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Sample records for cr2o3 nanocrystals embedded

  1. ZnO nanowire-based nano-floating gate memory with Pt nanocrystals embedded in Al2O3 gate oxides

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yeom, Donghyuk; Kang, Jeongmin; Lee, Myoungwon; Jang, Jaewon; Yun, Junggwon; Jeong, Dong-Young; Yoon, Changjoon; Koo, Jamin; Kim, Sangsig

    2008-01-01

    The memory characteristics of ZnO nanowire-based nano-floating gate memory (NFGM) with Pt nanocrystals acting as the floating gate nodes were investigated in this work. Pt nanocrystals were embedded between Al 2 O 3 tunneling and control oxide layers deposited on ZnO nanowire channels. For a representative ZnO nanowire-based NFGM with embedded Pt nanocrystals, a threshold voltage shift of 3.8 V was observed in its drain current versus gate voltage (I DS -V GS ) measurements for a double sweep of the gate voltage, revealing that the deep effective potential wells built into the nanocrystals provide our NFGM with a large charge storage capacity. Details of the charge storage effect observed in this memory device are discussed in this paper

  2. ZnO nanowire-based nano-floating gate memory with Pt nanocrystals embedded in Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} gate oxides

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yeom, Donghyuk; Kang, Jeongmin; Lee, Myoungwon; Jang, Jaewon; Yun, Junggwon; Jeong, Dong-Young; Yoon, Changjoon; Koo, Jamin; Kim, Sangsig [Department of Electrical Engineering and Institute for Nano Science, Korea University, Seoul 136-701 (Korea, Republic of)], E-mail: sangsig@korea.ac.kr

    2008-10-01

    The memory characteristics of ZnO nanowire-based nano-floating gate memory (NFGM) with Pt nanocrystals acting as the floating gate nodes were investigated in this work. Pt nanocrystals were embedded between Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} tunneling and control oxide layers deposited on ZnO nanowire channels. For a representative ZnO nanowire-based NFGM with embedded Pt nanocrystals, a threshold voltage shift of 3.8 V was observed in its drain current versus gate voltage (I{sub DS}-V{sub GS}) measurements for a double sweep of the gate voltage, revealing that the deep effective potential wells built into the nanocrystals provide our NFGM with a large charge storage capacity. Details of the charge storage effect observed in this memory device are discussed in this paper.

  3. Al2O3 nanocrystals embedded in amorphous Lu2O3 high-k gate dielectric for floating gate memory application

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yuan, C L; Chan, M Y; Lee, P S; Darmawan, P; Setiawan, Y

    2007-01-01

    The integration of nanoparticles has high potential in technological applications and opens up possibilities of the development of new devices. Compared to the conventional floating gate memory, a structure containing nanocrystals embedded in dielectrics shows high potential to produce a memory with high endurance, low operating voltage, fast write-erase speeds and better immunity to soft errors [S. Tiwari, F. Rana, H. Hanafi et al. 1996 Appl.Phys. Lett. 68, 1377]. A significant improvement on data retention [J. J. Lee, X. Wang et al. 2003 Proceedings of the VLSI Technol. Symposium, p33] can be observed when discrete nanodots are used instead of continuous floating gate as charge storage nodes because local defect related leakage can be reduced efficiently. Furthermore, using a high-k dielectric in place of the conventional SiO2 based dielectric, nanodots flash memory is able to achieve significantly improved programming efficiency and data retention [A. Thean and J. -P. Leburton, 2002 IEEE Potentials 21, 35; D. W. Kim, T. Kim and S. K. Banerjee, 2003 IEEE Trans. Electron Devices 50, 1823]. We have recently successfully developed a method to produce nanodots embedded in high-k gate dielectrics [C. L. Yuan, P. Darmawan, Y. Setiawan and P. S. Lee, 2006 Electrochemical and Solid-State Letters 9, F53; C. L. Yuan, P. Darmawan, Y. Setiawan and P. S. Lee, 2006 Europhys. Lett. 74, 177]. In this paper, we fabricated the memory structure of Al 2 O 3 nanocrystals embedded in amorphous Lu 2 O 3 high k dielectric using pulsed laser ablation. The mean size and density of the Al 2 O 3 nanocrystals are estimated to be about 5 nm and 7x1011 cm -2 , respectively. Good electrical performances in terms of large memory window and good data retention were observed. Our preparation method is simple, fast and economical

  4. Dielectric enhancement of BaTiO3/SrTiO3 superlattices with embedded Ni nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xiong Zhengwei; Sun Weiguo; Wang Xuemin; Jiang Fan; Wu Weidong

    2012-01-01

    Highlights: ► The BaTiO 3 /SrTiO 3 superlattices with embedded Ni NCs were successfully fabricated by L-MBE. ► The influence with the various concentrations of Ni nanocrystals embedded in BaTiO 3 /SrTiO 3 superlattices was also discussed. ► The BaTiO 3 /SrTiO 3 superlattices with lower concentration of embedded Ni NCs had higher permittivity and dielectric loss compared with the pure BaTiO 3 /SrTiO 3 superlattices. ► The dielectric enhancement of BaTiO 3 /SrTiO 3 superlattices with embedded Ni NCs was proposed to explained by Drude quasi-free-electron theory. - Abstract: The self-organized Ni nanocrystals (NCs) were embedded in BaTiO 3 /SrTiO 3 superlattices using laser molecular beam epitaxy (L-MBE). The stress of the composite films was increased with the increasing concentration of embedded Ni NCs, as investigation in stress calculation. The influence with the various concentrations of Ni NCs embedded in BaTiO 3 /SrTiO 3 superlattices was also discussed. The internal stress of the films was too strong to epitaxial growth of BaTiO 3 /SrTiO 3 superlattices. Compared with the pure BaTiO 3 /SrTiO 3 superlattices, the BaTiO 3 /SrTiO 3 superlattices with lower concentration of embedded Ni NCs had higher permittivity and dielectric loss. Furthermore, the dielectric enhancement of BaTiO 3 /SrTiO 3 superlattices with embedded Ni NCs was proposed to explained by Drude quasi-free-electron theory.

  5. Optical properties of transparent Li2O-Ga2O3-SiO2 glass-ceramics embedding Ni-doped nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Suzuki, Takenobu; Murugan, Ganapathy Senthil; Ohishi, Yasutake

    2005-01-01

    Transparent Li 2 O-Ga 2 O 3 -SiO 2 (LGS) glass-ceramics embedding Ni:LiGa 5 O 8 nanocrystals were fabricated. An intense emission centered around 1300 nm with the width of more than 300 nm was observed by 976 nm photoexcitation of the glass-ceramics. The lifetime was more than 900 μs at 5 K and 500 μs at 300 K. The emission could be attributed to the 3 T 2g ( 3 F)→ 3 A 2g ( 3 F) transition of Ni 2+ in distorted octahedral sites in LiGa 5 O 8 . The product of stimulated emission cross section and lifetime for the emission was about 3.7x10 -24 cm 2 s and was a sufficiently practical value

  6. Eu-doped ZnO-HfO2 hybrid nanocrystal-embedded low-loss glass-ceramic waveguides

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ghosh, Subhabrata; N, Shivakiran Bhaktha B.

    2016-03-01

    We report on the sol-gel fabrication, using a dip-coating technique, of low-loss Eu-doped 70SiO2 -(30-x) HfO2-xZnO (x = 2, 5, 7 and 10 mol%) ternary glass-ceramic planar waveguides. Transmission electron microscopy and grazing incident x-ray diffraction experiments confirm the controlled growth of hybrid nanocrystals with an average size of 3 nm-25 nm, composed of ZnO encapsulated by a thin layer of nanocrystalline HfO2, with an increase of ZnO concentration from x = 2 mol% to 10 mol% in the SiO2-HfO2 composite matrix. The effect of crystallization on the local environment of Eu ions, doped in the ZnO-HfO2 hybrid nanocrystal-embedded glass-ceramic matrix, is studied using photoluminescence spectra, wherein an intense mixed-valence state (divalent as well as trivalent) emission of Eu ions is observed. The existence of Eu2+ and Eu3+ in the SiO2-HfO2-ZnO ternary matrix is confirmed by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Importantly, the Eu{}2+,3+-doped ternary waveguides exhibit low propagation losses (0.3 ± 0.2 dB cm-1 at 632.8 nm) and optical transparency in the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum, which makes ZnO-HfO2 nanocrystal-embedded SiO2-HfO2-ZnO waveguides a viable candidate for the development of on-chip, active, integrated optical devices.

  7. Annealing temperature and environment effects on ZnO nanocrystals embedded in SiO2: a photoluminescence and TEM study.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pita, Kantisara; Baudin, Pierre; Vu, Quang Vinh; Aad, Roy; Couteau, Christophe; Lérondel, Gilles

    2013-12-06

    We report on efficient ZnO nanocrystal (ZnO-NC) emission in the near-UV region. We show that luminescence from ZnO nanocrystals embedded in a SiO2 matrix can vary significantly as a function of the annealing temperature from 450°C to 700°C. We manage to correlate the emission of the ZnO nanocrystals embedded in SiO2 thin films with transmission electron microscopy images in order to optimize the fabrication process. Emission can be explained using two main contributions, near-band-edge emission (UV range) and defect-related emissions (visible). Both contributions over 500°C are found to be size dependent in intensity due to a decrease of the absorption cross section. For the smallest-size nanocrystals, UV emission can only be accounted for using a blueshifted UV contribution as compared to the ZnO band gap. In order to further optimize the emission properties, we have studied different annealing atmospheres under oxygen and under argon gas. We conclude that a softer annealing temperature at 450°C but with longer annealing time under oxygen is the most preferable scenario in order to improve near-UV emission of the ZnO nanocrystals embedded in an SiO2 matrix.

  8. Superheating and supercooling of Ge nanocrystals embedded in SiO2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xu, Q; Sharp, I D; Yuan, C W; Yi, D O; Liao, C Y; Glaeser, A M; Minor, A M; Beeman, J W; Ridgway, M C; Kluth, P; Iii, J W Ager; Chrzan, D C; Haller, E E

    2007-01-01

    Free-standing nanocrystals exhibit a size-dependant thermodynamic melting point reduction relative to the bulk melting point that is governed by the surface free energy. The presence of an encapsulating matrix, however, alters the interface free energy of nanocrystals and their thermodynamic melting point can either increase or decrease relative to bulk. Furthermore, kinetic contributions can significantly alter the melting behaviours of embedded nanoscale materials. To study the effect of an encapsulating matrix on the melting behaviour of nanocrystals, we performed in situ electron diffraction measurements on Ge nanocrystals embedded in a silicon dioxide matrix. Ge nanocrystals were formed by multi-energy ion implantation into a 500 nm thick silica thin film on a silicon substrate followed by thermal annealing at 900 deg. C for 1 h. We present results demonstrating that Ge nanocrystals embedded in SiO 2 exhibit a 470 K melting/solidification hysteresis that is approximately symmetric about the bulk melting point. This unique behaviour, which is thought to be impossible for bulk materials, is well described using a classical thermodynamic model that predicts both kinetic supercooling and kinetic superheating. The presence of the silica matrix suppresses surface pre-melting of nanocrystals. Therefore, heterogeneous nucleation of both the liquid phase and the solid phase are required during the heating and cooling cycle. The magnitude of melting hysteresis is governed primarily by the value of the liquid Ge/solid Ge interface free energy, whereas the relative values of the solid Ge/matrix and liquid Ge/matrix interface free energies govern the position of the hysteresis loop in absolute temperature

  9. Si nanocrystals embedded in SiO2: Optical studies in the vacuum ultraviolet range

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Pankratov, V.; Osinniy, Viktor; Kotlov, A.

    2011-01-01

    done. It is demonstrated that the experimentally determined blueshift of the photoluminescence excitation and absorption spectra is larger than the theoretical predictions. The influence of point defects in the SiO2 matrix on the optical and luminescence properties of the embedded Si nanocrystals...... is discussed. Moreover, it is demonstrated that no energy transfer takes place between the SiO2 and Si nanocrystals when the excitation energy is higher than the band-to-band transition energy in SiO2....

  10. Ge nanocrystals embedded in ultrathin Si3N4 multilayers with SiO2 barriers

    Science.gov (United States)

    Bahariqushchi, R.; Gundogdu, Sinan; Aydinli, A.

    2017-04-01

    Multilayers of germanium nanocrystals (NCs) embedded in thin films of silicon nitride matrix separated with SiO2 barriers have been fabricated using plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). SiGeN/SiO2 alternating bilayers have been grown on quartz and Si substrates followed by post annealing in Ar ambient from 600 to 900 °C. High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) as well as Raman spectroscopy show good crystallinity of Ge confined to SiGeN layers in samples annealed at 900 °C. Strong compressive stress for SiGeN/SiO2 structures were observed through Raman spectroscopy. Size, as well as NC-NC distance were controlled along the growth direction for multilayer samples by varying the thickness of bilayers. Visible photoluminescence (PL) at 2.3 and 3.1 eV with NC size dependent intensity is observed and possible origin of PL is discussed.

  11. Facile synthesis of ultrafine Co3O4 nanocrystals embedded carbon matrices with specific skeletal structures as efficient non-enzymatic glucose sensors

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li, Mian; Han, Ce; Zhang, Yufan; Bo, Xiangjie; Guo, Liping

    2015-01-01

    Highlights: • Novel hyperfine Co 3 O 4 nanocrystals decorated porous carbon matrixes. • Facile synthesis without use of any harmful dispersing reagents or surfactants. • High dispersion degree of Co 3 O 4 nanocrystals and excellent e − transport rates. • A large current sensitivity of 955.9 μA cm −2 mM −1 toward glucose. • Excellent anti-interference and stability for glucose detection. - Abstract: A facile, effective, and environmentally friendly method has been adopted for the first time to prepare tiny Co 3 O 4 nanocrystals embedded carbon matrices without using surfactants, harmful organic reagents or extreme conditions. Structural characterizations reveal that the size-controlled Co 3 O 4 nanocrystals are uniformly dispersed on carbon matrices. Electrochemical measurements reveal that Co 3 O 4 -ordered mesoporous carbon (OMC) can more efficiently catalyze glucose oxidation and acquire better detection parameters compared with those for the Co 3 O 4 -macroporous carbon, Co 3 O 4 -reduced graphene oxide, and free Co 3 O 4 nanoparticles (NPs) (such as: the large sensitivity (2597.5 μA cm −2 mM −1 between 0 and 0.8 mM and 955.9 μA cm −2 mM −1 between 0.9 and 7.0 mM), fast response time, wide linear range, good stability, and surpassingly selective capability to electroactive molecules or Cl − ). Such excellent performances are attributed to the synergistic effect of the following three factors: (1) the high catalytic sites provided by the uniformly dispersed and size-controlled Co 3 O 4 nanocrystals embedded on OMC; (2) the excellent reactant transport efficiency caused by the abundant mesoporous structures of OMC matrix: (3) the improved electron transport in high electron transfer rate (confinement of the Co 3 O 4 NPs in nanoscale spaces ensured intimate contact between Co 3 O 4 nanocrystals and the conducting OMC matrix). The superior catalytic activity and selectivity make Co 3 O 4 -OMC very promising for application in direct

  12. Self-Organized Ni Nanocrystal Embedded in BaTiO3 Epitaxial Film

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ge FF

    2010-01-01

    Full Text Available Abstract Ni nanocrystals (NCs were embedded in BaTiO3 epitaxial films using the laser molecular beam epitaxy. The processes involving the self-organization of Ni NCs and the epitaxial growth of BaTiO3 were discussed. With the in situ monitoring of reflection high-energy electron diffraction, the nanocomposite films were engineered controllably by the fine alternation of the self-organization of Ni NCs and the epitaxial growth of BaTiO3. The transmission electron microscopy and the X-ray diffraction characterization confirmed that the composite film consists of the Ni NCs layers alternating with the (001/(100-oriented epitaxial BaTiO3 separation layers.

  13. Corroboration of Raman and AFM mapping to study Si nanocrystals embedded in SiO{sub 2}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Rani, Ekta, E-mail: ades.ekta@gmail.com [Laser Physics Applications Section, Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology, Indore-452013 (India); Homi Bhabha National Institute, Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology, Indore-452013 (India); Ingale, Alka A. [Laser Physics Applications Section, Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology, Indore-452013 (India); Homi Bhabha National Institute, Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology, Indore-452013 (India); Chaturvedi, A. [Laser Material Processing Division, Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology, Indore-452013 (India); Joshi, M.P.; Kukreja, L.M. [Homi Bhabha National Institute, Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology, Indore-452013 (India); Laser Material Processing Division, Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology, Indore-452013 (India)

    2016-07-05

    Raman and atomic force microscopy (AFM) mapping on the same selected area are used to get unique information about the morphology of Si nanocrystals (NCs) embedded in SiO{sub 2}, which is difficult to obtain by any other conventional technique. The sensitivity of Raman spectroscopy to surface/interface and confinement effects in NCs is effectively used to correlate the Raman intensity profile in Raman mapping with the topography obtained from AFM to understand that Si NCs are clustered in i) smaller clusters (∼100 nm) organized closely in two dimensions (2D) and ii) big (∼2 μm) three dimensional (3D) isolated clusters, although the growth is carried out to be multilayer (Si/SiO{sub 2}). Raman mapping performed by varying the focal spot along the depth shows stacking of larger (>∼60 Å) to smaller sizes (<∼40 Å) Si NCs from bottom to top for some clusters. To understand the observed morphologies, further study of specially grown Si–SiO{sub 2} nanocomposites is performed, which suggest formation of smaller Si NCs at the top due to annealing at 800 °C in Si rich SiO{sub 2} and possible existence of thermal gradient in an insulating matrix of SiO{sub 2.} Larger Si NCs are formed in the laser induced plume (plasma) itself. - Graphical abstract: a) Schematic showing the expected stacking of Si NCs obtained from Raman mapping, performed by changing focal spot along the depth, b) top, c) middle and d) bottom region of the cluster. - Highlights: • Methodology is developed to obtain Raman and AFM mapping at same selected area. • To get unique information, difficult to obtain using other conventional techniques. • Clusters (∼100 nm–2 μm) of Si nanocrystals embedded in SiO{sub 2} matrix are formed. • Stacking of Si nanocrystals from bottom to top (10–1 nm) is observed in some clusters. • Stacking of Si nanocrystals is understood as due to annealing and thermal gradient.

  14. Formation Mechanism of Ge Nanocrystals Embedded in SiO2 Studied by Fluorescence X-Ray Absorption Fine Structure

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yan Wensheng; Li Zhongrui; Sun Zhihu; Wei Shiqiang; Kolobov, A. V.

    2007-01-01

    The formation mechanism of Ge nanocrystals for Ge (60 mol%) embedded in a SiO2 matrix grown on Si(001) and quartz-glass substrates was studied by fluorescence x-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS). It was found that the formation of Ge nanocrystals strongly depends on the properties of the substrate materials. In the as-prepared samples, Ge atoms exist in amorphous Ge and GeO2 phases. At the annealing temperature of 1073 K, on the quartz-glass substrate, Ge nanocrystals are only formed predominantly from the amorphous Ge phase in the as-prepared sample. However, on the Si(100) substrate the Ge nanocrystals are generated partly from amorphous Ge, and partly from GeO2 phases through the permutation reaction with Si substrate. Quantitative analysis revealed that about 10% of GeO2 in as-prepared sample permutated with Si in the wafer and formed Ge nanocrystals

  15. Role of the interface region on the optoelectronic properties of silicon nanocrystals embedded in SiO2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Daldosso, N.; Dalba, G.; Fornasini, P.; Grisenti, R.; Pavesi, L.; Luppi, M.; Magri, R.; Ossicini, S.; Degoli, E.; Rocca, F.; Boninelli, S.; Priolo, F.; Spinella, C.; Iacona, F.

    2003-01-01

    Light-emitting silicon nanocrystals embedded in SiO 2 have been investigated by x-ray absorption measurements in total electron and photoluminescence yields, by energy filtered transmission electron microscopy and by ab initio total energy calculations. Both experimental and theoretical results show that the interface between the silicon nanocrystals and the surrounding SiO 2 is not sharp: an intermediate region of amorphous nature and variable composition links the crystalline Si with the amorphous stoichiometric SiO 2 . This region plays an active role in the light-emission process

  16. Quantum-dot light-emitting diodes utilizing CdSe /ZnS nanocrystals embedded in TiO2 thin film

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kang, Seung-Hee; Kumar, Ch. Kiran; Lee, Zonghoon; Kim, Kyung-Hyun; Huh, Chul; Kim, Eui-Tae

    2008-11-01

    Quantum-dot (QD) light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are demonstrated on Si wafers by embedding core-shell CdSe /ZnS nanocrystals in TiO2 thin films via plasma-enhanced metallorganic chemical vapor deposition. The n-TiO2/QDs /p-Si LED devices show typical p-n diode current-voltage and efficient electroluminescence characteristics, which are critically affected by the removal of QD surface ligands. The TiO2/QDs /Si system we presented can offer promising Si-based optoelectronic and electronic device applications utilizing numerous nanocrystals synthesized by colloidal solution chemistry.

  17. Facile synthesis of ultrafine Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanocrystals embedded carbon matrices with specific skeletal structures as efficient non-enzymatic glucose sensors

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Mian; Han, Ce; Zhang, Yufan; Bo, Xiangjie, E-mail: baoxj133@nenu.edu.cn; Guo, Liping, E-mail: guolp078@nenu.edu.cn

    2015-02-25

    Highlights: • Novel hyperfine Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanocrystals decorated porous carbon matrixes. • Facile synthesis without use of any harmful dispersing reagents or surfactants. • High dispersion degree of Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanocrystals and excellent e{sup −} transport rates. • A large current sensitivity of 955.9 μA cm{sup −2} mM{sup −1} toward glucose. • Excellent anti-interference and stability for glucose detection. - Abstract: A facile, effective, and environmentally friendly method has been adopted for the first time to prepare tiny Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanocrystals embedded carbon matrices without using surfactants, harmful organic reagents or extreme conditions. Structural characterizations reveal that the size-controlled Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanocrystals are uniformly dispersed on carbon matrices. Electrochemical measurements reveal that Co{sub 3}O{sub 4}-ordered mesoporous carbon (OMC) can more efficiently catalyze glucose oxidation and acquire better detection parameters compared with those for the Co{sub 3}O{sub 4}-macroporous carbon, Co{sub 3}O{sub 4}-reduced graphene oxide, and free Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanoparticles (NPs) (such as: the large sensitivity (2597.5 μA cm{sup −2} mM{sup −1} between 0 and 0.8 mM and 955.9 μA cm{sup −2} mM{sup −1} between 0.9 and 7.0 mM), fast response time, wide linear range, good stability, and surpassingly selective capability to electroactive molecules or Cl{sup −}). Such excellent performances are attributed to the synergistic effect of the following three factors: (1) the high catalytic sites provided by the uniformly dispersed and size-controlled Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanocrystals embedded on OMC; (2) the excellent reactant transport efficiency caused by the abundant mesoporous structures of OMC matrix: (3) the improved electron transport in high electron transfer rate (confinement of the Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} NPs in nanoscale spaces ensured intimate contact between Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanocrystals and the

  18. Capacitance-voltage characteristics of MOS capacitors with Ge nanocrystals embedded in ZrO2 gate material

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lee, Hye-Ryoung; Choi, Samjong; Cho, Kyoungah; Kim, Sangsig

    2007-01-01

    Capacitance versus voltage (C-V) curves of Ge-nanocrystals (NCs)-embedded metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) capacitors are characterized in this work. Ge NCs were formed in 20-nm thick ZrO 2 gate layers by ion implantation and subsequent annealing procedures. The formation of the Ge NCs in the ZrO 2 gate layers was confirmed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy. The C-V curves obtained from a representative MOS capacitor embedded with the Ge NCs exhibit a 3 V memory window as bias voltage varied from 9 to - 9 V and then back to the initial positive voltage, whereas MOS capacitors without Ge NCs show negligible memory windows at the same voltage range. This indicates the presence of charge storages in the Ge NCs. The counterclockwise hysteresis observed from the C-V curves implies that electrons are trapped in Ge NCs presented inside the ZrO 2 gate layer. And our experimental results obtained from capacitance versus time measurements show good retention characteristics of Ge-NCs-embedded MOS capacitors with ZrO 2 gate material for the application of NFGM

  19. Persistent luminescence in both first and second biological windows in ZnGa2O4:Cr3+,Yb3+ glass ceramics

    Science.gov (United States)

    Castaing, V.; Sontakke, A. D.; Xu, J.; Fernández-Carrión, A. J.; Allix, M.; Tanabe, S.; Viana, B.

    2018-02-01

    ZnGa2O4:Cr3+ is an optical material well known for its deep red persistent luminescence properties which are centered in the first biological window. In this work, Yb3+, Cr3+ co-doped zinc gallate oxide has been prepared in the form of glass-ceramics. The studied samples have been elaborated via conventional melt quenching process leading to nanometer scale phase separated glass which was subsequently crystallized to obtain nanocrystals embedded in a transparent glass matrix. In these as-prepared ZnGa2O4:Cr3+,Yb3+ glass-ceramics, regular Cr3+ emission (at around 695 nm) as well as Yb3+ emission (between 950 and 1100 nm) is observed. Several photoluminescence emission and excitation experiments have been recorded in order clarify (i) the simultaneous emission of these cations in different optical windows and (ii) the energy transfer process between these two emitting centers. Further studies proved that Yb3+ is not only active in photoluminescence but also in persistent luminescence, leading to a material demonstrating persistent luminescence properties in both first and second biological windows (650-950 and 1000-1350 nm respectively). Thermoluminescence experiments have been carried out on these materials in order to gain deeper information about the persistent luminescence process.

  20. Memory Effect of Metal-Oxide-Silicon Capacitors with Self-Assembly Double-Layer Au Nanocrystals Embedded in Atomic-Layer-Deposited HfO2 Dielectric

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yue, Huang; Hong-Yan, Gou; Qing-Qing, Sun; Shi-Jin, Ding; Wei, Zhang; Shi-Li, Zhang

    2009-01-01

    We report the chemical self-assembly growth of Au nanocrystals on atomic-layer-deposited HfO 2 films aminosilanized by (3-Aminopropyl)-trimethoxysilane aforehand for memory applications. The resulting Au nanocrystals show a density of about 4 × 10 11 cm −2 and a diameter range of 5–8nm. The metal-oxide-silicon capacitor with double-layer Au nanocrystals embedded in HfO 2 dielectric exhibits a large C – V hysteresis window of 11.9V for ±11 V gate voltage sweeps at 1 MHz, a flat-band voltage shift of 1.5 V after the electrical stress under 7 V for 1 ms, a leakage current density of 2.9 × 10 −8 A/cm −2 at 9 V and room temperature. Compared to single-layer Au nanocrystals, the double-layer Au nanocrystals increase the hysteresis window significantly, and the underlying mechanism is thus discussed

  1. Effects of the Cr2O3 Content on the Viscosity of CaO-SiO2-10 Pct Al2O3-Cr2O3 Quaternary Slag

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wu, Tuo; Zhang, Yanling; Yuan, Fang; An, Zhuoqing

    2018-04-01

    The present study experimentally investigates the effect of Cr2O3 on the viscosity of molten slags. The viscosities of CaO-SiO2-10 pct Al2O3-Cr2O3 quaternary slags with two different binary basicities (R, basic slag with R = 1.2 and acidic slag with R = 0.8) were measured by the rotating cylindrical method from 1813 K to 1953 K (1540 °C to 1680 °C). The results showed that the viscosity of both types of slag decreased as the Cr2O3 content increased, but the viscosity of acidic slags exhibited a greater decrease. The slags showed good Newtonian behavior at such high temperatures. Cr2O3 could act as a network modifier to simplify the Si-O-Si tetrahedral structure, as verified by the Raman spectral analysis, which was consistent with the decreasing trend of viscosity. The activation energy of viscous flow decreased slightly with increasing Cr2O3, but increasing the basicity seemed to be more effective in decreasing the viscosity than adding Cr2O3.

  2. Raman Spectroscopy of SiO{sub 2}–Na{sub 2}O–Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}–B{sub 2}O{sub 3} glass doped with Nd{sup 3+} and CdS nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Serqueira, E.O.; Dantas, N.O. [Laboratório de Novos Materiais Isolantes e Semicondutores (LNMIS), Instituto de Física, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG 38400-902 (Brazil); Anjos, V. [Grupo de Espectroscopia de Materiais, Departamento de Física, ICE – UFJF, Campus Universitário, Juiz de Fora, MG 36036-330 (Brazil); Bell, M.J.V., E-mail: mjvbell@yahoo.com.br [Grupo de Espectroscopia de Materiais, Departamento de Física, ICE – UFJF, Campus Universitário, Juiz de Fora, MG 36036-330 (Brazil)

    2014-01-05

    Highlights: • The formation of CdS nanocrystals in the glassy host is shown by Raman measurements. • Nd{sub 2}O{sub 3} modifies the growth of CdS nanocrystals in the SNAB glass. • Nd{sup 3+} ions are not incorporated inside the semiconductor nanocrystals. -- Abstract: We report the Raman spectroscopic characterization of a SNAB glass system doped with neodymium and CdS nanocrystals and fabricated by the fusion process. Raman spectra revealed CdS nanocrystals in the glass host and bands associated with Si–O vibrational modes with five structural configurations, boroxol modes of B{sub 2}O{sub 3}, Al–O and Cd–S vibrational modes. Additionally, Nd{sub 2}O{sub 3} modifies the growth of CdS nanocrystals in the SNAB glass and Nd{sup 3+} ions are not incorporated inside the semiconductor nanocrystals.

  3. Size-tunable phosphorescence in colloidal metastable gamma-Ga2O3 nanocrystals.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Ting; Farvid, Shokouh S; Abulikemu, Mutalifu; Radovanovic, Pavle V

    2010-07-14

    We report a colloidal synthesis of gallium oxide (Ga(2)O(3)) nanocrystals having metastable cubic crystal structure (gamma phase) and uniform size distribution. Using the synthesized nanocrystal size series we demonstrate for the first time a size-tunable photoluminescence in Ga(2)O(3) from ultraviolet to blue, with the emission shifting to lower energies with increasing nanocrystal size. The observed photoluminescence is dominated by defect-based donor-acceptor pair recombination and has a lifetime of several milliseconds. Importantly, the decay of this phosphorescence is also size dependent. The phosphorescence energy and the decay rate increase with decreasing nanocrystal size, owing to a reduced donor-acceptor separation. These results allow for a rational and predictable tuning of the optical properties of this technologically important material and demonstrate the possibility of manipulating the localized defect interactions via nanocrystal size. Furthermore, the same defect states, particularly donors, are also implicated in electrical conductivity rendering monodispersed Ga(2)O(3) nanocrystals a promising material for multifunctional optoelectronic structures and devices.

  4. Elucidation of the enhanced ferromagnetic origin in Mn-doped ZnO nanocrystals embedded into a SiO2 matrix

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lee, Sejoon; Lee, Youngmin; Kim, Deukyoung

    2013-01-01

    The origin of the enhanced room temperature ferromagnetism in Mn-doped ZnO (ZnO:Mn) nanocrystals is investigated. ZnO:Mn nanocrystals, which were fabricated by using a laser irradiation method with a 248-nm KrF excimer laser, exhibited two-times increase in the spontaneous magnetization (∼0.4 emu/cm 3 at 300 K) compared to the ZnO:Mn thin film (∼0.2 emu/cm 3 at 300 K). The increased exchange integral of J 1 /k B = 51.6 K in ZnO:Mn nanocrystals, in comparison with the ZnO:Mn thin film (J 1 /k B = 46.9 K), is indicative of the enhanced ferromagnetic exchange interaction. This is attributed to the large number of acceptor defects in the SiO 2 -capped ZnO:Mn nanocrystals. Namely, the holes bound to the acceptor defects form microscopic bound-magnetic-polarons with Mn ions; hence, long-range ferromagnetic coupling is enhanced. The results suggest that ferromagnetism in ZnO-based dilute magnetic semiconductors can be controlled by modulating the density of native point defects, which can be chemically and thermodynamically modified during the material synthesis or preparation.

  5. Electron spin resonance study of a-Cr2O3 and Cr2O3·nH2O quasi-spherical nanoparticles

    CSIR Research Space (South Africa)

    Khamlich, S

    2011-12-01

    Full Text Available The quasi-spherical nanoparticles of hydrated Cr2O3 · nH2O, and crystalline -Cr2O3, have been synthesized by reduction of the first row (3d) transition metal complex of K2Cr2O7. The temperaturedependence of electron spin resonance (ESR) spectrum...

  6. Spinel ferrite nanocrystals embedded inside ZnO: magnetic, electronic andmagneto-transport properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhou, Shengqiang; Potzger, K.; Xu, Qingyu; Kuepper, K.; Talut, G.; Marko, D.; Mucklich, A.; Helm, M.; Fassbender, J.; Arenholz, E.; Schmidt, H.

    2009-08-21

    In this paper we show that spinel ferrite nanocrystals (NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}, and CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}) can be texturally embedded inside a ZnO matrix by ion implantation and post-annealing. The two kinds of ferrites show different magnetic properties, e.g. coercivity and magnetization. Anomalous Hall effect and positive magnetoresistance have been observed. Our study suggests a ferrimagnet/semiconductor hybrid system for potential applications in magneto-electronics. This hybrid system can be tuned by selecting different transition metal ions (from Mn to Zn) to obtain various magnetic and electronic properties.

  7. Single crystalline Co3O4 nanocrystals exposed with different crystal planes for Li-O2 batteries.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Su, Dawei; Dou, Shixue; Wang, Guoxiu

    2014-08-29

    Single crystalline Co3O4 nanocrystals exposed with different crystal planes were synthesised, including cubic Co3O4 nanocrystals enclosed by {100} crystal planes, pseudo octahedral Co3O4 enclosed by {100} and {110} crystal planes, Co3O4 nanosheets exposed by {110} crystal planes, hexagonal Co3O4 nanoplatelets exposed with {111} crystal planes, and Co3O4 nanolaminar exposed with {112} crystal planes. Well single crystalline features of these Co3O4 nanocrystals were confirmed by FESEM and HRTEM analyses. The electrochemical performance for Li-O2 batteries shows that Co3O4 nanocrystals can significantly reduce the discharge-charge over-potential via the effect on the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). From the comparison on their catalytic performances, we found that the essential factor to promote the oxygen evolution reactions is the surface crystal planes of Co3O4 nanocrystals, namely, crystal planes-dependent process. The correlation between different Co3O4 crystal planes and their effect on reducing charge-discharge over-potential was established: {100} < {110} < {112} < {111}.

  8. Fabrication of multilayered Ge nanocrystals embedded in SiOxGeNy films

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Gao Fei; Green, Martin A.; Conibeer, Gavin; Cho, Eun-Chel; Huang Yidan; Perez-Wurfl, Ivan; Flynn, Chris

    2008-01-01

    Multilayered Ge nanocrystals embedded in SiO x GeN y films have been fabricated on Si substrate by a (Ge + SiO 2 )/SiO x GeN y superlattice approach, using a rf magnetron sputtering technique with a Ge + SiO 2 composite target and subsequent thermal annealing in N 2 ambient at 750 deg. C for 30 min. X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurement indicated the formation of Ge nanocrystals with an average size estimated to be 5.4 nm. Raman scattering spectra showed a peak of the Ge-Ge vibrational mode downward shifted to 299.4 cm -1 , which was caused by quantum confinement of phonons in the Ge nanocrystals. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that Ge nanocrystals were confined in (Ge + SiO 2 ) layers. This superlattice approach significantly improved both the size uniformity of Ge nanocrystals and their uniformity of spacing on the 'Z' growth direction

  9. X-ray fluorescence analysis of Cr6+ component in mixtures of Cr2O3 and K2CrO4

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Tochio, Tatsunori; Sakakura, Shusuke; Oohashi, Hirofumi

    2010-01-01

    X-ray fluorescence analysis using Cr K α spectra was applied to the determination of the mixing ratio of Cr 6+ to (Cr 6+ + Cr 3+ ) in several mixtures of K 2 CrO 4 and Cr 2 O 3 . Because the powder of K 2 CrO 4 contained large particles that were more than 50 μm in diameter, it was ground between a pestle and a mortar for about 8 h. The coarse particles still remaining were removed by using a sieve with 325-mesh (44 μm) in order to reduce the difference in absorption effects between emissions from Cr 6+ and those from Cr 3+ . The mixing ratio, K 2 CrO 4 /(K 2 CrO 4 + Cr 2 O 3 ), of the five mixtures investigated is 0.50, 0.40, 0.20, 0.10, and 0.05 in weight, respectively. Each spectrum obtained was analyzed by decomposing it into two reference spectra, those of the two pure materials, K 2 CrO 4 and Cr 2 O 3 , with a constant background. The results for the mixtures containing K 2 CrO 4 of more than 20 wt% are that the relative deviation from the true value is less than ∼5%. On the other hand, when the content of K 2 CrO 4 decreases to less than 10 wt%, the relative deviation gets so large as 20 - 25%. The error coming from a peak separation of spectrum involved in our results were estimated by applying our method to five sets of data for each mixture computationally generated, taking into account the uncertainty in total counts of real measurements. (author)

  10. X-ray fluorescence analysis of Cr(6+) component in mixtures of Cr(2)O(3) and K(2)CrO(4).

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tochio, Tatsunori; Sakakura, Shusuke; Oohashi, Hirofumi; Mizota, Hirohisa; Zou, Yanhui; Ito, Yoshiaki; Fukushima, Sei; Tanuma, Shigeo; Shoji, Takashi; Fujimura, Hajime; Yamashita, Michiru

    2010-01-01

    X-ray fluorescence analysis using Cr K(alpha) spectra was applied to the determination of the mixing ratio of Cr(6+) to (Cr(6+) + Cr(3+)) in several mixtures of K(2)CrO(4) and Cr(2)O(3). Because the powder of K(2)CrO(4) contained large particles that were more than 50 microm in diameter, it was ground between a pestle and a mortar for about 8 h. The coarse particles still remaining were removed by using a sieve with 325-mesh (44 microm) in order to reduce the difference in absorption effects between emissions from Cr(6+) and those from Cr(3+). The mixing ratio, K(2)CrO(4)/(K(2)CrO(4) + Cr(2)O(3)), of the five mixtures investigated is 0.50, 0.40, 0.20, 0.10, and 0.05 in weight, respectively. Each spectrum obtained was analyzed by decomposing it into two reference spectra, those of the two pure materials, K(2)CrO(4) and Cr(2)O(3), with a constant background. The results for the mixtures containing K(2)CrO(4) of more than 20 wt% are that the relative deviation from the true value is less than approximately 5%. On the other hand, when the content of K(2)CrO(4) decreases to less than 10 wt%, the relative deviation gets so large as 20 - 25%. The error coming from a peak separation of spectrum involved in our results were estimated by applying our method to five sets of data for each mixture computationally generated, taking into account the uncertainty in total counts of real measurements.

  11. Trapping time of excitons in Si nanocrystals embedded in a SiO2 matrix

    Science.gov (United States)

    de Jong, E. M. L. D.; de Boer, W. D. A. M.; Yassievich, I. N.; Gregorkiewicz, T.

    2017-05-01

    Silicon (Si) nanocrystals (NCs) are of great interest for many applications, ranging from photovoltaics to optoelectonics. The photoluminescence quantum yield of Si NCs dispersed in SiO2 is limited, suggesting the existence of very efficient processes of nonradiative recombination, among which the formation of a self-trapped exciton state on the surface of the NC. In order to improve the external quantum efficiency of these systems, the carrier relaxation and recombination need to be understood more thoroughly. For that purpose, we perform transient-induced absorption spectroscopy on Si NCs embedded in a SiO2 matrix over a broad probe range for NCs of average sizes from 2.5 to 5.5 nm. The self-trapping of free excitons on surface-related states is experimentally and theoretically discussed and found to be dependent on the NC size. These results offer more insight into the self-trapped exciton state and are important to increase the optical performance of Si NCs.

  12. Memory characteristics of Au nanocrystals embedded in metal-oxide-semiconductor structure by using atomic-layer-deposited Al2O3 as control oxide

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wang, C.-C.; Chiou, Y.-K.; Chang, C.-H.; Tseng, J.-Y.; Wu, L.-J.; Chen, C.-Y.; Wu, T.-B.

    2007-01-01

    The nonvolatile memory characteristics of metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) structures containing Au nanocrystals in the Al 2 O 3 /SiO 2 matrix were studied. In this work, we have demonstrated that the use of Al 2 O 3 as control oxide prepared by atomic-layer-deposition enhances the erase speed of the MOS capacitors. A giant capacitance-voltage hysteresis loop and a very short erase time which is lower than 1 ms can be obtained. Compared with the conventional floating-gate electrically erasable programmable read-only memories, the erase speed was promoted drastically. In addition, very low leakage current and large turn-around voltage resulting from electrons or holes stored in the Au nanocrystals were found in the current-voltage relation of the MOS capacitors

  13. Pair Distribution Function Analysis of ZrO2 Nanocrystals and Insights in the Formation of ZrO2-YBa2Cu3O7 Nanocomposites

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Hannes Rijckaert

    2018-06-01

    Full Text Available The formation of superconducting nanocomposites from preformed nanocrystals is still not well understood. Here, we examine the case of ZrO2 nanocrystals in a YBa2Cu3O7−x matrix. First we analyzed the preformed ZrO2 nanocrystals via atomic pair distribution function analysis and found that the nanocrystals have a distorted tetragonal crystal structure. Second, we investigated the influence of various surface ligands attached to the ZrO2 nanocrystals on the distribution of metal ions in the pyrolyzed matrix via secondary ion mass spectroscopy technique. The choice of stabilizing ligand is crucial in order to obtain good superconducting nanocomposite films with vortex pinning. Short, carboxylate based ligands lead to poor superconducting properties due to the inhomogeneity of metal content in the pyrolyzed matrix. Counter-intuitively, a phosphonate ligand with long chains does not disturb the growth of YBa2Cu3O7−x. Even more surprisingly, bisphosphonate polymeric ligands provide good colloidal stability in solution but do not prevent coagulation in the final film, resulting in poor pinning. These results thus shed light on the various stages of the superconducting nanocomposite formation.

  14. Novel CuCr_2O_4 embedded CuO nanocomposites for efficient photodegradation of organic dyes

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mageshwari, K.; Sathyamoorthy, R.; Lee, Jeong Yong; Park, Jinsub

    2015-01-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Novel CuO–CuCr_2O_4 nanocomposites synthesized by reflux condensation method. • Methyl orange and methylene blue dye degradation studied under UV light irradiation. • Nanocomposites characterized by XRD, FESEM, TEM, EDX, UV–vis DRS and PL. • CuCr_2O_4 loading effectively enhanced the catalytic activity of CuO. - Abstract: Novel photocatalyst based on CuO–CuCr_2O_4 nanocomposites was synthesized for different Cr"3"+ concentration by reflux condensation method, and their photocatalytic activity was evaluated by monitoring the photodegradation of methyl orange (MO) and methylene blue dyes (MB) under UV light irradiation. Phase evolution by X-ray diffraction showed monoclinic CuO and tetragonal CuCr_2O_4 as the components of the prepared nanocomposites. Morphological analysis by scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope revealed that the incorporation of Cr"3"+ in CuO lattice alters the morphology of CuO from microsphere to cluster shape. Photoluminescence spectra of CuO–CuCr_2O_4 nanocomposites exhibited reduced PL emissions compared to pure CuO, indicating the low recombination rate of photogenerated electrons and holes. As expected, the CuCr_2O_4 loaded CuO showed enhanced photocatalytic activity for MO and MB dyes, and the kinetic studies suggest that the degradation follows pseudo-first-order kinetics. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of CuO–CuCr_2O_4 nanocomposites can be attributed to the presence of CuCr_2O_4 as an electron acceptor, which improves the effective charge separation in CuO.

  15. Electronic structure of Ti/sub 2/O/sub 3/, V/sub 2/O/sub 3/, and Cr/sub 2/O/sub 3/

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bondarenko, T N; Zhurakovskii, E A; Dzeganovskii, V P [AN Ukrainskoj SSR, Kiev. Inst. Problem Materialovedeniya

    1975-11-01

    Electronic structure of oxides Ti/sub 2/O/sub 3/, V/sub 2/O/sub 3/, Cr/sub 2/O/sub 3/ was elucidated by means of X-ray and ESCA methods and the results were compared with the data obtained by other methods and with the available models of electronic structures. Energy diagram of V/sub 2/O/sub 3/ and common energy scale of X-ray spectra of Ti and Cr in Ti/sub 2/O/sub 3/ and Cr/sub 2/O/sub 3/ are presented. X-ray spectra show that these oxides possess the states which are related genetically to the M4p-states i.e. the X-ray data complement essentially to the result of optical and electrophysical measurements. MO and M/sub 2/O/sub 3/ compounds in the region of Fermi level have overlapping emission and absorption spectra which is specific to the matters with the metallic type of bonding. Actually TiO, VO, Ti/sub 2/O/sub 3/ and V/sub 2/O/sub 3/ have metallic type of bonding. However such overlap was observed in Cr/sub 2/O/sub 3/ as well whose forbidden zone according to photoconductivity measurments is about 3 eV. Absence of energy gap between emission and absorption spectra in Cr/sub 2/O/sub 3/ may be explained by traces of impurities which convert dielectrics conductors - impurities act as agents caus:ng filling or generation of vacancies rather than independent allowing additives. On the other hand this may be due to the defects in Cr/sub 2/O/sub 3/ lattice which may cause appearance of excited states in forbidden zone. These investigations enable to draw energy diagram of V/sub 2/O/sub 3/ and to combine the spectra of M in Ti/sub 2/O/sub 3/ into common energy scheme. Analysis of the diagram and combined spectra revealed great similarity in the electronic structures of M/sub 2/O/sub 3/ oxides (M - Ti, V, Cr) .

  16. Depth-selective 2D-ACAR and coincidence Doppler investigation of embedded Au nanocrystals in MgO

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Eijt, S.W.H.; Veen, A. van; Falub, C.V.; Schut, H.; Huis, M.A. van; Mijnarends, P.E.

    2004-01-01

    We present a depth-selective 2D-ACAR and two-detector Doppler broadening study on Au nanocrystals in monocrystalline MgO(100), produced in sub-surface layers by ion implantation and subsequent thermal annealing to temperatures beyond the stability range of vacancy clusters in MgO. In contrast to the case of Li nanocrystals, it was found that positrons do not trap inside the Au nanocrystals, but only in defects at the nanocrystal-to-host interface (attached vacancy clusters). This is interpreted in terms of the positron affinity of Au, MgO and the defects. (orig.)

  17. Depth-selective 2D-ACAR and coincidence Doppler investigation of embedded Au nanocrystals in MgO

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Eijt, S.W.H.; Veen, A. van; Falub, C.V.; Schut, H.; Huis, M.A. van [Interfaculty Reactor Inst., Delft Univ. of Technology, Delft (Netherlands); Mijnarends, P.E. [Interfaculty Reactor Inst., Delft Univ. of Technology, Delft (Netherlands); Dept. of Physics, Northeastern Univ., Boston, MA (United States)

    2004-07-01

    We present a depth-selective 2D-ACAR and two-detector Doppler broadening study on Au nanocrystals in monocrystalline MgO(100), produced in sub-surface layers by ion implantation and subsequent thermal annealing to temperatures beyond the stability range of vacancy clusters in MgO. In contrast to the case of Li nanocrystals, it was found that positrons do not trap inside the Au nanocrystals, but only in defects at the nanocrystal-to-host interface (attached vacancy clusters). This is interpreted in terms of the positron affinity of Au, MgO and the defects. (orig.)

  18. Acoustic study of nano-crystal embedded PbO–P2O5 glass

    Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

    Unknown

    Keywords. Glasses; acoustical properties; nanostructured materials; glass ceramic. 1. Introduction. During the last two decades, studies of different physical properties of nano-crystal embedded glass matrix have attracted attention of technologists as well as scientists for fabrication of glass ceramic through controlled crysta-.

  19. Structure and magnetic properties of Cr nanoparticles and Cr2O3 nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang, W.S.; Brueck, E.; Zhang, Z.D.; Tegus, O.; Li, W.F.; Si, P.Z.; Geng, D.Y.; Buschow, K.H.J.

    2005-01-01

    We have synthesized Cr nanoparticles by arc-discharge and Cr 2 O 3 nanoparticles by subsequent annealing the as-prepared Cr nanoparticles. The structure of these nanoparticles is studied by means of X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and high-resolution transmission electron microscope. Most of the particles show a good crystal habit of well-defined cubic or orthorhombic shape, while some small particles show spherical shape. The as-prepared Cr nanoparticles have a BCC Cr core coated with a thin Cr 2 O 3 layer. Cr in the core of the particles heated at 873 K for 4 h is changed to Cr 2 O 3 . The results of magnetic measurements show that the Cr nanoparticles exhibit mainly antiferromagnetic properties, in addition to a weak-ferromagnetic component at lower fields. The weak-ferromagnetic component may be ascribed to uncompensated surface spins. For the field-cooled Cr 2 O 3 nanoparticles, an exchange bias is observed in the hysteresis loops, which can be interpreted as the exchange coupling between the uncompensated spins at the surface and the spins in the core of the Cr 2 O 3 nanoparticles

  20. Thermodynamic modeling of La2O3-SrO-Mn2O3-Cr2O3 for solid oxide fuel cell applications

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Povoden-Karadeniz, E.; Chen, Ming; Ivas, Toni

    2012-01-01

    The thermodynamic La–Sr–Mn–Cr–O oxide database is obtained as an extension of thermodynamic descriptions of oxide subsystems using the calculation of phase diagrams approach. Concepts of the thermodynamic modeling of solid oxide phases are discussed. Gibbs energy functions of SrCrO4, Sr2.67Cr2O8......, Sr2CrO4, and SrCr2O4 are presented, and thermodynamic model parameters of La–Sr–Mn–Chromite perovskite are given. Experimental solid solubilities and nonstoichiometries in La1xSrxCrO3d and LaMn1xCrxO3d are reproduced by the model. The presented oxide database can be used for applied computational...... thermodynamics of traditional lanthanum manganite cathode with Cr-impurities. It represents the fundament for extensions to higher orders, aiming on thermodynamic calculations in noble symmetric solid oxide fuel cells...

  1. Nanocrystal in Er3+-doped SiO2-ZrO2 Planar Waveguide with Yb3+ Sensitizer

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Razaki, N. Iznie; Jais, U. Sarah; Abd-Rahman, M. Kamil; Bhaktha, S. N. B.; Chiasera, A.; Ferrari, M.

    2010-01-01

    Higher doping of Er 3+ in glass ceramic waveguides would cause concentration and pair-induced quenching which lead to inhomogeneous line-width of luminescence spectrum thus reduce output intensity. Concentration quenching can be overcome by introducing ZrO 2 in the glass matrix while co-doping with Yb 3+ which acts as sensitizer would improve the excitation efficiency of Er 3+ . In this study, SiO 2 -ZrO 2 planar waveguides having composition in mol percent of 70SiO 2 -30ZrO 2 doped with Er 3+ and co-doped with Yb 3+ , were prepared via sol-gel route. Narrower and shaper peaks of PL and XRD shows the formation of nanocrystals. Intensity is increase with addition amount of Yb 3+ shows sensitizing effect on Er 3+ .

  2. Correlation between SnO{sub 2} nanocrystals and optical properties of Eu{sup 3+} ions in SiO{sub 2} matrix: Relation of crystallinity, composition, and photoluminescence

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Thanh, Bui Quang [International Training Institute for Materials Science (ITIMS), Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST), No.1 Dai Co Viet, Hanoi (Viet Nam); Ha, Ngo Ngoc, E-mail: hann@itims.edu.vn [International Training Institute for Materials Science (ITIMS), Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST), No.1 Dai Co Viet, Hanoi (Viet Nam); Khiem, Tran Ngoc, E-mail: khiem@itims.edu.vn [International Training Institute for Materials Science (ITIMS), Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST), No.1 Dai Co Viet, Hanoi (Viet Nam); Chien, Nguyen Duc [International Training Institute for Materials Science (ITIMS), Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST), No.1 Dai Co Viet, Hanoi (Viet Nam); School of Engineering Physics (SEP), Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST), No.1 Dai Co Viet, Hanoi (Viet Nam)

    2015-07-15

    We report characteristics and optical properties of Eu{sup 3+}-doped SnO{sub 2} nanocrystals dispersed in SiO{sub 2} matrix. Samples are prepared by the sol–gel method. Crystallinity of SnO{sub 2} nanocrystals is examined by X-ray diffraction experiments. At annealing temperatures from 900 to 1200 °C, we observe the formation of single tetragonal rutile structure of SnO{sub 2} nanocrystals. Average sizes of SnO{sub 2} nanocrystals within 3–7 nm are estimated by Debye–Scherrer equation. Intense photoluminescent spectra of Eu{sup 3+} ions consist of a series of resolved emission bands within 570–645 nm, which are varied with different sample-preparation conditions. We show the efficient excitation process of Eu{sup 3+} ions through SnO{sub 2} nanocrystals in the materials. Microscopic structure of SnO{sub 2} nanoparticles and optical properties of Eu{sup 3+} ions are also presented and discussed. - Highlights: • Thin layers of Eu{sup 3+} doped SnO{sub 2} nanocrystals dispersed in SiO{sub 2} were prepared by sol-gel method and spin-coating process. • Formation of single-phase tetragonal rutile structure of SnO{sub 2} nanocrystals and highly efficient optical excitation of the Eu{sup 3+} dopants were exhibited. • Relations of the crystallinity and composition of SnO{sub 2} and optical properties of Eu{sup 3+} dopants were comprehensively investigated and presented. • Allocations of major optically-active Eu{sup 3+} ions in the materials were deduced from their emission bands.

  3. Thermal expansion of Cr2xFe2-2xMo3O12, Al2xFe2-2xMo3O12 and Al2xCr2-2xMo3O12 solid solutions

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ari, M.; Jardim, P.M.; Marinkovic, B.A.; Rizzo, F.; Ferreira, F.F.

    2008-01-01

    The transition temperature from monoclinic to orthorhombic and the thermal expansion of the orthorhombic phase were investigated for three systems of the family A 2 M 3 O 12 : Cr 2x Fe 2-2x Mo 3 O 12 , Al 2x Fe 2-2x Mo 3 O 12 and Al 2x Cr 2-2x Mo 3 O 12 . It was possible to obtain a single-phase solid solution in all studied samples (x=0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 0.9 and 1). A linear relationship between the transition temperature and the fraction of A 3+ cations (x) was observed for each system. In all orthorhombic solid solutions studied here the observed thermal expansion was anisotropic. These anisotropic thermal expansion properties of crystallographic axes a, b and c result in a low positive or near-zero overall linear coefficient of thermal expansion (α l =α V /3). The relationship between the size of A 3+ cations in A 2 M 3 O 12 and the coefficient of thermal expansion is discussed. Near-zero thermal expansion of Cr 2 Mo 3 O 12 is explained by the behavior of Cr-O and Mo-O bond distances, Cr-Mo non-bond distances and Cr-O-Mo bond angles with increasing temperature, estimated by Rietveld analysis of synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction data. - Graphical abstract: In this figure, all published overall linear coefficients of thermal expansion for orthorhombic A 2 M 3 O 12 family obtained through diffraction methods as a function of A 3+ cation radii size, together with dilatometric results, are plotted. Our results indicate that Cr 2 Mo 3 O 12 does not exactly follow the established relationship

  4. MgO–CaO–Cr2O3 composition as a novel refractory brick: Use of Cr2O3 nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ghasemi-Kahrizsangi, S.; Dehsheikh, H.G.; Boroujerdnia, M.

    2017-07-01

    At this study the effect of Cr2O3 nanoparticles (up to 3wt.%) on the physical and mechanical properties of MgO–CaO refractory composition with emphasis on the hydration resistance improvement have been investigated. Specimens pressed at 90MPa then were sintered at 1650°C for 5h in an electric furnace. Properties such as bulk density, apparent porosity, cold crushing strength and hydration resistance were examined. The crystalline phases and microstructure characteristics of sintered specimens were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDS), respectively. Results shown that add of the 1.5wt.% Cr2O3 nanoparticles have the best results i.e. increased the bulk density (3.41g/cm3), cold crushing strength (848kg/cm2), hydration resistance (1.5%) and decreased apparent porosity (5.58%), respectively. The mechanism of specimens hydration resistance improvement are: (i) decreasing the amount of free CaO and MgO with converted to high hydration resistance phases such as CaCr2O4 and MgCr2O4 phases, (ii) promotion of the densification as well as (iii) modification of the microstructure. (Author)

  5. Charge storage and tunneling mechanism of Ni nanocrystals embedded HfO{sub x} film

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhu, H. X.; Zhang, T.; Wang, R. X.; Zhang, Y. Y.; Li, L. T.; Qiu, X. Y., E-mail: qxy2001@swu.edu.cn [School of Physical Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715 (China)

    2016-05-15

    A nano-floating gate memory structure based on Ni nanocrystals (NCs) embedded HfO{sub x} film is deposited by means of radio-frequency magnetron sputtering. Microstructure investigations reveal that self-organized Ni-NCs with diameters of 4-8 nm are well dispersed in amorphous HfO{sub x} matrix. Pt/Ni-NCs embedded HfO{sub x}/Si/Ag capacitor structures exhibit voltage-dependent capacitance-voltage hysteresis, and a maximum flat-band voltage shift of 1.5 V, corresponding to a charge storage density of 6.0 × 10{sup 12} electrons/cm{sup 2}, is achieved. These capacitor memory cells exhibit good endurance characteristic up to 4 × 10{sup 4} cycles and excellent retention performance of 10{sup 5} s, fulfilling the requirements of next generation non-volatile memory devices. Schottky tunneling is proven to be responsible for electrons tunneling in these capacitors.

  6. Hydrothermal synthesis and white light emission of cubic ZrO2:Eu3+ nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Meetei, Sanoujam Dhiren; Singh, Shougaijam Dorendrajit

    2014-01-01

    Highlights: • White light emitting cubic ZrO 2 :Eu 3+ nanocrystal is synthesized by hydrothermal technique. • Eu 3+ is used to stabilize crystalline phase and to get red counterpart of the white light. • Defect emission and Eu 3+ emission combined to give white light. • The white light emitted from this nanocrystal resembles vertical daylight of the Sun. • Lifetime corresponding to red counterpart of the sample is far longer than conventional white light emitters. -- Abstract: Production of white light has been a promising area of luminescence studies. In this work, white light emitting nanocrystals of cubic zirconia doped with Eu 3+ are synthesized by hydrothermal technique. The dopant Eu 3+ is used to stabilize crystalline phase to cubic and at the same time to get red counterpart of the white light. The synthesis procedure is simple and precursor required no further annealing for crystallization. X-ray diffraction patterns show the crystalline phase of ZrO 2 :Eu 3+ to be cubic and it is confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy. From transmission electron microscopy images, size of the crystals is found to be ∼5 nm. Photoluminescence emission spectrum of the sample, on monitoring excitation at O 2− –Eu 3+ charge transfer state shows broad peak due to O 2− of the zirconia and that of Eu 3+ emission. Commission Internationale de l’éclairage co-ordinate of this nanocrystal (0.32, 0.34) is closed to that of the ideal white light (0.33, 0.33). Correlated color temperature of the white light (5894 K) is within the range of vertical daylight. Lifetime (1.32 ms) corresponding to 5 D 0 energy level of the Eu 3+ is found to be far longer than conventional red counterparts of white light emitters. It suggests that the ZrO 2 :Eu 3+ nanocrystals synthesized by hydrothermal technique may find applications in simulating the vertical daylight of the Sun

  7. Unusual broadening of the NIR luminescence of Er{sup 3+}-doped Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} nanocrystals embedded in silica host: Preparation and their structural and spectroscopic study for photonics applications

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Aquino, Felipe Thomaz; Pereira, Rafael R. [Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, CEP 14040-901 Ribeirão Preto, SP (Brazil); Ferrari, Jefferson Luis [Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, CEP 14040-901 Ribeirão Preto, SP (Brazil); Grupo de Pesquisa em Química de Materiais – (GPQM), Departamento de Ciências Naturais, Universidade Federal de São João Del Rei, Campus Dom Bosco, Praça Dom Helvécio, 74, 36301-160 São João Del Rei, MG (Brazil); Ribeiro, Sidney José Lima [Laboratório de Materiais Fotônicos, Instituto de Química, UNESP, Caixa Postal 355, 14801-970 Araraquara, SP (Brazil); Ferrier, Alban; Goldner, Philippe [Chimie-Paristech, Laboratoire de Chimie de la Matière Condensée de Paris, CNRS-UMR 7574, UPMC Univ Paris 06, 11 Rue Pierre et Marie Curie, 75005 Paris (France); and others

    2014-10-15

    This paper reports on the preparation of novel sol-gel erbium-doped SiO{sub 2}-based nanocomposites embedded with Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} nanocrystals fabricated using a bottom-up method and describes their structural, morphological, and luminescence characterization. To prepare the glass ceramics, we synthesized xerogels containing Si/Nb molar ratios of 90:10 up to 50:50 at room temperature, followed by annealing at 900, 1000, or 1100 °C for 10 h. We identified crystallization accompanying host densification in all the nanocomposites with orthorhombic (T-phase) or monoclinic (M-phase) Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} nanocrystals dispersed in the amorphous SiO{sub 2} phase, depending on the niobium content and annealing temperature. A high-intensity broadband emission in the near-infrared region assigned to the {sup 4}I{sub 13/2} → {sup 4}I{sub 15/2} transition of the Er{sup 3+} ions was registered for all the nanocomposites. The shape and the bandwidth changed with the Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} crystalline phase, with values achieving up to 81 nm. Er{sup 3+} ions were located mainly in Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5}-rich regions, and the complex structure of the different Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} polymorphs accounted for the broadening in the emission spectra. The materials containing the T-phase, displayed higher luminescence intensity, longer {sup 4}I{sub 13/2} lifetime and broader bandwidth. In conclusion, these nanostructured materials are potential candidates for photonic applications like optical amplifiers and WDM devices operating in the S, C, and L telecommunication bands. - Highlights: • Rare earth doped Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} nanocrystals prepared from a bottom-up approach. • Unusual broadband NIR emission in glass ceramic system. • Structural features tuning the luminescence properties. • Potential as optical amplifiers and WDM devices. • Photonic devices operating in the S, C, and L telecommunication.

  8. MgO–CaO–Cr2O3 composition as a novel refractory brick: Use of Cr2O3 nanoparticles

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Salman Ghasemi-Kahrizsangi

    2017-03-01

    Full Text Available At this study the effect of Cr2O3 nanoparticles (up to 3 wt.% on the physical and mechanical properties of MgO–CaO refractory composition with emphasis on the hydration resistance improvement have been investigated. Specimens pressed at 90 MPa then were sintered at 1650 °C for 5 h in an electric furnace. Properties such as bulk density, apparent porosity, cold crushing strength and hydration resistance were examined. The crystalline phases and microstructure characteristics of sintered specimens were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD and scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDS, respectively. Results shown that add of the 1.5 wt.% Cr2O3 nanoparticles have the best results i.e. increased the bulk density (3.41 g/cm3, cold crushing strength (848 kg/cm2, hydration resistance (1.5% and decreased apparent porosity (5.58%, respectively. The mechanism of specimens hydration resistance improvement are: (i decreasing the amount of free CaO and MgO with converted to high hydration resistance phases such as CaCr2O4 and MgCr2O4 phases, (ii promotion of the densification as well as (iii modification of the microstructure.

  9. Structural, spectroscopic and cytotoxicity studies of TbF3@CeF3 and TbF3@CeF3@SiO2 nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Grzyb, Tomasz; Runowski, Marcin; Dąbrowska, Krystyna; Giersig, Michael; Lis, Stefan

    2013-01-01

    Terbium fluoride nanocrystals, covered by a shell, composed of cerium fluoride were synthesized by a co-precipitation method. Their complex structure was formed spontaneously during the synthesis. The surface of these core/shell nanocrystals was additionally modified by silica. The properties of TbF 3 @CeF 3 and TbF 3 @CeF 3 @SiO 2 nanocrystals, formed in this way, were investigated. Spectroscopic studies showed that the differences between these two groups of products resulted from the presence of the SiO 2 shell. X-ray diffraction patterns confirmed the trigonal crystal structure of TbF 3 @CeF 3 nanocrystals. High resolution transmission electron microscopy in connection with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy showed a complex structure of the formed nanocrystals. Crystallized as small discs, ‘the products’, with an average diameter around 10 nm, showed an increase in the concentration of Tb 3+ ions from surface to the core of nanocrystals. In addition to photo-physical analyses, cytotoxicity studies were performed on HSkMEC (Human Skin Microvascular Endothelial Cells) and B16F0 mouse melanoma cancer cells. The cytotoxicity of the nanomaterials was neutral for the investigated cells with no toxic or antiproliferative effect in the cell cultures, either for normal or for cancer cells. This fact makes the obtained nanocrystals good candidates for biological applications and further modifications of the SiO 2 shell.Graphical Abstract

  10. Surface structure of alpha-Fe sub 2 O sub 3 nanocrystal observed by O K-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy

    CERN Document Server

    Zhang, J; Ibrahim, K; Abbas, M I; Ju, X

    2003-01-01

    X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectra is used as a probe of surface structure of alpha-Fe sub 2 O sub 3 nanocrystal, prepared by sol-gel method. We present O K-edge XANES of alpha-Fe sub 2 O sub 3 in nanocrystal and bulk by total electron yield at the photoemission station of Beijing Synchrotron Radiation Facility. The spectrum of alpha-Fe sub 2 O sub 3 shows a splitting of the pre-edge structure, which is interpreted as two subsets of Fe 3d t sub 2 sub g and e sub g orbitals in oxygen octahedral (O sub h) crystal field, and is also sensitive to long-range order effects. However, no distinguishable splitting of the pre-edge peak of nanocrystal alpha-Fe sub 2 O sub 3 is observed. This suggests that there exists the distorted octahedral coordination around Fe sites and also the long-range disorder due to the surface as compared with bulk alpha-Fe sub 2 O sub 3.

  11. Gas sensing behaviour of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} and W{sup 6+}: Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles towards acetone

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kohli, Nipin, E-mail: nipinkohli82@yahoo.com; Hastir, Anita; Singh, Ravi Chand [Department of Physics, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar-143005 (India)

    2016-05-23

    This paper reports the acetone gas sensing properties of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} and 2% W{sup 6+} doped Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles. The simple cost-effective hydrolysis assisted co-precipitation method was adopted. Synthesized samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) techniques. XRD revealed that synthesized nanoparticles have corundum structure. The lattice parameters have been calculated by Rietveld refinement; and strain and crystallite size have been calculated by using the Williamson-Hall plots. For acetone gas sensing properties, the nanoparticles were applied as thick film onto alumina substrate and tested at different operating temperatures. The results showed that the optimum operating temperature of both the gas sensors is 250°C. At optimum operating temperature, the response of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} and 2% W{sup 6+} doped Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} gas sensor towards 100 ppm acetone was found to be 25.5 and 35.6 respectively. The investigations revealed that the addition of W{sup 6+} as a dopant enhanced the sensing response of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles appreciably.

  12. Cr2O3 nanoparticle-functionalized WO3 nanorods for ethanol gas sensors

    Science.gov (United States)

    Choi, Seungbok; Bonyani, Maryam; Sun, Gun-Joo; Lee, Jae Kyung; Hyun, Soong Keun; Lee, Chongmu

    2018-02-01

    Pristine WO3 nanorods and Cr2O3-functionalized WO3 nanorods were synthesized by the thermal evaporation of WO3 powder in an oxidizing atmosphere, followed by spin-coating of the nanowires with Cr2O3 nanoparticles and thermal annealing in an oxidizing atmosphere. Scanning electron microscopy was used to examine the morphological features and X-ray diffraction was used to study the crystallinity and phase formation of the synthesized nanorods. Gas sensing tests were performed at different temperatures in the presence of test gases (ethanol, acetone, CO, benzene and toluene). The Cr2O3-functionalized WO3 nanorods sensor showed a stronger response to these gases relative to the pristine WO3 nanorod sensor. In particular, the response of the Cr2O3-functionalized WO3 nanorods sensor to 200 ppm ethanol gas was 5.58, which is approximately 4.4 times higher that of the pristine WO3 nanorods sensor. Furthermore, the Cr2O3-functionalized WO3 nanorods sensor had a shorter response and recovery time. The pristine WO3 nanorods had no selectivity toward ethanol gas, whereas the Cr2O3-functionalized WO3 nanorods sensor showed good selectivity toward ethanol. The gas sensing mechanism of the Cr2O3-functionalized WO3 nanorods sensor toward ethanol is discussed in detail.

  13. Improving Passivation Process of Si Nanocrystals Embedded in SiO2 Using Metal Ion Implantation

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jhovani Bornacelli

    2013-01-01

    Full Text Available We studied the photoluminescence (PL of Si nanocrystals (Si-NCs embedded in SiO2 obtained by ion implantation at MeV energy. The Si-NCs are formed at high depth (1-2 μm inside the SiO2 achieving a robust and better protected system. After metal ion implantation (Ag or Au, and a subsequent thermal annealing at 600°C under hydrogen-containing atmosphere, the PL signal exhibits a noticeable increase. The ion metal implantation was done at energies such that its distribution inside the silica does not overlap with the previously implanted Si ion . Under proper annealing Ag or Au nanoparticles (NPs could be nucleated, and the PL signal from Si-NCs could increase due to plasmonic interactions. However, the ion-metal-implantation-induced damage can enhance the amount of hydrogen, or nitrogen, that diffuses into the SiO2 matrix. As a result, the surface defects on Si-NCs can be better passivated, and consequently, the PL of the system is intensified. We have selected different atmospheres (air, H2/N2 and Ar to study the relevance of these annealing gases on the final PL from Si-NCs after metal ion implantation. Studies of PL and time-resolved PL indicate that passivation process of surface defects on Si-NCs is more effective when it is assisted by ion metal implantation.

  14. Microstructural morphologies of slag based glass-ceramics nucleated with 5 wt% Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} and 5 wt% Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} + 5 wt% TiO{sub 2}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Oevecoglu, M.L.; Oezkal, B. [Istanbul Technical Univ. (Turkey). Dept. of Metallurgical and Materials Enginering; Catakli, E. [Mimar Sinan Univ., Istanbul (Turkey). Faculty of Science and Literature; Erkmen, Z.E. [Istnabul Univ. (Turkey). Dept. of Metallurgical Engineering

    2002-07-01

    Glass-ceramic materials were developed from the blast-furnace slags by mixing 5 wt% Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} and 5 wt% Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} + 5 wt% TiO{sub 2}. The samples were nucleated for 18 h at 780 C and crystallized for 20 min. at 905 C, respectively. SEM and SEM/EDS investigations revealed the presence of clover-shaped TiO{sub 2} particles in the glassy matrix of the sample nucleated with 5 wt% Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} + 5 wt% TiO{sub 2} and polygonal-shaped Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} platelets for both samples. XRD scans revealed the presence of akermanite (2CaO.MgO.2SiO{sub 2}) and gehlenite (2CaO.Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}.SiO{sub 2}) peaks indicating the existence of the mellilite solid solution for the crystallized glass-ceramic samples. (orig.)

  15. Preparation of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles for superthermites by the detonation of an explosive nanocomposite material

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Comet, Marc, E-mail: marc.comet@isl.eu; Pichot, Vincent; Siegert, Benny; Fousson, Eric [NS3E, UMR 3208 ISL/CNRS, French-German Research Institute of Saint-Louis (ISL) (France); Mory, Julien; Moitrier, Florence [French-German Research Institute of Saint-Louis (ISL) (France); Spitzer, Denis [NS3E, UMR 3208 ISL/CNRS, French-German Research Institute of Saint-Louis (ISL) (France)

    2011-05-15

    This article reports on the preparation of chromium(III) oxide nanoparticles by detonation. For this purpose, a high explosive-hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX)-has been solidified from a solution infiltrated into the macro- and mesoporosity of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} powder obtained by the combustion of ammonium dichromate. The resulting Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}/RDX nanocomposite material was embedded in a cylindrical charge of pure explosive and detonated in order to fragment the metallic oxide into nanoparticles. The resulting soot contains Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles, nanodiamonds, amorphous carbon species and inorganic particles resulting from the erosion by the blast of the detonation tank wall. The purification process consists in (i) removing the carbonaceous species by an oxidative treatment at 500 Degree-Sign C and (ii) dissolving the mineral particles by a chemical treatment with hydrofluoric acid. Contrary to what could be expected, the Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles formed during the detonation are twice larger than those of initial Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}. The detonation causes the fragmentation of the porous oxide and the melting of resulting particles. Nanometric droplets of molten Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} are ejected and quenched by the water in which the charge is fired. Despite their larger size, the Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles prepared by detonation were found to be less aggregated than those of the initial oxide used as precursor. Finally, the Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} synthesized by detonation was used to prepare a superthermite with aluminium nanoparticles. This material possesses a lower sensitivity and a more regular combustion compared to the one made of initial Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}.

  16. High-pressure BaCrO_3 polytypes and the 5H–BaCrO_2_._8 phase

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Arévalo-López, Angel M.; Paul Attfield, J.

    2015-01-01

    Polytypism of BaCrO_3 perovskites has been investigated at 900–1100 °C and pressures up to 22 GPa. Hexagonal 5H, 4H, and 6H perovskites are observed with increasing pressure, and the cubic 3C perovskite (a=3.99503(1) Å) is observed in bulk form for the first time at 19–22 GPa. An oxygen-deficient material with limiting composition 5H–BaCrO_2_._8 is synthesised at 1200 °C under ambient pressure. This contains double tetrahedral Cr"4"+ layers and orders antiferromagnetically below 260 K with a (0 0 1/2) magnetic structure. - Graphical abstract: Hexagonal 5H, 4H, and 6H perovskites polytypes of BaCrO_3 are observed with increasing pressure and the cubic 3C perovskite is stabilised in bulk form for the first time at 19–22 GPa. Oxygen-deficient 5H–BaCrO_2_._8 synthesised at ambient pressure contains double tetrahedral Cr"4"+ layers and orders antiferromagnetically below 260 K with a (0 0 1/2) magnetic structure.

  17. Phase formation in Na2MoO4 - MgMoO4 - Cr2(MoO4)3 system

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kotova, I.Yu.; Kozhevnikova, N.M.

    1998-01-01

    Interaction within Na 2 MoO 4 - MgMoO 4 - Cr 2 (MoO 4 ) 3 ternary system is studied by X ray phase and DTA methods. State diagram of NaCr(MoO 4 ) 2 - MgMoO 4 section is plotted. Production of ternary molybdates of Na 1-x Mg 1-x Cr 1+x (MoO 4 ) 3 , where 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.3, and NaMg 3 Cr(MoO 4 ) 5 composition is ascertained [ru

  18. The structural defects and UV-VIS spectral characterization of TiO2 particles doped in the lattice with Cr3+ cations

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liu, Z.L.; Cui, Z.L.; Zhang, Z.K.

    2005-01-01

    Titania nanoparticles doped with Cr 3+ (2% relative to molar quantity of titania) were prepared and examined by EDS, HRTEM, XRD, and UV-VIS analysis. HRTEM images showed the detailed atomic arrays and vacancy defects of the doped Titania nanocrystals and revealed that the implanted Cr element existed in titania mainly as Cr 3+ ions which located at the lattice positions of Ti 4+ ions. Compared with pure titania, the UV-VIS spectra of the Cr 3+ doped titania show significantly increased absorbance in visible light region. This indicated that the presence of the Cr 3+ ions affected the lattice structure of titania nanocrystals and plays an reformative role in spectral feature of titania

  19. Black Cr/α-Cr2O3 nanoparticles based solar absorbers

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Khamlich, S.; Nemraoui, O.; Mongwaketsi, N.; McCrindle, R.; Cingo, N.; Maaza, M.

    2012-01-01

    Monodisperse spherical core–shell particles of Cr/α-Cr 2 O 3 with high adhesion were successfully coated on rough copper substrates by a simple self-assembly-like method for the use in solar thermal absorbers. The structure and morphology of the core-shell particles of Cr/α-Cr 2 O 3 were effectively controlled by deposition temperature and the pH of the initial precursor solution. Their characterizations were carried out with X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectrometry and attenuated total reflection, as well as UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The samples aged for more than 40 h at 75 °C exhibit the targeted high absorbing optical characteristic “Black chrome” while those aged for ≤40 h show a significant high UV–vis diffuse reflectance “green color”.

  20. Synthesis, Characterization and Properties of CeO2-doped TiO2 Composite Nanocrystals

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Oman ZUAS

    2013-12-01

    Full Text Available Pure TiO2 and CeO2-doped TiO2 (3 % CeO2-97 %TiO2 composite nanocrystals were synthesized via co-precipitation method and characterized using TGA, XRD, FTIR, DR-UV-vis and TEM. The XRD data revealed that the phase structure of the synthesized samples was mainly in pure anatase having crystallite size in the range of 7 nm – 11 nm. Spherical shapes with moderate aggregation of the crystal particles were observed under the TEM observation. The presence of the CeO2 at TiO2 site has not only affected morphologically but also induced the electronic property of the TiO2 by lowering the band gap energy from 3.29 eV (Eg-Ti to 3.15 eV (Eg-CeTi. Performance evaluation of the synthesized samples showed that both samples have a strong adsorption capacity toward Congo red (CR dye in aqueous solution at room temperature experiment, where  the capacity of the CeTi was higher than the Ti sample. Based on DR-UV data, the synthesized samples obtained in this study may also become promising catalysts for photo-assisted removal of synthetic dye in aqueous solution. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ms.19.4.2732

  1. Preparation and properties of Nd{sup 3+}:SrAlF{sub 5} nanocrystals embedded fluorophosphate transparent glass-ceramic with long fluorescence lifetime

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zheng, Ruilin; Wang, Jinlong; Zhang, Liaolin; Liu, Chunxiao; Wei, Wei [Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, School of Optoelectronic Engineering, Nanjing (China)

    2016-07-15

    Nd{sup 3+}:SrAlF{sub 5} nanocrystals embedded fluorophosphate glass-ceramics were prepared by the melt quenching and subsequent thermal treatment method. The formation of SrAlF{sub 5} nanocrystals in the glass was confirmed by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope. The fluorescence intensity and lifetime of the glass-ceramics increased with the increase of size of nanocrystals. Importantly, by controlling growth of nanocrystals, an obvious enhancement of lifetime (725 μs) emerged in the glass-ceramics heat-treated at 510 C and the transmittance can reach to 72.2 % at 1049 nm. The enhanced fluorescence intensity and lifetime were ascribed to the comfortable local environment to the Nd{sup 3+} ion and scattering of the nanoparticle embedded into the glass matrix. (orig.)

  2. Energy Transfer Efficiency from ZnO-Nanocrystals to Eu3+ Ions Embedded in SiO₂ Film for Emission at 614 nm.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mangalam, Vivek; Pita, Kantisara

    2017-08-10

    In this work, we study the energy transfer mechanism from ZnO nanocrystals (ZnO-nc) to Eu 3+ ions by fabricating thin-film samples of ZnO-nc and Eu 3+ ions embedded in a SiO₂ matrix using the low-cost sol-gel technique. The time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) measurements from the samples were analyzed to understand the contribution of energy transfer from the various ZnO-nc emission centers to Eu 3+ ions. The decay time obtained from the TRPL measurements was used to calculate the energy transfer efficiencies from the ZnO-nc emission centers, and these results were compared with the energy transfer efficiencies calculated from steady-state photoluminescence emission results. The results in this work show that high transfer efficiencies from the excitonic and Zn defect emission centers is mostly due to the energy transfer from ZnO-nc to Eu 3+ ions which results in the radiative emission from the Eu 3+ ions at 614 nm, while the energy transfer from the oxygen defect emissions is most probably due to the energy transfer from ZnO-nc to the new defects created due to the incorporation of the Eu 3+ ions.

  3. Atomistic simulation of the thermal conductivity in amorphous SiO2 matrix/Ge nanocrystal composites

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kuryliuk, Vasyl V.; Korotchenkov, Oleg A.

    2017-04-01

    We use nonequilibrium molecular dynamics computer simulations with the Tersoff potential aiming to provide a comprehensive picture of the thermal conductivity of amorphous SiO2 (a-SiO2) matrix with embedded Ge nanocrystals (nc-Ge). The modelling predicts the a-SiO2 matrix thermal conductivity in a temperature range of 50 fair agreement with experiment at around room temperature. It is worth noticing that the predicted room-temperature thermal conductivity in a-SiO2 is in very good agreement with the experimental result, which is in marked contrast with the thermal conductivity calculated employing the widely used van Beest-Kramer-van Santen (BKS) potential. We show that the thermal conductivity of composite nc-Ge/a-SiO2 systems decreases steadily with increasing the volume fraction of Ge inclusions, indicative of enhanced interface scattering of phonons imposed by embedded Ge nanocrystals. We also observe that increasing the volume fractions above a certain threshold value results in a progressively increased thermal conductivity of the nanocomposite, which can be explained by increasing volume fraction of a better thermally conducting Ge. Finally, non-equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations with the Tersoff potential are promising for computing the thermal conductivity of nanocomposites based on amorphous SiO2 and can be readily scaled to more complex composite structures with embedded nanoparticles, which thus help design nanocomposites with desired thermal properties.

  4. Sol–gel glass-ceramics comprising rare-earth doped SnO2 and LaF3 nanocrystals: an efficient simultaneous UV and IR to visible converter

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yanes, A. C.; Castillo, J. del; Méndez-Ramos, J.; Rodríguez, V. D.

    2011-01-01

    We report a novel class of nanostructured glass-ceramics comprising two co-existing rare-earth doped nanocrystalline phases, SnO 2 semiconductor nanocrystal (quantum dot), and LaF 3 , presenting sizes at around 4.6 and 9.8 nm, respectively, embedded into a silica glass matrix for an efficient simultaneous UV and IR to visible photon conversion. On one hand, the wide and strong UV absorption by SnO 2 quantum dot and subsequent efficient energy transfer to Eu 3+ and, on the other hand, the also very efficient IR to visible up-conversion with the pair Yb 3+ –Er 3+ partitioned into low phonon LaF 3 nanocrystalline environment, yield to visible emissions with application in improving the spectral response of photovoltaic solar cells.Graphical AbstractWe report a novel class of nanostructured glass-ceramics comprising two co-existing rare-earth doped nanocrystalline phases, SnO 2 semiconductor nanocrystal (quantum dot) and LaF 3 , presenting sizes at around 4.6 and 9.8 nm, respectively, embedded into a silica glass matrix for an efficient simultaneous UV and IR to visible photon conversion. On one hand, the wide and strong UV absorption by SnO 2 quantum dot and subsequent efficient energy transfer to Eu 3+ and, on the other hand, the also very efficient IR to visible up-conversion with the pair Yb 3+ –Er 3+ partitioned into low phonon LaF 3 nanocrystalline environment, yield to visible emissions with application in improving the spectral response of photovoltaic solar cells.

  5. Influences of Er3+ content on structure and upconversion emission of oxyfluoride glass ceramics containing CaF2 nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chen Daqin; Wang Yuansheng; Yu Yunlong; Ma En; Bao Feng; Hu Zhongjian; Cheng Yao

    2006-01-01

    Transparent 45SiO 2 -25Al 2 O 3 -5CaO-10NaF-15CaF 2 glass ceramics doped with different content of erbium ion (Er 3+ ) were prepared. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) analyses evidenced the spherical CaF 2 nanocrystals homogeneously embedded among the glassy matrix. With increasing of Er 3+ content, the size of CaF 2 nanocrystals decreased while the number density increased. The crystallization kinetics studies revealed that CaF 2 crystallization was a diffusion-controlled growth process from small dimensions with decreasing nucleation rate. Er 3+ could act as nucleating agent to lower down crystallization temperature, while some of them may stay at the crystal surfaces to retard the growth of crystal. Intense red and weak green upconversion emissions were recorded for glass ceramics and their intensities increased with the increasing of Er 3+ content under 980 nm excitation. However, the concentration quenching effect appeared when Er 3+ doping reached 2 mol%. These results could be attributed to the change of ligand field of Er 3+ ions due to the incorporation of Er 3+ ions into precipitated fluoride nanocrystals

  6. Pt Single Atoms Embedded in the Surface of Ni Nanocrystals as Highly Active Catalysts for Selective Hydrogenation of Nitro Compounds.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Peng, Yuhan; Geng, Zhigang; Zhao, Songtao; Wang, Liangbing; Li, Hongliang; Wang, Xu; Zheng, Xusheng; Zhu, Junfa; Li, Zhenyu; Si, Rui; Zeng, Jie

    2018-06-13

    Single-atom catalysts exhibit high selectivity in hydrogenation due to their isolated active sites, which ensure uniform adsorption configurations of substrate molecules. Compared with the achievement in catalytic selectivity, there is still a long way to go in exploiting the catalytic activity of single-atom catalysts. Herein, we developed highly active and selective catalysts in selective hydrogenation by embedding Pt single atoms in the surface of Ni nanocrystals (denoted as Pt 1 /Ni nanocrystals). During the hydrogenation of 3-nitrostyrene, the TOF numbers based on surface Pt atoms of Pt 1 /Ni nanocrystals reached ∼1800 h -1 under 3 atm of H 2 at 40 °C, much higher than that of Pt single atoms supported on active carbon, TiO 2 , SiO 2 , and ZSM-5. Mechanistic studies reveal that the remarkable activity of Pt 1 /Ni nanocrystals derived from sufficient hydrogen supply because of spontaneous dissociation of H 2 on both Pt and Ni atoms as well as facile diffusion of H atoms on Pt 1 /Ni nanocrystals. Moreover, the ensemble composed of the Pt single atom and nearby Ni atoms in Pt 1 /Ni nanocrystals leads to the adsorption configuration of 3-nitrostyrene favorable for the activation of nitro groups, accounting for the high selectivity for 3-vinylaniline.

  7. Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Cr{sup 3+} microfibers by hydrothermal route: Luminescence properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liu, Dianguang [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi’an 710021 (China); Zhu, Zhenfeng, E-mail: zhuzf@sust.edu.cn [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi’an 710021 (China); Liu, Hui; Zhang, Zhengyang; Zhang, Yanbin; Li, Gege [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi’an 710021 (China)

    2012-09-15

    Highlights: ► Uniform Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Cr{sup 3+} microfibers were synthesized via a hydrothermal route and thermal decomposition. ► The length and diameter of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Cr{sup 3+} microfibers were about 3–9 μm and 300 nm, respectively. ► Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Cr{sup 3+} microfibers presented a broad R band at 696 nm when excited at 400 nm. ► It is shown that the 0.07 mol% of doping concentration of Cr{sup 3+} ions in α-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Cr{sup 3+} is optimum. ► Critical distance between Cr{sup 3+} ions for energy transfer was determined to be 38 Å. -- Abstract: Uniform Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Cr{sup 3+} microfibers were synthesized by using a hydrothermal route and thermal decomposition of a precursor of Cr{sup 3+} doped ammonium aluminum hydroxide carbonate (denoted as AAHC), and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), photoluminescence (PL) spectra and decay curves. XRD indicated that Cr{sup 3+} doped samples calcined at 1473 K were the most of α-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} phase. SEM showed that the length and diameter of these Cr{sup 3+} doped alumina microfibers were about 3–9 μm and 300 nm, respectively. PL spectra showed that the Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Cr{sup 3+} microfibers presented a broad R band at 696 nm. It is shown that the 0.07 mol% of doping concentration of Cr{sup 3+} ions in α-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Cr{sup 3+} was optimum. According to Dexter's theory, the critical distance between Cr{sup 3+} ions for energy transfer was determined to be 38 Å. It is found that the curve followed the single-exponential decay.

  8. Development and Application of Binary Suspensions in the Ternary System Cr2O3-TiO2-Al2O3 for S-HVOF Spraying

    Science.gov (United States)

    Potthoff, Annegret; Kratzsch, Robert; Barbosa, Maria; Kulissa, Nick; Kunze, Oliver; Toma, Filofteia-Laura

    2018-04-01

    Compositions in the system Cr2O3-TiO2-Al2O3 are among the most used ceramic materials for thermally sprayed coating solutions. Cr2O3 coatings present good sliding wear resistance; Al2O3 coatings show excellent insulation behavior and TiO2 striking corrosion properties. In order to combine these properties, coatings containing more than one oxide are highly interesting. The conventional spraying process is limited to the availability of binary feedstock powders with defined compositions. The use of suspensions offers the opportunity for tailor-made chemical compositions: within the triangle of Cr2O3-TiO2-Al2O3, each mixture of oxides can be created. Criteria for the selection of raw materials as well as the relevant aspects for the development of binary suspensions in the Cr2O3-TiO2-Al2O3 system to be used as feedstock for thermal spraying are presented. This formulation of binary suspensions required the development of water-based single-oxide suspensions with suitable behavior; otherwise, the interaction between the particles while mixing could lead up to a formation of agglomerates, which affect both the stability of the spray process and the coating properties. For the validation of this formulation procedure, binary Cr2O3-TiO2 and Al2O3-TiO2 suspensions were developed and sprayed using the S-HVOF process. The binary coatings were characterized and discussed in terms of microstructure and microhardness.

  9. Development and Application of Binary Suspensions in the Ternary System Cr2O3-TiO2-Al2O3 for S-HVOF Spraying

    Science.gov (United States)

    Potthoff, Annegret; Kratzsch, Robert; Barbosa, Maria; Kulissa, Nick; Kunze, Oliver; Toma, Filofteia-Laura

    2018-03-01

    Compositions in the system Cr2O3-TiO2-Al2O3 are among the most used ceramic materials for thermally sprayed coating solutions. Cr2O3 coatings present good sliding wear resistance; Al2O3 coatings show excellent insulation behavior and TiO2 striking corrosion properties. In order to combine these properties, coatings containing more than one oxide are highly interesting. The conventional spraying process is limited to the availability of binary feedstock powders with defined compositions. The use of suspensions offers the opportunity for tailor-made chemical compositions: within the triangle of Cr2O3-TiO2-Al2O3, each mixture of oxides can be created. Criteria for the selection of raw materials as well as the relevant aspects for the development of binary suspensions in the Cr2O3-TiO2-Al2O3 system to be used as feedstock for thermal spraying are presented. This formulation of binary suspensions required the development of water-based single-oxide suspensions with suitable behavior; otherwise, the interaction between the particles while mixing could lead up to a formation of agglomerates, which affect both the stability of the spray process and the coating properties. For the validation of this formulation procedure, binary Cr2O3-TiO2 and Al2O3-TiO2 suspensions were developed and sprayed using the S-HVOF process. The binary coatings were characterized and discussed in terms of microstructure and microhardness.

  10. Elaboration and characterization of a KCl single crystal doped with nanocrystals of a Sb2O3 semiconductor

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bouhdjer, L.; Addala, S.; Halimi, O.; Boudine, B.; Sebais, M.; Chala, A.

    2013-01-01

    Undoped and doped KCl single crystals have been successfully elaborated via the Czochralski (Cz) method. The effects of dopant Sb 2 O 3 nanocrystals on structural and optical properties were investigated by a number of techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDAX) analysis, UV-visible and photoluminescence (PL) spectrophotometers. An XRD pattern of KCl:Sb 2 O 3 reveals that the Sb 2 O 3 nanocrystals are in the well-crystalline orthorhombic phase. The broadening of diffraction peaks indicated the presence of a Sb 2 O 3 semiconductor in the nanometer size regime. The shift of absorption and PL peaks is observed near 334 nm and 360 nm respectively due to the quantum confinement effect in Sb 2 O 3 nanocrystals. Particle sizes calculated from XRD studies agree fairly well with those estimated from optical studies. An SEM image of the surface KCl:Sb 2 O 3 single crystal shows large quasi-spherical of Sb 2 O 3 crystallites scattered on the surface. The elemental analysis from EDAX demonstrates that the KCl:Sb 2 O 3 single crystal is slightly rich in oxygen and a source of excessive quantities of oxygen is discussed. (semiconductor materials)

  11. Al{sub 2} O{sub 3}:Cr,Ni: a possible thermoluminescent dosemeter; Al{sub 2} O{sub 3}: Cr, Ni un posible dosimetro termoluminiscente

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mariani R, Francisco; Roman B, Alvaro; Saavedra S, Renato [Pontificia Univ. Catolica de Chile, Santiago (Chile). Facultad de Fisica; Ibarra S, Angel [Centro de Investigaciones Energeticas, Medioambientales y Tecnologicas (CIEMAT), Madrid (Spain). Seccion Materiales para Fusion

    1997-12-31

    Results from a study on the thermoluminescent (Tl) emission from Al{sub 2} O{sub 3}:Cr,Ni are presented. The measurements were obtained for evaluation of the Al{sub 2} O{sub 3}:Cr,Ni dosimetric properties. Different crystal batches were exposed to two kind of ionizing radiation (X-ray and {beta}{sup -}). The Tl spectrum has a main peak with high thermal and optical stability, deviating from linearity for doses lower than 3.6 Gy. Furthermore, this material shows advantages (thermal resistance, reusability, multiple heating cycles) compared to TLD-100. Measured Al{sub 2} O{sub 3}:Cr,Ni properties indicate that it could be used as a dosemeter. (author). 5 refs., 4 figs.

  12. Al2 O3:Cr,Ni: a possible thermoluminescent dosemeter

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mariani R, Francisco; Roman B, Alvaro; Saavedra S, Renato; Ibarra S, Angel

    1996-01-01

    Results from a study on the thermoluminescent (Tl) emission from Al 2 O 3 :Cr,Ni are presented. The measurements were obtained for evaluation of the Al 2 O 3 :Cr,Ni dosimetric properties. Different crystal batches were exposed to two kind of ionizing radiation (X-ray and β - ). The Tl spectrum has a main peak with high thermal and optical stability, deviating from linearity for doses lower than 3.6 Gy. Furthermore, this material shows advantages (thermal resistance, reusability, multiple heating cycles) compared to TLD-100. Measured Al 2 O 3 :Cr,Ni properties indicate that it could be used as a dosemeter. (author)

  13. Near infrared emission and multicolor tunability of enhanced upconversion emission from Er{sup 3+}–Yb{sup 3+} co-doped Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} nanocrystals embedded in silica-based nanocomposite and planar waveguides for photonics

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Aquino, Felipe Thomaz [Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo. Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, CEP 14040-901 Ribeirão Preto, SP (Brazil); Ferrari, Jefferson Luis [Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo. Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, CEP 14040-901 Ribeirão Preto, SP (Brazil); Grupo de Pesquisa em Química de Materiais – (GPQM), Departamento de Ciências Naturais, Universidade Federal de São João Del Rei, Campus Dom Bosco, Praça Dom Helvécio, 74, 36301-160 São João Del Rei, MG (Brazil); Maia, Lauro June Queiroz [Grupo Física de Materiais, Instituto de Física, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Campus II, C.P. 131, CEP 74001-970, Goiânia, GO (Brazil); Ribeiro, Sidney José Lima [Institute of Chemistry- São Paulo State University- UNESP, Araraquara, SP 14800-900 (Brazil); Ferrier, Alban [PSL Research University, Chimie ParisTech - CNRS, Institut de Recherche de Chimie Paris, 75005 Paris (France); Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, 75005 Paris (France); and others

    2016-02-15

    This work reports on the Yb{sup 3+} ion addition effect on the near infrared emission and infrared-to-visible up conversion from planar waveguides based on Er{sup 3+}–Yb{sup 3+} co-doped Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} nanocrystals embedded in SiO{sub 2}-based nanocomposite prepared by a sol–gel process with controlled crystallization in situ. Planar waveguides and xerogels containing Si/Nb molar ratio of 90:10 up to 50:50 were prepared. Spherical-like orthorhombic or monoclinic Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} nanocrystals were grown in the amorphous SiO{sub 2}-based host depending on the niobium content and annealing temperature, resulting in transparent glass ceramics. Crystallization process was intensely affected by rare earth content increase. Enhancement and broadening of the NIR emission has been achieved depending on the rare earth content, niobium content and annealing temperature. Effective Yb{sup 3+}→Er{sup 3+} energy transfer and a high-intensity broad band emission in the near infrared region assigned to the Er{sup 3+} ions {sup 4}I{sub 13/2}→{sup 4}I{sub 15/2} transition, and longer {sup 4}I{sub 13/2} lifetimes were observed for samples containing orthorhombic Nb{sub 2}O{sub 5} nanocrystals. Intense green and red emissions were registered for all Er{sup 3+}–Yb{sup 3+} co-doped waveguides under 980 nm excitation, assigned to {sup 2}H{sub 11/2}→{sup 4}I{sub 15/2} (525 nm),{sup 4}S{sub 3/2}→{sup 4}I{sub 15/2} (545nm) and {sup 4}F{sub 9/2}→{sup 4}I{sub 15/2} (670 nm) transitions, respectively. Different relative green and red intensities emissions were observed, depending upon niobium oxide content and the laser power. Upconversion dynamics were determined by the photons number, evidencing that ESA or ETU mechanisms are probably occurring. The 1931 CIE chromaticity diagrams indicated interesting color tunability based on the waveguides composition and pump power. The nanocomposite waveguides are promising materials for photonic applications as optical amplifiers and

  14. Migration of CrSi2 nanocrystals through nanopipes in the silicon cap

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Galkin, N.G.; Dozsa, L.; Chusovitin, E.A.; Pecz, B.; Dobos, L.

    2010-01-01

    CrSi 2 nanocrystals (NC) were grown by reactive deposition epitaxy of Cr at 550 deg. C. After deposition the Cr is localized in about 20-30 nm dots on the Si surface. The NCs were covered by silicon cap grown by molecular beam epitaxy at 700 deg. C. The redistribution of NCs in the silicon cap was investigated by transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. The NCs are partly localized at the deposition depth, and partly migrate near the surface. A new migration mechanism of the CrSi 2 NCs is observed, they are transferred from the bulk toward the surface through nanopipes formed in the silicon cap. The redistribution of CrSi 2 NCs strongly depends on Cr deposition rate and on the cap growth temperature.

  15. Exchange bias in antiferromagnetic coupled Fe3O4+Cr2O3 nanocomposites

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liu, X H; Cui, W B; Lv, X K; Liu, W; Zhao, X G; Li, D; Zhang, Z D

    2008-01-01

    Exchange bias (EB) and magnetic properties of ferrimagnetic (FI) Fe 3 O 4 and antiferromagnetic (AFM) Cr 2 O 3 nanocomposites prepared by mechanical alloying have been investigated. A large EB field of 2.2 kOe at 10 K is observed in one of the nanocomposites, which may be related to the uncompensated and pinned AFM spins at the interface between FI and AFM phases of the nanocomposites. The EB field varies with the strength of cooling field and the content of the Cr 2 O 3 phase, the phenomena observed are explained in terms of interfacial exchange interaction between the two phases

  16. Cr6+-containing phases in the system CaO-Al2O3-CrO42--H2O at 23 °C

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pöllmann, Herbert; Auer, Stephan

    2012-01-01

    Synthesis and investigation of lamellar calcium aluminium hydroxy salts was performed to study the incorporation of chromate ions in the interlayer of lamellar calcium aluminium hydroxy salts. Different AFm-phases (calcium aluminate hydrate with alumina, ferric oxide, mono-anion phase) containing chromate were synthesized. These AFm-phases belong to the group of layered double hydroxides (LDHs). 3CaO·Al2O3·CaCrO4·nH2O and C3A·1/2Ca(OH)2·1/2CaCrO4·12H2O were obtained as pure phases and their different distinct interlayer water contents and properties determined. Solid solution of chromate-containing phases and tetracalcium-aluminate-hydrate (TCAH) were studied. The uptake of chromate into TCAH from solutions was proven. Chromate contents in solution decrease to <0.2 mg/l.

  17. Influence of the crystallization process on the luminescence of multilayers of SiGe nanocrystals embedded in SiO2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Avella, M.; Prieto, A.C.; Jimenez, J.; Rodriguez, A.; Sangrador, J.; Rodriguez, T.; Ortiz, M.I.; Ballesteros, C.

    2008-01-01

    Multilayers of SiGe nanocrystals embedded in an oxide matrix have been fabricated by low-pressure chemical vapor deposition of SiGe and SiO 2 onto Si wafers (in a single run at 390 deg. C and 50 mTorr, using GeH 4 , Si 2 H 6 and O 2 ) followed by a rapid thermal annealing treatment to crystallize the SiGe nanoparticles. The main emission band is located at 400 nm in both cathodoluminescence and photoluminescence experiments at 80 K and also at room temperature. The annealing conditions (temperatures ranging from 700 to 1000 deg. C and for times of 30 and 60 s) have been investigated in samples with different diameter of the nanoparticles (from ∼3 to ≥5 nm) and oxide interlayer thickness (15 and 35 nm) in order to establish a correlation between the crystallization of the nanoparticles, the degradation of their composition by Ge diffusion and the intensity of the luminescence emission band. Structures with small nanoparticles (3-4.5 nm) separated by thick oxide barriers (∼35 nm) annealed at 900 deg. C for 60 s yield the maximum intensity of the luminescence. An additional treatment at 450 deg. C in forming gas for dangling-bond passivation increases the intensity of the luminescence band by 25-30%

  18. Up-conversion and near infrared luminescence in Er3+/Yb3+ co-doped glass-ceramic containing MgGa2O4 nano-crystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sun, Jiaju; Yu, Lixin; Li, Fuhai; Wei, Shuilin; Li, Songchu

    2016-01-01

    The MgO–Ga 2 O 3 –SiO 2 (MG-S) glasses and nanocrystalline glass-ceramics (GCs) containing MgGa 2 O 4 nanocrystals codoped with Er 3+ and Yb 3+ were prepared by a simple sol–gel method. The formation of MgGa 2 O 4 nanocrystals in the GCs was confirmed by the X-ray diffraction (XRD). Their morphology was investigated applying high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). Stark splitting of near infrared (NIR) and up-conversion (UC) emission implies that the Er 3+ is incorporated into MgGa 2 O 4 nanocrystals. The effect of the MgO, Ga 2 O 3 content and sintering temperature on the structure of the prepared samples was systematically studied. Under 980 nm excitation, intense UC and NIR emission (1530 nm) were observed in the MG-S GCs by efficient energy transfer from Yb 3+ to Er 3+ . The two-photon process was confirmed to be responsible for both the green and red UC emissions. - Highlights: • It is interesting that the CIE chromaticity coordinates of the several prepared CaMO 4 :Eu samples by a hydrothermal method are very close to the standard of white light.

  19. Photoconductivity of composite structures based on porous SnO2 sensitized with CdSe nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Drozdov, K. A.; Kochnev, V. I.; Dobrovolsky, A. A.; Vasiliev, R. B.; Babynina, A. V.; Rumyantseva, M. N.; Gaskov, A. M.; Ryabova, L. I.; Khokhlov, D. R.

    2013-01-01

    The introduction of CdSe nanocrystals (colloidal quantum dots) into a porous SnO 2 matrix brings about the appearance of photoconductivity in the structures. Sensitization is a consequence of charge exchange between the quantum dots and the matrix. Photoconductivity spectral measurements show that the nanocrystals embedded into the matrix are responsible for the optical activity of the structure. The photoconductivity of the structures sensitized with different-sized quantum dots is studied in the temperature range from 77 to 300 K. It is shown that the maximum photoconductivity is attained by introducing nanocrystals of the minimum size (2.7 nm). The mechanisms of charge-carrier transport in the matrix and the charge-exchange kinetics are discussed.

  20. Structural, spectroscopic and cytotoxicity studies of TbF{sub 3}@CeF{sub 3} and TbF{sub 3}@CeF{sub 3}@SiO{sub 2} nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Grzyb, Tomasz; Runowski, Marcin [Adam Mickiewicz University, Department of Rare Earths, Faculty of Chemistry (Poland); Dabrowska, Krystyna [Polish Academy of Sciences, Bacteriophage Laboratory, Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy (Poland); Giersig, Michael; Lis, Stefan, E-mail: blis@amu.edu.pl [Adam Mickiewicz University, Department of Rare Earths, Faculty of Chemistry (Poland)

    2013-10-15

    Terbium fluoride nanocrystals, covered by a shell, composed of cerium fluoride were synthesized by a co-precipitation method. Their complex structure was formed spontaneously during the synthesis. The surface of these core/shell nanocrystals was additionally modified by silica. The properties of TbF{sub 3}@CeF{sub 3} and TbF{sub 3}@CeF{sub 3}@SiO{sub 2} nanocrystals, formed in this way, were investigated. Spectroscopic studies showed that the differences between these two groups of products resulted from the presence of the SiO{sub 2} shell. X-ray diffraction patterns confirmed the trigonal crystal structure of TbF{sub 3}@CeF{sub 3} nanocrystals. High resolution transmission electron microscopy in connection with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy showed a complex structure of the formed nanocrystals. Crystallized as small discs, 'the products', with an average diameter around 10 nm, showed an increase in the concentration of Tb{sup 3+} ions from surface to the core of nanocrystals. In addition to photo-physical analyses, cytotoxicity studies were performed on HSkMEC (Human Skin Microvascular Endothelial Cells) and B16F0 mouse melanoma cancer cells. The cytotoxicity of the nanomaterials was neutral for the investigated cells with no toxic or antiproliferative effect in the cell cultures, either for normal or for cancer cells. This fact makes the obtained nanocrystals good candidates for biological applications and further modifications of the SiO{sub 2} shell.Graphical Abstract.

  1. Hydrothermal Synthesis of PbTiO3 Nanocrystals with a pH-Adjusting Agent of Ammonia Solution

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Xinyi; Huang, Zhixiong; Zhang, Lianmeng; Guo, Dongyun

    2018-05-01

    The PbTiO3 nanocrystals were synthesized by a hydrothermal method, and ammonia solution was firstly used as a pH-adjusting agent. The effect of ammonia concentration on formation and morphologies of PbTiO3 nanocrystals was investigated. At low ammonia concentration (0-2.2 mol/L), no perovskite PbTiO3 phase was formed. When the ammonia concentration was 4.4 mol/L, the rod-like PbTiO3 nanocrystals with highly crystalline were successfully synthesized. As the ammonia concentration further increased to 13.2 mol/L, the flake-like PbTiO3 nanocrystals were formed.

  2. Al2O3-Cact-(CuO, Cr2O3, Co3O4 Adsorbents-Catalysts: Preparation and Characterization

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Gitana DABRILAITĖ-KUDŽMIENĖ

    2013-03-01

    Full Text Available Al2O3-Cact-(CuO, Cr2O3 Co3O4 adsorbents-catalysts were prepared using Al2O3-Cact (alumina gel–activated carbon adsorbent and different amount of CuO, Cr2O3 and Co3O4. The active components were incorporated into wet alumina gel–carbon mixture using different conditions (by sol-gel method and mixing a milled metal oxides. Equilibrium adsorptive capacity measurements of alcohol vapours were carried out in order to determine the influence of preparation conditions on the stability of prepared adsorbents–catalysts. Specific surface area of the prepared adsorbents-catalysts were measured by BET method. It was established that for adsorbent-catalyst produced by sol-gel method SBET = 244.7 m2/g. Surface area SBET = 29.32 m2/g was obtained for adsorbent-catalyst with metal oxides. On the basis of these results it was assumed that active carbon was lost in this adsorbent-catalyst during the preparation process. Sol-gel derived adsorbent–catalyst was tested for the oxidation of methanol vapours. Catalytic oxidation was carried out in fixed-bed reactor. Experimental data indicate that adsorptive capacity of the adsorbent–catalyst is (3.232 – 3.259 mg/m3 CH3OH at relative air humidity is 40 % – 50 %. During a fast heating of CH3OH – saturated adsorbent-catalyst a part of adsorbate is converted to CO2 and H2O. Methanol conversion increases with increasing of adsorbent-catalyst heating rate.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ms.19.1.3832

  3. The Influence of Cr3+ on TiO2 Crystal Growth and Photoactivity Properties

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wahyuningsih, S.; Hidayatika, W. N.; Sari, P. L.; Sari, P. P.; Hidayat, R.; Munawaroh, H.; Ramelan, A. H.

    2018-03-01

    The photocatalyst technology is an integrated combination of photochemical processes and catalysis in order to carry out a chemical transformation reaction. One of the semiconductor materials that have good photocatalytic activity is TiO2 anatase. This study aim to determine the effect of the Cr3+ addition on the growth of TiO2 rutile crystal and the increasing of TiO2 photoactivity. Diffractogram X-Ray of the samples showed that the synthesized TiO2 at 400 °C has been produced 100% TiO2 anatase. Synthesis of TiO2 doped Cr3+ composite was using wet impregnation method. The TiO2 doped Cr3+ composites have beed grown by annealed at a temperature of 300, 400, 500, 600 and 700 °C, respectively Annealing process have capabled to gain to the TiO2 doped Cr3+ nanocomposite. The result product annealed at 500 °C only appear anatase phase due to the Cr3+ addition influence that was able to suppress the growth of rutile. Identification of TiO2 doped Cr3+ composite using Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FT-IR) showed O-Cr vibration at 2283.72 cm-1. The TiO2 doped Cr3+ photoactivity was studied to degrade Rhodamin B. The best result on photodegradation of Rhodamin B was performed by using TiO2 doped Cr3+ composite which was annealed at 700 °C i.e. 74.71%.

  4. THE SYNTHESIS OF Cr2O3-PILLARED MONTMORILLONITE (CrPM AND ITS USAGE FOR HOST MATERIAL OF p-NITROANILINE

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Karna Wijaya

    2010-06-01

    Full Text Available The synthesis of Cr2O3-pillared montmorillonite (CrPM and its usage for host material of p-nitroaniline have been conducted. The Cr2O3-pillared montmorillonite clays was prepared by a direct ion exchange method. First, the polyhydroxychromium as a pillaring spesies was intercalated into the interlayer region of the montmorillonite clays (purified clay in the monocation form, result in a montmorillonite-polyoxychromium intercalation compound. The precursors/pillaring spesies was not stable, hence it must be stabilized by calcination in order to transform the polyoxychromium via dehydration and dehydroxylation processes into Cr2O3. This oxide constituts the so-called pillar that prop the clay layers apart to a relatively large distance. The Cr2O3-pillared clays as a host material was added into ethanol solution saturated with p-nitroaniline, and mixture was stirred for 24 h at room temperature. The Na-montmorillonite, Cr2O3-pillared clay and p-nitroaniline-Cr2O3-pillared clay (pNA-CrPM were characterized by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD, Gas Sorption Analysis, Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR and Activated Neutron Analysis (ANA methods. The result of research showed that basal spacing (d001 of Cr2O3-pillared montmorillonite (CrPM was 18,55 Å, meanwhile the basal spacing of the hydrated Na-montmorillonite was 14,43 Å. The specific surface area of the Cr2O3-pillared montmorillonite was 174,308 m2/g, whereas p-nitroaniline-Cr2O3-pillared clay (pNA-CrPM was 133,331641 m2/g. This fact indicated that p-nitroaniline has been included into the pore of the Cr2O3-pillared clay.   Keyword: montmorillonite, pillared-clay, ion exchange, intercalate.

  5. Sub-2 nm SnO2 nanocrystals: A reduction/oxidation chemical reaction synthesis and optical properties

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang Hui; Du Ning; Chen Bindi; Cui Tianfeng; Yang Deren

    2008-01-01

    A simple reduction/oxidation chemical solution approach at room temperature has been developed to synthesize ultrafine SnO 2 nanocrystals, in which NaBH 4 is used as a reducing agent instead of mineralizers such as sodium hydroxide, ammonia, and alcohol. The morphology, structure, and optical property of the ultrafine SnO 2 nanocrystals have been characterized by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis (DSC-TGA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and UV-vis absorption spectroscopy. It is indicated that the uniform tetragonal ultrafine SnO 2 nanocrystals with the size below 2 nm have been fabricated at room temperature. The band gap of the ultrafine SnO 2 nanocrystals is about 4.1 eV, exhibiting 0.5 eV blue shift from that of the bulk SnO 2 (3.6 eV). Furthermore, the mechanism for the reduction/oxidation chemical reaction synthesis of the ultrafine SnO 2 nanocrystals has been preliminary presented

  6. Design of a novel dual Z-scheme photocatalytic system composited of Ag{sub 2}O modified Ti{sup 3+} self doped TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals with individual exposed (001) and (101) facets

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Mengyan; Liu, Hui, E-mail: liuhui@sust.edu.cn; Liu, Tingting; Qin, Yangxiao

    2017-02-15

    A novel dual Z-scheme photocatalytic system composited of Ag{sub 2}O nanocrystals modified Ti{sup 3+} self doped TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals with individual exposed (001) and (101) facets were successfully fabricated. In which, the Ti{sup 3+} self doped TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals with individual exposed (001) and (101) facets have been firstly prepared by a simple hydrothermal method, subsequently the as-prepared products were modified with Ag{sub 2}O nanocrystals through a sonochemical depositing process in order to build a novel dual Z-scheme photocatalytic system. The samples were carefully characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectra (UV–vis DRS), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET). The photocatalytic activity toward degradation of Rhodamine B (Rh B) aqueous solution under stimulated solar light was investigated. The experimental results showed this new dual Z-scheme photocatalytic system possess an enhanced photocatalytic degradation activity compared to that similar surface heterojunction photocatalysts composed of Ti{sup 3+} self doped TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals with individual exposed (001) and (101) facets. This novel photocatalytic system presents a high charge-separation efficiency and strong redox ability. This study will help us to better understand the photocatalytic mechanism of semiconductor photocatalysts with exposed different facets, and provide a new insight into the design and fabrication of advanced photocatalytic materials. - Highlights: •A novel dual Z-scheme system was built by Ag{sub 2}O and facet exposed TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals. •The individual TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals exposed (001) and (101) facets respectively. •Ag{sub 2}O coupled with Ti{sup 3+} self doped TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals through a sonochemical process. •The as-prepared sample possesses a super photocatalytic activity.

  7. Magnetoelectric effect in Cr2O3 thin films

    Science.gov (United States)

    He, Xi; Wang, Yi; Sahoo, Sarbeswar; Binek, Christian

    2008-03-01

    Magnetoelectric materials experienced a recent revival as promising components of novel spintronic devices [1, 2, 3]. Since the magnetoelectric (ME) effect is relativistically small in traditional antiferromagnetic compounds like Cr2O3 (max. αzz 4ps/m ) and also cross- coupling between ferroic order parameters is typically small in the modern multiferroics, it is a challenge to electrically induce sufficient magnetization required for the envisioned device applications. A straightforward approach is to increase the electric field at constant voltage by reducing the thickness of the ME material to thin films of a few nm. Since magnetism is known to be affected by geometrical confinement thickness dependence of the ME effect in thin film Cr2O3 is expected. We grow (111) textured Cr2O3 films with various thicknesses below 500 nm and study the ME effect for various ME annealing conditions as a function of temperature with the help of Kerr-magnetometry. [1] P. Borisov et al. Phys. Rev. Lett. 94, 117203 (2005). [2] Ch. Binek, B.Doudin, J. Phys. Condens. Matter 17, L39 (2005). [3] R. Ramesh and Nicola A. Spaldin 2007 Nature Materials 6 21.

  8. Al2O3 adherence on CoCrAl alloys

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kingsley, L.M.

    1980-04-01

    Adherence of protective oxides on NiCrAl and CoCrAl superalloys has been promoted by a dispersion of a highly oxygen reactive element or its oxide being produced within the protection system. Two aspects of this subject are investigated here: the use of Al 2 O 3 as both the dispersion and protective oxide; and the production of an HfO 2 dispersion while simultaneously aluminizing the alloy. It was found that an Al 2 O 3 dispersion will act to promote the adherence of an external scale of Al 2 O 3 to a degree comparable to previously tested dispersions and an HfO 2 dispersion comparable to that produced by a Rhines pack treatment is produced during aluminization

  9. CRYSTALLIZATION KINETICS OF POLYMERIC NANOCOMPOSITES BASED ON POLYAMIDE 12 MODIFIED BY Cr2O3 NANOPARTICLES

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    E. S. Shapoval

    2014-09-01

    Full Text Available In situ polymerization method is used for obtaining polymeric composites based on polyamide12 matrix (PA 12, filled with Cr2O3 nanoparticles. The carried out researches result in synthesis method development for polymeric nanocomposites based on PA 12 matrix filled with nano-sized Cr2O3magnetic particles providing uniform embedding of the filler into polymeric matrix without formation of nanoparticles agglomerates. Mechanical tests on samples compression are carried out. It is shown that mechanical properties of polymeric composites (Young’s modulus, durability limit are decreased for 20-30 % as compared with not modified PA 12 synthesized by means of the chosen method. The influence of the filler on crystallization morphology and kinetics of polymeric nanocomposites is determined by electron microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. The values of crystallization degree, crystallization rate constant for different supercooling intervals and parameters of Avrami equation are obtained. The initial nucleation is shown to be going on according to non-thermal mechanism, and nanoparticles are not the germs of crystallization. It is stated that nanoparticles are embedded into polymeric matrix and uniformly allocated in crystallites. Research results can find their application at creation of electric and magnetic fields, micro-sized mechanical devices, and at development of new materials for 3D printers.

  10. Effect of Cr2O3 on the microstructure and non-ohmic properties of (Co, Sb)-doped SnO2 varistors

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Aguilar M, J. A.; Pech C, M. I.; Hernandez, M. B.; Rodriguez, E.; Garcia O, L.; Glot, A. B.

    2013-01-01

    The effect of Cr 2 O 3 addition on the physical characteristics, microstructure, and current-voltage properties of (Co-Sb)-doped SnO 2 varistors was investigated. SnO 2 -Co 3 O 4 -Sb 2 O 5 ceramics with additions of 0.0, 0.03, 0.05 and 0.07 mol % Cr 2 O 3 were sintered at 1350 C under ambient atmosphere and characterized micro structurally and electrically. The characterization by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy show that the microstructure remains as a single phase material with multimodal size distribution of SnO 2 grains. The greatest effect of Cr 2 O 3 additions is manifested in the electric breakdown field. Additions of high levels (0.07 and 0.05 %) of this oxide promote and increase of approximately 55% in this parameter compared to the Cr 2 O 3 -free sample. Another physical property is affected: the measured density values decreases as the Cr 2 O 3 content increases. A change in the nonlinearity coefficient value is produced only at the highest Cr 2 O 3 content while at intermediate levels there is not change at all. Consequently, when seeking high nonlinearity coefficients, intermediate levels of Cr 2 O 3 are not recommended. (Author)

  11. Stabilization of MgCr2O4 spinel in slags of the
    SiO2-CaO-MgO-Cr2O3 system

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Arredondo-Torres, V.

    2006-12-01

    Full Text Available El objetivo de este estudio es analizar el efecto del contenido de MgO y la basicidad de la escoria sobre la estabilidad de las especies mineralógicas del sistema de escoria SiO2-CaOMgO-
    Cr2O3. Se realizaron ensayos al equilibrio a 1600 °C bajo condiciones reductoras (pO2=10-9atm. El contenido de MgO fue de 0 a 12 % masa, el Cr2O3 de 10% y la basicidad de 1 y 1,5. También se realizó un análisis termodinámico para determinar las fases mineralógicas más estables en la escoria. Los resultados experimentales y calculados muestran que el Cr2O3 se encuentra principalmente ligado en una fase espinela MgCr2O4, incluso a bajos contenidos de MgO. Los resultados obtenidos por microscopia electrónica de barrido (MEB-EDS, muestran la evidencia de tres estructuras cristalinas: (A Octaedros, los cuales
    corresponden a la espinela MgCr2O4, (B Cristales alargados que corresponden a la formación de silicatos cálcicos y (C Matriz de silicatos cálcicos con impurezas de Mg y Cr que no cristalizaron por completo.

    El objetivo de este estudio es analizar el efecto del contenido de MgO y la basicidad de la escoria sobre la estabilidad de las especies mineralógicas del sistema de escoria SiO2-CaOMgO-Cr2O3. Se realizaron ensayos al equilibrio a 1600 °C bajo condiciones reductoras (pO2=10-9atm. El contenido de MgO fue de 0 a 12 % masa, el Cr2O3 de 10% y la basicidad de 1 y 1,5. También se realizó un análisis termodinámico para determinar las fases mineralógicas más estables en la escoria. Los resultados experimentales y calculados muestran que el Cr2O3 se encuentra principalmente ligado en una fase espinela MgCr2O4, incluso a bajos contenidos de MgO. Los resultados obtenidos por

  12. Structure Map for Embedded Binary Alloy Nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yuan, C.W.; Shin, S.J.; Liao, C.Y.; Guzman, J.; Stone, P.R.; Watanabe, M.; Ager III, J.W.; Haller, E.E.; Chrzan, D.C.

    2008-09-20

    The equilibrium structure of embedded nanocrystals formed from strongly segregating binary-alloys is considered within a simple thermodynamic model. The model identifies two dimensionlessinterface energies that dictate the structure, and allows prediction of the stable structure for anychoice of these parameters. The resulting structure map includes three distinct nanocrystal mor-phologies: core/shell, lobe/lobe, and completely separated spheres.

  13. MICROSTRUCTURE OF CR2O3 COATINGS ON STEEL AND THE EFFECT OF SILICON

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    VANDENBURG, M; DEHOSSON, JTM; Burg, M. van den

    This paper concentrates on the microstructural features of steel containing 22 wt.% Cr, coated with Cr2O3 by laser processing. It turned out that after laser coating the Cr2O3 powder has completely transformed to Fe0.3Cr2.7O4 having the tetragonal distorted spinel structure. Dispersed in the coating

  14. Effects of phosphorus doping on structural and optical properties of silicon nanocrystals in a SiO2 matrix

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Hao, X.J.; Cho, E.-C.; Scardera, G.; Bellet-Amalric, E.; Bellet, D.; Shen, Y.S.; Huang, S.; Huang, Y.D.; Conibeer, G.; Green, M.A.

    2009-01-01

    Promise of Si nanocrystals highly depends on tailoring their behaviour through doping. Phosphorus-doped silicon nanocrystals embedded in a silicon dioxide matrix have been realized by a co-sputtering process. The effects of phosphorus-doping on the properties of Si nanocrystals are investigated. Phosphorus diffuses from P-P and/or P-Si to P-O upon high temperature annealing. The dominant X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy P 2p signal attributable to Si-P and/or P-P (130 eV) at 1100 o C indicates that the phosphorus may exist inside Si nanocrystals. It is found that existence of phosphorus enhances phase separation of silicon rich oxide and thereby Si crystallization. In addition, phosphorus has a considerable effect on the optical absorption and photoluminescence properties as a function of annealing temperature.

  15. Semiconductor nanocrystals formed in SiO2 by ion implantation

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhu, J.G.; White, C.W.; Budai, J.D.; Withrow, S.P.; Chen, Y.

    1994-11-01

    Nanocrystals of group IV (Si, Ge and SiGe), III-V (GaAs), and II-VI (CdSe) semiconductor materials have been fabricated inside SiO 2 by ion implantation and subsequent thermal annealing. The microstructure of these nanocrystalline semiconductor materials has been studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The nanocrystals form in near-spherical shape with random crystal orientations in amorphous SiO 2 . Extensive studies on the nanocrystal size distributions have been carried out for the Ge nanocrystals by changing the implantation doses and the annealing temperatures. Remarkable roughening of the nanocrystals occurs when the annealing temperature is raised over the melting temperature of the implanted semiconductor material. Strong red photoluminescence peaked around 1.67 eV has been achieved in samples with Si nanocrystals in SiO 2

  16. Ethanol and LPG sensing characteristics of SnO2 activated Cr2 O3 ...

    Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

    Administrator

    between neighbouring grains in a material is an important factor, which determines sensitivity of the .... O2 (gas) f O2 (ads),. (3). Figure 4. Temperature dependence of conductance of pure and activated Cr2O3 sensors. Figure 5. Sensing response to ethanol (a–f) and LPG (g) for different dopant concentrations (0⋅5%) at ...

  17. Hierarchical Cr_2O_3@OPC composites with octahedral shape for rechargeable nonaqueous lithium-oxygen batteries

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Gan, Yongqing; Lai, Yanqing; Zhang, Zhian; Chen, Wei; Du, Ke; Li, Jie

    2016-01-01

    The development of catalyst materials is the most significant issue that hinders the practical applications of Li-O_2 batteries. Herein we show the design and synthesis of the hierarchical chromic oxide-octahedral porous carbon (Cr_2O_3@OPC) composites catalyst with octahedral shape that derived from Cr-based metal-organic frameworks (MIL-101(Cr)) precursor. When applied as cathode catalysts in rechargeable Li-O_2 batteries, the electrode with Cr_2O_3@OPC composites catalyst exhibits a low charge and discharge over-potential, high discharge capacity and excellent cycling stability. What's more, the electrode with Cr_2O_3@OPC composite shows a discharge capacity up to ∼4800 mAh g_(_c_a_t_a_l_y_s_t _+ _c_a_r_b_o_n_)"−"1 at a current density of 0.1 mA cm"−"2, and exhibits a very stable discharge voltage plateau of 2.7 V and a charge voltage plateau of ∼3.9 V. With the addition of Cr_2O_3@OPC composite, the Li-O_2 batteries can obtain good cycle performance over 50 cycles at a fixed capacity of 800 mAh g_(_c_a_t_a_l_y_s_t _+ _c_a_r_b_o_n_)"−"1. These results indicating that the Cr_2O_3@OPC composite derived from MIL-101(Cr) would be a promising catalyst for Li-O_2 batteries. - Highlights: • The Cr_2O_3@C composites were prepared by the pyrolysis of Cr-MIL-101. • The Cr_2O_3@C composites possess octahedral shape consisted of Cr_2O_3@C nanoparticle. • The Cr_2O_3@C composites have mesoporous structure with large specific area. • The Cr_2O_3@C composites have an excellent intrinsic electrocatalytic activity. • The Cr_2O_3@C electrode exhibits great cycling performance.

  18. Paramagnetic behavior of Co doped TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals controlled by self-purification mechanism

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Anitha, B. [Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram 695 581 (India); Khadar, M. Abdul, E-mail: mabdulkhadar@rediffmail.com [Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram 695 581 (India); Banerjee, Alok [UGC-DAE Consortium for Scientific Research (CSR), Khandwa Road, Indore 452 001 (India)

    2016-07-15

    Doping in nanocrystals is a challenging process because of the self- purification mechanism which tends to segregate out the dopants resulting in a greater dopant concentration near the surface than at the interior of nanocrystals. In the present work nanocrystals of TiO{sub 2} doped with different atom % of Co were synthesized by peroxide gel method. XRD analysis confirmed the tetragonal anatase structure and HRTEM images showed the rod-like morphology of the samples. Raman modes of anatase phase of TiO{sub 2} along with weak intensity peaks of Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} for higher Co dopant concentrations were observed for the samples. EPR measurements revealed the presence of cobalt in +2 oxidation state in the TiO{sub 2} matrix. SQUID measurements indicated paramagnetic behavior of the Co doped TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals. The paramagnetic behavior is attributed to an increased concentration of Co{sup 2+} ions and an increased presence of Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} phase near the surface of the TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals due to self-purification mechanism. - Graphical abstract: Variation of the intensity ratios of XRD peaks as a function of atomic ratio of Co. Inset: variation of structure factor for (101) reflection as a function of atomic ratio of Co. Display Omitted - Highlights: • Co doped TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals were synthesized by peroxide gel method. • HRTEM images showed Co doped TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals to be rod-like. • EPR spectra showed +2 oxidation states for Co in the samples. • Co doped TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals showed paramagnetic behavior.

  19. Photoluminescence of the Mg2Al4Si5O18-Al2O3-MgAl2O4-SiO2 ceramic system containing Fe3+ and Cr3+ as impurity ions

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sosman, L. P.; López, A.; Pedro, S. S.; Papa, A. R. R.

    2018-02-01

    This work presents the results of photoluminescence, excitation and radiative decay time for a ceramic system containing Mg2Al4Si5O18-Al2O3-MgAl2O4-SiO2 with Fe3+ and Cr3+ as impurity ions. Emission data were obtained using several excitation wavelengths and the excitation data were acquired for the most intense emission bands. The optical results were analyzed according to the Tanabe-Sugano (TS) theory from which the crystalline field parameter Dq and Racah parameters B and C were obtained for the Fe3+ and Cr3+ sites. The results indicate that the Fe3+ and Cr3+ ions occupy tetrahedral and octahedral sites, respectively. The emission from Fe3+ and Cr3+ ions causes an intense and broad band ranging between 350 nm and 850 nm, showing that this material is a potential tunable radiation source at room temperature.

  20. Upconversion and pump saturation mechanisms in Er3+/Yb3+ co-doped Y2Ti2O7 nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wang, Fengxiao; Song, Feng; Zhang, Gong; Han, Yingdong; Li, Qiong; Tian, Jianguo; Ming, Chengguo

    2014-01-01

    The Er 3+ /Yb 3+ co-doped Y 2 Ti 2 O 7 nanocrystals were synthesized by the sol–gel method. X-ray diffraction, transmission electronic microscopy, and photoluminescence spectra were measured to verify the Y 2 Ti 2 O 7 nanocrystalline produced in the sample annealed at 800 °C. The anomalous slopes of the fitted line in the log-log plots for upconversion emissions and the pump-saturation effect of near-infrared emission were observed in the nanocrystalline samples. A theoretical model of practical Er 3+ /Yb 3+ co-doped system based on the rate equations were put forward and explained the experimental phenomena well

  1. Short-Range Correlated Magnetic Core-Shell CrO2/Cr2O3 Nanorods: Experimental Observations and Theoretical Considerations

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ashish C. Gandhi

    2018-05-01

    Full Text Available With the evolution of synthesis and the critical characterization of core-shell nanostructures, short-range magnetic correlation is of prime interest in employing their properties to develop novel devices and widespread applications. In this regard, a novel approach of the magnetic core-shell saturated magnetization (CSSM cylinder model solely based on the contribution of saturated magnetization in one-dimensional CrO2/Cr2O3 core-shell nanorods (NRs has been developed and applied for the determination of core-diameter and shell-thickness. The nanosized effect leads to a short-range magnetic correlation of ferromagnetic core-CrO2 extracted from CSSM, which can be explained using finite size scaling method. The outcome of this study is important in terms of utilizing magnetic properties for the critical characterization of core-shell nanomagnetic materials.

  2. MC3T3-E1 cell response of amorphous phase/TiO{sub 2} nanocrystal composite coating prepared by microarc oxidation on titanium

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhou, Rui [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001 (China); Wei, Daqing, E-mail: daqingwei@hit.edu.cn [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001 (China); Yang, Haoyue; Feng, Wei [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001 (China); Cheng, Su [Department of Mechanical Engineering, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Harbin University of Science and Technology, Harbin 150001 (China); Li, Baoqiang; Wang, Yaming; Jia, Dechang; Zhou, Yu [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001 (China)

    2014-06-01

    Bioactive amorphous phase/TiO{sub 2} nanocrystal (APTN) composite coatings were fabricated by microarc oxidation (MAO) on Ti. The APTN coatings are composed of much amorphous phase with Si, Na, Ca, Ti and O elements and a few TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals. With increasing applied voltage, the micropore density of the APTN coating decreases and the micropore size of the APTN coating increases. The results indicate that less MC3T3-E1 cells attach on the APTN coatings as compared to Ti. However, the APTN coatings greatly enhance the cell proliferation ability and the activity of alkaline phosphatase. The amorphous phase and the concentrations of the released Ca and Si from the APTN coatings during cell culture have significant effects on the cell response. - Highlights: • Amorphous phase/TiO2 nanocrystal (APTN) composite coatings were fabricated. • The MC3T3-E1 cell response of the APTN coatings was evaluated. • The APTN coatings greatly enhanced the cell proliferation ability.

  3. Optical and structural investigation on sodium borosilicate glasses doped with Cr2O3

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ebrahimi, E.; Rezvani, M.

    2018-02-01

    In this work, Sodium borosilicate glasses with chemical composition of 60% SiO2-20% B2O3-20%Na2O doped with different contents of Cr2O3 were prepared by melting-quenching method. Physical, structural and optical properties of glasses were investigated by studying density and molar volume, Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Spectra and UV-visible absorption spectroscopy. The results showed an increase in density of glasses with the increase of Cr2O3 that can be due to addition of oxide with high molar mass. The optical absorption spectra of un-doped glass reveals UV absorption due to trace iron impurities with no visible band however Cr2O3 doped glasses shows absorption in visible range that are characteristic. Increasing of Cr3 + ions in the glassy microstructure of samples provides a semiconducting character to Sodium borosilicate glass by reducing the direct and indirect optical band gaps of glass samples from 3.79 to 2.59 (ev) and 3.36 to 2.09 (ev), respectively. These changes could be attributed to the role of Cr3 + ions as the network former which asserts improvement of semiconducting behavior in presence of Cr2O3.

  4. Photoluminescence of nanocrystals embedded in oxide matrices

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Estrada, C.; Gonzalez, J.A.; Kunold, A.; Reyes-Esqueda, J.A.; Pereyra, P.

    2006-12-01

    We used the theory of finite periodic systems to explain the photoluminescence spectra dependence on the average diameter of nanocrystals embedded in oxide matrices. Because of the broad matrix band gap, the photoluminescence response is basically determined by isolated nanocrystals and sequences of a few of them. With this model we were able to reproduce the shape and displacement of the experimentally observed photoluminescence spectra. (author)

  5. Substrate temperature effects on reactively sputtered Cr2O3/n-Si heterojunctions

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ocak, Yusuf Selim; Genisel, Mustafa Fatih; Issa, Ali Ahmed; Tombak, Ahmet; Kilicoglu, Tahsin

    2016-01-01

    To see the effects of substrate temperature on Cr 2 O 3 /n-Si heterojunctions, Cr 2 O 3 thin films were formed on n-Si and glass substrates at 40, 150 and 250 °C by radio frequency (RF) reactive sputtering technique. High purity Cr was used as target and oxygen was used as reactive gas. Optical properties of Cr 2 O 3 /n-Si thin films were analyzed using UV-vis data. The band gaps of the films were compared. The electrical properties of Cr 2 O 3 /n-Si heterojunction were tested by their current voltage ( I-V ) measurements in dark. It was observed that the heterojunction which was fabricated by forming Cr 2 O 3 thin film at 250 °C gave better rectification. The characteristic electrical parameters such as barrier height, ideality factor and series resistance were calculated by using its I-V data. The influence of light intensity on photovoltaic effect behavior of the device was also calculated, finally the barrier height value of the structure obtained from capacitance-voltage ( C-V ) data were compared with the one calculated from I-V measurements. (paper)

  6. Photon emission produced by Kr+ ions bombardment of Cr and Cr2O3 targets

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Boujlaidi, A. El; Hammoum, K.; Jadoual, L.; Jourdani, R.; Ait El Fqih, M.; Aouchiche, H.; Kaddouri, A.

    2015-01-01

    The sputter induced photon spectroscopy technique was used to study the luminescence spectra of the species sputtered from chromium powder and its oxide Cr 2 O 3 , during 5 keV Kr + ions bombardment in vacuum better than 10 −7 torr. The optical spectra recorded between 350 and 470 nm exhibit discrete lines which are attributed to neutral excited atoms of chromium (Cr I lines). The experiments are also performed under 10 −5 torr ultra pure oxygen partial pressure. The results demonstrate that the measured intensities of the emitted photons are always higher in the presence of oxygen and even higher than those obtained for Cr 2 O 3 target. In the presence of oxygen vapor we assume that an oxide film is formed on the chromium surface which is responsible of the increase of photon emission. This variation in the intensities is correctly explained in the model of electron transfer processes between the excited sputtered atom and the bombarded surface. This model suggests that the structure formed on the Cr surface in the case of oxygenated chromium is closer to that of Cr 2 O 3 oxide

  7. Influence of Al2O3 reinforcement on precipitation kinetic of Cu–Cr nanocomposite

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sheibani, S.; Ataie, A.; Heshmati-Manesh, S.; Caballero, A.; Criado, J.M.

    2011-01-01

    Highlights: ► Cr precipitation in Cu-1 wt.% Cr solid solution is based on nucleation and growth models. ► The overall ageing process is accelerated by the presence of Al 2 O 3 reinforcement. ► Al 2 O 3 –Cu interfaces act as primary nucleation sites. ► Structural defects act as secondary nucleation sites. - Abstract: In this paper, the kinetic of precipitation process in mechanically alloyed Cu-1 wt.% Cr and Cu-1 wt.% Cr/3 wt.% Al 2 O 3 solid solution was compared using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The ageing kinetics in Cu–Cr and Cu–Cr/Al 2 O 3 can be described using Johnson–Mehl–Avrami (JMA) and Sestak–Berggren (SB) models, respectively. These different behaviors have been discussed in details. It was found that in presence of Al 2 O 3 reinforcement, the ageing activation energy is decreased and the overall ageing process is accelerated. This behavior is probably due to higher dislocation density previously obtained during ball milling and Al 2 O 3 –Cu interface. TEM observations confirm that Al 2 O 3 –Cu interface and structural defects act as a primary and secondary nucleation sites, respectively.

  8. Role of Eu"2"+ on the blue‐green photoluminescence of In_2O_3:Eu"2"+ nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Devi, Konsam Reenabati; Meetei, Sanoujam Dhiren; Singh, Shougaijam Dorendrajit

    2016-01-01

    Blue‐green light emitting undoped and europium doped indium oxide nanocrystal were synthesized by simple precipitation method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern confirmed the cubic phase of undoped and europium doped samples. Further, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) , energy dispersive analysis of X-rays (EDAX), Fourier transform infra-red (FT-IR), photoluminescence (PL), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) studies were performed to characterise the samples. PL analysis of the samples is the core of the present research. It includes excitation, emission and CIE (Commission Internationale de l’e´ clairage) studies of the samples. On doping europium to In_2O_3 lattice, ln"3"+ site is substituted by Eu"2"+ thereby increasing the concentration of singly ionized oxygen vacancy and hence blue–green emission from the host is found to increase. Further, this increase in blue–green emission after doping may also be attributed to 4f → 5d transitions of Eu"2"+. However, the blue–green PL emission is found to decrease after an optimum dopant concentration (Eu"2"+ = 4%) due to luminescence and size quenching. CIE co-ordinates of the samples are calculated to know colour of light emitted from the samples. It suggests that this blue–green light emitting In_2O_3: Eu"2"+ nanocrystals may find application in lighting such as in generation of white light. - Highlight: • XRD and TEM study confirms the synthesis of cubic doped and europium doped nanocrystals. • EPR study reveals the doped europium is in + 2 oxidation state. • Enhance PL emission intensity of host material due to increase in singly ionized oxygen vacancy and 4f–5d transitions of Eu"2"+ • CIE co-ordinates suggest the blue–green colour of the samples.

  9. Cr/alpha-Cr2O3 monodispersed spherical core-shell particles based solar absorbers

    CSIR Research Space (South Africa)

    Khamlich, S

    2011-07-01

    Full Text Available as reported. The coated Cr/alpha-Cr2O3 spherical particles on rough copper substrates by a simple self-assembly-like method were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectrometry, Raman spectroscopy, and diffuse reflectance UV...

  10. LaCrO{sub 3}-dispersed Cr for metallic interconnect of planar SOFC

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Song, Rak-Hyun; Shin, Dong Ryul [Korea Institute of Energy Research, Taejon (Korea, Republic of); Dokiya, Masayuki [National Institute of Materials and Chemical Research, Ibaraki (Japan)

    1996-12-31

    In the planar SOFC, the interconnect materials plays two roles as an electrical connection and as a gas separation plate in a cell stack. The interconnect materials must be chemically stable in reducing and oxidizing environments, and have high electronic conductivity, high thermal conductivity, matching thermal expansion with an electrolyte, high mechanical strength, good fabricability, and gas tightness. Lanthanum chromite so far has been mainly used as interconnect materials in planar SOFC. However, the ceramic materials are very weak in mechanical strength and have poor machining property as compared with metal. Also the metallic materials have high electronic conductivity and high thermal conductivity. Recently some researchers have studied metallic interconnects such as Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/Inconel 600 cermet, Ni-20Cr coated with (LaSr)CoO{sub 3}, and Y{sub 2}O{sub 3-} or La{sub 2}O{sub 3}-dispersed Cr alloy. These alloys have still some problems because Ni-based alloys have high thermal expansion, the added Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}, Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and La{sub 2}O{sub 3} to metals have no electronic conductivity, and the oxide formed on the surface of Cr alloy has high volatility. To solve these problems, in this study, LaCrO{sub 3}-dispersed Cr for metallic interconnect of planar SOFC was investigated. The LaCrO{sub 3}-dispersed Cr can be one candidate of metallic interconnect because LaCrO{sub 3} possesses electronic conductivity and Cr metal has relatively low thermal expansion. The content of 25 vol.% LaCrO{sub 3} Was selected on the basis of a theoretically calculated thermal expansion. The thermal expansion, electrical and oxidation properties were examined and the results were discussed as related to SOFC requirements.

  11. Enhanced coercivity in Co-doped α-Fe2O3 cubic nanocrystal assemblies prepared via a magnetic field-assisted hydrothermal synthesis

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Kinjal Gandha

    2017-05-01

    Full Text Available Ferromagnetic Co-doped α-Fe2O3 cubic shaped nanocrystal assemblies (NAs with a high coercivity of 5.5 kOe have been synthesized via a magnetic field (2 kOe assisted hydrothermal process. The X-ray diffraction pattern and Raman spectra of α-Fe2O3 and Co-doped α-Fe2O3 NAs confirms the formation of single-phase α-Fe2O3 with a rhombohedral crystal structure. Electron microscopy analysis depict that the Co-doped α-Fe2O3 NAs synthesized under the influence of the magnetic field are consist of aggregated nanocrystals (∼30 nm and of average assembly size 2 μm. In contrast to the NAs synthesized with no magnetic field, the average NAs size and coercivity of the Co-doped α-Fe2O3 NAs prepared with magnetic field is increased by 1 μm and 1.4 kOe, respectively. The enhanced coercivity could be related to the well-known spin–orbit coupling strength of Co2+ cations and the redistribution of the cations. The size increment indicates that the small ferromagnetic nanocrystals assemble into cubic NAs with increased size in the magnetic field that also lead to the enhanced coercivity.

  12. Facile hydrothermal synthesis of polyhedral Fe3O4 nanocrystals, influencing factors and application in the electrochemical detection of H2O2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yuan Kefeng; Ni Yonghong; Zhang Li

    2012-01-01

    Highlights: ► Fe 3 O 4 polyhedra had been successfully synthesized by a facile hydrothermal technology. ► The as-obtained product exhibited the room-temperature ferrimagnetic property. ► The final product could be prepared into an electrochemical sensor for the detection of H 2 O 2 . - Abstract: Polyhedral Fe 3 O 4 nanocrystals have been successfully synthesized by a facile hydrothermal technique, employing FeSO 4 ·7H 2 O, N 2 H 4 and NH 3 ·H 2 O as the reactants without the assistance of any surfactant. The phase of the as-obtained Fe 3 O 4 was characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and further proved by Rietveld refinement of XRD data. Energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used for the composition and morphology analyses of the final product. Some factors influencing the formation of polyhedral Fe 3 O 4 nanocrystals were systematically investigated, including the reaction temperature and time, and the original volume ratio of NH 3 ·H 2 O/N 2 H 4 ·H 2 O. It was found that the as-prepared Fe 3 O 4 polyhedra exhibited a good electrochemical property in 0.1 M phosphate buffer solution (PBS) with pH 7.0 and could be prepared into an electrochemical sensor for the detection of H 2 O 2 . The linear response range of the sensor was 10.0 × 10 −6 to 140.0 × 10 −6 M and a sensitivity was 11.05 μA/mM. Furthermore, the room-temperature magnetic property of the product was also investigated.

  13. Electrical and Plasmonic Properties of Ligand-Free Sn(4+) -Doped In2 O3 (ITO) Nanocrystals.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jagadeeswararao, Metikoti; Pal, Somnath; Nag, Angshuman; Sarma, D D

    2016-03-03

    Sn(4+) -doped In2 O3 (ITO) is a benchmark transparent conducting oxide material. We prepared ligand-free but colloidal ITO (8 nm, 10 % Sn(4+) ) nanocrystals (NCs) by using a post-synthesis surface-modification reaction. (CH3 )3 OBF4 removes the native oleylamine ligand from NC surfaces to give ligand-free, positively charged NCs that form a colloidal dispersion in polar solvents. Both oleylamine-capped and ligand-free ITO NCs exhibit intense absorption peaks, due to localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) at around λ=1950 nm. Compared with oleylamine-capped NCs, the electrical resistivity of ligand-free ITO NCs is lower by an order of magnitude (≈35 mΩ cm(-1) ). Resistivity over a wide range of temperatures can be consistently described as a composite of metallic ITO grains embedded in an insulating matrix by using a simple equivalent circuit, which provides an insight into the conduction mechanism in these systems. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  14. The mercury chromates Hg6Cr2O9 and Hg6Cr2O10-Preparation and crystal structures, and thermal behaviour of Hg6Cr2O9

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Weil, Matthias; Stoeger, Berthold

    2006-01-01

    The basic mercury(I) chromate(VI), Hg 6 Cr 2 O 9 (=2Hg 2 CrO 4 .Hg 2 O), has been obtained under hydrothermal conditions (200deg. C, 5 days) in the form of orange needles as a by-product from reacting elemental mercury and K 2 Cr 2 O 7 . Hydrothermal treatment of microcrystalline Hg 6 Cr 2 O 9 in demineralised water at 200deg. C for 3 days led to crystal growth of red crystals of the basic mercury(I, II) chromate(VI), Hg 6 Cr 2 O 10 (=2Hg 2 CrO 4 .2HgO). The crystal structures were solved and refined from single crystal X-ray data sets. Hg 6 Cr 2 O 9 : space group P2 1 2 1 2 1 , Z=4, a=7.3573(12), b=8.0336(13), c=20.281(3)A, 3492 structure factors, 109 parameters, R[F 2 >2σ(F 2 )]=0.0371, wR(F 2 all)=0.0517; Hg 6 Cr 2 O 10 : space group Pca2 1 , Z=4, a=11.4745(15), b=9.4359(12), c=10.3517(14)A, 3249 structure factors, 114 parameters, R[F 2 >2σ(F 2 )]=0.0398, wR(F 2 all)=0.0625. Both crystal structures are made up of an intricate mercury-oxygen network, subdivided into single building blocks [O-Hg-Hg-O] for the mercurous compound, and [O-Hg-Hg-O] and [O-Hg-O] for the mixed-valent compound. Hg 6 Cr 2 O 9 contains three different Hg 2 2+ dumbbells, whereas Hg 6 Cr 2 O 10 contains two different Hg 2 2+ dumbbells and two Hg 2+ cations. The Hg I -Hg I distances are characteristic and range between 2.5031(15) and 2.5286(9)A. All Hg 2 2+ groups exhibit an unsymmetrical oxygen environment. The oxygen coordination of the Hg 2+ cations is nearly linear with two tightly bonded O atoms at distances around 2.07A. For both structures, the chromate(VI) anions reside in the vacancies of the Hg-O network and deviate only slightly from the ideal tetrahedral geometry with average Cr-O distances of ca. 1.66A. Upon heating at temperatures above 385deg. C, Hg 6 Cr 2 O 9 decomposes in a four-step mechanism with Cr 2 O 3 as the end-product at temperatures above 620 deg. C

  15. Controllable synthesis and tunable luminescence of glass ceramic containing Mn2+:ZnAl2O4 and Pr3+:YF3 nano-crystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yu, Yunlong; Li, Xiaoyan

    2016-01-01

    Highlights: • Glass ceramic containing ZnAl 2 O 4 and YF 3 nano-crystals is fabricated. • Mn 2+ and Pr 3+ are selectively incorporated into ZnAl 2 O 4 and YF 3 , respectively. • The luminescence color can be tuned by adjusting the excitation wavelength. - Abstract: Glass ceramic containing spinel ZnAl 2 O 4 :Mn 2+ and orthorhombic YF 3 :Pr 3+ nano-crystals has been successfully prepared by a melt-quenching technique. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy demonstrated that two nano-phases, i.e. ZnAl 2 O 4 and YF 3 , were homogeneously distributed among the glass matrix. Importantly, the selective incorporation of Pr 3+ ions into the Y 3+ nine-fold coordinated sites of YF 3 and the segregation of Mn 2+ dopants in the Zn 2+ tetrahedral sites of ZnAl 2 O 4 were confirmed based on the excitation/emission spectra and the crystal field calculation. Under blue light excitation, both Pr 3+ and Mn 2+ in the glass ceramic can be simultaneously excited, and emit red and green luminescence, respectively, owing to the suppression of energy transfer between them. The luminescence color of the obtained glass ceramic can be easily tuned by adjusting the excitation wavelength. These results indicate the potential application of the glass ceramic as converting phosphor to generate white-light after coupling with the blue LED chip.

  16. 3D FTO/FTO-Nanocrystal/TiO2 Composite Inverse Opal Photoanode for Efficient Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Zhiwei; Li, Xianglin; Ling, Han; Tan, Chiew Kei; Yeo, Loo Pin; Grimsdale, Andrew Clive; Tok, Alfred Iing Yoong

    2018-05-01

    A 3D fluorine-doped SnO 2 (FTO)/FTO-nanocrystal (NC)/TiO 2 inverse opal (IO) structure is designed and fabricated as a new "host and guest" type of composite photoanode for efficient photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting. In this novel photoanode design, the highly conductive and porous FTO/FTO-NC IO acts as the "host" skeleton, which provides direct pathways for faster electron transport, while the conformally coated TiO 2 layer acts as the "guest" absorber layer. The unique composite IO structure is fabricated through self-assembly of colloidal spheres template, a hydrothermal method and atomic layer deposition (ALD). Owing to its large surface area and efficient charge collection, the FTO/FTO-NC/TiO 2 composite IO photoanode shows excellent photocatalytic properties for PEC water splitting. With optimized dimensions of the SnO 2 nanocrystals and the thickness of the ALD TiO 2 absorber layers, the 3D FTO/FTO-NC/TiO 2 composite IO photoanode yields a photocurrent density of 1.0 mA cm -2 at 1.23 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) under AM 1.5 illumination, which is four times higher than that of the FTO/TiO 2 IO reference photoanode. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  17. Synthesis and structure of a pink pigment in the system Zr02-TiO2-SnO2-Cr2O3

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zygadlo, M.

    1979-01-01

    The mechanism has been discussed of the formation of this pigment in the ceramic glazes and the results are communicated of the experiment to synthetize this pigment and to test it by the thermographic, X-ray and electron-microsonde methods. It has been found that the pink pigment is the result of dispersion of Cr 2 O 3 upon the grain areas of Zr0 2 , TiO 2 and SnO 2 : it is not a solid solution of Cr 2 O 3 in these oxides as has been earlier suggested. (author)

  18. [Structure and luminescence properties of Ga2O3 : Cr3+ by Al doping].

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Xian-Sheng; Wan, Min-Hua; Wang, Yin-Hai; Zhao, Hui; Hu, Zheng-Fa; Li, Hai-Ling

    2013-11-01

    The Al doping gallate phosphor (Ga(1-x)Al(x))2O3 : Cr3+ (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5) was synthesized by a high temperature solid-state reaction method. The X-ray diffractions show that the phase of the phosphors remains to be Ga2 O3 structure with increase in the contents of Al3+ ion. Beside, the fact that the X-ray diffraction peak shifts towards big angles with increasing Al3+ ions content shows that Al3+ ions entered the Ga2 O3 lattice. The peaks of the excitation spectra located at 258, 300, 410 and 550 nm are attributed to the band to band transition of the matrix, charge transfer band transition, and 4A2 --> 4T1 and 4A2 --> 4T2 transition of Cr3+ ions, respectively. Those excitation spectrum peak positions show different degrees of blue shift with the increase in the Al3+ ions content. The blue shift of the first two peaks are due to the band gap energy of substrate and the electronegativity between Cr3+ ions and ligands increasing, respectively. The blue shift of the energy level transition of Cr3+ ion is attributed to crystal field strength increasing. The Cr3+ ion luminescence changes from a broadband emission to a narrow-band emission with Al3+ doping, because the emission of Cr3+ ion changed from 4 T2 --> 4A2 to 2E --> 4A2 transition with the crystal field change after Al3+ ions doping. The Al3+ ions doping improved the long afterglow luminescence properties of samples, and the sample showed a longer visible near infrared when Al3+ ions content reaches 0.5. The thermoluminescence curve shows the sample with suitable trap energy level, and this is also the cause of the long afterglow luminescence materials.

  19. Preparation of Sb2S3 nanocrystals modified TiO2 dendritic structure with nanotubes for hybrid solar cell

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Yingpin; Wei, Yanan; Feng, Kangning; Hao, Yanzhong; Pei, Juan; Sun, Bao

    2018-06-01

    Array of TiO2 dendritic structure with nanotubes was constructed on transparent conductive fluorine-doped tin oxide glass (FTO) with titanium potassium oxalate as titanium source. Sb2S3 nanocrystals were successfully deposited on the TiO2 substrate via spin-coating method. Furthermore, TiO2/Sb2S3/P3HT/PEDOT:PSS composite film was prepared by successively spin-coating P3HT and PEDOT:PSS on TiO2/Sb2S3. It was demonstrated that the modification of TiO2 dendritic structure with Sb2S3 could enhance the light absorption in the visible region. The champion hybrid solar cell assembled by TiO2/Sb2S3/P3HT/PEDOT:PSS composite film achieved a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 1.56%.

  20. One-step rapid synthesis of ultrafine γ-Ga2O3 nanocrystals by microwave hydrothermal method in ammonium hydroxide medium

    Science.gov (United States)

    Cui, Lu; Wang, Hong; Xin, Baifu; Mao, Guijie

    2017-10-01

    Ultrafine nanocrystals of γ-gallium oxide (γ-Ga2O3) were rapidly synthesized via microwave hydrothermal method at 140 °C, in which Ga(NO3)3 was used as the gallium source and urea was the precipitant. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy (UV-Vis), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nitrogen physisorption and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). The crystallite size of ultrafine spinel γ-Ga2O3 was in the range from 4 to 5 nm and the optical bandgap was 4.61 eV. To improve the crystallinity, the ultrafine γ-Ga2O3 nanocrystals were calcined at 300-700 °C further. The ultrafine γ-Ga2O3 calcined at 500 °C (calcined-γ-Ga2O3) still remained the metastable γ-phase with relatively high crystallinity and the crystallite size around 5-7 nm. Photocatalytic performances of the synthesized samples were also evaluated by the degradation of rhodamine B (RhB). Results revealed that the ultrafine γ-Ga2O3 and the calcined-γ-Ga2O3 samples exhibited high photocatalytic efficiencies of 68.2 and 90.7%, respectively.

  1. High temperature oxidation-sulfidation behavior of Cr-Al2O3 and Nb-Al2O3 composites densified by spark plasma sintering

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Saucedo-Acuna, R.A.; Monreal-Romero, H.; Martinez-Villafane, A.; Chacon-Nava, J.G.; Arce-Colunga, U.; Gaona-Tiburcio, C.; De la Torre, S.D.

    2007-01-01

    The high temperature oxidation-sulfidation behavior of Cr-Al 2 O 3 and Nb-Al 2 O 3 composites prepared by mechanical alloying (MA) and spark plasma sintering (SPS) has been studied. These composite powders have a particular metal-ceramic interpenetrating network and excellent mechanical properties. Oxidation-sulfidation tests were carried out at 900 deg. C, in a 2.5%SO 2 + 3.6%O 2 + N 2 (balance) atmosphere for 48 h. The results revealed the influence of the sintering conditions on the specimens corrosion resistance, i.e. the Cr-Al 2 O 3 and Nb-Al 2 O 3 composite sintered at 1310 deg. C/4 min showed better corrosion resistance (lower weight gains) compared with those found for the 1440 deg. C/5 min conditions. For the former composite, a protective Cr 2 O 3 layer immediately forms upon heating, whereas for the later pest disintegration was noted. Thus, under the same sintering conditions the Nb-Al 2 O 3 composites showed the highest weight gains. The oxidation products were investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy

  2. Controllable synthesis, magnetic and biocompatible properties of Fe3O4 and α-Fe2O3 nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhou, Xi; Shi, Yanfeng; Ren, Lei; Bao, Shixiong; Han, Yu; Wu, Shichao; Zhang, Honggang; Zhong, Lubin; Zhang, Qiqing

    2012-01-01

    Iron oxide nanocrystals (NCs) with a series of well-controlled morphologies (octahedron, rod, wire, cube and plate) and compositions (Fe 3 O 4 and α-Fe 2 O 3 ) were synthesized via a facile hydrothermal process. The morphological and compositional control of various iron oxide NCs was based on the regulations of precursor thermolysis kinetics and surfactants. The obtained samples were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, SQUID and cytotoxicity test. These as-prepared iron oxide NCs showed excellent magnetic properties and good biocompatibility, paving the way for their high-efficiency bio-separation and bio-detection applications. - Graphical Abstract: Schematic illustration for the formation of iron oxide NCs (Fe 3 O 4 and α-Fe 2 O 3 ) with different controlled morphologies and compositions. Highlights: ► Iron oxide NCs with a series of well-controlled morphologies (octahedron, rod, wire, cube, and plate) and compositions (Fe 3 O 4 and α-Fe 2 O 3 ) were synthesized via a facile hydrothermal method. ► The mechanism of the morphological and compositional control process is directly related to precursor thermolysis kinetics and surfactants. ► These iron oxide NCs exhibited excellent magnetic response and good biocompatibility, which should have great applications in the cell separation and biodetection.

  3. The formation of Cr2O3 nanoclusters over graphene sheet and carbon nanotubes

    Science.gov (United States)

    Dabaghmanesh, Samira; Neek-Amal, Mehdi; Partoens, Bart; Neyts, Erik C.

    2017-11-01

    Carbon supported metal oxide nanoparticles hold promise for various future applications in diverse areas including spintronics, catalysis and biomedicine. These applications, however, typically depend on the structure and morphology of the nanoparticles. In this contribution, we employ classical molecular dynamic simulations based on a recently developed force field to study the structural properties of Cr2O3 nanoclusters over graphene and carbon nanotubes. We observe that Cr2O3 nanoclusters tend to aggregate over both freestanding graphene and carbon nanotubes and form larger nanoclusters. These large nanoclusters are characterized by their worm-like shape with a lattice constant similar to that of bulk Cr2O3. We also investigate the structural deformation induced in graphene due to the presence of Cr2O3 nanoclusters.

  4. Hierarchical Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}@OPC composites with octahedral shape for rechargeable nonaqueous lithium-oxygen batteries

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Gan, Yongqing; Lai, Yanqing; Zhang, Zhian, E-mail: zhangzhian@csu.edu.cn; Chen, Wei; Du, Ke; Li, Jie

    2016-04-25

    The development of catalyst materials is the most significant issue that hinders the practical applications of Li-O{sub 2} batteries. Herein we show the design and synthesis of the hierarchical chromic oxide-octahedral porous carbon (Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}@OPC) composites catalyst with octahedral shape that derived from Cr-based metal-organic frameworks (MIL-101(Cr)) precursor. When applied as cathode catalysts in rechargeable Li-O{sub 2} batteries, the electrode with Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}@OPC composites catalyst exhibits a low charge and discharge over-potential, high discharge capacity and excellent cycling stability. What's more, the electrode with Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}@OPC composite shows a discharge capacity up to ∼4800 mAh g{sub (catalyst} {sub +} {sub carbon)}{sup −1} at a current density of 0.1 mA cm{sup −2}, and exhibits a very stable discharge voltage plateau of 2.7 V and a charge voltage plateau of ∼3.9 V. With the addition of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}@OPC composite, the Li-O{sub 2} batteries can obtain good cycle performance over 50 cycles at a fixed capacity of 800 mAh g{sub (catalyst} {sub +} {sub carbon)}{sup −1}. These results indicating that the Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}@OPC composite derived from MIL-101(Cr) would be a promising catalyst for Li-O{sub 2} batteries. - Highlights: • The Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}@C composites were prepared by the pyrolysis of Cr-MIL-101. • The Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}@C composites possess octahedral shape consisted of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}@C nanoparticle. • The Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}@C composites have mesoporous structure with large specific area. • The Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}@C composites have an excellent intrinsic electrocatalytic activity. • The Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}@C electrode exhibits great cycling performance.

  5. Recyclable magnetic photocatalysts of Fe2+/TiO2 hierarchical architecture with effective removal of Cr(VI) under UV light from water

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xu, S.C.; Zhang, Y.X.; Pan, S.S.; Ding, H.L.; Li, G.H.

    2011-01-01

    Highlights: ► Fe 2+ /TiO 2 catalyst has a three-level hierarchical architecture. ► With a removal effectiveness of 99.3% at Cr(VI) concentration of 10 mg L −1 . ► Two-step reduction: TiO 2 photoreduces Fe 2+ to Fe and Fe reduces Cr(VI) to Cr(III). ► Hierarchical architecture serves as both photocatalytic reactor and absorbent. ► Fe 2+ /TiO 2 catalyst can be magnetically separated from wastewater and recycled. - Abstract: We report the synthesis and photocatalytic removal of Cr(VI) from water of hierarchical micro/nanostructured Fe 2+ /TiO 2 tubes. The TiO 2 tubes fabricated by a facile solvothermal approach show a three-level hierarchical architecture assembled from dense nanosheets nearly vertically standing on the surface of TiO 2 microtube. The nanosheets with a thickness of about 20 nm are composed of numerous TiO 2 nanocrystals with size in the range of 15–20 nm. Ferrous ions are doped into the hierarchical architecture by a reduction route. The Fe 2+ /TiO 2 catalyst demonstrates an effective removal of Cr(VI) from water under UV light and the removal effectiveness reaches 99.3% at the initial Cr(VI) concentration of 10 mg L −1 . The ferrous ion in the catalyst serves not as the photo-electron trap but as an intermedium of a two-step reduction. The TiO 2 photoreduces the Fe 2+ ions to Fe atoms firstly, then the Fe atoms reduce the Cr(VI) to Cr(III), and the later is removed by adsorption. The hierarchical architecture of the catalyst serves as a reactor for the photocatalytic reaction of Cr(VI) ions and an effective absorbent for the removal of Cr(III) ions. The catalyst can be easily magnetically separated from the wastewater after photocatalytic reaction and recycled after acid treatment.

  6. Effect of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} on the microstructure and non-ohmic properties of (Co, Sb)-doped SnO{sub 2} varistors

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Aguilar M, J. A. [Centro de Investigac ion en Materiales Avanzados, S. C., Alianza Norte No. 202, Parque de Investigacion e Innovacion Tecnologica, Nueva Carretera Aeropuerto Km. 10 Apodaca 66600, Nuevo Leon (Mexico); Pech C, M. I. [IPN, Centro de Investigacion y de Estudios Avanzados, Unidad Saltillo, Carretera Saltillo-Monterrey Km. 13, Saltillo 25900, Coahuila (Mexico); Hernandez, M. B.; Rodriguez, E.; Garcia O, L. [Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Facultad de Ingenieria Mecanica y Electrica, San Nicolas de los Garza, Nuevo Leon (Mexico); Glot, A. B., E-mail: josue.aguilar@cimav.edu.mx [Universidad Tecnologica de la Mixteca, Division de Estudios de Posgrado, Carretera Acatlima Km. 2.5, Huajuapan de Leon 69000, Oaxaca (Mexico)

    2013-10-01

    The effect of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} addition on the physical characteristics, microstructure, and current-voltage properties of (Co-Sb)-doped SnO{sub 2} varistors was investigated. SnO{sub 2}-Co{sub 3}O{sub 4}-Sb{sub 2}O{sub 5} ceramics with additions of 0.0, 0.03, 0.05 and 0.07 mol % Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} were sintered at 1350 C under ambient atmosphere and characterized micro structurally and electrically. The characterization by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy show that the microstructure remains as a single phase material with multimodal size distribution of SnO{sub 2} grains. The greatest effect of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} additions is manifested in the electric breakdown field. Additions of high levels (0.07 and 0.05 %) of this oxide promote and increase of approximately 55% in this parameter compared to the Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}-free sample. Another physical property is affected: the measured density values decreases as the Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} content increases. A change in the nonlinearity coefficient value is produced only at the highest Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} content while at intermediate levels there is not change at all. Consequently, when seeking high nonlinearity coefficients, intermediate levels of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} are not recommended. (Author)

  7. Highly stable colloidal TiO2 nanocrystals with strong violet-blue emission

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ghamsari, Morteza Sasani; Gaeeni, Mohammad Reza; Han, Wooje; Park, Hyung-Ho

    2016-01-01

    Improved sol–gel method has been applied to prepare highly stable colloidal TiO 2 nanocrystals. The synthesized titania nanocrystals exhibit strong emission in the violet-blue wavelength region. Very long evolution time was obtained by preventing the sol to gel conversion with reflux process. FTIR, XRD, UV–vis absorption, photoluminescence and high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) were used to study the optical properties, crystalline phase, morphology, shape and size of prepared TiO 2 colloidal nanocrystals. HRTEM showed that the diameter of TiO 2 colloidal nanocrystals is about 5 nm. Although the PL spectra show similar spectral features upon excitation wavelengths at 280, 300 and 350 nm, but their emission intensities are significantly different from each other. Photoluminescence quantum yield for TiO 2 colloidal nanocrystals is estimated to be 49% with 280 nm excitation wavelength which is in agreement and better than reported before. Obtained results confirm that the prepared colloidal TiO 2 sample has enough potential for optoelectronics applications.

  8. The role of the Mg2+ ions in Cr3+ spectroscopy for near-stoichiometric LiNbO3 crystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Han, T P J; Jaque, F; Bermudez, V; Dieguez, E

    2003-01-01

    The optical spectroscopy of Cr 3+ ions doped into near-stoichiometric LiNbO 3 crystals, pure and co-doped with MgO, has been investigated. In the near-stoichiometric LiNbO 3 :Cr(0.2 mol%):Mg(2 mol%) crystal, the optical spectra resemble those previously observed for congruent LiNbO 3 :Cr:MgO samples when the total MgO content exceeds the 4.6 mol% threshold. The coexistence of two types of Cr 3+ centre ([Cr] Li and [Cr] Nb ) characterized the optical and luminescence spectra of this sample. The concentration equilibrium between the two types of centre is strongly displaced towards the [Cr 3+ ] Nb centre, permitting us to obtain with accuracy the parameters of the broad bands. The R-line associated with the [Cr] Nb centre is only observable in the low-temperature emission spectrum. The Fano anti-resonance lines present have been observed to be more pronounced for the near-stoichiometric samples than for congruent ones

  9. Precipitation of metallic chromium during rapid cooling of Cr2O3 slags

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    J. Burja

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available The slag systems of CaO-SiO2- Cr2O3 and Al2O3-CaO-MgO-SiO2- Cr2O3 were analyzed. These slag systems occur in the production of stainless steel and are important from the process metallurgy point of view. Synthetic slag samples with different chromium oxide content were prepared and melted. The melted slag samples where then rapidly cooled on large steel plates, so that the high temperature microstructure was preserved. The samples were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM and X-ray diffraction (XRD. The precipitation of different chromium oxide phases was studied, but most importantly the precipitation of metallic chromium was observed. These findings help us interpret industrial slag samples.

  10. Annealing effect on the structural and optical properties of Cr/α-Cr2O3 monodispersed particles based solar absorbers

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Khamlich, S.; McCrindle, R.; Nuru, Z.Y.; Cingo, N.; Maaza, M.

    2013-01-01

    Graphical abstract: A cost-effective and environmentally friendly green chemical method, the so-called aqueous chemical growth (ACG) method, was used to deposit chromium/alpha-chromium(III) oxide, Cr/α-Cr 2 O 3 , monodispersed particles, for solar absorbers applications. Highlights: ► Cr/α-Cr 2 O 3 have been deposited by the aqueous chemical growth (ACG) method. ► High temperature annealing affects the optical selectivity of the deposited particles. ► Oxygen diffusion to the interface at high temperature results in the oxidization of the substrate. - Abstract: A cost-effective and environmentally friendly green chemical method, the so-called aqueous chemical growth (ACG) method, was used to deposit chromium/alpha-chromium(III) oxide, Cr/α-Cr 2 O 3 , monodispersed particles, for solar absorbers applications. The deposited particles were annealed at various temperatures in a hydrogen atmosphere for 2 h to study the annealing temperature dependence of the structural, chemical and optical properties of the particles grown on tantalum substrates. The deposited Cr/α-Cr 2 O 3 was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), attenuated total reflection (ATR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS), and diffuse reflectance UV–vis–NIR spectroscopy. The XRD and ATR analysis indicated that by increasing annealing temperature, the particles crystallinity was improved and Ta 2 O 5 was formed around 600 °C, due to the fast oxygen diffusion from the deposited α-Cr 2 O 3 toward the tantalum substrate. The optical measurements show that samples annealed at 400 and 500 °C exhibit the targeted high absorbing optical characteristics of “Black chrome”, while those annealed below 400 °C and above 500 °C show a significant low absorptivity and high emissivity.

  11. Spectroscopic properties of Er3+ and Yb3+ co-doped glass ceramics containing SrF2 nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Qiao Xvsheng; Fan Xianping; Wang Minquan; Zhang Xianghua

    2009-01-01

    The spectroscopic properties of Er 3+ /Yb 3+ co-doped 50SiO 2 -10Al 2 O 3 -20ZnF 2 -20SrF 2 glass and glass ceramic containing SrF 2 nanocrystals were investigated. The formation of SrF 2 nanocrystals in the glass ceramic was confirmed by XRD. The oscillator strengths for several transitions of the Er 3+ ions in the glass ceramic have been obtained and the Judd-Ofelt parameters were then determined. The XRD result and Judd-Ofelt parameters suggested that Er 3+ and Yb 3+ ions had efficiently enriched in the SrF 2 nanocrystals in the glass ceramic. The lifetime of excited states has been used to reveal the surroundings of luminescent Er 3+ and Yb 3+ and energy transfer (ET) mechanism between Er 3+ and Yb 3+ . Much stronger upconversion luminescence and longer lifetime of the Er 3+ /Yb 3+ co-doped glass ceramic were observed in comparison with the Er 3+ /Yb 3+ co-doped glass, which could be ascribed to more efficient ET from Yb 3+ to Er 3+ due to the enrichment of Yb 3+ and Er 3+ and the shortening of the distance between lanthanide ions in the precipitated SrF 2 nanocrystals.

  12. Formulation and Characterization of Cr2O3 Doped ZnO Thick Films as H2S Gas Sensor

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    A. V. PATIL

    2009-09-01

    Full Text Available Cr2O3 doped ZnO thick films have been prepared by screen printing technique and firing process. These films were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM, and EDX. H2S gas sensing properties of these films were investigated at different operating temperatures and different H2S concentrations. The 7 wt. % Cr2O3 doped ZnO thick films exhibits excellent H2S gas sensing properties with maximum sensitivity of 99.12 % at 300 oC in air atmosphere with fast response and recovery time.

  13. Manipulating emission of CdSe/ZnS nanocrystals embedded in synthetic opals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Benalloul, Paul; Vion, Celine; Barthou, Charles; Schwob, Catherine; Frigerio, Jean-Marc; MaItre, Agnes; Gruzintsev, Alex; Emelchenko, Gennadi; Masalov, Wladimir; Nga, Pham Thu

    2009-01-01

    Photonic crystals (PCs) are the object of great interest due to the possibility, for appropriate PCs, to modify and control light propagation and even to influence the emission properties of an emitter, such as its emission diagram and its life time. One of the most common approaches to prepare 3D PCs takes advantage of the spontaneous self-organisation of spherical colloidal particles. Various self-assembly techniques such as sedimentation, convective or Langmuir-Blodgett ones have been studied as they provide a low cost and relatively easy protocol to obtain artificial opals. SiO 2 opals exhibit a pseudo-band gap. Nevertheless the coupling of II-VI nanocrystal emitters in such PCs allows one to recognize and study some basic problems. Large opals have been prepared by the sedimentation method and the size of the balls has been adjusted so that the pseudo-band gap of those PCs lies in the same region as the emission band of CdSe/ZnS nanocrystals. Diagrams of radiation and the modification of the spontaneous life time of the embedded nanocrystals will be presented and discussed. Introducing well-defined defects in PCs which are necessary to guide the photons through the crystal remains a hard technological challenge. Several top-down methods have been investigated. We will present different bottom-up routes proposed by different groups to engineer planar defects into colloidal PCs.

  14. Synthesis of Patchouli Biochar Cr2O3 Composite Using Double Acid Oxidators for Paracetamol Adsorption

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Tutik Setianingsih

    2018-01-01

    Full Text Available Composite built by patchouli biochar and metal oxide, Cr2O3, is a potential material for remediation of contaminated wasterwater. Oxidation of biochar using acid or salt oxidators can improve its surface polar functional groups. This treatment may be able to increase impregnation of metal cation (as salt before calcination to form its oxide. In this research, 3 types of oxidators were used to oxidize the biochar before impregnation with purpose to study its influence toward physichochemistry and adsorption performance of the composite. Preparation of the composite included 3 steps, including preparation of biochar by pyrolisis of patchouli biomass using ZnCl2 activator at 450 oC, oxidation of the biochar using 3 different oxidators (H2SO4-HNO3, H3PO4-HNO3, H2O2–HNO3 at 60 oC, impregnation of the oxidized biochar using CrCl3 followed by calcination process to form biochar–Cr2O3 composite at 600 oC. Characterization using X-ray diffraction indicated that the composite containes the Cr2O3 structure. FTIR spectrophotometry characterization indicates the different content of C=O, C-O, and –OH on the composite surface. SEM images shows irregular micro ball shapes. EDX characterization indicates the different Cr content in the composite with same sequence with FTIR absorbances of both C-O and –OH. Adsorption of paracetamol indicates effect of Cr2O3 showing the same sequence of both.

  15. Synthesis and Downconversion Emission Property of Yb2O3:Eu3+ Nanosheets and Nanotubes

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Chao Qian

    2013-01-01

    Full Text Available Ytterbium oxide (Yb2O3 nanocrystals with different Eu3+ (1%, 2%, 5%, and 10% doped concentrations were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method, subsequently by calcination at 700°C. The crystal phase, size, and morphology of prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD and transmission electron microscopy (TEM. The results show that the as-prepared Yb2O3 nanocrystals with sheet- and tube-like shape have cubic phase structure. The Eu3+ doped Yb2O3 nanocrystals were revealed to have good down conversion (DC property and intensity of the DC luminescence can be modified by Eu3+ contents. In our experiment the 1% Eu3+ doped Yb2O3 nanocrystals showed the strongest DC luminescence among the obtained Yb2O3 nanocrystals.

  16. Strategies to tailor the UV absorption band of Eu3+:La2O3 downshifting nanocrystals

    Science.gov (United States)

    Méndez, M.; Cesteros, Y.; Marsal, L. F.; Salagre, P.; Formentín, P.; Pallarès, J.; Aguiló, M.; Díaz, F.; Carvajal, J. J.

    2012-06-01

    The charge transfer state (CTS) band of the Eu3+:La2O3 nanocrystals were studied in detail in order to understand the shift of the maximum of this band. Eu3+:La2O3 nanoparticles present a broad CTS band. However, the maximum is peaking below 300 nm, far below the limit of the solar spectrum arriving to the surface of the Earth and it makes difficult the application of this material as down-shifting in solar cells. In order to shift the CTS band towards blue wavelengths, different synthesis methods such as hydrothermal and sol-gel modified Pechini methods were used to prepare these nanoparticles, and adding additional CTS bands with co-doping ions such as Bi3+ was explored as well. The crystalline structure of Eu3+:La(OH)3, Eu3+:La2O3, Bi3+:Eu3+:La(OH)3 and Bi3+:Eu3+:La2O3 and the cell parameters of Eu3+:La2O3 and Bi3+:Eu3+:La2O3 were analyzed by X-ray powder diffraction technique and their morphology was observed by transmission electron microscopy. Once we obtained the cell parameters refining the XRD patterns by Full-prof software, we were able to calculate the Eu3+-O distance by ATOMS software through the structure previously represented following the Pauling model. The results found suggest that we need to take into account another parameter apart from the Eu3+-O distance to explain the CTS band small shift.

  17. Electrically programmable-erasable In-Ga-Zn-O thin-film transistor memory with atomic-layer-deposited Al2O3/Pt nanocrystals/Al2O3 gate stack

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Shi-Bing Qian

    2015-12-01

    Full Text Available Amorphous indium-gallium-zinc oxide (a-IGZO thin-film transistor (TFT memory is very promising for transparent and flexible system-on-panel displays; however, electrical erasability has always been a severe challenge for this memory. In this article, we demonstrated successfully an electrically programmable-erasable memory with atomic-layer-deposited Al2O3/Pt nanocrystals/Al2O3 gate stack under a maximal processing temperature of 300 oC. As the programming voltage was enhanced from 14 to 19 V for a constant pulse of 0.2 ms, the threshold voltage shift increased significantly from 0.89 to 4.67 V. When the programmed device was subjected to an appropriate pulse under negative gate bias, it could return to the original state with a superior erasing efficiency. The above phenomena could be attributed to Fowler-Nordheim tunnelling of electrons from the IGZO channel to the Pt nanocrystals during programming, and inverse tunnelling of the trapped electrons during erasing. In terms of 0.2-ms programming at 16 V and 350-ms erasing at −17 V, a large memory window of 3.03 V was achieved successfully. Furthermore, the memory exhibited stable repeated programming/erasing (P/E characteristics and good data retention, i.e., for 2-ms programming at 14 V and 250-ms erasing at −14 V, a memory window of 2.08 V was still maintained after 103 P/E cycles, and a memory window of 1.1 V was retained after 105 s retention time.

  18. Determination of Cr2O3 in chrome-tanned leather by radionuclide-excited X-ray fluorescence analysis

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Melich, M.; Palagyi, S.; Kern, M.

    1989-01-01

    Preliminary results on the determination of Cr 2 O 3 in chrome-tanned leather by measuring the content of Cr by means of radionuclide-excited XRF analysis are reported. For excitation a 3.7 GBq 238 Pu source was used and the characteristic K X-rays of Cr were detected with a planar Si(Li) detector. Both smooth and rough sides of the leather were analyzed directly or with a pair of V/Ti balanced filters. A fairly good correlation was found between Cr Kx counts of the rough side and the Cr 2 O 3 concentrations determined chemically in the range of 3.5 to 6.0% Cr 2 O 3 . The method renders possible a rapid and non-destructive determination of Cr 2 O 3 in various leather samples. (author)

  19. Improving pure red upconversion emission of Co-doped Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Yb{sup 3+}–Er{sup 3+} nanocrystals with a combination of sodium sulfide and surfactant Pluronic-F127

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    López-Luke, T., E-mail: tzarara@cio.mx [Centro de Investigaciones en Óptica, A.P. 1-948, León, Gto. 37160, México (Mexico); De la Rosa, E., E-mail: elder@cio.mx [Centro de Investigaciones en Óptica, A.P. 1-948, León, Gto. 37160, México (Mexico); Campos Villalobos, I. [Centro de Investigaciones en Óptica, A.P. 1-948, León, Gto. 37160, México (Mexico); Rodriguez, R.A. [Universidad de Guadalajara, Unidad Lagos, Lagos de Moreno, Jal. 47460, México (Mexico); Ángles-Chávez, C. [Instituto Mexicano del Petróleo, Cd. México, D.F. 07730, México (Mexico); Salas, P. [Centro de Física Aplicada y Tecnología Avanzada, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, A.P. 1-1010, Querétaro, Qro. 76000, México (Mexico); Wheeler, Damon A.; Zhang, J.Z. [Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA 95064 (United States)

    2014-01-15

    Nanocrystals of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Yb{sup 3+}–Er{sup 3+} (2:1 mol% Yb{sup 3+}:Er{sup 3+}) were prepared by a novel precipitation technique using Na{sub 2}S and Pluronic-F127 (PF127) surfactant. Crystal structure, particle size, red emission intensity and fluorescence decay lifetimes were determined using microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. TEM analysis indicates that the average particle size ranged from 40 to 70 nm. The nanocrystals showed a strong red emission band centered at 663 nm after excitation at 970 nm. The upconverted signal intensity was improved 250% with an optimum concentration of Na{sub 2}S (0.48 M) and PF127 (0.1 mM). The improvement was explained in terms of the reduction of surface contaminants as well as the cubic crystalline phase of the parent Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} material. Interestingly, the formation of sulfates (SO{sub 4}{sup 2−}) is faster than that of O–H, which is responsible for quenching the red and green emissions. The results suggest that Na{sub 2}S and PF127 are good candidates for surface passivation, especially when used in conjunction. The preparation of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}:Yb{sup 3+}–Er{sup 3+} using Na{sub 2}S with strong red emission band was produced at a lower cost than that of other sulfuration processes. -- Highlights: • . • Strong red emission band centered at 663 nm was obtained after excitation at 970 nm. • Yb-Er codoped Y2O3 nanocrystals with average size ranging from 40 to 70 nm. • Improvement of the red emission in Y2O3:Yb-Er nanocrystals by the introduction of sodium sulfide and pluronic. • Passivation of nanocrystal surface with sodium sulfide and pluoronic.

  20. Cr2O3-doped MOX fuel: doping and sintering atmosphere optimization

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Thomas, R.

    2013-01-01

    Optimal use of the Mixed Oxide (U,Pu)O 2 nuclear fuel in pressurized water reactors is mainly limited by the behavior of gaseous fission produced during irradiation. Within the MOX microstructure, the probability of fission gas release is increased by the presence of rich localized plutonium areas exhibiting a higher local burn-up. A solution consists in optimizing plutonium distribution within the industrial product and promoting the crystalline growth of the fuel grains. For this purpose, addition of chromium sesquioxide during the manufacturing process is currently considered. A previous thesis has shown that the best results are obtained for a Cr addition slightly greater than the solubility limit of Cr in (U,Pu)O 2 . In order to explain the enhanced plutonium homogeneity, the author highlighted the formation of PuCrO 3 precipitates at grain boundaries. A sintering model under reducing atmosphere, with chromium addition, was proposed. However, several points have to be more thoroughly investigated, especially regarding the solubility limit of chromium, as well as the optimal conditions of PuCrO 3 precipitates formation. In a first part, speciation of solubilized and precipitated chromium in the mixed oxide (U,Pu)O 2 is studied using electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). It was shown that the oxidation state and the environment of soluble chromium within the (U,Pu)O 2 matrix do not depend on the oxygen partial pressure during sintering, neither on the plutonium content of the mixed oxide. However, both chemical nature of the precipitates and chromium solubility depend on the thermodynamic variable and on the plutonium content.Based on these results, a chromium solubility model in the mixed oxide (U,Pu)O 2-x was built using the law of mass action governing solubility equilibrium. This model is described as a function of the plutonium content (y) of the solid solution (U 1-y Pu y )O 2-x (y = 0,11; 0,275 et 1) and in the

  1. Domain morphology controlled crystal habits in PbTiO{sub 3} nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Dudhe, C.M., E-mail: chandraguptadudhe@gmail.com; Khambadkar, S.J.

    2015-11-05

    Various crystal habits and associated domain structures in PbTiO{sub 3} nanocrystals synthesized by a modified sol–gel method have been studied. Structural and morphological characterizations of synthesized nanoparticles have been done by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). It was found from the -z coordinates of O{sub 1} and O{sub 2} that the Ti–O{sub 6} octahedra were distorted slightly, favorable for the ferroelectric nature. TEM images show butterfly like, plate like, irregular sphere like and oval-shaped habits of the nanocrystals. 90° and 180° domain structures in these crystal habits were explored from their morphologies and appearance in the field of views. The mutual association between the crystal habit and the direction spontaneous polarization P{sub s} due to domain structures was explored. Domain wall energies of 90° and 180° domains were also estimated from the kinetic process of domain nucleation. - Highlights: • Various crystal habits of PbTiO{sub 3} nanoparticles were examined by TEM. • 90° and 180° domains were explored in the nanocrystal. • Crystal habits and domain structures were correlated. • Domain wall energies were estimated.

  2. Acetone sensors based on TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals modified with tungsten oxide species

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Epifani, Mauro, E-mail: mauro.epifani@le.imm.cnr.it [Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche – Istituto per la Microelettronica e Microsistemi (CNR-IMM), via Monteroni c/o Campus Universitario, I-73100, Lecce (Italy); Comini, Elisabetta [SENSOR Lab, Department of Information Engineering, Brescia University and CNR-INO, via Valotti, 9, 25133 Brescia (Italy); Díaz, Raül [Electrochemical Processes Unit, IMDEA Energy Institute, Avda. Ramón de la Sagra, 3 28935 Móstoles (Spain); Genç, Aziz [Metallurgy and Materials Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Bartin University, 74100, Bartin (Turkey); Andreu, Teresa [Catalonia Institute for Energy Research- (IREC), Jardíns de les Dones de Negre, 1, E-08930 Sant Adrià del Besos, Barcelona, CAT (Spain); Siciliano, Pietro [Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche – Istituto per la Microelettronica e Microsistemi (CNR-IMM), via Monteroni c/o Campus Universitario, I-73100, Lecce (Italy); Morante, Joan R. [Catalonia Institute for Energy Research- (IREC), Jardíns de les Dones de Negre, 1, E-08930 Sant Adrià del Besos, Barcelona, CAT (Spain); Departament d' Electrònica, Universitat de Barcelona, C./ Martí i Franquès 1, E-08028 Barcelona (Spain)

    2016-04-25

    TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals were prepared by sol–gel/solvothermal processing and modified by the addition of W precursor before the solvothermal step. The W: Ti nominal atomic ratio (R{sub W}) was fixed to 0.16 and 0.64. Surface modification of TiO{sub 2} occurred for R{sub W} = 0.16 while for R{sub W} = 0.64 nanocomposites with WO{sub 3} nanocrystals were obtained after heat-treatment at 500 °C. Pure TiO{sub 2} proved to be very poorly performing in acetone sensing in all the operating conditions. Instead, the addition of both W concentrations largely enhanced the sensor response. It ranged over two orders of magnitude of conductance variation for all the tested concentrations at as low as 200 °C operating temperature. The results showed that it is possible to enhance the performance of an otherwise almost inactive oxide like TiO{sub 2} by proper combination with another more active oxide like WO{sub 3}. - Highlights: • Sensing architecture are synthesized, combining WO{sub 3} and of TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals. • Surface layers of W oxides or heterojunctions of TiO{sub 2} and WO{sub 3} are obtained. • Simple TiO{sub 2} surface modification by W oxides boosts the TiO{sub 2} acetone response. • High responses even at 200 °C show catalytic effect of WO{sub 3} addition.

  3. Structural relaxation and colour in the spinel-magnesiochromite (MgAl2O4-MgCr2O4) and gahnite-zincochromite (ZnAl2O4-ZnCr2O4) solid solution series

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hålenius, U.; Andreozzi, G. B.; Skogby, H.

    2009-04-01

    Recent studies on binary mineral solid solution series utilising synchrotron based x-ray absorption spectroscopies have indicated strong structural relaxation. For instance, it has been suggested that the real Cr-O bond distances remain nearly constant (relaxation parameter (ɛ) of 0.85, where ɛ=1 equals full relaxation) over the entire compositional range of the MgAl2O4-MgCr2O4 series (Juhin et al. 2007). In the present study we have measured room temperature optical absorption spectra of synthetic single crystals of the ZnAl2-2xCr2xO4 (0.03?x?1) and MgAl2-2xCr2xO4(0.02?x?1) series with the aim to explore the real architecture of the structure and in particular the Cr-O distance as function of composition. Our crystals were synthesized by means of flux-growth methods under atmospheric pressure and temperature profiles resulting in an estimated cation ordering temperature of ca 850 °C. Crystals close to the spinel (sensu stricto) and gahnite end-member compositions were faintly red in colour. With increasing Cr-content the crystals become more intensely red-coloured and at the higher Cr-contents there is a distinct shift towards a dark greenish colouration. These colour changes are reflected in the measured optical spectra by the position and intensity of the two spin-allowed electronic d-d transitions in octahedrally coordinated Cr3+ at ca 18000 (4A2g -4T2g (4F) transition) and 25000 cm-1(4A2g -4T1g (4F) transition). The energy of the first transition (?1-band) is ca 1200 cm-1 lower in magnesiochromite than in weakly Cr-doped spinel (x=0.02) and ca 1400 cm-1 lower in zincochromite than in gahnite with the lowest Cr-content (x=0.03). Concomitantly the energy of the second transition (?2-band) decreases with increasing Cr-content in both series by ca. 1800 cm-1. From the position of the ?1-band, a decrease in crystal field splitting, 10Dq, for six-coordinated Cr3+ with increasing Cr-content in the MgAl2-2xCr2xO4 and ZnAl2-2xCr2xO4 series of 6.5 and 7

  4. Temperature-programmed reaction of CO2 reduction in the presence of hydrogen over Fe/Al2O3, Re/Al2O3 and Cr-Mn-O/Al2O3 catalysts

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mirzabekova, S.R.; Mamedov, A.B.; Krylov, O.V.

    1996-01-01

    Regularities in CO 2 reduction have been studied using the systems Fe/Al 2 O 3 , Re/Al 2 O 3 and Cr-Mn-O/Al 2 O 3 under conditions of thermally programmed reaction by way of example. A sharp increase in the reduction rate in the course of CO 2 interaction with reduced Fe/Al 2 O 3 and Re/Al 2 O 3 , as well as with carbon fragments with addition in CO 2 flow of 1-2%H 2 , has been revealed. The assumption is made on intermediate formation of a formate in the process and on initiating effect of hydrogen on CO 2 reduction by the catalyst. Refs. 26, figs. 10

  5. Effects of water vapor on protectiveness of Cr2O3 scale at 1073 K

    Science.gov (United States)

    Arifin, S. K.; Hamid, M.; Berahim, A. N.; Ani, M. H.

    2018-01-01

    Fe-Cr alloy is commonly being used as boiler tube’s material. It is subjected to prolonged exposure to water vapor oxidation. The ability to withstand high temperature corrosion can normally be attributed to the formation of a dense and slow growing Cr-rich-oxide scale known as chromia, Cr2O3 scale. However, oxidation may limit the alloy’s service lifetime due to decreasing of its protectiveness capability. This paper is to presents an experimental study of thermo gravimetric and Fourier transform infrared analysis of Cr2O3 at 1073 K in dry and humid environment. Samples were used from commercially available Cr2O3 powder. It was cold-pressed into pellet shape of 12 mm diameter and 3 mm thick with hydraulic press for 40 min at 48 MPa. It then sintered at 1173 K in inert gas environment for 8 h. The samples are cooled and placed in 5 mm diameter platinum pan. It is subjected to reaction in dry and wet environment at 1073 K by applying 100%-Ar and Ar-5%H2 gas. Each reaction period is 48 h utilizing Thermo Gravimetric Analyzer, TGA to quantify the mass changes. After the reaction, the samples then characterized with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, FT-IR and Field Emission Electron Scanning Microscopy, FE-SEM. The TGA result shows mass decreasing ratio of Cr2O3 in wet (PH2O = 9.5x105Pa) and dry environment is at a factor of 1.2 while parabolic rate at 1.4. FT-IR results confirmed that water vapor significantly broaden the peaks, thus promotes the volatilization of Cr2O3 in wet sample. FESEM shows mostly packed and intact in dry while in wet sample, slightly porous particle arrangement compare to dry. It is concluded that water vapor species decreased Cr2O3 protectiveness capability.

  6. β-Ga2O3:Cr(3+) nanoparticle: A new platform with near infrared photoluminescence for drug targeting delivery and bio-imaging simultaneously.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Xin-Shi; Situ, Jun-Qing; Ying, Xiao-Ying; Chen, Hui; Pan, Hua-fei; Jin, Yi; Du, Yong-Zhong

    2015-08-01

    Multifunctional nanoparticles which integrate the therapeutic agents and bio-imaging agents into one carrier are emerging as a promising therapeutic platform. Herein, GaOOH:Cr(3+) was firstly synthesized using improved hydrothermal method (atmospheric pressure, 95 °C), and by manipulating the pH of the reaction medium, GaOOH:Cr(3+) with different sizes (125.70 nm, 200.60 nm and 313.90 nm) were synthesized. Then β-Ga2O3:Cr(3+) nanoparticles with porous structures were developed as a result of the calcination of GaOOH:Cr(3+). The fabricated, porous β-Ga2O3:Cr(3+) nanoparticles could effectively absorb doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) (loading rate: 8% approximately) and had near infrared photoluminescence with a 695 nm emission. Furthermore, β-Ga2O3:Cr(3+) nanoparticles were coated with l-Cys modified hyaluronic acid (HA-Cys) by exploiting the electrostatic interaction and the cross-link effect of disulfide bond to improve the stability. The DOX loaded HA-Cys coated β-Ga2O3:Cr(3+) nanoparticles (HA/β-Ga2O3:Cr(3+)/DOX) showed an oxidation-reduction sensitive drug release behavior. The HA-Cys coated β-Ga2O3:Cr(3+) nanoparticles showed a low cytotoxicity on MCF-7 and Hela cell lines. The cellular uptake of HA/β-Ga2O3:Cr(3+)/DOX using the near infrared photoluminescence of β-Ga2O3:Cr(3+) nanoparticles and the fluorescence of DOX demonstrated the HA/β-Ga2O3:Cr(3+)/DOX could internalize into tumor cells quickly, which was affected by the size and shape of β-Ga2O3:Cr(3+)nanoparticles. Copyright © 2015 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Formation of nanocrystals embedded in a silicon nitride film at a low temperature ({<=}200 deg. C)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lee, Kyoung-Min; Kim, Tae-Hwan [Department of Nano Science and Technology, University of Seoul, Seoul 130-743 (Korea, Republic of); Hong, Wan-Shick [Department of Nano Science and Technology, University of Seoul, Seoul 130-743 (Korea, Republic of)], E-mail: wshong@uos.ac.kr

    2008-12-15

    Silicon-rich silicon nitride films with embedded silicon nanocrystals (Si NCs) were fabricated successfully on plastic substrates at a low temperature by catalytic chemical vapor deposition. A mixture of SiH{sub 4}, NH{sub 3} and H{sub 2} was used as a source gas. Formation of the silicon nanocrystals was analyzed by photoluminescence spectra and was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. The formation of Si NCs required an H{sub 2}/SiH{sub 4} mixture ratio that was higher than four.

  8. Silicon MIS diodes with Cr2O3 nanofilm: Optical, morphological/structural and electronic transport properties

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Erdogan, Ibrahim Y.; Guellue, O.

    2010-01-01

    In this work we report the optical, morphological and structural characterization and diode application of Cr 2 O 3 nanofilms grown on p-Si substrates by spin coating and annealing process. X-ray diffraction (XRD), non-contact mode atomic force microscopy (NC-AFM), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy were used for characterization of nanofilms. For Cr 2 O 3 nanofilms, the average particle size determined from XRD and NC-AFM measurements was approximately 70 nm. Structure analyses of nanofilms demonstrate that the single phase Cr 2 O 3 on silicon substrate is of high a crystalline structure with a dominant in hexagonal (1 1 0) orientation. The morphologic analysis of the films indicates that the films formed from hexagonal nanoparticles are with low roughness and uniform. UV-vis absorption measurements indicate that the band gap of the Cr 2 O 3 film is 3.08 eV. The PL measurement shows that the Cr 2 O 3 nanofilm has a strong and narrow ultraviolet emission, which facilitates potential applications in future photoelectric nanodevices. Au/Cr 2 O 3 /p-Si metal/interlayer/semiconductor (MIS) diodes were fabricated for investigation of the electronic properties such as current-voltage and capacitance-voltage. Ideality factor and barrier height for Au//Cr 2 O 3 /p-Si diode were calculated as 2.15 eV and 0.74 eV, respectively. Also, interfacial state properties of the MIS diode were determined. The interface-state density of the MIS diode was found to vary from 2.90 x 10 13 eV -1 cm -2 to 8.45 x 10 12 eV -1 cm -2 .

  9. Influence of dopant concentration on spectroscopic properties of Sr2CeO4:Yb nanocrystals

    Science.gov (United States)

    Stefanski, M.; Kędziorski, A.; Hreniak, D.; Strek, W.

    2017-12-01

    Optical properties of Sr2CeO4:Yb nanocrystals synthesized via Pechini's method are reported. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction data measurements. The unit cell parameters were determined using Rietveld refinement. It was found that they decreased with increasing amount of Yb ions. The absorption, excitation, emission spectra and luminescence decay profiles of the Sr2CeO4:Yb nanocrystals were investigated. It was observed that optical properties were strongly dependent on Yb concentration. It was found that Yb3+-O2- charge transfer transitions have great influence on the absorption spectra. It can be seen in the emission spectra that in addition to standard bands/lines corresponding to Ce-O metal-to-ligand charge transfer of Sr2CeO4 and f-f transitions of Yb3+, there is emission band centered at 744 nm. Its intensity depends on the concentration of the dopant. Recorded decay times become shorter with increasing dopant concentration due to the Yb3+ concentration quenching. Excitation spectra indicate the energy transfer from Ce-O charge transfer states to Yb3+2F5/2 state. The issue of appearance of down-conversion process in Sr2CeO4:Yb nanocrystals is considered.

  10. Doping of Czochralski-grown bulk β-Ga2O3 single crystals with Cr, Ce and Al

    Science.gov (United States)

    Galazka, Zbigniew; Ganschow, Steffen; Fiedler, Andreas; Bertram, Rainer; Klimm, Detlef; Irmscher, Klaus; Schewski, Robert; Pietsch, Mike; Albrecht, Martin; Bickermann, Matthias

    2018-03-01

    We experimentally evaluated segregation of Cr, Ce and Al in bulk β-Ga2O3 single crystals grown by the Czochralski method, as well as the impact of these dopants on optical properties. The segregation of Cr and Ce and their incorporation into the β-Ga2O3 crystal structure strongly depends on O2 concentration in the growth atmosphere which has a noticeable impact on decomposition of Ga2O3 and Cr2O3, as well as on the charge state of Cr and Ce. Effective segregation coefficients for Cr are in the range of 3.1-1.5 at 7-24 vol% O2, while for Ce they are roughly below 0.01 at 1.5-34 vol% O2. The effective segregation coefficient for Al is 1.1 at 1.5-21 vol% O2. Both dopants Ce and Al have a thermodynamically stabilizing effect on β-Ga2O3 crystal growth by supressing decomposition. While Ce has no impact on the optical transmittance in the ultraviolet and visible regions, in Cr doped crystals we observe three absorption bands due to Cr3+ on octahedral Ga sites, one in the ultraviolet merging with the band edge absorption of β-Ga2O3 and two in the visible spectrum, for which we estimate the absorption cross sections. Al doping also does not induce dopant related absorption bands but clearly shifts the absorption edge as one expects for a solid-solution crystal Ga2(1-x)Al2xO3 still in the monoclinic phase. For the highest doping concentration (Ga1.9Al0.1O3) we estimate an increase of the energy gap by 0.11 eV.

  11. Toxic effect of Cr(VI) in presence of n-TiO2 and n-Al2O3 particles towards freshwater microalgae.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Dalai, Swayamprava; Pakrashi, Sunandan; Bhuvaneshwari, M; Iswarya, V; Chandrasekaran, N; Mukherjee, Amitava

    2014-01-01

    The reactivity and toxicity of the soluble toxicants in the presence of the engineered nanomaterials is not well explored. In this study, the probable effects of TiO2 and Al2O3 nanoparticles (n-TiO2, n-Al2O3) on the toxicity of Cr(VI) were assessed with the dominant freshwater algae, Scenedesmus obliquus, in a low range of exposure concentrations (0.05, 0.5 and 1μg/mL). In the presence of 0.05μg/mL n-TiO2, the toxicity of Cr(VI) decreased considerably, which was presumably due to the Cr(VI) adsorption on the nanoparticle surface leading to its aggregation and precipitation. The elevated n-TiO2 concentrations (0.5 and 1μg/mL) did not significantly influence Cr(VI) bio-availability, and a dose dependent toxicity of Cr(VI) was observed. On the other hand, n-Al2O3 did not have any significant effect on the Cr(VI) toxicity. The microscopic observations presented additional information on the morphological changes of the algal cells in the presence of the binary toxicants. The generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) suggested contribution of oxidative stress on toxicity and LDH release confirmed membrane permeability of algal cells upon stress. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Modification the Oxalic Co-precipitation Method on a Novel Catalyst Cu/Zn/Al2O3/Cr2O3 for Autothermal Reforming Reaction of Methanol

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Cheng- Hsin Kuo

    2013-12-01

    Full Text Available This study addresses the catalytic performance of Cu/ZnO/Al2O3/Cr2O3 in low-temperature of autothermal reforming (ATR reaction. Various operating conditions were used to decide the optimum reaction conditions: type of promoter (ZrO2, CeO2, and Cr2O3, precipitation temperature, precipitation pH, operation temperature, molar ratio of O2/CH3OH (O/C, and weight hourly space velocity (WHSV. The catalysts were prepared using the oxalic coprecipitation method. Characterization of the catalyst was conducted using a porosity analyzer, XRD, and SEM. The methanol conversion and volumetric percentage of hydrogen using the best catalyst (Cu/ZnO/Al2O3/Cr2O3 exceeded 93% and 43%, respectively. A catalyst prepared by precipitation at -5 oC and at pH of 1 converted methanol to 40% H2 and less than 3000 ppm CO at reaction temperature of 200 oC. The size and dispersion of copper and the degradation rate and turnover frequency of the catalyst was also calculated. Deactivation of the Cu catalyst at a reaction temperature of 200 oC occurred after 30 h. © 2013 BCREC UNDIP. All rights reservedReceived: 8th May 2013; Revised: 10th August 2013; Accepted: 18th August 2013[How to Cite: Cheng, H.K., Lesmana, D., Wu, H.S. (2013. Modification the Oxalic Co-precipitation Method on a Novel Catalyst Cu/Zn/Al2O3/Cr2O3 for Autothermal Reforming Reaction of Methanol. Bulletin of Chemical Reaction Engineering & Catalysis, 8 (2: 110-124. (doi:10.9767/bcrec.8.2.4844.110-124][Permalink/DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.9767/bcrec.8.2.4844.110-124

  13. InAs nanocrystals on SiO2/Si by molecular beam epitaxy for memory applications

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Hocevar, Moiera; Regreny, Philippe; Descamps, Armel; Albertini, David; Saint-Girons, Guillaume; Souifi, Abdelkader; Gendry, Michel; Patriarche, Gilles

    2007-01-01

    We studied a memory structure based on InAs nanocrystals grown by molecular beam epitaxy directly on thermal SiO 2 on silicon. Both nanocrystal diameter and density can be controlled by growth parameters. Transmission electron microscopy analysis shows high crystallinity and low size dispersion. In an electrical test structure with a 3.5 nm tunnel oxide, we observed that 80% of the initial injected electrons remain stored in the InAs nanocrystals after 3 months and that the retention time for electrons in InAs nanocrystals is four orders of magnitude higher than in silicon nanocrystals

  14. NaGd(MoO4)2 nanocrystals with diverse morphologies: controlled synthesis, growth mechanism, photoluminescence and thermometric properties.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Anming; Xu, Dekang; Lin, Hao; Yang, Shenghong; Shao, Yuanzhi; Zhang, Yueli

    2016-08-10

    Pure tetragonal phase, uniform and well-crystallized sodium gadolinium molybdate (NaGd(MoO4)2) nanocrystals with diverse morphologies, e.g. nanocylinders, nanocubes and square nanoplates have been selectively synthesized via oleic acid-mediated hydrothermal method. The phase, structure, morphology and composition of the as-synthesized products are studied. Contents of both sodium molybdate and oleic acid of the precursor solutions are found to affect the morphologies of the products significantly, and oleic acid plays a key role in the morphology-controlled synthesis of NaGd(MoO4)2 nanocrystals with diverse morphologies. Growth mechanism of NaGd(MoO4)2 nanocrystals is proposed based on time-dependent morphology evolution and X-ray diffraction analysis. Morphology-dependent down-shifting photoluminescence properties of NaGd(MoO4)2: Eu(3+) nanocrystals, and upconversion photoluminescence properties of NaGd(MoO4)2: Yb(3+)/Er(3+) and Yb(3+)/Tm(3+) nanoplates are investigated in detail. Charge transfer band in the down-shifting excitation spectra shows a slight blue-shift, and the luminescence intensities and lifetimes of Eu(3+) are decreased gradually with the morphology of the nanocrystals varying from nanocubes to thin square nanoplates. Upconversion energy transfer mechanisms of NaGd(MoO4)2: Yb(3+)/Er(3+), Yb(3+)/Tm(3+) nanoplates are proposed based on the energy level scheme and power dependence of upconversion emissions. Thermometric properties of NaGd(MoO4)2: Yb(3+)/Er(3+) nanoplates are investigated, and the maximum sensitivity is determined to be 0.01333 K(-1) at 285 K.

  15. Optical investigation of Tb3+-doped Y2O3 nanocrystals prepared by Pechini-type sol–gel process

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Back, M.; Massari, A.; Boffelli, M.; Gonella, F.; Riello, P.; Cristofori, D.; Riccò, R.; Enrichi, F.

    2012-01-01

    We report an optical study of Tb 3+ -doped Y 2 O 3 nanocrystals synthesized by Pechini-type sol–gel method. The particles are investigated in terms of size and morphology by means of X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy analysis. It is shown how the simple Pechini method allows for the growth of monocrystalline nanoparticles with a volume-weighted average size of about 30 nm. The optical properties of Tb 3+ in the host lattice are studied in terms of PL, PLE, and lifetimes. Moreover, a correlation between the type of decay curves, the emission and excitation bands' shapes, and the site location of the emitting Tb 3+ in the host material Y 2 O 3 is proposed.

  16. Pengaruh jumlah Cr2O3 terhadap kelemasan kulit atasan sepatu dari kulit biawak finish natural

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Mochtar Lutfie

    1996-12-01

    Full Text Available The study is aimed at detecting the amount of Cr2O3 in percent added in the tanning of lizard skins for natural finished shoe upper leather. The materials used in this study are 36 pieces of dry preservated lizard skins which are tanned to natural finished shoe upper leather, while the tanning agent used are Cr2O3 that added in veried amount as 0,5 %; 1,0 %; 1,5 % and 15 % Basyntan DLX. Using varian’s analysis, it is found that there is a significant difference in the softness of the leather caused by the amount of Cr2O3 added. The use of 1,5% Cr2O3 obviously shows the best result.

  17. Fingerprints of surface magnetism in Cr2O3 based exchange bias heterostructures

    Science.gov (United States)

    He, Xi; Wang, Yi; Binek, Ch.

    2009-03-01

    Magnetoelectric materials experienced a recent revival as promising components of novel spintronic devices [1, 2, 3]. Since the magnetoelectric (ME) effect is relativistically small in traditional antiferromagnetic (AF) compounds like Cr2O3 (max. αzz 4ps/m) and also cross-coupling between ferroic order parameters is typically small in the modern multiferroics, it is a challenge to electrically induce sufficient magnetization required for the envisioned device applications. In exchange bias systems the bias field depends critically on the AF interface magnetization. Hence, a strong relation between the latter and the surface magnetization of the free Cr2O3 pinning layer can be expected. Our recent research indicates that there are surface magnetic phase transitions in free Cr2O3 (111) films accompanying surface structural phase transitions. Well defined AF interface magnetization is initialized through ME annealing to T=20K. Subsequently, the interface magnetization is thermally driven through phase transitions at T=120 and 210K. Their effects on the exchange bias are studied in Cr2O3 (111)/CoPt films with the help of polar Kerr and SQUID magnetometry. [1] P. Borisov et al. Phys. Rev. Lett. 94, 117203 (2005). [2] Ch. Binek, B.Doudin, J. Phys. Condens. Matter 17, L39 (2005). [3] R. Ramesh et al. 2007 Nature Materials 6 21. Financial support by NSF through Career DMR-0547887, MRSEC DMR-0820521 and the NRI.

  18. Highly stable colloidal TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals with strong violet-blue emission

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ghamsari, Morteza Sasani, E-mail: msghamsari@yahoo.com [Laser & Optics Research School, NSTRI, 11155-3486 Tehran (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Gaeeni, Mohammad Reza [Laser & Optics Research School, NSTRI, 11155-3486 Tehran (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Han, Wooje; Park, Hyung-Ho [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-749 (Korea, Republic of)

    2016-10-15

    Improved sol–gel method has been applied to prepare highly stable colloidal TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals. The synthesized titania nanocrystals exhibit strong emission in the violet-blue wavelength region. Very long evolution time was obtained by preventing the sol to gel conversion with reflux process. FTIR, XRD, UV–vis absorption, photoluminescence and high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) were used to study the optical properties, crystalline phase, morphology, shape and size of prepared TiO{sub 2} colloidal nanocrystals. HRTEM showed that the diameter of TiO{sub 2} colloidal nanocrystals is about 5 nm. Although the PL spectra show similar spectral features upon excitation wavelengths at 280, 300 and 350 nm, but their emission intensities are significantly different from each other. Photoluminescence quantum yield for TiO{sub 2} colloidal nanocrystals is estimated to be 49% with 280 nm excitation wavelength which is in agreement and better than reported before. Obtained results confirm that the prepared colloidal TiO{sub 2} sample has enough potential for optoelectronics applications.

  19. In-situ synchrotron PXRD study of spinel LiMn2O4 nanocrystal formation

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Birgisson, Steinar; Jensen, Kirsten Marie Ørnsbjerg; Christiansen, Troels Lindahl

    Many solvothermal reactions have a great potential for environmentally friendly and easily scalable way for producing nanocrystalline materials on an industrial scale. Here we study hydrothermal formation of spinel LiMn2O4 which is a well-known cathode material for Li-ion batteries. The LiMn2O4...... nanoparticles are formed by reducing KMnO4 in an aqueous solution containing Li-ions. The reducing agent is an alcohol (here ethanol) and the reaction takes place under high pressure and temperature. The LiMn2O4 nanocrystals are unstable towards further reduction to Mn3O4 nanocrystals. Possible reaction route...

  20. Novel Preparation of Nano-Composite CuO-Cr2O3 Using Ctab-Template Method and Efficient for Hydrogenation of Biomass-Derived Furfural

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yan, Kai; Wu, Xu; An, Xia; Xie, Xianmei

    2013-02-01

    A simple route to fabricate nano-composite oxides CuO-Cr2O3 using hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)-templated Cu-Cr hydrotalcite as the precursor is presented. This novel method is based on CTAB-templating effect for mesostructure directing and using the cheap metal nitrate, followed by removal of CTAB. It was indicated that the nano-composite CuO-Cr2O3 was formed during the removal of CTAB. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transitional electronic microscopy (TEM) revealed nice nano-composite oxides CuO-Cr2O3 were formed with high crystallinity. N2 adsorption and desorption indicated that a high surface area of 170.5 m2/g with a pore size of 2.7 nm of the nano-composite CuO-Cr2O3 was facilely resulted. The as-synthesized nano-composite oxides CuO-Cr2O3 display good catalytic activities for hydrogenation of furfural to furfuryl alcohol, whereas 86% selectivity was achieved at 75% conversion of furfural.

  1. Effect of Si implantation on the microstructure of silicon nanocrystals and surrounding SiO2 layer

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ross, G.G.; Smirani, R.; Levitcharsky, V.; Wang, Y.Q.; Veilleux, G.; Saint-Jacques, R.G.

    2005-01-01

    Si nanocrystals (Si-nc) embedded in a SiO 2 layer have been characterized by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). For local Si concentration in excess 8 x 10 21 Si + /cm 3 , the size of the Si-nc was found to be ∼3 nm and comparatively homogeneous throughout the whole implanted layer. For local Si concentration in excess of ∼2.4 x 10 22 Si + /cm 3 , the Si-nc diameter ranges from ∼2 to ∼12 nm in the sample, the Si-nc in the middle region of the implanted layer being bigger than those near the surface and the bottom of the layer. Also, Si-nc are visible deeper than the implanted depth. Characterization by XPS shows that a large quantity of oxygen was depleted from the first ∼25 nm in this sample (also visible on TEM image) and most of the SiO 2 bonds have been replaced by Si-O bonds. Experimental and simulation results suggest that a local Si concentration in excess of ∼3 x 10 21 Si/cm 3 is required for the production of Si-nc

  2. Colour due to Cr3+ ions in oxides: a study of the model system MgO:Cr3+

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Aramburu, J A; García-Fernández, P; Moreno, M; García-Lastra, J M; Barriuso, M T

    2013-01-01

    Seeking to understand why the cubic centre in MgO:Cr 3+ has the same 10Dq value as emerald, ab initio cluster and periodic supercell calculations have been performed. It is found that the equilibrium Cr 3+ –O 2− distance, R, in MgO:Cr 3+ is equal to 2.03 Å and thus 0.06 Å higher than that measured for the emerald. Calculations carried out on the isolated CrO 6 9- complex at R = 2.03 Å give 10Dq = 14 510 cm −1 , which is 10% smaller than the experimental figure for MgO:Cr 3+ . Nevertheless, when the internal electric field, E R (r), due to the rest of the lattice ions is also taken into account, the calculated 10Dq = 16 210 cm −1 coincides with the experimental value. Accordingly, the colour shift for different oxides doped with Cr 3+ can be well understood on the basis of this extrinsic contribution to 10Dq usually ignored in a ligand field description. The calculated electrostatic potential, V R (r), related to E R (r), is found to be attractive when the electronic density is lying along 〈110〉 directions and |r| > 1 Å driven by the first shell of twelve Mg 2+ ions. The action of V R (r) upon the CrO 6 9- complex slightly decreases the energy of t 2g (xy,xz,yz) orbitals with respect to that for e g (3z 2 − r 2 ,x 2 − y 2 ) orbitals, thus enhancing the 10Dq value by 0.2 eV. However, the addition of V R (r) induces very small changes in the electronic density, a relevant fact that is related to the 2 E( 2g 3 ) → 4 A 2 (t 2g 3 ) emission energy being nearly independent of the host lattice along the series of Cr 3+ -doped oxides. (paper)

  3. Ferromagnetic glass ceramics and glass fibers based on the composition of SiO{sub 2}-CaO-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-B{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} glass system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liu, Jianan, E-mail: lja@qlu.edu.cn; Zhu, Chaofeng; Zhang, Meimei; Zhang, Yanfei; Yang, Xuena

    2017-03-15

    Ferromagnetic glass-ceramics and glass fibers were obtained by the melt-method from the glass system SiO{sub 2}-CaO-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-B{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} without performing any nucleation and crystallization heat treatments. Glass-ceramics and glass fibers were characterized by x-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, magnetic measurements, and thermal expansion instrument. The influence of alumina content on the spontaneous crystallization of magnetite, magnetism properties and thermal expansion performances in glass were investigated. We examined the crystallization behavior of the glasses and found that the spontaneous crystallization capacity of magnetite and magnetism properties in base glass increases with increasing the content of alumina. The ferromagnetic glass fibers containing magnetite nano-crystals are also obtained. - Highlights: • Magnetite nano-crystals are formed spontaneously in the investigated glass systems. • The crystallization behavior of the glasses with the alumina content is examined. • Ferromagnetic glass fibers containing magnetite nano-crystals are obtained.

  4. In situ Raman spectroscopy of phase transformation in CrOx-Y2O3 system at elevated temperatures

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xing Liqiong; Lu Jiqing; Bi Qingyuan; Pu Zhiying; Guo Ming; Wang Yuejuan; Luo Mengfei

    2010-01-01

    A CrO x -Y 2 O 3 sample was prepared by a deposition-precipitation method and phase transformation of the sample under N 2 and air atmospheres was characterized by in situ Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. It was found that when the CrO x -Y 2 O 3 sample was heated, CrO 3 transformed to YCrO 4 and then to YCrO 3 and Cr 2 O 3 . Also, the transformation started from the surface region of the sample and then extended to the bulk, due to the fact that the phase transformation was detected by Raman spectroscopy at lower temperature compared to that by XRD. In addition, both atmosphere and temperature had influence on the phase transformation in the surface region, while the phase transformation in the bulk was merely dependent on the temperature. It was also found that low oxidation state Cr(III) species on the surface could be re-oxidized to high oxidation state Cr(V) or Cr(VI) species when the thermal treated sample was exposed to ambient air.

  5. Dopant concentration dependent magnetism of Cu-doped TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Anitha, B.; Khadar, M. Abdul, E-mail: mabdulkhadar@rediffmail.com [University of Kerala, Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (India)

    2016-06-15

    Undoped and Cu-doped nanocrystals of TiO{sub 2} having the size range of 8–11 nm were synthesized by peroxide gel method. XRD analysis using Rietveld refinement confirmed anatase phase with a small percentage of rutile content for undoped TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals while a pure anatase phase with preferential growth along [004] direction was observed for nanocrystals of Cu-doped TiO{sub 2}. Variation in the intensity ratios of the XRD peaks of the doped samples compared to that of the undoped sample offered an evidence for the substitutional incorporation of Cu ions in the TiO{sub 2} lattice. The preferential growth of the nanocrystals along the [004] direction was verified using HRTEM analysis. Cu doping extended the optical absorption edge of TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals to the visible spectral region and caused a blue shift and broadening of the E{sub g} (1) Raman active mode of anatase TiO{sub 2}. Undoped TiO{sub 2} sample showed a weak ferromagnetism superimposed on a diamagnetic background while Cu-doped TiO{sub 2} samples exhibited a weak ferromagnetism in the low-field region with a paramagnetic component in the high-field region. The magnetic moment exhibited by the doped samples is interpreted as the resultant of a weak ferromagnetic moment in the low-field region arising from the presence of defects near the surface of TiO{sub 2} nanoparticles or from the interaction of the substituted Cu ions with the oxygen vacancies, and the paramagnetic contribution from the increased Cu dopant concentration near the surface of the particles arising from self-purification mechanism.

  6. Elucidation of the enhanced ferromagnetic origin in Mn-doped ZnO nanocrystals embedded into a SiO₂ matrix

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lee, Sejoon; Lee, Youngmin; Kim, Deukyoung [Dongguk University, Seoul (Korea, Republic of)

    2013-01-01

    The origin of the enhanced room temperature ferromagnetism in Mn-doped ZnO (ZnO:Mn) nanocrystals is investigated. ZnO:Mn nanocrystals, which were fabricated by using a laser irradiation method with a 248-nm KrF excimer laser, exhibited two-times increase in the spontaneous magnetization (∼0.4 emu/cm³ at 300 K) compared to the ZnO:Mn thin film (∼0.2 emu/cm³ at 300 K). The increased exchange integral of J₁/k{sub B} = 51.6 K in ZnO:Mn nanocrystals, in comparison with the ZnO:Mn thin film (J₁/k{sub B} = 46.9 K), is indicative of the enhanced ferromagnetic exchange interaction. This is attributed to the large number of acceptor defects in the SiO₂-capped ZnO:Mn nanocrystals. Namely, the holes bound to the acceptor defects form microscopic bound-magnetic-polarons with Mn ions; hence, long-range ferromagnetic coupling is enhanced. The results suggest that ferromagnetism in ZnO-based dilute magnetic semiconductors can be controlled by modulating the density of native point defects, which can be chemically and thermodynamically modified during the material synthesis or preparation.

  7. Microstructure and Properties of Plasma-Sprayed Mixture of Cr2O3 and TiO2

    Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

    Ctibor, Pavel; Píš, I.; Kotlan, J.; Pala, Zdeněk; Štengl, Václav; Homola, P.

    2013-01-01

    Roč. 22, č. 7 (2013), s. 1163-1169 ISSN 1059-9630 Institutional support: RVO:61389021 ; RVO:61388980 Keywords : bandgap * Cr2O3 * photocatalysis * resistivity * spectroscopy * TiO2 Subject RIV: BL - Plasma and Gas Discharge Physics; CA - Inorganic Chemistry (UACH-T) Impact factor: 1.491, year: 2013 http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs11666-013-9969-9

  8. Lithium Insertion in LiCr3O8, NaCr3O8, and KCr3O8 at Room Temperature and at 125°C

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Koksbang, R.; Fauteux, D.; Norby, P.

    1989-01-01

    Lithium insertion and deinsertion reactions have been carried out with LiCr3O8, NaCr3O8, and KCr3O8 chemically andelectrochemically at room temperature and at 125°C. The electrochemical experiments were performed with a nonaqueousliquid electrolyte at room temperature and with a polymer electroly...... is close to 4Li/NaCr3O8 and 1.3Li/KCr3O8.Lithium ion diffusion coefficients are similar for the two compounds in the comparable composition range.Thermally, the fully lithiated compounds appear to be as stable as the pristine materials.......Lithium insertion and deinsertion reactions have been carried out with LiCr3O8, NaCr3O8, and KCr3O8 chemically andelectrochemically at room temperature and at 125°C. The electrochemical experiments were performed with a nonaqueousliquid electrolyte at room temperature and with a polymer electrolyte....... At elevated temperatures, the isostructural compounds NaCr3O8 and KCr3O8 are able to accommodate morethan 4Li/MCr3O8. During this process, minor structural changes are observed. At room temperature, NaCr3O8 and KCr3O8also accommodate Li topotactically, but the maximum number of Li inserted per formula...

  9. Confinement and surface effects on the physical properties of rhombohedral-shape hematite (α-Fe_2O_3) nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Luna, Carlos; Cuan-Guerra, Aída D.; Barriga-Castro, Enrique D.; Núñez, Nuria O.; Mendoza-Reséndez, Raquel

    2016-01-01

    Highlights: • Uniform rhombohedral hematite nanocrystals (RHNCs) have been obtained. • A detailed formation mechanism of these HNCS has been proposed. • Phonon confinement effects were revealed in the RHNCS vibrational bands. • Quantum confinement effects on the optical and electronic properties were found. - Abstract: Morphological, microstructural and vibrational properties of hematite (α-Fe_2O_3) nanocrystals with a rhombohedral shape and rounded edges, obtained by forced hydrolysis of iron(III) solutions under a fast nucleation, have been investigated in detail as a function of aging time. These studies allowed us to propose a detailed formation mechanism and revealed that these nanocrystals are composed of four {104} side facets, two {110} faces at the edges of the long diagonal of the nanocrystals and two {−441} facets as the top and bottom faces. Also, the presence of nanoscopic pores and fissures was evidenced. The vibrational bands of such nanocrystals were shifted to lower frequencies in comparison with bulk hematite ones as the nanocrystal size was reduced due to phonon confinement effects. Also, the indirect and direct transition band gaps displayed interesting dependences on the aging time arising from quantum confinement and surface effects

  10. Selective detection of Fe2+ by combination of CePO4:Tb3+ nanocrystal-H2O2 hybrid system with synchronous fluorescence scan technique.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chen, Hongqi; Ren, Jicun

    2012-04-21

    A new method for quenching kinetic discrimination of Fe(2+) and Fe(3+), and sensitive detection of trace amount of Fe(2+) was developed by using synchronous fluorescence scan technique. The principle of this assay is based on the quenching kinetic discrimination of Fe(2+) and Fe(3+) in CePO(4):Tb(3+) nanocrytals-H(2)O(2) hybrid system and the Fenton reaction between Fe(2+) and H(2)O(2). Stable, water-soluble and well-dispersible CePO(4):Tb(3+) nanocrystals were synthesized in aqueous solutions, and characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron diffraction spectroscopy (EDS). We found that both Fe(2+) and Fe(3+) could quench the synchronous fluorescence of CePO(4):Tb(3+) nanocrytals-H(2)O(2) system, but their quenching kinetics velocities were quite different. In the presence of Fe(3+), the synchronous fluorescent intensity was unchanged after only one minute, but in the presence of Fe(2+), the synchronous fluorescent intensity decreased slowly until 28 min later. The Fenton reaction between Fe(2+) and H(2)O(2) resulted in hydroxyl radicals which effectively quenched the synchronous fluorescence of the CePO(4):Tb(3+) nanocrystals due to the oxidation of Ce(3+) into Ce(4+) by hydroxyl radicals. Under optimum conditions, the linear range for Fe(2+) is 3 nM-2 μM, and the limit of detection is 2.0 nM. The method was used to analyze water samples.

  11. Tuning the morphology, stability and photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanocrystal colloids by tungsten doping

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xu, Haiping; Liao, Jianhua; Yuan, Shuai; Zhao, Yin; Zhang, Meihong; Wang, Zhuyi; Shi, Liyi

    2014-01-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • W 6+ -doped TiO 2 nanocrystal colloids were prepared by hydrothermal methods. • The properties of TiO 2 nanocrystal colloids can be tuned by tungsten doping. • W 6+ -doped TiO 2 nanocrystal colloids show higher stability and dispersity. • W 6+ -doped TiO 2 nanocrystal colloids show higher photocatalytic activity. - Abstract: The effects of tungsten doping on the morphology, stability and photocatalytic activity of TiO 2 nanocrystal colloids were investigated. The nanostructure, chemical state of Ti, W, O, and the properties of tungsten doped TiO 2 samples were investigated carefully by TEM, XRD, XPS, UV–vis, PL and photocatalytic degradation experiments. And the structure–activity relationship was discussed according to the analysis and measurement results. The analysis results reveal that the morphology, zeta potential and photocatalytic activity of TiO 2 nanocrystals can be easily tuned by changing the tungsten doping concentration. The tungsten doped TiO 2 colloid combines the characters of high dispersity and high photocatalytic activity

  12. Facile hydrothermal synthesis of polyhedral Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanocrystals, influencing factors and application in the electrochemical detection of H{sub 2}O{sub 2}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yuan Kefeng [College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Anhui Key Laboratory of Functional Molecular Solids, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241000 (China); Ni Yonghong, E-mail: niyh@mail.ahnu.edu.cn [College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Anhui Key Laboratory of Functional Molecular Solids, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241000 (China); Zhang Li [College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Anhui Key Laboratory of Functional Molecular Solids, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu 241000 (China)

    2012-08-15

    Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} polyhedra had been successfully synthesized by a facile hydrothermal technology. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The as-obtained product exhibited the room-temperature ferrimagnetic property. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The final product could be prepared into an electrochemical sensor for the detection of H{sub 2}O{sub 2}. - Abstract: Polyhedral Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanocrystals have been successfully synthesized by a facile hydrothermal technique, employing FeSO{sub 4}{center_dot}7H{sub 2}O, N{sub 2}H{sub 4} and NH{sub 3}{center_dot}H{sub 2}O as the reactants without the assistance of any surfactant. The phase of the as-obtained Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} was characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and further proved by Rietveld refinement of XRD data. Energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used for the composition and morphology analyses of the final product. Some factors influencing the formation of polyhedral Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} nanocrystals were systematically investigated, including the reaction temperature and time, and the original volume ratio of NH{sub 3}{center_dot}H{sub 2}O/N{sub 2}H{sub 4}{center_dot}H{sub 2}O. It was found that the as-prepared Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} polyhedra exhibited a good electrochemical property in 0.1 M phosphate buffer solution (PBS) with pH 7.0 and could be prepared into an electrochemical sensor for the detection of H{sub 2}O{sub 2}. The linear response range of the sensor was 10.0 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup -6} to 140.0 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup -6} M and a sensitivity was 11.05 {mu}A/mM. Furthermore, the room-temperature magnetic property of the product was also investigated.

  13. Luminescence and energy transfer mechanism in Eu{sup 3+}/Tb{sup 3+}-co-doped ZrO{sub 2} nanocrystal rods

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ahemen, I., E-mail: ahemior@gmail.com; Dejene, F. B. [University of the Free State-QwaQwa Campus, Department of Physics (South Africa)

    2017-01-15

    Nanocrystal rods of Eu{sup 3+}/Tb{sup 3+}-co-doped ZrO{sub 2} were synthesized using a simple chemical precipitation technique. Both ions were successfully doped into the Zr{sup 4+} ion site in a mixed structure containing both monoclinic and tetragonal phases. The Eu{sup 3+} or Tb{sup 3+} singly doped zirconia produced red and green luminescence which are characteristics of Eu{sup 3+} and Tb{sup 3+} ions, respectively. The co-doped zirconia samples produced blue emission from defect states transitions in the host ZrO{sub 2}, red and green luminescence from dopant ions giving cool to warm white light emissions. The phosphors were efficiently excited by ultraviolet and near-ultraviolet/blue radiations giving white and red light, respectively. The decay lifetime was found to increase with increasing donor ion concentration contrary to conventional observations reported by previous researchers. Weak quadrupole–quatdrupole multipolar process was responsible for energy transfer from Tb{sup 3+} (donor) ion to Eu{sup 3+} ion. No energy back-transfer from Eu{sup 3+} to Tb{sup 3+} ion was observed from the excitation spectra. Temperature-dependent photoluminescence shows the presence of defects at low temperature, but these defects vanished at room temperature and beyond. The Eu{sup 3+}/Tb{sup 3+}-co-doped ZrO{sub 2} nanocrystal rod is a potential phosphor for white light application using UV as an excitation source. Thermoluminescence measurements show that the inclusion of Tb{sup 3+} ion increases trap depths in the host zirconia.

  14. Dominant ultraviolet-blue photoluminescence of ZnO embedded into synthetic opal

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Abrarov, S.M.; Yuldashev, Sh.U.; Kim, T.W.; Lee, S.B.; Kwon, H.Y.; Kang, T.W.

    2005-01-01

    The temperature-dependent photoluminescence (PL) characteristics of zinc oxide (ZnO) embedded into the voids of synthetic opal were studied. ZnO was infiltrated into opal from aqueous solution with zinc nitrate precursor followed by thermal annealing. The PL spectra of the ZnO powder exhibit very high and broad emission peaks in the green region due to crystal defects, such as oxygen vacancies and zinc ion interstitials. In contrast to the PL spectra of ZnO powder, nanocrystals of ZnO embedded into the voids of FCC packed opal matrix exhibit dominant ultraviolet (UV)-blue and rapidly decreasing green PL emissions with decreasing temperature. The temperature-dependent PL characteristics show that the green band suppression in the ZnO nanocrystals is due to the influence of photonic crystal. The infiltration of nanoparticles into synthetic opal may be used for the fabrication of polycrystalline ZnO with dominant UV-blue PL. These results indicate that the luminescent materials embedded into photonic crystal may be promising for the fabrication of the RGB pixels in full-color displays

  15. Structural, optical and ferromagnetic properties of Cr doped TiO2 nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Choudhury, Biswajit; Choudhury, Amarjyoti

    2013-01-01

    Graphical abstract: Doping of Cr 3+ distorts the lattice of TiO 2 , generate oxygen vacancies and create d-band states in the mid band gap of TiO 2 . Incorporation of Cr 3+ also imparts magnetism in non-magnetic TiO 2 by undergoing coupling with the neighboring oxygen vacancies. -- Highlights: • Incorporation of Cr 3+ increases the concentration of oxygen vacancies in TiO 2 nanoparticles. • Doped TiO 2 nanoparticles contain absorption peaks corresponding to d–d transition of Cr 3+ into TiO 2 . • Pure and doped TiO 2 nanoparticles contain emission peaks related to oxygen vacancies. • Pure TiO 2 shows diamagnetism while Cr doped TiO 2 shows ferromagnetism. • The ferromagnetism is due to the interaction of Cr 3+ ions via oxygen vacancies. -- Abstract: Cr doped TiO 2 nanoparticles are prepared with three different concentrations of chromium, 1.5%, 3.0% and 4.5 mol% respectively. Doping decreases the crystallinity and increases the width of the X-ray diffraction peak. The Raman active E g peak of TiO 2 nanoparticles become asymmetric and shifted to higher energy on doping of 4.5% chromium. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectra reveal the presence of Cr 3+ in the host TiO 2 matrix. The absorption spectra of Cr doped TiO 2 nanoparticles contain absorption peaks corresponding to d–d transition of Cr 3+ in octahedral coordination. Most of the visible emission peaks are due to the electrons trapped in the oxygen vacancy centers. Undoped TiO 2 nanoparticles show diamagnetism at room temperature while all chromium doped samples show ferromagnetism. The magnetization of the doped samples increases at 1.5% and 3.0% and decreases at 4.5%. The ferromagnetism arises owing to the interaction of the neighboring Cr 3+ ions via oxygen vacancies. The decrease of magnetization at the highest doping is possibly due to the antiferromagnetic interactions of Cr 3+ pairs or due to Cr 3+ -O 2− -Cr 3+ superexchange interaction in the lattice

  16. Phase relations in the systems M2MoO4-Cr2(MoO4)3-Zr(MoO4)2 (M=Li, Na, or Rb)

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bazarov, B.G.; Chimitova, O.D.; Bazarova, Ts.T.; Arkhincheeva, S.I.; Bazarova, Zh.G.

    2008-01-01

    Phase equilibria in the systems M 2 MoO 4 -Cr 2 (MoO 4 ) 3 -Zr(MoO 4 ) 2 (M=Li, Na, or Rb) were investigated by X-ray powder diffraction analysis, DTA, and IR spectroscopy. The subsolidus structure of the phase diagrams of the systems under study was established. Two phases are formed in the Rb 2 MoO 4 -Cr 2 (MoO 4 ) 3 -Zr(MoO 4 ) 2 system with the molar ratios of the starting components equal to 5:1:1 (S 2 ) and 1:1:1 (S 1 ). Proceeding from isostructural character of Rb 5 FeHf(MoO 4 ) 6 and S 2 , the unit cell parameters are determined for S 2 [ru

  17. Pulsed ion-beam induced nucleation and growth of Ge nanocrystals on SiO2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Stepina, N. P.; Dvurechenskii, A. V.; Armbrister, V. A.; Kesler, V. G.; Novikov, P. L.; Gutakovskii, A. K.; Kirienko, V. V.; Smagina, Zh. V.; Groetzschel, R.

    2007-01-01

    Pulsed low-energy (200 eV) ion-beam induced nucleation during Ge deposition on thin SiO 2 film was used to form dense homogeneous arrays of Ge nanocrystals. The ion-beam action is shown to stimulate the nucleation of Ge nanocrystals when being applied after thin Ge layer deposition. Temperature and flux variation was used to optimize the nanocrystal size and array density required for memory device. Kinetic Monte Carlo simulation shows that ion impacts open an additional channel of atom displacement from a nanocrystal onto SiO 2 surface. This results both in a decrease in the average nanocrystal size and in an increase in nanocrystal density

  18. Energy Transfer between Conjugated Colloidal Ga2O3 and CdSe/CdS Core/Shell Nanocrystals for White Light Emitting Applications

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Paul C. Stanish

    2016-02-01

    Full Text Available Developing solid state materials capable of generating homogeneous white light in an energy efficient and resource-sustainable way is central to the design of new and improved devices for various lighting applications. Most currently-used phosphors depend on strategically important rare earth elements, and rely on a multicomponent approach, which produces sub-optimal quality white light. Here, we report the design and preparation of a colloidal white-light emitting nanocrystal conjugate. This conjugate is obtained by linking colloidal Ga2O3 and II–VI nanocrystals in the solution phase with a short bifunctional organic molecule (thioglycolic acid. The two types of nanocrystals are electronically coupled by Förster resonance energy transfer owing to the short separation between Ga2O3 (energy donor and core/shell CdSe/CdS (energy acceptor nanocrystals, and the spectral overlap between the photoluminescence of the donor and the absorption of the acceptor. Using steady state and time-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopies, we quantified the contribution of the energy transfer to the photoluminescence spectral power distribution and the corresponding chromaticity of this nanocrystal conjugate. Quantitative understanding of this new system allows for tuning of the emission color and the design of quasi-single white light emitting inorganic phosphors without the use of rare-earth elements.

  19. Energy Transfer between Conjugated Colloidal Ga2O3 and CdSe/CdS Core/Shell Nanocrystals for White Light Emitting Applications

    Science.gov (United States)

    Stanish, Paul C.; Radovanovic, Pavle V.

    2016-01-01

    Developing solid state materials capable of generating homogeneous white light in an energy efficient and resource-sustainable way is central to the design of new and improved devices for various lighting applications. Most currently-used phosphors depend on strategically important rare earth elements, and rely on a multicomponent approach, which produces sub-optimal quality white light. Here, we report the design and preparation of a colloidal white-light emitting nanocrystal conjugate. This conjugate is obtained by linking colloidal Ga2O3 and II–VI nanocrystals in the solution phase with a short bifunctional organic molecule (thioglycolic acid). The two types of nanocrystals are electronically coupled by Förster resonance energy transfer owing to the short separation between Ga2O3 (energy donor) and core/shell CdSe/CdS (energy acceptor) nanocrystals, and the spectral overlap between the photoluminescence of the donor and the absorption of the acceptor. Using steady state and time-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopies, we quantified the contribution of the energy transfer to the photoluminescence spectral power distribution and the corresponding chromaticity of this nanocrystal conjugate. Quantitative understanding of this new system allows for tuning of the emission color and the design of quasi-single white light emitting inorganic phosphors without the use of rare-earth elements. PMID:28344289

  20. Ultra-small Fe3O4 nanocrystals decorated on 2D graphene nanosheets with excellent cycling stability as anode materials for lithium ion batteries

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ren, Manman; Yang, Mingzhi; Liu, Weiliang; Li, Mei; Su, Liwei; Qiao, Congde; Wu, Xianbin; Ma, Houyi

    2016-01-01

    Graphical abstract: Ultra-small Fe 3 O 4 nanocrystals decorated on 2D graphene nanosheets with excellent cycling stability as anode materials for lithium ion batteries Manman Ren, Mingzhi Yang, Weiliang Liu, Mei Li, Liwei Su, Congde Qiao, Xianbin Wu, Houyi Ma Ultra-small Fe 3 O 4 nanocrystals/graphene nanosheets composites demonstrate excellent long-term cycling stability at high-rate. - Abstract: Ultra-small Fe 3 O 4 nanocrystals (NCs)/garphene nanosheets (GNSs) composites have been synthesized through a facile gel-like film (GF) assisted method in this work. Fe 3 O 4 NCs with particle size ∼10 nm homogeneously dispersed on 2D GNSs. Profiting from the ultra-small Fe 3 O 4 NCs and GNSs, the composites demonstrate superior long-term and high-rate performance as anode materials for lithium ion batteries. Even at the current density of 5 A g −1 , the reversible capacity still maintains 323.4 mAh g −1 after 700 cycles. This work might enlighten us on exploring preferable strategies to develop advanced metal oxides NCs/GNSs composites anode materials for lithium ion batteries or other energy storage devices.

  1. Facile route for synthesis of mesoporous Cr2O3 sheet as anode materials for Li-ion batteries

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Cao, Zhiqin; Qin, Mingli; Jia, Baorui; Zhang, Lin; Wan, Qi; Wang, Mingshan; Volinsky, Alex A.; Qu, Xuanhui

    2014-01-01

    Mesoporous Cr 2 O 3 with a high specific surface area of 162 m 2 g −1 is prepared by the solution combustion method. The mesoporous Cr 2 O 3 has a sheet structure, which consists of nanoparticles with an average size of 20 nm. As an anode electrode material for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, the mesoporous Cr 2 O 3 nanoparticles display enhanced electrochemical performance. Stable and reversible capacity of 480 mA h g −1 after 55 cycles is demonstrated. The enhanced electrochemical performance of the Cr 2 O 3 can be attributed to the high surface area and morphological characteristics of mesoporous materials

  2. IN-SITU SYNCHROTRON PXRD STUDY OF SPINEL TYPE LiMn2O4 NANOCRYSTAL FORMATION

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Birgisson, Steinar; Jensen, Kirsten Marie Ørnsbjerg; Christiansen, Troels Lindahl

    Many solvothermal reactions have a great potential for environmentally friendly and easily scalable way for producing nanocrystalline materials on an industrial scale. Here we study hydrothermal formation of spinel LiMn2O4 which is a well-known cathode material for Li-ion batteries. The LiMn2O4...... nanoparticles are formed by reducing KMnO4 in an aqueous solution containing Li-ions. The reducing agent is an alcohol (here ethanol) and the reaction takes place under high pressure and temperature. The LiMn2O4 nanocrystals are unstable towards further reduction to Mn3O4 nanocrystals. Proposed reaction route...

  3. Pengaruh jumlah air terhadap jumlah serapan Cr2O3 pada proses penyamakan krom kulit kambing

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Emiliana Kasmudjiastuti

    2008-12-01

    Full Text Available The objective of the research was to study the effect of number of water of Cr2O3 absorbtion in chrome tanning for goat skin and to reduce utilization of water and chrome waste and to optimize function of Cr2O3. Waste water of pickle were used in variation of 20, 40, 60% respectively and control was also mode as comparation. Twenty pieces of green salted goat skin were grouped and devided into four groups and every five pieces were treated five pieces. The applications parameters of quality were determined including Cr2O3 absorbtion, shrinkage temperature, tensile strength, elongation at break, stitch strength and tear strength. The results showed that the number of Cr2O3 absorb and shrinkage temperature in this research was significantly added water effected on tanning process. The pickle water of 40% performed optimal chrome tanning for goat skin in the amount of 3.13% Cr2O3 absorbtion ; 115.38 0C shrinkage temperature; 216.58 kg/cm2 tensile strength; 43.14% elongation at break; 64.77 kg/cm2 stitch strength; 27.46 kg/cm2 tear strength and all of quality parameters fulfill the requirements of Indonesian National Standard (SNI 06-117-1989 about Quality and Testing Method Goat Skin Glace.

  4. Current-voltage characteristics of SnO2-Co3O4-Cr2O3-Sb2O5 ceramics

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Aguilar-Martinez, J A; Glot, A B; Gaponov, A V; Hernandez, M B; Guerrero-Paz, J

    2009-01-01

    The effect of mechanical treatment in a planetary mill on the microstructure and electrical properties of tin dioxide based varistor ceramics in the system SnO 2 -Co 3 O 4 -Cr 2 O 3 -Sb 2 O 5 sintered in the range 1150-1450 0 C was studied. The mechanical treatment leads to an increase in shrinkage, decrease in porosity, decrease in sample diameter, change in colour of the sintered samples from grey to black and enhancement of nonlinearity. For the sample sintered at 1350 0 C the mechanical treatment enhances the nonlinearity coefficient from 11 to 31 and decreases the electric field E 1 (at 10 -3 A cm -2 ) from 3500 to 2800 V cm -1 . The observed changes in physical properties are explained in terms of an additional size reduction of oxide particles and a better mixing of oxide powder followed by the formation of potential barriers at the grain boundaries throughout the whole sample. In spite of the low porosity, the low-field electrical conductivity of mechanically treated ceramics is significantly increased with the growth of relative humidity. A higher humidity sensitivity is found for mechanically treated ceramics with higher barrier height and higher nonlinearity coefficient.

  5. An Experimental Study on the Shape Changes of TiO2 Nanocrystals Synthesized by Microemulsion-Solvothermal Method

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Wei Kong

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available Titanium dioxide (TiO2 nanocrystals of different shape were successfully synthesized in a new microemulsion system through a solvothermal process. The TiO2 nanocrystals were prepared from the reaction of tetrabutyl titanate (TBT, H2O, and oleic acid (OA, which were used as solvent and surfactant at 300∘C and 240∘C in a stainless steel autoclave. The sphere, polygon, and rhombus-shaped nanocrystals have been prepared at 300∘C and the dot- and- rod shaped nanocrystals have been synthesized at 240∘C. The effect of the reaction time on the shape and size of TiO2 nanocrystals in this method was studied in the present paper. The size distribution of TiO2 nanocrystals prepared at 300∘C for different hours is also studied. In addition, an attempt to describe the mechanism of shape change of TiO2 nanocrystals was presented in this paper.

  6. Pressure-jump in heterogeneous catalysis--2. Dehydrogenation of propane over a Cr/sub 2/O/sub 3/-Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/-K/sub 2/O catalyst

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Suzuki, Y; Kaneko, I

    1979-05-01

    Dehydrogenation of propane over a Cr/sub 2/O/sub 3/-Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/-K/sub 2/O catalyst confirmed the previously derived Langmuir-Hinshelwood type equation with a rate constant for the rate-determining step of 1.81 x 10/sup 11/ molecules/sec/sq cm. The experiments were performed by monitoring the transient pressure change in a 3 l. vessel after hydrogen was admitted to an equilibrated mixture of propane/propylene/hydrogen at 443/sup 0/C.

  7. Electrically programmable-erasable In-Ga-Zn-O thin-film transistor memory with atomic-layer-deposited Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/Pt nanocrystals/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} gate stack

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Qian, Shi-Bing; Zhang, Wen-Peng; Liu, Wen-Jun; Ding, Shi-Jin, E-mail: sjding@fudan.edu.cn [State Key Laboratory of ASIC and System, School of Microelectronics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433 (China)

    2015-12-15

    Amorphous indium-gallium-zinc oxide (a-IGZO) thin-film transistor (TFT) memory is very promising for transparent and flexible system-on-panel displays; however, electrical erasability has always been a severe challenge for this memory. In this article, we demonstrated successfully an electrically programmable-erasable memory with atomic-layer-deposited Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/Pt nanocrystals/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} gate stack under a maximal processing temperature of 300 {sup o}C. As the programming voltage was enhanced from 14 to 19 V for a constant pulse of 0.2 ms, the threshold voltage shift increased significantly from 0.89 to 4.67 V. When the programmed device was subjected to an appropriate pulse under negative gate bias, it could return to the original state with a superior erasing efficiency. The above phenomena could be attributed to Fowler-Nordheim tunnelling of electrons from the IGZO channel to the Pt nanocrystals during programming, and inverse tunnelling of the trapped electrons during erasing. In terms of 0.2-ms programming at 16 V and 350-ms erasing at −17 V, a large memory window of 3.03 V was achieved successfully. Furthermore, the memory exhibited stable repeated programming/erasing (P/E) characteristics and good data retention, i.e., for 2-ms programming at 14 V and 250-ms erasing at −14 V, a memory window of 2.08 V was still maintained after 10{sup 3} P/E cycles, and a memory window of 1.1 V was retained after 10{sup 5} s retention time.

  8. ZnO nanocrystals on SiO2/Si surfaces thermally cleaned in ultrahigh vacuum and characterized using spectroscopic photoemission and low energy electron microscopy

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ericsson, Leif K. E.; Magnusson, Kjell O.; Zakharov, Alexei A.

    2010-01-01

    Thermal cleaning in ultrahigh vacuum of ZnO nanocrystals distributed on SiO 2 /Si surfaces has been studied using spectroscopic photoemission and low energy electron microscopy (SPELEEM). This study thus concern weakly bound ZnO nanocrystals covering only 5%-10% of the substrate. Chemical properties, crystallinity, and distribution of nanocrystals are used to correlate images acquired with the different techniques showing excellent correspondence. The nanocrystals are shown to be clean enough after thermal cleaning at 650 deg. C to be imaged by LEEM and x-ray PEEM as well as chemically analyzed by site selective x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (μ-XPS). μ-XPS shows a sharp Zn 3d peak and resolve differences in O 1s states in oxides. The strong LEEM reflections together with the obtained chemical information indicates that the ZnO nanocrystals were thermally cleaned, but do not indicate any decomposition of the nanocrystals. μ-XPS was also used to determine the thickness of SiO 2 on Si. This article is the first to our knowledge where the versatile technique SPELEEM has been used to characterize ZnO nanocrystals.

  9. Pengaruh NiCrAlY, Ni/Cr2O3/CrxCy Sebagai Variasi Bond Coat Dengan Penambahan Lapisan Al2O3 dan YSZ Pada Inconel 625 Terhadap Struktur Mikro Lapisan Menggunakan Metode Flame Spraying

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Aprian Immanuel

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available Thermal Barrier Coating (TBC berfungsi untuk mengurangi temperatur substrat serta meningkatkan daya tahannya terhadap korosi dan oksidasi. Pada penelitian ini, digunakan flame spraying dari variasi bond coat (Ni-Cr-Al-Y, (Ni/CrO3/CrXCY dan tanpa bond coat serta melapisi kembali lapisan bond coat dengan Al2O3 dan ZrO2 – 8%Y2O3 sebagai Thermal Barrier Coating untuk diteliti pengaruhnya terhadap struktur mikro lapisan yang terbentuk. Hasil flame spray diamati dengan SEM pada variasi bond coat NiCrAlY ditemukan beberapa serbuk dari material top coat dengan beberapa kondisi yaitu meleleh (melted, meleleh sebagian (semi melted, dan tidak meleleh (unmelted. Ditemukan poros yang merata hampir di seluruh permukaan sampel dan munculnya pengintian retak. Perbedaan sebelum dan sesudah perlakuan ada pada persebaran setiap unsur di setiap spesimen, dan lapisan oksida yang terbentuk pada seluruh variasi bond coat

  10. Diffusion limited Cu and Au nanocrystal formation in thin film SiO2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Johannessen, B.; Kluth, P.; Glover, C.J.; Foran, G.J.; Ridgway, M.C.

    2006-01-01

    Elemental Cu and Au nanocrystals (NCs) were produced by high-energy ion-implantations into amorphous silica (SiO 2 ) and subsequent thermal annealing. By a combination of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (XTEM) we confirm both NC species to have the bulk face-centered cubic phase and estimate their average diameter. We concentrate on the investigation of the concentration and size-dependent coordination number (China) of these matrix embedded NCs utilising extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy. The CN is found to be suppressed compared to that of a bulk standard. The CN in Au NCs is found to be lower than that of Cu NCs in agreement with smaller average Au NC sizes. We explain this difference by the difference in diffusivity for the two atomic species in SiO 2

  11. Neutron investigation of Ru-doped Nd1/2Ca1/2MnO3. Comparison with Cr-doped Nd1/2Ca1/2MnO3

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Moritomo, Yutaka; Nonobe, Toshihiko; Machida, Akihiko; Ohoyama, Kenji

    2002-01-01

    Lattice and magnetic properties are investigated for 3% Ru- and Cr-doped Nd 1/2 Ca 1/2 MnO 3 . The parent Nd 1/2 Ca 1/2 MnO 3 is a charge-ordered insulator (T CO =250K). With decreasing temperature below ≅210K, these compounds are separated into two perovskite phases, that is, the long-c and short-c phases. The long-c region shows a ferromagnetic transition at T C ≅210K for the Ru-doped compound and ≅130K for the Cr-doped compound, while the short-c region shows antiferromagnetic transition at T N ≅150K for Ru and ≅110K for Cr. We discuss the origin of the enhanced T C for the Ru-doped compound in terms of the effective one-electron bandwidth W of the e g -band. (author)

  12. High temperature oxidation-sulfidation behavior of Cr-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Nb-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} composites densified by spark plasma sintering

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Saucedo-Acuna, R.A. [Instituto e Ingenieria y Tecnologia, Universidad Autonoma de Cd. Juarez, Av. Del Charro 450 Norte, Col. Partido Romero, C.P. 32310, Cd. Juarez, Chihuahua (Mexico); Monreal-Romero, H.; Martinez-Villafane, A. [Centro de Investigacion en Materiales Avanzados, Departamento de Fisica de Materiales, Miguel de Cervantes 120, Complejo Industrial Chihuahua, C.P. 31109, Chihuahua (Mexico); Chacon-Nava, J.G. [Centro de Investigacion en Materiales Avanzados, Departamento de Fisica de Materiales, Miguel de Cervantes 120, Complejo Industrial Chihuahua, C.P. 31109, Chihuahua (Mexico)], E-mail: jose.chacon@cimav.edu.mx; Arce-Colunga, U. [Centro de Investigacion en Materiales Avanzados, Departamento de Fisica de Materiales, Miguel de Cervantes 120, Complejo Industrial Chihuahua, C.P. 31109, Chihuahua (Mexico); Universidad Autonoma de Tamaulipas, Matamoros 8 y 9 Col. Centro C.P. 87110, Cd. Victoria, Tamaulipas (Mexico); Gaona-Tiburcio, C. [Centro de Investigacion en Materiales Avanzados, Departamento de Fisica de Materiales, Miguel de Cervantes 120, Complejo Industrial Chihuahua, C.P. 31109, Chihuahua (Mexico); De la Torre, S.D. [Centro de Investigacion e Innovacion Tecnologica (CIITEC)-IPN, D.F. Mexico (Mexico)

    2007-12-15

    The high temperature oxidation-sulfidation behavior of Cr-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Nb-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} composites prepared by mechanical alloying (MA) and spark plasma sintering (SPS) has been studied. These composite powders have a particular metal-ceramic interpenetrating network and excellent mechanical properties. Oxidation-sulfidation tests were carried out at 900 deg. C, in a 2.5%SO{sub 2} + 3.6%O{sub 2} + N{sub 2}(balance) atmosphere for 48 h. The results revealed the influence of the sintering conditions on the specimens corrosion resistance, i.e. the Cr-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Nb-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} composite sintered at 1310 deg. C/4 min showed better corrosion resistance (lower weight gains) compared with those found for the 1440 deg. C/5 min conditions. For the former composite, a protective Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} layer immediately forms upon heating, whereas for the later pest disintegration was noted. Thus, under the same sintering conditions the Nb-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} composites showed the highest weight gains. The oxidation products were investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy.

  13. In situ enhancement of the blue photoluminescence of colloidal Ga2O3 nanocrystals by promotion of defect formation in reducing conditions.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Ting; Radovanovic, Pavle V

    2011-07-07

    We demonstrate redox control of defect-based photoluminescence efficiency of colloidal γ-Ga(2)O(3) nanocrystals. Reducing environment leads to an increase in photoluminescence intensity by enhancing the concentration of oxygen vacancies, while the blue emission is suppressed in oxidative conditions. These results enable optimization of nanocrystal properties by in situ defect manipulation. This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2011

  14. Charge trapping characteristics of Au nanocrystals embedded in remote plasma atomic layer-deposited Al2O3 film as the tunnel and blocking oxides for nonvolatile memory applications

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lee, Jaesang; Kim, Hyungchul; Park, Taeyong; Ko, Youngbin; Ryu, Jaehun; Jeon, Heeyoung; Park, Jingyu; Jeon, Hyeongtag

    2012-01-01

    Remote plasma atomic layer deposited (RPALD) Al 2 O 3 films were investigated to apply as tunnel and blocking layers in the metal-oxide-semiconductor capacitor memory utilizing Au nanocrystals (NCs) for nonvolatile memory applications. The interface stability of an Al 2 O 3 film deposited by RPALD was studied to observe the effects of remote plasma on the interface. The interface formed during RPALD process has high oxidation states such as Si +3 and Si +4 , indicating that RPALD process can grow more stable interface which has a small amount of fixed oxide trap charge. The significant memory characteristics were also observed in this memory device through the electrical measurement. The memory device exhibited a relatively large memory window of 5.6 V under a 10/-10 V program/erase voltage and also showed the relatively fast programming/erasing speed and a competitive retention characteristic after 10 4 s. These results indicate that Al 2 O 3 films deposited via RPALD can be applied as the tunnel and blocking oxides for next-generation flash memory devices.

  15. Study of temperature-dependent charge conduction in silicon-nanocrystal/SiO_2 multilayers

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mavilla, Narasimha Rao; Chavan, Vinayak; Solanki, Chetan Singh; Vasi, Juzer

    2016-01-01

    Silicon-nanocrystals (Si-NCs) realized by SiO_x _ 8 MV/cm; independent of temperature), while for lower electric fields (5–8 MV/cm) at higher temperatures, the trap-related Generalized Poole–Frenkel (GPF) is dominant. This signified the role of traps in modifying the conduction in bulk ICPCVD SiO_2 films. We then present the conduction in ML samples. For multilayer samples with SiO_2 sublayer thickness of 1.5 nm and 2.5 nm, Direct Tunneling (DT) is observed to be dominant, while for SiO_2 sublayer thickness of 3.5 nm, Space Charge Limited Conduction (SCLC) with exponential trap distribution is found to be the dominant conduction mechanism. This signifies the role of traps in modifying the conduction in Si-NC multilayer samples and SiO_2 sublayer thickness dependence. - Highlights: • Electrical conduction in SiO_2 film & Si-nanocrystal layers (Si-NCs) is reported. • SiO_2/SiO_x multilayer based Si-NCs were realized by Inductively Coupled plasma CVD. • For SiO_2 film, Fowler–Nordheim tunneling & Generalized Poole–Frenkel are observed. • For Si-NCs with thin SiO_2 sublayers (< 2.5 nm) Direct Tunneling is dominant. • For Si-NCs with 3.5 nm SiO_2 sublayers Space Charge Limited Conduction is dominant.

  16. LiVO/sub 3/-Li/sub 2/Mo(W)O/sub 4/ and NaVO/sub 3/-Na/sub 2/Cr(Mo)O/sub 4/ systems

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Belyaev, I N; Lupeiko, T G; Vyalikova, V I [Rostovskij-na-Donu Gosudarstvennyj Univ. (USSR)

    1975-09-01

    The systems LiVO/sub 3/-Li/sub 2/MoO/sub 4/, LiVO/sub 3/-Li/sub 2/WO/sub 4/, NaNO/sub 3/-Na/sub 2/CrO/sub 4/, NaNO/sub 3/-Na/sub 2/MoO/sub 4/ were studied with thermographic and partially visual polythermal methods of physical and chemical analyses. Except NaVO/sub 3/-Na/sub 2/MoO/sub 4/ all investigated systems are eutectic ones with limited solid solutions on the basis of some component; the eutectics melt at 542, 544, 550/sup 0/C and contain 25, 20 and 26% of Li/sub 2/MoO/sub 4/, Li/sub 2/WO/sub 4/ and Na/sub 2/CrO/sub 4/ respectively. The system NaNO/sub 3/-Na/sub 2/MoO/sub 4/ contains compound 18 NaVO/sub 3/.11Na/sub 2/MoO/sub 4/ congruently melting at 570/sup 0/C. Two eutectics of the system have melting points at 542 and 548/sup 0/C and contain 47 and 67% of Na/sub 2/MoO/sub 4/.

  17. Bulk Kosterlitz-Thouless Type Molecular Superconductor β″-(BEDT-TTF)2[(H2O)(NH4)2Cr(C2O4)3]·18-crown-6.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Martin, Lee; Lopez, Jordan R; Akutsu, Hiroki; Nakazawa, Yasuhiro; Imajo, Shusaku

    2017-11-20

    A new molecular superconductor, β″-(BEDT-TTF) 2 [(H 2 O)(NH 4 ) 2 Cr(C 2 O 4 ) 3 ]·18-crown-6, has been synthesized from the organic donor molecule BEDT-TTF with the anion Cr(C 2 O 4 ) 3 3- . The crystal structure consists of conducting organic layers of BEDT-TTF molecules which adopt the β″ packing motif (layer A), layers of NH 4 + and Λ-Cr(C 2 O 4 ) 3 3- (layer B), layers of (H 2 O)(NH 4 )18-crown-6 (layer C), and layers of NH 4 + and Δ-Cr(C 2 O 4 ) 3 3- (layer D) which produce a superstructure with a repeating pattern of ABCDABCDA. As a result of this packing arrangement, this is the 2D superconductor with the widest gap between conducting layers where only a single donor packing motif is present (β″). Superconducting critical temperatures at ambient pressure observed by electrical transport and magnetic measurements are 4.0-4.9 and 2.5 K, respectively. The strong 2D nature of this system, the broad transition to T zero at 1.8K, and the transition of α of V ∝ I α from 1 to 3 on I-V curves strongly suggest that the superconducting transition is very close to a Kosterlitz-Thouless transition. The magnetic field dependence of the superconducting critical temperature parallel to the conducting plane gives an upper critical field μ 0 H c2∥ > 8 T, which is over the calculated Pauli-Clogston limit for this material.

  18. Structural and photoluminescence properties of ZrO2:Eu3+ SiO2 nanophosphors as a function of annealing temperature

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Parma, Alvise; Freris, Isidora; Riello, Pietro; Enrichi, Francesco; Cristofori, Davide; Benedetti, Alvise

    2010-01-01

    The synthesis, morphology and luminescence properties of two systems comprising luminescent Eu 3+ -doped zirconium oxide nanocrystals embedded in an amorphous silica matrix are reported. The two systems, prepared with the same overall wt% composition of silica (75%) and Eu x Zr (1-x) O (2-x/2) solid solution (25%), have been annealed in the range 135-1000 o C and subsequently functionalized with (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane. Detailed X-ray diffraction analyses and transmission electron micrographs, combined with infrared spectroscopy and luminescence spectroscopy data, have been used to demonstrate the influence of annealing temperature on the: (i) nanostructure, (ii) luminescence properties and (iii) availability of superficial -OH groups for efficient surface functionalization. The optimum calcination temperature was found to be 700 o C for each series in terms of luminescence lifetime efficiency and post-functionalization efficiency with (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane.

  19. Silicon MIS diodes with Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanofilm: Optical, morphological/structural and electronic transport properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Erdogan, Ibrahim Y. [Bingoel University, Faculty of Sciences and Arts, Department of Chemistry, 12000- Bingoel (Turkey); Guellue, O., E-mail: omergullu@gmail.com [Batman University, Faculty of Sciences and Arts, Department of Physics, 72060- Batman (Turkey)

    2010-04-15

    In this work we report the optical, morphological and structural characterization and diode application of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanofilms grown on p-Si substrates by spin coating and annealing process. X-ray diffraction (XRD), non-contact mode atomic force microscopy (NC-AFM), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy were used for characterization of nanofilms. For Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanofilms, the average particle size determined from XRD and NC-AFM measurements was approximately 70 nm. Structure analyses of nanofilms demonstrate that the single phase Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} on silicon substrate is of high a crystalline structure with a dominant in hexagonal (1 1 0) orientation. The morphologic analysis of the films indicates that the films formed from hexagonal nanoparticles are with low roughness and uniform. UV-vis absorption measurements indicate that the band gap of the Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} film is 3.08 eV. The PL measurement shows that the Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanofilm has a strong and narrow ultraviolet emission, which facilitates potential applications in future photoelectric nanodevices. Au/Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}/p-Si metal/interlayer/semiconductor (MIS) diodes were fabricated for investigation of the electronic properties such as current-voltage and capacitance-voltage. Ideality factor and barrier height for Au//Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}/p-Si diode were calculated as 2.15 eV and 0.74 eV, respectively. Also, interfacial state properties of the MIS diode were determined. The interface-state density of the MIS diode was found to vary from 2.90 x 10{sup 13} eV{sup -1} cm{sup -2} to 8.45 x 10{sup 12} eV{sup -1} cm{sup -2}.

  20. Synthesis of Cr3+-doped TiO2 nanoparticles: characterization and evaluation of their visible photocatalytic performance and stability.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mendiola-Alvarez, Sandra Yadira; Guzmán-Mar, Jorge Luis; Turnes-Palomino, Gemma; Maya-Alejandro, Fernando; Caballero-Quintero, Adolfo; Hernández-Ramírez, Aracely; Hinojosa-Reyes, Laura

    2017-09-28

    Cr 3+ -doped TiO 2 nanoparticles (Ti-Cr) were synthesized by microwave-assisted sol-gel method. The Ti-Cr catalyst was characterized by X-ray diffraction, ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, N 2 adsorption-desorption analysis, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and zetametry. The anatase mesoporous Ti-Cr material exhibited a specific surface area of 54.5 m 2 /g. XPS analysis confirmed the proper substitution of Ti 4+ cations by Cr 3+ cations in the TiO 2 matrix. The particle size was of average size of 17 nm for the undoped TiO 2 but only 9.5 nm for Ti-Cr. The Cr atoms promoted the formation of hydroxyl radicals and modified the surface adsorptive properties of TiO 2 due to the increase in surface acidity of the material. The photocatalytic evaluation demonstrated that the Ti-Cr catalyst completely degraded (4-chloro-2-methylphenoxy) acetic acid under visible light irradiation, while undoped TiO 2 and P25 allowed 45.7% and 31.1%, respectively. The rate of degradation remained 52% after three cycles of catalyst reuse. The higher visible light photocatalytic activity of Ti-Cr was attributed to the beneficial effect of Cr 3+ ions on the TiO 2 surface creating defects within the TiO 2 crystal lattice, which can act as charge-trapping sites, reducing the electron-hole recombination process.

  1. Phase diagrams of ferroelectric nanocrystals strained by an elastic matrix

    Science.gov (United States)

    Nikitchenko, A. I.; Azovtsev, A. V.; Pertsev, N. A.

    2018-01-01

    Ferroelectric crystallites embedded into a dielectric matrix experience temperature-dependent elastic strains caused by differences in the thermal expansion of the crystallites and the matrix. Owing to the electrostriction, these lattice strains may affect polarization states of ferroelectric inclusions significantly, making them different from those of a stress-free bulk crystal. Here, using a nonlinear thermodynamic theory, we study the mechanical effect of elastic matrix on the phase states of embedded single-domain ferroelectric nanocrystals. Their equilibrium polarization states are determined by minimizing a special thermodynamic potential that describes the energetics of an ellipsoidal ferroelectric inclusion surrounded by a linear elastic medium. To demonstrate the stability ranges of such states for a given material combination, we construct a phase diagram, where the inclusion’s shape anisotropy and temperature are used as two parameters. The ‘shape-temperature’ phase diagrams are calculated numerically for PbTiO3 and BaTiO3 nanocrystals embedded into representative dielectric matrices generating tensile (silica glass) or compressive (potassium silicate glass) thermal stresses inside ferroelectric inclusions. The developed phase maps demonstrate that the joint effect of thermal stresses and matrix-induced elastic clamping of ferroelectric inclusions gives rise to several important features in the polarization behavior of PbTiO3 and BaTiO3 nanocrystals. In particular, the Curie temperature displays a nonmonotonic variation with the ellipsoid’s aspect ratio, being minimal for spherical inclusions. Furthermore, the diagrams show that the polarization orientation with respect to the ellipsoid’s symmetry axis is controlled by the shape anisotropy and the sign of thermal stresses. Under certain conditions, the mechanical inclusion-matrix interaction qualitatively alters the evolution of ferroelectric states on cooling, inducing a structural transition

  2. NdFeO3 nanocrystals under glycine nitrate combustion formation

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tugova, Ekaterina; Yastrebov, Sergey; Karpov, Oleg; Smith, Roger

    2017-06-01

    Nanocrystalline perovskite NdFeO3 with the orthorhombic structure was prepared by a glycine nitrate combustion method under different technological conditions. The starting materials Fe(NO3)3 · 9H2O,Nd(NO3)3 · 6H2O in stoichiometric amounts and H2NCH2COOH were used. These quantities were varied by changing the ratio of glycine moles to metal nitrate moles (G/N) in the range between 0.25 and 0.75. The prepared NdFeO3 nanocrystals were characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron microscopy. Decomposition of the XRD diffraction profile using Voigt contours was exploited for analysis of the pattern in the area where the most prominent diffraction peak was situated. We demonstrate that Voigt functions reduce to Lorentzians for G / N = 0.75 and 0.55 . A volume-weighted diameter distribution function was derived using the width of the Lorentzians. The log-normal shape of the distribution is discussed in terms of the model, assuming exponential growth of cluster size in the time available for the NdFeO3 nanograin to grow.

  3. Sintering behaviour and mechanical properties of Cr3C2–NiCr ...

    Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

    fracture toughness. Keywords. Cermet; Cr3C2–NiCr; sintering; mechanical properties. ... et al investigated the mechanical properties of VC, Cr3C2 and NbC doped ..... Huang S G, Li L, Van der Biest O and Vleugels J 2008 J. Alloys. Compds.

  4. Confinement and surface effects on the physical properties of rhombohedral-shape hematite (α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}) nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Luna, Carlos, E-mail: carlos.lunacd@uanl.edu.mx [Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), Av. Universidad S/N, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León 66455 (Mexico); Cuan-Guerra, Aída D. [Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), Av. Universidad S/N, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León 66455 (Mexico); Barriga-Castro, Enrique D. [Centro de Investigación en Química Aplicada (CIQA), Blvd. Enrique Reyna Hermosillo No. 140, Saltillo, 25294 Coahuila (Mexico); Núñez, Nuria O. [Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Sevilla (ICMS), CSIC-US, Avda. Americo Vespucio n° 49, Isla de la Cartuja, 41092 Sevilla (Spain); Mendoza-Reséndez, Raquel [Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), Av. Universidad S/N, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León 66455 (Mexico)

    2016-08-15

    Highlights: • Uniform rhombohedral hematite nanocrystals (RHNCs) have been obtained. • A detailed formation mechanism of these HNCS has been proposed. • Phonon confinement effects were revealed in the RHNCS vibrational bands. • Quantum confinement effects on the optical and electronic properties were found. - Abstract: Morphological, microstructural and vibrational properties of hematite (α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}) nanocrystals with a rhombohedral shape and rounded edges, obtained by forced hydrolysis of iron(III) solutions under a fast nucleation, have been investigated in detail as a function of aging time. These studies allowed us to propose a detailed formation mechanism and revealed that these nanocrystals are composed of four {104} side facets, two {110} faces at the edges of the long diagonal of the nanocrystals and two {−441} facets as the top and bottom faces. Also, the presence of nanoscopic pores and fissures was evidenced. The vibrational bands of such nanocrystals were shifted to lower frequencies in comparison with bulk hematite ones as the nanocrystal size was reduced due to phonon confinement effects. Also, the indirect and direct transition band gaps displayed interesting dependences on the aging time arising from quantum confinement and surface effects.

  5. Structural and electronic properties of Si/SiO2 MOS structures with aligned 3C-SiC nanocrystals in the oxide

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Pongracz, A.; Battistig, G.; Duecso, Cs.; Josepovits, K.V.; Deak, P.

    2007-01-01

    Our group previously proved that a simple reactive annealing in CO containing gas produces 3C-SiC nanocrystals, which are epitaxially and void-free aligned in the Si substrate. By a further thermal oxidation step, these nanocrystals can be lifted from the Si and incorporated into the SiO 2 matrix, thereby creating a promising structure for charge storage. In this work the structural and electrical properties of such systems with nanocrystalline SiC will be presented. Prototype MOS structures with 3C-SiC nanocrystals were produced for current-voltage and capacitance-voltage measurements. The results indicate that the high-temperature annealing did not damage the MOS structure, despite the fact that the CO annealing changed the electrical properties of the system. There was a positive charge accumulation and a reversible carrier injection observed in the structure. We assume that the positive charges originated from oxygen vacancies and the charge injection is related to the presence of SiC nanocrystals

  6. Crystallization of pyroxene phases and physico-chemical properties of glass-ceramics based on Li{sub 2}O–Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}–SiO{sub 2} eutectic glass system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Salman, S.M.; Salama, S.N.; Abo-Mosallam, H.A., E-mail: abomosallam@yahoo.com.au

    2015-01-15

    The crystallization characteristics, crystalline phase assemblages and solid solution phases developed due to thermally crystallized glasses based on the Li{sub 2}SiO{sub 3}–Li{sub 2}Si{sub 2}O{sub 5}–LiCrSi{sub 2}O{sub 6} (1028 ± 3 °C) eutectic glass system by replacing some trivalent oxides instead of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} were investigated. The microhardness and chemical durability of the glass-ceramics were also determined. Lithium meta and disilicate (Li{sub 2}SiO{sub 3} and Li{sub 2}Si{sub 2}O{sub 5}), lithium gallium silicate (LiGaSiO{sub 4}), and varieties of pyroxene phases, including Cr-pyroxene phase, i.e. lithium-kosmochlor (LiCrSi{sub 2}O{sub 6}), lithium aluminum silicate (LiAlSi{sub 2}O{sub 6}), lithium indium silicate (LiInSi{sub 2}O{sub 6}) and pyroxene solid solution of Li-aegerine type [Li (Fe{sub 0.5}, Cr{sub 0.5}) Si{sub 2}O{sub 6}] were the main crystalline phases formed in the crystallized glasses. There is no evidence for the formation of solid solution or liquid immiscibility gaps between LiAlSi{sub 2}O{sub 6} or LiInSi{sub 2}O{sub 6} phases and LiCrSi{sub 2}O{sub 6} phase. However, LiCrSi{sub 2}O{sub 6} and LiFeSi{sub 2}O{sub 6} components were accommodated in the pyroxene structure under favorable conditions of crystallization to form monomineralic pyroxene solid solution phase of the probably formula [Li (Fe{sub 0.5}, Cr{sub 0.5}) Si{sub 2}O{sub 6}]. The type and compatibility of the crystallized phases are discussed in relation to the compositional variation of the glasses and heat-treatment applied. The microhardness values of the crystalline materials ranged between 5282 and 6419 MPa while, the results showed that the chemical stability of the glass-ceramics was better in alkaline than in acidic media. - Highlights: • Glass ceramics based on Li{sub 2}O–Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}–SiO{sub 2} eutectic (1028 ± 3 °C) glass were prepared. • LiCrSi{sub 2}O{sub 6} and LiFeSi{sub 2}O{sub 6} phases form monomineralic pyroxene solid

  7. High-performance flexible resistive memory devices based on Al2O3:GeOx composite

    Science.gov (United States)

    Behera, Bhagaban; Maity, Sarmistha; Katiyar, Ajit K.; Das, Samaresh

    2018-05-01

    In this study a resistive switching random access memory device using Al2O3:GeOx composite thin films on flexible substrate is presented. A bipolar switching characteristic was observed for the co-sputter deposited Al2O3:GeOx composite thin films. Al/Al2O3:GeOx/ITO/PET memory device shows excellent ON/OFF ratio (∼104) and endurance (>500 cycles). GeOx nanocrystals embedded in the Al2O3 matrix have been found to play a significant role in enhancing the switching characteristics by facilitating oxygen vacancy formation. Mechanical endurance was retained even after several bending. The conduction mechanism of the device was qualitatively discussed by considering Ohmic and SCLC conduction. This flexible device is a potential candidate for next-generation electronics device.

  8. A simple dissolved metals mixing method to produce high-purity MgTiO3 nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Pratapa, Suminar; Baqiya, Malik A.; Istianah,; Lestari, Rina; Angela, Riyan

    2014-01-01

    A simple dissolved metals mixing method has been effectively used to produce high-purity MgTiO 3 (MT) nanocrystals. The method involves the mixing of independently dissolved magnesium and titanium metal powders in hydrochloric acid followed by calcination. The phase purity and nanocrystallinity were determined by making use of laboratory x-ray diffraction data, to which Rietveld-based analyses were performed. Results showed that the method yielded only one type magnesium titanate powders, i.e. MgTiO 3 , with no Mg 2 TiO 4 or MgTi 2 O 5 phases. The presence of residual rutile or periclase was controlled by adding excessive Mg up to 5% (mol) in the stoichiometric mixing. The method also resulted in MT nanocrystals with estimated average crystallite size of 76±2 nm after calcination at 600°C and 150±4 nm (at 800°C). A transmission electron micrograph confirmed the formation of the nanocrystallites

  9. Prominent ethanol sensing with Cr2O3 nanoparticle-decorated ZnS nanorods sensors

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sun, Gun-Joo; Kheel, Hyejoon; Ko, Tae-Gyung; Lee, Chongmu; Kim, Hyoun Woo

    2016-08-01

    ZnS nanorods and Cr2O3 nanoparticle-decorated ZnS nanorods were synthesized by using facile hydrothermal techniques, and their ethanol sensing properties were examined. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy revealed good crystallinity and size uniformity for the ZnS nanorods. The Cr2O3 nanoparticle-decorated ZnS nanorod sensor showed a stronger response to ethanol than the pristine ZnS nanorod sensor. The responses of the pristine and the decorated nanorod sensors to 200 ppm of ethanol at 300 °C were 2.9 and 13.8, respectively. Furthermore, under these conditions, the decorated nanorod sensor showed a longer response time (23 s) and a shorter recovery time (20 s) than the pristine one did (19 and 35 s, respectively). Consequently, the total sensing time of the decorated nanorod sensor (42 s) was shorter than that of the pristine one (55 s). The decorated nanorod sensor showed excellent selectivity to ethanol over other volatile organic compound gases including acetone, methanol, benzene, and toluene whereas the pristine one failed to show selectivity to ethanol over acetone. The improved sensing performance of the decorated nanorod sensor is attributed to a modulation of the width of the conduction channel and the height of the potential barrier at the ZnS-Cr2O3 interface accompanying the adsorption and the desorption of ethanol gas, and the greater surface-to-volume ratio of the decorated nanorods which was greater than that of the pristine one due to the existence of the ZnS-Cr2O3 interface.

  10. Morphological and structural characterization of CrO2/Cr2O3 films grown by Laser-CVD

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sousa, P.M.; Silvestre, A.J.; Popovici, N.; Conde, O.

    2005-01-01

    This work reports on the synthesis of chromium (III, IV) oxides films by KrF laser-assisted CVD. Films were deposited onto sapphire substrates at room temperature by the photodissociation of Cr(CO) 6 in dynamic atmospheres containing oxygen and argon. A study of the processing parameters has shown that partial pressure ratio of O 2 to Cr(CO) 6 and laser fluence are the prominent parameters that have to be accurately controlled in order to co-deposit both the crystalline oxide phases. Films consistent with such a two-phase system were synthesised for a laser fluence of 75 mJ cm -2 and a partial pressure ratio of about 1

  11. Synthesis of β-AgVO3 nanowires decorated with Ag2CrO4, with improved visible light photocatalytic performance

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ouyang, Qi; Li, Zhonghua; Liu, Jiawen

    2018-05-01

    Silver chromate‑silver vanadate (Ag2CrO4/β-AgVO3) heterojunction composites are synthesized through a facile precipitation process. The Ag2CrO4/β-AgVO3 hybrids obtained exhibit better photocatalytic activity in degradation of RhB than both pure Ag2CrO4 and β-AgVO3 under visible light irradiation. The 20 wt% Ag2CrO4/β-AgVO3 heterojunction possesses the best photocatalytic ability for degrading RhB: 24.4 times that of pristine β-AgVO3 nanowires and 3.2 times that of individual Ag2CrO4 particles. The phase of the nanocomposites was analyzed using x-ray diffraction as well as x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Their morphology was observed via scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The improvement in photocatalytic performance is chiefly ascribed to the synergies between Ag2CrO4/β-AgVO3 heterostructure, which can enhance the light absorbance ability and also accelerate the separation and transfer of photoinduced electrons and holes under visible light irradiation; this is also confirmed by UV–vis diffuse reflection spectrometry and fluorescence emission spectra.

  12. Highly efficient solid-state synthesis of carbon-encapsulated ultrafine MoO{sub 2} nanocrystals as high rate lithium-ion battery anode

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liu, Boyang, E-mail: byliu@shmtu.edu.cn [Shanghai Maritime University, College of Ocean Science and Engineering (China); Shao, Yingfeng, E-mail: shaoyf@lnm.imech.ac.cn [Chinese Academy of Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Nonlinear Mechanics, Institute of Mechanics (China); Zhang, Yuliang, E-mail: ylzhang@shmtu.edu.cn; Zhang, Fuhua, E-mail: fhzhang@shmtu.edu.cn; Zhong, Ning, E-mail: ningzhong@shmtu.edu.cn [Shanghai Maritime University, College of Ocean Science and Engineering (China); Li, Wenge, E-mail: wgli@shmtu.edu.cn [Shanghai Maritime University, Merchant Marine College (China)

    2016-12-15

    A simple and highly efficient method is developed for the one-step in situ preparation of carbon-encapsulated MoO{sub 2} nanocrystals (MoO{sub 2}@C) with core-shell structure for high-performance lithium-ion battery anode. The synthesis is depending on the solid-state reaction of cyclopentadienylmolybdenum tricarbonyl dimer with ammonium persulfate in an autoclave at 200 °C for 30 min. The large amount of heat generated during the explosive reaction cleaves the cyclopentadiene ligands into small carbon fragments, which form carbon shell after oxidative dehydrogenation coating on the MoO{sub 2} nanocrystals, resulting in the formation of core-shell structure. The MoO{sub 2} nanocrystals have an equiaxial morphology with an ultrafine diameter of 2–8 nm, and the median size is 4.9 nm. Hundreds of MoO{sub 2} nanocrystals are encapsulated together by the worm-like carbon shell, which is amorphous and about 3–5 nm in thickness. The content of MoO{sub 2} nanocrystals in the nanocomposite is about 69.3 wt.%. The MoO{sub 2}@C anode shows stable cyclability and retains a high reversible capacity of 443 mAh g{sup −1} after 50 cycles at a current density of 3 A g{sup −1}, owing to the effective protection of carbon shell.

  13. Effects of pressure and temperature on sintering of Cr-doped Al2O3 by pulsed electric current sintering process

    Science.gov (United States)

    Dang, K. Q.; Nanko, M.

    2011-03-01

    The aluminium oxide crystal, Al2O3, which contains a small amount of chromium, Cr, is called ruby. Pulsed electric current sintering (PECS) was applied to sinter ruby polycrystals. Cr2O3-Al2O3 powder mixture prepared by drying an aqueous slurry containing amounts of Al2O3 and Cr(NO3)3 was consolidated by PECS process. The PECS process was performed in vacuum at sintering temperature raging from 1100 to 1300°C with heating rate of 2 K/min under applied uniaxial pressure varied from 40 to 100 MPa. This study found that highly densified and transparent Cr-doped Al2O3 can be obtained by the PECS process with the high applied pressure at sintering temperature of 1200°C.

  14. Colour due to Cr3+ ions in oxides: a study of the model system MgO:Cr3+

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Aramburu, J. A.; Garcia-Fernandez, P.; García Lastra, Juan Maria

    2013-01-01

    Seeking to understand why the cubic centre in MgO:Cr3+ has the same 10Dq value as emerald, ab initio cluster and periodic supercell calculations have been performed. It is found that the equilibrium Cr3+-O2- distance, R, in MgO:Cr3+ is equal to 2.03 Å and thus 0.06 Å higher than that measured...... for the emerald. Calculations carried out on the isolated CrO69- complex at R = 2.03 Å give 10Dq = 14 510 cm-1, which is 10% smaller than the experimental figure for MgO:Cr3+. Nevertheless, when the internal electric field, ER(r), due to the rest of the lattice ions is also taken into account, the calculated 10Dq...... = 16 210 cm-1 coincides with the experimental value. Accordingly, the colour shift for different oxides doped with Cr3+ can be well understood on the basis of this extrinsic contribution to 10Dq usually ignored in a ligand field description. The calculated electrostatic potential, VR(r), related to ER(r...

  15. Effect of Sb{sub 2}O{sub 3} on the electrical properties of Ba{sub 0.9}Ca{sub 0.1}Zr{sub 0.1}Ti{sub 0.9}O{sub 3} ceramics fabricated using nanocrystals seed

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Parjansri, P. [Rajamangala University of Technology Krungthep, Physics Division, Faculty of Science and Technology, Bangkok (Thailand); Intatha, U. [Mae Fah Luang University, School of Science, Chiang Rai (Thailand); Guo, R.; Bhalla, A.S. [University of Texas at San Antonio, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, San Antonio, TX (United States); Eitssayeam, S. [Chiang Mai University, Department of Physics and Materials Science, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai (Thailand); Chiang Mai University, Materials Science Research Center, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai (Thailand)

    2016-09-15

    This work was to investigate the effects of antimony oxide (Sb{sub 2}O{sub 3}) on the electrical properties of Ba{sub 0.9}Ca{sub 0.1}Zr{sub 0.1}Ti{sub 0.9}O{sub 3} (BCZT) ceramics and was prepared by adding 1 mol% of BCZT nanocrystals. The seed is nanocrystals of BCZT which was synthesized by the molten salt method. The ceramics powders were prepared by the mixed oxide method using BaCO{sub 3}, CaCO{sub 3}, ZrO{sub 2}, TiO{sub 2} as starting materials, and the BCZT seed was added as nanocrystal for induce phase transition. They were doped with x mol% Sb{sub 2}O{sub 3} (x = 0.0-0.5). Results indicated that all samples show pure perovskite phase. The Sb{sub 2}O{sub 3} enhanced the electrical properties of the ceramic systems. Excellent values of a dielectric constant (ε {sub r}) at room temperature (T{sub r}) were 4086 with sample of x = 0.5, and at Curie temperature (T{sub c}) was 15,485 for samples with x = 0.1. The highest remnant polarization (P{sub r}), piezoelectric charge coefficient (d{sub 33}), piezoelectric voltage coefficient (g{sub 33}), electromechanical coefficient for planar mode (k{sub p}) and thickness mode (k{sub t}) values were 6.3 μC/cm{sup 2}, 346 pC/N, 15.6 x 10{sup -3} Vm/N, 42 and 41 %, respectively, which were obtained for the sample of x = 0.2 mol% Sb. (orig.)

  16. The local structure, magnetic, and transport properties of Cr-doped In2O3 films

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wang Shiqi; An Yukai; Feng Deqiang; Liu Jiwen; Wu Zhonghua

    2013-01-01

    Cr-doped In 2 O 3 films were deposited on Si (100) substrates by RF-magnetron sputtering technique. The local structure, magnetic, and transport properties of films are investigated by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray absorption fine structure, Hall effect, R-T, and magnetic measurements. Structural analysis clearly indicates that Cr ions substitute for In 3+ sites of the In 2 O 3 lattice in the valence of +2 states and Cr-related secondary phases or clusters as the source of ferromagnetism is safely ruled out. The films with low Cr concentration show a crossover from semiconducting to metallic transport behavior, whereas only semiconducting behavior is observed in high Cr concentration films. The transport property of all films is governed by Mott variable range hopping behavior, suggesting that the carriers are strongly localized. Magnetic characterizations show that the saturated magnetization of films increases first, and then decreases with Cr doping, while carrier concentration n c decreases monotonically, implying that the ferromagnetism is not directly induced by the mediated carriers. It can be concluded the ferromagnetism of films is intrinsic and originates from electrons bound in defect states associated with oxygen vacancies.

  17. Transparent nanoscale floating gate memory using self-assembled bismuth nanocrystals in Bi(2) Mg(2/3) Nb(4/3) O(7) (BMN) pyrochlore thin films grown at room temperature.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jung, Hyun-June; Yoon, Soon-Gil; Hong, Soon-Ku; Lee, Jeong-Yong

    2012-07-03

    Bismuth nanocrystals for a nanoscale floating gate memory device are self-assembled in Bi(2) Mg(2/3) Nb(4/3) O(7) (BMN) dielectric films grown at room temperature by radio-frequency sputtering. The TEM cross-sectional image shows the "real" structure grown on a Si (001) substrate. The image magnified from the dotted box (red color) in the the cross-sectional image clearly shows bismuth nanoparticles at the interface between the Al(2) O(3) and HfO(2) layer (right image). Nanoparticles approximately 3 nm in size are regularly distributed at the interface. Copyright © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  18. Nonstoichiometric Zn Ferrite and ZnFe2O4/Fe2O3 Composite Spheres: Preparation, Magnetic Properties, and Chromium Removal

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hang, Chun-Liang; Yang, Li-Xia; Sun, Chang-Mei; Liang, Ying

    2018-03-01

    Monodisperse and porous nonstoichiometric Zn ferrite can be prepared by a solvothermal method. Such non-Zn ferrite was used to be the precursor for synthesis of ZnFe2O4/Fe2O3 composite via calcination at 600°C for 3 h in air. X-ray powder diffractometer (XRD) and Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS) proved the nonstoichiometry of Zn ferrite synthesized by solvothermal method and the formation of ZnFe2O4/Fe2O3 composite via calcination. TEM image showed that non-Zn ferrite spheres with wormlike nanopore structure were made of primary nanocrystals. BET surface area of non-Zn ferrite was much higher than that of ZnFe2O4/Fe2O3 composite. Saturation magnetization of non-Zn ferrites was significantly higher than that of ZnFe2O4/Fe2O3 composites. Calcination of non-Zn ferrite resulted in the formation of large amount of non-magnetic Fe2O3,which caused a low magnetization of composite. Because of higher BET surface area and higher saturation magnetization, non-Zn ferrite presented better Cr6+ adsorption property than ZnFe2O4/Fe2O3 composites.

  19. Preparation and characterization of the electrodeposited Cr-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/SiC composite coating

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Gao Jifeng, E-mail: readlot@tom.com [State Key Laboratory of Mould Technology, Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074 (China); Suo Jinping, E-mail: jpsuo@yahoo.com.cn [State Key Laboratory of Mould Technology, Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074 (China)

    2011-09-01

    To increase the SiC content in Cr-based coatings, Cr-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/SiC composite coatings were plated in Cr(VI) baths which contained Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-coated SiC powders. The Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-coated SiC composite particles were synthesized by calcining the precursor prepared by heterogeneous deposition method. The transmission electron microscopy analysis of the particles showed that the nano-SiC particle was packaged by alumina. The zeta potential of the particles collected from the bath was up to +23 mV, a favorable condition for the co-deposition of the particles and chromium. Pulse current was used during the electrodeposition. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) indicated that the coating was compact and combined well with the substrate. Energy dispersive X-ray analysis of Cr-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/SiC coatings demonstrated that the concentration of SiC in the coating reached about 2.5 wt.%. The corrosion behavior of the composite coating was studied by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy techniques. The data obtained suggested that the Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/SiC particles significantly enhanced the corrosion resistance of the composite coating in 0.05 M HCl solution.

  20. Structural and optical studies of Mg doped nanoparticles of chromium oxide (Cr2O3) synthesized by co-precipitation method

    Science.gov (United States)

    Singh, Jarnail; Verma, Vikram; Kumar, Ravi

    2018-04-01

    We present here the synthesization, structural and optical studies of Mg doped nanoparticles of Chromium oxide (Cr2O3) prepared using co-precipitation method. These samples were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Raman spectroscopy and UV-Vis spectroscopy techniques. We have demonstrated that there is negligible change in optical band gap with the Mg doping. The prepared Cr2O3 nanoparticles are spherical in shape, but they are transformed into platelets when doped with Mg. The XRD studies reveal that the Mg doping in Cr2O3 doesn't affect the structure of Chromium oxide (Cr2O3).

  1. Enhanced photoelectrochemical response of plasmonic Au embedded BiVO4/Fe2O3 heterojunction.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Verma, Anuradha; Srivastav, Anupam; Khan, Saif A; Rani Satsangi, Vibha; Shrivastav, Rohit; Kumar Avasthi, Devesh; Dass, Sahab

    2017-06-14

    The effect of embedding Au nanoparticles (NPs) in a BiVO 4 /Fe 2 O 3 heterojunction for photoelectrochemical water splitting is studied here for the first time. The present nanostructured heterojunction offers three major advantages over pristine BiVO 4 and Fe 2 O 3 : (i) the formation of a heterojunction between BiVO 4 and Fe 2 O 3 enhances the charge carrier separation and transfer, (ii) the layer of Fe 2 O 3 provides protection to BiVO 4 from photocorrosion and, (iii) the Au NPs possessing surface plasmon resonance (SPR) enhance the photoelectrochemical response by transferring energy to metal oxides by hot electron transfer (HET) and plasmon resonant energy transfer (PRET). The present study reveals that the heterojunction ITO/BiVO 4 /Fe 2 O 3 (with 32% v/v Au solution in both layers) gives the best performance and mitigates the limitations of both pristine Fe 2 O 3 and BiVO 4 . A thirteen-fold increment in applied bias photon-to-current conversion efficiency (ABPE) was observed at 1.24 V vs. RHE under the condition of 1 Sun illumination. Monochromatic incident photon-to-current conversion efficiency (IPCE) measurements indicated that an Au embedded heterojunction is more effective in harvesting visible light in comparison to a heterojunction without Au NPs.

  2. Applying low-energy multipulse excimer laser annealing to improve charge retention of Au nanocrystals embedded MOS capacitors

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Shen, Kuan-Yuan; Chen, Hung-Ming; Liao, Ting-Wei; Kuan, Chieh-Hsiung

    2015-01-01

    The low-energy multipulse excimer laser annealing (LEM-ELA) is proposed to anneal the nanostructure of nanocrystal (NC) embedded in a SiO 2 thin film without causing atomic diffusion and damaging the NCs, since the LEM-ELA combining the advantages of laser annealing and UV curing features rapid heating and increasing oxide network connectivity. A Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) characterization of SiO 2 thin films annealed using LEM-ELA indicated that the quality was improved through the removal of water-related impurities and the reconstruction of the network Si–O–Si bonds. Then, LEM-ELA was applied to a SiO 2 thin film embedded with Au NCs, which were fabricated as MOS capacitors. The charge retention was greatly improved and the percentage of retained charges was about 10% after 3  ×  10 8  s. To investigate and differentiate the effects of LEM-ELA on charges stored in both oxide traps and in the Au NCs, a double-mechanism charge relaxation analysis was performed. The results indicated that the oxide traps were removed and the confinement ability of Au NCs was enhanced. The separated memory windows contributed from the charges in Au NCs and those in oxide traps were obtained and further confirmed that the LEM-ELA removed oxide traps without damaging the Au NCs. (paper)

  3. Luminescence Characteristics of ZnGa2O4 Thick Film Doped with Mn2+ and Cr3+ at Various Sintering Temperatures

    Science.gov (United States)

    Cha, Jae Hyeok; Kim, Kyung Hwan; Park, Yong Seo; Kwon, Sang Jik; Choi, Hyung Wook

    2007-10-01

    ZnGa2O4 phosphor separately doped with Mn2+ and Cr3+ was synthesized by solid-state reaction, and thick films were deposited by screen printing. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of ZnGa2O4 phosphor thick films show a (311) main peak and a spinal phase. Uniform distribution and filled morphology of the doped ZnGa2O4 phosphor thick films were formed at the sintering temperature of 1100 °C. The CL spectrum of Mn2+-doped ZnGa2O4 shows the main peak of 512 nm green emission with the 4T1→6A1 transition of Mn2+ ions and the CL spectrum of Cr3+-doped ZnGa2O4 shows the main peak of 716 nm red emission with the 2E→4A2 transition of Cr3+ ions.

  4. Extended networks, porous sheets, and chiral frameworks. Thorium materials containing mixed geometry anions: Structures and properties of Th(SeO3)(SeO4), Th(IO3)2(SeO4)(H2O)3.H2O, and Th(CrO4)(IO3)2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sullens, Tyler A.; Almond, Philip M.; Byrd, Jessica A.; Beitz, James V.; Bray, Travis H.; Albrecht-Schmitt, Thomas E.

    2006-01-01

    Three novel Th(IV) compounds containing heavy oxoanions, Th(SeO 3 )(SeO 4 ) (1), Th(IO 3 ) 2 (SeO 4 )(H 2 O) 3 .H 2 O (2), and Th(CrO 4 )(IO 3 ) 2 (3), have been synthesized under mild hydrothermal conditions. Each of these three distinct structures contain trigonal pyramidal and tetrahedral oxoanions. Compound 1 adopts a three-dimensional structure formed from ThO 9 tricapped trigonal prisms, trigonal pyramidal selenite, SeO 3 2- , anions containing Se(IV), and tetrahedral selenate, SeO 4 2- , anions containing Se(VI). The structure of 2 contains two-dimensional porous sheets and occluded water molecules. The Th centers are found as isolated ThO 9 tricapped trigonal prisms and are bound by four trigonal pyramidal iodate anions, two tetrahedral selenate anions, and three coordinating water molecules. In the structure of 3, the Th(IV) cations are found as ThO 9 tricapped trigonal prisms. Each Th center is bound by six IO 3 1- anions and three CrO 4 2- anions forming a chiral three-dimensional structure. Second-harmonic generation of 532nm light from 1064nm radiation by a polycrystalline sample of 3 was observed. Crystallographic data (193K, MoKα, λ=0.71073): 1; monoclinic, P2 1 /c; a=7.0351(5)A, b=9.5259(7)A, c=9.0266(7)A, β=103.128(1), Z=4, R(F)=2.47% for 91 parameters with 1462 reflections with I>2σ(I); 2, monoclinic, P2 1 /n, a=7.4889(9)A, b=8.002(1)A, c=20.165(3)A, β=100.142(2), Z=4, R(F)=4.71% for 158 parameters with 2934 reflections with I>2σ(I); 3, orthorhombic, P2 1 2 1 2 1 , a=7.3672(5)A, b=9.3617(6)A, c=11.9201(7)A, Z=4, R(F)=2.04% for 129 parameters with 2035 reflections with I>2σ(I)

  5. Microstructural characterization of Y2O3 ODS-Fe-Cr model alloys

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Castro, V. de; Leguey, T.; Munoz, A.; Monge, M.A.; Pareja, R.; Marquis, E.A.; Lozano-Perez, S.; Jenkins, M.L.

    2009-01-01

    Two Fe-12 wt% Cr alloys, one containing 0.4 wt% Y 2 O 3 and the other Y 2 O 3 -free, have been produced by mechanical alloying followed by hot isostatic pressing. These oxide dispersion strengthened and reference alloys were characterized both in the as-HIPed state and after tempering by transmission electron microscopy and atom-probe tomography. The as-HIPed alloys exhibited the characteristic microstructure of lath martensite and contained a high density of dislocations. Small voids with sizes 3 C and M 23 C 6 carbides (M = Cr, Fe) probably as a result of C ingress during milling. After tempering at 1023 K for 4 h the microstructures had partially recovered. In the recovered regions, martensite laths were replaced by equiaxed grains in which M 23 C 6 carbides decorated the grain boundaries. In the ODS alloy nanoparticles containing Y were commonly observed within grains, although they were also present at grain boundaries and adjacent to large carbides.

  6. The role of the Mg sup 2 sup + ions in Cr sup 3 sup + spectroscopy for near-stoichiometric LiNbO sub 3 crystals

    CERN Document Server

    Han, T P J; Bermudez, V; Diéguez, E

    2003-01-01

    The optical spectroscopy of Cr sup 3 sup + ions doped into near-stoichiometric LiNbO sub 3 crystals, pure and co-doped with MgO, has been investigated. In the near-stoichiometric LiNbO sub 3 :Cr(0.2 mol%):Mg(2 mol%) crystal, the optical spectra resemble those previously observed for congruent LiNbO sub 3 :Cr:MgO samples when the total MgO content exceeds the 4.6 mol% threshold. The coexistence of two types of Cr sup 3 sup + centre ([Cr] sub L sub i and [Cr] sub N sub b) characterized the optical and luminescence spectra of this sample. The concentration equilibrium between the two types of centre is strongly displaced towards the [Cr sup 3 sup + ] sub N sub b centre, permitting us to obtain with accuracy the parameters of the broad bands. The R-line associated with the [Cr] sub N sub b centre is only observable in the low-temperature emission spectrum. The Fano anti-resonance lines present have been observed to be more pronounced for the near-stoichiometric samples than for congruent ones.

  7. Optical investigation of Tb{sup 3+}-doped Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanocrystals prepared by Pechini-type sol-gel process

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Back, M., E-mail: m.back@hotmail.it; Massari, A.; Boffelli, M.; Gonella, F.; Riello, P.; Cristofori, D. [Universita Ca' Foscari di Venezia and INSTM, Dipartimento di Scienze Molecolari e Nanosistemi (Italy); Ricco, R.; Enrichi, F., E-mail: enrichi@civen.org [CIVEN (Coordinamento Interuniversitario Veneto per le Nanotecnologie) (Italy)

    2012-03-15

    We report an optical study of Tb{sup 3+}-doped Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanocrystals synthesized by Pechini-type sol-gel method. The particles are investigated in terms of size and morphology by means of X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy analysis. It is shown how the simple Pechini method allows for the growth of monocrystalline nanoparticles with a volume-weighted average size of about 30 nm. The optical properties of Tb{sup 3+} in the host lattice are studied in terms of PL, PLE, and lifetimes. Moreover, a correlation between the type of decay curves, the emission and excitation bands' shapes, and the site location of the emitting Tb{sup 3+} in the host material Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} is proposed.

  8. SONOS memories with embedded silicon nanocrystals in nitride

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liu, Mei-Chun; Chiang, Tsung-Yu; Chao, Tien-Sheng; Kuo, Po-Yi; Lei, Tan-Fu; Chou, Ming-Hong; Wu, Yi-Hong; Cheng, Ching-Hwa; Liu, Sheng-Hsien; Yang, Wen-Luh; You, Hsin-Chiang

    2008-01-01

    We have successfully demonstrated SONOS memories with embedded Si-NCs in silicon nitride. This new structure exhibits excellent characteristics in terms of larger memory windows and longer retention time compared to control devices. Using the same thickness 2.5 nm of the bottom tunneling oxide, we found that N 2 O is better than O 2 oxide. Retention property is improved when the thickness of N 2 O is increased to 3.0 nm

  9. High electrochemical performance of RuO_2–Fe_2O_3 nanoparticles embedded ordered mesoporous carbon as a supercapacitor electrode material

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xiang, Dong; Yin, Longwei; Wang, Chenxiang; Zhang, Luyuan

    2016-01-01

    The electrode materials RuO_2 or RuO_2–Fe_2O_3 nanoparticle embedded OMC (ordered mesoporous carbon) are prepared by the method of impregnation and heating in situ. The mesoporous structure optimized the electron and proton conducting pathways, leading to the enhanced capacitive performances of the composite materials. The average nanoparticle size of RuO_2 and RuO_2–Fe_2O_3 is 2.54 and 1.96 nm, respectively. The fine RuO_2–Fe_2O_3 nanoparticles are dispersed evenly in the pore channel wall of the two-dimensional mesoporous carbon without blocking the mesoporous channel, and they have a higher specific surface area, a larger pore volume, a proper pore size and a small charge transfer impedance value. The special electrochemical capacitance of RuO_2–Fe_2O_3/OMC tested in acid electrolyte (H_2SO_4) is measured to be as high as 1668 F g"−"1, which is higher than that of RuO_2/OMC. Meanwhile, the supercapacitor properties of the RuO_2–Fe_2O_3/OMC composites show a good cycling performance of 93% capacitance retention (3000 cycles), a better reversibility, a higher energy density (134 Wh kg"−"1) and power density (4000 W kg"−"1). The composite electrode of RuO_2–Fe_2O_3/OMC, which combines a double layer capacitance with pseudo-capacitance, is proved to be suitable for ideal high performance electrode material of a hybrid supercapacitor application. - Highlights: • The nanocomposites of RuO_2–Fe_2O_3/OMC are prepared by impregnation and heating in situ. • The fine RuO_2–Fe_2O_3 nanoparticles distribute in the pore channel wall of OMC. • We discuss a reversible redox reaction mechanism of RuO_2–Fe_2O_3/OMC in acid solutions. • RuO_2–Fe_2O_3 nanoparticles embedded OMC shows a higher supercapacitive performance.

  10. Facile synthesis of high-temperature (1000 °C) phase-stable rice-like anatase TiO2 nanocrystals

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lv, Lizhen; Chen, Qirong; Liu, Xiuyun; Wang, Miaomiao; Meng, Xiangfu

    2015-05-01

    High-temperature phase-stable rice-like anatase TiO2 nanocrystals were synthesized by one-pot solvothermal method using soluble titania xerogel and isopropyl alcohol (IPA) as the precursor and the solvent, respectively. Sample characterization was carried out by powder X-ray diffraction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscope, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms. The results showed that TiO2 nanocrystals had rice-like shapes with an average size of 5 nm in width and 35 nm in length. The BET surface area was 153 m2/g. Unexpectedly, the rice-like TiO2 nanocrystals exhibited high-temperature phase stability, which could remain as pure anatase phase after calcinations at 1000 °C. Growth mechanism investigation revealed that the IPA solvent played a key role in nucleation and growth of rice-like anatase TiO2 nanocrystals. The photodegradation of rhodamine B demonstrated that rice-like anatase TiO2 nanocrystals exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation.

  11. Cr2O3 thin films grown at room temperature by low pressure laser chemical vapour deposition

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sousa, P.M.; Silvestre, A.J.; Conde, O.

    2011-01-01

    Chromia (Cr 2 O 3 ) has been extensively explored for the purpose of developing widespread industrial applications, owing to the convergence of a variety of mechanical, physical and chemical properties in one single oxide material. Various methods have been used for large area synthesis of Cr 2 O 3 films. However, for selective area growth and growth on thermally sensitive materials, laser-assisted chemical vapour deposition (LCVD) can be applied advantageously. Here we report on the growth of single layers of pure Cr 2 O 3 onto sapphire substrates at room temperature by low pressure photolytic LCVD, using UV laser radiation and Cr(CO) 6 as chromium precursor. The feasibility of the LCVD technique to access selective area deposition of chromia thin films is demonstrated. Best results were obtained for a laser fluence of 120 mJ cm -2 and a partial pressure ratio of O 2 to Cr(CO) 6 of 1.0. Samples grown with these experimental parameters are polycrystalline and their microstructure is characterised by a high density of particles whose size follows a lognormal distribution. Deposition rates of 0.1 nm s -1 and mean particle sizes of 1.85 μm were measured for these films.

  12. Benzimidazole-functionalized Zr-UiO-66 nanocrystals for luminescent sensing of Fe3+ in water

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Dong, Yingying; Zhang, Hanzhuo; Lei, Fan; Liang, Mei; Qian, Xuefeng; Shen, Peilian; Xu, Hui; Chen, Zhihui; Gao, Junkuo; Yao, Juming

    2017-01-01

    Zr-based MOF structure UiO-66 exhibits unprecedented high thermal and chemical stability, making it to be one of the most used MOFs in various applications. Yet, the poor photoluminescent (PL) properties of UiO-66 limit its applications in luminescent sensing. Herein, a new benzimidazole-functionalized UiO-66 nanocrystal (UiO-66-BI) was successfully fabricated via microwave synthesis. UiO-66-BI displayed octahedral nanocrystal morphology with a diameter smaller than 200 nm and could disperse well in water and common organic solvents. UiO-66-BI demonstrated extended optical absorption in the visible-light region and efficiently improved PL emission compared with UiO-66 pristine. The sensing properties of UiO-66-BI nanocrystals towards different ions were studied, and the results demonstrated that UiO-66-BI showed excellent selective luminescent sensing of Fe 3+ ions in water.

  13. Strain Distribution of Au and Ag Nanoparticles Embedded in Al2O3 Thin Film

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Honghua Huang

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available Au and Ag nanoparticles embedded in amorphous Al2O3 matrix are fabricated by the pulsed laser deposition (PLD method and rapid thermal annealing (RTA technique, which are confirmed by the experimental high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM results, respectively. The strain distribution of Au and Ag nanoparticles embedded in the Al2O3 matrix is investigated by the finite-element (FE calculations. The simulation results clearly indicate that both the Au and Ag nanoparticles incur compressive strain by the Al2O3 matrix. However, the compressive strain existing on the Au nanoparticle is much weaker than that on the Ag nanoparticle. This phenomenon can be attributed to the reason that Young’s modulus of Au is larger than that of Ag. This different strain distribution of Au and Ag nanoparticles in the same host matrix may have a significant influence on the technological potential applications of the Au-Ag alloy nanoparticles.

  14. Humidity Sensitivity of MgCr2O4-TiO2-LiO2 Ceramics Sensor Prepared by Sol-Gel Routes

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    H. Y. He

    2010-05-01

    Full Text Available 79.5MgCr2O4–19.5TiO2–Li2O porous ceramics were investigated as a humidity sensor. The sensors obtain by a cold isostatic pressing and sintering of the fine MgCr2O4 and TiO2 and LiCO3 powders. The MgCr2O4 and TiO2 powders were respectively synthesized by sol-gel methods. The effects of sintering temperature on the humidity sensitivity of sensors were studied by measuring electrical resistance in different conditions of relative humidity (R.H. at 27 °C. The results indicated that the calcining temperature obviously affected the resistance variation of the sensor in range of 11.3-84.7 % RH. The resistance variation was small at the calcining temperature of 600 oC for 2 h. With increasing calcining temperature, the resistance variation increased to 5.4×104% and 7.0×104 % at 800 oC and 1000 oC for 2 h, but decreased to 3.1×104 % at 1200 oC for 2 h respectively. The response times are 25 s and 35 s respectively for humidity adsorption and humidity desorption between 11.3 %RH and 84.7 %RH.

  15. Ba 3 (Cr 0.97(1) Te 0.03(1) ) 2 TeO 9 : in Search of Jahn–Teller Distorted Cr(II) Oxide

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Li, Man-Rong; Deng, Zheng; Lapidus, Saul H.; Stephens, Peter W.; Segre, Carlo U.; Croft, Mark; Paria Sena, Robert; Hadermann, Joke; Walker, David; Greenblatt, Martha

    2016-10-17

    A novel 6H - type hexagonal perovskite Ba 3 (Cr 0.97(1) Te 0.03 (1 ) ) 2 TeO 9 was prepared at high pressure (6 GPa) and temperature ( 1 773 K). Both transmission electron microscopy and synchrotron powder x - ray diffraction data demonstrate that Ba 3 (Cr 0.97(1) Te 0.03(1) ) 2 TeO 9 crystallize s in P6 3 / mmc with face - shared (Cr 0.97(1) Te 0.03(1) )O 6 octahedral pairs interconnected with TeO 6 octahedra via corner - sharing. Structure analysis shows a mixed Cr 2+ /Cr 3+ valence state with ~ 10% Cr 2+ . The existence of Cr 2+ in Ba 3 (Cr 2+ 0.10(1) Cr 3+ 0.87(1) Te 6+ 0.03 ) 2 TeO 9 is further evidenced by x - ray absorption near edge spectr oscopy . Magnetic properties measurements show a paramagnetic response down to 4 K and a small glassy - state curvature at low temperature. In this work, the o ctahedral Cr 2+ O 6 component is stabilized in an oxide material for the first time ; the expected Jahn - Teller distortion of high - spin ( d 4 ) Cr 2+ is not found , which is attributed to the small proportion of Cr 2+ (~ 10%) and the face - sharing arrangement of CrO 6 octahedral pairs, that structu rally dis favor axial distortion.

  16. Broadband infrared luminescence from Li2O-Al2O3-ZnO-SiO2 glasses doped with Bi2O3.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Peng, Mingying; Qiu, Jianrong; Chen, Danping; Meng, Xiangeng; Zhu, Congshan

    2005-09-05

    The broadband emission in the 1.2~1.6mum region from Li2O-Al2O3-ZnO-SiO2 ( LAZS ) glass codoped with 0.01mol.%Cr2O3 and 1.0mol.%Bi2O3 when pumped by the 808nm laser at room temperature is not initiated from Cr4+ ions, but from bismuth, which is remarkably different from the results reported by Batchelor et al. The broad ~1300nm emission from Bi2O3-containing LAZS glasses possesses a FWHM ( Full Width at Half Maximum ) more than 250nm and a fluorescent lifetime longer than 500mus when excited by the 808nm laser. These glasses might have the potential applications in the broadly tunable lasers and the broadband fiber amplifiers.

  17. Effect of Organic Substrates on the Photocatalytic Reduction of Cr(VI by Porous Hollow Ga2O3 Nanoparticles

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jin Liu

    2018-04-01

    Full Text Available Porous hollow Ga2O3 nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by a hydrolysis method followed by calcination. The prepared samples were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry, UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra and Raman spectrum. The porous structure of Ga2O3 nanoparticles can enhance the light harvesting efficiency, and provide lots of channels for the diffusion of Cr(VI and Cr(III. Photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI, with different initial pH and degradation of several organic substrates by porous hollow Ga2O3 nanoparticles in single system and binary system, were investigated in detail. The reduction rate of Cr(VI in the binary pollutant system is markedly faster than that in the single Cr(VI system, because Cr(VI mainly acts as photogenerated electron acceptor. In addition, the type and concentration of organic substrates have an important role in the photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI.

  18. Effect of Organic Substrates on the Photocatalytic Reduction of Cr(VI) by Porous Hollow Ga2O3 Nanoparticles

    Science.gov (United States)

    Liu, Jin; Gan, Huihui; Wu, Hongzhang; Zhang, Xinlei; Zhang, Jun; Li, Lili; Wang, Zhenling

    2018-01-01

    Porous hollow Ga2O3 nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by a hydrolysis method followed by calcination. The prepared samples were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry, UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra and Raman spectrum. The porous structure of Ga2O3 nanoparticles can enhance the light harvesting efficiency, and provide lots of channels for the diffusion of Cr(VI) and Cr(III). Photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI), with different initial pH and degradation of several organic substrates by porous hollow Ga2O3 nanoparticles in single system and binary system, were investigated in detail. The reduction rate of Cr(VI) in the binary pollutant system is markedly faster than that in the single Cr(VI) system, because Cr(VI) mainly acts as photogenerated electron acceptor. In addition, the type and concentration of organic substrates have an important role in the photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI). PMID:29690548

  19. Tuning into blue and red luminescence in dual-phase nano-glass–ceramics

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chen, Daqin; Wan, Zhongyi; Zhou, Yang; Zhong, Jiasong; Ding, Mingye; Yu, Hua; Lu, Hongwei; Xiang, Weidong; Ji, Zhenguo

    2015-01-01

    Highlights: • Ga 2 O 3 and YF 3 dual-phase embedded glass ceramics were fabricated. • RE 3+ and Cr 3+ dopants incorporated into YF 3 and Ga 2 O 3 lattice respectively. • Intense blue and red emissions are simultaneously achieved in the sample. • Such glass ceramics had possible application in photosynthesis of plants. - Abstract: A series of γ-Ga 2 O 3 and β-YF 3 nanocrystals embedded dual-phase glass ceramics co-doped with rare earth (Eu 3+ or Tm 3+ ) and transition metal (Cr 3+ ) activators were successfully prepared by high-temperature melt-quenching to explore blue/red luminescent materials for potential application in photosynthesis of green plants. It is experimentally verified that Eu 3+ (or Tm 3+ ) ions partitioned into the crystallized orthorhombic YF 3 nanophases, while Cr 3+ ones entered into the precipitated cubic Ga 2 O 3 nanocrystals after glass crystallization. Such spatial separation of the different active ions in the dual-phase glass ceramics can effectively suppress adverse energy transfers between rare earth and transition metal ions, resulting in their independent and efficient luminescence. As an example, it is experimentally demonstrated that both intense Tm 3+ blue and Cr 3+ deep-red emissions are easily achieved in the Tm 3+ /Cr 3+ co-doped dual-phase glass ceramics

  20. Preparation of NiFe binary alloy nanocrystals for nonvolatile memory applications

    Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

    2010-01-01

    In this work,an idea which applies binary alloy nanocrystal floating gate to nonvolatile memory application was introduced.The relationship between binary alloy’s work function and its composition was discussed theoretically.A nanocrystal floating gate structure with NiFe nanocrystals embedded in SiO2 dielectric layers was fabricated by magnetron sputtering.The micro-structure and composition deviation of the prepared NiFe nanocrystals were also investigated by TEM and EDS.

  1. Doping of Ga in antiferromagnetic semiconductor α-Cr2O3 and its effects on magnetic and electronic properties

    Science.gov (United States)

    Bhowmik, R. N.; Venkata Siva, K.; Ranganathan, R.; Mazumdar, Chandan

    2017-06-01

    The samples of Ga-doped Cr2O3 have been prepared using chemical co-precipitation route. X-ray diffraction pattern and Raman spectra have indicated rhombohedral crystal structure with space group R 3 bar C. Magnetic measurements indicated diluted antiferromagnetic (AFM) spin order in Ga-doped α-Cr2O3 and ferrimagnetic ordering of spins at about 50-60 K is confirmed from the analysis of the temperature dependence of dc magnetization and ac susceptibility data. Apart from magnetic dilution effect, the samples have shown superparamagnetic behavior below 50 K due to frustrated surface spins of the nano-sized grains. The samples have shown non-linear electronic properties. The current-voltage (I-V) characteristics of the Ga-doped α-Cr2O3 samples are remarkably different from α-Cr2O3 sample. The bi-stable electronic states and negative differential resistance are some of the unique non-linear electronic properties that the I-V curves of Ga-doped samples have exhibited. Optical study revealed three electronic transitions in the samples associated with band gap energy at about 2.67-2.81 eV, 1.91-2.11 eV, 1.28-1.35 eV, respectively. The results indicated multi-level electronic structure in Ga-doped α-Cr2O3 system.

  2. Rational construction of Z-scheme Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 composites with enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Luo, Jin; Zhou, Xiaosong; Ma, Lin; Xu, Xuyao

    2016-01-01

    Highlights: • Novel visible-light driven Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 composites were synthesized. • Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 exhibited enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity. • The reasons for the enhanced photocatalytic activity were revealed. - Abstract: Novel visible-light driven Z-scheme Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 composites with different contents of Ag_2CrO_4 were fabricated by a facile chemical precipitation method and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-vis DRS), photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy and photoelectrochemical measurements. Compared with individual g-C_3N_4 and Ag_2CrO_4, the Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 composites displayed much larger photocatalytic activities for the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) solution at room temperature under visible light irradiation (λ > 420 nm). Importantly, the optimum photodegradation rate constant of the Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 composite at a theoretical weight content of 8.0% Ag_2CrO_4 for the photodegradation of MO was 0.0068 min"−"1, which was 5.7 and 4.3 times higher than that of pure g-C_3N_4 and Ag_2CrO_4, respectively. Such enormous enhancement in photocatalytic performance was predominantly ascribed to the efficient separation and transfer of photogenerated electrons and holes at the Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 interface imparted through the Z-scheme electron transfer. Furthermore, radical trap experiments depicted that both the holes and superoxide radical anions were thought to dominate oxidative species of the Ag_2CrO_4/g-C_3N_4 composite for MO degradation under visible light irradiation. Ultimately, a tentative Z-scheme photodegradation mechanism was proposed. This work may be useful for the rational design of new types of Z-scheme photocatalysts and provide some illuminate insights into the Z-scheme transfer mechanism for application in energy

  3. Synthesis, characterization and surface modification of ZnCrFeO{sub 4} nanoparticles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hamed, Amal [Carnegie Laboratory of Physics, School of Engineering, Physics and Mathematics, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 4HN (United Kingdom); Fitzgerald, Alexander G., E-mail: a.g.fitzgerald@dundee.ac.uk [Carnegie Laboratory of Physics, School of Engineering, Physics and Mathematics, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 4HN (United Kingdom); Wang, Lijun; Gueorguieva, Mariana; Malik, Ritu; Melzer, Andreas [Institute for Medical Science and Technology, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD2 1FD (United Kingdom)

    2013-04-01

    The aim of this research was to investigate zinc chromium ferrite (ZnCrFeO{sub 4}) nanoparticles, synthesized using the sol gel technique with nanoparticle size controlled through a two-stage annealing process. Stage one was a low temperature firing which produced low quality nanocrystals with an average size of 15 nm. This was followed by a second firing stage at high temperature which enhanced the crystal quality. The nanoparticles were then coated with a bio-compatible shell to form a stable suspension in the ferrofluid carrier. The resulting nanoparticles were found by electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and X-ray diffraction studies to have excellent crystal quality. The average size was 8.5 nm. Preliminary cell culture studies indicated the ZnCrFeO{sub 4} nanoparticles were non-toxic. The relatively high measured value of the relaxivity r{sub 2} showed that the nanoparticle coating was effective in substantially reducing aggregation and enhancing the properties of the nanoparticles associated with contrast enhancement in MRI. - Highlights: ► Novel two stage process produced optimal size and quality ZnCrFeO{sub 4} nanocrystals. ► We examined quality by electron and atomic force microscopy and X-ray diffraction. ► Average nanoparticle size of the, order of 10 nm, was determined by five methods. ► Relaxivity studies indicate possible use as negative contrast agent for MRI. ► Cell culture work shows that the nanocrystals have possible biomedical applications.

  4. Synthesis and characterization of Cr doped CoFe2O4

    Science.gov (United States)

    Verma, Kavita; Patel, K. R.; Ram, Sahi; Barbar, S. K.

    2016-05-01

    Polycrystalline samples of pure and Cr-doped cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4 and CoCrFeO4) were prepared by solid state reaction route method. X-ray diffraction pattern infers that both the samples are in single phase with Fd3m space group. Slight reduction in the lattice parameter of CoCrFeO4 has been observed as compared to CoFe2O4. The dielectric dispersion has been explained on the basis of Fe2+ ↔ Fe3+ hopping mechanism. The polarizations at lower frequencies are mainly attributed to electronic exchange between Fe2+ ↔ Fe3+ ions on the octahedral site in the ferrite lattice. In the present system a part from n-type charge carrier (Fe3+/Fe2+), the presence of (Co3+/Co2+) ions give rise to p-type charge carrier. Therefore in addition to n-type charge carrier, the local displacement of p-type charge carrier in direction of external electric field also contributes to net polarization. However, the dielectric constant and loss tangent of CoCrFeO4 are found to be lower than CoFe2O4 and is attributed to the availability of ferrous ion. CoCrFeO4 have less amount of ferrous ion available for polarization as compared to that of CoFe2O4. The impedance spectra reveal a grain interior contribution to the conduction process.

  5. Colloidal nanocrystal ZnO- and TiO2-modified electrodes sensitized with chlorophyll a and carotenoids: a photoelectrochemical study

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Petrella, Andrea; Cosma, Pinalysa; Lucia Curri, M.; Rochira, Sergio; Agostiano, Angela

    2011-01-01

    Heterostructures formed of films of organic-capped ZnO and TiO 2 nanocrystals (both with the size of ca. 6 nm) and photosynthetic pigments were prepared and characterized. The surface of optically transparent electrodes (Indium Tin Oxide) was modified with nanocrystals and prepared by colloidal synthetic routes. The nanostructured electrodes were sensitized by a mixture of chlorophyll a and carotenoids. The characterization of the hybrid structures, carried out by means of steady-state optical measurements, demonstrated such class of dyes able to extend the photoresponse of the large band-gap semiconductors. The charge-transfer processes between the components of the heterojunction were investigated, and photoelectrochemical measurements taken on the sensitized ZnO and TiO 2 nanocrystals electrodes elucidated the photoactivity of the heterojunctions as a function of the dyes and of the red–ox mediator used in solution. The effect of methyl viologen as different red–ox mediator was also evaluated in order to show its effect on the heterojunction photoactivity. The overall results contributed to describe the photoelectrochemical potential of the investigated heterojunctions, highlighting a higher response of the dye-sensitized ZnO nanocrystals, and then provided the TiO 2 -modified counterparts.

  6. Transport properties of β-Ga2O3 nanoparticles embedded in Nb thin films

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    L.S. Vaidhyanathan

    2015-01-01

    Full Text Available The origin of ferromagnetism in nanoparticles of nonmagnetic oxides is an interesting area of research. In the present work, transport properties of niobium thin films, with β-Ga2O3 nanoparticles embedded within them, are presented. Nanoparticles of β-Ga2O3 embedded in a Nb matrix were prepared at room temperature by radio frequency co-sputtering technique on Si (100 and glass substrates held at room temperature. The thin films deposited on Si substrates were subjected to Ar annealing at a temperature range of 600-650 C for 1 hour. Films were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD, Micro-Raman and elemental identification was performed with an Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS. Transport measurements were performed down to liquid helium temperatures by four-probe contact technique, showed characteristics analogous to those observed in the context of a Kondo system. A comparison of the experimental data with the theoretical formalism of Kondo and Hamann is presented. It is suggested that this behavior arises from the existence of magnetic moments associated with the oxygen vacancy defects in the nanoparticles of the nonmagnetic oxide Ga2O3.

  7. Up conversion luminescence of Yb3+–Er3+ codoped CeO2 nanocrystals with imaging applications

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Cho, Jung-Hyun; Bass, Michael; Babu, Suresh; Dowding, Janet M.; Self, William T.; Seal, Sudipta

    2012-01-01

    The effects of Yb 3+ doping on up conversion in Yb 3+ –Er 3+ co-doped cerium oxide nanocrystals are reported. Green emission around 545 and 560 nm attributed to the 2 H 11/2 , 4 S 3/2 → 4 I 15/2 transitions and red emission around 660 and 680 nm due to 4 F 9/2 → 4 I 15/2 transitions under 975 nm excitation were studied at room temperature. Both green and red emission intensities increase as the Yb 3+ concentration increases from 0%. Emission strength starts to decrease after the Yb 3+ concentration exceeds a critical amount. The green emission strength peaks around 1% Yb 3+ concentration while the red emission strength peaks around 4%. An explanation of competition between different decay mechanisms is presented to account for the luminescence dependence on Yb 3+ concentration. Also, the application of up converting nanoparticles in biomedical imaging is demonstrated. - Highlights: ► Up conversion in Yb 3+ –Er 3+ co-doped cerium oxide nanocrystals. ► Different decay mechanisms determine luminescence efficiency. ► Up converting nanoparticles in biomedical imaging is demonstrated.

  8. Formation and characterization of varied size germanium nanocrystals by electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and photoluminescence

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Ou, Haiyan; Ou, Yiyu; Liu, Chuan

    2011-01-01

    Germanium nanocrystals are being extensively examined. Their unique optical properties (brought about by the quantum confinement effect) could potentially be applied in wide areas of nonlinear optics, light emission and solid state memory etc. In this paper, Ge nanocrystals embedded in a SiO2...... matrix were formed by complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor compatible technology, e.g. plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition and annealing. Different sizes of the Ge nanocrystals were prepared and analyzed by transmission electron microscopy with respect to their size, distribution...... and crystallization. The samples of different size Ge nanocrystals embedded in the SiO2 matrix were characterized by Raman spectroscopy and photoluminescence. Interplayed size and strain effect of Ge nanocystals was demonstrated by Raman spectroscopy after excluding the thermal effect with proper excitation laser...

  9. Highly efficient one-step synthesis of carbon encapsulated nanocrystals by the oxidation of metal π-complexes

    Science.gov (United States)

    Liu, Boyang; Shao, Yingfeng; Xiang, Xin; Zhang, Fuhua; Yan, Shengchang; Li, Wenge

    2017-08-01

    Various carbon encapsulated nanocrystals, including MnS and MnO, Cr2O3, MoO2, Fe7S8 and Fe3O4, and ZrO2, are prepared in one step and in situ by a simple and highly efficient synthesis approach. The nanocrystals have an equiaxed morphology and a median size smaller than 30 nm. Tens and hundreds of these nanocrystals are entirely encapsulated by a wormlike amorphous carbon shell. The formation of a core-shell structure depends on the strongly exothermic reaction of metal π-complexes with ammonium persulfate in an autoclave at below 200 °C. During the oxidation process, the generated significant amounts of heat will destroy the molecular structure of the metal π-complex and cleave the ligands into small carbon fragments, which further transform into an amorphous carbon shell. The central metal atoms are oxidized to metal oxide/sulfide nanocrystals. The formation of a core-shell structure is independent of the numbers of ligands and carbon atoms as well as the metal types, implying that any metal π-complex can serve as a precursor and that various carbon encapsulated nanocrystals can be synthesized by this method.

  10. Controlled agglomeration of Tb-doped Y2O3 nanocrystals studied by x-ray absorption fine structure, x-ray excited luminescence, and photoluminescence

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Soo, Y.L.; Huang, S.W.; Kao, Y.H.; Chhabra, V.; Kulkarni, B.; Veliadis, J.V.; Bhargava, R.N.

    1999-01-01

    Local environment surrounding Y atoms in Y 2 O 3 :Tb nanocrystals under various heat treatment conditions has been investigated by using the extended x-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) technique. X-ray excited luminescence (XEL) with the incident x-ray energy near Y K edge and Tb L edges has also been measured to investigate the mechanisms of x-ray-to-visible down conversion in these doped nanoparticles. The observed changes in EXAFS, XEL, and photoluminescent data can be explained on the basis of increased average size of the nanoparticles as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy studies. Our results thus demonstrate that the doped nanoparticles can agglomerate to a controllable degree by varying the heat treatment temperature. At higher temperatures, the local environment surrounding Y atoms in the nanoparticles is found to become similar to that in bulk Y 2 O 3 while the XEL output still shows the characteristics of nanocrystals. These results indicate that appropriate heat treatment can afford an effective means to control the intensity and signal-to-background ratio of green luminescence output of these doped nanocrystal phosphors, potentially useful for some device applications. copyright 1999 American Institute of Physics

  11. Experimental evidence for self-assembly of CeO2 particles in solution: Formation of single-crystalline porous CeO2 nanocrystals

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Tan, Hui Ru; Tan, Joyce Pei Ying; Boothroyd, Chris

    2012-01-01

    Single-crystalline porous CeO2 nanocrystals, with sizes of ∼20 nm and pore diameters of 1-2 nm, were synthesized successfully using a hydrothermal method. Using electron tomography, we imaged the three-dimensional structure of the pores in the nanocrystals and found that the oriented aggregation ...... energy-loss spectroscopy. The oxygen vacancies might play an important role in oxygen diffusion in the crystals and the catalytic activities of single-crystalline porous CeO 2 structures. © 2011 American Chemical Society....

  12. Effect of CrO3 Sealing Time on Anodized A12024-T3

    Science.gov (United States)

    Korda, Akhmad A.; Hidayat, R. Z.

    2016-08-01

    The effect of CrO3 sealing time on anodized aluminum alloy has been investigated. A1 2024-T3 were used as substrate. Anodizing was carried out using chromic acid. CrO3 sealing was conducted in CrO3 solution for 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 minutes. As comparison, other specimens were also prepared as anodized and boiled water sealing. Thickness of the coating was observed by optical microscope. Anodized and sealing layer was analyzed by X- ray diffraction. The hardness of as anodized, boiled water sealing and CrO3 sealing were compared. The highest hardness is achieved by CrO3 sealed specimen and followed by boiled water sealing and as anodized specimens. The longer the processes of CrO3 sealing the higher layer thickness and therefore the higher hardness of the oxide layer. The best resistance to electrolyte penetration is achieved by the CrO3 sealed specimen followed by boiled water sealed and as anodized specimens. The higher thickness of oxide layer, the higher the resistance against electrolyte penetration.

  13. Effect of CrO_3 Sealing Time on Anodized A12024-T3

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Korda, Akhmad A; Hidayat, R Z

    2016-01-01

    The effect of CrO_3 sealing time on anodized aluminum alloy has been investigated. A1 2024-T3 were used as substrate. Anodizing was carried out using chromic acid. CrO_3 sealing was conducted in CrO_3 solution for 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 minutes. As comparison, other specimens were also prepared as anodized and boiled water sealing. Thickness of the coating was observed by optical microscope. Anodized and sealing layer was analyzed by X- ray diffraction. The hardness of as anodized, boiled water sealing and CrO_3 sealing were compared. The highest hardness is achieved by CrO_3 sealed specimen and followed by boiled water sealing and as anodized specimens. The longer the processes of CrO3 sealing the higher layer thickness and therefore the higher hardness of the oxide layer. The best resistance to electrolyte penetration is achieved by the CrO_3 sealed specimen followed by boiled water sealed and as anodized specimens. The higher thickness of oxide layer, the higher the resistance against electrolyte penetration. (paper)

  14. Orbital character of O-2p unoccupied states near the Fermi level in CrO2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Stagarescu, C. B.; Su, X.; Eastman, D. E.; Altmann, K. N.; Himpsel, F. J.; Gupta, A.

    2000-01-01

    The orbital character, orientation, and magnetic polarization of the O-2p unoccupied states near the Fermi level (E F ) in CrO 2 was determined using polarization-dependent x-ray absorption spectroscopy and x-ray magnetic circular dichroism from high-quality, single-crystal films. A sharp peak observed just above E F is excited only by the electric-field vector (E) normal to the tetragonal c axis, characteristic of a narrow band (≅0.7 eV bandwidth) constituted from O-2p orbitals perpendicular to c (O-2p y ) hybridized with Cr 3d xz-yz t 2g states. By comparison with band-structure and configuration-interaction cluster calculations our results support a model of CrO 2 as a half-metallic ferromagnet with large exchange-splitting energy (Δ exch-split ≅3.0 eV) and substantial correlation effects. (c) 2000 The American Physical Society

  15. Synthesis, Characterization, and NIR Reflectance of Highly Dispersed NiTiO3 and NiTiO3/TiO2 Composite Pigments

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yuping Tong

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available The highly dispersed nanostructured NiTiO3 pigments and NiTiO3/TiO2 composite pigments can be synthesized at relative low temperature. The activation energy of crystal growth of NiTiO3 during calcinations via salt-assistant combustion method is 9.35 kJ/mol. The UV-vis spectra results revealed that the absorbance decreased with the increasing of calcinations temperature due to small size effect of nanometer particles. The optical data of NiTiO3 nanocrystals were analyzed at the near-absorption edge. SEM showed that the obtained NiTiO3 nanocrystals and NiTiO3/TiO2 nanocomposite were composed of highly dispersed spherical-like and spherical particles with uniform size distribution, respectively. The chromatic properties and diffuse reflectance of samples were investigated. The obtained NiTiO3/TiO2 composite samples have higher NIR reflectance than NiTiO3 pigments.

  16. Luminescence of Cr{sup 3+} ions in ZnAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} and MgAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} spinels: correlation between experimental spectroscopic studies and crystal field calculations

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Brik, M.G., E-mail: mikhail.brik@ut.ee [College of Sciences, Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Chongqing 400065 (China); Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, W. Ostwald Str. 1, Tartu 50411 (Estonia); Institute of Physics, Jan Dlugosz University, Al. Armii Krajowej 13/15, Czestochowa PL-42200 (Poland); Papan, J.; Jovanović, D.J. [University of Belgrade, Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, P.O. Box 522, Belgrade 11001 (Serbia); Dramićanin, M.D., E-mail: dramican@vinca.rs [University of Belgrade, Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, P.O. Box 522, Belgrade 11001 (Serbia)

    2016-09-15

    Details of preparation, spectroscopic and structural studies along with crystal field calculations for two Cr{sup 3+} doped spinels MgAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} and ZnAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} are given in the present paper. Both compounds show efficient red emission at about 685 nm, which is due to the {sup 2}E{sub g} → {sup 4}A{sub 2g} spin-forbidden transition of Cr{sup 3+} ions located at the sites with D{sub 3d} local symmetry. Analysis of structure of the CrO{sub 6} clusters was performed; comparison of the crystal field effects in both compounds revealed that the low-symmetry splitting of the orbital triplet states is more pronounced in ZnAl{sub 2}O{sub 4}. Both compounds show potential for applications as red-emitting phosphors. - Highlights: • Cr{sup 3+}-doped MgAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} and ZnAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} spinels were synthesized. • Excitation/emission spectra were recorded and analyzed. • Symmetry properties of the Cr-sites were analyzed. • Cr{sup 3+} energy levels in trigonal crystal field were calculated. • Cr{sup 3+}-doped MgAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} and ZnAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} spinels can be used as red phosphors.

  17. LaCrO3/CuFe2O4 Composite-Coated Crofer 22 APU Stainless Steel Interconnect of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hosseini, Seyedeh Narjes; Enayati, Mohammad Hossein; Karimzadeh, Fathallah; Dayaghi, Amir Masoud

    2017-07-01

    Rapidly rising contact resistance and cathode Cr poisoning are the major problems associated with unavoidable chromia scale growth on ferritic stainless steel (FSS) interconnects of solid oxide fuel cells. This work investigates the performance of the novel screen-printed composite coatings consisting of dispersed conductive LaCrO3 particles in a CuFe2O4 spinel matrix for Crofer 22 APU FSS, with emphasis on the oxidation behavior and electrical conductivity of these coatings. The results show that the presence of protective spinel coating, accompanied by the effective role of LaCrO3 particle incorporation, prevents the Cr2O3 subscale growth as well as chromium migration into the coating surface at the end of 400 hours of oxidation at 1073 K (800 °C) in air. In addition, the composite coatings decreased the area specific resistance (ASR) from 51.7 and 13.8 mΩ cm2 for uncoated and spinel-coated samples, respectively, to a maximum of 7.7 mΩ cm2 for composite-coated samples after 400 hours of oxidation.

  18. Coupling between Ge-nanocrystals and defects in SiO2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Skov Jensen, J.; Franzo, G.; Leervad Petersen, T.P.; Pereira, R.; Chevallier, J.; Christian Petersen, M.; Bech Nielsen, B.; Nylandsted Larsen, A.

    2006-01-01

    Room temperature photoluminescence (PL) at around 600 nm from magnetron-sputtered SiO 2 films co-doped with Ge is reported. The PL signal is observed in pure SiO 2 , however, its intensity increases significantly in the presence of Ge-nanocrystals (Ge-nc). The PL intensity has been optimized by varying the temperature of heat treatment, type of gas during heat treatment, concentration of Ge in the SiO 2 films, and gas pressure during deposition. Maximum intensity occurs when Ge-nc of around 3.5 nm are present in large concentration in SiO 2 layers deposited at fairly high gas pressure. Based on time resolved PL, and PL measurements after α-particle irradiation or H passivation, we attribute the origin of the PL to a defect in SiO 2 (probably an O deficiency) that is excited through an energy transfer from Ge-nc. There is no direct PL from the Ge-nc; however, there is a strong coupling between excitons created in the Ge-nc and the SiO 2 defect

  19. Design and syntheses of hybrid metal-organic materials based on K3[M(C2O4)33H2O [M(III)=Fe, Al, Cr] metallotectons

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sun, Yayong; Zong, Yingxia; Ma, Haoran; Zhang, Ao; Liu, Kang; Wang, Debao; Wang, Wenqiang; Wang, Lei

    2016-05-01

    By using K3[M(C2O4)33H2O [M(III)=Fe, Al, Cr] (C2O42-=oxalate) metallotectons as the starting material, we have synthesized eight novel complexes with formulas [{Fe(C2O4)2(H2O)2}2]·(H-L1)2·H2O 1, [Fe(C2O4)Cl2]·(H2-L2)0.5·(L2)0.5·H2O 2, [{Fe(C2O4)1.5Cl2}2]·(H-L3)43, [Fe2(C2O4)Cl8]·(H2-L4)2·2H2O 4, K[Al(C2O4)3]·(H2-L5)·2H2O 5, K[Al(C2O4)3]·(H-L6)2·2H2O 6, K[Cr(C2O4)32H2O 7, Na[Fe(C2O4)3]·(H-L6)2·2H2O 8 (with L1=4-dimethylaminopyridine, L2=2,3,5,6-tetramethylpyrazine, L3=2-aminobenzimidazole, L4=1,4-bis-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)benzene, L5=1,4-bis((2-methylimidazol-1-yl)methyl)benzene, L6=2-methylbenzimidazole). Their structures have been determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses, elemental analyses, IR spectra and thermogravimetric analyses. Compound 3 is a 2D H-bonded supramolecular architecture. Others are 3D supramolecular structures. Compound 1 shows a [Fe(C2O4)2(H2O)2]- unit and 3D antionic H-bonded framework. Compound 2 features a [Fe(C2O4)Cl2]- anion and 1D iron-oxalate-iron chain. Compound 3 features a [Fe2(C2O4)3Cl4]4- unit. Compound 4 features distinct [Fe2(C2O4)Cl8]4- units, which are mutual linked by water molecules to generated a 2D H-bonded network. Compound 5 features infinite ladder-like chains constructed by [Al(C2O4)3]3- units and K+ cations. The 1D chains are further extended into 3D antionic H-bonded framework through O-H···O H-bonds. Compounds 6-8 show 2D [KAl(C2O4)3]2- layer, [KCr(C2O4)3]2- layer and [NaFe(C2O4)3]2- layer, respectively.

  20. Self-assembly of Fe3O4 nanocrystal-clusters into cauliflower-like architectures: Synthesis and characterization

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhu Luping; Liao Guihong; Bing Naici; Wang Linlin; Xie Hongyong

    2011-01-01

    Large-scale cauliflower-like Fe 3 O 4 architectures consist of well-assembled magnetite nanocrystal clusters have been synthesized by a simple solvothermal process. The as-synthesized Fe 3 O 4 samples were characterized by XRD, XPS, FT-IR, SEM, TEM, etc. The results show that the samples exhibit cauliflower-like hierarchical microstructures. The influences of synthesis parameters on the morphology of the samples were experimentally investigated. Magnetic properties of the Fe 3 O 4 cauliflower-like hierarchical microstructures have been detected by VSM at room temperature, showing a relatively low saturation magnetization of 65 emu/g and an enhanced coercive force of 247 Oe. - Graphical Abstract: Cauliflower-like Fe 3 O 4 architectures consist of well-assembled magnetite nanocrystal clusters have been synthesized by a simple solvothermal process, using FeCl 3 .6H 2 O and EDA as the starting materials. Highlights: → Cauliflower-like Fe 3 O 4 architectures were successfully prepared by a simple solvothermal route. → The cauliflower-like Fe 3 O 4 architectures have a size in the range of 200-300 nm. → They show a low saturation magnetization of 65 emu/g and an enhanced coercive force of 247 Oe. → These Fe 3 O 4 architectures may have potential applications in catalysis and biological fields.

  1. Superparamagnetism in AFM Cr2O3 nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Tobia, D.; Winkler, E.L.; Zysler, R.D.; Granada, M.; Troiani, H.E.

    2010-01-01

    In this work we report the size effects on the magnetic properties of AFM Cr 2 O 3 nanoparticles. From transmission electron microscopy we determined that the system presents high crystallinity and narrow lognormal size distribution centred at = 7.8 nm with σ = 0.3. The magnetic properties of the nanoparticles were studied by magnetization and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) experiments. By EPR spectroscopy we established that the AFM order temperature, T N , shifted to ∼270 K when the size is reduced (T N (Bulk) ∼ 308 K). From the zero-field-cooling and the field-cooling magnetization curves we determined the blocking temperature T B = 28 K. Below T B the system presents exchange bias effect. We discuss the results by using recent models in terms of the internal magnetic structures of the nanoparticles.

  2. Nanocrystals of a new complex perovskite dielectric Ba{sub 2}TmSbO{sub 6}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nair, V.M. [Department of Physics, University College, Trivandrum 695034, Kerala (India); Jose, R., E-mail: rjose@ump.edu.my [Faculty of Industrial Sciences and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang, 26300 Kuantan (Malaysia); Anil Kumar, G.M. [Noritake Co Ltd, 300 Higashiyama, Miyoshi, Aichi 470-0293 (Japan); Yusoff, Mashitah M. [Faculty of Industrial Sciences and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang, 26300 Kuantan (Malaysia); Wariar, P.R.S. [Department of Physics, University College, Trivandrum 695034, Kerala (India)

    2012-01-25

    Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer A new material, Ba{sub 2}TmSbO{sub 6}, has been synthesized as nanocrystals for the first time. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer A combustion process, characterized by a one-pot procedure, was adopted to synthesize Ba{sub 2}TmSbO{sub 6} as nanocrystals. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Crystal structure and dielectric properties of the Ba{sub 2}TmSbO{sub 6} have been studied and compared with similar materials. - Abstract: Nanocrystals of a new complex perovskites ceramic oxide, barium thulium antimony oxide - Ba{sub 2}TmSbO{sub 6}, were synthesized using a single step auto-ignition combustion process. The combustion product was single phase and composed of aggregates of nanocrystals of sizes in the range 20-50 nm. Ba{sub 2}TmSbO{sub 6} crystallized in cubic perovskite structure with lattice parameter, a = 8.4101 Angstrom-Sign . The polycrystalline fluffy combustion product was sintered to high density ({approx}97%) at {approx}1450 Degree-Sign C for 4 h. Resistivity of the sintered specimen was {approx}5 M{Omega}/cm. The Ba{sub 2}TmSbO{sub 6} has dielectric constant ({epsilon} Prime ) and dielectric loss (tan {delta}) of 17 and {approx}10{sup -4} at 5 MHz; the new material would probably be developed as a low-loss dielectric material.

  3. Benzimidazole-functionalized Zr-UiO-66 nanocrystals for luminescent sensing of Fe{sup 3+} in water

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Dong, Yingying; Zhang, Hanzhuo; Lei, Fan; Liang, Mei; Qian, Xuefeng; Shen, Peilian [The Key laboratory of Advanced Textile Materials and Manufacturing Technology of Ministry of Education, National Engineering Lab for Textile Fiber Materials and Processing Technology (Zhejiang), College of Materials and Textiles, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Xu, Hui, E-mail: huixu@cjlu.edu.cn [Institute of Coordination Bond Metrology and Engineering, College of Materials Science and Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Chen, Zhihui, E-mail: huixu.chen@gmail.com [The Key laboratory of Advanced Textile Materials and Manufacturing Technology of Ministry of Education, National Engineering Lab for Textile Fiber Materials and Processing Technology (Zhejiang), College of Materials and Textiles, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Key Lab of Advanced Transducers and Intelligent Control System, Ministry of Education and Shanxi Province, College of Physics and Optoelectronics, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024 (China); Gao, Junkuo, E-mail: jkgao@zstu.edu.cn [The Key laboratory of Advanced Textile Materials and Manufacturing Technology of Ministry of Education, National Engineering Lab for Textile Fiber Materials and Processing Technology (Zhejiang), College of Materials and Textiles, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Yao, Juming [The Key laboratory of Advanced Textile Materials and Manufacturing Technology of Ministry of Education, National Engineering Lab for Textile Fiber Materials and Processing Technology (Zhejiang), College of Materials and Textiles, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018 (China)

    2017-01-15

    Zr-based MOF structure UiO-66 exhibits unprecedented high thermal and chemical stability, making it to be one of the most used MOFs in various applications. Yet, the poor photoluminescent (PL) properties of UiO-66 limit its applications in luminescent sensing. Herein, a new benzimidazole-functionalized UiO-66 nanocrystal (UiO-66-BI) was successfully fabricated via microwave synthesis. UiO-66-BI displayed octahedral nanocrystal morphology with a diameter smaller than 200 nm and could disperse well in water and common organic solvents. UiO-66-BI demonstrated extended optical absorption in the visible-light region and efficiently improved PL emission compared with UiO-66 pristine. The sensing properties of UiO-66-BI nanocrystals towards different ions were studied, and the results demonstrated that UiO-66-BI showed excellent selective luminescent sensing of Fe{sup 3+} ions in water.

  4. Effect of sintering condition on the grain growth of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} doped UO{sub 2} pellets

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Oh, Jang Soo; Kim, Keon Sik; Kim, Dong Joo; Kim, Jong Hun; Yang, Jae Ho [KAERI, Daejeon (Korea, Republic of)

    2016-05-15

    In this paper, Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} doped UO{sub 2} pellets were fabricated by two-step sintering process. The grain growth of pellet is related to dwell time in a hydrogen atmosphere during sintering process. A large grain pellet can minimize fission gas release and deform easily at an elevated temperature. So, the recent development of nuclear fuel pellet materials is mainly focused on the large grain pellets. The various methods of fabrication processes for large grain UO{sub 2} pellets have been investigated extensively. Those parameters include the additives, sintering temperature, sintering time, sintering atmosphere, and so on. Cr-doped UO{sub 2} pellet is one of the promising candidates for PCI remedy. It was shown that the grain size and softness of UO{sub 2} pellets could be enhanced by doping Cr or Cr compound in UO{sub 2}. Various in-pile test results revealed that the PCI properties were enhanced considerably [4]. In the sintering process of Cr-doped UO{sub 2} pellet, it was known that tight adjusting of sintering atmosphere is most important to achieve large grain pellet. The relevant research revealed that the doped Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} became liquid phase in optimized oxygen potential and that liquid phase promoted the grain growth. Recently, KAERI has shown that grain size of Cr-doped UO{sub 2} pellet could be more enlarged by adjusting process parameters. In this paper, we introduced a sintering process which can form a liquid phase for a large grain growth in Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} doped UO{sub 2} pellet. The study on the effect of dwell time in H{sub 2} atmosphere during sintering process on the grain structure of sintered pellet is also a part of this work. In order to obtain large grain in pellet, it is important to increase amount of Cr that can form a liquid phase for grain growth by increasing dwell time in a hydrogen atmosphere during sintering process.

  5. Preparation of fluorinated Cr2O3 hexagonal prism and catalytic performance for the dehydrofluorination of 1,1-difluoroethane to vinyl fluoride

    Science.gov (United States)

    Han, Wenfeng; Li, Xiaojuan; Tang, Haodong; Wang, Zhikun; Xi, Miao; Li, Ying; Liu, Huazhang

    2015-09-01

    A Cr2O3 hexagonal prism structure synthesized via the reaction of aqueous CrCl3 solution with NaBH4 solution at room temperature followed by calcination of the precipitate in N2 atmosphere at 500 °C is investigated as an efficient catalyst for dehydrofluorination of 1,1-difluoroethane producing vinyl fluoride. With the assistance of scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, experimental results revealed that the uniform hexagonal prism has a prism length of 285 ± 43 nm and width of 233 ± 33 nm. It is in the form of loose and net-like aggregation of nano-Cr2O3 with diameter less than 3-5 nm with polycrystalline structure. NH3 temperature programmed desorption and chlorodifluoromethane dismutation experiments confirm the existence of relatively abundant and strong acidic sites. As a catalyst for dehydrofluorination of 1,1-difluoroethane, compared with commercial Cr2O3, much higher activity and stability were observed due to the evolution of CrO x F y species and much higher surface area and mesoporous structure. No significant morphology changes or sintering of the catalyst are observed after 70-h reaction. Compared with the commercial Cr2O3, we suggest that the much smaller size of Cr2O3 crystalline which possesses higher surface energy, lower strength, and more abundant Lewis acidity and the formation of CrO x F y during reaction over hexagonal prism catalyst probably contributes to the activity and stability difference between these two catalysts.

  6. Effects of Cr-doping on the photoluminescence and ferromagnetism at room temperature in ZnO nanomaterials prepared by soft chemistry route

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wang Baiqi; Iqbal, Javed; Shan Xudong; Huang Guowei; Fu Honggang; Yu Ronghai; Yu Dapeng

    2009-01-01

    The pure and Cr-doped ZnO nanomaterials were prepared by soft chemistry route. The crystallinity and morphology of as-prepared ZnO nanomaterials were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), which show that Cr-doping could influence crystal and improve the oriented growth of ZnO nanomaterials. The amount of contents and valence state of Cr ions were investigated by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), which demonstrate that the Cr ions are uniformly doped about 2 atm% in each nanowire and are in +3 valence state in doped ZnO nanomaterials. The effect of Cr-doping on the photoluminescence (PL) and magnetic properties of as-prepared ZnO nanomaterials were principally investigated at room temperature. The Cr-doping can adjust the energy level of ZnO nanocrystal and increase the amount of defects and oxygen vacancies, which lead to shift in the emission peak position in ultraviolet (UV) region and enhance the PL performance in visible light (VL) region of ZnO nanomaterials. In addition, the presence of Cr dopant in ZnO structures establishes the room-temperature ferromagnetism, which is possibly related to the existence of defects and oxygen vacancies as well as due to exchange interaction between Cr 3d and O 2p spin moments

  7. Heterogeneous nucleation of amorphous alloys on catalytic nanoparticles to produce 2D patterned nanocrystal arrays

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Gangopadhyay, A K; Krishna, H; Favazza, C; Miller, C; Kalyanaraman, R

    2007-01-01

    Templates are widely used to produce artificial nanostructures. Here, laser-assisted self-organization has been used to form one- and two-dimensional (D) nanoarrays of Cu nanocrystals. Using these nanoarrays as a template, a 2D patterned ferromagnetic nanostructure of FeCrSi nanocrystals has been produced by heterogeneous nucleation and growth of nanocrystals by partial devitrification from an amorphous Fe 64.5 Cr 10 Si 13.5 B 9 Nb 3 alloy with the Cu nanoparticles acting as catalytic nucleation sites. The interaction among the ferromagnetic nanocrystals via the residual amorphous matrix can be controlled by suitable choice of the amorphous alloy composition. Although demonstrated for a ferromagnetic system, the processing method may have much wider applicability for producing artificial nanostructures of a wide variety of materials when materials-specific catalysts and amorphous alloy compositions are judiciously chosen

  8. Characterization of transparent superconductivity Fe-doped CuCrO{sub 2} delafossite oxide

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Taddee, Chutirat [Materials Science and Nanotechnology Program, Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002 (Thailand); Kamwanna, Teerasak, E-mail: teekam@kku.ac.th [Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002 (Thailand); Nanotec-KKU Center of Excellence on Advanced Nanomaterials for Energy Production and Storage, Khon Kaen 40002 (Thailand); Integrated Nanotechnology Research Center (INRC), Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002 (Thailand); Amornkitbamrung, Vittaya [Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002 (Thailand); Nanotec-KKU Center of Excellence on Advanced Nanomaterials for Energy Production and Storage, Khon Kaen 40002 (Thailand); Integrated Nanotechnology Research Center (INRC), Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002 (Thailand)

    2016-09-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Effect of Fe substitution on the physical properties in CuCrO{sub 2} is studied. • The substitution of Cr{sup 3+} by Fe{sup 3+} produces a mixed effect on the magnetic properties. • CuCr{sub 1−x}Fe{sub x}O{sub 2} delafossite oxides show transparent superconductivity. - Abstract: Delafossite CuCr{sub 1−x}Fe{sub x}O{sub 2} (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.15) semiconductors were synthesized using a self-combustion urea nitrate process. The effects of Fe concentration on its microstructural, optical, magnetic, and electrical properties were investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis results revealed the delafossite structure in all the samples. The lattice spacing of CuCr{sub 1−x}Fe{sub x}O{sub 2} slightly increased with increasing substitution of Fe at the Cr sites. The optical properties measured at room temperature using UV–visible spectroscopy showed a weak absorbability in the visible light and near IR regions. The corresponding direct optical band gap was about 3.61 eV, exhibiting transparency in the visible region. The magnetic hysteresis loop measurements showed that the Fe-doped CuCrO{sub 2} samples exhibited ferromagnetic behavior at room temperature. This indicated that the substitution of Fe{sup 3+} for Cr{sup 3+} produced a mixed effect on the magnetic properties of CuCrO{sub 2} delafossite oxide. The temperature dependent resistivity measurements clearly revealed the presence of superconductivity in the CuCr{sub 1−x}Fe{sub x}O{sub 2} with a superconducting transition up to 118 K.

  9. Density functional theory study of atomic and electronic properties of defects in reduced anatase TiO2 nanocrystals

    Science.gov (United States)

    Morita, Kazuki; Yasuoka, Kenji

    2018-03-01

    Anatase TiO2 nanocrystals have received considerable attention owing to their promising applications in photocatalysis, photovoltaics, and fuel cells. Although experimental evidence has shown that the performance of nanocrystals can be significantly improved through reduction, the mechanistic basis of this enhancement remains unclear. To shed a light on the chemistry of reduced anatase TiO2 nanocrystals, density functional theory were used to investigate the properties of defects and excess electrons. We demonstrated that oxygen vacancies are stable both on the surface and at the sub-surface of the nanocrystal, while titanium interstitials prefer sub-surface sites. Different defect locations possessed different excess electron structures, which contributed to deep and shallow states in the band gap of the nanocrystals. Furthermore, valence band tailing was observed, resulting in band gap narrowing. The theoretical results presented here deepen our understanding, and show the potential of defects to considerably change the macroscopic properties of anatase TiO2 nanocrystals.

  10. Density functional theory study of atomic and electronic properties of defects in reduced anatase TiO2 nanocrystals

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Kazuki Morita

    2018-03-01

    Full Text Available Anatase TiO2 nanocrystals have received considerable attention owing to their promising applications in photocatalysis, photovoltaics, and fuel cells. Although experimental evidence has shown that the performance of nanocrystals can be significantly improved through reduction, the mechanistic basis of this enhancement remains unclear. To shed a light on the chemistry of reduced anatase TiO2 nanocrystals, density functional theory were used to investigate the properties of defects and excess electrons. We demonstrated that oxygen vacancies are stable both on the surface and at the sub-surface of the nanocrystal, while titanium interstitials prefer sub-surface sites. Different defect locations possessed different excess electron structures, which contributed to deep and shallow states in the band gap of the nanocrystals. Furthermore, valence band tailing was observed, resulting in band gap narrowing. The theoretical results presented here deepen our understanding, and show the potential of defects to considerably change the macroscopic properties of anatase TiO2 nanocrystals.

  11. In silico CrNF, a half-metallic ferromagnetic nitride–fluoride mimicking CrO2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Matar, Samir F.

    2014-01-01

    Isoelectronic with CrO 2 , CrNF is proposed in silico based on rutile derived structures with DFT computations. The ground state structure defined from cohesive energies is of MgUO 4 -type, characterized by short covalent Cr–N and long ionic Cr–F distances. Like CrO 2 it is a half-metallic ferromagnet with M=2 μ B /FU integer magnetization with reduced band gap at minority spins. Major difference of magnetic response to pressure characterizes CrNF as a soft ferromagnet versus hard magnetic CrO 2 . The chemical bonding properties point to prevailing covalent Cr–N versus ionic Cr–F bonding. Different synthesis routes are examined. - Highlights: • DFT identification of CrNF is based on isoelectronicity and rutile derivatives. • Similarly to CrO 2 , CrNF is a half-metallic ferromagnet with reduced band gap. • Strong pressure dependence of magnetization of CrNF oppositely to CrO 2 . • Covalent Cr–N bonding prevails in spite of the presence of ionic Cr–F. • Cohesive energies favor the synthesis for which protocols are proposed

  12. Magnetotransport in La{sub 0.7}Sr{sub 0.3}MnO{sub 3}/CuCr{sub 2}O{sub 4}/Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} magnetic junctions

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Iwata-Harms, Jodi M.; Suzuki, Yuri [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720 (United States); Department of Applied Physics and Geballe Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305 (United States); Chopdekar, Rajesh V. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720 (United States); School of Applied and Engineering Physics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853 (United States); Wong, Franklin J. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720 (United States); Materials Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720 (United States); Nelson-Cheeseman, Brittany B. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720 (United States); Jenkins, Catherine A.; Arenholz, Elke [Advanced Light Source, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720 (United States)

    2015-01-05

    We demonstrate distinct magnetic and resistive switching with junction magnetoresistance up to −6% in magnetic tunnel junctions with a CuCr{sub 2}O{sub 4} barrier. Junction magnetoresistance is inversely related to barrier thickness and reveals a maximum at a finite applied bias that converges to zero bias at low temperatures for all barrier thicknesses. The non-monotonic bias dependence is attributed to a charge gap from the Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} electrode and possible spin filtering from the spin-split conduction band of the ferrimagnetic CuCr{sub 2}O{sub 4} barrier.

  13. Raman spectroscopic study of structure and crystallisation behaviour of MoO3-La2O3-B2O3 and MoO3-ZnO-B2O3 glasses

    Science.gov (United States)

    Aleksandrov, L.; Komatsu, T.; Nagamine, K.; Oishi, K.

    2011-03-01

    In this study, we focus on the structure and crystallization behavior of MoO3-La2O3-B2O3 and MoO3-ZnO-B2O3 glasses. Glasses of both systems were prepared by a melt-quenching method. The thermal stability of the glasses was examined using differential thermal anaysis (DTA) measurements, and the crystalline phases formed by heat treatments were identified by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Raman scattering spectra at room temperature for the glasses and crystallized samples were measured with a laser microscope operated with an Ar+ (wavelength: 488 nm) laser. DTA measurements indicated that the thermal stability against crystallization of the glasses decreases drastically with increasing MoO3 content. XRD analysis confirmed that crystallization at 600°C for 3 h of glass with the nominal composition of 50MoO3-25La2O3-25B2O3 resulted in the formation of monoclinic LaMoBO6. Crystallization of 50ZnO-xMoO3-(50-x)B2O3 glasses formed triclinic α-ZnMoO4 as an initial crystalline phase. Moreover, for 30 mol% MoO3 glass, transmission electron microscopy observations showed the formation of α-ZnMoO4 nanocrystals with a diameter of ~ 5 nm. Raman bands at 860, 930 and 950 cm-1 suggested that the coordination state of Mo6+ ions in the glasses were mainly (MoO4)2- tetrahedral units. Therefore, MoO3-containing glasses have good potential for optical applications.

  14. Facile synthesis of high-temperature (1000 °C) phase-stable rice-like anatase TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lv, Lizhen [Capital Normal University, Beijing Key Laboratory for Optical Materials and Photonic Devices, Department of Chemistry (China); Chen, Qirong [Beijing Center for Physical and Chemical Analysis (BCPCA) (China); Liu, Xiuyun; Wang, Miaomiao; Meng, Xiangfu, E-mail: xfmeng@cnu.edu.cn [Capital Normal University, Beijing Key Laboratory for Optical Materials and Photonic Devices, Department of Chemistry (China)

    2015-05-15

    High-temperature phase-stable rice-like anatase TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals were synthesized by one-pot solvothermal method using soluble titania xerogel and isopropyl alcohol (IPA) as the precursor and the solvent, respectively. Sample characterization was carried out by powder X-ray diffraction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscope, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and N{sub 2} adsorption–desorption isotherms. The results showed that TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals had rice-like shapes with an average size of 5 nm in width and 35 nm in length. The BET surface area was 153 m{sup 2}/g. Unexpectedly, the rice-like TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals exhibited high-temperature phase stability, which could remain as pure anatase phase after calcinations at 1000 °C. Growth mechanism investigation revealed that the IPA solvent played a key role in nucleation and growth of rice-like anatase TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals. The photodegradation of rhodamine B demonstrated that rice-like anatase TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation.

  15. Biferroic LuCrO3: Structural characterization, magnetic and dielectric properties

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Durán, A.; Meza F, C.; Morán, E.; Alario-Franco, M.A.; Ostos, C.

    2014-01-01

    Multiferroic LuCrO 3 perovskite-type structure (Pbnm) obtained via auto-ignition synthesis was characterized by a combination of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetric (TG) techniques, and through magnetization and permittivity measurements. Results showed that amorphous combustion powders were fully transformed to orthorhombic LuCrO 3 structure at 1200 K after the first LuCrO 4 crystallization at 700 K. The magnetic response displays thermal irreversibility between zero-field-cooling and field-cooling condition which is due to spin canted AF switching at 116 K. Accordingly, a hysteresis loop in the M(H) data confirms weak ferromagnetism in LuCrO 3 . On the other hand, the permittivity measurement shows a broad peak transition typical of relaxor-type ferroelectrics transition at ∼450 K. Electrical conductivity increases as temperature increases showing an anomaly around the diffuse phase transition. The diffuse phase transition and the formation of the charge carriers are discussed in terms of a local distortion around the Lu Site. - Highlights: • Multiferroic LuCrO 3 was successfully obtained via auto-ignition synthesis. • Amorphous powder is transformed first to LuCrO 4 (700 K) and next to LuCrO 3 (1100 K). • The CrO 6 octahedra are tilted away and rotates from the ideal octahedral shape. • LuCrO 3 exhibits a canted AFM transition (116 K) and a relaxor ferroelectric behavior. • Tilting and rotation of CrO 6 octahedra influenced transport properties on LuCrO 3

  16. Preparation of fluorinated Cr2O3 hexagonal prism and catalytic performance for the dehydrofluorination of 1,1-difluoroethane to vinyl fluoride

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Han, Wenfeng; Li, Xiaojuan; Tang, Haodong; Wang, Zhikun; Xi, Miao; Li, Ying; Liu, Huazhang

    2015-01-01

    A Cr 2 O 3 hexagonal prism structure synthesized via the reaction of aqueous CrCl 3 solution with NaBH 4 solution at room temperature followed by calcination of the precipitate in N 2 atmosphere at 500 °C is investigated as an efficient catalyst for dehydrofluorination of 1,1-difluoroethane producing vinyl fluoride. With the assistance of scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, experimental results revealed that the uniform hexagonal prism has a prism length of 285 ± 43 nm and width of 233 ± 33 nm. It is in the form of loose and net-like aggregation of nano-Cr 2 O 3 with diameter less than 3–5 nm with polycrystalline structure. NH 3 temperature programmed desorption and chlorodifluoromethane dismutation experiments confirm the existence of relatively abundant and strong acidic sites. As a catalyst for dehydrofluorination of 1,1-difluoroethane, compared with commercial Cr 2 O 3 , much higher activity and stability were observed due to the evolution of CrO x F y species and much higher surface area and mesoporous structure. No significant morphology changes or sintering of the catalyst are observed after 70-h reaction. Compared with the commercial Cr 2 O 3 , we suggest that the much smaller size of Cr 2 O 3 crystalline which possesses higher surface energy, lower strength, and more abundant Lewis acidity and the formation of CrO x F y during reaction over hexagonal prism catalyst probably contributes to the activity and stability difference between these two catalysts.

  17. Humidity-sensitive characteristics of PbCrO4-PbO thick film elements. PbCrO4-PbO kei atsumaku soshi no kanshitsu tokusei

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kaneko, F [Shonan Institute of Technology, Kanagawa (Japan); Nanba, N [Kantogakuin University, Tokyo (Japan)

    1992-12-20

    This paper describes humidity-sensitive characteristics, which depend on the host composition being PbCrO4 or Pb2CrO5, in the system PbCrO4 combined with various oxides, such as Al2O3, Fe2O3, ZrO2, SnO2, TiO2, ThO2, and Ta2O5. In order to confirm the predominant phase over elements in the system PbCrO4-PbO, the effect of composition and microstructure on the humidity-sensitive characteristics of thick film elements were examined. Consequently, it was found that the humidity-sensitivity in low humidity region increased as the host composition of elements changed from hydrophobic PbCrO4 to hydrophilic Pb2CrO5. It was also shown that these results can be interpreted by a humidity-sensitive mechanism proposed for hydrophilic Pb2CrO5. Furthermore, an absorption model of H2O molecules on to the surface of Pb2CrO5 in the PbCrO4-PbO system humidity sensor was provided. 4 refs., 12 figs.

  18. Antibacterial Effect of CrO and CoFe2O4 Nanoparticles upon Staphylococcus aureus

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Saber Imani

    2011-12-01

    Full Text Available Background & Objectives: The use of metal oxide nanoparticles can be effective to eliminate the bacterial infections, as an alternative to antibiotics. In this study, antibacterial properties of nonmaterials of CrO and CoFe2O4 are investigated against Staphylococcus aureus as a major and prevalent pathogenic bacterium to achieve sterile nano-containers. Materials & Methods: Different concentrations of CrO and CoFe2O4 nanoparticles, (0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1% of each, were examined with respect to their optical density (OD culture separately. Different percentages of each nanoparticles were also examined together for the best antibacterial combination. Kinetics of Bactericidal of nanoparticles were calculated in two-hour periods and were compared with the power of other common antibiotics. Ratios of MIC/MBC were calculated by Micro dilution method, to demonstrate the bactericidal power of nanoparticles. Results: The best concentration of the nanoparticles with the highest effect of bactericidal was obtained in the presence of 1% concentration of CrO that the OD of S. aureus culture medium had reduced 4/6 times than the control group (p<0/001.Ratio of 70% CrO to 30% CoFe2O4 was the best of the Bacteriostatic properties that OD was reduced 3/3 times than the control group (p<0/05. Best kinetics of bactericidal with survival rate in the presence of 1% CrO and CoFe2O4 were obtained in 24 and 36 hours respectively. In critical concentration of 1% CrO and CoFe2O4 bactericidal power was about 67 and 56 % respectively. The MIC/MBC rate for CrO and CoFe2O4 was obtained 0/2 and 0/4 respectively. Conclusion: The results showed that CrO nanoparticle compared with CoFe2O4 has a higher bactericidal power for S. aureus infection. Therefore, by completion of these experiments and the use of metal oxide nanoparticles complex in sensitive environments such as food storage containers, etc. are suggested.

  19. Tuning into blue and red luminescence in dual-phase nano-glass–ceramics

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chen, Daqin, E-mail: dqchen@hdu.edu.cn [College of Materials & Environmental Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Wan, Zhongyi; Zhou, Yang; Zhong, Jiasong; Ding, Mingye; Yu, Hua; Lu, Hongwei [College of Materials & Environmental Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Xiang, Weidong [College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035 (China); Ji, Zhenguo, E-mail: jizg@hdu.edu.cn [College of Materials & Environmental Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018 (China)

    2015-10-05

    Highlights: • Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} and YF{sub 3} dual-phase embedded glass ceramics were fabricated. • RE{sup 3+} and Cr{sup 3+} dopants incorporated into YF{sub 3} and Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} lattice respectively. • Intense blue and red emissions are simultaneously achieved in the sample. • Such glass ceramics had possible application in photosynthesis of plants. - Abstract: A series of γ-Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} and β-YF{sub 3} nanocrystals embedded dual-phase glass ceramics co-doped with rare earth (Eu{sup 3+} or Tm{sup 3+}) and transition metal (Cr{sup 3+}) activators were successfully prepared by high-temperature melt-quenching to explore blue/red luminescent materials for potential application in photosynthesis of green plants. It is experimentally verified that Eu{sup 3+} (or Tm{sup 3+}) ions partitioned into the crystallized orthorhombic YF{sub 3} nanophases, while Cr{sup 3+} ones entered into the precipitated cubic Ga{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanocrystals after glass crystallization. Such spatial separation of the different active ions in the dual-phase glass ceramics can effectively suppress adverse energy transfers between rare earth and transition metal ions, resulting in their independent and efficient luminescence. As an example, it is experimentally demonstrated that both intense Tm{sup 3+} blue and Cr{sup 3+} deep-red emissions are easily achieved in the Tm{sup 3+}/Cr{sup 3+} co-doped dual-phase glass ceramics.

  20. Thermal Behavior and Hydrogen Production of Methanol Autothermal Reforming Performed Using Oxygen Enrichment and Cu/ZnO/Al2O3/Cr2O3/CeO2 Catalyst

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Donny Lesmana

    2015-07-01

    Full Text Available A fixed-bed reactor designed for the autothermal reforming (ATR of methanol under adiabatic conditions was constructed to experimentally determine the profile of temperature and catalyst activity generated using the Cu/ZnO/Al2O3/Cr2O3/CeO2 catalyst. The effect of oxygen enrichment in this experiment was investigated, and the experimental results showed that an increase in oxygen concentration correlated with an increase in the temperature of the catalytic bed; by contrast, this increase in oxygen concentration resulted in a reduction of the startup time of the catalyst. Moreover, the reaction temperature was determined to vary with the position within the catalytic fixed bed. © 2015 BCREC UNDIP. All rights reservedReceived: 29th August 2014; Revised: 19th March 2015; Accepted: 19th March 2015

  1. Selective Oxidation of Glycerol with 3% H2O2 Catalyzed by LDH-Hosted Cr(III Complex

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Gongde Wu

    2015-11-01

    Full Text Available A series of layered double hydroxides (LDHs –hosted sulphonato-salen Cr(III complexes were prepared and characterized by various physico-chemical measurements, such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD, transmission electron microscope (TEM, scanning electron microscope (SEM and elemental analysis. Additionally, their catalytic performances were investigated in the selective oxidation of glycerol (GLY using 3% H2O2 as an oxidant. It was found that all the LDH-hosted Cr(III complexes exhibited significantly enhanced catalytic performance compared to the homogeneous Cr(III complex. Additionally, it was worth mentioning that the metal composition of LDH plates played an important role in the catalytic performances of LDH-hosted Cr(III complex catalysts. Under the optimal reaction conditions, the highest GLY conversion reached 85.5% with 59.3% of the selectivity to 1,3-dihydroxyacetone (DHA. In addition, the catalytic activity remained after being recycled five times.

  2. Effect of europium ion concentration on the structural and photoluminescence properties of novel Li2BaZrO4: Eu3+ nanocrystals

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ahemen, I.; Dejene, F. B.; Kroon, R. E.; Swart, H. C.

    2017-12-01

    This work reports the influence of Eu3+ ion concentration on the structure and photoluminescence properties of Li2BaZrO4 nanocrystals including its intrinsic quantum efficiency (IQE). Chemical bath method was employed in the synthesis procedure. X-ray diffraction results showed tetragonal phase for Eu3+ ion concentration in the range 1 and 7 mol% and cubic phase at 8 mol%. The presence of barium oxide (BaO) was confirmed from selected area electron diffraction (SAED). The excitation spectra for these phosphors consisted of broad charge transfer (CT) bands due to the combination of Zr4+ - O2- and Eu3+-O2- charge transfer states. Superimposed on the CT band were direct excitation levels of Eu3+ and Ba2+ ions, in the range 320-450 nm. At high Eu3+ ions concentrations, the intensities of CT bands decreased because some of the ions were coordinated with Ba2+ ions. Photoluminescence emissions for all the doped samples at room temperature appeared to be entirely from intraconfigurational Eu3+ emissions and depended both on the site symmetry as well as the ion concentration. The quadrupole-quadrupole multipolar process was found to be solely responsible for the luminescence quenching. The intensity parameters (Ω2 ,Ω4), asymmetry ratio, R0 and the average decay lifetime of the nanocrystals showed dependence on concentration. High internal quantum efficiency (IQE) values were obtained at low Eu3+ ion concentrations, but efficiency decreased with increasing ion concentration. The CIE coordinates values were comparable to existing red phosphors and in combination with the high IQE make this phosphor a good candidate for red light emitting applications.

  3. Soluble Supercapacitors: Large and Reversible Charge Storage in Colloidal Iron-Doped ZnO Nanocrystals.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Brozek, Carl K; Zhou, Dongming; Liu, Hongbin; Li, Xiaosong; Kittilstved, Kevin R; Gamelin, Daniel R

    2018-05-09

    Colloidal ZnO semiconductor nanocrystals have previously been shown to accumulate multiple delocalized conduction-band electrons under chemical, electrochemical, or photochemical reducing conditions, leading to emergent semimetallic characteristics such as quantum plasmon resonances and raising prospects for application in multielectron redox transformations. Here, we demonstrate a dramatic enhancement in the capacitance of colloidal ZnO nanocrystals through aliovalent Fe 3+ -doping. Very high areal and volumetric capacitances (33 μF cm -2 , 233 F cm -3 ) are achieved in Zn 0.99 Fe 0.01 O nanocrystals that rival those of the best supercapacitors used in commercial energy-storage devices. The redox properties of these nanocrystals are probed by potentiometric titration and optical spectroscopy. These data indicate an equilibrium between electron localization by Fe 3+ dopants and electron delocalization within the ZnO conduction band, allowing facile reversible charge storage and removal. As "soluble supercapacitors", colloidal iron-doped ZnO nanocrystals constitute a promising class of solution-processable electronic materials with large charge-storage capacity attractive for future energy-storage applications.

  4. Effect of structural evolution of ZnO/HfO2 nanocrystals on Eu2+/Eu3+ emission in glass-ceramic waveguides for photonic applications.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ghosh, Subhabrata; Bhaktha B N, Shivakiran

    2018-06-01

    Eu-doped 70SiO 2 -23HfO 2 -7ZnO (mol%) glass-ceramic waveguides have been fabricated by sol-gel method as a function of heat-treatment temperatures for on-chip blue-light emitting source applications. Structural evolution of spherical ZnO and spherical as well as rod-like HfO 2 nanocrystalline structures have been observed with heat-treatments at different temperatures. Initially, in the as-prepared samples at 900 ◦ C, both, Eu 2+ as well as Eu 3+ ions are found to be present in the ternary matrix. With controlled heat-treatments of up to 1000 ◦ C for 2 h, local environment of Eu-ions become more crystalline in nature and the reduction of Eu 3+ to Eu 2+ takes place in such ZnO/HfO 2 crystalline environments. In these ternary glass-ceramic waveguides, heat-treated at higher temperatures, the blue-light emission characteristic, which is the signature of 4f 6 5d [Formula: see text] 4f 7 energy level transition of Eu 2+ ions is found to be greatly enhanced. The as-prepared glass-ceramic waveguides exhibit a propagation loss of 0.4 ± 0.2 dB cm -1 at 632.8 nm. Though the propagation losses increase with the growth of nanocrystals, the added functionalities achieved in the optimally heat-treated Eu-doped 70SiO 2 -23HfO 2 -7ZnO (mol%) waveguides, make them a viable functional optical material for the fabrication of on-chip blue-light emitting sources for integrated optic applications.

  5. Effect of structural evolution of ZnO/HfO2 nanocrystals on Eu2+/Eu3+ emission in glass-ceramic waveguides for photonic applications

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ghosh, Subhabrata; N, Shivakiran Bhaktha B.

    2018-06-01

    Eu-doped 70SiO2–23HfO2–7ZnO (mol%) glass-ceramic waveguides have been fabricated by sol-gel method as a function of heat-treatment temperatures for on-chip blue-light emitting source applications. Structural evolution of spherical ZnO and spherical as well as rod-like HfO2 nanocrystalline structures have been observed with heat-treatments at different temperatures. Initially, in the as-prepared samples at 900 ◦C, both, Eu2+ as well as Eu3+ ions are found to be present in the ternary matrix. With controlled heat-treatments of up to 1000 ◦C for 2 h, local environment of Eu-ions become more crystalline in nature and the reduction of Eu3+ to Eu2+ takes place in such ZnO/HfO2 crystalline environments. In these ternary glass-ceramic waveguides, heat-treated at higher temperatures, the blue-light emission characteristic, which is the signature of 4f 65d \\to 4f 7 energy level transition of Eu2+ ions is found to be greatly enhanced. The as-prepared glass-ceramic waveguides exhibit a propagation loss of 0.4 ± 0.2 dB cm‑1 at 632.8 nm. Though the propagation losses increase with the growth of nanocrystals, the added functionalities achieved in the optimally heat-treated Eu-doped 70SiO2–23HfO2–7ZnO (mol%) waveguides, make them a viable functional optical material for the fabrication of on-chip blue-light emitting sources for integrated optic applications.

  6. Structure and magnetism in Cr-embedded Co nanoparticles.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Baker, S H; Kurt, M S; Roy, M; Lees, M R; Binns, C

    2016-02-03

    We present the results of an investigation into the atomic structure and magnetism of 2 nm diameter Co nanoparticles embedded in an antiferromagnetic Cr matrix. The nanocomposite films used in this study were prepared by co-deposition directly from the gas phase, using a gas aggregation source for the Co nanoparticles and a molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) source for the Cr matrix material. Co K and Cr K edge extended x-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) experiments were performed in order to investigate atomic structure in the embedded nanoparticles and matrix respectively, while magnetism was investigated by means of a vibrating sample magnetometer. The atomic structure type of the Co nanoparticles is the same as that of the Cr matrix (bcc) although with a degree of disorder. The net Co moment per atom in the Co/Cr nanocomposite films is significantly reduced from the value for bulk Co, and decreases as the proportion of Co nanoparticles in the film is decreased; for the sample with the most dilute concentration of Co nanoparticles (4.9% by volume), the net Co moment was 0.25 μ B/atom. After field cooling to below 30 K all samples showed an exchange bias, which was largest for the most dilute sample. Both the structural and magnetic results point towards a degree of alloying at the nanoparticle/matrix interface, leading to a core/shell structure in the embedded nanoparticles consisting of an antiferromagnetic CoCr alloy shell surrounding a reduced ferromagnetic Co core.

  7. Heterogeneous nucleation of amorphous alloys on catalytic nanoparticles to produce 2D patterned nanocrystal arrays

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Gangopadhyay, A K [Department of Physics, Washington University in St Louis, MO 63130 (United States); Krishna, H [Department of Physics, Washington University in St Louis, MO 63130 (United States); Favazza, C [Department of Physics, Washington University in St Louis, MO 63130 (United States); Miller, C [Center for Materials Innovation, Washington University in St Louis, MO 63130 (United States); Kalyanaraman, R [Department of Physics, Washington University in St Louis, MO 63130 (United States)

    2007-12-05

    Templates are widely used to produce artificial nanostructures. Here, laser-assisted self-organization has been used to form one- and two-dimensional (D) nanoarrays of Cu nanocrystals. Using these nanoarrays as a template, a 2D patterned ferromagnetic nanostructure of FeCrSi nanocrystals has been produced by heterogeneous nucleation and growth of nanocrystals by partial devitrification from an amorphous Fe{sub 64.5}Cr{sub 10}Si{sub 13.5}B{sub 9}Nb{sub 3} alloy with the Cu nanoparticles acting as catalytic nucleation sites. The interaction among the ferromagnetic nanocrystals via the residual amorphous matrix can be controlled by suitable choice of the amorphous alloy composition. Although demonstrated for a ferromagnetic system, the processing method may have much wider applicability for producing artificial nanostructures of a wide variety of materials when materials-specific catalysts and amorphous alloy compositions are judiciously chosen.

  8. Investigation of the effect of doping of Cr2O3 on bioactivity properties of the SiO2-CaO-P2O5 bioceramics

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sarin, Nonita; Singh, K. J.; Kaur, Kulwinder; Anand, Vikas; Kaur, Raminderjit; Singh, Jatinder

    2018-05-01

    Due to better biocompatibility among various types of biomaterials, bioceramics have been found to be useful for the repair of damaged bone tissues. Authors have prepared bioceramics of the composition xCr2O3-(40-x) SiO2- 40CaO-20P2O5(where, x = 0 and 2 mole %) by using sol gel technique. Prepared samples have been assessed for their bioactivity and cell viability with the help of X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared and MG63 cell line. The aim of this study is to estimate the practical utility of the prepared samples as successful implant materials in human body.

  9. Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} thin films grown at room temperature by low pressure laser chemical vapour deposition

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sousa, P.M. [Universidade de Lisboa, Faculdade de Ciencias, Departamento de Fisica and ICEMS, Campo Grande, Ed. C8, 1749-016 Lisboa (Portugal); Silvestre, A.J., E-mail: asilvestre@deq.isel.ipl.p [Instituto Superior de Engenharia de Lisboa and ICEMS, R. Conselheiro Emidio Navarro 1, 1959-007 Lisboa (Portugal); Conde, O. [Universidade de Lisboa, Faculdade de Ciencias, Departamento de Fisica and ICEMS, Campo Grande, Ed. C8, 1749-016 Lisboa (Portugal)

    2011-03-31

    Chromia (Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}) has been extensively explored for the purpose of developing widespread industrial applications, owing to the convergence of a variety of mechanical, physical and chemical properties in one single oxide material. Various methods have been used for large area synthesis of Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} films. However, for selective area growth and growth on thermally sensitive materials, laser-assisted chemical vapour deposition (LCVD) can be applied advantageously. Here we report on the growth of single layers of pure Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} onto sapphire substrates at room temperature by low pressure photolytic LCVD, using UV laser radiation and Cr(CO){sub 6} as chromium precursor. The feasibility of the LCVD technique to access selective area deposition of chromia thin films is demonstrated. Best results were obtained for a laser fluence of 120 mJ cm{sup -2} and a partial pressure ratio of O{sub 2} to Cr(CO){sub 6} of 1.0. Samples grown with these experimental parameters are polycrystalline and their microstructure is characterised by a high density of particles whose size follows a lognormal distribution. Deposition rates of 0.1 nm s{sup -1} and mean particle sizes of 1.85 {mu}m were measured for these films.

  10. A novel 2 T P-channel nano-crystal memory for low power/high speed embedded NVM applications

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang Junyu; Wang Yong; Liu Jing; Zhang Manhong; Xu Zhongguang; Huo Zongliang; Liu Ming

    2012-01-01

    We introduce a novel 2 T P-channel nano-crystal memory structure for low power and high speed embedded non-volatile memory (NVM) applications. By using the band-to-band tunneling-induced hot-electron (BTBTIHE) injection scheme, both high-speed and low power programming can be achieved at the same time. Due to the use of a select transistor, the 'erased states' can be set to below 0 V, so that the periphery HV circuit (high-voltage generating and management) and read-out circuit can be simplified. Good memory cell performance has also been achieved, including a fast program/erase (P/E) speed (a 1.15 V memory window under 10 μs program pulse), an excellent data retention (only 20% charge loss for 10 years). The data shows that the device has strong potential for future embedded NVM applications. (semiconductor devices)

  11. Response surface methodology investigation into optimization of the removal condition and mechanism of Cr(Ⅵ) by Na2SO3/CaO.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhao, Shengxin; Chen, Zhonglin; Shen, Jimin; Kang, Jing; Qu, Yanfeng; Wang, Binyuan; Wang, Xin; Yuan, Lie

    2017-11-01

    The removal of Cr(Ⅵ) by chemical reduction-precipitation is widely applied in wastewater treatment plants. Nevertheless, the formation of Cr(OH) 3 with gel properties has weak settlement performance, making it necessary to add a coagulant aid to reduce the settling time and improve the settling effect. In this investigation, a high concentration of Cr(Ⅵ) was removed using Na 2 SO 3 as a reducing agent and CaO as a coagulant. An improved reduction and precipitation experiment was modeled by applying a three-factor central composite experimental design (CCD). To reveal as many mechanisms as possible for Cr T removal, other verification experiments were performed. The Cr T removal efficiency decreased, which can be explained by the following three reasons: dissolution of Cr(Ⅲ), competition for adsorption between Ca 2+ and Cr(Ⅲ) at different coagulation times, and formation of a solubility complex with Cr(Ⅲ) due to the surplus SO 3 2- in solution. The increasing Cr T removal efficiency can be explained by the following two reasons: dissolved Ca 2+ from CaO can neutralize CrO 2 - that is produced by the dissolution of Cr(OH) 3 in alkaline solution and can broaden the optimal final pH range of coagulation. Ca 2+ could also strengthen the Cr T removal through adsorption bridging and co-precipitation with CaO as the core of flocs. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Implantation of P ions in SiO2 layers with embedded Si nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kachurin, G.A.; Cherkova, S.G.; Volodin, V.A.; Kesler, V.G.; Gutakovsky, A.K.; Cherkov, A.G.; Bublikov, A.V.; Tetelbaum, D.I.

    2004-01-01

    The effect of 10 13 -10 16 cm -2 P ions implantation and of subsequent annealing on Si nanocrystals (Si-ncs), formed preliminarily in SiO 2 layers by the ion-beam synthesis, has been studied. Photoluminescence (PL), Raman spectroscopy, high resolution electron microscopy (HREM), X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and optical absorption were used for characterizations. The low fluence implantations have shown even individual displacements in Si-ncs quench their PL. Restoration of PL from partly damaged Si-ncs proceeds at annealing less than 1000 deg. C. In the low fluence implanted and annealed samples an increased Si-ncs PL has been found and ascribed to the radiation-induced shock crystallization of stressed Si nanoprecipitates. Annealing at temperatures under 1000 deg. C are inefficient when P ion fluences exceed 10 14 cm -2 , thus becoming capable to amorphize Si-ncs. High crystallization temperature of the amorphized Si-ncs is attributed to a counteraction of their shell layers. After implantation of the highest P fluences an enhanced recovery of PL was found from P concentration over 0.1 at.%. Raman spectroscopy and HREM showed an increased Si-ncs number in such layers. The effect resembles the impurity-enhanced crystallization, known for heavily doped bulk Si. This effect, along with the data obtained by XPS, is considered as an indication P atoms are really present inside the Si-ncs. However, no evidence of free electrons appearance has been observed. The fact is explained by an increased interaction of electrons with the donor nuclei in Si-ncs

  13. Performance and stability of (ZrO2)0.89(Y2O3)0.01(Sc2O3)0.10-LaCr0.85Cu0.10Ni0.05O3-δ oxygen transport membranes under conditions relevant for oxy-fuel combustion

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Pirou, Stéven; Bermudez, Jose M.; Tak Na, Beom

    2018-01-01

    Self-standing, planar dual-phase oxygen transport membranes consisting of 70 vol.% (ZrO2)0.89(Y2O3)0.01(Sc2O3)0.10 (10Sc1YSZ) and 30 vol.% LaCr0.85Cu0.10Ni0.05O3-δ (LCCN) were successfully developed and tested. The stability of the composite membrane was studied in simulated oxy-fuel power plant...

  14. Evolution of the spin hall magnetoresistance in Cr2O3/Pt bilayers close to the Néel temperature

    Science.gov (United States)

    Schlitz, Richard; Kosub, Tobias; Thomas, Andy; Fabretti, Savio; Nielsch, Kornelius; Makarov, Denys; Goennenwein, Sebastian T. B.

    2018-03-01

    We study the evolution of magnetoresistance with temperature in thin film bilayers consisting of platinum and antiferromagnet Cr2O3 with its easy axis out of the plane. We vary the temperature from 20 °C to 60 °C, in the vicinity of the Néel temperature of Cr2O3 of approximately 37 °C. The magnetoresistive response is recorded during rotations of the external magnetic field in three mutually orthogonal planes. A large magnetoresistance having a symmetry consistent with a positive spin Hall magnetoresistance is observed in the paramagnetic phase of Cr2O3, which however vanishes when cooling to below the Néel temperature. Compared to analogous experiments in a Gd3Ga5O12/Pt bilayer, we conclude that a paramagnetic moment in the insulator induced by an applied magnetic field is not sufficient to explain the observed magnetoresistance. We speculate that the type of magnetic moment at the interface qualitatively impacts the spin angular momentum transfer, with the 3d moments of Cr sinking angular momentum much more efficiently as compared to the more localized 4f moments of Gd.

  15. Fracture toughness of MgCr2O4-ZrO2 composities

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Singh, J.P.

    1985-01-01

    The effect of unstabilized ZrO 2 inclusions on the fracture surface energy of MgCr 2 O 4 was studied as a function of ZrO 2 content. It was observed that fracture surface energy increases with increasing ZrO 2 content, and reaches the maximum value of 24.5 j/m 2 at 16.5 vol% ZrO 2 . This represents an approx. = fourhold increase in the fracture surface energy of Mg 2 O 4 as a result of ZrO 2 inclusions. It is proposed that this improvement results from the energy absorbed by the microcracks formed in the MgCr 2 O 4 matrix as a result of the tetragonal → monoclinic phase transormation of ZrO 2 and the associated volume expansion

  16. Tunable band alignment in two-phase-coexistence Nb3O7F nanocrystals with enhanced light harvesting and photocatalytic performance

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Zhen; Huang, Fei; Feng, Xin; Yan, Aihua; Dong, Haiming; Hu, Miao; Li, Qi

    2018-06-01

    A two-phase-coexistence technique offers intriguing variables to maneuver novel and enhanced functionality in a single-component material. Most importantly, new band alignment and perfect interfaces between two phases can strongly affect local photoelectronic properties. However, previous efforts to achieve two-phase coexistence were mainly restricted to specific systems and methods. Here we demonstrate a phase-transition route to acquire two-phase-coexistence niobium oxyfluoride (Nb3O7F) nanocrystals for the first time. Based on key distinguishing features of the experimental results and theoretical analysis, the phase transition of Nb3O7F involves an organic/inorganic hybrid, heat treating, Al-doping, lattice deformation and structural rearrangement. The band gap can be effectively tuned from 3.03 eV to 2.84 eV, and the VBM can be tuned from 1.49 eV to 1.69 eV according to the phase proportion. Benefiting from uniform nanocrystal size, tunable band alignment and an optimized interfacial structure, the two-phase coexistence markedly enhances visible-light harvesting and the photocatalytic performance of Nb3O7F nanocrystals. The results not only demonstrate an opportunity to explore two-phase coexistence of novel nanocrystals, but also illustrate the role of two-phase coexistence in achieving enhanced photoelectronic properties.

  17. Formation, cationic site exchange and surface structure of mechanosynthesized EuCrO{sub 3} nanocrystalline particles

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Widatallah, H M; Al-Harthi, S H; Gismelseed, A M; Al-Rawas, A D [Department of Physics, Sultan Qaboos University, PO Box 36, 123, Muscat (Oman); Johnson, C; Moore, E A [School of Chemistry and Analytical Sciences, The Open University, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA (United Kingdom); Klencsar, Z [Chemical Research Center, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, 1025 Budapest (Hungary); Wynter, C I [Nassau Community College, Garden City, NY 11530-6793 (United States); Brown, D E, E-mail: hishammw@squ.edu.om, E-mail: hisham@ictp.it [Department of Physics, Northern Illinois University, De Kalb, IL 60115 (United States)

    2011-07-06

    Nanocrystalline EuCrO{sub 3} particles ({approx}25 nm) have been prepared by pre-milling a 1 : 1 molar mixture of Eu{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} for 60 h followed by sintering at 700 {sup 0}C (12 h). This temperature is {approx}500-600 {sup 0}C lower than those at which the material, in bulk form, is conventionally prepared. Rietveld analysis of the x-ray powder diffraction pattern of the EuCrO{sub 3} nanoparticles favours a structural model involving a slight degree of cationic exchange where {approx}11% of the Eu{sup 3+} and Cr{sup 3+} ions exchange their normal dodecahedral A- and octahedral B-sites, respectively, in the perovskite-related structure. This cationic site exchange, which is unusual in a perovskite structure, has been well supported by the corresponding room-temperature {sup 151}Eu Moessbauer spectrum of the nanoparticles that in addition to displaying a distribution in the principal component of the EFG tensor (V{sub zz}) at the usual A-sites of the {sup 151}Eu nuclei, also revealed the presence of a subcomponent with {approx}11% area fraction and a considerably increased |V{sub zz}| value that was associated with Eu{sup 3+} ions at octahedral B-sites. X-ray photoelectron and Auger electron spectroscopic techniques reveal a complex surface structure where extremely thin layers of un-reacted Eu{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} cover most of the EuCrO{sub 3} nanoparticles' surfaces together with some traces of elemental Cr. The binding energies associated with Eu{sup 3+} 3d{sub 5/2}, Eu{sup 3+} 4d{sub 3/2}, Cr{sup 3+} 2p{sub 3/2} and O{sup 2-} 1s core-level electrons in EuCrO{sub 3} are estimated from the x-ray photoelectron data for the first time.

  18. Influence of the Cr2O3 sintering additive on the homogenization of the plutonium distribution inside an heterogeneous MOX pellet

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Pieragnoli, A.

    2007-12-01

    This work has revealed the nature of the Cr 2 O 3 action mechanisms on the development of the microstructure of a MOX pellet and particularly on the improvement of the plutonium distribution. At first, it has been necessary to study thoroughly the description of the interaction phenomena occurring inside the U-Pu-Cr-O system. A model system constituted by the same materials UO 2 , (U, Pu)O 2 and Cr 2 O 3 than those present in a MOX pellet and thermically heated in similar sintering conditions has been carried out. These tests have been completed by studies concerning the reactivity between PuO 2 and Cr 2 O 3 , the interdiffusion between UO 2 and (U, Pu)O 2 in presence of chromium and the solubility of chromium in (U, Pu)O 2 . Then, with all the data acquired, it has been possible to describe the evolution of a MOX pellet in presence of chromium during the sintering of the microstructure. Microstructural characteristics such as the plutonium homogenization degree and the grain size have been studied with temperature and sintering level period. The chromium oxide inside microstructure has been studied too. At last, an interpretation of the influence of the presence of chromium on the development of a MOX pellet microstructure has been given in focusing particularly on the plutonium distribution. This interpretation is based on the formation of the (U, Pu)CrO 3 phase and on the plutonium oxidation degree stabilization (+III) by chromium at the grain boundaries level. Advices aiming at optimizing the chromium impact on the development of microstructure are given. In most of the cases, these advices are based on solutions which will contribute, during the sintering thermal treatment, to the presence at lower temperature of the (U, Pu)CrO 3 phase and to keep longer a greater quantity of chromium inside the MOX pellet. (O.M.)

  19. TiO2 nanocrystals decorated Z-schemed core-shell CdS-CdO nanorod arrays as high efficiency anodes for photoelectrochemical hydrogen generation.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Chia-Hsun; Hsu, Chan-Wei; Lu, Shih-Yuan

    2018-07-01

    TiO 2 nanocrystals decorated core-shell CdS-CdO nanorod arrays, TiO 2 @CdO/CdS NR, were fabricated as high efficiency anodes for photoelctrochemical hydrogen generation. The novel sandwich heterostructure was constructed from first growth of CdS nanorod arrays on a fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) substrate with a hydrothermal process, followed by in situ generation of CdO thin films of single digit nanometers from the CdS nanorod surfaces through thermal oxidation, and final decoration of TiO 2 nanocrystals of 10-20 nm via a successive ionic layer absorption and reaction process. The core-shell CdS-CdO heterostructure possesses a Z-scheme band structure to enhance interfacial charge transfer, facilitating effective charge separation to suppress electron-hole recombination within CdS for much improved current density generation. The final decoration of TiO 2 nanocrystals passivates surface defects and trap states of CdO, further suppressing surface charge recombination for even higher photovoltaic conversion efficiencies. The photoelectrochemical performances of the plain CdS nanorod array were significantly improved with the formation of the sandwich heterostructure, achieving a photo current density of 3.2 mA/cm 2 at 1.23 V (vs. RHE), a 141% improvement over the plain CdS nanorod array and a 32% improvement over the CdO/CdS nanorod array. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. Amorphous Silicon-Germanium Films with Embedded Nanocrystals for Thermal Detectors with Very High Sensitivity

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Cesar Calleja

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available We have optimized the deposition conditions of amorphous silicon-germanium films with embedded nanocrystals in a plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD reactor, working at a standard frequency of 13.56 MHz. The objective was to produce films with very large Temperature Coefficient of Resistance (TCR, which is a signature of the sensitivity in thermal detectors (microbolometers. Morphological, electrical, and optical characterization were performed in the films, and we found optimal conditions for obtaining films with very high values of thermal coefficient of resistance (TCR = 7.9% K−1. Our results show that amorphous silicon-germanium films with embedded nanocrystals can be used as thermosensitive films in high performance infrared focal plane arrays (IRFPAs used in commercial thermal cameras.

  1. Atomic Layer Deposited Oxide-Based Nanocomposite Structures with Embedded CoPtx Nanocrystals for Resistive Random Access Memory Applications.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Lai-Guo; Cao, Zheng-Yi; Qian, Xu; Zhu, Lin; Cui, Da-Peng; Li, Ai-Dong; Wu, Di

    2017-02-22

    Al 2 O 3 - or HfO 2 -based nanocomposite structures with embedded CoPt x nanocrystals (NCs) on TiN-coated Si substrates have been prepared by combination of thermal atomic layer deposition (ALD) and plasma-enhanced ALD for resistive random access memory (RRAM) applications. The impact of CoPt x NCs and their average size/density on the resistive switching properties has been explored. Compared to the control sample without CoPt x NCs, ALD-derived Pt/oxide/100 cycle-CoPt x NCs/TiN/SiO 2 /Si exhibits a typical bipolar, reliable, and reproducible resistive switching behavior, such as sharp distribution of RRAM parameters, smaller set/reset voltages, stable resistance ratio (≥10 2 ) of OFF/ON states, better switching endurance up to 10 4 cycles, and longer data retention over 10 5 s. The possible resistive switching mechanism based on nanocomposite structures of oxide/CoPt x NCs has been proposed. The dominant conduction mechanisms in low- and high-resistance states of oxide-based device units with embedded CoPt x NCs are Ohmic behavior and space-charge-limited current, respectively. The insertion of CoPt x NCs can effectively improve the formation of conducting filaments due to the CoPt x NC-enhanced electric field intensity. Besides excellent resistive switching performances, the nanocomposite structures also simultaneously present ferromagnetic property. This work provides a flexible pathway by combining PEALD and TALD compatible with state-of-the-art Si-based technology for multifunctional electronic devices applications containing RRAM.

  2. Electrical properties of Sb and Cr-doped PbZrO3-PbTiO3-PbMg1/3Nb2/3O3 ceramics

    OpenAIRE

    Whatmore, Roger W.; Molter, O.; Shaw, Christopher P.

    2003-01-01

    The pyroelectric, dielectric and DC resistive properties of Sb and Cr-doped ceramics with a base composition of Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)0.025(Zr0.825Ti0.175)0.975O3 have been studied. Sb doping has been shown to produce a linear reduction in Curie temperature (TC=−22z+294 °C) with concentration (z) and to give an increase in pyroelectric coefficient from 250 to 310 μCm−2 K−1 for z increasing from 0 to 3 at.%. It also produces first a reduction and then an increase in both dielectric constant and loss, ...

  3. Raman scattering study of the anharmonic effects in CeO2-y nanocrystals

    Science.gov (United States)

    Popović, Z. V.; Dohčević-Mitrović, Z.; Cros, A.; Cantarero, A.

    2007-12-01

    We have studied the temperature dependence of the F2g Raman mode phonon frequency and broadening in CeO2-y nanocrystals. The phonon softening and phonon linewidth are calculated using a model which takes into account the three-and four-phonon anharmonic processes. A detailed comparison of the experimental data with theoretical calculations revealed the predominance of four-phonon anharmonic processes in the temperature dependence of the phonon energy and broadening of the nanocrystals. On the other hand, three-phonon processes dominate the temperature behavior of phonons in polycrystalline samples. The anti-Stokes/Stokes peak intensity ratio was also investigated and found to be smaller for nanosized CeO2 powders than in the bulk counterpart.

  4. Raman scattering study of the anharmonic effects in CeO2-y nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Popovic, Z V; Dohcevic-Mitrovic, Z; Cros, A; Cantarero, A

    2007-01-01

    We have studied the temperature dependence of the F 2g Raman mode phonon frequency and broadening in CeO 2-y nanocrystals. The phonon softening and phonon linewidth are calculated using a model which takes into account the three-and four-phonon anharmonic processes. A detailed comparison of the experimental data with theoretical calculations revealed the predominance of four-phonon anharmonic processes in the temperature dependence of the phonon energy and broadening of the nanocrystals. On the other hand, three-phonon processes dominate the temperature behavior of phonons in polycrystalline samples. The anti-Stokes/Stokes peak intensity ratio was also investigated and found to be smaller for nanosized CeO 2 powders than in the bulk counterpart

  5. Fabrication of highly oriented D0{sub 3}-Fe{sub 3}Si nanocrystals by solid-state dewetting of Si ultrathin layer

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Naito, Muneyuki, E-mail: naito22@center.konan-u.ac.jp [Department of Chemistry, Konan University, Okamoto, Higashinada, Kobe, Hyogo 658-8501 (Japan); Nakagawa, Tatsuhiko; Machida, Nobuya; Shigematsu, Toshihiko [Department of Chemistry, Konan University, Okamoto, Higashinada, Kobe, Hyogo 658-8501 (Japan); Nakao, Motoi [Graduate School of Engineering, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Sensui, Tobata, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 804-8550 (Japan); Sudoh, Koichi [The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, Mihogaoka, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047 (Japan)

    2013-07-31

    In this paper, highly oriented nanocrystals of Fe{sub 3}Si with a D0{sub 3} structure are fabricated on SiO{sub 2} using ultrathin Si on insulator substrate. First, (001) oriented Si nanocrystals are formed on the SiO{sub 2} layer by solid state dewetting of the top Si layer. Then, Fe addition to the Si nanocrystals is performed by reactive deposition epitaxy and post-deposition annealing at 500 °C. The structures of the Fe–Si nanocrystals are analyzed by cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy and nanobeam electron diffraction. We observe that Fe{sub 3}Si nanocrystals with D0{sub 3}, B2, and A2 structures coexist on the 1-h post-annealed samples. Prolonged annealing at 500 °C is effective in obtaining Fe{sub 3}Si nanocrystals with a D0{sub 3} single phase, thereby promoting structural ordering in the nanocrystals. We discuss the formation process of the highly oriented D0{sub 3}-Fe{sub 3}Si nanocrystals on the basis of the atomistic structural information. - Highlights: • Highly oriented Fe–Si nanocrystals (NCs) are fabricated by reactive deposition. • Si NCs formed by solid state dewetting of Si thin layers are used as seed crystals. • The structures of Fe–Si NCs are analyzed by nanobeam electron diffraction. • Most of Fe–Si NCs possess the D0{sub 3} structure after post-deposition annealing.

  6. Lateral electrical transport, optical properties and photocurrent measurements in two-dimensional arrays of silicon nanocrystals embedded in SiO2

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Gardelis Spiros

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available Abstract In this study we investigate the electronic transport, the optical properties, and photocurrent in two-dimensional arrays of silicon nanocrystals (Si NCs embedded in silicon dioxide, grown on quartz and having sizes in the range between less than 2 and 20 nm. Electronic transport is determined by the collective effect of Coulomb blockade gaps in the Si NCs. Absorption spectra show the well-known upshift of the energy bandgap with decreasing NC size. Photocurrent follows the absorption spectra confirming that it is composed of photo-generated carriers within the Si NCs. In films containing Si NCs with sizes less than 2 nm, strong quantum confinement and exciton localization are observed, resulting in light emission and absence of photocurrent. Our results show that Si NCs are useful building blocks of photovoltaic devices for use as better absorbers than bulk Si in the visible and ultraviolet spectral range. However, when strong quantum confinement effects come into play, carrier transport is significantly reduced due to strong exciton localization and Coulomb blockade effects, thus leading to limited photocurrent.

  7. Quasicubic α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles embedded in TiO{sub 2} thin films grown by atomic layer deposition

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tamm, Aile [Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, W. Ostwaldi 1, 50411 Tartu (Estonia); Seinberg, Liis [National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Akadeemia tee 23, 12618 Tallinn (Estonia); Kozlova, Jekaterina [Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, W. Ostwaldi 1, 50411 Tartu (Estonia); Link, Joosep [National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Akadeemia tee 23, 12618 Tallinn (Estonia); Pikma, Piret [University of Tartu, Institute of Chemistry, Ravila 14A, 50411 Tartu (Estonia); Stern, Raivo [National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Akadeemia tee 23, 12618 Tallinn (Estonia); Kukli, Kaupo [Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, W. Ostwaldi 1, 50411 Tartu (Estonia); Department of Chemistry, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 55, FI-00014 Helsinki (Finland)

    2016-08-01

    Monodispersed quasicubic α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles were synthesized from ferric nitrite (Fe(NO{sub 3}){sub 3}), N,N-dimethyl formamide and poly(N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone). Layers of nanoparticles were attached to HF-etched Si substrates by dip coating and subsequently embedded in thin titanium oxide films grown by atomic layer deposition from TiCl{sub 4} and H{sub 2}O. The deposition of TiO{sub 2} onto Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles covered the nanoparticles uniformly and anatase phase of TiO{sub 2} was observed in Si/Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2} nanostructures. In Si/Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}/TiO{sub 2} nanostructure magnetic domains, observable by magnetic force microscopy, were formed and these nanostructures implied ferromagnetic-like behavior at room temperature with the saturative magnetization and coercivity of 10 kA/m. - Highlights: • Cubic-shaped iron oxide crystallites were supported by thin titanium oxide films. • The process chemistry applied allowed formation of heterogeneous composite. • Atomic layer deposition of titanium oxide on nanocubes was uniform and conformal. • The nanostructures formed can be regarded as magnetically susceptible materials.

  8. Visible light CrO{sub 4}{sup 2-} reduction using the new CuAlO{sub 2}/CdS hetero-system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Brahimi, R. [Centre of Research in Physical and Chemical Analysis (CRAPC), BP 248, RP 16004 Algiers (Algeria); Laboratory of Storage and Valorization of Renewable Energies, Faculty of Chemistry (USTHB), BP 32 16111 Algiers (Algeria); Bessekhouad, Y. [Laboratory of Storage and Valorization of Renewable Energies, Faculty of Chemistry (USTHB), BP 32 16111 Algiers (Algeria); National Veterinary High School, BP 16111 Algiers (Algeria); Nasrallah, N. [Laboratory of Storage and Valorization of Renewable Energies, Faculty of Chemistry (USTHB), BP 32 16111 Algiers (Algeria); Trari, M., E-mail: solarchemistry@gmail.com [Laboratory of Storage and Valorization of Renewable Energies, Faculty of Chemistry (USTHB), BP 32 16111 Algiers (Algeria)

    2012-06-15

    Graphical abstract: Pseudo-first order kinetic for CrO{sub 4}{sup 2-} photoreduction for various concentrations. Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The work deals with the chromium reduction over CuAlO{sub 2}/CdS hetero-system. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The conduction band of CdS (-1.08 V) is more negative than the CrO{sub 4}{sup 2-}/Cr{sup 3+} level. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The sensitizer CuAlO{sub 2} has been synthesized by sol-gel. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The Cr(VI) reduction follows a pseudo first order kinetic with of salicylic acid. - Abstract: In this study, 64% of hexavalent chromium Cr(VI) reduction from the initial concentration (10{sup -4} M) is reported under visible light using the (CuAlO{sub 2}/CdS) hetero-system. In this new hetero-system, low doped CuAlO{sub 2} delafossite, synthesized by sol-gel works as an electrons reservoir with a wide space charge region (440 nm). In this case, the electron transfer to chromate is mediated via the hexagonal CdS variety, whose conduction band level is at -1.08 V with respect to the saturated calomel electrode which is more negative than the CrO{sub 4}{sup 2-}/Cr{sup 3+} level. This high reduction rate is achieved under optimized pH and CuAlO{sub 2} percentage. Moreover, salicylic acid gives the best performance among hole scavengers and CuAlO{sub 2} approaches 100% photostability at pH 7.5. The photo-catalytic process follows a pseudo first order kinetic with a half life of 2 h. The reaction products are identified by UV-visible spectrophotometry and linear voltametry at a platinum rotating electrode. The results reveal the presence of Cr{sup 3+} after irradiation.

  9. Current-voltage characteristics of SnO{sub 2}-Co{sub 3}O{sub 4}-Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Sb{sub 2}O{sub 5} ceramics

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Aguilar-Martinez, J A [Centro de Investigacion en Materiales Avanzados, S.C. (CIMAV), Alianza Norte 202, Parque de Investigacion e Innovacion Tecnologica (PIIT), Nueva Carretera Aeropuerto km. 10, Apodaca, Nuevo Leon, CP 66600 (Mexico); Glot, A B [Posgrado, Universidad Tecnologica de la Mixteca, Carretera Acatlima Km. 2.5, Huajuapan de Leon, Oaxaca, CP 69000 (Mexico); Gaponov, A V [Department of Radioelectronics, Dniepropetrovsk National University, Dniepropetrovsk 49050 (Ukraine); Hernandez, M B [Instituto de Mineria, Universidad Tecnologica de la Mixteca, Carretera Acatlima Km. 2.5, Huajuapan de Leon, Oaxaca, CP 69000 (Mexico); Guerrero-Paz, J, E-mail: josue.aguilar@cimav.edu.m [Particulate Materials Lab, Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Pachuca, CP 42184 (Mexico)

    2009-10-21

    The effect of mechanical treatment in a planetary mill on the microstructure and electrical properties of tin dioxide based varistor ceramics in the system SnO{sub 2}-Co{sub 3}O{sub 4}-Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}-Sb{sub 2}O{sub 5} sintered in the range 1150-1450 {sup 0}C was studied. The mechanical treatment leads to an increase in shrinkage, decrease in porosity, decrease in sample diameter, change in colour of the sintered samples from grey to black and enhancement of nonlinearity. For the sample sintered at 1350 {sup 0}C the mechanical treatment enhances the nonlinearity coefficient from 11 to 31 and decreases the electric field E{sub 1} (at 10{sup -3} A cm{sup -2}) from 3500 to 2800 V cm{sup -1}. The observed changes in physical properties are explained in terms of an additional size reduction of oxide particles and a better mixing of oxide powder followed by the formation of potential barriers at the grain boundaries throughout the whole sample. In spite of the low porosity, the low-field electrical conductivity of mechanically treated ceramics is significantly increased with the growth of relative humidity. A higher humidity sensitivity is found for mechanically treated ceramics with higher barrier height and higher nonlinearity coefficient.

  10. Fundamental absorption edge of NiO nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sokolov, V.I., E-mail: visokolov@imp.uran.ru [Institute of Metal Physics, Ural Branch of RAS, S. Kovalevskaya Street 18, 620990 Yekaterinburg (Russian Federation); Druzhinin, A.V. [Institute of Metal Physics, Ural Branch of RAS, S. Kovalevskaya Street 18, 620990 Yekaterinburg (Russian Federation); Kim, G.A. [Institute of Organic Synthesis Ural Branch of RAS, S. Kovalevskaya Street 20, 620990 Yekaterinburg (Russian Federation); Gruzdev, N.B.; Yermakov, A.Ye.; Uimin, M.A.; Byzov, I.V.; Shchegoleva, N.N.; Vykhodets, V.B.; Kurennykh, T.E. [Institute of Metal Physics, Ural Branch of RAS, S. Kovalevskaya Street 18, 620990 Yekaterinburg (Russian Federation)

    2013-12-01

    NiO nanocrystals with the average size of 5, 10 and 25 nm were synthesized by gas-condensation method. The well-defined increase of the optical density D near the fundamental absorption edge of NiO nanocrystals in the range of 3.5–4.0 eV observed after the annealing in air is caused by the oxygen content growth. It is the direct experimental evidence of the fact that p—d charge transfer transitions form the fundamental absorption edge.

  11. Fundamental absorption edge of NiO nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sokolov, V.I.; Druzhinin, A.V.; Kim, G.A.; Gruzdev, N.B.; Yermakov, A.Ye.; Uimin, M.A.; Byzov, I.V.; Shchegoleva, N.N.; Vykhodets, V.B.; Kurennykh, T.E.

    2013-01-01

    NiO nanocrystals with the average size of 5, 10 and 25 nm were synthesized by gas-condensation method. The well-defined increase of the optical density D near the fundamental absorption edge of NiO nanocrystals in the range of 3.5–4.0 eV observed after the annealing in air is caused by the oxygen content growth. It is the direct experimental evidence of the fact that p—d charge transfer transitions form the fundamental absorption edge

  12. Effects of La2O3 on microstructure and wear properties of laser clad γ/Cr7C3/TiC composite coatings on TiAl intermatallic alloy

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Liu Xiubo; Yu Rongli

    2007-01-01

    The effects of La 2 O 3 addition on the microstructure and wear properties of laser clad γ/Cr 7 C 3 /TiC composite coatings on γ-TiAl intermetallic alloy substrates with NiCr-Cr 3 C 2 precursor mixed powders have been investigated by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive spectrometer (EDS) and block-on-ring wear tests. The responding wear mechanisms are discussed in detail. The results are compared with that for composite coating without La 2 O 3 . The comparison indicates that no evident new crystallographic phases are formed except a rapidly solidified microstructure consisting of the primary hard Cr 7 C 3 and TiC carbides and the γ/Cr 7 C 3 eutectics distributed in the tough γ nickel solid solution matrix. Good finishing coatings can be achieved under a proper amount of La 2 O 3 -addition and a suitable laser processing parameters. The additions of rare-earth oxide La 2 O 3 can refine and purify the microstructure of coatings, relatively decrease the volume fraction of primary blocky Cr 7 C 3 to Cr 7 C 3 /γ eutectics, reduce the dilution of clad material from base alloy and increase the microhardness of the coatings. When the addition of La 2 O 3 is approximately 4 wt.%, the laser clad composite coating possesses the highest hardness and toughness. The composite coating with 4 wt.%La 2 O 3 addition can result the best enhancement of wear resistance of about 30%. However, too less or excessive addition amount of La 2 O 3 have no better influence on wear resistance of the composite coating

  13. Far-infrared spectroscopic study of CeO2 nanocrystals

    Science.gov (United States)

    Popović, Z. V.; Grujić-Brojčin, M.; Paunović, N.; Radonjić, M. M.; Araújo, V. D.; Bernardi, M. I. B.; de Lima, M. M.; Cantarero, A.

    2015-01-01

    We present the far-infrared reflectivity spectra of 5 nm-sized pure and copper-doped Ce1- x Cu x O2- y ( x = 0; 0.01 and 0.10) nanocrystals measured at room temperature in the 50-650 cm-1 spectral range. Reflectivity spectra were analyzed using the factorized form of the dielectric function, which includes the phonon and the free carriers contribution. Four oscillators with TO energies of approximately 135, 280, 370, and 490 cm-1 were included in the fitting procedure. These oscillators represent local maxima of the CeO2 phonon density of states, which is also calculated using the density functional theory. The lowest energy oscillator represents TA(L)/TA(X) phonon states, which become infrared-active E u modes at the L and X points of the Brillouin zone (BZ). The second oscillator originates from TO(Γ) phonon states. The oscillator at 400 cm-1 originates from Raman mode phonon states, which at the L point of BZ also becomes infrared-active E u mode. The last oscillator describes phonons with dominantly LO(Γ) infrared mode character. The appearance of phonon density of states related oscillators, instead of single F 2uinfrared-active mode in the far-infrared reflectivity spectra, is a consequence of the nanosized dimension of the CeO2 particles. The best fit spectra are obtained using the generalized Bruggeman model for inhomogeneous media, which takes into account the nanocrystal volume fraction and the pore shape.

  14. Biferroic LuCrO{sub 3}: Structural characterization, magnetic and dielectric properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Durán, A., E-mail: dural@cnyn.unam.mx [Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Centro de Nanociencias y Nanotecnología, Km. 107 Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada, Apartado Postal 14, C.P. 22800 Ensenada, BC (Mexico); Meza F, C.; Morán, E.; Alario-Franco, M.A. [Departamento de Química Inorgánica y Laboratorio Complutense de Altas Presiones, Facultad de Química, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, EU, 28040 Madrid (Spain); Ostos, C., E-mail: ceostoso@gmail.com [Instituto de Química, Universidad de Antioquia UdeA, Calle 70 No. 52-21, Medellín (Colombia)

    2014-02-14

    Multiferroic LuCrO{sub 3} perovskite-type structure (Pbnm) obtained via auto-ignition synthesis was characterized by a combination of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetric (TG) techniques, and through magnetization and permittivity measurements. Results showed that amorphous combustion powders were fully transformed to orthorhombic LuCrO{sub 3} structure at 1200 K after the first LuCrO{sub 4} crystallization at 700 K. The magnetic response displays thermal irreversibility between zero-field-cooling and field-cooling condition which is due to spin canted AF switching at 116 K. Accordingly, a hysteresis loop in the M(H) data confirms weak ferromagnetism in LuCrO{sub 3}. On the other hand, the permittivity measurement shows a broad peak transition typical of relaxor-type ferroelectrics transition at ∼450 K. Electrical conductivity increases as temperature increases showing an anomaly around the diffuse phase transition. The diffuse phase transition and the formation of the charge carriers are discussed in terms of a local distortion around the Lu Site. - Highlights: • Multiferroic LuCrO{sub 3} was successfully obtained via auto-ignition synthesis. • Amorphous powder is transformed first to LuCrO{sub 4} (700 K) and next to LuCrO{sub 3} (1100 K). • The CrO{sub 6} octahedra are tilted away and rotates from the ideal octahedral shape. • LuCrO{sub 3} exhibits a canted AFM transition (116 K) and a relaxor ferroelectric behavior. • Tilting and rotation of CrO{sub 6} octahedra influenced transport properties on LuCrO{sub 3}.

  15. Microstructural and photoluminescence properties of sol–gel derived Tb3+ doped ZnO nanocrystals

    CSIR Research Space (South Africa)

    Kabongo, GL

    2014-04-01

    Full Text Available Un-doped and Tb(Sup3+) doped ZnO nanocrystals with different concentrations of Tb(Sup3+) were synthesized by a sol–gel method and their photoluminescence (PL) properties were investigated. The successful incorporation of Tb(sup3+) ions...

  16. Twenty-fold plasmon-induced enhancement of radiative emission rate in silicon nanocrystals embedded in silicon dioxide

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Gardelis, S; Gianneta, V.; Nassiopoulou, A.G

    2016-01-01

    We report on a 20-fold enhancement of the integrated photoluminescence (PL) emission of silicon nanocrystals, embedded in a matrix of silicon dioxide, induced by excited surface plasmons from silver nanoparticles, which are located in the vicinity of the silicon nanocrystals and separated from them by a silicon dioxide layer of a few nanometers. The electric field enhancement provided by the excited surface plasmons increases the absorption cross section and the emission rate of the nearby silicon nanocrystals, resulting in the observed enhancement of the photoluminescence, mainly attributed to a 20-fold enhancement in the emission rate of the silicon nanocrystals. The observed remarkable improvement of the PL emission makes silicon nanocrystals very useful material for photonic, sensor and solar cell applications.

  17. Fracture Resistances of Y_2O_3 Particle Dispersion Strengthened 9Cr Steel at Room Temperature and High Temperatures

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yoon, Ji Hyun; Kang, Suk Hoon; Lee, Yongbok; Kim, Sung Soo

    2012-01-01

    The fracture resistance and tensile properties of Y_2O_3 oxide dispersion strengthened steel containing 9 wt% Cr (9Cr-ODS) were measured at various temperatures up to 700°C. The fracture characteristics were compared with those of commercial E911 ferritic/martensitic steel. The strength of 9Cr-ODS was at least 30% higher than that of E911 steel at the test temperatures below 500°C. The strength difference between the two materials was almost diminished at 700°C. 9Cr-ODS showed cleavage fracture behavior at room temperature and unstable crack growth behaviors at 300°C and 500°C. The J-R fracture resistance of 9Cr-ODS was much lower than that of E911 steel at all temperatures. It was deduced that the coarse Cr_2O_3 particles that were formed during the alloying process provided the crack initiation sites of cleavage fracture in 9Cr-ODS.

  18. Characteristics of RuO2-SnO2 nanocrystalline-embedded amorphous electrode for thin film microsupercapacitors

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kim, Han-Ki; Choi, Sun-Hee; Yoon, Young Soo; Chang, Sung-Yong; Ok, Young-Woo; Seong, Tae-Yeon

    2005-01-01

    The characteristics of RuO 2 -SnO 2 nanocrystalline-embedded amorphous electrode, grown by DC reactive sputtering, was investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and transmission electron diffraction (TED) examination results showed that Sn and Ru metal cosputtered electrode in O 2 /Ar ambient have RuO 2 -SnO 2 nanocrystallines in an amorphous oxide matrix. It is shown that the cyclic voltammorgram (CV) result of the RuO 2 -SnO 2 nanocrystalline-embedded amorphous film in 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 liquid electrolyte is similar to a bulk-type supercapacitor behavior with a specific capacitance of 62.2 mF/cm 2 μm. This suggests that the RuO 2 -SnO 2 nanocrystalline-embedded amorphous film can be employed in hybrid all-solid state energy storage devises as an electrode of supercapacitor

  19. Laser-controlled stress of Si nanocrystals in a free-standing Si /SiO2 superlattice

    Science.gov (United States)

    Khriachtchev, Leonid; Räsänen, Markku; Novikov, Sergei

    2006-01-01

    We report laser manipulations with stress at the nanoscale level. The continuous-wave Ar+ laser radiation melts Si nanocrystals in a free-standing Si /SiO2 superlattice. Silicon crystallization from the liquid phase leads to a compressive stress, which can be accurately tuned in the 3GPa range using laser annealing below the Si melting temperature and then recovered by laser annealing above the melting temperature. This allows investigations of various phenomena as a function of stress and makes a case of Si-nanocrystal memory with very long retention time, which can be written, erased, and read by optical means.

  20. Laser-controlled stress of Si nanocrystals in a free-standing Si/SiO2 superlattice

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Khriachtchev, Leonid; Raesaenen, Markku; Novikov, Sergei

    2006-01-01

    We report laser manipulations with stress at the nanoscale level. The continuous-wave Ar + laser radiation melts Si nanocrystals in a free-standing Si/SiO 2 superlattice. Silicon crystallization from the liquid phase leads to a compressive stress, which can be accurately tuned in the 3 GPa range using laser annealing below the Si melting temperature and then recovered by laser annealing above the melting temperature. This allows investigations of various phenomena as a function of stress and makes a case of Si-nanocrystal memory with very long retention time, which can be written, erased, and read by optical means

  1. Microstructural Characterization of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} ODS-Fe-Cr Model Alloy s

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    De Castro, V.; Jenkins, M.L. [Oxford Univ., Dept. of Materials (United Kingdom); Leguey, T.; Mufioz, A.; Pareja, R.; Monge, M.A. [Madrid Univ. Carlos 3, Dept. de Fisica (Spain)

    2007-07-01

    Full text of publication follows: Reduced activation ferritic/martensitic (RAFM) steels with Cr contents ranging between 9-12 wt% are promising candidates for use as structural materials in future fusion reactors. They are likely to be superior to austenitic steels because of their better thermal properties and higher swelling resistance. A major concern of these materials is their maximum service temperature, as this determines the overall efficiency of the reactor. It has been demonstrated that one way to increase this temperature is to homogeneously disperse hard nano-sized oxide particles, such as Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}, into the steel matrix. Oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) steels produced by mechanical milling and hot isostatic pressing (HIP ) are considered as potential structural materials for fusion reactors. In Europe, efforts have been focused on the ODS-RAFM-9CrW steel EUROFER. These ODS steels show good tensile and creep properties, acceptable ductility, but poor impact properties. Microstructural characterization of real steels, especially of the structures of oxide/steel matrix interfaces which play an important role in the performance of the material, is a difficult task. In the present work we have fabricated and characterised a simpler model ODS system based on a Fe-Cr binary alloy, in the belief that this will help us better to understand complex ODS-RAFM steels. Two Fe-12wt% Cr batches, one containing 0.3 wt% Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and the other Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} free have been produced by milling plus compaction by HIP. These materials are being characterized by X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy and atom probe field ion microscopy. Results will be compared with those obtained for ODS-EUROFER produced under the same conditions. (authors)

  2. Effect of different precursors in the chemical synthesis of ZnO nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Gusatti, M.; Barroso, G.S.; Souza, D.A.R.; Rosario, J.A.; Lima, R.B.; Silva, L.A.; Riella, H.G.; Kuhnen, N.C.; Campos, C.E.M.

    2010-01-01

    This work aims to evaluate the effect of ZnCl 2 and Zn(NO 3 ) 2 .6H 2 O precursors in the synthesis of ZnO nanocrystals. The materials were obtained at a temperature of 90 deg C by a simple solochemical route. The resulting samples were characterized with respect to the determination of the formed phases, particle size and morphology, using the techniques of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). These characterization techniques confirmed that the sample obtained with Zn(NO 3 ) 2. 6H 2 O has hexagonal crystal structure of ZnO and dimensions in the nanoscale. However, the material formed with ZnCl 2 was composed of a mixture of the ZnO phase and another correspondent to the Zn 5 (OH) 8 Cl 2 .H 2 O phase. For both precursors, the predominant morphology of the obtained ZnO nanocrystals is rod- like structure.(author)

  3. Electrochemically active nanocomposites of Li4Ti5O12 2D nanosheets and SnO2 0D nanocrystals with improved electrode performance

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Han, Song Yi; Kim, In Young; Lee, Sang-Hyup; Hwang, Seong-Ju

    2012-01-01

    Electrochemically active nanocomposites consisting of Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 2D nanosheets and SnO 2 0D nanocrystals are synthesized by the crystal growth of tin dioxide on the surface of 2D nanostructured lithium titanate. According to powder X-ray diffraction and electron microscopic analyses, the rutile-structured SnO 2 nanocrystals are stabilized on the surface of spinel-structured Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 2D nanosheets. The homogeneous hybridization of tin dioxide with lithium titanate is confirmed by elemental mapping analysis. Ti K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure and Sn 3d X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy indicate the stabilization of tetravalent titanium ions in the spinel lattice of Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 and the formation of SnO 2 phase with tetravalent Sn oxidation state. The electrochemical measurements clearly demonstrate the promising functionality of the present nanocomposites as anode for lithium secondary batteries. The Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 –SnO 2 nanocomposites show larger discharge capacity and better cyclability than do the uncomposited Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 and SnO 2 phases, indicating the synergistic effect of nanocomposite formation on the electrode performance of Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 and SnO 2 . The present experimental findings underscore the validity of 2D nanostructured lithium titanate as a useful platform for the stabilization of nanocrystalline electrode materials and also for the improvement of their functionality.

  4. Effect of ion implantation energy for the synthesis of Ge nanocrystals in SiN films with HfO2/SiO2 stack tunnel dielectrics for memory application

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Gloux Florence

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available Abstract Ge nanocrystals (Ge-NCs embedded in SiN dielectrics with HfO2/SiO2 stack tunnel dielectrics were synthesized by utilizing low-energy (≤5 keV ion implantation method followed by conventional thermal annealing at 800°C, the key variable being Ge+ ion implantation energy. Two different energies (3 and 5 keV have been chosen for the evolution of Ge-NCs, which have been found to possess significant changes in structural and chemical properties of the Ge+-implanted dielectric films, and well reflected in the charge storage properties of the Al/SiN/Ge-NC + SiN/HfO2/SiO2/Si metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS memory structures. No Ge-NC was detected with a lower implantation energy of 3 keV at a dose of 1.5 × 1016 cm-2, whereas a well-defined 2D-array of nearly spherical and well-separated Ge-NCs within the SiN matrix was observed for the higher-energy-implanted (5 keV sample for the same implanted dose. The MIS memory structures implanted with 5 keV exhibits better charge storage and retention characteristics compared to the low-energy-implanted sample, indicating that the charge storage is predominantly in Ge-NCs in the memory capacitor. A significant memory window of 3.95 V has been observed under the low operating voltage of ± 6 V with good retention properties, indicating the feasibility of these stack structures for low operating voltage, non-volatile memory devices.

  5. Characterisation of the Microstructure of Fe–Al/Cr3C2 Composite Coatings

    Science.gov (United States)

    Liu, Xiaoming; JunhuiDong; Yang, Yuehong; Sun, Changming; Tuo, Ya; Li, Yanwei

    2018-03-01

    An Fe-Al/Cr3C2 composite coating is investigated to assess its suitability for treating high-temperature components in a power plant. The coating exhibits excellent high- temperature properties including good corrosion, erosion and friction-wear resistance at high temperatures. To deduce the formation of the Fe-Al/Cr3C2 composite coating and to provide an adequate theoretical basis for its extensive application, its structures and microstructures are investigated. Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM)is used along with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX) to analyse the surface of the coating. Energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) is used to analyse the cross-section of the coating. Further, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) are used to analyse the phases and micro structural features within the coating. The results reveal that the basic phases are two orderly inter metallic compounds (Fe3Al and FeAl) and that the reinforcement includes two oxides (Al2O3 and Cr2O3) as well as substantial quantities of Cr3C2. Al2O3is formed using two mechanisms: oxidation of aluminium in the coating and separation of Al2O3crystals from Fe3Al and FeAl. The grain size of Al2O3 and Cr2O3 in the coatings is nanometric. These two oxides may increase the corrosion-erosion and wear resistances of the coating when they are used as reinforcements.

  6. Modification of Ga2O3 by an Ag-Cr core-shell cocatalyst enhances photocatalytic CO evolution for the conversion of CO2 by H2O.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pang, Rui; Teramura, Kentaro; Tatsumi, Hiroyuki; Asakura, Hiroyuki; Hosokawa, Saburo; Tanaka, Tsunehiro

    2018-01-25

    A core-shell structure of Ag-Cr dual cocatalyst loaded-Ga 2 O 3 was found to significantly enhance the formation rate of CO and selectivity toward CO evolution for the photocatalytic conversion of CO 2 where H 2 O is used as an electron donor.

  7. Fabrication and characterization of Er+3 doped SiO2/SnO2 glass-ceramic thin films for planar waveguide applications

    Science.gov (United States)

    Guddala, S.; Chiappini, A.; Armellini, C.; Turell, S.; Righini, G. C.; Ferrari, M.; Narayana Rao, D.

    2015-02-01

    Glass-ceramics are a kind of two-phase materials constituted by nanocrystals embedded in a glass matrix and the respective volume fractions of crystalline and amorphous phase determine the properties of the glass-ceramics. Among these properties transparency is crucial in particular when confined structures, such as, dielectric optical waveguides, are considered. Moreover, the segregation of dopant rare-earth ions, like erbium, in low phonon energy crystalline medium makes these structures more promising in the development of waveguide amplifiers. Here we are proposing a new class of low phonon energy tin oxide semiconductor medium doped silicate based planar waveguides. Er3+ doped (100-x) SiO2-xSnO2 (x= 10, 20, 25 and 30mol%), glass-ceramic planar waveguide thin films were fabricated by a simple sol-gel processing and dip coating technique. XRD and HRTEM studies indicates the glass-ceramic phase of the film and the dispersion of ~4nm diameter of tin oxide nanocrystals in the amorphous phase of silica. The spectroscopic assessment indicates the distribution of the dopant erbium ions in the crystalline medium of tin oxide. The observed low losses, 0.5±0.2 dB/cm, at 1.54 μm communication wavelength makes them a quite promising material for the development of high gain integrated optical amplifiers.

  8. Material parameters from frequency dispersion simulation of floating gate memory with Ge nanocrystals in HfO2

    Science.gov (United States)

    Palade, C.; Lepadatu, A. M.; Slav, A.; Lazanu, S.; Teodorescu, V. S.; Stoica, T.; Ciurea, M. L.

    2018-01-01

    Trilayer memory capacitors with Ge nanocrystals (NCs) floating gate in HfO2 were obtained by magnetron sputtering deposition on p-type Si substrate followed by rapid thermal annealing at relatively low temperature of 600 °C. The frequency dispersion of capacitance and resistance was measured in accumulation regime of Al/HfO2 gate oxide/Ge NCs in HfO2 floating gate/HfO2 tunnel oxide/SiOx/p-Si/Al memory capacitors. For simulation of the frequency dispersion a complex circuit model was used considering an equivalent parallel RC circuit for each layer of the trilayer structure. A series resistance due to metallic contacts and Si substrate was necessary to be included in the model. A very good fit to the experimental data was obtained and the parameters of each layer in the memory capacitor, i.e. capacitances and resistances were determined and in turn the intrinsic material parameters, i.e. dielectric constants and resistivities of layers were evaluated. The results are very important for the study and optimization of the hysteresis behaviour of floating gate memories based on NCs embedded in oxide.

  9. Nanoindentation Analysis of Elastic/Mechanical Behaviour of Surface of Transparent Glass Ceramics with Fresnoite Ba2TiSi2O8 Nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Shinozaki, K; Honma, T; Komatsu, T

    2011-01-01

    Transparent glass-ceramics containing Ba 2 TiSi 2 O 8 (BTS) nanocrystals with sizes of ∼200 nm were obtained by heat treatment of 40BaO-20TiO 2 -40SiO 2 glass. Their elastic/mechanical properties were evaluated using the cube-resonance method and the Berkovich nanoindentation technique under standard and 'continuous stiffness measurement' (CSM) modes, and the relation between these properties and the volume fraction (f) of BTS nanocrystals was clarified. The glass-ceramics were obtained by 1-h heat treatments at 760-790 deg. C of the precursor glass, resulting in the formation of BTS nanocrystals with f=2.7-54.5%, with a corresponding Young's modulus of 84-107 GPa. The CSM nanoindentation measurements gave an indentation modulus of 90 GPa for the glass and 110 GPa for the glass-ceramic heat-treated at 790 deg. C, for indentation depths of 200-1500 nm. The results suggest that the BTS nanocrystals confer a high resistance to deformation during indenter loading.

  10. Ge nanocrystals formed by furnace annealing of Ge(x)[SiO2](1-x) films: structure and optical properties

    Science.gov (United States)

    Volodin, V. A.; Cherkov, A. G.; Antonenko, A. Kh; Stoffel, M.; Rinnert, H.; Vergnat, M.

    2017-07-01

    Ge(x)[SiO2](1-x) (0.1  ⩽  x  ⩽  0.4) films were deposited onto Si(0 0 1) or fused quartz substrates using co-evaporation of both Ge and SiO2 in high vacuum. Germanium nanocrystals were synthesized in the SiO2 matrix by furnace annealing of Ge x [SiO2](1-x) films with x  ⩾  0.2. According to electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy data, the average size of the nanocrystals depends weakly on the annealing temperature (700, 800, or 900 °C) and on the Ge concentration in the films. Neither amorphous Ge clusters nor Ge nanocrystals were observed in as-deposited and annealed Ge0.1[SiO2]0.9 films. Infrared absorption spectroscopy measurements show that the studied films do not contain a noticeable amount of GeO x clusters. After annealing at 900 °C intermixing of germanium and silicon atoms was still negligible thus preventing the formation of GeSi nanocrystals. For annealed samples, we report the observation of infrared photoluminescence at low temperatures, which can be explained by exciton recombination in Ge nanocrystals. Moreover, we report strong photoluminescence in the visible range at room temperature, which is certainly due to Ge-related defect-induced radiative transitions.

  11. Facile and Low-Temperature Fabrication of Thermochromic Cr2O3/VO2 Smart Coatings: Enhanced Solar Modulation Ability, High Luminous Transmittance and UV-Shielding Function.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chang, Tianci; Cao, Xun; Li, Ning; Long, Shiwei; Gao, Xiang; Dedon, Liv R; Sun, Guangyao; Luo, Hongjie; Jin, Ping

    2017-08-09

    In the pursuit of energy efficient materials, vanadium dioxide (VO 2 ) based smart coatings have gained much attention in recent years. For smart window applications, VO 2 thin films should be fabricated at low temperature to reduce the cost in commercial fabrication and solve compatibility problems. Meanwhile, thermochromic performance with high luminous transmittance and solar modulation ability, as well as effective UV shielding function has become the most important developing strategy for ideal smart windows. In this work, facile Cr 2 O 3 /VO 2 bilayer coatings on quartz glasses were designed and fabricated by magnetron sputtering at low temperatures ranging from 250 to 350 °C as compared with typical high growth temperatures (>450 °C). The bottom Cr 2 O 3 layer not only provides a structural template for the growth of VO 2 (R), but also serves as an antireflection layer for improving the luminous transmittance. It was found that the deposition of Cr 2 O 3 layer resulted in a dramatic enhancement of the solar modulation ability (56.4%) and improvement of luminous transmittance (26.4%) when compared to single-layer VO 2 coating. According to optical measurements, the Cr 2 O 3 /VO 2 bilayer structure exhibits excellent optical performances with an enhanced solar modulation ability (ΔT sol = 12.2%) and a high luminous transmittance (T lum,lt = 46.0%), which makes a good balance between ΔT sol and T lum for smart windows applications. As for UV-shielding properties, more than 95.8% UV radiation (250-400 nm) can be blocked out by the Cr 2 O 3 /VO 2 structure. In addition, the visualized energy-efficient effect was modeled by heating a beaker of water using infrared imaging method with/without a Cr 2 O 3 /VO 2 coating glass.

  12. Microstructural characterization of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} ODS-Fe-Cr model alloys

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Castro, V. de [Department of Materials, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3PH (United Kingdom)], E-mail: vanessa.decastro@materials.ox.ac.uk; Leguey, T.; Munoz, A.; Monge, M.A.; Pareja, R. [Departamento de Fisica, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, 28911 Leganes (Spain); Marquis, E.A.; Lozano-Perez, S.; Jenkins, M.L. [Department of Materials, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3PH (United Kingdom)

    2009-04-30

    Two Fe-12 wt% Cr alloys, one containing 0.4 wt% Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and the other Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}-free, have been produced by mechanical alloying followed by hot isostatic pressing. These oxide dispersion strengthened and reference alloys were characterized both in the as-HIPed state and after tempering by transmission electron microscopy and atom-probe tomography. The as-HIPed alloys exhibited the characteristic microstructure of lath martensite and contained a high density of dislocations. Small voids with sizes <10 nm were also observed. Both alloys also contained M{sub 3}C and M{sub 23}C{sub 6} carbides (M = Cr, Fe) probably as a result of C ingress during milling. After tempering at 1023 K for 4 h the microstructures had partially recovered. In the recovered regions, martensite laths were replaced by equiaxed grains in which M{sub 23}C{sub 6} carbides decorated the grain boundaries. In the ODS alloy nanoparticles containing Y were commonly observed within grains, although they were also present at grain boundaries and adjacent to large carbides.

  13. Synergistic photocatalysis of Cr(VI) reduction and 4-Chlorophenol degradation over hydroxylated α-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} under visible light irradiation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Ji-Chao; Ren, Juan [College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450002 (China); Yao, Hong-Chang, E-mail: yaohongchang@zzu.edu.cn [College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450002 (China); Zhang, Lin; Wang, Jian-She; Zang, Shuang-Quan [College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450002 (China); Han, Li-Feng [Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Surface & Interface Science, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou 450002 (China); Li, Zhong-Jun, E-mail: lizhongjun@zzu.edu.cn [College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450002 (China)

    2016-07-05

    Highlights: • The surface hydroxyl of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} influences on the Cr(VI) reduction activity. • The synergistic photocatalysis enhances degradation activity of Cr(VI) and 4-CP. • The Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} catalyst exhibits good stability and degradation activity after 9 runs. - Abstract: A series of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} materials with hydroxyl are synthesized in different monohydric alcohol (C{sub 2} – C{sub 5}) solvents by solvothermal method and characterized by XRD, BET, XPS, TG and EA. The amount of hydroxyl is demonstrated to be emerged on the surface of the as-synthesized Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles and their contents are determined to be from 7.99 to 3.74 wt%. The Cr(VI) reduction experiments show that the hydroxyl content of Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} samples exacts great influence on the photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation (λ > 400 nm) and that the Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} sample synthesized in n-butyl alcohol exhibits the optimal photocatalytic activity. The synergistic photocatalysis for 4-Chlorophenol (4-CP) degradation and Cr(VI) reduction over above Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} sample is further investigated. The photocatalytic ratio of Cr(VI) reduction are enhanced from 24.8% to 70.2% while that of 4-CP oxidation are increased from 13.5% to 47.8% after 1 h visible light irradiation. The Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} sample keeps good degradation rates of mixed pollutants after 9 runs. The active oxygen intermediates O{sub 2}{sup −}·, ·OH and H{sub 2}O{sub 2} formed in the photoreaction process are discovered by ESR measurement and UV–vis test. The photocatalytic degradation mechanism is proposed accordingly.

  14. Design and syntheses of hybrid metal–organic materials based on K{sub 3}[M(C{sub 2}O{sub 4}){sub 3}]·3H{sub 2}O [M(III)=Fe, Al, Cr] metallotectons

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sun, Yayong; Zong, Yingxia; Ma, Haoran; Zhang, Ao; Liu, Kang; Wang, Debao, E-mail: dbwang@qust.edu.cn; Wang, Wenqiang; Wang, Lei, E-mail: inorchemwl@126.com

    2016-05-15

    By using K{sub 3}[M(C{sub 2}O{sub 4}){sub 3}]·3H{sub 2}O [M(III)=Fe, Al, Cr] (C{sub 2}O{sub 4}{sup 2−}=oxalate) metallotectons as the starting material, we have synthesized eight novel complexes with formulas [{Fe(C_2O_4)_2(H_2O)_2}{sub 2}]·(H–L{sub 1}){sub 2}·H{sub 2}O 1, [Fe(C{sub 2}O{sub 4})Cl{sub 2}]·(H{sub 2}–L{sub 2}){sub 0.5}·(L{sub 2}){sub 0.5}·H{sub 2}O 2, [{Fe(C_2O_4)_1_._5Cl_2}{sub 2}]·(H–L{sub 3}){sub 4}3, [Fe{sub 2}(C{sub 2}O{sub 4})Cl{sub 8}]·(H{sub 2}–L{sub 4}){sub 22H{sub 2}O 4, K[Al(C{sub 2}O{sub 4}){sub 3}]·(H{sub 2}–L{sub 5})·2H{sub 2}O 5, K[Al(C{sub 2}O{sub 4}){sub 3}]·(H–L{sub 6}){sub 22H{sub 2}O 6, K[Cr(C{sub 2}O{sub 4}){sub 3}]·2H{sub 2}O 7, Na[Fe(C{sub 2}O{sub 4}){sub 3}]·(H–L{sub 6}){sub 22H{sub 2}O 8 (with L{sub 1}=4-dimethylaminopyridine, L{sub 2}=2,3,5,6-tetramethylpyrazine, L{sub 3}=2-aminobenzimidazole, L{sub 4}=1,4-bis-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)benzene, L{sub 5}=1,4-bis((2-methylimidazol-1-yl)methyl)benzene, L{sub 6}=2-methylbenzimidazole). Their structures have been determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses, elemental analyses, IR spectra and thermogravimetric analyses. Compound 3 is a 2D H-bonded supramolecular architecture. Others are 3D supramolecular structures. Compound 1 shows a [Fe(C{sub 2}O{sub 4}){sub 2}(H{sub 2}O){sub 2}]{sup −} unit and 3D antionic H-bonded framework. Compound 2 features a [Fe(C{sub 2}O{sub 4})Cl{sub 2}]{sup -} anion and 1D iron-oxalate-iron chain. Compound 3 features a [Fe{sub 2}(C{sub 2}O{sub 4}){sub 3}Cl{sub 4}]{sup 4−} unit. Compound 4 features distinct [Fe{sub 2}(C{sub 2}O{sub 4})Cl{sub 8}]{sup 4−} units, which are mutual linked by water molecules to generated a 2D H-bonded network. Compound 5 features infinite ladder-like chains constructed by [Al(C{sub 2}O{sub 4}){sub 3}]{sup 3−} units and K{sup +} cations. The 1D chains are further extended into 3D antionic H-bonded framework through O–H···O H-bonds. Compounds 6–8 show 2D [KAl(C{sub 2}O

  15. Binding SnO2 nanocrystals in nitrogen-doped graphene sheets as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhou, Xiaosi; Wan, Li-Jun; Guo, Yu-Guo

    2013-04-18

    Hybrid anode materials for Li-ion batteries are fabricated by binding SnO2 nanocrystals (NCs) in nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide (N-RGO) sheets by means of an in situ hydrazine monohydrate vapor reduction method. The SnO2NCs in the obtained SnO2NC@N-RGO hybrid material exhibit exceptionally high specific capacity and high rate capability. Bonds formed between graphene and SnO2 nanocrystals limit the aggregation of in situ formed Sn nanoparticles, leading to a stable hybrid anode material with long cycle life. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  16. Control of Electron Transfer from Lead-Salt Nanocrystals to TiO 2

    KAUST Repository

    Hyun, Byung-Ryool; Bartnik, A. C.; Sun, Liangfeng; Hanrath, Tobias; Wise, F. W.

    2011-01-01

    The roles of solvent reorganization energy and electronic coupling strength on the transfer of photoexcited electrons from PbS nanocrystals to TiO 2 nanoparticles are investigated. We find that the electron transfer depends only weakly

  17. Pulsed ion-beam assisted deposition of Ge nanocrystals on SiO2 for non-volatile memory device

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Stepina, N.P.; Dvurechenskii, A.V.; Armbrister, V.A.; Kirienko, V.V.; Novikov, P.L.; Kesler, V.G.; Gutakovskii, A.K.; Smagina, Z.V.; Spesivtzev, E.V.

    2008-01-01

    A floating gate memory structure, utilizing Ge nanocrystals (NCs) deposited on tunnel SiO 2 , have been fabricated using pulsed low energy ion-beam induced molecular-beam deposition (MBD) in ultra-high vacuum. The ion-beam action is shown to stimulate the nucleation of Ge NCs when being applied after thin Ge layer deposition. Growth conditions for independent change of NCs size and array density were established allowing to optimize the structure parameters required for memory device. Activation energy E = 0.25 eV was determined from the temperature dependence of NCs array density. Monte Carlo simulation has shown that the process, determining NCs array density, is the surface diffusion. Embedding of the crystalline Ge dots into silicon oxide was carried out by selective oxidation of Si(100)/SiO 2 /Ge(NCs)/poly-Si structure. MOS-capacitor obtained after oxidation showed a hysteresis in its C-V curves attributed to charge retention in the Ge dots

  18. Novel solid-state synthesis of α-Fe and Fe3O4 nanoparticles embedded in a MgO matrix

    Science.gov (United States)

    Schneeweiss, O.; Zboril, R.; Pizurova, N.; Mashlan, M.; Petrovsky, E.; Tucek, J.

    2006-01-01

    Thermally induced reduction of amorphous Fe2O3 nanopowder (2-3 nm) with nanocrystalline Mg (~20 nm) under a hydrogen atmosphere is presented as a novel route to obtain α-Fe and Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles dispersed in a MgO matrix. The phase composition, structural and magnetic properties, size and morphology of the nanoparticles were monitored by x-ray diffraction, 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy at temperatures of 24-300 K, transmission electron microscopy and magnetic measurements. Spherical magnetite nanoparticles prepared at a reaction temperature of 300 °C revealed a well-defined structure, with a ratio of tetrahedral to octahedral Fe sites of 1/2 being common for the bulk material. A narrow particle size distribution (20-30 nm) and high saturation magnetization (95 ± 5 A m2 kg-1) predispose the magnetite nanoparticles to various applications, including magnetic separation processes. The Verwey transition of Fe3O4 nanocrystals was found to be decreased to about 80 K. The deeper reduction of amorphous ferric oxide at 600 °C allows α-Fe (40-50 nm) nanoparticles to be synthesized with a coercive force of about 30 mT. They have a saturation magnetization 2.2 times higher than that of synthesized magnetite nanoparticles, which corresponds well with the ratio usually found for the pure bulk phases. The magnetic properties of α-Fe nanocrystals combined with the high chemical and thermal stability of the MgO matrix makes the prepared nanocomposite useful for various magnetic applications.

  19. Negative impact of oxygen molecular activation on Cr(VI) removal with core–shell Fe@Fe2O3 nanowires

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mu, Yi; Wu, Hao; Ai, Zhihui

    2015-01-01

    Highlights: • The presence of oxygen inhibited Cr(VI) removal efficiency with nZVI by near 3 times. • Cr(VI) removal with nZVI was related to adsorption, reduction, co-precipitation, and adsorption reactions. • Molecular oxygen activation competed donor electrons from Fe 0 core and surface bound Fe(II) of nZVI. • Thicker Cr(III)/Fe(III)/Cr(VI) oxyhydroxides shell of nZVI leaded to the electron transfer inhibition. - Abstract: In this study, we demonstrate that the presence of oxygen molecule can inhibit Cr(VI) removal with core–shell Fe@Fe 2 O 3 nanowires at neutral pH of 6.1. 100% of Cr(VI) removal was achieved by the Fe@Fe 2 O 3 nanowires within 60 min in the anoxic condition, in contrast, only 81.2% of Cr(VI) was sequestrated in the oxic condition. Removal kinetics analysis indicated that the presence of oxygen could inhibit the Cr(VI) removal efficiency by near 3 times. XRD, SEM, and XPS analysis revealed that either the anoxic or oxic Cr(VI) removal was involved with adsorption, reduction, co-precipitation, and re-adsorption processes. More Cr(VI) was bound in a reduced state of Cr(III) in the anoxic process, while a thicker Cr(III)/Fe(III)/Cr(VI) oxyhydroxides shell, leading to inhibiting the electron transfer, was found under the oxic process. The negative impact of oxygen molecule was attributed to the oxygen molecular activation which competed with Cr(VI) adsorbed for the consumption of donor electrons from Fe 0 core and ferrous ions bound on the iron oxides surface under the oxic condition. This study sheds light on the understanding of the fate and transport of Cr(VI) in oxic and anoxic environment, as well provides helpful guide for optimizing Cr(VI) removal conditions in real applications

  20. Influence of TiO2 Nanocrystals Fabricating Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell on the Absorption Spectra of N719 Sensitizer

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Puhong Wen

    2012-01-01

    Full Text Available The absorption spectra of N719 sensitizer anchored on the films prepared by TiO2 nanocrystals with different morphology and size were investigated for improving the performance of dye-sensitized solar cell (DSC. We find that the morphology and size of TiO2 nanocrystals can affect the UV-vis and FT-IR spectra of the sensitizer anchored on their surfaces. In particular, the low-energy metal-to-ligand charge-transfer transitions (MLCT band in the visible absorption spectra of N719 is strongly affected, and locations of these MLCT bands revealed larger differences. The results indicate that there is a red shift of MLCT band in the spectra obtained by using TiO2 nanocrystals with long morphology and large size compared to that in solution. And it produced a larger red-shift on the MLCT band after TiO2 nanocrystals with small size mixed with some long nanocrystals. Accordingly, the utilization rate to visible light is increased. This is a reason why the DSC prepared by using such film as a photoelectrode has better performance than before mixing.

  1. Kinetic stable Cr isotopic fractionation between aqueous Cr(III)-Cl-H2O complexes at 25 °C: Implications for Cr(III) mobility and isotopic variations in modern and ancient natural systems

    Science.gov (United States)

    Babechuk, Michael G.; Kleinhanns, Ilka C.; Reitter, Elmar; Schoenberg, Ronny

    2018-02-01

    The stable Cr isotope fractionation preserved in natural substances has been attributed predominantly to Cr(III)-Cr(VI) redox transformations. However, non-redox reaction pathways (e.g., ligand-promoted dissolution, ligand exchange, adsorption of Cr(III)) are liable to contribute to isotopic fractionation in natural systems given that soluble Cr(III)-ligands have been directly documented or modeled in several marine, continental, and hydrothermal environments. This study isolates the stable Cr isotope fractionation accompanying Cl-H2O ligand exchange during the transformation of three aqueous species in the Cr(III)-Cl-H2O system, [CrCl2(H2O)4]+aq (abr. CrCl2+ or S1), [CrCl(H2O)5]2+aq (abr. CrCl2+ or S2), and [Cr(H2O)6]3+aq (abr. Cr3+ or S3), at low pH (≤2). In dilute HCl (0.01 to 1 M), Cr3+ is the kinetically favoured species and transformation of CrCl2+ to CrCl2+ to Cr3+ via 2 steps of dechlorination/hydrolyzation begins immediately upon dissolution of a Cr(III)-Cl solid. Individual species are separated with cation exchange chromatography at different stages of transformation and inter- and intra-species (across an elution peak of one species) isotopic fractionation of up to 1 and 2‰ (δ53/52Cr), respectively, is documented. Comparison of peak elution characteristics with Cr-Cl-H-O isotopologue mass abundances suggests mass-dependent sorting of isotopologues alone cannot explain intra-species fractionation, supporting a previously published proposal that preferential adsorption of light Cr isotopes on the resin is driven by vibrational energy effects. The transformation of CrCl2+ to CrCl2+ is faster than CrCl2+ to Cr3+ and the rates of both transformations increase with solution pH. Preferential reaction of light Cr(III) isotopes into product species occurs during each transformation, consistent with closed-system, kinetic fractionation during Cl-H2O ligand exchange. Inter-species fractionation is assessed using time-series experiments beginning from the

  2. Calpain activation and disturbance of autophagy are induced in cortical neurons in vitro by exposure to HA/β-Ga2O3:Cr3+ nanoparticles.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lei, Yu; Wang, Chengkun; Jiang, Quan; Sun, Xiaoyi; Du, Yongzhong; Zhu, Yaofeng; Lu, Yingmei

    2018-01-01

    The toxicity of engineered nanoparticles remains a concern. The knowledge of biohazards associated with particular nanoparticles is crucial to make this cutting-edge technology more beneficial and safe. Here, we evaluated the toxicity of Ga 2 O 3 nanoparticles (NPs), which are frequently used to enhance the performance of metal catalysts in a variety of catalytic reactions. The potential inflammatory signaling associated with the toxicity of HA/β-Ga 2 O 3 :Cr 3+ NPs in primary cortical neurons was examined. We observed a dose-dependent decrease in cell viability and an increase in apoptosis in neurons following various concentrations (0, 1, 5, 25, 50, 100 µg/ml) of HA/β-Ga 2 O 3 :Cr 3+ NPs treatment. Consistently, constitutively active forms of calcineurin (48 kDa) were significantly elevated in cultured primary cortical neurons, which was consistent with calpain activation indicated by the breakdown products of spectrin. Moreover, HA/β-Ga 2 O 3 :Cr 3+ NPs result in the elevation of LC3-II formation, SQSTM/p62, and Cathepsin B, whereas phosphorylation of CaMKII (Thr286) and Synapsin I (Ser603) were downregulated in the same context. Taken together, these results demonstrate for the first time that calpain activation and a disturbance of autophagy signaling are evoked by exposure to HA/β-Ga 2 O 3 :Cr 3+ NPs, which may contribute to neuronal injury in vitro .

  3. Calpain activation and disturbance of autophagy are induced in cortical neurons in vitro by exposure to HA/β-Ga2O3:Cr3+ nanoparticles

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yu Lei

    2018-02-01

    Full Text Available The toxicity of engineered nanoparticles remains a concern. The knowledge of biohazards associated with particular nanoparticles is crucial to make this cutting-edge technology more beneficial and safe. Here, we evaluated the toxicity of Ga2O3 nanoparticles (NPs, which are frequently used to enhance the performance of metal catalysts in a variety of catalytic reactions. The potential inflammatory signaling associated with the toxicity of HA/β-Ga2O3:Cr3+ NPs in primary cortical neurons was examined. We observed a dose-dependent decrease in cell viability and an increase in apoptosis in neurons following various concentrations (0, 1, 5, 25, 50, 100 µg/ml of HA/β-Ga2O3:Cr3+ NPs treatment. Consistently, constitutively active forms of calcineurin (48 kDa were significantly elevated in cultured primary cortical neurons, which was consistent with calpain activation indicated by the breakdown products of spectrin. Moreover, HA/β-Ga2O3:Cr3+ NPs result in the elevation of LC3-II formation, SQSTM/p62, and Cathepsin B, whereas phosphorylation of CaMKII (Thr286 and Synapsin I (Ser603 were downregulated in the same context. Taken together, these results demonstrate for the first time that calpain activation and a disturbance of autophagy signaling are evoked by exposure to HA/β-Ga2O3:Cr3+ NPs, which may contribute to neuronal injury in vitro.

  4. Strained interface defects in silicon nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lee, Benjamin G.; Stradins, Paul [National Center for Photovoltaics, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, CO (United States); Hiller, Daniel; Zacharias, Margit [IMTEK - Faculty of Engineering, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg (Germany); Luo, Jun-Wei; Beard, Matthew C. [Chemical and Materials Science, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, CO (United States); Semonin, Octavi E. [Chemical and Materials Science, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, CO (United States); Department of Physics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO (United States)

    2012-08-07

    The surface of silicon nanocrystals embedded in an oxide matrix can contain numerous interface defects. These defects strongly affect the nanocrystals' photoluminescence efficiency and optical absorption. Dangling-bond defects are nearly eliminated by H{sub 2} passivation, thus decreasing absorption below the quantum-confined bandgap and enhancing PL efficiency by an order of magnitude. However, there remain numerous other defects seen in absorption by photothermal deflection spectroscopy; these defects cause non-radiative recombination that limits the PL efficiency to <15%. Using atomistic pseudopotential simulations, we attribute these defects to two specific types of distorted bonds: Si-Si and bridging Si-O-Si bonds between two Si atoms at the nanocrystal surface. (Copyright copyright 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

  5. Far-infrared spectroscopic study of CeO2 nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Popović, Z. V.; Grujić-Brojčin, M.; Paunović, N.; Radonjić, M. M.; Araújo, V. D.; Bernardi, M. I. B.; Lima, M. M. de; Cantarero, A.

    2015-01-01

    We present the far-infrared reflectivity spectra of 5 nm-sized pure and copper-doped Ce 1−x Cu x O 2−y (x = 0; 0.01 and 0.10) nanocrystals measured at room temperature in the 50–650 cm −1 spectral range. Reflectivity spectra were analyzed using the factorized form of the dielectric function, which includes the phonon and the free carriers contribution. Four oscillators with TO energies of approximately 135, 280, 370, and 490 cm −1 were included in the fitting procedure. These oscillators represent local maxima of the CeO 2 phonon density of states, which is also calculated using the density functional theory. The lowest energy oscillator represents TA(L)/TA(X) phonon states, which become infrared-active E u modes at the L and X points of the Brillouin zone (BZ). The second oscillator originates from TO(Γ) phonon states. The oscillator at ∼400 cm −1 originates from Raman mode phonon states, which at the L point of BZ also becomes infrared-active E u mode. The last oscillator describes phonons with dominantly LO(Γ) infrared mode character. The appearance of phonon density of states related oscillators, instead of single F 2u infrared-active mode in the far-infrared reflectivity spectra, is a consequence of the nanosized dimension of the CeO 2 particles. The best fit spectra are obtained using the generalized Bruggeman model for inhomogeneous media, which takes into account the nanocrystal volume fraction and the pore shape

  6. Facile synthesis of AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} multi-heterojunctions with high visible light activity for Cr(VI) reduction

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang, Qi [School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); The Brook Byer Institute for Sustainable Systems and School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta 30332 (United States); Shi, Xiaodong; Liu, Enqin [School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Crittenden, John C. [The Brook Byer Institute for Sustainable Systems and School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta 30332 (United States); Ma, Xiangjuan; Zhang, Yi [School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China); Cong, Yanqing, E-mail: yqcong@hotmail.com [School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310018 (China)

    2016-11-05

    Graphical abstract: Highly visible-light-active AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} with multi-heterojunctions was developed. - Highlights: • Visible-light-active AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} with multi-heterojunctions was prepared. • Highly enhanced photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI) was observed. • k{sub Cr(VI)} on AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} increased by ca.16 times relative to Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}. • Decreased E{sub g}, shifted E{sub fb} and reduced charge transfer resistance were observed. • Simultaneous reduction of Cr(VI) and degradation of organics were achieved. - Abstract: AgI sensitized BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} composite (AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}) with multi-heterojunctions was prepared using simple etching-deposition process. Different characterization techniques were performed to investigate the structural, optical and electrical properties of the as-prepared photocatalysts. It was found that the ternary AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} composite exhibited: (1) improved photocurrent response, (2) smaller band gap, (3) greatly reduced charge transfer resistance and (4) negative shift of flat band potential, which finally led to easier generation and more efficient separation of photo-generated electron-hole pairs at the hetero-interfaces. Thus, for the reduction of Cr(VI), AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation at near neutral pH. AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} was optimized when the initial molar ratio of KI to Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} and AgNO{sub 3} to Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} was 1:1 and 10%, respectively. The estimated k{sub Cr(VI)} on optimized AgI/BiOI-Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} was about 16 times that on pure Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}. Good stability was also observed in cyclic runs, indicating that the current multi-heterostructured photocatalyst is highly desirable for the remediation of Cr(VI)-containing wastewater.

  7. Characterisation of the SOFC material, LaCrO 3, using vibrational spectroscopy

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tompsett, G. A.; Sammes, N. M.

    LaCrO 3 is reported to undergo a low to high temperature (HT) phase transition from orthorhombic ( Pnma) to rhombohedral ( R-3 c), at ca. 255 °C. The phases involved in the low temperature phase transition of LaCrO 3 have been determined using Raman spectroscopy at temperatures from -196 to 300 °C. There are nine Raman bands observed from a total of 24 predicted modes, seven of which are assigned from comparison with the Raman profile and relative band positions observed and calculated for the isostructural compound, YMnO 3, as follows: 131(B 2g), 150(B 3g), 174(A g), 252(B 1g), 279(A g), 441(A g) and 590(A g) cm -1. A phase transformation was observed at ca. 260 °C from the change in the Raman profile. The high temperature rhombohedral phase of LaCrO 3 had four bands which are assigned as follows: 58(E g), 161(E g), 288(A 1g) and 434(E g, E g) cm -1, from comparison with the Raman profile and relative band positions observed for the isostructural compound, NdAlO 3. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum of LaCrO 3 showed a total of eight bands discernible at room temperature from 25 predicted modes for the orthorhombic structure. The mode assignments were determined by comparison with the Raman profile and relative band positions observed and calculated for the isostructural compound, SmAlO 3, as follows: 138(B 2u), 166(B 3u), 197(B 1u), 240(B 3u), 266(B 2u), 332(B 2u), 357(B 2u), 381(B 3u), 425(B 3u), 446(B 1u), 471(B 3u), 493(B 3u), 573(B 1u), 606(B 3u) and 670 (B 1u) cm -1.

  8. Charge storage and tunneling mechanism of Ni nanocrystals embedded HfOx film

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhu, H. X.; Zhang, T.; Wang, R. X.; Zhang, Y. Y.; Li, L. T.; Qiu, X. Y.

    2016-05-01

    A nano-floating gate memory structure based on Ni nanocrystals (NCs) embedded HfOx film is deposited by means of radio-frequency magnetron sputtering. Microstructure investigations reveal that self-organized Ni-NCs with diameters of 4-8 nm are well dispersed in amorphous HfOx matrix. Pt/Ni-NCs embedded HfOx/Si/Ag capacitor structures exhibit voltage-dependent capacitance-voltage hysteresis, and a maximum flat-band voltage shift of 1.5 V, corresponding to a charge storage density of 6.0 × 1012 electrons/cm2, is achieved. These capacitor memory cells exhibit good endurance characteristic up to 4 × 104 cycles and excellent retention performance of 105 s, fulfilling the requirements of next generation non-volatile memory devices. Schottky tunneling is proven to be responsible for electrons tunneling in these capacitors.

  9. Fabrication of highly oriented D03-Fe3Si nanocrystals by solid-state dewetting of Si ultrathin layer

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Naito, Muneyuki; Nakagawa, Tatsuhiko; Machida, Nobuya; Shigematsu, Toshihiko; Nakao, Motoi; Sudoh, Koichi

    2013-01-01

    In this paper, highly oriented nanocrystals of Fe 3 Si with a D0 3 structure are fabricated on SiO 2 using ultrathin Si on insulator substrate. First, (001) oriented Si nanocrystals are formed on the SiO 2 layer by solid state dewetting of the top Si layer. Then, Fe addition to the Si nanocrystals is performed by reactive deposition epitaxy and post-deposition annealing at 500 °C. The structures of the Fe–Si nanocrystals are analyzed by cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy and nanobeam electron diffraction. We observe that Fe 3 Si nanocrystals with D0 3 , B2, and A2 structures coexist on the 1-h post-annealed samples. Prolonged annealing at 500 °C is effective in obtaining Fe 3 Si nanocrystals with a D0 3 single phase, thereby promoting structural ordering in the nanocrystals. We discuss the formation process of the highly oriented D0 3 -Fe 3 Si nanocrystals on the basis of the atomistic structural information. - Highlights: • Highly oriented Fe–Si nanocrystals (NCs) are fabricated by reactive deposition. • Si NCs formed by solid state dewetting of Si thin layers are used as seed crystals. • The structures of Fe–Si NCs are analyzed by nanobeam electron diffraction. • Most of Fe–Si NCs possess the D0 3 structure after post-deposition annealing

  10. Optical and electrical properties of Si-nanocrystals ion beam synthesized in SiO{sub 2}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Garrido, B. E-mail: blas@el.ub.es; Lopez, M.; Perez-Rodriguez, A.; Garcia, C.; Pellegrino, P.; Ferre, R.; Moreno, J.A.; Morante, J.R.; Bonafos, C.; Carrada, M.; Claverie, A.; Torre, J. de la; Souifi, A

    2004-02-01

    We review in this paper our recent results on the correlation between the structural and the optoelectronic properties of Si nano crystals (Si-nc) embedded in SiO{sub 2}. We describe as well the development of both materials and technology approaches that have allowed us to successfully produce efficient and reliable LEDs by using only CMOS processes. Si-nc were synthesised in SiO{sub 2} by ion implantation plus annealing and display average diameters from 2.5 to 6 nm, as measured by electron microscopy. By varying the annealing time in a large scale we have been able to track the nucleation, pure growth and Ostwald ripening stages of the nanocrystal population. The most efficient structures have Si-ncs with average size of 3 nm and densities of about 10{sup 19} cm{sup -3}. We have estimated band-gap energies, lifetimes (20-200 {mu}s) and absorption cross-sections (10{sup -15}-10{sup -16} cm{sup 2}) as a function of size and surface passivation. Based on these results, we propose a mechanism for exciton recombination based on the strong coupling of excitons with the heterointerfaces. From highly luminescent Si-nc, LEDs consisting of MOS capacitors were fabricated. Stable red electroluminescence has been obtained at room temperature and the I-V characteristics prove that the current is related to a pure tunnelling process. Fowler-Nordheim injection is not observed during light emission for electric fields below 5 MV/cm. Thus, hot carrier injection is avoided and efficient and reliable devices are obtained.

  11. Control of Electron Transfer from Lead-Salt Nanocrystals to TiO 2

    KAUST Repository

    Hyun, Byung-Ryool

    2011-05-11

    The roles of solvent reorganization energy and electronic coupling strength on the transfer of photoexcited electrons from PbS nanocrystals to TiO 2 nanoparticles are investigated. We find that the electron transfer depends only weakly on the solvent, in contrast to the strong dependence in the nanocrystal-molecule system. This is ascribed to the larger size of the acceptor in this system, and is accounted for by Marcus theory. The electronic coupling of the PbS and TiO 2 is varied by changing the length, aliphatic and aromatic structure, and anchor groups of the linker molecules. Shorter linker molecules consistently lead to faster electron transfer. Surprisingly, linker molecules of the same length but distinct chemical structures yield similar electron transfer rates. In contrast, the electron transfer rate can vary dramatically with different anchor groups. © 2011 American Chemical Society.

  12. Model for efficient visible emission from Si nanocrystals ion beam synthesized in SiO{sub 2}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lopez, M. E-mail: mlopez@el.ub.es; Garrido, B.; Bonafos, C.; Perez-Rodriguez, A.; Morante, J.R.; Claverie, A

    2001-05-01

    The photoluminescence (PL) emission of Si nanocrystals ion beam synthesized in SiO{sub 2} is studied in this work as a function of annealing time and initial Si atomic excess (super-saturation). The optical properties of this system have been correlated with the characteristics of the nanocrystal population. The Si nanocrystals show a wide and very intense PL red/infrared emission. This emission peaks at about 1.7 eV for the low super-saturation range between 1% and 10% and shifts to the infrared for higher super-saturation (20% and 30%). Remarkably, there is a linear increase of PL intensity versus super-saturation in the low range. Moreover, the annealing kinetic studies show a typical behavior of PL intensity with annealing time, with a fast transitory increase that bends over to reach asymptotic saturation. The PL intensity saturation is satisfactorily explained by the Ostwald ripening stage of the nanocrystal population while the transient stage is a consequence of both nanocrystal growth and nanocrystal surface passivation mechanisms acting together. Indeed, electron spin resonance measurements demonstrate that the concentration of P{sub b} centers (Si dangling bonds) at the Si-SiO{sub 2} interface correlates inversely with PL intensity during most of the transient stage.

  13. Influence of reductant and germanium concentration on the growth and stress development of germanium nanocrystals in silicon oxide matrix

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chew, H G; Zheng, F; Choi, W K; Chim, W K; Foo, Y L; Fitzgerald, E A

    2007-01-01

    Germanium (Ge) nanocrystals have been synthesized by annealing co-sputtered SiO 2 -Ge samples in N 2 or forming gas (90% N 2 +10% H 2 ) at temperatures ranging from 700 to 1000 deg. C. We concluded that the annealing ambient, temperature and Ge concentration have a significant influence on the formation and evolution of the nanocrystals. We showed that a careful selective etching of the annealed samples in hydrofluoric acid solution enabled the embedded Ge nanocrystals to be liberated from the SiO 2 matrix. From the Raman results of the as-grown and the liberated nanocrystals, we established that the nanocrystals generally experienced compressive stress in the oxide matrix and the evolution of these stress states was intimately linked to the distribution, density, size and quality of the Ge nanocrystals

  14. Implantation of P ions in SiO{sub 2} layers with embedded Si nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kachurin, G.A. E-mail: kachurin@isp.nsc.ru; Cherkova, S.G.; Volodin, V.A.; Kesler, V.G.; Gutakovsky, A.K.; Cherkov, A.G.; Bublikov, A.V.; Tetelbaum, D.I

    2004-08-01

    The effect of 10{sup 13}-10{sup 16} cm{sup -2} P ions implantation and of subsequent annealing on Si nanocrystals (Si-ncs), formed preliminarily in SiO{sub 2} layers by the ion-beam synthesis, has been studied. Photoluminescence (PL), Raman spectroscopy, high resolution electron microscopy (HREM), X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and optical absorption were used for characterizations. The low fluence implantations have shown even individual displacements in Si-ncs quench their PL. Restoration of PL from partly damaged Si-ncs proceeds at annealing less than 1000 deg. C. In the low fluence implanted and annealed samples an increased Si-ncs PL has been found and ascribed to the radiation-induced shock crystallization of stressed Si nanoprecipitates. Annealing at temperatures under 1000 deg. C are inefficient when P ion fluences exceed 10{sup 14} cm{sup -2}, thus becoming capable to amorphize Si-ncs. High crystallization temperature of the amorphized Si-ncs is attributed to a counteraction of their shell layers. After implantation of the highest P fluences an enhanced recovery of PL was found from P concentration over 0.1 at.%. Raman spectroscopy and HREM showed an increased Si-ncs number in such layers. The effect resembles the impurity-enhanced crystallization, known for heavily doped bulk Si. This effect, along with the data obtained by XPS, is considered as an indication P atoms are really present inside the Si-ncs. However, no evidence of free electrons appearance has been observed. The fact is explained by an increased interaction of electrons with the donor nuclei in Si-ncs.

  15. Magneto-thermal conduction and magneto-caloric effect in poly and nano crystalline forms of multiferroic GdCrO3

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Uma, S; Philip, J

    2014-01-01

    Gadolinium chromite, GdCrO 3 , belongs to the family of rare earth chromites, exhibiting multiferroism with coupling between electric polarization and magnetic ordering. It is understood that the interaction between Gd 3+ and Cr 3+ ions is responsible for switchable polarization in this system. Below Néel temperature the spins of Cr 3+ ions interact in anti-parallel through super exchange mechanism, giving rise to antiferromagnetic ordering at around 169 K in poly and nanocrystalline phases of this material. In order to understand the nature of spin–lattice coupling and magnon–phonon interaction in the intermediate temperature range (150–250 K), the magneto-thermal conduction and magneto-caloric effect in poly and nanocrystalline forms of this material are reported. These properties show anomalies around 169 K, which is described as due to spin–phonon coupling. When particle sizes are reduced to nanometer scales, thermal conductivity decreases significantly while specific heat capacity increases. The former is explained as due to reduction in phonon mean free path and phonon scattering from nanoparticle interfaces, while the latter is ascribed to contributions from Einstein oscillators at weakly bound atoms at the interfaces of nanocrystals. (paper)

  16. Influence of La doping and synthesis method on the properties of CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mansour, S.F. [Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig (Egypt); Hemeda, O.M. [Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta (Egypt); El-Dek, S.I., E-mail: didi5550000@gmail.com [Materials Science and Nanotechnology Department, Faculty of Post Graduate Studies for Advanced Sciences (PSAS), Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef (Egypt); Salem, B.I. [Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta (Egypt)

    2016-12-15

    Nanocrystals of La doped CoFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} were synthesized using three different techniques: flash autocombustion, citrate–nitrate and the standard ceramic technique. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to characterize the obtained nanocrystals. All samples were crystallized in a spinel structure with cubic symmetry. The decrease in the lattice constant was endorsed to the large difference in ionic radii of both La{sup +3} (1.216 Å) and Fe (0.65 Å) in 6-f coordination. The citrate method displayed superior M{sub s} values amongst all techniques. The coercivity was found to exhibit largest values for the citrate method and then the flash while smallest values are associated with ceramic technique. - Highlights: • CoLa{sub x}Fe{sub 2−x}O{sub 4} nanocrystals crystallized in spinel cubic structure using 3 techniques. • The decrease in the lattice constant is due to the difference in ionic radius of La{sup +3} and Fe{sup 3+}. • The citrate method exhibit largest values of M{sub s} amongst all techniques. • Coercivity exhibits largest values for citrate and then flash, smallest for ceramic technique.

  17. High-pressure behavior of beta-Ga2O3 nanocrystals

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Wang, H.; He, Y.; Chen, W.

    2010-01-01

    that nanocrystalline monoclinic beta-Ga2O3 underwent a phase transition to rhombohedral alpha-Ga2O3. It was found that beta- to alpha-Ga2O3 transition began at about 13.6-16.4 GPa, and extended up to 39.2 GPa. At the highest pressure used, only alpha-Ga2O3 was present, which remained after pressure release. A Birch......-Murnaghan fit to the P-V data yielded a zero-pressure bulk modulus at fixed B-0(')=4: B-0=228(9) GPa and B-0=333(19) GPa for beta-Ga2O3 and alpha-Ga2O3 phases, respectively. We compared our results with bulk beta-Ga2O3, and concluded that the phase-transition pressure and bulk modulus of nanocrystalline beta...

  18. Humidity sensitive electrical responce of K2CrO4 doped ZnCr2O4 ceramic sensors

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kavasoglu, N.

    2005-01-01

    The effects of the addition of various percentages of potassium chromate as a sintering aid on the response to air moisture of ZnCr 2 O 4 ceramic body along with its crystalline structure and surface morphology were studied. The fired ceramic body, which proved to be mainly constructed from about 1μm sized ZnCr 2 O 4 spinel grains, was porous. The humidity sensing behaviour of the sensors reveals that the electrical conduction is due mainly to protonic and is controlled through the thin layers of water, adsorbed on the surface of the grains, with charge transfer to the electrodes. Only the material containing 20% K 2 CrO 4 in ZnCr 2 O 4 exhibited an exponential behaviour to humidity, which shows about three orders change in the d.c. resistance over the relative humidity in the range between 25 and 90%. The addition of CuO resulted in an increase in the conductivity but had a deleterious effect on the humidity. Based on a.c. impedance measurements, an equivalent circuit associated with a net work of RC parallel circuit in series with constant phase elements (CPEs) has been suggested. It can be therefore assumed that such equivalent circuit model of the sensor under moderate moist condition indicates the charge transport processes mediated by proton hopping and diffusion. A homemade prototype of such a humidity sensor has also been successfully demonstrated in door

  19. Rational construction of Z-scheme Ag{sub 2}CrO{sub 4}/g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} composites with enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Luo, Jin, E-mail: lj328520504@126.com; Zhou, Xiaosong; Ma, Lin; Xu, Xuyao

    2016-12-30

    Highlights: • Novel visible-light driven Ag{sub 2}CrO{sub 4}/g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} composites were synthesized. • Ag{sub 2}CrO{sub 4}/g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} exhibited enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity. • The reasons for the enhanced photocatalytic activity were revealed. - Abstract: Novel visible-light driven Z-scheme Ag{sub 2}CrO{sub 4}/g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} composites with different contents of Ag{sub 2}CrO{sub 4} were fabricated by a facile chemical precipitation method and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-vis DRS), photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy and photoelectrochemical measurements. Compared with individual g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} and Ag{sub 2}CrO{sub 4}, the Ag{sub 2}CrO{sub 4}/g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} composites displayed much larger photocatalytic activities for the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) solution at room temperature under visible light irradiation (λ > 420 nm). Importantly, the optimum photodegradation rate constant of the Ag{sub 2}CrO{sub 4}/g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} composite at a theoretical weight content of 8.0% Ag{sub 2}CrO{sub 4} for the photodegradation of MO was 0.0068 min{sup −1}, which was 5.7 and 4.3 times higher than that of pure g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} and Ag{sub 2}CrO{sub 4}, respectively. Such enormous enhancement in photocatalytic performance was predominantly ascribed to the efficient separation and transfer of photogenerated electrons and holes at the Ag{sub 2}CrO{sub 4}/g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} interface imparted through the Z-scheme electron transfer. Furthermore, radical trap experiments depicted that both the holes and superoxide radical anions were thought to dominate oxidative species of the Ag{sub 2}CrO{sub 4}/g-C{sub 3}N{sub 4} composite for MO degradation under visible light irradiation. Ultimately, a tentative Z-scheme photodegradation mechanism

  20. Colloidal GdVO4:Eu3+@SiO2 nanocrystals for highly selective and sensitive detection of Cu2+ ions

    Science.gov (United States)

    Liang, Yanjie; Noh, Hyeon Mi; Park, Sung Heum; Choi, Byung Chun; Jeong, Jung Hyun

    2018-03-01

    Nowadays, in view of health and safety demands, the controlled design of selective and sensitive sensors for Cu2+ detection is of considerable importance. Therefore, we construct herein core-shell colloidal GdVO4:Eu3+@SiO2 nanocrystals (NCs) as optical sensor for the detection of Cu2+, which were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal reaction and encapsulated with a uniform layer of ultrathin silica through a sol-gel strategy. The NCs present strong red emission due to energy transfer from VO43- groups to Eu3+ when exciting with ultraviolet (UV) light. This intense red emission from Eu3+ could be selectively quenched in the presence of Cu2+ in comparison to other metal ions and the limit of detection is as low as 80 nM in aqueous solution. It is revealed that the spectral overlap between the emission band of NCs and the absorption of Cu2+ accounts for this intriguing luminescence behavior. The detection ability is highly reversible by the addition of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) with the recovery of almost 100% of the original luminescence. The luminescence quenching and recovery processes can be performed repeatedly with good sensing ability. These remarkable performances allow the colloidal GdVO4:Eu3+@SiO2 NCs a promising fluorescence chemosensor for detecting Cu2+ ions in aqueous solution.

  1. Microstructure of Al2O3 scales formed on NiCrAl alloys. Ph.D. Thesis - Case Western Reserve Univ.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Smialek, J. L.

    1981-01-01

    The structure of transient scales formed on pure and Y or Zr-doped Ni-15Cr-13Al alloys oxidized for 0.1 hr at 1100 C was studied by the use of transmission electron microscopy. Crystallographically oriented scales were found on all three alloys, but especially for the Zr-doped NiCrAl. The oriented scales consisted of alpha-(Al,Cr)2O3, Ni(Al,Cr)2O4 and gamma-Al2O3. They were often found in intimate contact with each other such that the close-packed planes and directions of one oxide phase were aligned with those of another. The prominent structural features of the oriented scales were approximately equal to micrometer subgrains; voids, antiphase domain boundaries and aligned precipitates were also prevalent. Randomly oriented alpha-Al2O3 was also found and was the only oxide ever observed at the immediate oxide metal interface. These approximately 0.15 micrometer grains were populated by intragranular voids which decreased in size and number towards the oxide metal interface. A sequence of oxidation was proposed in which the composition of the growing scale changed from oriented oxides rich in Ni and Cr to oriented oxides rich in Al. At the same time the structure changed from cubic spinels to hexagonal corundums with apparent precipitates of one phase in the matrix of the other. Eventually randomly oriented pure alpha-Al2O3 formed as the stable oxide with an abrupt transition: there was no gradual loss of orientation, no gradual compositional change or no gradual decrease in precipitate density.

  2. In-situ observation of atomic self-organization processes in Xe nanocrystals embedded in Al

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mitsuishi, K.; Song, M.; Furuya, K.; Birtcher, R. C.; Allen, C. W.; Donnelly, S. E.

    1998-01-01

    Self-organization processes in Xe nanocrystals embedded in Al are observed with in-situ high-resolution electron microscopy. Under electron irradiation, stacking fault type defects are produced in Xe nanocrystals. The defects recover in a layer by layer manner. Detailed analysis of the video reveals that the displacement of Xe atoms in the stacking fault was rather small for the Xe atoms at boundary between Xe and Al, suggesting the possibility of the stacking fault in Xe precipitate originating inside of precipitate, not at the Al/Xe interface

  3. Development of Cr3C2-25(Ni20Cr) nanostructured coatings

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Cunha, Cecilio Alvares da

    2012-01-01

    This study is divided in two parts. The first part is about the preparation of nanostructured Cr 3 C 2 -25(Ni20Cr) powders by high energy milling followed by characterization of the milled and the as received powder. Analyses of some of the data obtained were done using a theoretical approach. The second part of this study is about the preparation and characterization of coatings prepared with the nanostructured as well as the as received Cr 3 C 2 -25(Ni20Cr) powders. The high temperature erosion-oxidation (E-O) behavior of the coatings prepared with the two types of powders has been compared based on a technological approach. The average crystallite size of the Cr 3 C 2 -25(Ni20Cr) powder decreased rapidly from 145 nm to 50 nm in the initial stages of milling and thereafter decreased slowly to a steady state value of around 10 nm with further increase in milling time. This steady state corresponds to the beginning of a dynamic recovery process. The maximum lattice strain (ε = 1,17%) was observed in powders milled for 16 hours, and this powders critical crystallite size was 28 nm. In contrast, the lattice parameter attained a minimum for powders milled for 16 hours. Upon reaching the critical crystallite size, the dislocation density attained a steady state regime and all plastic deformation introduced in the material there after was in the form of events occurring at the grain boundaries, due mainly to grain boundary sliding. The deformation energy stored in the crystal lattice of the Cr 3 C 2 -25(Ni20Cr) powders milled for different times was determined from enthalpy variation measurements. These results indicated that the maximum enthalpy variation (δH = 722 mcal) also occurred for powders milled for 16 hours. In a similar manner, the maximum specific heat variation (δC p = 0,278 cal/gK) occurred for powders milled for 16 hours. The following mechanical properties of Cr 3 C 2 -25(Ni20Cr) coatings prepared using the HVOF thermal spray process were determined

  4. Synthesis and magnetotransport studies of CrO2 films grown on TiO2 nanotube arrays by chemical vapor deposition

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Xiaoling; Zhang, Caiping; Wang, Lu; Lin, Tao; Wen, Gehui

    2018-04-01

    The CrO2 films have been prepared on the TiO2 nanotube array template via atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition method. And the growth procedure was studied. In the beginning of the deposition process, the CrO2 grows on the cross section of the TiO2 nanotubes wall, forms a nanonet-like layer. And the grain size of CrO2 is very small. With the increase of the deposition time, the grain size of CrO2 also increases, and the nanonet-like layer changes into porous film. With the further increase of the deposition time, all the nanotubes are covered by CrO2 grains and the surface structure becomes polycrystalline film. The average grain size on the surface of the CrO2 films deposited for 1 h, 2 h and 5 h is about 190 nm, 300 nm and 470 nm. The X-ray diffraction pattern reveals that the rutile CrO2 film has been synthesized on the TiO2 nanotube array template. The CrO2 films show large magnetoresistance (MR) at low temperature, which should originate from spin-dependent tunneling through grain boundaries between CrO2 grains. And the tunneling mechanism of the CrO2 films can be well described by the fluctuation-induced tunneling (FIT) model. The CrO2 film deposited for 2 h shows insulator behavior from 5 k to 300 K, but the CrO2 film deposited for 5 h shows insulator-metal transition around 140 K. The reason is briefly discussed.

  5. Crystal structure and magnetic properties of the Cr-doped spiral antiferromagnet BiMnFe2O6

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Batuk, Dmitry; De Dobbelaere, Christopher; Tsirlin, Alexander A.; Abakumov, Artem M.; Hardy, An; Van Bael, Marlies K.; Greenblatt, Martha; Hadermann, Joke

    2013-01-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • The substitution of Cr for Mn in BiMnFe 2 O 6 is possible by the solution–gel method. • The BiCr x Mn 1−x Fe 2 O 6 solid solution is obtained for the x values up to 0.3. • Increasing Cr content lowers the temperature of the antiferromagnetic ordering. - Abstract: We report the Cr 3+ for Mn 3+ substitution in the BiMnFe 2 O 6 structure. The BiCr x Mn 1−x Fe 2 O 6 solid solution is obtained by the solution–gel synthesis technique for the x values up to 0.3. The crystal structure investigation using a combination of X-ray powder diffraction and transmission electron microscopy demonstrates that the compounds retain the parent BiMnFe 2 O 6 structure (for x = 0.3, a = 5.02010(6)Å, b = 7.06594(7)Å, c = 12.6174(1)Å, S.G. Pbcm, R I = 0.036, R P = 0.011) with only a slight decrease in the cell parameters associated with the Cr 3+ for Mn 3+ substitution. Magnetic susceptibility measurements suggest strong similarities in the magnetic behavior of BiCr x Mn 1−x Fe 2 O 6 (x = 0.2; 0.3) and parent BiMnFe 2 O 6 . Only T N slightly decreases upon Cr doping that indicates a very subtle influence of Cr 3+ cations on the magnetic properties at the available substitution rates

  6. Pulsed ion-beam assisted deposition of Ge nanocrystals on SiO{sub 2} for non-volatile memory device

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Stepina, N.P. [Institute of Semiconductor Physics, Lavrenteva 13, 630090 Novosibirsk (Russian Federation)], E-mail: nstepina@mail.ru; Dvurechenskii, A.V.; Armbrister, V.A.; Kirienko, V.V.; Novikov, P.L.; Kesler, V.G.; Gutakovskii, A.K.; Smagina, Z.V.; Spesivtzev, E.V. [Institute of Semiconductor Physics, Lavrenteva 13, 630090 Novosibirsk (Russian Federation)

    2008-11-03

    A floating gate memory structure, utilizing Ge nanocrystals (NCs) deposited on tunnel SiO{sub 2}, have been fabricated using pulsed low energy ion-beam induced molecular-beam deposition (MBD) in ultra-high vacuum. The ion-beam action is shown to stimulate the nucleation of Ge NCs when being applied after thin Ge layer deposition. Growth conditions for independent change of NCs size and array density were established allowing to optimize the structure parameters required for memory device. Activation energy E = 0.25 eV was determined from the temperature dependence of NCs array density. Monte Carlo simulation has shown that the process, determining NCs array density, is the surface diffusion. Embedding of the crystalline Ge dots into silicon oxide was carried out by selective oxidation of Si(100)/SiO{sub 2} /Ge(NCs)/poly-Si structure. MOS-capacitor obtained after oxidation showed a hysteresis in its C-V curves attributed to charge retention in the Ge dots.

  7. Raman scattering study of the anharmonic effects in CeO{sub 2-y} nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Popovic, Z V [Center for Solid State Physics and New Materials, Institute of Physics, Pregrevica 118, 11080 Belgrade (Serbia); Dohcevic-Mitrovic, Z [Center for Solid State Physics and New Materials, Institute of Physics, Pregrevica 118, 11080 Belgrade (Serbia); Cros, A [Materials Science Institute, University of Valencia, P O Box 22085, E-46071, Valencia (Spain); Cantarero, A [Materials Science Institute, University of Valencia, P O Box 22085, E-46071, Valencia (Spain)

    2007-12-12

    We have studied the temperature dependence of the F{sub 2g} Raman mode phonon frequency and broadening in CeO{sub 2-y} nanocrystals. The phonon softening and phonon linewidth are calculated using a model which takes into account the three-and four-phonon anharmonic processes. A detailed comparison of the experimental data with theoretical calculations revealed the predominance of four-phonon anharmonic processes in the temperature dependence of the phonon energy and broadening of the nanocrystals. On the other hand, three-phonon processes dominate the temperature behavior of phonons in polycrystalline samples. The anti-Stokes/Stokes peak intensity ratio was also investigated and found to be smaller for nanosized CeO{sub 2} powders than in the bulk counterpart.

  8. Electric-field gradients at Ta donor impurities in Cr2O3(Ta) semiconductor

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Darriba, G.N.; Errico, L.A.; Munoz, E.L; Richard, D.; Eversheim, P.D.; Renteria, M.

    2009-01-01

    We report perturbed-angular-correlation (PAC) experiments on 181 Hf(→ 181 Ta)-implanted corundum Cr 2 O 3 powder samples in order to determine the magnitude and symmetry of the electric-field gradient (EFG) tensor at Ta donor impurity sites of this semiconductor. These results are analyzed in the framework of ab initio full-potential augmented-plane wave plus local orbitals (FP-APW+lo) calculations. The results are also compared with EFG results coming from PAC experiments in isomorphous α-Al 2 O 3 and α-Fe 2 O 3 doped with 111 In→ 111 Cd and 181 Hf→ 181 Ta tracers. This combined analysis enables us to quantify the magnitude of the lattice relaxations induced by the presence of the impurity and to determine the charge state of the impurity donor level introduced by Ta in the band gap of the semiconductor.

  9. A study of phase and morphology changes occurring as a result of galvanic reactions with FeO nanocrystals

    Science.gov (United States)

    Onserio, Benard Obae

    Recently, iron oxide nanoparticles have attracted great attention from various research groups. This is due to their potential applications in various fields such as biomedicine, environmental remediation, storage media, catalysis, and as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries. The objective of this study is to develop a synthesis of hollow Fe3O4 nanoparticles via galvanic reaction between FeO nanocrystals and oxidizing agents in which a nanoscale Kirkendall effect occurs. The objective is based on prior results in which it was demonstrated that Cu2+ oxidized MnO nanocrystals to yield hollow Mn3O4 nanoparticles. The analogous process starting from FeO is expected to be even more thermodynamically favorable. Despite efforts to obtain FeO nanocrystals, the magnetite Fe3O 4 phase was obtained. With this sample, attempts were made towards galvanic reactions in the presence of Cu2+. The initial result of the reaction of Fe3O4 nanocrystals with Cu2+ was unexpected, and FeO was obtained; however, the result could not be reproduced. Later efforts focused on attempting to understand the galvanic reaction that took place leading to the formation of FeO. Thus reaction of Fe3O 4 with oleylamine, silver (I), and ascorbic acid were studied. Data for the phase and morphological changes of the iron oxides will be presented.

  10. Study of temperature-dependent charge conduction in silicon-nanocrystal/SiO{sub 2} multilayers

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mavilla, Narasimha Rao; Chavan, Vinayak [National Centre for Photovoltaic Research and Education (NCPRE), Powai, Mumbai 400 076 (India); Department of Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400 076 (India); Solanki, Chetan Singh [National Centre for Photovoltaic Research and Education (NCPRE), Powai, Mumbai 400 076 (India); Department of Energy Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400 076 (India); Vasi, Juzer [National Centre for Photovoltaic Research and Education (NCPRE), Powai, Mumbai 400 076 (India); Department of Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400 076 (India)

    2016-08-01

    Silicon-nanocrystals (Si-NCs) realized by SiO{sub x} {sub <} {sub 2}/SiO{sub 2} multilayer (ML) approach have shown promise for realizing tightly-controlled dimensions, thus efficiently exploiting the size-dependent quantum effects for device applications. Unfortunately, the confining insulating barriers (SiO{sub 2} sublayers), instrumental for realizing quantum size effects in Si-NC MLs, can also hinder the charge conduction which is crucial for device applications including Si-NC based tandem solar cells and multi-exciton solar cells. Owing to this, a comprehensive study of conduction mechanisms has been carried out using a thorough analysis of temperature-dependent dark I-V measurements of SiO{sub 2} thin film and Si-NC multilayer samples fabricated by Inductively Coupled Plasma CVD (ICPCVD). As the ML samples consisted of interleaved SiO{sub 2} sublayers, current in SiO{sub 2} thin film has initially been studied to understand the conduction properties of bulk ICPCVD SiO{sub 2}. For 21 nm thick SiO{sub 2} film, conduction is observed to be dominated by Fowler–Nordheim (FN) tunneling for higher electric fields (> 8 MV/cm; independent of temperature), while for lower electric fields (5–8 MV/cm) at higher temperatures, the trap-related Generalized Poole–Frenkel (GPF) is dominant. This signified the role of traps in modifying the conduction in bulk ICPCVD SiO{sub 2} films. We then present the conduction in ML samples. For multilayer samples with SiO{sub 2} sublayer thickness of 1.5 nm and 2.5 nm, Direct Tunneling (DT) is observed to be dominant, while for SiO{sub 2} sublayer thickness of 3.5 nm, Space Charge Limited Conduction (SCLC) with exponential trap distribution is found to be the dominant conduction mechanism. This signifies the role of traps in modifying the conduction in Si-NC multilayer samples and SiO{sub 2} sublayer thickness dependence. - Highlights: • Electrical conduction in SiO{sub 2} film & Si-nanocrystal layers (Si-NCs) is reported. • SiO

  11. Formation of the distributed NiSiGe nanocrystals nonvolatile memory formed by rapidly annealing in N2 and O2 ambient

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Hu, Chih-Wei; Chang, Ting-Chang; Tu, Chun-Hao; Chiang, Cheng-Neng; Lin, Chao-Cheng; Chen, Min-Chen; Chang, Chun-Yen; Sze, Simon M.; Tseng, Tseung-Yuen

    2010-01-01

    In this work, electrical characteristics of the Ge-incorporated Nickel silicide (NiSiGe) nanocrystals memory device formed by the rapidly thermal annealing in N 2 and O 2 ambient have been studied. The trapping layer was deposited by co-sputtering the NiSi 2 and Ge, simultaneously. Transmission electron microscope results indicate that the NiSiGe nanocrystals were formed obviously in both the samples. The memory devices show obvious charge-storage ability under capacitance-voltage measurement. However, it is found that the NiSiGe nanocrystals device formed by annealing in N 2 ambient has smaller memory window and better retention characteristics than in O 2 ambient. Then, related material analyses were used to confirm that the oxidized Ge elements affect the charge-storage sites and the electrical performance of the NCs memory.

  12. Fabrication and Thermophysical Properties of La(2-x)Zr(2-y)O7 Nanocrystal by a Sol-Gel Method.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Hui; Che, Ping; Zhao, Ziqiang; Liu, Shixiang; Li, Wenjun

    2016-03-01

    Non-Stoichiometric La2Zr2O7 (La(2-x)Zr(2-y)O7) Nanocrystal was synthesized by a simple sol-gel method. The crystalline structure, oxygen vacancy concentration, thermal expansion coefficient, as well as the fracture toughness of as-prepared materials were charactered by XRD, TG-DSC, PL spectra, dilatometer, and electronic universal testing machine respectively. The crystal structure of La2Zr2O7 is of the cubic type while lattice parameter increases with the deviatation of Zr4+ and La3+ from Stoichiometric La2Zr2O7 increasing. The average linear thermal expansion coefficient of non-stoichiometric La2Zr2O7 is obviously bigger than that of La2Zr2O7 in the temperature range between 150 degrees C and 950 degrees C. The fracture toughness of La(2-x)Zr(2-y)O7 increases with x and y increasing up to x = 0.3 and y = 0.25.

  13. Processing of ZnO nanocrystals by solochemical technique

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Gusatti, M.; Speckhahn, R.; Silva, L.A.; Rosario, J.A.; Lima, R.B.; Kuhnen, N.C.; Riella, H.G.; Campos, C.E.M.

    2009-01-01

    In the present work, we report the synthesis of high quality ZnO nanocrystals by solochemical technique. This synthetic strategy has been shown to have advantages over other methods of producing nanostructures in terms of low cost, efficiency, simplicity and uniformity of crystal structure. Zinc chloride solution at room temperature was mixed with sodium hydroxide solution at 50°C to produce ZnO nanocrystals. Transmission electronic microscopy (TEM) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) were used to characterize the ZnO nanocrystals obtained. The structure of ZnO was refined by the Rietveld Method from X-ray diffraction data. These methods showed that the product consisted of pure ZnO nanocrystals and has, predominantly, a rod-like morphology. (author)

  14. Size-Controlled TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals with exposed {001} and {101} facets strongly linking to graphene oxide via p-Phenylenediamine for efficient photocatalytic degradation of fulvic acids

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yan, Wen-Yuan; Zhou, Qi [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009 (China); Chen, Xing, E-mail: xingchen@iim.ac.cn [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009 (China); Laboratory of Nanomaterials and Environmental Detection, Institute of Intelligent Machines, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031 (China); Yang, Yong [State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructure,Shanghai Institute of Ceramics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050 (China); Zhang, Yong [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009 (China); Huang, Xing-Jiu [Laboratory of Nanomaterials and Environmental Detection, Institute of Intelligent Machines, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031 (China); Wu, Yu-Cheng, E-mail: ycwu@hfut.edu.cn [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009 (China); Anhui Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Materials and Devices, Hefei 230009 (China)

    2016-08-15

    Highlights: • N-RGO/TiO{sub 2} nanocomposites were prepared via one-step hydrothermal method. • Facets of TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals were modulated with addition of HF. • Sizes of TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals were controlled by the contents of RGO-NH{sub 2.} • Obtained N-RGO/TiO{sub 2} nanocomposites exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity and stability. - Abstract: Photocatalytic degradation is one of the most promising methods for removal of fulvic acids (FA), which is a typical category of natural organic contamination in groundwater. In this paper, TiO{sub 2}/graphene nanocomposites (N-RGO/TiO{sub 2}) were prepared via simple chemical functionalization and one-step hydrothermal method for efficient photodegradation of FA under illumination of a xenon lamp as light source. Here, p-phenylenediamine was used as not only the linkage chemical agent between TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals and graphene, but also the nitrogen dopant for TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals and graphene. During the hydrothermal process, facets of TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals were modulated with addition of HF, and sizes of TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals were controlled by the contents of graphene oxide functionalized with p-phenylenediamine (RGO-NH{sub 2}). The obtained N-RGO/TiO{sub 2} nanocomposites exhibited a much higher photocatalytic activity and stability for degradation of methyl blue (MB) and FA compared with other TiO{sub 2} samples under xenon lamp irradiation. For the third cycle, the 10wt%N-RGO/TiO{sub 2} catalyst maintains high photoactivity (87%) for the degradation of FA, which is much better than the TiO{sub 2}-N/F (61%) in 3 h. This approach supplies a new strategy to design and synthesize metal oxide and graphene oxide nanocomposites with highly efficient photocatalytic performance.

  15. Optical characterization of luminescent silicon nanocrystals embedded in glass matrices

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Debieu, Olivier

    2008-12-16

    Interstellar dust in nebulae and in the Diffuse Interstellar Medium (DISM) of galaxies contains a component which exhibits efficient visible-near infrared luminescence ranging from 500 to 1000 nm, known as Extended Red Emission (ERE). Silicon nanocrystals (nc-Si) are discussed as possible carriers of the ERE. We employed the accelerator facilities of the Institute of Solid State Physics of the University of Jena to implant Si ions into fused silica windows. An excess concentration of silicon atoms is thus produced in the host SiO{sub 2} matrix which, by applying an annealing at 1100 C, condensates to silicon nanoparticles and crystallizes. Although the condensation and crystallization occur after an annealing of one minute,10, 15 the samples were annealed during one hour in order to well-passivate the nc-Si, that means, to reduce effectively the number of Si-dangling bonds at the nc-Si surface that are efficient non-radiative recombination centers. 10, 16 Upon excitation with UV light, most of our nc-Si/SiO{sub 2} samples revealed strong PL. We implanted into our luminescent nc-Si/SiO{sub 2} systems other atomic elements, as for instance magnesium and calcium, which form silicates if their oxide is combined with SiO{sub 2}. The purpose is to simulate the conditions for silicates containing nc-Si. In order to understand the effect of the incorporation of foreign atoms on the PL properties of our nc-Si/SiO{sub 2} systems, we proceeded to similar experiments with Er and Ge. As has been demonstrated by several authors, 17, 18 the presence of nc-Si in a glass matrix enhances considerably the emission of Er{sup 3+} ions at 1.536{mu}m. At the same time, the PL of nc-Si is considerably quenched. Since the solubility of Er in crystalline silicon is about 2 orders of magnitude lower than in SiO{sub 2}, the optically active Er{sup 3+} ions are believed to be localized outside the nc-Si core, demonstrating that ions present in the host SiO{sub 2} matrix influence the PL

  16. Ultra-high sensitive substrates for surface enhanced Raman scattering, made of 3 nm gold nanoparticles embedded on SiO2 nanospheres

    Science.gov (United States)

    Phatangare, A. B.; Dhole, S. D.; Dahiwale, S. S.; Bhoraskar, V. N.

    2018-05-01

    The surface properties of substrates made of 3 nm gold nanoparticles embedded on SiO2 nanospheres enabled fingerprint detection of thiabendazole (TBZ), crystal violet (CV) and 4-Aminothiophenol (4-ATP) at an ultralow concentration of ∼10-18 M by surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Gold nanoparticles of an average size of ∼3 nm were synthesized and simultaneously embedded on SiO2 nanospheres by the electron irradiation method. The substrates made from the 3 nm gold nanoparticles embedded on SiO2 nanospheres were successfully used for recording fingerprint SERS spectra of TBZ, CV and 4-ATP over a wide range of concentrations from 10-6 M to 10-18 M using 785 nm laser. The unique features of these substrates are roughness near the surface due to the inherent structural defects of 3 nm gold nanoparticles, nanogaps of ≤ 1 nm between the embedded nanoparticles and their high number. These produced an abundance of nanocavities which act as active centers of hot-spots and provided a high electric field at the reporter molecules and thus an enhancement factor required to record the SERS spectra at ultra low concentration of 10-18 M. The SERS spectra recorded by the substrates of 4 nm and 6 nm gold nanoparticles are discussed.

  17. Y2O3: Eu,Zn nanocrystals as a fluorescent probe for the detection of biotin

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ganjkhanlou, Y.; Hosseinnia, A.; Kazemzad, M.; Khanlarkhani, A.; Moghaddam, A.B.

    2012-01-01

    We report on the application of nanocrystals (NCs) of the type Y 2 O 3 : Eu,Zn as a probe for the fluorescent detection of biotin in aqueous solution. The NCs were dispersed in water in the presence of various surface modifiers including mercaptoethanol (ME), monoethanolamine and ethylene glycol. Both the absorbance of surfactant and the stability of the suspensions were investigated in order to optimize the experimental conditions. ME is found to be the most suitable surfactant for stabilization of the suspended NCs. Their photoluminescence intensity is found to be quenched by biotin. The Stern-Volmer constant for the quenching process is 7.6 x 10 3 M -1 . This NC probe can be applied to the detection of biotin in the 1-60 μM concentration range with detection limit of 1.89 μM. The possible mechanisms of quenching also are discussed. (author)

  18. Surface stabilized GMR nanorods of silver coated CrO2 synthesized via a polymer complex at ambient pressure

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Biswas, S.; Singh, G.P.; Ram, S.; Fecht, H.-J.

    2013-01-01

    Stable anisotropic nanorods of surface modified CrO 2 (∼18 nm diameter) with a correlated diamagnetic layer (23 nm thickness) of silver efficiently tailors useful magnetic and magnetoresistance (MR) properties. Essentially, it involves a core-shell structure that is developed by displacing part of Cr 4+ ions by Ag atoms on the CrO 2 surface (topotactic surface layer) via an etching reaction of a CrO 2 -polymer complex with Ag + ions in hot water followed by heating the dried sample at 300–400 °C in air. The stable Ag-layer so obtained in the form of a shell protects CrO 2 such that it no longer converts to Cr 2 O 3 in ambient pressure during the processing. X-ray diffractogram of the Rutile type tetragonal CrO 2 structure (lattice parameters a=0.4429 nm and c=0.2950 nm) includes weak peaks of a minority phase of an fcc-Ag (a=0.4086 nm). The silver surface layer, which manifests itself in a doublet of the 3d 5/2 and 3d 3/2 X-ray photoelectron bands of binding energies 368.46 eV and 374.48 eV, respectively, suppresses almost all Cr bands to appear in a measurable intensity. The sample exhibits a distinctly enhanced MR-value, e.g., (−) 7.6% at 77 K, than reported values in compacted CrO 2 powders or composites. Such a large MR-value in the Coulomb blockade regime ( 2 nanorods. - Highlights: • Synthesis and structural studies of a novel GMR material of Ag coated CrO 2 . • Tailoring useful GMR property in CrO 2 nanorods of controlled shape and anisotropy. • Enhanced GMR is explained in correlation to the surface structure of CrO 2 nanorods

  19. Memory characteristics of an MOS capacitor structure with double-layer semiconductor and metal heterogeneous nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ni Henan; Wu Liangcai; Song Zhitang; Hui Chun

    2009-01-01

    An MOS (metal oxide semiconductor) capacitor structure with double-layer heterogeneous nanocrystals consisting of semiconductor and metal embedded in a gate oxide for nonvolatile memory applications has been fabricated and characterized. By combining vacuum electron-beam co-evaporated Si nanocrystals and self-assembled Ni nanocrystals in a SiO 2 matrix, an MOS capacitor with double-layer heterogeneous nanocrystals can have larger charge storage capacity and improved retention characteristics compared to one with single-layer nanocrystals. The upper metal nanocrystals as an additional charge trap layer enable the direct tunneling mechanism to enhance the flat voltage shift and prolong the retention time. (semiconductor devices)

  20. On exceeding the solubility limit of Cr+3 dopants in SnO2 nanoparticles based dilute magnetic semiconductors

    Science.gov (United States)

    URS, Kusuma; Bhat, S. V.; Kamble, Vinayak

    2018-04-01

    The paper investigates the magnetic behavior of chromium doped SnO2 Dilute Magnetic Semiconductor (DMS) nanoparticles, through structural, spectroscopic, and magnetic studies. A non-equilibrium solution combustion method is adopted to synthesize 0-5 at. % Cr doped SnO2 nanoparticles. The detailed spectroscopic studies on the system using micro-Raman spectroscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy along with the structural analysis confirm the presence of Cr in 3+ oxidation state, which substitutes at Sn4+ site in SnO6 octahedra of the rutile structure. This doping is found to enhance the defects in the system, i.e., oxygen vacancies. All the synthesized SnO2 nanoparticles (with or without dopants) are found to exhibit Room Temperature Ferromagnetism (RTFM). This occurrence of RTFM is attributed to the magnetic exchange interaction through F-centers of oxygen vacancies as well as dopant magnetic impurities and explained through the Bound Magnetic Polaron (BMP) model of DMS systems. Nonetheless, as the doping of Cr is further increased beyond 2%, the solubility limit is achieved. This antiferromagnetic exchange interaction from interstitial Cr dopants dominates over the BMP mechanism and, hence, leads to the decrease in the net magnetic moment drastically.

  1. Structural and optical characterization of Cr2O3 nanostructures: Evaluation of its dielectric properties

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Abdullah, M. M.; Rajab, Fahd M.; Al-Abbas, Saleh M.

    2014-01-01

    The structural, optical and dielectric properties of as-grown Cr 2 O 3 nanostructures are demonstrated in this paper. Powder X-ray diffractometry analysis confirmed the rhombohedral structure of the material with lattice parameter, a = b = 4.953 Å; c = 13.578 Å, and average crystallize size (62.40 ± 21.3) nm. FE-SEM image illustrated the mixture of different shapes (disk, particle and rod) of as-grown nanostructures whereas; EDS spectrum confirmed the elemental purity of the material. FTIR spectroscopy, revealed the characteristic peaks of Cr–O bond stretching vibrations. Energy band gap (3.2 eV) of the nanostructures has been determined using the results of UV-VIS-NIR spectrophotometer. The dielectric properties of the material were checked in the wide frequency region (100Hz-30 MHz). In the low frequency region, the matrix of the dielectric behaves like source as well as sink of electrical energy within the relaxation time. Low value of dielectric loss exhibits that the materials posses good optical quality with lesser defects. The ac conductivity of the material in the high frequency region was found according to frequency power law. The physical-mechanism and the theoretical-interpretation of dielectric-properties of Cr 2 O 3 nanostructures attest the potential candidature of the material as an efficient dielectric medium

  2. On formation of silicon nanocrystals under annealing SiO2 layers implanted with Si ions

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kachurin, G.A.; Yanovskaya, S.G.; Volodin, V.A.; Kesler, V.G.; Lejer, A.F.; Ruault, M.-O.

    2002-01-01

    Raman scattering, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and photoluminescence have been used to study the formation of silicon nanocrystals in SiO 2 implanted with Si ions. Si clusters have been formed at once in the postimplanted layers, providing the excessive Si concentration more ∼ 3 at. %. Si segregation with Si-Si 4 bonds formation is enhanced as following annealing temperature increase, however, the Raman scattering by Si clusters diminishes. The effect is explained by a transformation of the chain-like Si clusters into compact phase nondimensional structures. Segregation of Si nanoprecipitates had ended about 1000 deg C, but the strong photoluminescence typical for Si nanocrystals manifested itself only after 1100 deg C [ru

  3. Solvothermal synthesis of size-tunable ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} colloidal nanocrystal assemblies and their electrocatalytic activity towards hydrogen peroxide

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liu, Ruirui, E-mail: liurui1114@outlook.com; Lv, Meng, E-mail: lm199133@126.com; Wang, Qianbin, E-mail: material_wqb@163.com; Li, Hongliang, E-mail: lhl@qdu.edu.cn; Guo, Peizhi, E-mail: pzguo@qdu.edu.cn; Zhao, X.S., E-mail: chezxs@qdu.edu.cn

    2017-02-15

    Three ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} colloidal nanocrystal assemblies (CNAs), namely CNA1, CNA2 and CNA3, have been synthesized solvothermally with the size of 560 nm, 460 nm and 330 nm and are formed by the self-assembly of primary nanocrystals with the crystallite sizes of 19.2 nm, 15.5 nm and 21.8 nm, respectively. It was found that CNA2 performed superparamagnetic behavior with a saturation magnetization value of 36.9 emu g{sup −1} while either CNA1 or CNA3 exhibited weak ferromagnetic with a small hysteresis loop and large saturation magnetization. Electrochemical sensing measurements toward the reduction of hydrogen peroxide showed that the peak currents of the CNAs in cyclic voltammograms showed a linear relationship with the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the experimental conditions and the peak potentials were increased with the order of CNA3, CNA2 and CNA1. The formation mechanism of ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} CNAs had been discussed based on the experimental data. The magnetism and electrocatalysis of the ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} CNAs were supposed to be dependent on the size of primary nanoparticles and the structure of the CNAs. - Highlights: • Size-tunable ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} colloidal nanocrystal assemblies were synthesized solvothermally. • Magnetic properties of ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} assemblies are depended on the size and self-assembly of primary nanoparticles. • Electrocatalytic activity of ZnFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} assemblies is determined by their structure.

  4. Effect of surface ethoxy groups on photoactivity of TiO2 nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Tian Lihong; Deng Kejian; Ye Liqun; Zan Lin

    2011-01-01

    TiO 2 nanocrystals modified by ethoxy groups were prepared by a facile nonhydrolytic solvothermal method and characterized by XRD, TEM, TG-DTA and XPS, which showed an enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity on the degradation of Rhodamine B compared with TiO 2 modified by benzyloxy groups and the 'naked' TiO 2 . The adsorption and degradation pathway of Rhodamine B on TiO 2 modified by ethoxy groups were also investigated. The zeta-potential (ζ) results showed that the TiO 2 modified by ethoxy groups had high negative surface charge, which incited the positive -N(Et) 2 group of RhB absorbing on the TiO 2 surface and preferably led the N-dealkylation pathway under visible light irradiation.

  5. Magnetic interactions in HoCr{sub 1-x}Fe{sub x}O{sub 3} (x = 0, 0.2) investigated by neutron powder diffraction

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liu, Xinzhi, E-mail: liuxinzhi1984.cn@163.com [Department of Nuclear Physics, China Institute of Atomic Energy, Beijing 102413 (China); Hao, Lijie; Ma, Xiaobai [Department of Nuclear Physics, China Institute of Atomic Energy, Beijing 102413 (China); Wang, Chin-Wei [Neutron Group, National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center, Hsinchu 30077, Taiwan (China); Klose, Frank [Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organization, Lucas Heights, New South Wales 2234 (Australia); Department of Physics and Materials Science, The City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (Hong Kong); Liu, Yuntao, E-mail: ytliu@ciae.ac.cn [Department of Nuclear Physics, China Institute of Atomic Energy, Beijing 102413 (China); Sun, Kai; Li, Yuqing [Department of Nuclear Physics, China Institute of Atomic Energy, Beijing 102413 (China); Chen, Dongfeng, E-mail: dongfeng@ciae.ac.cn [Department of Nuclear Physics, China Institute of Atomic Energy, Beijing 102413 (China)

    2017-07-01

    Highlights: • The temperature dependent magnetism of HoCr{sub 1-x}Fe{sub x}O{sub 3} (x = 0, 0.2) were investigated by neutron diffraction. • Cr{sup 3+} moment follows a mean field theory while Ho{sup 3+} follows a spin 1/2 model. • An magneto-elastic strain was observed accompanying with the ordering of Cr{sup 3+}. - Abstract: The temperature dependent magnetism of Fe-doped rare earth orthochromite HoCr{sub 1-x}Fe{sub x}O{sub 3}(x = 0, 0.2) was investigated by neutron powder diffraction. It is found that the magnetism of Cr(Fe){sup 3+} can be well understood within mean field theory, while the ordering of Ho{sup 3+} was induced by the Cr(Fe){sup 3+} sublattice and can be satisfyingly described by an effective S = 1/2 model. The absences of both the most common G{sub x}F{sub z} configuration of Cr{sup 3+} and the ordering of Ho{sup 3+} caused by Ho-Ho interaction evidence a strong Ho{sup 3+}-Cr{sup 3+} interaction which dominates this system. On the other hand, a remarkable magnetoelastic strain was observed accompanying the Cr(Fe){sup 3+} ordering. An analysis based on the equation of state with a Grüneisen approximation was performed and revealed magnetic origin of this strain.

  6. An ingenious strategy of preparing TiO2/g-C3N4 heterojunction photocatalyst: In situ growth of TiO2 nanocrystals on g-C3N4 nanosheets via impregnation-calcination method

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhang, Guanghui; Zhang, Tianyong; Li, Bin; Jiang, Shuang; Zhang, Xia; Hai, Li; Chen, Xingwei; Wu, Wubin

    2018-03-01

    An ingenious method was employed to design and fabricate the TiO2/g-C3N4 heterojunction photocatalysts in this study. The thermal oxidation etching of g-C3N4 nanosheets and the in situ growth of TiO2 nanocrystal on the surface of g-C3N4 nanosheets were completed simultaneously by the calcination process. The g-C3N4 nanosheets played a crucial role in regulating and assembling the structures and morphologies of TiO2. Furthermore, the thickness and content of g-C3N4, and the crystallinity of TiO2 in TiO2/g-C3N4 composites could be regulated and controlled by the calcination temperature. Among the resultant TiO2/g-C3N4 samples, the TiO2/g-C3N4 sample with 41.6 wt% g-C3N4 exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity. It could degrade almost all MO molecules under visible light irradiation within 3 h. Moreover, it displayed higher visible light photocatalytic performance for degrading MO solution than pure g-C3N4 and D-TiO2. The synergistic effect between TiO2 and g-C3N4 makes significant contributions to the enhancement of the visible light photocatalytic activity. In addition, the favorable photocatalytic performance of TiO2/g-C3N4 nanocomposites is also attributed to the porous structures and uniform morphologies, and large surface area. Furthermore, the resultant TiO2/g-C3N4 exhibits excellent photocatalytic stability. Radical trapping experiments indicated that rad O2- and h+ were the main reactive species during the photodegradation process under visible light irradiation. Hopefully, the results can offer new design and strategy for preparing other g-C3N4-based nanocomposites for environmental and energy applications.

  7. TiO{sub 2} colloidal nanocrystals surface modification by V{sub 2}O{sub 5} species: Investigation by {sup 47,49}Ti MAS-NMR and H{sub 2}, CO and NO{sub 2} sensing properties

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Epifani, Mauro, E-mail: mauro.epifani@le.imm.cnr.it [Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche—Istituto per la Microelettronica e Microsistemi (CNR–IMM), via Monteroni c/o Campus Universitario, I-73100 Lecce (Italy); Comini, Elisabetta [SENSOR Lab, Department of Information Engineering, Brescia University and CNR-INO, via Valotti 9, 25133 Brescia (Italy); Díaz, Raül [Electrochemical Processes Unit, IMDEA Energy Institute, Avda. Ramón de la Sagra 3, 28935 Móstoles (Spain); Force, Carmen [NMR Unit, Centro de Apoyo Tecnológico, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, c/Tulipán, s/n, 28933 Móstoles (Spain); Siciliano, Pietro [Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche—Istituto per la Microelettronica e Microsistemi (CNR–IMM), via Monteroni c/o Campus Universitario, I-73100 Lecce (Italy); Faglia, Guido [SENSOR Lab, Department of Information Engineering, Brescia University and CNR-INO, via Valotti 9, 25133 Brescia (Italy)

    2015-10-01

    Highlights: • Novel sensing architecture is presented, made by V{sub 2}O{sub 5} modification of TiO{sub 2} surface. • MAS NMR techniques are a powerful tool for studying the influence of the V{sub 2}O{sub 5} layer. • The V{sub 2}O{sub 5} surface deposition enhanced the adsorption properties with respect to pure TiO{sub 2}. - Abstract: TiO{sub 2} and TiO{sub 2}–V{sub 2}O{sub 5} nanocrystals were prepared by coupling sol–gel and solvothermal methods, followed by heat-treatment at 400 °C, after which the mean nanocrystal size was about 5 nm. The materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and solid state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. It was shown that while the TiO{sub 2} phase was always anatase even after heat-treatment at 500 °C, the presence of the vanadium oxide species enhanced the surface re-configuration of the Ti ions. Hence the coordination environment of surface Ti atoms was drastically changed, by formation of further bonds and imposition of a given local geometry. The final hypothesis was that in pure titania surface rearrangement occurs, leading to the new NMR signal, but this modification was favored in the TiO{sub 2}–V{sub 2}O{sub 5} sample, where the Ti surface atoms were forced into the final configurations by the bonding with V atoms through oxygen. The materials heat-treated at 400 °C were used to process chemoresistive sensors, which were tested to hydrogen, CO and NO{sub 2}, as examples of gases with peculiar sensing mechanisms. The results evidenced that the surface deposition of V{sub 2}O{sub 5} onto the anatase TiO{sub 2} nanocrystals was effective in modifying the adsorption properties of the anatase nanocrystals.

  8. Microstructure, mechanical and tribological properties of CrSiC coatings sliding against SiC and Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} balls in water

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wu, Zhiwei [State Key Laboratory of Mechanics and Control of Mechanical Structures, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing 210016 (China); College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Precision and Micro-Manufacturing Technology, Nanjing 210016 (China); College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037 (China); Zhou, Fei, E-mail: fzhou@nuaa.edu.cn [State Key Laboratory of Mechanics and Control of Mechanical Structures, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing 210016 (China); College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Precision and Micro-Manufacturing Technology, Nanjing 210016 (China); Chen, Kangmin [Center of Analysis, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013 (China); Wang, Qianzhi [Department of Mechanical Engineering, Keio University, Yokohama 2238522 (Japan); Zhou, Zhifeng [Advanced Coatings Applied Research Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong (China); Yan, Jiwang [Department of Mechanical Engineering, Keio University, Yokohama 2238522 (Japan); Li, Lawrence Kwok-Yan [Advanced Coatings Applied Research Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong (China)

    2016-04-15

    Graphical abstract: CrSiC coatings were speculated to be X-ray amorphous (A). Although the hardness of coatings fluctuated slightly (13.2–13.8 GPa), the CrSiC coatings showed poor wear resistance due to the decline of the crack resistance and toughness. Moreover, the friction coefficient (0.24–0.31) and the wear rate (2.97–7.66 × 10{sup −6} mm{sup 3}/Nm) of CrSiC/SiC trobopairs were lower than those of CrSiC/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} tribopairs (B and C). - Highlights: • CrSiC coatings with Si content of 2.0–7.4 at.% were deposited via adjusting the TMS flow. • The amorphous structure in the CrSiC coatings was presented. • No obvious fluctuations of hardness (about 13 GPa) were observed with TMS flow. • CrSiC/SiC tribopairs showed better tribological performance than CrSiC/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} tribopairs. - Abstract: CrSiC coatings with different silicon contents were prepared using unbalanced magnetron sputtering via adjusting trimethylsilane (Si(CH{sub 3}){sub 3}H) flows. Their phase structure, bonding structure, microstructure and hardness were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectrons spectroscopy (XPS), a field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and nano-indenter, respectively. The tribological properties of CrSiC coatings sliding against SiC and Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} balls were investigated in water. The results showed that the CrSiC coatings were speculated to be X-ray amorphous. Although the hardness of coatings fluctuated slightly (13.2–13.8 GPa), the coatings showed poor wear resistance due to the decline of the crack resistance and toughness. Moreover, the friction coefficient (0.24–0.31) and the wear rate (2.97–7.66 × 10{sup −6} mm{sup 3}/Nm) of CrSiC/SiC trobopairs were lower than those of CrSiC/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} tribopairs.

  9. Crystal structures of lazulite-type oxidephosphates TiIIITiIV3O3(PO4)3 and MIII4TiIV27O24(PO4)24 (MIII=Ti, Cr, Fe)

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Schoeneborn, M.; Glaum, R.; Reinauer, F.

    2008-01-01

    Single crystals of the oxidephosphates Ti III Ti IV 3 O 3 (PO 4 ) 3 (black), Cr III 4 Ti IV 27 O 24 (PO 4 ) 24 (red-brown, transparent), and Fe III 4 Ti IV 27 O 24 (PO 4 ) 24 (brown) with edge-lengths up to 0.3 mm were grown by chemical vapour transport. The crystal structures of these orthorhombic members (space group F2dd ) of the lazulite/lipscombite structure family were refined from single-crystal data [Ti III Ti IV 3 O 3 (PO 4 ) 3 : Z=24, a=7.3261(9) A, b=22.166(5) A, c=39.239(8) A, R 1 =0.029, wR 2 =0.084, 6055 independent reflections, 301 variables; Cr III 4 Ti IV 27 O 24 (PO 4 ) 24 : Z=1, a=7.419(3) A, b=21.640(5) A, c=13.057(4) A, R 1 =0.037, wR 2 =0.097, 1524 independent reflections, 111 variables; Fe III 4 Ti IV 27 O 24 (PO 4 ) 24 : Z=1, a=7.4001(9) A, b=21.7503(2) A, c=12.775(3) A, R 1 =0.049, wR 2 =0.140, 1240 independent reflections, 112 variables). For Ti III Ti IV O 3 (PO 4 ) 3 a well-ordered structure built from dimers [Ti III,IV 2 O 9 ] and [Ti IV,IV 2 O 9 ] and phosphate tetrahedra is found. The metal sites in the crystal structures of Cr 4 Ti 27 O 24 (PO 4 ) 24 and Fe 4 Ti 27 O 24 (PO 4 ) 24 , consisting of dimers [M III Ti IV O 9 ] and [Ti IV,IV 2 O 9 ], monomeric [Ti IV O 6 ] octahedra, and phosphate tetrahedra, are heavily disordered. Site disorder, leading to partial occupancy of all octahedral voids of the parent lipscombite/lazulite structure, as well as splitting of the metal positions is observed. According to Guinier photographs Ti III 4 Ti IV 27 O 24 (PO 4 ) 24 (a=7.418(2) A, b=21.933(6) A, c=12.948(7) A) is isotypic to the oxidephosphates M III 4 Ti IV 27 O 24 (PO 4 ) 24 (M III : Cr, Fe). The UV/vis spectrum of Cr 4 Ti 27 O 24 (PO 4 ) 24 reveals a rather small ligand-field splitting Δ o =14,370 cm -1 and a very low nephelauxetic ratio β=0.72 for the chromophores [Cr III O 6 ] within the dimers [Cr III Ti IV O 9 ]. - Graphical abstract: Single crystals of the oxidephosphates Ti III Ti IV 3 O 3 (PO 4 ) 3 (black), Cr III 4 Ti IV 27 O

  10. Modelling Cr depletion under a growing Cr2O3 layer on austenitic stainless steel: the influence of grain boundary diffusion

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Hansson, Anette Nørgaard; Hattel, Jesper Henri; Dahl, Kristian Vinter

    2009-01-01

    according to a parabolic rate law as a consequence of rate limiting diffusion of Cr cations through the oxide layer; the retraction of the oxide/alloy interface associated with the removal of Cr atoms from the substrate is included in the calculations. Numerically, the movement of the oxide/alloy interface......The oxidation behaviour of austenitic stainless steels in the temperature range 723–1173K is strongly influenced by the grain size of the oxidizing alloy. In this work the evolution of the concentration profiles of Cr, Ni and Fe in the substrate below a growing Cr2O3 layer is simulated...... with a Fisher-type numerical model, which takes both volume and grain boundary diffusion into consideration. The model is based on a two-dimensional control volume-based solution of Fick’s 2nd law for multicomponent diffusion and includes crossterm diffusion coefficients. The oxide layer is assumed to grow...

  11. Study on structural and optical properties of α-(AlxCr1-x)2O3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) solid solutions

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jangir, Ravindra; Kumar, Dharmendra; Srihari, Velaga; Ganguli, Tapas

    2018-04-01

    We report on structural and optical properties for ternary α-(AlxCr1-x)2O3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) solid solutions synthesized by using solid sate reaction method. Single R-3c phase was obtained for the Aluminum composition of 0 ≤ x ≤ 1. Due to difference in the ionic radia of Al3+ and Cr3+, in plane lattice parameter showed deviation from the vegard's law. Optical absorption spectra for the solid solutions showed a blue shift of ˜ 0.5 eV in the optical gap. It has also been observed that Cr 3d level shifted towards the O 2p level in the valance band which indicates the enhancement of hybridization in the d and p levels, which is related to the delocalization of hole states, responsible for p-type conduction in wide band gap semiconductors. The results suggests that ternary α-(AlxCr1-x)2O3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) can be useful in the field of UV transparent electronics and UV photodetectors.

  12. Thermodynamic Assessment of the La-Cr-O System

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Povoden, E.; Chen, Ming; Grundy, A.N.

    2009-01-01

    of oxygen partial pressure. In the La-Cr system reported solubility of lanthanum in bcc chromium is considered in the modeling. In the La-Cr-O system the Gibbs energy functions of La2CrO6, La-2(CrO4)(3), and perovskite-structured LaCrO3 are presented, and oxygen solubilities in bcc and fcc metals......The La-Cr and the La-Cr-O systems are assessed using the Calphad approach. The calculated La-Cr phase diagram as well as LaO1.5-CrO1.5 phase diagrams in pure oxygen, air, and under reducing conditions are presented. Phase equilibria of the La-Cr-O system are calculated at 1273 K as a function...... are modeled. Emphasis is placed on a detailed description of the perovskite phase: the orthorhombic to rhombohedral transformation and the contribution to the Gibbs energy due to a magnetic order-disorder transition are considered in the model. The following standard data of stoichiometric perovskite...

  13. Coupling Mo2C@C core-shell nanocrystals on 3D graphene hybrid aerogel for high-performance lithium ion battery

    Science.gov (United States)

    Xin, Hailin; Hai, Yang; Li, Dongzhi; Qiu, Zhaozheng; Lin, Yemao; Yang, Bo; Fan, Haosen; Zhu, Caizhen

    2018-05-01

    Hybrid aerogel by dispersing Mo2C@C core-shell nanocrystals into three-dimensional (3D) graphene (Mo2C@C-GA) has been successfully prepared through two-step methods. Firstly, carbon-coated MoO2 nanocrystals uniformly anchor on 3D graphene aerogel (MoO2@C-GA) via hydrothermal reaction. Then the MoO2@C-GA precursor is transformed into Mo2C@C-GA after the following carbonization process. Furthermore, the freeze-drying step plays an important role in the resulting pore size distribution of the porous networks. Moreover, graphene aerogels exhibit extremely low densities and superior electrical properties. When evaluated as anode material for lithium ion battery, Mo2C@C-GA delivers excellent rate capability and stable cycle performance when compared with C-GA and Mo2C nanoparticles. Mo2C@C-GA exhibits the initial discharge capacity of 1461.4 mA h g-1 at the current density of 0.1 A g-1, and retains a reversible capacity of 1089.8 mA h g-1 after 100 cycles at a current density of 0.1 A g-1. Even at high current density of 5 A g-1, a discharge capacity of 623.5 mA h g-1 can be still achieved. The excellent performance of Mo2C@C-GA could be attributed to the synergistic effect of Mo2C@C nanocrystals and the 3D graphene conductive network.

  14. Hydrogen production over Au-loaded mesoporous-assembled SrTiO3 nanocrystal photocatalyst: Effects of molecular structure and chemical properties of hole scavengers

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Puangpetch, Tarawipa; Chavadej, Sumaeth; Sreethawong, Thammanoon

    2011-01-01

    Graphical abstract: Formic acid, which is the smallest and completely-dissociated water-soluble carboxylic acid, exhibited the highest hydrogen production enhancement ability over the 1 wt.% Au-loaded mesoporous-assembled SrTiO 3 nanocrystal photocatalyst. Display Omitted Research highlights: → The 1 wt.% Au-loaded mesoporous-assembled SrTiO 3 nanocrystal photocatalyst was synthesized. → The molecular structure and chemical properties of hole scavengers affected H 2 production rate. → Formic acid exhibited the highest photocatalytic H 2 production enhancement ability. -- Abstract: The hydrogen production via the photocatalytic water splitting under UV irradiation using different compounds as hole scavengers (including methanol, formic acid, acetic acid, propanoic acid, hydrochloric acid, and sulfuric acid) under a low concentration range ( 3 nanocrystal photocatalyst. The results indicated that the hydrogen production efficiency greatly depended on the molecular structure, chemical properties, and concentration of the hole scavengers. Formic acid, which is the smallest and completely-dissociated water-soluble carboxylic acid, exhibited the highest hydrogen production enhancement ability. The 2.5 vol.% aqueous formic acid solution system provided the highest photocatalytic hydrogen production rate.

  15. Magnetism on quasi-1-D lattices in novel non-centrosymmetric Ba{sub 3}CrVS{sub 4}O{sub 3} and in centrosymmetric La{sub 3}TMWS{sub 3}O{sub 6} (TM = Cr, Fe, Co)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kim, Jinkwang; Lai, Kwing To; Valldor, Martin, E-mail: martin.valldor@cpfs.mpg.de

    2017-08-01

    Highlights: • Quasi 1-D chains of magnetic ions exist in Ba{sub 3}CrVS{sub 4}O{sub 3} and La{sub 3}TMWS{sub 3}O{sub 6} (TM = Cr, Fe, Co). • The magnetism of non-centrosymmetric Ba{sub 3}CrVS{sub 4}O{sub 3} is different from centrosymmetric La{sub 3}CrWS{sub 3}O{sub 6}. • Several intrinsic magnetic anomalies are observed without long-ranged spin orderings. - Abstract: La{sub 3}TMWS{sub 3}O{sub 6} (TM = Fe, Co) and novel Ba{sub 3}CrVS{sub 4}O{sub 3} can be obtained as pure polycrystalline samples by mineralizer aided solid-state reactions and a solid-state reaction with further purification by water, respectively. In contrast, La{sub 3}CrWS{sub 3}O{sub 6} needs a standard solid-state reaction to form but the final product contains observable impurities. All four compounds contain similar quasi-1-D magnetic lattices although La-based ones are centrosymmetric (P6{sub 3}/m) and the Ba-containing one is polar and non-centrosymmetric (P6{sub 3}). Strong antiferromagnetic couplings are observed along the magnetic chains in the Fe and Cr containing compounds. As a result, short-range magnetic order is suggested at low temperatures for the Fe-chain, which can be related to magneto-electric couplings. The Co{sup 3+}-homologue shows typical diamagnetic behavior, as supported by its insulating nature, which is due to a low-spin state. The polar Cr{sup 3+}-compound exhibits very different magnetic behavior compared to its corresponding non-polar relative. This proves a strong influence on the physical properties from the crystallographic symmetry.

  16. Synthesis of single-crystal perovskite PbCrO3 through a new reaction route at high pressure

    Science.gov (United States)

    Han, Yunxia; Wang, Shanmin; Liu, Yinjuan; Ma, Dejiang; He, Duanwei; Zhao, Yusheng

    2018-04-01

    As a new member in the family of Mott system, perovskite PbCrO3 has recently been uncovered to exhibit fantastic structural transition under pressure, coupled with magnetic, electronic, and ferromagnetic transitions, which provide many opportunities for understanding of correlated system. However, it is still challenging to synthesize high-quality single-crystal PbCrO3, leading to the limited exploration of this Mott compound. In this work, we formulate a new high-pressure reaction route for preparation of high-quality PbCrO3 crystals between PbCl2 and Na2CrO4 at high pressure of 5-10 GPa and at high temperature of 750-1500°C. Because of the formation of reaction byproduct NaCl, the final product can readily be separated by washing with water. The obtained sample is in the form of single crystal with crystallite size up to 200 μm. In addition, combined with X-ray diffraction measurement, a tentative pressure-temperature synthesis diagram of PbCrO3 is mapped out from the reaction between PbCl2 and Na2CrO4 and the reaction mechanism is also explored in detail.

  17. A dual-colored bio-marker made of doped ZnO nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wu, Y L; Zeng, X T [Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology, 71 Nanyang Drive, 638075 (Singapore); Fu, S; Kwek, L C [National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, 1 Nanyang Walk, 637616 (Singapore); Tok, A I Y; Boey, F C Y [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798 (Singapore); Lim, C S [School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798 (Singapore)

    2008-08-27

    Bio-compatible ZnO nanocrystals doped with Co, Cu and Ni cations, surface capped with two types of aminosilanes and titania are synthesized by a soft chemical process. Due to the small particle size (2-5 nm), surface functional groups and the high photoluminescence emissions at the UV and blue-violet wavelength ranges, bio-imaging on human osteosarcoma (Mg-63) cells and histiocytic lymphoma U-937 monocyte cells showed blue emission at the nucleus and bright turquoise emission at the cytoplasm simultaneously. This is the first report on dual-color bio-images labeled by one semiconductor nanocrystal colloidal solution. Bright green emission was detected on mung bean seedlings labeled by all the synthesized ZnO nanocrystals. Cytotoxicity tests showed that the aminosilanes capped nanoparticles are non-toxic. Quantum yields of the nanocrystals varied from 79% to 95%. The results showed the potential of the pure ZnO and Co-doped ZnO nanocrystals for live imaging of both human cells and plant systems.

  18. Fabrication of low adhesive superhydrophobic surfaces using nano Cu/Al2O3 Ni–Cr composited electro-brush plating

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chen, Tianchi; Ge, Shirong; Liu, Hongtao; Sun, Qinghe; Zhu, Wei; Yan, Wei; Qi, Jianwei

    2015-01-01

    Highlights: • We fabricate a low adhesive superhydrophobic nano Cu/Al 2 O 3 composited Ni–Cr coating via brush plating. • We investigate the influence of process parameters on hydrophobic properties process. • We discuss the formation mechanism of structures on the surface and using water rebound height to explain the low adhesive force mechanism. - Abstract: Superhydrophobic nano Cu/Al 2 O 3 Ni–Cr composited coating with a low adhesive force was deposited onto the Q345 carbon steel via electro-brush plating. Surface morphologies of nano Cu/Al 2 O 3 Ni–Cr composited coating were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Chemical compositions were characterized by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). First of all, by adjusting different process parameters such as working voltage, relative velocity, Cu particles concentration and plating time, we obtain the most optimal parameters: working voltage is 15 V, relative velocity is 4.8 m/min, Cu particles concentration is 5 g/L and plating time is 60 s. Under the best process parameters, the water contact angle reaches to 156° and a sliding angle is less than 2° on the nano Cu/Al 2 O 3 Ni–Cr coating. Then the mechanism of the superhydrophobic and low adhesion characteristic of this surface were explained by Cassie's model. Low adhesive force can be characterized by max rebound height of water droplet. As a result, to achieve low adhesive surface it is necessary to decrease the fraction of the solid/liquid interface under the water droplet. Finally the coating was proved to have an excellent self-cleaning performance.

  19. Nano-sized Fe2O3/Fe3O4 facilitate anaerobic transformation of hexavalent chromium in soil-water systems.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhang, Yaxian; Li, Hua; Gong, Libo; Dong, Guowen; Shen, Liang; Wang, Yuanpeng; Li, Qingbiao

    2017-07-01

    The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of nano-sized or submicro Fe 2 O 3 /Fe 3 O 4 on the bioreduction of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) and to evaluate the effects of nano-sized Fe 2 O 3 /Fe 3 O 4 on the microbial communities from the anaerobic flooding soil. The results indicated that the net decreases upon Cr(VI) concentration from biotic soil samples amended with nano-sized Fe 2 O 3 (317.1±2.1mg/L) and Fe 3 O 4 (324.0±22.2mg/L) within 21days, which were approximately 2-fold of Cr(VI) concentration released from blank control assays (117.1±5.6mg/L). Furthermore, the results of denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) and high-throughput sequencing indicated a greater variety of microbes within the microbial community in amendments with nano-sized Fe 2 O 3 /Fe 3 O 4 than the control assays. Especially, Proteobacteria occupied a predominant status on the phylum level within the indigenous microbial communities from chromium-contaminated soils. Besides, some partial decrease of soluble Cr(VI) in abiotic nano-sized Fe 2 O 3 /Fe 3 O 4 amendments was responsible for the adsorption of nano-sized Fe 2 O 3 /Fe 3 O 4 to soluble Cr(VI). Hence, the presence of nano-sized Fe 2 O 3 /Fe 3 O 4 could largely facilitate the mobilization and biotransformation of Cr(VI) from flooding soils by adsorption and bio-mediated processes. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  20. Development of Cr{sub 3}C{sub 2}-25(Ni20Cr) nanostructured coatings; Desenvolvimento de revestimentos nanostruturados de Cr{sub 3}C{sub 2}-25(Ni20Cr)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Cunha, Cecilio Alvares da

    2012-07-01

    This study is divided in two parts. The first part is about the preparation of nanostructured Cr{sub 3}C{sub 2}-25(Ni20Cr) powders by high energy milling followed by characterization of the milled and the as received powder. Analyses of some of the data obtained were done using a theoretical approach. The second part of this study is about the preparation and characterization of coatings prepared with the nanostructured as well as the as received Cr{sub 3}C{sub 2}-25(Ni20Cr) powders. The high temperature erosion-oxidation (E-O) behavior of the coatings prepared with the two types of powders has been compared based on a technological approach. The average crystallite size of the Cr{sub 3}C{sub 2}-25(Ni20Cr) powder decreased rapidly from 145 nm to 50 nm in the initial stages of milling and thereafter decreased slowly to a steady state value of around 10 nm with further increase in milling time. This steady state corresponds to the beginning of a dynamic recovery process. The maximum lattice strain ({epsilon} = 1,17%) was observed in powders milled for 16 hours, and this powders critical crystallite size was 28 nm. In contrast, the lattice parameter attained a minimum for powders milled for 16 hours. Upon reaching the critical crystallite size, the dislocation density attained a steady state regime and all plastic deformation introduced in the material there after was in the form of events occurring at the grain boundaries, due mainly to grain boundary sliding. The deformation energy stored in the crystal lattice of the Cr{sub 3}C{sub 2}-25(Ni20Cr) powders milled for different times was determined from enthalpy variation measurements. These results indicated that the maximum enthalpy variation ({delta}H = 722 mcal) also occurred for powders milled for 16 hours. In a similar manner, the maximum specific heat variation ({delta}C{sub p} = 0,278 cal/gK) occurred for powders milled for 16 hours. The following mechanical properties of Cr{sub 3}C{sub 2}-25(Ni20Cr) coatings

  1. Electrooxidation of Cr/sup 3+/ at C/PbO/sub 2/

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Haque, I.U.; Khan, A.; Anwar, S.

    2006-01-01

    Pure and Cu/sup +2/-doped lead dioxide electrodes were prepared by electrodeposition of lead dioxide on carbon-based substrates using lead(II) nitrate bath at 1.5-1.75 V, pH 4-4,5, temperature 60-70 C, and current density 0.0125-0.0175 A/cm/sup 2/. Electrolyses of Cr/sup 3+/ solutions both in divided and undivided cells were used to investigate the electrocatalytic activity. Adhesion and stability of lead dioxide electrodes. Which can serve as industrial electrodes. UV-visible spectrophotometry was used for estimating conversion of Cr/sup 3+/ to Cr/sup 6+/. The electrocatalytic activity of lead dioxide was increased by the doping of copper (II) ions. (author)

  2. Enhanced formation of Ge nanocrystals in Ge : SiO2 layers by swift heavy ions

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Antonova, I V; Volodin, V A; Marin, D M; Skuratov, V A; Smagulova, S A; Janse van Vuuren, A; Neethling, J; Jedrzejewski, J; Balberg, I

    2012-01-01

    In this paper we report the ability of swift heavy Xe ions with an energy of 480 MeV and a fluence of 10 12 cm -2 to enhance the formation of Ge nanocrystals within SiO 2 layers with variable Ge contents. These Ge-SiO 2 films were fabricated by the co-sputtering of Ge and quartz sources which followed various annealing procedures. In particular, we found that the irradiation of the Ge : SiO 2 films with subsequent annealing at 500 °C leads to the formation of a high concentration of nanocrystals (NCs) with a size of 2-5 nm, whereas without irradiation only amorphous inclusions were observed. This effect, as evidenced by Raman spectra, is enhanced by pre-irradiation at 550 °C and post-irradiation annealing at 600 °C, which also leads to the observation of room temperature visible photoluminescence. (paper)

  3. Synthesis of Multicolor Core/Shell NaLuF4:Yb3+/Ln3+@CaF2 Upconversion Nanocrystals

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Hui Li

    2017-02-01

    Full Text Available The ability to synthesize high-quality hierarchical core/shell nanocrystals from an efficient host lattice is important to realize efficacious photon upconversion for applications ranging from bioimaging to solar cells. Here, we describe a strategy to fabricate multicolor core @ shell α-NaLuF4:Yb3+/Ln3+@CaF2 (Ln = Er, Ho, Tm upconversion nanocrystals (UCNCs based on the newly established host lattice of sodium lutetium fluoride (NaLuF4. We exploited the liquid-solid-solution method to synthesize the NaLuF4 core of pure cubic phase and the thermal decomposition approach to expitaxially grow the calcium fluoride (CaF2 shell onto the core UCNCs, yielding cubic core/shell nanocrystals with a size of 15.6 ± 1.2 nm (the core ~9 ± 0.9 nm, the shell ~3.3 ± 0.3 nm. We showed that those core/shell UCNCs could emit activator-defined multicolor emissions up to about 772 times more efficient than the core nanocrystals due to effective suppression of surface-related quenching effects. Our results provide a new paradigm on heterogeneous core/shell structure for enhanced multicolor upconversion photoluminescence from colloidal nanocrystals.

  4. Structural and Visible-Near Infrared Optical Properties of Cr-Doped TiO2 for Colored Cool Pigments

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yuan, Le; Weng, Xiaolong; Zhou, Ming; Zhang, Qingyong; Deng, Longjiang

    2017-11-01

    Chromium-doped TiO2 pigments were synthesized via a solid-state reaction method and studied with X-ray diffraction, SEM, XPS, and UV-VIS-NIR reflectance spectroscopy. The incorporation of Cr3+ accelerates the transition from the anatase phase to the rutile phase and compresses the crystal lattice. Moreover, the particle morphology, energy gap, and reflectance spectrum of Cr-doped TiO2 pigments is affected by the crystal structure and doping concentration. For the rutile samples, some of the Cr3+ ions are oxidized to Cr4+ after sintering at a high temperature, which leads to a strong near-infrared absorption band due to the 3A23 T1 electric dipole-allowed transitions of Cr4+. And the decrease of the band gap causes an obvious redshift of the optical absorption edges as the doping concentration increases. Thus, the VIS and near-infrared average reflectance of the rutile Ti1 - x Cr x O2 sample decrease by 60.2 and 58%, respectively, when the Cr content increases to x = 0.0375. Meanwhile, the color changes to black brown. However, for the anatase Ti1 - x Cr x O2 pigments, only the VIS reflection spectrum is inhibited by forming some characteristic visible light absorption peaks of Cr3+. The morphology, band gap, and NIR reflectance are not significantly affected. Finally, a Cr-doped anatase TiO2 pigment with a brownish-yellow color and 90% near-infrared reflectance can be obtained.

  5. Characteristics of RuO{sub 2}-SnO{sub 2} nanocrystalline-embedded amorphous electrode for thin film microsupercapacitors

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kim, Han-Ki [Core Technology Laboratory, Samsung SDI, 575 Shin-dong, Youngtong-Gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-Do 442-391 (Korea, Republic of)]. E-mail: hanki1031.kim@samsung.com; Choi, Sun-Hee [Nano Materials Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), PO Box 131 Choengryang, Seoul 130-650 (Korea, Republic of); Yoon, Young Soo [Department of Advanced Fusion Technology (DAFT), Konkuk University, 1 Hwayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 143-701 (Korea, Republic of); Chang, Sung-Yong [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Kwangju 500-712 (Korea, Republic of); Ok, Young-Woo [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Kwangju 500-712 (Korea, Republic of); Seong, Tae-Yeon [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Kwangju 500-712 (Korea, Republic of)

    2005-03-22

    The characteristics of RuO{sub 2}-SnO{sub 2} nanocrystalline-embedded amorphous electrode, grown by DC reactive sputtering, was investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and transmission electron diffraction (TED) examination results showed that Sn and Ru metal cosputtered electrode in O{sub 2}/Ar ambient have RuO{sub 2}-SnO{sub 2} nanocrystallines in an amorphous oxide matrix. It is shown that the cyclic voltammorgram (CV) result of the RuO{sub 2}-SnO{sub 2} nanocrystalline-embedded amorphous film in 0.5 M H{sub 2}SO{sub 4} liquid electrolyte is similar to a bulk-type supercapacitor behavior with a specific capacitance of 62.2 mF/cm{sup 2} {mu}m. This suggests that the RuO{sub 2}-SnO{sub 2} nanocrystalline-embedded amorphous film can be employed in hybrid all-solid state energy storage devises as an electrode of supercapacitor.

  6. Side-by-Side In(OH3 and In2O3 Nanotubes: Synthesis and Optical Properties

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Tao Xiaojun

    2009-01-01

    Full Text Available Abstract A simple and mild wet-chemical approach was developed for the synthesis of one-dimensional (1D In(OH3 nanostructures. By calcining the 1D In(OH3 nanocrystals in air at 250 °C, 1D In2O3 nanocrystals with the same morphology were obtained. TEM results show that both 1D In(OH3 and 1D In2O3 are composed of uniform nanotube bundles. SAED and XRD patterns indicate that 1D In(OH3 and 1D In2O3 nanostructures are single crystalline and possess the same bcc crystalline structure as the bulk In(OH3 and In2O3, respectively. TGA/DTA analyses of the precursor In(OH3 and the final product In2O3 confirm the existence of CTAB molecules, and its content is about 6%. The optical absorption band edge of 1D In2O3 exhibits an evident blueshift with respect to that of the commercial In2O3 powders, which is caused by the increasing energy gap resulted from decreasing the grain size. A relatively strong and broad purple-blue emission band centered at 440 nm was observed in the room temperature PL spectrum of 1D In2O3 nanotube bundles, which was mainly attributed to the existence of the oxygen vacancies.

  7. 53Cr NMR study of CuCrO2 multiferroic

    Science.gov (United States)

    Smol'nikov, A. G.; Ogloblichev, V. V.; Verkhovskii, S. V.; Mikhalev, K. N.; Yakubovskii, A. Yu.; Kumagai, K.; Furukawa, Y.; Sadykov, A. F.; Piskunov, Yu. V.; Gerashchenko, A. P.; Barilo, S. N.; Shiryaev, S. V.

    2015-11-01

    The magnetically ordered phase of the CuCrO2 single crystal has been studied by the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) method on 53Cr nuclei in the absence of an external magnetic field. The 53Cr NMR spectrum is observed in the frequency range νres = 61-66 MHz. The shape of the spectrum depends on the delay tdel between pulses in the pulse sequence τπ/2- t del-τπ- t del-echo. The spin-spin and spin-lattice relaxation times have been measured. Components of the electric field gradient, hyperfine fields, and the magnetic moment on chromium atoms have been estimated.

  8. Effects of La{sub 2}O{sub 3} on microstructure and wear properties of laser clad {gamma}/Cr{sub 7}C{sub 3}/TiC composite coatings on TiAl intermatallic alloy

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Liu Xiubo [Laboratory for Laser Intelligent Manufacturing, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 15 Beisihuanxi Road, Beijing 100080 (China) and School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Zhongyuan Institute of Technology, 41 Zhongyuan Western Road, Zhengzhou 450007, Henan Province (China)]. E-mail: liubobo0828@yahoo.com.cn; Yu Rongli [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beihang University, 37 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100083 (China)

    2007-02-15

    The effects of La{sub 2}O{sub 3} addition on the microstructure and wear properties of laser clad {gamma}/Cr{sub 7}C{sub 3}/TiC composite coatings on {gamma}-TiAl intermetallic alloy substrates with NiCr-Cr{sub 3}C{sub 2} precursor mixed powders have been investigated by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive spectrometer (EDS) and block-on-ring wear tests. The responding wear mechanisms are discussed in detail. The results are compared with that for composite coating without La{sub 2}O{sub 3}. The comparison indicates that no evident new crystallographic phases are formed except a rapidly solidified microstructure consisting of the primary hard Cr{sub 7}C{sub 3} and TiC carbides and the {gamma}/Cr{sub 7}C{sub 3} eutectics distributed in the tough {gamma} nickel solid solution matrix. Good finishing coatings can be achieved under a proper amount of La{sub 2}O{sub 3}-addition and a suitable laser processing parameters. The additions of rare-earth oxide La{sub 2}O{sub 3} can refine and purify the microstructure of coatings, relatively decrease the volume fraction of primary blocky Cr{sub 7}C{sub 3} to Cr{sub 7}C{sub 3}/{gamma} eutectics, reduce the dilution of clad material from base alloy and increase the microhardness of the coatings. When the addition of La{sub 2}O{sub 3} is approximately 4 wt.%, the laser clad composite coating possesses the highest hardness and toughness. The composite coating with 4 wt.%La{sub 2}O{sub 3} addition can result the best enhancement of wear resistance of about 30%. However, too less or excessive addition amount of La{sub 2}O{sub 3} have no better influence on wear resistance of the composite coating.

  9. Efficiency enhancement of CIGS compound solar cell fabricated using homomorphic thin Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} diffusion barrier formed on stainless steel substrate

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sim, Jae-Kwan; Lee, Seung-Kyu; Kim, Jin-Soo; Jeong, Kwang-Un; Ahn, Haeng-Keun; Lee, Cheul-Ro, E-mail: crlee7@jbnu.ac.kr

    2016-12-15

    Highlights: • A chromium oxide layer is formed as diffusion barrier by thermal oxidation process on STS substrate. • A Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} layer effectively reduces impurities diffusion into the CIGS absorber layer. • The Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} layer plays an important role in increasing the efficiency by reduction of impurity diffusion. - Abstract: It is known that the efficiency of flexible Cu(In,Ga)Se{sub 2} (CIGS) solar cells fabricated on stainless-steel (STS) substrates deteriorates due to iron (Fe) and Cr impurities diffusing into the CIGS absorber layer. To overcome this problem, a nanoscale homomorphic chromium oxide layer was formed as a diffusion barrier by thermal oxidation on the surface of STS substrates for 1 min at 600 °C in oxygen atmosphere. By TEM and grazing-incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD), it was confirmed that the formed oxide layer on surface of STS substrates was a Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} layer. It was found that the formed homomorphic Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} thin layer of about 15 nm thickness was an effective diffusion barrier to reduce impurity diffusion into the CIGS layer by secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS). In contrast to the efficiency of CIGS solar cell without homomorphic Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} diffusion layer is 8.6%, whereas with diffusion barrier it increases to 10.6% because of impurities such as Fe and Cr from the STS substrate into the CIGS layer. It reveals that the layer formed on the surface of STS substrate by thermal oxidation process plays an important role in increasing the performance of CIGS solar cells.

  10. Magnetic and magneto-dielectric properties of magneto-electric field effect capacitor using Cr2O3

    OpenAIRE

    Takeshi, Yokota; Shotaro, Murata; Takaaki, Kuribayashi; Manabu, Gomi

    2008-01-01

    We investigated the magnetic and dielectric properties of a metal (Pt)/insulator (Cr_2O_3)/magnetic floating gate (Fe)/tunnel layer (CeO_2)/semiconductor (Si) capacitor. This capacitor shows capacitance-voltage (C-V) properties typical of a Si Metal-Insulator-Semiconductor (MIS) capacitor with hysteresis, which indicates that electrons have been injected into the Fe layer. The capacitor also shows ferromagnetic properties. The C-V curve has a hysteresis window with a clockwise trace. This hys...

  11. Synthesis and characterization of TiO2 photocatalyst doped by transition metal ions (Fe3+, Cr3+ and V5+)

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Tuan Vu, Anh; Linh Bui, Thi Hai; Cuong Tran, Manh; Phuong Dang, Tuyet; Hoa Tran, Thi Kim; Tuan Nguyen, Quoc

    2010-01-01

    Nano TiO 2 was synthesized by the hydrothermal method. The sample was doped with transition metal ions (V, Cr and Fe) and non-metal (N). Doped TiO 2 samples were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-Vis). Photocatalytic activity in the mineralization of xylene (vapor phase), methylene blue and active dyer PR (liquid phase) was tested. In comparison with non-doped TiO 2 , V-, Cr-, Fe-doped TiO 2 and N-doped TiO 2 samples exhibited much higher photocatalytic activity using visible light instead of UV

  12. Photoluminescence decay dynamics in γ-Ga2O3 nanocrystals: The role of exclusion distance at short time scales

    Science.gov (United States)

    Fernandes, Brian; Hegde, Manu; Stanish, Paul C.; Mišković, Zoran L.; Radovanovic, Pavle V.

    2017-09-01

    We developed a comprehensive theoretical model describing the photoluminescence decay dynamics at short and long time scales based on the donor-acceptor defect interactions in γ-Ga2O3 nanocrystals, and quantitatively determined the importance of exclusion distance and spatial distribution of defects. We allowed for donors and acceptors to be adjacent to each other or separated by different exclusion distances. The optimal exclusion distance was found to be comparable to the donor Bohr radius and have a strong effect on the photoluminescence decay curve at short times. The importance of the exclusion distance at short time scales was confirmed by Monte Carlo simulations.

  13. Cr3+ and Cr4+ luminescence in glass ceramic silica

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Martines, Marco A.U.; Davolos, Marian R.; Jafelicci, Miguel Junior; Souza, Dione F. de; Nunes, Luiz A.O.

    2008-01-01

    This paper reports on the effect of glass ceramic silica matrix on [CrO 4 ] 4- and Cr 2 O 3 NIR and visible luminescence. Chromium-containing silica was obtained by precipitation from water-glass and chromium nitrate acid solution with thermal treatment at 1000 deg. C. From XRD results silica and silica-chromium samples are crystalline. The chromium emission spectrum presents two main broad bands: one in the NIR region (1.1-1.7μm) and other in the visible region (0.6-0.7μm) assigned to Cr 4+ and to Cr 3+ , respectively. This thermal treated glass ceramic silica-chromium sample stabilizes the [CrO 4 ] 4- where Cr 4+ substitutes for Si 4+ and also hexacoordinated Cr 3+ group probably as segregated phase in the system. It can be pointed out that luminescence spectroscopy is a powerful tool for detecting the two chromium optical centers in the glass ceramic silica

  14. Effect of H2O and Y(O on Oxidation Behavior of NiCoCrAl Coating Within Thermal Barrier Coating

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    WANG Yi-qun

    2017-04-01

    Full Text Available NiCoCrAl coatings containing Y and Y oxide were made using vacuum plasma deposition and high-velocity oxygen fuel respectively, high temperature oxidation dynamics and cross-section microstructures of NiCoCrAl+Y and NiCoCrAl+Y(O coatings in Ar-16.7%O2, Ar-3.3%H2O and Ar-0.2%H2-0.9%H2O at 1100℃ were investigated by differential thermal analysis (DTA and optical and electron microscope. The influencing mechanism of Y oxide on the oxidation of coatings at different atmosphere was compared by computation using First-Principles. The results show that Al2O3 layer on NiCoCrAl+Y coatings has more holes for internal oxidation on account of the element Y diffusion and enrichment on the interface. In addition, steam can promote the internal oxidation. While a thinner and uniform alumina form on NiCoCrAl+Y(O coatings because element Y is pinned by oxygen atoms during the preparation of coatings. Water vapor has less influence on protective alumina formation on the NiCoCrAl+Y(O coating. Therefore, oxidation behavior of NiCoCrAl coatings vary in composition and structure in different oxidizing atmosphere. Besides, Y and Y-enrichment oxides have key influences on the microstructure and the growth rate.

  15. Graphene-Embedded Co3O4 Rose-Spheres for Enhanced Performance in Lithium Ion Batteries.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jing, Mingjun; Zhou, Minjie; Li, Gangyong; Chen, Zhengu; Xu, Wenyuan; Chen, Xiaobo; Hou, Zhaohui

    2017-03-22

    Co 3 O 4 has been widely studied as a promising candidate as an anode material for lithium ion batteries. However, the huge volume change and structural strain associated with the Li + insertion and extraction process leads to the pulverization and deterioration of the electrode, resulting in a poor performance in lithium ion batteries. In this paper, Co 3 O 4 rose-spheres obtained via hydrothermal technique are successfully embedded in graphene through an electrostatic self-assembly process. Graphene-embedded Co 3 O 4 rose-spheres (G-Co 3 O 4 ) show a high reversible capacity, a good cyclic performance, and an excellent rate capability, e.g., a stable capacity of 1110.8 mAh g -1 at 90 mA g -1 (0.1 C), and a reversible capacity of 462.3 mAh g -1 at 1800 mA g -1 (2 C), benefitted from the novel architecture of graphene-embedded Co 3 O 4 rose-spheres. This work has demonstrated a feasible strategy to improve the performance of Co 3 O 4 for lithium-ion battery application.

  16. Preparation of alumina-chromium composites by reactive hot-pressing Al + Cr2O3 based powders

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Osso, D.; Mocellin, A.; Caer, G. le; Pianelli, A.

    1993-01-01

    Chromium-Alumina based composites have been obtained by reactive sintering under load and vacuum of various powder blends. The starting mixtures have been prepared from commercially available aluminium metal, chromium and aluminium oxides, and a thermally unstable titanium compound respectively. Differential thermal analysis (DTA) and differential calorimetry (DSC) as well as X-ray diffraction were used to identify chemical transformations taking place within the system. Microstructure changes were observed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with an energy dispersive spectroscopy system (EDS). Chemical reactions in relevant binary subsystems have been investigated qualitatively in order to understand the course of events in the more complex quaternary mixtures. The possibilities of forming intermetallic phases in both the Al-Ti and Cr-Ti systems and of dissolving some Cr 2 O 3 into the product Al 2 O 3 phase have been considered. The influence of such parameters as thermal schedule and initial aluminium content on those side reactions and the resulting microstructures was investigated. (orig.)

  17. UV Photocatalytic Activity for Water Decomposition of SrxBa1−xNb2O6 Nanocrystals with Different Components and Morphologies

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Guoqiang Han

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available Strontium barium niobate SrxBa1-xNb2O6 (SBN nanocrystals with different components (x=0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 were synthesized by Molten Salt Synthesis (MSS method at various reaction temperatures (T = 950°C, 1000°C, 1050°C, and 1100°C. The SBN nanocrystals yielded through flux reactions possess different morphologies and sizes with a length of about ~100 nm~7 μm and a diameter of about ~200~500 nm. The Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM and X-ray Diffraction (XRD techniques were used to study the compositions, structures, and morphologies of the nanocrystals. The absorption edges of the SBN nanocrystals are at a wavelength region of approximate 390 nm, which corresponds to band-gap energy of ~3.18 eV. The SBN nanocrystals with different sizes display different photocatalytic activity under ultraviolet light in decomposition of water. The SBN60 nanocrystals exhibit stable photocatalytic rates (~100~130 μmol of H2·g−1·h−1 for hydrogen production. The SBN nanocrystals can be a potential material in the application of photocatalysis and micro/nanooptical devices.

  18. Luminescence of Eu:Y3Al5O12, Eu:Lu3Al5O12, and Eu:GdAlO3 Nanocrystals Synthesized by Solution Combustion

    Science.gov (United States)

    Vilejshikova, E. V.; Khort, A. A.; Podbolotov, K. B.; Loiko, P. A.; Shimanski, V. I.; Shashkov, S. N.; Yumashev, K. V.

    2017-11-01

    Nanocrystals of rare-earth garnets Y3Al5O12 and Lu3Al5O12 and perovskite GdAlO3 highly doped (10-20 at%) with Eu3+ are synthesized by the solution combustion technique and subsequent annealing in air at 800 and 1300oC. Their structure, morphology, and phase composition are studied. These materials exhibit intense red luminescence under UV excitation. Eu:GdAlO3 luminescence has CIE 1931 color coordinates (0.632, 0.368); dominant wavelength, 599.6 nm; and color purity, >99%. Judd-Ofelt parameters, luminescence branching ratios, and lifetimes of the Eu3+ 5D0 state are determined. The luminescence quantum yield for Eu:GdAlO3 (10 at%) reaches 74% with a lifetime of 1.4 ms for the 5D0 state. The synthesized materials are promising for red ceramic phosphors.

  19. cis-Thioindigo (TI) - a new ligand with accessible radical anion and dianion states. Strong magnetic coupling in the {[TI-(μ2-O),(μ-O)]Cp*Cr}2 dimers.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Konarev, Dmitri V; Khasanov, Salavat S; Shestakov, Alexander F; Fatalov, Alexey M; Batov, Mikhail S; Otsuka, Akihiro; Yamochi, Hideki; Kitagawa, Hiroshi; Lyubovskaya, Rimma N

    2017-10-24

    Reaction of decamethylchromocene (Cp* 2 Cr) with thioindigo (TI) yields a coordination complex {[TI-(μ 2 -O), (μ-O)]Cp*Cr} 2 ·C 6 H 14 (1) in which one Cp* ligand in Cp* 2 Cr is substituted by TI. TI adopts cis-conformation in 1 allowing the coordination of both carbonyl groups to chromium. Additionally, one oxygen atom of TI becomes a μ 2 -bridge for two chromium atoms to form {[TI-(μ 2 -O), (μ-O)]Cp*Cr} 2 dimers with a CrCr distance of 3.12 Å. According to magnetic data, diamagnetic TI 2- dianions and two Cr 3+ atoms with a high S = 3/2 spin state are present in a dimer allowing strong antiferromagnetic coupling between two Cr 3+ spins with an exchange interaction of -35.4 K and the decrease of molar magnetic susceptibility below 140 K. Paramagnetic TI˙ - radical anions with the S = 1/2 spin state have also been obtained and studied in crystalline {cryptand[2,2,2](Na + )}(TI˙ - ) (2) salt showing that both radical anion and dianion states are accessible for TI.

  20. High-Pressure Phase Relations and Crystal Structures of Postspinel Phases in MgV2O4, FeV2O4, and MnCr2O4: Crystal Chemistry of AB2O4 Postspinel Compounds.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ishii, Takayuki; Sakai, Tsubasa; Kojitani, Hiroshi; Mori, Daisuke; Inaguma, Yoshiyuki; Matsushita, Yoshitaka; Yamaura, Kazunari; Akaogi, Masaki

    2018-06-04

    We have investigated high-pressure, high-temperature phase transitions of spinel (Sp)-type MgV 2 O 4 , FeV 2 O 4 , and MnCr 2 O 4 . At 1200-1800 °C, MgV 2 O 4 Sp decomposes at 4-7 GPa into a phase assemblage of MgO periclase + corundum (Cor)-type V 2 O 3 , and they react at 10-15 GPa to form a phase with a calcium titanite (CT)-type structure. FeV 2 O 4 Sp transforms to CT-type FeV 2 O 4 at 12 GPa via decomposition phases of FeO wüstite + Cor-type V 2 O 3 . MnCr 2 O 4 Sp directly transforms to the calcium ferrite (CF)-structured phase at 10 GPa and 1000-1400 °C. Rietveld refinements of CT-type MgV 2 O 4 and FeV 2 O 4 and CF-type MnCr 2 O 4 confirm that both the CT- and CF-type structures have frameworks formed by double chains of edge-shared B 3+ O 6 octahedra (B 3+ = V 3+ and Cr 3+ ) running parallel to one of orthorhombic cell axes. A relatively large A 2+ cation (A 2+ = Mg 2+ , Fe 2+ , and Mn 2+ ) occupies a tunnel-shaped space formed by corner-sharing of four double chains. Effective coordination numbers calculated from eight neighboring oxygen-A 2+ cation distances of CT-type MgV 2 O 4 and FeV 2 O 4 and CF-type MnCr 2 O 4 are 5.50, 5.16, and 7.52, respectively. This implies that the CT- and CF-type structures practically have trigonal prism (six-coordinated) and bicapped trigonal prism (eight-coordinated) sites for the A 2+ cations, respectively. A relationship between cation sizes of VIII A 2+ and VI B 3+ and crystal structures (CF- and CT-types) of A 2+ B 2 3+ O 4 is discussed using the above new data and available previous data of the postspinel phases. We found that CF-type A 2+ B 2 3+ O 4 crystallize in wide ionic radius ranges of 0.9-1.4 Å for VIII A 2+ and 0.55-1.1 Å for VI B 3+ , whereas CT-type phases crystallize in very narrow ionic radius ranges of ∼0.9 Å for VIII A 2+ and 0.6-0.65 Å for VI B 3+ . This would be attributed to the fact that the tunnel space of CT-type structure is geometrically less flexible due to the smaller coordination

  1. Magnetic properties of pure and Fe doped HoCrO{sub 3} thin films fabricated via a solution route

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yin, Shiqi; Sauyet, Theodore [Department of Physics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269 (United States); Guild, Curt [Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269 (United States); Suib, S.L. [Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269 (United States); Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269 (United States); Jain, Menka, E-mail: menka.jain@uconn.edu [Department of Physics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269 (United States); Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269 (United States)

    2017-04-15

    Multiferroic properties of orthorhombically distorted perovskite rare-earth chromites, such as HoCrO{sub 3}, are being investigated extensively in recent years. In the present work, we report on the effect of Fe substitution on the magnetic properties of HoCrO{sub 3} thin films. Thin films of HoCrO{sub 3} and HoCr{sub 0.7}Fe{sub 0.3}O{sub 3} were fabricated via a solution route on platinized silicon substrates. Structural properties of the films were evaluated by X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy techniques. The surface morphology and cross-sections of the films were examined using scanning electron microscopy. Optical band gaps of pure and Fe doped HoCrO{sub 3} films are found to be 3.45 eV and 3.39 eV, respectively. The magnetization measurements show that the Néel temperatures (where Cr{sup 3+} orders) for the HoCrO{sub 3} and HoCr{sub 0.7}Fe{sub 0.3}O{sub 3} films are 134 and 148 K, respectively. In a magnetic field of 2 T, the maximum entropy change and relative cooling power, two parameters to evaluate the magnetocaloric properties of a material, were 0.813 J/kg K at 11 K and 21.1 J/kg for HoCrO{sub 3} film, in comparison with 0.748 J/kg K at 15 K and 26.8 J/kg for HoCr{sub 0.7}Fe{sub 0.3}O{sub 3} film. To our knowledge, this is the first work exploring the band gap and magnetocaloric properties of rare-earth chromite thin films. These findings should inspire the development of rare-earth chromite thin films for temperature control of nanoscale electronic devices and sensors in the low temperature region (< 30 K). - Highlights: • Phase-pure HoCrO{sub 3} and HoCr{sub 0.7}Fe{sub 0.3}O{sub 3}films were fabricated on platinized Sivia a solution route. • This is the first work on the exploration of band gap and magnetocaloric properties of rare-earth chromitefilms. • From 0-2 T, maximum entropy change for the HoCrO{sub 3} film was 0.813 J/kg K at 11 K.From 0-2 T, maximum entropy change for HoCr{sub 0.7}Fe{sub 0.3}O{sub 3} film was 0.748 J/kg K at 15

  2. Brilliant blue, green and orange-red emission band on Tm{sup 3+}-, Tb{sup 3+}- and Eu{sup 3+}-doped ZrO{sub 2} nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Romero, V H; De la Rosa, E; Lopez-Luke, T [Centro de Investigaciones en Optica, A.P. 1-948, Leon Gto., 37160 (Mexico); Salas, P [Centro de Fisica Aplicada y TecnologIa Avanzada, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, A.P. 1-1010, Queretaro, Qro. 76000 (Mexico); Angeles-Chavez, C, E-mail: elder@cio.m [Instituto Mexicano del Petroleo, Programa de IngenierIa Molecular, A.P. 11-848, Mexico, D.F. 07730 (Mexico)

    2010-11-24

    Tm{sup 3+}-, Tb{sup 3+}- and Eu{sup 3+}-doped ZrO{sub 2} nanocrystals were prepared by a facile precipitation method with a hydrothermal process. Structural characterization showed a crystallite size ranging from 30 to 40 nm, and monoclinic and tetragonal zirconia phases were observed depending on the dopant concentration. The monoclinic phase was dominant for 0.5 mol% of Tb{sup 3+} and Eu{sup 3+}, and the tetragonal phase was 100% stabilized for 2 mol% of Tm{sup 3+} and Tb{sup 3+}. The structure of emission bands associated with Eu{sup 3+} confirms the substitution of Zr{sup 4+} located at C{sub 1} and D{sub 2h} symmetry sites for the monoclinic and tetragonal phases. The emission of three primary colours, red, green and blue, was obtained from Eu{sup 3+}, Tb{sup 3+} and Tm{sup 3+}, respectively, which makes this nanophosphor an excellent candidate for use in photonics applications. The emitted signal was analysed as a function of ion concentration and the optimum concentration was determined.

  3. 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.

  4. Cr{sub 2}O{sub 5} as new cathode for rechargeable sodium ion batteries

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Feng, Xu-Yong; Chien, Po-Hsiu; Rose, Alyssa M.; Zheng, Jin [Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306 (United States); Hung, Ivan; Gan, Zhehong [Centre of Interdisciplinary Magnetic Resonance, National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, 1800 East Paul Dirac Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32310 (United States); Hu, Yan-Yan, E-mail: hu@chem.fsu.edu [Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306 (United States); Centre of Interdisciplinary Magnetic Resonance, National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, 1800 East Paul Dirac Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32310 (United States)

    2016-10-15

    Chromium oxide, Cr{sub 2}O{sub 5}, was synthesized by pyrolyzing CrO{sub 3} at 350 °C and employed as a new cathode in rechargeable sodium ion batteries. Cr{sub 2}O{sub 5}/Na rechargeable batteries delivered high specific capacities up to 310 mAh/g at a current density of C/16 (or 20 mA/g). High-resolution solid-state {sup 23}Na NMR both qualitatively and quantitatively revealed the reversible intercalation of Na ions into the bulk electrode and participation of Na ions in the formation of the solid-electrolyte interphase largely at low potentials. Amorphization of the electrode structure occurred during the first discharge revealed by both NMR and X-ray diffraction data. CrO{sub 3}-catalyzed electrolyte degradation and loss in electronic conductivity led to gradual capacity fading. The specific capacity stabilized at >120 mAh/g after 50 charge-discharge cycles. Further improvement in electrochemical performance is possible via electrode surface modification, polymer binder incorporation, or designs of new morphologies. - Graphical abstract: Electrochemical profile of a Cr{sub 2}O{sub 5}/Na battery cell and high-resolution solid-state {sup 23}Na MAS NMR spectrum of a Cr{sub 2}O{sub 5} electrode discharged to 2 V. - Highlights: • Cr{sub 2}O{sub 5} was synthesized and used as a new cathode in rechargeable Na ion batteries. • A high capacity of 310 mAh/g and an energy density of 564 Wh/kg were achieved. • High-resolution solid-state {sup 23}Na NMR was employed to follow the reaction mechanisms.

  5. Surface stabilized GMR nanorods of silver coated CrO2 synthesized via a polymer complex at ambient pressure

    Science.gov (United States)

    Biswas, S.; Singh, G. P.; Ram, S.; Fecht, H.-J.

    2013-08-01

    Stable anisotropic nanorods of surface modified CrO2 (˜18 nm diameter) with a correlated diamagnetic layer (2-3 nm thickness) of silver efficiently tailors useful magnetic and magnetoresistance (MR) properties. Essentially, it involves a core-shell structure that is developed by displacing part of Cr4+ ions by Ag atoms on the CrO2 surface (topotactic surface layer) via an etching reaction of a CrO2-polymer complex with Ag+ ions in hot water followed by heating the dried sample at 300-400 °C in air. The stable Ag-layer so obtained in the form of a shell protects CrO2 such that it no longer converts to Cr2O3 in ambient pressure during the processing. X-ray diffractogram of the Rutile type tetragonal CrO2 structure (lattice parameters a=0.4429 nm and c=0.2950 nm) includes weak peaks of a minority phase of an fcc-Ag (a=0.4086 nm). The silver surface layer, which manifests itself in a doublet of the 3d5/2 and 3d3/2 X-ray photoelectron bands of binding energies 368.46 eV and 374.48 eV, respectively, suppresses almost all Cr bands to appear in a measurable intensity. The sample exhibits a distinctly enhanced MR-value, e.g., (-) 7.6% at 77 K, than reported values in compacted CrO2 powders or composites. Such a large MR-value in the Coulomb blockade regime (<100 K) arises not only due to the suppressed spin flipping at low temperature but also from a spin dependent co-tunneling through an interlinked structure of silver and silver coated CrO2 nanorods.

  6. Structure and microstructure of the high pressure synthesised misfit layer compound [Sr2O2][CrO2]1.85

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Castillo-Martinez, E.; Schoenleber, A.; Smaalen, S. van; Arevalo-Lopez, A.M.; Alario-Franco, M.A.

    2008-01-01

    The strontium chromium oxide [Sr 2 O 2 ][CrO 2 ] 1.85 misfit layer compound has been synthesised at high-pressure and high-temperature conditions. Electron diffraction patterns and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy images along [001] show the misfit character of the different layers composing the structure with a supercell along the incommensurate parameter b∼7b 1 ∼13b 2 . The modulated crystal structure has been refined within the superspace formalism against single-crystal X-ray diffraction data, employing the (3+1)-dimensional superspace group C'nmb(0σ 2 0)0 0 s. The compound has a composite structure with lattice parameters a 1 =5.182(1) A, b 1 =5.411(1) A, c 1 =18.194(3) A for the first, SrO, subsystem and the same a and c, but with b 2 =2.925(1) A for the second, CrO 2 , subsystem. The layer stacking is similar to that of orthorhombic PbS(TiS 2 ) 1.18 , but with a much stronger intersubsytem bonding in the case of the oxide. The intersubsystem lattice mismatch is mainly handled by displacement modulations of the Sr atoms, correlated with modulations of the valence, the coordination and the anisotropic displacement parameters. - Graphical abstract: A strontium chromium oxide, [Sr 2 O 2 ][CrO 2 ] 1.85 , with an orthorhombic misfit layer structure has been synthesised under high pressure. Mainly modulations on the Sr position, ADPs and coordination save the subsystems lattice mismatch

  7. Visible-light-driven photoelectrochemical and photocatalytic performances of Cr-doped SrTiO3/TiO2 heterostructured nanotube arrays.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jiao, Zhengbo; Chen, Tao; Xiong, Jinyan; Wang, Teng; Lu, Gongxuan; Ye, Jinhua; Bi, Yingpu

    2013-01-01

    Well-aligned TiO2 nanotube arrays have become of increasing significance because of their unique highly ordered array structure, high specific surface area, unidirectional charge transfer and transportation features. However, their poor visible light utilization as well as the high recombination rate of photoexcited electron-hole pairs greatly limited their practical applications. Herein, we demonstrate the fabrication of visible-light-responsive heterostructured Cr-doped SrTiO3/TiO2 nanotube arrays by a simple hydrothermal method, which facilitate efficient charge separation and thus improve the photoelectrochemical as well as photocatalytic performances.

  8. Spectrum designation and effect of Al substitution on the luminescence of Cr3+ doped ZnGa2O4 nano-sized phosphors

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Zhang Weiwei; Zhang Junying; Chen Ziyu; Wang Tianmin; Zheng Shukai

    2010-01-01

    Low-temperature photoluminescent spectra of ZnGa 2 O 4 :Cr 3+ nano-sized phosphors calcined at different temperatures were reported. The fine structure of the emission spectra has been designated to Cr 3+ ions in different sites including ideal octahedral, Zn-interstitial, Ga ZN 4 -Zn Ga 6 sites and Ga 2 O 3 impurity. The vibronic sidebands for both Stokes' and anti-Stokes' sides are related to the host lattice vibrations, which were confirmed by IR and Raman spectra. Al 3+ is substituted in Ga 3+ sites to form Zn(Ga 1-y Al y ) 2 O 4 :Cr 0.01 3+ (0≤y≤0.5). The blue shift and luminescent intensity variations of the charge transfer band and 3d-3d transitions in the spectra caused by Al substitution were related to larger band gap and stronger crystal field, respectively. The calculated crystal-field parameters indicated that Al incorporation enhanced the crystal field strength and induced more trigonal distortion due to different radii of Al 3+ and Ga 3+ .

  9. Far-infrared spectroscopic study of CeO{sub 2} nanocrystals

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Popović, Z. V., E-mail: zoran.popovic@ipb.ac.rs; Grujić-Brojčin, M.; Paunović, N. [University of Belgrade, Center for Solid State Physics and New Materials, Institute of Physics (Serbia); Radonjić, M. M. [University of Belgrade, Scientific Computing Laboratory, Institute of Physics Belgrade (Serbia); Araújo, V. D.; Bernardi, M. I. B. [Universidade de São Paulo-USP, Instituto de Fisica (Brazil); Lima, M. M. de; Cantarero, A. [Universidad de Valencia, Instituto de Ciencia de Los Materiales (Spain)

    2015-01-15

    We present the far-infrared reflectivity spectra of 5 nm-sized pure and copper-doped Ce{sub 1−x}Cu{sub x}O{sub 2−y} (x = 0; 0.01 and 0.10) nanocrystals measured at room temperature in the 50–650 cm{sup −1} spectral range. Reflectivity spectra were analyzed using the factorized form of the dielectric function, which includes the phonon and the free carriers contribution. Four oscillators with TO energies of approximately 135, 280, 370, and 490 cm{sup −1} were included in the fitting procedure. These oscillators represent local maxima of the CeO{sub 2} phonon density of states, which is also calculated using the density functional theory. The lowest energy oscillator represents TA(L)/TA(X) phonon states, which become infrared-active E{sub u} modes at the L and X points of the Brillouin zone (BZ). The second oscillator originates from TO(Γ) phonon states. The oscillator at ∼400 cm{sup −1} originates from Raman mode phonon states, which at the L point of BZ also becomes infrared-active E{sub u} mode. The last oscillator describes phonons with dominantly LO(Γ) infrared mode character. The appearance of phonon density of states related oscillators, instead of single F{sub 2u}infrared-active mode in the far-infrared reflectivity spectra, is a consequence of the nanosized dimension of the CeO{sub 2} particles. The best fit spectra are obtained using the generalized Bruggeman model for inhomogeneous media, which takes into account the nanocrystal volume fraction and the pore shape.

  10. Influence of Binders and Solvents on Stability of Ru/RuOx Nanoparticles on ITO Nanocrystals as Li-O2 Battery Cathodes.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Vankova, Svetoslava; Francia, Carlotta; Amici, Julia; Zeng, Juqin; Bodoardo, Silvia; Penazzi, Nerino; Collins, Gillian; Geaney, Hugh; O'Dwyer, Colm

    2017-02-08

    Fundamental research on Li-O 2 batteries remains critical, and the nature of the reactions and stability are paramount for realising the promise of the Li-O 2 system. We report that indium tin oxide (ITO) nanocrystals with supported 1-2 nm oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalyst Ru/RuO x nanoparticles (NPs) demonstrate efficient OER processes, reduce the recharge overpotential of the cell significantly and maintain catalytic activity to promote a consistent cycling discharge potential in Li-O 2 cells even when the ITO support nanocrystals deteriorate from the very first cycle. The Ru/RuO x nanoparticles lower the charge overpotential compared with those for ITO and carbon-only cathodes and have the greatest effect in DMSO electrolytes with a solution-processable F-free carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) binder (ITO nanocrystalline materials in DMSO provide efficient Li 2 O 2 decomposition from within the cathode during cycling. We demonstrate that the ITO is actually unstable from the first cycle and is modified by chemical etching, but the Ru/RuO x NPs remain effective OER catalysts for Li 2 O 2 during cycling. The CMC binders avoid PVDF-based side-reactions and improve the cyclability. The deterioration of the ITO nanocrystals is mitigated significantly in cathodes with a CMC binder, and the cells show good cycle life. In mixed DMSO-EMITFSI [EMITFSI=1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide] ionic liquid electrolytes, the Ru/RuO x /ITO materials in Li-O 2 cells cycle very well and maintain a consistently very low charge overpotential of 0.5-0.8 V. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  11. Synthesis of transparent chloroborosilicate nanoglass-ceramics: Crystallization and growth mechanism of BaCl2 nanocrystals

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Nilanjana Shasmal

    2015-12-01

    Full Text Available Oxyfluoride glass-ceramics are extensively being investigated for their excellent optical properties and widespread use in photonic applications. But oxychloride systems are scarcely studied although they are potential candidates for those fields. Here we report chloroborosilicate glass system SiO2–B2O3–BaO–K2O–Al2O3–BaCl2 (mol% within which BaCl2 nanocrystals have been generated by melt-quench technique followed by heat treatment. Samples were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, infrared and UV–vis spectroscopy, elastic constants measurement, etc. Micro- and nanostructures were analyzed by using FESEM, TEM and SAED. Formation and growth mechanism of BaCl2 nanocrystals have been demonstrated with the help of schematic representations. Size (7–47 nm and morphology of the nanocrystals were found to be controlled by temperature and heat-treatment time. Activation energy for crystallization was determined by non-isothermal method using DSC and found to be 510 kJ/mol. Chloroborosilicate glasses containing BaCl2 nanocrystals having low-phonon energy (∼350 cm−1 are promising for different photonic applications.

  12. One dimensional well-aligned CdO nanocrystal by solvothermal method

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kaviyarasu, K.; Manikandan, E.; Paulraj, P.; Mohamed, S.B.; Kennedy, J.

    2014-01-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Cadmium oxide (CdO) emerged as one of the important semiconducting materials. • Iodine concentration increases intensity of the peak around 300 cm −1 becomes stronger. • Surface morphology of these crystals has been modified by varying complexing agent. • Nanofibers structure like CdO crystals first time achieved. • The diameters of these nanofibers range mostly between 40 nm and 70 nm. - Abstract: Cadmium oxide (CdO) is a category of the practical semiconductor metal oxides, which is widely applied in various scientific and industrial fields because of its catalytic, optical, and electrical properties. CdO nanocrystal was successfully synthesized by a virtue of a single source precursor method at mild reaction conditions between cadmium oxide, and element iodine by a solvothermal route. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet spectroscopy studies (UV–vis), Fourier Transform Infrared analysis (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), μ-Raman spectroscopy and cyclic voltammogram (CV) were used to characterize the CdO nanocrystals. The ultra-violet visible absorption peaks of CdO exhibited a large blue shift and the luminescent spectra had a strong and broad emission band centered at 228 nm. The various functional groups present in the CdO nanocrystals were identified by FTIR analysis. Intense PL was also observed with some spectral tuning possibly giving a range of emission photon energies approximately spanning from 2.5 to 3.4 eV. Scanning electron microscopy and μ-Raman microscopy images indicated that the morphology of the product is spherical nanoparticles with an average particle size of 46 nm with standard deviation. The electrochemical response of CdO which is proved the nano-cadmium has high functionality due to the small size and it has higher electrochemical activity without any modifications. The above studies demonstrate the potential for the utilization of cadmium nitrite nanocrystal in visible

  13. Laser operated optical features in β-BaTeMo2O9:Cr3+ nanocrystallites

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Majchrowski, A.; Jaroszewicz, L.R.; Fedorchuk, A.O.; Kityk, I.V.

    2015-01-01

    An increase of second order nonlinear optical efficiency was established for Cr 3+ doped β-BaTeMo 2 O 9 (BTMO) nanocrystallites (with sizes varying within up to 150 nm range) under influence of two coherent beams of 532 nm nanosecond pulsed lasers at power densities up to 600 MW/cm 2 . It was found that maximal enhancement of optical second harmonic generation was achieved for BTMO:Cr 3+ nanocrystallites possessing sizes about 60–80 nm. Occurrence of some quasi-periodic space radial grating was observed as well. This is a consequence of competition between the photo-polarization and photo-thermal effects. Band structure simulations within a framework of the norm-conserving pseudopotential were performed. - Highlights: • BMTO nanocrystallites with the sizes 60 nm–120 nm were synthesized. • Photoinduced SHG is found. • The effect is caused by additional photopolarization

  14. The effect of tert-butanol on the formation of Cr2O3 nanoparticles by gamma radiolysis

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Alrehaily, L.M.; Joseph, J.M.; Wren, J.C.

    2014-01-01

    Gamma irradiation of an aqueous solution initially containing 0.1 - 10 mM Cr(VI) led to the formation of uniform-sized nanoparticles in the range of 9-30 nm depending on the initial concentration. The particles were characterized using FT-IR and found to be composed of Cr 2 O 3 . Addition of tert-butanol (an ·OH scavenger) was found to be very effective in increasing the particle size to the range of 20-60 nm. (author)

  15. Defect properties of CuCrO2: A density functional theory calculation

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Fang Zhi-Jie; Zhu Ji-Zhen; Zhou Jiang; Mo Man

    2012-01-01

    Using the first-principles methods, we study the formation energetics properties of intrinsic defects, and the charge doping properties of extrinsic defects in transparent conducting oxides CuCrO 2 . Intrinsic defects, some typical acceptor-type, and donor-type extrinsic defects in their relevant charge state are considered. By systematically calculating the formation energies and transition energy, the results of calculation show that, V Cu , O i , and O Cu are the relevant intrinsic defects in CuCrO 2 ; among these intrinsic defects, V Cu is the most efficient acceptor in CuCrO 2 . It is found that all the donor-type extrinsic defects have difficulty in inducing n-conductivity in CuCrO 2 because of their deep transition energy level. For all the acceptor-type extrinsic defects, substituting Mg for Cr is the most prominent doping acceptor with relative shallow transition energy levels in CuCrO 2 . Our calculation results are expected to be a guide for preparing promising n-type and p-type materials in CuCrO 2 . (condensed matter: electronic structure, electrical, magnetic, and optical properties)

  16. Strain dependent microstructural modifications of BiCrO{sub 3} epitaxial thin films

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kannan, Vijayanandhini, E-mail: kvnandhini@gmail.com [Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics, Weinberg 2, D-06120 Halle (Saale) (Germany); CNRS, University of Bordeaux, ICMCB, UPR 9048, F-33600 Pessac (France); Arredondo, Miryam; Johann, Florian; Hesse, Dietrich [Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics, Weinberg 2, D-06120 Halle (Saale) (Germany); Labrugere, Christine [CNRS, University of Bordeaux, ICMCB, UPR 9048, F-33600 Pessac (France); CeCaMA, University of Bordeaux, ICMCB, F-33600 Pessac (France); Maglione, Mario [CNRS, University of Bordeaux, ICMCB, UPR 9048, F-33600 Pessac (France); Vrejoiu, Ionela [Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics, Weinberg 2, D-06120 Halle (Saale) (Germany)

    2013-10-31

    Strain-dependent microstructural modifications were observed in epitaxial BiCrO{sub 3} (BCO) thin films fabricated on single crystalline substrates, utilizing pulsed laser deposition. The following conditions were employed to modify the epitaxial-strain: (i) in-plane tensile strain, BCO{sub STO} [BCO grown on buffered SrTiO{sub 3} (001)] and in-plane compressive strain, BCO{sub NGO} [BCO grown on buffered NdGaO{sub 3} (110)] and (ii) varying BCO film thickness. A combination of techniques like X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to analyse the epitaxial growth quality and the microstructure of BCO. Our studies revealed that in the case of BCO{sub STO}, a coherent interface with homogeneous orthorhombic phase is obtained only for BCO film with thicknesses, d < 50 nm. All the BCO{sub STO} films with d ≥ 50 nm were found to be strain-relaxed with an orthorhombic phase showing 1/2 <100> and 1/4 <101> satellite reflections, the latter oriented at 45° from orthorhombic diffraction spots. High angle annular dark field scanning TEM of these films strongly suggested that the satellite reflections, 1/2 <100> and 1/4 <101>, originate from the atomic stacking sequence changes (or “modulated structure”) as reported for polytypes, without altering the chemical composition. The unaltered stoichiometry was confirmed by estimating both valency of Bi and Cr cations by surface and in-depth XPS analysis as well as the stoichiometric ratio (1 Bi:1 Cr) using scanning TEM–energy dispersive X-ray analysis. In contrast, compressively strained BCO{sub NGO} films exhibited monoclinic symmetry without any structural modulations or interfacial defects, up to d ∼ 200 nm. Our results indicate that both the substrate-induced in-plane epitaxial strain and the BCO film thickness are the crucial parameters to stabilise a homogeneous BCO phase in an epitaxially grown film. - Highlights: • Phase pure

  17. Spontaneous nano-clustering of ZrO2 in atomic layer deposited LayZr1-yOx thin films: Part 1 - Material characterization

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Klootwijk, J.H.; Jinesh, K.B.; Wolters, R.A.M.; Roozeboom, F.; Besling, W.

    2008-01-01

    During atomic layer deposition (ALD) of uniform LayZr1-yOx thin films, spontaneous segregation of ZrO2 nanocrystals takes place that are embedded in an amorphous La2O3 matrix. This occurs if the Zr content in the LayZr1-yOx film is above 30% i.e. if the pulse ratio between the lanthanum precursor

  18. Effect of hydrothermal treatment on catalytic activity of amorphous mesoporous Cr2O3–ZrO2 nanomaterials for ethanol oxidation

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mahmoud, Hala R.

    2015-01-01

    Mesoporous 0.25Cr 2 O 3 –0.75ZrO 2 binary oxide catalysts (CZ-H) with high specific surface areas were successfully synthesized by hydrothermal treatment. The effect of synthesis conditions, such as hydrothermal temperature and time of CZ-H nanomaterials were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), energy dispersive spectroscopic (EDS), UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and N 2 adsorption–desorption measurements (BET). The XRD analysis indicated the formation of amorphous materials of binary oxides. The results showed that hydrothermal temperature and time of CZ-H nanomaterials had great influence on the average particle diameter and surface area. Under the optimum synthesis conditions, the best CZ-H nanomaterial synthesized at 210 °C for 3 h (i.e., CZ-H213), presented spherical structure with smallest average particle diameter found to be 1.5 nm and possessed highest surface area of 526.6 m 2 /g. Optical studies by UV–vis spectroscopy for the different CZ-H nanomaterials exhibit slightly blue shift from 3.20 to 3.33 eV due to quantum confined exciton absorption. Moreover, hydrothermal synthesis leads to catalysts with higher surface area and with better acid–base properties than conventional co-precipitation method. Compared to the other nanomaterials, the CZ-H213 catalyst appears to be the best candidate for further application in acid–base catalysis and reusability. - Graphical abstract: Display Omitted - Highlights: • Mesoporous 25%Cr 2 O 3 –75%ZrO 2 catalysts (CZ-H) were prepared by hydrothermal method. • The hydrothermal temperature and time modified the properties of CZ-H nanomaterials. • The best CZ-H nanomaterial synthesized at 210 °C for 3 h (i.e., CZ-H213). • A CZ-H213 nanomaterial had the highest S BET and smallest average particle diameter. • A mesoporous CZ-H213 used as a reusable active catalyst in the ethanol conversion

  19. Ethane dehydrogenation over nano-Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} anode catalyst in proton ceramic fuel cell reactors to co-produce ethylene and electricity

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Fu, Xian-Zhu; Luo, Xiao-Xiong; Luo, Jing-Li; Chuang, Karl T.; Sanger, Alan R. [Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G2G6 (Canada); Krzywicki, Andrzej [NOVA Chemicals Corp., Calgary, Alberta T2P5C6 (Canada)

    2011-02-01

    Ethane and electrical power are co-generated in proton ceramic fuel cell reactors having Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles as anode catalyst, BaCe{sub 0.8}Y{sub 0.15}Nd{sub 0.05}O{sub 3-{delta}} (BCYN) perovskite oxide as proton conducting ceramic electrolyte, and Pt as cathode catalyst. Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles are synthesized by a combustion method. BaCe{sub 0.8}Y{sub 0.15}Nd{sub 0.05}O{sub 3-{delta}} (BCYN) perovskite oxides are obtained using a solid state reaction. The power density increases from 51 mW cm{sup -2} to 118 mW cm{sup -2} and the ethylene yield increases from about 8% to 31% when the operating temperature of the solid oxide fuel cell reactor increases from 650 C to 750 C. The fuel cell reactor and process are stable at 700 C for at least 48 h. Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} anode catalyst exhibits much better coke resistance than Pt and Ni catalysts in ethane fuel atmosphere at 700 C. (author)

  20. Stabilization of the high coercivity ε-Fe2O3 phase in the CeO2–Fe2O3/SiO2 nanocomposites

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mantlikova, A.; Poltierova Vejpravova, J.; Bittova, B.; Burianova, S.; Niznansky, D.; Ardu, A.; Cannas, C.

    2012-01-01

    We have investigated the processes leading to the formation of the Fe 2 O 3 and CeO 2 nanoparticles in the SiO 2 matrix in order to stabilize the ε-Fe 2 O 3 as the major phase. The samples with two different concentrations of the Fe were prepared by sol–gel method, subsequently annealed at different temperatures up to 1100 °C, and characterized by the Mössbauer spectroscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD), Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and magnetic measurements. The evolution of the different Fe 2 O 3 phases under various conditions of preparation was investigated, starting with the preferential appearance of the γ-Fe 2 O 3 phase for the sample with low Fe concentration and low annealing temperature and stabilization of the major ε-Fe 2 O 3 phase for high Fe concentration and high annealing temperature, coexisting with the most stable α-Fe 2 O 3 phase. A continuous increase of the particle size of the CeO 2 nanocrystals with increasing annealing temperature was also observed. - Graphical abstract: The graphical abstract displays the most important results of our work. The significant change of the phase composition due to the variation of preparation conditions is demonstrated. As a result, significant change of the magnetic properties from superparamagnetic γ-Fe 2 O 3 phase with negligible coercivity to the high coercivity ε-Fe 2 O 3 phase has been observed. Highlights: ► Research of the stabilization of the high coercivity ε-Fe 2 O 3 in CeO 2 –Fe 2 O 3 /SiO 2 . ► Samples with two different concentrations of Fe and three annealing temperatures. ► Phase transition γ→ε→(β)→α with increasing annealing temperature and particle size. ► Elimination of the superparamagnetic phases in samples with higher content of Fe. ► Best conditions for high coercivity ε-Fe 2 O 3 —higher Fe content and T A =1100°C.

  1. High-pressure X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy of CaFe2O4-type β-CaCr2O4

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zhai, Shuangmeng; Yin, Yuan; Shieh, Sean R.; Shan, Shuangming; Xue, Weihong; Wang, Ching-Pao; Yang, Ke; Higo, Yuji

    2016-04-01

    In situ high-pressure synchrotron X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopic studies of orthorhombic CaFe2O4-type β-CaCr2O4 chromite were carried out up to 16.2 and 32.0 GPa at room temperature using multi-anvil apparatus and diamond anvil cell, respectively. No phase transition was observed in this study. Fitting a third-order Birch-Murnaghan equation of state to the P-V data yields a zero-pressure volume of V 0 = 286.8(1) Å3, an isothermal bulk modulus of K 0 = 183(5) GPa and the first pressure derivative of isothermal bulk modulus K 0' = 4.1(8). Analyses of axial compressibilities show anisotropic elasticity for β-CaCr2O4 since the a-axis is more compressible than the b- and c-axis. Based on the obtained and previous results, the compressibility of several CaFe2O4-type phases was compared. The high-pressure Raman spectra of β-CaCr2O4 were analyzed to determine the pressure dependences and mode Grüneisen parameters of Raman-active bands. The thermal Grüneisen parameter of β-CaCr2O4 is determined to be 0.93(2), which is smaller than those of CaFe2O4-type CaAl2O4 and MgAl2O4.

  2. Colloidal Sb2S3 Nanocrystals: Synthesis, Characterization and Fabrication of Solid-State Semiconductor Sensitized Solar Cell

    KAUST Repository

    Abulikemu, Mutalifu

    2015-12-26

    Inorganic nanocrystals composed of earth-abundant and non-toxic elements are crucial to fabricated sustainable photovoltaic devices in large scale. In this study, various-shaped and different phases of antimony sulfide nanocrystals, which is composed of non-scarce and non-toxic elements, are synthesized using hot-injection colloidal method. The effect of various synthetic parameters on the final morphology is explored. Also, foreign ion (Chlorine) effects on the morphology of Sb2S3 nanocrystals have been observed. Structural, optical and morphological properties of the nanocrystals were investigated, and Sb2S3 nanocrystal-based solid-state semiconductor-sensitized solar cells were fabricated using as-prepared nanocrystals. We achieved promising power conversion efficiencies of 1.48%.

  3. Colloidal Sb2S3 Nanocrystals: Synthesis, Characterization and Fabrication of Solid-State Semiconductor Sensitized Solar Cell

    KAUST Repository

    Abulikemu, Mutalifu; Del Gobbo, Silvano; Anjum, Dalaver H.; Malik, Mohammad A; Bakr, Osman

    2015-01-01

    Inorganic nanocrystals composed of earth-abundant and non-toxic elements are crucial to fabricated sustainable photovoltaic devices in large scale. In this study, various-shaped and different phases of antimony sulfide nanocrystals, which is composed of non-scarce and non-toxic elements, are synthesized using hot-injection colloidal method. The effect of various synthetic parameters on the final morphology is explored. Also, foreign ion (Chlorine) effects on the morphology of Sb2S3 nanocrystals have been observed. Structural, optical and morphological properties of the nanocrystals were investigated, and Sb2S3 nanocrystal-based solid-state semiconductor-sensitized solar cells were fabricated using as-prepared nanocrystals. We achieved promising power conversion efficiencies of 1.48%.

  4. Potentiometric Titrations for Measuring the Capacitance of Colloidal Photodoped ZnO Nanocrystals.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Brozek, Carl K; Hartstein, Kimberly H; Gamelin, Daniel R

    2016-08-24

    Colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals offer a unique opportunity to bridge molecular and bulk semiconductor redox phenomena. Here, potentiometric titration is demonstrated as a method for quantifying the Fermi levels and charging potentials of free-standing colloidal n-type ZnO nanocrystals possessing between 0 and 20 conduction-band electrons per nanocrystal, corresponding to carrier densities between 0 and 1.2 × 10(20) cm(-3). Potentiometric titration of colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals has not been described previously, and little precedent exists for analogous potentiometric titration of any soluble reductants involving so many electrons. Linear changes in Fermi level vs charge-carrier density are observed for each ensemble of nanocrystals, with slopes that depend on the nanocrystal size. Analysis indicates that the ensemble nanocrystal capacitance is governed by classical surface electrical double layers, showing no evidence of quantum contributions. Systematic shifts in the Fermi level are also observed with specific changes in the identity of the charge-compensating countercation. As a simple and contactless alternative to more common thin-film-based voltammetric techniques, potentiometric titration offers a powerful new approach for quantifying the redox properties of colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals.

  5. Surface stabilized GMR nanorods of silver coated CrO{sub 2} synthesized via a polymer complex at ambient pressure

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Biswas, S., E-mail: drsomnathbiswas@gmail.com [The LNM Institute of Information Technology, Jaipur-302031 (India); Singh, G.P. [Centre for Nanotechnology, Central University of Jharkhand, Ranchi-835205 (India); Ram, S. [Materials Science Centre, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur-721302 (India); Fecht, H.-J. [Insitut für Micro-und Nanomaterialien, Universität Ulm, Albert Einstein Allee-47, Ulm, D-89081, and Forschungszentrum Karlsruhe, Institute of Nanotechnology, Karlsruhe, D-76021 (Germany)

    2013-08-15

    Stable anisotropic nanorods of surface modified CrO{sub 2} (∼18 nm diameter) with a correlated diamagnetic layer (23 nm thickness) of silver efficiently tailors useful magnetic and magnetoresistance (MR) properties. Essentially, it involves a core-shell structure that is developed by displacing part of Cr{sup 4+} ions by Ag atoms on the CrO{sub 2} surface (topotactic surface layer) via an etching reaction of a CrO{sub 2}-polymer complex with Ag{sup +} ions in hot water followed by heating the dried sample at 300–400 °C in air. The stable Ag-layer so obtained in the form of a shell protects CrO{sub 2} such that it no longer converts to Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} in ambient pressure during the processing. X-ray diffractogram of the Rutile type tetragonal CrO{sub 2} structure (lattice parameters a=0.4429 nm and c=0.2950 nm) includes weak peaks of a minority phase of an fcc-Ag (a=0.4086 nm). The silver surface layer, which manifests itself in a doublet of the 3d{sub 5/2} and 3d{sub 3/2} X-ray photoelectron bands of binding energies 368.46 eV and 374.48 eV, respectively, suppresses almost all Cr bands to appear in a measurable intensity. The sample exhibits a distinctly enhanced MR-value, e.g., (−) 7.6% at 77 K, than reported values in compacted CrO{sub 2} powders or composites. Such a large MR-value in the Coulomb blockade regime (<100 K) arises not only due to the suppressed spin flipping at low temperature but also from a spin dependent co-tunneling through an interlinked structure of silver and silver coated CrO{sub 2} nanorods. - Highlights: • Synthesis and structural studies of a novel GMR material of Ag coated CrO{sub 2}. • Tailoring useful GMR property in CrO{sub 2} nanorods of controlled shape and anisotropy. • Enhanced GMR is explained in correlation to the surface structure of CrO{sub 2} nanorods.

  6. Reentrant behavior in Cr doped bilayer manganite LaSr{sub 2}Mn{sub 2}O{sub 7}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bhatia, S.N., E-mail: snbhatia@phy.iitb.ac.in; Mohapatra, Niharika

    2017-07-15

    Highlights: • The FM and the AFM states merge into each other thereby creating an inhomogeneous state. • Cr{sup 3+} creates ferromagnetic moments which behave like FM relaxors. • Electric conduction takes via hopping of small polaron and not by variable range hopping of these polarons. - Abstract: We have studied the effect of replacing Mn{sup 3+} by Cr{sup 3+} on the structure, transport and magnetism in the bilayered manganite LaSr{sub 2}Mn{sub 2}O{sub 7}. Although no structural transition was observed in LaSr{sub 2}Mn{sub 2−y}Cr{sub y}O{sub 7} (0.1 ≤ y ≤ 0.6), the electrical transport and the magnetic properties were found to be affected significantly by this substitution. Substitution of Cr{sup 3+} reduces the conductivity by restricting the hopping of small polarons. Magnetization increases with increasing Cr{sup 3+} concentration suggesting that Cr{sup 3+}-ions induce ferromagnetic moments. The ferromagnetic and an antiferromagnetic phase observed above ∼60 K merge into an inhomogeneous phase below this temperature. Thermopower yields an essentially concentration independent charge density nearly equal to its value for chromium free composition inspite of its expected decrease with this substitution suggesting that the small charge density of the insulating AFM phase is supplemented by the free carriers in the FM phase. The inhomogeneous phase shows a relaxor type behavior which contrasts with the spin glass behavior seen in La{sub 0.46}Sr{sub 0.54}Mn{sub 0.98}Cr{sub 0.02}O{sub 3} having an identical AFM magnetic state. The difference is attributed to the non-JT character of Cr-ions which reduce the distortion of the Mn−O octahedra located within the FM domains. With a higher lattice strain in the surrounding AFM matrix the carriers remain confined within the FM domains leading to the relaxor type behavior.

  7. In-pile Tritium Permeation through F82H Steel with and without a Ceramic Coating of Cr2O3-SiO2 Including CrPO4

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Nakamichi, M.; Hayashi, K.; Kulsartov, T.V.; Afanasyev, S.E.; Shestakov, V.P.; Chikhray, Y.V.; Kenzhin, E.A.; Kolbaenkov, A.N.

    2006-01-01

    Development of coating on blanket structural materials with significant reduction capability of tritium permeation is highly required in order to realize a reasonable design of a tritium recovery and processing system of demonstration (DEMO) fusion reactors. An effective coating has been developed in Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) using a ceramic material of Cr 2 O 3 -SiO 2 including CrPO 4 . In previous out-of-pile deuterium permeation experiments at 600 o C [T.V. Kulsartov et al., Fusion Eng. Des. 81 (2006) 701], a significant permeation reduction factor (PFR) of about 300 was obtained for the coating on the inner-side surface of tubular diffusion cells made by ferritic steel (F82H). In the present study, in-pile experiments on tritium permeation were conducted for F82H steel with and without the same coating, using a testing reactor IGV-1M in Kazakhstan. The tritium source used was liquid lithium-lead eutectics, Pb17Li, which was poured into a space around a tubular diffusion cell (specimen) of F82H steel with or without the coating on the inner side the cell. The irradiation time was about 4 hours, which corresponds to a fast-neuron fluence of about 2x10 21 m -2 (E > 1.1 MeV). The permeation reduction factor (PRF) was obtained by comparison of kinetics curves of tritium permeation through the diffusion cell of F82H steel with and without the coating. The PRFs at 600 and 500 o C were 292 and 30, respectively. These values are close to corresponding PRF values of 307 and 45, which had been obtained at 600 and 500 o C, respectively, in the previous out-of-pile experiments [T.V. Kulsartov et al., Fusion Eng. Des. 81 (2006) 701]. (author)

  8. Preparation, characterization and catalytic behavior of hierachically porous CuO/α-Fe2O3/SiO2 composite material for CO and o-DCB oxidation

    Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

    Xiaodong Ma; Xi Feng; Xuan He; Hongwen Guo; Lu Lü

    2011-01-01

    Hierachically porous (HP) CuO/α-Fe2O3/SiO2 composite material was fabricated by sol-gel method and multi-hydrothermal processes using HP-SiO2 as support.The resulting material was characterized by N2 adsorption-desorption,X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy.The as-prepared CuO/Fe2O3/HP-SiO2 sample,with α-Fe2O3 and CuO nanocrystals,possessed a co-continuous skeleton,through-macroporous and mesoporous structure.Its catalytic behavior for CO and o-DCB oxidation was investigated.The result showed that CuO/Fe2O3/HP-SiO2 catalyst exhibited high catalytic activity for both CO and o-DCB oxidation,indicating its potential application in combined abatement of CO and chlorinated volatile organic compounds.

  9. Structural and photoluminescent properties of a composite tantalum oxide and silicon nanocrystals embedded in a silicon oxide film

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Díaz-Becerril, T.; Herrera, V.; Morales, C.; García-Salgado, G.; Rosendo, E.; Coyopol, A.; Galeazzi, R.; Romano, R.; Nieto-Caballero, F.G.; Sarmiento, J.

    2017-01-01

    Tantalum oxide crystals encrusted in a silicon oxide matrix were synthesized by using a hot filament chemical vapor deposition system (HFCVD). A solid source composed by a mixture in different percentages of Ta 2 O 5 and silicon (Si) powders were used as reactants. The films were grown at 800 °C and 1000 °C under hydrogen ambient. The deposited films were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and photoluminescence (PL) at room temperature. From the XPS results it was confirmed the formation of a mixture of Tantalum oxide, silicon oxide and Si nanoparticles (Ta 2 O 5- SiO 2 -Si(nc)) as seen from the Si (2p) and Ta (4f) lines corresponding to Si + and Ta + states respectively. Ta 2 O 5 and Si nanocrystals (Si-NCs) embedded in the silicon oxide films were observed on HRTEM images which corroborate the XPS results. Finally the emission properties of the films exhibited a broad band from 400 to 850 nm caused by the independent PL properties of tantalum oxide and Si-NCs that compose the film. The intensity of the emissions was observed to be dependent on both temperature of deposition and the ratio Ta 2 O 5 /Si, used as initial reactants. Results from this work might supply useful data for the development of future light emitter devices.

  10. Visible light induced electron transfer process over nitrogen doped TiO2 nanocrystals prepared by oxidation of titanium nitride

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wu Zhongbiao; Dong Fan; Zhao Weirong; Guo Sen

    2008-01-01

    Nitrogen doped TiO 2 nanocrystals with anatase and rutile mixed phases were prepared by incomplete oxidation of titanium nitride at different temperatures. The as-prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), core level X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (CL XPS), valence band X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (VB XPS), UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra (UV-vis DRS), and visible light excited photoluminescence (PL). The photocatalytic activity was evaluated for photocatalytic degradation of toluene in gas phase under visible light irradiation. The visible light absorption and photoactivities of these nitrogen doped TiO 2 nanocrystals can be clearly attributed to the change of the additional electronic (N - ) states above the valence band of TiO 2 modified by N dopant as revealed by the VB XPS and visible light induced PL. A band gap structure model was established to explain the electron transfer process over nitrogen doped TiO 2 nanocrystals under visible light irradiation, which was consistent with the previous theoretical and experimental results. This model can also be applied to understand visible light induced photocatalysis over other nonmetal doped TiO 2

  11. Discrete Charge Storage Nonvolatile Memory Based on Si Nanocrystals with Nitridation Treatment

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xian-Gao, Zhang; Kun-Ji, Chen; Zhong-Hui, Fang; Xin-Ye, Qian; Guang-Yuan, Liu; Xiao-Fan, Jiang; Zhong-Yuan, Ma; Jun, Xu; Xin-Fan, Huang; Jian-Xin, Ji; Fei, He; Kuang-Bao, Song; Jun, Zhang; Hui, Wan; Rong-Hua, Wang

    2010-01-01

    A nonvolatile memory device with nitrided Si nanocrystals embedded in a Boating gate was fabricated. The uniform Si nanocrystals with high density (3 × 10 11 cm −2 ) were deposited on ultra-thin tunnel oxide layer (∼ 3 nm) and followed by a nitridation treatment in ammonia to form a thin silicon nitride layer on the surface of nanocrystals. A memory window of 2.4 V was obtained and it would be larger than 1.3 V after ten years from the extrapolated retention data. The results can be explained by the nitrogen passivation of the surface traps of Si nanocrystals, which slows the charge loss rate. (condensed matter: electronic structure, electrical, magnetic, and optical properties)

  12. Crystal structure and magnetic properties of the Cr-doped spiral antiferromagnet BiMnFe{sub 2}O{sub 6}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Batuk, Dmitry, E-mail: Dmitry.batuk@ua.ac.be [Electron Microscopy for Materials Research (EMAT), University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, B-2020, Antwerp (Belgium); De Dobbelaere, Christopher [Inorganic and Physical Chemistry Group, Hasselt University, Institute for Materials Research, Agoralaan Building D, B-3590, Diepenbeek (Belgium); Tsirlin, Alexander A. [National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, 12618, Tallinn (Estonia); Abakumov, Artem M. [Electron Microscopy for Materials Research (EMAT), University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, B-2020, Antwerp (Belgium); Hardy, An; Van Bael, Marlies K. [Inorganic and Physical Chemistry Group, Hasselt University, Institute for Materials Research, Agoralaan Building D, B-3590, Diepenbeek (Belgium); IMEC vzw, Division IMOMEC, Agoralaan Building D, B-3590, Diepenbeek (Belgium); Greenblatt, Martha [Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers, State University of New Jersey, 610 Taylor Road, Piscataway, New Jersey, 08854-8087 (United States); Hadermann, Joke [Electron Microscopy for Materials Research (EMAT), University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, B-2020, Antwerp (Belgium)

    2013-09-01

    Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • The substitution of Cr for Mn in BiMnFe{sub 2}O{sub 6} is possible by the solution–gel method. • The BiCr{sub x}Mn{sub 1−x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 6} solid solution is obtained for the x values up to 0.3. • Increasing Cr content lowers the temperature of the antiferromagnetic ordering. - Abstract: We report the Cr{sup 3+} for Mn{sup 3+} substitution in the BiMnFe{sub 2}O{sub 6} structure. The BiCr{sub x}Mn{sub 1−x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 6} solid solution is obtained by the solution–gel synthesis technique for the x values up to 0.3. The crystal structure investigation using a combination of X-ray powder diffraction and transmission electron microscopy demonstrates that the compounds retain the parent BiMnFe{sub 2}O{sub 6} structure (for x = 0.3, a = 5.02010(6)Å, b = 7.06594(7)Å, c = 12.6174(1)Å, S.G. Pbcm, R{sub I} = 0.036, R{sub P} = 0.011) with only a slight decrease in the cell parameters associated with the Cr{sup 3+} for Mn{sup 3+} substitution. Magnetic susceptibility measurements suggest strong similarities in the magnetic behavior of BiCr{sub x}Mn{sub 1−x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 6} (x = 0.2; 0.3) and parent BiMnFe{sub 2}O{sub 6}. Only T{sub N} slightly decreases upon Cr doping that indicates a very subtle influence of Cr{sup 3+} cations on the magnetic properties at the available substitution rates.

  13. Stopped-Flow Spectrophotometric Study of the Kinetics and Mechanism of CO2 Uptake by cis-[Cr(C2O4(BaraNH2(OH22]+ Cation and the Acid-Catalyzed Decomposition of cis-[Cr(C2O4(BaraNH2OCO2]− Anion in Aqueous Solution

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Lech Chmurzyński

    2011-09-01

    Full Text Available The kinetics of CO2 uptake by the cis-[Cr(C2O4(BaraNH2(OH22]+ complex cation and the acid hydrolysis of the cis-[Cr(C2O4(BaraNH2OCO2]− complex anion (where BaraNH2 denotes methyl 3-amino-2,3-dideoxy-b-D-arabino-hexopyranoside were studied using the stopped-flow technique. The reactions under study were investigated in aqueous solution in the 288–308 K temperature range. In the case of the reaction between CO2 and cis-[Cr(C2O4(BaraNH2(OH22]+ cation variable pH values (6.82–8.91 and the constant ionic strength of solution (H+, Na+, ClO4− = 1.0 were used. Carbon dioxide was generated by the reaction between sodium pyruvate and hydrogen peroxide. The acid hydrolysis of cis-[Cr(C2O4(BaraNH2OCO2]− was investigated for varying concentrations of H+ ions (0.01–2.7 M. The obtained results enabled the determination of the number of steps of the studied reactions. Based on the kinetic equations, rate constants were determined for each step. Finally, mechanisms for both reactions were proposed and discussed. Based on the obtained results it was concluded that the carboxylation (CO2 uptake reactions of cis-[Cr(C2O4(BaraNH2(OH22]+ and the decarboxylation (acid hydrolysis of the cis-[Cr(C2O4(BaraNH2OCO2]− are the opposite of each other.

  14. Magnetic Pd-Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} heterodimer nanocrystals as recoverable catalysts for ligand-free hiyama cross-coupling reactions

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lee, Woong Sup; Byun, Sang Moon; Kwon, Jung Min; Kim, B. Moon [Dept. of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul (Korea, Republic of)

    2016-12-15

    Ligand-free Hiyama cross-coupling reaction was achieved through the use of Pd-Fe{sub 3}O{sub 4} heterodimeric nanocrystals (1 mol% in Pd) as recyclable catalysts. The nanocrystal catalysts exhibited good activities accommodating a variety of substrates including aryl bromides and iodides with substituents of varying electronic and steric properties. Furthermore, the nanocrystal catalyst could be conveniently recovered with the aid of an external magnet and recycled five times without the loss of catalytic activity to a considerable degree.

  15. Synthesis and green up-conversion fluorescence of colloidal La0.78Yb0.20Er0.02F3/SiO2 core/shell nanocrystals

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wang Yan; Qin Weiping; Zhang Jisen; Cao Chunyan; Zhang Jishuang; Jin Ye; Zhu Peifen; Wei Guodong; Wang Guofeng; Wang Lili

    2007-01-01

    Water-soluble PVP-stabilized hexagonal-phase La 0.78 Yb 0.20 Er 0.02 F 3 nanocrystals (NCs) were synthesized by hydrothermal method. The NCs were coated with a very thin silica shell, and amino groups were introduced to the surface of silica shells by copolymerization of 3-aminopropyl(triethoxy)silane. The core/shell NCs can be dispersed in ethanol and water to form stable colloidal solution. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) were used to characterize the core/shell materials. In addition, the green up-conversion fluorescence mechanism of La 0.78 Yb 0.20 Er 0.02 F 3 /SiO 2 NCs was studied with a 980-nm diode laser as excitation source. The water solubility, small core/shell particles size, and well colloidal stability mean the green up-conversion fluorescence NCs have potential applications in bioassay. - Graphical abstract: Colloidal La 0.78 Yb 0.20 Er 0.02 F 3 /SiO 2 Core/Shell nanocrystals (NCs) were synthesized and the free amino groups were introduced to the surface of silica shells by copolymerization 3-aminopropyl(triethoxy)silane. The NCs can be dispersed in ethanol and water to form stable colloidal solution. In addition, the NCs exhibit green up-conversion fluorescence under 980-nm excitation

  16. Interface Resistance between FeCr Interconnects and La0.85Sr0.15Mn1.1O3

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Mikkelsen, Lars; Neufeld, Kai; Hendriksen, Peter Vang

    2009-01-01

    The long term oxidation behaviour and the electrical interface resistance between FeCr interconnects and La0,85Sr0,15Mn1,1O3 plates was studied by a DC four-point method in air at 750{degree sign}C for 10000 h. The tested FeCr alloys were: Crofer 22 APU, Sanergy HT, Plansee IT10, Plansee IT11, an....... Low degradation rates of less than 1 mcm2/1000 h were measured on all interfaces. The microstructure analysis showed that a duplex Cr2O3-(Mn,Co,Cr)3O4 oxide scale with a thickness of 3-5 µm had evolved on the alloys....

  17. Single and couple doping ZnO nanocrystals characterized by positron techniques

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pasang, Tenzin; Namratha, Keerthiraj; Guagliardo, Paul; Byrappa, Kullaiah; Ranganathaiah, Chikkakuntappa; Samarin, S.; Williams, J. F.

    2015-04-01

    Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocrystals have been synthesized using a mild hydrothermal process using low temperatures and pressures with the advantages of free growth catalyst, low cost and alternative technology. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy and coincidence Doppler broadening (CDB) spectroscopic methods have been used to investigate the roles of single- and co-dopants and native defects of the ZnO nanocrystals controlled by the synthesis process. It is shown that single Ag1+ and Pd2+ dopants occupy interstitial sites of the ZnO lattice and single Ru3+ doping replaces Zn vacancies substitutionally with a significant effect on the CDB momentum ratio curves when compared using ZnO as the reference spectrum. The co-doping of the ZnO lattice with (Sn4+ + Co2+) shows similar CDB ratios as Ru3+ single-doping. Also co-doping with (Ag1+ + Pd2+) or (Ag1+ + W6+) shows significant decreases in the band gap energy up to about 12.6% compared to single doping. The momentum ratio curves, referenced to undoped ZnO, indicate dopants in interstitial and substitutional sites. The presence of transition metal ions interstitially will trap electrons which resist the recombination of electrons and in turn affect the conductivity of the material.

  18. Single and couple doping ZnO nanocrystals characterized by positron techniques

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Pasang, Tenzin; Namratha, Keerthiraj; Byrappa, Kullaiah; Guagliardo, Paul; Ranganathaiah, Chikkakuntappa; Samarin, S; Williams, J F

    2015-01-01

    Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocrystals have been synthesized using a mild hydrothermal process using low temperatures and pressures with the advantages of free growth catalyst, low cost and alternative technology. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy and coincidence Doppler broadening (CDB) spectroscopic methods have been used to investigate the roles of single- and co-dopants and native defects of the ZnO nanocrystals controlled by the synthesis process. It is shown that single Ag 1+ and Pd 2+ dopants occupy interstitial sites of the ZnO lattice and single Ru 3+ doping replaces Zn vacancies substitutionally with a significant effect on the CDB momentum ratio curves when compared using ZnO as the reference spectrum. The co-doping of the ZnO lattice with (Sn 4+ + Co 2+ ) shows similar CDB ratios as Ru 3+ single-doping. Also co-doping with (Ag 1+ + Pd 2+ ) or (Ag 1+ + W 6+ ) shows significant decreases in the band gap energy up to about 12.6% compared to single doping. The momentum ratio curves, referenced to undoped ZnO, indicate dopants in interstitial and substitutional sites. The presence of transition metal ions interstitially will trap electrons which resist the recombination of electrons and in turn affect the conductivity of the material. (paper)

  19. Crystal structure of Cr-bearing Mg3BeAl8O16, a new polytype of magnesiotaaffeite-2N′2S

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Thomas Malcherek

    2016-07-01

    Full Text Available The crystal structure of a new polytype of magnesiotaaffeite-2N′2S, ideally Mg3BeAl8O16 (trimagnesium beryllium octaaluminium hexadecaoxide, is described in space-group symmetry P-3m1. It has been identified in a fragment of a mineral sample from Burma (Myanmar. The new polytype is composed of two Mg2Al4O8 (S- and two BeMgAl4O8 (N′-modules in a stacking sequence N′SSN′′ which differs from the N′SN′S-stacking sequence of the known magnesiotaaffeite-2N′2S polytype. The crystal structure can be derived from a close-packed arrangement of O atoms and is discussed with regard to its polytypism and its Cr3+ chromophore content.

  20. Graphene-embedded 3D TiO2 inverse opal electrodes for highly efficient dye-sensitized solar cells: morphological characteristics and photocurrent enhancement.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kim, Hye-Na; Yoo, Haemin; Moon, Jun Hyuk

    2013-05-21

    We demonstrated the preparation of graphene-embedded 3D inverse opal electrodes for use in DSSCs. The graphene was incorporated locally into the top layers of the inverse opal structures and was embedded into the TiO2 matrix via post-treatment of the TiO2 precursors. DSSCs comprising the bare and 1-5 wt% graphene-incorporated TiO2 inverse opal electrodes were compared. We observed that the local arrangement of graphene sheets effectively enhanced electron transport without significantly reducing light harvesting by the dye molecules. A high efficiency of 7.5% was achieved in DSSCs prepared with the 3 wt% graphene-incorporated TiO2 inverse opal electrodes, constituting a 50% increase over the efficiencies of DSSCs prepared without graphene. The increase in efficiency was mainly attributed to an increase in J(SC), as determined by the photovoltaic parameters and the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis.

  1. Spin-polarized electron gas in Co2MSi/SrTiO3(M= Ti, V, Cr, Mn, and Fe) heterostructures

    KAUST Repository

    Nazir, S.; Schwingenschlö gl, Udo

    2016-01-01

    Spin-polarized density functional theory is used to study the TiO2 terminated interfaces between the magnetic Heusler alloys Co2Si (M = Ti, V, Cr, Mn, and Fe) and the non-polar band insulator SrTiO3. The structural relaxation at the interface turns

  2. Magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of HoCr0.75Fe0.25O3 compound

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kotnana, Ganesh; Babu, P. D.; Jammalamadaka, S. Narayana

    2018-05-01

    We report on the magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of HoCr0.75Fe0.25O3 compound around the Néel temperature (TN), which is due to Cr3+ ordering. Susceptibility (χ) vs. temperature (T) graph of HoCr0.75Fe0.25O3 compound infer two transitions due to the ordering of Cr3+ moments (TN ˜ 155 K) and Ho3+ moments (TNHo ˜ 8 K). Magnetic entropy (-ΔSM) value of 1.14 J kg-1 K-1 around 157.5 K with a magnetic field (H) of 90 kOe is attributed to antiferromagnetic (AFM) ordering of Cr3+ moments. A maximum value of adiabatic temperature (ΔTad) ˜ 0.41 K around TN is obtained and is found to increases with applied magnetic field. Negative slope for H/M vs. M2 graph is evident for HoCr0.75Fe0.25O3 compound below TN, which indicates the first order phase transition. Quantified values of -ΔSM and ΔTad open the way to explore rare earth orthochromites for the MCE properties and refrigeration applications.

  3. Effect of rapid thermal annealing temperature on the dispersion of Si nanocrystals in SiO2 matrix

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Saxena, Nupur; Kumar, Pragati; Gupta, Vinay

    2015-01-01

    Effect of rapid thermal annealing temperature on the dispersion of silicon nanocrystals (Si-NC’s) embedded in SiO 2 matrix grown by atom beam sputtering (ABS) method is reported. The dispersion of Si NCs in SiO 2 is an important issue to fabricate high efficiency devices based on Si-NC’s. The transmission electron microscopy studies reveal that the precipitation of excess silicon is almost uniform and the particles grow in almost uniform size upto 850 °C. The size distribution of the particles broadens and becomes bimodal as the temperature is increased to 950 °C. This suggests that by controlling the annealing temperature, the dispersion of Si-NC’s can be controlled. The results are supported by selected area diffraction (SAED) studies and micro photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. The discussion of effect of particle size distribution on PL spectrum is presented based on tight binding approximation (TBA) method using Gaussian and log-normal distribution of particles. The study suggests that the dispersion and consequently emission energy varies as a function of particle size distribution and that can be controlled by annealing parameters

  4. Adhesion of metals to LaCrO3 by copper sulphide method

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ebata, Yoshihiro; Toibana, Yasuo; Uetsuki, Tsuneo; Kose, Saburo; Kataoka, Nagamasa

    1979-01-01

    A method of adhering metallic copper to LaCrO 3 was researched using mixtures of copper sulphide and kaolin as the coponent of metalliser to obtain optimum condition for the adhesion. As a maximum adhesive strength, 300 kg/cm 2 has been attained with the metallised intermediate layer which was composed of 70 wt% copper sulphide and 30 wt% kaolin, and fired at 1000 0 C. The adhesive strength was not affected by soaking the specimen into 48% KOH solution at 70 0 C for 70 hr. Electric resistance of the desirable specimen metallised with Cu 2 S- kaolin layer and silver-paint was 1.4 times higher than that of the one coated with silver-paint only. Investigating into the fired intermediate layer by means of X-ray diffraction and EPMA, it has been confirmed that the layer partly transformed to a phase of spinel of Al 2 O 3 with CuO. Thickness of the layer penetrated into the LaCrO 3 substratum was about 50 - 60 μm. (author)

  5. Growth Mechanism and Surface Structure of Ge Nanocrystals Prepared by Thermal Annealing of Cosputtered GeSiO Ternary Precursor

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Bo Zhang

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available Ge nanocrystals (Ge-ncs embedded in a SiO2 superlattice structure were prepared by magnetron cosputtering and postdeposition annealing. The formation of spherical nanocrystals was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy and their growth process was studied by a combination of spectroscopic techniques. The crystallinity volume fraction of Ge component was found to increase with crystallite size, but its overall low values indicated a coexistence of crystalline and noncrystalline phases. A reduction of Ge-O species was observed in the superlattice during thermal annealing, accompanied by a transition from oxygen-deficient silicon oxide to silicon dioxide. A growth mechanism involving phase separation of Ge suboxides (GeOx was then proposed to explain these findings and supplement the existing growth models for Ge-ncs in SiO2 films. Further analysis of the bonding structure of Ge atoms suggested that Ge-ncs are likely to have a core-shell structure with an amorphous-like surface layer, which is composed of GeSiO ternary complex. The surface layer thickness was extracted to be a few angstroms and equivalent to several atomic layer thicknesses.

  6. First-principles investigation of diffusion and defect properties of Fe and Ni in Cr2O3

    Science.gov (United States)

    Rak, Zs.; Brenner, D. W.

    2018-04-01

    Diffusion of Fe and Ni and the energetics of Fe- and Ni-related defects in chromium oxide (α-Cr2O3) are investigated using first-principles Density Functional Theory calculations in combination with the climbing-image nudged elastic band method. The orientations of the spin magnetic moments of the migrating ions are taken into account and their effects on migration barriers are examined. Several possible diffusion pathways were explored through interstitial and vacancy mechanisms, and it was found that the principal mode of ion transport in Cr2O3 is via vacancies. Both interstitial- and vacancy-mediated diffusions are anisotropic, with diffusion being faster in the z-direction. The energetics of defect formation indicates that the Ni-related defects are less stable than the Fe-related ones. This is consistent with Ni-diffusion being faster than Fe-diffusion. The results are compared with previous theoretical and experimental data and possible implications in corrosion control are discussed.

  7. Effects of Er3+ concentration on UV/blue upconverted luminescence and a three-photon process in the cubic nanocrystalline Y2O3:Er3+

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wang Xin; Shan Guiye; Chao Kefu; Zhang Youlin; Liu Ruilin; Feng Liyun; Zeng Qinghui; Sun Yajuan; Liu Yichun; Kong Xianggui

    2006-01-01

    Ultraviolet (UV)/blue upconverted luminescent properties of the cubic Y 2 O 3 :Er 3+ nanocrystals as a function of the erbium concentration were investigated upon 488 nm Ar + laser excitation. The remarkable decrease of upconverted emission intensity and the quenching of the 2 P 3/2 → 4 I 11/2 / 4 I 13/2 transitions were observed in the Y 2 O 3 nanocrystals with high erbium concentration. The emission spectra and the exciting power dependence of upconverted luminescent intensities reveal that the possible upconversion mechanisms are excited-state absorption (ESA) and energy transfer (ET). Moreover, a UV/violet upconverted emission spectrum of nanocrystalline Y 2 O 3 :Er 3+ upon 980 nm light excitation was also observed and a three-photon process made a contribution to this upconverted emission

  8. Bose-Einstein condensation of triplons in Ba3Cr2O8

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jaime, Marcelo [Los Alamos National Laboratory; Kohama, Y [Los Alamos National Laboratory; Aczel, A [MCMASTER UNIV; Ninios, K [UNIV OF FL; Chan, H [UNIV OF FL; Balicas, L [NHMFL; Dabkowska, H [MCMASTER UNIV; Like, G [MCMASTER UNIV

    2009-01-01

    By performing heat capacity, magnetocaloric effect, torque magnetometry and force magnetometry measurements up to 33 T, we have mapped out the T-H phase diagram of the S = 1/2 spin dimer compound Ba{sub 3}Cr{sub 2}O{sub 8}. We found evidence for field-induced magnetic order between H{sub cl} = 12.52(2) T and H{sub c2} = 23.65(5) T, with the maximum transition temperature T{sub c} {approx} 2.7 K at H {approx} 18 T. The lower transition can likely be described by Bose-Einstein condensation of triplons theory, and this is consistent with the absence of any magnetization plateaus in our magnetic torque and force measurements. In contrast, the nature of the upper phase transition appears to be quite different as our measurements suggest that this transition is actually first order.

  9. Luminescence and energy transfer properties of Eu3+ and Gd3+ in ZrO2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Villabona-Leal, E.G.; Diaz-Torres, L.A.; Desirena, H.; Rodríguez-López, J.L.; Pérez, Elías; Meza, Octavio

    2014-01-01

    Red luminescence emission in ZrO2:Gd 3+ –Eu 3+ nanocrystal under 250 nm radiation excitation is achieved. These materials exhibit a tetragonal phase that is retained by the presence of lanthanide ions. Thus, a study of the optical properties as a function of the dopant concentration was been carried out without the deleterious effects of having segregation of other crystalline phases. We analyze the emission and lifetime curves as a function of dopant concentration through a rate equation simulation, finding an excellent fitting. As results, the nonradiative and radiative relaxation constants, as well as a quantitative estimation of the energy transfer processes among Eu 3+ , Gd 3+ and O 2− ions are reported for the first time. The proposed model can be extended (or applicable) to explain the fluorescence dynamics in other nanomaterials doped with Eu 3+ and Gd 3+ under UV excitation. -- Highlights: • ZrO 2 nanocrystal exhibits a tetragonal phase in the presence of Eu and Gd dopants. • Emission and lifetimes as a function of dopant concentration were analyzed by rate equation model. • Quantitative estimation of the energy transfer processes among Eu 3+ , Gd 3+ and O 2− ions are reported

  10. Synthesis and characterization of surfactant assisted Mn2+ doped ZnO nanocrystals

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    N. Shanmugam

    2016-09-01

    Full Text Available We report the synthesis and characterization of Mn doped ZnO nanocrystals, both in the free standing and PVP capped particle forms. The nanocrystals size could be controlled by capping them with polyvinylpyrollidone and was estimated by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The chemical compositions of the products were characterized by FT-IR spectroscopy. UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy measurements reveal that the capping of ZnO leads to blue shift due to quantum confinement effect. The morphology of the particles was evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM. Both the Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA and Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA curves of the ZnO show no further weight loss and thermal effect at a temperature above 510 °C.

  11. Passive mode locking of 2.09 microm Cr,Tm,Ho:Y3Sc2Al3O12 laser using PbS quantum-dot-doped glass.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Denisov, Igor A; Skoptsov, Nikolai A; Gaponenko, Maxim S; Malyarevich, Alexander M; Yumashev, Konstantin V; Lipovskii, Andrei A

    2009-11-01

    Passive Q-switched mode locking of a 2.09 microm flashlamp-pumped Cr(3+),Tm(3+),Ho(3+):Y(3)Sc(2)Al(3)O(12) laser by use of a phosphate glass doped with PbS quantum dots of 5 nm in radius was demonstrated. Mode-locked pulses of 290 ps in duration and up to 0.5 mJ in energy were registered.

  12. Observation of Quantum Confinement in Monodisperse Methylammonium Lead Halide Perovskite Nanocrystals Embedded in Mesoporous Silica.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Malgras, Victor; Tominaka, Satoshi; Ryan, James W; Henzie, Joel; Takei, Toshiaki; Ohara, Koji; Yamauchi, Yusuke

    2016-10-13

    Hybrid organic-inorganic metal halide perovskites have fascinating electronic properties and have already been implemented in various devices. Although the behavior of bulk metal halide perovskites has been widely studied, the properties of perovskite nanocrystals are less well-understood because synthesizing them is still very challenging, in part because of stability. Here we demonstrate a simple and versatile method to grow monodisperse CH 3 NH 3 PbBr x I x-3 perovskite nanocrystals inside mesoporous silica templates. The size of the nanocrystal is governed by the pore size of the templates (3.3, 3.7, 4.2, 6.2, and 7.1 nm). In-depth structural analysis shows that the nanocrystals maintain the perovskite crystal structure, but it is slightly distorted. Quantum confinement was observed by tuning the size of the particles via the template. This approach provides an additional route to tune the optical bandgap of the nanocrystal. The level of quantum confinement was modeled taking into account the dimensions of the rod-shaped nanocrystals and their close packing inside the channels of the template. Photoluminescence measurements on CH 3 NH 3 PbBr clearly show a shift from green to blue as the pore size is decreased. Synthesizing perovskite nanostructures in templates improves their stability and enables tunable electronic properties via quantum confinement. These structures may be useful as reference materials for comparison with other perovskites, or as functional materials in all solid-state light-emitting diodes.

  13. HRTEM Study of Oxide Nanoparticles in 16Cr-4Al-2W-0.3Ti-0.3Y2O3 ODS Steel

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hsiung, L; Fluss, M; Wall, M; Kimura, A

    2009-11-18

    Crystal and interfacial structures of oxide nanoparticles in 16Cr-4Al-2W-0.3Ti-0.3Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} ODS ferritic steel have been examined using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) techniques. Oxide nanoparticles with a complex-oxide core and an amorphous shell were frequently observed. The crystal structure of complex-oxide core is identified to be mainly monoclinic Y{sub 4}Al{sub 2}O{sub 9} (YAM) oxide compound. Orientation relationships between the oxide and matrix are found to be dependent on the particle size. Large particles (> 20 nm) tend to be incoherent and have a spherical shape, whereas small particles (< 10 nm) tend to be coherent or semi-coherent and have a faceted interface. The observations of partially amorphous nanoparticles lead us to propose three-stage mechanisms to rationalize the formation of oxide nanoparticles containing core/shell structures in as-fabricated ODS steels.

  14. Determination of thermal properties of Cs2Cr2O7(s,l) by high temperature Calvet calorimetry

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Prasad, R.; Agarwal, R.; Roy, K.N.; Iyer, V.S.; Venugopal, V.; Sood, D.D.

    1989-01-01

    Enthalpy increments have been determined for caesium dichromate in the temperature range 335 to 826 K using a high temperature Calvet micro calorimeter. A solid-solid transition has been observed at (620.5±1.5 K) and the melting temperature was found to be (657.0±1.0) K. The corresponding enthalpy values are 15.6±0.2) kJ/mol and 17.0±0.22) kJ/mol. The results thus obtained are utilised for the evaluation of molar heat capacities, standard entropies and free energy functions for Cs 2 Cr 2 O 7 (s,l). The enthalpy increment values were fitted to a polynomial and can be presented by eqs. (1) to (3), respectivley: (1) (H T 0 -H 0 298.15 )(Cs 2 Cr 2 O 7 ,s) (J/mol)=-6.410x10 4 +1.939x10 2 T(K)+7.441x10 -2 T(K) 2 (335 to 620.5 K), (2) (H T 0 -H 0 298.15 )(Cs 2 Cr 2 O 7 ,s) (J/mol)=1.313x10 6 -4.137x10 3 T(K)+3.517T(K) 2 (620.5 to 656 K), (3) (H T 0 -H 0 298.15 )(Cs 2 Cr 2 O 7 ,l) (J/mol)=-1.218x10 5 +3.890x10 2 T(K) (657 to 826 K). (orig.)

  15. Fabrication of low adhesive superhydrophobic surfaces using nano Cu/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} Ni–Cr composited electro-brush plating

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chen, Tianchi [College of Mechanical & Electrical Engineering, Xu Zhou 221116 (China); Ge, Shirong [College of Mechanical & Electrical Engineering, Xu Zhou 221116 (China); College of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xu Zhou 221116 (China); Liu, Hongtao, E-mail: liuht100@126.com [College of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xu Zhou 221116 (China); Sun, Qinghe; Zhu, Wei; Yan, Wei; Qi, Jianwei [College of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xu Zhou 221116 (China)

    2015-11-30

    Highlights: • We fabricate a low adhesive superhydrophobic nano Cu/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} composited Ni–Cr coating via brush plating. • We investigate the influence of process parameters on hydrophobic properties process. • We discuss the formation mechanism of structures on the surface and using water rebound height to explain the low adhesive force mechanism. - Abstract: Superhydrophobic nano Cu/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} Ni–Cr composited coating with a low adhesive force was deposited onto the Q345 carbon steel via electro-brush plating. Surface morphologies of nano Cu/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} Ni–Cr composited coating were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Chemical compositions were characterized by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). First of all, by adjusting different process parameters such as working voltage, relative velocity, Cu particles concentration and plating time, we obtain the most optimal parameters: working voltage is 15 V, relative velocity is 4.8 m/min, Cu particles concentration is 5 g/L and plating time is 60 s. Under the best process parameters, the water contact angle reaches to 156° and a sliding angle is less than 2° on the nano Cu/Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} Ni–Cr coating. Then the mechanism of the superhydrophobic and low adhesion characteristic of this surface were explained by Cassie's model. Low adhesive force can be characterized by max rebound height of water droplet. As a result, to achieve low adhesive surface it is necessary to decrease the fraction of the solid/liquid interface under the water droplet. Finally the coating was proved to have an excellent self-cleaning performance.

  16. Plasmonic gold nanocrystals coupled with photonic crystal seamlessly on TiO2 nanotube photoelectrodes for efficient visible light photoelectrochemical water splitting

    KAUST Repository

    Zhang, Zhonghai; Zhang, Lianbin; Hedhili, Mohamed N.; Zhang, Hongnan; Wang, Peng

    2013-01-01

    A visible light responsive plasmonic photocatalytic composite material is designed by rationally selecting Au nanocrystals and assembling them with the TiO2-based photonic crystal substrate. The selection of the Au nanocrystals is so

  17. Mg doping induced high structural quality of sol–gel ZnO nanocrystals: Application in photocatalysis

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Abed, Chayma; Bouzidi, Chaker [Laboratoire de Physico-chimie des Matériaux Minéraux et leurs Applications, Centre National de Recherches en Sciences des Matériaux, BP 95, Hammam-Lif 2050 (Tunisia); Elhouichet, Habib, E-mail: Habib.elhouichet@fst.rnu.tn [Laboratoire de Physico-chimie des Matériaux Minéraux et leurs Applications, Centre National de Recherches en Sciences des Matériaux, BP 95, Hammam-Lif 2050 (Tunisia); Département de Physique, Faculté des Sciences de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis 2092 (Tunisia); Gelloz, Bernard [Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya University, 2-24-16 Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8603 (Japan); Ferid, Mokhtar [Laboratoire de Physico-chimie des Matériaux Minéraux et leurs Applications, Centre National de Recherches en Sciences des Matériaux, BP 95, Hammam-Lif 2050 (Tunisia)

    2015-09-15

    Highlights: • ZnO nancrystals doped with Mg were prepared from sol–gel method. • Structural and optical properties of ZnO:Mg nanocrystals were investigated. • Good crystalline quality of ZnO nanocrystals was reported after Mg doping. • Good photocatalytic activity of Mg doped ZnO nanocrystals was demonstrated under sun light illumination. - Abstract: Undoped and Mg doped ZnO nanocrystals (NCs) ZnO:x%Mg (x = 1, 2, 3, and 5) were synthesized using sol–gel method. The structural and optical properties were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, diffuse reflectivity, and photoluminescence (PL). XRD analysis demonstrates that all prepared samples present pure hexagonal wurtzite structure without any Mg related phases. The NCs size varies from 26.82 nm to 42.96 nm with Mg concentrations; it presents an optimal value for 2% of Mg. The Raman spectra are dominated by the E{sub 2high} mode. For highly Mg doping (5%), the occurrence of silent B{sub 1(low)} mode suggested that the Mg ions do substitute at Zn sites in the ZnO lattice The band gap energy was estimated from both Tauc and Urbach methods and found to be 3.39 eV for ZnO:2%Mg. The PL spectra exhibit two emission bands in the UV and visible range. Their evolution with Mg doping reveals the reduction of defect density in ZnO at low Mg doping by filling Zn vacancies. In addition, it was found that further Mg doping, above 2%, improves the photocatalytic activity of ZnO NCs for photodegradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) under sunlight irradiation. The efficient electron–hole separation is the main factor responsible for the enhancement of photocatalytic performance of Mg doped ZnO NCs. Through this work, we show that by varying the Mg contents in ZnO, this material can be a potential candidate for both optoelectronic and photocatalytic applications.

  18. Structural, optical and magnetic properties of Cr doped SnO2 nanoparticles stabilized with polyethylene glycol

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Subramanyam, K.; Sreelekha, N.; Murali, G.; Reddy, D. Amaranatha; Vijayalakshmi, R.P.

    2014-01-01

    Pure and Cr (1, 3, 5 and 7 at%) doped SnO 2 nanoparticles were synthesized in aqueous solution by a simple chemical co-precipitation method using polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a stabilizing agent. The effect of Cr doping on the structural, optical and magnetic properties of SnO 2 nanoparticles was investigated. EDAX spectra confirmed the presence of Sn, O and Cr in near stoichiometry. XRD patterns revealed that particles of all samples were crystallized in single phase rutile type tetragonal crystal structure (P4 2 /mnm) of SnO 2 . The peak positions with Cr concentration shifted to higher 2θ values. Lattice parameters were also decreased with increasing Cr concentration. TEM studies indicated that the particle size is in the range of 8–10 nm. The optical absorption studies indicated that the absorption edge shifted towards lower wavelengths with inclusion of Cr content. FTIR spectrum displays various bands that are due to fundamental overtones of PEG and O–Sn–O entities. Further it revealed that the undoped and as well as Cr doped SnO 2 nanoparticles were capped by PEG. Magnetization measurements at room temperature revealed that all the doped samples were ferromagnetic in nature. Well defined strong room temperature ferromagnetic hysteresis loop was observed for 1% Cr doped SnO 2 nanoparticles

  19. Monodisperse SnO2 nanocrystals functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes for large rate and long lifespan anode materials in lithium ion batteries

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Song, Huawei; Li, Na; Cui, Hao; Wang, Chengxin

    2014-01-01

    A facile way towards high rate and long lifespan anode materials based on SnO 2 and commercial multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) is readily achieved through a combination of activation and hydrothermal treatment. The former endows the MWCNTs with abundant hydrophilic radicals, while the latter guarantees intimate connection between SnO 2 and MWCNTs; eventually, monodisperse SnO 2 nanocrystals ca. 3 nm are firmly anchored on the MWCNTs without agglomeration. When used for lithium ion batteries (LIBs) anodes, the hybrid composite exhibits excellent cycling capability with high reversible capacity about 700 mAh g −1 (based on total weight of the composite) for 150 cycles at 0.1 A g −1 superior to both components involved. Besides large rates of 5 A g −1 with recoverable initial reversible capacity, it also last for more than 1000 cycles with little capacity decay, outperforming most SnO 2 based carbon nanotubes composites (SnO 2 /CNTs) so far. Insights into the electrochemical processes reveal the hybrid composite exhibits enhanced redox capacitance and interfacial capacitance in comparison with SnO 2 nanocrystals which indicate the perfect interfaces and robust structure of the hybrid composite

  20. Novel ZnO/MgO/Fe2O3 composite optomagnetic nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kamińska, I; Sikora, B; Fronc, K; Dziawa, P; Sobczak, K; Minikayev, R; Paszkowicz, W; Elbaum, D

    2013-01-01

    A facile sol–gel synthesis of novel ZnO/MgO/Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles (NPs) is reported and their performance is compared to that of ZnO/MgO. Powder x-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns reveal the crystal structure of the prepared samples. The average particle size of the sample was found to be 4.8 nm. The optical properties were determined by UV–vis absorption and fluorescence measurements. The NPs are stable in biologically relevant solutions (phosphate buffered saline (PBS), 20 mM, pH = 7.0) contrary to ZnO/MgO NPs which degrade in the presence of inorganic phosphate. Superparamagnetic properties were determined with a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID). Biocompatible and stable in PBS ZnO/MgO/Fe 2 O 3 core/shell composite nanocrystals show luminescent and magnetic properties confined to a single NP at room temperature (19–24 ° C), which may render the material to be potentially useful for biomedical applications. (paper)

  1. Self-assembled ultra small ZnO nanocrystals for dye-sensitized solar cell application

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Patra, Astam K.; Dutta, Arghya; Bhaumik, Asim, E-mail: msab@iacs.res.in

    2014-07-01

    We demonstrate a facile chemical approach to produce self-assembled ultra-small mesoporous zinc oxide nanocrystals using sodium salicylate (SS) as a template under hydrothermal conditions. These ZnO nanomaterials have been successfully fabricated as a photoanode for the dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) in the presence of N719 dye and iodine–triiodide electrolyte. The structural features, crystallinity, purity, mesophase and morphology of the nanostructure ZnO are investigated by several characterization tools. N{sub 2} sorption analysis revealed high surface areas (203 m{sup 2} g{sup −1}) and narrow pore size distributions (5.1–5.4 nm) for different samples. The mesoporous structure and strong photoluminescence facilitates the high dye loading at the mesoscopic void spaces and light harvesting in DSSC. By utilizing this ultra-small ZnO photoelectrode with film thickness of about 7 μm in the DSSC with an open-circuit voltage (V{sub OC}) of 0.74 V, short-circuit current density (J{sub SC}) of 3.83 mA cm{sup −2} and an overall power conversion efficiency of 1.12% has been achieved. - Graphical abstract: Ultra-small ZnO nanocrystals have been synthesized with sodium salicylate as a template and using it as a photoanode in a dye-sensitized solar cell 1.12% power conversion efficiency has been observed. - Highlights: • Synthesis of self-assembled ultra-small mesoporous ZnO nanocrystals by using sodium salicylate as a template. • Mesoporous ZnO materials have high BET surface areas and void space. • ZnO nanoparticles serve as a photoanode for the dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC). • Using ZnO nanocrystals as photoelectrode power conversion efficiency of 1.12% has been achieved.

  2. Pr{sup 3+1}S{sub 0}->Cr{sup 3+} energy transfer and ESR investigation in Pr{sup 3+} and Cr{sup 3+} activated SrAl{sub 12}O{sub 19} quantum cutting phosphor

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nie Zhaogang [BK21 Physics Program and Department of Physics, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 361-763 (Korea, Republic of); Lim, Ki-Soo, E-mail: kslim@chungbuk.ac.k [BK21 Physics Program and Department of Physics, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 361-763 (Korea, Republic of); Zhang Jiahua [Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130033 (China); Wang Xiaojun [Department of Physics, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA 30460 (United States)

    2009-08-15

    With the help of the Dexter's theory, the energy transfer mechanism from Pr{sup 3+1}S{sub 0} to Cr{sup 3+} is investigated theoretically in SrAl{sub 12}O{sub 19}:Pr{sup 3+}, Cr{sup 3+} quantum cutting phosphors. The electron spin resonance (ESR) spectra of Pr{sup 3+} and Cr{sup 3+}-doped SrAl{sub 12}O{sub 19} with magnetoplumbite structure have been studied. The Cr{sup 3+} ion is found to enter the Al4(4f) site, which is very close to the Sr(2d) site replaced by the Pr{sup 3+} ions in the host. The theoretical results indicate that the efficient Pr{sup 3+1}S{sub 0}->Cr{sup 3+} energy transfer can only take place in the intermediate mirror planes, in which for the nearest and next-nearest Pr{sup 3+}-Cr{sup 3+} pairs, both dipole-dipole and dipole-quadrupole interactions can play their parts in the transfer. Finally, an overview is given about the research on the energy transfer from Pr{sup 3+1}S{sub 0} to codopants in their co-doped materials.

  3. Synthesis and Optical Investigations of the Guest-Host Nanostructures Alumina-SiC and Alumina-In{sub 2}O{sub 3}

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Bouifoulen, A; Kassiba, A; Edely, M [Laboratoire de Physique de l' Etat Condense, UMR-CNRS 6087, Institut de recherche IRIM2F-FR-CNRS 2575-Universite du Maine, Avenue Olivier Messiaen, 72085 Le Mans Cedex 9 (France); Outzourhit, A; Oueriagli, A [Laboratoire de Physique du Solide et Couches Minces, Faculte des Sciences Semlalia, Universite Cadi Ayyad, B. P. 2390, Marrakech 40000, Maroc (Morocco); Makowska-Janusik, M [Institute of Physics, Al. Armii.Krajowej, 13/15, J. Dlugosz University, 42-200 Czestochowa (Poland); Szade, J, E-mail: kassiba@univ-lemans.fr [A.Chelkowski Institute of Physics - University Slaski in Katowice - 40-219 Katowice (Poland)

    2011-04-01

    Several strategies were developed to synthesise two classes of nanostructured thin films with nanocrystals of SiC (nc-SiC) or In{sub 2}O{sub 3} (nc-In{sub 2}O{sub 3}) confined in alumina. The syntheses were performed by using Rf-sputtering and co-pulverisation process of the suitable reactants. Thus, Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/nc-SiC and Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/nc-In{sub 2}O{sub 3} composite thin films were obtained and their structural and optical features analyzed respectively by XRD, XPS and UV-VIS absorption. The deposition conditions and the post-synthesis treatments were optimized in order to improve the crystalline character of confined nanocrystals. The optical properties were compared in the range 200 nm-1200 nm for bare alumina films or nanostructured ones with the semiconducting nanocrystals. The direct and indirect band band gaps were evaluated and discussed with regard to the stoechiometry and morphologies of the nanocomposite films

  4. Unified explanation for optical and electron paramagnetic resonance spectra of Cr sup 3 sup + ions in LiNbO sub 3 crystals

    CERN Document Server

    Zhao, M G

    1997-01-01

    An approximately microscopic model is developed for the Cr sup 3 sup + -6O sup 2 sup - cluster and applied to study the optical data and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) g-factors and the zero-field splitting D-value in LiNbO sub 3 :Cr sup 3 sup +. Analysis of the optical and EPR data indicate that Cr sup 3 sup + ions substitute at Nb sites and Nb-vacancy (Li) sites simultaneously. The results are in good agreement with the experimental findings. This means that the optical and EPR data and the substitution site of Cr sup 3 sup + ions in LiNbO sub 3 can be interpreted uniformly. (author)

  5. Synthesis and characterization of ion-implanted Pt nanocrystals in SiO2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Giulian, R.; Kluth, P.; Johannessen, B.; Araujo, L.L.; Llewellyn, D.J.; Cookson, D.J.; Ridgway, M.C.

    2007-01-01

    Pt nanocrystals (NCs) produced by ion implantation in SiO 2 films were investigated by Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy (RBS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). The implantations were performed at liquid nitrogen temperature using energies between 3.4 and 5.6 MeV and an ion fluence range of 2-30 x 10 16 cm -2 and were followed by annealing in forming gas (95% N 2 , 5% H 2 ) for one hour at temperatures between 500 and 1100 deg. C. TEM analysis revealed that the NCs are spherical in shape. The mean size of the NCs annealed at 1100 deg. C varied between 2.8 and 3.6 nm for the highest and lowest fluences, respectively, as determined with both TEM and SAXS. In contrast to previous studies on ion implanted metal NCs, larger Pt NCs are located far beyond the Pt peak concentration, potentially the result of a strongly defect mediated NC nucleation

  6. Upconversion luminescence properties of Y2O3:Yb3+, Er3+ nanostructures

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    De Gejihu; Qin Weiping; Zhang Jishen; Zhang Jishuang; Wang, Yan; Cao Chunyan; Cui Yang

    2006-01-01

    Cubic Y 2 O 3 nanostructures doped with Yb 3+ and Er 3+ ions were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method. Three distinct shapes such as nanotubes, nanospheres and nanoflakes formed in the products by adjusting the pH value of reacting solution. Powder X-ray diffraction analyses indicate that all the three nanostructures are pure cubic phase, while electron microscopy measurements confirm the formation of different morphologies. These nanostructures exhibit strong visible upconversion luminescence under the excitation of a 978-nm diode laser. In Yb 3+ - and Er 3+ - codoped Y 2 O 3 nanocrystals, the relative intensity of green emission became stronger as the size and morphology of sample changed from tubes to flakes

  7. The behavior of ZrO_2/20%Y_2O_3 and Al_2O_3 coatings deposited on aluminum alloys at high temperature regime

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Pintilei, G.L.; Crismaru, V.I.; Abrudeanu, M.; Munteanu, C.; Baciu, E.R.; Istrate, B.; Basescu, N.

    2015-01-01

    Highlights: • In both the ZrO_2/20%Y_2O_3 and Al_2O_3 coatings the high temperature caused a decrease of pores volume and a lower thickness of the interface between successive splats. • The NiCr bond layer in the sample with a ZrO_2/20%Y_2O_3 suffered a fragmentation due to high temperature exposure and thermal expansion which can lead to coating exfoliation. • The NiCr bond layer in the sample with an Al_2O_3 coating showed an increase of pore volume due to high temperature. - Abstract: Aluminum alloy present numerous advantages like lightness, high specific strength and diversity which recommend them to a high number of applications from different fields. In extreme environments the protection of aluminum alloys is difficult and requires a high number of requirements like high temperature resistance, thermal fatigue resistance, corrosion fatigue resistance and galvanic corrosion resistance. To obtain these characteristics coatings can be applied to the surfaces so they can enhance the mechanical and chemical properties of the parts. In this paper two coatings were considered for deposition on an AA2024 aluminum alloy, ZrO_2/20%Y_2O_3 and Al_2O_3. To obtain a better adherence of the coating to the base material an additional bond layer of NiCr is used. Both the coatings and bond layer were deposited by atmospheric plasma spraying on the samples. The samples were subjected to a temperature of 500 °C and after that slowly cooled to room temperature. The samples were analyzed by electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction to determine the morphological and phase changes that occurred during the temperature exposure. To determine the stress level in the parts due to thermal expansion a finite element analysis was performed in the same conditions as the tests.

  8. Interdiffusion between Co3O4 coating and the oxide scale of Fe-22Cr alloy

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Hansson, Anette Nørgaard; Friehling, Peter B.; Linderoth, Søren

    2002-01-01

    on Fe-Cr alloys. Coatings of Co3O4 were deposited on a Fe-22Cr alloy by plasma spraying and spray-painting. As-deposited samples were oxidised in air containing 1% H2O at 900C for various exposure time. During exposure the Fe-22Cr alloy forms an oxide scale, which reacts with the coating. The effects...

  9. Controlled synthesis and facets-dependent photocatalysis of TiO2 nanocrystals

    Science.gov (United States)

    Roy, Nitish; Park, Yohan; Sohn, Youngku; Pradhan, Debabrata

    2015-04-01

    Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a wide band gap semiconductor that has been extensively used in several environmental applications including degradation of organic hazardous chemicals, water splitting to generate hydrogen, dye sensitized solar cells, self cleaning agents, and pigments. Herein we demonstrate the synthesis of TiO2 nanocrystals (NCs) with the shapes of ellipsoids, rods, cuboids, and sheets with different exposed facets using a noncorrosive and nontoxic chemical (i.e. diethanolamine) as the shape controlling agent, unlike hydrofluoric acid commonly used. The TiO2 NCs of diverse shapes with different exposed facets were tested for photocatalytic hydroxyl radical (OH•) formation, which determines their photocatalytic behavior and the results were compared with the standard P-25 Degussa. The formation rate of OH• per specific surface area was found to be >6 fold higher for rod-shaped TiO2 NCs than that of commercial Degussa P25 catalyst. The highest photocatalytic activity of rod-shaped TiO2 NCs is ascribed to the unique chemical environment of {010} exposed facets which facilitates the electron/hole separation in presence of {101} facets.

  10. Comparing Cr, and N only doping with (Cr,N)-codoping for enhancing visible light reactivity of TiO2

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li, Yuan; Wang, Wei; Qiu, Xiaofeng; Meyer, Harry M. III; Paranthaman, Mariappan Parans; Eres, Gyula; Zhang, Zhenyu; Gu, Baohua

    2011-01-01

    The photoreactivity of titania (TiO2) nanoclusters with varying levels of N or Cr-doping, or (Cr,N)-codoping, was systematically investigated using photodegradation of methyl orange in aqueous suspensions. The shifting of the TiO2 absorption edge into the visible spectral region that is primarily attributable to band gap narrowing was found to be a reliable metric for estimating the photoreactivity of the doped nanoclusters. Compared to the weak response with undoped and N-doped TiO2, Cr-doping and (Cr, N)-codoping were found to significantly enhance photodegradation of methyl orange under visible light. The initial reaction rates increase from about 0 to above 1.6 10-2 min-1 when the doping concentration of Cr in TiO2 increases from 0 to 5%. In stark contrast, under UV irradiation, doping is not only ineffective but detrimental to the photoreactivity, and all doping including N or Cr only and (Cr, N)-codoping were found to reduce photoreactivity.

  11. Fabrication of hierarchical porous ZnO-Al2O3 microspheres with enhanced adsorption performance

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lei, Chunsheng; Pi, Meng; Xu, Difa; Jiang, Chuanjia; Cheng, Bei

    2017-12-01

    Hierarchical porous ZnO-Al2O3 microspheres were fabricated through a simple hydrothermal route. The as-prepared hierarchical porous ZnO-Al2O3 composites were utilized as adsorbents to remove organic dye Congo red (CR) from water. The ZnO-Al2O3 composites had morphology of microspheres with diameters in the range of 12-16 μm, which were assembled by nanosheets with thicknesses of approximately 60 nm. The adsorption kinetics of CR onto the ZnO-Al2O3 composites was properly fitted by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The equilibrium adsorption data were perfectly described by the Langmuir isotherm and had a maximum adsorption capacity that reached 397 mg/g, which was significantly higher than the value of the pure alumina (Al2O3) and zinc oxide (ZnO) samples. The superior CR removal efficiency of the ZnO-Al2O3 composites was attributed to its well-developed hierarchical porous structures and larger specific surface area (201 m2/g), which were conducive to the diffusion and adsorption of CR molecules. Moreover, the regeneration study reveals that the ZnO-Al2O3 composites have suitable stability and reusability. The results also indicate that the as-prepared sample can act as a highly effective adsorbent in anionic dye removal from wastewater.

  12. Enhanced Performance of Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting with ITO@α-Fe2O3 Core-Shell Nanowire Array as Photoanode.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yang, Jie; Bao, Chunxiong; Yu, Tao; Hu, Yingfei; Luo, Wenjun; Zhu, Weidong; Fu, Gao; Li, Zhaosheng; Gao, Hao; Li, Faming; Zou, Zhigang

    2015-12-09

    Hematite (α-Fe2O3) is one of the most promising candidates for photoelectrodes in photoelectrochemical water splitting system. However, the low visible light absorption coefficient and short hole diffusion length of pure α-Fe2O3 limits the performance of α-Fe2O3 photoelectrodes in water splitting. Herein, to overcome these drawbacks, single-crystalline tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) nanowire core and α-Fe2O3 nanocrystal shell (ITO@α-Fe2O3) electrodes were fabricated by covering the chemical vapor deposited ITO nanowire array with compact thin α-Fe2O3 nanocrystal film using chemical bath deposition (CBD) method. The J-V curves and IPCE of ITO@α-Fe2O3 core-shell nanowire array electrode showed nearly twice as high performance as those of the α-Fe2O3 on planar Pt-coated silicon wafers (Pt/Si) and on planar ITO substrates, which was considered to be attributed to more efficient hole collection and more loading of α-Fe2O3 nanocrystals in the core-shell structure than planar structure. Electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS) characterization demonstrated a low interface resistance between α-Fe2O3 and ITO nanowire arrays, which benefits from the well contact between the core and shell. The stability test indicated that the prepared ITO@α-Fe2O3 core-shell nanowire array electrode was stable under AM1.5 illumination during the test period of 40,000 s.

  13. Cr diffusion in MgAl2O4 synthetic spinels: preliminary results

    Science.gov (United States)

    Freda, C.; Celata, B.; Andreozzi, G.; Perinelli, C.; Misiti, V.

    2012-04-01

    Chromian spinel is an accessory phase common in crustal and mantle rocks, including peridotites, gabbros and basalts. Spinel, it has been identified as one of the most effective, sensible, and versatile petrogenetic indicator in mafic and ultramafic rock systems due to the strict interdependence between its physico-chemical properties (chemical composition, cation configuration etc.) and genetic conditions (temperature, pressure, and chemical characteristics of the system). In particular, studies on intra- and inter-crystalline Mg-Fe2+, Cr-Al exchange demonstrated the close relationship between spinel composition and both degree of partial melting and equilibrium temperature of spinel-peridotites. Moreover, studies focused on the chemical zoning of Mg-Fe2+ and/or Cr-Al components in spinel have been used, combined with a diffusion model, to provide quantitative information on peridotites and gabbros pressure-temperature paths and on deformation mechanisms. Although these potentials, most of the experimental studies have been performed on spinels hosting a limited content of divalent iron (sensu stricto, MgAl2O4), whereas the scarce studies on Cr-Al inter-diffusion coefficient have been performed at 3-7 GPa as pressure boundary condition. In order to contribute to the understanding of processes occurring in the lithospheric mantle, we have initiated an experimental research project aiming at determining the Cr-Al inter-diffusion in spinel at 2 GPa pressure and temperature ranging from 1100 to 1250 °C. The experiments were performed in a end-loaded piston cylinder by using a 19 mm assembly and graphite-Pt double capsules. As starting materials we used synthetic Mg-Al spinel (200-300 μm in size) and Cr2O3 powder. Microanalyses of experimental charge were performed on polished carbon-coated mounts by electronic microprobe. Line elemental analyses were made perpendicular to the contact surface between Cr2O3 powder and spinel, at interval of 2 μm. By processing these

  14. Weakly-Correlated Nature of Ferromagnetism in Nonsymmorphic CrO_{2} Revealed by Bulk-Sensitive Soft-X-Ray ARPES

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    F. Bisti

    2017-12-01

    Full Text Available Chromium dioxide CrO_{2} belongs to a class of materials called ferromagnetic half-metals, whose peculiar aspect is that they act as a metal in one spin orientation and as a semiconductor or insulator in the opposite one. Despite numerous experimental and theoretical studies motivated by technologically important applications of this material in spintronics, its fundamental properties such as momentum-resolved electron dispersions and the Fermi surface have so far remained experimentally inaccessible because of metastability of its surface, which instantly reduces to amorphous Cr_{2}O_{3}. In this work, we demonstrate that direct access to the native electronic structure of CrO_{2} can be achieved with soft-x-ray angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy whose large probing depth penetrates through the Cr_{2}O_{3} layer. For the first time, the electronic dispersions and Fermi surface of CrO_{2} are measured, which are fundamental prerequisites to solve the long debate on the nature of electronic correlations in this material. Since density functional theory augmented by a relatively weak local Coulomb repulsion gives an exhaustive description of our spectroscopic data, we rule out strong-coupling theories of CrO_{2}. Crucial for the correct interpretation of our experimental data in terms of the valence-band dispersions is the understanding of a nontrivial spectral response of CrO_{2} caused by interference effects in the photoemission process originating from the nonsymmorphic space group of the rutile crystal structure of CrO_{2}.

  15. Weakly-Correlated Nature of Ferromagnetism in Nonsymmorphic CrO2 Revealed by Bulk-Sensitive Soft-X-Ray ARPES

    Science.gov (United States)

    Bisti, F.; Rogalev, V. A.; Karolak, M.; Paul, S.; Gupta, A.; Schmitt, T.; Güntherodt, G.; Eyert, V.; Sangiovanni, G.; Profeta, G.; Strocov, V. N.

    2017-10-01

    Chromium dioxide CrO2 belongs to a class of materials called ferromagnetic half-metals, whose peculiar aspect is that they act as a metal in one spin orientation and as a semiconductor or insulator in the opposite one. Despite numerous experimental and theoretical studies motivated by technologically important applications of this material in spintronics, its fundamental properties such as momentum-resolved electron dispersions and the Fermi surface have so far remained experimentally inaccessible because of metastability of its surface, which instantly reduces to amorphous Cr2O3 . In this work, we demonstrate that direct access to the native electronic structure of CrO2 can be achieved with soft-x-ray angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy whose large probing depth penetrates through the Cr2O3 layer. For the first time, the electronic dispersions and Fermi surface of CrO2 are measured, which are fundamental prerequisites to solve the long debate on the nature of electronic correlations in this material. Since density functional theory augmented by a relatively weak local Coulomb repulsion gives an exhaustive description of our spectroscopic data, we rule out strong-coupling theories of CrO2 . Crucial for the correct interpretation of our experimental data in terms of the valence-band dispersions is the understanding of a nontrivial spectral response of CrO2 caused by interference effects in the photoemission process originating from the nonsymmorphic space group of the rutile crystal structure of CrO2 .

  16. Cubic to tetragonal phase transition of Tm3+ doped nanocrystals in oxyfluoride glass ceramics

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Li, Yiming; Fu, Yuting; Shi, Yahui; Zhang, Xiaoyu; Yu, Hua; Zhao, Lijuan

    2016-01-01

    Tm 3+ ions doped β-PbF 2 nanocrystals in oxyfluoride glass ceramics with different doping concentrations and thermal temperatures are prepared by a traditional melt-quenching and thermal treatment method to investigate the structure and the phase transition of Tm 3+ doped nanocrystals. The structures are characterized by X-ray diffraction Rietveld analysis and confirmed with numerical simulation. The phase transitions are proved further by the emission spectra. Both of the doping concentration and thermal temperature can induce an O h to D 4h site symmetry distortion and a cubic to tetragonal phase transition. The luminescence of Tm 3+ doped nanocrystals at 800 nm was modulated by the phase transition of the surrounding crystal field

  17. Electric-field gradients at Ta donor impurities in Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3}(Ta) semiconductor

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Darriba, G.N. [Departamento de Fisica and IFLP (CONICET-UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, CC 67, 1900 La Plata (Argentina); Errico, L.A. [Departamento de Fisica and IFLP (CONICET-UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, CC 67, 1900 La Plata (Argentina); Universidad Nacional del Noroeste Bonaerense (UNNOBA), Monteagudo 2772, 2700 Pergamino (Argentina); Munoz, E.L; Richard, D. [Departamento de Fisica and IFLP (CONICET-UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, CC 67, 1900 La Plata (Argentina); Eversheim, P.D. [Helmholtz-Institut fuer Strahlen-und Kernphysik (H-ISKP), Universitaet Bonn, Nussallee 14-16, 53115 Bonn (Germany); Renteria, M., E-mail: renteria@fisica.unlp.edu.a [Departamento de Fisica and IFLP (CONICET-UNLP), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, CC 67, 1900 La Plata (Argentina)

    2009-10-01

    We report perturbed-angular-correlation (PAC) experiments on {sup 181}Hf(->{sup 181}Ta)-implanted corundum Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} powder samples in order to determine the magnitude and symmetry of the electric-field gradient (EFG) tensor at Ta donor impurity sites of this semiconductor. These results are analyzed in the framework of ab initio full-potential augmented-plane wave plus local orbitals (FP-APW+lo) calculations. The results are also compared with EFG results coming from PAC experiments in isomorphous alpha-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} and alpha-Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} doped with {sup 111}In->{sup 111}Cd and {sup 181}Hf->{sup 181}Ta tracers. This combined analysis enables us to quantify the magnitude of the lattice relaxations induced by the presence of the impurity and to determine the charge state of the impurity donor level introduced by Ta in the band gap of the semiconductor.

  18. Microstructure, mechanical, thermal, EPR, and optical properties of MgAl2O4:Cr3+ spinel glass–ceramic nanocomposites

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Molla, A.R.; Kesavulu, C.R.; Chakradhar, R.P.S.; Tarafder, A.; Mohanty, S.K.; Rao, J.L.; Karmakar, B.; Biswas, S.K.

    2014-01-01

    Highlights: • E c of MgAl 2 O 4 spinel glass–ceramics has been found to be 250–270 kJ/mol. • TEM images show presence of cubic crystals of uniform size 10–15 nm in the GC. • HV ∼6.0 GPa, K c ∼ 5.0 MPa m 1/2 , flexural strength ∼100 MPa and E ∼ 55 GPa obtained. • Observed red emission of Cr 3+ ions due to spin-forbidden 2 E g → 4 A 2g transition. -- Abstract: The mechanical, thermal, and optical properties, along with the microstructure and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra, have been studied for MgAl 2 O 4 :Cr 3+ spinel glass and glass–ceramics. The activation energy of the crystallization has been estimated from the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) study using different models and is found to vary within 255–270 kJ/mol for the un-doped precursor glass. The microstructure of the glass–ceramics has been characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The TEM images demonstrate the presence of cubic crystals in the glass–ceramics of uniform size 10–15 nm. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy reveal the presence of MgAl 2 O 4 spinel as the only crystalline phase, formed in the heat-treated glass–ceramics. The EPR spectrum of Cr 3+ doped glass sample exhibits a broad resonance signal with effective g = 1.97 whereas in glass–ceramic sample an additional weak resonance signal is observed at g = 3.83. The excitation spectrum exhibits two bands in the visible region. The emission spectrum exhibits an intense red emission at 690 nm which is characteristic of Cr 3+ ions caused by the spin-forbidden 2 E g → 4 A 2g transition. All the mechanical properties are found to have improved in the glass–ceramics when compared to glasses. A good combination of micro-hardness (∼6.0 GPa), high fracture toughness (∼5.0 MPa m 1/2 ), 3 point flexural strength (∼100 MPa) and elastic modulus (∼55 GPa) has been obtained

  19. Structural and photoluminescent properties of a composite tantalum oxide and silicon nanocrystals embedded in a silicon oxide film

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Díaz-Becerril, T., E-mail: tomas.diaz.be@gmail.com; Herrera, V.; Morales, C.; García-Salgado, G.; Rosendo, E.; Coyopol, A., E-mail: acoyopol@gmail.com; Galeazzi, R.; Romano, R.; Nieto-Caballero, F.G.; Sarmiento, J.

    2017-04-15

    Tantalum oxide crystals encrusted in a silicon oxide matrix were synthesized by using a hot filament chemical vapor deposition system (HFCVD). A solid source composed by a mixture in different percentages of Ta{sub 2}O{sub 5} and silicon (Si) powders were used as reactants. The films were grown at 800 °C and 1000 °C under hydrogen ambient. The deposited films were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and photoluminescence (PL) at room temperature. From the XPS results it was confirmed the formation of a mixture of Tantalum oxide, silicon oxide and Si nanoparticles (Ta{sub 2}O{sub 5-}SiO{sub 2}-Si(nc)) as seen from the Si (2p) and Ta (4f) lines corresponding to Si{sup +} and Ta{sup +} states respectively. Ta{sub 2}O{sub 5} and Si nanocrystals (Si-NCs) embedded in the silicon oxide films were observed on HRTEM images which corroborate the XPS results. Finally the emission properties of the films exhibited a broad band from 400 to 850 nm caused by the independent PL properties of tantalum oxide and Si-NCs that compose the film. The intensity of the emissions was observed to be dependent on both temperature of deposition and the ratio Ta{sub 2}O{sub 5}/Si, used as initial reactants. Results from this work might supply useful data for the development of future light emitter devices.

  20. Creation of Y2Ti2O7 nanoprecipitates to strengthen the Fe-14Cr-3Al-2W steels by adding Ti hydride and Y2O3 nanoparticles

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wang, Linbo; Bai, Zhonglian; Shen, Hailong; Wang, Chenxi; Liu, Tong

    2017-01-01

    In order to prohibit the formation of large Y-Al-O precipitates, Ti hydride nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared and used to replace Ti as raw particles to fabricate the oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) Fe-14Cr-3Al-2W-0.35Y 2 O 3 steels by mechanical alloying (MA) and hot isostatic pressing (HIP). As the content of Ti hydride increases from 0.1 to 0.5 and 1.0 wt%, the oxide nanoprecipitates in the ODS steels changes from Y 3 Al 5 O 12 phase to Y 2 Ti 2 O 7 phase (semicoherent with the matrix), and the particle size is successfully reduced. The tensile strength of the ODS steel increases remarkably with increasing Ti hydride content. The sample with 1.0 wt% Ti hydride exhibits a high strength of 1049 MPa at 25 °C and 278 MPa at 700 °C. The creation of Y 2 Ti 2 O 7 nanoprecipitates by adding Ti hydride NPs opens a new way to control the structure and size of the oxide precipitates in the ODS steels. - Graphical abstract: The creation of Y 2 Ti 2 O 7 nanoprecipitates by adding Ti hydride nanoparticles remarkably increases the mechanical properties of the Al-containing ODS steels. - Highlights: •TiH 1.971 reacts with Y 2 O 3 to form Y 2 Ti 2 O 7 in the Al-containing ODS steel. •Addition of TiH 1.971 nanoparticles can prevent the formation of Y-Al-O phases. •Y 2 Ti 2 O 7 nanoparticles share semicoherent interface with the ferrite matrix. •The mean size of oxide dispersion is reduced to 11.2 ± 7.1 nm with 1.0 wt% TiH 1.971 . •The tensile strength of the ODS steel enlarges with increasing TiH 1.971 content.