaterial systems, which were found strongly related to the presence of vacancy-type defects and their clusters. Quantum confinement effects were displayed in these studies as remarkable changes in the positron lifetimes and the lineshape parameters around the same grain sizes below which characteristic blue shifts were observed in the optical absorption spectra. Considerable enhancement in the band gap and significant rise of the positron lifetimes were found occurring when the particle sizes were reduced to very low sizes. The results of doping or substitutions by other cations in semiconductor nanosystems were also interesting. Variously heat-treated TiO2 nanoparticles were studied recently and change of positron annihilation parameters across the anatase to rutile structural transition are carefully analyzed. Preliminary results of positron annihilation studies on Eu-doped CeO nanoparticles are also presented.

Positron annihilation probing for the hydratation rate of cement paste

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Myllylae, R.; Karras, M.

1975-01-01

Positron annihilation has been found to be a possible probe for the exponential hydratation of cement paste. Both lifetime and Doppler line broadening measurements revealed the hydratation rate. With the aid of increased stability in the lifetime spectrometer it has been possible to extend the measuring sensitivity over a period of several weeks. Two main lifetimes, tau 1 = 480 +- 20 psec and tau 2 = 2.1 +- 0.1 nsec, were observed to be constant during the hydratation. The intensity of the 2.1 nsec component changed from 4 to 8% after 47 days, and simultaneously the annihilation line narrowed from 2.6 to 2.4 keV. This behaviour has been interpreted as an increase in positronium formation. The possible practical applications of positron annihilation radiation as a hydratation probe has been evaluated for use in a concrete laboratory and even for regular construction work. (orig.) [de

Positron annihilation spectroscopy in condensed matter

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brauer, G.

1982-09-01

The topic of positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) is the investigation of all aspects connected with the annihilation of slow positrons. This work deals with the application of PAS to different problems of materials science. The first chapter is an introduction to fundamental aspects of positron annihilation, as far as they are important to the different experimental techniques of PAS. Chapter 2 is concerned with the information obtainable by PAS. The three main experimental techniques of PAS (2γ-angular correlation, positron lifetime and Doppler broadening) are explained and problems in the application of these methods are discussed. Chapter 3 contains experimental results. According to the different fields of application it was subgrouped into: 1. Investigations of crystalline solids. Detection of structural defects in Cu, estimation of defect concentrations, study of the sintering of Cu powders as well as lattice defects in V 3 Si. 2. Chemical investigations. Structure of mixed solvents, selective solvation of mixed solvents by electrolytes as well as the micellization of sodium dodecylsulphate in aqueous solutions. 3. Investigations of glasses. Influence of heat treatment and production technology on the preorder of X-amorphous silica glass as well as preliminary measurements of pyrocerams. 4. Investigations of metallic glasses. Demonstration of the influence of production technology on parameters measurable by PAS. Chapter 4 contains a summary as well as an outlook of further applications of PAS to surface physics, medicine, biology and astrophysics. (author)

Electrical properties of MOS structures on nitrogen-doped Czochralski-grown silicon: A positron annihilation study

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Slugen, V.; Harmatha, L.; Tapajna, M.; Ballo, P.; Pisecny, P.; Sik, J.; Koegel, G.; Krsjak, V.

2006-01-01

Measurements of interface trap density, effective generation lifetime (GL) and effective surface generation velocity have been performed using different methods on selected MOS structures prepared on nitrogen-doped Czochralski-grown (NCz) silicon. The application of the positron annihilation technique using a pulsed low energy positron system (PLEPS) focused on the detection of nitrogen-related defects in NCz silicon in the near surface region. In the case of p-type Cz silicon, all the results could be used for the testing of homogeneity. In n-type Cz silicon, positron annihilation was found insensitive to nitrogen doping

Positron annihilation in calcium-doped barium titanate

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Li, L.T.; Zhang, X.W.; Smyth, D.M.

1987-01-01

The Positron Annihilation Technique (PAT) has been used to study lattice defects in CaO-doped BaTiO/sub 3/ having the general composition BaTi/sub 1-x/Ca/sub x/O/sub 3-x/, with x = 0, 0.005, 0.010, 0.015, and 0.020. The long lifetime, tau/sub 2/, and the mean lifetime, tau/sub m/, of the positrons were both found to increase with increasing Ca content, x, up to x = 0.015-0.020. This is in good agreement wit the solubility limit for Ca on Ti-sites in BaTiO/sub 3/ found by others from measurements of the equilibrium electrical conductivity, and by other investigators from x-ray diffraction studies. In these studies, it was shown that for compositions with (Ba+Ca)/Ti > 1, Ca can be forced to occupy Ti-sites up to 1.5-2%, where it acts as a doubly-charged acceptor center that is compensated by oxygen vacancies. It is suggested that the oxygen vacancies represent places where the annihilation of positrons is delayed because of the low local electron density. These results indicate that the PAT can be a useful tool for the characterization of the defect structure of complex oxides

Positron annihilation characterization of nanostructured ferritic alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alinger, M.J.; Glade, S.C.; Wirth, B.D.; Odette, G.R.; Toyama, T.; Nagai, Y.; Hasegawa, M.

2009-01-01

Nanostructured ferritic alloys (NFAs) were produced by mechanically alloying Fe-14Cr-3W-0.4Ti and 0.25Y 2 O 3 (wt%) powders followed by hot isostatic pressing consolidation at 850, 1000 and 1150 deg. C. Positron annihilation lifetime and orbital momentum spectroscopy measurements are in qualitative agreement with small angle neutron scattering, transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography observations, indicating that up to 50% of the annihilations occur at high densities of Y-Ti-O enriched nm-scale features (NFs). Some annihilations may also occur in small cavities. In Y-free control alloys, that do not contain NFs, positrons primarily annihilate in the Fe-Cr matrix and at features such as dislocations, while a small fraction annihilate in large cavities or Ar bubbles.

Determination of properties of high temperature superconductors and amorphous metallic alloys using positron annihilation techniques. Final report for the period 15 January 1992 - 15 July 1995

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kristiak, J.

1995-11-01

The positron lifetime results obtained on amorphous thermally treated Ni 25 Zr 55 Al 20 alloy indicate that positrons annihilate at places with different properties. The observed shifts of positron lifetime distribution were analyzed in the terms of a relaxation of free-volume, i.e. chemical (CSRO) and topological (TSRO) short range ordering. The upper limit of the activation energy of CSRO and TSRO relaxation was determined to be 2.2eV and 2.6eV, respectively. Positron lifetime τ and Doppler broadening of the annihilation line measurements on very pure C 60 sample as a function of temperature between 120 and 300 K have been reported. A rapid change of τ was observed between 240 and 250 K. This results indicate that the lattice from C 60 molecules is undergoing a phase transition and the phases coexist over an ∼ 10K range. The annihilation of positrons in amorphous tetramethylpoly-carbonate has been investigated in the temperature range from 30 to 300 K. The observed dependences of the mean lifetime of oPs and its relative intensity 1 on temperature were interpreted within the framework of the microstructural free-volume concept. The man radius of free space (hole) was deduced to be around 3,1.10 -10 m. Refs, figs, tabs

Mathematical modeling of elementary trapping-reduction processes in positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy: methodology of Ps-to-positron trapping conversion

Science.gov (United States)

Shpotyuk, Ya; Cebulski, J.; Ingram, A.; Shpotyuk, O.

2017-12-01

Methodological possibilities of positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) spectroscopy in application to nanostructurized substances treated within three-term fitting procedure are reconsidered to parameterize their atomic-deficient structural arrangement. In contrast to conventional three-term fitting analysis of the detected PAL spectra based on admixed positron trapping and positronium (Ps) decaying, the nanostructurization due to guest nanoparticles embedded in host matrix is considered as producing modified trapping, which involves conversion between these channels. The developed approach referred to as x3-x2-coupling decomposition algorithm allows estimation free volumes of interfacial voids responsible for positron trapping and bulk lifetimes in nanoparticle-embedded substances. This methodology is validated using experimental data of Chakraverty et al. [Phys. Rev. B71 (2005) 024115] on PAL study of composites formed by guest NiFe2O4 nanocrystals grown in host SiO2 matrix.

Positron annihilation studies of some charge transfer molecular complexes

CERN Document Server

El-Sayed, A; Boraei, A A A

2000-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetimes were measured for some solid charge transfer (CT) molecular complexes of quinoline compounds (2,6-dimethylquinoline, 6-methoxyquinoline, quinoline, 6-methylquinoline, 3-bromoquinoline and 2-chloro-4-methylquinoline) as electron donor and picric acid as an electron acceptor. The infrared spectra (IR) of the solid complexes clearly indicated the formation of the hydrogen-bonding CT-complexes. The annihilation spectra were analyzed into two lifetime components using PATFIT program. The values of the average and bulk lifetimes divide the complexes into two groups according to the non-bonding ionization potential of the donor (electron donating power) and the molecular weight of the complexes. Also, it is found that the ionization potential of the donors and molecular weight of the complexes have a conspicuous effect on the average and bulk lifetime values. The bulk lifetime values of the complexes are consistent with the formation of stable hydrogen-bonding CT-complexes as inferred...

Early Stages of Precipitation Process in Al-(Mn-)Sc-Zr Alloy Characterized by Positron Annihilation

KAUST Repository

Vlach, Martin; Cizek, Jakub; Melikhova, Oksana; Stulikova, Ivana; Smola, Bohumil; Kekule, Tomas; Kudrnova, Hana; Gemma, Ryota; Neubert, Volkmar

2015-01-01

Thermal effects on the precipitation stages in as-cast Al-0.70 at. pct Mn-0.15 at. pct Sc-0.05 at. pct Zr alloy were studied. The role of lattice defects was elucidated by positron annihilation spectroscopy (lifetime and coincidence Doppler broadening) enabling investigation of solutes clustering at the atomic scale. This technique has never been used in the Al-Sc- and/or Al-Zr-based alloys so far. Studies by positron annihilation were combined with resistometry, hardness measurements, and microstructure observations. Positrons trapped at defects are preferentially annihilated by Sc electrons. Lifetime of trapped positrons indicates that Sc atoms segregate at dislocations. Maximum fraction of positrons annihilated by Sc electrons occurring at 453 K (180 °C) suggests that clustering of Sc bound with vacancies takes place. It is followed by peak of this fraction at 573 K (300 °C). A rise of the contribution of trapped positrons annihilated by Zr electrons starting at 513 K (240 °C) and attaining maximum also at 573 K (300 °C) confirms that Zr participates in precipitation of the Al3Sc particles already at these temperatures. The pronounced hardening at 573 K (300 °C) has its nature in the precipitation of the Al3Sc particles with a Zr-rich shell. The contribution of trapped positrons annihilated by Mn electrons was found to be negligible. © 2015, The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society and ASM International.

Early Stages of Precipitation Process in Al-(Mn-)Sc-Zr Alloy Characterized by Positron Annihilation

KAUST Repository

Vlach, Martin

2015-01-29

Thermal effects on the precipitation stages in as-cast Al-0.70 at. pct Mn-0.15 at. pct Sc-0.05 at. pct Zr alloy were studied. The role of lattice defects was elucidated by positron annihilation spectroscopy (lifetime and coincidence Doppler broadening) enabling investigation of solutes clustering at the atomic scale. This technique has never been used in the Al-Sc- and/or Al-Zr-based alloys so far. Studies by positron annihilation were combined with resistometry, hardness measurements, and microstructure observations. Positrons trapped at defects are preferentially annihilated by Sc electrons. Lifetime of trapped positrons indicates that Sc atoms segregate at dislocations. Maximum fraction of positrons annihilated by Sc electrons occurring at 453 K (180 °C) suggests that clustering of Sc bound with vacancies takes place. It is followed by peak of this fraction at 573 K (300 °C). A rise of the contribution of trapped positrons annihilated by Zr electrons starting at 513 K (240 °C) and attaining maximum also at 573 K (300 °C) confirms that Zr participates in precipitation of the Al3Sc particles already at these temperatures. The pronounced hardening at 573 K (300 °C) has its nature in the precipitation of the Al3Sc particles with a Zr-rich shell. The contribution of trapped positrons annihilated by Mn electrons was found to be negligible. © 2015, The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society and ASM International.

ANTICOOL: Simulating positron cooling and annihilation in atomic gases

Science.gov (United States)

Green, D. G.

2018-03-01

The Fortran program ANTICOOL, developed to simulate positron cooling and annihilation in atomic gases for positron energies below the positronium-formation threshold, is presented. Given positron-atom elastic scattering phase shifts, normalised annihilation rates Zeff, and γ spectra as a function of momentum k, ANTICOOL enables the calculation of the positron momentum distribution f(k , t) as a function of time t, the time-varying normalised annihilation rate Z¯eff(t) , the lifetime spectrum and time-varying annihilation γ spectra. The capability and functionality of the program is demonstrated via a tutorial-style example for positron cooling and annihilation in room temperature helium gas, using accurate scattering and annihilation cross sections and γ spectra calculated using many-body theory as input.

Positron lifetime in vanadium oxide bronzes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dryzek, J.; Dryzek, E.

2003-01-01

The positron lifetime (PL) and Doppler broadening (DB) of annihilation line measurements have been performed in vanadium oxide bronzes M x V 2 O 5 . The dependence of these annihilation characteristics on the kind and concentration of the metal M donor has been observed. In the PL spectrum only one lifetime component has been detected in all studied bronzes. The results indicate the positron localization in the structural tunnels present in the crystalline lattice of the vanadium oxide bronzes. (copyright 2003 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Moessbauer and positron annihilation studies of structural modifications of hemoglobin in solution

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Oshtrakh, M.I.; Kopelyan, E.A.; Semionkin, V.A.

1995-01-01

Structural modifications of human adult oxyhemoglobin in concentrated solution were studied by Moessbauer and positron life-time spectroscopies. The effects of non-sterile degradation and irradiation by γ-rays were compared by both techniques. It was found that positron annihilation parameters were sensitive to the structural modifications of hemoglobin molecules in solution and could be related with the conformational states of hemoglobin. (author)15 refs.; 3 tabs

Peculiarities of annihilation of polarized positronium in polarized media

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Silenko, A.Ya.

2005-01-01

Features of positronium annihilation (PA) in polarized media are investigated. Strong exchange interaction with nonpaired electrons of paramagnetic atoms essentially accelerates the PA in comparison with annihilation of free positrons. The value of the spin projection on the direction of polarized nonpaired electrons has essential effect on the orthopositronium lifetime and on the width of the gamma spectrum annihilation line. It is shown that these features of PA permit to use it for studying the paramagnetic polarization [ru

Positron annihilation study on free volume of amino acid modified, starch-grafted acrylamide copolymer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mahmoud, K.R.; Al-Sigeny, S.; Sharshar, T.; El-Hamshary, H.

2006-01-01

Free volume measurements using positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy was performed for uncrosslinked and crosslinked starch-grafted polyacrylamide, and their modified amino acid samples including some of their iron(III) complexes. The measurements were performed at room temperature. The analysis of lifetime spectra yielded mostly three lifetime components. It was observed that the values of the short lifetime component τ 1 are slightly higher than the lifetime associated with the self-decay of para-positronium atoms in polymers. The free volume was probed using ortho-positronium pick-off annihilation lifetime parameters. The mean free volume has also been calculated from the lifetime data. The avrage value of this parameter of the crosslinked polymer were found to be higher than those of the uncrosslinked polymer

Measurements of defect structures by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy of the tellurite glass TeO2-P2O5-ZnO-LiNbO3 doped with ions of rare earth elements: Er3+, Nd3+ and Gd3+

Science.gov (United States)

Golis, E.; Yousef, El. S.; Reben, M.; Kotynia, K.; Filipecki, J.

2015-12-01

The objective of the study was the structural analysis of the TeO2-P2O5-ZnO-LiNbO3 tellurite glasses doped with ions of the rare-earth elements: Er3+, Nd3+ and Gd3+ based on the PALS (Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy) method of measuring positron lifetimes. Values of positron lifetimes and the corresponding intensities may be connected with the sizes and number of structural defects, such as vacancies, mono-vacancies, dislocations or pores, the sizes of which range from a few angstroms to a few dozen nanometres. Experimental positron lifetime spectrum revealed existence of two positron lifetime components τ1 and τ2. Their interpretation was based on two-state positron trapping model where the physical parameters are the annihilation velocity and positron trapping rate.

Positron annihilation studies on high temperature superconductors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sundar, C.S.; Bharathi, A.

1991-01-01

The results of positron annihilation measurements as a function of temperature, across Tc, in a variety of high temperature superconductors such as Y-Ba-Cu-O (Y1237), Y-Ba-Cu-O (Y1248), Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O, Tl-Ba-Ca-Cu-O, Ba-K-Bi-O and Nd-Ce-Cu-O are presented. It is shown that the variation of annihilation parameters in the superconducting state is correlated with the diposition of the positron density distribution with respect to the superconducting CuO planes. An increase in positron lifetime is observed below Tc when the positrons probe the CuO planes whereas a decrease in lifetime is observed when the positron density overlaps predominantly with the apical oxygen atom. With this correlation, the different temperature variation of annihilation parameters, seen in the various high temperature superconductors, is understood in terms of a local charge transfer from the planar oxygen atom to the apical oxygen atom. The significance of these results in the context of various theoretical models of high temperature superconductivity is discussed. In addition, the application of positron annihilation spectroscopy to the study of oxygen defects in the Y-Ba-Cu-O, Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O and Nd-Ce-Cu-O is presented. (author). 53 refs., 17 figs., 2 tabs

Studies of glasses by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brauer, G.; Boden, G.

1981-04-01

Investigations of silica glasses, pyrocerams and metallic glasses by positron annihilation (lifetime, Doppler broadening) are presented. The measurements on silica glasses showed, that silica glass fused from naturally occuring quartz exhibits a higher order than that one produced from SiCl 4 . Furthermore it was found that the order of silica glasses increases after heat treatment above 900 0 C. Thus the X-amorphous state of silica glasses could be characterized by positron annihilation what is impossible at present by diffraction methods. (author)

Positron annihilation and Wheeler complexes in semiconductors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Prokob'ev, E.P.

1995-01-01

The Wheeler complexes Ps-Ex (positronium-exciton) were studied. These complexes are formed during irradiation of semiconductors and ionic crystals with positrons at low temperatures under optical excitation by excitons. The binding energy of these and more complex entities preventing dissociation into Ps and Ex and/or Ex ± is at least 0.1 eV, and the lifetime for the two-photon self-annihilation is τ 2γ ∼ 5.02 x 10 -10 x c 3 s (x c is the phenomenological parameter of the effective-mass method). The estimation of lifetimes τ 2γ and τ 2γ t (the total lifetime of Ps-Ex complexes with account for positron annihilation on valence electrons) led to the conclusion that Ps-Ex complexes can be observed in a number of oxide semiconductors, in zinc sulfide, and in alkali halide crystals; however, it was difficult to observe such complexes in silicon, gallium arsenide, and other A 3 B 5 and A 2 B 6 semiconductors

Gamma-induced positron annihilation spectroscopy and application to radiation-damaged alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wells, D.P.; Hunt, A.W.; Tchelidze, L.; Kumar, J.; Smith, K.; Thompson, S.; Selim, F.; Williams, J.; Harmon, J.F.; Maloy, S.; Roy, A.

2006-01-01

Radiation damage and other defect studies of materials are limited to thin samples because of inherent limitations of well-established techniques such as diffraction methods and traditional positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) [P. Hautojarvi, et al., Positrons in Solids, Springer, Berlin, 1979, K.G. Lynn, et al., Appl. Phys. Lett. 47 (1985) 239]. This limitation has greatly hampered industrial and in-situ applications. ISU has developed new methods that use pair-production to produce positrons throughout the volume of thick samples [F.A. Selim, D.P. Wells, et al., Nucl. Instr. and Meth. B 192 (2002) 197, F.A. Selim, D.P. Wells, et al., Nucl. Instru. Meth. A 495 (2002) 154, F.A. Selim, et al., J. Rad. Phys. Chem. 68 (2004) 427, F.A. Selim, D.P. Wells, et al., Nucl. Instr. and Meth. B 241 (2005) 253, A.W. Hunt, D.P. Wells, et al., Nucl. Instr. and Meth. B. 241 (2005) 262]. Unlike prior work at other laboratories that use bremsstrahlung beams to create positron beams (via pair-production) that are then directed at a sample of interest, we produce electron-positron pairs directly in samples of interest, and eliminate the intermediate step of a positron beam and its attendant penetrability limitations. Our methods include accelerator-based bremsstrahlung-induced pair-production in the sample for positron annihilation energy spectroscopy measurements (PAES), coincident proton-capture gamma-rays (where one of the gammas is used for pair-production in the sample) for positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS), or photo-nuclear activation of samples for either type of measurement. The positrons subsequently annihilate with sample electrons, emitting coincident 511 keV gamma-rays [F.A. Selim, D.P. Wells, et al., Nucl. Instr. and Meth. B 192 (2002) 197, F.A. Selim, D.P. Wells, et al., Nucl. Instru. Meth. A 495 (2002) 154, F.A. Selim, et al., J. Rad. Phys. Chem. 68 (2004) 427, F.A. Selim, D.P. Wells, et al., Nucl. Instr. and Meth. B 241 (2005) 253, A.W. Hunt, D

Positron annihilation characteristics in multi-wall carbon nanotubes with different average diameters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tuyen, L A; Khiem, D D; Phuc, P T; Kajcsos, Zs; Lázár, K; Tap, T D

2013-01-01

Positron lifetime spectroscopy was used to study multi-wall carbon nanotubes. The measurements were performed in vacuum on the samples having different average diameters. The positron lifetime values depend on the nanotube diameter. The results also show an influence of the nanotube diameter on the positron annihilation intensity on the nanotube surface. The change in the annihilation probability is described and interpreted by the modified diffusion model introducing the positron escape rate from the nanotubes to their external surface.

Systematics in Bi-2201, -2212 and -2223 superconductors studied by positron annihilation radiation measurements

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sanyal, D.; Banerjee, D.; De, Udayan

1998-01-01

Positron lifetimes in Bi 2 Sr 2 Ca (n-1) Cu n O (2n+4+δ) or Bi-22(n-1)n superconducting compounds for n=1, 2 and 3 have been determined from positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) spectroscopy of associated γ-radiations. Bulk lifetime is shown to increase systematically with increase of n, the number of CuO 2 -layers in the Bi-22(n-1)n compound. Positron annihilation probing of structural units of this perovskite-like crystal system has thus been demonstrated

Bounds on Cross-sections and Lifetimes for Dark Matter Annihilation and Decay into Charged Leptons from Gamma-ray Observations of Dwarf Galaxies

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Essig, Rouven; /SLAC; Sehgal, Neelima; Strigari, Louis E.; /KIPAC, Menlo Park

2009-06-19

We provide conservative bounds on the dark matter cross-section and lifetime from final state radiation produced by annihilation or decay into charged leptons, either directly or via an intermediate particle {phi}. Our analysis utilizes the experimental gamma-ray flux upper limits from four Milky Way dwarf satellites: HESS observations of Sagittarius and VERITAS observations of Draco, Ursa Minor, and Willman 1. Using 90% confidence level lower limits on the integrals over the dark matter distributions, we find that these constraints are largely unable to rule out dark matter annihilations or decays as an explanation of the PAMELA and ATIC/PPB-BETS excesses. However, if there is an additional Sommerfeld enhancement in dwarfs, which have a velocity dispersion {approx} 10 to 20 times lower than that of the local Galactic halo, then the cross-sections for dark matter annihilating through {phi}'s required to explain the excesses are very close to the cross-section upper bounds from Willman 1. Dark matter annihilation directly into {tau}'s is also marginally ruled out by Willman 1 as an explanation of the excesses, and the required cross-section is only a factor of a few below the upper bound from Draco. Finally, we make predictions for the gamma-ray flux expected from the dwarf galaxy Segue 1 for the Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope. We find that for a sizeable fraction of the parameter space in which dark matter annihilation into charged leptons explains the PAMELA excess, Fermi has good prospects for detecting a gamma-ray signal from Segue 1 after one year of observation.

Doppler-broadening of positron annihilation in a biological environment

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Torrisi, L.; La Mela, C.; Catania, Univ.

1997-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the Doppler effect of the 511 keV γ peak from positron annihilation in biological matter: The broadening of the annihilation peak is due to positron annihilation with electrons that have high momentum. In aqueous solutions annihilation depends on the temperature and it is linked positronium formation. Measurements in vivo, on human brain, were taken during the diagnosis of positron emission tomography (PET) on healthy patients by injecting them with the beta emitter of short lifetime 18F . The Doppler-broadening in biological tissues rich in water content decreased significantly compared to biological solutions and water

Surface concentration of defects at grain boundaries in sintered alumina determined by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kansy, J.; Ahmad, A.Si.; Moya, G.; Liebault, J.

2001-01-01

Sintered alumina samples of grain diameters spanning from 1.2 to 4.5 μm have been investigated by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. One series of samples was produced from material containing about 150 ppm impurities (mainly SiO 2 ). The second one was made from material having about 2700 ppm of various elements (SiO 2 , MgO, CaO). Two models of positron trapping at grain boundaries are compared: The first one relates to the diffusion-limited regime; and the other one - to the transmission-limited regime of trapping. As a results of relative change of surface concentration of defects at grain boundaries is determined. Additionally, positron diffusion constant in bulk alumina at room temperature, D + = 0.36 ± 10 cm 2 /s, is estimated. (author)

Positron annihilation studies on nasicon analogues containing cation vacancies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sreeramalu, V.; Sreepad, H.R.; Chandrashekara, A.; Ravindrachary, V.; Gopal, S.

1990-01-01

Positron annihilation studies were carried out on the Nasicon analogue Na 2 (La, Al)Zr(PO 4 ) 3 compound for three different concentrations (2.2, 2.8 and 5.2 by wt.%) of ZrO 2 in the nutrient. Angular correlation study of annihilated photons reveals that the defect concentration is maximum for 2.8(wt.%) of ZrO 2 . Further, positron lifetime studies indicate that the positrons are trapped at cation vacancies. Application of a two state trapping model to this system made it possible to evaluate the lifetime of positrons in the Bloch state and of positrons trapped at cation vacancies. (author). 16 refs., 4 figs

Positron annihilation studies of mesoporous silica films using a slow positron beam

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

He Chunqing; Muramatsu, Makoto; Ohdaira, Toshiyuki; Kinomura, Atsushi; Suzuki, Ryoichi; Ito, Kenji; Kabayashi, Yoshinori

2006-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectra were measured for mesoporous silica films, which were synthesized using triblock copolymer (EO 106 PO 70 EO 106 ) as a structure-directing agent. Different positron lifetime spectra for the deposited and calcined films indicated the formation of meso-structure after calcination, which was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra and field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) observation. Open porosity or pore interconnectivity of a silica film might be evaluated by a two-dimensional positron annihilation lifetime spectrum of an uncapped film. Pore sizes and their distributions in the silica films were found to be affected by thermal treatments

Systematics in Bi-2201, -2212 and -2223 superconductors studied by positron annihilation radiation measurements

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sanyal, D.; Banerjee, D. [Department of Physics, University of Calcutta, Calcutta (India); De, Udayan [Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre, 1/AF Bidhan Nagar, Calcutta (India)

1998-12-01

Positron lifetimes in Bi{sub 2}Sr{sub 2}Ca{sub (n-1)}Cu{sub n}O{sub (2n+4+{delta}}{sub )} or Bi-22(n-1)n superconducting compounds for n=1, 2 and 3 have been determined from positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) spectroscopy of associated {gamma}-radiations. Bulk lifetime is shown to increase systematically with increase of n, the number of CuO{sub 2}-layers in the Bi-22(n-1)n compound. Positron annihilation probing of structural units of this perovskite-like crystal system has thus been demonstrated.

Positron and positronium annihilation in low-dielectric-constant films studied by a pulsed positron beam

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Suzuki, R.; Ohdaira, T.; Kobayashi, Y.; Ito, K.; Yu, R.S.; Shioya, Y.; Ichikawa, H.; Hosomi, H.; Ishikiriyama, K.; Shirataki, H.; Matsuno, S.; Xu, J.

2004-01-01

Positron and positronium annihilation in porous low-dielectric-constant (low-k) films deposited by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) and spin-on dielectric (SOD) have been investigated by means of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) and age-momentum correlation (AMOC) spectroscopy with a pulsed slow positron beam. The ortho-positronium (o-Ps) lifetime strongly depends on the deposition condition. In general, PECVD low-k films have shorter o-Ps lifetimes than SOD low-k films, indicating PECVD low-k films have smaller pores. Since o-Ps diffusion and escaping from the surface occurs in most of porous SOD films, three-gamma annihilation measurement is important. To investigate o-Ps behavior in SOD films, we have carried out two-dimensional (2D) PALS measurement, which measures annihilation time and pulse-height of the scintillation detector simultaneously. Monte-Carlo simulation of the o-Ps diffusion and escaping in porous films has been carried out to simulate the 2D-PALS results. (orig.)

The Effect of Temperature on the Free Volume in Polytetrafluoroethylene Studied by Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Abdel-Latif, R.M.; Mohamed, H.F.M.; Abdel-Hady, E.E.; Mohamed, S.S.

2005-01-01

The positron annihilation techniques have been applied to investigate the free volume holes in pure and doped polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) with glass as a function of temperature. The measurements were performed from room temperature up to 250 degree C. The lifetime spectra were analyzed using two methods; 1) Finite-term analysis to determine the average values of the orthopositronium (o-Ps) lifetime and its intensity using PATFIT program, 2) Continuous lifetime analysis to obtain the o-Ps lifetime and o-Ps hole volume distributions using MELT program. The ortho-positronium (o-Ps) lifetimes, (T3 and T4) are found to be vary depending upon the phase of the polymer. Within the temperature range two transitions can be observed. The first one is related to the glass transition temperature, T g (at 130 degree C for pure PTFE and at 110 degree C for doped PTFE with glass). The second one is the crystalline temperature at 210 degree C for the two samples. It was found that, T g is shifted toward the lower values (110 degree C) for doped PTFE with glass, which could be attributed to the increase in the degree of crystallinity. This is in consistent with the wide-angle x-ray scattering data. A correlation between the positron annihilation parameters and the electrical conductivity was achieved

Structural analysis of poly(vinyl alcohol hydrogels) produced by freezing and thawing process Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Paranhos, Caio M.; Oliveira, Renata N.; Soares, Bluma G.

2005-01-01

In this work, poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogels with a entrapped polyelectrolyte were characterized through Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS). PALS was used to determine the average pore radii (R), average free volume (V f ) and the intensity of ortho-positronium (I 3 ). The free volume estimated for the hydrogels increases with increasing polyelectrolyte content, while the intensity of o-Ps decreases with the increasing polyelectrolyte content. Degree of crystallinity of the samples decreases with the presence of polyelectrolyte. The structural changes observed can be discussed in terms of the changes in hydrogels structure due to a hindrance capacity of the polyelectrolyte on the crystalline behavior and the different polymer-polymer interactions. (author)

Positron annihilation study of radiation defects in α-Al2O3

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kuramoto, Eiichi; Aono, Yasuhisa; Takenaka, Minoru

1989-01-01

Positron annihilation studies have been performed for the radiation-induced defects in α-Al 2 O 3 specimens. Before irradiation polycrystals of α-Al 2 O 3 showed positron annihilation lifetime about 125 psec. But this value was increased by 60 MeV O 6+ ion irradiation to about 155 psec. This is considered to be corresponding to positron lifetime at O-vacancy sites. But, this lifetime disappeared gradually in the period of several months probably because of recombination of vacancies and interstitial atoms at room temperature. On the other hand, it was found that in single crystals positron lifetime before irradiation is between these two values. This is probably due to lack of oxygen atoms in single crystals in the fabrication process and it already has O-vacancies in the matrix before irradiation. (author)

Positron lifetime measurements and positron-annihilation induced auger electron spectroscpy using slow positron beams; Teisoku yodenshi bimu wo mochiita yodenshi jumyo sokutei oyobi yodenshi shometsu reiki oje denshi bunko

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Suzuki, R. [Electrotechnical Lab., Tsukuba (Japan)

1996-02-20

Slow positron beam with less than several eV can be controlled freely such as accelerating, throttling the beam size, shortening the pulse or making pulse with short time width and so forth. These low positron beams are applied to various measurements like Doppler broadening measurement of annihilation {gamma} rays or lifetime measurement of positron, and secondary particle measurements using positron microscope, positron electron ray diffraction, flight time method and so forth. In particular, these recent years, high intensity slow positron beams were possible using accelerators like electron linac and its application is increasing. In this report, pulse shortening method for high intensity slow positron beam, and incidence energy variable positron lifetime measurement method using this slow pulsed beam and flight time type positron-annihilation-induced auger electron spectroscopy are outlined. In future, these measurements can be possible to carry out with high resolution and also with high counting rate if higher intensity monochromatic excellent positron beam than present one is produced. 31 refs., 5 figs.

Positron Annihilation Characteristics in Polymer Composites

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ashry, A.; Hemdan, M.; Ismail, A.; Ismail, H.; Osman, H.

2000-01-01

The effect of incorporation of GPF-carbon black on the free volume properties as well as the Doppler broadening parameters has been investigated for Natural rubber/Styrene Butadiene rubber (NR/SBR) blends. It is seen that, the free volume decreases with increasing of the GPF-black. Besides, as the size of the free volume decreases, the W-parameter, which corresponds to high momentum region, decreases and the S-parameter, which corresponds to low momentum one, shows an opposite behaviour. Furthermore, the d.c.electrical conductivity, mechanical and swelling behavior have been also investigated. Positron Annihilation Lifetime (PAL) and Doppler Broadening of the Annihilation Radiation (DBAR) results are compared with the other physical parameters measured. The analysis of positron annihilation parameters introduces a trusted support for the interpretations of the other macroscopic physical properties

22 Na positron source for annihilation positron spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cimpeanu, Catalina; Craciun, L.; Dragulescu, E.; Dudu, D.; Racolta, P.M.; Voiculescu, Dana; Miron, N.

2002-01-01

To extend the nuclear physics applications and to perform the study of vacancy - type defects in metals, semiconductors, polymers etc., we decided to promote positron annihilation techniques. In order to achieve this goal we started a project of dedicated positron sources produced at the IFIN-HH U-120 Cyclotron. We have used the nuclear reaction 24 Mg(d,α) 22 Na and deuterons of 13 MeV energy. The paper presents the main steps of this procedure like: general conditions required for 22 NaCl sources, reactive chamber and characteristics of Mg target, parameters for the irradiation, radiochemical procedures to separate Na from Mg after the irradiation and geometrical or mechanical requirements for dedicated NaCl source for positron annihilation spectrometry. In the e + lifetime measurements the e + 'death - stop' signals are always provided by γ - quanta generated by the e + e - annihilation and the 'birth - start' signals may be obtained from 'prompt' γ - quanta emitted from the NaCl source (the 1.275 MeV photons). The 22 NaCl stock solution obtained by radiochemical separation will be kept in the sealed quartz vials in dry places and will be dropped between the studied materials before use in positron spectrometry. (authors)

The orthopositronium lifetime puzzle and its final solution

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Liu Feng; Wu Jianda; Zhan Liang; Ye Bangjiao

2004-01-01

The ortho-positronium (o-Ps), which consists of an electron and positron, is a pure lepton bound system. The o-Ps lifetime can be calculated accurately by quantum electrodynamics, but there is a long-standing discrepancy between the theoretical calculations and the experimental results. Theoretical and experimental physicists have worked hard for a long time to solve the problem, and recently finally solved this lifetime puzzle. The authors briefly outline the discrepancy between the theoretical calculations of the o-Ps annihilation decay rate and some of the experimental measurements, as well as recent developments of experimental techniques, and its final solution. In particular, the final results of the Tokyo and michigan groups are discussed

Positron annihilation study of yttria-stabilized zirconia nanopowders containing Cr2O3 additive

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Prochazka, I; Cizek, J; Melikhova, O; Kuriplach, J; Konstantinova, T E; Danilenko, I A

2011-01-01

Yttria-stabilized zirconia compacted nanopowders, doped with trivalent chromium oxide, were studied by means of high-resolution positron lifetime and coincidence Doppler broadening techniques. The observed data suggest that positrons annihilate mainly in vacancylike defects at grain boundaries or in larger open volumes most likely located at triple points. The results also show that an addition of Cr 2 O 3 leads to a decrease in grain size.

The annihilation diagram in three-body D-meson decay

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Donoghue, J.F.; Holstein, B.R.

1981-01-01

We discuss some features of three-body decays of the D meson cohich are puzzling from the standpoint of the annihilation diagram. As a result, we (1) provide an upper bound on the lifetime ratio of D's, tau + sub(D)/tau 0 sub(D) smaller than 2.5 +- 3.4 and (2) argue that the puzzles are resolved, even if somewhat inelegantly, if final state interactions generate the annihilation diagram. (orig.)

Investigation of transitions and relaxation processes in polystyrene by using positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ban, M.; Kyoto, M.

1996-01-01

The glass transition and relaxation processes in polystyrene resins with the number average molecular weight ranging from 7.0 x 10 2 to 9.8 x 10 4 were studied with the positron annihilation technique. The pick-off annihilation lifetime of ortho-positronium (τ 3 ) and its intensity (Ι 3 ) were measured in the temperature range from 20 to 430 K. The glass transition temperature (Τ g ) was determined as an onset temperature coefficient of τ 3 x Τ g shows the molecular weight dependence in these samples. Below Τ g , local motions were detected by measurements of Ι 3 . The local motions could be observed above 100 K in this experiment. Ι 3 show the minimum at around 250 K and it does not show molecular weight dependence. (author)

Positron two-photon annihilation coincidence technique: difference mode

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Karol, P J; Klobuchar, R L [Carnegie-Mellon Univ., Pittsburgh, Pa. (USA). Dept. of Chemistry

1978-05-01

A difference (or comparative) mode in the measurement of two-photon coincidences from positron or positronium annihilation has been developed. The method can be used to advantage, particularly in gases, in determining annihilation parameters such as quenching cross sections for low concentration strongly quenching chemical species in a reference medium which is relatively non-quenching.

Temperature dependence of positron annihilation parameters in Tl-Ba-Ca-Cu-O superconductors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sundar, C.S.; Bharathi, A.; Ching, W.Y.; Jean, Y.C.; Hor, P.H.; Meng, R.L.; Huang, Z.J.; Chu, C.W.

1990-01-01

The results of positron lifetime and Doppler broadened line-shape parameter measurements as a function of temperature, across T c , in the Tl-Ba-Ca-Cu-O superconductors are presented. The bulk lifetime in the normal state is found to decrease with the increase in the number of CuO 2 layers. Different temperature dependencies of the annihilation parameters are observed in the various Tl systems containing different numbers of CuO 2 layers. In the Tl 2 Ba 2 Ca 2 Cu 3 O 10 system, an increase in lifetime is observed below T c , whereas in Tl 2 Ba 2 CaCu 2 O 8 , a decrease in lifetime is seen below T c . In the Tl 2 Ba 2 CuO 6 system, the lifetime is observed to be temperature independent. The different temperature variations of positron annihilation parameters are discussed in the light of the positron density distribution, obtained with use of the results of the self-consistent orthogonalized linear combination of atomic orbitals band-structure calculations. It is argued that the different temperature dependencies of the annihilation parameters is related to the positron density distribution within the unit cell and arise due to local charge transfer in the vicinity of the CuO 2 layer in the superconducting state

On the peculiarities of positron annihilation features in silicalite-1 and Y-zeolites

CERN Document Server

Kajcsos, Z; Liszka, L; Billard, I; Bonnenfant, A; Azenma, E; Lázár, K; Pal-Borbely, G; Caullet, P; Patarin, J; Lohonyai, L

2000-01-01

Conditions that facilitate high Ps formation and interactions that modify the o-Ps lifetime were investigated by positron annihilation techniques in silicalite-1 and various Y-zeolites. Long lifetimes, up to 135 ns, and o-Ps fractions as high as 40% were found. The influence of heat treatment (in the range of 90-520 K), capillary condensation of N sub 2 (0.085 MPa) and correlation with water removal was examined in Y-zeolites and in silicalite-1, respectively. The latter matrix was also studied in the presence of liquids. In various samples unexpected features were found (peculiar changes in the 2 gamma/3 gamma ratio, inversion in the trend of lifetime variations, disappearance of specific components, etc.), denoting the complexity of the processes governing the fate of e sup sup + and Ps.

Irradiation-induced defects in ZnO studied by positron annihilation spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tuomisto, F.; Saarinen, K.; Look, D.C.

2004-01-01

We have used positron annihilation spectroscopy to study the point defects induced by 2 MeV electron irradiation (fluence 6 x 10 17 cm -2 ) in single crystal n-type ZnO samples. The positron lifetime measurements have shown that the zinc vacancies in their doubly negative charge state, which act as dominant compensating centers in the as-grown material, are produced in the irradiation and their contribution to the electrical compensation is important. The lifetime measurements reveal also the presence of competing positron traps with low binding energy and lifetime close to that of the bulk lattice. The analysis of the Doppler broadening of the 511 keV annihilation line indicates that these defects can be identified as neutral oxygen vacancies. (copyright 2004 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Positron annihilation studies on BeO powders

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brauer, G.; Kerbe, F.; Kajcsos, Z.; Ashry, A.

1984-01-01

The sintering behaviour of two differently produced BeO powders is studied by positron annihilation. The positron lifetime in dislocations is found to be tau/sub d/ = (185 +- 2) ps, whereas for the perfect lattice tau/sub c/ = (130 +- 2) ps. (author)

Positron annihilation spectroscopy using high-energy photons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Butterling, Maik; Jungmann, Marco; Krause-Rehberg, Reinhard; Krille, Arnold; Anwand, Wolfgang; Brauer, Gerhard; Cowan, Thomas E.; Hartmann, Andreas; Kosev, Krasimir; Schwengner, Ronald; Wagner, Andreas

2010-01-01

The superconducting electron accelerator ELBE (Electron Linac with high Brilliance and low Emittance) at the Research Centre Dresden-Rossendorf (Germany) serves as a high-intensity bremsstrahlung photon-source delivering a pulsed beam (26 MHz) with very short bunches (<5 ps). The photons are being converted into positrons by means of pair production inside the target material thus forming an intense positron source. The accelerator machine pulse is used as time reference allowing positron lifetime spectroscopy. We performed positron annihilation spectroscopy by pair production in different sample materials and used coincidence techniques to reduce the background due to scattered photons significantly in order resulting in spectra of extraordinary high quality. (Abstract Copyright [2010], Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Defects in fine-grained and porous materials characterized by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Staab, T.E.M.; Krause-Rehberg, R.; Kieback, B.

2003-01-01

We investigate the annihilation parameters (lifetimes and intensities) for positrons becoming trapped at grain boundaries and at inner surfaces (pores), examining fine-grained nickel powder compacts (effective powder particle size 1 - 10 μm with grains in or even below the micron size). Furthermore, we can monitor grain growth and sintering (volume shrinkage) during successive heat treatment of powder compacts. To reach this aim, we correlate the annihilation parameters with results of a Monte-Carlo simulation and analytical solutions of the positron diffusion. We find that it is possible to determine an effective average powder particle size as well as grain sizes by positron lifetime spectroscopy. (author)

Positron annihilation in modified zeolites LTA and 13X

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Cabral-Prieto, A.; Garcia-Sosa, I.; Jimenez-Becerril, J. [Departamento de Quimica, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares, Apartado Postal 18-1027, Col. Escandon, Del. M. Hidalgo, Mexico D. F., c. p. 11801 (Mexico); Lopez-Castanares, R.; Olea-Cardoso, O. [Facultad de Quimica, Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Mexico, Paseo Tollocan esquina paseo Tollocan, esquina paseo Colon, Toluca, c. p. 50120, Estado de Mexico (Mexico)

2007-07-01

The pick-off annihilation lifetimes of o -Ps, {tau}{sub po}, in dehydrated Co{sup 2+} and Mn{sup 2+} exchanged zeolites LTA, in dehydrated Co{sup 2+} exchanged zeolite 13X, and in dehydrated Na{sup +} zeolites LTA and 13X, are estimated. Although {tau}{sub po} can be estimated from the lifetime spectra of the cation exchanged zeolites LTA and 13X, this lifetime can not be estimated from those spectra of Na{sup +} zeolite LTA unambiguously. The estimated pick-off lifetimes due to the annihilation of o-Ps in the internal walls of the zeolites are systematically lower than the average lifetime of p-Ps and o-Ps in vacuum {tau}{sub a}=0.5 ns. Since the pick-off process of o-Ps occurs particularly on the internal cavity walls of dehydrated zeolites, the replacement of {tau}{sub a} by {tau}{sub po} within the classical model of Tao-Eldrup to calculate cavity radius should provide more realistic cavity radii of these porous materials than when using {l_brace}{tau}{sub a}{r_brace}. This suggestion is supported by previous and present results. (copyright 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Annihilation vs. decay: constraining dark matter properties from a gamma-ray detection

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Palomares-Ruiz, Sergio; Siegal-Gaskins, Jennifer M.

2010-01-01

Most proposed dark matter candidates are stable and are produced thermally in the early Universe. However, there is also the possibility of unstable (but long-lived) dark matter, produced thermally or otherwise. We propose a strategy to distinguish between dark matter annihilation and/or decay in the case that a clear signal is detected in gamma-ray observations of Milky Way dwarf spheroidal galaxies with gamma-ray experiments. The sole measurement of the energy spectrum of an indirect signal would render the discrimination between these cases impossible. We show that by examining the dependence of the intensity and energy spectrum on the angular distribution of the emission, the origin could be identified as decay, annihilation, or both. In addition, once the type of signal is established, we show how these measurements could help to extract information about the dark matter properties, including mass, annihilation cross section, lifetime, dominant annihilation and decay channels, and the presence of substructure. Although an application of the approach presented here would likely be feasible with current experiments only for very optimistic dark matter scenarios, the improved sensitivity of upcoming experiments could enable this technique to be used to study a wider range of dark matter models

Annihilation vs. decay: constraining dark matter properties from a gamma-ray detection

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Palomares-Ruiz, Sergio [Centro de Física Teórica de Partículas, Instituto Superior Técnico, Av. Rovisco Pais 1, 1049-001 Lisboa (Portugal); Siegal-Gaskins, Jennifer M., E-mail: sergio.palomares.ruiz@ist.utl.pt, E-mail: jsg@mps.ohio-state.edu [Center for Cosmology and AstroParticle Physics, The Ohio State University, 191 W. Woodruff Ave., Columbus OH 43210 (United States)

2010-07-01

Most proposed dark matter candidates are stable and are produced thermally in the early Universe. However, there is also the possibility of unstable (but long-lived) dark matter, produced thermally or otherwise. We propose a strategy to distinguish between dark matter annihilation and/or decay in the case that a clear signal is detected in gamma-ray observations of Milky Way dwarf spheroidal galaxies with gamma-ray experiments. The sole measurement of the energy spectrum of an indirect signal would render the discrimination between these cases impossible. We show that by examining the dependence of the intensity and energy spectrum on the angular distribution of the emission, the origin could be identified as decay, annihilation, or both. In addition, once the type of signal is established, we show how these measurements could help to extract information about the dark matter properties, including mass, annihilation cross section, lifetime, dominant annihilation and decay channels, and the presence of substructure. Although an application of the approach presented here would likely be feasible with current experiments only for very optimistic dark matter scenarios, the improved sensitivity of upcoming experiments could enable this technique to be used to study a wider range of dark matter models.

Positron lifetime measurements on electron irradiated amorphous alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Moser, P.; Hautojaervi, P.; Chamberod, A.; Yli-Kauppila, J.; Van Zurk, R.

1981-08-01

Great advance in understanding the nature of point defects in crystalline metals has been achieved by employing positron annihilation technique. Positrons detect vacancy-type defects and the lifetime value of trapped positrons gives information on the size of submicroscopic vacancy aglomerates and microvoids. In this paper it is shown that low-temperature electron irradiations can result in a considerable increase in the positron lifetimes in various amorphous alloys because of the formation of vacancy-like defects which, in addition of the pre-existing holes, are able to trap positrons. Studied amorphous alloys were Fe 80 B 20 , Pd 80 Si 20 , Cu 50 Ti 50 , and Fe 40 Ni 40 P 14 B 6 . Electron irradiations were performed with 3 MeV electrons at 20 K to doses around 10 19 e - /cm 2 . After annealing positron lifetime spectra were measured at 77 K

Applications of positron annihilation spectroscopy to study microstructural properties of polymers

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jean, Y.C.

1992-01-01

Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) has been applied to characterize the free-volume properties of polymers. Positron annihilation lifetime measurements give direct information about the dimension, content, and hole-size distributions of free-volume in amorphous materials. The angular correlation of positron annihilation radiation measurements give additional information about the shape of the free-volume holes in oriented polymeric materials. The unique capability of PAS to probe free-volume properties is from the fact that positronium atom is preferentially trapped in the atomic-scale holes which have a size ranging from 1 to 10 A. (author)

Positron Annihilation Study of Radiation Defects in Zinc Oxide

OpenAIRE

Tomiyama, Noriyuki; Takenaka, Minoru; Kuramoto, Eiichi

1992-01-01

Positron annihilation studies have been carried out to clarify the radiation induced defects in ZnO single crystals. Vapor-grown ZnO crystals were irradiated at 77 K with 28 MeV electrons. Before irradiation as-grown specimens showed the mean positron lifetime in the range of 160-195 ps. Electron irradiation increased the mean positron lifetime up to 205-210 ps.This long-lifetime disappeared until 473 K during successive isochronal annealing steps. The radiation-induced coloration was anneale...

Irradiation-induced defects in ZnO studied by positron annihilation spectroscopy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Tuomisto, F.; Saarinen, K. [Laboratory of Physics, Helsinki University of Technology (Finland); Look, D.C. [Semiconductor Research Center, Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio (United States)

2004-08-01

We have used positron annihilation spectroscopy to study the point defects induced by 2 MeV electron irradiation (fluence 6 x 10{sup 17} cm{sup -2}) in single crystal n-type ZnO samples. The positron lifetime measurements have shown that the zinc vacancies in their doubly negative charge state, which act as dominant compensating centers in the as-grown material, are produced in the irradiation and their contribution to the electrical compensation is important. The lifetime measurements reveal also the presence of competing positron traps with low binding energy and lifetime close to that of the bulk lattice. The analysis of the Doppler broadening of the 511 keV annihilation line indicates that these defects can be identified as neutral oxygen vacancies. (copyright 2004 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Positron annihilation study of the high-Tc (Bi, Pb)2Sr2Ca2Cu3Ox superconductor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lim, H.J.; Byrne, J.G.

1997-01-01

Positron lifetime spectroscopy (PLS) and positron Doppler-broadening spectroscopy (PDBS) were applied to the high-T c lead-doped Bi 2 Sr 2 Ca 2 Cu 3 O x (BPSCCO 2223) superconductor as a function of temperature. Neither positron lifetimes nor Doppler parameters (S, W, and S/W) showed significant change through T c . This may result from having the highest positron density in the open BiO 2 double layers and no significant positron density in the superconducting CuO 2 layers where positrons, if mainly present, are known to be sensitive to the transition in other high-T c superconductors. Doppler parameters showed that the probability of positron annihilations with core electrons in the lattice slightly increased and that the probability of positron annihilations with conduction electrons slightly decreased as temperature decreased from ambient temperature to 20 K. The lifetime associated with positron annihilations in the perfect lattice of the sample (τ 1 ) was 209 ps and, due to the annihilations at internal surfaces or voids in the sample (τ 2 ) was about 540 ps, independent of temperature. Finally, the mean lifetime for BSCCO 2223 was about 307 ps. (orig.)

Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy and Small Angle Neutron Scattering Characterization of Nanostructural Features in Irradiated Fe-Cu-Mn Alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wirth, B D; Asoka-Kumar, P; Howell, R H; Odette, G R; Sterne, P A

2001-01-01

Radiation embrittlement of nuclear reactor pressure vessel steels results from a high number density of nanometer sized Cu-Mn-Ni rich precipitates (CRPs) and sub-nanometer matrix features, thought to be vacancy-solute cluster complexes (VSC). However, questions exist regarding both the composition of the precipitates and the defect character and composition of the matrix features. We present results of positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) and small angle neutron scattering (SANS) characterization of irradiated and thermally aged Fe-Cu and Fe-Cu-Mn alloys. These complementary techniques provide insight into the composition and character of both types of nanoscale features. The SANS measurements indicate populations of CRPs and VSCs in both alloys. The CRPs are coarser in the Fe-Cu alloy and the number densities of CRP and VSC increase with the addition of Mn. The PAS involved measuring both the positron lifetimes and the Doppler broadened annihilation spectra in the high momentum region to provide elemental sensitivity at the annihilation site. The spectra in Fe-Cu-Mn specimens thermally aged to peak hardness at 450 C and irradiated at 288 C are nearly identical to elemental Cu. Positron lifetime and spectrum measurements in Fe-Cu specimens irradiated at 288 C clearly show the existence of long lifetime (∼500 ps) open volume defects, which also contain Cu. Thus the SANS and PAS provide a self-consistent picture of nanostructures composed of CRPs and VSCs and tend to discount high Fe concentrations in the CRPs

Positron annihilation spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sundar, C.S.; Viswanathan, B.

1996-01-01

An overview of positron annihilation spectroscopy, the experimental techniques and its application to studies on defects and electronic structure of materials is presented. The scope of this paper is to present the requisite introductory material, that will enable a better appreciation of the subsequent specialized articles on the applications of positron annihilation spectroscopy to investigate various problems in materials science. (author). 31 refs., 3 figs

INSTRUMENTS AND METHODS OF INVESTIGATION: Positron annihilation spectroscopy in materials structure studies

Science.gov (United States)

Grafutin, Viktor I.; Prokop'ev, Evgenii P.

2002-01-01

A relatively new method of materials structure analysis — positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) — is reviewed. Measurements of positron lifetimes, the determination of positron 3γ- and 2γ-annihilation probabilities, and an investigation of the effects of different external factors on the fundamental characteristics of annihilation constitute the basis for this promising method. The ways in which the positron annihilation process operates in ionic crystals, semiconductors, metals and some condensed matter systems are analyzed. The scope of PAS is described and its prospects for the study of the electronic and defect structures are discussed. The applications of positron annihilation spectroscopy in radiation physics and chemistry of various substances as well as in physics and chemistry of solutions are exemplified.

Modeling of positron states and annihilation in solids

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Puska, M.J.

2003-01-01

Theoretical models and computational aspects to describe positron states and to predict positron annihilation characteristics in solids are discussed. The comparison of the calculated positron lifetimes, core annihilation lineshapes, and two-dimensional angular correlation maps with experimental results are used in identifying the structure (including the chemical composition) of vacancy-type defects and their development e.g. during thermal annealing. The basis of the modeling is the two-component density-functional theory. The ensuing approximations and the state-of-the-art electronic-structure computation methods enable practical schemes with a quantitative predicting power. (author)

Free volume of mixed cation borosilicate glass sealants elucidated by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy and its correlation with glass properties

Science.gov (United States)

Ojha, Prasanta K.; Rath, Sangram K.; Sharma, Sandeep K.; Sudarshan, Kathi; Pujari, Pradeep K.; Chongdar, Tapas K.; Gokhale, Nitin M.

2015-01-01

The role of La+3/Sr+2 ratios, which is varied from 0.08 to 5.09, on density, molar volume, packing fraction, free volume, thermal and electrical properties in strontium lanthanum aluminoborosilicate based glass sealants intended for solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) applications is evaluated. The studies reveal expansion of the glass network evident from increasing molar volume and decreasing packing fraction of glasses with progressive La+3 substitutions. The molecular origin of these macroscopic structural features can be accounted for by the free volume parameters measured from positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS). The La+3 induced expanded glass networks show increased number of subnanoscopic voids with larger sizes, as revealed from the ortho-positronium (o-Ps) lifetime and its intensity. A remarkably direct correspondence between the molar volume and fractional free volume trend is established with progressive La2O3 substitution in the glasses. The effect of these structural changes on the glass transition temperature, softening temperature, coefficient of thermal expansion, thermal stability as well as electrical conductivity has been studied.

A positron annihilation study of hydrated DNA

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Warman, J. M.; Eldrup, Morten Mostgaard

1986-01-01

Positron annihilation measurements are reported for hydrated DNA as a function of water content and as a function of temperature (20 to -180.degree. C) for samples containing 10 and 50% wt of water. The ortho-positronium mean lifetime and its intensity show distinct variations with the degree...

Deconvolution of Positrons' Lifetime spectra

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Calderin Hidalgo, L.; Ortega Villafuerte, Y.

1996-01-01

In this paper, we explain the iterative method previously develop for the deconvolution of Doppler broadening spectra using the mathematical optimization theory. Also, we start the adaptation and application of this method to the deconvolution of positrons' lifetime annihilation spectra

Detection of defects in electron-irradiated synthetic silica quartz probed by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Watauchi, Satoshi; Uedono, Akira; Ujihira, Yusuke; Yoda, Osamu.

1994-01-01

Defects in amorphous SiO 2 films, formed on MOS(metal/oxide/semiconductor) devices as gates, perturb its operation. The positron annihilation techniques, were applied to the study of the annealing behavior of the defects, introduced in the high purity synthetic quartz glass by the irradiation of 3-MeV electrons up to the 1x10 18 e - /cm 2 dosage. It was proved that the positron annihilation techniques were sufficiently sensitive to detect the defects in the electron-irradiated silica glasses. Three types of open-space defects were detected by the positron lifetime measurements. These can be attributed to monovacancy or divacancy type defects, vacancy clusters, and open-volume defects. A high formation probability (∼90%) of positroniums(Ps) was found in unirradiated specimens. These Ps were considered to be formed in open-volume defects. The formation probability of Ps was drastically decreased by the electron irradiation. But the size of open-volume defects was kept unchanged by the irradiation. These facts suggest that vacancy-type defects were introduced by the electron irradiation and that positrons were trapped in these defects. By the isochronal annealing in nitrogen atmosphere, the lifetime component (τ 2 ) and its relative intensity (I 2 ), attributed to positrons trapped in monovacancy or divacancy type defects and annihilated there, changed remarkably. τ 2 was constant in the temperature range up to 300degC, getting slightly shorter between 300degC and 700degC, and constant above 700degC. I 2 decreased gradually up to 300degC, constant between 300degC and 550degC, decreased above 550degC, and constant above 700degC. This revealed that the behavior of the defects, in which positrons were trapped, change by the elevation of the annealing temperature. (author)

Measurement of the D/sup 0/ lifetime

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Althoff, M; Braunschweig, W; Gerhards, R; Kirschfink, F J; Martyn, H U; Rosskamp, R; Wallraff, W; Bock, B; Eisenmann, J; Fischer, H M

1986-10-01

We have determined the D/sup 0/ lifetime from reconstructed vertices of D/sup 0/ mesons produced in e/sup +/e/sup -/ annihilations at an average center of mass energy of 42.2 GeV. From fifteen events the D/sup 0/ lifetime was determined to be (4.3+-1.7+-0.8)x10/sup -13/s.

Positron annihilation characterization of free volume in micro- and macro-modified Cu0.4Co0.4Ni0.4Mn1.8O4 ceramics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Klym, H.; Ingram, A.; Shpotyuk, O.; Hadzaman, I.; Solntsev, V.; Hotra, O.; Popov, A.

2016-01-01

Free volume and pore size distribution size in functional micro and macro-micro-modified Cu 0.4 Co 0.4 Ni 0.4 Mn 1.8 O 4 ceramics are characterized by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy in comparison with Hg-porosimetry and scanning electron microscopy technique. Positron annihilation results are interpreted in terms of model implication positron trapping and ortho-positronium decaying. It is shown that free volume of positron traps are the same type for macro and micro modified Cu 0.4 Co 0.4 Ni 0.4 Mn 1.8 O 4 ceramics. Classic Tao-Eldrup model in spherical approximation is used to calculation of the size of nanopores smaller than 2 nm using the ortho-positronium lifetime.

Identification of equilibrium and irradiation-induced defects in nuclear ceramics: electronic structure calculations of defect properties and positron annihilation characteristics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wiktor, Julia

2015-01-01

During in-pile irradiation the fission of actinide nuclei causes the creation of large amounts of defects, which affect the physical and chemical properties of materials inside the reactor, in particular the fuel and structural materials. Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) can be used to characterize irradiation induced defects, empty or containing fission products. This non-destructive experimental technique involves detecting the radiation generated during electron-positron annihilation in a sample and deducing the properties of the material studied. As positrons get trapped in open volume defects in solids, by measuring their lifetime and momentum distributions of the annihilation radiation, one can obtain information on the open and the chemical environments of the defects. In this work electronic structure calculations of positron annihilation characteristics were performed using two-component density functional theory (TCDFT). To calculate the momentum distributions of the annihilation radiation, we implemented the necessary methods in the open-source ABINIT program. The theoretical results have been used to contribute to the identification of the vacancy defects in two nuclear ceramics, silicon carbide (SiC) and uranium dioxide (UO 2 ). (author) [fr

Estimation of dislocation concentration in plastically deformed silver by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

ABdel-Rahman, M.A.; Badawi, E.A.; Abdel-Raheem, S.H.

1996-01-01

Positron annihilation mean lifetime measurements were performed on 7 different specimens of silver plastically deformed at room temperature (up to 56%). The positron mean lifetime exhibits a saturation for deformations larger than 14% thickness reduction. The fitted lifetime varies from (135.9+2 ps) for annealed silver to (207+ 2 ps) for the dislocation saturated value. Trapping cross-section and trapping efficiency were calculated. Dislocation concentration at saturation has been estimated. 3 figs

Estimation of dislocation concentration in plastically deformed silver by positron annihilation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

ABdel-Rahman, M A; Badawi, E A; Abdel-Raheem, S H [Physics Dept., Faculty of Science, El-Minia University, El-Minia (Egypt)

1997-12-31

Positron annihilation mean lifetime measurements were performed on 7 different specimens of silver plastically deformed at room temperature (up to 56%). The positron mean lifetime exhibits a saturation for deformations larger than 14% thickness reduction. The fitted lifetime varies from (135.9+2 ps) for annealed silver to (207+ 2 ps) for the dislocation saturated value. Trapping cross-section and trapping efficiency were calculated. Dislocation concentration at saturation has been estimated. 3 figs.

Point defects in gallium arsenide characterized by positron annihilation spectroscopy and deep level transient spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mih, R.; Gronsky, R.; Sterne, P.A.

1995-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) is a unique technique for detection of vacancy related defects in both as-grown and irradiated materials. The authors present a systematic study of vacancy defects in stoichiometrically controlled p-type Gallium Arsenide grown by the Hot-Wall Czochralski method. Microstructural information based on PALS, was correlated to crystallographic data and electrical measurements. Vacancies were detected and compared to electrical levels detected by deep level transient spectroscopy and stoichiometry based on crystallographic data

Measurement of the D/sup 0/ lifetime

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Althoff, M; Braunschweig, W; Gerhards, R; Kirschfink, F J; Martyn, H U; Rosskamp, P; Wallraff, W; Bock, B; Eisenmann, J; Fischer, H M

1986-04-01

We have determined the D/sup 0/ lifetime from reconstructed vertices of D/sup 0/ mesons produced in e/sup +/e/sup -/ annihilations at an average center of mass energy of 42.2 GeV. From fifteen events the D/sup 0/ lifetime was determined to be (4.3/sup +2.0//sub -1.4/ +- 0.8) . 10/sup -13/s.

The influence of antioxidant on positron annihilation in polypropylene

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Djourelov, N.; He, C.; Suzuki, T.; Ito, Y; Kondo, K.; Ito, Y.; Shantarovich, V.P.

2003-01-01

The purpose of this report is to check the influence of the carbonyl groups (CG), created by oxygen naturally dissolved in a polymer matrix and by the source irradiation, on annihilation characteristics of free positrons using the positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) and coincidence Doppler-broadening spectroscopy (CDBS). Positron annihilation in a pure polypropylene (PP) and in an antioxidant-containing polypropylene (PPA) sample at room and low temperatures has been studied by CDBS. PALS has been used as an o-Ps (orth-positronium) formation monitor. The momentum density distributions of electrons obtained by CDBS at the beginning of measurements have been compared to that at the o-Ps intensity saturation level. It has been shown that the initial concentration of carbonyl groups in a PP sample is high, while for an antioxidant-containing sample, PPA, carbonyl groups are not detected by CDBS. CDBS spectra for a PP can be explained by annihilation of free positrons with the oxygen contained in the carbonyl groups. For a PPA sample, no significant contribution of annihilation with oxygen core electrons can be concluded. (Y. Kazumata)

Evaluation of nonuniformity of polymeric membrane materials by positron annihilation technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shantarovich, V.P.; Kevdina, I.B.; Yampol'skij, Yu.P.

2000-01-01

Time distribution of annihilation radiation of positrons in some glass-like polymers including polymer membrane materials in the air and in nitrogen atmosphere was studied experimentally. Main attention is paid to long-lived component of distribution, i.e. ortho-positronium annihilation (positron-electron bound system). Influence of atmospheric oxygen on positronium annihilation characteristics was detected. The conceived notions on the mechanisms of positronium formation, localization and annihilation in the polymers suggest irregularity of distribution of free volumes of different size in the polymer matrix. The concentration and size of the elementary free volumes, as well as sizes of micro heterogeneities containing the volumes are evaluated [ru

Defect characterization with positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Granatelli, L.; Lynn, K.G.

1980-01-01

Positron annihilation in metal crystals is reviewed. A brief introduction to the positron annihilation technique is presented first. Then the ability of the positron technique to perform microstructural characterization of four types of lattice defects (vacancies, voids, dislocations, grain boundaries) is discussed. It is frequently not possible to obtain samples that contain only one type of defect in nonnegligible concentrations. Such situations exist for some alloys and for fatigued metal samples. Finally, the current limitations and some future prospects of the technique are presented. 79 references, 14 figures, 1 table

22 Na positron source for annihilation positron spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cimpeanu, Catalina; Craciun, L.; Dragulescu, E.; Dudu, D.; Racolta, P. M.; Voiculescu, Dana; Miron, N.

2003-01-01

To extend the nuclear physics applications and to perform the study of vacancy - type defects in metals, semiconductors, polymers etc., we decided to promote positron annihilation techniques. In order to achieve this goal we started a project of dedicated positron sources produced at the IFIN-HH U-120 Cyclotron. We have used the nuclear reaction: 24 Mg(d,α) 22 Na with deuterons of 13 MeV energy. The paper presents the main characteristics of this procedure, as follows: general conditions asked for 22 NaCl sources, reactive chamber and characteristics of Mg target, parameters for the irradiation, radiochemical procedures for separating Na from Mg after the irradiation and geometrical or mechanical requirements for dedicated NaCl source for positron annihilation spectrometry. In the e + lifetime measurements, the e + end - start signals may be obtained from prompt γ -quanta emitted from the NaCl source (1. 275 MeV photons). The 22 NaCl stock solution obtained by radiochemical separation will be kept in quartz sealed ampoules in dry places and will be dropped between the study materials before the use in positron spectrometry. (authors)

22 Na positron source for annihilation positron spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cimpeanu, Catalina; Craciun, Liviu; Dragulescu, Emilian; Dudu, Dorin; Racolta, Petre Mihai; Voiculescu, Dana; Miron, N.

2005-01-01

To extend the nuclear physics applications and to perform the study of vacancy - type defects in metals, semiconductors, polymers, etc., we developed new positron annihilation techniques. In line with this goal we started a project for production of positron sources at the IFIN-HH U-120 Cyclotron. We made use of the nuclear reaction: 24 Mg(d,α) 22 Na with deuterons of 13 MeV energy. The paper present the main steps of this procedure which are: establishing the conditions required for 22 NaCl sources, for the parameters of reaction chamber and the characteristics of Mg target, parameters for the irradiation, radiochemical procedures for separation of Na from Mg after irradiation as well as the geometrical and mechanical requirements for the NaCl source. In the e + lifetime measurements the e + 'stop' signals are always provided by gamma - quanta generated by the e + e - annihilation and the 'start' signals are obtained from 'prompt' gamma - quanta emitted by the NaCl source (1.275 MeV photons). The 22 NaCl stock solution obtained by radiochemical separation will be kept in quartz sealed ampoules. (authors)

Quality of Heusler single crystals examined by depth-dependent positron annihilation techniques

Science.gov (United States)

Hugenschmidt, C.; Bauer, A.; Böni, P.; Ceeh, H.; Eijt, S. W. H.; Gigl, T.; Pfleiderer, C.; Piochacz, C.; Neubauer, A.; Reiner, M.; Schut, H.; Weber, J.

2015-06-01

Heusler compounds exhibit a wide range of different electronic ground states and are hence expected to be applicable as functional materials in novel electronic and spintronic devices. Since the growth of large and defect-free Heusler crystals is still challenging, single crystals of Fe2TiSn and Cu2MnAl were grown by the optical floating zone technique. Two positron annihilation techniques—angular correlation of annihilation radiation and Doppler broadening spectroscopy (DBS)—were applied in order to study both the electronic structure and lattice defects. Recently, we succeeded to observe clearly the anisotropy of the Fermi surface of Cu2MnAl, whereas the spectra of Fe2TiSn were disturbed by foreign phases. In order to estimate the defect concentration in different samples of Heusler compounds, the positron diffusion length was determined by DBS using a monoenergetic positron beam.

The use of positron annihilation to study polyacrylamide and polymethylmethacrylate-Alcohols and diols mixture

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mostafa, N.

2007-01-01

The effect of addition of both alcohols and diols to polyacrylamide (PAA) and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) forming polymer mixtures was studied using positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) and Doppler broadening of annihilation radiation (DBAR) techniques. It was found that, by increasing chain length of alcohols, PAA-alcohols contain free volume with small size V and low fraction f, while PMMA-alcohols contain free volume with large size and high fraction. On the other hand, S-parameter increases and W-parameter decreases in PAA-diols according to the number of carbon and hydrogen atoms in the chain. In addition, the electrical conductivity measurements are performed on the above two polymer mixtures. The results showed that both PAA and PMMA exhibit semiconducting properties by the addition of alcohols and diols. Correlation between the macroscopic conductivity properties and the microstructures such as free volume and microdefects are established

The assessment of pore connectivity in hierarchical zeolites using positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy: instrumental and morphological aspects.

Science.gov (United States)

Zubiaga, Asier; Warringham, Robbie; Boltz, Marilyne; Cooke, David; Crivelli, Paolo; Gidley, David; Pérez-Ramírez, Javier; Mitchell, Sharon

2016-04-07

Recent studies demonstrated the power of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) to characterise the connectivity and corresponding effectiveness of hierarchical pore networks in zeolites. This was based on the fractional escape of ortho-positronium (Ps), formed within the micropore framework, to vacuum. To further develop this technique, here we assess the impact of the positron implantation energy and of the zeolite crystal size and the particle morphology. Conventional measurements using fast positrons and beam measurements applying moderated positrons both readily distinguish purely microporous ZSM-5 zeolites comprised of single crystals or crystal aggregates. Unlike beam measurements, however, conventional measurements fail to discriminate model hierarchical zeolites with open or constricted mesopore architectures. Several steps are taken to rationalise these observations. The dominant contribution of Ps diffusion to the PALS response is confirmed by capping the external surface of the zeolite crystals with tetraethylorthosilicate, which greatly enhances the sensitivity to the micropore network. A one-dimensional model is constructed to predict the out-diffusion of Ps from a zeolite crystal, which is validated experimentally by comparing coffin-shaped single crystals of varying size. Calculation of the trends expected on the application of fast or moderated positrons indicates that the distinctions in the initial distribution of Ps at the crystal level cannot explain the limited sensitivity of the former to the mesopore architecture. Instead, we propose that the greater penetration of fast positrons within the sample increases the probability of Ps re-entry from intercrystalline voids into mesopores connected with the external surface of zeolite crystals, thereby reducing their fractional escape.

Positron-annihilation studies on the YBa2Cu4O8 superconductor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sundar, C.S.; Bharathi, A.; Jean, Y.C.; Hor, P.H.; Meng, R.L.; Xue, Y.Y.; Huang, Z.J.; Chu, C.W.

1990-01-01

Positron-lifetime and Doppler-broadened annihilation-radiation line-shape parameter S in YBa 2 Cu 4 O 8 are observed to decrease with temperature below T c . The calculation of the positron-density distribution shows that the maximum of the positron density is in the region between the Cu-O double chains. The correlation between the temperature dependence of annihilation parameters and the positron-density distribution is discussed. The decrease in annihilation parameters below T c is understood in terms of a local electron transfer from the CuO 2 layers to the Cu-O chains in the superconducting state

Tracking of the micro-structural changes of levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy.

Science.gov (United States)

Patai, Kálmán; Szente, Virág; Süvegh, Károly; Zelkó, Romána

2010-12-01

The morphology and the micro-structural changes of levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems (IUSs) were studied in relation to the duration of their application. The morphology of the removed IUSs was examined without pre-treatment by scanning electron microscopy. The micro-structural changes of the different layers of IUSs were tracked by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. Besides the previously found incrustation formation, the free volume of the hormone containing reservoir was remarkably increased after 3 years of application, thus increasing the real volume of the core of the systems. Although the free volume of the membrane encasing the core was not significantly changed in the course of the application, as a result of the core expansion, microcracks could be formed on the membrane surface. Along these cracks, deposits of different compositions can be formed, causing inflammatory complications and influencing the drug release of IUSs. Stability tests in combination with micro-structural screening of such IUSs could be required during their development phase to avoid the undesired side effects. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Positron lifetime studies on thorium oxide powders

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Upadhyaya, D.D.; Muraleedharan, R.V.; Sharma, B.D.

1982-01-01

Positron lifetime spectra have been studied for ThO 2 powders, calcined at different temperatures and having different particle sizes. Three lifetime components could be resolved, the longest component being of low intensity. An observed strong dependence on the particle size of the annihilation process and the variation of positronium diffusion constant is explained on the basis of defect density variations in these powders. (author)

Characterization of the melting process of PTFE using positron annihilation spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Honda, Y; Nishijima, S

2015-01-01

Poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) is a semi-crystalline polymer and the lifetime of ortho-positronium(o-Ps) is known to be able to be separated into two components due to annihilation in the crystal region and in the amorphous region. The melting process of PTFE was investigated using positron annihilation spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. The results indicated that volume expansion with an increase of temperature is dominantly due to the expansion of the amorphous region and a Ps bubble is formed at melting in both regions. The o-Ps relating to the crystal region definitely remains on the surface of crystal at the time of annihilation. The production of lower energy electrons at melting was deduced by the analysis of the Doppler broadened annihilation photopeak, and the increase in the number of such electrons was found to have great influence on the formation of the o-Ps and annihilation processes of positron and o-Ps. (paper)

Positron annihilation in solids: positronium diffusion

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Paulin, R.

1969-04-01

The existence of two slow components in life-time spectrum of positron annihilation in silicium, aluminium and alkaline-earth oxides powders is established. These two long mean-lives ≅ 10 -9 s and ≅ 10 -7 s result from annihilation, inside and outside the grains respectively, of ortho-positronium formed in defects present in ionic crystals investigated. Dynamic behaviour of Ps, so revealed, is analyzed in terms of diffusion in excellent agreement with experiment. Diffusion constants of the order of 10 -4 cm 2 sec -1 and mean path before annihilation from 50 to 300 Angstrom are measured. From 100 to 500 K the temperature influence upon diffusion process is effective only in SiO 2 where activation energy is found about 10 -2 eV. The p-Ps zero point energy evaluated by angular correlation gives the order of magnitude for defects dimensions and diffusion mean-time. Finally, o-Ps behaviour in space between grains, where its interaction with atmospheric gases can be only detected, is analysed. (author) [fr

Studies of crystallization of SiO2-glass by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hugenschmidt, C.; Kohn, S.; Janson, M.; Holzwarth, U.; Maier, K.

1996-01-01

The crystallization of silica glass has been studied by positron lifetime spectroscopy and accompanying investigations using X-ray diffraction and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). To this end isothermal and isochronal heat treatments were performed in the range from 700 deg C up to 1600 deg C. The lifetime spectra are analyzed by two lifetime components. The decrease of the short lifetime (200 ps) is attributed to the increasing volume fraction of the crystalline phase. The long lifetime (1000 ps) is related with the pick-off annihilation of the ο-Ps states in cavities. With starting formation of crystallization nuclei the long lifetime increases which is explained by expanding cavities at the interface between crystalline phase and amorphous matrix. (author)

A novel experimental technique of nuclear lifetime measurements

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yuminov, O.A.; D'Arrigo, A.; Giardina, G.; Taccone, A.; Vannini, G.; Moroni, A.; Ricci, R.A.; Vannucci, L.

1995-01-01

In the present paper a new experimental method to measure nuclear reaction time in the 10 -15 -10 -10 s region is presented. Measurements of the lifetimes of low-lying and long-lived states of 19 F and 20 Ne decaying via α-channel were carried out with the aim of checking the feasibility of the method. The results obtained in this way are compared with the lifetimes known from different techniques. ((orig.))

Application of positron annihilation techniques to the study of micels and microemulsions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Olea C, O.

1981-01-01

The molecular auto-association mechanisms in sodium-oleate-alcohol-alkane-water systems were studied, applying positron and positronium annihilation techniques. The effects of the different component structures of these systems and of their concentrations on the swelled micel formation process which eventually produce microemulsions, were also investigated. The influences studied were: a) co-surfactant (alcohol) hydrocarbon chain lengths, b) alkane (oil) hydrocarbon chain lengths, c) surfactant concentrations, and d) surfactant double link alkylic chains. (author)

Structural instability of Y1-xPrxBa2Cu3O7-δ superconductors studied by positron annihilation lifetime

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gou Zhenhui; Chen Feng; Zheng Shengnan; Zhao Zhongxian; Zhu Shengyun

1995-01-01

The temperature dependence of the positron annihilation lifetime in high-quality, single-phase Y 1-x Pr x Ba 2 Cu 3 O 7-δ has been measured from 78 to 300K for a better understanding of the origin of the normal state anomaly observed in high T c superconductivity studies. The normal state anomaly has been detected around 30 to 40K above T c for the samples with x=0.0 and 0.1, but, it was not found for the sample with x=0.2 where T c is lower than 80K. The experimental results show that the phase transition-like behavior caused by the structural instability results in the normal state anomaly which acts as a the precursor of high T c superconductivity. (orig.)

Positron annihilation spectroscopy in doped p-type ZnO

Science.gov (United States)

Majumdar, Sayanee; Sanyal, D.

2011-07-01

Positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) spectroscopy has been used to investigate the vacancy type defect of the Li and N doped ZnO. The mono-vacancies, shallow -vacancies and open volume defects have been found in both the Li and N doped ZnO. The mono-vacancies, shallow-vacancies and open volume defects increase in N-doped ZnO as the size of N is quite high compared to Li. Positron annihilation study showed that the doping above 1-3% Li and 3-4% N in ZnO are not required in order to achieve low resistivity, high hole concentration and good mobility.

Study of the effect of ionizing radiation on the structure of natural rubber latex by positron annihilation technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lopez Saldana, I.R.

1993-01-01

At the present research, were studied the changes in natural rubber latex structure, due to electron beam by a 3 MeV, 25 m A Dynamitron electron accelerator. The natural rubber latex was irradiated at 30, 40 and 50 kGy/s dose rate, over a total dose range from 150 to 250 kGy, for each dose rate used. From natural rubber latex irradiated films were prepared by casting with 0.7 mm. thickness. In the main part, the study was made by positron annihilation lifetime (PAL), this technique is unique in the determination of free-volume properties due to the fact that positronium atom (Ps) is found to be preferentially localized in the free-volume region of polymeric materials. The positron lifetime measurements were performing using a gamma-gamma coincidence system. These results were analyzed by PATFIT-88 program computer into three components, the long-lived component for orthopositronium (o-Ps) with parameters lifetime (τ 3 ) and formation intensity (I 3 ), were plotted and analyzed for each dose rate and total dose used. Besides with τ 3 were calculated the mean free-volume size based on the spherical model for the free-volume bubble, found that the free-volume decrease slightly with the total dose due to the crosslinking of natural rubber latex. Besides was studied the effect of dose rate on tensile strength, the tensile strength is increased with the total dose although there was not a clear effect due to the dose rate. Also the films were subjected to aging in order to determined the thermal stability of natural rubber latex irradiated, the results show that the films have good stability. Besides was used the infrared spectroscopy to determine the changes due to the crosslinking by variations in the characteristically absorption bands for cis 1,4-polyisoprene. (Author)

Microstructural changes and effect of variation of lattice strain on positron annihilation lifetime parameters of zinc ferrite nanocomposites prepared by high enegy ball-milling

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Abhijit Banerjee

2012-12-01

Full Text Available Zn-ferrite nanoparticles were synthesized at room temperature by mechanical alloying the stoichiometric (1:1 mol% mixture of ZnO and α-Fe2O3 powder under open air. Formation of both normal and inverse spinel ferrite phases was noticed after 30 minutes and 2.5 hours ball milling respectively and the content of inverse spinel phase increased with increasing milling time. The phase transformation kinetics towards formation of ferrite phases and microstructure characterization of ball milled ZnFe2O4 phases was primarily investigated by X-ray powder diffraction pattern analysis. The relative phase abundances of different phases, crystallite size, r.m.s. strain, lattice parameter change etc. were estimated from the Rietveld powder structure refinement analysis of XRD data. Positron annihilation lifetime spectra of all ball milled samples were deconvoluted with three lifetime parameters and their variation with milling time duration was explained with microstructural changes and formation of different phases with increase of milling time duration.

Measurement of Charm Meson Lifetimes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bonvicini, G.; Cinabro, D.; Greene, R.; Perera, L.P.; Zhou, G.J.; Chan, S.; Eigen, G.; Lipeles, E.; Schmidtler, M.; Shapiro, A.; Sun, W.M.; Urheim, J.; Weinstein, A.J.; Wuerthwein, F.; Jaffe, D.E.; Masek, G.; Paar, H.P.; Potter, E.M.; Prell, S.; Sharma, V.; Asner, D.M.; Eppich, A.; Gronberg, J.; Hill, T.S.; Korte, C.M.; Lange, D.J.; Morrison, R.J.; Nelson, H.N.; Nelson, T.K.; Roberts, D.; Tajima, H.; Behrens, B.H.; Ford, W.T.; Gritsan, A.; Krieg, H.; Roy, J.; Smith, J.G.; Alexander, J.P.; Baker, R.; Bebek, C.; Berger, B.E.; Berkelman, K.; Boisvert, V.; Cassel, D.G.; Crowcroft, D.S.; Dickson, M.; Dombrowski, S. von; Drell, P.S.; Dumas, D.J.; Ecklund, K.M.; Ehrlich, R.; Foland, A.D.; Gaidarev, P.; Gibbons, L.; Gittelman, B.; Gray, S.W.; Hartill, D.L.; Heltsley, B.K.; Henderson, S.; Hopman, P.I.; Katayama, N.; Kreinick, D.L.; Lee, T.; Liu, Y.; Meyer, T.O.; Mistry, N.B.; Ng, C.R.; Nordberg, E.; Ogg, M.; Patterson, J.R.; Peterson, D.; Riley, D.; Soffer, A.; Thayer, J.G.; Thies, P.G.; Valant-Spaight, B.; Warburton, A.; Ward, C.; Athanas, M.; Avery, P.; Jones, C.D.; Lohner, M.; Prescott, C.; Rubiera, A.I.; Yelton, J.; Zheng, J.; Brandenburg, G.; Briere, R.A.; Ershov, A.; Gao, Y.S.; Kim, D.Y.; Wilson, R.; Browder, T.E.; Li, Y.; Rodriguez, J.L.; Yamamoto, H.; Bergfeld, T.; Eisenstein, B.I.; Ernst, J.; Gladding, G.E.; Gollin, G.D

1999-01-01

We report measurements of the D 0 , D + , and D + s meson lifetimes using 3.7 fb -1 of e + e - annihilation data collected near the Υ(4S) resonance with the CLEO detector. The measured lifetimes of the D 0 , D + , and D + s mesons are 408.5±4.1 +3.5 -3.4 fs , 1033.6±22.1 +9.9 -12.7 fs , and 486.3±15.0 +4.9 -5.1 fs . The precision of these lifetimes are comparable to those of the best previous measurements, and the systematic errors are very different. In a single experiment we find that the ratio of the D + s and D 0 lifetimes is 1.19±0.04 . copyright 1999 The American Physical Society

Positron annihilation measurements in high-energy alpha-irradiated n-type gallium arsenide

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pan, Sandip; Mandal, Arunava; SenGupta, Asmita [Visva-Bharati, Department of Physics, Santiniketan, West Bengal (India); Roychowdhury, Anirban [UGC-DAE Consortium for Scientific Research, Kolkata Centre, Kolkata, West Bengal (India)

2015-07-15

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy and Doppler broadening annihilation line-shape measurements have been carried out in 40-MeV alpha-irradiated n-type GaAs. After irradiation, the sample has been subjected to an isochronal annealing over temperature region of 25-800 C with an annealing time of 30 min at each set temperature. After each annealing, the positron measurements are taken at room temperature. Formation of radiation-induced defects and their recovery with annealing temperature are investigated. The lifetime spectra of the irradiated sample have been fitted with two lifetimes. The average positron lifetime τ{sub avg} = 244 ps at room temperature after irradiation indicates the presence of defects, and the value of τ{sub 2} (262 ps) at room temperature suggests that the probable defects are mono-vacancies. Two distinct annealing stages in τ{sub avg} at 400-600 C and at 650-800 C are observed. The variations in line-shape parameter (S) and defect-specific parameter (R) during annealing in the temperature region 25-800 C resemble the behaviour of τ{sub avg} indicating the migration of vacancies, formation of vacancy clusters and the disappearance of defects between 400 and 800 C. (orig.)

Photoluminescence and positron annihilation spectroscopic investigation on a H+ irradiated ZnO single crystal

Science.gov (United States)

Sarkar, A.; Chakrabarti, Mahuya; Sanyal, D.; Bhowmick, D.; Dechoudhury, S.; Chakrabarti, A.; Rakshit, Tamita; Ray, S. K.

2012-08-01

Low temperature photoluminescence and room temperature positron annihilation spectroscopy have been employed to investigate the defects incorporated by 6 MeV H+ ions in a hydrothermally grown ZnO single crystal. Prior to irradiation, the emission from donor bound excitons is at 3.378 eV (10 K). The irradiation creates an intense and narrow emission at 3.368 eV (10 K). The intensity of this peak is nearly four times that of the dominant near band edge peak of the pristine crystal. The characteristic features of the 3.368 eV emission indicate its origin as a ‘hydrogen at oxygen vacancy’ type defect. The positron annihilation lifetime measurement reveals a single component lifetime spectrum for both the unirradiated (164 ± 1 ps) and irradiated crystal (175 ± 1 ps). It reflects the fact that the positron lifetime and intensity of the new irradiation driven defect species are a little higher compared to those in the unirradiated crystal. However, the estimated defect concentration, even considering the high dynamic defect annihilation rate in ZnO, comes out to be ˜4 × 1017 cm-3 (using SRIM software). This is a very high defect concentration compared to the defect sensitivity of positron annihilation spectroscopy. A probable reason is the partial filling of the incorporated vacancies (positron traps), which in ZnO are zinc vacancies. The positron lifetime of ˜175 ps (in irradiated ZnO) is consistent with recent theoretical calculations for partially hydrogen-filled zinc vacancies in ZnO. Passivation of oxygen vacancies by hydrogen is also reflected in the photoluminescence results. A possible reason for such vacancy filling (at both Zn and O sites) due to irradiation has also been discussed.

Photoluminescence and positron annihilation spectroscopic investigation on a H+ irradiated ZnO single crystal

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sarkar, A; Chakrabarti, Mahuya; Sanyal, D; Bhowmick, D; Dechoudhury, S; Chakrabarti, A; Rakshit, Tamita; Ray, S K

2012-01-01

Low temperature photoluminescence and room temperature positron annihilation spectroscopy have been employed to investigate the defects incorporated by 6 MeV H + ions in a hydrothermally grown ZnO single crystal. Prior to irradiation, the emission from donor bound excitons is at 3.378 eV (10 K). The irradiation creates an intense and narrow emission at 3.368 eV (10 K). The intensity of this peak is nearly four times that of the dominant near band edge peak of the pristine crystal. The characteristic features of the 3.368 eV emission indicate its origin as a ‘hydrogen at oxygen vacancy’ type defect. The positron annihilation lifetime measurement reveals a single component lifetime spectrum for both the unirradiated (164 ± 1 ps) and irradiated crystal (175 ± 1 ps). It reflects the fact that the positron lifetime and intensity of the new irradiation driven defect species are a little higher compared to those in the unirradiated crystal. However, the estimated defect concentration, even considering the high dynamic defect annihilation rate in ZnO, comes out to be ∼4 × 10 17 cm -3 (using SRIM software). This is a very high defect concentration compared to the defect sensitivity of positron annihilation spectroscopy. A probable reason is the partial filling of the incorporated vacancies (positron traps), which in ZnO are zinc vacancies. The positron lifetime of ∼175 ps (in irradiated ZnO) is consistent with recent theoretical calculations for partially hydrogen-filled zinc vacancies in ZnO. Passivation of oxygen vacancies by hydrogen is also reflected in the photoluminescence results. A possible reason for such vacancy filling (at both Zn and O sites) due to irradiation has also been discussed. (paper)

Photoluminescence and positron annihilation spectroscopic investigation on a H(+) irradiated ZnO single crystal.

Science.gov (United States)

Sarkar, A; Chakrabarti, Mahuya; Sanyal, D; Bhowmick, D; Dechoudhury, S; Chakrabarti, A; Rakshit, Tamita; Ray, S K

2012-08-15

Low temperature photoluminescence and room temperature positron annihilation spectroscopy have been employed to investigate the defects incorporated by 6 MeV H(+) ions in a hydrothermally grown ZnO single crystal. Prior to irradiation, the emission from donor bound excitons is at 3.378 eV (10 K). The irradiation creates an intense and narrow emission at 3.368 eV (10 K). The intensity of this peak is nearly four times that of the dominant near band edge peak of the pristine crystal. The characteristic features of the 3.368 eV emission indicate its origin as a 'hydrogen at oxygen vacancy' type defect. The positron annihilation lifetime measurement reveals a single component lifetime spectrum for both the unirradiated (164 ± 1 ps) and irradiated crystal (175 ± 1 ps). It reflects the fact that the positron lifetime and intensity of the new irradiation driven defect species are a little higher compared to those in the unirradiated crystal. However, the estimated defect concentration, even considering the high dynamic defect annihilation rate in ZnO, comes out to be ∼4 × 10(17) cm(-3) (using SRIM software). This is a very high defect concentration compared to the defect sensitivity of positron annihilation spectroscopy. A probable reason is the partial filling of the incorporated vacancies (positron traps), which in ZnO are zinc vacancies. The positron lifetime of ∼175 ps (in irradiated ZnO) is consistent with recent theoretical calculations for partially hydrogen-filled zinc vacancies in ZnO. Passivation of oxygen vacancies by hydrogen is also reflected in the photoluminescence results. A possible reason for such vacancy filling (at both Zn and O sites) due to irradiation has also been discussed.

Bulk-volume behavior of pressure-densified amorphous polymers and free-volume behavior by positron annihilation lifetime measurement

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hagiwara, K.; Ougizawa, T.; Inoue, T.; Hirata, K.; Kobayashi, Y.

2001-01-01

In order to study the nature of amorphous polymers, the free volume contribution on the bulk volume change was investigated on the basis of the relationship between the bulk volume behavior by PVT (pressure-volume-temperature) measurement and the free volume behavior by PALS (positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy) measurement. A densified glass, prepared by cooling at constant rate from the melt state temperature to room temperature under 200 MPa, showed smaller bulk volume and free volume than non-densified glass. And the densified glass showed not only the same glass transition temperature (Tg) as non-densified glass but also another transition at lower temperature around (Tg-30 C). In this glass-glass transition, both the bulk volume and free volume of densified glass recovered to those of non-densified glass. Moreover the densified glass showed different thermal behavior from the glass which was enthalpy-relaxed under atmospheric pressure. From those results, it was considered that the free volume behavior largely related to the behavior of amorphous polymers. (orig.)

Positron annihilation studies of bio-related N2S2-tetradentate ligands and their zinc complexes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shaban, S.Y.; Mahmoud, K.R.; Sharshar, T.

2013-01-01

In this study, a series of three N 2 S 2 -tetradentate ligands and their zinc complexes were investigated by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. The measurements were performed at room temperature. The analysis of lifetime spectra of all samples yielded four lifetime components, except in one sample that yielded three components. The results showed that the formation probability and lifetime of ortho-positronium in this series are dependent on the structure.

Positron annihilation study of mechanochemical reaction between Zn+Se and Zn+S

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kajcsos, Zs.; Horvath, D.; Tshakarov, C.G.; Gospodinov, G.G.; Vertes, A.

1981-01-01

Positron lifetime spectra were recorded and evaluated in mixtures of Zn+S and Zn+Se powders for various periods. The intensity of the long-lived positron lifetime component is shown to increase with grinding time until an abrupt decrease takes place at a specific grinding time, indicating the onset of the effective chemical reaction. The suitability of positron annihilation for investigating mechanochemical reactions is clearly demonstrated. (author)

Positron annihilation in PI189 and PI304 polyimides

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Shantarovich, V.P. [N.N. Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, ul Kosygina 4 st., 119334 Moscow (Russian Federation)]. E-mail: shant@center.chph.ras.ru; Suzuki, T. [High Energy Accelerator Research Organization KEK, Tsukuba 305-0801 (Japan); He, C. [High Energy Accelerator Research Organization KEK, Tsukuba 305-0801 (Japan); Ito, Y. [Reasearch Center for Nuclear Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, Tokai, Ibaraki 319-1106 (Japan); Yampolskii, Y.P. [A.V. Topchiev Institute of Petrochemical Synthesis, Russian Academy of Sciences, 29 Leninskii Pr., 117912 Moscow (Russian Federation); Alentiev, A.Yu. [A.V. Topchiev Institute of Petrochemical Synthesis, Russian Academy of Sciences, 29 Leninskii Pr., 117912 Moscow (Russian Federation)

2005-05-01

Temperature dependence of the lifetime {tau}3 and intensity I{sub 3} of the long-lived ortho-positronium (o-Ps) component was measured for two polyimides PI189 and PI304 both below and above glass-transition temperatures Tg of these polymers. First heating runs of the experiments revealed anomalous, irregular behavior of the lifetime {tau}3 in both PI in the vicinity (below) of the glass transition temperature. The effect was similar to that discussed recently for a number of PI. However, on the cooling stage of the first cycle and on the heating run of the second cycle, such irregularities disappeared. These results show that anomalous behavior of annihilation characteristics of o-Ps in our PI samples were due not to anomalous behavior of PI structure itself close to Tg point (not to a specific phase transition), but to removal of residual solvent in vicinity of Tg during the first heating cycle. Different approaches to estimations of the specific hole volume and of the holes number density N on the basis of positron annihilation data are discussed. Final estimation for PI189 gives the fractional free volume h=3.35% and N=0.44x1027m-3. The effects of positron trapping by polar-CO groups on annihilation characteristics of PI and on the obtained value of N are also considered.

Positron annihilation in corrosion protective polymeric coatings. Pt. 2

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Szeles, C.; Vertes, A.; White, M.L.; Leidheiser, H. Jr.; Lehigh Univ., Bethlehem, PA

1988-01-01

Positron annihilation was studied in four commercial polymeric coatings on iron. Positron lifetime measurements were performed before and after exposure of the coatings to boiling water for 1 h. A correlation was observed between the effect of water exposure on the lifetime spectra and the protective properties of the coatings when exposed to 0.1M sulfuric acid at 60 0 C for 1010 h. The coatings that provided good corrosion protection in the acid showed minor changes in the positron lifetime spectra upon exposure to water. The spectra of coatings that showed poor corrosion protection in the acid showed minor changes in the positron lifetime spectra upon exposure to water. The spectra of coatings that showed poor corrosion protection, on the other hand, exhibited considerable changes in the positron lifetime spectra upon exposure to water. (orig.)

Positron annihilation characteristics of ODS and non-ODS EUROFER isochronally annealed

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ortega, Y.; Castro, V. de; Monge, M.A.; Munoz, A.; Leguey, T.; Pareja, R.

2008-01-01

Yttrium oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) and non-ODS EUROFER produced by mechanical alloying and hot isostatic pressing have been subjected to isochronal annealing up to 1523 K, and the evolution of the open-volume defects and their thermal stability have been investigated using positron lifetime and coincidence Doppler broadening (CDB) techniques. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations have also been performed on the studied samples to verify the characteristics of the surviving defects after annealing at 1523 K. The CDB spectra of ODS EUROFER exhibit a characteristic signature that is attributed to positron annihilation in Ar-decorated cavities at the oxide particle/matrix interfaces. The variation of the positron annihilation parameters with the annealing temperature shows three stages: up to 623 K, between 823 and 1323 K, and above 1323 K. Three-dimensional vacancy clusters, or voids, are detected in either materials in as-HIPed condition and after annealing at T ≤ 623 K. In the temperature range 823-1323 K, these voids' growth and nucleation and the growth of other new species of voids take place. Above 1323 K, some unstable cavities start to anneal out, and cavities associated to oxide particles and other small precipitates survive to annealing at 1523 K. The TEM observations and the positron annihilation results indicate that these cavities should be decorated with Ar atoms absorbed during the mechanical alloying process

Positron annihilation characteristics of ODS and non-ODS EUROFER isochronally annealed

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortega, Y. [Departamento de Fisica, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, 28911 Leganes (Spain)], E-mail: yanicet@fis.ucm.es; Castro, V. de; Monge, M.A.; Munoz, A.; Leguey, T.; Pareja, R. [Departamento de Fisica, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, 28911 Leganes (Spain)

2008-05-31

Yttrium oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) and non-ODS EUROFER produced by mechanical alloying and hot isostatic pressing have been subjected to isochronal annealing up to 1523 K, and the evolution of the open-volume defects and their thermal stability have been investigated using positron lifetime and coincidence Doppler broadening (CDB) techniques. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations have also been performed on the studied samples to verify the characteristics of the surviving defects after annealing at 1523 K. The CDB spectra of ODS EUROFER exhibit a characteristic signature that is attributed to positron annihilation in Ar-decorated cavities at the oxide particle/matrix interfaces. The variation of the positron annihilation parameters with the annealing temperature shows three stages: up to 623 K, between 823 and 1323 K, and above 1323 K. Three-dimensional vacancy clusters, or voids, are detected in either materials in as-HIPed condition and after annealing at T {<=} 623 K. In the temperature range 823-1323 K, these voids' growth and nucleation and the growth of other new species of voids take place. Above 1323 K, some unstable cavities start to anneal out, and cavities associated to oxide particles and other small precipitates survive to annealing at 1523 K. The TEM observations and the positron annihilation results indicate that these cavities should be decorated with Ar atoms absorbed during the mechanical alloying process.

Positron annihilation studies in lysozyme and catalase

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rohilla, Y.; Singh, K.P.; Roy Choudhury, S.; Jain, P.C.

1992-01-01

Positron annihilation studies have been carried out in two enzymes, lysozyme and catalase. Temperature dependence of the positron lifetimes in these two enzymes has been investigated. The results explained in terms of the free volume model and fluctuations between different conformational micro states of enzyme structures provide a new insight into the mechanism of bio-activity of these enzymes. (author). 15 refs., 4 figs

Estimation of dislocation concentration in plastically deformed Al-Li based alloy by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Abdelrahman, M.

1997-01-01

Measurements of positron annihilation mean lifetime τ have been performed on eight different specimens of Al-Li based alloy plastically deformed at room temperature up to 40% thickness reduction. This measurement shows clearly positron trapping by dislocations. The positron lifetime τ exhibits a saturation for deformations larger than (15%) thickness reduction. The fitted lifetime varies from (183±2 ps) for annealed sample to (205±2 ps) for the dislocation saturated value. Using a trapping model, the data yield the values of μ=3.83x10 -8 cm 3 s -1 for the specific trapping rate and σ=3.58x10 -15 cm 2 for the trapping cross section, some what lower than those for plastically deformed Al single crystals. The value obtained for Δτ, the increase in lifetime of positrons trapped at dislocations in plastically deformed Al-Li based alloy sample over annihilation in the annealed sample, is 22 ps. This is about 40% of the lifetime increase for the case of positrons trapped at dislocations in plastically deformed Al single crystals. Dislocation densities at different thickness reduction have been estimated. (author)

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) application in metal barrier layer integrity for porous low- k materials

CERN Document Server

Simon, Lin; Gidley, D W; Wetzel, J T; Monnig, K A; Ryan, E T; Simon, Jang; Douglas, Yu; Liang, M S; En, W G; Jones, E C; Sturm, J C; Chan, M J; Tiwari, S C; Hirose, M

2002-01-01

Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS) is a useful tool to pre-screen metal barrier integrity for Si-based porous low-k dielectrics. Pore size of low-k, thickness of metal barrier Ta, positronium (Ps) leakage from PALS, trench sidewall morphology, electrical test from one level metal (1LM) pattern wafer and Cu diffusion analysis were all correlated. Macro-porous low-k (pore size >=200 AA) and large scale meso-porous low-k (>50~200 AA) encounter both Ps leakage and Cu diffusion into low-k dielectric in the 0.25 mu mL/0.3 mu mS structures when using SEMATECH in-house PVD Ta 250 AA as barrier layer. For small scale meso-porous (>20~50 AA) and micro- porous (<=20 AA) low-k, no Ps leakage and no Cu diffusion into low-k were observed even with PVD Ta 50 AA, which is proved also owing to sidewall densification to seal all sidewall pores due to plasma etch and ash. For future technology, smaller pore size of porous Si-based low-k (=<50 AA) will be preferential for dense low-k like trench sidewall to...

Characterization of zeolite Y pastilles for the ortho-positronium annihilation studies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alvarado D, E.; Garcia S, I.; Cabral P, A.

2008-01-01

This paper presents the characterization of zeolite Y pastilles prior to their study by the Positronium Annihilation Lifetimes Spectroscopy. The characterization is the estimation of porosity, the determination of its purity and crystal size for X-ray diffraction, the determination of its morphology and particle size by scanning electron microscopy and its specific area by the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller method. Presenting the first lifetimes measurements of positronium in zeolites LTA and Y. (Author)

Interlaboratory comparison of positron and positronium lifetimes in polymers

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Wastlund, C.; Eldrup, Morten Mostgaard; Maurer, F.H.J.

1998-01-01

A comparison of the results of a series of positron annihilation lifetime measurements performed in 12 laboratories is presented. The measurements were conducted on three different polymer samples, all prepared in one laboratory under standard conditions. The objective of the work was to gain...... insight into the variation in derived positron and positronium lifetimes and intensities measured in the different laboratories on identical specimens. Lifetime data were collected at room temperature by each laboratory following their own standard measurement and data evaluation procedures. The polymers...

Applications of slow positrons to cancer research: Search for selectivity of positron annihilation to skin cancer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jean, Y.C.; Li Ying; Liu Gaung; Chen, Hongmin; Zhang Junjie; Gadzia, Joseph E.

2006-01-01

Slow positrons and positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) have been applied to medical research in searching for positron annihilation selectivity to cancer cells. We report the results of positron lifetime and Doppler broadening energy spectroscopies in human skin samples with and without cancer as a function of positron incident energy (up to 8 μm depth) and found that the positronium annihilates at a significantly lower rate and forms at a lower probability in the samples having either basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) than in the normal skin. The significant selectivity of positron annihilation to skin cancer may open a new research area of developing positron annihilation spectroscopy as a novel medical tool to detect cancer formation externally and non-invasively at the early stages

Applications of slow positrons to cancer research: Search for selectivity of positron annihilation to skin cancer

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jean, Y.C. [Department of Chemistry, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 205 Spenscer Chemistry Building, 5009 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO 64110 (United States)]. E-mail: jeany@umkc.edu; Li Ying [Department of Chemistry, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 205 Spenscer Chemistry Building, 5009 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO 64110 (United States); Liu Gaung [Department of Chemistry, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 205 Spenscer Chemistry Building, 5009 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO 64110 (United States); Chen, Hongmin [Department of Chemistry, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 205 Spenscer Chemistry Building, 5009 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO 64110 (United States); Zhang Junjie [Department of Chemistry, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 205 Spenscer Chemistry Building, 5009 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO 64110 (United States); Gadzia, Joseph E. [Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66103 (United States); Kansas Medical Clinic, Topeka, KS 66614 (United States)

2006-02-28

Slow positrons and positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) have been applied to medical research in searching for positron annihilation selectivity to cancer cells. We report the results of positron lifetime and Doppler broadening energy spectroscopies in human skin samples with and without cancer as a function of positron incident energy (up to 8 {mu}m depth) and found that the positronium annihilates at a significantly lower rate and forms at a lower probability in the samples having either basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) than in the normal skin. The significant selectivity of positron annihilation to skin cancer may open a new research area of developing positron annihilation spectroscopy as a novel medical tool to detect cancer formation externally and non-invasively at the early stages.

Positron annihilation study of hydrogen storage alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shirai, Yasuharu; Araki, Hideki; Sakaki, Kouji

2003-01-01

Some AB 5 and AB 2 hydrogen storage alloys have been characterized by using positron-annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. It has been shown that they contain no constitutional vacancies and that deviations from the stoichiometric compositions are all compensated by antistructure atoms. Positron lifetimes in fully-annealed LaNi 5-x Al x and MmNi 5-x Al x alloys show good correlation with their hydrogen desorption pressures. On the other hand, surprising amounts of vacancies together with dislocations have been found to be generated during the first hydrogen absorption process of LaNi 5 and ZrMn 2 . These lattice defects play important role in hydrogen absorption-desorption processes of hydrogen storage alloys. (author)

High-temperature equilibrium study of the oxygen-site occupancy in YBa2Cu3O7-δ by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hermes, H.; Forster, M.; Schaefer, H.

1991-01-01

Measurements of the positron lifetime and the Doppler broadening of the annihilation γ line were performed on sintered YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-δ specimens between ambient temperature and 1140 K at oxygen partial pressures, p O2 , between 10 2 and 10 5 Pa in order to study the atomic processes of changes of the oxygen content in thermal equilibrium. Above 680 K the positron lifetime increases with increasing temperature and decreasing oxygen partial pressure. It is found that the normalized positron annihilation rate λ 1 * depends exclusively on the oxygen deficiency δ and decreases linearly with increasing δ. Our results demonstrate that the positrons are annihilated predominantly on the sites of the Cu(1)-O(1) chains where the oxygen atoms are removed (oxygen-deficient sites), as suggested by theoretical studies. A simple atomistic model of oxygen exchange is confirmed by the experimentally observed variation of the positron annihilation rate with (p O2 ) -0.27

Determination of the average lifetime of bottom hadrons

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Althoff, M; Braunschweig, W; Kirschfink, F J; Martyn, H U; Rosskamp, P; Schmitz, D; Siebke, H; Wallraff, W [Technische Hochschule Aachen (Germany, F.R.). Lehrstuhl fuer Experimentalphysik 1A und 1. Physikalisches Inst.; Eisenmann, J; Fischer, H M

1984-12-27

We have determined the average lifetime of hadrons containing b quarks produced in e/sup +/e/sup -/ annihilation to be tausub(B)=1.83 x 10/sup -12/ s. Our method uses charged decay products from both non-leptonic and semileptonic decay modes.

Determination of the average lifetime of bottom hadrons

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Althoff, M; Braunschweig, W; Kirschfink, F J; Martyn, H U; Rosskamp, P; Schmitz, D; Siebke, H; Wallraff, W; Eisenmann, J; Fischer, H M

1984-12-27

We have determined the average lifetime of hadrons containing b quarks produced in e e annihilation to be tausub(B)=1.83x10 S s. Our method uses charged decay products from both non-leptonic and semileptonic decay modes. (orig./HSI).

Temperature and time dependence of free volume in bisphenol A polycarbonate studied by positron lifetime spectroscopy

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Kluin, J.E.; Yu, Z.; Vleeshouwers, S.M.; McGervey, J.D.; Jamieson, A.M.; Simha, R.

1992-01-01

New positron lifetime expts. were carried out for Bisphenol-A polycarbonate. The influence of unavoidable pos. charged positron irradn. on the lifetime and intensity of o-positronium (o-Ps) annihilation was studied. Results obtained using a state-of-the-art lifetime spectrometer (count rate 670 cps

Positron annihilation in low-temperature rare gases. II. Argon and neon

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Canter, K.F.; Roellig, L.O.

1975-01-01

Lifetime measurements of slow-positron and ortho-positronium (o-Ps) annihilation were made in argon and neon gases at room temperature and below. The argon experiments cover the temperature range 115 to 300 0 K and the density range 0.0356 to 0.0726 g/cm 3 (approximately equal to 20 to 40 amagat). The slow-positron spectra in argon exhibit a departure from free-positron annihilation below 200 0 K. The departure becomes more marked as the temperature is lowered. No deviation from free o-Ps pickoff annihilation is observed in argon at low temperatures. The neon measurements cover the temperature range 30 to 300 0 K and the density range 0.032 to 0.89 g/cm 3 (approximately equal to 35 to 980 amagat). No effect of temperature on the slow-positron spectra throughout the temperature and density ranges investigated in neon is observed. The spectra are very exponential with a corresponding decay rate which is temperature as well as time independent and is directly proportional to density over the ranges investigated. The o-Ps data are more eventful in that the o-Ps lifetime at near-liquid densities is approximately 20 nsec, a factor of nearly 4 greater than the value obtained using the pickoff-annihilation coefficient obtained at lower densities. This is evidence for positronium-induced cavities in low-temperature neon. A brief discussion of the argon and neon results is given in the context of the explanations offered for the low-temperature effects observed in helium gas

Probing dark matter decay and annihilation with Fermi LAT observations of nearby galaxy clusters

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Huang, Xiaoyuan [Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing (China). National Astronomical Observatories; Max-Planck-Institut fuer Physik, Muenchen (Germany); Vertongen, Gilles [Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY), Hamburg (Germany); Institut d' Astrophysique de Paris, 75 - Paris (France); Weniger, Christoph [Max-Planck-Institut fuer Physik, Muenchen (Germany)

2011-09-15

Galaxy clusters are promising targets for indirect dark matter searches. Gamma-ray signatures from the decay or annihilation of dark matter particles inside these clusters could be observable with the Fermi Large Area Telescope (LAT). Based on three years of Fermi LAT gamma-ray data, we analyze the flux coming from eight nearby clusters individually as well as in a combined likelihood analysis. Concentrating mostly on signals from dark matter decay, we take into account uncertainties of the cluster masses as determined by X-ray observations and model the cluster emission with extended sources. We do not find significant emission from any of the considered clusters and present limits on the dark matter lifetime and annihilation cross-section. We compare our lifetime limits derived from cluster observations with the limits that can be obtained from the extragalactic gamma-ray background, and find that in case of hadronic decay the cluster limits become competitive at dark matter masses below a few hundred GeV. Finally, we show that in presence of dark matter substructures down to 10{sup -6} solar masses the limits on the dark matter annihilation cross-section could improve by a factor of a few hundred, possibly going down to the thermal cross-section of 3 x 10{sup -26} cm{sup 3}s{sup -1} for dark matter masses annihilation into b anti b. As a direct application of our results, we derive limits on the lifetime of gravitino dark matter in scenarios with R-parity violation. Implications of these limits for the possible observation of long-lived superparticles at the LHC are discussed. (orig.)

Probing dark matter decay and annihilation with Fermi LAT observations of nearby galaxy clusters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Huang, Xiaoyuan; Vertongen, Gilles; Weniger, Christoph

2011-09-01

Galaxy clusters are promising targets for indirect dark matter searches. Gamma-ray signatures from the decay or annihilation of dark matter particles inside these clusters could be observable with the Fermi Large Area Telescope (LAT). Based on three years of Fermi LAT gamma-ray data, we analyze the flux coming from eight nearby clusters individually as well as in a combined likelihood analysis. Concentrating mostly on signals from dark matter decay, we take into account uncertainties of the cluster masses as determined by X-ray observations and model the cluster emission with extended sources. We do not find significant emission from any of the considered clusters and present limits on the dark matter lifetime and annihilation cross-section. We compare our lifetime limits derived from cluster observations with the limits that can be obtained from the extragalactic gamma-ray background, and find that in case of hadronic decay the cluster limits become competitive at dark matter masses below a few hundred GeV. Finally, we show that in presence of dark matter substructures down to 10 -6 solar masses the limits on the dark matter annihilation cross-section could improve by a factor of a few hundred, possibly going down to the thermal cross-section of 3 x 10 -26 cm 3 s -1 for dark matter masses < or similar 150 GeV and annihilation into b anti b. As a direct application of our results, we derive limits on the lifetime of gravitino dark matter in scenarios with R-parity violation. Implications of these limits for the possible observation of long-lived superparticles at the LHC are discussed. (orig.)

Positron annihilation study on ZnO-based scintillating glasses

Science.gov (United States)

Nie, Jiaxiang; Yu, Runsheng; Wang, Baoyi; Ou, Yuwen; Zhong, Yurong; Xia, Fang; Chen, Guorong

2009-04-01

Positron lifetime of ZnO-based scintillating glasses (55 - x)SiO 2-45ZnO- xBaF 2 ( x = 5, 10, 15 mol%) were measured with a conventional fast-fast spectrometer. Three positron lifetime components τ1, τ 2, and τ3 are ˜0.23 ns, ˜0.45 ns, and ˜1.6 ns, respectively. All the three positron lifetime components first increase with increasing BaF 2 concentration from 5 mol% to 10 mol%, then decreases as BaF 2 further increases to 15 mol%. The result suggests that the glass sample with 10 mol% BaF 2 contains the highest defect density, and is in excellent agreement with glass chemistry, glass density, thermal properties, and calculated crystallinity. Therefore, positron annihilation lifetime measurement is an effective tool for analyzing defects in ZnO-based scintillating glasses.

Evaluation of epoxy resin for cryogenic use by positron annihilation method. Change of characteristics of epoxy resin with cross-linking density and positron lifetime

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nishijima, Shigehiro; Honda, Yoshihide; Okada, Toichi; Kobayashi, Yoshinori; Namba, Shingo.

1994-01-01

The positron annihilation method has been applied to evaluate unoccupied space in epoxy aiming at the design of the molecular structure for cryogenic use. To confirm the model in which molecular free space is needed in the epoxy for cryogenic use, the molecular weight between cross-linkings in epoxy was changed. The increase of molecular weight between cross-linkings brought an increase of fracture toughness even at liquid helium temperature and the model was found to be confirmed. The increase of molecular weight between cross-linkings was also found to decrease the 3rd lifetime of positrons. It suggested that the epoxy main chains were folded and this was confirmed by the molecular mechanical calculation. (author)

Annihilation vs. Decay: Constraining dark matter properties from a gamma-ray detection

CERN Document Server

Palomares-Ruiz, Sergio

2010-01-01

Most proposed dark matter candidates are stable and are produced thermally in the early Universe. However, there is also the possibility of unstable (but long-lived) dark matter, produced thermally or otherwise. We propose a strategy to distinguish between dark matter annihilation and/or decay in the case that a clear signal is detected in gamma-ray observations of Milky Way dwarf spheroidal galaxies with current or future gamma-ray experiments. The sole measurement of the energy spectrum of an indirect signal would render the discrimination between these cases impossible. We show that by examining the dependence of the intensity and energy spectrum on the angular distribution of the emission, the origin could be identified as decay, annihilation, or both. In addition, once the type of signal is established, we show how these measurements could help to extract information about the dark matter properties, including mass, annihilation cross section, lifetime, dominant annihilation and decay channels, and the p...

Positron annihilation spectroscopy study of porous silicon

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Britkov, O.M.; Gavrilov, S.A.; Kalugin, V.V.; Timoshenkov, S.P.; Grafutin, V.I.; Ilyukhina, O.V.; Myasishcheva, G.G.; Prokop'ev, E.P.; Funtikov, Yu.V.

2007-01-01

Experimental studies of porous silicon by means of a standard positron annihilation technique based on measuring the angular distribution of annihilation photons, are reported. It was shown that the spectra of angular correlation of annihilation radiation in porous silicon are approximated well by a parabola (I p ) and two Gaussians (I g1 , I g2 ). The narrow Gaussian component I g1 is most likely due to the annihilation of localized para-positronium in pores. The full width at half maximum is on the order of 0.8 mrad, a value that corresponds to the kinetic energy of an annihilating positron-electron pair (0.079 ± 0.012 eV), and its intensity is about 1.5%. The total positronium yield in porous silicon reaches 6% in this case. The particle radius determined in the study is about 10-20 A [ru

Calculation of positron annihilation in high Tc copper oxides

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Barbiellini, B.; Jarlborg, T.; Gauthier, M.; Shukla, A.

1992-01-01

LMTO calculations have been done in order to obtain electronic and positronic states in YBaCuO compounds. The annihilation rates have been calculated including the enhancement effects. Folded momentum density spectra are calculated and used for prediction of Fermi surface signals. The influence of lattice defects on the spectra is studied by the comparison between experimental and calculated positron lifetimes. (orig.)

Optimum lifetime structuring in silicon power diodes by means of various irradiation techniques

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hazdra, P.; Vobecky, J.; Brand, K.

2002-01-01

Application of radiation defects for adjustment of power diode parameters is demonstrated. Local lifetime control (LLC) by proton and alpha-particle irradiation with energies 1.8-12.1 MeV is compared with uniform lifetime killing by 4.5 MeV electrons. The influence of both the techniques on static and dynamic parameters of modified diodes is experimentally established and explained by means of state-of-the-art simulation system. Optimization means and limits of lifetime control by irradiation techniques are discussed, as well

A study on 2% PdO/Al2O3 by means of free positron annihilation technique in the solid surface layer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shi Zikang; Huang Cunping

1992-01-01

The relationship between heat treatment and space structure of the PdO layer in 2% PdO/Al 2 O 3 was studied by the positrons from 2 2N a radiative source, and grain size was calculated by the positron annihilation parameters, demonstrating that the free positron annihilation technique for the solid surface layer can be applied can be applied to catalyst research

Positron annihilation and Moessbauer studies of neutron irradiated reactor pressure vessel steels

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brauer, G.; Matz, W.; Liszkay, L.; Molnar, B.

1990-11-01

Positron annihilation (lifetime, Doppler broadening) and Moessbauer studies on unirradiated, neutron irradiated and neutron irradiated plus annealed reactor pressure vessel steels (Soviet type 15Kh2NMFA) are presented. The role of microstructural properties and the formation of irradiation-induced precipitates is discussed. (orig.) [de

Study by the positron annihilation technique of Graft copolimerization of methyl methacrylate in polyethylene induced by gamma radiation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zaldivar Gonzalez, M.E.

1992-01-01

Radiation initiated grafting is a very broad field which has attracted considerable interest over the last two decades. Graft copolymers may combine suitable properties of two polymeric components. Radiation methods are particulary appropiate for the production of a large variety of graft copolymers having interesting properties. Ionizing radiation has provided a convenient and clean method to activate a sustrate polymer and undoubtedly, it has added impetus to this field of research. In the present work, graft polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) onto low density polyethylene (LDPE) was carried out. The effect of gamma ray irradiation dose on the grafting degree was investigated for two different methods: direct and preirradiation. The best method to prepare the copolymer for the LDPE film thickness studied: 0.05 and 0.2 mm., was direct method. In both polyethylene thickness, the grafting degree increased as a function of the reaction time. However, grafting for LDPE 0.2 mm. it is better, because the copolymer with that thickness conserve the main physical-chemistry properties of the LDPE along the different grafting degrees obtained, which it is important for practical purposes. Infrared spectroscopy was used to probe the changes ocurred in the LDPE structure with the graft of MMA, first spectrum showed typical bands for LDPE structure, while in the second spectrum new bands appeared which corresponded to PMMA structure grafted onto LDPE. Positron annihilation lifetime technique was applied to study the copolymer microstructure according to increase of grafting degree. O-PS lifetime and intensity tend to decrease. This behavior could be due to the diminution of free volume in the original LDPE matrix as grafting proceeds. Copolymer morphology was observed using optical microscopy (Author)

Optimized inspection techniques and structural analysis in lifetime management

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Aguado, M.T.; Marcelles, I.

1993-01-01

Preservation of the option of extending the service lifetime of a nuclear power plant beyond its normal design lifetime requires correct remaining lifetime management from the very beginning of plant operation. The methodology used in plant remaining lifetime management is essentially based on the use of standard inspections, surveillance and monitoring programs and calculations, such as thermal-stress and fracture mechanics analysis. The inspection techniques should be continuously optimized, in order to be able to detect and dimension existing defects with the highest possible degree of accuracy. The information obtained during the inspection is combined with the historical data of the components: design, quality, operation, maintenance, and transients, and with the results of destructive testing, fracture mechanics and thermal fatigue analysis. These data are used to estimate the remaining lifetime of nuclear power plant components, systems and structures with the highest degree possible of accuracy. The use of this methodology allows component repairs and replacements to be reduced or avoided and increases the safety levels and availability of the nuclear power plant. Use of this strategy avoids the need for heavy investments at the end of the licensing period

Positron annihilation studies of zirconia doped with metal cations of different valence

Science.gov (United States)

Prochazka, I.; Cizek, J.; Melikhova, O.; Konstantinova, T. E.; Danilenko, I. A.; Yashchishyn, I. A.; Anwand, W.; Brauer, G.

2013-06-01

New results obtained by applying positron annihilation spectroscopy to the investigation of zirconia-based nanomaterials doped with metal cations of different valence are reported. The slow-positron implantation spectroscopy combined with Doppler broadening measurements was employed to study the sintering of pressure-compacted nanopowders of tetragonal yttria-stabilised zirconia (t-YSZ) and t-YSZ with chromia additive. Positronium (Ps) formation in t-YSZ was proven by detecting 3γ-annihilations of ortho-Ps and was found to gradually decrease with increasing sintering temperature. A subsurface layer with enhanced 3γ-annihilations, compared to the deeper regions, could be identified. Addition of chromia was found to inhibit Ps formation. In addition, first results of positron lifetime measurements on nanopowders of zirconia phase-stabilised with MgO and CeO2 are presented.

Heating of galactic gas by dark matter annihilation in ultracompact minihalos

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Clark, Hamish A.; Iwanus, Nikolas; Lewis, Geraint F. [Sydney Institute for Astronomy, School of Physics A28, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006 (Australia); Elahi, Pascal J. [International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009 (Australia); Scott, Pat, E-mail: hamish.clark@sydney.edu.au, E-mail: nikolas.iwanus@sydney.edu.au, E-mail: pascal.elahi@uwa.edu.au, E-mail: geraint.lewis@sydney.edu.au, E-mail: p.scott@imperial.ac.uk [Department of Physics, Imperial College London, Blackett Laboratory, Prince Consort Road, London SW7 2AZ (United Kingdom)

2017-05-01

The existence of substructure in halos of annihilating dark matter would be expected to substantially boost the rate at which annihilation occurs. Ultracompact minihalos of dark matter (UCMHs) are one of the more extreme examples of this. The boosted annihilation can inject significant amounts of energy into the gas of a galaxy over its lifetime. Here we determine the impact of the boost factor from UCMH substructure on the heating of galactic gas in a Milky Way-type galaxy, by means of N-body simulation. If 1% of the dark matter exists as UCMHs, the corresponding boost factor can be of order 10{sup 5}. For reasonable values of the relevant parameters (annihilation cross section 3×10{sup −26} cm{sup 3} s{sup −1}, dark matter mass 100 GeV, 10% heating efficiency), we show that the presence of UCMHs at the 0.1% level would inject enough energy to eject significant amounts of gas from the halo, potentially preventing star formation within ∼1 kpc of the halo centre.

Detection of helium atoms in irradiated metals using positron annihilation radiation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Xu, Q.; Sato, K.; Yoshiie, T.; Ishizaki, T.; Nagata, S.

2007-01-01

Iron alloys are used widely in the nuclear industry. The production of He atoms induced by nuclear reaction increases with increasing neutron energy, and the interaction between He and defects becomes important in the fusion reactor. A new composition analysis method, coincidence Doppler broadening (CDB) of positron annihilation radiation, was employed to detect He atoms in ion irradiated Fe. The results of positron lifetime showed that the microvoids and voids were formed in ion irradiated Fe. The results of CDB measurement indicated that He atoms exited in the microvoids, and they exited in the microvoids even after annealing at 1223 K in ion irradiated Fe. CDB measurement, which is a nondestructive technique for testing materials, is an available method to detect He atoms. (authors)

Positron annihilation study on ZnO-based scintillating glasses

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Nie Jiaxiang [Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 20023 (China); Yu Runsheng; Wang Baoyi [Key Laboratory of Nuclear Analysis Techniques, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039 (China); Ou Yuwen [Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 20023 (China); Zhong Yurong [Key Laboratory of Nuclear Analysis Techniques, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039 (China); Xia Fang [School of Chemical Engineering, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005 (Australia); Chen Guorong, E-mail: grchen@ecust.edu.cn [Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 20023 (China)

2009-04-15

Positron lifetime of ZnO-based scintillating glasses (55 - x)SiO{sub 2}-45ZnO-xBaF{sub 2} (x = 5, 10, 15 mol%) were measured with a conventional fast-fast spectrometer. Three positron lifetime components {tau}{sub 1}, {tau}{sub 2}, and {tau}{sub 3} are {approx}0.23 ns, {approx}0.45 ns, and {approx}1.6 ns, respectively. All the three positron lifetime components first increase with increasing BaF{sub 2} concentration from 5 mol% to 10 mol%, then decreases as BaF{sub 2} further increases to 15 mol%. The result suggests that the glass sample with 10 mol% BaF{sub 2} contains the highest defect density, and is in excellent agreement with glass chemistry, glass density, thermal properties, and calculated crystallinity. Therefore, positron annihilation lifetime measurement is an effective tool for analyzing defects in ZnO-based scintillating glasses.

Development of positron annihilation spectroscopy to test accelerated weathering of protective polymer coatings

CERN Document Server

Zhang, R; Chen, H M; Mallon, P; Sandreczki, T C; Richardson, J R; Jean, Y C; Nielsen, B; Suzuki, R; Ohdaira, T

2000-01-01

A variable mono-energetic positron beam with a computer-controlled system has recently been constructed at the University of Missouri-Kansas City for weathering studies of polymeric coatings. The beam is designed to measure the S-parameter from Doppler-broadening energy spectra and the sub-nanometer defect properties from positron annihilation lifetimes (PAL). Significant variations of S-parameter and ortho-positronium intensity in coatings, as obtained from the newly built beam and from the Electrotechnical Laboratory's beam, respectively, are observed as a function of depth and exposure time due to the Xe-light irradiation. A high sensitivity of positron annihilation signal response to the early stage of degradation is observed. Development of positron annihilation spectroscopy to test accelerated weathering of polymeric coatings is discussed.

Positron annihilation study on Y-Ba-Cu-O high Tc superconductors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Balogh, A.G.; Liszkay, L.; Molnar, B.; Puff, W.

1987-08-01

First positron annihilation measurements are reported on high T c superconductor YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-x . The lifetime and Doppler broadening spectra show a slight but significant change about 240K suggesting a deviation from the normal structure far above 90K where the resistance falls to zero. (author)

Mesh adaptation technique for Fourier-domain fluorescence lifetime imaging

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Soloviev, Vadim Y.

2006-01-01

A novel adaptive mesh technique in the Fourier domain is introduced for problems in fluorescence lifetime imaging. A dynamical adaptation of the three-dimensional scheme based on the finite volume formulation reduces computational time and balances the ill-posed nature of the inverse problem. Light propagation in the medium is modeled by the telegraph equation, while the lifetime reconstruction algorithm is derived from the Fredholm integral equation of the first kind. Stability and computational efficiency of the method are demonstrated by image reconstruction of two spherical fluorescent objects embedded in a tissue phantom

Defect Characterization in Semiconductors with Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy

Science.gov (United States)

Tuomisto, Filip

Positron annihilation spectroscopy is an experimental technique that allows the selective detection of vacancy defects in semiconductors, providing a means to both identify and quantify them. This chapter gives an introduction to the principles of the positron annihilation techniques and then discusses the physics of some interesting observations on vacancy defects related to growth and doping of semiconductors. Illustrative examples are selected from studies performed in silicon, III-nitrides, and ZnO.

Positron annihilation study of the high-T{sub c} (Bi, Pb){sub 2}Sr{sub 2}Ca{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub x} superconductor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lim, H.J. [Utah Univ., Salt Lake City, UT (United States). Dept. of Metallurgical Engineering; Byrne, J.G. [Utah Univ., Salt Lake City, UT (United States). Dept. of Metallurgical Engineering

1997-03-01

Positron lifetime spectroscopy (PLS) and positron Doppler-broadening spectroscopy (PDBS) were applied to the high-T{sub c} lead-doped Bi{sub 2}Sr{sub 2}Ca{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub x} (BPSCCO 2223) superconductor as a function of temperature. Neither positron lifetimes nor Doppler parameters (S, W, and S/W) showed significant change through T{sub c}. This may result from having the highest positron density in the open BiO{sub 2} double layers and no significant positron density in the superconducting CuO{sub 2} layers where positrons, if mainly present, are known to be sensitive to the transition in other high-T{sub c} superconductors. Doppler parameters showed that the probability of positron annihilations with core electrons in the lattice slightly increased and that the probability of positron annihilations with conduction electrons slightly decreased as temperature decreased from ambient temperature to 20 K. The lifetime associated with positron annihilations in the perfect lattice of the sample ({tau}{sub 1}) was 209 ps and, due to the annihilations at internal surfaces or voids in the sample ({tau}{sub 2}) was about 540 ps, independent of temperature. Finally, the mean lifetime for BSCCO 2223 was about 307 ps. (orig.).

Surfaces of colloidal PbSe nanocrystals probed by thin-film positron annihilation spectroscopy

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

L. Chai

2013-08-01

Full Text Available Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy and positron-electron momentum density (PEMD studies on multilayers of PbSe nanocrystals (NCs, supported by transmission electron microscopy, show that positrons are strongly trapped at NC surfaces, where they provide insight into the surface composition and electronic structure of PbSe NCs. Our analysis indicates abundant annihilation of positrons with Se electrons at the NC surfaces and with O electrons of the oleic ligands bound to Pb ad-atoms at the NC surfaces, which demonstrates that positrons can be used as a sensitive probe to investigate the surface physics and chemistry of nanocrystals inside multilayers. Ab initio electronic structure calculations provide detailed insight in the valence and semi-core electron contributions to the positron-electron momentum density of PbSe. Both lifetime and PEMD are found to correlate with changes in the particle morphology characteristic of partial ligand removal.

Effect of water on glass transition in starch/sucrose matrices investigated through positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy: a new approach.

Science.gov (United States)

Sharma, Sandeep Kumar; Zaydouri, Abdelhadi; Roudaut, Gaëlle; Duplâtre, Gilles

2011-11-21

Glass transition is studied through positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) in maize starch matrices containing 10 (batch STS10) and 20 (STS20) w/w% sucrose, as a function of temperature (T) and water content (c(w)). To circumvent important losses of water upon heating while recording the PALS spectra, a new method is developed: instead of a series of measurements of τ(3), the triplet positronium lifetime, at different T, the latter is kept constant and the series relates to c(w), which is left to decrease at a constant rate. Similarly to the changes in τ(3) with T, the τ(3)vs. c(w) plots obtained show a smooth linear increase until a break, denoting the occurrence of glass transition, followed by a sharper increase. The gradients appear to be independent of T. The variation of the glass transition temperature, T(g), with c(w) shows a broad sigmoid with a large linear central part; as expected from the plasticising effect of sucrose, the plot for STS20 lies some 10 K below that for STS10. Results from differential scanning calorimetry for STS20 yield T(g) values some 15 K higher than from PALS. On the basis of the general shape of the τ(3)vs. T variations, a general equation is set for τ(3)(T, c(w)), leading one to expect a similar shape for τ(3)vs. c(w), as experimentally observed. This journal is © the Owner Societies 2011

Positron annihilation spectroscopy study on annealing effect of CuO nanoparticles

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shi, Jianjian; Wang, Jiaheng; Yang, Wei; Zhu, Zhejie; Wu, Yichu

2016-01-01

The microstructure and defects of CuO nanoparticles under isochronal annealing were investigated by positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). XRD and SEM results indicated that the average grain sizes of CuO nanoparticles grew slowly below 800 °C, and then increased rapidly with the annealing temperature from 800 to 1000 °C. Positron lifetime analysis exhibited that positrons were mainly annihilated in mono-vacancies (V Cu , V O ) and vacancy clusters when annealing from 200 to 800 °C. Furthermore, W-S plot of Doppler broadening spectra at different annealing temperatures found that the (W, S) points distributed on two different defect species, which suggested that V − Cu - V + O complexes were produced when the grains grew to bigger size after annealing above 800 °C, and positrons might annihilate at these complexes. (author)

Positron annihilation spectroscopy study on annealing effect of CuO nanoparticles

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Shi, Jianjian; Wang, Jiaheng; Yang, Wei; Zhu, Zhejie; Wu, Yichu, E-mail: ycwu@whu.edu.cn [School of Physics and Technology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Nuclear Solid State Physics, Wuhan University (WHU), Wuhan (China)

2016-03-15

The microstructure and defects of CuO nanoparticles under isochronal annealing were investigated by positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). XRD and SEM results indicated that the average grain sizes of CuO nanoparticles grew slowly below 800 °C, and then increased rapidly with the annealing temperature from 800 to 1000 °C. Positron lifetime analysis exhibited that positrons were mainly annihilated in mono-vacancies (V{sub Cu}, V{sub O}) and vacancy clusters when annealing from 200 to 800 °C. Furthermore, W-S plot of Doppler broadening spectra at different annealing temperatures found that the (W, S) points distributed on two different defect species, which suggested that V{sup −}{sub Cu} - V{sup +}{sub O} complexes were produced when the grains grew to bigger size after annealing above 800 °C, and positrons might annihilate at these complexes. (author)

Defects in Czochralski-grown silicon crystals investigated by positron annihilation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ikari, Atsushi; Kawakami, Kazuto; Haga, Hiroyo [Nippon Steel Corp., Sagamihara, Kanagawa (Japan). Electronics Research Labs.; Uedono, Akira; Wei, Long; Kawano, Takao; Tanigawa, Shoichiro

1994-10-01

Positron lifetime and Doppler broadening experiments were performed on Czochralski-grown silicon crystals. A monoenergetic positron beam was also used to measure the diffusion length of positrons in the wafer. From the measurements, it was observed that the value of diffusion length of positrons decreased at the region where microdefects were formed during the crystal growth process. It was also found that the line shape parameter S decreased and the lifetime of positrons increased at the region. These results can be attributed to the annihilation of positrons trapped by vacancy oxygen complexes which are formed in association with the microdefects. (author).

Defects investigation in neutron irradiated reactor steels by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Slugen, V.

2003-01-01

Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) based on positron lifetime measurements using the Pulsed Low Energy Positron System (PLEPS) was applied to the investigation of defects of irradiated and thermally treated reactor pressure vessel (RPV) steels. PLEPS results showed that the changes in microstructure of the RPV-steel properties caused by neutron irradiation and post-irradiation heat treatment can be well detected. From the lifetime measurements in the near-surface region (20-550 nm) the defect density in Russian types of RPV-steels was calculated using the diffusion trapping model. The post-irradiation heat treatment studies performed on non-irradiated specimens are also presented. (author)

Positron Annihilation Ratio Spectroscopy (PsARS) Applied to Positronium Formation Studies

Science.gov (United States)

2010-03-01

Positron Annihilation Ratio Spectroscopy (PsARS). These experimental techniques have been used for a variety of military and civilian applications ... POSITRON ANNIHILATION RATIO SPECTROSCOPY (PsARS) APPLIED TO POSITRONIUM FORMATION STUDIES THESIS...of Defense, or the United States Government. AFIT/GNE/ENP/10-M07 POSITRON ANNIHILATION RATIO SPECTROSCOPY

An investigation of hydrogenized amorphous Si structures with Doppler broadening positron annihilation techniques

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Petkov, M.P.; Marek, T.; Asoka-Kumar, P.; Lynn, K.G.; Crandall, R.S.; Mahan, A.H.

1998-01-01

In this letter, we examine the feasibility of applying positron annihilation spectroscopy to the study of hydrogenized amorphous silicon (a-Si:H)-based structures produced by chemical vapor deposition techniques. The positron probe, sensitive to open volume formations, is used to characterize neutral and negatively charged silicon dangling bonds, typical for undoped and n-doped a-Si:H, respectively. Using depth profiling along the growth direction a difference was observed in the electronic environment of these defects, which enables their identification in a p-i-n device. copyright 1998 American Institute of Physics

Positron annihilation in solids: positronium diffusion; Annihilation du positon dans les solides diffusion du positonium

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Paulin, R [Commissariat a l' Energie Atomique, Saclay (France). Centre d' Etudes Nucleaires

1969-04-01

The existence of two slow components in life-time spectrum of positron annihilation in silicium, aluminium and alkaline-earth oxides powders is established. These two long mean-lives {approx_equal} 10{sup -9} s and {approx_equal} 10{sup -7} s result from annihilation, inside and outside the grains respectively, of ortho-positronium formed in defects present in ionic crystals investigated. Dynamic behaviour of Ps, so revealed, is analyzed in terms of diffusion in excellent agreement with experiment. Diffusion constants of the order of 10{sup -4} cm{sup 2} sec{sup -1} and mean path before annihilation from 50 to 300 Angstrom are measured. From 100 to 500 K the temperature influence upon diffusion process is effective only in SiO{sub 2} where activation energy is found about 10{sup -2} eV. The p-Ps zero point energy evaluated by angular correlation gives the order of magnitude for defects dimensions and diffusion mean-time. Finally, o-Ps behaviour in space between grains, where its interaction with atmospheric gases can be only detected, is analysed. (author) [French] Nous mettons en evidence l'existence de deux composantes lentes dans le spectre de temps de vie du positon avant annihilation dans des poudres d'oxydes alcalinoterreux d'alumine et de silice. Ces deux longues vies moyennes {approx_equal} 10{sup -9} s et {approx_equal} 10{sup -7} s resultent respectivement de l'annihilation a l'interieur et a l'exterieur des grains de l'ortho-positonium forme dans certains defauts presents dans les cristaux ioniques etudies. L'analyse des proprietes dynamiques du Ps ainsi revelees, est effectuee en termes de diffusion en excellent accord avec l'experience. Des constantes de diffusion de l'ordre de 10{sup -4} cm{sup 2} sec{sup -1} et des parcours moyens avant annihilation variant de 50 a 300 Angstrom sont ainsi mesures. Entre 100 et 500 K l'influence de la temperature sur le processus de diffusion n'est sensible que dans SiO{sub 2} ou l'energie d'activation est trouvee

Characterization of advanced semiconductor materials by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Uedono, Akira; Suzuki, Ryoichi; Ohdaira, Toshiyuki; Ishibashi, Shoji

2005-01-01

Positron annihilation is an established technique for investigating vacancy-type defects near surfaces or interfaces. Using this technique, one can identify defect species in a nondestructive manner. Because there is no restriction of sample conductivity or temperature, this technique can be applied to a various materials, such as semiconductors, metals, metal oxides, and polymers. The positron annihilation has been applied to the studies of Si-technology related materials, which show that it can provide useful information for the development of semiconductor devices. In this article, we report the results obtained for electroplated Cu, strained Si and high-k materials. (author)

Constraining dark matter late-time energy injection: decays and p-wave annihilations

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Diamanti, Roberta; Mena, Olga; Palomares-Ruiz, Sergio; Vincent, Aaron C. [Instituto de Física Corpuscular (IFIC), CSIC-Universitat de València, Apartado de Correos 22085, E-46071 Valencia (Spain); Lopez-Honorez, Laura, E-mail: R.Diamanti@uva.nl, E-mail: llopezho@vub.ac.be, E-mail: omena@ific.uv.es, E-mail: sergio.palomares.ruiz@ific.uv.es, E-mail: vincent@ific.uv.es [Theoretische Natuurkunde Vrije Universiteit Brussel and The International Solvay Institutes Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels (Belgium)

2014-02-01

We use the latest cosmic microwave background (CMB) observations to provide updated constraints on the dark matter lifetime as well as on p-wave suppressed annihilation cross sections in the 1 MeV to 1 TeV mass range. In contrast to scenarios with an s-wave dominated annihilation cross section, which mainly affect the CMB close to the last scattering surface, signatures associated with these scenarios essentially appear at low redshifts (z∼<50) when structure began to form, and thus manifest at lower multipoles in the CMB power spectrum. We use data from Planck, WMAP9, SPT and ACT, as well as Lyman–α measurements of the matter temperature at z ∼ 4 to set a 95% confidence level lower bound on the dark matter lifetime of ∼ 4 × 10{sup 25} s for m{sub χ} = 100 MeV. This bound becomes lower by an order of magnitude at m{sub χ} = 1 TeV due to inefficient energy deposition into the intergalactic medium. We also show that structure formation can enhance the effect of p-wave suppressed annihilation cross sections by many orders of magnitude with respect to the background cosmological rate, although even with this enhancement, CMB constraints are not yet strong enough to reach the thermal relic value of the cross section.

Correlation of Gas Permeability in a Metal-Organic Framework MIL-101(Cr)-Polysulfone Mixed-Matrix Membrane with Free Volume Measurements by Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS).

Science.gov (United States)

Jeazet, Harold B Tanh; Koschine, Tönjes; Staudt, Claudia; Raetzke, Klaus; Janiak, Christoph

2013-10-25

Hydrothermally stable particles of the metal-organic framework MIL-101(Cr) were incorporated into a polysulfone (PSF) matrix to produce mixed-matrix or composite membranes with excellent dispersion of MIL-101 particles and good adhesion within the polymer matrix. Pure gas (O2, N2, CO2 and CH4) permeation tests showed a significant increase of gas permeabilities of the mixed-matrix membranes without any loss in selectivity. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) indicated that the increased gas permeability is due to the free volume in the PSF polymer and the added large free volume inside the MIL-101 particles. The trend of the gas transport properties of the composite membranes could be reproduced by a Maxwell model.

Two types of lamellar phase in TTAB/water/pentanol system as detected by positron lifetime spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Khani, P.H.; Yadav, R.; Singh, K.C.; Jain, P.C.

2004-01-01

Positron lifetime measurements were performed in TTAB(Tetradecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide)/water/pentanol ternary systems prepared by adding varying amounts of pentanol to different mother solutions of TTAB/water system having fixed TTAB concentrations. Besides delineating various phase boundaries as obtained by other conventional techniques, positron annihilation parameters were also found to be sensitive in detecting two kinds of lamellar structures in the otherwise considered to be a single liquid crystalline D phase of the system. The existence of such lamellar structures has been demonstrated by a change in the trend of o-Ps lifetime parameter when the system passes from one type of lamellar structure to the other type. The results of such a finding are presented in this paper. (orig.)

Positron annihilation and perturbed angular correlation studies of radiation damage

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhu Jiazheng; Li Anli; Xu Yongjun; Wang Zhiqiang; Zhou Dongmei; Zheng Yongnan; Zhu Shengyun; Iwata, T.

2002-01-01

The positron annihilation and perturbed angular correlation techniques have been employed to study radiation damage in Si and Nb. The results obtained by the positron annihilation are consistent with those given by the perturbed angular correlation

New approaches for a time- and position-resolved detector for positron annihilation spectroscopy at PLEPS

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ackermann, Ulrich; Egger, Werner; Sperr, Peter; Loewe, Benjamin; Ravelli, Luca; Koegel, Gottfried; Dollinger, Guenther [Universitaet der Bundeswehr Muenchen, LRT2 (Germany); Jagutzki, Ottmar [Universitaet Frankfurt, RoentDek GmbH (Germany)

2013-07-01

The pulsed low energy positron system PLEPS at NEPOMUC at the FRM II is a tool for depth resolved positron lifetime measurements. Besides positron lifetime measurements 2D-AMOC (two dimensional age momentum correlation) experiments are also possible. 2D-AMOC provides in coincidence the lifetime of the positron and the longitudinal momentum distribution of the annihilating electron. It would be of great scientific concern to measure simultaneously the entire 3D-momentum distribution of the annihilating electron and the corresponding lifetime of the positron (4D-AMOC). To perform 4D-AMOC measurements, a time and spatially resolving detector with a time resolution of about 100 ps (FWHM) and a spatial resolution of circa 2 mm over an area of about 12 cm{sup 2} is required in coincidence with a pixelated Ge-detector and currently under development at our institute. It is intended to use a MCP-based UV-light detector with two MCP-stages coupled to a BaF{sub 2} scintillator. To achieve the spatial resolution the centroid information of the photoelectron-cloud is detected with a position sensitive anode installed outside the housing of the MCP detector. As an alternative to a MCP-based detector, silicon photomultipliers are also envisaged.

Positron annihilation in the high-T/sub c/ superconductors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chakraborty, B.

1989-01-01

A model for positron annihilation in the high-T/sub c/ oxides is constructed based on the strongly correlated nature of the electrons in these systems. It is shown that the change in positron lifetime as a function of temperature in superconducting, nearly defect-free YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7 and La/sub 1.85/Sr/sub 0.15/CuO 4 can be understood on the basis of this model assuming that real hole-pair formation takes place in the superfluid state. The observed positron-lifetime changes in YBa 2 Cu 3 O/sub 7-//sub x/ as a function of x is also found to be consistent with this model

Positron annihilation study of formation of Mg vacancy in MgO

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mizuno, M.; Araki, H.; Shirai, Y.; Inoue, Y.; Sugita, K.; Mizoguchi, T.; Tanaka, I.; Adachi, H.

2004-01-01

We have investigated the formation of Mg vacancy induced by ultra-dilute trivalent impurities in MgO by a combination of positron annihilation measurement and theoretical calculations of positron lifetimes. The undoped MgO yields the shortest positron lifetime of 130 ps that is shorter than that of 166 ps previously reported using a single crystal sample. The positron lifetime of the doped samples increases with the increase of the Al or Ga dopant concentration and is saturated at around 170 ps. This result indicates that the previously reported value of 166 ps is ascribed to not the bulk but the vacancy state induced by impurities. The experimental bulk lifetime of 130 ps, which is obtained by employing trapping model, is well reproduced by the theoretical calculation using the semiconductor model. The calculated defect lifetime is about 20 ps longer than the experimental value. This may be due to the lattice relaxation around Mg vacancy associated with the trapping of positrons. (orig.)

Positron annihilation study of formation of Mg vacancy in MgO

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mizuno, M.; Araki, H.; Shirai, Y. [Science and Technology Center for Atoms, Molecules and Ions Control, Osaka Univ., Osaka (Japan); Inoue, Y.; Sugita, K. [Dept. of Materials Science and Engineering, Osaka Univ., Osaka (Japan); Mizoguchi, T.; Tanaka, I.; Adachi, H. [Dept. of Materials Science and Engineering, Kyoto Univ., Kyoto (Japan)

2004-07-01

We have investigated the formation of Mg vacancy induced by ultra-dilute trivalent impurities in MgO by a combination of positron annihilation measurement and theoretical calculations of positron lifetimes. The undoped MgO yields the shortest positron lifetime of 130 ps that is shorter than that of 166 ps previously reported using a single crystal sample. The positron lifetime of the doped samples increases with the increase of the Al or Ga dopant concentration and is saturated at around 170 ps. This result indicates that the previously reported value of 166 ps is ascribed to not the bulk but the vacancy state induced by impurities. The experimental bulk lifetime of 130 ps, which is obtained by employing trapping model, is well reproduced by the theoretical calculation using the semiconductor model. The calculated defect lifetime is about 20 ps longer than the experimental value. This may be due to the lattice relaxation around Mg vacancy associated with the trapping of positrons. (orig.)

Positron annihilation and thermally stimulated current of electron beam irradiated polyetheretherketone

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Fujita, Shigetaka; Shinyama, Katsuyoshi; Baba, Makoto [Hachinohe Inst. of Tech., Hachinohe, Aomori (Japan); Suzuki, Takenori

1997-03-01

Positron lifetime measurements were applied to electron beam irradiated poly(ether-ether-ketone). The lifetime, {tau}{sub 3}, of the ortho-positronium of unirradiated and 5 MGy irradiated specimen became rapidly longer above about 150degC. {tau}{sub 3} of 50 MGy and 100 MGy irradiated specimen was shorter than that of unirradiated one. Thermally stimulated current (TSC) decreased with increasing the dose before voltage application. In the case of voltage application, a TSC peak appeared and the peak value decreased with increased the dose. The correlation between the results of positron annihilation and TSC was investigated. (author)

Dislocation dipole annihilation in diamond and silicon

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rabier, J; Pizzagalli, L, E-mail: jacques.rabier@univ-poitiers.fr [Institut PPRIMME, Departement de Physique et Mecanique des Materiaux - UPR 3346 CNRS, Universite de Poitiers, ENSMA - SP2MI, BP 30179, F-86962 Chasseneuil Futuroscope Cedex (France)

2011-02-01

The mechanism of dislocation dipole annihilation has been investigated in C and Si using atomistic calculations with the aim of studying their annihilation by-products. It is shown, in C as well as in Si, that dipole annihilation yields debris that can be depicted as a cluster of vacancies, or alternately by two internal free surfaces. These defects have no strain field and can hardly be seen using usual TEM techniques. This suggests that the brown colouration of diamond could be due to microstructures resulting from deformation mechanisms associated with dipole formation and their annihilation rather than to a climb mechanism and vacancy aggregation. In silicon where a number of dipoles have been evidenced by TEM when dislocation trails are found, such debris could be the missing link responsible for the observation of strong chemical reactivity and electrical activity in the wake of moving dislocations.

Moisture dependence of positron annihilation spectra in nylon-6

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Singh, J.J.; Clair, T.L.S.; Holt, W.H.; Mock, W. Jr.

1984-01-01

Positron annihilation time spectra have been measured in nylon-6 specimens as a function of their moisture content. The measured average longlife component lifetime values are: 1722 +- 47 ps (dry), 1676 +- 40 ps (14.6% saturation value), 1718 +- 26 ps (29.3% saturation value), 1720 +- 35 ps (50% of saturation value), 1857 +- 35 ps (78.1% of saturation value) and 1936 +- 57 ps (saturated). It is noted that the longlife component lifetime at first decreases and then increases with increasing moisture content in the specimens. This behavior is quite different from that observed in earlier studies of various epoxy, polyamide, and polyimide materials, where the longlife component lifetime decreased linearly with increasing moisture content. The longlife component intensity on the other hand, decreases steadily as the moisture content increases from 0 to 100% of the saturation value. A possible explanation for these anomalous features is discussed. (orig.)

Moisture dependence of positron annihilation rates in molecular substances

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Singh, J.J.; Holt, W.H.

1982-01-01

Positron annihilation rates have been studied in polymers and graphite-polymer composites as a function of their moisture content. The annihilation rates have been found to increase linearly with increasing moisture content in epoxies and polyamides, whereas no definite trends have been observed in polyimides. These experimental results have been used as the basis for the calculation of moisture content of several polymeric test specimens. For example, the directly measured moisture content of a Kevlar specimen was 45.5 + or - 5.0% of saturation value, whereas the moisture content on the basis of the decrease in positron lifetime was calculated to be 46.5 + or - 3.5%. Similarly, the directly measured moisture content of a graphite-epoxy composite (55 v/o fiber) was 19.2 + or - 0.6% of saturation value as opposed to a calculated value of 16.0 + or - 5.0%

Positron annihilation study of YBa2Cu3Oy superconductors doped with SnO2

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chen, A.; Zhi, Y.; Li Biaorong; Wang Shaojie

1992-01-01

The positron annihilation lifetime spectra of YBa 2 Cu 3 O y superconductors doped with SnO 2 were measured. The results indicate that the tin element substitutes for Cu(1) sites. A brief discussion is given based on the experimental results. (orig.)

Positron annihilation in a high-temperature superconductor YBa2Cu3O7-δ

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vavryshchuk, Ya.; Levandovski, M.; Rybakov, V.N.; Yutlandov, I.A.

1988-01-01

Positron annihilation as a function of temperature in high-temperature superconductors YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-δ has been investigated. It is shown that a change in the annihilation capacity at the transition into superconducting state is relatively small. The change of r 1 and r 2 positron lifetimes as well as of the intensity of the component with r 2 -J 2 and Doppler broadening S parameter allows one to assume that transition into superconducting state is accompanied with a certain decrease in electron density and with decreasing number of defects or increasing size of crystalline net

Positron annihilation study of graphite, glassy carbon and C60/C70 fullerene

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hasegawa, Masayuki; Kajino, Masahiro; Yamaguchi, Sadae; Iwata, Tadao; Kuramoto, Eiichi; Takenaka, Minoru.

1992-01-01

ACAR (Angular Correlation of Annihilation Radiation) and positron lifetime measurements have been made on, HOPG (Highly Oriented Pyrolytic Graphite), isotropic fine-grained graphite, glassy carbons and C 60 /C 70 powder. HOPG showed marked bimodality along the c-axis and anisotropy in ACAR momentum distribution, which stem from characteristic annihilation between 'interlayer' positrons and π-electrons in graphite. ACAR curves of the isotropic graphite and glassy carbons are even narrower than that of HOPG perpendicular to the c-axis. Positron lifetime of 420 and 390 - 480 psec, much longer than that of 221 psec in HOPG, were observed for the isotropic graphite and glassy carbons respectively, which are due to positron trapping in structural voids in them. Positron lifetime and ACAR width (FWHM) can be well correlated to void sizes (1.7 to 5.0 nm) of glassy carbons which have been determined by small angle neutron (SAN) scattering measurements. ACAR curves and positron lifetime of C 60 /C 70 powder agree well with those of glassy carbons. This shows that positron wave functions extend, as in the voids of glassy carbons, much wider than open spaces of the octahedral interstices of the face-centered cubic (FCC) structure of C 60 crystal and strongly suggests positron trapping in the 'soccer ball' vacancy. Possible positron states in the carbon materials are discussed with a simple model of void volume-trapping. Preliminary results on neutron irradiation damage in HOPG are also presented. (author)

Annihilation of positronium atoms confined in mesoporous and macroporous SiO2 films

Science.gov (United States)

Cooper, B. S.; Boilot, J.-P.; Corbel, C.; Guillemot, F.; Gurung, L.; Liszkay, L.; Cassidy, D. B.

2018-05-01

We report experiments in which positronium (Ps) atoms were created in thin, porous silica films containing isolated voids with diameters ranging from 5 to 75 nm. Ps lifetimes in the pore structures were measured directly via time-delayed laser excitation of 13S1→23PJ transitions. In a film containing 5-nm pores Ps was predominantly emitted into vacuum, with a small component of confined Ps with a lifetime of 75 ns also observed. In films with larger pores Ps atoms were not emitted into vacuum except from the film surface, and confined Ps lifetimes of ≈90 ns were measured with no dependence on the pore size. However, for such large pores, extended Tao-Eldrup (ETE)-type models predict Ps lifetimes close to the 142-ns vacuum value. Moreover, 13S1→23PJ excitation of Ps atoms inside the pores was found to result in annihilation and exhibited an extremely broad (≈10 THz) linewidth. We attribute these observations to a process in which nonthermal Ps atoms in the isolated voids become temporarily trapped in a series of surface states that dissociate following excitation. The occurrence of this mechanism is not necessarily apparent from ground-state Ps decay rates without some prior knowledge of the sample structure, and it precludes the application of ETE-type models as they do not take into account surface interactions other than pickoff annihilation.

A positron annihilation study on the hydration of cement pastes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Consolati, G.; Quasso, F.

2007-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy experiments were carried out in various ordinary Portland cement pastes, in an attempt to monitor the porosity of the pastes. It is found that positronium intensity is well correlated to the time evolution of the total porosity and it is influenced by the water-to-cement ratio. This parameter is also sensitive to the delayed hydration process induced by adding methanol to the water-cement mixture

Positron annihilation in solids: positronium diffusion; Annihilation du positon dans les solides diffusion du positonium

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Paulin, R. [Commissariat a l' Energie Atomique, Saclay (France). Centre d' Etudes Nucleaires

1969-04-01

The existence of two slow components in life-time spectrum of positron annihilation in silicium, aluminium and alkaline-earth oxides powders is established. These two long mean-lives {approx_equal} 10{sup -9} s and {approx_equal} 10{sup -7} s result from annihilation, inside and outside the grains respectively, of ortho-positronium formed in defects present in ionic crystals investigated. Dynamic behaviour of Ps, so revealed, is analyzed in terms of diffusion in excellent agreement with experiment. Diffusion constants of the order of 10{sup -4} cm{sup 2} sec{sup -1} and mean path before annihilation from 50 to 300 Angstrom are measured. From 100 to 500 K the temperature influence upon diffusion process is effective only in SiO{sub 2} where activation energy is found about 10{sup -2} eV. The p-Ps zero point energy evaluated by angular correlation gives the order of magnitude for defects dimensions and diffusion mean-time. Finally, o-Ps behaviour in space between grains, where its interaction with atmospheric gases can be only detected, is analysed. (author) [French] Nous mettons en evidence l'existence de deux composantes lentes dans le spectre de temps de vie du positon avant annihilation dans des poudres d'oxydes alcalinoterreux d'alumine et de silice. Ces deux longues vies moyennes {approx_equal} 10{sup -9} s et {approx_equal} 10{sup -7} s resultent respectivement de l'annihilation a l'interieur et a l'exterieur des grains de l'ortho-positonium forme dans certains defauts presents dans les cristaux ioniques etudies. L'analyse des proprietes dynamiques du Ps ainsi revelees, est effectuee en termes de diffusion en excellent accord avec l'experience. Des constantes de diffusion de l'ordre de 10{sup -4} cm{sup 2} sec{sup -1} et des parcours moyens avant annihilation variant de 50 a 300 Angstrom sont ainsi mesures. Entre 100 et 500 K l'influence de la temperature sur le processus de diffusion n'est sensible

Polymerization of epoxy resins studied by positron annihilation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Suzuki, T. [Radiation Science Center, High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK), Tsukuba (Japan); Hayashi, T. [Fine Chemical Research Lab., Sumitomo Chemical, Tsukuba (Japan); Ito, Y. [Research Center for Nuclear Science and Technology, Univ. of Tokyo (Japan)

2001-04-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) has been applied to study polymerization of epoxy resins of cresole novolac with a hardener of phenol novolac. PALS uses positrons to probe the microstructure of a nanometer (nm) size. Using PALS polymerization can be followed through three states: powder (monomer), liquid and solid. PALS is a unique method for the detection of intermolecular spaces, hence polymerization was followed from the point of view of free spaces (inter-molecular spaces) between polymer networks. The glass transition temperature (T{sub g}) was determined from the temperature dependence of the positronium (Ps) lifetime. Although Tg determined by PALS is usually lower than that determined by a mechanical analysis (TMA), it was observed that T{sub g} approached the value determined by TMA after long curing. Ps can form bubbles in a liquid, and the surface tension of a mixture of the resin and the hardener was calculated from a simple empirical formula using the Ps lifetime; the resulting value is similar to that of the bisphenol-A epoxy resin. Gelation was observed as an increase in the intensity of Ps and a sharp decrease in the lifetime. (orig.)

A direct-measurement technique for estimating discharge-chamber lifetime. [for ion thrusters

Science.gov (United States)

Beattie, J. R.; Garvin, H. L.

1982-01-01

The use of short-term measurement techniques for predicting the wearout of ion thrusters resulting from sputter-erosion damage is investigated. The laminar-thin-film technique is found to provide high precision erosion-rate data, although the erosion rates are generally substantially higher than those found during long-term erosion tests, so that the results must be interpreted in a relative sense. A technique for obtaining absolute measurements is developed using a masked-substrate arrangement. This new technique provides a means for estimating the lifetimes of critical discharge-chamber components based on direct measurements of sputter-erosion depths obtained during short-duration (approximately 1 hr) tests. Results obtained using the direct-measurement technique are shown to agree with sputter-erosion depths calculated for the plasma conditions of the test. The direct-measurement approach is found to be applicable to both mercury and argon discharge-plasma environments and will be useful for estimating the lifetimes of inert gas and extended performance mercury ion thrusters currently under development.

Positron annihilation spectroscopy of vacancy aggregates in neutron-irradiated MgO crystals

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pareja, R.; De La Cruz, R.M.; Gonzalez, R.; Chen, Y.; Department of Energy, Washington, DC

1992-01-01

Positron annihilation measurements in neutron-irradiated MgO crystals show that the positron lifetime is shorter than in as-grown crystals, suggesting that most of the defects produced by neutron irradiations are positively charged. The concentration of the neutral anion vacancy (possibly also the neutral anion divacancy) is estimated to be no more than ∼ 10 16 cm -3 for samples irradiated to a dose of 10 17 to 10 19 n cm -2 . Annealing experiments on the neutron-irradiated crystals show a significant increase in the positron lifetime after anneals at 900 K. The increase is attributed to positron trapping by anion-vacancy aggregates. A lifetime of (284±15)ps is tentatively assigned to positrons trapped in these aggregates. (Author)

Evidence for charge transfer in Bi-based superconductors studied by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tang, Z.; Wang, S.J.; Gao, X.H.; Ce, G.C.; Zhao, Z.X.

1993-01-01

We have measured Doppler-broadening annihilation radiation (DBAR) spectra and positron lifetimes in normal and superconducting states for three kinds of Bi-based superconductors: Bi2212, Pb-doped Bi2223, Pb- and F-doped Bi2223. The difference spectra after deconvolution between two states show a sharpening effect with increasing temperature; the F-doped sample has the greatest amplitude in difference spectra but nearly the same positron lifetimes as the Pb-doped sample. The results are interpreted in terms of charge transfer between the Cu-O and Bi-O planes. The role of oxygen defects in charge transfer is discussed. (orig.)

Defect identification in semiconductors with positron annihilation: experiment and theory

Science.gov (United States)

Tuomisto, Filip

2015-03-01

Positron annihilation spectroscopy is a very powerful technique for the detection, identification and quantification of vacancy-type defects in semiconductors. In the past decades, it has been used to reveal the relationship between opto-electronic properties and specific defects in a wide variety of materials - examples include parasitic yellow luminescence in GaN, dominant acceptor defects in ZnO and broad-band absorption causing brown coloration in natural diamond. In typical binary compound semiconductors, the selective sensitivity of the technique is rather strongly limited to cation vacancies that possess significant open volume and suitable charge (negative of neutral). On the other hand, oxygen vacancies in oxide semiconductors are a widely debated topic. The properties attributed to oxygen vacancies include the inherent n-type conduction, poor p-type dopability, coloration (absorption), deep level luminescence and non-radiative recombination, while the only direct experimental evidence of their existence has been obtained on the crystal surface. We will present recent advances in combining state-of-the-art positron annihilation experiments and ab initio computational approaches. The latter can be used to model both the positron lifetime and the electron-positron momentum distribution - quantities that can be directly compared with experimental results. We have applied these methods to study vacancy-type defects in III-nitride semiconductors (GaN, AlN, InN) and oxides such as ZnO, SnO2, In2O3andGa2O3. We will show that cation-vacancy-related defects are important compensating centers in all these materials when they are n-type. In addition, we will show that anion (N, O) vacancies can be detected when they appear as complexes with cation vacancies.

Positron annihilation and Wheeler complexes in semiconductors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Prokop'ev, E.P.

1995-01-01

Properties of Ps-Ex (positron-exciton) complex nature Wheeler complexes that may be formed at irradiation of semiconductors and ion crystals by positrons at low temperature under conditions of optical excitation by excitons are studied. Binding energy of similar and more complex systems regarding decomposition in Ps and Ex and/or Ex ± exceeds, at least, 0.1 eV, while lifetime regarding biquantum-self-annihilation constitutes τ 2γ ∼5.02x10 - 10 κ c 3 c (κ c -phenomenological parameter of the effective mass method). The lifetime estimations enabled to conclude that Ps-Ex complexes may be detected in some oxide semiconductors, in zinc sulfide, as well as, in alkaline-haloid crystals. At the same time, in silicon, gallium arsenide and in other semiconductors of A 3 B 5 and A 2 B 6 it is highly improbable to observe these complexes. 27 refs

Pore Topology Effects in Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy of Zeolites.

Science.gov (United States)

Zubiaga, Asier; Warringham, Robbie; Mitchell, Sharon; Gerchow, Lars; Cooke, David; Crivelli, Paolo; Pérez-Ramírez, Javier

2017-03-03

Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) is a powerful method to study the size and connectivity of pores in zeolites. The lifetime of positronium within the host material is commonly described by the Tao-Eldrup model. However, one of its largest limitations arises from the simple geometries considered for the shape of the pores, which cannot describe accurately the complex topologies in zeolites. Here, an atomic model that combines the Tao potential with the crystallographic structure is introduced to calculate the distribution and lifetime of Ps intrinsic to a given framework. A parametrization of the model is undertaken for a set of widely applied zeolite framework types (*BEA, FAU, FER, MFI, MOR, UTL), before extending the model to all known structures. The results are compared to structural and topological descriptors, and to the Tao-Eldrup model adapted for zeolites, demonstrating the intricate dependence of the lifetime on the pore architecture. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Moisture dependence of positron annihilation rates in molecular substances

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Singh, J.J.; Holt, W.H.; Mock, W. Jr.

1982-01-01

Positron annihilation rates have been studied in polymers and graphite-polymer composites as a function of their moisture content. The annihilation rates have been found to increase linearly with increasing moisture content in epoxies and polyamides, whereas no definite trends have been observed in the polymides. These experimental results have been used as the basis for the calculation of moisture content of several polymeric test specimens. For example, the directly measured moisture content of a Kevlar/epoxy specimen (55 v/o fiber) was 45.5 +- 5.0% of saturation value, whereas the moisture content on the basis of the decrease in positron lifetime was calculated to be 46.5 +- 3.5%. Similarly, the directly measured moisture content of a graphite/epoxy composite (55 v/o fiber) was 19.2 +- 0.6% of saturation value as opposed to a calculated value of 16.0 +- 5.0%. (orig.)

The Correlation Between Dislocations and Vacancy Defects Using Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy

Science.gov (United States)

Pang, Jinbiao; Li, Hui; Zhou, Kai; Wang, Zhu

2012-07-01

An analysis program for positron annihilation lifetime spectra is only applicable to isolated defects, but is of no use in the presence of defective correlations. Such limitations have long caused problems for positron researchers in their studies of complicated defective systems. In order to solve this problem, we aim to take a semiconductor material, for example, to achieve a credible average lifetime of single crystal silicon under plastic deformation at different temperatures using positron life time spectroscopy. By establishing reasonable positron trapping models with defective correlations and sorting out four lifetime components with multiple parameters, as well as their respective intensities, information is obtained on the positron trapping centers, such as the positron trapping rates of defects, the density of the dislocation lines and correlation between the dislocation lines, and the vacancy defects, by fitting with the average lifetime with the aid of Matlab software. These results give strong grounds for the existence of dislocation-vacancy correlation in plastically deformed silicon, and lay a theoretical foundation for the analysis of positron lifetime spectra when the positron trapping model involves dislocation-related defects.

Correlation of Gas Permeability in a Metal-Organic Framework MIL-101(Cr)–Polysulfone Mixed-Matrix Membrane with Free Volume Measurements by Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS)

Science.gov (United States)

Jeazet, Harold B. Tanh; Koschine, Tönjes; Staudt, Claudia; Raetzke, Klaus; Janiak, Christoph

2013-01-01

Hydrothermally stable particles of the metal-organic framework MIL-101(Cr) were incorporated into a polysulfone (PSF) matrix to produce mixed-matrix or composite membranes with excellent dispersion of MIL-101 particles and good adhesion within the polymer matrix. Pure gas (O2, N2, CO2 and CH4) permeation tests showed a significant increase of gas permeabilities of the mixed-matrix membranes without any loss in selectivity. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) indicated that the increased gas permeability is due to the free volume in the PSF polymer and the added large free volume inside the MIL-101 particles. The trend of the gas transport properties of the composite membranes could be reproduced by a Maxwell model. PMID:24957061

Solid-state amorphization in the Ni-Zr system investigated by positron lifetime spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bernal, M.J.; De La Cruz, R.M.; Leguey, T.; Pareja, R.; Riveiro, J.M.

1995-01-01

The process of mechanical alloying and amorphization of Ni-Zr powders is investigated by positron lifetime spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry. The short-lived component of the lifetime spectra is composition and milling-time dependent. The second lifetime component, found during the initial stages of the milling process, appears to be due to annihilation from states trapped at crystalline interface joints. The results indicate that the solid-state reactions induced by ball milling involve the transformation and disappearance of the crystalline interface joints in the powder particles. (orig.)

Some aspects of free volume studies in molecular substances using positron annihilation experiments

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shantarovich, V.P.; Gustov, V.W.; Kevdina, I.B.; Suzuki, T.; Djourelov, N.; Shimazu, A.

2005-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy is accepted now as a method for the studies of elementary free volumes (free volume holes) in solids, in polymers in particular. The aim of this paper is to discuss some problems, the difficulties on the way of this application and to illustrate them by several examples obtained by the authors. (author)

Nanoporosity studies of novel catalysts through positronium annihilation

Science.gov (United States)

Félix, M. V.; Rodríguez-Rojas, R. A.; Castañeda-Contreras, J.; Nava, R.; Consolati, G.; Castaño, V. M.

2006-10-01

Eight novel hybrid silica gel-succinic acid-zinc acetate samples were analyzed through Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy in order to study average free volume quantities and free volume distributions. The aim of this work was to understand the type of porosity within these species and its relationship with surface textural properties (tested by the BET method) and catalytic activity. We found a noticeable dependence of o-Ps lifetimes on the nature of each modifier agent (succinic acid, Zn acetate, succinic acid-Zn acetate) fixed on the surface of SiO 2 and SiO 2-Al 2O 3 particles. We observed the trend of the Zinc acetate to create mesopores among silica particles, while succinic acid acts as a positronium quencher and a nanoporosity performer. Long o-Ps lifetimes were decomposed into two components accounting for the existence of interparticle and intraparticle holes, however discrepancies beyond elementary facts between the BET method measurements and our positronium calculations were found. A discussion of the kind of open spaces analysis necessary to fully understand the porosity in these hybrid materials is also presented.

Time-Domain Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Techniques Suitable for Solid-State Imaging Sensor Arrays

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Robert K. Henderson

2012-05-01

Full Text Available We have successfully demonstrated video-rate CMOS single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD-based cameras for fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM by applying innovative FLIM algorithms. We also review and compare several time-domain techniques and solid-state FLIM systems, and adapt the proposed algorithms for massive CMOS SPAD-based arrays and hardware implementations. The theoretical error equations are derived and their performances are demonstrated on the data obtained from 0.13 μm CMOS SPAD arrays and the multiple-decay data obtained from scanning PMT systems. In vivo two photon fluorescence lifetime imaging data of FITC-albumin labeled vasculature of a P22 rat carcinosarcoma (BD9 rat window chamber are used to test how different algorithms perform on bi-decay data. The proposed techniques are capable of producing lifetime images with enough contrast.

Positron annihilation in thermally quenched YBa2Cu3O7-x

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hong Zhang; Xiao-Gang Wang; Yao-Xian Fu

1988-01-01

Trapping effects related directly with the oxygen vacancy in YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-x are studied by the aid of positron lifetime and positron annihilation Doppler energy spectra of a thermally quenched sample. Results indicate that the trapping center is linearly related with the oxygen vacancy. Vacancies are ordered in the orthorhombic phase and disordered in the tetragonal phase on the Cu-O plane

Positron annihilation studies on high temperature superconductors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sundar, C.S.; Bharathi, A.

1996-01-01

A survey of the positron annihilation studies on high temperature superconductors (HTSC), with results drawn mainly from our work, is presented. These include results of the studies on the temperature dependence of positron lifetime across T c , which have been carried out in the whole gamut of oxide superconductors. These experimental results are discussed in conjunction with the results of theoretically calculated positron density distribution, and it is shown that the observed temperature dependence of lifetime is intimately linked to the probing of the Cu-O network by the positrons. Results on the investigation of oxygen defects, which play a crucial role in HTSC, are presented. The most significant contribution of positrons to HTSC relates to the investigation of Fermi surface and the results of these studies, drawn from literature, are indicated. Some of our recent results in other novel superconducting materials, viz., the fullerenes and borocarbides are also presented. (author). 69 refs., 15 figs

Studying the gelation process of titanium isopropoxide by method of positron annihilation spectroscopy; Studium procesu gelacie izopropoxidu titaniciteho metodou pozitronovej anihilacnej spektroskopie

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Nyblova, D.; Jesenak, K. [Univerzita Komenskeho, Prirodovedecka fakulta, Katedra anorganickej chemie, 84215 Bratislava (Slovakia); Sausa, O. [Slovenska akademia vied, Fyzikalny ustav, 84511 Bratislava (Slovakia)

2013-04-16

Thank to its harmlessness titanium dioxide is widely utilized material. One of the new areas to use titanium dioxide is photocatalysis, which could be the way to e.g. remove organic pollutants from water or air. Titanium dioxide based gels are perspective form of TiO{sub 2} for photocatalysis because of their high porosity thus high surface area. Positron annihilation spectroscopy is a physical method to study microporous structure and electron energy distribution in materials. We studied gelation process of titanium isopropoxide in ethanol with various amount of water catalyzed by hydrochloric acid by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy and doppler broadening of annihilation line in this work. Positronium is weakly formed in TiO{sub 2} in general wherefore it cannot be monitored by positron annihilation spectroscopy very well. Gelation process can be monitored through pick-off annihilation of ortho-positronium. (authors)

Positron annihilation in some barium borate glasses containing transition metal oxides

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Usmar, S.G.; Rawson, H.; West, R.N.

1982-01-01

Results of positron lifetime and angular correlation measurements for the glass series xMsub(s)Osub(r):(1-x)(0.4BaO:0.6B 2 O 3 ) are presented (Msub(s)Osub(r) equivalent to V 2 O 5 ;Fe 2 O 3 and CuO). All glasses exhibit two or three component lifetime spectra, tau 1 approximately 200 ps; tau 2 approximately 300-400 ps and tau 3 approximately 780 ps. tau 1 is attributed to a mixture of pPs and bulk state annihilation, tau 2 to a trapped or bound state and tau 3 to oPs pick-off. Supporting evidence for these assignments is found in the angular correlation results. (Auth.)

Study of radiation damage in ODS steels by positron annihilation spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bartošová, I; Bouhaddane, A; Slugeň, V; Dománková, M; Wall, D; Selim, F A

2016-01-01

Microstructure of various oxide-dispersion-strengthened (ODS) steels with 15% chromium content was studied in term of vacancy defects presence and their accumulation after defined irradiation treatment, respectively. Studied materials originated from Kyoto University and studied via IAEA collaborative project. Samples were characterized “as received” by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy and their microstructure was examined by transmission electron microscopy as well. Samples were afterwards irradiated in Washington State University Nuclear Radiation Center via a strong gamma source (6TBq). Damage induced by gamma irradiation was evaluated by positron lifetime measurements in emphasis on defect accumulation in the materials. We have demonstrated strong defect production induced by gamma irradiation which results from positron measurement data. (paper)

Temperature dependence of positron lifetime in ordered porous silica (SBA-3)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kunishige, S.; Koshimizu, M.; Asai, K.

2009-01-01

The temperature dependence of positron lifetime in uniform mesopores was analyzed. We used SBA-3 as the sample material, which possesses an ordered porous structure with uniform cylindrical mesopores. The positron lifetime corresponding to the annihilation in the mesopores increased gradually with a decrease in temperature down to 100 K, and its relative intensity also increased concomitantly. This result was attributed to the lower probability of the escape of the ortho-positronium (o-Ps) from the mesopores into the intergrain space at lower temperatures. An anomalous and sudden increase in the lifetime was observed at around 100 K; this result was in agreement with an increase in the positron lifetime reported in a previous study. It was revealed that the increase in the lifetime is very steep in cases of uniform mesopores, suggesting that the temperature dependence is influenced by the pore size.

Positron annihilation spectroscopic studies of solvothermally synthesized ZnO nanobipyramids and nanoparticles

Science.gov (United States)

Ghoshal, Tandra; Biswas, Subhajit; Kar, Soumitra; Chaudhuri, Subhadra; Nambissan, P. M. G.

2008-02-01

Zinc oxide (ZnO) samples in the form of hexagonal-based bipyramids and particles of nanometer dimensions were synthesized through solvothermal route and characterized by x-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. Positron annihilation experiments were performed to study the structural defects such as vacancies and surfaces in these nanosystems. From coincidence Doppler broadening measurements, the positron trapping sites were identified as Zn vacancies or Zn-O-Zn trivacancy clusters. The positron lifetimes, their relative intensities, and the Doppler broadened lineshape parameter S all showed characteristic changes across the nanobipyramid size corresponding to the thermal diffusion length of positrons. In large nanobipyramids, vacancies within the crystallites also trapped positrons and the effects of agglomeration of such vacancies due to increased temperatures of synthesis were reflected in the variation of the annihilation parameters with their base diameters. The sizes of the nanoparticles used were all in the limit of thermal diffusion length of positrons and the annihilation characteristics were in accordance with the decreasing contribution from surfaces with increasing particle size.

Analysis of positron lifetime spectra using quantified maximum entropy and a general linear filter

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shukla, A.; Peter, M.; Hoffmann, L.

1993-01-01

Two new approaches are used to analyze positron annihilation lifetime spectra. A general linear filter is designed to filter the noise from lifetime data. The quantified maximum entropy method is used to solve the inverse problem of finding the lifetimes and intensities present in data. We determine optimal values of parameters needed for fitting using Bayesian methods. Estimates of errors are provided. We present results on simulated and experimental data with extensive tests to show the utility of this method and compare it with other existing methods. (orig.)

Lifetime measurements

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fossan, D.B.; Warburton, E.K.

1974-01-01

Lifetime measurements are discussed, concentrating on the electronic technique, the recoil distance method (RDM), and the Doppler shift attenuation method (DSAM). A brief review of several indirect timing techniques is given, and their specific advantages and applicability are considered. The relationship between lifetimes of nuclear states and the nuclear structure information obtained from them is examined. A short discussion of channeling and microwave methods of lifetime measurement is presented. (23 figures, 171 references) (U.S.)

Modified positron annihilation model for glassy-like As2Se3

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kozdras, A.; Shpotyuk, O.; Kovalskiy, A.; Filipecki, J.

2005-01-01

An approach to structural characterization of chalcogenide glasses based on the study of void distribution is discussed. The results of positron annihilation lifetime spectra measurements for glassy As 2 Se 3 are compared with nano-void distribution data obtained from Monte Carlo simulation. In this consideration perspectives to involve the parameters of nano-voids calculated from the first sharp diffraction peak in the frame work of known Elliott's model are analyzed. (author)

Finite-size effects on band structure of CdS nanocrystallites studied by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kar, Soumitra; Biswas, Subhajit; Chaudhuri, Subhadra; Nambissan, P.M.G.

2005-01-01

Quantum confinement effects in nanocrystalline CdS were studied using positrons as spectroscopic probes to explore the defect characteristics. The lifetime of positrons annihilating at the vacancy clusters on nanocrystalline grain surfaces increased remarkably consequent to the onset of such finite-size effects. The Doppler broadened line shape was also found to reflect rather sensitively such distinct changes in the electron momentum redistribution scanned by the positrons, owing to the widening of the band gap. The nanocrystalline sizes of the samples used were confirmed from x-ray diffraction and high resolution transmission electron microscopy and the optical absorption results supported the quantum size effects. Positron annihilation results indicated distinct qualitative changes between CdS nanorods and the bulk sample, notwithstanding the identical x-ray diffraction pattern and close resemblance of the optical absorption spectra. The results are promising in the event of positron annihilation being proved to be a very successful tool for the study of such finite-size effects in semiconductor nanoparticles

Structural-relaxation phenomena in As–S glasses as probed by combined PAL/DBAR technique

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Shpotyuk, O., E-mail: shpotyuk@novas.lviv.ua [Institute of Materials of Scientific Research Company “Carat”, 202 Stryjska Str., Lviv, 79031 (Ukraine); Institute of Physics of Jan Dlugosz University, 13/15 al. Armii Krajowej, Czestochowa, 42200 (Poland); Ingram, A. [Faculty of Physics of Opole Technical University, 75 Ozimska Str., Opole, 45370 (Poland); Szatanik, R. [Institute of Physics of Opole University, 48 Oleska Str., Opole, 45052 (Poland); Shpotyuk, M. [Institute of Materials of Scientific Research Company “Carat”, 202 Stryjska Str., Lviv, 79031 (Ukraine); Lviv Polytechnic National University, 12 Bandery Str., Lviv, 79013 (Ukraine); Golovchak, R. [Physics and Astronomy Department, Austin Peay State University, 601 College Str., Clarksville, TN, 37044 (United States)

2015-04-01

Experimental techniques exploring phenomena of positron–electron interaction, namely the positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy and Doppler broadening of annihilation radiation, are shown to be very informative tools to study radiation- and thermally-induced phenomena in chalcogenide glasses of binary As–S system. Time-dependent processes of free-volume voids agglomeration (expansion), fragmentation (refining) and disappearing (contraction) are identified as main stages of physical aging in S-rich glasses, while a competitive channel of coordination topological defects formation associated with void charging becomes significant in a vicinity of near-stoichiometric glass compositions under γ-irradiation. The data of combined positron lifetime and Doppler broadening of annihilation radiation measurements are correlated with radiation-induced shift of fundamental optical absorption edge of the studied glasses. The meaningful model for γ-induced and relaxation-driven evolution in free-volume void structure of As–S glasses giving a unified insight on their structural-chemical nature is proposed. - Highlights: • Combined optical, PAL and DBAR probes to study structural relaxation in As–S glasses. • Void agglomeration, fragmentation and disappearing are main stages of physical aging. • Radiation-induced coordination defects are important in near-stoichiometric As–S. • Proposed model describes free-volume evolution in the void structure of As–S glasses.

Structural-relaxation phenomena in As–S glasses as probed by combined PAL/DBAR technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shpotyuk, O.; Ingram, A.; Szatanik, R.; Shpotyuk, M.; Golovchak, R.

2015-01-01

Experimental techniques exploring phenomena of positron–electron interaction, namely the positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy and Doppler broadening of annihilation radiation, are shown to be very informative tools to study radiation- and thermally-induced phenomena in chalcogenide glasses of binary As–S system. Time-dependent processes of free-volume voids agglomeration (expansion), fragmentation (refining) and disappearing (contraction) are identified as main stages of physical aging in S-rich glasses, while a competitive channel of coordination topological defects formation associated with void charging becomes significant in a vicinity of near-stoichiometric glass compositions under γ-irradiation. The data of combined positron lifetime and Doppler broadening of annihilation radiation measurements are correlated with radiation-induced shift of fundamental optical absorption edge of the studied glasses. The meaningful model for γ-induced and relaxation-driven evolution in free-volume void structure of As–S glasses giving a unified insight on their structural-chemical nature is proposed. - Highlights: • Combined optical, PAL and DBAR probes to study structural relaxation in As–S glasses. • Void agglomeration, fragmentation and disappearing are main stages of physical aging. • Radiation-induced coordination defects are important in near-stoichiometric As–S. • Proposed model describes free-volume evolution in the void structure of As–S glasses

Neutron mean annihilation time and inverse of the mean annihilation rate in nuclear reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hayashi, Masatoshi

1999-01-01

There is a dogma in nuclear reactor theory that in a critical reactor the mean annihilation time of neutron is equal to the mean generation time. The author insists that this is a dogma from the basic reexamination of the mean annihilation time of neutron. There are two kinds of neutrons, one participating in chain reactions and the other not participating in chain reactions. The mean annihilation time of neutron is the mean time of the time to annihilation of all neutrons generated in the reactor. The 'prompt neutron life' as a dynamic characteristic parameter proper to nuclear reactor can not be understood as the mean time of neutron to annihilation. The author explains the logic quantitatively with two kinds of nuclear reactors, a bare reactor and an infinite reactor, for which two different mean neutron annihilation times can be defined. Thus, (1) the inverse of the annihilation rate can not simply be considered as the mean annihilation time, (2) the mean annihilation time of a critical reactor is not necessarily equal to the mean generation time, and (3) the prompt neutron life used as a dynamic characteristic parameter of a nuclear reactor can not be understood as the mean time of neutron to annihilation. (M.M.)

Positron annihilation and 129Xe NMR studies of free volume in polymers

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nagasaka, Bunsow; Eguchi, Taro; Nakayama, Hirokazu; Nakamura, Nobuo; Ito, Yasuo

2000-01-01

The existence and the average size of free volume in bisphenol-A polycarbonate (PC), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), poly (2,6-dimethyl-phenylene oxide)(PPO), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) were studied by positron annihilation and 129 Xe NMR measurements. The 129 Xe NMR chemical shifts for xenon adsorbed in the polymers indicated that the average pore size of the free volume increased in the following order: PC, LDPE, PPO, and PTFE. This order of the pore size of the free volume agrees well with that estimated from the longest lifetime (τ 3 ) of ortho-positronium formed in the polymers. The unique correlation that δ -1 ∝ r is established between the 129 Xe NMR chemical shift (δ) and the pore size (r), which is deduced from the positron annihilation measurements.

Digital positron annihilation spectrometer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cheng Bin; Weng Huimin; Han Rongdian; Ye Bangjiao

2010-01-01

With the high speed development of digital signal process, the technique of the digitization and processing of signals was applied in the domain of a broad class of nuclear technique. The development of digital positron lifetime spectrometer (DPLS) is more promising than the conventional positron lifetime spectrometer equipped with nuclear instrument modules. And digital lifetime spectrometer has many advantages, such as low noise, long term stability, flexible online or offline digital processing, simple setup, low expense, easy to setting, and more physical information. Digital constant fraction discrimination is for timing. And a new method of optimizing energy windows setting for digital positron lifetime spectrometer is also developed employing the simulated annealing for the convenient use. The time resolution is 220ps and the count rate is 200cps. (authors)

Diffusion and localization of o-Ps in Dsub(2)O determined from positron annihilation in SDS micellar solutions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vass, Sz.; Kajcsos, Zs.; Molnar, B.

1985-04-01

A microscopic diffusion model is presented for the determination of orthopositronium (o-Ps) lifetime in micellar solutions. Among other parameters, the lifetime density function depends on the o-Ps diffusion coefficient in the water phase. Orthopositronium diffusion coefficients are determined by fitting this lifetime density function to positron annihilation spectra obtained from 1 mol/dmsup(3) solution of sodium dodecylsulphate (SDS) in Dsub(2)O at different temperatures. The activation energy of the o-Ps diffusion in Dsub(2)O obtained from the Arrhenius-plot as Esub(a)=(0.9sub(22)+-0.1sub(03)) eV indicates strong localization. (author)

Positron annihilation studies on reactor irradiated and thermal annealed ferrocene

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Marques Netto, A.; Carvalho, R.S.; Magalhaes, W.F.; Sinisterra, R.D.

1996-01-01

Retention and thermal annealing following (n, γ) reaction in solid ferrocene, Fe(C 5 H 5 ) 2 , were studied by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PAL). Positronium (Ps) formation was observed in the non-irradiated compound with a probability or intensity (I 3 ) of 30%. Upon irradiation of the compound with thermal neutrons in a nuclear reactor, I 3 decreases with increasing irradiation time. Thermal treatment again increases I 3 values from 16% to 25%, revealing an important proportion of molecular reformation without variation of the ortho-positronium lifetime (τ 3 ). These results point out the major influence of the electronic structure as determining the Ps yields in the pure complex. In the irradiated and non irradiated complexes the results are satisfactorily explained on the basis of the spur model. (orig.)

A positron lifetime study of properties of light particles in liquids

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jacobsen, F.M.

1981-04-01

The positron lifetime technique has been used for studying the behaviour of the three light particles: the positron, positronium (Ps) (a bound state of an electron and positron), and excess electron in non-polar liquids. A brief introduction to the subject and a short description of the experimental techniques are given. Further, the principles of the data analyses are discussed in some detail. Positron lifetime measurements have been performed on the liquids: SF 6 , neopentane, hexane, and two viscoelastic organic liquids. The experiments have been performed as function of temperature, e.g., from just above the melting point to above the critical point in the cases of liquid SF 6 and neopentane. In all of the liquids the experimental results show that Ps is formed. The analyses of the lifetime spectra show that the Ps yields as well as the state of Ps in these liquids change with temperature. A detailed discussion of the state of Ps in liquids is given. The present results can be explained fairly well in terms of the Ps bubble model. In liquid SF 6 the experimental results strongly indicate that ortho-Ps can annihilate from two different states. The longest-lived ortho-Ps state seems to be similar to that observed in most liquids while the shortest-lived state seems not to have been observed in any other liquids before. A detailed discussion of the measured Ps yield in liquid neopentane and hexane is given. The Ps yield is interpreted by means of the positron spur model. (author)

Cosmological and astrophysical signatures of dark matter annihilations into pseudo-Goldstone bosons

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Garcia-Cely, Camilo; Ibarra, Alejandro; Molinaro, Emiliano, E-mail: camilo.garcia@tum.de, E-mail: alejandro.ibarra@ph.tum.de, E-mail: emiliano.molinaro@tum.de [Physik-Department T30d, Technische Universität München, James-Franck-Straße, Garching, 85748 (Germany)

2014-02-01

We investigate a model where the dark matter particle is a chiral fermion field charged under a global U(1) symmetry which is assumed to be spontaneously broken, leading to a pseudo-Goldstone boson (PGB). We argue that the dark matter annihilation into PGBs determine the dark matter relic abundance. Besides, we also note that experimental searches for PGBs allow either for a very long lived PGB, with a lifetime much longer than the age of the Universe, or a relatively short lived PGB, with a lifetime shorter than one minute. Hence, two different scenarios arise, producing very different signatures. In the long lived PGB scenario, the PGB might contribute significantly to the radiation energy density of the Universe. On the other hand, in the short lived PGB scenario, and since the decay length is shorter than one parsec, the s-wave annihilation into a PGB and a CP even dark scalar in the Galactic center might lead to an intense box feature in the gamma-ray energy spectrum, provided the PGB decay branching ratio into two photons is sizable. We also analyze the constraints on these two scenarios from thermal production, the Higgs invisible decay width and direct dark matter searches.

Quantitative positron annihilation studies in citrates, halides and oxyhalides chemisorbed on γ-alumina catalyst

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Luo, X.H.; Jean, Y.C.; Cheng, K.L.

1987-01-01

A quantitative study of the γ-alumina catalyst chemisorbed by nitrates, halides, and oxyhalides has been conducted with the positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS). Catalysts containing Fe, Co, or Ni have been extensively used in chemical industry and petroleum refining. The positron or Ps annihilation can provide a profile information about the bulk, near surface, and void. It is an in-situ surface technique. The PAS technique has shown its capability to determine the nitrate or chloride in γ-alumina as low as 0.02% in solids. It is interesting to note that the PAS may offer the oxidation state information in solids. This is not surprising because the positron annihilation is sensitive to the electron density variation in environments. Positron annihilation models for halides and oxyhalides are proposed

Theory of the temperature dependence of positron bulk lifetimes-implications for vacancy formation enthalpy measurements via positron experiments

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tam, S.W.; Sinha, S.K.; Siegel, R.W.

1977-02-01

Temperature dependent effects, which may have a bearing on determinations of vacancy formation enthalpies in metals by positron annihilation, have been observed in certain metals. These effects have been observed to occur both at temperatures below those at which positron annihilation is most sensitive to equilibrium vacancies and at temperatures well within the vacancy-sensitive region. The effect of thermal lattice displacements on positron lifetimes in metals was investigated to help understand these phenomena

Positron annihilation in a metal-oxide semiconductor studied by using a pulsed monoenergetic positron beam

Science.gov (United States)

Uedono, A.; Wei, L.; Tanigawa, S.; Suzuki, R.; Ohgaki, H.; Mikado, T.; Ohji, Y.

1993-12-01

The positron annihilation in a metal-oxide semiconductor was studied by using a pulsed monoenergetic positron beam. Lifetime spectra of positrons were measured as a function of incident positron energy for a polycrystalline Si(100 nm)/SiO2(400 nm)/Si specimen. Applying a gate voltage between the polycrystalline Si film and the Si substrate, positrons implanted into the specimen were accumulated at the SiO2/Si interface. From the measurements, it was found that the annihilation probability of ortho-positronium (ortho-Ps) drastically decreased at the SiO2/Si interface. The observed inhibition of the Ps formation was attributed to an interaction between positrons and defects at the SiO2/Si interface.

Spectroscopic, Elemental and Thermal Analysis, and Positron Annihilation Studies on Ca(II), Sr(II), Ba(II), Pb(II), and Fe(III) Penicillin G Potassium Complexes

Science.gov (United States)

Refat, M. S.; Sharshara, T.

2015-11-01

The [Pb(Pin)2] · 3H2O, [M(Pin)(H2O)2(Cl)] · nH2O (M = SrII, CaII or BaII; n = 0-1), and [Fe(Pin)2(Cl)(H2O)] · H2O penicillin G potassium (Pin) complexes were synthesized and characterized using elemental analyses, molar conductivity, thermal analysis and electronic spectroscopy techniques. The positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) and Doppler broadening (DB) techniques have been employed to probe the defects and structural changes of Pin ligand and its complexes. The PAL and DB line-shape parameters were discussed in terms of the structure, molecular weight, ligand-metal molar ratio, and other properties of the Pin complexes.

Systematics in positron annihilation lifetime analysis of high Tc superconducting transitions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Howell, R.H.; Radousky, H.B.; Wachs, A.L.; Fluss, M.J.; Turchi, P.E.A.; Jean, Y.C.; Sunder, C.S.; Chu, C.W.; Peng, J.L.; Folkerts, T.J.; Shelton, R.N.; Hinks, D.G.

1989-01-01

Values of the positron lifetime have previously been observed to change with temperature below T c in high T c superconducting oxides. The authors report new measurements on Ba .6 K .4 Bio 3 and Nd 1.85 Ce .15 CuO 4

Temperature variations of average o-Ps lifetime in porous media

CERN Document Server

Goworek, T; Jasinska, B; Wawryszczuk, J

2000-01-01

Modification of the Tao-Eldrup model is proposed in order to extend its usefulness to the case of porous media. The modification consists in the transition from spherical to capillary geometry and in inclusion of pick-off annihilation from the excited states of a particle in the well. Approximated equations for pick-off constant in these states are given. The model was tested by observing the temperature dependences of o-Ps lifetime in various media. In the case of silica gels and Vycor glass with narrow pores, the model seems to work well, while for larger pores in Vycor unexpectedly long lifetimes appear in the range of lowest temperatures.

Positron annihilation in transparent ceramics

Science.gov (United States)

Husband, P.; Bartošová, I.; Slugeň, V.; Selim, F. A.

2016-01-01

Transparent ceramics are emerging as excellent candidates for many photonic applications including laser, scintillation and illumination. However achieving perfect transparency is essential in these applications and requires high technology processing and complete understanding for the ceramic microstructure and its effect on the optical properties. Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) is the perfect tool to study porosity and defects. It has been applied to investigate many ceramic structures; and transparent ceramics field may be greatly advanced by applying PAS. In this work positron lifetime (PLT) measurements were carried out in parallel with optical studies on yttrium aluminum garnet transparent ceramics in order to gain an understanding for their structure at the atomic level and its effect on the transparency and light scattering. The study confirmed that PAS can provide useful information on their microstructure and guide the technology of manufacturing and advancing transparent ceramics.

Positron annihilation in transparent ceramics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Husband, P; Selim, F A; Bartošová, I; Slugeň, V

2016-01-01

Transparent ceramics are emerging as excellent candidates for many photonic applications including laser, scintillation and illumination. However achieving perfect transparency is essential in these applications and requires high technology processing and complete understanding for the ceramic microstructure and its effect on the optical properties. Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) is the perfect tool to study porosity and defects. It has been applied to investigate many ceramic structures; and transparent ceramics field may be greatly advanced by applying PAS. In this work positron lifetime (PLT) measurements were carried out in parallel with optical studies on yttrium aluminum garnet transparent ceramics in order to gain an understanding for their structure at the atomic level and its effect on the transparency and light scattering. The study confirmed that PAS can provide useful information on their microstructure and guide the technology of manufacturing and advancing transparent ceramics. (paper)

Radiation damage analysis by positron annihilation spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Siegel, R.W.

1982-01-01

Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) has in recent years become a valuable new tool for investigating defects in metals. The ability of the positron to localize in a trapped state at various defect sites, in which the positron annihilates with unique characteristics, has enabled the positron to be used as a localized probe of these defect sites. Several reviews of the application of PAS to the study of defects in metals have been published, as have more general treatises on the applications of positron annihilation to the study of solids. PAS has made, and has considerably greater potential for, a significant contribution to radiation damage analysis in two areas of importance: (1) the determination of atomic-defect properties, a knowledge of which is necessary for the modeling required to couple the results of model experiments using electron and ion irradiation with the expected irradiation conditions of reactor systems, and (2) the monitoring and characterization of irradiation-induced microstructure development. A unique aspect of PAS for radiation damage analysis is the defect specificity of the annihilation characteristics of a trapped positron. In addition to its value as an independent analytical tool, PAS can be a useful complement to more traditional techniques for defect studies

Characterization of vacancy defects in Cu(In,GaSe2 by positron annihilation spectroscopy

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

M. R. M. Elsharkawy

2016-12-01

Full Text Available The photovoltaic performance of Cu(In1-x,GaxSe2 (CIGS materials is commonly assumed to be degraded by the presence of vacancy-related defects. However, experimental identification of specific vacancy defects remains challenging. In this work we report positron lifetime measurements on CIGS crystals with x = 0, and x = 0.05, saturation trapping to two dominant vacancy defect types, in both types of crystal, is observed and found to be independent of temperature between 15–300 K. Atomic superposition method calculations of the positron lifetimes for a range of vacancy defects in CIS and CGS are reported. The calculated lifetimes support the assignment of the first experimental lifetime component to monovacancy or divacancy defects, and the second to trivacancies, or possibly the large In-Se divacancy. Further, the calculated positron parameters obtained here provide evidence that positron annihilation spectroscopy has the capability to identify specific vacancy-related defects in the Cu(In1-x,GaxSe2 chalcogenides.

Temperature dependence of positron lifetime in the two-mixed-phase Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O superconductor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhang, D.M.; Tang, C.Q.; Gen, T.; Li, G.Y.

1993-01-01

As compared with the YBaCuO(123) system, the studies of positron annihilation performed for other cuprate superconductors, specifically for the BiSrCaCuO and TlBaCa.CuO systems, are very few. Thus further study of positron annihilation in BiSrCaCuO and TlBaCaCuO systems is necessary. In this note, we report the results of the temperature dependence of positron lifetime parameters in the two-mixed-phase system BiSrCaCuO and discuss the results. (orig.)

Application of positron annihilation line-shape analysis to fatigue damage for nuclear plant materials

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maeda, N.; Uchida, M.; Ohta, Y.; Yoshida, K.

1996-01-01

Positron annihilation line-shape analysis is sufficiently sensitive to detect microstructural defects such as vacancies and dislocations. We are developing a portable positron annihilation system and applying this technique to fatigue damage in type 316 stainless steel and SA508 low alloy steel. The positron annihilation technique was found to be sensitive in the early fatigue life, i.e. up to 10% of the fatigue life, but showed little sensitivity in later stages of the fatigue life in type 316 stainless steel and SA508 low alloy steel. Type 316 stainless steel a higher positron annihilation sensitivity than that of SA508. It was considered that the amount of dislocation density change in the stainless steel was greater than that in the low alloy steel, because the initial microstructure contained a low dislocation density because of the solution heat treatment for the type 316 stainless steel. (orig.)

Electron Beam Polarization Measurement Using Touschek Lifetime Technique

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sun, Changchun; /Duke U., DFELL; Li, Jingyi; /Duke U., DFELL; Mikhailov, Stepan; /Duke U., DFELL; Popov, Victor; /Duke U., DFELL; Wu, Wenzhong; /Duke U., DFELL; Wu, Ying; /Duke U., DFELL; Chao, Alex; /SLAC; Xu, Hong-liang; /Hefei, NSRL; Zhang, Jian-feng; /Hefei, NSRL

2012-08-24

Electron beam loss due to intra-beam scattering, the Touschek effect, in a storage ring depends on the electron beam polarization. The polarization of an electron beam can be determined from the difference in the Touschek lifetime compared with an unpolarized beam. In this paper, we report on a systematic experimental procedure recently developed at Duke FEL laboratory to study the radiative polarization of a stored electron beam. Using this technique, we have successfully observed the radiative polarization build-up of an electron beam in the Duke storage ring, and determined the equilibrium degree of polarization and the time constant of the polarization build-up process.

Ortho-positronium annihilation parameters in polyvinyl alcohol films with various degrees of polymerization, saponification and crystallinity

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Muramatsu, Hisakazu; Matsumoto, Kuniyuki; Minekawa, Sachiko; Yagi, Yukiko; Sasai, Shigenori

2001-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) spectroscopy has been applied to polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) films prepared with commercially available PVA or from polyvinyl acetate (PVac). The variation of lifetimes of ortho-positronium (o-Ps) formed in the films was investigated as a function of the degrees of polymerization, saponification, or crystallinity. For the fully saponificated samples, no dependence was found to exist on the degrees of polymerization or of crystallinity. For the partially saponificated samples, however, the dependence of the o-Ps lifetime on the degree of saponification was clearly observed, and this is explained by both the formation of hydrogen bonds among the polymer chains and the existence of acetyl group strongly inhibiting the hydrogen-bond formation due to steric hindrance. (orig.)

Defect recovery in proton irradiated Ti-modified stainless steel probed by positron annihilation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Arunkumar, J.; Abhaya, S.; Rajaraman, R.; Amarendra, G. [Materials Science Division, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, Tamilnadu 603102 (India); Nair, K.G.M. [Materials Science Division, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, Tamilnadu 603102 (India)], E-mail: kgmn@igcar.gov.in; Sundar, C.S.; Raj, Baldev [Materials Science Division, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, Tamilnadu 603102 (India)

2009-02-28

The defect recovery in proton irradiated Ti-modified D9 steel has been studied by positron annihilation isochronal and isothermal annealing measurements. D9 samples have been irradiated with 3 MeV protons followed by isochronal annealing at various temperatures in the range of 323 to 1273 K. The dramatic decrease in positron annihilation parameters, viz. positron lifetime and Doppler S-parameter, around 500 K indicates the recovery of vacancy-defects. A clear difference in the recovery beyond 700 K is observed between solution annealed and cold worked state of D9 steel due to the precipitation of TiC in the latter. Isothermal annealing studies have been carried out at the temperature wherein vacancies distinctly migrate. Assuming a singly activated process for defect annealing, the effective activation energy for vacancy migration is estimated to be 1.13 {+-} 0.08 eV.

Nuclear lifetime measurement

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Guillaume, Georges

Three direct techniques of lifetime measurement are emphasized: electronic methods and two methods based on the Doppler effect (the recoil distance methods or RDM, the Doppler shift attenuation methods or DSAM). Said direct methods are concerned with the direct measurement of the radioactive decay constants of nuclear excited states. They allow lifetimes of nucleus bound states whose deexcitations occur by electromagnetic transitions, to be determined. Other methods for measuring lifetimes are also examined: microwave techniques and those involving the blocking effect in crystals (direct methods) and also various indirect methods of obtaining lifetimes (γ resonance scattering, capture reactions, inelastic electron and nucleus scattering, and Coulomb deexcitation) [fr

Measurements of heavy quark and lepton lifetimes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jaros, J.A.

1985-02-01

The PEP/PETRA energy range has proved to be well-suited for the study of the lifetimes of hadrons containing the b and c quarks and the tau lepton for several reasons. First, these states comprise a large fraction of the total interaction rate in e + e - annihilation and can be cleanly identified. Second, the storage rings have operated at high luminosity and so produced these exotic states copiously. And finally, thanks to the interplay of the Fermi coupling strength, the quark and lepton masses, and the beam energy, the expected decay lengths are in the 1/2 mm range and so are comparatively easy to measure. This pleasant coincidence of cleanly identified and abundant signal with potentially large effects has made possible the first measurements of two fundamental weak couplings, tau → nu/sub tau/W and b → cW. These measurements have provided a sharp test of the standard model and allowed, for the first time, the full determination of the magnitudes of the quark mixing matrix. This paper reviews the lifetime studies made at PEP during the past year. It begins with a brief review of the three detectors, DELCO, MAC and MARK II, which have reported lifetime measurements. Next it discusses two new measurements of the tau lifetime, and briefly reviews a measurement of the D 0 lifetime. Finally, it turns to measurements of the B lifetime, which are discussed in some detail. 18 references, 14 figures, 1 table

Increased Elemental Specificity of Positron Annihilation Spectra

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Asoka-Kumar, P.; Alatalo, M.; Ghosh, V.J.; Kruseman, A.C.; Nielsen, B.; Lynn, K.G.

1996-01-01

Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) is a sensitive probe for studying the electronic structure of defects in solids. We show that the high-momentum part of the Doppler-broadened annihilation spectra can be used to distinguish different elements. This is achieved by using a new two-detector coincidence system to examine the line shape variations originating from high-momentum core electrons. Because the core electrons retain their atomic character even when atoms form a solid, these results can be directly compared to simple theoretical predictions. The new approach adds increased elemental specificity to the PAS technique, and is useful in studying the elemental variations around a defect site. copyright 1996 The American Physical Society

Positron annihilation studies in CeNiIn and LaNiIn

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ray, R.; Giri, S.; Sen, M.; Nambissan, P.M.G.; Ghoshray, K.; Ghoshray, A.; Sen, P.

1997-01-01

Doppler broadened positron annihilation spectral lineshape (DBPAS) and positron lifetime measurements in the temperature range 18-280 K have been performed in CeNiIn and LaNiIn systems. The nature of the temperature variations of the lifetime in both systems is almost similar in the whole temperature range studied, whereas the nature of the temperature variation of the S parameter in CeNiIn is similar to that in LaNiIn except in the temperature region 18-40 K. For the former system there is a dip around 20 K in the S parameter versus temperature curve. The lifetime versus T curve in both systems could be explained by the thermal expansion of the lattice. The S parameter versus T curve in LaNiIn could also be attributed to the thermal expansion of the lattice, whereas in CeNiIn the above mentioned dip seems an extra feature of the thermal expansion of the lattice. To understand this low temperature behaviour other results on the same system have been discussed. (orig.)

On the Correlation between EPR and Positron Annihilation Measurements on gamma-Irradiated Acetyl Methionine

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Eldrup, Morten Mostgaard; Lund-Thomsen, E.; Mogensen, O. E.

1972-01-01

The dose dependence of the relative EPR signal intensity and positron lifetime spectrum was measured for γ‐irradiated acetyl methionine in the dose range from 0 to 30 Mrad. Angular correlation measurements were performed for the doses 0 and 30 Mrad. The result of the irradiation was the creation...... of EPR centers and inhibition of positronium formation. For one sample, irradiated with a dose of 30 Mrad, EPR and positron lifetime spectra were followed over a period of 50 days after the irradiation. The inhibiting effect and the EPR signal intensity decreased with time. No simple correlation could...... be established between the number of EPR centers and the positron annihilation data, but other possible explanations are discussed....

Antideuteron annihilation on nuclei

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cugnon, J.

1992-01-01

An investigation of antideuteron annihilation on nuclei within an intranuclear cascade (INC) model is presented. Two models are set up to describe the annihilation itself, which either implies the antideuteron as a whole and occurs at a single point, or which may be considered as two independent nucleon-antinucleon annihilation occurring at different points and different times. Particular attention is paid to the energy transferred from the pions issued from the annihilation to the nuclear system and to the possibility of having a multifragmentation of the target. The latter feature is investigated within a percolation model. The pion distribution and the energy distribution are also discussed. Predictions of proton multiplicity distributions are compared with experiment. (orig.)

A study on oxygen-deficient YBa2Cu3O7-δ superconductors by positron lifetime spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhang Jincang; Liu Fengqi; Liu Junzheng; Cao Shixun; Cheng Guosheng

1995-01-01

Positron lifetime spectroscopy has been used for studying various oxygen-deficient YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7 - δ (δ = 0.06-0.68) at normal state (300 K) and Superconducting state (77 K). Using the two-state trapping model, the experimental results were analysed and there exists a typical positron annihilation characteristics in this systems. The local electron density n e and vacancy concentration C v are calculated as a function of oxygen-deficiency δ. The mechanism of positron annihilation and the correlation with superconductivity are also discussed

Positron deep level transient spectroscopy — a new application of positron annihilation to semiconductor physics

Science.gov (United States)

Beling, C. D.; Fung, S.; Au, H. L.; Ling, C. C.; Reddy, C. V.; Deng, A. H.; Panda, B. K.

1997-05-01

Recent positron mobility and lifetime measurements made on ac-biased metal on semi-insulating GaAs junctions, which have identified the native EL2 defect through a determination of the characteristic ionization energy of the donor level, are reviewed. It is shown that these measurements point towards a new spectroscopy, tentatively named positron-DLTS (deep level transient spectroscopy), that is the direct complement to conventional DLTS in that it monitors transients in the electric field of the depletion region rather than the inversely related depletion width, as deep levels undergo ionization. In this new spectroscopy, which may be applied to doped material by use of a suitable positron beam, electric field transients are monitored through the Doppler shift of the annihilation radiation resulting from the drift velocity of the positron in the depletion region. Two useful extensions of the new spectroscopy beyond conventional capacitance-DLTS are suggested. The first is that in some instances information on the microstructure of the defect causing the deep level may be inferred from the sensitivity of the positron to vacancy defects of negative and neutral charge states. The second is that the positron annihilation technique is intrinsically much faster than conventional DLTS with the capability of observing transients some 10 6 times faster, thus allowing deep levels (and even shallow levels) to be investigated without problems associated with carrier freeze-out.

Electron irradiation-induced defects in ZnO studied by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chen, Z.Q.; Maekawa, M.; Kawasuso, A.; Sakai, S.; Naramoto, H.

2006-01-01

ZnO crystals were subjected to 3 MeV electron irradiation up to a high dose of 5.5x10 18 cm -2 . The production and recovery of vacancy defects were studied by positron annihilation spectroscopy. The increase of positron lifetime and Doppler broadening S parameter after irradiation indicates introduction of V Zn related defects. Most of these vacancies are annealed at temperatures below 200 o C. However, after annealing at around 400 o C, secondary defects are produced. All the vacancy defects are annealed out at around 700 o C

Lifetime of heavy hypernuclei and its implications on the weak LAMBDA N interaction

CERN Document Server

Cassing, W; Kamys, B; Kulessa, P; Niewodniczanski, H; Ohm, H; Pysz, K; Rudy, Z; Schult, O W B; Ströher, H

2003-01-01

The lifetime of the LAMBDA-hyperon in heavy hypernuclei measured in proton-Au, -Bi and -U collisions by the COSY-13 Collaboration at COSY-Juelich has been analyzed to yield tau subLAMBDA=(145+-11) ps. This value for tau subLAMBDA is compatible with the lifetime extracted from antiproton annihilation on Bi and U targets, albeit much more accurate. Theoretical models based on the meson exchange picture and assuming the validity of the phenomenological DELTA I=1/2 rule predict the lifetime of heavy hypernuclei to be significantly larger (2-3 standard deviations). Such large differences indicate that at least one of the assumptions in these models is not fulfilled. A much better reproduction of the lifetimes of heavy hypernuclei is achieved in the phase space model, if the DELTA I=1/2 rule is discarded in the nonmesonic LAMBDA decay. (orig.)

Lifetime of heavy hypernuclei and its implications on the weak ΛN interaction

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cassing, W.; Jarczyk, L.; Kamys, B.; Kulessa, P.; Pysz, K.; Ohm, H.; Schult, O.W.B.; Stroeher, H.; Rudy, Z.

2003-01-01

The lifetime of the Λ-hyperon in heavy hypernuclei measured in proton-Au, -Bi and -U collisions by the COSY-13 Collaboration at COSY-Juelich has been analyzed to yield τ Λ =(145±11) ps. This value for τ Λ is compatible with the lifetime extracted from antiproton annihilation on Bi and U targets, albeit much more accurate. Theoretical models based on the meson exchange picture and assuming the validity of the phenomenological ΔI=1/2 rule predict the lifetime of heavy hypernuclei to be significantly larger (2-3 standard deviations). Such large differences indicate that at least one of the assumptions in these models is not fulfilled. A much better reproduction of the lifetimes of heavy hypernuclei is achieved in the phase space model, if the ΔI=1/2 rule is discarded in the nonmesonic Λ decay. (orig.)

Deuterium trapping at vacancy clusters in electron/neutron-irradiated tungsten studied by positron annihilation spectroscopy

Science.gov (United States)

Toyama, T.; Ami, K.; Inoue, K.; Nagai, Y.; Sato, K.; Xu, Q.; Hatano, Y.

2018-02-01

Deuterium trapping at irradiation-induced defects in tungsten, a candidate material for plasma facing components in fusion reactors, was revealed by positron annihilation spectroscopy. Pure tungsten was electron-irradiated (8.5 MeV at ∼373 K and to a dose of ∼1 × 10-3 dpa) or neutron-irradiated (at 573 K to a dose of ∼0.3 dpa), followed by post-irradiation annealing at 573 K for 100 h in deuterium gas of ∼0.1 MPa. In both cases of electron- or neutron-irradiation, vacancy clusters were found by positron lifetime measurements. In addition, positron annihilation with deuterium electrons was demonstrated by coincidence Doppler broadening measurements, directly indicating deuterium trapping at vacancy-type defects. This is expected to cause significant increase in deuterium retention in irradiated-tungsten.

Multiple gamma lines from semi-annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

D'Eramo, Francesco; McCullough, Matthew; Thaler, Jesse

2013-01-01

Hints in the Fermi data for a 130 GeV gamma line from the galactic center have ignited interest in potential gamma line signatures of dark matter. Explanations of this line based on dark matter annihilation face a parametric tension since they often rely on large enhancements of loop-suppressed cross sections. In this paper, we pursue an alternative possibility that dark matter gamma lines could arise from ''semi-annihilation'' among multiple dark sector states. The semi-annihilation reaction ψ i ψ j → ψ k γ with a single final state photon is typically enhanced relative to ordinary annihilation ψ i ψ-bar i → γγ into photon pairs. Semi-annihilation allows for a wide range of dark matter masses compared to the fixed mass value required by annihilation, opening the possibility to explain potential dark matter signatures at higher energies. The most striking prediction of semi-annihilation is the presence of multiple gamma lines, with as many as order N 3 lines possible for N dark sector states, allowing for dark sector spectroscopy. A smoking gun signature arises in the simplest case of degenerate dark matter, where a strong semi-annihilation line at 130 GeV would be accompanied by a weaker annihilation line at 173 GeV. As a proof of principle, we construct two explicit models of dark matter semi-annihilation, one based on non-Abelian vector dark matter and the other based on retrofitting Rayleigh dark matter

Positron source based on the 48V isotope dedicated to positron lifetime spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dryzek, Jerzy

2009-01-01

In the paper we consider application of the 48 V isotope as a source in the positron lifetime spectroscopy. The isotope was produced in the 48 Ti(p,n) 48 V reaction using 15 MeV proton beam. As a target the natural titanium thin plate was used. The measurements using the typical positron lifetime spectrometer have shown the usefulness of the source obtained for this application. Due to its properties, the source may be used for measurements of positron annihilation characteristics in high temperature or aggressive environments. (copyright 2009 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Measurement of the lifetimes of the neutral and charged D mesons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gladney, L.D.

1985-03-01

Results are presented on the use of a high-resolution drift chamber in the Mark II Detector at PEP to measure the lifetimes of D 0 and D +- mesons produced in e + e - annihilations at 29 GeV. Based on a sample of 74 events for the D 0 mesons and 23 events for the D +- mesons, the lifetimes are found to be tau/sub D 0 = 4.7/sub -0.8//sup +0.9/ +- 0.5 x 10 -13 s; tau/sub D +- / = 8.9/sub -2.7//sup +3.8/ +- 1.3 x 10 -13 s. The ratio of these lifetimes, tau/sub D 0 //tau/sub D +- / = 1.9/sub -0.7//sup +0.9/ +- 0.3, indicates that the decays of these mesons cannot be explained by the simple spectator model of charmed particle decay

Effect of casting solvents on the properties of styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymers studied by positron annihilation techniques

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Djermouni, B.; Ache, H.J.

1980-01-01

The positron annihilation technique was used to study the properties of styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymers obtained by casting them in four different solvents: toluene, carbon tetrachloride, ethyl acetate, and methyl ethyl ketone. The positron annihilation rates plotted as a function of temperature show in all films irregularities at -70 and +85 0 C which were attributed to the onset of motions in the polybutadiene and polystyrene domaines, respectively. In addition to that, two irregularities were observed at -14 and +10 0 C if a poor solvent, such as ethyl acetate or methyl ethyl ketone, was used, while films cast in a good solvent such as toluene or carbon tetrachloride show only one additional irregularity on the lambda 2 -T curves at -14 0 C. The latter results were explained in terms of the interfacial model by assuming that these irregularities correspond to the glass transition of interlayer phases between the pure polystyrene and the pure polybutadiene phases. The one which shows the irregularity at -14 0 C could be the phase in which polybutadiene is the major component, while the transition at +10 0 C can be attributed to a phase in which polystyrene is the dominating factor

Oxygen vacancies in oxides studied by annihilation of mono-energetic positrons

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hugenschmidt, Christoph; Pikart, Philip [ZWE FRM II, Technische Universitaet Muenchen, Lichtenbergstrasse 1, 85747 Garching (Germany); Physik-Department E21, Technische Universitaet Muenchen, James-Franck-Strasse, 85748 Garching (Germany); Schreckenbach, Klaus [Physik-Department E21, Technische Universitaet Muenchen, James-Franck-Strasse, 85748 Garching (Germany)

2009-07-01

Oxygen vacancies play a fundamental role for the material properties of various oxides, e.g. charge carrier density in high-Tc superconductors, magnetic properties of diluted magnetic semiconductors or paramagnetic properties of SiO{sub 2}. In this study, open volume defects in (metal) oxides are investigated by Doppler-broadening spectroscopy (DBS) of the positron annihilation. More detailed information about the chemical surrounding at the positron annihilation site is gained by additional coincident DBS experiments, where a signature of positrons annihilating with electrons from oxygen is observed. The mono-energetic positron beam at NEPOMUC was used which allows depth dependent measurements, and hence the investigation of thin oxide layers. Recent results for metallic oxides such as ZnO are presented and compared with various non-metallic oxides such as amorphous and crystalline SiO{sub 2}, oxygen terminated Si-surface, and ice. The role of neutral and charged oxygen vacancies and the application of the positron annihilation technique to study oxygen vacancies will be discussed.

Creation and annihilation operators for Nielsen-Olesen vortices in the coherent state approximation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pottinger, D.E.L.

1978-01-01

Using the standard techniques of canonical quantization, the author constructs approximate expressions for the creation and annihilation operators for Nielsen-Olesen vortices. The forms for the creation and annihilation operators are appropriate to situations where large-scale vortex condensation takes place. In particular, a phenomenon such as this is basic in the quark confinement schemes of Mandelstam and 't Hooft. (Auth.)

Simulation of the annihilation emission of galactic positrons; Modelisation de l'emission d'annihilation des positrons Galactiques

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gillard, W

2008-01-15

Positrons annihilate in the central region of our Galaxy. This has been known since the detection of a strong emission line centered on an energy of 511 keV in the direction of the Galactic center. This gamma-ray line is emitted during the annihilation of positrons with electrons from the interstellar medium. The spectrometer SPI, onboard the INTEGRAL observatory, performed spatial and spectral analyses of the positron annihilation emission. This thesis presents a study of the Galactic positron annihilation emission based on models of the different interactions undergone by positrons in the interstellar medium. The models are relied on our present knowledge of the properties of the interstellar medium in the Galactic bulge, where most of the positrons annihilate, and of the physics of positrons (production, propagation and annihilation processes). In order to obtain constraints on the positrons sources and physical characteristics of the annihilation medium, we compared the results of the models to measurements provided by the SPI spectrometer. (author)

Effect of structural relaxation of metallic glasses on positron annihilation parameters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tian Decheng; Xiong Liangyue; Tang Zhongxun; Xu Yinhua

1987-07-01

The results of a comparative study of positron lifetime and a Doppler broadening line-shape parameter for two metallic glasses are presented. The change of lifetime τ-bar and the S-parameter for these two metallic glasses are shown to have a common feature, i.e. at the initial stage of structural relaxation, τ-bar presents a peak-form as a function of annealing time or temperature while the S-parameter decreases monotonically. A possible mechanism is proposed for explaining the peak-form of τ-bar which has been observed in many metallic glasses; the initial rise and the following decrease of τ-bar are attributed to the homogenization of defects taking place during the structural relaxation. The monotonic behaviour of the S-parameter seems to indicate that the annihilation of positrons in free state with the high momentum core electrons is negligible. (author). 8 refs, 2 figs

Mining the bulk positron lifetime

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Aourag, H.; Guittom, A.

2009-01-01

We introduce a new approach to investigate the bulk positron lifetimes of new systems based on data-mining techniques. Through data mining of bulk positron lifetimes, we demonstrate the ability to predict the positron lifetimes of new semiconductors on the basis of available semiconductor data already studied. Informatics techniques have been applied to bulk positron lifetimes for different tetrahedrally bounded semiconductors in order to discover computational design rules. (copyright 2009 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Study of free volume hole distributions in xTiO2(1-x)SiO2 by positron annihilation spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Misheva, M.A.; Djourelov, N.; Margaca, M.A.; Salvado, F.I.; Passage, G.

1999-01-01

Positron annihilation spectroscopy has been used to get information about the small pore structure of the system xTiO 2 .(1-x)SiO 2 (x=10,30 mol.%). The pore radius and volume probability distribution functions have been received from the ortho-Positronium lifetime probability distribution function, obtained by the lifetime spectra processing with CONTIN (PALS-2) program. The linearity of the S versus W-parameters has been used to check the similarity (or not) of the defect structure of the samples prepared under different experimental conditions. (author)

Investigation on photoluminescence, electrical and positron lifetime of Eu"3"+ activated Gd_2O_3 phosphors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Selvalakshmi, Thangaraj; Sellaiyan, Selvakumar; Uedono, Akira; Chandra Bose, Arumugam

2015-01-01

In the present study, red emitting Gd_2O_3:Eu"3"+ phosphors are prepared by citrate-based sol–gel process and the as-prepared samples are annealed at various annealing temperatures. The photoluminescence properties of Gd_2O_3:Eu"3"+ is explained from the excitation and emission spectra. The excitation spectra include peaks corresponding to charge transfer and 4f–4f transitions of Eu"3"+ and Gd"3"+. The phosphors exhibit a weak energy transfer process from Gd"3"+ to Eu"3"+. Under the excitation of 254 nm, a sharp red emission peak is observed at 611 nm and the emission intensity increases with the annealing temperature. The presence of defects in the phosphor is investigated by positron annihilation lifetime and Doppler broadening spectroscopy. The relation between visible emission and lattice defects of the phosphors is presented. The electrical and dielectric properties of the phosphor are also discussed in detail. Such red emitting phosphors pave the way towards the fabrication of light emitting diodes (LEDs). - Highlights: • Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy of Gd_2O_3:Eu"3"+. • Relation between positron lifetime and photoluminescence. • Conductivity and dielectric properties of Gd_2O_3:Eu"3"+.

Electron irradiation-induced defects in ZnO studied by positron annihilation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Chen, Z.Q. [Advanced Science Research Center, Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute, 1233 Watanuki, Takasaki, Gunma 370-1292 (Japan)]. E-mail: zhiquanchen@hotmail.com; Maekawa, M. [Advanced Science Research Center, Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute, 1233 Watanuki, Takasaki, Gunma 370-1292 (Japan); Kawasuso, A. [Advanced Science Research Center, Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute, 1233 Watanuki, Takasaki, Gunma 370-1292 (Japan); Sakai, S. [Advanced Science Research Center, Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute, 1233 Watanuki, Takasaki, Gunma 370-1292 (Japan); Naramoto, H. [Advanced Science Research Center, Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute, 1233 Watanuki, Takasaki, Gunma 370-1292 (Japan)

2006-04-01

ZnO crystals were subjected to 3 MeV electron irradiation up to a high dose of 5.5x10{sup 18} cm{sup -2}. The production and recovery of vacancy defects were studied by positron annihilation spectroscopy. The increase of positron lifetime and Doppler broadening S parameter after irradiation indicates introduction of V {sub Zn} related defects. Most of these vacancies are annealed at temperatures below 200 {sup o}C. However, after annealing at around 400 {sup o}C, secondary defects are produced. All the vacancy defects are annealed out at around 700 {sup o}C.

PALSfit3: A software package for analysing positron lifetime spectra

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Kirkegaard, Peter; Olsen, Jens V.; Eldrup, Morten Mostgaard

The present report describes a Windows based computer program called PALSfit3. The purpose of the program is to carry out analyses of spectra that have been measured by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS). PALSfit3 is based on the well tested PATFIT and PALS fit programs, which hav...... in a text window. PALSfit3 is verified on Windows XP and Windows 7, 8 and 10. The PALSfit3 software can be acquired from the Technical University of Denmark (http://PALSfit.dk)...

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy study on the structural relaxation of phenylmethylsiloxane-modified epoxy hybrids at different aging temperatures

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hsu, Chia-Wen [Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan (China); Material and Chemical Research Laboratories, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu, Taiwan (China); Ma, Chen-Chi M., E-mail: ccma@che.nthu.edu.tw [Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan (China); Tan, Chung-Sung [Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan (China); Li, Hsun-Tien [Material and Chemical Research Laboratories, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu, Taiwan (China)

2015-07-15

The cured network conformations and structural relaxation behaviours of the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA)-methylhexahydrophthalic anhydride (MHHPA) modified with phenylmethylsiloxane-modified epoxy (PMSE) at different aging temperatures were studied using dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS). The DMA results revealed that the cured PMSE network can insert into the cured DGEBA network to form interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs). The structural relaxation behaviours of DGEBA–PMSE-0.4 produced using DGEBA, PMSE, and MHHPA at a ratio of 0.6:0.4:1 by equivalent weight were studied using PALS at 150 °C and 55 °C. The aging-induced free volume relaxation parameters of DGEBA–PMSE-0.4 at 150 °C and 55 °C were investigated using the double additive exponential model and the Kohlrausch–Williams–Watts exponential model. For double additive exponential model, only one relaxation time (ζ) of 584.5 h was found at 150 °C; By contrast, there were two separate relaxation times of 37.4 h (ζ{sub 1}) and 753.6 h (ζ{sub 2}) at 55 °C. The ζ{sub 1} of the IPNs hybrid can be attributed to the network relaxation of PMSE, and the ζ{sub 2} can be attributed to the network relaxation of DGEBA at 55 °C. The results suggested the double additive exponential model can effectively predict DGEBA–PMSE hybrid relaxation behaviours. - Highlights: • The cured network conformations of DGEBA–PMSE hybrids were studied using DMA. • The structural relaxation behaviours of DGEBA–PMSE hybrids were studied using PALS. • The cured DGEBA–PMSE hybrids were interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs). • PALS studies provided a quantitative demonstration of relaxation behaviours. • Double additive exponential model effectively predicted the relaxation times of hybrids.

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy study on the structural relaxation of phenylmethylsiloxane-modified epoxy hybrids at different aging temperatures

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hsu, Chia-Wen; Ma, Chen-Chi M.; Tan, Chung-Sung; Li, Hsun-Tien

2015-01-01

The cured network conformations and structural relaxation behaviours of the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA)-methylhexahydrophthalic anhydride (MHHPA) modified with phenylmethylsiloxane-modified epoxy (PMSE) at different aging temperatures were studied using dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS). The DMA results revealed that the cured PMSE network can insert into the cured DGEBA network to form interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs). The structural relaxation behaviours of DGEBA–PMSE-0.4 produced using DGEBA, PMSE, and MHHPA at a ratio of 0.6:0.4:1 by equivalent weight were studied using PALS at 150 °C and 55 °C. The aging-induced free volume relaxation parameters of DGEBA–PMSE-0.4 at 150 °C and 55 °C were investigated using the double additive exponential model and the Kohlrausch–Williams–Watts exponential model. For double additive exponential model, only one relaxation time (ζ) of 584.5 h was found at 150 °C; By contrast, there were two separate relaxation times of 37.4 h (ζ 1 ) and 753.6 h (ζ 2 ) at 55 °C. The ζ 1 of the IPNs hybrid can be attributed to the network relaxation of PMSE, and the ζ 2 can be attributed to the network relaxation of DGEBA at 55 °C. The results suggested the double additive exponential model can effectively predict DGEBA–PMSE hybrid relaxation behaviours. - Highlights: • The cured network conformations of DGEBA–PMSE hybrids were studied using DMA. • The structural relaxation behaviours of DGEBA–PMSE hybrids were studied using PALS. • The cured DGEBA–PMSE hybrids were interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs). • PALS studies provided a quantitative demonstration of relaxation behaviours. • Double additive exponential model effectively predicted the relaxation times of hybrids

QCD in e+e- annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ali, A.

1981-04-01

The promise of e + e - annihilation as an ideal laboratory to test Quantum Chromodynamics, QCD, has been the dominating theme in elementary particle physics during the last several years. An attempt is made to partially survey the subject in deep perturbative region in e + e - annihilation where theoretical ambiguities are minimal. Topics discussed include a review of the renormalization group methods relevant for e + e - annihilation, total hadronic cross section, jets and large-psub(T) phenomena, non-perturbative quark and gluon fragmentation effects and analysis of the jet distributions measured at DORIS, SPEAR and PETRA. My hope is to review realistic tests of QCD in e + e - annihilation - as opposed to the ultimate tests, which abound in literature. (orig.)

Application of positron annihilation in materials science

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Siegel, R.W.; Fluss, M.J.; Smedskjaer, L.C.

1984-05-01

Owing to the ability of the positron to annihilate from a variety of defect-trapped states, positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) has been applied increasingly to the characterization and study of defects in materials in recent years. In metals particularly, it has been demonstrated that PAS can yield defect-specific information which, by itself or in conjunction with more traditional experimental techniques, has already made a significant impact upon the determination of atomic-defect properties and the monitoring and characterization of vacancy-like microstructure development, as occurs during post-irradiation annealing. The applications of PAS are now actively expanding to the study of more complex defect-related phenomena in irradiated or deformed metals and alloys, phase transformations and structural disorder, surfaces and near-surface defect characterization. A number of these applications in materials science are reviewed and discussed with respect to profitable future directions

Measuring fission lifetimes with the crystal-blocking technique in mono-crystal, access to nuclear dissipation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Basnary, St.

2002-10-01

Energy dissipation in nuclear matter may play an important role in the determination of the way through which heavy nuclei des-excite: fission or particle evaporation. An important dissipation should imply longer interval of time during which the nucleus is deformed. In that way the measurement of fission lifetimes may shed light on energy dissipation, but these measurements are very delicate to perform. Most available data on deformation times come from indirect measurements combined with the use of more or less valid models. The crystal-blocking lifetime technique in mono-crystals allows the direct measurement of long fission lifetimes. This technique has been applied to different nuclei situated in the proximity of lead. We have obtained relatively high values: τ > 3.10 -19 s for both lead and uranium which implies a strong dissipation of energy. The computation of dissipation coefficients has led to the following values: β ≅ 2.10 21 /s for lead and β ≥ 6.10 21 /s for uranium (E * > 120 MeV). These results show that dissipation effects have to be taken into account in the determination of the deexcitation way. (A.C.)

Estimates of uncertainties in analysis of positron lifetime spectra for metals

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Eldrup, M.; Huang, Y.M.; McKee, B.T.A.

1978-01-01

The effects of uncertainties and errors in various constraints used in the analysis of multi-component life-time spectra of positrons annihilating in metals containing defects have been investigated in detail using computer simulated decay spectra and subsequent analysis. It is found that the errors in the fitted values of the main component lifetimes and intensities introduced from incorrect values of the instrumental resolution function and off the source-surface components can easily exceed the statistic uncertainties. The effect of an incorrect resolution function may be reduced by excluding the peak regions of the spectra from the analysis. The influence of using incorrect source-surface components in the analysis may on the other hand be reduced by including the peak regions of the spectra. A main conclusion of the work is that extreme caution should be exercised to avoid introducing large errors through the constraints used in the analysis of experimental lifetime data. (orig.) [de

Lifetime of excess electrons in Cu–Zn–Sn–Se powders

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Novikov, G. F., E-mail: ngf@icp.ac.ru; Gapanovich, M. V. [Russian Academy of Sciences, Institute of Problems in Chemical Physics (Russian Federation); Gremenok, V. F. [National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Scientific and Practical Center for Materials Science (Belarus); Bocharov, K. V. [Russian Academy of Sciences, Institute of Problems in Chemical Physics (Russian Federation); Tsai, W.-T.; Jeng, Ming-Jer; Chang, Liann-Be [Chang Gung University, Department of Electronic Engineering (China)

2017-01-15

The method of time-resolved microwave photoconductivity at a frequency of 36 GHz in the range of temperatures of 200–300 K is used to study the kinetics of the annihilation of charge carriers in Cu–Zn–Sn–Se powders obtained by the solid-phase method of synthesis in cells. The lifetime of excess electrons at room temperature is found to be shorter than 5 ns. The activation energy for the process of recombination amounted to E{sub a} ~ 0.054 eV.

Simulation of the annihilation emission of galactic positrons; Modelisation de l'emission d'annihilation des positrons Galactiques

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gillard, W

2008-01-15

Positrons annihilate in the central region of our Galaxy. This has been known since the detection of a strong emission line centered on an energy of 511 keV in the direction of the Galactic center. This gamma-ray line is emitted during the annihilation of positrons with electrons from the interstellar medium. The spectrometer SPI, onboard the INTEGRAL observatory, performed spatial and spectral analyses of the positron annihilation emission. This thesis presents a study of the Galactic positron annihilation emission based on models of the different interactions undergone by positrons in the interstellar medium. The models are relied on our present knowledge of the properties of the interstellar medium in the Galactic bulge, where most of the positrons annihilate, and of the physics of positrons (production, propagation and annihilation processes). In order to obtain constraints on the positrons sources and physical characteristics of the annihilation medium, we compared the results of the models to measurements provided by the SPI spectrometer. (author)

On the potential of positron lifetime spectroscopy for the study of early stages of zeolites formation from their amorphous precursors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bosnar, S.; Kosanovic, C.; Subotic, B.; Bosnar, D.; Kajcsos, Zs.; Liszkay, L.; Lohonyai, L.; Molnar, B.; Lazar, K.

2007-01-01

The applicability of positron lifetime (LT) spectroscopy to the study of progress of formation of Secondary Building Units (SBU) in gels yielding in FAU and LTA type zeolites was investigated. Samples were prepared from aluminosilicate gels with various degrees of local structural order. LT measurements were performed at room temperature in air and in vacuum. Coexistence of annihilation modi with long lifetime components was shown; a correlation with precursors of nucleation and type of exchanged ions was also indicated

Positron annihilation spectroscopy for chemical analysis (PASCA). Chapter 9

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cheng, K.L.; Jean, Y.C.

1988-01-01

This chapter gives an up to date overview of positron annihilation spectroscopy for chemical analysis (PASCA). As an in situ technique PASCA is especially suitable for studying processes occurring at surfaces. The in situ characteristics of PASCA are treated. The principes of positron annihilation life time spectroscopy (PAL) are discussed and some important analytical applications such as, in determining of total surface areas and cavity volumes in chemical reactions, in the study of chemisorption and catalytic reactions on porous surfaces, in the analysis of bulk materials, in determining molecular association constants in biological systems, in proton and neutron activation analysis, in thin layer chromatography and in tracer technology. 28 refs.; 15 figs.; 8 tabs

Study of the ortho-positron annihilation process in zeolite Y

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alvarado D, M. E.

2010-01-01

For several years a great interest has existed for the study of the natural and synthetic zeolites due to its properties. The porosity, one of their main characteristics allows that these materials are used as molecular sieves, catalysts, gases drying, etc. In order to investigating the porosity and other zeolite properties one carries out the study of the process of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (Pals). This is a technique that provides information about the size and the pores form since is highly sensitive to the free volume and the superficial area of those porous materials as the zeolites. The study began with the elaboration of zeolite Y tablets in a hydraulic press where different pressures (from 0 to 1.26 GPa) and masses (70, 80 and 100 mg) were proven to obtain the estimate porosity of each tablet. A graph was elaborated and the effect of the mass and pressure with regard to the zeolite porosity was analyzed. Later on, the powder and tablets of 70 mg were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction (the glass size, interplanar distance, length and the volume of the unitary cell); scanning electron microscopy (the particles size and morphology); thermo gravimetric analysis (dehydration temperature and the stability up to 700 C) and the Brunauer Emmett Teller method (specific area). After the zeolite Y tablets characterization was carried out the positron annihilation process by means of Pals where its free volume of zeolite Y was analyzed, which includes to the structural cavities and the interparticle volume. The powdered zeolite was analyzed to different experimental conditions (preparation of the sample and the Pals equipment) to obtain the optimal conditions (a window with a time of 400 ns and a enlarged energy window) of analysis. On the other hand, the tablets were analyzed under optimal conditions to obtain the four components of time and intensity (τ, Ι), result of the different ways of positrons annihilation in the zeolite. These

High-temperature equilibrium vacancy formation in ceramic materials studied by positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Forster, M.; Claudy, W.; Hermes, H.; Major, J.; Schaefer, H.E.; Koch, M.; Maier, K.; Stoll, H.

1992-01-01

Positron lifetime measurements were used in order to study thermal vacancy formation in NiO, YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-δ , α-Al 2 O 3 , MgO and 6H-SiC at high temperatures. In NiO two increases of the positron trapping rate at 450K and 1200K (po 2 =10 5 Pa) are attributed to the change of charge of neutral extrinsic Ni-vacancies (c ≅ 10 -4 ) into a negative charge state and to the nonstochiometric formation of charged Ni-vacancies at high temperatures. In YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-δ the oxygen loss or uptake at T > 680K with an activation enthalpy of 1.03eV can be studied by the variation of the positron lifetime with temperature and oxygen partial pressure. In α-Al 2 O 3 the positrons are annihilated from the delocalized free state between 1000K and 2250K and no positron trapping of thermally formed vacancies was detected which may be understood in terms of the theoretically predicted low concentrations of thermal vacancies. In MgO and 6H-SiC positron lifetime measurements were performed up to temperatures of about 2000K

Positron Annihilation as a Probe of Free Volume Changes in Polyoxymethylene-copolymer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mohamed, H.F.M.; Abdel-Hady, E.E.; Farid, S.S.

2005-01-01

The positron annihilation lifetime measurements have been carried out to study the free volume properties of polyoxymethylene-copolymer (POM). The effect of temperature changes on free volume hole sizes and hole size distribution has been investigated over the temperature range (5-100 degree C). All PAL spectra were analyzed with LT program, which is a finite term lifetime analysis and by MELT which is a continuous lifetime analysis. The free volume sites probed by o-Ps increase in size with increasing temperature. PALS measurements revealed the glass transition temperature (Tg) at 15 degree C. Below the glass transition temperature the hole size slowly (linearly) increases with temperatures, while the slope is steeper above Tg. The temperature of this transition as measured by PALS has turned out to be somewhat lower than what is obtained with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). At room temperature the results show a narrow distribution, reflecting that the free volume holes are small and of rather equal size. As the temperature is raised, the distribution broadens. The largest change in distribution width will be discussed on the frame of the free volume model

Characterization of vacancy type defects in Electronic Materials by Positron Lifetime and Age-Momentum Correlation Spectroscopy

Science.gov (United States)

Suzuki, Ryoichi; Ohdaira, Toshiyuki

2002-03-01

Positron annihilation spectroscopy is known to be sensitive to vacancy type defects. At the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) Japan, the authors have developed a measurement system which enables us to perform depth-selective positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) and positron age-momentum correlation (AMOC) spectroscopy with an intense slow positron beam. PALS gives us information on the size of vacancies whereas AMOC gives us information on not only vacancy sizes but also impurities or chemical environments. Using this system, we have carried out defect characterization experiments on various electronic materials, e.g. ion implanted Si, SiO2/Si, MOS, CVD or SOD (spin-on-dielectric) grown low dielectric insulator films, etc.

Investigations into the free-volume changes within starch/plasticizer/nanoclay systems using Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Liu, Huihua, E-mail: h.liu@federation.edu.au [School of Health Sciences, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, Vic (Australia); Chaudhary, Deeptangshu, E-mail: deepc@ers.com.au [ERS Environmental Risk Solutions PTY LTD, Perth, WA (Australia); Campbell, Colin, E-mail: colin.campbell@anu.edu.au [ARC Centre of Excellence for Antimatter-Matter Studies (CAMS), Research School of Physics and Engineering, Australian National University, Canberra (Australia); Roberts, Jason, E-mail: jxr107@physics.anu.edu.au [ARC Centre of Excellence for Antimatter-Matter Studies (CAMS), Research School of Physics and Engineering, Australian National University, Canberra (Australia); Buckman, Stephen, E-mail: stephen.buckman@anu.edu.au [ARC Centre of Excellence for Antimatter-Matter Studies (CAMS), Research School of Physics and Engineering, Australian National University, Canberra (Australia); Sullivan, James, E-mail: james.sullivan@anu.edu.au [ARC Centre of Excellence for Antimatter-Matter Studies (CAMS), Research School of Physics and Engineering, Australian National University, Canberra (Australia)

2014-11-14

The free-volume of a matrix is a fundamental parameter that relates to its molecular and bulk characteristics, such as crystalline change and glass transition behavior. In starch-based bionanocomposite, we investigated the effect of the addition of montmorillonite nanoclay (MMT) and food plasticizers (glycerol and sorbitol) on changes of molecular pore size (including pore volume and pore distribution) using the Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS) method. The results demonstrated counter-intuitive impact of MMT on the total free-volume where the total free-volume increased within the polymeric matrix. When compared to the pure matrix free-volume, the addition of MMT also resulted in the appearance of a broader distribution of the void sizes. The plasticizers, on the other hand, apparently occupied the void spaces, and therefore decreased the free-volume of the matrix. Further, together with the small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) analysis, we concluded that this is a result of interplay between the plasticizer-plasticizer interactions and the polymer–plasticizer interactions. For example, in the starch/glycerol/MMT system, the pore radii slightly decrease upon the increasing of glycerol amount (OG210 = O.27 nm and OG220 = 0.26 nm), but the relative weight did increase with the increasing glycerol concentration. However, increasing the sorbitol amount increased the pore size from 0.23 nm(OS210) to 0.28 nm(OS220). Furthermore, the addition MMT in the OS010 system, promote the emergence of a new dateable pore radius(0.90 nm), and the total weight significantly increased from 13.70 (OS010) to 19.5% (OS210). We suggest that the pore variation (size and distribution) due to the MMT and plasticizers are reflected in the polymer glass transition and crystallinity because ultimately, the, total free-volume is a reflection of level of interactions existing within the bulk of these nanocomposites. - Highlights: • PALS is applied to explore the

Low-complexity DOA estimation from short data snapshots for ULA systems using the annihilating filter technique

Science.gov (United States)

Bellili, Faouzi; Amor, Souheib Ben; Affes, Sofiène; Ghrayeb, Ali

2017-12-01

This paper addresses the problem of DOA estimation using uniform linear array (ULA) antenna configurations. We propose a new low-cost method of multiple DOA estimation from very short data snapshots. The new estimator is based on the annihilating filter (AF) technique. It is non-data-aided (NDA) and does not impinge therefore on the whole throughput of the system. The noise components are assumed temporally and spatially white across the receiving antenna elements. The transmitted signals are also temporally and spatially white across the transmitting sources. The new method is compared in performance to the Cramér-Rao lower bound (CRLB), the root-MUSIC algorithm, the deterministic maximum likelihood estimator and another Bayesian method developed precisely for the single snapshot case. Simulations show that the new estimator performs well over a wide SNR range. Prominently, the main advantage of the new AF-based method is that it succeeds in accurately estimating the DOAs from short data snapshots and even from a single snapshot outperforming by far the state-of-the-art techniques both in DOA estimation accuracy and computational cost.

Positron annihilation lifetime study of interfaces in ternary polymer blends

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Meghala, D; Ramya, P; Pasang, T; Raj, J M; Ranganathaiah, C; Williams, J F

2013-01-01

A new method based on positron lifetime spectroscopy is developed to characterize individual interfaces in ternary polymer blends and hence determine the composition dependent miscibility level. The method owes its origin to the Kirkwood-Risemann-Zimm (KRZ) model for the evaluation of the hydrodynamic interaction parameters (α ij ) which was used successfully for a binary blend with a single interface. The model was revised for the present work for ternary polymer blends to account for three interfaces. The efficacy of this method is shown for two ternary blends namely poly(styrene-co-acrylonitrile)/poly (ethylene-co-vinylacetate)/poly(vinyl chloride) (SAN/EVA/PVC) and polycaprolactone /poly(styrene-co-acrylonitrile)/poly(vinyl chloride) (PCL/SAN/PVC) at different compositions. An effective hydrodynamic interaction parameter, α eff , was introduced to predict the overall miscibility of ternary blends.

CERN: Antiprotons resist annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Anon.

1992-01-01

Ask any particle physicist what is the eventual fate of an antiproton in matter and he will likely tell you that It annihilates'. True as this answer is, it hides a number of fascinating questions about the actual 'route' followed by the antiproton into the nucleus where it finally stops before annihilating with a nuclear particle

Application of the Positron Lifetime Spectroscopy as Method of Non-Destructive Testing

OpenAIRE

Somieski , B.; Krause-Rehberg , R.; Salz , H.; Meyendorf , N.

1995-01-01

In order to show the suitability of the Positron Lifetime Spectroscopy (POLIS) as a method of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) several iron alloys / steels were mechanically damaged (tensile stress, fatigue, creeping). The positron annihilation parameters show clear changes during all applied kinds of damage. After tensile stress as well as after creeping a homogeneous distribution of damage in the sample was detected. During the very first elastic cycle of a fatigue experiment, a change in the ...

A study of relationship between optical basicity and positron lifetime in oxides

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Xu Zongliang; Liu Shangjin

1994-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectra have been measured for the samples of Na 2 O-B 2 O 3 melt, B 2 O 3 , SiO 2 , V 2 O 5 and Na 2 O-TiO 2 melt during sharp cooling with a cooling rate > 180 K · s -1 . The results show a quite well linear relation between optical basicity Λ and the first component τ 1 of the lifetime spectra for non-transition metal oxides: Λ = 0.173 (1/τ 1 )+0.060. With this relationship and τ 1 measured by PA the Λ values for ZnO, TiO 2 and V 2 O 5 are obtained to be 1.00, 0.63 and 0.75 respectively, approaching the literature values

Positron annihilation studies in the high-temperature superconductors YBa2Cu3Osub(7-x) and HoBa2Cu3Osub(7-x)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mandal, P.; Poddar, A.; Nambissan, P.M.G.; Choudhury, P.; Ghosh, B.; Sen, P.; Majumdar, C.K.

1988-01-01

In the high-Tsub(c) superconductors YBa 2 Cu 3 Osub(7-x) and HoBa 2 Cu 3 Osub(7-x) the Doppler-broadened positron annihilation lineshape parameter is studied as a function of temperature. Anomalies are detected around the transition temperature found by resistance measurements, giving indirect support for an electronic mechanism for superconductivity. The positron lifetimes in these compounds are measured at room temperature and are found to be similar. The origins of the several lifetimes found and their intensities are discussed. (author)

Positrons and positronium in grainy and porous solids

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kajcsos, Zs.; Liszkay, L.; Varga, L.; Lohonyai, L.; Duplatre, G.; Lazar, K.; Pal-Borbely, G.; Beyer, H.K.; Caullet, P.; Patarin, J.

2001-01-01

Systematic investigations have been performed using positron annihilation techniques on micrograins of crystalline powders (e.g., MgO; Al 2 O 3 , SiO 2 ) and on various zeolites (e.g., silicalite 1, Na-X, Na-Y, ZSM-5, mordenite) aiming at a better understanding of the formation and decay of the long-lived ortho-positronium states. The techniques were lifetime spectroscopy, Doppler-effect measurements and the recording of the full energy distribution of the annihilation radiation. The influences of heat treatment, sample evacuation and presence of gases were investigated. Lifetimes over 130 ns and o-Ps fractions of about 30% were found. A strong correlation of positron annihilation technique data with a water content of the samples was evidenced. Possible pictures of the formation and decay of ortho-positronium in porous media are discussed. (author)

Free-volume distributions of polymers by positron annihilation spectroscopy: further experiences in using CONTIN for continuous lifetime distributions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dai, G.H.; Jean, Y.C.

1995-01-01

Thorough examinations of the CONTIN program were carried out by using the simulated positron lifetime spectra, to reveal the capability of CONTIN in the reconstruction of the positron lifetime distributions. It is shown that: 1. very high statistics is strongly desired by CONTIN to reproduce reliable lifetime distributions; 2. improving the time resolution of the measurement system, to the level of 0.030 ns full width at half maximum, does not significantly improve the resolving power of CONTIN; and 3. reducing the time width per channel is a practical way of improving the reconstruction of the lifetime probability density functions by CONTIN. (orig.)

Positron annihilation in superconducting 123 compounds

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Peter, M.; Manuel, A.A.; Erb, A.

1998-01-01

After a brief review of the theory of angular correlation of positron annihilation radiation (ACAR), the authors illustrate experimental principles and give examples of successful determination of electron momentum density (EMD) and of positron lifetime in solids. The central question which the authors try to answer concerns the contribution of positron spectroscopy to the knowledge and understanding of the new high temperature superconducting oxides. They find that in these oxides also, partially filled bands exist and they can observe parts of their Fermi surface and measure lifetimes in accordance with band theoretical calculations. There are characteristic differences, however. The intensity of the anisotropy of the ACAR signal is below theoretical expectation and signals depend on sample preparation. Recent studies by the Geneva group have concerned dependence of the signals on impurities, on oxygen content and on the thermal history of preparation. Of particular interest are correlations between the variations of these signals and between the variations of structural and transport properties in these substances. Besides deliberate additions of impurities, the Geneva group also reports progress in the preparations of samples of highest purity (barium zirconate crucibles). The alloy series Pr x Y 1-x Ba 2 Cu 3 O 7-δ is of special interest because of exceptional transport properties. The recent positron results on these materials will be presented and commented in the light of theoretical models and in the light of the reported superconductivity of the Pr-compound

A study on the positron annihilation of glassy Bi1Sr1Ca1Cu2Ox quenched from the molten liquid

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hong Zhang; Xiao-Guang Wang; Le Luo; Shu-Hui Hu

1989-01-01

Some experimental results about the change of positron lifetime and Doppler broadening in glassy Bi 1 Sr 1 Ca 1 Cu 2 O x samples after post-annealing are reported. X-ray diffraction was used to examine the existing phases. Positron annihilation measurements indicate that there are two crystallization transformations from 20 0 to 830 0 C

Frequency domain kinetic of positron-electron annihilation in the MgO-Al2O3 spinel-type ceramics

Science.gov (United States)

Fl'unt, Orest; Klym, Halyna; Ingram, Adam

2018-03-01

In this work, the kinetic of positron-electron annihilation in the MgO-Al2O3 spinel-type ceramics sintered at different temperatures (1100, 1200 and 1400 °C) has been calculated and analyzed in a frequency domain. The spectra of real (in-phase) and imaginary (quadrature) components of positron-electron annihilation kinetic have been obtained numerically from usual temporal characteristics using integral Fourier transform. The numerical calculations were carried out using cubic spline interpolation of the pulse characteristics of MgO-Al2O3 ceramics in time domain with following analytical calculations of integrals. The obtained spectra as real so imaginary part of MgO-Al2O3 ceramics in frequency domain almost good obey a Debye law denying correlation between elementary positron annihilation processes. Complex diagrams of frequency domain responses of as-prepared samples have a shape of semicircles with close characteristic frequencies. Some deviation on low-frequency side of the semicircles is observed confirming an availability of longer time kinetic processes. Sintering temperature dependencies of the relaxation times and characteristic frequencies of positron-electron annihilation processes have been obtained. It is shown that position of large maxima on the frequency dependencies of imaginary part corresponds to fast average relaxation lifetime representing the most intensive interaction process of positrons with small cavity traps in solids.

Cladding tube materials for advanced nuclear facilities with closed fuel cycle

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bartosova, I. [Slovenska technicka univerzita v Bratislave, Fakulta elektrotechniky a informatiky, Ustav jadroveho a fyzikalneho inzinierstva, 81219 Bratislava (Slovakia)

2013-04-16

The paper is aimed on perspective materials for fuel cladding in advanced nuclear reactors. Samples of Eurofer and ODS Eurofer were studied by various techniques such as Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy, Vickers Hardness and Coincidence Doppler Broadening. After studying the samples by these methods, we implanted them by Helium atoms to simulate irradiation damage. Samples were then remeasured by Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy to determine the affect of implantation on its behavior. (authors)

Cosmological constraints on dark matter annihilation and decay. Cross-correlation analysis of the extragalactic γ-ray background and cosmic shear

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Shirasaki, Masato [National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, Mitaka, Tokyo (Japan); Macias, Oscar; Horiuchi, Shunsaku [Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA (United States). Center for Neutrino Physics; Shirai, Satoshi [Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY), Hamburg (Germany); Yoshida, Naoki [Tokyo Univ. (Japan). Dept. of Physics; Tokyo Univ., Chiba (Japan). Kavli Inst. for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe (WPI); Japan Science and Technology Agency, Saitama (Japan). CREST

2016-07-15

We derive constraints on dark matter (DM) annihilation cross section and decay lifetime from cross-correlation analyses of the data from Fermi-LAT and weak lensing surveys that cover a wide area of ∝660 squared degrees in total. We improve upon our previous analyses by using an updated extragalactic γ-ray background data reprocessed with the Fermi Pass 8 pipeline, and by using well-calibrated shape measurements of about twelve million galaxies in the Canada-France-Hawaii Lensing Survey (CFHTLenS) and Red-Cluster-Sequence Lensing Survey (RCSLenS). We generate a large set of full-sky mock catalogs from cosmological N-body simulations and use them to estimate statistical errors accurately. The measured cross correlation is consistent with null detection, which is then used to place strong cosmological constraints on annihilating and decaying DM. For leptophilic DM, the constraints are improved by a factor of ∝ 100 in the mass range of O(1) TeV when including contributions from secondary γ rays due to the inverse-Compton upscattering of background photons. Annihilation cross-sections of left angle σν right angle ∝ 10{sup -23} cm{sup 3}/s are excluded for TeV-scale DM depending on channel. Lifetimes of ∝10{sup 25} sec are also excluded for the decaying TeV-scale DM. Finally, we apply this analysis to wino DM and exclude the wino mass around 200 GeV. These constraints will be further tightened, and all the interesting wino DM parameter region can be tested, by using data from future wide-field cosmology surveys.

Cosmological constraints on dark matter annihilation and decay. Cross-correlation analysis of the extragalactic γ-ray background and cosmic shear

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shirasaki, Masato; Macias, Oscar; Horiuchi, Shunsaku; Yoshida, Naoki; Tokyo Univ., Chiba; Japan Science and Technology Agency, Saitama

2016-07-01

We derive constraints on dark matter (DM) annihilation cross section and decay lifetime from cross-correlation analyses of the data from Fermi-LAT and weak lensing surveys that cover a wide area of ∝660 squared degrees in total. We improve upon our previous analyses by using an updated extragalactic γ-ray background data reprocessed with the Fermi Pass 8 pipeline, and by using well-calibrated shape measurements of about twelve million galaxies in the Canada-France-Hawaii Lensing Survey (CFHTLenS) and Red-Cluster-Sequence Lensing Survey (RCSLenS). We generate a large set of full-sky mock catalogs from cosmological N-body simulations and use them to estimate statistical errors accurately. The measured cross correlation is consistent with null detection, which is then used to place strong cosmological constraints on annihilating and decaying DM. For leptophilic DM, the constraints are improved by a factor of ∝ 100 in the mass range of O(1) TeV when including contributions from secondary γ rays due to the inverse-Compton upscattering of background photons. Annihilation cross-sections of left angle σν right angle ∝ 10"-"2"3 cm"3/s are excluded for TeV-scale DM depending on channel. Lifetimes of ∝10"2"5 sec are also excluded for the decaying TeV-scale DM. Finally, we apply this analysis to wino DM and exclude the wino mass around 200 GeV. These constraints will be further tightened, and all the interesting wino DM parameter region can be tested, by using data from future wide-field cosmology surveys.

Optical and microstructural characterization of porous silicon using photoluminescence, SEM and positron annihilation spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cheung, C K; Nahid, F; Cheng, C C; Beling, C D; Fung, S; Ling, C C; Djurisic, A B; Pramanik, C; Saha, H; Sarkar, C K

2007-01-01

We have studied the dependence of porous silicon morphology and porosity on fabrication conditions. N-type (100) silicon wafers with resistivity of 2-5 Ω cm were electrochemically etched at various current densities and anodization times. Surface morphology and the thickness of the samples were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Detailed information of the porous silicon layer morphology with variation of preparation conditions was obtained by positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS): the depth-defect profile and open pore interconnectivity on the sample surface has been studied using a slow positron beam. Coincidence Doppler broadening spectroscopy (CDBS) was used to study the chemical environment of the samples. The presence of silicon micropores with diameter varying from 1.37 to 1.51 nm was determined by positron lifetime spectroscopy (PALS). Visible luminescence from the samples was observed, which is considered to be a combination effect of quantum confinement and the effect of Si = O double bond formation near the SiO 2 /Si interface according to the results from photoluminescence (PL) and positron annihilation spectroscopy measurements. The work shows that the study of the positronium formed when a positron is implanted into the porous surface provides valuable information on the pore distribution and open pore interconnectivity, which suggests that positron annihilation spectroscopy is a useful tool in the porous silicon micropores' characterization

Quasinuclear baryonium and annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kerbikov, B.O.; Shapiro, I.S.

1978-01-01

The properties of the quasinuclear baryonium are considered in the framework of the dynamical coupled channel model. The main principles of the model are reviewed. The energy spectrum of the N anti N system and the problem of the baryonium radius are discussed. A detailed investigation of the problem of baryonium annihilation width and the low energy N anti N annihilation cross section is presented

Skyrmion creation and annihilation by spin waves

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Liu, Yizhou; Yin, Gen; Lake, Roger K.; Zang, Jiadong; Shi, Jing

2015-01-01

Single skyrmion creation and annihilation by spin waves in a crossbar geometry are theoretically analyzed. A critical spin-wave frequency is required both for the creation and the annihilation of a skyrmion. The minimum frequencies for creation and annihilation are similar, but the optimum frequency for creation is below the critical frequency for skyrmion annihilation. If a skyrmion already exists in the cross bar region, a spin wave below the critical frequency causes the skyrmion to circulate within the central region. A heat assisted creation process reduces the spin-wave frequency and amplitude required for creating a skyrmion. The effective field resulting from the Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction and the emergent field of the skyrmion acting on the spin wave drive the creation and annihilation processes

Measurement of moisture depth distribution in composite materials using positron lifetime technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Singh, J.J.; Holt, W.H.; Mock, W. Jr.; Mall, G.H.

1980-01-01

Fiber-reinforced resin matrix composites reportedly suffer significant degradation in their mechanical properties when exposed to hot, moist, environments for extended periods. Moisture weakens the fiber matrix bond as well as the matrix shear strength. An important factor in determining the extent of degradation is the depth distribution of moisture in the resin matrix. Despite the importance of measuring moisture distribution and its effects on composite material properties, not enough data are available on suitable nondestructive techniques for detecting and measuring moisture diffusion in organic composite materials. This paper addresses itself to the problem of measuring the moisture content of such materials, with special emphasis on its depth distribution, using positron lifetime technique

Composition influence on positron annihilation parameters in ZnO-based nanocrystal semiconductor powders

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Damonte, L.C.; Hernandez Fenollosa, M.A.; Donderis, V.; Mari, B. [Departamento de Fisica Aplicada, Universidad Politecnica de Valencia, Cami de Vera s/n, Valencia, 46071 (Spain)

2007-07-01

Zn{sub 1-x}Mg{sub x}O powders at various compositions were obtained by mechanical milling from the binary oxides. The progressive incorporation of Mg atoms into the ZnO lattice was monitored by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The evolution of annihilation parameters with milling time and composition were analyzed and related to the possible types of mechanical and substitutional induced defect present. It was concluded that the average lifetime constitute a useful parameter to sense the complete cation substitution in the wurtzite structure. (copyright 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Composition influence on positron annihilation parameters in ZnO-based nanocrystal semiconductor powders

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Damonte, L.C.; Hernandez Fenollosa, M.A.; Donderis, V.; Mari, B.

2007-01-01

Zn 1-x Mg x O powders at various compositions were obtained by mechanical milling from the binary oxides. The progressive incorporation of Mg atoms into the ZnO lattice was monitored by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The evolution of annihilation parameters with milling time and composition were analyzed and related to the possible types of mechanical and substitutional induced defect present. It was concluded that the average lifetime constitute a useful parameter to sense the complete cation substitution in the wurtzite structure. (copyright 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Positron annihilation spectroscopic study of hydrothermal grown n-type zinc oxide single crystal

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hui, C.W.; Zhang, Z.D.; Zhou, T.J.; Ling, C.C.; Beling, C.D.; Fung, S. [Department of Physics, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong (China); Brauer, G.; Anwand, W.; Skorupa, W. [Institut fuer Ionenstrahlphysik und Materialforschung, Forschungszentrum Rossendorf, Postfach 510119, 01314 Dresden (Germany)

2007-07-01

Positron lifetime and coincidence Doppler broadening spectroscopic (CDBS) measurements were carried out to study the defects in two hydrothermal (HT) grown ZnO single crystal samples (HT1 and HT2) obtained from two companies. Single component model could offer good fittings to the room temperature spectra of HT1 and HT2, with the positron lifetimes equal to 199 ps and 181 ps respectively. These two lifetime components were associated with saturated positron trapping into two V{sub Zn}-related defects with different microstructures. The positron lifetimes of HT1 was found to be temperature independent. For the HT2 sample, the positron lifetime remained unchanged with T>200 K and decreased with decreasing temperature as T<200 K. This could be explained by the presence of an additional positron trap having similar electronic environment to that of the delocalized state and competing in trapping positrons with the 181 ps component at low temperatures. Positron-electron autocorrelation function, which was the fingerprint of the annihilation site, was extracted from the CDBS spectrum. The obtained autocorrelation functions of HT1 and HT2 at room temperature, and HT2 at 50 K had features consistent with the above postulates that the 181 ps and the 199 ps components had distinct microstructures and the low temperature positron trap existed in HT2. (copyright 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

Biological Effectiveness of Antiproton Annihilation

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Maggiore, C.; Agazaryan, N.; Bassler, N.

2004-01-01

from the annihilation of antiprotons produce an increase in ‘‘biological dose’’ in the vicinity of the narrow Bragg peak for antiprotons compared to protons. This experiment is the first direct measurement of the biological effects of antiproton annihilation. The background, description, and status...

Simulation of the annihilation emission of galactic positrons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gillard, W.

2008-01-01

Positrons annihilate in the central region of our Galaxy. This has been known since the detection of a strong emission line centered on an energy of 511 keV in the direction of the Galactic center. This gamma-ray line is emitted during the annihilation of positrons with electrons from the interstellar medium. The spectrometer SPI, onboard the INTEGRAL observatory, performed spatial and spectral analyses of the positron annihilation emission. This thesis presents a study of the Galactic positron annihilation emission based on models of the different interactions undergone by positrons in the interstellar medium. The models are relied on our present knowledge of the properties of the interstellar medium in the Galactic bulge, where most of the positrons annihilate, and of the physics of positrons (production, propagation and annihilation processes). In order to obtain constraints on the positrons sources and physical characteristics of the annihilation medium, we compared the results of the models to measurements provided by the SPI spectrometer. (author)

Antihydrogen annihilation reconstruction with the ALPHA silicon detector

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Andresen, G.B. [Department of Physics and Astronomy, Aarhus University, DK-8000 Aarhus C (Denmark); Ashkezari, M.D. [Department of Physics, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada V5A 1S6 (Canada); Bertsche, W. [Department of Physics, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP (United Kingdom); Bowe, P.D. [Department of Physics and Astronomy, Aarhus University, DK-8000 Aarhus C (Denmark); Butler, E. [European Laboratory for Particle Physics, CERN, CH-1211 Geneva 23 (Switzerland); Cesar, C.L. [Instituto de Fisica, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-972 (Brazil); Chapman, S. [Department of Physics, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-7300 (United States); Charlton, M.; Deller, A.; Eriksson, S. [Department of Physics, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP (United Kingdom); Fajans, J. [Department of Physics, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-7300 (United States); Friesen, T. [Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada T2N 1N4 (Canada); Fujiwara, M.C. [TRIUMF, 4004 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 2A3 (Canada); Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada T2N 1N4 (Canada); Gill, D.R. [TRIUMF, 4004 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 2A3 (Canada); Gutierrez, A. [Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z4 (Canada); Hangst, J.S. [Department of Physics and Astronomy, Aarhus University, DK-8000 Aarhus C (Denmark); Hardy, W.N. [Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z4 (Canada); Hayden, M.E. [Department of Physics, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada V5A 1S6 (Canada); Hayano, R.S. [Department of Physics, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033 (Japan); Humphries, A.J. [Department of Physics, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP (United Kingdom); and others

2012-08-21

The ALPHA experiment has succeeded in trapping antihydrogen, a major milestone on the road to spectroscopic comparisons of antihydrogen with hydrogen. An annihilation vertex detector, which determines the time and position of antiproton annihilations, has been central to this achievement. This detector, an array of double-sided silicon microstrip detector modules arranged in three concentric cylindrical tiers, is sensitive to the passage of charged particles resulting from antiproton annihilation. This article describes the method used to reconstruct the annihilation location and to distinguish the annihilation signal from the cosmic ray background. Recent experimental results using this detector are outlined.

Antihydrogen annihilation reconstruction with the ALPHA silicon detector

CERN Document Server

Andresen, G B; Bertsche, W; Bowe, P D; Butler, E; Cesar, C L; Chapman, S; Charlton, M; Deller, A; Eriksson, S; Fajans, J; Friesen, T; Fujiwara, M C; Gill, D.R; Gutierrez, A; Hangst, J S; Hardy, W N; Hayden, M E; Hayano, R S; Humphries, A J; Hydomako, R; Jonsell, S; Jorgensen, L V; Kurchaninov, L; Madsen, N; Menary, S; Nolan, P; Olchanski, K; Olin, A; Povilus, A; Pusa, P; Sarid, E; Seif el Nasr, S; Silveira, D M; So, C; Storey, J W; Thompson, R I; van der Werf, D P; Yamazaki, Y

2012-01-01

The ALPHA experiment has succeeded in trapping antihydrogen, a major milestone on the road to spectroscopic comparisons of antihydrogen with hydrogen. An annihilation vertex detector, which determines the time and position of antiproton annihilations, has been central to this achievement. This detector, an array of double-sided silicon microstrip detector modules arranged in three concentric cylindrical tiers, is sensitive to the passage of charged particles resulting from antiproton annihilation. This article describes the method used to reconstruct the annihilation location and to distinguish the annihilation signal from the cosmic ray background. Recent experimental results using this detector are outlined.

Resolving Nuclear Reactor Lifetime Extension Questions: A Combined Multiscale Modeling and Positron Characterization approach

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wirth, B; Asoka-Kumar, P; Denison, A; Glade, S; Howell, R; Marian, J; Odette, G; Sterne, P

2004-01-01

The objective of this work is to determine the chemical composition of nanometer precipitates responsible for irradiation hardening and embrittlement of reactor pressure vessel steels, which threaten to limit the operating lifetime of nuclear power plants worldwide. The scientific approach incorporates computational multiscale modeling of radiation damage and microstructural evolution in Fe-Cu-Ni-Mn alloys, and experimental characterization by positron annihilation spectroscopy and small angle neutron scattering. The modeling and experimental results are

Positron annihilation and electron microscopy study in the early stage of fatigue of polycrystalline copper

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Diaz, L.; Pareja, R.; Pedrosa, M.A.; Gonzalez, R.

1985-01-01

Positron annihilation and transmission electron microscopy are used to study the early stage of fatigue in polycrystalline copper cyclically deformed at various temperatures. The concentration of positron traps is correlated to the cumulative plastic strain and to the work done during deformation. The average lifetimes of the trapped positrons are (177 +- 4) and (186 +- 3) ps for samples fatigued at T 15 s -1 for the samples deformed at T <= 293 K. Vacancy clusters like small dislocation loops, are proposed as the main defects responsible for the positron trapping. (author)

Gadolinium substitution induced defect restructuring in multiferroic BiFeO3: case study by positron annihilation spectroscopy

Science.gov (United States)

Mukherjee, A.; Banerjee, M.; Basu, S.; Nambissan, P. M. G.; Pal, M.

2013-12-01

Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) comprising of the measurements of positron lifetime and coincidence Doppler broadening spectra has been carried out to understand and monitor the evolution of the vacancy-type defects arising from the ionic deficiencies at lattice points of the multiferroic perovskite bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3) doped with 1, 5 and 10 at% gadolinium (Gd3+) ions. Negatively charged defects in the form of Bi3+ monovacancies (V_{Bi}^{3-} ) were present in the undoped nanocrystallites, which strongly trapped positrons. During the successive doping by Gd3+ ions, the positron trapping efficiency decreased while the doped ions combined with the vacancies to form complexes, which became neutral. A fraction of the positrons got annihilated at the crystallite surfaces too, being evident from the very large positron lifetimes obtained and confirming the nano-size-specific characteristics of the samples. Further, the intercrystallite regions provided favourable sites for orthopositronium formation, although in minute concentrations. The dopant ion-complex formation was also depicted clearly by the defect characteristic S-W plot. Also, the large change of electrical resistivity with Gd concentration has been explained nicely by invoking the defect information from the PAS study. The study has demonstrated the usefulness of an excellent method of defect identification in such a novel material system, which is vital information for exploiting them for further technological applications.

Monitoring of atomic metastable state lifetimes by the laser-enhanced ionization technique--A new method for probing local stoichiometric combustive conditions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ljungberg, Peter; Malmsten, Yvonne; Axner, Ove

1995-01-01

The lifetimes of atomic metastable states in an acetylene/air flame have been investigated using the laser-enhanced ionization technique. The lifetimes were found to be several orders of magnitude less than the natural ones, which clearly shows that they are fully determined by the surrounding environment. The lifetime of a specific state has been investigated as a function of flame conditions. It was found that the lifetime is strongly dependent on the local flame composition, with a distinct maximum for stoichiometric conditions. For fuel-lean local conditions, the excess of O2 acts as an effective quencher of the metastable state, while for fuel-rich conditions the quenching is dominated by unburned fuel components. An acetylene/air flame has been probed both as a function of height in the flame, as well as a function of fuel/air composition fed to the burner. The experiments show clearly for which heights and fuel/air compositions that lean, stoichiometric or rich conditions prevail. This makes a monitoring of metastable state lifetimes a useful technique for combustion analysis

Estimates of Uncertainties in Analysis of Positron Lifetime Spectra for Metals

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Eldrup, Morten Mostgaard; Huang, Y. M.; McKee, B. T. A.

1978-01-01

by excluding the peak regions of the spectra from the analysis. The influence of using incorrect source-surface components in the analysis may on the other hand be reduced by including the peak regions of the spectra. A main conclusion of the work is that extreme caution should be exercised to avoid......The effects of uncertainties and errors in various constraints used in the analysis of multi-component life-time spectra of positrons annihilating in metals containing defects have been investigated in detail using computer simulated decay spectra and subsequent analysis. It is found...... that the errors in the fitted values of the main components lifetimes and intensities introduced from incorrect values of the instrumental resolution function and of the source-surface components can easily exceed the statistical uncertainties. The effect of an incorrect resolution function may be reduced...

Low-temperature positron lifetime and Doppler-broadening measurements for single-crystal nickel oxide containing cation vacancies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Waber, J.T.; Snead, C.L. Jr.; Lynn, K.G.

1985-01-01

Lifetime and Doppler-broadening measurements for positron annihilation in substoichiometric nickelous oxide have been made concomitantly from liquid-helium to room temperature. The concentration of cation vacancies is readily controlled by altering the ambient oxygen pressure while annealing the crystals at 1673 0 K. It was found that neither of the three lifetimes observed or their relative intensities varied significantly with the oxygen pressure, and the bulk rate only increased slightly when the specimen was cooled from room to liquid-helium temperatures. These results are interpreted as indicating that some of the positrons are trapped by the existing cation vacancies and a smaller fraction by vacancy clusters

Positron annihilation studies on structural materials for nuclear reactors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rajaraman, R.; Amarendra, G.; Sundar, C.S.

2012-01-01

Structural steels for nuclear reactors have renewed interest owing to the future advanced fission reactor design with increased burn-up goals as well as for fusion reactor applications. While modified austenitic steels continue to be the main cladding materials for fast breeder reactors, Ferritic/martensitic steels and oxide dispersion strengthened ferritic steels are the candidate materials for future reactors applications in India. Sensitivity and selectivity of positron annihilation spectroscopy to open volume type defects and nano clusters have been extensively utilized in studying reactor materials. We have recently reviewed the application of positron techniques to reactor structural steels. In this talk, we will present successful application of positron annihilation spectroscopy to probe various structural materials such as D9, ferritic/martensitic, oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) steels and related model alloys, highlighting our recent studies. (author)

Antiproton-neutron annihilations at rest: Search for broad states

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kalogeropoulos, T.E.

1985-01-01

The searches so far for meson states produced in p-bar annihilations at rest into π+X have been sensitive to narrow X states. The combinatorial background and the narrow phase space width in missing mass spectra are the main problems. Most of the theoretical models predict broad states. We have measured in a high statistis experiment p-bar(at rest)d→π/sup +- /+Anything inclusive spectra. Using a novel analysis technique the π + π - difference spectra, it is shown that the p-barn annihilation is dominated by two-body cascades. Two new states of opposite G-parity of (mass, width) = (1480, 100) MeV/c 2 are dominant. The G = +1 state has a large decay branching ratio into rho 0 rho 0 . Other features are presented

Positron annihilation response and broadband dielectric spectroscopy: salol.

Science.gov (United States)

Bartoš, J; Iskrová, M; Köhler, M; Wehn, R; Sauša, O; Lunkenheimer, P; Krištiak, J; Loidl, A

2011-09-01

A phenomenological analysis of the ortho-positronium (o-Ps) annihilation from positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) and the dynamics from broadband dielectric spectroscopy (BDS) are reported on a small molecular glass former of intermediate H-bonding and fragility: salol. The dielectric spectra extend over a very broad frequency range of about 2 × 10(-2)-3.5 × 10(11) Hz, providing information on the α-relaxation, the secondary relaxation giving rise to the excess wing, and the shallow high-frequency minimum in the micro- to milli-meter wave range. A number of empirical correlations between the o-Ps lifetime, τ(3)(T), and the various spectral and relaxation features have been observed. Thus, the phenomenological evaluation of the τ(3)(T) dependence of the PALS response of the amorphous sample reveals three characteristic PALS temperatures: T(g)(PALS), T(b1)(L) = 1.15T(g)(PALS) and T(b2)(L) = 1.25T(g)(PALS), which are discussed in relation to similar findings for some typical small molecular vdW- and H-bonded glass formers. A slighter change of the slope at T(b1)(L) appears to be related to the transition from excess wing to the primary α-process-dominated behavior, with the secondary process dominating in the deeply supercooled liquid state below T(b1)(L). The high-temperature plateau effect in the τ (3)(T) plot occurs at T(b2)(L) and agrees with the characteristic Stickel temperature, T(B)(ST), marking a qualitative change of the primary α process, but it does not follow the relation T(b2)(L) application of the two-order parameter (TOP) model to the structural relaxation as represented by the primary α relaxation times from BDS leads to the characteristic TOP temperature, T(m)(c), close to T(b1) from PALS. Within this model the phenomenological interpretation is offered based on changes in the probability of occurrence of solid-like and liquid-like domains to explain the dynamic as well as PALS responses. In summary, all the empirical

Antihyperon-hyperon production in antiproton-proton annihilations with PANDA at FAIR

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Papenbrock, Michael [Department of Nuclear Physics and Astronomy, Uppsala University, Uppsala (Sweden); Collaboration: PANDA-Collaboration

2015-07-01

The production of antihyperon-hyperon pairs in antiproton-proton annihilations involves the annihilation of at least one light (u,d) quark-antiquark pair and the creation of a heavier (s,c,b) pair. Production of strange hyperons occur in an energy region in which QCD is difficult to predict. By studying hyperon production we learn about the strong interaction in this energy region, i.e. the confinement domain. It is an open question what the relevant degrees of freedom are: quarks and gluons, or hadrons. Spin observables is an excellent tool in order to better understand the physical processes. These are accessible via the weak, parity violating decay of the hyperon which results in an angular asymmetry of the decay products. The future PANDA experiment at FAIR is going to be ideally suited to study spin physics on hyperons with both high precision and high statistics. Since hyperons decay weakly and thus have long life-times, their decay vertices are displaced with respect to the production point. This sets high demands on precise track reconstruction. A pattern recognition algorithm is currently under development, with the ability to reconstruct tracks originating in displaced vertices. Simulation studies done by the Uppsala group as well as the status of the development will be presented and discussed.

Study of defects and vacancies in structural properties of Mn, co-doped oxides: ZnO

Science.gov (United States)

Kumar, Harish; Kaushik, A.; Alvi, P. A.; Dalela, B.; Dalela, S.

2018-05-01

The paper deals with the Structural properties on Mn, Co doped oxides ZnO samples using XRD, Positron Annihilation Lifetime (PAL) Spectra and Raman Spectra. The Mn, Co doped ZnO samples crystallize in a wurtzite structure without any impurity phases in XRD Spectra. The defect state of these samples has been investigated by using positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) spectroscopy technique in which all the relevant lifetime parameters are measured for all the spectra. The results are explained in the direction of doping concentration in these samples in terms of defects structure on Zn lattice site VZn and oxygen defects Vo.

Study of Ca-substitution on YBa2Cu4O8 superconductors by positron lifetime spectrum

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cheng Guosheng; Shang Jiaxing; Dai Xianqi

1995-01-01

Positron lifetime spectra were studied for Y 1-x Ca x Ba 2 Cu 4 O 8 (x 0.00-0.15) superconductors. The local electron density n e and vacancy concentration C υ were evaluated as a function of Casubstitution content x. A peak appears near x = 0.1 which just correspond to maxmium T c value. The characteristic of positron annihilation and the correlation with superconductivity were also discussed

Calculation of the Doppler broadening of the electron-positron annihilation radiation in defect-free bulk materials

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ghosh, V. J.; Alatalo, M.; Asoka-Kumar, P.; Nielsen, B.; Lynn, K. G.; Kruseman, A. C.; Mijnarends, P. E.

2000-01-01

Results of a calculation of the Doppler broadening of the positron-electron annihilation radiation and positron lifetimes in a large number of elemental defect-free materials are presented. A simple scheme based on the method of superimposed atoms is used for these calculations. Calculated values of the Doppler broadening are compared with experimental data for a number of elemental materials, and qualitative agreement is obtained. These results provide a database which can be used for characterizing materials and identifying impurity-vacancy complexes. (c) 2000 The American Physical Society

Characterization of defect accumulation in neutron-irradiated Mo by positron annihilation spectroscopy

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Eldrup, Morten Mostgaard; Li, Meimei; Snead, L.L.

2008-01-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy measurements were performed on neutron-irradiated low carbon arc cast Mo. Irradiation took place in the high flux isotope reactor, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, at a temperature of 80 +/- 10 degrees C. Neutron fluences ranged from 2 x 10(21) to 8 x 10(......, as predicted by molecular dynamics simulations. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved....... at a very low-dose of similar to 10(-4) dpa. The average size of the cavities did not change significantly with dose, in contrast to neutron-irradiated bcc Fe where cavity sizes increased with increasing dose. It is suggested that the in-cascade vacancy clustering may be significant in neutron-irradiated Mo...

Electron-positron annihilation physics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Foster, B.

1990-01-01

Electron-Positron Annihilation Physics is a detailed introduction to the main topics in e + e - annihilation, with particular emphasis on experimental work. Four main areas are covered, each in great detail, beginning with the Standard Model and its application to the production of lepton, quark and boson pairs. Secondly, the general features of fragmentation and different fragmentation models are explained. Chapter 3 is devoted to heavy quark and lepton physics, to which e + e - experiments have made an immense contribution. The final chapter, 'Where do we go from here?', looks for new phenomena beyond the Standard Model. Predictions of theory are compared with experimental results, highlighting shortcomings of some current theories. Details of instrumentation are included whenever possible. This ensures that the book is of maximum practical use to research workers. A comprehensive introduction to the major topics in the field, Electron-Positron Annihilation Physics is aimed at both graduate students studying high-energy physics and mature research workers. (author)

Positron annihilation studies of high dose Sb implanted silicon

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Schut, H.; Eijt, S.W.H.; Beling, C.D.; Ho, K.; Takamura, Y.

2005-01-01

The formation and evolution of vacancies and precipitates created by implantation of 60 keV, 2 x 10 16 cm -2 Sb + in pre-amorphized (0 0 1) Cz-Si is studied using the Doppler broadening (DB) and two-dimensional angular correlation of annihilation radiation (2D-ACAR) positron beam techniques. After implantation, samples were laser annealed (LTA) and subsequently thermal annealed at temperatures ranging from 400 to 1000 deg. C. Implantation-induced vacancy-type defects were detected up to a depth of 280 nm. After LTA, positron annihilation related to both Sb and remaining defects is observed in the first 100 nm below the surface. The deeper region only shows positron trapping at vacancy-type defects with strong reduced concentration. Complete removal is obtained after 600 deg. C anneal. At this temperature, the positron data for the upper region reveals trapping at Sb and Si sites only. With increasing annealing time (at 600 deg. C) or increasing temperature (up to 1000 deg. C) positron annihilation at Sb-sites associated with neighboring vacancies becomes apparent. Results are correlated with the observed Sb electrical deactivation above 600 deg. C, the shift from small Sb aggregates to precipitates and out-diffusion of Sb from the implantation region at higher temperatures

Study of radiation defects in semiconductors by means of positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Krause-Rehberg, R.; Bondarenko, V.; Redmann, F.

2003-01-01

In a nuclear environment, a strong degradation of important properties is observed for many materials which are otherwise very reliable. This is especially valid for silicon, the most important semiconductor. In the presented paper, two examples for the study of lattice defects in silicon by means of positron annihilation will be given. Firstly, the degradation of silicon detectors used for the particle detection in high-luminosity collider experiments starts to limit the lifetime of the whole experiment. An annealing experiment on n-irradiated Si will be presented. Beside the destructive effect of high-radiation conditions, such radiation-induced defects can have a beneficial result. This will be demonstrated for the creation of new gettering zones by high-energy self-implantation of silicon. (author)

Application of the positron lifetime spectroscopy as method of non-destructive testing

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Somieski, B.; Krause-Rehberg, R.; Salz, H.; Meyendorf, N.

1995-01-01

In order to show the suitability of the Positron Lifetime Spectroscopy (POLIS) as a method of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) several iron alloys/steels were mechanically damaged (tensile stress, fatigue, creeping). The positron annihilation parameters show clear changes during all applied kinds of damage. After tensile stress as well as after creeping a homogeneous distribution of damage in the sample was detected. During the very first elastic cycle of a fatigue experiment, a change in the defect structure occurs in well annealed materials. A modified spectrometer for in the field mapping is presented. (orig.)

Stages in the Recovery of Deformed Single Crystals of Iron Studied by Position Annihilation Techniques

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Lee, Jong-Lam; Waber, James T.; Park, Yong-Ki; Hosson, J.T.M. De

Isochronal as well as isothermal measurements have been made on high purity single crystals of iron which had been cold rolled about 10% prior to annealing. Two steps were isolated corresponding first to the annihilation of screw dislocations and then to the elimination of edge dislocations at

Study of micelle formation in solutions of alkylammonium carboxylates in apolar solvents by positron annihilation techniques

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fucugauchi, L.A.; Djermouni, B.; Handel, E.D.; Ache, H.J.

1979-01-01

The positron annihilation technique was applied to the study of the self-association process in solutions of alkylammonium carboxylates in apolar solvents, such as cyclohexane and benzene. The results indicate that the positronium formation probability responds very sensitively to changes in the microenvironment in these solutions. A distinct cooperative effect of the solution resulting in abrupt changes in the number of thermal ortho-positronium atoms formed was observed and studied as a function of the length and structure of the hydrocarbon chain in the cationic and anionic parts of the surfactant molecules. While the chain length in the cationic portion of the surfactant seems to have little effect on the positronium formation probability, distinct differences can be observed when the structure of the carboxylate is changed. Furthermore, a profound effect in the physical property of the solutions was recognized when cyclohexane was replaced by benzene as a solvent. The results are discussed in terms of the existing models for self-association. 4 figures

ATHENA: an actual antihydrogen annihilation

CERN Multimedia

2002-01-01

This is an image of an actual matter-antimatter annihilation due to an atom of antihydrogen in the ATHENA experiment, located on the Antiproton Decelerator (AD) at CERN since 2001. The antiproton produces four charged pions (yellow) whose positions are given by silicon microstrips (pink) before depositing energy in CsI crystals (yellow cubes). The positron also annihilates to produce back-to-back gamma rays (red).

Positron Transport and Annihilation in the Galactic Bulge

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Fiona Helen Panther

2018-03-01

Full Text Available The annihilation of positrons in the Milky Way Galaxy has been observed for ∼50 years; however, the production sites of these positrons remains hard to identify. The observed morphology of positron annihilation gamma-rays provides information on the annihilation sites of these Galactic positrons. It is understood that the positrons responsible for the annihilation signal originate at MeV energies. The majority of sources of MeV positrons occupy the star-forming thin disk of the Milky Way. If positrons propagate far from their sources, we must develop accurate models of positron propagation through all interstellar medium (ISM phases in order to reveal the currently uncertain origin of these Galactic positrons. On the other hand, if positrons annihilate close to their sources, an alternative source of MeV positrons with a distribution that matches the annihilation morphology must be identified. In this work, I discuss the various models that have been developed to understand the origin of the 511 keV line from the direction of the Galactic bulge, and the propagation of positrons in the ISM.

Positron annihilation studies of the Al-Ca-Zn superplastic alloy: thermal and thermomechanical contribution

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ayciriex, M.D.; Romero, R.; Somoza, A.; Silvetti, S.P.; Villagra, O.

1993-01-01

Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) is an established method for the study of electronic structure and defect properties in metals and alloys. The application of this technique to the study of positron trapping in grain boundaries and related phenomena, however, is relatively scarce. The physical basis for the application of PAS to the study of grain boundaries is the fact that grain boundaries are regions of low atomic density which result in attractive sites to the trap positions. The superplastic alloys are particularly suitable materials to be studied with PAS; they have a fine-grained structure, and therefore a high density of grain boundaries. Moreover, in the annealed condition, they have a low density of other types of defects capable of trapping positrons, such as dislocations. This type of polycrystalline material can undergo extremely high deformations (up to hundreds and thousands percent) in a certain temperature-strain rate range without macroscopic failure. This paper is part of a whole study of the thermal and thermomechanical effects on the positron lifetime parameters and their relation with microstructural changes and the phenomenon of structural superplasticity in a Al-Ca-Zn alloy

Positrons annihilation and the Galactic center

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wallyn, Pierre

1992-01-01

The Galactic center has been observed in gamma rays, many times since more than two decades and we do not still have a full comprehensive picture of this region. It is fairly well established that the 511 keV annihilation line has two origins: a steady diffuse emission, which follows more or less the type I supernovae distribution along the Galactic plane and a variable emission coming from the positrons emitted by (at least) one compact object and annihilating in a nearby cold molecular cloud. We present here an analysis of the profiles and intensifies of the 511 keV annihilation line observed in the direction of the Galactic center. We find that a warm medium (temperature of 8000 K) can describe the annihilation of positrons from the diffuse component of the line. The high state observations of the 511 keV line can be explained if the time-variable component is coming from the annihilation of the positrons in a cold medium (temperature around 80 K). This constraint on the annihilation medium temperature supports the association with the molecular cloud G-0.86-0.08 in the direction of 1E1740.7-2942. On may 22, 1989, HEXAGONE detected a narrow 511 keV line and also a broad emission around 170 keV in the direction of the Galactic center. Two weeks before, EXITE observed in the same direction a new transient source EXS 1737.9-2952 which showed a bump around 102 keV. We propose a simple semi-quantitative model which can mimic the bumps as well as its time variations and emphasize the strong similarities between EXS1737.9-2952 and Nova Muscae. We study the behaviour of positron annihilation by charge exchange in the cold phase of the interstellar medium. We calculate formula for the slowing-down time before thermalization of positrons of a given initial energy, for different medium densities. Our scenario explains the lack of detection of the recombination lines from positronium and gives new constraints on their possible observation. (author) [fr

Positron Annihilation in Insulating Materials

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Asoka-Kumar, P; Sterne, PA

2002-01-01

We describe positron results from a wide range of insulating materials. We have completed positron experiments on a range of zeolite-y samples, KDP crystals, alkali halides and laser damaged SiO 2 . Present theoretical understanding of positron behavior in insulators is incomplete and our combined theoretical and experimental approach is aimed at developing a predictive understanding of positrons and positronium annihilation characteristics in insulators. Results from alkali halides and alkaline-earth halides show that positrons annihilate with only the halide ions, with no apparent contribution from the alkali or alkaline-earth cations. This contradicts the results of our existing theory for metals, which predicts roughly equal annihilation contributions from cation and anion. We also present result obtained using Munich positron microprobe on laser damaged SiO 2 samples

Positron annihilation in metallic glasses - a general survey

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brauer, G.; Kajcsos, Zs.; Kemeny, T.

1981-08-01

This report presents a review of the literature on positron annihilation studies concerning metallic glasses. After some general information and overview on structural models of metallic glasses as well as a short description of the positron annihilation method itself are added. Conclusions regarding information on the structure of metallic glasses obtainable by positron annihilation are also given. (author)

Initial angular momentum state in pp annihilation at rest

CERN Document Server

Bizzarri, R

1972-01-01

The author shows that no quantitative statement on the relative importance of initial P-states in pp annihilation can be made. Annihilations in flight indicate that P-wave annihilation into K/sub 1 //sup 0/K/sub 1//sup 0/ is inhibited while annihilation into pi pi is enhanced and might suggest a P-wave contamination approximately 10%. The observatory of the final state K/sub 1//sup 0/K/sub 1//sup 0/n from annihilations at rest indicates that the depression of the K/sub 1//sup 0/K/sub 1//sup 0/ final state is not so important and suggests a P-wave contamination smaller than 4%. Furthermore the successes obtained in the analysis of various final states on the assumption of S-wave annihilation are hard to reconcile with a P-wave contribution bigger than approximately 5%. (20 refs).

Analysis of a spectrum of a positron annihilation half life through inverse problem studies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Monteiro, Roberto Pellacani G.; Viterbo, Vanessa C.; Braga, Joao Pedro; Magalhaes, Wellington F. de; Braga, A.P.

2002-01-01

Inversion of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy, based on a neural network Hopfield model and singular value decomposition (SVD) associated to Tikhonov regularization is presented in this work. From a previous reported density function for lysozyme in water a simulated spectrum, without spectrometer resolution effects, was generated. The precision of the inverted density function was analyzed taking into account the number of neurons and the learning time of the Hopfield network and the maximum position and areas for the spectral peaks in the SVD method considering noise and noiseless data. A fair agreement was obtained when comparing the inversion results with direct exact results. (author)

The annihilation spectrum of relatiVistic electron-positron plasma

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Aragonyan, F.A.; Atoyan, A.M.; Syunyaev, R.A.

1980-01-01

The annihilation spectrum of isotropically distributed monoenergetic electrons and positrons is obtained. The spectrum of the (e + e - ) plasma is analyzed in a large range of plasma temperatures. The comparison of transitions peratures. The comparison of transitions intensities of annihilation radiation and bremsstrahlung shows that for temperatures kT 2 (e + e - ) plasma is cooled mainly due to annihilation. The case of the fast positron annihilation on the rest electrons also considered. The possible astrophysical applications are discussed [ru

Angular correlation in positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Arponen, J.; Pajanne, E.

1978-01-01

The angular correlation of the two gamma quanta emitted when a thermalized positron annihilates with metallic conduction electrons is investigated by applying the newly developed theory of electron gas as a system of interacting collective excitations. The method leads in a natural way to the appearance of high-momentum components (i.e. pair momentum p>psub(F) in the annihilation radiation already in the case of annihilation with conduction electrons only. The amount of these components is significant approximately (10 %) in a dilute electron gas (like alkali metals), but fairly irrelevant for higher densities. The momentum-dependence of the enhancement factor for a dense system (with rsub(s) approximately equal to 2) agrees well both with the earlier theories due to Kahana and others, and also with recent accurate experimental observations. As rsub(s) increases into the alkali-metal region, the enhancement factor for p< psub(F) becomes relatively more and more constant, in contrast with the trend in the Kahana theory. In this density regime the experimental results seem to vary widely, although most of them desagree with the present prediction. We discuss the possible discrepancy and try to account for the effects of the core annihilation by a simple model. (author)

Nanostructural evolution in surveillance test specimens of a commercial nuclear reactor pressure vessel studied by three-dimensional atom probe and positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Toyama, T.; Nagai, Y.; Tang, Z.; Hasegawa, M.; Almazouzi, A.; Walle, E. van; Gerard, R.

2007-01-01

The nanostructural evolution of irradiation-induced Cu-rich nanoprecipitates (CRNPs) and vacancy clusters in surveillance test specimens of in-service commercial nuclear reactor pressure vessel steel welds of Doel-1 and Doel-2 are revealed by combining the three-dimensional local electrode atom probe and positron annihilation techniques. In both medium (0.13 wt.%) and high (0.30 wt.%) Cu welds, the CRNPs are found to form readily at the very beginning of the reactor lifetime. Thereafter, during the subsequent 30 years of operation, the residual Cu concentration in the matrix shows a slight decrease while the CRNPs coarsen. On the other hand, small vacancy clusters of V 3 -V 4 start appearing after the initial Cu precipitation and accumulate steadily with increasing neutron dose. The observed nanostructural evolution is shown to provide unique and fundamental information about the mechanisms of the irradiation-induced embrittlement of these specific materials

Positron Annihilation Study of Ion-irradiated Si

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shin, Jung Ki; Kwon, Jun Hyun; Lee, Jong Yong

2009-01-01

Structural parts like a spaceship, satellite and solar cell are composed of metal alloy or semiconductor materials. Especially, Si is used as a primary candidate alloy. But, manned and robotic missions to the Earth's moon and Mars are exposed to a continuous flux of Galactic Cosmic Rays (GCR) and occasional, but intense, fluxes of Solar Energetic Particles. These natural radiations impose hazards to manned exploration. Irradiation of cosmic particle induces various changes in the mechanical and physical properties of device steels. It is, therefore, important to investigate radiation damage to the component materials in semiconductor. The evolution of radiation-induced defects leads to degradation of the mechanical properties. One of them includes irradiation embrittlement, which can cause a loss of ductility and further increase the probability of a brittle fracture. It can be more dangerous in the space. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy(PALS) have been applied to investigate the production of vacancy-type defects for Ion-irradiated Si wafer penetrated by H, He, O and Fe ions. Then, we carried out a comparison with an un-irradiated Si wafer

Positron lifetime studies of the hcp to fcc transformation induced by mechanical attrition of elemental titanium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Manna, I.; Chattopadhyay, P.P.; Nandi, P.; Nambissan, P.M.G.

2004-01-01

Nanocrystallisation by planetary ball-milling of high purity elemental titanium (Ti) revealed a polymorphic transformation from its normal hexagonal close packed (hcp) structure to a face-centered cubic (fcc) phase. Positron lifetime measurements were carried out on samples collected after different hours of milling to characterize the defect structures at grain surfaces. With increasing hours of milling, the nanocrystalline grain size decreased and the positron lifetimes--one related to the annihilation at the grain surfaces and the other to that at the intergranular open volume domains--increased significantly due to the increased free volume at the trapping vacancy sites. However, between 5 to 10 hours of milling, the two lifetimes decreased before resuming increasing once again. This marked deviation from an otherwise expected continuous increase of positron lifetime coincided with structural rearrangement within the system bringing in an enhancement in the density of electrons. The repacking of atoms along the [0001] crystallographic direction could be a possibility for this observation. Positron radiation effects on the migration and agglomeration of nanoparticles are also discussed

Simple picture of the annihilation process

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gotsman, E.; Nussinov, S.

1980-01-01

We propose a simple geometrical picture for B-barB annihilations, which is motivated by the electric-flux-tube model and is consistent with the quark-rearrangement model, as well as the nonplanar multiperipheral quark-exchange model. Within its framework we are able to explain all the salient features of the experimental annihilation data

Hadron production in e+e- annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lueth, V.

1977-01-01

The lectures cover recent results on hadron production by e + e - annihilation. Included are total hadronic cross section and scale invariance as applied to e + e - annihilation, the present status of the psi spectroscopy by study of the decay modes of the narrow psi resonances, and the recent discovery of charmed mesons. 93 references

Application of positron annihilation induced auger electron spectroscopy to the study of surface chemistry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Weiss, A.H.; Yang, G.; Nangia, A.; Kim, J.H.; Fazleev, N.G.

1996-01-01

Positron annihilation induced Auger Electron Spectroscopy (PAES), makes use a beam of low energy positrons to excite Auger transitions by annihilating core electrons. This novel mechanism provides PAES with a number of unique features which distinguishes it from other methods of surface analysis. In PAES the very large collisionally induced secondary electron background which is present under the low energy Auger peaks using conventional techniques can be eliminated by using a positron beam whose energy is below the range of Auger electron energies. In addition, PAES is more surface selective than conventional Auger Spectroscopy because the PAES signal originates almost exclusively from the topmost atomic layer due to the fact that the positrons annihilating with the core electrons are trapped in an image correlation well just outside the surface. In this paper, recent applications of Positron Annihilation Induced Auger Electron Spectroscopy (PAES) to the study of surface structure and surface chemistry will be discussed including studies of the growth, alloying and inter-diffusion of ultrathin layers of metals, metals on semiconductors, and semiconductors on semiconductors. In addition, the possibilities for future application of PAES to the study of catalysis and surface chemistry will be outlined. (author)

Structure formation constraints on Sommerfeld-enhanced dark matter annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Armendariz-Picon, Cristian; Neelakanta, Jayanth T.

2012-01-01

We study the growth of cosmic structure in a ΛCDM universe under the assumption that dark matter self-annihilates with an averaged cross section times relative velocity that grows with the scale factor, an increase known as Sommerfeld-enhancement. Such an evolution is expected in models in which a light force carrier in the dark sector enhances the annihilation cross section of dark matter particles, and has been invoked, for instance, to explain anomalies in cosmic ray spectra reported in the past. In order to make our results as general as possible, we assume that dark matter annihilates into a relativistic species that only interacts gravitationally with the standard model. This assumption also allows us to test whether the additional relativistic species mildly favored by cosmic-microwave background data could originate from dark matter annihilation. We do not find evidence for Sommerfeld-enhanced dark matter annihilation and derive the corresponding upper limits on the annihilation cross-section

Movable collimator for positron annihilation imaging device

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Thompson, C.J.

1982-01-01

A positron annihilation imaging device has two or more rings of detectors from which three or more slices through the object being scanned can be determined at once. A technique is provided for adjusting the slice widths. One slice may be imaged by all detectors in adjacent planes simultaneously, and reconstructed as if all detectors were in the same plane. The single slice facility is provided without the necessity of rotating the detector array or moving it in any way during data collection, allowing the possibility of doing physiologically gated imaging of a single slice

Studies of Lifetimes in an Ion Storage Ring Using Laser Technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rostohar, Danijela; Derkatch, Anna; Hartman, Henrik; Norlin, Lars-Olov; Royen, Peder; Schef, Peter; Mannervik, Sven

2003-01-01

The laser-probing method for lifetime measurements of metastable levels, performed by applying the Fast Ion Beam Laser (FIBLAS) method to ions stored in a storage ring, has been developed by the Stockholm group. Recently, we have applied this method to lifetime measurements of close lying metastable levels. In this paper we discuss experimental studies of ions with complex structure and present the first experimentally obtained lifetimes of selected metastable levels in complex systems as Fe + , Eu + and La + .

Antiproton-helium annihilation around 45 MeV/c

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Balestra, F.; Bassolasco, S.; Bussa, M.P.; Busso, L.; Ferrero, L.; Panzieri, D.; Piragino, G.; Tosello, F.; Barbieri, R.; Bendiscioli, G.; Filippini, V.; Rotondi, A.; Salvini, P.; Zenoni, A.; Batusov, Yu.A.; Falomkin, I.V.; Pontecorvo, G.B.; Rozhdestvensky, A.M.; Sapozhnikov, M.G.; Tretyak, V.I.; Breivik, F.O.; Jacobsen, T.; Soerensen, S.O.

1989-01-01

The anti p 4 He annihilation cross section averaged over the interval 40-50 MeV/c has been measured using a streamer chamber in a magnetic field. The measured value is 1342±250 mb. It agrees with a behaviour like 1/p of the annihilation cross section. Our result has been obtained at the lowest momentum achieved till now in measurements of antiproton annihilation in flight. (orig.)

Antiproton-helium annihilation around 45 MeV/c

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Balestra, F.; Bassolasco, S.; Bussa, M.P.; Busso, L.; Ferrero, L.; Panzieri, D.; Piragino, G.; Tosello, F. (Turin Univ. (Italy). Ist. di Fisica Generale; Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Turin (Italy)); Barbieri, R.; Bendiscioli, G.; Filippini, V.; Rotondi, A.; Salvini, P.; Zenoni, A. (Pavia Univ. (Italy). Dipt. di Fisica Nucleare e Teorica; Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Pavia (Italy)); Batusov, Yu.A.; Falomkin, I.V.; Pontecorvo, G.B.; Rozhdestvensky, A.M.; Sapozhnikov, M.G.; Tretyak, V.I. (Joint Inst. for Nuclear Research, Dubna (USSR)); Breivik, F.O.; Jacobsen, T.; Soerensen, S.O. (Oslo Univ. (Norway). Fysisk Inst.); Guaraldo, C.; Maggiora, A. (Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Frascati (Italy). Lab. Nazionale di Frascati); Haatuft, A.; Halsteinslid, A.; Myklebost, K.; Olsen, J.M. (Bergen Univ. (Norway). Dept. of Physics); Lodi Rizzini, E. (Brescia Univ. (Italy). Dipt. di Automazione Industriale); Masala, M. (Brescia Univ. (Italy). Dipt. di Automazione Ind

1989-10-26

The anti p{sup 4}He annihilation cross section averaged over the interval 40-50 MeV/c has been measured using a streamer chamber in a magnetic field. The measured value is 1342+-250 mb. It agrees with a behaviour like 1/p of the annihilation cross section. Our result has been obtained at the lowest momentum achieved till now in measurements of antiproton annihilation in flight. (orig.).

Ion implanted Na22 source for positron lifetime measurements

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fluss, M.J.; Smedeskjaer, L.C.

1979-04-01

A new positron source-sample fabrication technique, intended for high temperature positron annihilation measurements, was developed. The method makes use of a mass separator to implant pure Na 22 into the sample surface. The application of this technique to Cu is described. A brief discussion of the origin of the source component is given, and different possibilities of correcting for it are pointed out. 3 references

Cosmic gamma-ray background from dark matter annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ando, Shin'ichiro

2007-01-01

High-energy photons from pair annihilation of dark matter particles contribute to the cosmic gamma-ray background (CGB) observed in a wide energy range. The precise shape of the energy spectrum of CGB depends on the nature of dark matter particles. In order to discriminate between the signals from dark matter annihilation and other astrophysical sources, however, the information from the energy spectrum of CGB may not be sufficient. We show that dark matter annihilation not only contributes to the mean CGB intensity, but also produces a characteristic anisotropy, which provides a powerful tool for testing the origins of the observed CGB. We show that the expected sensitivity of future gamma-ray detectors such as GLAST should allow us to measure the angular power spectrum of CGB anisotropy, if dark matter particles are supersymmetric neutralinos and they account for most of the observed mean intensity. As the intensity of photons from annihilation is proportional to the density squared, we show that the predicted shape of the angular power spectrum of gamma rays from dark matter annihilation is different from that due to other astrophysical sources such as blazars, whose intensity is linearly proportional to density. Therefore, the angular power spectrum of the CGB provides a 'smoking-gun' signature of gamma rays from dark matter annihilation

Subnanopore filling during water vapor adsorption on microporous silica thin films as seen by low-energy positron annihilation

Science.gov (United States)

Ito, Kenji; Yoshimoto, Shigeru; O'Rourke, Brian E.; Oshima, Nagayasu; Kumagai, Kazuhiro

2018-02-01

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) using a low-energy positron microbeam extracted into air was applied to elucidating molecular-level pore structures formed in silicon-oxide-backboned microporous thin films under controlled humidity conditions; as a result, a direct observation of the interstitial spaces in the micropores filled with water molecules was achieved. It was demonstrated that PALS using a microbeam extracted into air in combination with water vapor adsorption is a powerful tool for the in-situ elucidation of both open and closed subnanoscaled pores of functional thin materials under practical conditions.

Evidence of isospin effects in antiproton-nucleus annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Balestra, F.; Bossolasco, S.; Bussa, M.P.; Busso, L.; Ferrero, L.; Panzieri, D.; Piragino, G.; Tosello, F.; Barbieri, R.; Bendiscioli, G.; Rotondi, A.; Salvini, P.; Venaglioni, A.; Zenoni, A.; Batusov, Yu.A.; Falomkin, I.V.; Pontecorvo, G.B.; Rozhdestvensky, A.M.; Sapozhnikov, M.G.; Tretyak, V.I.; Guaraldo, C.; Maggiora, A.; Haatuft, A.; Halsteinslid, A.; Myklebost, K.; Olsen, J.M.; Breivik, F.O.; Jacobsen, T.; Soerensen, S.O.

1989-01-01

Antiproton- 3 He annihilation events at rest have been detected using a self-shunted streamer chamber. The ratio of the cross section for annihilation on neutrons and on protons has been measured (0.467±0.035). It is compared with other results from annihilation on free nucleons, deuterium, 3 He and 4 He. The low value of the ratio seems to indicate a strong isospin dependence of the antinucleon-nucleon P-wave amplitude. (orig.)

Light dark matter through assisted annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dey, Ujjal Kumar; Maity, Tarak Nath; Ray, Tirtha Sankar

2017-01-01

In this paper we investigate light dark matter scenarios where annihilation to Standard Model particles at tree-level is kinematically forbidden. In such cases annihilation can be aided by massive Standard Model-like species, called assisters , in the initial state that enhances the available phase space opening up novel tree-level processes. We investigate the feasibility of such non-standard assisted annihilation processes to reproduce the observed relic density of dark matter. We present a simple scalar dark matter-scalar assister model where this is realised. We find that if the dark matter and assister are relatively degenerate the required relic density can be achieved for a keV-MeV scale dark matter. We briefly discuss the cosmological constraints on such dark matter scenarios.

Ageing-induced enhancement of open porosity of mesoporous silica films studied by positron annihilation spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

He Chunqing; Muramatsu, Makoto; Oshima, Nagayasu; Ohdaira, Toshiyuki; Kinomura, Atsushi; Suzuki, Ryoichi

2006-01-01

We show that ageing of the silica sol in a closed vessel enhanced the open porosity of calcined mesoporous silica film studied by positron. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) based on a pulsed slow positron beam was used to estimate the mesopore size. 2-dimensional PALS (2D-PALS) and ortho-positronium time-of-flight (Ps-TOF) were used to evaluate the open porosity, interconnectivity and tortuosity of mesopores in the silica films. Results revealed that little change in pore size but significant enhancement of open porosity and/or pore interconnectivity occurred in the silica film deposited after the precursor solution aged for a relative longer time

Dynamics of optical matter creation and annihilation in colloidal liquids controlled by laser trapping power.

Science.gov (United States)

Liu, Jin; Dai, Qiao-Feng; Huang, Xu-Guang; Wu, Li-Jun; Guo, Qi; Hu, Wei; Yang, Xiang-Bo; Lan, Sheng; Gopal, Achanta Venu; Trofimov, Vyacheslav A

2008-11-15

We investigate the dynamics of optical matter creation and annihilation in a colloidal liquid that was employed to construct an all-optical switch. It is revealed that the switching-on process can be characterized by the Fermi-Dirac distribution function, while the switching-off process can be described by a steady state followed by a single exponential decay. The phase transition times exhibit a strong dependence on trapping power. With an increasing trapping power, while the switching-on time decreases rapidly, the switch-off time increases significantly, indicating the effects of optical binding and van der Waals force on the lifetime of the optical matter.

Identification of ultra-fine Ti-rich precipitates in V-Cr-Ti alloys irradiated below 300 deg. C by using positron CDB technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fukumoto, Ken-ichi; Matsui, Hideki; Ohkubo, Hideaki; Tang, Zheng; Nagai, Yasuyoshi; Hasegawa, Masayuki

2008-01-01

Irradiation-induced Ti-rich precipitates in V-Ti and V-4Cr-4Ti alloys are studied by TEM and positron annihilation methods (positron lifetime, and coincidence Doppler broadening (CDB)). The characteristics of small defect clusters formed in V alloys containing Ti at irradiation temperatures below 300 deg. C have not been identified by TEM techniques. Strong interaction between vacancy and Ti solute atoms for irradiated V alloys containing Ti at irradiation temperatures from 220 to 350 deg. C are observed by positron lifetime measurement. The vacancy-multi Ti solute complexes in V-alloys containing Ti are definitely identified by using CDB measurement. It is suggested that ultra-fine Ti-rich precipitates or Ti segregation at periphery of dislocation loops are formed in V alloys containing Ti at irradiation temperatures below 300 deg. C

Exclusive channels in bar pp annihilation at rest

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bluem, P.

1992-01-01

Exclusive channels in bar pp annihilation at rest provide a powerful tool for studying the meson spectrum below the bar pp threshold. The mesons can be classified in SU(3) multiplets according to their quantum numbers. The states which do not fit into this classification are candidates for new forms of hadronic matter like glueballs, hybrids, and multi-quark states. Recent results on the search for exotic states in exclusive channels of bar pp annihilation at rest are discussed. No less important is the study of the annihilation mechanism. In particular, high-statistic measurements of bar pp annihilation at rest into two-meson final states are an excellent tool for studying quark dynamics. Examples of two-body reactions are presented. 24 refs., 9 figs., 3 tabs

The variation of the baryon-to-photon ratio during different cosmological epochs due to decay and annihilation of dark matter

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zavarygin, E O; Ivanchik, A V

2015-01-01

An influence of annihilation and decay of the dark matter particles on the baryon-to-photon ratio has been studied for different cosmological epochs. We consider the different parameter values of the dark matter particles such as mass, annihilation cross section, lifetime and so on. The obtained results are compared with the data which come from the Big Bang nucleosynthesis calculation and from the analysis of the anisotropy of the cosmic microwave background radiation. It has been shown that the modern value of the dark matter density Ω CDM = 0.26 is enough to provide the variation of the baryon-to-photon ratio up to Δη/η ∼ 0.01÷1 for decay of the dark matter particles, but it also leads to an excess of the diffuse gamma ray background. We use the observational data on the diffuse gamma ray background in order to determine our constraints on the model of the dark matter particle decay and on the corresponding variation of the baryon-to-photon ratio: Δη/η ≲ 10 -5 . It has been shown that the variation of the baryon-to-photon ratio caused by the annihilation of the dark matter particles is negligible during the cosmological epochs from Big Bang nucleosynthesis to the present epoch. (paper)

Theoretical calculations of positron annihilation characteristics in inorganic solids -- Recent advances and problems

Science.gov (United States)

Sob, M.; Sormann, H.; Kuriplach, J.

Principles and applications of positron annihilation spectroscopy to electronic structure and defect studies are briefly reviewed and some recent advances and pending problems are illustrated by specific examples. In particular, it turns out that the sensitivity of calculated momentum densities of electron-positron annihilation pairs (MDAP) to the choice of electron crystal potential is higher or comparable to its sensitivity with respect to the choice of description of the electron-positron interaction. As a result, it is very hard to distinguish between various electron-positron interaction theories on the basis of the comparison of theoretical and experimental MDAPs. Furthermore, the positron affinity is determined theorttically for several systems having a band gap (semiconductors, insulators). It appears that the calculated positron affinities are significantly underestimated when compared to experimental data and, apparently, electron-positron interactions in such systems are not described satisfactorily by contemporary theoretical approaches. The above examples are related rather to electronic structure studies, but positrons are often used to investigate various open-volume defects in solids, which is dealt with in the last illustration. A non-selfconsistent computational technique suitable for the theoretical examination of configurations having large number (thousands) of non-equivalent atoms has been updated recently to treat non-periodic solids. It is based on the superposition of atomic densities in order to approximate the electronic density of the system studied. Though the charge redistribution due to selfconsistency effects is neglected, positron annihilation characteristics are determined quite reasonably. This allows for studying properties of extended defects like grain boundaries (and other interfaces), dislocations, precipitates, etc., which is very helpful when interpreting experimental positron annihilation data. Our technique is

Contribution from S and P waves in pp annihilation at rest

CERN Document Server

Bendiscioli, G; Fontana, A; Montagna, P; Rotondi, A; Salvini, P; Bertin, A; Bruschi, M; Capponi, M; De Castro, S; Donà, R; Galli, D; Giacobbe, B; Marconi, U; Massa, I; Piccinini, M; Cesari, N S; Spighi, R; Vecchi, S; Vagnoni, V M; Villa, M; Vitale, A; Zoccoli, A; Bianconi, A; Bonomi, G; Lodi-Rizzini, E; Venturelli, L; Zenoni, A; Cicalò, C; De Falco, A; Masoni, A; Puddu, G; Serci, S; Usai, G L; Gorchakov, O E; Prakhov, S N; Rozhdestvensky, A M; Tretyak, V I; Poli, M; Gianotti, P; Guaraldo, C; Lanaro, A; Lucherini, V; Petrascu, C; Kudryavtsev, A E; Balestra, F; Bussa, M P; Busso, L; Cerello, P G; Denisov, O Yu; Ferrero, L; Grasso, A; Maggiora, A; Panzarasa, A; Panzieri, D; Tosello, F; Botta, E; Bressani, Tullio; Calvo, D; Costa, S; D'Isep, D; Feliciello, A; Filippi, A; Marcello, S; Mirfakhraee, N; Agnello, M; Iazzi, F; Minetti, B; Tessaro, S

2001-01-01

The annihilation frequencies of 19 pp annihilation reactions at rest obtained in different target densities are analysed in order to determine the values of the P-wave annihilation percentage at each target density and the average hadronic branching ratios from P- and S-states. Both the assumptions of linear dependence of the annihilation frequencies on the P-wave annihilation percentage of the protonium state and the approach with the enhancement factors of Batty (1989) are considered. Furthermore the cases of incompatible measurements are discussed. (55 refs).

Physical Selectivity of Molecularly Imprinted polymers evaluated through free volume size distributions derived from Positron Lifetime Spectroscopy

Science.gov (United States)

Pasang, T.; Ranganathaiah, C.

2015-06-01

The technique of imprinting molecules of various sizes in a stable structure of polymer matrix has derived multitudes of applications. Once the template molecule is extracted from the polymer matrix, it leaves behind a cavity which is physically (size and shape) and chemically (functional binding site) compatible to the particular template molecule. Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS) is a well known technique to measure cavity sizes precisely in the nanoscale and is not being used in the field of MIPs effectively. This method is capable of measuring nanopores and hence suitable to understand the physical selectivity of the MIPs better. With this idea in mind, we have prepared molecular imprinted polymers (MIPs) with methacrylicacid (MAA) as monomer and EGDMA as cross linker in different molar ratio for three different size template molecules, viz. 4-Chlorophenol (4CP)(2.29 Å), 2-Nephthol (2NP) (3.36 Å) and Phenolphthalein (PP) (4.47Å). FTIR and the dye chemical reactions are used to confirm the complete extraction of the template molecules from the polymer matrix. The free volume size and its distribution have been derived from the measured o-Ps lifetime spectra. Based on the free volume distribution analysis, the percentage of functional cavities for the three template molecules are determined. Percentage of functional binding cavities for 4-CP molecules has been found out to be 70.2% and the rest are native cavities. Similarly for 2NP it is 81.5% and nearly 100% for PP. Therefore, PALS method proves to be very precise and accurate for determining the physical selectivity of MIPs.

Positron lifetime measurements as a non-destructive technique to monitor fatigue damage

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Byrne, J.G.

1975-09-01

In the fatigue cycling of initially hard copper, self consistent positron lifetime and x-ray particle size measurements followed the softening process and revealed a new feature which may be the final development of microvoids before fracture. In the cyclic fatigue of initially soft 4340 steel closely spaced concurrent measurements of these parameters are now in progress. For initially hard 4340 steel fatigue softening was revealed with a large positron lifetime decrease. In hydrogen embrittlement studies positron lifetime was found to be sensitive to hydrogen in an interesting way, i.e., if a specimen is already at its maximum defect density, hydrogen is trapped at some of the defects, reduce their attraction for positrons and hence cause a decrease in positron lifetime; conversely in a soft specimen, hydrogen generates more dislocation length than it can trap at (thus cancelling) hence a positron lifetime increase occurs. In electron irradiated and annealed single crystal copper 4 annealing peaks were seen at 125, 270, 400, and 650 0 K. A clear correlation between decreasing positron lifetime and increasing percent porosity in α alumina was established. This behavior is quite []he opposite to that in metals. (auth)

Positron annihilation method for {alpha} self radiation effect studies in doped actinide UO{sub 2} samples

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Roudil, D.; Vella, F.; Bonnal, M.; Broudic, V. [CEA centre de Marcoule. BP 17171 30207 Bagnols sur ceze cedex (France); Barthe, M.F.; Gentils, A.; Moineau, V. [CNRS- CEMHTI 3A rue de la Ferollerie 45071 Orleans Cedex (France); Jolly, L. [CEA centre de Valduc 21120 Is-Sur Tille (France)

2008-07-01

Towards disposal problematic, fine understanding of the {alpha} aging of UO{sub 2} and (U, Pu)O{sub 2} remains a fundamental challenge for the prediction of the potential increase of the radionuclide source terms with presence of water. The intrinsic evolution of the matrix is closely related to the behavior of radiogenic helium produced by actinide decay. Interactions between helium atoms and vacancy defects are involved in these mechanisms. Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy is also an appropriated method owing to its sensitivity to the vacancy type defects in solid materials. It is a non destructive technique with a remote acquiring data possibility. Because positron implanted in the material is sensitive to the electronic density, the positron lifetime method allows the characterization of the vacancy defects, namely size and concentration. Such equipment has been implemented in the L30 laboratory of the DHA facility in Atalante and will be applied on doped actinides samples, simulating {alpha} aging. This article presents, the analytical protocols and validation results on depleted UO{sub 2} samples and highlights the perspectives on (U, Pu)O{sub 2} for the investigation of different stages of self irradiation matrices and helium behavior. (authors)

Zadig: latest improvements to Bremsstrahlung treatment and in-flight annihilation scheme; Zadig: amelioration du traitement Bremsstrahlung et traitement de l'annihilation en vol

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Menard, St

2006-07-01

Multigroup cross-section for the 3-dimensional Monte-Carlo transport code DIANE are produced by the ZADIG code. Although DIANE does not transport the electrons and positrons, the production of Bremsstrahlung photons induced by the electrons and positrons during their slowing down is taken into account in the ZADIG code because the electron-gamma cascade is an important process in high energy gamma ray transport. ZADIG does not distinguish positrons from electrons except for the positron annihilation. However, the user can turn on this direction. This report presents the latest improvements to the Bremsstrahlung model of ZADIG and to the positron annihilation algorithm implemented in the code. Positrons can annihilate either in flight or at rest in the latest release of ZADIG. As MCNP does not take into account the annihilation in flight, results of ZADIG-DIANE calculations are compared to the results of GEANT-4 in order to validate the annihilation scheme of ZADIG. The results with annihilation divided by the results without present similar trends between 0.6 and 10 MeV for the 2 codes (GEANT-4 and ZADIG-DIANE), in other words an influence of 5%, so the annihilation scheme programmed in ZADIG appears to be satisfying and can be considered as validated.

Determination and applications of enhancement factors for positron and ortho-positronium annihilations

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mitroy, J.

2005-01-01

Electron-positron annihilation rates calculated directly from the electron and positron densities are known to underestimate the true annihilation rate. A correction factor, known as the enhancement factor, allows for the local increase of the electron density around the positron caused by the attractive electron-positron interaction. Enhancement factors are given for positrons annihilating with the 1s electron in H, He + , He, Li 2+ , and Li + . The enhancement factor for a free positron annihilating with He + and He is found to be close to that of ortho-positronium (i.e., Ps in its triplet state) annihilating with these atoms. The enhancement factor for Ps-He scattering is used in conjunction with the known annihilation rate for pickoff annihilation to derive a scattering length of 1.47a 0 for Ps-He scattering. Further, enhancement factors for e + -Ne and e + -Ar annihilation are used in conjunction with the pickoff annihilation rate to estimate scattering lengths of 1.46a 0 for Ps-Ne scattering and 1.75a 0 for Ps-Ar scattering

New particles produced in electron--positron annihilation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Perl, M.L.

1975-01-01

The main properties of the new particles produced in e + e - annihilation are reviewed. Included are properties of the continuum region, the 4.1-GeV enhancement, the psi and psi', radiative decays of the psi and psi', singly charmed particle searches in e + - e - annihilation, and the e/sub μ/ events

The measurement of subnanosecond nuclear lifetimes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

White, D.C.S.

1974-01-01

This research dealt with the measurement of subnanosecond nuclear lifetimes using the pulsed beam delayed-coincidence technique. Measurements were performed on isotopes in the f7/2 shell and specifically the isotopes of titanium and vanadium. Experimental investigations were also pursued in 59 Ni and 65 Zn. Several new lifetimes were determined and confirmation was obtained for some previous values which were measured with different techniques. More information was also obtained on certain levels where previous results are in disagreement. (author)

Precision lifetime measurements

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tanner, C.E.

1994-01-01

Precision measurements of atomic lifetimes provide important information necessary for testing atomic theory. The authors employ resonant laser excitation of a fast atomic beam to measure excited state lifetimes by observing the decay-in-flight of the emitted fluorescence. A similar technique was used by Gaupp, et al., who reported measurements with precisions of less than 0.2%. Their program includes lifetime measurements of the low lying p states in alkali and alkali like systems. Motivation for this work comes from a need to test the atomic many-body-perturbation theory (MBPT) that is necessary for interpretation of parity nonconservation experiments in atomic cesium. The authors have measured the cesium 6p 2 P 1/2 and 6p 2 P 3/2 state lifetimes to be 34.934±0.094 ns and 30.499±0.070 ns respectively. With minor changes to the apparatus, they have extended their measurements to include the lithium 2p 2 P 1/2 and 2p 2 P 3/2 states

Positron annihilation study of the vacancy clusters in ODS Fe-14Cr alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Domínguez-Reyes, R.; Auger, M. A.; Monge, M. A.; Pareja, R.

2017-04-01

Oxide dispersion strengthened Fe14Cr and Fe14CrWTi alloys produced by mechanical alloying and hot isostatic pressing were subjected to isochronal annealing up to 1400 °C, and the evolution and thermal stability of the vacancy-type defects were investigated by positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS). The results were compared to those from a non-oxide dispersion strengthened Fe14Cr alloy produced by following the same powder metallurgy route. The long lifetime component of the PAS revealed the existence of tridimensional vacancy clusters, or nanovoids, in all these alloys. Two recovery stages are found in the oxide dispersion strengthened alloys irrespective of the starting conditions of the samples. The first one starting at T > 750 °C is attributed to thermal shrinkage of large vacancy clusters, or voids. A strong increase in the intensity of the long lifetime after annealing at temperatures in the 800-1050 °C range indicates the development of new vacancy clusters. These defects appear to be unstable above 1050 °C, but some of them remain at temperatures as high as 1400 °C, at least for 90 min.

Studies of the subsurface zone created in aluminium and its alloys by means of positron annihilation and complementary methods

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dryzek, E.

2008-01-01

There are presented the results of the studies of the subsurface zone created in aluminium and its alloys during sliding or other surface modification treatments. The application of the positron annihilation techniques due to their high sensitivity to crystal lattice defects enabled to determine defects profiles in the subsurface zone. The positron annihilation studies were correlated with other conventional measurements applied in tribology, i.e. microhardness measurements, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and in a special case stress distribution calculated theoretically. It was shown that the positron annihilation spectroscopy is a useful tool for profiling of the subsurface zone created during sliding even for light metals their alloys and composites. The total range of the subsurface zone detected by the positron annihilation extends from 50 μm to 450 μm depending on the material studied and surface modification treatment. Additionally, the type of the main defects can be determined. The studies of the pure aluminium samples after dry sliding enabled to find the defect concentration of vacancy type in the depth less then 1 μm and to correlate its value with the size of crystallites. It supports the conclusion on recovery processes taking place in this layer. There was made the attempt to apply the Doppler broadening coincidence spectroscopy to the studies of aluminium alloy and composite. In view of the interdisciplinary character the present thesis enclose also the review of the basic issues of tribology, measurement methods applied to the subsurface zone studies and positron annihilation experimental techniques. (author)

Use of positron annihilation spectroscopy for the study and characterization of materials

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Somoza, Alberto

1998-01-01

In this work the potentiality of positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) for the study and characterization of materials is presented, the physical principles of the electron-positron annihilation process is described, as well as the experimental techniques to measure such process. The greatest application fields of positron techniques are the study of electronic structures and defects in condensed matter. The quality of the information obtained suggests that PAS techniques could turn into an alternative of great importance to undertake the study of different material properties. During the development of this work, special emphasis was put on PAS application to the study of defects in metals and alloys, where it was shown the great sensibility of positrons to vacancies type-defects covering the range between mono vacancies and clusters that contain between 50 and 100 vacancies, for a concentration range between 10 -4 and 10 -7 at. -1 . Such range is below the sizes that can be visualized through electron microscopy. This high sensibility is, in turn, one of PAS limitations for the study of greater size defects. Also the positrons are insensible to defects such as interstitials, which present an electron density greater than the average. The development of slow positron beams that enable the study of spatial distribution of defects has permitted to complement PAS conventional techniques. In this way the joint use of the different positron techniques provides complete information about the nature, concentration and distribution of defects in solids

Surface investigations by means of positrons annihilation

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